I hesitate to call this a men’s gift guide because, for the most part, these gifts are not gender-specific. However, I find it impossible to shop for my husband, and figured you guys might have trouble shopping for your person or people. So, I’ve rounded up a bunch of gifts to help you out. Some are quirky, some are just plain cool, but all are approved by my husband. Hopefully, you’ll find something for the impossible-to-shop-for-men and -women in your life.
For the Foodie
Cheese is undoubtedly man’s greatest invention, and raclette is both a semi-hard alpine cheese and a way of serving said cheese. If you’re not familiar with it, you use a heat source to melt the first layer of the cheese, which is then scraped off onto other foods. It’s basically fondue on crack. A raclette heater was on the periphery on my consciousness; I knew they existed, but I didn’t really understand their greatness until a friend posted a video on Instagram of one of them in action. Now that I have seen the cheesy light, I’m convinced we all need one. And, this is super easy on the eyes, so you can leave it on the countertop.
For the Music Lover
People who love vinyls LOVE VINYLS. They’ll tell you that they love vinyls. They’ll show you their favorite vinyls. They’ll explain where they got each vinyl, special things about the jacket, etc. They’re basically the vegetarians of the music world. This portable record player makes me want to be one of those people. It also comes covered in other materials (velvet! faux snakeskin!) and colors but I think the blond wood is so pretty. It’s also Bluetooth compatible. Not a record fan? Your music lover will love this portable bluetooth speaker that is waterproof, dustproof, and floats.
For the Basketball Obsessed
This gorgeous and usable basketball hoop is so cool. I want to buy it for my husband’s home office, as it functions as a stress-reliever when he’s on an endless call, but also moonlights as a handsome art piece. Also comes in white leather with silver.
For the Home Mixologist
This kit is basically a chemistry set for adults. My husband is a teetotaler, but I can see YOUR person inviting over his former frat buddies to make some gin together as they reminisce about those glory days when they had more hair and less pooch. #dadbod
For the Impossible to Get Out of Bed
Okay, so this is one of those absurd yet awesome gifts. There’s no way I could have this in my life today, as my kids would spill hot coffee all over the floor and themselves on Day One. But, Pre-Kid Me would have loved this. It kind of reminds me of those old Folgers commercials where the smell of coffee wakes the person up and leads them downstairs, except this is an actual alarm and doesn’t require you to move. I also love that it has a refrigerated compartment for milk.
For the Traveling Man
Can luggage be sexy? Probably not, but if it could be, THIS would be the Brad Pitt of small luggage. Like Brad, leather only looks better as it ages and gets banged up. Although, TBH, Legends of the Fall Brad will forever be my favorite. Wait, was this supposed to be about luggage? Just get the bag.
For the Forgetful Beau
If your guy is always losing things, this small wallet with a Tile tracker is the way to go.
Now, if only they could invent something so he never forgets your anniversary.
For the Supreme Improv Lover
I bought tickets to this knowing nothing about it other than Hamilton’s Lin-Manuel Miranda was its creator and a sometimes-performer in the show, and that it involved freestyle rap. I went earlier this fall and it was one of the best nights out I’d had in forever. It makes so much sense to combine freestyle rap and improvisational skits, and here it was done seamlessly. I’m not sure I’ve ever laughed so hard. Also, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some of your favorite Hamilton actors. Miranda wasn’t there the night I went, but Christopher Jackson, who was Tony-nominated for his portrayal of George Washington, was a performer in my show. Buy for anyone who likes rap, improv, and/or fun. Show ends mid-January.
For the Sharp Dresser
This field jacket is so stupidly versatile. It can be worn to work, on the weekend, and anywhere else your guy needs to go. Looking for a cheaper alternative? Check out this one by Madewell. It’s a bit more casual, but also significantly more affordable.
For the Gamer (or for a kid of the 1980s)
You weren’t a kid of the 80s if you didn’t spend half your day blowing into the end of a Nintendo game cartridge to make it work. Now you can relive your childhood frustrations, as Nintendo has released its classic game console with a selection of games.
It’s on my Christmas list and should be on yours, too.
For the (Formerly?) Longtime Bachelor
My husband disputes this fact, but when I met him he had the saddest bed with just a fitted sheet. He says he had a duvet but I don’t remember it. At the time, he was an extreme workaholic, so I’m honestly surprised he even took the time to purchase a bed. Now we sleep like normal people with pillows and all the bedding and I’d like to think he notices, because great bedding is one of those essential things you don’t realize is important until you finally have it and it changes your life. Buy these sheets for your new guy, your twentysomething son, or anyone else who needs a bed makeover.
For the Weather Warrior
These are just really handsome duck boots, so I felt like they needed to be on the gift guide. I love that they’re seam-sealed so totally waterproof, and the leather upper separates it from the pack of a normally-hideous weatherproof boots. Buy for your guy and this will become his weekend and bad weather commute staple.
For the Casual Guy
If your guy is like my guy and would wear sneakers anywhere and everywhere if he could, these are the sneakers for him. They’re less activewear and more casual shoe, so look great with jeans and casual trousers. I love the suede details and the retro vibe.
The Obligatory Sweater Gift
I love a shawl collar cardigan, and I particularly love this one. It’s not going to be for every guy, but if you’re going with the sweater option, make it this pretty. Looking for a cheaper alternative? Try this one from H&M.
For the Guy on the Go
If your significant other is always complaining that he never manages to drink a hot cup of coffee, this is the perfect gift. The tumbler is self-heating for up to 2 hours anywhere and all day when placed on the charging coaster. I’m currently reheating my morning coffee for the third time today, so I might need this as well.
My Husband’s Pick
My husband is in the midst of a deep love affair with this watch. While I might not be as obsessed as he is, I do love that it’s solar powered and made from recycled water bottles. It’s a great casual watch at a great price.
