Let’s face it, the dads in your life are pretty much going to love whatever you give them for Father’s Day. For the most part, they’re just thrilled you thought of them. So while you could get away with yet another World’s Greatest Dad coffee mug, why not surprise him with something he’ll actually use this time around? After all, doesn’t he deserve it? But since dads are notoriously hard to shop for, we’ve compiled a list of five unique Father’s Day gifts, one of which is sure to speak to the dad in your life.
Kid-proof phone case
This gift is good for any guy who is rough on his phone, but is particularly great for the new dad with a baby or toddler. LifeProof cases, which run around $80 and come in a variety of colors and styles, are waterproof, dirt-proof, snow-proof and drop-proof. There’s not much you can truly kid-proof, but this case will go a long way toward keeping his phone intact.
Sunglasses makeover
If your guy and his sunglasses are inseparable, consider buying replacement lenses to spruce up and extend the life of his favorite shades. Revant Optics sells replacement lenses for most popular frame styles, including Ray-Ban Aviators and Wayfarers, starting at $32. By using Revant’s easy step-by-step tutorial, there’s no need to send in Dad’s sunglasses for the replacements.
Get crafty
Or better yet, let someone else get crafty for you. Etsy is the best place to find beautiful handcrafted goods, so you are sure to find something within your price range that is perfect for the dad in your life. From engraved wooden pocket knives, to a beer cap map of the United States, to an adorable “Dad You Are My Father” Darth Vader t-shirt, the possibilities on Etsy are endless.
Just be sure to shop early. Many of the items are handcrafted by individuals, so it may take a little time before your present arrives.
The gift of a nap
Being a dad is hard work. This year let Dad know you recognize his efforts by treating him to a little pampering. Spa gift certificates are great, but if your dad is the kind of guy who scoffs at a massage, you might need to get a little more creative.
Think about a hammock for hours of gentle swaying (and long afternoon naps) outdoors. ENO makes a portable hammock for $60 that holds up to 400 pounds but is lightweight enough to take anywhere (for Dad’s next camping or fishing trip).
Go experiential
If the father you are shopping for already has all the stuff he needs (or just isn’t a “stuff” guy), think about giving him the gift of an experience. Isn’t spending time with you what Dad really wants anyway? Nab tickets for his favorite team or band, or take your foodie dad to a new restaurant to try its famed tasting menu.
If you have the budget to go all out, blow his mind by booking a trip for the two of you to a fantasy camp. Fantasy camps are available for pretty much any secret passion your guy might harbor. For the golfer, there is the PGA Tour Experience at the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Verda Beach, Fla. For the baseball fan, check out the Chicago Cubs Fantasy Camp that includes two days of instruction and games with former Cubs players at Wrigley Field.
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