There’s something wonderful about this generation of dads we got going on.
They’re the men who are changing diapers, taking turns at late-night bottle feedings, heading up the neighborhood carpool, and making sure Spot (the scruffy dog) gets an afternoon walk.
Maybe they’re not even an actual dad in the sense of giving their DNA to an offspring or being responsible for a beloved pet, but rather have a nurturing side they aren’t afraid to show, as well as a value for beautiful, intentional gifts and experiences.
I’m talking about the men who take note to pick up your favorite midnight snack instead of the stereotypical chocolate (because he pays attention), the guys taking turns at cooking dinner and cleaning the bathroom (because they understand you both work hard).
Those men? They’re sexy as can be. And they deserve a gift this holiday season that’s thoughtful, practical and good quality — and a gift that’s aesthetically pleasing doesn’t hurt, either.
14 Holiday Gifts For Sexy Dads (Approved By My High-Maintenance Husband)
I’m not here to pretend I went at this gift guide alone, I had some legit Sexy Dad help.
My husband is a total Sexy Dad (for starters, he has easily changed more diapers than me). My man is practical, prefers a minimalist lifestyle, and is the type of guy that is completely high maintenance but doesn’t think that he’s high maintenance.
Every gift on this guide is either something my husband already owns + highly approves of or is on his personal wish list. Without further ado, here are 14 thoughtful, beautiful gifts that hold up within a very active lifestyle and are picky-man-approved!
And, hey — when you’re done here, head over to our holiday gift idea hub for more seriously cool gift ideas for all your loved ones (or whoever).
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1. WANDRD PRVKE Lite Photography Bag
We originally found these backpacks when working together as a husband-and-wife wedding-photography duo, and after 10 years of work I can assure you this is one of the best bags on the market. It gained such popularity that people began buying it for more than just carrying camera gear, so the company put out this “lite” version, which is more realistic for the everyday carry. My husband uses it as his main (non-photo gear) bag to this day.
2. AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones
If your man runs on busy city streets, commutes to work, or does any activity where he might also need to be alert beyond his daily podcast, these open-ear headphones are a must-have. The headphones sit on top of your ears, sending sound waves through the bone, thus keeping the ear canal open to hear cars, passersby or what have you. Works great for those in an office setting and even for those with any inner-ear issues.
3. The Ridge Wallet
My husband searched high and low for his dream wallet a few years ago and found this. The Ridge Wallet is impossibly slim, holds all of his cards and cash without bulging, has shielding to protect information on cards, and is made from industrial-grade metal.
4. Courant Catch:3 Classics Charging Station
This charging station and catchall tray is currently on my husband’s wish list. It’s available in leather and linen finishes, both of which are dreamy. This item is really more of a need than a want, but it gets major bonus points for looking so damn sexy (I actually want one myself). I’m also going to grab this matching single charger to go alongside the tray, so my husband can charge his AirPods at the same time, but it works for the iPhone too if you’re looking for more of a space-saver.
5. Persol Aviator Sunglasses
Persol sunnies are stylish, and this aviator pair folds up super-tiny (why do men love that?), but best of all? They look so dang GOOD on him.
6. Solo Stove Pi Pizza Oven
Over the past year, my sweet husband has mentioned wanting a pizza stove more times than I can count. I figured it would be a fancy built-in and on a “someday far in the future” list — until I found this pizza stove by one of our favorite brands, Solo Stove. It’s perfect.
7. Vuori The Rise Tee
Vuori’s The Rise tee is currently one of the only shirts my husband owns (not because he’s lazy, but because he’s picky), and he owns it in bulk.
8. YETI Rambler 36 Oz.
My husband gets a new water bottle only after he’s fully demolished the one in current use. Which, thanks to high-quality brands, takes many years and a lot of adventure. This 36 oz. YETI is my guy’s latest bottle purchase, and he’s mentioned more than once how much he loves it.
9. Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Watch
If your man is wanting a performance watch, the Garmin Fenix Pro is the one to invest in. My guy specifically noted: “It’s not a tech watch — there’s nothing better than the latest Apple Watches for that category. This is the best sports watch.” This watch maps runs and helps with your pace, navigates and guides your training, monitors sleep (my husband prefers it to his Oura ring, even), and you know, tracks all the…health…stuff. The ratings also speak volumes.
10. Benchmade Griptilian 551 Knife
If the man on your list is anything like my husband and geeks out over pocket knives, just trust me on this one. Nothing makes him happier than when he has a use for this thing.
11. Vuori Balboa Pant
OK, another one you must simply trust me on… These are the sweatpants that absolutely do your man favors. Plus, they’re comfortable and practical. It’s honestly a gift for both of you.
12. Aura Carver HD Smart Digital Picture Frame
The Aura Digital Frame is our foolproof gift for nearly everyone on any gift list. And it’s especially sweet for those who work at an office away from home. You can send photos straight from your phone, and the frame updates instantly for a total sentimental mood boost during the work week.
13. Lumin Skincare For Men
My husband had only dipped his toe into the world of skincare over the years, but he recently declared he wanted to take it more seriously. The man researched the market and decided on the full line by Lumin (the full set has been known to sell out, but here’s their popular 3 piece kit), scientifically formulated specifically for men’s skincare needs. Let’s just say he hasn’t skipped a morning or night (I know, I’m shocked too) and has made more than one mention about how good his face feels. He also noted how he loves the way the packaging looks near his sink.
14. Blundstone Original 500 Chelsea Boots
Blundstone Chelsea boots are a must-have, if you ask us. They last forever (and look better with wear), and the comfort is truly top-notch. If you live in a cold climate, or your man already has (and loves) a regular pair of Blundstones, consider gifting him the insulated thermal version of the boots for cozy feet all winter long.
So, maybe you got through this list and don’t actually have a Sexy Dad in your life. That’s OK. Maybe you’re simply ready to find a Sexy Dad, like one akin to Jerry Seinfeld in his campaign for Kith (a hotly debated topic within our team here at TME of whether it’s “hot” — “or not”). Shopping these items? Not a bad place to start.
Oh — we have a few extra presents for you. Find more gift guides here, holiday outfit inspo here, and get ready for Black Friday & Cyber Monday here.
Xx,
Amy
P.S. What do you think? Is Seinfeld in those photos totally epic or not?
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Can I add something to the list?
I had a Ridge wallet for awhile and ended not liking it. I didn’t like the heft. But I did find the one, at least for now, that I really like. The Akeeni wallet.
https://akeeni.com/
I’m a huge fan!