How much did Santa pay for his sleigh? Nothing, it was on the house.
Dad jokes aside now, it’s time to trailblaze into the best gifts to buy your dad this holiday season — because we’re all about getting a head-start on the holiday shopping this year.
If I’ve learned anything in all my years of life, it’s that shopping for my dad can be a difficult pursuit to embark on.
Let’s cut to the chase — if your dad is anything like mine, he’s content with everything he has, says he only wants his annual pair of New Balance sneakers (the quintessential dad shoe) and then, just as you’re about to buy the one thing he asked for, your mom already beat you to it.
To my sister and brother — this gift guide is dedicated to you, along with our fabulous New York Post readers. (Related: Best holiday gifts for boyfriend).
I asked my dad to list dozens of ideas that men actually want. While cordless drills are great and all, aren’t you tired of them smuggling their way into every gift guide on Google?
We’re here to bring you the raw, honest and practical gifts your dad will go nuts for. In other words, we’re giving you options you can reference time and time again for birthdays, retirement and other milestones.
Below, find the best holiday gift ideas for your dad. Man-recommended, daughter and commerce journalist approved.
Bulova Oceanographer GMT
The Bulova Oceanographer GMT is the epitome of class, sleek design and a timeless look. If you’re looking to splurge on dad this holiday season, we recommend shopping this handsome face and signature bracelet-style band from a brand we trust.
L.L.Bean Men’s Quilted Sweatshirt
Likely because my dad is always cold, he recommends a good pullover to put under the tree. The L.L.Bean Men’s Quilted Sweatshirt is a classic option that’s hard not to love.
Ring Video Doorbell
It’s the 21st Century, so if your dad isn’t getting a state-of-the-art preview of who’s at your doorstep, he’s doing something wrong. Gift the Ring Video Doorbell for $100 this year to give him a gift he’ll love (and that’ll culture him a bit).
Mark & Graham Personalized Travel Watch Roll
One of the most practical and unique gifts for dad is, undeniably, the Mark & Graham Personalized Travel Watch Roll. You can forego personalization (side note: it’s $12.50 extra), but we think it offers a more meaningful touch. Not to mention, it’ll serve as organization for all of his watches.
Leatherology Kessler Large Duffle
Upgrade your dad’s duffle bag with Leatherology’s Kessler Large Duffle. Its handsome look and sleek exterior offers a luxury charm like no other, and there are several colors and finishes to choose from. Not to mention, all of its leather goods online are ones to shop through.
Carhartt Loose Fit Firm Duck Insulated Flannel-Lined Active Jacket
Dad deserves to have his outerwear upgraded, and the Carhartt Loose Fit Firm Duck Insulated Flannel-Lined Active Jacket is one we recommend. With nearly 11,000 rave reviews, it’s the cozy, comfortable staple worth presenting him with underneath the tree.
Casetify Phone Case
One of the best phone case brands that my dad loves is Casetify. Now, iPhone 15 cases are available, with nearly all of its offerings MagSafe compatible, if you so choose to snag a case that has the ability to pair with several charging devices and battery packs.
What’s more, you can customize a variety of cases and even personalize one to say “dad.” These cases are also military-grade (and we’ve seen so many YouTubers intentionally drop their phones from six feet up the staircase to prove how they won’t crack).
Smeg Retro Coffee Grinder
My dad *loves* the Smeg Retro Coffee Grinder — a nostalgic yet ultra-high tech addition to your countertop that’s available in a roster of fun colors to choose from. It’s so easy to use, an incredible gift for your coffee-loving dad and the perfect start to his morning brew.
For more options, check out our guides to the best coffee grinders and best gifts for coffee lovers.
Caistre Foldable Fleece Ear Muffs
A direct quote from my dad: “you can never go wrong with a pair of ear muffs.” Stuff this into your dad’s stocking this year for less than $15. He’ll appreciate this tenfold, especially in these brisk winter temps.
NordicTrack T Series Foldable Treadmill
Splurge on dad this year with the NordicTrack T Series Foldable Treadmill — one of the best treadmills we rounded up and an opportune way for him to get more steps in come the new year. It has easy-to-use controls and a foldable design for more consolidated storage when not in use.
Marshall Motif A.N.C. True Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones
One of the hottest gifts we recommend picking up this year is, without a doubt, the Marshall Motif A.N.C. True Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones. The sound quality is truly amazing, and they’ll come in clutch during dad’s work commute or afternoon walks.
For more options, check out our guide to the best wireless earbuds.
Tumbler Diamond Rolling Knife Sharpening
Knife sharpening is not something we all know how to innately do. In fact, it’s a skill that takes time to perfect. However, for the dad who has a deep appreciation for this tool kit staple, this knife sharpener simplifies the process. It has two — yes, two! — magnets to lock a knife in at your choice of 15 or 20 degrees, making it easy to hold and sharpen. Great for experts and knife newbies, we also love its handsomely minimal design.
Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book
For a meaningful gift dad is sure to treasure, the Artifact Uprising Everyday Photo Book is our top pick. Not only is everything fully customizable (down to the cover) but its stunning result makes it ten times better than the basic coffee table book.
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill
Skip the grill pan for burger night and upgrade your dad to a fine indoor grill that does all the things. It’s a unique kitchen gadget that makes a great gift. Plus, the mini appliance is of terrific quality to make lunch and dinners in a snap.
Barnett’s Fine Biscotti Chocolate Biscotti Gift Basket
Fit for the dad who’s content with everything, “you can never have too much chocolate.” Gift your father a Chocolate Biscotti Gift Basket for a taste of Italy at your doorstep.
ButcherBox Premier Steaks Box
After baking, head to the grill with this next gift. If your dad is anything like mine, steak is the way to go. ButcherBox’s Premier Steaks Box comes with one Tomahawk steak, one Porterhouse steak and one dry-aged bone-in strip steak — all delivered right to his door.
For more options, check out our guide to the best meat delivery services.
HP OfficeJet Pro All-in-One Printer
Is it just me, or do all dads love their printers that are super speedy and can also scan and fax. The HP OfficeJet Pro All-in-One Printer just happens to be my father’s favorite and you can snag it for less than $300 right now.
Nordstrom Solid Silk Tie
My dad has been adding more ties to his tie rack collection for years, and there’s nothing better than a high-quality tie to wear to formal events and fancy dinners. The Nordstrom Solid Silk Tie fits the bill of ‘a great gift he wouldn’t normally treat himself to,’ and for that reason, it’s a wonderful buy for the holidays.
New Balance 608 V5 Sneaker
All hail the supreme dad shoes. New Balance’s Men’s Sneaker has developed a cult-following among dads everywhere. They’re white, minimal and comfy to walk around in.
For more options, check out our expert-backed guide to the best men’s walking shoes.
YETI Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler
My dad loves the beach, and loves carrying as many drinks and stay-cold items in a cooler at all times. Splurge on the YETI Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler for a gift he won’t stop talking about.
Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit
For entertaining, you can’t go wrong with the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit. It’s the portable wood-burning fireplace you need — with a removable ash pan for easy cleaning. Plus, s’mores have never looked better.
For more options, check out our guide to the best outdoor fire pits.
Abercrombie Men’s 3-Pack Long-Sleeve Signature Icon Tees
One of the clothing pieces my dad *adores* is the Abercrombie Men’s 3-Pack Long-Sleeve Signature Icon Tees. They’re the softest, match with any pair of bottoms — jeans and pajama pants alike — and are his ultimate WFH ensemble (as they should be).
Barbecue Sauces Cookbook
First things first, dads want more “quick eats” ideas for meal prepping in a pinch, according to mine. Shop the Barbecue Sauces Cookbook for ideas on how to make yummy, char-flavored goodness.
Brooklinen Waffle Robe
In the colder months, my dad’s uniform is a comfy robe. Brooklinen’s Waffle Robe is one of my favorites, and they make the style in a cool slate gray color that’s great for your parent.
Callaway Golf Men’s Strata Complete Set
Though my dad isn’t quite into golfing, he knows any golfer would appreciate a new set of clubs. This complete set is quality, looks sharp in its storage bag and is an Amazon best-seller.
Uncommon Goods Cold Beer Coats
My dad is a sucker for anything cute and unconventional so, if yours is a beer drinker, consider gifting these winter-ready Cold Beer Coats that are his next conversation piece.
Firstleaf Build Your Own Box of Wine
When my dad tried Firstleaf’s wines, he was impressed — and not just because he’s a fan of anything cabernet and multipulciano.
This Build Your Own Box of Wine comes with six bottles for $35, based on a personal style quiz. Not to mention, you can sneak into your wine fridge and see what his preferences are.
For more options, check out our guide to the best wine delivery services and our gift guide for wine lovers.
Fossil Neutra Chronograph Leather Strap Watch (44mm)
My dad still wears his Fossil watch he was gifted years ago. The brand’s Neutra Chronograph Leather Strap Watch is one of our favorites to shop from Nordstrom, plus is on sale.
For more options, check our our expert-backed guide to the best men’s watches.
iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Car Mount Phone Holder
Not to throw shade, but my dad’s years-old GPS system is far too antiquated for up-to-date, speedy convenience from Point A to B. No shade though; here’s a good one if your dad is in need.
This Car Phone Mount Holder is the perfect addition to any vehicle for access to Google Maps, Spotify and more. Plus, it’s an Amazon best-seller.
Kobalt 243-Piece Standard Mechanics Tool Set
Per my dad’s recommendation, “tool kits are always good.” Shop the Kobalt 232-Piece Standard Mechanics Tool Set to be prepared for any vehicle remedy or emergency.
For more options, check out our guide to the best tool boxes and sets we rounded up.
Little Giant Velocity 22 Ft. Ladder
What’s most recommended by my dad? Surprisingly, this 22 Ft. Ladder made me raise my brows a little bit. “They’re a splurge and are so practical, that they make a perfect gift,” he says.
Margaritaville Bali Frozen Concoction Maker
My cousin owns this margarita maker and my dad has been fascinated by it ever since. “It’s a great showpiece that has people talking,” he says.
Amazon Basics Classic PureSoft Padded Office Chair
Much to nobody’s surprise, a comfortable office chair is essential for your WFH setup. Treat your dad to the Amazon Basics Classic PureSoft Padded Office Chair that’s less than $100.
Monopoly Ultimate Banking Board Game
I grew up playing Monopoly with my family and, when playing the game a week ago, my dad couldn’t stop talking about the “modern” version that’s digital. If your family is into games, your dad will love this classic Banking Board Game.
Oh, and the the popular board game has a ‘Longest Game Ever‘ edition which is worth the grab, too.
lululemon Steady State Jogger Shorter
My dad recommends sweatpants to any dad because “you can never have too many.” The lululemon Steady State Jogger Shorter are a well-made pair from the brand and, for though a bit more than $100, they can’t be beaten.
Nike 8″ Dri-FIT Epic Training Shorts
My dad recommends a good pair of running shorts for “any dad who likes to go to the gym or workout at home.” The Nike 8″ Dri-FIT Epic Training Shorts are a feel-good option that comes in multiple colors.
For more options, check out our guide to the best men’s shorts.
Old-Fashioned Whiskey Glasses with Luxury Box
My dad always serves some Johnny Walker whenever he hosts a get-together, so supplying the Old-Fashioned Whiskey Glasses is always a good idea — especially when this set is less than $40.
Philips Norelco 23-Piece Grooming Kit
Because my dad has been recruiting my brother to buzz his hair during quarantine, he wasn’t hesitant to recommend Philips Norelco’s 23-Piece Grooming Kit. “It does the job without having to go to the barber,” he says.
For more options, check out our guide to the best men’s shaving kits and best men’s razors for sensitive skin.
Polo Ralph Lauren Allover Pony Pajama Pant
My dad, along with his robe, lives in lounge pants. The Polo Ralph Lauren Allover Pony Pajama Pant are a designer gift option that’s at that sweet $50 price point. Plus, it just looks so luxurious without the luxury price tag.
For more options, check out our guides to the best men’s pajamas and men’s athleisure brands.
Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Stretch-Oxford Shirt
Speaking of Polo, my dad says “the quality is there” for the brand’s Slim-Fit Stretch-Oxford Shirts. They’re versatile for work or family parties, among other types of wear.
For more options, check out our guide to the best men’s dress shirts.
Ray-Ban Highstreet Polarized Flat Top Sunglasses
This is your sign to treat your dad to a pair of nice sunglasses and not the cheap ones he’s been wearing from the dollar store. Ray-Ban’s Flat Top Sunglasses are a basic navy option that looks good with everything.
For more options, check out our guide to the best designer sunglasses.
Googan Squad Spinning Rod
My dad loves fishing and he thinks a quality casting rod is good for “anyone who hasn’t fished in a while and needs a good refresh.”
For more options, check out our expert-backed guide to the best fishing rods and poles.
Stikk Green Painters Tape (5-Pack)
Before you question why there’s green tape on your screen, hear me out. If your dad loves to paint, he thinks this green tape is like gold. Why? It’s supposedly better quality and more convenient than the traditional blue tape. So, it’s a how’d-you-think-of-that gift.
Uncommon Goods Tabletop Cornhole
Cute table games are always fun, especially this Tabletop Cornhole. Say what? Uncommon Goods has you covered with a unique gift if you and your dad love the classic outdoor game.
Teslyar Wood Phone Docking Station
For the dad who throws his keys and wallet on the kitchen counter, please gift him organization to store all the belongings. This Docking Station has slots for keys, a watch, a phone, a wallet and even a pen.
UGG Ascot Slipper
My dad parades in his UGG Ascot Slippers because they’re so plush. If your dad is stubborn about wearing fuzzy socks (I’ve been there), these designer furs are a great option.
For more options, check out our guide to the best slippers.
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