60 Gifts for Dad That He Totally Wants, but Is Not Expecting

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Dads are notoriously difficult to buy gifts for. As a result, they often receive the dregs of the gift barrel: golf-themed novelty ties, aprons emblazoned with “grill master” in a Guy Fieri font, those whiskey stones that nobody likes and nobody uses. You get the picture.

But there’s hope. Dads, it turns out, are just people — despite easy jokes about bad puns and overly white sneakers — and people enjoy getting thoughtful and slightly unexpected gits. We’ve put together a list of 55 of our favorite gifts for Dad this year. Ranging from the Father’s Day equivalent of stocking stuffers to the bring home the big door prize level gifts that’ll buy you a few years of notoriety in the family group text. Some funny, some heartwarming, and some things the team here wishes people would give THEM, proving there’s a winning present for every type of dad on this list.

So whether you’re buying for a new dad, a granddad, or a dad shopping for himself, this list will save you from the last-minute gift-buying panic.

Smart Meat Thermometer

If your dad is known as “King of the Grill,” this smart meat thermometer will help him hold onto his reign. Our tech editor and frequent griller, We love it for its intuitive app, long cordless range, and ability to cook meats to the perfect temperature. Overcooked meat doesn't stand a chance!

Edison Light Stick

No more stumbling for the marshmallows in the dark. The Edison Light Stick packs a visual punch that belies its size. And with multiple modes, it’ll work as a flashlight, lantern, or just a fun conversation starter at the water pump.

LEGO Bonsai Tree

This Lego Bonsai tree makes for an unsuspecting gift for Dad. It combines his love of plants and building into one creative, maintenance-free desk companion. The interchangeable pieces allow him to style the tree with classic green leaves or pink cherry blossoms for a pop of color. With over 878 pieces, this bonsai tree makes for a peaceful, engaging project.

Midnight Whiskey

Sure, your dad might now be a real cowboy, but boy does he love his Westerns, from Clint Eastwood to Tyler Sheridan’s extended Yellowstone universe. So get your favorite armchair-wrangler something to sip on while he binges his favorite show. With a complex flavor, Pendleton’s Midnight is aged for over six years in American brandy barrels, adding complexity and fruit-forward characteristics.

AirFly Pro

Whether he’s crushing it at the gym or flying high in the skies, this little device will give him a cordless experience. It wirelessly transmits the audio from in-flight entertainment, gym equipment, and any device with a 3.5 audio jack to wireless headphones without sacrificing quality and comfort. With a battery life of over 16 hours and a range of 10 meters, this gift has your dad covered.

More: The 100 Cool Tech Gadgets You Need In 2024

Sous Vide Precision Cooker

Your dad no longer needs to babysit you, so he shouldn’t have to babysit his food either. This Anova precision cooker allows for stove-free cooking he can monitor from anywhere with the Anova app. Our senior tech editor Brandon Carte loves this device for its Wi-F-enabled temperature control function that cooks your food to the exact temp and makes sous vide cooking a breeze.

Inflatable Kayak Set

This inflatable kayak is fit for two with its adjustable seats and backrests. Made of heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl, this kayak is ideal for lakes, mild rivers, and the dad who needs another reason to be out in the water.

It comes with a high-output pump, two paddles, and a carry bag for easy setup and travel. The included removable SKEG provides directional stability, while the bright yellow provides increased visibility.

Freeze Insulated Whiskey Glasses

Pop these bad boys in the freezer for just two hours, and you'll have cold whiskey all night long. The insulated walls of these tumblers will have your dad enjoying everything from an Old-Fashioned to a Manhattan without it ever watering down and compromising the flavor. If your dad is more of a beer or wine drinker, the brand has those glasses, too!

BottleLoft Magnetic Bottle Hanger

He'll be magnetized by this set of two strips that help save some serious space in his fridge (and it looks cool, too!). These super-strong magnetic strips store three beers each while also making room for food beneath. It's the one product he'll love and never realize he needed.

Athletic Greens

For the guy who always told you to eat your vegetables, get him the gift of drinking his. According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 Americans eat enough vegetables per week. Chances are your dad’s in the outlying nine. AG1 is a tasty, probiotic way to get your weekly dose regardless of whether he loves kale or wouldn’t enter a kitchen where it was being served.

Mike's Hot Honey Gift Set

Since Mike's Hot Honey is totally having a moment, it's already part of many of our everyday routines at this point (IYKYK, right?). For those who don't know yet or those who love it, this spicy honey gift set is a great value, with packets, tiny jars, and two different full-size bottles.

Pickleball Go-To Gift Set

Pickleball is the sport right now, so why not get Dad a super-groovy pickleball set complete with two paddles, a cover, and a set of balls? All he needs now is the competitive spirit.

'I Love Daddy This Much'

We're not crying — you're crying. OK, we're both crying over this super touching gift for Dad from their little. It's a customizable book where you input the name of the child, and it's used throughout! I kind of love this as a gift from an adult, too.

Belt Gift Set

Having the right belt with the right color metal is an essential piece of an outfit that, let's face it, a lot of guys miss (our dads included). This gives them the option of two leather belts and two different metals, all interchangeable!

Golf Club Bar Tools Set

Silly, fun, a bit kitschy, and affordable, this golf cocktail set is the perfect way for Dad to mix his drinks after hitting the links. Pop bottles, stir whiskey, drop toppings, all with golf-shaped tools.

Journeys Button Down Shirt

Aloha is back, baby. Or did it ever leave? Regardless of whether the dad in your life sports a Tom Selleck stache or not, this floral button from California brand Roark will have him doing his best 80s throwback. Short shorts and red Ferrari sold separately.

Connoisseur Drip Coffee Maker

Upgrade’s dad home coffee game with this under-the-radar performer. An elevated coffee machine that uses a waterfall technique to achieve a pour-over-like quality to the cup but masquerades as a humble drip machine. It’ll handle Folgers and single-origin beans with equal performance.

'Above Ground' by Clint Smith

For the dad whose love of poetry goes beyond limericks, try Clint Smith’s collection Above Ground. A wonderful gift for new dads in particular, Smith reckons with his role as a father in today’s society, and his verse overflows with care and insight for his born and yet-to-be-born children.

Hyperfine Merino Wool Adhesive Bandages

Be prepared may be the unofficial Boy Scout motto, but it’s the official motto of dads who stash emergency medical kits in their cars. Show him you care by upgrading his wound care with these sustainable and somehow vaguely stylish (?) bandaids made from Merino wool.

Hopper M20 Backpack

Sure, Yetis are built for the tundra. But that doesn’t mean you can’t carry them in the city. This backpack version is portable with a magnetic closure, perfect for hauling sandwiches (and a few beers) to the local park for an impressive picnic.

Thunderbird Clog

We’re on team Crocs here at Best, but even we admit there’s a time and place for jibbitz. This year, swap your dad’s favorite plastic offering with a classier (and more comfortable) vegan leather sandal with the same easy on-and-off he loves.

Scout Pocket Knife

There are a lot of knives out there, but show dad you care by doing the research for him and picking up Gerber’s reliable Scout. Sharp, durable, reliable, and valuable enough to keep track of but not so expensive he’ll be devastated if he loses it. Finally, come Prime Day, he can leave the scissors in the junk drawer.

Old Fashioned Candle

Waking up and drinking an old-fashioned? Probably not a good choice. Waking up and lighting this candle from Nashville-based Ranger Station? Definitely a good choice. Bonus points because when this candle is all used up, it doubles as an excellent cocktail glass.

Classic Sport Fountain Pen

Whether your dad is a chronic letter writer or a next-great-American novel-type writer, this simple but elegant fountain pen will elevate his handwriting to something from a Ken Burns doc. Without the fuss and mess of a traditional fountain pen, the Kaweco Sport is portable and unique to boot.

Collapsible Gear Bag

If you had a “no food in the car” kinda dad growing up who still keeps their ride cleaner than a detailing shop could, they’re sure to appreciate this burly waterproof gear bag that doubles as a robust trunk organizer. Stash wet gear, sandy shoes, and all sorts of clutter while keeping your car mess-free. Plus a handy QR code links to a packing list AND it collapses when not in use.

Grayboy Tee

If your old man can still beat you in a 5K, then Trackmith’s Grayboy is the tee for him. Especially this throwback New England track & field style offering, since you know Dad doesn't trust that new-fangled quick dry technology.

Subscription Box

Bottoms up! This beer club will help keep him on his toes and his cup filled with 12 ever-changing cans and bottles per month, featuring a range of unique selections from the country's top small, independent brewers. He won't find any of these beers at his local liquor store, making it the perfect gift for dads who love craft beer.

'The Believer: A Year in the Fly Fishing Life' by David Coggins

Your dad had you up before dawn and digging for worms in the garden? Does his garage resemble a fishing pole repair shop? Coggins’ The Believer is a newly released follow-up to his 2021’s Optimist. You can bet that it navigates the world of fly fishing (and breakfast orders) with similar style, expertise, and self-deprecation.

Carter Everywhere Mug

Keeping your dad's coffee at the perfect temperature is easy as can be with this vacuum-insulated thermos. Unlike most thermoses, this one has a ceramic coating on the inside, meaning that there's no metallic flavor or odor that will change the coffee experience. Plus, it's just the right size for Dad's first cup of Joe for the day.

Custom Super Dad Book

If Dad is your ultimate superhero, this custom kid’s book is a creative way to encourage him to honor him. You can add personalized touches to the book by adding his name, photo, and heroic everyday things he does for the family. This is a unique keepsake he'll want to hold onto and reread for years to come.

Magnetic Tool Wristband

Help him keep all his easy-to-lose nuts and bolts at hand with this magnetic tool wristband. Great for construction, home improvement, and other DIY projects, this magnetic accessory is a must-have for your favorite handyman.

The wristband features an easily adjustable strap and is made of breathable mesh material so it will remain comfortable to wear throughout any project.

LED Fogless Lighted Shower Mirror

Your dad is in for a pleasant surprise with this adjustable mirror. He needs to simply add warm water to the chamber, and this shatterproof mirror will remain fogless as he showers. It mounts easily without damaging your bathroom tiles or walls, thanks to the water-resistant double-sided tape it comes with. It's a gift that any clean-shaven dad will find absolutely useful.

More: The Pillow You Need, Based on How You Sleep

Custom Family Portrait

Sure, you could hang a regular old family photo in the house. Or you could get him this custom-illustrated portrait and put the whole family into cartoon form. Plus, this service can combine two pictures into one illustration which even the newest iPhone can’t do yet.

What I Love About Dad Book

Whether Dad has kids younger than 10 or older than 40, this sweet book offers a simple way to jot down treasured memories. It’s filled with 50 fill-in-the-blank-style lines, like “I’m glad I got your _______” or “Your hugs are always _____.” He'll be glad to have it for years to come.

Moldable Glue

Dads love quick fixes, and we're obsessed with Sugru. This nontoxic, moldable glue solidifies as rubber and can fix nearly anything. Whether your dad is repairing, reinforcing, or simply tackling one of his many DIY projects, this is an absolute must for his toolbox. It applies easily and permanently sticks to most materials like glass, ceramic, and metal.

Pro Kitchen Knife 8-Inch

Calling all resident kitchen guru Dads! It's time for your master chef pop to upgrade to this ultra-sharp imarku chef knife that'll take his cooking skills to the next level.

Crafted to last long and cut the perfect slice every single time, the imarku Chef Knife has a stainless steel blade made of 0.6-0.75% carbon for an incredibly hard knife. Your dad will be trimming fat and filleting fish like a pro in no time.

Hybrid Pillow

Your dad will be tossing his pancake pillow out the window the minute he rests his head on this cooling, dual-sided pillow that feels like a slice of cloud plucked from the sky.

The removable insert allows for customization to ensure your pop is getting his best rest ever even when his sleep style changes. While he's probably as cool as the other side of the pillow, this one stays chilly on both sides all night long. Your dad will be deep into dreamland before he even counts his first sheep.

Sushi Making Kit

Dad will be on a roll with this one. This set includes a rice paddle, training frame, rolling mat, and cutter for everything he'll need for him to recreate his favorite rolls at home.

Give him more sushi-making tools so the entire family can bond over making dinner together. Don't forget the chopsticks!

Wooden Eyeglass Spectacle Holder

If your dad is always misplacing his glasses, get him this solid wood stand for his desk, nightstand, or wherever else he last placed them. Handcrafted in India and made from Indian mango wood, this holder will give his eyewear a unique and definitely memorable home when they’re not in use.

Pop Up Greeting Card

If you need an absolute knockout of a card to match your equally knockout gift, these Lovepop Father’s Day cards are the way to go. For the dad who loves to hit the links to the dad who’s always rooting for a touchdown, these cards will give him a reason to cheer.

GP5 Infinite8 Ceramic Grill Pan

Safe to use up to 600°F, this nonstick ceramic pan can be used indoors in an oven and broiler and outdoors on the gas grill. While the angled handles make it easy to lift, the raised grill ridges keep your dad's food separate from excess liquids to ensure a quality sear.

Essentials Fleece Open Hem 3-Stripes Pants

Your dad will look effortlessly cool on and off the field with these best-selling pants from Adidas. Paired with a sweatshirt and his favorite kicks, your dad will become the weekend warrior we know he can be. Its wide hems, elastic waist, and overall comfy fit will have your dad ditching his jeans for good.

The Original Puffy Blanket

Keep your dad cozy and toasty on his next camping trip with this insulated outdoor blanket. It’s machine-washable, packable, and comes with loops that turn it into a cape for wearable warmth. This Rumpl blanket is loved by our executive director Christine Anderson for its lightweight, nature-inspired hues and durability.

6 Set Packing Cubes

This set of packing cubes is one of the best gifts for dad with its waterproof fabric and 10 vibrant color options. It comes with six different organizers so the dad on the go will never struggle to close his luggage. Plus, his clean clothes will stay that way with the included laundry and shoe bags.

More: 30 Travel Essentials For Your Long-Awaited Summer Getaways

LectroFan White Noise Machine

If your dad has trouble getting his nightly restful sleep, let this LectroFan white noise sound machine lull him to la-la land. It’ll block out disruptive environmental noise with its 20 different settings – 10 unique fan sounds and 10 white noise variations – and adjustable volume so he can focus, relax, and sleep with ease.

Velaz Leather Belt

Family-owned and operated since 1954, Magnanni designs and makes all its products with superior materials and entirely by hand in Spain, and this belt is no exception. Made of rich calfskin leather, this handcrafted belt with its polished silvertone buckle is just the thing his wardrobe needs.

Smart Digital Photo Frame

This smart photo frame is the perfect gift for dads who want to stay connected with family far and near. Once connected to wifi, friends, and family can send in pictures via the app. Compatible with Alexa and customizable to display weather and time, this frame is perfect for displaying in the kitchen or living room for all to see.

Parliament Slim Leather Wallet

There are smartphones, smart TVs, and even smart kitchens, but have you ever heard of a smart wallet?

The Ekster Smart Wallet uses RFID-blocking technology to protect your sensitive information from being captured. The slim leather wallet holds 10 cards at a time and has a one-click access button.

Tile Pro 2022

For the dad who can't keep track of everything, the upgraded Tile Pro makes the perfect gift. This tiny, trendy tracker can attach to just about anything. Plus, it connects to an item-finding app, meaning he'll have instant access to the largest lost-and-found community, so he can find what's missing in a pinch.

More: These Last-Minute Father's Day Gifts Will Still Get to Dad in Time

Coastal and Lake Art Serving Trays

Remind your dad of all the good times down by the lake with this laser-cut tray. The lake that’s near and dear to his heart will be topographically mapped in 3D and forever commemorated with glass, maplewood, and cherrywood. It's a sentimental gift for dads that also doubles as a gorgeous decor piece and a functional serving tray that’s sure to impress whenever he’s hosting.

Retro Mini Fridge With Side Bottle Opener

Your dad's man cave has everything — but what about the mini beer fridge? This Frigidaire Retro Mini Fridge is a stainless steel cooling chest that will keep your dad's beer, snacks, and water icy cold. The fridge comes with an ice tray and is compact enough to fit in small spaces.

As a bonus, the fridge has a beer bottle opener on the side. But we're going to warn you now — you may not see your dad emerge from his man cave for at least a week.

Kettle Smoker

If Dad already owns his dream grill, the last thing he wants is another set of tongs and spatulas. This striking stovetop smoker is a versatile piece of cookware that'll majorly upgrade his barbecue game during any time of year.

It can be used on indoor stovetops or on outdoor grills, and it's oven-safe, too.

25C Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum

Eufy is here to do Dad’s vacuuming for him. This robot vacuum has a slim profile (which allows it to easily reach under most couches and beds), robust suction power, and up to 100 minutes of cleaning time between charges.

Other key features of the vacuum include a triple-layered filter system and smartphone controls with Eufy's compatible app. Once its battery runs out, the RoboVac 25C will automatically return to its charging station.

Breed Identification & Health Condition Identification DNA Test for Dogs

Dogs are a man's best friend. What dad wouldn't want to know more about their pup? Embark is the most accurate breed identification for discovering your dog's family tree, all the way back to his or her great-grandparents.

With a simple cheek swab, Dad will not only find out the breed mix but also his pup's genetic diseases and drug sensitivities.

Wingman Multitool

If you’re looking for a gift for the dad who’s always working on something around the house, Leatherman has got you covered. From pliers to screwdrivers to openers, this nifty folding 14-in-1 multitool will come in handy whenever your dad finds a new project to take on.

More: 10 Handy Multitools To Solve Your Everyday Problems On The Go

WH1000XM3 Noise Cancelling Headphones

Your dad will love tuning out all the noise by throwing on these Sony noise-canceling headphones. They're super comfortable, so good luck getting him to take them off.

These wireless headphones come in silver or black and have an industry-leading sound quality and top-notch battery life. He'll be able to easily navigate his music and answer phone calls by using the easy touch controls on the ear.

More: The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones Perfect For Rocking Out In Quiet Bliss

Nebula Capsule

Inside his house is an epic speaker system, LED lighting behind the television, and furniture placed at the perfect distance from the TV and speakers for the ultimate viewing experience. Outside his house should be just as cinematically awesome, don't you think? With this small projector, Dad can stream and project films easily from Netflix, YouTube, and other services.

Par Three Putting Green

If you know a "golf dad," you know how dedicated they are to the sport. (They willingly watch it on television.) For them, saying "Happy Father's Day" a la Happy Gilmore is absolutely perfect. Let him spend his time off the green on a mini green right in his very own home, where he can use this par 3 putting green to his heart's content.

Dad Jokes: The Punniest Joke Book Ever

Help your dad brush up on his jokes with his new go-to toilet read. “I’m bored.” “Hi, Bored, I’m Dad. Why don’t you go read a book?” and more can be found in this ridiculous book of dad puns. It’s a light-hearted romp through the best of the worst, and it’s a serious delight. (New Balances not included.)

PowerFlow Plus Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Introduce weightlifting to your dad’s fitness routine with these dumbbells. Adjustable dumbbells are extremely convenient and incredibly space-saving. Dads can get fit without taking up an entire room with racks, plates, and bars. Each of these weights carries between 5 and 25 pounds and are perfect for a quick workout.

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