Always Gift the Obvious? Here Are 10 Thoughtful Things to Get Him Instead

Nautica
Nautica
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Whether you're shopping for your dad, brother, BFF, or significant other, put a little zest into your gift-giving this year by surprising the men on your list with something they'll actually be excited about. While ties are great and all, he probably already has a whole drawer of them. Instead, opt for something that speaks to his personality a bit more — something that truly says, "I know you."

Ahead, we're sharing 10 thoughtful and stylish gifts that go above and beyond your run-of-the-mill finds. Because your guy deserves something as special as he is.

01
Sharp-Looking Headphones

Sharp-Looking Headphones

Built to last and featuring interchangeable lambskin ear pads, these luxe headphones ($350) prove style and quality truly can live in harmony. Perfect for the music-lover and travel enthusiast alike, this brilliant accessory will soon become his take-everywhere companion.

02
A Sporty, Chic Jacket

A Sporty, Chic Jacket

Warm yet lightweight, refined yet effortless, this quilted reversible jacket ($59.99) is an essential piece for any man. Not only is it perfect for layering and travel, but it's also reversible, giving him two looks in one. Even better, it's machine-washable and available in a wide array of colors!

03
A Memorable Experience

A Memorable Experience

If the guy on your list loves going out, there's no better present than the gift of experience ($25 and up). Start scouring now for an event he'll love, and invite yourself, his dad, or his best friend along to a basketball game, concert, or comedy show. It's something he'll remember forever.

04
A Customized Wooden Man Cave Sign

A Customized Wooden Man Cave Sign

Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a house, odds are you've played a large role in decorating your space. Encourage your guy to carve out a space to call his own with this customizable wooden man cave sign ($90, originally $152).

05
A Sophisticated Body-Care Bundle

A Sophisticated Body-Care Bundle

Give the gift of self-care by surprising your man with some luxury products of his own. This handy kit ($43) was made with men in mind and includes amazing-smelling body wash, aluminum-free deodorant, and bar soap. Each product is specially formulated to moisturize skin, meaning he'll feel as good as he smells.

06
A Timeless Watch

A Timeless Watch

Small but mighty, this sleek and stylish watch ($110) packs a major punch. Built for supreme water resistance, it's the perfect timepiece for the man who's always on the go. Complete with a stainless steel case and a handsome black dial, it's also extremely elegant. We especially love that it can easily be dressed up or down.

07
An Innovative Solar Charger

An Innovative Solar Charger

The outdoorsy man in your life won't know how he lived without this solar charger ($47). Whether he's hiking in the mountains or camping at a music festival, this little device can charge his phone up to 10 times, and it can even juice up two devices at once. Whether he's in need of GPS or simply the closest pizza spot, this gadget will be a total lifesaver.

08
A Whiskey- and Rum-Making Kit

A Whiskey- and Rum-Making Kit

This whiskey-, rum-, and bourbon-making kit ($75) brings new meaning to "making spirits bright." If the man in your life enjoys any of these cocktails, he's sure to love this kit and getting his mixology on.

09
A Classic Tailored Sweater

A Classic Tailored Sweater

Comfortable and classy, this v-neck varsity sweater ($70) is a major upgrade from his worn-out college sweatshirt yet provides the same familiar comfort. Machine-washable and crafted from supersoft cotton, it's ideal for layering and will quickly become his new favorite cold-weather staple.

10
A Grill Master Crate

A Grill Master Crate

Who says you need Summer to have a BBQ? This box ($48) comes complete with a cast iron smoker box, wood chips, beer nuts, corn nuggets, and all the rubs, sauces, and marinades to make any guy start salivating and fire up the grill.