Hamilton Holiday Gift Guide: 14 Small-Brand, Active-Play Picks

Looking for gifts that burn energy (and sugar cookies) all winter? We built this list for Hamilton families who love to move—heavy on Canadian makers, indie shops, and experience gifts.

Each pick includes a clear price and a direct “buy” link.

Start with the experience (Flying Squirrel favourites)

1. Flying Squirrel e-Gift Cards
   Give airtime instead of screen time. Gift cards can be used for tickets, parties and café treats. Price: you choose. Buy here

2. Jump passes
   Pick 60, 90, or 120 minutes—great “open this now, use it in the new year” gift. Price: $23 / 60 min, $30 / 90 min, $40 / 120 min; toddler options from $14. Buy here

3. Flying Squirrel grip socks (stocking stuffer!)
   Required for jumping and reusable. Price: $3.50/pair. Buy with your jump time or pick up when you’re in the area. Flying Squirrel Hamilton

Small-business gear that gets kids moving

4. GV Snowshoes — Kids (Québec manufacturer)
   Canadian-made snowshoes sized for little trailblazers; great flotation and easy harness. Price: $125.99 CAD. Buy: GV Snowshoes (Kids). Buy here

5. Faber “North Kid” Snowshoes (Québec manufacturer)
   Light, durable, kid-friendly traction—perfect for rail trail walks after a snowfall. Price: $70 CAD (Decathlon listing). Buy: Faber North Kid at Decathlon.
6. HockeyShot Extreme Passing Kit (JR/Pro) (Canadian brand)
   Off-ice passing & one-timer trainer—actually gets used in basements and garages. Price: $269.99 CAD. Buy here

7. Landyachtz “Dinghy Blunt Synth” Complete (Vancouver)
   A compact cruiser kids (and parents) love—stable, durable, and a joy around the block. Price: $184.99 CAD. Buy here

8. ESLA T2 Kicksled (kids 3–6) (imported by an Edmonton business)
   Popular in Sweden, Norway and Finland for good reason. Snowy-day magic: stand, kick, glide. An unforgettable winter experience. Price: $359 CAD. Buy here

9. Pelican “Nomad 40” Kids’ Sled (Canadian brand)
   Simple, tough, fast—exactly what a sled should be. Price: $52.99 CAD. Buy here

10. Spikeball Rookie Kit
    Larger net and ball for younger players—great family game in basements and gyms. Price: $70 CAD. Buy here

11. Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
    Balance first, pedals later—confidence builder for ages ~18 months to 5 years. Price: $179.99 CAD. Buy here

12. Coco Village Wooden Balance Board
    Montessori-style wobble board—inventive play plus balance practice. Price (sale at time of writing): $49.99 CAD (reg. $99.99). Buy here

13. Slackers NinjaLine 36' Intro Kit (sold by Brighten Up Toys & Games in Erin and Fergus, Ontario)
    Backyard obstacle course = grip strength + bravery practice. Price: $135 CAD. Buy here

14. Douglas “Jumper” Flying Squirrel Plush (8”)
    We couldn’t create a holiday gift guide without including an adorable flying squirrel plush toy. Perfect for post-jump bedtime snuggles. Price: $19.95 CAD. Buy here