Christmas Gift for Him

A Guide to Christmas Gifts for Him

Before trekking out to the mall, hardware store, or discount chain, consider what may be a Christmas gift for him. Not every gift will work for every man. If he hasn’t given you any obvious hints, take a look at his activities. Does he like to hunt? What about playing sports? Any of these kinds of activities can point you in a direction to purchase a gift he will love. Make a list with guiding ideas as you navigate the frenzied crowds.

Sportsmen and Outdoorsmen

For the sports enthusiast, anything with his favorite team on it will do. Jackets, t-shirts, watches, posters, and other memorabilia will be a winning gift. If he hunts or fishes, consider buying him accessories from a specialty store. For those with a big budget, or who want to spend some extra money, purchasing game tickets or renting a weekend cabin could be possibilities for an extra-special gift.

Chefs

Does your dad or husband like to cook? Purchase him a gift certificate to cooking classes. Or, buy him a knife-sharpener. A wide array of spices and sauces will go over great as well. If he’s more of a grilling man, get him meat rubs. For those with a generous heart, a new propane grill could be just the thing to make his stomach gurgle in happiness.

Gadget Men

For the man who seems to be wired to his gadgets, getting him new accessories will light up his face. New games and software programs are always appreciated. Or, consider buying the newest laptop cache. An extra set of earphones are always welcome gifts. GPS (global positioning systems) are a more expensive way to get your gadget man’s heart thumping.

Metrosexuals

If working out, looking good, and taking care of his appearance are what gets your man going, consider a Christmas gift for him that works into his routine. Purchase a men’s skincare set or new cologne. A gift certificate to a local spa for a massage is something men will love, but may not get for themselves. A new hand-weight set will also be appreciated.

Motor Men

If the rev of an engine also revs your man, think about getting him things related to vehicles. A Harley-Davidson rider would love new handlebar grips or stickers. Truck men might appreciate a gift certificate to get a spray-in bed liner from your local certified mechanic. For the vintage or muscle car enthusiast, a ticket to the next big car show would be a great idea.

Extravagant Gifts

Although the Christmas shopping season is notorious for putting a strain on the pocketbook, getting a Christmas gift for him that is extra-special could be on your idea list. Perhaps one of you got a promotion, it’s your anniversary, or you know that your father or brother has a big event coming up for which he’s been preparing. Regardless of the reason, buying a more expensive gift does not always mean as much as a gift that is personalized. Ideas for more extravagant gifts include:

• Vacations/cruises
• New vehicle
• Gym membership
• Expensive liquors or wines
• Large electronics purchases (computer or camcorder)

While this list may seem impersonal, remember to tailor it to the man in your life’s interests. Do not purchase a cruise if he gets seasick or get him a new computer if he likes to build his own. Instead, think about what he likes to do. Remember that having a high price tag does not mean he will like it better. The best Christmas gift for him is the one that you put the most thought behind, not the most money.

Still Stuck?

Despite having narrowed down your man’s interests and braved the shopping crowds, you still do not have a gift worthy of putting your name on. Rather than slipping into the gift certificate routine, consider trying out websites that help choose gifts for you. Target, Red Envelope, and other shopping sites offer categorized gift suggestions.

Other sites, like Find Gift.com offer personalized searches where you input data about the person for whom you are shopping. After answering simple questions, you'll receive a list with suggested gifts and websites.