Forget naughty or nice! Each holiday season, it seems like the people you love fall into these two categories: those who are easy to shop for and those who are nearly impossible. Somehow — year after year, without fail — men overwhelmingly populate the latter category. There are the dads who have everything. The tech-loving brothers who need nothing. The partners who swear they don’t want anything — not even something small. Gifts for him are among the hardest to dream up, to find, to buy. It doesn’t matter how expansive your budget is, how incredible your gift-giving skills are, or how wildly creative your imagination tends to be: a challenge looms overhead. Where, oh where, can one locate that endlessly enigmatic Perfect Gift for Him?
Interestingly, excellent gifts for him do abound. They just rarely abound in the corners of the internet we’re apt to peruse. Anthropologie, Madewell, and other go-to gift-giving destinations may be loaded with gifts for us, but gifts for him tend to be a little sparser. We can’t rely on our tried-and-true strategy of visiting one store and crossing off every name on our list; the challenge demands that we look far and wide — or at least, a little farther and a little wider than usual. That’s where we come in. While spending time with the guys in our lives — from teenage cousins and brothers to seasoned grandfathers, we found 35 of the best gift ideas for men, plus where to get ’em.
These roads less traveled may seem off-the-beaten-path, but they promise to make gift-giving season a whole lot easier. Whether you’re looking for something in particular or you’re merely searching for a place to start, you’re sure to find it here — maybe even twice or thrice over.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Levi’s and Topo Designs are SheKnows sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
For the Strictly Denim-Wearer
For the true denim lovers, they know there’s no other brand that compares to Levi’s. From style, cut, quality, and fit, the beloved denim brand has mastered it all. And now, you can snag the most iconic pair of 501 Original Jeans for 30% off when you spend $150 or more. It’s a gift that’ll make him happy, as well as your wallet!
For the One Who Loves the Outdoors
If they enjoy the great outdoors so much that they practically live outside, gift them this warm and cozy Summit Full-Zip Fleece Jacket. It’s made of 100% recycled polyester and high-pile brushed double-knit fleece, and is designed with taslan paneling in the right areas for added protection during the winter season.
For the Sneakerhead
Yes, they already own a ton of sneakers, but what’s another pair (esepcially if you know they’ll adore it)? These New Balance 9060 shoes will be appreciated by any sneakerhead old or young.
For the Star Wars Fan
Doens’t matter if they’re Team Darkside or Team Jedi, any Star Wars lover would appreciate this Darth Vader-insipred crossbody bag from Columbia. It has a detachable front pocket that reveals Vader’s iconic suit panel.
For the Car Aficionado
You may not be able to get him a real Technic 2022 Ford GT, but we’re sure he’ll appreciate this LEGO model set that he can biuld and display anywhere he pleases.
For the Tech Lover
These JBL wireless earbuds will provide the man in your life an exceptional listening experience thanks to its ergonomic and water-resistant design. Plus, these feature four mics that cancel out ambient noises, offering perfect calls anywhere.
For the Power Nappers
Give your loved one the gift of an excellent night’s sleep this season by putting a weighted blanket under the tree. Anyone who has trouble staying asleep — and even anxiety sufferers — know this must-have layer promises to relax anyone who uses it. This machine-washable option claims to be as convenient as it is cozy!
For the One on Their Feet All Day
Tired, achy feet can make life pretty unpleasant, but they’re a fact of life for anyone who spends the majority of the day standing or walking. A guy in your life who deserves some relief is sure to find it in a pair of cozy Bombas Everyday Compression Socks. They’re specially designed to cup the heel of the foot, provide arch support, and offer just enough tension for support without squeezing. They’re also great for runners or frequent flyers. Grab a three-pack that’s pretty snazzy, to boot.
For those Cold Snow Days
A rugged pair of waterproof winter boots with great traction will win him over this Christmas. Goodfellow Cody Duck Winter Boots are just the footwear for the job in a classic style that’s timeless.
For the Cozy Lovers
If a man in your life is still wearing his seen-better-days college sweatshirt, it’s time for an upgrade—a major upgrade. This Cozy Earth Quarter Zip Pullover will have him questioning why he didn’t indulge in an ultra-soft, eco-friendly fleece before. Show him the luxe side of life.
For the One Who’s Always Thirsty
We all know the health benefits of staying hydrated are myriad — but actually remembering to drink enough water on a daily basis can be tricky. That’s where Stanley’s IceFlow Fast Flow Water Bottle comes into play. The trendy tumbler has a massive capacity, a convenient handle and a built-in collapsible straw. Give the gift of hydration — you won’t regret it.
For the One Who Has to Dress Formally
Every man—yes, every man—needs a classic black suit to whip out for formal occasions. It doesn’t need to cost a paycheck though. SuitShop offers stylish suits, like this slim-fit black option, that’ll last him for years to come, all at an affordable price point. With a wide range of sizes and their made-to-order program, you can gift him a custom suit that he’ll feel like a million bucks in.
For the Clean Freak
If he takes pride in a tidy home and is constantly cleaning up after himself and everyone else, gift him the ultimate tool: The HomeVac H11 Cordless Handheld Vacuum by eufy. Although small and compact, it has a ton of sunction power to pick up dirt and dust in the tightest of spaces. This is a good option to keep in his car too!
For the Grill Masters
It may be a little too cold for a cookout this time of year, but he’ll cherish some gadgets that’ll help him up his grill game when the time comes to uncover the BBQ. This Le Creuset Nylon Grill Brush is something unique he probably doesn’t have in his collection yet.
For the One Who Only Lives in Basics
Show me a man who couldn’t use a fresh t-shirt—I dare you. The wardrobe of every man, everywhere would benefit from one (or two or three) of Lululemon’s super soft, cotton-jersey t-shirts, which is moisture wicking and fast drying too. Nab one in an unexpected color, like teal or cherry, or stick with a neutral.
For the Winter Drivers
Battling an icy windshield when you’re already late for work (or close to it) is the pits, but it’s a winter reality in plenty of parts of the country. If he commutes to work or simply drives a lot, help him make short work of weather-related car cleanups with this AstroAI Ice Scraper and Detachable Snow Brush, which has a nonslip grip and PVC bristles that cut through ice without damaging the vehicle.
Best for the Well-Groomed Man
Everyone needs a full-body grooming kit, and this one from Manscaped is sure to impress. The kit comes with five of the brand’s best-selling products like The Lawn Mower, perfect for below-the-waist trimming, a 2-in-1 shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, a deodorant, and a travel bag to store everything.
For the One Who Loves Games
Luxe chess sets are the kind of thing avid players would absolutely love, but would never think to buy themselves—which is exactly what makes it such an excellent gift. Try this coffee table-worthy chess set that doubles as decor, then watch as your loved one enjoys it for years (and maybe even decades) to come.
For the Homebodies
Snuggly UGG slippers make a perfect gift for absolutely anyone. But this versatile pair will do more than keep your loved one’s feet warm. Crafted from leather, warm, wool lining, and designed with a durable rubber sole, these slip-ons are as fit for outdoor excursions as they are for days spent inside.
For the Signature Scent Lovers
For the man who’s after a new signature scent, gift them this luxe cologne sampler set. It features 11 samples of Sephora’s most prominent colognes and once he discovers the one he loves, he can get a full-size version with the redeemable voucher. Plus, the bag it comes in can be reused time and time again.
Best for the Absent-Minded Type
This little Tile gadget by Life360 will keep track of his most important belongings: Bags at the airport, pets, keys, wallet, and more! The Tile allows him to track it on both iOS or Andriod on their phone or computer.
For the Casual Dressers
Lululemon’s ABC joggers have a great fit for men — they’re soft, easy to pull on, and great for any activity. Plus, they come in three different inseams so they’ll fit just right. The joggers are crafted with nylon, lycra, and polyester, which don’t shrink or lose their tapered silhouette.
For the Chilly Sleepers
Searching for a no-fail gift that’s as delightful as it is practical? A set of incredibly comfy flannel pajamas is sure to do the trick. Buy your loved one a pair in a plaid he’ll love, and rest assured knowing you’ve made his winter a lot cozier.
For the Masculine Groomers
Everyone is in need of a reliable toiletry bag, but many are rendered in aesthetics that feel inherently feminine. These zip-ups offer the perfect counterpoint to that movement. Crafted in sleek, versatile leather, these personalized bags are a fit for just about anyone on your list.
For the Beer Lovers
He most likely would appreciate this Stanley growler set over a tumbler anyday. It comes with a 64-ounce growler that’s designed to keep beer fresh (and perfectly carbonated!) for 24 hours and two 16-ounce cups to pour it into. Trust us, they’ll be the talk of the function any time they pull this out. It’ll give them a cool, smoothly poured beer every time.
For the Cozy Seekers
Anyone would be delighted to receive an incredibly plush, incredibly luxurious robe — and the man in your life is surely no exception. Opt for this cozy investment piece in one of three versatile neutrals (and maybe buy one for yourself, while you’re at it).
For the Mood Setters
P.F. Candle Co. specializes in sleek, minimalist candles that smell and look excellent. Buy your loved one a candle in a scent they’ll love. And if you’re unsure of which one they’ll enjoy most, allow us to suggest Black Fig. It has woody and earthy notes of evergreen, mission fig, and spice. They’ll think it smells amazing!
For the Corporate Guy
Equal parts practical and fun, ties make for excellent (and typically, affordable) holiday gifts. Buy your favorite fashion-minded friend this constellation-printed tie, or pick a pattern and palette that feel more in line with their personality. Either way, they’re sure to love it.
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A luxurious treat for any golf lover, this personalized golf ball set is sure to delight. Gift it to the player who already has all the clubs they need. Whether they put this monogrammed set to use — or whether they simply leave it proudly displayed — is up to them.
For the Tailgaters
If your loved one appreciates a tailgate, a day drink, or a backyard barbecure, he’ll be sure to use this canvas cooler time and time again. Invite him to make his own six-pack in this waxed cotton insulated cooler, and be sure he sees the attached bottle opener that’ll be there whenever he needs it.
For the Aspiring Head Chef
A solid knife in the hand of a novice will work wonders in any kitchen. And this three piece knife set by Misen is made of classics that any cook is sure to appreciate. It features a chef’s knife, a pairing knife, and a serrated knife that’ll make prepping and cooking so much more enjoyable.
For the Whiskey Connoisseur
Your favorite whiskey lover is sure to appreciate this luxe gift set, which comes complete with two lowball glasses, two sandstone coasters, and six soapstone whiskey stones.
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And they’ll need some place nice to set that new glass of whiskey down. Make it a really sweet gift and throw in these monogramed leather coasters while you’re at it.
For the Voyager
Any frequent traveler will surely appreciate a quality leather passport holder with two luggage tags to match. This gift-worthy sets are sleek, sophisticated — and even better, it’s super affordable.
For the Watch Collectors
Any timepiece enthusiest is sure to appreciate this sleek wooden watch box, which was crafted to house 10 watches at a time. It’s an excellent gift on its own, but if you want to take things to the next level, you can also fill some of the slots in yourself.
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