For reasons that I can't quite pinpoint but that probably have a lot to do with our societal ideas about men and gender, a lot of gift guides for dads are basically just lists of the same few things: underwear (which dads should be buying themselves), hot sauce (delicious, but not really a gift), alcohol (a lifestyle choice for sure, but again, not really a great gift idea), and maybe a coffee mug with "#1 Dad" on it (cute, but … we can do more).
Before we go any further, let me also say this: You don't have to give someone a gift just to have something for them — gifts always mean more if you put real thought into them. With that in mind, I put together this gift guide for anyone who is looking for slightly creative gifts for dads this year. Hopefully, it'll be a jumping-off point for your own ideas.
Good luck, dads and people who love them!
A Super-Cozy Wool Scarf
If you know a dad who loves to be cozy, it certainly doesn't get much cozier than this wool scarf! Bonus points: If the dad you're gifting the scarf to lives with you, the scarf can become "our scarf." Don't worry — men love when you do stuff like that.
A Beautiful Ceramic Baking Dish
Moms aren't the only ones who like to bake! This ceramic baking dish is gorgeous, and the baker dad you know and love will have a blast coming up with cakes and breads to make himself.
A Pura Car Scent Diffuser
Let's just face it. Sometimes cars smell. Especially with dogs, kids, or gym buffs in the picture. Get dad something unique like this Pura car diffuser. There are a variety of sophisticated fragrances to choose from including woody scents, citrus notes, as well as fresh options for a dad who wants his car to smell a whole lot better than his gym bag.
Sand Art
$120
from
Uncommon Goods
Many of us are more stressed out now than we have been ever in our lives, and dads are no exception. This Deep Sea Sand Art is an ideal gift for the dad who could benefit from a reminder to take a big breath and relax.
Growlight Frame Shelf
$219
from
Modern Sprout
If you know a dad with a green thumb, he will probably love this ultra-modern plant shelf. There's a hidden light and timer on the back, which makes it easy to keep his houseplants happy as can be!
A Giant Throw Blanket
$39.99
from
Cost Plus World Market
I'm going to let you in on a little secret: Fully grown adult men like to be cozy just as much as the rest of us! This sherpa-lined blanket comes in four colors (rust, taupe, sage green, and white) and is so soft that you'll be trying to steal it from him, but he won't let you.
Post-Workout Pain Relief
If you know a guy who loves hard workouts, you know he probably has to deal with the pain afterward. This Feel Good Duo from Flexpower includes a scent-free pain relief lotion that provides a deep heating sensation and cooling Epsom salts with arnica, vitamin E, eucalyptus and lime.
Organic Bath Bombs
Something funny happened when I typed in the words "bath bomb gift set for men" — nearly every option was gun-shaped, or labeled with the words "man bomb," or came only in scents like whiskey. That's all well and good if that's what you and/or the dad you're shopping for is into … but if it's just what you assume he'll like, why not branch out a little? These organic bath bombs come in a variety of scents that nearly everyone will love.
A Live Succulent
Starting at
$6
from
Leaf & Clay
Earlier I shared a growlight that the houseplant-obsessed dad you know will love, but what about dads who want to get into plants but aren't sure where to start? One of my favorite things I've learned this year is that you can order live plants online, and this cute succulent is the ideal starter plant for a guy who is new to caring for delightful things. It's pretty, and the colors are neutral enough that he could set it just about anywhere.
Lightweight Cross-Training Shoes
$170
from
VivoBarefoot
Barefoot training is all the rage among runners and other athletes. The Primus Lite III is a lightweight and versatile cross-training shoe, perfect for experienced barefoot athletes or newbies. The protective sole keeps the foot protected while still letting the feeling of the ground in.
Book a Trip or Experience
$70
from
Hotels.com
Here's another thing about gifts: They don't have to come in the form of something you wrap up and put under a tree! A lot of dads could benefit from having a little solo time of their own, so why not book him a night in a nearby hotel where he can unwind, watch TV, order food, and just … be? Sure, if he's a dad, he probably gets more breaks than many moms do, but that's not always true across the board.
Single dads, dads who are married to other dads, and dads who are coping with loss could all probably use some time to just attend to themselves and their needs. You know the dad you're shopping for, so consider something like this if you'd think it would be a good fit.
World Bucket List Scratch Off Print
Oh the place's he'll go! If the dad in your life loves to travel, why not consider gifting him this world bucket list scratch off print. If you're feeling extra generous, maybe couple this gift with some plane tickets, eh?
Wearable Outdoor Blanket
A wearable, weatherproof outdoor blanket is a great gift for any dad, whether her's an avid camper or a soccer dad who attends all the kids' games. The Mozy is a thermal wrap that keeps you warmer than a blanket and allows you to sit, stand, and walk around. The Mozy has two large pockets that can hold hats, gloves, phones, beverages, and more; plus, there's a carabiner to attach keys and other items. Keep the Mozy in your car for convenience and comfort!
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, LittleThings.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
