When it comes to finding the right gift for Dad, the goal isn’t flash. You’re looking for function, comfort, and maybe a touch of fun. Whether he’s focused on fitness, needs help unwinding, or just deserves an upgrade to his everyday routine, every item on this list was handpicked to support his health, happiness, and overall well-being. From high-tech fitness gear and recovery tools to coffee upgrades and outdoor essentials, these are gifts that your dad will actually use (and brag about).

So whether he’s the early riser who loves a long hike, the home chef who obsesses over the perfect sear, or the dad who could use a better night’s sleep, you’ll find something here that makes his days easier and more enjoyable. Because the best gifts for Dad are thoughtful, practical, and built to last.

Clothing and Accessories

The HOKA Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes are waterproof, made using recycled materials, and built for comfort that lasts mile after mile. Writer Steven Rowe, who tested these for us, was immediately impressed by the quality, especially at this price point, saying, “The materials and soft padding are so good I’d have been happy paying more.” What sets these shoes apart is their intuitive design: the curved sole makes each stride smoother and more efficient, helping the foot roll forward naturally. For anyone who walks long distances—whether that’s hiking trails or city streets—this design translates to less fatigue and more stability, and that’s exactly what most dads’ feet will appreciate.

The Joe & Bella Everyday Magnetic Flannel for Men blends classic style with thoughtful practicality, making it a standout for dads who want to look put-together without the hassle. What makes it special is the adaptive design: instead of traditional buttons, the shirt uses strong hidden magnets that snap closed with ease, which is especially helpful for anyone with dexterity challenges, arthritis, or limited hand mobility. Warm and well-made, the flannel is ideal for colder months and feels more like a premium dress shirt than adaptive wear. Rowe loved the fit and design and said: “The cut of the shirt is actually very nice. I’d be happy wearing it to a nice dinner around the holidays.”

When my family first got our first Bombas socks a couple of years ago, we switched over entirely. They’re the only socks we wear now. The Men’s Lightweight Athletic Half-Calf Socks (3-Pack) are knit from premium materials that wick moisture, helping prevent sweat and odor (especially with active dads racing around). On chilly days, they also offer cozy warmth without bulk, and their “lightweight” line keeps your calves cool when the temperature climbs. The snug fit and reinforced toes and heels ensure they stay in place and last even through heavy use. And the best part is, for every pair sold, the company donates a pair to someone in need.

Sports and Outdoors

This sleeping bag feels more like a bed than camping gear. “It’s huge and cozy — perfect for RVs or base-camp setups,” Campbell said. Designed for comfort in temps as low as 20 degrees F, it features a brushed flannel lining, draft-proof zippers, and a half-circle mummy hood that traps warmth while keeping your head off cold tent walls. The ripstop polyester shell stands up to rough terrain, and its compression sack makes packing (slightly) easier, despite its generous size. This plush, oversized cocoon is soft, warm, and tough enough for many seasons of adventure.

The Heathlander Golf Shoe is built for comfort, grip, and style. Unlike stiffer golf shoes that make you feel every contour of the course, these cushion your step without dulling your connection to the terrain. That combination of comfort and control makes a real difference, especially for long days on the fairway or walking multiple rounds a week. Its exceptional heel support and full-coverage spikes (which provide better traction on wet grass and sloped greens) led Swanson to conclude her review with, “Did I mention these are the most comfortable pair of golf shoes?”

The Rapsodo MLM2Pro Golf Launch Monitor takes practice from guesswork to precision. Fitness and mental health writer Raki Swanson loved how instantly it delivered feedback after every swing: carry distance, ball speed, slice or hook data, and even a percentage breakdown of direction. Swanson said, “It’s super easy to set up and the app is simple to understand,” adding that within just a few range sessions, she saw noticeable improvements in her game.

The PackIt Freezable Hydration Crossbody Water Bottle Carrier is one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” products that instantly becomes a daily essential. Unlike traditional coolers or insulated bags that require ice packs, this carrier is the ice pack. It goes straight into the freezer. Once chilled, the built-in gel walls keep your water bottle cold for hours, making it perfect for hikes, workouts, picnics, or long commutes. There’s even a small zip pocket for keys or cards. Editorial director Scully tried the hydration version and was genuinely impressed, saying, “This is great before a picnic, a hike … or just a day working out.”

The Dugout Mug turns America’s favorite pastime into something you can actually drink from: a real baseball bat barrel hollowed out into a custom mug. You can choose any MLB team, add a name or message, or design one for a coach, groomsman, or fellow fan. For any dad who lights up when the season starts or still has a glove that’s seen better days, this is a small but memorable gift that hits right out of the park. Swanson loved how easy it was to personalize this mug, calling it “unique and thoughtful … something you can’t buy at a regular store.”

He’ll love this golf shoe that’s built for comfort but also nails performance with arch support, shock-absorption, and stable design. “These were tested by a man in his late 40s with knee problems, and he found that his knee hurt way less when wearing them,” Swanson said. They have a wider base for stability and supportive traction without spikes.

We also like that they come with three interchangeable arch inserts (low, medium, and high) to suit the wearer more precisely. The extra cushioning and platform height take some getting used to on the green. “You stand a little higher when putting,” Swanson noted, but the trade-off is remarkable joint relief and shock absorption. The shoes are lightweight, breathable, and made for golfers who opt to walk the course instead of riding.

Grooming

Clean skin care meets calm energy. Editor Ashley Ziegler appreciated the organic botanicals, glass packaging, and fresh scent in this men’s mini set. It features a 1-ounce (oz) toner, 1-oz exfoliating wash, and half-oz face cream. “It’s great for low-maintenance types who want to try natural skin care,” she said. For an extra-nice gift that will upgrade his nightly routine, pair it with the brand’s lavender pillow spray. We love the product’s botanical formulas that feel good and smell even better.

This shaving kit turns a morning chore into a ritual. Rowe was impressed right from the unboxing: “The craftsmanship and care that goes into creating this product is clear as soon as you open the box. The wood handle of the razor and matching stand are stunning, perfectly designed in my opinion.” The holiday set includes a wood-handled safety razor, matching brush and stand, shaving lather bar, and shave gel, all packed in a sleek keepsake box featuring an Einstein quote inside the lid.

Rowe found that the razor glided smoothly, cutting down shave time and hand fatigue compared with his usual one. He also loved that the gel spreads evenly with just a small amount. While he wished the set came with simple usage instructions, the overall experience “felt luxurious, like something to actually look forward to.”

Everyday Carry

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones feel like giving Dad his own pocket escape. My husband uses his daily — and sometimes I borrow them for a few songs or a podcast — because the sound, comfort, and noise isolation are superb. One of my favorite things about them is how seamlessly they integrate into the Apple ecosystem: your calls, playlists, and even Siri commands move with you. They’re heavy enough to feel premium but well-balanced, so after an hour, you forget you’re wearing them. These deliver crisp, rich sound plus the kind of polish you expect from Apple.

The Epic Water Filters Nalgene OG Water Bottle is a simple but genius upgrade for any dad who loves the outdoors or just wants cleaner water wherever he goes. The setup is intuitive: the filter connects to a straw and screws into a spout lid, so you can sip clean water with every pull. For hiking, camping, travel, or even the office, it’s a thoughtful gift that promotes hydration and sustainability; two things every dad (and the environment) could use more of.

Editor Nicole Bonaccorso, who tested this product for us, appreciated how seamlessly it integrates into daily life, saying, “It’s great that you can turn your everyday water bottle into a filtered one. You don’t have to buy something new to get safe, fresh water.”

Research shows that even mild dehydration can impact mood and cognitive performance, making tools that support consistent water intake genuinely beneficial.

The FLPSDE Water Bottle with Snack Storage solves one of life’s simplest but most common problems: staying fueled and hydrated when you’re on the move. The design is clever: a dual-chamber bottle with one side for water and the other for snacks like nuts, trail mix, or protein bites. Health and parenting writer Mary Sauer called it “a good health-focused gift that’s both useful and a little novel,” ideal for hard-to-buy-for relatives, like your father-in-law.

The Kulkea Kayda Travel Backpack is ideal for the dad who’d rather skip baggage claim and keep moving. It’s lightweight but tough, and the thoughtful design — padded straps, structured shape, and easy-access zippers — makes long travel days more comfortable. With a 44-liter interior, smart compartments for everything from laptops to shoes, and durable water-resistant materials, it’s designed to handle serious travel while staying organized and compact. Sauer, our tester, praised its “capacity and flexibility,” noting that it “can be packed with a lot of clothes, gear, and tech, and still be used as a carry-on.”

Home Bar and Drinks

Consider this pick for the dad who takes his coffee seriously, but also loves to try out new, bold flavors. “The pumpkin-chai and dark roasts are delicious: rich, roasty, and never cloying,” editor Katie Tuttle said. The brand’s high-caffeine, fair-trade beans pack bold flavor without bitterness, and the skull-and-crossbones branding adds a playful edge. Dad will like the strong, smooth flavor that’ll fuel his mornings or late games.

The Fellow Aiden Precision Coffee Maker is a sleek, stainless steel upgrade that brings barista-level brewing into Dad’s kitchen without the learning curve. The design is pure Fellow: minimalist, durable, and intentional. The stainless-steel construction means no plastic parts leeching into your coffee and no fragile glass to break. It even makes cold brew. Vargas was impressed that this machine can brew coffee that achieves “pour-over quality.”

The Breville InFizz Aqua Sparkling Water Carbonator is a sleek, take-anywhere solution for dads who love fizz but hate the waste of cans and bottles. The design is lightweight but sturdy, and it’s not electric, which means you’re not tied to an outlet. Installing the CO2 cartridge is simple and mess-free, and the unit’s stainless-steel build gives it that signature Breville polish without the bulk. While it’s perfect for sparkling water, Swanson found it equally handy for mocktails and even the occasional bubbly cocktail.

My husband swears by his Ryze. The brand’s Ritual Set — which includes coffee, a superfood creamer, a reusable jar, and a scoop — has become a staple in our house. You’ll appreciate the earthy tones of your Ryze brew that’s made from a blend of organic coffee and functional mushrooms. It tastes like any quality brew: smooth, flavorful, and without that edgy aftertaste you sometimes get from other blends that shall remain nameless.

The brand claims that you’ll experience enhanced energy, focus, and digestive support over time by consuming this coffee.

My husband and I can attest to experiencing those benefits so much so that we recommended this coffee to friends and family. Give it to the dad who drinks coffee every day but deserves an even better cup.

Fitness

We have a NordicTrack RW600 (iFIT‑Enabled) Rower in my home (essentially the same rower model with iFIT support), and I can’t overstate how much it’s changed our at-home workouts. Because it’s low-impact, it’s ideal for anyone who wants maximum return on effort, without putting undue stress on knees or hips. Additionally, studies have shown that rowing improves cardiovascular fitness and strengthens skeletal muscles over time.

Studies show that tracking food intake can significantly improve dietary awareness and long-term adherence to nutrition goals.

The Taylor scale makes that process easier and more accurate, offering quick digital readouts and consistent measurements. The built-in USB cord (with a smart little storage slot in the back) eliminates the need for disposable batteries, which makes it more convenient and eco-friendly. Health writer Caitlin Beale, RDN, summed it up best: “If someone really wants a basic, reliable food scale, this is the one I’d recommend.”

The Therabody Theragun Prime is the kind of tool you don’t know you needed until you use it. Then, it becomes a staple. My husband pulls it out after long walks or tough workouts, and I’ve noticed it really helps reduce soreness while keeping tension at bay. It’s also simple to use. The compact design, quiet motor, and multiple speed settings make it manageable for everyday use, even for those new to recovery tools. The ergonomic grip allows precise targeting, while the snap-on heads let you adjust pressure and range. For any dad who pushes himself physically — whether it’s hiking, gardening, weightlifting, or weekend yard work — this device acts like a portable masseuse.

The Nike Grind Dumbbells combine performance, sustainability, and design in a way that feels distinctly modern — just what you’d expect from Nike. These dumbbells are as solid as they look, and their durability and design make them ideal for home use, whether tucked into a living room workout corner or part of a full garage gym setup. Fitness writer Brittany Vargas noted that these weights are a great midrange option for dads with moderate strength-training experience, and the available range of weights makes them easy to customize for any routine.

Food

The ButcherBox Ultimate Variety Box is the kind of gift that makes any carnivore’s day. From grass-fed beef and organic chicken to wild-caught seafood and heritage pork, this box is all about quality and ethical sourcing. ButcherBox partners with farms that follow humane practices: no antibiotics, no added hormones, ever. As Swanson put it: “If you know a meat lover, this is the gift. Meat isn’t cheap, and good-quality meat often gets skipped. This is the kind of box that makes you excited to cook again.”

The Current Model G Dual Zone Electric Grill is sleek and compact, and completely redefines what an electric grill can do. It delivers real flame flavor without the hassle of gas or charcoal, making it a great option for apartment-dwellers. The dual zones make it easy to grill steak on one side and veggies on the other, with even heat across every inch of the surface. Swanson, who’s owned everything from Weber charcoal grills to smokers and propane setups, said she and her family were blown away by this one’s performance. “Every time, precision cooking,” she said. “It warms up fast, cools down fast, and the food smells grilled.”

Raki Swanson couldn’t stop raving about this cookware set: “I love how unique [these pans] feel when you use them — I’m not sure of the technology, but they do cook your food very evenly.” These pans heat precisely and evenly while staying surprisingly lightweight. The handles never get warm, and the nonstick surface makes cleanup effortless. After a quick seasoning, they literally just wipe clean. They’re also impressively affordable for the quality. Give it to the dad who takes pride in precision cooking but appreciates the convenience of nonstick and easy cleanup.

The Schmidt Bros. Jet Black 12-Piece Giotto Knife Block Set looks as good as it performs. The sleek, matte-black, single-piece design makes these knives as much a statement piece as a kitchen essential. The set includes a versatile range: everything from paring to carving knives, along with a tall, slender rotating block that keeps them organized without crowding the counter. It’s a practical, heirloom-worthy gift that tester Raki Swanson described as both beautiful and functional, calling it “worth every penny.”

The Lotus Professional Series The Sous Multi-Function Cooker is the kind of gift every home chef secretly wants but would never splurge on for themselves. I tested it myself and was blown away by how versatile and genuinely useful it is. It’s beautifully designed, but what I really love is how it consolidates so many appliances into one. It replaces my slow cooker, rice cooker, and even my sauté pan on busy nights. The fact that you can brown or sear meat right in the pot before switching to slow-cook mode is a total game changer. No more dirtying extra pans after transferring meat or scrubbing stove splatters later.

The Lotus Professional Series Short Order Griddle is built for dads who love to cook big breakfasts or host family dinners with pro-level performance without the hassle. Cooks will appreciate the nonstick surface that wipes clean in seconds — no scrubbing or soaking required. Health and wellness writer Lindsay Modglin was surprised by how lightweight and easy to maneuver it was, given its size, and said that it “heats up quickly and evenly.” Pancakes, bacon, eggs, and even burgers all came out perfectly browned with no sticking. Modglin called it “a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it for someone who loves to cook or host.”

Home

Turn his shower regimen into a spa experience. “The scent is natural and strong enough to clear your sinuses without being overwhelming,” Scully said of these eucalyptus shower steamers. Each cruelty-free steamer is individually wrapped to preserve freshness, and the compostable packaging makes it an eco-friendly choice. What Dad gets is an instant aromatherapy adventure that’ll relax his senses, even when he won’t let himself slow down long enough for a luxurious bath.

The Aera Mini Diffuser takes scent diffusion to a smarter, cleaner level. Scully, who’s used plenty of traditional plug-ins, appreciated that this one doesn’t emit harsh chemicals or bother family members who are sensitive to scents. That’s because Aera fragrances are hypoallergenic and free from alcohol and phthalates, and the diffuser allows for total control via the Aera app. You can schedule when it runs, adjust the intensity, and even get refill alerts before it runs out, an especially useful touch for forgetful dads. The mini plugs directly into an outlet (available in green, white, or terracotta), while the larger version sits on a tabletop, making it perfect for offices, bedrooms, or living spaces. Scully said it “did a great job at covering a large room” and praised the wide range of scent options, from relaxing and sleep-supportive to those that neutralize smoke or pet odors.

The DemerBox Roseau Blue DB1 Speaker isn’t your average Bluetooth speaker. It’s a rugged, waterproof, crush-proof, audiophile-grade sound system built to survive the outdoors. Dads who live for road trips, fishing weekends, or backyard hangs with perfect playlists will appreciate its impressive acoustics and a 40-hour battery life that doubles as a portable phone charger. Tester Steven Rowe described it as “nearly indestructible” and praised how easily it paired via Bluetooth, noting that “the sound is very rich and has a lot of depth.”

The Kohler Moxie Showerhead + Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker turns an ordinary shower into a fully immersive experience. It’s ideal for catching up on podcasts, grooving to music, or just starting the day with a splash of inspiration. I’ve had this showerhead for a while, and it’s become a household favorite. The sound is crystal clear for voice and music alike, and being able to stream directly in the shower is a surprisingly joyous upgrade to an otherwise blah morning routine.

Wellness

The Skylight Digital Picture Frame turns memories into a living slideshow. No SD cards, cords, or tech headaches required. The image quality is crisp and natural, and the frame can even play short videos, making family moments feel more alive. The app groups recent uploads into a gallery, making photo organization feel seamless. It’s perfect for long-distance relatives or dads who want to stay connected with their family in real-time. Rowe loved being able to add new photos remotely. “I can see myself uploading vacation shots from my phone and knowing they’ll be waiting when I get home,” he said.

A Calm subscription is the kind of tech gift that doesn’t feel like tech. It gives your dad access to guided meditations, sleep stories, breathing exercises, focus music, and mindfulness practices designed to ease stress and improve sleep. Plus, studies show that mindfulness apps like Calm can improve mood, reduce perceived stress, and enhance emotional regulation.

In our our review, we found that Calm’s user experience, content range, and appeal make it especially approachable for those new to meditation.

I own the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, and it has quietly become one of my favorite gadgets to reach for. Whether I’m curled up by a window, on a flight, or trying to sneak in a few pages at bedtime, the Paperwhite’s crisp E Ink screen, adjustable warm light, and waterproof design make reading comfortable and hassle-free. The Signature Edition also comes with a few additional perks, including wireless charging, an auto-adjusting light sensor, and increased storage. There’s no glare, no screen fatigue, and the battery lasts for weeks. For a dad who craves focus, escape, or just a great read, this Kindle is a small upgrade that pays big dividends.

How We Chose the Best Gifts for Dad

As both a writer and a product tester (and the spouse of a dad who’s tested more than a few of these products himself), I can confidently say every item on this list has earned its place. From the massage gun that actually eases post-workout soreness to the grill that delivers steakhouse results without the smoke, these aren’t just gadgets; they’re upgrades to everyday life. Our Everyday Health editors and writers also tested hundreds of products hands-on, focusing on what dads will actually use and appreciate long after the wrapping paper’s gone.

We evaluated everything for quality, usability, and genuine wellness benefits, grounding our picks in medical research wherever possible. Whether it supports recovery, promotes better sleep, or simply encourages more time outdoors, each product was selected to make Dad’s day-to-day healthier and a little more enjoyable. Because the best gifts for dads do more than impress—they help make life a little better.

Why Trust Everyday Health

We independently investigate and recommend products and services we believe will enrich the lives of our readers and meet their specific needs. You can trust our reviews because we do the legwork for you. Read more about why you can trust us.

Ysolt Usigan

Author

Ysolt Usigan is a veteran writer, editor, and commerce journalist with more than a decade of experience creating lifestyle, health, wellness, and shopping content for brands including BestProducts.com, Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day, WhatToExpect, SheKnows, and RetailMeNot.

Ysolt specializes in product testing and reviews, shopping guides, and service journalism that help readers make smart, confident choices.

We Tested Hundreds of Gifts for Dad in 2025, but Here’s What Made the Cut

Clothing and Accessories

For the Regular Gym-Goer

Planet Nusa Men's S10 Power Shorts and Race1 Tank

For the Outdoorsman

Planet Nusa Men's Pine1 Teddy Jacket

For the Dad Who Loves the Long Way Around

Hoka Men’s Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes

For the Dad Who Appreciates Comfort

Joe & Bella Everyday Magnetic Flannel for Men

For the Dad Who Wants His Feet to Work as Hard as He Does

Bombas Men’s Lightweight Athletic Half-Calf Sock (3-Pack)

For the Hiker

Origin: The Heavy Half-Zip Hoodie

Sports and Outdoors

For the Camping Dad

Teton Celsius Sleeping Bag XXL

For the Dad Who Lives for the Back Nine

Heathlander The Golf Shoe: Men

For the Dad Who’s Serious About His Swing

Rapsodo MLM2Pro Golf Launch Monitor

For the Dad Who’s Always on the Move

PackIt Freezable Hydration Crossbody Water Bottle Carrier With Strap

For the Dad Who Still Has His Little League Swing

Dugout Mugs

For the Dad Who Golfs With Greatness

Cloud 9 Stability Series Golf Shoe

Grooming

For the Dad Who’s Easing Into a Skin-Care Routine

Leaf People Mini Essentials Men's Skin-Care Set

For the Dad Who Grooms

Uplift Provisions Company Shave Set

Everyday Carry

For the Dad With a Commute

July Carry All Backpack

For the Dad Who Wants Quiet, Immersive Focus

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

For the Dad Who’s Always on the Move (and Never Without His Water Bottle)

Epic Water Filters Nalgene OG Water Bottle

For the Dad Who’s Always on the Go

FLPSDE Water Bottle With Snack Storage

Best for the Dad Who Refuses to Check a Bag

Kulkea Kayda Travel Backpack

Home Bar and Drinks

For Dad’s Next Coffee Experiment

Death Wish Coffee Pumpkin-Chai Blend

For the Wine-Loving Dad

Ototo Pinot Wine Bottle Opener

For the Dad Who Treats Coffee Like a Craft

Fellow Aiden Precision Coffee Maker

For the Dad Who’s Into Sparkling Water

Breville InFizz Aqua Sparkling Water Carbonator

For the Dad Who Wants Coffee With Purpose

Ryze Ritual Set

Fitness

For the Dad Who Wants Full-Body, Low-Impact Power

NordicTrack iFIT-Enabled Rower

For the Dad Who’s Tracking His Nutrition Like a Pro

Taylor USB Rechargeable Digital Kitchen and Food Scale

For the Dad Who Wants Muscle Relief on Demand

Therabody Theragun Prime

For the Dad Who’s Building His Home Gym (One Rep at a Time)

Nike Grind Dumbbell

Food

For the Dad Who Loves to Grill, Smoke, or Sear

Butcherbox Ultimate Variety Box

For the Dad Who Wants Control Over Every Degree

Current Model G Dual Zone Electric Grill

For the Dad Who Loves Precision and Convenience in the Kitchen

Hell’s Kitchen Ceramic Hybrid Cookware Set

For the Dad Who Knows Cooking Is a Family Affair

Schmidt Bros. Jet Black 12-Piece Giotto Knife Block Set

Lotus Professional Series The Sous Multi-Function Cooker

For the Dad Who’s the Weekend Short-Order Cook

Lotus Professional Series The Short Order Griddle

Home

For the Dad Battling Busy Mornings

Thulisa Naturals Breathe Eucalyptus Shower Steamers

For the Dad Who Wants His Home to Smell (and Feel) Better

Aera Mini Diffuser