PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
It’s easy to feel hopeless when setting out to find the best gift for your dad (whether the special occasion is Father’s Day, Christmas, his birthday or International Talk Like a Pirate Day, the holiday you two started celebrating when you were six and never gave up). Especially if he always insists he doesn’t want anything. But don’t worry—I put the hard work in for you and found gifts that even the dads who feel impossible to shop for will love (and actually use).
Yes, this is a massive list, but that’s because I was factoring in all kinds of interests, life stages and price points (so expect to find everything from comfy lululemon pants to a lightweight Kindle and high-quality cookware below).
How I Chose the Best Gifts for Dads
Beyond catering to every type of dad, from the handy dad to the techie dad, the adventurous dad to the bibliophile dad, I scoured the top retailers (such as Amazon, REI, Nike and the like) and paid particular attention to best-selling items with high ratings from previous buyers. Some are even endorsed by celebrities, popular talk shows and, of course, PureWow staffers themselves (or the very discerning men in their lives). I also know there are more practical elements to picking out a gift, and not everyone’s budgets and timelines are the same, so I took cost, quality and timeliness of delivery into account as well.
Our Top 5 Gifts for Dads
- JBL Clip 5 Waterproof Speaker
- Adidas Dayready Pants
- Uncommon Goods MLB Team Interactive QR Mug
- Camp Snap CS-8 Digital Video Camcorder
- lululemon ABC Pants
Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.
1. JBL Clip 5 Waterproof Speaker
If dad loves listening to music everywhere, he’ll appreciate this waterproof speaker that’s compact but powerful. It gets up to 12 hours of playtime from a single charge, and shoppers are impressed with its quality. “We were both really really impressed with the sound for such a small speaker. It can get very loud without hurting your ears like a low quality speaker does, and it has a nice bass for what it is and a crisp clear sound,” wrote one buyer.
2. Adidas Dayready Pants
Amazon
A pair of classic track pants is a great addition to any dad’s wardrobe, and this pair’s marked down to just $23 now, so you can treat him for less. They come in standard and tall lengths, so you have options to suit his height, and the drawcord at the waist makes the fit adjustable, too.
3. Uncommon Goods MLB Team Interactive QR Mug
Uncommon Goods
Don’t get dad another basic coffee cup. Instead, opt for this one from Uncommon Goods that features his favorite MLB team with fun designs, plus a QR code that he can scan to play trivia games, see game highlights,and learn about his team’s stadium’s history. One reviewer raved that the trivia was even difficult for “a lifelong baseball fan,” so he’ll never get bored with it.
4. Camp Snap CS-8 Digital Video Camcorder
Camp Snap
This digital video camcorder has all of the nostalgic fun of ’90s designs, but has modern upgrades dad is sure to appreciate. For starters, it transfers footage effortlessly by a USB-C cord, so there’s no waiting around for film to develop—but you still get the vintage-like feel of film from the built-in filters. It can also be set to different aspect ratios, so he’ll have a perfect size whether he plans to post his videos on social media or view them on a larger screen at home—and that’s just the beginning of all of its impressive features.
5. lululemon ABC Pants
Multiple editors and readers have told us the men in their lives live in these pants. Why? “They’re super comfortable, and they don’t look sloppy so he can wear them out,” one shared. “He even has backups, just in case.” These pants are made from four-way stretch fabric, and there’s extra room in the seat area to make sure nothing binds when a guy sits down. Plus, they come in three inseams to avoid trips to the tailor.
6. Wonderbly Our Dad Personalized Book
Any gift from his kiddos is timeless to him, especially personalized books like this gem from Wonderbly that he can hold onto and flip through forever. His favorite part? The 32-page illustrated story is all about how important he is. All you have to do is add the number of kids, build their characters, upload a photo, select the cover, write a dedication (from the kids, of course) and edit the messages on every page. You’ll get to see a preview of it all before it’s printed and shipped off. Just make sure you pack a box of tissues with it, because he’s going to need it.
7. MasterClass Subscription
A MasterClass subscription is the gift that keeps on giving. Starting at just $10/month, billed annually, the online education platform will give your pops access to more than a hundred virtual classes and sessions led by industry professionals in various fields, from cooking to meditation from top people in their profession, like science with Neil deGrasse Tyson and how to ball properly with Steph Curry. Basically, he can learn a new skill every day. With new classes being added every month, Dad will never get bored. Retired, who?
8. ThermoWorks Thermapen One
Former PureWow Senior Food editor Katherine Gillen’s dad gave her a Thermapen as a gift, which shows his level of respect for this device. “I’ve never tried a better meat thermometer,” she says. “It’s so fast to get a reading, and I like that it’s no frills and easy to clean.” It’s popular amongst celebrity chefs because it can provide a reading in just one second—gauging temperatures between -58.0 and 572.0°F—and that speed means he doesn’t need to open the oven or grill for too long (and thus lower the temp unnecessarily). After opening this handy gift, your dad will never have to play the “Is this meat fully cooked?” game again. It can also be used in baking or candy making, so he can expand his kitchen repertoire with confidence.
9. Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
Help Dad melt away those back pains with a neck and back massager he can wrap around him like a comforting blanket, then sit back and relax. Made of faux leather, it comes with eight deep Shiatsu kneading massage nodes and three-speed intensities. The soothing heat will help further improve blood circulation, according to the brand. Dad will be texting you from home, thanking you for months after unboxing this. How do I know this? My siblings and I bought our parents one, and it gets rave reviews.
10. Butcher Box
“This delivered-to-your-door subscription box allows you to customize a monthly haul of ethically sourced meat, based on what your dad or husband loves the most,” says PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint. “I got this for my husband for his birthday, and he’s loved opening it up to find chops, steaks, bacon, you name it. And since he’s the cook in our house, I reap the benefits.” Give him an introduction to the brand with a ButcherBox Essentials box, which includes filet mignons, ground beef, sausage, bacon and more.
11. HexClad Hybrid Frying Pan Set
If Dad loves to cook, he probably already has a cookware set he’s been using for a while, but he may not have this one, which has Gordon Ramsey’s stamp of approval and is super high-quality. The hexagonal pattern (hence the name) is non-stick, scratch-resistant and metal-utensil safe. Throw in the versatile mixture of pans, and he’ll be all set for his next date in the kitchen.
12. Adidas Samba Sneakers
If your dad is anything like mine, he doesn’t care about fashion. If you’re anything like me, you’re trying to dress him better. (I mean, the man patched a hole in the butt of his jeans with…mismatched denim!) The iconic Adidas Sambas will tick both of our boxes. Dad looks like he’s with the times while also comfortably running his errands and milling about the office.
13. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition
I use my Kindle every single day, so I feel confident recommending one for every dad who’s an avid reader. The paperwhite display is super easy on your eyes, so it never feels like you’re staring at a screen (even if you get sucked into a story for hours). Plus, it has such an impressive battery life—this version can last up to 12 weeks on a single charge, making it super easy to travel with, too. And if you really want to treat dad, add on a Kindle Unlimited subscription that will give him access to millions of ebooks.
14. Plaud Note Pro AI Voice Recorder
Take some of the stress out of dad’s constant meetings with this AI-powered voice recorder that will transcribe and summarize notes for him, so he’s free to focus when it matters. One shopper said it’s been “extremely useful” in long, detailed meetings, and noted that the “battery life is excellent, and the magnetic holder that keeps the unit attached to the back of [their] phone is extremely convenient.”
15. ZipString Aracna
zipstring
It doesn’t matter how buttoned-up your Dad is; he won’t be able to resist taking a turn with this little gadget. The ZipString Aracna attaches to your wrist and connects with a looped string, and with the push of a button, sends it shooting into the air, seemingly defying gravity. It’s like a web shooter, minus the mess, and when editors recently tested it, everyone aged 3 to 40 couldn’t stop playing with it. Order one for each kid and dad, then let them run wild playing together. They’ll have a blast—promise.
16. New York Times Games Premium Puzzle Book
Uncommon Goods
This hardcover book is packed with 224 games and puzzles, including Wordle, trivia, sudoku and logic puzzles. “There’s a lot of variety in the puzzles included! Truly something for everyone,” confirmed a buyer. Its fun cover makes it great to display on a coffee table when he’s not using it, too.
17. Kodak 14.1-Inch FHD Digital Picture Frame
Who doesn’t enjoy the dopamine hit of reminiscing over a family vacation or school play? That’s where this sleek digital frame comes in. The frame includes 32GB of storage, so he display fit years’ worth of photos and videos, and the frame is made of natural, scratch-resistant wood that will stay looking nice no matter how often it’s passed around for everyone to get a look.
18. Hasbro Gaming Clue Advent Calendar
Part game, part Advent calendar, this Clue-themed gift is perfect for the dad who loves a good mystery. The whole family can help him out, too, as it can be used by either a single player or multiple. Each day, they’ll find a puzzle, Clue card, token or a surprise to help them solve the crime by the end of 24 days. “It was enjoyed by adults in my case, but I could see teens and older kids participating too. The clues were interesting and challenging and the game box/board itself was solid and well-constructed,” shared a reviewer.
19. Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
You can’t go wrong with this comfortable-yet-elevated sweater. The price point can’t be beat, especially for the quality. Plus, it comes in 13 colorways, though our editors are partial to the chocolate brown shade.
20. Uncommon Goods Beer History Pint Glasses
Uncommon Goods
Does your dad love history and beer? Well then, consider this his perfect gift. These beer glasses are designed with graphics featuring the history of different types of beers, including IPA, lager, pale ale and pilsner. You can shop them all together as a set, or choose whichever is his favorite. “Perfect gift for a retired history teacher and beer lover! He’s also a very particular history teacher and beer lover, and he loved these glasses,” raved a shopper.
21. Nike AGC Lunar Lake Hooded Puffer Jacket
Nike
Designed to keep him warm in even the coldest conditions, this hooded puffer jacket is bound to keep dad warm through winter, no matter how much snow falls. It features a water-repellent finish and warm PrimaLoft insulation, and its loose fit allows space for a thick sweater underneath for even more warmth. Despite its large size and puffy design, it packs down into a cinch bag for easy storage during the warmer months.
22. Fanatics New York Knicks Anunoby Facsimile Signature Framed Photo
Fanatics
Help dad always remember this year’s historic Knicks win with this photo of the game-winning tip-in. It includes a facsimile Anunoby signature, making it a unique gift he’ll want to keep forever. The photo comes with a 17-inch x 20-inch frame included, too, so he can hang it up right away.
23. Lego Star Wars Imperial Lambda-Class Shuttle
Lego-loving, Star Wars-obsessed dads will be thrilled to receive this 961-piece set to construct their very own Imperial ship. It’s designed to switch between flight and landing modes by folding the wings up or down, and it comes with five mini figures that can be moved around and even placed in the cockpit. One buyer said it’s “sturdy when using it, and it’s fun to play with,” and others noted the instructions are clear and make it easy to put together.
24. Leatherology Magnetic Money Clip
Leatherology
If your dad likes to keep things simple when he’s on the go, he’ll surely get tons of use out of this slim, magnetic money clip. It holds up to ten bills, so it won’t ever feel too bulky to fit in his pocket, and you can personalize it with one to three characters and two font options, so he’ll never confuse it with someone else’s.
25. Saatva Cloud Memory Foam Pillow
Any parent knows there’s no greater gift than a good night’s sleep, and this pillow will help Dad achieve just that. This pillow feels extra luxe, thanks to its blend of shredded gel-infused memory foam and natural latex that helps provide extra support.
26. Anker Portable Nano Charger
This portable iPhone charger from Anker can keep Dad’s phone powered up while he plays a long round of golf with the guys. The pocket-sized power block contains a USB-C output designed specifically for Apple devices (iPhones 15, 16 or 17, as well as recent generations of iPads or AirPods), which basically means that it’ll work fast. Oh, and did I mention that the compact gadget has thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon? Many reviewers have reached a consensus: the game-changing tech must-have is easy-to-use, weightless, small and convenient.
27. Body Back Buddy Elite
This high-precision (and manually operated) neck massager is just what dad needs to work out all those knots. But it also matches his “no frills” mantra. (I don’t know about your dad, but mine is pretty comfortable with the basics—nothing more.) It’s worth calling out that this therapeutic tool is also medical-grade and applies ischemic pressure to hyper-irritable muscle fibers, providing relief for anyone dealing with chronic neck and shoulder pain.
28. Roku Streaming Stick 4K
This impressive streaming stick from Roku is fast, easy-to-use, offers Dolby Audio sound quality and has razor-sharp image quality. He’ll be able to load up all his favorite streaming services, apps, and accounts, and watch tons of free content on the Roku Channel as well. The short explanation? This is a great gift—especially if he’s been wanting to cut the cord for a while. (Though he’ll want to upgrade the speakers for more of an immersive experience.)
29. Apple AirPods Pro 3
All of us love our dads, but whenever they don their old wired headphones, we have to laugh, which is why this gift is perfect. These are a big hit with my pops. He loves to whip them out when we go on a walk around the neighborhood without me noticing, so when I try to talk to him, it takes me a few minutes to realize that he isn’t responding for a reason. The man wants his alone time…I can’t blame him. It’s a win-win for us both (kidding, dad). Your dad will love how much better his music sounds when he puts these on, and he’ll be even more amazed at the spatial audio and noise-canceling feature he can turn on while he’s at the gym or walking the dog.
30. Uncommon Goods Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane
Who doesn’t love to feel like a kid again? Dad can combine his love of modern technology with his desire for a bit of nostalgia with this paper airplane that can be controlled by a smartphone. Build the plane just like his grandpa taught him. But this time, connect a tiny Bluetooth device to it. Now, download the app and enjoy the 1980s-inspired “drone” with 21st-century wireless control.
31. Things Remembered Engraved Golf Pen Set
Try as he might, Pops can’t be at the golf course 24/7. This fun pen holder can add a bit of the green to his everyday, so he has something to look forward to while he’s sifting through paperwork and sending emails. It comes with pens, pencils and a letter opener that sits perfectly in the golf bag, with the option to personalize the front plate with up to four lines of text. So while it’s not the real deal, it’s definitely a memento he’ll hold onto forever.
32. Phillips Wi-Fi Smart Plug with Voice Control
Tired of dad’s phone always dying? Grab him this handy smart plug, which can be plugged into any place that has an outlet. Aside from giving his electronic devices a fast charge, he’ll also be able to set reminders for his daily schedule manually, or with the nifty voice control the device comes with.
33. American Optical Saratoga Sunglasses
Fun fact: John F. Kennedy himself opted to wear the Saratoga frames. That’s why they’re especially perfect for the dad who leans into nostalgia and is an icon in his own right. Enhanced with modern ergonomic updates, anti-reflective lenses and durable seven-barrel hinges, this archival design has been thoughtfully refined while maintaining its status as a timeless (and comfortable) silhouette.
34. Lawrence Frames Black Shadow Box Ticket Holder
“My dad is notoriously hard to shop for because he prefers experiences and quality time way more than physical gifts,” admits Nicole Frazzini, former audience development strategist for PureWow. “But he loves going to concerts with my mom, so I got him a shadow box for the ticket stubs he always keeps. Now he can display some of his fave memories” with this 10-inch by 10-inch decorative shadow box, which can easily be mounted on the wall in his home office with the saw-tooth hanger included with purchase.
35. Solo Stove Cookout Kit
Your dad? Yeah, he’s a professional tailgater. Better yet, he’s a professional griller. So the only gift worth his time is Solo Stove’s cookout kit, an on-the-go charcoal grill or griddle. It comes with all the necessary gadgets and gizmos he needs in order to whip up his “World Famous Ribs,” including a charcoal adaptor, a cookout kit frame that folds up easily when traveling and a cast iron grill top. Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay put it to the test in her home and had a lot of love to share about its convenience. “We could bust out the frame for a dinner of burgers and brats, then break it all down for late-night s’mores around the fire. I love that the additional accessories take up minimal space…and as our pickiest guests can attest, you really can’t beat the smoky, meaty flavor of a charcoal grill.”
36. Create Your Own Hot Sauce Kit
Dad might have seemingly tried every hot sauce under the sun, convinced he can take the heat. He might even grow his own peppers in the backyard. But what he probably hasn’t tried yet is making his own sauce. This kit provides everything he’ll need to get creative, including glass bottles and labels, assorted spices and a recipe book. He just needs to add the heat and request that everyone get out of the kitchen. He can even add his own spices to make the best creations, or sprinkle in the granulated onions, dried carrots or chili lime powder included with the purchase.
37. Birkenstock Boston Clogs
Left: REI / Right: Original image from Jillian Quint
Your dad’s a simple guy who loves simple things, especially when it comes to footwear. That’s why he’ll *love* receiving a classic pair of these bad boys. “What says, ‘you’re a dad…but, like, a cool dad?’ Birkenstocks Boston clogs, of course, which are a wear-anywhere (and just about any season) shoe that offers both extreme comfort and coolness factor,” says Quint. These bestsellers are designed with an extra layer of foam in the footbed that will conform to the shape of his foot, so he’ll be happy that no one can steal them when he’s not looking. “Getting my husband to upgrade from a traditional sandal or—gasp—performance sandal—was major. A treat for both of us,” she adds.
38. Twelve South AirFly SE Premium Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter
If he’s the type to get frustrated when his AirPods don’t work with the airplane’s in-flight entertainment, it might be time to gift him this AirFly audio transmitter. It uses Bluetooth connectivity to pair his headphones to AirFly for easy listening, and it has a hefty battery life of over 20 hours before it needs to be charged. Oh, and did I mention that it has a 33-foot reach, so Dad can stretch his legs on his 15-hour flight without having to pause his show? Psst…he can even use it on gym equipment, TVs and gaming devices.
39. Youczon Green Putting Mat
With this ingenious putting mat, Dad won’t have to head to the practice range to get some tee time in. It’s a little over seven feet long and 11.8 inches wide for a realistic long-putt feeling. The ramp also has a built-in ball return system so that he doesn’t waste any time picking up the ball after every shot. Before you know it, he’ll be bragging about paring every hole.
40. Blackstone Tailgater Grill & Griddle Combo
Forget an egg-shaped smoker that has to be constantly fed with more and more charcoal to keep the temperature perfectly regulated. Fill the hopper with lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes, turn up the heat, then Dad can sit back and relax with a beer. He still needs to check on it every now and then to sauce it, turn and add his personal touch, but for the most part, this is so much easier. Crank it and don’t be surprised if Dad starts with simple brisket and soon graduates to smoked cheese and delicious steaks.
41. L.L.Bean Wicked Good Slippers
“Every couple of years, I get my dad a new pair of L.L.Bean slippers for the holidays because he wears them out. At first I chose to gift the classic Wicked Good slippers that feature a leather tie, but that often came undone,” Affiliate Director Pamela Masin tells me. “So this year, I opted for the slip-on version, and he absolutely loves them. They have all the same features of the OG style (durable rubber outsole and cozy shearling liner), but with the convenience of being able to easily slide on and off (without a trip hazard!).”
42. On Running Cloud 6 Sneakers
If he tracks his steps, chances are high that he actually cares about sneaker quality, too. So why not upgrade his current kicks by gifting him this soft, breathable and lightweight pair? Available in ten different hues, these bad boys are designed with recyclable materials and are best for walking over speed work. But buyers rave that they’re comfy enough to wear all day long (while also obsessing over the sleek design), especially now with recent upgrades to this style, and appreciate that they come with a speed-lacing system, meaning he won’t have to tie them every time he puts them on.
43. Keurig K-Brew+Chill Iced or Hot Coffee Maker
This single-serve coffee machine from Keurig will save Dad a trip to the coffee shop every morning (and a few bucks a day—his favorite thing about the gift). Best of all, he’ll get to choose from a selection of seasonal brews, plus warm drinks besides coffee, from cozy hot cocoa to tasty teas. But that’s not all. This version can also brew iced drinks in less than three minutes without the need for iced coffee pods, thanks to the machine’s rapidly cooling tech. PureWow contributor Natalie LaBarbera tested a similar Keurig machine against the Nespresso machine for the duration of a couple of weeks and marveled at the Keurig’s easy set-up, coffee selection and intensity level. “The strong brew option was a huge plus. It’s a simple button on the top of the machine marked ‘strong’ that you can select to increase the intensity of your coffee.” All that’s missing is a side of donuts.
44. Peloton Cross Training Bike
My dad’s a BIG Peloton guy (shoutout to his favorite instructors, Leanne Hainsby and Cody Rigsby), and honestly, anything that gets his body moving and keeps him healthy is worth it to me. Peloton’s newest release of their cult-favorite bike, Bike+, has all the updates to impress Dad. I’m talking a 360-degree rotating screen, auto-resistance that’ll adjust his resistance automatically according to the instructor’s callouts (he can always toggle this feature off) and Peloton entertainment, which lets him stream TV shows, movies and sports through Peloton Entertainment. (Mom might not like that update.) And all those other OG features he loves out of the original model? Yeah, those are there, too.
The Peloton All-Access Membership ($50 per month) needs to be purchased separately, which he can activate during the setup of his Bike+, and this will grant unlimited access to thousands of Peloton content in their library for—get this—the entire household. So, yeah, it’s a gift for you, too.
45. Arccos Smart Sensors Gen 4
Dad’s no Rory McIlroy, but that doesn’t mean he can’t aspire to be. Enter: the Arccos Smart Sensors, a tracking device that’s designed to improve his game with data, so he plays smarter and get some of his lowest scores yet. It comes with 15 water-resistant smart sensors and one putter sensor, which he’ll twist onto each club and pair with the Arccos app on his iOS or Android phone, Link Pro or Apple Watch. Then, he’ll get access to his personal stats and insights in real time. From an A.I. powered GPS rangefinder to get precise data on yardages to personal A.I. caddie advice that’ll help him strategize every shot and more, these trackers are bound to become his new golfing BFF. It’s even trusted by professional golfers, like Matt Fitzpatrick and Edoardo Molinari. Best of all, new members will receive their first year’s membership to the app, so he won’t have to worry about paying out of his own pocket until 365 days after he falls in love with his gift.
46. Nike Dri-FIT Fly Unstructured Swoosh Cap
Nike gear is seriously trending among Gen-Zers, so let Dad show off his trendiness with this casual running cap that he can wear when he’s picking up the kids or grandkids from school. Available in four sizes and a handful of colorways, it’s designed for the gym and trails, so if Dad is an active papa who loves to go for runs, hikes and the like, this lightweight hat is just what the doctor ordered. The Dri-FIT technology will keep him cool and comfortable by wicking away sweat, and reviewers report that it fits true to size.
47. Bean Box
He’s a man who appreciates a good cup of joe, so help him discover the wide world of small-batch artisanal roasters with this gift from Bean Box. Here’s how it works: He answers a few questions about his taste preferences, then will receive one to two bags of coffee (ground or unground) every week, two weeks or month—depending on how much he drinks or if he lets anyone else enjoy his liquid gold. That way, he’ll be able to experience the freshest beans from different small-batch purveyors, ones he might not have stumbled upon on his own.
48. Yeti Roadie Cooler
“We got my dad one of these because he’s notorious for packing coolers for car trips—even if they’re only an hour long,” explains Gillen. It’s just big enough to hold some drinks and a few sandwiches without being a pain to lug around. Gillen reports it’s amazing for everything from camping trips to keeping beer chilled during tailgates. (It holds 33 cans of beer or 26 pounds of ice, and is wine bottle compatible, in case you were wondering.) The insulation keeps food hot, too, so go ahead and give this to the dad as a high-tech lunchbox, and I love that it’s narrow enough to fit behind the driver’s seat in his car.
49. Alo Double Take Long-Sleeve Quarter Zip
Alo
For dads who love a good lounge session on the weekends, you can’t go wrong with this soft, cozy quarter-zip sweatshirt. It’s made from a breathable, stretchy cotton-and-modal blend fabric and it has a slightly oversized fit to make it extra comfy. And if you really want to treat him, you can grab him a pair of matching cargo pants, too.
50. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Built with a large, 1.5-inch display, this watch is so easy to read that Dad definitely won’t be complaining that he can’t see the screen, especially if he gets to customize the face himself. It’s great for the fitness buff too (or the guy trying to be more active), providing advanced fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking and more. Plus, he’ll never miss a call or text from you when he can get the notification right on his wrist.
51. Catan Board Game
There’s nothing quite like board game night with the fam-jam, whether it’s a weekly Friday night tradition or a rainy Sunday activity. Catan is one of those games every dad will love, since it’s focused on trading, building, and settling. Dad can show off his strategic prowess as he aims to be a cunning developer of resources like grain, wool or lumber. Or he can channel his inner John Dutton III from Yellowstone or Logan Roy from Succession and show the kids who’s really boss. Note that there are a lot of rules to this game, so it’s best to play for the first time with somebody who has done it before.
52. Bombas Holiday Calf Socks Gift Box
Bombas
I know what you’re thinking—socks as a unique gift? But hear me out: Bombas’s are some of the most comfortable I’ve tried, and it’s definitely worth treating dad to a few pairs (you might even find that he asks you for more for the next holiday). This fun holiday set is ski-themed and contains three pairs of calf socks in a cute box, making it super gift-able. Plus, for each pair sold, the brand donates a pair to someone in need.
53. TheDadLab: 50 Awesome Science Projects For Parents And Kids by Sergei Urban
Amazon/Background: Tihomir Trifonov/EyeEm/Getty Images
TheDadLab YouTube channel became such a hit, creator Sergei Urban put some of his most popular experiments into an easy-to-follow guidebook. PureWow VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison says it’s a winner. “This guidebook is perfect for rainy days and chilly winter afternoons when you’re cooped up inside. It’s loaded with unexpected ideas, often using things you have around your house,” she says. “My daughter and husband like to pick a page at random and tackle it for that day’s project…and I appreciate the break!” The step-by-step instructions will guide readers through everything from how to produce electricity to how to defy gravity with a ping pong ball, a mesmerizing feat for the kids (or grandkids).
54. Fubo TV Subscription
Cable might be a thing of the past, but Dad still wants to watch the big game. With a Fubo TV subscription, he’ll be able to stream all the big games from an app on his TV or on the go on his computer. He’ll never miss a touchdown, and there are three different plans, with the Ultimate option offering RedZone from the NFL Network and Showtime. With the ability to stream on 10 screens at once, he can track all the games. Plus, maybe he’ll lend you the password so you can stay up to date on all the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce sightings.
55. Ooni Karu Pizza Oven
This modern pizza oven has everyone talking…and salivating. It operates using wood, charcoal or gas, so he can really hone his backyard baking skills. Gillen says, “We got my dad the Ooni pizza oven a few years ago, and now whenever I visit, he insists on a pizza night. He gets very into the process. I think he uses it once a week, and the pizza is very good.” Reaching 950°F in 15 minutes and delivering stone-baked pizza in 60 seconds, it brings a whole new meaning to the idea of fast food…at home.
56. Amazon Basics Packing Travel Cubes
Dad probably shoves everything he needs in a little carry-on, swearing that checked luggage is for suckers. At least you can help him organize that tiny suitcase by keeping his unmentionables apart from his crisp white button-up shirts. Available in different colors, each has a top mesh panel that will ensure his smelly socks get ample air so he doesn’t keel over when he unpacks back home. Each piece then closes with a double zipper, making it super simple to pack and unpack.
57. Hydragun HeatPulse Knee Massager 2
Traditional massage guns can’t be used on knee joints, but Dad can get some sweet relief for knee pain with this device, which provides relaxing heat and steady vibration pulses that feel like a mini massage and help lower inflammation. The latest version of this device heats up a bit faster, has a wider temperature range, a longer battery life and fits small and large limbs a bit better. Warning: The whole fam might ask to try this out as Dad starts complaining less and less about his knees.
58. Retrospec Weekender Sup Board Kit
Davison loves using this easily inflatable paddleboard: “The Weekender is relatively easy to stand on and can support up to 275 pounds. I will say that on choppy waters, it’s definitely more of a core workout.” She also appreciates that it fits into a backpack to get it from the car to the waves. Your dad will, too, whether he’s an experienced user or just wants to try a new water sport. Made of ArmorStrength PVC, it can withstand everything from tubular waves to jagged rocks, but deflates and folds down small enough to easily fit in the back of the trunk.
59. Tea Forte Frank Lloyd Wright Collection
Sophisticated dads who prefer cozying up with a cuppa tea while reading Hemingway rather than loading up on coffee will appreciate this luxurious set of 20 tea bags. Inspired by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, it features fun, delightful flavors like Ceylon Gold, Citrus Earl Grey, Oolong Creme, Honey Hojicha and Spiced Herbal Mate. Each bag stands upright in the cup and Dad can pull the cute little leaf (a nod to a deep connection to nature!) to remove the bag. Each purchase also goes to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which provides educational programs and scholarships and helps with the preservation of Taliesin and Taliesin West.
60. Bose TV Soundbar
Inside this compact soundbar are two full-range drivers angled to deliver wide, spatial sound and there’s a center tweeter specifically focused on clarifying speech. (So everyone will be able to hear better without turning the volume extra loud.) Use it for TV or pair your mobile device using Bluetooth to hear a podcast, music playlist or other audio from your phone or tablet. It’s perfect for Dad’s den, games room or “man cave.” Users report that it’s great for upgrading the built-in speakers on a TV, but it’s unrealistic to expect movie-theater-like acoustics.
61. Yeti Rambler 20-Ounce Tumbler
All dads love their Yeti tumbler. It’s just a fact. But there are a few reasons why it’s beloved for sipping coffee and roadies out of. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks icy cold or hot for hours on end. It’s also super durable, dishwasher safe and the patented MagSlide lid is easy to sip from. Says one PureWow husband I spoke to: “I use mine every day for long drives, hot workouts and even coffee on the go. There is nothing better for keeping my beverages at the temperature I want them.” Bottom line: It will be his perfect companion while heading on fishing trips, hikes or to cheer on his kid’s soccer game.
62. Apple Watch Series 12
He’s been eyeing this Apple Watch ever since it launched, but would never spring for one for himself—that’s where you come in. Gift him the newest version, which has top-notch health features, including the brand’s most accurate heart rate sensing yet, along with vitals insights, a sleep score, blood oxygen readings and more. He can also track his workouts, and the watch includes crash- and fall-detection to monitor his safety.
63. The Dad Hoodie
Does he suddenly need a spot for a bottle, some baby wipes and 14 pacifiers? And is he really into identifying as a dad? This hoodie takes the O.G. classic design to another level, featuring a breathable mesh lining with six stretchable internal pockets to store everything that he, or his baby, might need…and it was chosen by TODAY Show as one of the number-one gifts for dads. Just note that the buyers say the hoodie runs small, so if you’re choosing between two sizes, get the bigger one.
64. Classic Snack Gift Box
If “I could go for a snack” are six words you often hear Dad say, he’ll love this ample gift basket that has a bit of everything to satisfy every craving. Whether he wants sweet, salty, crunchy, creamy or a mix, he’ll find it in this overflowing snack lover’s dream basket. From kettle corn to candies, cookies to crackers, sausages to cheese, he’ll devour it all in no time. And maybe if he’s feeling nice, he’ll share, too. (I also love that when you order, you have the option to add an “instant gift notification,” meaning your giftee will get a notice that his present is on the way–perfect if you’re a last-minute shopper).
65. Hit Products CouchCoaster
As the name implies, this weighted drink holder wraps over the arm of your couch for convenient access. Previous buyers say that it’s stable and can withstand a slight knock (just in case he happens to elbow it by mistake while raising his arms to cheer for his team or protest a bogus call). He’ll have his drink literally at arm’s length, and you won’t have to worry about pesky drink rings and begging him to use a coaster, already!
66. Nintendo Switch 2
If you thought only kids played video games, PureWow’s Fashion and Beauty Director-at-Large, Deena Campbell, and Senior Director of Special Projects, Rachel Bowie, prove this pastime crosses generations. “The Nintendo Switch 2 is basically the holy grail of gifts,” Campbell says. “It’s faster, brighter and smarter than the original, which means fewer ‘Mom, it’s lagging!’ complaints and more ‘Watch this!’ commentary you definitely didn’t ask for.” Bowie concurs, adding that it’s a hit in her household.
Pair the Switch 2 with a few games (I recommend Harry Potter Legacy and the classic Mario Party Superstars), and your dad will be permanently obsessed. The two controllers are removable for multiplayer games if he wants to let the kids get in on the fun (though you may want to spring for extra controllers that are easier to hold and allow for more players). The screen’s also a tad bigger than the original, at 7.9 inches. Play handheld or plug it into a TV for a big screen experience.
67. Apple AirPods Max 2 Wireless Headphones
These headphones feature industry-leading digital noise cancellation technology and completely block out distracting background noise—and this iteration is even more effective than the original. The coolest part? They’re equipped with personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking that adjusts specifically to your exact ear shape and provides theater-like sound for a surround sound experience. Oh, and did I mention that they have up to 20 hours of battery life? Plus, they’re wireless so just recharge and go. I’ve had the original version for a couple years now, and love both the sound quality and sleek design.
68. Garrett Popcorn Mix
If popcorn is his snack of choice for movies and beyond, he’ll appreciate a giant tub of Garrett’s famous popcorn that has a mix of its three major flavors (caramel, cheese and butter). The popcorn itself is preservative- and GMO-free, but the novelty tin will keep it fresh for months (if it lasts that long). I love that you can pick your own tin design and add a personalized note. Just don’t be surprised if he devours it—and asks for a refill—the same day you give it to him.
69. Tile Life360 Pro Tracker 4-Pack
He’s always losing his keys and wallet, and the whole ‘leave them by the front door’ rule just hasn’t worked out. Enter the Tile Life360 Pro. Clip one to his key ring and put another in his wallet and the app will tell him where they are the next time they go missing. He can even use the Tile to ring his phone if he lost it somewhere in the couch cushions. Since there are four in a pack, he can use the others for additional valuables, like his gym bag and travel backpack.
70. L.L.Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Pajamas
L.L.Bean
If all dad really wants for Christmas is a chance to sleep in, why not gift him these cozy plaid pajamas to do it in? They’re made from soft, 100 percent Portuguese cotton flannel exclusive to L.L.Bean, so they’re unique, too, and reviewers rave over just how comfy they are. “These are very soft and comfortable and well-made of thick flannel—just what I wanted,” wrote one.
71. Theragun Mini Plus
Goodbye, annoying sciatica pain! So long, sore muscles! Introduce your dad to his new best friend, the Theragun massager. Whether he comes home sore from work, playing piggyback with the kids, or pumping iron, he’ll appreciate this device, which offers a long battery life, three different speeds (not to mention three different heat settings) and even comes with a soft travel pouch and travel lock so he can bring it with him to the gym. To use, he’ll place it lightly on aching muscles or follow the online videos to know where to target his specific pain.
72. Handmade European Wooden Chess Set
Lucky for Dad, watching The Queen’s Gambit and other chess dramas has finally made you just as interested in chess as he always hoped you would be. But maybe his set from the ‘70s could use an upgrade? This gorgeous wooden chessboard is made from beech and birch wood and features stunning letter algebraic coordinates along the border. Pieces stay sturdy thanks to hornbeam and sycamore wood construction and felted bottoms. It’s pretty enough to leave out and will be the perfect way to start his mornings by getting those strategic juices flowing.
73. Compartés Signature Truffle Gift Box
Warning: Dad will devour this ten-piece box of Compartés’ delicious chocolate, so good luck trying to get one round in before they’re all gone. Known as the “most decadent chocolate in L.A.,” each piece is made of luxe ganache truffles. One bite and he’ll be transported to chocolatey heaven.
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you’re looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
