A Guide To 45 Of The Best Gifts For Dads That Come From The Heart
by Cam Vigliotta · ForbesEvery year, it's the same recurring tale: Dad insists he doesn't want any holiday gifts, which leads to the usual unwrapping of socks, a cliché tie and obscure shaving products from a brand even he can't remember. But there are epic gifts for dad waiting to be discovered; you just need a a little help finding them. The best gifts for dads span a wide range: Choose from pizza ovens, multi-tools, flannels, air fryers, gifts cards and so much more.
This year, you have the chance to break free from the predictable cycle by presenting the dad in your life with a thoughtful, clever gift that surpasses all others. Whether he claims to want nothing or already seems to own every worldly possession, a myriad of options awaits, perfectly aligned with his hobbies, interests, passions and preferences.
To that end, this gift guide is packed with alternatives and upgrades to the same-old mundane dad gifts. We’ve got gifts for husbands, new dads, grilling enthusiasts and more. Never again will he feign excitement over golf balls or grill tongs, so long as you stick to this list. And stay tuned for updates as we find more cool and memorable gifts for Dad as the holiday season fast approaches.
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Best Gifts For Dads: Editors’ Picks
- Best Gift For The Dad Who Likes To Cook: Ooni Koda 16 Pizza Oven
- Best Accessory Gift: Leatherman Arc Multi-Tool
- Best Experiential Gift: Airbnb Gift Card
- Best Apparel Gift: Uncommon Goods Embroidered Tee
- Best Unique Gift: Jack Black Beard Oil
- Best Outdoors Gift: The James Brand The Carter
- Best Fitness Gift: Hoka Clifton 9
- Best Tech Gift: Belken BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand
- Best Gift For Dads Who Have Everything: Shutterfly Photo Book
Best Gifts For The Dad Who Likes To Cook
The Secret To Pizza Perfection
Ooni Koda 16 Pizza Oven
After two months of testing and nearly 50 pies later, the Ooni Koda 16 emerged as the best pizza oven among the eight best-selling models we tested. While it bakes with only propane or natural gas, the oven’s unique L-shaped burner distributes heat more evenly to help Dad craft the perfect greasy wheel. And because it weighs less than 40 pounds (and features folding legs), he can easily take it on the road to bake pies for friends and family.
The Cadillac Of Kamado-Style Grills
Kamado Joe Jr. Charcoal Grill
If Dad’s already a BBQ ace, he might have his eye on a kamado-style grill. It’s a beloved form factor among outdoor foodies because the all-ceramic construction is ideal for retaining heat, and this petite version from Kamado Joe clocks in at 68-pounds and has a cast iron stand for convenient carrying—to the tailgate, park, campsite and more.
A Peerless Pizza Cutter
Gozney Pizza Rocker
If Dad’s a pizza aficionado who loves to treat family and friends to homemade slices, he’ll need to add a rocker to his arsenal that ensures each slice is effortlessly and evenly cut. This one from Gozney features a 13.75-inch blade and wooden handle that looks just as professional when it’s hanging on the wall as it does in hand. Pair it with the Ooni pizza oven we recommended above to round out Dad’s kit.
A Do-It-All Kitchen Appliance
Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
Maybe Dad doesn’t spend a lot of time in the kitchen, but that’ll change when he gets his hands on Ninja’s AF101 Air Fryer. Its intuitive and simple design makes it easy for beginners to step into the kitchen with confidence, whether he’s throwing together crispy chicken wings or perfectly roasted vegetables. Take the guesswork out of dinners, snacks and meal prep.
A Precise Digital Meat Thermometer
ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer
A must-have for any dad who takes pride in his grilling and cooking skills, the ThermoPro TP19H offers rapid and accurate temperature readings to ensure every cut of meat is perfectly cooked to perfection, allowing him to showcase his culinary expertise with confidence. It's the ideal gift for the grill master who appreciates precision and excellence in every BBQ endeavor.
Best Accessory Gifts For Dads
Nothing Compares To Leatherman's Latest Multi-Tool
Leatherman Arc Multi-Tool
Leatherman’s latest multi-tool just might be the best one they’ve ever made. The 20-tool Arc, complete with a removable bit driver, spring-action scissors and those iconic Leatherman pliers, is just as satisfying to fidget with as it is to use. If Dad is a discerning everyday carry connoisseur, he’ll appreciate the Arc’s new CPM MagnaCut steel knife, an implement made from one of the best blade steels on the market. Sure, it costs a pretty penny, but the tool’s 25-year warranty guarantees it’ll last him for decades.
A Classic Timepiece
Timex Q GMT Watch
Dad only wishes he had more time to enjoy the little things in life, and while you can’t turn back the clock, you can give him the gift of time in the form of Timex’s Q GMT Watch. This decidedly simple yet classically stunning travel timepiece lacks the fancy bells and whistles of today’s smartwatches, but its black dial, rotating bezel and quartz movement are all tiny details Dad can appreciate.
A Ballpoint With A Secret Up Its Sleeve
Gentleman's Hardware 6-In-1 Tooling Pen
It’s a pen. A black ballpoint, to be precise—just twist the barrel to write. But this pen also has rulings inscribed on the sides, a mini screwdriver with interchangeable bits and a stylus as well. It’s handy and will make Dad feel like MacGyver when he pulls it apart to fix something.
A Leather Billfold To Replace The One He's Had For Decades
Tecovas Calfskin Leather Billfold Wallet
Every dad deserves a wallet upgrade, especially if his old faithful has seen better days or resembles George Costanza's infamous billfold. Tecovas offers a stylish solution by way of this simple leather wallet that adds a touch of class to Dad's daily carry and offers a more organized and comfortable experience. With eight card slots, one cash slot and two slip pockets, it’s the perfect gift to keep him looking sharp and his wallet-worthy essentials in order.
A Pouch For His Prized Essentials
Evergoods Civic Access Pouch
Crafted with care and designed for durability, the Evergoods Civic Access Pouch is a game-changer for dads who value functionality and style but lack organization. Sporting a two-liter capacity, it's deceptively spacious and complete with an adjustable zippered divider to ensure every last essential—from a wallet and keys to a passport and tech—has a home. Dad will surely break this pouch out for travel, but he might also consider using it as his at-home organizer.
A Three-Pack Of Pocket-Sized Notebooks
Field Notes: National Parks Series
Whether Dad needs to jot down his thoughts, ideas or important notes on the go, the compact size and durable design of these Field Notes notebooks are ideal for keeping track of everything from daily tasks to memorable moments. It's a thoughtful and practical gift for the dad who still appreciates the art of note-taking in his busy life.
Best Experiential Gifts For Dad
Teach An Old Dog New Tricks
MasterClass Membership
Does your Dad have a thing for James Cameron movies, Gordon Ramsey cooking shows or science sessions from Neil deGrasse Tyson? Sign him up for a year of MasterClass and he can learn directly from these icons and dozens of other experts and celebrities. Because Dad was right all along: learning is fun.
Give The Gift Of Craft Coffee
Trade Coffee Subscription
Dad's not Dad until he's had that first sip of coffee. Without it, he's like a puzzle missing its most crucial piece. But if he’s drinking the same cup of joe day after day, a coffee subscription from Trade will set him up with a tantalizing array of roasts and flavors delivered right to his door. With dozens of roasters and hundreds of coffees to choose from, he’ll quickly find something he likes that’s sure to put a little pep in his step.
Because Nothing Tastes Better Than Something You Make Yourself
Brooklyn Brewshop Beer Making Kits
Crafted with all the essential tools and ingredients, Brooklyn Brewshop’s beer-making kit serves as the gateway to brewing his own unique, handcrafted beers right at home. With step-by-step instructions and all the necessary equipment, this kit offers a fun and educational journey into the world of brewing. Whether he's a seasoned beer connoisseur or a newbie to the craft, it provides the chance to experiment, create and savor his very own brews, tailored to his taste. Choose from any number of kits that range from ales to stouts to saisons to single IPAs and more.
A Gift Card To Stay Anywhere
Airbnb Gift Card
Whether Dad likes to hostel hop through Europe or kick back by the beach, an Airbnb gift card will satisfy his lingering travel bug. From chalets in Chamonix to bungalows in the Bahamas, millions of unique dwellings in cities around the world are just a few clicks away. If you play your cards right, you just might get an invite on the next trip.
Best Apparel Gifts For Dads
A Tee To Support His Understated Charm
Uncommon Goods Secretly Cool Dad Embroidered Tee
This cotton tee from Uncommon Goods looks like any other classic tee, until you spot the subtle embroidery on the left breast that spells “Cool Dad” in matching thread. It’s a fun and fashionable choice for any dad who wants to show off his cool side with a hint of charm.
A Pair Of Heavy-Duty Work Pants
Truewerk T2 Werkpant
Truewerk isn’t the American heritage brand with decades of success, but don’t let the lack of pedigree fool you into thinking it’s just another nameless label. After donning the T2 Werkpant for the past two months, I’ve fallen in love with its tear-proof durability and plethora of pockets that hold countless essentials. The water-resistant and windproof fabric keeps the elements at bay while a loose fit through the leg pairs with articulated knees to add loads of comfort. Once Dad tries these on, he won’t want to take them off.
Help Him Restock His Underwear Drawer
Smartwool Merino Boxer Brief
We don’t need to know if Dad walks around the house in his underwear, but if he hasn’t refreshed his collection in quite some time, gift a pair or two of Smartwool’s Merino Boxer Briefs. The blend of merino and nylon regulates body temperature, manages sweat and resists odor to stay fresh, while flatlock seams and a merino-lined elastic waistband maximize comfort. Buy him a pair to get the ball rolling and soon enough he’ll happily replace his entire collection.
A Shirt With A Secret Up Its Sleeve
Pladra Every Day Flannel Shirt
Batman and Robin, Bert and Ernie, salt and pepper, cookies and milk—some things in this world just go together, and dads and flannels are no exception. Pladra’s take on the classic flannel uses 100% cotton that’s lightly brushed for next-to-skin comfort while triple needle stitching about the shoulders and back improves durability. Pladra also adds a hidden nature print liner under the cuffs, collar and back yoke, which means Dad can keep it simple or roll up his sleeves to flash the print for some extra style points.
Treat His Feet To Soft Socks
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Sock
There’s a good chance Dad actually wants socks, in which case you should gift him a few pairs from sock purveyor Darn Tough. The Vermont-based label makes comfortable, supportive socks that come with a lifetime warranty, no questions asked, which means Dad can wear a pair to his heart’s content and exchange it for a new one at any point.
Best Unique Gifts For Dads
Vintage-Inspired Miniatures, Assembled By Hand
Vintage Camper Birdhouse Miniature
If Dad likes to fiddle and tinker with crafts, then he’ll love this retro-inspired, build-it-yourself camper kit from Etsy. While it’s available in two sizes, we recommend opting for the larger birdhouse miniature that contains a lot more detail and doubles as an actual birdhouse should Dad wish to hang it in the backyard. If he wants to paint the camper and make it his own, pick up the natural kit that comes with six paint colors and two brushes.
Discover, Explore, Escape, Repeat
Adventure Journal Subscription
If the wanderlust-fueled, story-seeking and adventure-thirsty Dad in your life needs a memorable gift, look no further than Adventure Journal. The quarterly magazine, complete with 30 issues at the time of writing, features immersive narratives, breathtaking photography and firsthand accounts of a life spent outdoors. Every issue is a ticket to adventure from the comfort of an armchair, which Dad is far more likely to read and enjoy than those stale magazines he received for decades. Gift him a yearly subscription for $60 or a single issue to see if he likes it for only $18.
Help Him Tame His Beard Using Quality Ingredients
Jack Black Beard Oil
Dad probably keeps his feelings about his beard to himself, but now you can help him solve any and all beard struggles with Jack Black Beard Oil. With Katahari melon oil and vitamin E, a few squirts rubbed into his beard every day will relieve itchiness, soften hair and make it easier to comb.
Best Outdoor Gifts For Dads
Time To Get Rid Of Those Old Moccassins
Chaco Ramble Rugged Clogs
Maybe you can’t get Dad to part ways with his beloved dad shoes, but you can add the Ramble Rugged Clog to his footwear collection. Sure, the soft fleece lining and slip-on closure technically makes it a slipper at heart, but this sole soother also features durable bottoms with treads for optimal traction. That means Dad can wear them around the house, or when he’s walking the dog on a quiet morning, or clearing the walkway of snow come winter. They fall just short of convincing him to retire his dad shoes, but they do offer the comfort and convenience he appreciates.
A Beautiful Folder For Everyday Tasks
The James Brand Carter
Whether it’s a keepsake for his collection or a tool to use around the house, few knives blend sophistication with utility better than The Carter. The corrosion-resistant VG-10 stainless steel blade cuts its way through packages and meal prep with ease, while the handle features a slide lock and a reversible pocket clip. Pick it up in matured black and rose gold colorway seen here, or choose from 10 other blade and handle combinations.
An Award-Winning Down Jacket
Rab Mythic G Jacket
The ultimate winter gift for dads seeking unparalleled warmth and comfort, Rab’s Mythic G Jacket features a state-of-the-art construction with high-quality materials like 1,000-fill down insulation and exceptional heat retention without the bulk, ensuring he stays toasty in even the coldest winter conditions. It's the ideal blend of functionality and fashion for the Dad who values both warmth and outdoor elegance.
For The Dad Who's Observant
Spot Birds, Stars, Planes And More
Nikon ProStaff P3 10x30 Binoculars
The Nikon ProStaff P3 Binoculars are the perfect gift for the dad with a passion for observation and exploration. Whether he's birdwatching, stargazing or spotting planes in the sky, these bins deliver crisp and clear optics with a 10x magnification, ensuring every detail is vividly captured. Lightweight and compact, they're the ideal companion for any outdoor enthusiast dad.
Best Fitness Gifts For Dads
Cushioned, Supportive Kicks That Deliver Unparalleled Comfort
Hoka Clifton 9
Maybe Dad goes for morning walks or runs errands every weekend. No matter why he spends time on his feet, he deserves to do so in comfort, courtesy of the Hoka Clifton 9. Plush and supportive, this road running shoe features an early stage meta-rocker to deliver a smooth experience with every step that’s akin to walking on a cloud. And with over 10 different colors to choose from, you’re bound to find a pair that adds a little style to Dad’s everyday attire.
A Massage Gun That Works Out Aches And Pains
Theragun Elite Massage Gun
Help Dad relieve his bad back, stiff neck or sore muscles with Theragun’s mid-tier massager. Crowned our favorite massage gun after two months of extensive testing, the Elite comes with five different heads to target different areas, from major muscle groups of the back and legs to smaller muscles through the arms, shoulders and feet. And if he needs a little guidance, the Therabody app personalizes a unique wellness routine based on Dad’s activity, injuries and ailments.
A Repair Stand To Work On His Beloved Bike
Topeak PrepStand Pro
If Dad repairs and maintains his bike at home but doesn’t do so with a repair stand, consider gifting him the Topeak PrepStand Pro. Designed to lift a bike off the ground and hold it stable while he works, this stand will completely transform his relationship with at-home bike maintenance whether he’s fixing a flat or servicing a bent derailleur hanger.
Best Drink Gifts For Dads
Preserve Wine Within Opened Bottles
Coravin Timeless Three+ Preservation System
A Coravin wine preservation system lets Dad tap into some of his prized vintages without actually opening the bottle, preserving the wine for months or even years. The secret of the system: It distills the contents of the bottle through a tiny needle and fills the open bottle with ultra-pure argon gas to keep it pristine. This package is everything Dad needs to get started with the next level in wine preservation.
Keep A Drink At The Perfect Temperature
Ember Mug²
It’s the holy grail for coffee fans—a mug that keeps coffee warm for hours, no matter how long you nurse it. If Dad likes to drink the hot stuff at his desk, Ember's Smart Mug² can keep 10 ounces of liquid hot for 1.5 hours at a time—or all day long if the mug sits on its charging coaster. Using the app, Dad can dial in the precise temperature he wants, from 120 to 145 degrees.
For The Dad Who's A Whiskey Connoisseur
A Smooth, Satisfying Sipper
Lagavulin 16 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Maybe Dad is dipping his toes in the water (and his tastebuds in the whiskey), or maybe he can taste the difference between a scotch and a rye. No matter his whiskey wisdom, Lagavulin 16 wows novices and aficionados alike with its oily, slightly salty, smooth profile. In other words, it’s delightfully complex and sure to make for a tasty tipple.
Best Tech Gifts For Dad
Never Pay For Those Cheap Wired Earbuds Again
Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter
Designed for frequent travelers, this compact Bluetooth transmitter allows Dad to enjoy wireless audio on any wired auxiliary port, making long flights more enjoyable without compromising on sound quality or comfort. With its sleek design and hassle-free functionality, it's a thoughtful and practical gift for the dad who's always on the go.
Binge Shows, Watch Movies And Play Games On A Big Screen
Samsung The Freestyle Smart Projector
With its portable design, impressive image quality and adjustable screen size, Samsung’s smart projector transforms any space into a personalized entertainment hub, allowing dads to indulge in their favorite movies, binge-worthy shows and immersive gaming sessions on a big screen. It's the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and cinematic indulgence for the dad who loves his on-screen entertainment.
All The Power He Needs In One Place
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-In-1 Wireless Charging Stand
Give your tech-savvy dad the gift of seamless charging with Belkin's 3-in-1 Wireless Charger. The sleek and efficient station is designed to power up his phone, watch and earbuds simultaneously, and it sports MagSafe compatibility for fast, reliable charging should he use Apple devices. It's the ultimate solution for simplifying an otherwise annoying routine, keeping all his essential gadgets ready to go without the hassle of multiple cables and adapters.
A Simple Setup To Keep His Camera At The Ready
Peak Design Capture Clip
The Peak Design Capture Clip is a nothing short of game-changer for any photographer. This innovative little accessory securely attaches a camera to a backpack strap or belt for quick and convenient access whether he's capturing breathtaking landscapes or intimate family moments. While it may seem like a simple gift on paper, Dad will be singing this little gadget’s praises after just one use.
For The Dad Who's An Audiophile
Crisp, Clear Sound On The Go
JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
With its powerful audio performance and long-lasting battery life, the JBL Charge 5 Bluetooth speaker ensures that any dad can enjoy crisp, immersive sound wherever he goes, making it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures, gatherings or simply unwinding at home with his favorite tunes. It's a gift that combines cutting-edge technology with the joy of premium audio, catering to the music enthusiasts among us.
Keep Track Of Items Big Or Small
Apple Airtags (4-Pack)
This four-pack of Apple AirTags is the ultimate gift for the dad who occasionally misplaces his essentials. With cutting-edge technology and seamless integration with Apple devices, these compact trackers ensure he can easily locate his wallet, keys or even his car, making everyday life a little less stressful and a lot more organized. It's the perfect solution for the forgetful dad in your life who could use a helping hand in keeping track of his essentials.
Best Gifts For The Dad Who Has Everything
A Personalized Book Filled With Memories
Shutterfly Photo Book
If Dad’s the type to snap pictures left and right, consider organizing his favorite shots in a photo book from Shutterfly. The online service lets you drag and drop photos and text into a book of almost any size before it’s printed and shipped in a matter of days. Create a photo book on your own or work with Shutterfly’s free 24-hour design services where pros will put your book together for you.
There's A Man Crate For Every Discerning Dad
Man Crates
With themed crates filled to the brim with carefully curated, quality goods, Man Crates are designed to cater to Dad’s passions, from barbecue and golf to knife making and beer. Even if Dad insists he doesn't need a gift, he won't be able to resist the excitement of prying open a Man Crate (with an included crowbar) filled with goods. However, for those who prefer to hand over the reins, a simple gift card empowers Dad to choose the perfect crate that speaks to his interests.
Prepare For The "Fun Guy" Dad Jokes
The Noma Guide To Fermentation
Perfect for the culinary dad who loves experimenting in the kitchen, this comprehensive guide offers a deep dive into the world of microbial transformation. With expert insights from Noma, one of the world's most renowned restaurants, it reveals the secrets behind creating bold, complex flavors through fermentation. Whether Dad's passionate about perfecting homemade kimchi, crafting artisanal sourdough or mastering the magic of microbes, he’ll find answers in this comprehensive guide.
A Sleek, Discrete Vaporizer That Fits In A Pocket
Pax Mini Vaporizer
A discreet and stylish solution for dads who appreciate the finer things in life, the Pax Mini is perfect for those who want to enjoy their herb subtly. This sleek vaporizer offers a sophisticated and odor-free experience, ensuring a smooth toke without the telltale signs of traditional smoking.
A Subtle, Stylish Duffel Bag
Filson Tin Cloth Duffle Bag
For the sophisticated dad who values both style and functionality, the Filson Tin Cloth Duffle Bag is the epitome of travel-ready luxury. Crafted with Filson's renowned durability and timeless design, this duffle is the ideal companion for long weekends, business trips and more, ensuring that Dad travels in both comfort and class. With its spacious interior, premium materials and attention to detail, it's the perfect gift for the discerning father.
An Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow
Coop Home Goods Original Bed Pillow
With its adjustable filling, Dad can personalize the pillow to his preferred level of comfort, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating slumber. It's a thoughtful solution for any sleeper who values a customized experience tailored to his unique preferences, even if he prefers to doze off on the couch a dozen times before finally heading off to bed.