The Price Of Their Toys

They don’t appreciate flowers, they don’t wear perfume, and they scoff at baskets of bath and body products your female acquaintances would flip over. They’re men. And they’re notoriously difficult to buy for. However, with a few simple considerations, there are gifts out there that will please any member of the male cohort whether he’s fifteen, twenty-five, or sixty-five.

It seems so easy at five: a remote-control car and candy really please sons, nephews, and friends’ children. But during the teenage years, these boys can seem impossible to buy for, and many true efforts receive only an eye roll. The trick here is to remember that we adults don’t know what’s cool, and pretending we do (even if we’re right) will not win us any points. We can’t win, so give up. Play to the fact that teenagers think they know it all: buy them gift cards. To add a personal touch, select stores that click with their personalities. The technological guys will love Game Stop cards; the burgeoning handy guys Home Depot; and for the inexplicable and mysterious, online stores such as Amazon.com. These cards are a huge hit, and the giver gets, for just a second, to be the cool one who thought of it.

Still, one can hardly give one’s fiancé a gift card—it’s just not done. For young adult men, try to tap into their interests. If he’s a car guy, invest in floor mats for his baby. If he loves his garage, think about a pegboard. And if he’s all about sports, a big screen TV would be fantastic. However, if he’s a coworker and you’re not out to spend a fortune, think of these things on a smaller scale—an air freshener, a drawer organizer, a webcam. And don’t leave out the more sensitive types—books make wonderful gifts, too!

Books are a great gift for the over-forty set as well; just make sure it’s something he’ll actually read. There are good finds on cars, dogs, home improvement; avoid self-improvement. For this age group, try to be practical and steer clear of useless junk. No one needs another pen set, but a massager might be nice, or even some comfy socks. Try to be helpful in your gifts, and be sure to keep it tasteful. In all cases, avoid stereotypes. If you don’t know he’s into cars, don’t assume. Gift cards trump junk, and if you’re just too confused, cash is a last-minute out that won’t hurt male feelings in most cases. Overall, try to get into the guy’s head and be just as thoughtful as you would be for your friends and family of the female variety.

Other Gift Ideas:

Men's Sterling Silver Onyx Fleur-de-lis Ring, Size 9This men's signet ring is crafted in sterling silver with a domed shape and centers a traditional fleur-de-lis symbol against a circle of black onyx. It's a handsome take on a classic style and a great addition to any man's jewelry collection.

Little Miss Birthday (Mr. Men and Little Miss)Little Miss Birthday loves giving birthday presents. She prides herself on always picking the perfect present. But this time, it looks like one of the Mr. Men may just stump her!

Kenneth Cole REACTION Men's Six Pocket Billfold,Black,One SizeSix pocket, compact stylish wallet.

Casio Men's AMW320D-9EV Ana-Digi Alarm Chronograph Dive WatchStylish enough for the boardroom but rugged enough for the wakeboard, the Casio Marine stainless steel analog-digital watch for men (model AMW320D-9EV... Read More >

Over The Hill Birthday Fun Gift Tote Bag - Gourmet Food Gift Basket of TreatsIt's all "Over the Hill" birthday fun with this fantastic paperboard gift tote with handles designed to look just like a tombstone decoration - a sure... Read More >

Related Post

• 60th Birthday Gifts for Men
• 50th Birthday Gifts for Men
• Birthday Gifts for Men
• Thoughtful Birthday Gifts for Men
• 40th Birthday Gifts for Men

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