2016-02-02



I love putting together a wish list for gifts each year. It’s like shopping without spending any money, but with the hopes that I’ll actually end up with a thing or two. I especially love finding what my wife lovingly calls “dude stuff”—that is, things that she has no use for whatsoever, but that I use every day. If you’re on the hunt for some gifts for men too, here are my picks for your dad, brother, husband, or any man in your life that you’ll want to shower with love this Valentine’s Day.

Better Than Whiskey Limited Edition Art Print

I like to refresh the art in my home office every year. Minted artist Lulaloo created this limited edition "Better Thank Whiskey" print just in time for Valentine's Day. It'll remind him every time he sees it both of your love for him (and his favourite poison).

Buy it: Better Than Whiskey Limited Edition Print from Minted, starting at $20



Grid-It Organizer

I've been using Grid-Its for years. If you're a traveler, it's a great way to keep all of your smaller pieces tidy and organized.

Buy it: Grid-It Organizer, $12



SOLOSHOT3

There are so many times when I want to capture a moment but don’t want to either wear/hold the camera, nor do I want to find someone to sit behind a camera for me. The SOLOSHOT3 is the perfect solution: It’s essentially a “robot cameraman” that automatically tracks, zooms, and films you from distances up to 2000 feet away. It’s the perfect camera for thrill-seekers, sports enthusiasts, and gadget geeks alike. Watch the SOLOSHOT3 in action.

Pre-Order it: SOLOSHOT3, $426

SOG Key Knife

It might look menacing but this little key knife folds away nice and neat! Keep one on your keychain to open packages and envelopes on the daily.

Buy it: SOG Key Knife, $8

BB-8 by Sphero

Every man needs a distraction to help him think during the work day. And of course, every Star Wars fan needs his own droid.

Buy it: BB-8 by Sphero, $150

Navy Leather and Concrete Valet Tray

How many times do you come in and out the door every day? A cool concrete tray will expedite your trips.

Buy it: Navy Leather and Concrete Valet Tray, $49.00

Leatherman Wingman

This Leatherman has got more tools than you can shake a stick at! It's a rad gift for any guy who likes to be prepared.

Buy it: Leatherman Wingman, $40

Towel Warmer

A little frivolous? Maybe. Until you've felt a warm towel. Then you'll realise it's a total necessity.

Buy it: Towel Warmer, $99

Garageio

And speaking of coming and going, a smart garage door opener has been on my wish list forever (especially for those moments when I can't recall if I closed it or not).

Buy it: Garageio, $199.00

Crosley Turntable

For the vinyl-heads, a portable turntable is bound to be a hit! I keep one of these in my office and we spin records on it every day.

Buy it: Crosley Turntable, $69.99

Jack Spade Money Clip

Keep the wad of cash in your pocket in a classy little metallic clip. (Bonus---you'll look like a boss when you take out a twenty.)

Buy it: Jack Spade Money Clip, $55

Van Der Hagen Traditional Heavy Duty Safety Razor

Give a guy the gift of a great daily shave! This double-edged razor is nice and easy to handle, and will leave your dude's face super smooth.

Buy it: Van Der Hagen Traditional Heavy Duty Safety Razor, $19.99

WeWood Watch

A wooden watch is a cool, modern twist on a timepiece! The WeWood watches come in a variety of colours and finishes.

Buy it: WeWood Watch, $140

Tom's Sunglasses

This gift keeps giving---or every pair of Toms sunnies purchased, a pair of glasses is given to someone in need.

Buy it: Tom's Sunglasses, $78

BLADE Nano QX RTF Quadcopter

My wife used to bug me to play fewer video games. Then I got a helicopter and I'm not sure she was pleased with my alternative activity choice.

Buy it: BLADE Nano QX RTF Quadcopter, $79.00

Mason Pearson Pocket Comb

Never underestimate the power of a good comb!

Buy it: Mason Pearson Pocket Comb, $21

Cord Tacos

Admit it---you have a tangle of cords in your desk drawer, right? Snag a few cord tacos and get everyone's cords in order.

Buy it: Cord Tacos, $29

Brooklyn Bike Driggs 3

A great city bike is not only super rad for biking to and from work, but an awesome way to get out on the town with the family!

Buy it: Brooklyn Bike Driggs 3, $549.00

Powerbeats 2 Wireless In-Ear Headphone

I'm a work-at-home dad, and when I take meetings it's pretty crucial to have my hands free just in case I need to do something around the house while I'm on the phone. A good pair of wireless headphones helps me stay mobile and get work done, too.

Buy it: Powerbeats 2 Wireless In-Ear Headphone, $139.95

Warby Parker Glasses

Warby Parker came along a few years back and all of a sudden glasses are cool again! They've got a killer selection of simple looks with a modern twist.

Buy it: Warby Parker Glasses, $95.00

Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge Glass

For the whiskey connoisseur, a whiskey ice wedge glass would see use on the daily! The cool angular design doesn't hurt, either.

Buy it: Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge Glass, $17.99

Steel Lightning Cable

For the tech-head, a steel lightning cable is the perfect addition to all his gear. Plus you know this one won't fray at the edges like the one that came with your phone ultimately will.

Buy it: Steel Lightning Cable, $25

Roku Streaming Stick

The Roku Stick in our home sees lots of use, whether we're using it to stream my zombie shows or my wife's reruns of The Office. This little stick helps you get lots more mileage out of your TV.

Buy it: Roku Streaming Stick, $49.99

The Tile App

Attach this little tile to your most important things (think wallet, keys, bike) and you can track its whereabouts.

Buy it: The Tile App, $25.00

Spotify Premium Subscription

A music lover's dream! A subscription to Spotify means your dude will always have a massive selection of music at his fingertips, organized in curated playlists.

Buy it: Spotify Premium Subscription, $9.99/month

Brooks Saddles B67 Bicycle Saddle

A cool little bike upgrade, this Brooks bicycle saddle will make rides a whole lot more comfortable.

Buy it: Brooks Saddles B67 Bicycle Saddle, $130.00

Kindle Paperwhite

The latest and greatest Kindle packs all the books you can read into a super slim, light case. Perfect for guys who already have too much to carry.

Buy it: Kindle Paperwhite, $119.99

MUCHroom Wall Hooks

I love the look of these wall hooks -- simple, sturdy, and plenty useful.

Buy it: MUCHroom Wall Hooks, $22

Beats Pill 2.0

The Beats Pill is a great gift for any guy who spends a lot of time outside and needs something to listen to. This little portable set of speakers does the trick.

Buy it: Beats Pill 2.0, $200

Camera Hand Strap

Got a shutterbug in need of a gift? This leather hand strap for a DSLR camera is super handy and looks great too.

Buy it: Camera Hand Strap, $35

Timex Weekender

A classic watch is bound to get lots of wear and use! These Timex watches have interchangeable bands so you can switch up the style, too.

Buy it: Timex Weekender, $27

Clamshell Wallet

Sometimes simple is best! A little leather and elastic wallet is all you need to hold a few cards and some cash.

Buy it: Clamshell Wallet, $56

Hedley & Bennett Apron

My wife recently got me one of these and I've gotta tell you, it's the best apron I've ever owned. Long gone are the days of barbecue splatters all over my clothes.

Buy it: Hedley & Bennett Apron, $75

Harry's Shaving Set

If you know a dude who needs to revamp his whole shaving routine, a gift set like this one will set him on the right track!

Buy it: Harry's Shaving Set, $25

Soma Water Pitcher

This gift is twofold---it not only filters water to keep you hydrated, but it looks great on a countertop.

Buy it: Soma Water Pitcher, $39

Pomade Mixer Kit

Some guys just need a little customized product now and then, huh? This pomade mixer kit lets you mix the perfect concoction to keep your hair in place.

Buy it: Pomade Mixer Kit, $28

Sonos Play:1

Start your wireless home audio system with this gateway speaker---get one Sonos and I promise you'll want a few more. I play music at home on this bad boy every day.

Buy it: Sonos Play:1, $199.00

7 Inch Wusthof Santoku Knife

I've been longing for this knife forever! As the cook in our household, a great knife makes all the difference. This one is awesome for chopping vegetables and more.

Buy it: 7 Inch Wusthof Santoku Knife, $99.00

Toothpaste Tube Wringer

This is the best way to use every last drop of toothpaste in the tube.

Buy it: Toothpaste Tube Wringer, $25

Best of Baxter Box

I'll admit it. I really should start a skincare routine. This collection from Baxter looks like a nice little start.

Buy it: Best of Baxter Box, $100

Areaware Concrete Desk Set

Because a dude's desk should be well accessorized.

Buy it: Areaware Concrete Desk Set, $60

State Bicycle Co. Front Basket

I just installed this basket on my bike and it's the perfect size---not to big, not too small. It's just right for carrying a few groceries.

Buy it: State Bicycle Co. Front Basket, $39.99

Philip Norelco Click and Style Shaver

If you know a guy who needs to get out the door quick in the morning, a great electric razor makes a perfect present!

Buy it: Philip Norelco Click and Style Shaver, $60

Amazon Prime

We live and die by Amazon Prime around here. A subscription gets you free two-day shipping plus access to all the Amazon TV you can watch.

Buy it: Amazon Prime, $99/year

Cast Iron Skillet

You like bacon? Yeah, I thought so. You should taste it when you cook it on this.

Buy it: Cast Iron Skillet, $33

Saddleback Briefcase

A man bag worthy of a real man! These Saddleback bags are made for lots of use---get one and you'll have it forever.

Buy it: Saddleback Briefcase, $579

Zojirushi Travel Mug

Give a guy some coffee on the go in a great travel thermos.

Buy it: Zojirushi Travel Mug, $26

Philips Sonicare Toothbrush

Talk about something you'll use every day! Utilitarian? Yes. A great gift? Absolutely.

Buy it: Philips Sonicare Toothbrush, $70

Chemex Coffee Maker

For the coffee-lover, it doesn't get more legit than brewing your java in a Chemex.

Buy it: Chemex Coffee Maker, $45

Machined Mechanical Pencil

Nothing says "baller" more than an awesome pencil at the office, am I right? This golden mechanical pencil is forged from a solid piece of metal and designed by a former Air Force engineer.

Buy it: Machined Mechanical Pencil, $65

Evernote Wallet

This beauty of a wallet is slim and compact, but unfolds to reveal a bunch of little compartments for cards, cash, and even coins.

Buy it: Evernote Market, $99.00

Apple Watch Sport

If this thing showed up in my stocking I think I would probably pass out. Apple's latest gadget is essentially an iPhone for your wrist---you can talk, text, surf the web, and more.

Buy it: Apple Watch Sport, $399

Ceramic Coffee Mug

Have that morning cup of joe in a manly mug from Heath Ceramics.

Buy it: Ceramic Coffee Mug, $36

Nest Learning Thermostat

Our Nest thermostat is the best! It learns our temperature preferences and we can control it remotely from our smartphones. No more coming home to a freezing cold house.

Buy it: Nest Learning Thermostat, $249

Valet Tray

Loose change? Not any more! Here's the perfect spot for everything that lives in your pockets.

Buy it: Valet Tray, $22

Playstation 4

Give a dude the gift of vegging out in front of a completely cool video gaming system with the Playstation 4!

Buy it: Playstation 4, $350

Google Chromecast

Google Chromecast lets you stream anything from a Google browser to your TV. Surf the web from the couch? Yep.

Buy it: Google Chromecast, $35

Nest Protect

Know a homeowner? This smoke detector will help give them a little daily peace of mind.

Buy it: Nest Protect, $99

Wooden Bike Shelf

Attach this bike shelf to the wall and give your bike a home that'll turn it into a work of art!

Buy it: Wooden Bike Shelf, $50

iPhone 6S Case

Outfit a dude's tech with a case that will keep it safe from scratches or cracks.

Buy it: iPhone 6s Case, $14

External Battery Portable Battery Charger

I can't tell you how many times I've run my phone or computer batteries down while I'm out and about. A portable battery charger is a perfect gift for a tech-savvy guy.

Buy it: External Battery Portable Battery Charger, $27

Hulu Subscription

Know a guy who finally wants to cut the cable cord? A Hulu subscription covers all his broadcast TV needs.

Buy it: Hulu Subscription, $8/month

Triangle Dinner Bell

With a  house full of kid's sometimes it feels like you need a dinner bell to round everyone up for a meal. I want one of these in my kitchen for sure.

Buy it: Triangle Dinner Bell, $60

Sodastream

Get your fix on bubbly water by making your own soda. Plus you can make your own flavors!

Buy it: Sodastream, $70

Fitbit Charge HR

This is the best and simplest fitness tracker on the market. It gets the job done without all the distractions.

Buy it: Fitbit Charge HR, $140

Fujifilm Instax Mini

The days of Polaroid may be over, but any photography junkie would swoon over this Instax mini. Get your daily photo fix by having real photos printed instantly.

Buy it: Fujifilm Instax Mini, $140

iPhone 6S

Probably the item I use most in a day, I am an iPhone junkie through and through. The newest model is a beauty, and will become your new best friend.

Buy it: iPhone 6S, $649

KeySmart Key Holder

Keep those keys organized and in line. With this little gadget, gone will be the days of getting stabbed in the leg by a stray house key!

Buy it: KeySmart Key Holder, $20

Songs Play:5

Ready to expand your Sonos collection? The new Play:5 is the best speaker they have ever made. Plus it has a line in port so you can connect up your Crosley record player to it too!

Buy it: Sonos Play:5, $499.00

Areaware Bottle Opener

A man loves to end a good work day with a cold one, and this bottle opener will get the job done right.

Buy it: Areaware Bottle Opener, $14

Bose SoundTrue Headphones

Sometimes you need sound isolation to work, especially in a noisy office or a house full of kids. These Bose headphones will have you working in peace with your favourite tunes blaring just for you.

Buy it: Bose SoundTrue Headphones, $125

Vizio 32 inch TV

This is the best little TV on the market right now, and small enough to set up wherever you need it. It won't be your main TV for your living room, but if you want to catch up on some shows in bed or have something on in the background while you work, this is a great option!

Buy it: Vizio 32 inch TV, $220

MacBook Air

Apple has done it again with their lightweight laptop. If you are working on the go, or just browsing the web for fun, this machine will feel like air on your lap.

Buy it: MacBook Air, $999

GoPro HERO4

Document your daily adventures with the best action camera there is. With so many uses for a GoPro these days, you may just need a few of them to outfit all your vehicles.

Buy it: GoPro HERO4, $344

Nikon D3300

If you want to step up your photography game, this is the perfect DSLR to start playing with the big boys.

Buy it: Nikon D3300, $447

Arbor Longboard

Know a guy who's not so into biking? Outfit him with a cool longboard from Arbor for a different set of wheels.

Buy it: Arbor Longboard, $175

WeMo Switch

I love how much control the WeMo switch gives me over my electronics. I started with one to control the Christmas tree last year, and now I want one in every outlet in the house.

Buy it: WeMo Switch, $39

Gordy's Camera Straps

Keep all your gadgets from hitting the ground with these stylish straps.

Buy it: Gordy's Camera Straps, $18

Cognac Leather Shoehorn

Make those leather shoes easier to put on each morning with this beautiful shoe horn from J. Crew.

Buy it: Cognac Leather Shoehorn, $28

Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells

Perfect for working out at home or in the office, these dumbbells will make a perfect addition to your daily routine.

Buy it: Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells, $299

Samsung Galaxy S6

If you are an Android fan, this is the phone to get this year.

Buy it: Samsung Galaxy S6, $699

Beard Pack

If your fella is packing some whiskers, get him the goods to treat it right and keep it looking tight.

Buy it: Beard Pack, $40

John Varvatos Dark Rebel Cologne

This cologne is delicious, but be sure to pick out the scent that you want to live with every day!

Buy it: John Varvatos Dark Rebel Cologne, $66

Social Print Studio Calendar

If you or your man has a killer Instagram feed, turn it into a daily calendar of your favourite photos.

Buy it: Social Print Studio Calendar, $40

Base Camp X Cut-Throat Razor

If you want to get serious about shaving, this is the straight edge razor to get. This one will last you a lifetime.

Buy it: Base Camp X Cut-Throat Razor, $350

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