Kyle’s Holiday Gift Guide, Part Deux

After last year’s incredible gift guide, I decided to hang up my gift guru hat, because you can’t improve on perfection.  But then I saw the sh***y gift guides other bloggers were peddling (thumb massagers?) and decided that the world needed my expertise.  What kind of boyfriend would I be if I let Abra publish a lackluster men’s gift guide?

Back by popular demand, a buying guide for the men in your life — father, brother, friend, or significant other.  These gifts are designed to help you win Christmas (Don’t @ me with “there are no winners and losers in Christmas.” We’ve all been on both sides of great vs. okay gift paradigm; it’s better to give the great gift than receive it.). Let’s get this show on the road.

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Clothes. Like last year, I chose things that he will actually use and will add value to his wardrobe.

This Ted Baker Cashmere Overcoat ($419) was on the top of my list for Santa last year, and it was well worth the price. I’ve never gotten more compliments over a shorter period of time on anything I’ve ever worn. Coats seem to be the exception to average guy-clothing rules, more is better.

The in-between length lets you wear this coat in both dress and casual settings. It comes in three colors; there is no bad choice.

These Hammermade Shirts ($129) are amazing. They have multiple fits, so finding the correct size and style won’t be a problem. The colors and patterns are stylish, but not over the top. You can even customize it down to the buttons. They won’t be flying under the national radar much longer.

For a less expensive gift, don’t miss their socks.  $11 per pair with plenty of cool patterns and colors to choose from.  The louder, the better.

Taft Boots are quickly becoming a personal favorite. Quality products made by a family company, and the shorter product runs mean your man won’t have the same boots as everyone else.

The Jack Boot ($250) is my favorite.  This oxblood and grey combo is the most fashion forward.  For something simpler, the Rome Boot ($275) is a versatile option for dress or casual attire.

A great belt is an essential part of any wardrobe.  If you have a good belt and good shoes, you can wear almost anything.  This Magnanni Catalux Belt ($150) is made of quality materials and comes in the perfect color for jeans or navy suits.

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Non-Clothing Gifts. Not every gift is unique to the person.  But gifts should be useful. Please, no whiskey stones (they don’t work) or hot sauce sampler packs.  I would rather have a gift card.  Think gift cards are impersonal?  What is a barbecue tool set?

This Native Union Eclipse USB Charger ($69) charges three devices at once, so you can keep your tech arsenal charged.  It works with iPhone, Android, micro-USB, etc. ports so you can buy it for anyone without knowing what tech they own.

Coffee is the universal start to everyone’s morning (except Abra’s, how our relationship has survived is a mystery), and for the people who need it, it engenders nothing but positive feelings.  A good quality pour over like this Osaka Pour-Over Coffee Dripper ($27) makes a great gift.  And it gives you the potential for follow up gifts — a carafe cleaner, coffee, grinder, mugs, etc..

Last year, I put up the Bevel Shaving Kit ($69).  It’s a great product line for men who like a close, razor shave.  But what about your other hair removal needs?  Beard trimmer, nose, ears, sideburns, etc. are kept presentable with this Wahl Stainless Steel Clipper ($49).

Abra bought me this Conair ExtremeSteam Steamer ($74) as a gift and it’s the best.  It saves on the dry cleaning bill and saves your clothes from too many turns through the wash.  It makes quick work of a suit jacket or a dress shirt.  It also fits easily in a closet.

If you know a golfer, skip the range finders (he probably has one) or the divot tools, and just get them a good box of balls.  These Taylor Made TP5X ($35) golf balls are as good as last year’s Titelist Pro-V1s, but they are $10 cheaper per box.

If you know someone who likes to cook, he needs a good knife.  The Global G-2-8″ Chef’s Knife ($99) is the kind of tool that you’ll love so much, you’ll be a little sad when it’s in the dishwasher.  Well-balanced, fully forged, ergonomic handle, everything a good knife should be.  And you can engrave it to give it that personal touch.

Last year, I posted Hibiki Suntory Japanese Whisky.  But what do you serve guests who don’t like whisky?

44 North is an Idaho grown and distilled vodka that pleases every palate.  This vodka is good because it’s smooth and it doesn’t need a mixer.  It’s also obscure enough to seem cool.

We keep the huckleberry flavor on hand.  It has just a hint of sweetness and fruit flavor.  Mix it with soda and lime for the perfect summer cocktail.

{this post contains affiliate links that may generate commission for the author} Translation: Buy things so Abra can buy me nicer gifts this year.  What can I say?  She loves to spoil me.