Fathers Day Gift Guide: From One Father For Another



For some reason Father’s Day carries the expectation of more novelty than quality gifts, from socks or mugs, to odd smelling aftershaves and never-to-be-used toiletries. It may be that Mother’s Day offers much simpler and pleasant gift options of flowers, chocolates that are shown in every shop which can’t go wrong (at least in my household it doesn’t). Whereas Father’s day usually brings in gifts of beer and socks. This is not something I feel too strongly about, I enjoy Father’s Day because of the celebratory aspect which means my family comes together, rather than looking forward to the gifts. However, when walking past a shop that advertised ‘The Worst Best Ties for Dad’s This Father’s Day’, I thought that maybe these stereotypically ‘Dad’ gift ideas needed an update. 


So, in order to break (or at least update) these stereotypes here are some well thought out gift buying ideas to help you source a great Father’s Day gift that will be greatly appreciated!

The Foodie Dad

As Father’s Day falls in mid-June, one easy theme for Dad presents is BBQ Dad. While some Dads may appreciate another novelty apron, if your Dad has never manned a barbecue this gift may not be appropriate. If, however, your Dad does love food there are numerous gift options that can be utilised.

For a food lover creating a hamper of your old man’s favourite foods is a full proof great idea, you can buy pre-made ones celebrating their love for meat, cheese, pickles or even chocolate. Alternatively, you can look into gifts that will help him enjoy his favourite foods. Cheese board and fondue kits have become quite impressive while still affordable from the likes of Amazon and John Lewis so they make excellent gifts. Or, specialist sites such as the Cheese Fondue Shop are great for making sure you get the best gift going.

If your Dad harbours a bit of a sweet tooth there are also more niche and individual presents you can buy that beat a box of chocolates. From father’s day biscuits and even biscuit accessories to personalised marshmallows make a nice and original gesture. Or, you could go on a chocolate making course and have some quality time together.

Tech Dad

Gadgets make excellent father’s day gifts, whether they are deliberately techy or they will aid with another interest because there are so many different ones. For instance, you can get a relevant and useful gadget for gardening, DIY, sport, cooking, TV, or simply for technology’s sake.  Tablets and iPads have now been incorporated into everyday use, and with the recent release of the iWatch it seems that technology is by no means slowing down. This means that there is ample opportunity for gadget gifts.

Chances are that even your Dad has a smart phone now which makes gadgets an excellent Father’s Day gift choice simply because phone gadgets are in abundance. Be it the selfie stick or the world’s first wi-fi kettle, the iKettle, there are some excellent gadgets to suit all interests and all budgets, just make sure you put some thought into which one you get.

Sporty Dad

Depending on the sport your Dad partakes in will obviously dictate the type of sporting gift you buy him. One of the best gifts I received has been from my daughter who got me golfing lessons from my local golf club after hearing me complain about my downswing. This not only really helped my technique, and therefore game, but also showed she was paying attention! Obviously this may not be applicable to all Dads but by looking into the sports he enjoys you may get an understanding of how you may be able to help him get more out of it. 

Simple things such as specialised sport or gym accessories are often the little things that your Dad may need but never think to buy himself and so they can make a great and useful gift. Plus, you could buy a selection of smaller gifts to create one main present that he will can enjoy, as a sort of fitness hamper! Things as small as a stopwatch or sport sunscreen if you know your Dad trains outside a lot, to non-tie shoelaces or a phone armband to keep him hands free while he runs show you have put some thought into the gift.

 Just Dad

If you still have no idea what to get your Dad, don’t be afraid to go for the typical ‘Dad gifts’ but just make sure you do them well. So, for instance, if you think your Dad would appreciate a nice tie (bearing in mind that 65% of Dad’s wouldn’t) make a note of what shirts he usually wears and what style he often goes for to show that you put thought into the gift.
Similarly, as men’s grooming products no longer have the same kind of ‘girls only’ stigma they once did, buying a quality shaving gel or aftershave can now make a very nice gift your Dad can appreciate. Plus, chances are you will get Mum’s seal of approval.

Getting an experience, meal out or even just buying your old man a ticket to the football one week for simply being your Dad can make a great gift, as the chances are he will just want to spend some quality time with you. Or, if you are still set on that novelty barbeque apron then Cooksmart does a good one. 

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