Esquire-approved gift ideas that Dad will love

Father’s Day spending is expected to hit a record $27.9 billion this year, according to the National Retail Federation. But before you spend your money, make sure it is going toward something the dads in your life actually want.The problem? They can be notoriously hard to shop for.”They’re the worst to buy for, actually,” joked Michael Sebastian, editor in chief of Esquire, who spoke with the National Consumer Unit. “A lot of dads will be like, ‘I don’t need anything. Don’t get me anything.’ … I’ve done the same thing.”So, what should you get Dad? Here’s what Sebastian recommended.Skip the generic giftsSebastian said one way to stand out is by choosing something personal instead of grabbing a last-minute novelty gift.Rather than another “World’s Greatest Dad” mug, he recommends looking for gifts that reflect your dad’s interests and personality. Anything monogrammed is a good place to start, including shirts, socks and customized stationery.Let kids help with the giftIf there are young children in the family, Sebastian said homemade gifts can often be the most meaningful.That could mean handmade cards, framed artwork or even printing a child’s art onto a mug. Coupon books are another option, with kids offering anything from helping clean up to a much-appreciated 20 minutes of peace and quiet.Give an experienceFor adult children shopping for their fathers, Sebastian said experiences can be more meaningful than physical gifts.Rather than buying another item Dad may not need, consider planning something you can enjoy together.”That’s fairly easy to pull off and something that makes a memory, and you’re all going to have a good time if you do that,” Sebastian said.If you have siblings, pooling resources can make larger experiences more affordable.Specific gift ideasLooking for something specific? Here are a few additional recommendations Sebastian shared with the National Consumer Unit. An affordable, stylish watchLuxury watches can cost thousands of dollars, but Sebastian said you do not need to spend that much.Casio watches can make for an affordable option, and they are popular with everyone from casual wearers to serious watch collectors.Versatile glassware Dad will actually useFor a practical gift, Sebastian recommends Yeti’s barware tumblers.The insulated cups can be used throughout the day for anything from coffee to cocktails.Cologne recommendationsA fragrance can be another thoughtful Father’s Day gift.Sebastian highlighted two options: Ralph Lauren’s Ralph’s Club New York and Esquire’s Editor in Chief cologne.A pen with a James Bond connectionSebastian said one of his favorite Father’s Day gifts he has ever received was a quality pen.For shoppers looking for a budget-friendly option, he recommends the Parker Jotter.The pen typically costs less than $15 and comes with a fun piece of movie trivia: It was used by James Bond in the 1995 film “GoldenEye.”A great bookBooks can make great Father’s Day gifts, but Sebastian said to avoid grabbing the first “dad” title you see on a bookstore display.Instead, think about your father’s actual interests.When Sebastian is not sure what to buy someone, he often turns to his favorite author, spy novelist John le Carré.”There’s a whole universe of these books that you can read,” Sebastian said. “They’re great dad novels.”Need even more ideas? See more Esquire-approved gifts here.Stay Connected with the National Consumer UnitGet clear, actionable consumer reporting delivered across platforms.Follow National Consumer Correspondent Allie Jasinski for real-time updates on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.Have a question you’d like us to investigate? Email us at askallie@hearst.comSubscribe to our twice-weekly consumer newsletter for in-depth explanations and practical guidance.

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