25 best holiday gifts for dads in 2022

Dads can be tricky to shop for — enough with the striped ties and photo mugs. So what makes an item become one of the best gifts for dads? “Anything they’ll legitimately use,” says Julie Ramhold, Consumer Analyst with DealNews.com. But don’t lean too heavily into practical presents, Ramhold cautions, unless they’re specifically wished for. Chore-related products like a rake or microwave may not seem special or can send the wrong message. But something functional that is also cool, fun or interesting fits the bill. That could mean a new watch or even a LEGO building set.

Paying attention to dad’s hobbies is always a smart gift-buying strategy! If he likes golf, a putting mat might be the perfect thing. Outdoorsy dudes will likely love a portable camping stove or travel coffee press. And if he’s into video games or watching movies at home, a soundbar or VR headset are excellent options. Inspired yet? Scroll and discover that just-right gift idea for dad.

Your custom poker-sized deck of 52 standard cards and two Jokers comes in a hard plastic case, and it’s a hit with Shutterfly customers. The photo cards have nearly 2,000 reviews averaging at 4.8 stars. One happy buyer writes: “Love this product as it’s a gift that can be used and enjoyed by many!”

This standalone soundbar will impress dad with its acoustic ability. Its sleek, compact design can easily be tucked away to blend into the living room. And — huge bonus for your recipient — the Sonos Ray goes from unboxing to working within minutes. No complicated setup required. It’s simple: plug the soundbar in, connect to your TV and open the Sonos app. Now that’s a gift any father will like!

What gifts are just right for dads with literal cold feet? A perfect option is these fluffy, comfy slippers. Sanuk incorporates elements like Tencel, bio-based sugarcane EVA foam, responsibly sourced leather and recycled polyester to create more responsible footwear.

This double-walled stainless steel coffee press has impeccable reviews. “I liked this so much that I had to buy a second one for my son-in-law,” writes one Amazon customer. “This is a perfect solution for making a french press coffee in the morning and taking it to my desk or in the car when on the road. I love this thing.” We think dad will love it too! Available in 6 colors.

The 2,000 interlocking pieces of this jigsaw have a glare-free matte finish for a great puzzling experience. Whether dad wants to relax and have some me time, or spend an evening putting this together with the family, it’s a great gift.

Available in nine colors, the Heat watch will make dad look cool whether he’s swimming laps, running the neighborhood or driving carpool. The case is a thin 8mm, so it doesn’t feel bulky. Functions include timers, time of day, day and date and an auto calendar through 2099. If dad likes hitting the waves he’ll be interested to know that two-time world champion surfer John John Florence wears this very watch.

If dad loves baked goods you can be sure he’ll enjoy every bite of this cookie-filled gift box from Cheryl’s Cookies. The box includes individually wrapped buttercream-frosted, chocolate obsession, gingerbread, chocolate chip, frosted mint chocolate and sugar cookies. If you’re extra nice, maybe he’ll even share.

Impress literary folk with Amazon’s latest Kindle. The new model boasts a 6-inch 300 ppi high-resolution display and two times the storage (16GB). The paper-like display is glare-free and easy on the eyes, and dad can even read in bed without bothering anyone thanks to the adjustable front light. A single USB charge lasts up to six weeks. Bonus: The shell, available in black and denim, is partially made from recycled plastics.

Challenge dad to a game of ping pong anywhere with this travel set. It’s got over 4,000 Amazon ratings and 4.7 out of 5 stars so you know it’s good. “Bats, balls and net all excellent quality and the net fastens easily to my dining table,” writes one satisfied buyer.

For some dads, masculine jewelry is one of the best gifts they can receive. Classic and cool, this chunky piece will look right at home on the stylish dad’s wrist. Made of stainless steel plated with 14k gold, the Rebel Bold bracelet is durable and luxe all at once.

This ain’t your grandpa’s toothbrush. Waterpik makes a seriously effective dental tool, so dad can clean his pearly whites at home. This rechargeable, waterproof and portable system is convenient and cordless, and it scours teeth with ease. “You can use it in the shower and not worry about spraying water everywhere,” writes one shopper — there are over 48,000 reviews on Amazon! 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The Matrix, Amadeus, The Lion King… dad will want to catch up on all the film favorites when he gets this poster. The movie art is revealed when the square is scratched off. According to Uncommon Goods, 93% of customer respondents would recommend this gift, and so does consumer expert Ramhold.

If dad isn’t a cinemaphile there are other scratch-off posters to pick. *These come in a ton of different varieties at sites like Uncommon Goods, including things like date ideas, things to do, horror movies, books, movies, places and more,” Ramhold says. “If your parents are the adventurous type — even if they don’t want to leave home – there’s bound to be a poster that will appeal to them and give them something fun to do together.”

Flannel PJs are a holiday staple, and who doesn’t love their cozy comfort? Give dad this 2-piece Hanes set and know he’ll rest easy this winter. Choose from four different colors. “These are soft, comfortable, fit well, and are warm,” reads one glowing review. “Need I say more?”

Pops will want to unroll this faux turf mat immediately upon opening. “My dad wanted this so that he could practice his putting and possibly set up a little mini golf course,” wrote one 5-star reviewer. “Perfect for practice.”

This slim bumper case surpasses military-grade standards for impact protection, so you can be sure that dad doesn’t break his precious iPhone. The BPA-free sturdy plastic case is available in 13 colors. Throw in a RhinoShield 3D impact Screen Protector and he’ll be fully protected. Bonus: you can add different colored buttons.

Gifts for the boy dad was once can be a big hit. Plus, building elaborate Lego sets can be very calming for some fathers (especially when their kids aren’t “helping”). But we’re sure yours will love collaborating on this sweet set! With 5-star reviews across the board, Amazon customers are loving this new product. “It is a challenging build and requires a strong focus,” writes one. “I’m still building it and find it very relaxing.”

All natural ingredients combine to create these quality grooming aids. The set includes a beard balm and beard oil to leave dad’s facial hair conditioned and soft. A subtle sandalwood bourbon scent is the icing on the cake. (And by cake we mean… beard.)

Ramhold recommends this gift along with many Amazon shoppers. *Especially for parents on the go, these are an item they’ll use daily to keep their drink of choice hot until they’re ready to drink it,” she says. “Mugs made by Zojirushi come highly recommended due to their superior insulation and flip top cap that actually locks in place with no risk of spills or leaks.” Plus there are three sizes and 24 colors to choose from!

Not only will your household be more organized, dad will be able to tell at a glance which types of batteries need replacing. PLUS the Battery Daddy (catchy name, right?) includes a built-in tester. Not only is it a cool gift, we predict the Battery Daddy will kill at White Elephants this year.

If dad has ever wondered about playing Dungeons and Dragons, you might want to get him this starter set. There’s a 48-page adventure booklet and 32-page rulebook so he can really sink his teeth in. It also includes 5 ready-to-play characters and 6 polyhedral game dice, of course. Perfect for 2-4 players.

This handy wood-burning stove is great because of its low smoke production and ease of use. Weighing in at just 9 ounces, the Solo Stove Lite can help dad cook or boil water in a hurry. “I love that it’s so eco friendly, no gas canisters or chemical fuels,” writes one happy Amazon customer. And it might make a great gift for the prepper dad: “For the coming zombie apocalypse, it’s an essential ‘off grid’ piece of equipment :)”

Spoil the dad on your list with this incredible VR headset – he won’t be disappointed. “Got it as a gift for an adult and it was a big hit! He hasn’t put it down!” writes one Walmart customer of the Meta Quest 2. “I also liked that it comes with everything you’d need already, any additional accessories are not necessary at all.”

Described as “like Codenames, but weirder,” this new board game sets up easily and has quick rules — nice! But even better, Wavelength sparks interesting discussions. “This is the most requested party game when I have game nights,” writes one fan. “It’s easy to learn and is great for groups of all sizes.” Sounds like dad will love it.

Whether dad is a prepper waiting for disaster, a camper, a fan of going off-grid, a tailgater or just a sensible dude who likes to be prepared, this portable power station makes a great gift. Just charge it up through a wall outlet (only takes a couple hours), AC adaptor or car outlet (cable included), and you’ll have safe 300W power. Juice up to six devices at once with this baby. You can even pair it with a solar panel, sold separately. “I am shocked how awesome my 300 Jackery power station is!!” writes one jazzed Amazon customer. “It is so light and super easy to use.”

This beanie is a very sold purchase. And with over 128 THOUSAND 5-star reviews, you don’t have to take our word for it. The great fit and non-itchy stretchy rib knit are definitely selling points.

Carhartt is a workwear brand, but you don’t have to be a blue-collar worker or rugged outdoorsman to enjoy it. In fact, the brand is beloved by celebs including John Legend and Daniel Day-Lewis, reports Spy.com. So no matter what kind of dad you have, we bet he’ll be comfy in this beanie.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Originally published October 25, 2022, 3:44 PM