Sometimes buying gifts for the man in your life is more stressful than fun. And it doesn’t help when he answers “I don’t care” every time you ask what he wants. Here are 10 ideas to get your mental gears rolling for manly gifts this holiday season.

Swiss Army Knife

We’re not talking about some boring, outdated gadget here. Nowadays, Swiss army knives can come equipped with USB drives, flashlights, iPod stands, bottle openers, and lasers. One of these updated versions is the perfect gift for any man in your life, be he geeky, outdoorsy, or modern.

 Branding Iron

This is for those grilling-machines out there, where no meat could be undercooked and no barbeque should go unlit. What better gift for this man than his very own steak branding iron? Instead of branding cattle, he’ll be able to put his mark on his still-bleeding hunk of meat that’s searing over the hot flames of his Coleman grill.

Shaving Kit

The popularity of such stunts as Movember should be clear a sign that men just don’t like to shave. It takes time, can irritate the skin, and who doesn’t love a little many stubble to complement a perfectly chiseled jaw line? The truth is, sometimes men have to shave, and anything to make the experience more pleasant is always appreciated. Look for a good shaving cream, application brush, and an after-shave balm to reduce irritation, along with a nicely sharpened razor. For a really old-school fellow, you could even splurge on an old-fashioned straight razor.

 Technology Gloves

Let’s be honest—mittens and gloves aren’t that manly, but neither is admitting that your hands are cold. Take away your man’s shame of buying gloves by purchasing a pair for him. Don’t just buy any pair, though. Make sure these gloves are fit for your technologically savvy man by ensuring they have touch-screen conducive fingertips. That way, he doesn’t have to expose his fingers to the winter chill when texting you back about getting milk at the grocery store.

Headphones

Such a simple gift, but such a necessity. A good pair of headphones can get your guy through a long plane ride, gym session, or even keep him company while writing that research paper in the university library. First, figure out what his needs are—a runner needs different headphones than an aspiring film director. Check out different fashions, from ear buds, to athletic styles, to retro, over-the-ear headphones.

 Money Clip

Money clips are the sophisticated man’s wallet. A man doesn’t need 12 card slots and bill pocket—one metal clip is enough for his needs. Clips are a great way to combine functionality with sentimentality, too. Many clips can be engraved and personalized, so you can make sure he always thinks of you when he pays for something (maybe the best budgeting strategy there is). There is a wide variety of styles available, sure to please any man on your gift list this holiday season.

Handyman Helpers

There are two types of men—those who insist on fixing everything themselves, and those who insist on calling the professionals. Here are two ideas for the man that is convinced he is Tim Taylor, the Home Improvement star incarnate. First, you could buy him some new tools to fix the sink next time it leaks (but maybe that’s not a good idea). Or even better, give your hard worker a rest with some “coupons” for professional services next time something breaks or needs fixing. Nothing like a professional plumber to take the pressure off when the septic tank is leaking.

 Puzzles

This gift is for the intellectual or engineer in your life. While flat puzzles are fun, take it up a notch with three-dimensional puzzles of famous landmarks. It’s like Legos for grown men! You can even throw in some female emotion if you pick a building of spot that has special meaning. This pastime will keep him occupied for hours on Christmas Day and throughout the rest of the holiday vacation. If you can’t find a good landmark puzzle, look for a cool brain teaser or puzzle to stick in his stocking.

 Leather Goods

Nothing says “manly” quite like the smell of leather. Whether it’s a jacket, briefcase, wallet, or even a bound notebook, if it’s made out of leather, it is fit for a man. Leather is durable, good-looking, and just cool. Your guy is sure to love anything with a little of this natural material.

 Snacks

Alright, this one is kind of giveaway, but honestly, guys just really like to snack! Fill a guy’s stocking with his favorite nibbles—he will be stocked up for all the upcoming football games (and even those chick-flicks that you make him sit through). Make it a good mix of store-bought goodies and homemade treats to really satisfy his munchies. It’s ok for him to have a little private stash for when you go on those crazy fad diets and throw out the potato chips.

Hopefully these 10 ideas will help you buy the perfect gift for the man in your life. Good luck in your manly holiday shopping endeavors.

Author Byline:

Drew Kobb, in addition to studying civil law, loves long distance running and considers himself a health expert and manly man. His interests range all over medical field, and Drew highlights that range on his blog, Dr. Ouch. He also enjoys manly activities, such as cutting wood, finding the best plumbers (like Always Plumbing), and watching sports.