Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
Valentine's Day 2024 is just around the corner, and the quest for the perfect gift is on. While chocolates and flowers are classic, why not surprise the special man in your life with something truly unique and tailored to his interests? I have spent the last 30(something) years discovering a variety of hobbies that also happen to have renewed popularity in recent years, from disc golf to D&D, along with more universally-enjoyed interests, from kitchen mastery to puzzles. I also write about shopping, so I’m up to date on stuff that’s becoming popular. Drawing on all of this experience, I've curated a list of the best and most niche Valentine's Day gifts for men, covering a spectrum of categories from the nerdy and tech-savvy to the practical and outdoor enthusiast. Whether he's into practical and cutting-edge gadgets, seeking the challenge of hiking and the outdoors, or has a penchant for the unconventional, this gift guide has you covered.
What to consider when choosing Valentine's Day Gift for Him
The secret to giving a good gift (whether for Valentine’s Day or another occasion) isn’t about spending the most, it’s about finding something that reflects the recipient’s personality, interests, and your overall relationship. Of course, that’s easy to say, but not always easy to accomplish. Here are a few tips for choosing the best gifts for men:
Listen for clues
One of the best ways to get ideas for a Valentine's Day gift is by listening to your significant other. Often a statement like “I wish I had a better way to store my gaming gear,” can easily be dismissed. But this is a great opportunity to surprise the special person in your life with something thoughtful and practical.
Gather information (subtly)
In the same way that you may notice your partner may be missing that perfect item for their niche or hobby, you can also pick up on something they may want that they wouldn’t normally purchase for themselves. Put out some feelers that seem innocuous like “Oh wow, this Lego set is pretty awesome! What do you think?”
Factor in your budget and/or price limit
Determining the amount you’ll both be spending on Valentine’s Day gifts can be tricky but there are few ways to make this easier. For example, you can take into account how new the relationship is. A first Valentine’s Day may be something special but doesn’t necessarily require a high budget. If this is the first Valentine’s Day as a married couple, you may want to splurge on a bigger surprise. It’s always helpful to discuss in advance and set a range, so nobody feels that they over or under spent. Another great tip is to buy “together” gifts in addition to the personal gifts like a board game you can enjoy with one another or a kitchen tool that is perfect for a date night at home cooking dinner together.
Remember the timeline
Consider your shopping habits and make sure that you order before the shipping deadline. If you are cutting it close with shipping, you’ll find that many online retailers with brick and mortar stores will offer in-store pickup same day or at least within a day or two. The last thing you’ll want to be doing is printing pictures of the item and using grocery store flowers and chocolates as a placeholder.
Best last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts for him
Concert or sporting event tickets
Whether they’ve been wanting to catch Blink-182’s (second) reunion tour or opening day for their favorite MLB team, gift them an unforgettable experience. Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek pretty much cover a wide range of events, venues and price points.
If your desire event is sold out check The Best Ticket Resale Sites 2024 to Buy and Sell Concert Tickets
SPAfinder (Gift Cards)
As a hobbyist, guitar player, disc golfer, and home chef, I always find my hands getting worn easy. And working at a desk or a physically demanding job alike can do a number on the neck and shoulders over time. Nothing says “I love you” like a full day of pampering, whatever that means to your guy. Added bonus of being able to get a digital gift card so you can land the perfect gift on the day of Valentine’s Day if needed.
SPAfinder (Gift Cards)
PlayStation Store $25 Digital Gift Card
If you have a gamer who talks about so many different games all the time you wonder if some of them are made up. One thing that many games have in common is DLC (downloadable content) like new maps, characters, skins, and entire expansions. You can surprise them with something more personal than a standard gift card with a PlayStation Store digital gift card, available instantly. You can even print the receipt and tape it to his new controller and headset mount!
![PlayStation Store $25 Gift Card [Digital]](/shopping/static/3b302765de33d6393de849323f93b5fa/2890f/3b302765de33d6393de849323f93b5fa.webp "PlayStation Store $25 Gift Card [Digital]")
PlayStation Store $25 Gift Card [Digital]
Sugarfina - Design Your Own Navy Blue Candy Bento Box - 8 Piece
Trying to think outside the (chocolate) box for sweet treats but don’t have a ton of time? I highly recommend you take a gander at the Sugarfina Bento Box options. There’s a wide array of treats fanging from chocolates and cordials, all the way to sour gummies and gummy bears (with or without chocolate). Bourbon or champagne gummy bears are going to be well received, I can tell you that much. 5-7 business day standard shipping as well as expedited and overnight for the real last minute shoppers.
Sugarfina - Design Your Own Navy Blue Candy Bento Box - 8 Piece
Stitch Fix - Gift Card
If you’re looking for a gift card option that can be used towards some men’s fashion, but can’t quite figure out his style, Stitch Fix is a great solution. My favorite part is that it helps take the guesswork out for both of you. Stitch Fix has a “style quiz” to help find the fashion that best fits your personality and personal style. With the added luxury of being able to return what he doesn’t like at no cost.
Stitch Fix - Gift Card
Gourmet Gift Box.com - ITALIAN DINNER FOR TWO
If you’re looking for a great couple’s gift that can be a fun foundation for a romantic date night, I recommend checking out this Italian dinner for two gift box meal delivery kit. It comes complete with everything you’ll need to cook a delicious pasta dinner, including snacks and appetizers. If cooking at home isn’t what your guy is into, there are also beer gift buckets and baskets, snack baskets, chocolate covered strawberries, and more. With same day delivery available in many areas.
Italian Dinner for Two
Best self-care gifts for him
Isner Mile Beard Kit for Men
As somebody who loves growing and maintaining a beard but constantly runs into the various upkeep challenges, I love when I find the perfect product. Isner Mile’s kit comes with all of the tools you need as well as beard oil and balm in a variety of luxurious scents. I’m partial to the sandalwood, but you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
Isner Mile Beard Kit for Men, Grooming & Trimming Tool Complete Set with Shampoo Wash, Beard Care Oil, Balm, Brush, Comb, Scissors & Storage Bag, Birthday Gifts for Him Men Dad Father Boyfriend
Theragun Mini Bluetooth Connected Handheld Percussive Massage Device
I’ve owned some massagers in the past that tend to take up far too much space in the house, and it’s even more difficult when traveling or at the gym. This portable Theragun Mini delivers the power you’d expect from the Theragun brand in a convenient travel size.
Cremo Rich-Lathering Bourbon & Oak Body Wash
A self-care themed gift isn’t complete without the right bath and body products. Cremo offers a variety of products in some very unique and frankly incredible scents. I’ve included a personal favorite from the Distillers Collection (Bourbon and White Oak), however I definitely recommend checking out Cremo’s other products to put together a truly perfect a-la-carte self-care gift basket.
Cremo Rich-Lathering Bourbon & Oak Body Wash, A Sophisticated Blend of Distillers Spice, Fine Bourbon and White Oak, 16 Fl Oz (2-Pack)
Best food gifts for him
Vegan Jerky Sampler Gift Box
As somebody who has been eating vegan/plant-based for nearly a decade, it’s always tough finding quality snacks. This vegan jerky sampler from Bunny-James is loaded with an awesome variety that will be sure to please the palate for the plant-based guy in your life—and honestly, the jackfruit-based jerky would even be appreciated by an omnivore.
Vegan Jerky Sampler Gift Box Father's Day Gift : Vegan and Vegetarian Meatless Plant-Based Jerkies Made from Jackfruit, Seitan, Soy, and Fruit
LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW Chocolate Coated Gourmet Licorice
Not every sweet treat on Valentine’s Day is the same, and this gift box from Denmark based Lakrids by Bülow is a great example. In a sleek, black, heart-shaped box you’ll find a variety of gourmet chocolate coated licorice ranging from strawberries and cream to fruity caramel.
LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW - Love Selection Box - 15.9 OZ - Gift Box with Chocolate Coated Gourmet Licorice Produced in Denmark
Bean Box PERFECTLY PAIRED™ COFFEE + CHOCOLATE TASTING
For the coffee-lover who loves trying gourmet flavors, and maybe even unwrapped a brand-new french press over the holiday season. This gift set includes 8 specialty coffees from independent roasters in the US, and 4 handcrafted chocolates from award winning chocolatiers.
Bean Box PERFECTLY PAIRED™ COFFEE + CHOCOLATE TASTING
M&Ms Always & Forever Gift Bottle
Combining two of my favorite gift ideas (personalization and chocolate) is this thoughtful item from M&Ms direct. You can choose phrases and images to be custom-printed on the M8Ms which are presented in a wine bottle-shaped container. Great for a guy who likes chocolate but doesn’t want to play the guessing game of “Is there coconut in this one?”
M&Ms Always & Forever Gift Bottle
Citarella Orchard & Nut Collection
If your Valentine loves sweet treats but prefers to snack on something other than chocolate, then I recommend checking out Citarella for sure. This basket comes with a variety of fresh and dried fruits as well as nuts and trail mix.
Citarella Orchard & Nut Collection
Scrappy's Bitters The New Classics Gift Set
Referred to as “cocktail seasoning”, bitters come in countless varieties. If you are looking for the perfect gift for the budding at home mixologist, this gift set from Scrappy’s Bitters includes 4 unique and delicious options (lavender, cardamom, black lemon, and Orleans) to help kick your homemade cocktails up to the next level.
Scrappy's Bitters The New Classics Gift Set, 4 ct, 0.5oz (Lavender, Cardamom, Black Lemon, and Orleans) - Organic Ingredients, Finest Herbs & Zests, No Extracts, Artificial Flavors, Chemicals or Dyes
Best gifts for game and hobby enthusiasts
The Lord of the Rings: RIVENDELL™ LEGO Set
If you’re on the lookout for a big-budget gift for the nerdy guy in your life, look no further than an elite Lego set. There are tons of options ranging from Star Wars, famous landmarks, wall art, and more. One of the newest additions to the Lego library is also on my personal wishlist, the Lord of the Rings: Rivendell set is as gorgeous as it is impressive.
THE LORD OF THE RINGS: RIVENDELL
KDD Gaming RGB Headphones Rotatable Headset Stand
This is a gift I didn’t realize existed, let alone something that I need. This stand holds several of your headsets and controllers, with the added bonus of LED lighting in nine color settings, 2 USB charging ports and 3.5mm earphone hanger.
KDD Gaming RGB Headphones Stand, Rotatable Headset Stand with 9 Light Modes - Controller Holder with 2 USB Charging Ports and 3.5mm - Earphone Hanger Accessories for Desktop Gamer(Black)
Robotime - ROKR Mechanical Orrery ST001 3D Wooden Puzzle
The hobbyist is often one of the toughest people to shop for, especially when the hobby in question can change with the seasons. But a model or puzzle is always a welcome addition to any collection. This wooden model of the solar system is perfect for the science, model building, puzzle enthusiast, and it is a handsome display piece when finished.
Robotime - ROKR Mechanical Orrery ST001 3D Wooden Puzzle
Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle by Wizards of the Coast, Boxed Set
The rise in popularity of TTRPGs (Tabletop Roleplaying Games) seemingly happened overnight. As somebody who has been a fan of the genre for nearly 30 years, getting started seems to be the biggest hurdle. If you hear your Valentine saying they want to get into Dungeons and Dragons, this new starter set is easy enough for new players and existing players alike.
Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle by Wizards of the Coast, Boxed Set
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (D&D Campaign Collection - Adventure, Setting Book, Bestiary + DM Screen)
If your partner is a seasoned veteran when it comes to TTRPGs and Dungeons and Dragons, this new campaign boxed set from Wizards of the Coast will be an awesome addition to their growing collection of D&D resources and surely will result in hours of fun.
Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (D&D Campaign Collection - Adventure, Setting Book, Bestiary + DM Screen)
Best clothing and accessory gifts for him
STANCE - POLY CREW SOCKS 2 PACK
All socks are not created equal. I know that may seem like an unusual thing to read, however Stance is the case-in-point. Often you can’t find a comfortable high-quality sock with fun colors and patterns in the same product. Stance has a ton of options in single and multi-packs, including this two-pack in a fun Cocopalms tropical-themed print.
STANCE - POLY CREW SOCKS 2 PACK
L.L. Bean - Men's Mountain Classic Anorak, Multi-Color
It doesn’t matter if you live somewhere with a longer-lasting winter or you’re in that winter to spring transition, a good windbreaker is always great to have on hand. The Classic Anorak from L.L. Bean is functional while looking amazing at the same time.
L.L. Bean - Men's Mountain Classic Anorak, Multi-Color
Nomad - Steel Band for Apple Watch
Smartwatches are here to stay and for those who have always worn traditional watches in the past, it may be tough to go from a nice looking band to black silicone. Nomad makes bands for Apple Watch ranging from rugged high quality designs for outdoor use as well as gorgeous classic choices like this 316L Stainless Steel option. I love the look of the Graphite finish, personally.
Steel Band - 45mm | Graphite Hardware
MeUndies - Boxer Brief
Good quality underwear are hard to come by, and often come at a high cost. MeUndies offers a happy medium and the most expansive color and pattern option I’ve seen. The “Adventurous” collection offers a ton of options like this fun Valentine’s Day-themed heart design among others. They also offer matching gift sets for you and your partner!
MeUndies - Boxer Brief
Mitchell & Ness - Legendary Slub LS Vintage Logo Philadelphia Phillies
The month of February and Valentine’s Day means different things for everyone. For those of us who love Major League Baseball, it means Spring Training is soon. Which also means it’s time to retire the football attire and break out your favorite baseball team’s gear. You’ll find a variety of teams from Mitchell & Ness with unique designs to keep you looking great while supporting your team. If you’re shopping for a Philly fan, this Phanatic inspired long sleeve T-shirt will soon be a favorite.
Mitchell & Ness - Legendary Slub LS Vintage Logo Philadelphia Phillies
Dango Products - The M1 Maverick™ Rail Wallet
Ever since leaving the service industry, I find myself using cash less and less every year. In all reality there’s not much I need in my wallet aside from some identification, a credit card or two, and some other miscellaneous cards. This minimalist wallet is all your significant other will need and it even features an open face for easy presentation of your identification while still being RFID safe. For more wallet options, check out our round ups for the best minimalist wallets and the best wallets for men.
Dango Products - The M1 Maverick™ Rail Wallet
Best kitchen gifts for him
Mosi Portable Travel Tea Infuser Tumbler with Leak Proof Lid
If you are a tea lover, one of the challenges is bringing your brewed tea on the go. You may find that the bag gets in the way and then you have to find somewhere to dispose of it after enjoying your tea. And if you let the tea brew beforehand, it cools down far too quickly. This infuser bottle from Mosi solves that with an ingenious infusion system that lets you brew your tea on the go.
Mosi Portable Tea Infuser Bottle Loose Leaf Tea - Award Winning Design - Travel Tea Infuser Tumbler with Leak Proof Lid - Double Wall Insulated Tea Thermos - Tea Travel Accessories - Mint
12" HexClad Hybrid Pan with Lid
Shopping for the man who loves to cook can be hit or miss. As somebody who loves cooking, it doesn’t matter if its a chef’s knife, pan, or peeler; I find myself being picky about the tools I have in my kitchen. But you cannot go wrong with a HexClad pan as a gift for the would-be chef in the house. Safely nonstick yet durable enough to hold up to most utensils. Cool handle, easy to clean, and more. You may even consider getting a whole set.
12" HexClad Hybrid Pan with Lid
MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Machine
If you’ve been on culinary TikTok and Instagram channels recently, you’ve seen a growing trend of homemade pasta. Many videos would lead you to believe you need an expensive stand mixer with a pasta attachment. This pasta machine is built sturdy and has a variety of pasta shapes and size, as well as optional attachments. A great gift to pair with a bottle of wine for an at-home dinner you can cook together.
MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel. Makes Lasagne, Fettuccine & Tagliolini., 21 x 20 x 16 cm
AeroGarden - Sprout
One of my biggest pet peeves in the kitchen is throwing out fresh herbs when I forget to use them, and not having them when a recipe calls for herbs. The AeroGarden Sprout is an excellent entry level in-home herb grower that works 5 times faster than soil alone. It’s nearly fully-automated aside from adding water to the reservoir, and the herbs live much longer!
AeroGarden® Sprout
True Leaf Market - Trellis & Co. Stainless Steel Fermenting Kits
One of my favorite trends in home culinary right now is making fermented concoctions. Whether you want to make pickles, spicy kimchi, sauerkraut, and more, you need to make sure you have the right tools otherwise fermenting can turn into an undesirable science experiment gone-wrong. This Trellis & Co kit makes it super easy, and the Helix coils are a gamechanger for ensuring your food stays submerged during the process.
Complete Fermenting Kit with Mason Jar - Includes 316 Stainless Steel Fermenting Lid With Silicone Valves, PickleHelix Fermentin
King Arthur Fresh Sourdough Starter and Classic Crock Set
Homemade sourdough bread just hits different, and is more accessible now than ever. From one of the most trusted brands for flour and baking ingredients, King Arthur offers this awesome sourdough starter kit, complete with a fridge-ready crock.
King Arthur Fresh Sourdough Starter and Classic Crock Set
Mushroom Man Lion's Mane Mushroom Kit
Stir frys, soups, plant-based tacos, sauces, and hearty stews (just to name a few) are meals that are made better with a variety of mushrooms. One of the most versatile is Lion’s Mane, which is a popular substitute for meat in plant based cooking. Since many exotic mushrooms are hard to find in the grocery store, Mushroom Man makes it easy and fun to grow your own at home so you can always have them ready for your favorite recipes.
Mushroom Man LLC, Lion's Mane Mushroom Kit
SELPONT Floppy Disk Silicone Drink Coasters
As somebody who grew up in the 1900s (1980s-1990s to be specific), this nostalgic throwback stood out as a clear winner for me. A set of colorful silicone coasters that are also dishwasher safe. Perfect for the nerdy nostalgicphile who loves unique nick nacks, this is an affordable add-on gift that is sure to get a great reaction.
Moptrek one Drink Coasters Blanked label Retro 3.5 Inches Floppy Disk All-weather, 4.7 x 3.6", Set of 6 Black, Red, Yellow, Blue, Cherry, and Green
Best unexpected gifts for him
Cryptex Da Vinci Code Mini Cryptex Lock Puzzle Boxes with Hidden Compartments
One of the facets of romantic gifts that is often overlooked is the delivery method. If you want to make Valentine's Day extra special for the puzzle loving partner, you can grab one of the awesome Cryptex puzzle boxes and put together a fun scavenger hunt or put a riddle in their card. You can customize the 6-letter solution to something with special meaning to you.
TOYAMBA Build-on Brick Mug with 3 Packs of Building Blocks
The budget-friendly gift is a fun one for a Lego enthusiast or hobbyist alike. Made of BPA-free plastic, it’s safe for hot beverages but the variety of uses is vast. Also great as a fun pen/pencil holder, can koozie, and more.
TOYAMBA Build-on Brick Mug with 3 Packs of Building Blocks Compatible with Major Brands, BPA-Free Plastic Funny Coffee Mug for Men/Women, Funny Cups for Kids 16OZ (Green)
Monos - Carry-On Pro
Nothing is more important for somebody who travels often than a reliable carry-on bag. The Monos Carry-On Pro is more or less the current industry standard. Durable construction with aerospace grade polycarbonate and tons of storage compartments, a variety of beautiful colors, there’s a reason why this is one of the most sought-after luggage items in 2024. Shopping tip: Monos also made our lists for the best places to buy luggage online, best hardside luggage, best luggage brands, and the best backpacks for work, due to their high quality and excellent customer service.
Monos - Carry-On Pro
MVP Disc Sports Black Hole Lite 24-Chain Disc Golf Basket Target
Valentine’s Day and the month of February often coincide with some cold and tough outdoor conditions. If you have a guy who loves disc golf but not being in the elements for 3 hours in the cold, a transportable and easy-to-store disc golf basket is perfect. It doesn’t matter if it’s 20 degrees out, when your partner opens this gift, they’ll be outside and tossing some putts until the sun goes down.
MVP Disc Sports Black Hole Lite 24-Chain Disc Golf Basket Target
Njord Gear Indestructible Smartwatch
The typical smart watch is not ready for the outdoors without a screen protector, durable wrist band, and more. Njord Gear’s Indestructible Smart watch is perfect for hiking, biking, camping, and all other outdoor environments. My favorite features are the long battery life, scratch-proof and waterproof screen, and robust data readout options.
Njord Gear Indestructible Smartwatch, Military Smart Watch for Men, IP68 Waterproof Rugged Smartwatch with Bluetooth Call, 2023 Rugged Tactical Smartwatch with Heart Rate, Sleep Monitor (Black)
Universal Buddy XL Can Cooler by Frost Buddy
If your Valentine likes the beach, tailgating, hiking, camping, watching sports, disc golf, cookouts, or really any situation where you need to keep a beverage hot or cold then you need to check out the Frost Buddy. This model fits 8+ different can and bottle sizes and keeps them warm or cold for up to 12 hours.
Universal Buddy XL Can Cooler by Frost Buddy - Fits 12-ounce, 16-ounce, 20-ounce, and 24-ounce Cans and Bottles - Keep Your Drinks Refreshingly Chilled for over 12 hours (Retro)
Moderno Collections Inc. Premium 3 in 1 Fast Wireless Charging Stand for iPhone, Apple Watch & AirPods
For the Apple product lover that is always using one of their favorite devices, you know that the biggest problem is rotating chargers. This 3 in 1 speed charger is a game changer. You can simultaneously charge your AirPods, AppleWatch, and iPhone on the same charger, so you don’t have to juggle your charging schedule any more.
Moderno Collections Inc. Premium 3 in 1 Fast Wireless Charging Stand for iPhone, Apple Watch & AirPods
How we selected the best Valentine's Day Gifts for Him
When rounding up the best gifts for Valentine’s Day, I considered some of the most popular (along with the most niche) interests first. (Since the best gifts reflect a recipient’s interests.) From there, I looked for the top-selling and most unique products for each interest, then consulted reviews to make sure they were actually good deals. Finally, I considered the ease of ordering—a lot of picks come from Amazon, which will arrive quickly in time for Valentine’s Day.
Frequently asked questions
When is Valentine's Day 2024?
Valentines Day takes place every year on February 14th, this year it falls on a Wednesday which leaves a whole weekend of Valentine’s Day fun.
What do you give a guy on Valentine's Day?
This question really depends on a few factors. Some things to keep in mind are: how long has the relationship been going, what are his niche interests, and what is meaningful to you as a couple.
Should I get my boyfriend something for Valentine's Day?
Great question to consider. If you are in a new relationship and this is one of the first Valentine’s Days you are sharing together, it may be helpful to open a dialog and set expectations. Maybe a date night out and a small gift is enough, or you may be cooking and home and exchanging higher budget items instead.
Which gift is best for the husband on Valentine's Day?
Like all gift giving opportunities, communication is key. However, some rules tend to be universal. The first Valentine’s Day as a married couple is often a milestone for couples and the gift matches. Good gifts for a husband can also be lower in monetary value but more special and meaningful like something that is important to you as a couple or a slightly more expensive gift that fulfills your husband’s niche interests.
How do I make him feel special on Valentine's Day?
Exchanging gifts can feel like a weird social interaction on Valentine’s Day rather than something romantic and special. Some ideas to make gift giving more unique and thoughtful are creating a scavenger hunt with fun riddles and clues that are about milestones in your relationship, and maybe even a puzzle box or cryptex. Or even the classic trail of roses leading to a box of sweets and a gift bag.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.