Best Father's Day gifts: Surprise Dad with something memorable
We promise there are better options than a mug that says "Dad."
By
Leah Stodart
and
Leah Stodart
Senior Shopping Reporter
Leah Stodart is a Philadelphia-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable where she covers and tests essential home tech like vacuums and TVs, plus eco-friendly hacks. Her ever-evolving experience in these categories comes in clutch when making recommendations on how to spend your money during shopping holidays like Black Friday, which Leah has been covering for Mashable since 2017.
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Nicole Cammorata
on
Nicole Cammorata
Director of Special Projects
As Director of Special Projects, Nicole Cammorata helps guide Mashable's editorial innovations, licensing programs, and specialty series. Previously, she was the site's Executive Editor and its very first Shopping Editor before that. Nicole is also Mashable's resident gifting expert and gets a thrill out of helping readers find the perfect present. She received a B.S. in Journalism from Boston University and an MFA in fiction writing from The New School. She lives in Maine with her husband, their three young children, and a backyard full of flowers.
Read Full Bio
All products featured here are independently selected by our editors and writers. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.
Many of us wouldn't know how to live on our own if it wasn't for our father figures — this goes for uncles, stepdads, or anyone else who has stepped up to take on the role of dad. And though they probably insist that you don't have to get them anything, Father's Day is an extra special time to show appreciation for your dad. From practical gadgets that make his life easier to sentimental keepsakes that tug on his heartstrings, you’re bound to find the best Father’s Day gift for your dad below.
Topics Family & Parenting
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Credit: Ivtivfu
Rolling Grill Basket
For the grillmaster
Cylindrical metal baskets make it easier to grill things that would normally fall through the grates. Vegetables, shrimp, and other seafood can be placed inside, then easily rotated so everything cooks evenly. Sure, you could use skewers — but where's the fun in that?
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Credit: Wilder Games
A "Hot Ones" board game
For spicing things up
If your dad has ever watched a clip from Sean Evans's YouTube talk show "Hot Ones" and thought, "It can't be THAT spicy," then get him this game. "Hot Ones Roulette" is a board game where you roll the dice to receive challenges and questions. Turn the dreaded "take a dab" card and taste the included hot sauce with a 2,000,000 scoville rating.
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Credit: Skylight
Skylight Calendar
For staying organized
Think of the Skylight Calendar as the Kindle of digital home displays: It gives you everything you need, and nothing extra. This practical (and fun) way to keep track of the family calendar, to-do list, grocery list, and chores is ideal for harried parents. One of the hottest gifts of the year by far, our reviewer awarded the Skylight a coveted Mashable Choice.
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Credit: MQRW
Push Up Board
For staying fit
Clue your dad into TikTok's favorite workout device du jour: This multi-use push up board that makes it easy to excercise at home. In addition to the board, there's also a bar, six resistance bands, two ankle straps, a door anchor, and an ab roller wheel.
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Credit: Alex Humphreys / Mashable
Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones
For audiophile dads
Take it from Mashable's Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth: "If you want best-in-class noise-cancelling headphones and pristine audio quality, the headphones deliver." Is their price steep? Yes. But we all know your dad deserves the best. And these headphones were awarded a coveted Mashable Choice.
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Credit: dodowin
Contour gauge tool
For dads who like to DIY
No corner is too tight, no molding too complicated for the dad in possession of this handy, oh-so-smart gauge we've been seeing all over Instagram. Great for everything from woodworking to carpentry (and a host of other home repair situations), it to accurately measure an irregular surface and help alleviate the headache that often accompanies this kind of DIY work.
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Credit: Anova Culinary
A sous vide machine
For meat-eating dads
If he's constantly bragging about how bomb his steaks are, it's time to give him a new method to conquer. Sous vide is said to prevent overcooking and enhance flavor by sealing the juices in the bag. This Bluetooth device from Anova Culinary will help him keep heat and water circulation constant, ensuring that the food will be cooked thoroughly and evenly.
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Credit: iRobot
A robot vacuum
For dads who hate cleaning
Whether he's Danny Tanner-level clean or is as messy as a teenager, Dad won't say no to a less-taxing vacuuming routine. The Roomba 694 is one of iRobot's most affordable and most popular connected vacuums, and it can be controlled via smartphone, Alexa, or traditional buttons. He can schedule cleanings or let it roam free and to find concentrated areas of dirt, pet hair, and other debris.
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Credit: Amazon
Amazon Echo Show
For dads who check in
Connected dads probably aren't new to Alexa, and the Echo Show is the ultimate Echo device to bring all his tech together on one screen. A drop-in feature lets him make video calls without the other person having to pick up, which is just a great parenting tool in general. He can also watch live TV, call up recipe and DIY videos, and use voice commands with smart plugs or lights.
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Self-chilling beer glasses
For dads who need a drink
Keeping that one special mug in the freezer is such a dad thing to do. These self-chilling beer glasses will make his post-work drink even more relaxing — they have freezable inserts to keep drinks cold for 30 minutes and built-in coasters on the bottom. The same company also makes self-cooling margarita, whiskey, and wine glasses.
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Credit: Yeti
A reusable water bottle
For eco-friendly dads
Help him cut down on plastic and prevent recycling bin overflow with a reusable water bottle from Yeti. This BPA-free, stainless steel bottle works to keep cold drinks cold or hot drinks hot for at least 12 hours, and does so while preventing condensation. This one is complete with a handle on top for grab-and-go convenience to take on a hike, to the gym, and more.
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Credit: Jack Black
Daily wear sunscreen
For dads who hate hats
Skincare is for everyone. If he's not about to do a five-step routine, daily sunscreen application is an easy starting point to help prevent signs of aging and protect against UV rays. This double-duty moisturizer and SPF 20 sunscreen is simple enough for quick daily application, but can be used extra for days spent in the yard or on the beach. Jonathan from Queer Eye would be proud.
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Credit: Disney
"Best dad in the galaxy" shirt
For Star Wars-obsessed dads
He is your father — literally. Any Star Wars-loving dad will appreciate this "Best dad in the galaxy" shirt, which combines that corny dad humor with an OG trilogy reference. This one sports Vader's two favorite colors and can be customized with a name.
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Credit: Belkin
A phone and Apple Watch dock
For dads on team Apple
Some dads are clueless about tech, but some are more obsessed with Apple than we are. If he's the latter, free him from that drawer full of tangled cords with the Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 charging station. This handy organizer wirelessly charges his phone, Apple Watch, and Airpods — and honestly kind of doubles as nightstand decor.
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A personalized money clip
For cash-carrying dads
Let Dad carry a piece of you wherever he goes with a money clip featuring a personalized note from his pride and joy. This Etsy shop has over 6,000 five-star reviews and allows you to create a one-of-a-kind clip with a note of your choosing — it can even be in your handwriting. Make it sentimental with a classic "I love you," keep it simple with your name, or add an inside joke.
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Credit: Fizzics
Fizzics Draft Dispenser
For beer fans
Help your beer connoisseur of a father bring the party wherever he goes with the Fizzics Draft Dispenser. From the makers of Fizzics Waytap, this Kickstarter success story converts regular beer carbonation (IPAs, lagers, or stouts) into uniform bubbles for a creamy, frothy head and enhanced aromas. It's even rechargeable via USB.
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Credit: De'Longhi
A personal espresso maker
For dads who need a boost
A constant IV of coffee may not be possible (yet), but superman dads can get that early morning jolt with their own espresso maker. The Nespresso VertuoPlus by De'Longhi offers barista-grade espresso, coffee, or iced coffee, all for cheaper and faster than Starbucks. It even comes with 12 flavor capsules.
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Credit: Click and Grow
An indoor herb garden
For crunchy dads
Going organic is the hot move, but shopping at Whole Foods adds up. Click and Grow smart gardens can give him a personal garden right in his kitchen, even during the cold seasons. Replaceable pods are only $10 a pop, with strawberries, tomatoes, and arugula all on the menu.
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Whiskey Smoker Kit
For elevating their whiskey game
While we are typically in the camp that believes whiskey-themed gifts for men are a bit overplayed, this isn't one of them. I gifted this whiskey smoker kit to my husband recently and he's obsessed. Choosing the chips, smoking the whiskey, and crafting the cocktail turns the whole thing into a memorable experience. -NC
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Credit: Hamilton Beach
A breakfast sandwich maker
For super busy dads
Save dad some time (and money) on busy mornings with this dual breakfast sandwich maker from Hamilton Beach. Whether he makes two of the same sandwich or switches it up, he'll be able to skip the Egg McMuffin line and start his morning off right.
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Credit: Amazon
The Fire TV Stick
For cord-cutting dads
Cord cutters don't have to resort to broadcast channels and reruns of Castle. The Amazon Fire TV Stick basically turns any TV into a smart TV and keeps apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video all in one place. He'll have the hang of it in seconds, regardless of whether he's tech-savvy or not.
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A waterproof portable charger
For outdoorsy dads
He probably ignores his phone when he's enjoying the great outdoors, but having a dead phone in the middle of nowhere just isn't smart. This solar-powered, waterproof one was made for a more rugged lifestyle. (Even if "rugged" means "trying to find parking at Target on a Saturday.") It can recharge an iPhone up to three times before needing to be charged itself.
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Credit: Amazon
The Echo Dot
For non tech-savvy dads
Hands-free commands in any room is undeniably awesome, even if he's not huge on tech. The Echo Dot is an inconspicuous little speaker that he can use to control smart home features like lights or blinds, set timers, or use as a household intercom.
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A cool waterproof speaker
For the DJ dad
The dad who always wants to play his tunes for the family can take his favorite tracks anywhere he pleases. Or if you need to send him outside with his music, this portable speaker will make that easy. The speaker is capable of connecting to two sources at the same time, so you can take over the playlist if the need arises.
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Saloon Box Cocktail Kit
For wannabe bartender dads
Many dads love to play mixologist and whip up fancy drinks when people are over — whether they're actually good is another story. Cratejoy's SaloonBox is a DIY cocktail subscription box that will teach him how to make bar-style cocktails. Each box includes supplies to make four drinks (including alcohol), plus seasonal recipes and extras like lemons or limes.
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Credit: Zyllion
A neck massager
For stressed dads
Knots and nagging back pain can interfere with daily activities — and even if they don't, they're just plain annoying. Even though your dad may not admit that something hurts, this portable shiatsu massager can give him the quick relief he so deserves with kneading that mimics a deep tissue massage. It's perfect for at home, at work, or in the car.
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Credit: Nintendo
A Nintendo Switch
For the gamer dad
If your dad never quite outgrew his gamer phase, welcome him to today's style of gaming with the Nintendo Switch. He’ll constantly be commenting about how much better video games are these days than when he was a kid. If you’ve got a device too, wirelessly connect for a multiplayer game and a whole new digital way to spend time together.
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Credit: Amazon
Amazon Audible
For multitasking dads
Reading is a seriously underrated method of relaxation, but a lot of dads are way too busy to sit down with a book. Amazon Audible can keep Dad busy on every drive, run, or commute, with titles ranging from Stephen King novels to self-help reads on parenting a newborn. He'll get a credit each month to pick a new title, and his library can be accessed on iOS, Android, Echo, and more.
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Credit: Victrola
A vintage-style turntable
For vinyl-loving dads
Parents love turning on the radio just to roast today's "shitty" music. Let him put those records in the attic to good use with this portable Bluetooth record player by Victrola. He can blast AC/DC and Hall & Oates to his heart's content, then switch to Bluetooth for newer jams that he will never admit to liking. Two needles are included and it comes in 20 colors.
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A mini projector
For the dad who loves home movies
If he’s always gathering everyone around the TV to watch old home movies, help him take the show on the road. He can set up this mini projector anywhere he wants — as long as there’s an outlet nearby. The device even connects to smartphones so he can project newly-captured footage for the whole family, too.
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Credit: Üllo
The Üllo Wine Preserver
For particular dads
If he's tired of being the lone beer drinker at his friends' wine and cheese nights, this preserver may be able to change his mind about wine. Üllo aerates vino to highlight the natural flavors of every glass while getting rid of the sulfites that cause headaches — because we all know how hangovers get worse with age.
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Credit: Cuisinart
A portable grill
For the grill master
For the dad who’s always trying to get everyone together for a barbecue, this portable charcoal grill helps him take his grilling skills anywhere he wants. Whether you’re planning a day at the beach or he wants to make hot dogs at the next tailgate, he’ll love this easy-to-transport grill.
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Credit: Personalization Mall
A personalized cutting board
For dads who grill
Father's Day falls at such a convenient time — it's grilling season, baby. If dad's been waiting all year to break out his shiny grill and patio furniture, deck out his favorite space with this personalized cutting board. It's guaranteed to make him feel special, and you'll probably get a free meal out of it.
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A rugged AirPods case
For dads who have Airpods
You know dads who have AirPods think they're cool AF for it. Make him feel even cooler with this rugged, military-esque case to protect his precious ‘pods. It’s made with reinforced bumpers that protect against scratches, shocks, and drops, and a soft, grippy surface that repels dust and fingerprints. Plus, it just looks super cool.
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Dash mini waffle maker
For the foodie dad
This fun-sized waffle maker is ideal for anyone who takes breakfast seriously. Its nonstick surface will make cleanup super easy — plus, you'll get a recipe book with your purchase.
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HyperChiller iced coffee maker
For the iced coffee-loving dad
The HyperChiller is an ideal present if Dad is an iced coffee aficionado. It chills hot coffee in under a minute without diluting flavor. Plus, it's even dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
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An apron with lots of pockets
For the chef dad
If he’s a whiz in the kitchen, let him know you appreciate his skills. This professional apron will make anyone feel like a chef. It comes with pockets for holding all his tools and is adjustable to fit dads of all sizes.
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An exfoliating towel
For the dad who needs a spa trip
Help him turn his shower into a luxurious experience. This exfoliating shower towel will help him buff away rough patches of skin. It's super easy to use, too: All he has to do is scrub.
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Credit: Planter's Choice
A bonsai tree kit
For the dad looking for new hobbies
If his kids are finally out of the house and he’s looking for something else to raise, give him a bonsai. The little trees not only add a dose of calm to any room, they’re (genuinely) fun to watch grow. This kit includes easy step-by-step instructions, so he doesn’t even need a green thumb to get it going.
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Credit: Ronhan
Some high-power binoculars
For the outdoor adventurer
Whether he enjoys bird-watching, hunting, or just taking in the views on his favorite hikes, these high-power binoculars will bring nature into focus. They’ve got 20x magnification power and will help him see up to 1,000 meters away. They’ve got low-light vision so he won’t have to stop watching the world through his binoculars even when the sun is setting.
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Credit: Dr. Liliang
A handy multi-tool
For the dad who's always prepared
If he can’t stand the idea of not being prepared for an emergency, give him a tool that will always come in handy. This nifty gadget folds out to reveal 13 tools, including a hammer, pliers, a nail claw, a screwdriver, blades — and, of course, a bottle opener.
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Credit: Tintonlife
A hammock
For the dad who needs to chill out
Help him take it easy with this Brazilian-style hammock. Even if he doesn’t live anywhere near the beach, this hammock will provide a relaxed oceanside ambiance to any environment, whether that’s the front porch or the backyard. It holds up to 450 pounds, too, so more than one person can climb aboard.
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Credit: Holy Stone
A high-tech drone
For the dad who's a wannabe spy
This little drone will help Dad recreate all his Mission Impossible fantasies. It comes with a 4K Ultra HD camera, so the images from his high-flying adventure will be crisp and clear. It’s got a flight time of about 25 minutes and it’s super lightweight so he can easily take it on all his travels, Best of all, it doesn’t need to be registered with the FAA, so no headaches there either.
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Credit: Samsung
A Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
For the dad who's always on time
Update that old watch that’s been ticking for ages on his wrist with something a bit more modern. The Samsung Galaxy Watch is a crowd favorite for its stylish design and myriad features: He'll be able to listen to music, answer messages, and check in on his fitness goals.
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Credit: Triumph Sports
An air hockey table
For the nostalgic dad
Nothing gets a party going quite like air hockey. Help Dad relive the glory of his arcade days with this at-home air hockey table, which even lights up for glow-in-the-dark games. It also keeps track of the score, so won't be any arguing about who’s actually in the lead.
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Credit: Outsunny
An elevated camping bed
For the comfy camper
If your dad's an avid camper but those ol' bones just can't handle sleeping on the hard ground anymore, elevate his setup — literally — with this foldable camping cot and off-the-ground tent combo. It even includes a thick mattress so he can get the best sleep he's ever had under the beauty of the night sky.
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Credit: Gillette
A heated razor
For the well-groomed dad
Help your dad take his daily grooming routine to the next level with this heated razor that provides the soothing comfort of a hot towel shave right at home. It takes practicality to a luxe level — so you know he'd never splurge on something like this for himself. The kit includes a razor, two blade refills, a wireless charging dock, and a smart plug.
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Credit: Ticci
A pickleball set
For the on-trend sportsman
Pickleball — the team sport that's basically an amalgamation of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong — is all the rage right now, especially among retirees. Help your dad get in on the fun with this set that includes two premium, USA Pickleball Association-approved rackets, four pickleballs, and a portable carry bag he can take to the park to meet up with his pickleball pals.
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Credit: DEWALT
A DEWALT impact driver
For the handyman
If he fancies himself the de facto handyman around the house, this fan-favorite impact driver will help him tackle his "honey-do" list with ease. It's compact and lightweight with an ergonomic handle, so it's easy to maneuver. Plus, it has a bright LED to help him see what he's doing, and its brushless motor will give him a longer runtime to get the job done before needing a recharge.
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Credit: Thoughtfully
A hot sauce sampler set
For dads who put that stuff on everything
If your dad is a certified hot sauce fiend, this epic collection of authentic street-style hot sauces is going to take his taste buds for the ultimate ride. The set includes 30 little bottles packed with incredible hot sauce flavors like Apple Whiskey, Jalapeno Bacon, and Pineapple Habanero to elevate every meal — until next Father’s Day, at least!
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Credit: CamelBak
CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Backpack
For dads who hit the trails
If Dad loves to go on day hikes, help him stay hydrated with this lightweight CamelBak. It can hold an 85-ounce reservoir system plus extra gear, so he'll be all set for his next excursion. (Plus, it will make him look extra dad-like.)
Leah Stodart is a Philadelphia-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable where she covers and tests essential home tech like vacuums and TVs, plus eco-friendly hacks. Her ever-evolving experience in these categories comes in clutch when making recommendations on how to spend your money during shopping holidays like Black Friday, which Leah has been covering for Mashable since 2017.
As Director of Special Projects, Nicole Cammorata helps guide Mashable's editorial innovations, licensing programs, and specialty series. Previously, she was the site's Executive Editor and its very first Shopping Editor before that. Nicole is also Mashable's resident gifting expert and gets a thrill out of helping readers find the perfect present. She received a B.S. in Journalism from Boston University and an MFA in fiction writing from The New School. She lives in Maine with her husband, their three young children, and a backyard full of flowers.
