The 32 Best Gifts for New Dads—Straight from the Source

There are nicer denim shirts out there, but not a better one than Wrangler’s cowboy cut. And while pearl snaps were designed for an easy exit from horse and fencing-related incidents, they also come in handy for the messy reality of dad life.

I recently stumbled across a 1956 Esquire cocktail guide on eBay with well over 1,200 recipes that comes pre-packaged with a hangover. I bought it immediately. Death & Co. makes the modern version of that book, which, in turn, makes a very good gift for the dad who enjoys a post-bedtime tipple.

Besides a good robe, every dad needs a cozy home layer that carries a signature scent but can also be easily laundered. This sweater from AYR ticks all the boxes and is undeniably cozy.

A recent trip to Copenhagen brought me face-to-face with the reality of Danish dads: They’re better dressed, cooler, and frankly, hotter, than the rest of us. And they bike everywhere with their kids. This Thule kid seat is one step closer to living that dream.

I’m admittedly biased, but I don’t think there’s a better knife on the planet. And it’s guaranteed to be within your gift-giving budget.

A small mug is a delight in a world of little rascals that can spill your morning coffee. If you ask me, no one makes a better mug than East Fork. My editors at Esquire HQ agree because East Fork won an Esquire Home Award for its mugs this year.

A watch for watch guys and non-watch guys alike. Vaer’s racing chronograph is an affordable “entry-level” piece that punches far above its weight class. And it’s a preemptive investment: buy it for your dad so he can pass it down to you someday.

It’s great the fan of Outlaw Country or laissez-faire proselyte. Also great for the dad who “only smokes when he drinks.” It’s perfect for the dad who’s all three.

I’m told by the powers that be that I can’t link an actual motorcycle here (otherwise you’d be looking at a Royal Enfield or a Triumph or a Harley), so instead, here’s my favorite, vintage-inspired moto-jacket from the good folks at Taylor Stich

To teach a kid to fish, a dad first must know how to fish. This fly rod set from Orvis—especially as a 6-weight, 9-foot setup—is versatile and great for beginners or practiced hands alike.

Speaking of fish, there’s this excellent tapestry from Fields Outfitting (and runner and throw pillow) that could ostensibly be for the kid’s room, but will ultimately end up in his office.

An indulgent gift for the chess fiend set on raising the next world grandmaster. Sure, there are cheaper sets, but that’s not the point.

I love a good expensive pair of European sunglasses (cc. Vuarnet, Persol), but kids tend to trample the really nice ones. These Akila Keith Haring collabs scratch the itch of luxury frames without risking your rent when they’re inevitably smashed.

Every dad worth his salt knows you can’t trust the Airbnb knives. This Chrome Industries collab will get his favorite kitchen knives to that destination Thanksgiving dinner with edges intact.

Dad life = the robe life. I’ve got a beat-up L.L. Bean fleece version that I love, but I’m starting to feel guilty about all those microplastics in the wash. This winter, I’m upgrading to this 100 percent cotton jacquard and 100 percent personality enahcning one from OAS

Nothing says “dad” like a vinyl. Especially an esoteric Japanese instrumental soundtrack from Huckberry’s well-produced DIRT series.

We lost Redford this year, but thankfully, Sonic Editions has a beautiful back catalogue of some of his most cinematic moments.

A dad needs a signature scent. Ranger Station’s best dad cologne, so titled “Rich 90’s Dad,” is unfortunately not in stock this season. This Speak Easy is a close second, a little woodsy and a little sweet, like his favorite bourbon.

Shaun Usher’s Letters of Note is one of the best things on the internet. This compendium of letters from and about fathers is thoughtful, essential reading for every daddy alive, both new and old.