So you’ve had a year to think about a gift for your dad this Father’s Day and still haven’t figured what he might need? You’ve gone through thousands of blog posts on the subject and nothing seems to be working. The closer Father’s Day gets, the more you realise that you’ll never know what to get your old man.
Getting your old man a gift for Father’s Day shouldn’t be a hassle. It should come from the heart right? That’s what they always say. The very same people who say such things end up getting Father’s Day gifts that get thrown in the bin as soon as they walk out of their parent’s house. Here’s a few ideas to steer you in the right direction:
1. Gerber 31-000750 Bear Grylls Compact Multi-Tool
Do you know those stainless steel pliers that you can use for a million things and fold up when you are done? Yes, those. They’re called multi-tools and every man needs one. If your dad is the type that could wind up alone in the Storms River Forest, then the Gerber 31-000750 Bear Grylls Compact Multi-Tool is for him. It’s got 10 components and compact and lightweight enough to fit on a keychain or in your pocket. It even has a pocket guide that contains a selection of Bear Grylls survival essentials.
Price
Gerber 31-000750 Bear Grylls Compact: R95.92 (get it online here)
Alternative
If your Dad is a little more old-school, then the Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool is a classic for its versatility, portability and overall durability but will set you back about R222.44 (get it online here).
2. Old Khaki Men’s Lon Mottle Scarf
Father’s Day falls during the winter season in South Africa. Why not get your dad a scarf to keep him warm this winter? The Old Khaki Men’s Lon Mottle Scarf from Cape Union Mart could be exactly what he needs to keep the cold at bay. It’s comfortable, soft textured and will last for many more winter’s to come.
Price
Old Khaki Men’s Lon Mottle Scarf: R160.00 (get it online here)
Aternative
The K-Way Thermalator Fleece Scarf is a cool alternative for dad’s who are into outdoor activity and costs R90.00 (get it online here)
3.The Apple MB974ZM / World Adapter Kit
My kingdom for a plug! People often underestimate the importance of carrying an adaptor when travelling, resulting in dead cellphone and laptop batteries and the inevitable purchase of an overpriced adaptor that you’ll leave behind in a hotel room. Don’t let your dad fall into that trap. Get him the Apple MB974ZM/World Adaptor Kit so he can charge his iPad, iPod, iPhone and any other Apple product wherever.
Price
The Apple MB974ZM/ World Adaptor Kit: R3700 (get it online here)
4.Sony Xperia Z
Imagine a superphone that your dad could use in heavy rain without any worries. The new Sony Xperia Z is the right gadget for the tech savy and adventurous dad. Completely waterproof and dustproof, the cellphone has excellent battery life and the latest smartphone features like GPS navigation.
Price
Sony Xperia Z : R6 000 (get it online here)
5.Miniature distiller machine
The miniature distilling machine is the perfect gift for dads who are passoinate about their alcohol. The machine is a mini-version of the distilling machines used by large distilleries. All you have to do is pour wine or brandy and the machine does the magic for you. Your dad could create his drinks with ease, and you’ll never have to sweat about what brandy to buy for him.
Price
Miniature distilling machine :R2 200 (get it online here)
6. Garmin nüvi 3590 LMT
The new 2013 Garmin nüvi 3590 LMT is the ideal way to put the fun back into driving for your old man. With lifetime maps and traffic updates, speed limit indicator and voice-activated navigation it’s built for 21st century driving. Your dad will never have to ask for directions again!
Price:
Garmin nüvi 3590LMT: R2750 (get it online here)
7. TAG Heuer Men’s WV211B.FC6202 Carrera Automatic Watch
Watches are the ultimate male accessories. A well-crafted time piece around a man’s wrist conveys a message about his personality, status or passion. When choosing a watch for your old man, you need pick one that sends the right message. A TAG Heuer is always a safe bet. The TAG Heuer Men’s WV211B.FC6202 Carrera Automatic Watch symbolises power, maturity and durability, traits that your old man possesses.
Price
TAG Heuer Men’s WV211B.FC6202 Carrera Automatic Watch: a R18 000 (get it online here)
8. JT ER2 Pump Paintball Pistol Kit – Smoke
Unleash the inner kid in your dad this Father’s Day by getting him a paintball gun. A paintball gun is a great way of saying ‘Take some time off and relax’. The JT ER2 Pump Paintball Pistol Kit – Smoke is the ultimate man toy that could get any dad shooting. The 68-caliber paintball pistol comes with five 12 gram CO2 Cartridges, 50 paintballs and barrel plug.
Price
JT ER2 Pump Paintball Pistol Kit – Smoke : R290 (get it online here)
9.Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent
Ever looked at your old man’s tent and thought he needed an upgrade? Well, this Father’s Day is the right time to replace dad’s old, weathered tent with this Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent. The tent comes with pre-attached poles,and can house about six people. Go ahead and give your dad a reason to go out into the wild again.
Price
Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent: R1500 (get it online here)
10. Beardo Original-Black
Imagine a beanie that has a beard you can attach when it gets seriously cold. Sounds far-fetched right? Well, some bright kid has gone out and invented the Beardo: a beanie that has a detachable and adjustable beard. Made from wool, the beanie-beard is warm and comfortable. The Beardo would be a cool replacement to your dad’s scruffy winter beard.
Price
Beardo Original- Black : R499 (order online)
Main image by Clark, LIFE © Time Inc, US National Archives