Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion socks (1466)

Technical merino hiking socks are a low-risk 'proper gear' present a non-expert can buy: because socks are a consumable rather than a one-per-person item, duplication matters far less here than with kit like a head torch. The draw is Darn Tough's unconditional 'Guaranteed for Life. No strings, no conditions' warranty: if they ever wear out, they're replaced free, which reframes a ~£27 sock as a keep-forever item rather than a consumable. They're a 61% merino / 36% nylon / 3% Lycra mid-cushion blend at around 72g per pair, and independent testing rates Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crew line among the top hiking socks. Because they sell in UK ranges - M (7.5-9), L (9.5-11.5), XL (12-14) - you only need an approximate shoe size, far less risk than boots or clothing. That approximate size is still the one thing you must know, which is the only reason they sit behind the torch.