Updated 19 November, 2024
What to get for the dad who has it all?
If you’re like me, thinking of gift ideas ahead of Christmas is always more difficult than it should be. I mean, what do you buy for the person that has it all? Well, a gift doesn’t need to be expensive to be appreciated, it just needs to be thoughtful. Allow me to do some of the heavy lifting for you and read on for the Deadset Dad’s curation of stylish, useful and sure to be appreciated Christmas gifts for the Australian dad in your life. (Also, this will be the true test to see if my wife reads my articles!).
The list
- New kicks – Vans Ultrarange Exo shoes
- A classic timepiece – CASIO digital watches
- Throw some shade – Backyard SPF hat
- Control those keys – Orbitkey 2.0 key organiser
- Backpack with style – Bellroy work backpack
- A not so impersonal gift card – your choice
- Keep it cool – YETI Rambler can insulator
- A creative opportunity – DIY classes or workshops
- Cheers, dad – a monthly beer subscription
New kicks
A nice pair of casual shoes that look equally good on a day out at the shops or around the house. Vans are a classic shoe with a design that hasn’t changed much in the last few decades. The Ultrarange are a modern take on the classic style that are a bit more easy on your feet and body. I always get envious comments from friends whenever I wear mine. You can’t go wrong with a pair of these.
A classic timepiece
A watch is almost a novelty these days as people rely on their smartphone for the time but there is something nice about wearing one not only for its functional purpose but to express your style. Ditch the smartphone and smartwatch and go off-the-grid with a classic timepiece like the Casio ‘ElectroLuminescence’ in silver or the ‘World Time’ in gold without breaking the bank.
CASIO A168WA-1 Black Digital Watch with Silver Band – on Amazon
Throw some shade
Something even more practical and my go-to in and around the garden is a good hat. Rather than ruining a nice baseball cap that will soak up sweat and provide limited sun protection, I have been wearing a quick-dry, wide brim hat that feels cooler on a hot day while being able to take a beating that can get thrown in the wash without feeling bad about it. Perfect for mowing the lawn or a day on the shovel.
Control those keys
As a minimalist, I cringe when I see people carrying a huge keyring with them every day for keys they might only use every now and then. Be more intentional with your pocket space, eliminate the jingling in your pocket and look good while doing it. I have been using the Orbitkey for years now and love it.
Backpack with style
Don’t let your dad use the same old company issued laptop bag as the rest of the herd. Give him the opportunity to express himself with something that not only looks good but is supremely comfortable and functional.
A not so impersonal gift card
All dad’s have a hobby or a sport they like doing in their spare time. And it’s fair to accept that they themselves know what they want to buy in pursuit of it. Unless they have confided exactly what they are looking for, don’t be afraid to just get them a voucher or gift card to contribute to or buy whatever they please. A gift card doesn’t mean you don’t care or couldn’t be bothered to do the work. As long as there are good intentions behind it, it doesn’t matter!
A gift card could come from anywhere! Think Drummond Golf, Barbecues Galore, Westfield, or even a massage!
Keep it cool
You cant go wrong with a drink cooler and the YETI Colster is as good and as bougie as they come. Not only does it fit a normal size can but is also designed to work for a beer bottle as well!
A creative opportunity
An experience instead of a ‘thing’ is a nice idea and will help your dad make a little ‘me’ time by getting stuck into something creative for a few hours or even a day or two. Consider a class for a topic that the dad in your life has always expressed an interest in or never pulled the trigger on or found the time for. As an advocate for working with timber, I would suggest a woodworkers class learning how to make a piece of furniture or even a woodturning class where you get access to a lathe.
Furniture Repair and Restoration – through ClassBento
Intro to Woodturning – through ClassBento
Cheers, dad
A gift for the beer drinking dad, consider signing him up for a subscription mix pack to deliver a hand selected range of beers for a few months. These subscriptions are great for someone who wants to try or find something new but don’t want to commit to buying a whole six pack every time. You’re also forced to try some beers you might not ordinarily think of buying! Delivery day is always a treat.
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Bonus!
Consider helping your dad build out his DIY tool box and check out our article on how to start your DIY toolkit!