Jules tells me all the time that I'm hard to shop for, and that men in general can be a bit puzzling when it comes time to get them a gift. But I really think that's because we overthink it. From talking with other men, and from being one myself for a long time, I honestly think the formula is this - functions properly/is comfortable, looks good, and is high quality.
Everything on this list falls right in the overlapping cross sections of each - the "sweet spot" you might say. Some personal favorites, some from my own wish list - all of them great and will totally land you on the nice list this year.
1. Ridge Wallet #ad $125
Ridge changed the way we think of wallets, crafting pieces from solid, quality materials with simple design. They have a range of options and price points, but opening one of these is an experience. I have the burnt titanium and get complimented on it constantly. Use coupon code CLJ for 15% off.
2. Dopp Kit Bag $49
It doesn't take much for a toiletry bag to function the way a man needs it to, but that doesn't stop so many others from getting it wrong. Perfect size, great mix of leather and canvas, with a pinch of daily affirmation.
3. Waxed-Cotton Down Jacket $239
The problem with cotton or canvas is they are natural-fiber fabrics, which absorb water. The problem with plastic-based materials (like nylon or polyester) is they swish everywhere you go and don't often look that great. Waxed cotton gets you a good waterproof fabric that only looks better the more you wear it. And no swishing.
4. Handheld Game Console $99
There are some versions of gaming that require a lot of commitment in order be good enough to enjoy them, and there are some you can jump into pretty quick and enjoy immediately. This little console is the latter. Preloaded with lots of games, with room to download more (many of them are free).
5. Echo Studio $199
I've long been a Sonos user, but I got a little tired of the limits of Alexa on their devices. But the sound was always so much better I just accepted the trade off. Jules bought the Echo Studio for me for my birthday and I've completely made the switch. Comparable sound quality to Sonos, but full Alexa functionality.
6. Black Leather Basketball Hoop $399
Men of all ages think a small basketball hoop is cool - it's just facts. But the bright orange, plastic backboard and flimsy hoop - no thanks. This is what James Bond's mini basketball hoop would look like.
7. Solo Stove $279
The Solo Stove blew me away, y'all - no kidding. It's super convenient to take places, no smoke billowing into your face, and the perfect glow. An incredible fire side experience.
8. Wool Waffle Beanie $15
Every man should have a beanie in his car somewhere. Something that is just always there when he needs it, and will automatically go with whatever he's wearing.
9. Harris Leather Power Recliner $1949
This one is an investment piece, but oh so worth it. Recliners in general get a bad name because they aren't typically good design. And men go along with that because we don't want to make waves, but really we're thinking, "Well, I want a recliner though." Come on fellas, you know you're thinking it. Boom - a recliner that looks good.
10. National Parks $50
For the man in your life who loves to connect with nature and can't always necessarily be in nature. This book is a great history of the National Park Service Maps covers and artwork that have been published since 1910, and it really is fascinating to look through.
11. Mini Crypto Coin Price Ticker $39
Crypto is way more fun to watch than typical stocks, because the prices are so volatile! Yes, all stocks shift constantly, but Crypto's swings are much wider and the opportunity so appealing. If your guy has Crypto, he'd love this ticker to keep tabs.
12. Laser Measure $84
I use this laser measure nearly every day. Not an exaggeration. It's so handy, and accurate to the 32nd. Unbelievably helpful when measuring for materials, measuring long distances, or measuring with nobody else to hold the other side. I can't adequately explain just how much I recommend having one.
13. Performance Joggers $98
Don't ask me how we reached a point where it's cool to go out in sweatpants, but I for one am grateful. Comfy, soft, and quality - Vuori makes an amazing jogger.
14. Cotopaxi Travel Pack $200
I love this bag! Seriously, a simple, well-designed travel backpack is one of my favorite things and this one is tops for me. It packs like a carryon (with almost the same amount of space), and has room for a laptop.
15. Storm Hiker Boot $109
Another favorite. I added these as my pick for our fall boots roundup, and I'm loving them more every day. Water resistant, super comfortable, warm but not sweaty. And can be worn casually or dressed up a bit.
16. Travel Mug $27
Stanley has completely taken over the water bottle market, and their expanded offerings are just as solid. This mug is a great size and holds a temperature (whether hot or cold) for hours.
17. Electric Drum Set $380
A full-on drum set is cool, but a bit loud. And if you're like me and don't fully know your way around a drum set yet, there's even more of a reason to keep the volume down. This electric drum set is so fun, but won't drive the rest of the house crazy.
18. Purple Pillow $107
Every side sleeper on earth should have this pillow. I could talk about it every day - I genuinely love this pillow. It doesn't get hot, it doesn't lose shape, it supports my neck perfectly, my head doesn't sink into the middle of it causing my mouth to be half covered so I struggle breathing. Seriously, I cannot see myself ever choosing another pillow over this one. Ever.
19. Chess Set $47
Chess is a game of strategy, defense, and even manipulation. It's deep and puzzling and something that should honestly be taught in school IMO. And an elegant game deserves an elegant board.
20. The Heavyweight Overshirt $88
Everlane's clothes are some of my favorites - just really comfortable and good quality. A shirt like this can be worn to work, on a ski trip, to a friend's house, or on your next date night. It's going to be his new favorite, like it is mine.
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