Deep breaths. First, expand your definitions of what a gift can be. At its core, a gift is just a way to show him that you see him. Is there a new interest he’s been slow to start exploring? Give him the push. Is he wearing a pair of shoe into the ground? Solve that for him. Always spending on others but not himself? Splurge a little on his behalf. Here’s a no-fail guide to spare you some indecision fatigue this holiday season.
Across a handful of different categories, including tech, fitness, home, style etc., we’re here with a curated list of certified smash-hit gifts that will impress even the most particular dude in your life.
Fitness & Outdoor Gifts
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 Running Shoe
If he’s been talking about joining a run club (for fitness purposes, of course…), get a pair of these on his feet ASAP. The Gel-Nimbus are one of ASICS’ most beloved trainers and this current edition is perhaps the best yet with a soft knit upper that nestles the foot atop a plushy cushion that’s built for pavement-pounding.
Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler
Whether he’s big on the great outdoors, or more of the “BBQ’ing on the porch” type, there’s nothing better than an ice-cold growler filled with his favorite booze. This one’s made from dishwasher-safe stainless steel and a spill-proof lid to keep the good times rolling (but not leaking out all over his stuff).
Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon
If he’s into tracking his health stats but wants something stealthier than a Fitbit, the Oura packs arguably more tracking technology (we’re talking 20 different kinds of biometrics) into one minimalistic ring. It connects with 40 different health apps like Apple Health or Strava, plus is HSA/FSA-eligible if you’ve got some funds to use up before the year is through.
Topo Designs 33L Mountain Utility Tote
Who doesn’t love a Big ‘ol Bag? This roomy, mountain climbing-inspired joint is made from tough recycled nylon, includes a waterproof lining and zip top to keep his stuff dry, all while looking cool and colorblocked as hell.
Patagonia Isthmus Anorak Pullover
How do you transform recycled nylon fishing nets into into one sick anorak? No idea—we leave that up to the pros at Patagonia, who have streamlined a packable, fast drying, 40+ UPF sun protection number that gets our seal of approval.
Tracksmith Nor’Easter Jacket
Unlike typical tracksuits and joggers, Tracksmith’s svelte running gear is downright sexy, like this jacket with a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that’s also warm enough to insulate him from the ghastly wind chill.
Hyperice Hyperice Venom 2 Back Wrap
Give his achey back a rest with this high-tech wrap that uses targeted heat and vibrating massage to sooth away soreness and loosen tension. In a word: ahhhhh.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Does he want to make big gains in a small space? These adjustable dumbbells can condense a whole weight rack into one compact footprint.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Help him ascend to new heights (literally) with these excellent hiking shoes that combine a waterproof, pigskin upper and some Vibram rubber underfoot for a trekker that’s comfy but not too clunky.
Kammok Ursa Minor Sleep System
Sweet dreams under the stars are a certainty with this innovative design that combines a self-inflating mattress base with a memory foam topper and sleeping bag. It’s camping with a hint of glamping, because who said spending time in the great outdoors had to be uncomfy, anyways?
KASK Silver Treasure Visor Snow Helmet
One of the only innovations to the ski/snowboard helmet in recent memory, Kask has cut the annoyance out of the typical elastic goggles strap and fused them into a single streamlined helmet design that looks cool as hell.
Big Rock Candy Mountaineering Alpine Jacket
This indie outfitter designed their signature puffer based on the eternally swaggy style of 70’s mountain climbers, while updating it for the more modern trek from rental car to Airbnb.
Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original
Does he hate getting organized no matter how many packing cubes you throw at him? This carry-on brings something new to the table that just might change his travel life with the addition of a “closet” system that hangs for easy organizing (no more night-before-the-trip piles on the floor), and uses a compression strap to shrink down when it’s time to pack up.
Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill
Is there anything hotter than seeing your man start a fire and cook something over it? Well, with this award-winning, brilliantly packable portable fireplace he’ll be able to make it happen anywhere from a remote campsite to your little back patio.
Watchitude
10′ LED Light-Up Pickleball Net Se
Pickleball doesn’t have to be just a summer sport. With this light-up set that includes a glowing net, paddles, and balls, he can keep dinking even as the days get darker.
