In my opinion, a good Father’s Day gift is something that he would never think to buy himself but would improve his life by at least five percent. To this day, my most successful Father’s Day gift was a subscription to the Criterion Channel because it sparked months of exchanging movie recommendations and many conversations about our favorite film auteurs, from Alejandro Jodorowsky to David Lynch. It was a simple gift, but played to one of my favorite aspects of our relationship: our shared love of all things surreal and strange. Ahead, we’ve gathered a list of gifts for the father figure in your life that we think will have an enduring impact, whether they prefer to spend the day at a museum, a lake, or somewhere in between.
If Your Dad Got You Your First Concert Ticket
Bose Sport Earbuds
If your father hasn’t gone cordless yet, the Bose Sport Earbuds are a great place to start. They are high quality, have good battery life, and are designed to stay put even during a vigorous workout.
Led Zeppelin Vinyl, The Essential Collection
This is an excellent gift for even the casual Led Zepplin fan. Featuring the album art of rare and unusual Led Zepplin vinyl releases, the book is as much a tribute to an excellent era of graphic design as it is to the band itself.
Fela Kuti Box Set
Co-curated by Fela Kuti’s son Femi Kuti and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, this 7-LP boxset is perfect for any Afrobeat fan and an excellent addition to a vinyl collection.
If Your Dad Reads the Arts & Culture Section
We Come in Peace Zine
This A24 zine is a perfect addendum to any gift. Chances are your dad is a fan of Fred Armisen, Tim Heidecker, Jonathan Krisel, or John C. Reilly—and all four guest-edited this edition.
'Writing the Future: Basquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation'
Placing the work of Basquiat and his contemporaries in the context of hip hop culture in the ’80s, this book is a fascinating exploration of New York City art history.
MoMA Subu Slippers
These slippers are the perfect indoor/outdoor shoes. Whether he’s walking the dog or grabbing the newspaper in the morning a la fan-favorite TV dad Tony Soprano, his toes will be nice and toasty.
If Your Dad Loves a Good Hike
LARQ Bottle
If your dad travels a lot, this is a nifty way to avoid water contaminants. The bottle eliminates bacteria and keeps water cool. It’s eco-friendly and practical, which any outdoorsy father will appreciate.
Men's Canvas Chore Coat
This chore coat has “father” written all over it. It’s made of hemp, making it relatively eco-friendly, durable, and comfortable.
Waterproof 8 x 25 Binoculars
Whether you’re on a fishing trip or watching for a rare woodpecker, a nice pair of binoculars is always a win for the outdoorsy types.
If Your Dad Is the Family Chef
Cask Whisky Set
No Father’s Day roundup is complete without at least one whiskey-themed item. We love this gorgeous, minimalist set from West Elm. Simple and classic.
Santoku Knife
My dad won’t let the rest of the family touch his expensive cooking knife. This is an item any cook would treasure.
Masa Starter Kit
Your dad probably loves tacos, but wait until he tries tacos with homemade tortillas. You will be getting thank-you’s from the whole family for this one.
If Your Dad Just Wants to Be Pampered
Vices Votive Candle Set
These candles are a great way to support your father’s vices in a bougie way, though he might appreciate a bottle of whiskey or a joint as well, if that’s his thing!
The Listener Set
If your dad appreciates a nice bath product, he’ll love this set. He might not know what Aesop is, but he will feel luxurious.
Restore Sleep Assistant
Heralded as one of the best alarm clocks ever, this Hatch clock provides soothing light and sounds to ease one in and out of sleep.