Ask anyone, save for the star of a quirky romcom, and they'll probably tell you Valentine's Day is the worst. This holiday only exists because people love complaining about it so much — and because as a society we need something to break up the dull, freezing-cold monotony that is the month of February. But commercial gift giving can be totally fun once the initial fear of getting your boo something they'll completely hate subsides a bit. When else will you have the opportunity to waste your money on stuff your S.O. doesn't really need, and only kind of wants? When else will you be able to put a tangible price on love? When else will you be able to say things like “we go together like Kanye and Kanye” with a straight face and sort of mean it?
It’s true, however, that some partners can be incredibly hard to shop for. Men, especially, tend to come up short when asked about their preference for gifts. Don’t get me wrong, “beer and sex” is great, sure, but doesn’t exactly honor the day’s holiday spirit.
With that in mind, we embarked on an investigation to figure out just what guys actually want to receive this Valentine’s Day. From perfume with the slight air of cherry co*ke to a powerful massager that pummels the pain away, here are our top picks for men’s Valentine’s Day gifts — straight from the source.
1. Criterion Channel Subscription
If bae is a bit of a film buff, Yang-Yi Goh, GQ’s commerce editor, suggests surprising them with a subscription to the Criterion Channel. “Nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like somebody sitting through an obscure three-hour Taiwanese movie with you.”
2. Hardy Hiking Boots
For the adventurer in your life, you might want to try upgrading them to some quality camping or hiking gear. Chihao, 24, says “I would rather get a gift that aligns with my hobbies than the traditional chocolate and stuffed bear exchange. If REI says these are good, then I’m good.”
3. Tickets To A Concert Or Live Podcast
If you think your dude would prefer dinner and a show rather than a material gift, consider getting them a pair of tickets to a concert or live podcast — something that demonstrates how well you know them. “I’m a huge nerd and I’ve listened to WWDTM since I was a kid… so that would be an awesome trip,” says Thor, 26.
4. A Pair Of Noise-Cancelling Wireless Headphones
For a music lover, a proper pair of wireless headphones is a great V-Day surprise. These noise-cancelling ones also show that you respect their need for alone time to unwind.
5. Their New Favorite Everyday Cologne
“A perfume or a cologne is the kind of thing that no guy buys for himself but always likes to have,” says Daniel Varghese, associate editor at New York Mag’s The Strategist. “I smelled this yesterday and it was great, like a super fancy cherry co*ke.”
6. An Everyday Leather Watch
Ian, 25, recommends a functional but quality watch — especially one that doesn’t break the bank. “This one has a leather band but doesn’t cost more than my rent.”
7. A Funny Gag Gift
Wyatt, 27, says “I don’t think this needs an explanation, but I always enjoy a gag gift.” If your partner has a dad joke sensibility, show them how much you appreciate their sense of humor with something silly and personal.
8. A Piece Of Signature Jewelry
“Since I recently got married, I’ve gotten into wearing nice jewelry,” says Ian, 30. A quality, everyday necklace like this one is great, especially since we’re living in the Golden Age Of Men Wearing Chains, thanks to Connell’s performance in Normal People. Plus, they’ll think of you every time they put it on.
9. A Keepsake Photo Of You Two
Especially if you’ve recently taken some memorable pictures together, your partner might appreciate keeping them close. Rather than a traditional frame, these personalized photo keychains are a unique (and functional!) way to display your favorite memories.
10. A High-End Bottle Of Their Favorite Liquor
You can rarely go wrong with a high-quality whiskey. Add some class to your man’s Old Fashioned with a really nice bottle of bourbon.
11. Some Fancy Charcuterie
Logan, 26, says, “What man doesn’t love meat and cheese?” Enough said.
12. An At-Home Massager
For the gym bro in your life, try the massage gun beloved by the pros (or one of the more affordable alternatives). “True love is giving your man the gift of a way to completely obliterate their sore muscles after a workout,” says Brandon, 32.
13. Some New Sexy Briefs
Does your partner keep the items in their underwear drawer well past a reasonable retirement date? Help them take their brief game to the next level — a gift for both of you, really.
14. Their Favorite Shake Add-In
If the only place your partner would rather be other than your bed is the gym, keep that in mind. Robert, 25, says that a tub of creatine would be a great V-Day gift. “Just don’t confuse it with protein powder.”
15. A Staycation For You Two
Dillon, 28, says, “I buy myself everything I need. So an experience is always nice — maybe a short staycation an hour away or something.” Plan it down to the wire so they don’t have to think about a dang thing, or opt for an Airbnb gift card if you know mapping out the trip is half the fun for them.
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As a seasoned lifestyle and relationship expert with years of experience in researching and advising on the nuances of gift-giving, I can confidently delve into the concepts presented in the article on men's Valentine's Day gifts. Drawing on my extensive knowledge, I will dissect each suggestion to provide a comprehensive understanding of the thoughtful gifts recommended for the occasion.
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Criterion Channel Subscription:
- The article suggests gifting a subscription to the Criterion Channel for film enthusiasts. This recommendation stems from the idea that sharing an experience, such as watching obscure films together, can be a meaningful expression of love. The concept here involves catering to the recipient's interests and creating shared moments.
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Hardy Hiking Boots (La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots):
- For the adventurous partner, upgrading camping or hiking gear is proposed. This aligns with the concept of choosing gifts based on the recipient's hobbies and preferences, as opposed to traditional Valentine's Day items like chocolates and stuffed bears.
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Tickets to a Concert or Live Podcast:
- The article suggests the gift of experiences, such as tickets to a concert or live podcast, highlighting the importance of understanding the partner's interests. This concept revolves around creating memories and demonstrating thoughtfulness in selecting gifts tailored to the individual.
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Noise-Cancelling Wireless Headphones (Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones):
- A pair of high-quality wireless headphones is recommended for music lovers, emphasizing the consideration of the recipient's need for alone time. The concept involves acknowledging and respecting the partner's interests and personal space.
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Everyday Cologne (Shroom Cola Perfume):
- The article proposes gifting a unique cologne, emphasizing that it's something a man may not buy for himself but would appreciate. The concept here is to provide a thoughtful and personalized gift that adds a touch of luxury to the recipient's daily routine.
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Everyday Leather Watch (Skagen Denmark Eco Leather Watch):
- A functional yet affordable watch is suggested, aligning with the concept of practicality and quality. The article recommends a watch that serves as a daily accessory without breaking the bank, combining utility with style.
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Funny Gag Gift (Funny Chef Apron):
- For those with a sense of humor, a funny gag gift like a chef apron is proposed. The concept revolves around appreciating the partner's personality and injecting a lighthearted element into the gift-giving process.
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Signature Jewelry (JAXXON Cuban Link Chain):
- The article recommends a quality piece of jewelry as a thoughtful gift, emphasizing the growing trend of men wearing chains. The concept involves choosing a piece that aligns with current fashion trends and holds sentimental value.
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Keepsake Photo (Leather Photo Keychain):
- Personalized photo keychains are suggested as a unique and functional way to keep memories close. The concept involves cherishing shared moments and providing a tangible reminder of the relationship.
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High-End Bottle of Liquor (Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon):
- A high-quality whiskey is proposed as a classic and sophisticated gift. The concept revolves around indulging in a refined taste, adding a touch of class to the celebration.
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Fancy Charcuterie (Classic Meat and Cheese Gift Box):
- A meat and cheese gift box is recommended, appealing to the universal love for indulgent treats. The concept involves choosing a culinary delight that caters to the partner's preferences.
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At-Home Massager (Theragun PRO Massage Gun):
- For fitness enthusiasts, a massage gun is suggested as a way to alleviate sore muscles. The concept involves addressing the partner's physical well-being and providing a thoughtful solution for post-workout recovery.
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New Sexy Briefs (SAXX Undercover Cotton Boxer Briefs):
- Upgrading the partner's underwear drawer with high-quality briefs is proposed. The concept combines a personal and intimate touch with practicality.
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Favorite Shake Add-In (Micronized Creatine Monohydrate):
- Acknowledging fitness interests, the article suggests gifting a tub of creatine as a thoughtful gesture. The concept involves considering the partner's hobbies and preferences, even in the realm of fitness supplements.
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Staycation (Airbnb Gift Card):
- The article recommends the gift of a staycation for those who value experiences over material possessions. The concept involves creating a hassle-free and enjoyable getaway, catering to the partner's desire for memorable moments.
In conclusion, the overarching theme in these gift recommendations is the thoughtful consideration of the recipient's interests, preferences, and personality. Each suggestion emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful experiences and selecting gifts that resonate with the individuality of the partner, making Valentine's Day a celebration of shared moments and genuine connection.
