GIFTS FOR MEN The Ultimate Idea Guide

Best Father’s Day Gifts Ideas for 2022

By Andrew Peloquin  |  August 30, 2022

Best Father’s Day Gifts Ideas for 2022
Courtesy of Fellow
 
It's time to focus on that once-a-year appreciation for everything dad does for us. For most of the year, the recognition of excellence goes to “Super Mom”, but on Father’s Day, dad gets a bit of love, too.

Father’s Day is the one holiday I can compare with my other dad friends. We can get together and talk about what our kids did for us, show off the handmade cards, trot out our newest necktie (groan!), and be proud of the children we’re raising the best we can.

I’ve got a dad of my own, and I know how much pressure it can be to find the right gift or the right way to make him feel special on his big day. So we’ve put together a complete guide of not only amazing present ideas, but also ways to make sure you can convey to that special father (be he bio-dad or stepfather) in your life just how much you care.



Table of Contents


Want to jump right to the gift ideas?

For 2024, we offer a fresh selection of the best gifts we know your dad will enjoy. The Father's Day Gift Guide is just one of the many gift idea guides for men available at our site. We break down the gift bonanza into sections depending on the type of guy you are buying for. Tapping into our 12 years of experience while hunting down the best gear and gadgets for men allows you to be confident you'll become a gifting pro.



View Father's Day Gift Ideas



When is Father’s Day?

Sunday, June 19, 2022


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When and why did father’s day start?

Father’s Day only came about because of the success of Mother’s Day.

During the 1860s, activist Ann Reeves Jarvis urged a town in post-Civil War West Virginia to celebrate “Mother’s Work Days”, bringing together the mothers of soldiers from both sides of the war.

In 1908, inspired by her mother’s work, Anna Jarvis worked to turn Mother’s Day into a national holiday. After just 6 years of successful celebrations, President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day an official holiday in 1914.

The first father-oriented event was hosted in 1908 by a West Virginia church, a commemoration of the 362 men in the Fairmont Coal Company mines in December 1907. In 1909, a Washingtonian by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd worked to establish a celebration of fathers in honor of the widower who had raised her and her five siblings.

By 1910, she had successfully raised support to celebrate Father’s Day in the state of Washington. 1916 was the year President Wilson celebrated the day from Washington D.C., and in 1924 President Calvin Coolidge made it more "official" by encouraging state governments to observe the holiday. However, it wasn’t until 1972, nearly 50 years later, that President Richard Nixon made Father’s Day a federal holiday.

(Info courtesy of History.com)



How much should I spend for father’s day?

According to the National Retail Foundation, the overall spend for Father’s Day 2021 was $20.1 billion and the average consumer spent $174.10 on Father’s Day gifts.

But let me share a truth with you: the amount does not matter at all. What dad really cares about—and I’m saying this speaking from experience—is how much thought goes into the gift.

Think about it: you can spend $500 to buy him a fancy new tool for his workshop or some new cool part for his truck, or spend $15 to print out pictures of the two of you and buy a fancy frame to put them in. Want to guess which Father’s Day gift has more meaning?

(One of the best gifts I ever got from my kids is a printed-out picture that they all took turns writing a short, sweet message on. It cost under $5 and is still on full display in my office.)

Don’t worry about how much to spend; instead, think about the kind of gift he’d like, no matter the price tag. The thought and planning that went into it will be worth exponentially more than any dollar amount.



Should I buy a father’s day gift for my husband?

You’ve got other chances during the year to surprise your husband with nice gifts—Valentine’s Day (trust me, he’ll love it!), his birthday, or any random Tuesday you want to show him how much you love him.

Father’s Day is about the kids making him feel special. Work with them to plan something for Father’s Day, help them buy their gifts or coordinate the experience they want to give him. Trust me, working behind the scenes to help your kids get him a gift will mean a lot more to him than anything you could give him. Your time is a precious commodity he will immensely appreciate.



Should I buy a father’s day gift for my grandpa?

It’s not necessary to buy your grandpa a gift—he’s likely got a son of his own to spoil him this Father’s Day—but you still can if you really want to. He’ll certainly appreciate a bit of extra love on his special day.

If you don’t want to go the gift route, consider calling him on the phone, sending a personalized card, or, best of all, visit him. Time with his grandson or granddaughter is incredibly valuable to him.



Should I buy a father’s day gift for my son?

You already give your son gifts on his birthday (and the winter holidays), so you should feel no obligation to buy your adult children gifts for father’s day.

However, hearing from you how much you admire him for the man and father he is will mean everything to him, so make sure to tell him.



Should I buy a father’s day gift for my friend?

Don’t feel pressured to give your friend a gift for Father’s Day. If he’s got kids, he’s probably already getting gifts from them.

If you want to acknowledge him on Father’s Day, send him a text or email with a simple "Happy Father’s Day" message.



Do dads like getting a tie for Father’s Day?

Neckties have always been a popular Father’s Day gift, but that’s because they’re an easy gift, one we all assume dad needs, is relatively affordable, easily found, and tends to be one-size-fits-all.

But really, that sort or screams "last minute" or "panic bought" gift. There’s minimal thought and care put into choosing a necktie.

And remember, the workplace is more casual than it was a decade or two ago. Your dad may telecommute and rarely wear ties, or may not even need to wear a tie in the office.

You get to gift him a tie just ONCE in your life (typically a great gift from very young children). After that, it’s better to think a bit more to figure out a gift he’ll both use and love.



And what about all that “World’s best dad” stuff?

Come on, do you really have to ask? Yes, he’s going to smile when you give him a "World’s Best Dad" mug or T-shirt, but that’s just what dad does. "World’s Best Dad" gifts are tacky, rarely used and quickly forgotten.



Thinking of a gift stresses me out every year, how can I make it easier? Any tips?

Here’s one epic tip: start a collection for/with your dad, and add to it each year.

It doesn’t matter what you collect—coins, stamps, comic books, model airplanes, knives, tools, even bumper stickers. Whatever you think he’ll love (and use), start by buying a small collection.

Every year, add to the collection. Not only is this something special that the two of you share, but it actually shows the passage of time as you add to it year after year. You can look back on it later and enjoy the happy memories, and it’s something he can pass down to you, and you can pass on to your kid, and so on.



What can I do for free for Dad on Father’s Day?

  • Spend a day hanging out with him at his house. Do whatever he’s doing: tinkering in his woodshop, working on his car, cooking for the family, making his own home-brew wine or beer, or cleaning out his garage. Just being with him is a free gift he’ll absolutely value.
  • Take him hiking or walking. Explore some new trail, forest path, or mountain trek together.
  • Have a movie marathon with him—but make sure you watch movies he likes.
  • Cook him a special meal. Even better if you cook at his house, because it means he gets more time with you.
  • Bring him a bottle of his favorite drink, and have a drink with him.
  • Make him cookies or his favorite dessert.
  • Take a drive together, listening to music, enjoying the scenery, or chatting.
  • Write him a letter that tells him everything you want to say, but might not be able to put into words.
  • If you live far away, call him on the phone or video chat him via FaceTime. Don’t just make it a quick call, but invest time in talking to him.


What should I say in a Father’s Day card?

If writing isn’t your strong suit or you don’t know just what to say, don’t sweat it!

Hallmark has a great guide to writing Father’s Day messages, with plenty of ideas to get you started writing a meaningful note that your father will love.




A selection of gifts ideas for dad in 2024



Carter Upgrades their Move Mug with a Clever Sliding Lid

Carter Move Mug + Slide-Lock Lid


 




The Pocketable Gesila Titanium Pry Bar from We Knife Company

We Knife Co Gesila Prybar Tool


 




The Maker’s Mark Spice Blend Flight Variety Pack

Maker’s Mark Spice Blend Flight Variety Pack


 




The Best Grilling Cookbook Ever Written By Two Idiots

The Best Grilling Cookbook Ever Written By Two Idiots


 




Gerber Dual-Force Multi-tool Gives You Powerful Pliers & More

Gerber Dual-Force


 

With a design that delivers twice the bite force of standard pliers, Gerber’s Dual-Force multi-tool features a dual-position slip-lock joint giving the tool’s jaws the ability to adjust in size to fit the task. A range of locking outboard tools includes saw, knife, file, and drivers to add all-around versatility.




The Milwaukee M12 Mounting Fan has Magnets on its Base

Milwaukee M12 Mounting Fan


 

Powered by Milwaukee’s M12 series batteries, the M12 Mounting Fan throws a cool breeze with no cords. The durable design delivers airspeed up to 14 MPH, pushes 400 CFM, offers adjustable 3-speed control and 360º rotation.

What really makes this unit stand-out are the mounting options including a magnetic base for metal, and a spring-loaded clamp for hanging.




High Camp Tumbler 2-Pack + Wool Felt Carrying Case

High Camp Tumbler 2-Pack + Wool Felt Carrying Case


 

When you’ve reached that special spot to pour one & reflect, this pair of stainless steel tumblers from High Camp make the perfect vessel for your well-deserved drink.

The 11-ounce tumblers have a double-wall vacuum-insulated design that’s great for both hot & cold beverages. Packaged in a wool felt carry case for simple portability.




Clean Carry: Bellroy Key Case

Bellroy Key Case


 

Offering sleek, bundled storage for 3-5, Bellroy’s Key Case features a unique flipper mechanism that ejects keys one-handed while keeping them secure on a detachable cord loop for a car key or fob. The exterior is smooth, eco-tanned leather finish & the hardware is stainless steel. Choose from 5 colors.




Sizzling Hot: Ooni Dual-Sided Grizzler Plate

Ooni Dual-Sided Grizzler Plate


 

From home pizza oven pioneers Ooni comes the Dual-Sided Grizzler Plate, a versatile cast iron cooker with removable handles. The 2-sided design allows you to use the smooth sizzler plate for fajitas or frying eggs; then flip it & use the griddle pan for those picture perfect seared grill marks.




The James Brand Added Scissors to its Revamped Ellis Multi-tool

The James Brand the Ellis


 

The Ellis multi-tool from The James Brand features a ½ serrated Sandvik 12C27 stainless-steel blade, a small scraper/flathead driver, and integrated scissors for impressive utility in a small, slim tool. A wire pocket clip keeps it at your fingertips.




This Ignik FireCan Burns Where Others Can’t

Ignik FireCan


 

For all those beaches, parks & places that don’t allow wood-burning campfires, the Ignik FireCan is a portable propane-powered fire pit that gives you a legal, low-emission alternative; that cozy campfire feel without a visit from the ranger. Made of heavy-duty steel, the collapsible “can” carries like an ammo box & features fold-out legs, 360º mesh to manage sparks & a quick-adapter to your fuel tank.




Say Hello to Year-Round Indoor Grilling with the PowerXL Smokeless Grill

PowerXL Smokeless Grill


 

PowerXL offers this smokeless indoor grill that allows you to create real BBQ from the comfort of your kitchen—or anywhere else with an AC outlet.

The stainless steel design features an interchangeable griddle plate with a nonstick surface, a Turbo Speed Smoke Extractor, and a tempered glass lid so you can see what’s cooking.




Voice Control Makes The GE Cync Outdoor Plug Smarter

GE Outdoor Cync Smart Plug


 

With support for both Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, the GE Cync Outdoor Smart Plug is all about convenience.

Bluetooth & Wi-fi enabled & built to withstand the elements, it lets you control power remotely to individual outlets, with a tap of the touchscreen, all through the simple Cync mobile app.




This REAPR Versa Camp Axe Fits Perfectly in Your Pack

REAPR Versa Camp Axe


 

Built to handle tough work around camp & in the field, REAPR’s Versa Camp Axe is a 10 3/4” pack-friendly axe that hits above its weight. It features a square hammerhead opposite the 3” axe blade; the butt end features a slotted pry bar & nail puller as well as a hole for a lanyard. A bottle opener & 3 box wrenches are integrated into the axehead.




Gerber’s Prybrid Utility is a Sharp, Pocketable Multi-tool

Gerber Gear Prybrid Utility


 

Blending the best of a replaceable utility blade knife and a compact multi-tool, Gerber’s Prybrid Utility is a pocket and keychain-friendly EDC implement offering 8 different tools, including wire strippers, bottle opener, Standard Utility blade, and more.




The BioLite FirePit is All Flame & No Smoke

BioLite FirePit+ Outdoor Smokeless Wood & Charcoal Burning FirePit and Grill


 

With the BioLite FirePit you’ll see the actual fire instead of just smoke. It’s a smokeless wood-burning firepit that uses a built-in fan to eliminate smoke & 51 jets that send oxygen into the fire making for more consistent temperatures, which is key when you switch it from campfire to cooktop. A solar panel built into the carrying case provides power for the battery when not in use.




Grypmats Keep Tools Tidy

Grypmat


 

Designed for high-demand industrial work and used by mechanics and techs from NASA to NASCAR, Grypmat tool mats keep your tools safely stored, handy, and organized. Made of a rugged yet silent & soft material, they’re chemical and oil resistant and they don’t slip off of whatever surface you place them on. Made in bright, high contrast colors, they simplify visual management for keeping track of nuts, bolts, parts and tools. Multiple sizes are offered.




Look Cool, Stay Warm with a Rumpl NFL Blanket

Rumpl NFL Blankets


 

Outdoor blanket brand Rumpl will get you geared up for football season with their officially-licensed NFL collection blankets. All the teams, with corresponding colors & logos, plus that puffy, lightweight warmth Rumpl is famous for.




This Magnetic LED Light is The Bomb

STKR Concepts Magnetic Light Mine


 

With a design that looks like a little explosive mine, this hands-free magnetic task light sticks to metal at any angle, providing bright LED when & where you need it most. Roughly the size of a golf ball, it gets into tight spots your other lights won’t and carries easily on your keyring or sticks to your toolbox where it’s easy to reach.




Leatherman Returns to the Classics with 14-Function Bond Multi-tool

Leatherman Bond


 

Based on its first-ever multitool launched in 1983, the Leatherman Bond multi-tool is a proven EDC essential. It boasts 14 functions, including needlenose pliers, Philips and slotted screwdrivers, wire cutters and strippers, a ruler, a wood and metal file, a can opener and 2.9″ stainless steel blade. Weight is just 5.8 ounces.




Easily Carry Your Tools in this Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Bag from Readywares

Readywares Tool Bag


 

Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, painters, or home DIYers, this one is for you. The Tool Bag by Readywares is an ultra-tough waxed canvas bag that features 11 spacious pockets plus a large main compartment that offers you plenty of room to carry around all the tools and essentials you’ll need for your job.

The cotton and polyester-blend fabric straps have all been reinforced so you know they’ll bear up under the weight of your tools even if you over-fill the pouch (which, let’s be honest, us working guys tend to do). Plus, the waxed canvas is tough enough to shrug off rain, spills, and stains, and you can literally rub out any scuffs in the wax coating to make it look as good as new.




Don’t Get Burned: Burch Barrel’s Stockman Gloves

Burch Barrel Stockman Gloves


 

For manhandling red-hot logs & cookware at the fireplace, burn pit, or BBQ grill, Burch Barrel’s Stockman Gloves keep your fingers from frying. Constructed of heavy-duty leather with heat-resistant insulators, these high gusset gloves offer protection for your hands, wrists & forearms, when duty demands that you reach into the fire.




Equip Your Kitchen with a Countertop Sausage Grill

Johnsonville Sizzling Sausage Grill


 

Purpose-built to do sausages and brats the right way, Johnsonville’s Sizzling Sausage Grill takes the guesswork out of grilling to deliver mouthwatering results. With modular cooking plates for dogs, bratwurst, and even breakfast patties, this mess-free countertop cooker heats up to cook links and patties in under 10 minutes, and bigger brats in 15, all indoors, with automatic alerts when finished & quick, dishwasher-safe clean up.




Keep Your Grill Clean with a Natural Woody Scraper

Great Scrape Wood Grill Scraper


 

The Wooden Grill Scraper is a tool well-known to black belt BBQers. The Woody 20-inch Shovel from The Great Scrape is made from solid Red Oak and Beech hardwoods, coated with an all-natural, non-toxic, food safe mineral oil. Pros choose wood scrapers because eating wire bristles left behind by brush cleaning is never tasty. At 20”, the Woody keeps your fingers from getting too toasty while you scrape. Works with porcelain, cast, and stainless grill grates.




Yeti’s Trailhead Camp Chair is Your Throne Away From Home

YETI Trailhead Collapsible Camp Chair


 

Designed and built to Yeti standards of performance and durability, the brand calls their Trailhead Camp Chair a “best-in-class seat”. Out in the backyard or far afield, this overbuilt chair will always have your backside. It features a lightweight frame that will hold up to 500 lbs. The seat is made of ultra-supportive FlexGrid fabric and an included carry bag makes it easy to grab your chair & go. Choose from Navy or Charcoal.




Kindling Cracker Makes Fires Faster

Kindling Cracker


 

To get the fire blazing, we wanna work smarter, not harder, right?  The Kindling Cracker firewood splitter makes it effortless. Constructed of a solid piece of high-quality cast iron, the design allows for safe, easy splitting, ejecting perfectly-sized loglets that will get your fire crackling fast. No axe required.




Meet Meater+, the Wireless Smart Meat Thermometer

MEATER Plus Smart Meat Thermometer


 

Meater+ is a wireless app-controlled smart meat thermometer. It puts precision cooking control at your fingertips with no cords or cable to deal with—which is really smart when you’ve got  flames & high temperatures. The Meater+ sets up in seconds and allows you to get all the cooking data straight to your device, no matter whether you’re standing by the grill or back in the kitchen—up to 33 feet away or, with the Signal Repeater, up to 165ft. away.




Ooni Introduces Koda Portable Pizza Oven

Ooni Koda 12


 

The Ooni Koda outdoor oven is a portable, gas-powered pizza cooker that reaches temps nearly twice as hot as a conventional oven. Up to 932º which will give you a crispy 12-inch Neopolitan pie cooked to perfection, in just 60 seconds. With stainless steel construction in a compact design plus fold-out legs, & a standard propane connection, the Koda will easily take your pizza party on the road.




The DMOS Stealth Shovel is a Winter Driving Essential

DMOS Stealth Shovel


 

Winter is not the time to be stuck on the side of the road unprepared. This is the season to keep the award-winning Stealth Shovel from DMOS in your trunk. It’s got a modular design so it breaks down into a very storable size & snaps together in seconds to get you out of the ditch or snowbank and back on the road. It’s made of rugged, lightweight 60611 aluminum and extends to 57” in length. The blade also features rake teeth for greater bite in hard pack, ice, or dirt.





Having trouble finding something you think your dad will like?

At WERD, we spend every day of every year uncovering the latest in men's gadgets and gear. Try going through some of our categories for more gifting inspiration. A few to try: Gear for Men, Cool Gadgets, Books for Men, Stuff for the Home.



WERD has been reader-supported since 2009. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. We do not accept compensation for reviews.


Popular Gifts for Men from the Last Century


1940s
Electric Shaver
Most of the shaver brands we have come to know first began mass production in the 1940s. By the end of the decade, battery-powered versions entered the market, further increasing their desirability among men. (source)


1950s
Grooming Products
The decade following WWII brought about changing attitudes towards masculinity. Popular gifts lending to the perception of being "manly" would include smoking products, man-specific grooming products and iconic male clothing such as the necktie and leisure jacket.


1970s
Digital Watch
The Casio company pioneered the production of digital quartz watches with the introduction of the Casiotron in 1974. They were considered highly futuristic at the time as they allowed the user to have a tiny computer screen on their wrist with added functionality beyond simple time-telling.


1980s
CD Player
Although expensive at first, CD players became hugely popular throughout the 80s. Starting with the Sony CDP-101 for your home stereo in 1982, then later followed by portable players and in-dash players for your car.


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