I love my Panama Jack boots (I have the Bambina Igloo model). Really warm, well-made and durable and waterproof if you take good care of the leather (never had a problem). I'm in my third winter with them now, wear them almost every day in rain and snow and they still look like new.

L.L.Bean slippers. I am wearing them right now and the are the most comfortable slippers I have ever owned and look and feel really well made. I hope they last as long as promised.

A set of Victorinox kitchen knives. I haven't had time to use them yet, but I am really looking forward to it.

All in all a pretty good BIFL Christmas.

THIS. I got one used for around 35€ years ago and it's the best winter coat I have ever owned. Still looks like new, can be machine washed and go into the dryer, water and windproof and keeps me warm all day no matter how cold it is. I wore it to an amusement park and rode outdoor roller coasters at -4 degrees celsius. Wasn't cold for a minute.

Get something with covers that can easily be machine washed and replaced from a retailer that will still be around when you need to buy new covers. Steer clear of anything with covers that cannot be washed or replaced. Spills and accidents happen and stuff breaks. It just happens, especially with pets or kids around.

A cheap-ish version would be the Ikea Ektorp series. It doesn't look like it but my Ektorp pieces (3 seat couch, armchair and stool thingy) have survived multiple moves (also surprisingly light and easy to take apart and move) and my rowdy cats for years with their original white (!!!) covers intact. If the covers ever get damaged or stained beyond help, I'll just get a set of new ones and won't have to buy a new couch.