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 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.
I asked my dad to list 35 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.
Let’s be real — a lot of dads like to eat fresh baked goods (and make them, too). To help him get his baking on, pick up the beloved KitchenAid Stand Mixer, available at QVC. Its generous color range will match the boldest of kitchens, too.
2. Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds, $200, original price: $225
If your dad commutes to work, loves listening to music or exercises often, there’s no better gift this year than the Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds. At $200 right now, HSN has you covered (especially with some best-sellers), and we can’t recommend this great tech gift enough.
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.
4. The Skylight Frame, $160 to $300
Instead of having a million and one picture frames everywhere, my dad loves the simplicity of having one propped on a shelf or on his desk. Add this best-selling Skylight Frame to your cart that has a stunning screen, is WiFi-enabled and allows you to share your memories with loved ones.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
10. Brooklinen Waffle Robe, $84, original price: $99
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.
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 one of Amazon’s Choice products.
12. Cold Beer Coats, $13
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.
13. Firstleaf Build Your Own Box of Wine, $35 for 6 bottles
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.
14. Fossil Neutra Chronograph Leather Strap Watch (44mm), $120, original price: $160
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.
15. iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Car Mount Phone Holder, $20, original price: $25
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.
16. Kobalt 243-Piece Standard Mechanics Tool Set, $111, original price: $139
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.
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.
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.
19. Margaritaville Bali Frozen Concoction Maker, $269, original price: $530
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.
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.
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.
My dad recommends sweatpants to any dad because “you can never have too many.” The Nike Dri-Fit Sweatpants are one of the brand’s most popular and, for less than $100, they can’t be beaten.
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 Men’s Challenger Brief-Lined 7″ Running Shorts are a feel-good option that comes in multiple colors.
For more options, check out our guide to the best men’s shorts.
24. Old-Fashioned Whiskey Glasses with Luxury Box, $34, original price: $46
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.
25. Philips Norelco 23-Piece Grooming Kit, $50, original price: $60
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.
26. Polo Ralph Pony Print Pajama Pants, $37, original price: $50
My dad, along with his robe, lives in lounge pants. The Polo Ralph Pony Print Pajama Pants are a designer gift option that’s at that sweet $50 price point. Plus, it just looks so luxurious without the luxury price tag.
27. Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Stretch-Oxford Shirt, $81, original price: $115
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.
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.
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).
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.” Not to mention, the Shimano is less than $80 right now.
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.
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.
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.
34. UGG Ascot Slipper, $110
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.
Though it’s winter, it’s never too early to dream about the summer again. My dad loves the CoolCabana5 Beach Cabana because it’s easy to set up, provides unmatched shade and doesn’t fly away, as flimsy umbrellas would.
For trips to the Jersey Shore (or any beach, for that matter), it’s the most practical gift that your dad will love.
36. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill, $90, original price: $95
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.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.