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We Found The Gifts That Men Actually Want This Year — Even If They're Impossible To Shop For

They won’t tell you, but they actually want cool new tech, fresh packs of underwear, stylish sneakers and more.

We Found The Gifts That Men Actually Want This Year — Even If They're Impossible To Shop For
Gifts for men this holiday season.
REI, New Balance, Nordstrom
Gifts for men this holiday season.

It might just be my experience, but I have found that whenever I ask my father, partner or brother what they want for Christmas each year, I’m typically met with a shrug or a “nothing.” And while this might not be universal, it may still be helpful to gain some gifting inspiration from the upcoming list of items that the men on your list will be sure to love (and actually use).

1.

A 10-pack of basic cotton tees with insanely high ratings

Sometimes all a guy wants is a restock of their essential basics, like plain white T-shirts that can be worn as undershirts, to bed, or just lounging around the house. Gildan's most popular T-shirt, this cotton option feels great on and is thick enough to be worn alone. Its classic fit gives you loose comfort, with a rib collar and tear-away label for extra ease. The midweight fabric makes it great for all-year wear.


2.
Total Wine

A ready-to-serve Old Fashioned cocktail made with Wolcott bourbon

Give the gift of a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned, without the bartender, with this ready-to-serve pre-batch cocktail featuring Wolcott's Kentucky bourbon whiskey. Dad can pour this into a rocks glass over ice and enjoy those signature notes of Luxardo cherry, citrus peel and bitters with a smooth whiskey finish.

3.
Amazon

A red light therapy cap that dermatologists say can help treat male pattern baldness

Multiple experts previously commented on the effectiveness of red light therapy on hair growth and the iRestore treatment helmet, an FDA-cleared laser system that uses 282 lasers and LED lights to stimulate hair follicles for new growth. If you have a man on your gifting list who has expressed some concern about their hair, this hands-free device uses an optical wavelength and can be used to maximize the results of other hair loss treatments like minoxidil (if he chooses to use it) and can be useful for conditions like alopecia, receding hairlines, pattern baldness and thinning hair.

4.
Away

Away’s new soft-sided carry-on

Away is the luggage brand that everyone wants, and this soft-sided version of the buzzy travel brand’s best-selling carry-on is a very recent addition. Made from a soft, structured nylon, this suitcase features two exterior slip pockets, dual organization pockets inside, and a surprisingly roomy interior that can be compressed to pack more. And like all of Away’s designs, this beauty features smooth 360-degree spinner wheels and a telescoping handle that won’t get stuck. It comes in four colors, several sizes and an option to personalize.

5.
New Balance

A classic and comfortable pair of sneakers for wide feet

My father has always loved New Balance’s classic 574s, and often asks for a new pair during gifting holidays. When asked what he likes about the sneaks, Eliazar Flores said they’re good for the gym, work or everyday wear, are a nod to his style in the ‘80s and are one of the only tennis shoes that work with his short, wide feet.

Today, 574s feature an ultra-comfortable soft foam midsole, come in a wide range of color options in men’s sizes 4-18 with wide and X-wide options.

6.
REI

A Primus Kamoto fire pit that folds flat for camping

For any campers or outdoor enthusiasts on your list, the Primus Kamoto portable fire pit is the ultimate gift idea. It pops open to burn wood or charcoal and comes with a grill top, so it can be used for more than just warmth and ambiance, but outdoor cooking as well.

7.
Vuori

A pair of polished pants comfortable enough for the gym

Consider these slim-fit pants the ultimate cheat code to feeling like you could run a marathon, but still look polished enough for a client meeting. They're loaded with specs he'll appreciate, from a classic five-pocket design to quick-drying material. They come in six colors, sizes 28 to 38, and three inseam lengths.


8.
Bombas

A pair of sweat-wicking, medical-grade compression socks

These extremely supportive compression socks by Bombas feature the brand’s strongest level of compression and are designed to help keep your legs feeling energized. The specialized yarn fabrication is moisture-wicking, while discreet airflow vents keep your toes breezy and footbed cushioning can help to absorb impact. They are available in a range of colors in three sizes in single, three-packs and six-packs.

9.
Nordstrom

A design-forward pop-up lamp

Rather than a boring old desk lamp, this modern and eye-catching design features a colorful and dual-functioning base and a warm casting bulb. This rechargeable lamp can hang from hooks, be placed on nightstands and bookshelves and even be used outside. It comes in four colors.

10.
Nordstrom

A Le Labo discovery set

Le Labo is a luxury fragrance house with a major cult following for its selection of unique, gender-neutral scents that are always well-made and always a hit. This discovery set is the perfect way to introduce Le Labo, or to gift someone who is already a fan. It features three mini bottles of the brand's most-loved fragrances: Another 13, Santal 33, and Th Noir 29.

11.
Amazon

A 100% cotton pajama set for men

This matching men’s pajama set is made from 100% cotton — arguably the most comfortable and desired fabric for sleep and loungewear. The soft flannel bottoms have an elastic drawstring waistband and generous pockets, and the long-sleeve shirt has an ideal relaxed fit. Shop this in several colors and prints and sizes XS-5XL.

12.
Nordstrom

A nostalgic Praxinoscope animation spinner

This Praxinoscope animation spinner is a unique and niche gift that will please the hearts of film lovers and collectors of nostalgic memorabilia. Originally invented in 1877, the Praxinoscope brings images to life through an optical illusion. All your gift recipient has to do is give this colorful carousel a spin using the center knob, and a moving image will appear on the drum’s exterior. This Praxinoscope comes with 19 different designs.

13.
Amazon

A 6-pack of breathable 100% cotton underwear

You can never have too many pairs of underwear, and this 6-pack from Hanes will offer a breathable and comfortable replacement for any old holey pairs he’s refused to part with. Rated 4.4 stars on Amazon across 143,640+, these underwear are made from 100% moisture-wicking cotton, feature a no-ride-up design, and a comfort-flex waistband. Shop them in several colorways and sizes S-3X.

14.
Amazon

A super cool pair of Nothing headphones

If you were to ask the most techy person in your life, they would say the Nothing brand is doing some incredibly cool things, like making Apple alternative phones that are well-designed, incredibly high-performing, all at a much lower price. Nothing also makes these new noise-canceling headphones that look like something out of an early 2000s cult film, but complete with fully modern features and functionality. Available in three colors, these over-the-ear phones promise to utilize state-of-the-art processors and adaptive microphones to eliminate distractions, but will also smartly adjust to the wearer's surroundings. The Nothing headphones “boast Spatial Audio with Hi-Res Wireless certification for remarkable clarity and an immersive auditory experience,” according to the brand, as well as up to eight hours of playtime per charge.

15.
Amazon

An ultra-compact and new model of a JBL speaker

The JBL Go 4 is the brand’s latest version of its smallest and most compact speaker that, despite its diminutive size, boasts impressive sound and punchy bass. Combine that with its seven hours of playtime per charge and water-resistant construction, and this speaker can be taken anywhere for a party on the go. But if the sound isn’t sufficient, the JBL Go 4 can pair with multiple JBL speakers for an amplified listening experience. You can gift this tiny-but-might device in several colors.

16.
Merrell

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 men’s sizes 7-13.

17.
Amazon

A wildly popular fleece crewneck sweatshirt

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.

18.
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.

19.
Amazon

An electric lunch box by Crockpot

Gifting someone one of these Crockpot electric boxes means that they can enjoy a heated lunch or dinner at the office or on the go. Once plugged into an outlet using the detachable cord, the 20-ounce interior can reheat anything from chilis to holiday meal leftovers in just a few short minutes.

20.
Amazon

A Harry’s original shaving kit

You can’t go wrong with the gift of a new shaving kit, and this essential set by Harry’s is sure to please. It includes the brand’s classic, non-slip precision razor and three replacement heads, each one made with five German-engineered blades for the closest shave imaginable. The foaming shave gel works into a rich, creamy lather and contains soothing aloe to protect and soothe the skin.

21.
Amazon

A pair of men’s fuzzy-lined slippers

Rated an average of 4.4 stars across 47,100+ ratings, these moccasin-style slippers are the coziest at-home footwear that will keep your wearer’s feet supported, comfortable and warm. They are lined with plush faux fur and feature a thick, high-density memory foam, as well as a durable rubber outsole, so they can be worn to make quick runs out to the mailbox or sleepy Sunday morning coffee runs. They come in 16 different exteriors and men’s sizes 5-15.

22.
Amazon

A stand-up weeding 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.

23.
Amazon

A triple-cushioned shaving lather

If you have any facial shavers on your list this year, the Jack Black Supreme Cream is a truly luscious product that offers cushiony protection and a smooth, close shave. Packed in this whipped-like texture is a blend of macadamia oil and hydrating glycerin to help razors glide across delicate skin while preventing razor burn and painful nicks. Then, plant leaf extracts, jojoba and soybean oils soothe and soften skin.

24.
Vuori

A hoodie you'll definitely want to steal

He already lives in hoodies, so you may as well make his extended lounge sessions (read: hibernations) feel a little more luxe. This pocketed hoodie features a relaxed fit, great for layering, and a cozy, organically grown cotton blend material. It comes in eight colors and sizes XXS-3XL.