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These HuffPost Shopping Award Winners Make Such Thoughtful Holiday Gifts

You really can’t go wrong with everyone’s favorite Kindle, the best coffee maker known to man and much more.

These HuffPost Shopping Award Winners Make Such Thoughtful Holiday Gifts
These potential gifts have all won a coveted HuffPost Shopping Award.
Brick, Gap, Amazon
These potential gifts have all won a coveted HuffPost Shopping Award.

As much fun as the holidays can be, gift-giving can be tricky for some, especially if you’re unsure what to give. As someone who shops for a living, you can’t go wrong with an award-winning gift — and not just in the metaphorical sense.

Up ahead is a gift guide complete with items that have all won a coveted HuffPost Shopping Award. During this annual event, our affiliate journalism team gives our hard-won “seal of approval” to several products across every category, many of which are expert-backed recommendations or that we use ourselves. Keep reading to get inspired by these giftable award winners.

1.

Tozo NC9 noise-cancelling earbuds: Affordable earbuds that'll give your AirPods some competition

At first glance, you may be thinking that the Tozo NC9 earbuds have no place on your gifting list, but even the Apple devotees at HuffPost have deemed these affordable, noise-canceling buds a worthy opponent for their crisp, impressive sound and long-lasting playtime, thanks to an intelligent power control feature that optimizes battery usage.

Available in seven colors and equipped with several tailored sound features like transparent mode, these water-resistant earbuds would make a great gift for anyone who has a habit of losing their AirPods.

2.
Amazon

Bagsmart Crush toiletry kit: A "Mary Poppins" travel case for all of your products

A great toiletry case can make or break a travel experience, and this ridiculously roomy Bagsmart kit is so perfectly designed that we have no doubt it would make the perfect gift for the jetsetter on your list or anyone who loves to be organized.

We were first tipped off to this “Mary Poppins” bag by a HuffPost contributor who found that, with the Bagsmart, you could fit “everything but the kitchen sink” into its four roomy compartments. Made with a puffer-like and water-resistant material, it features extra-spacious side pockets that accommodate full-sized toiletries in a standing position, which, as one reviewer pointed out, can significantly minimize potential messes from products that might tip over and leak in transit. Its standing and completely fold-out design also semi-eliminates the need to unpack, as all of the contained products remain lined up and accessible when you unzip it at your destination.

3.
Amazon

Casio MDV106 Series dive watch: An affordable and stylish diver

A great watch is an essential part of any wardrobe, elevating even the most casual outfit with ease. This maritime staple channels the classic dive watch aesthetic, reminiscent of the iconic Rolex Submariner, but you won't have to re-mortgage your house to afford it. Its stylish aesthetic and thoughtful design make it a shoo-in for your gift lists this year.

According to previous reporting, it features a stainless steel case that measures 44 millimeters wide and 12 millimeters thick, offering a nice amount of heft that, as a number of Amazon reviewers have also noted, looks (and feels) far more expensive than it is. The unidirectional bezel features a sturdy click and an anti-reverse mechanism. And like any good dive watch, it’s water-resistant up to 200 meters (656 feet), with a durable mineral crystal protecting the dial. Unless you’re deep-sea diving, this is more than sufficient for office wear, poolside dips or beach trips.

Elegant details — like a date window at the 3 p.m. mark, a raised diver’s marker on the bezel, and luminous hour and minute hands with a sweeping seconds hand — enhance both the watch’s look and utility. It is available in a few different dial and bezel combos, all of which are stylish and refined. It also comes with two interchangeable strap options: a sporty resin band and a stainless steel bracelet for a more polished look. The standard 26-millimeter lug width means you can easily swap in any strap you prefer — leather or silicone, making it extra versatile.

4.
Amazon

Hanes EcoSmart fleece crewneck sweatshirt: A wildly popular unisex layer

This classic, ultra-soft crewneck sweatshirt is the gift that keeps on giving, and will likely be grabbed for again and again by anyone you choose to gift it to. Reviewers and editors alike pick it up in droves anytime it's featured, largely in part because the price simply cannot be beaten. This unisex item of clothing from Hanes is a great tried-and-true basic made of soft, strong cotton-blend fabric that stays plush, cozy and warm no matter how many times you wash it. One reviewer noted that "the sweatshirt is warm, fluffy, and soft. It fits just right and launders well without pilling or shrinking."

It features double stitching at the neck and armholes and has ribbed cuffs, neckline and hem, all of which help it hold its shape and structure. The iconic silhouette and drape of the sweatshirt are what make it so highly coveted and versatile, and the high-quality construction keeps it all intact. It looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is.

It comes in a large selection of colors in sizes S through 5X, so pretty much anyone can find that perfect fit. Multiple people pointed out that it "doesn't fade after washing," and the general consensus seems to be that it's a wonderful piece of clothing.

5.

A pack of four Bluetooth trackers for the price of one AirTag

This past year, it’s clear HuffPost readers have been steadily dodging the Apple tax, and we can’t really blame them, given all the news surrounding tariffs. One of the clearest examples: these Bluetooth locators. For about $20, you get a pack of four trackers that work seamlessly with Apple’s Find My network.

Each tracker has a built-in keyring slot, making it easy to clip onto car keys, backpacks, luggage, purses, or even a chunky wallet. You can ping them to help you find items nearby, get alerts if a tracker gets left behind (beyond 200 feet), and they support Lost Mode through Apple’s massive Find My network.

These would make the perfect stocking stuffer for frequent travelers or those who tend to misplace items like keys and bags.

6.
Amazon

Saltair body oil: A nourishing body oil that performs well above its $20-something price tag

I've had chronically dry and troubled skin since childhood, but my years' worth of experience with parched-skin troubles finally led me to find my beloved Saltair nourishing body oil, one of the best formulas of its kind and the perfect gift for anyone in your life who values hydrated skin and self-care.

As a person who is opposed to certain textures, I'm in love with the fact that this formula doesn't sit greasy or stick atop the skin. It actually soaks in quickly and thoroughly to the point that I'm able to throw on my clothes right after and not leave a stain. Deceptively luxurious and available in five mild scents, it's enriched with three different oils that are nourishing and rich in antioxidants like squalane and moringa. Since incorporating this glossy goodness into my daily post-shower routine, it has noticeably helped trap in hydration, improve texture, and succeeded in making my skin feel bouncy and soft, well into the following day. I've also noticed that my tattoos appear more vibrant and renewed.

7.

Kindle Colorsoft: The latest Kindle model for the one thing the perfect Paperwhite's been missing: eye-popping color

If a book lover you know has been hemming and hawing over switching to an e-reader, make the decision for them by gifting the Kindle Colorsoft, Amazon’s latest premium reading gadget that HuffPost readers have been snatching up since its release and boasts the brand’s first all-color display. According to those who love it, the tablet boasts a glare-free and paper-like screen, with auto-adjustable brightness that won’t strain your eyes and uses brighter text that feels much easier to see and less susceptible to ghosting than previous Kindle models.

A single charge promises up to eight weeks of reading time, and its design is waterproof, all while providing the convenience that every avid reader desires: instant access to thousands and thousands of books without the worry of limited physical space or the hassle of toting around heavy, cumbersome books.

8.
Gap

Gap 100% cotton oversized sweater: A cozy crewneck beloved by HuffPosters and readers alike

HuffPost editorial director Lindsay Holmes knows and loves good sweaters. And when she first wore her oversized Gap cotton sweater to our office, she successfully influenced several colleagues to purchase their own.

It's an easy-to-wear and stylish item that looks good on everybody and with a range of style aesthetics. It's great for layering or worn on its own. According to Holmes, she’s styled it tied around her shoulders, over T-shirts, with skirts, with lounge pants ― you name it. Plus, the 100% cotton fabric makes it feel elevated with zero itchiness. Gift it to anyone who values well-made wardrobe classics.

9.

A portable, pocketable charger that our editorial director buys for everyone

Most of us have experienced the panic, annoyance, or anxiety about a dead phone while we’re out and need it the most. As a safety net, we highly suggest grabbing the iWalk, a revered portable charger that's affordable, compact, fast, pocketable, and the ideal practical present. In fact, editorial director Kristen Aiken previously wrote that she’s bought it for multiple people in her life.

This small-but-mighty gadget is a big seller with HuffPost readers, and is loved for its fast and powerful charge, without needing any extra cords or outlets to use. Compatible with most cell phones supporting a USB-C input, this pocket-sized power bank takes just an hour and a half to charge and can juice up your phone anywhere from 20% to 60% in only 30 minutes. It's also got an LED display that shows you how much recharging power the iWalk has left, so you’re never left guessing. Don't get caught in public without one!

10.
Amazon

The ever-popular Owala FreeSip insulated water bottle

When former shopping writer Haley Zovickian first wrote about the Owala FreeSip, she bravely said it was coming for the viral 40-ounce Stanley — and she was right. It’s hard to overstate the vessel’s popularity. It’s racked up an impressive 73,000+ reviews at Amazon, over 15,000 at Target and 22,000+ at Walmart.

The preferred drinking vessel of choice among many HuffPost editors, the FreeSip sets itself apart from other water bottles that may be on your gift list this year because it has a genius dual drinking spout that acts as both a straw and a regular thermos-style opening. You can either sip from an internal straw or tip the bottle to swig its contents without having to make any adjustments. It’s also completely leakproof, thanks to the secure-locking lid, so it can be thrown into bags, cars or tipped over without any risk of spilling. And like the Stanley, it’s double-walled and insulated to keep beverages cold or hot for longer. It’s the perfect gift for just about anyone, but especially for those who won’t be caught anywhere without an emotional support water bottle.

11.

Rocketbook Core reusable notebook: This handy gadget won't waste pen OR paper

This bestselling smart notebook is what we'd call a game-changing gift for professionals and students alike. Rocketbook's flagship design, the Core, allows users to take pen-to-paper notes on a reusable notepad. In other words: You can digitize your notes. Send them to your email, Google Drive, or cloud of choice, and you'll have access to those same notes on your phone and computer at any time. Once the notes have been digitized, just erase the page with a damp cloth and start over. No more paper waste, but the same aesthetics. We truly live in the future.
12.
Amazon

The Technivorm Moccamaster: Also known as "the Rolls-Royce of coffee pots"

Considered "the Rolls-Royce of coffee pots" by reviewers, the Technivorm Moccamaster coffee maker is a splurgeworthy gift, not only for its ability to make a damn good cup of joe, but also because it looks super good doing it. Anyone in your life who values both form and function will treasure this must-have kitchen item for years and years to come.

Longtime owners of the Technivorm have marveled at its longevity and love how quickly it brews (it’s even been recommended to us by more than one coffee expert). Designed in the Netherlands, this is an ultra-sleek and luxurious coffee maker that can brew 40 ounces in just four to six minutes with the press of a button. The included hot plate also keeps your coffee warm, and you can choose from a dizzying array of fun colors, from butter yellow to bright orange, to suit your gift recipient's personal style.

13.
Amazon

Grandpa's Weeder: A stand-up tool beloved by people with back pain

Referred to as a "magic wand for weeds," few products have inspired the same level of reviewer poetry as Grampa's Weeder. This stand-up weed puller tool caught our attention because of its ability to make an arduous task efficient, accessible for people with back pain or other mobility issues and — perhaps most surprising of all — oddly satisfying.

"What would have taken me hours to do took 20 to 30 minutes, tops. The best part is that it was sooo satisfying. I feel like sneaking into all my neighbors' yards and getting all the weeds," one reviewer wrote. Another said, "I now roam the lawn like a justice-seeking lawn wizard, avenging grass one weed at a time." It seems the masses agree with them, since this handy tool has earned a 4.5-star average across over 65,000 Amazon reviews. HuffPost readers also flocked to our coverage of the tool in 2025.

The weeder has a footpad you can step down on after inserting the claws over the weed into the ground, a mechanism that allows it to penetrate soil without requiring you to bend over. Then, you simply lean the tool over and pull, and the weed should come right out. It's a must-have for older and younger gardeners alike who want this task to go by easier, and some shoppers love it so much they're buying multiples to give away as gifts.

14.
Merit

Merit's Lip Duo: A dreamy pair of lip products that transcends generations

There's something extra special about Merit's Lip Duo, a dreamy pair of lip products that beauty lovers of all ages would love to find in their stocking, especially if they tend to prefer cosmetics that are low-effort and foolproof, but with a big impact.

The lip pencil is shockingly hydrating and goes on smoothly and evenly, depositing sheer, buildable color, so it can be used really lightly for a subtle look or layered on for a more dramatic effect. The unique gel formula has a balm-like finish that is truly comfy to wear all day and is uniquely suited for mature skin, because it won’t tug on lips or settle into wrinkles.

Best of all, the lip pencil is infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients like pomegranate and a jojoba complex that can strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier and help to keep it soft and hydrated. Like the liner, the gloss is also intensely nourishing thanks to shea butter, omega-3 fatty acids, rosehip and grapeseed oils that work their magic to deeply condition lips while jojoba oil creates a protective barrier. Merit even claims that repeated usage can help to maintain the lips’ natural moisture level over time.

This gloss has a soft, featherlight texture that is a combination of a lip oil and a stain. True to its name, the lip gloss adds a nice slick of color that is juicy and gives the illusion of plumping. You can pick between eight liner colors and 12 lip oil hues.

15.
Merrell

Merrell Jungle Moc: The durable "dad" shoe people love for pain relief and everyday comfort

Look familiar? Merrell's cult-favorite Jungle Mocs are so good, this is the second year in a row they've earned a HuffPost Shopping Award. We (and our readers) just can't get enough of these shoes; they will be forever bestsellers. These beloved shoes have long been known for being durable, comfortable, supportive and easy to slip on, but these days it's a gorpcore staple that a new generation is obsessing over.

In previous reporting, HuffPost editor Kevin Cortez said that he’s “owned four pairs at once, and with so many colors, it’s tough finding one you won’t vibe with.” Cortez also noted that his Mocs are “probably some of the most comfortable slip-ons I’ve ever worn,” he added that “they feel snug yet super comfy.”

They're a great option for those who want a lace-free shoe (whether it's for mobility or other convenience reasons) that's also a real workhorse with tons of functionality, stability and comfort. The sneaker-like shoes have stretchy panels so you can slide them on and off with ease, without losing your balance, and some reviewers reported that they're helpful post-surgery or when they're dealing with hip and back pain or other mobility issues.

These shoes have loads of die-hard fans, with many reviewers saying they've worn them for years. Their longevity is a huge selling point, with one person saying that they purchased them as “a replacement for my previous pair that I’ve had for 9 years.”

These resounding endorsements and the shoes' popularity among HuffPost readers have once again earned these versatile shoes a place on the HuffPicks list of must-haves. Get these at Amazon, Zappos, Merrell, REI and more reader-favorite retailers in women’s sizes 5-11 and men’s sizes 7-13.

16.

The Brick: The only reliable thing that will get you off social media

Even the most techie people in your life desire a reprieve from the addictive pull of their phone, and this tiny device may be the gift to offer them a break from endless doomscrolling and mindless hours spent on social media.

The Brick is a small magnetic tile that acts as a physical lock for distracting apps. After setting it up with its companion app, you simply tap your phone on the Brick to “Brick” your device and block selected apps, then tap again to “Unbrick” it — no monthly subscription is required.

Unlike built-in app limits on your phone, which you can easily bypass with a few taps, the Brick adds a layer of real-world friction. To regain access, you actually have to walk over and touch your phone to the tile. Set it up and place it somewhere out of sight, and suddenly opening Instagram or TikTok isn’t quite so simple. It’s even helped members of the HuffPost newsroom win back focus, attention and valuable time.

17.
Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-neck pillow: A big-name memory foam pillow that is, in fact, worth all the hype

Is there a beleaguered loved one in your life complaining about neck pain? Consider one of the most desired pillow designs from Tempur-Pedic, a brand with household name status and arguably the blueprint for all memory foam goods. Chiropractors previously told HuffPost that the responsive “Tempur-Material” helps support the natural alignment of the neck, helping to reduce pain, and this contoured neck pillow in particular is designed for back and side sleepers.

It’s made from an extra-firm version of the Tempur-Material, yet is still precisely adaptive to factors like body weight and shape. Available in three sizes to best serve your specific anatomy and sleep positioning, this ergonomic pillow is meant to follow the natural curve of the head and neck to offer proper alignment. It comes with a removable and machine-washable knit cover.

18.
Amazon

Oral-B iO Series 9 toothbrush: A dentist-recommended option for an in-office clean at home

The Oral-B iO Series 9 toothbrush has been recommended numerous times to HuffPost by dentists and is a valuable present for anyone who prizes their oral health, or even for those who struggle with brushing.

The iO Series 9 electric toothbrush is preferred by some dentists because it has timers that make sure the user is brushing for the suggested two minutes. And beyond the professional at-home clean that you can expect from these Oral-B creations, there are seven brush modes as well as a pressure sensor to prevent pushing too hard, which we’re told can damage enamel and gums over time.

19.
Amazon

RMS extra-long reach grabber: This will reach things in high and low places

This reacher grabber tool can be used to retrieve things up high or down low, without bending or straining, making it an exceptional gift for any older adults on your list, or simply anyone with decreased mobility.

The full-hand trigger is ergonomic and easy to operate the jaw, which also rotates to grab objects that get knocked over, are on a high shelf or are just in hard-to-reach places. And, if you need to store it in a tight space or take it on the go, the 34-inch tool folds in half at the middle to make it compact.

The tool has earned 4.6 stars across more than 19,000 Amazon ratings, with reviewers calling it "a total lifesaver" and lauding its ability to pick up very small objects that you may think such a long tool would struggle with, like a jar of nuts or a single pill.

20.
Sephora

A splurge-worthy LED light mask that has truly improved one HuffPost editor’s skin

For senior shopping writer and skin care fanatic, Lourdes Avila Uribe, the Dr. Dennis Gross LED mask proved to be a necessary investment, as she reports it’s legitimately made her skin smoother and more rejuvenated with regular use. Based on this testimonial alone, this luxury mask is sure to be the most prized gift that any skin-obsessed person receives under the tree this year.

It uses LED lights over your entire face to target the look of both wrinkles and breakouts. You’ve likely seen similar-looking masks and wands floating around, but Dr. Dennis Gross’ FDA-cleared technology uses a combination of 100 red lights and 62 blue lights that work together to target these common skin issues. Simply put, no other light mask comes close.

In previous HuffPost reporting, board-certified dermatologists explained that red light is able to reach the deeper layers of the dermis, which houses collagen and elastic tissues. As mitochondria of skin cells absorb red light, they may be able to boost energy production and enhance cellular function. This, in theory, increases blood flow and stem cell activity, improving the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Also according to experts, red light is also thought to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the fibroblasts that produce collagen while inhibiting the enzymes that can break down collagen.

21.
Amazon

The chef-recommended potato peeler that makes food prep a breeze

There’s a lot to like about the Starfrit Rotato Express, an electric potato peeler with a non-slip base, which, according to chefs, can even be used to zest citrus in bulk or for spiralizing semi-soft veggies. We think this would be the ultimate practical gift for home cooks who value their precious time, or for those who have arthritis or may have lost some hand mobility, making manual tasks a bit challenging.

This is because the Rotato doesn’t require holding on to the vegetable while it works. Instead, this fully electric appliance (battery-powered or plug-in) holds the desired fruit or vegetable in the secure prongs and peels away with the touch of a button.

22.
Monos

A splurgeworthy Monos suitcase that’s endorsed by a HuffPoster who’s incapable of traveling light

I have many life skills, but packing light isn’t one of them. That’s why I call my Monos suitcase a splurge that's worth every penny, and for any frequent travelers on your gifting list, I couldn’t endorse this suitcase more.

After owning this beauty for a few years, I can confidently say that it beats the rest because of its slightly oversized, double-sided wheels that are easy to roll, covered in thick, durable rubber, and can glide even on gravel. Another decision-confirming factor was how thoughtfully designed the Monos suitcase is. Separating the generous interior is a two-page divider featuring dual layers of organization pockets — a welcome difference from most suitcases I’ve seen, which typically have only a single panel of pockets.

One of these layers also offers an extra dose of compression in addition to the typical X-strap you find in suitcases. This means I’m able to pack more clothes and more shoes compared to my old bag, while also staying significantly more organized. The bag even comes with two different-sized shoe sleeves!”

The hard exterior is made from an aerospace-grade polycarbonate, featuring an integrated TSA-approved lock and aluminum telescoping handle.

23.
Amazon

Vornado pedestal VFan: A retro-inspired fan that circulates air like nobody's business

People who care not only about how well an appliance performs, but also how it looks, will surely appreciate receiving this vintage-looking pedestal fan, which is no basic innovation. As a proud owner of one, I would say it’s more accurate to call the Vornado an “air circulator” rather than a fan, because it’s built with the brand’s signature dual-injector air cones at the base of the fan head. These interlaid aerodynamic cones, coupled with five strategically designed propeller blades, powerfully circulate and cool air faster — even in the dead of Southern California summer.

Available in a beautiful cream or jade green, this fan is made of durable metal designed to last a long time, and both the pedestal height and head tilt are adjustable for airflow exactly where you need it. You can choose between three fan speeds. Vornado also sells a VFan Jr. that has two speeds and an adjustable tilt head, so if you want to gift something smaller just for a desk or table, that's another giftable option.