Father’s Day is right around the corner, and while it receives roughly the same amount of fanfare as Columbus Day or Arbor Day, it’s top of mind now that I’m a dad. Let’s get emotional for a second: being a dad is the best job in the world. My two boys mean so much to me, and have become the suns in my solar system. I feel extremely proud when they figure something out, clean their plate, or pee in the grass…there’s nothing like it. I cherish every day.
However, being a dad is hard work. Apologies to all the moms out there: I am not discounting how hard (and rewarding) it is to be a mom. Not only do you take care of the kids, but you also take care of us. We aren’t worthy. But let’s take a day for the dads. A day off from the honey-do list. A few beers during the Braves game. Dad’s choice for dinner…you get it.
And while gifts are necessarily required, it is a love language. Here are a few things that I know any dad would appreciate:
From Top Left:
1. Golf Ball Gallery Print: A great option for any dad’s office. They offer a TON of options – old courses, sports teams, events, and vintage balls. A very cool conversation starter.
2. Hatch Nomad 2 Pliers: I’ve been on the hunt for new fishing pliers, and these have made the cut.
3. Jan Craig Knit Golf Headcovers: Update his golf bag with a set of USA-made hand-knitted headcovers. Pick from a ton of different designs and color options. Sure to take a few strokes off his game.
4. IWC Mark XVII Watch: Dads still like to check their watch vs. their phone. Look down at something significant.
5. Languiole Grill Tools: Not all grill tools are created equal. I like the wooden handles as they don’t get too hot, yet patina nicely.
6. Orvis Guide Hip Pack: I’ve been a cross-body guy for a while, but love the look and feel of this hip pack. It’s a little bigger but fitted as not to interfere with any casting.
7. Abu Garcia Zata Spinning Reel: There’s always room for another fishing reel. Abu Garcia’s Zata line is out of this world, and the matte green is a nice departure from the normal.
8. Benchmade Bugout 535 Knife: In addition to a top-shelf field knife, this Benchmade could double as a letter opener, an Amazon box opener, and a do-it-all tool.
9. Colonel Littleton No. 18 Portfolio w/ Alligator Strap: As a constant note-taker and to-do list maker, it’s important for me to have paper readily available. And there isn’t a nicer way to carry it all around than in a Col. Littleton portfolio. The Alligator strap is such a nice touch…flex a little.
10. Mission Mercantile Shotgun Case: Get the old man ready for hunting season with a ship-shape shotgun case. Your gun will thank you.
11. Chama Chair Vaquero Chair: The perfect chair to sit back and have a cold one.
12. Orvis Railroad Spike Bottle Opener: The perfect opener to crack that cold one.
13. Moke 007 Special Edition: Sure, golf carts are cool, but they don’t touch Mokes. Trust me.
Dads – what do you have on your list?
Love this, especially the line about Dad’s letting time. I ended up getting a Rolex Explorer as my dad watch this year. The easy to read dial and simple design is befitting a father who is getting older. The IWC is similar in this way.
As a father, son, brother, friend, guy, stranger…give me a Benchmade and I’m happy! Just got the Meatcrafter. You should add it to any man’s list.
Give more – Want Less – Expect Nothing in life
Best Father’s Day, or any gifts really, I’ve ever received came from my kids when they were little and made cards or things in art class. Those precious things have places of pride on my shelf today. I do love a fine watch, well tailored clothes, and cool gear. I’m so picky though, no one in my family will go out on a limb to pick out anything more than a sport shirt or pocket square…lol
I agree. the things I currently get from my boys at school (4&2) are the best – handprints/scribbles/etc. I also agree – I have expensive taste and appreciate finer things so I am better off and prefer to just buy things for myself over time.
Well stated. I agree with both of your comments.
Funny you bring this up. As the lockdown has forced us to work from home my kids make daily drawings that I hang up behind my desk and they are visible during video calls. Not only do I lover getting them but they are great conversation starters.