Ah, the gift-giving season. When you do your best to shop for the special people in your life…and end up finding a bunch of stuff YOU want.
No harm done. It’s not a crime to be overly excited (and even salivate a little) over the gifts you give others—especially if they’re thoughtful gifts.
Below are 17 holiday gift ideas that you can buy for someone else…OR add to your own holiday wish list.
Cast Iron Skillet
There are a handful of cooking tools every man should own, and a cast iron pan is one of them. The weight and sturdiness are unmatched, and if you take care of your cast iron pan, it will last forever. Without a doubt, there’s no better pan for getting a great sear on a steak, but you can cook nearly anything in it.
Leather Overnight Bag
This beautifully made bag from Saddleback Leather is crafted from full grain leather and lined with natural pig skin. It’s perfect for the man who’s ready to upgrade his luggage for short trips. Medium size accommodates one day’s worth of clothes and shoes, while leaving enough room for toiletries; Large size allows for 2-3 days of clothes, shoes, and toiletries.
Tribe of Mentors by Tim Ferriss
It’s hard not to be inspired by everything that Tim Ferriss does. Mega-entrepreneur and investor (author of The 4-Hour Work Week), “lifestyle design” nut, human guinea pig…and, what’s that you say, Tango champion? His last book, Tools of Titans is a must-read. In his newest book, he squeezes out priceless life advice from 100 eclectic experts. These aren’t just successful people, they’re people Tim looks up to personally.
Wine-of-the-Month Club
For that man of discerning taste, who’s interested in wine…but wants to explore new and different varietals and brands. This isn’t just an automated shipment of random wines. Based on the recipient’s profile, Winc makes specific recommendations for a customized experience. For more monthly box ideas, see my roundup of 50 Awesome Subscription Boxes for Men.
Safety Razor Shaving Set
This Parker safety razor set is perfect for the man who’s interested old-school wet shaving. In addition to the chrome-handled razor, it includes a 100% boar hair shaving brush plus a stand. Or, for the man who likes the idea of wet shaving but still isn’t ready to give up the flexibility and ease of his cartridge razor, the OneBlade CORE is another great option.
Craft Beer-of-the-Month Club
What’s better than craft beer? Different craft beers delivered to your door every month! This is a great gift for the guy who has a few micro-brews he enjoys but is still open to exploring different breweries. Each shipment includes 4 different styles (3 each) plus the monthly beer club newsletter, which includes tidbits and background about each beer.
Oscillating Multi-Tool
I know, I was skeptical of these things too. I thought for sure they were just a novelty. Then a few weeks ago, my father-in-law and I were installing a new door, and I used his to trim the shims around the door frame. Mind=blown. This is great not only for tight cutting jobs but also for sanding, grout removal, and many other things. If anyone is thinking of buying this for me (oh, hey wifey! I didn’t see you there…) I’m personally a Milwaukee man.
LTHR Supply T3 Watch
Being the old-school analog guy that I am, I’m not sure whether I could wear this on a daily basis. But you have to admit, this watch is truly unique and would make an interesting conversation starter. It is technically an analog watch, but it functions like a digital watch.
The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart
For the man who enjoys booze, but also enjoys learning about where his booze comes from. Learn the backstories and little-known-facts about everything from Bourbon to corn-stock wine. I’d heard about this book from a mixologist in Miami a few years ago, and it did not disappoint. For a sneak peek, listen to my podcast interview with author Amy Stewart.
Solo Stove Portable Fire Pit
This space-age looking fire pit is perfect for the man who loves a good campfire but is sick of getting teary-eyed from the smoke. The Solo Stove takes wood-burning fires up a notch with a stainless steel body and engineered airflow that burns wood more efficiently and with less smoke. S’mores anyone?
Sea Monster Flask Watch
Is that a sea monster in your pocket or are you just happy to see me? This truly unique flask is the opposite of every other generic stainless steel flask tucked away in other men’s pockets.
Wifi Pet Camera
For the man who can’t bear to be away from his pet any longer than necessary. The Furbo allows for 2-way video chat AND the ability to toss a treat to dear old Fido using the companion smartphone app.
Waterproof Tactical Flashlight
For such a tiny little device, this gives off a powerful light. This waterproof light will enhance even the pickiest man’s EDC arsenal.
Leather Cords Wrap Set
For the man who likes to be in control of his environment. These handsome leather cord ties from Saddleback Leather help keep unwieldy cords in check.
Ceramic Travel Mug
I recently bought one of these Ello ceramic travel mugs because I wanted the experience of drinking out of a regular mug, but with the portability and reduced spill potential of a lidded travel mug. So far, I’m loving mine.
Anson Calder Minimalist Wallet
As I’ve mentioned before, I am not normally a card wallet guy. I like my old-school billfolds. But I have to say, my experience with Anson Calder has definitely changed my opinion of minimalist wallets. The Cash Wallet includes Anson Calder’s proprietary “push slots” so you can fan out your cards to access them easily—plus it has a center pocket for bills.
(Nearly) Custom Shirts from Blank Label
A made-to-measure shirt from a company like Blank Label is a great gift. The ordering process is seamless and you’re able to customize nearly everything about the shirt. I’ve purchased 3 shirts from them, and they fit extremely well. Gift cards are available starting at $50, so if you’re feeling cheeky you could just fund half the cost of a shirt. A down-payment of sorts…
More Gift Ideas
If you need any further inspiration, you can also check out some of my previous gift guides:
51 Thoughtful Gifts for Every Kind of Woman
21 Irresistible Gifts for Guys
50 Awesome Subscription Boxes for Men
