We don’t know about you, but we’re tired of the “men are so hard to shop for” trope. From clever grooming essentials, cool fashion finds, unique gadgets, and kitchen staples, there are more great gifts for men out there than ever before. And here’s the thing: Even though many of these finds may be marketed toward men, they are choice picks that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their identifying gender.
Whether you’re shopping for a holiday, birthday, anniversary, or "just because" present, putting thought into your present will be appreciated. We conducted hours of research and tested out a couple of top-rated finds. After considering dozens of options, we rounded up the best of the best that are universal crowd-pleasers.
The Byrdie team has been hard at work finding the best Christmas gifts for everyone on your list, so find the best gifts for men below.
Nécessaire The Body Serum
Men, women, nonbinary individuals—everyone and their mother needs to moisturize. And for those who may not be big fans of traditional body lotions or creams—and their oftentimes heavy and sticky feel—this serum is the ideal alternative. Shockingly lightweight, it still delivers a potent hit of hydration, thanks to hero ingredients hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. That makes it choice for those with dry skin; the fact that it’s fragrance-free means it’s great for anyone with sensitive skin, and also ups the universal, genderless appeal. It is pricier than many body lotions, but that’s part of what makes it so gift-worthy.
Price at time of publish: $48
What Our Testers Say
"The Body Serum sinks in immediately with minimal effort. It leaves a light shine, sort of like an essence would on your face, without feeling oily. The effects are also long-lasting." —Erika Veurink, Product Tester
Kosas Chemistry Deodorant
We know what you’re thinking—deodorant, as a gift? Trust us on this one. This is hardly any old drugstore deo. It’s, dare we say, actually a super sophisticated deodorant, if there is such a thing. Completely aluminum-free, it relies on alpha-hydroxy acids to combat odor, while also gently exfoliating the skin under your arms so that it looks and feels better. Several Byrdie testers rave about the impressively long-lasting odor-fighting benefits, and it now comes in two unisex scents, as well as a fragrance-free variant. If you’re in search of a practical present, this is it.
Price at time of publish: $16
What Our Testers Say
"Not only does this deodorant work after hour-long sweaty workouts, but it also does its job throughout the day without having to reapply several times." —Melony Forcier, Product Tester
Ranavat Mighty Majesty Fortifiying Hair Serum
No one wants to deal with thinning, shedding, or otherwise lackluster hair. Enter this serum, which, yes, at one point, had a 3,500-person waitlist. (Make sure to drop that little tidbit when you present this present.) Inspired by the brand founder’s Indian heritage and traditional hair oiling practices, the serum touts a combo of botanical and Ayurvedic ingredients to improve scalp and hair health, as well as tame frizz and add shine. While it will admittedly take time to see changes in growth, the immediate improvement it offers when it comes to making your hair look and feel healthier is impressive.
Price at time of publish: $70
What Our Testers Say
"The jury is still out whether this serum helped my hair grow fuller (plus, there are so many factors outside of our control that contribute to hair growth and hair loss). It also hasn't been that long of a trial, but in the end, it's been nice to have this as a go-to in my routine when I need a boost of shine and to tame flyaways. I'm excited to see how my hair improves with continued use.” —Zoe Schaeffer, Product Tester
Bevel Shave Kit
The truth of the matter is that men of color face different types of potential post-shaving skin issues, namely ingrown hairs and hyperpigmentation. It’s why Tristan Walker created this brand, specifically to address these unique needs. This complete kit comes with everything he needs to achieve the smoothest shave ever, from start to finish. We’re talking a softening pre-shave oil, shave cream and brush, a safety razor, and a soothing, bump-fighting aftershave balm. Also nice: Gift him this initial kit, and then he can easily subscribe to get a monthly refill of the topical products and additional blades.
Price at time of publish: $100
Cosori Air Fryer Max XL
If he doesn’t yet have an air fryer in his life, do him a favor and gift him one, ASAP. From frozen fries to veggies to steaks to heating up leftover pizza, there’s nothing this appliance can’t do. This one in particular boasts a compact frame that won’t take up a ton of real estate in the kitchen but still has a nice, four-quart capacity. It heats up to 450 degrees and has a smart control function that syncs up with an app on your phone, making cooking easier than ever.
Price at time of publish: $100
Common Heir 10% Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is one of those skincare ingredients that pretty much anyone and everyone should be using. The only issue? It can be irritating for some, which is part of the reason why we like these serum capsules from BIPOC-, female-owned brand Common Heir so much. Their formula relies on THD, a gentler version of vitamin C that’s much less likely to irritate. It’s also the first vitamin C serum that comes in entirely plastic-free packaging; instead, it’s housed in biodegradable capsules that also happen to deliver the perfect amount for each use.
Price at time of publish: $88
What Our Testers Say
“Using Common Heir, I experienced no stinging and no breakouts, just glow. My skin looked hydrated and lit from within on day one, and I’m excited to reap the long-term benefits of the active ingredients, like a more even skin texture and tone.” —Kathryn Vandervalk, VP of Content Strategy
Gomorrah Compostable Night Swim Tee
This is anything but your average T-shirt. As the name suggests, the 100% plant-based piece is completely compostable, so you never have to worry about it ending up in a landfill, ideal for anyone looking to make their wardrobe more sustainable. But whomever you gift this to certainly won’t be composting it any time soon; the quality is incredibly impressive, with sewing techniques similar to those used in haute couture pieces and made of 100% certified organic cotton. And while it’s touted as a menswear piece, the fit is completely gender fluid.
Price at time of publish: $60
The Skyway Luggage Co. Rainier Simple Everyday Backpack
For commuting, as a personal item on a plane, or for quick weekend trips, this backpack is perfect. The streamlined exterior is fashionable, while the inside is functional, complete with a built-in, padded laptop pocket. It comes in four colors, and, best of all, is made from PET fabric that comes from recycled plastic water bottles.
Price at time of publish: $160
Case-Mate FUEL 3-in-1 Foldable Power Station
If he’s constantly wrangling all kinds of chargers and cords and dongles to power up his assorted devices, this is an absolute game-changer. The compact, completely foldable, and portable pad can charge up to three devices at once—think his phone, smartwatch, and AirPods. (In related news, it’s compatible with both Apple and Samsung devices.) It’s great for the frequent traveler, but also just a nice way to minimize clutter on a counter or desk.
Price at time of publish: $150
Shaker and Spoon Cocktail Subscription Box
Subscription boxes are truly the gift that keeps on giving, and we love that this one is unique. Perfect for anyone who loves to play mixologist (and/or just genuinely enjoys a great craft cocktail), this monthly box comes complete with all of the ingredients he needs to create three unique cocktail recipes based on one particular type of liquor. The only thing that’s not provided is the booze, so if you want to up your gifting ante, throw in a bottle and you’re good to go.
Price at time of publish: $57 for 3 Months
Philips Norelco OneBlade Face + Body
There’s a good reason—or reasons, as it were—that Byrdie deems this the best overall razor for men. (Byrdie Boy Tynan Sinks also calls it, “the best grooming tool I have ever used,” no big deal.) Great for both facial and body hair, it can be used both wet and dry, as well as with or without shaving cream. It comes with a variety of blades and combs, and a skin guard, not to mention it is sleek and lightweight, perfect for using either at home or on the go. And the affordable price point can’t be beaten, particularly given how versatile it is.
Price at time of publish: $50
Gentlemen’s Hardware Paddle Ball Set
Whether at the beach, in the backyard, or on the driveway, this paddle ball set is great for any game-lover. Portable and compact, it comes housed in a convenient drawstring bag so you can get to playing anytime, anywhere—no court (or country club membership) required.
Price at time of publish: $20
Greatness Wins Core Tech Jogger
Major athletes—Derek Jeter and Wayne Gretzky, just to name a few—have helped curate and test the pieces from this sportswear brand. There are plenty of items to choose from, though we’re partial to these joggers. They combine the comfy factor of your favorite worn-in sweatpants, but with all kinds of cool performance features, think moisture wicking, UPF 40, and a reflective logo for nighttime visibility. The brand is marketed toward men for now, but keep an eye out for their women’s line, designed by Misty Copeland, in 2023.
Price at time of publish: $99
Hawthorne Gift Card
Fragrance is arguably one of the riskiest gifts of all time. It’s one of the most subjective, personal things out there, and, even if you think you know someone’s scent preferences, it’s still a gamble. That’s why we suggest getting the guy in your life a gift card to Hawthorne instead. Not only will he get to pick his fragrance, but he’ll also actually get to customize his scent via a quick lifestyle and taste quiz. And if he’s not a big cologne guy? He can also choose from a wide variety of body, face, and home products.
Price at time of publish: $100
Ceylon Skincare Set
Founder Patrick Boateng created Ceylon to address the unique complexion concerns of men of color. The line is simple. Case in point: This lineup of face wash, toner, and moisturizer is a starter kit ideal for any guy who hasn’t fully nailed down a skincare regimen. All you have to do is use the trio of products twice daily (adding sunscreen in the morning, of course) and you’re good to go.
Price at time of publish: $80
MagicLinen Waffle Bath Robe
Word is that Meghan Markle is a fan of this brand, known for an array of cozy clothes, luxe bedding, and more. Exhibit A: This waffle weave robe is a perfect dupe for the kind you’d find in five-star hotels. Made of a linen-cotton blend, it strikes the perfect balance of being absorbent and soft yet still lightweight, while the pockets and hood are just a nice added touch. It also comes in five neutral colors, offering a little something for everyone.
Price at time of publish: $119
Hillside Harvest Hot Sauce Variety Pack
Nothing against standard Sriracha or traditional Tabasco, but this is a great way to level up his hot sauce game. The BIPOC-owned brand uses simple, organic ingredients to craft all kinds of yummy flavors, and this variety pack is a great way to try three: original hot pepper, pineapple Fresno, and sun-kissed tomato, each of which packs a differing degree of spice.
Price at time of publish: $30
Fieldtrip Overnight Trip Hydrating Lip Mask
We all know at least one guy who always has to have lip balm in his pocket. Well, just wait until you introduce that guy to a lip mask. (Insert the “mind blown” emoji here.) This pick from a gender-neutral skincare line relies on castor oil, plus moringa and cupuacu butters, to deeply moisturize even the most chapped lips overnight. It’s so good that he just may forget to reach for his beloved lip balm the next day.
Price at time of publish: $13
Boy Smells Italian Kush Candle
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again—candles are truly the world’s most foolproof, universal gift. We like this one in particular for the guys (although, really for anyone), thanks to its addicting mix of herbaceous, green, and citrus notes. More specifically, a mix of basil, oregano, and cannabis, plus limoncello and pomelo. It may sound like a slightly bizarre mix, but take our word: It works.
Price at time of publish: $36
Stanley The IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle
A water bottle falls into the “practical present” category, but this one is still totally gift-worthy thanks to several unique features. The flip-up straw makes drinking a breeze; it then snaps back down and locks in place to prevent any kind of unwanted spills or leaks, even if it gets tossed around. It also has double-walled vacuum insulation to keep drinks cold for up to 16 hours and iced for up to 45 hours, perfect for anyone who is on the go all day long.
Price at time of publish: $42
Kaenon Avalon Polarized Sunglasses
Lightweight yet not in the least bit flimsy, these stylish unisex sunnies check all the boxes we look for in a good pair of sunglasses. They come in a variety of colors and frame finishes, have a no-slip grip on the nose pad, and tout a coating to help repel water, oil, and dirt. They’re also handcrafted in Japan and surprisingly durable, with a feel (and look) that’s akin to much pricier sunglasses.
Price at time of publish: $125
H.I.M.-istry Acai Berry Beard & Face Cleanser
File this one under the “why didn’t we think of that” category: a brilliant, multi-tasking cleanser that works equally well on both facial skin and facial hair. Credit ingredients that offer benefits for each, such as exfoliating glycolic acid, antioxidant-rich acai, and moisturizing aloe vera. It’s a must for any guy who loves to rock a beard and wants to keep both it (and his skin) looking good with minimal effort.
Price at time of publish: $19
Monos Carry On Plus Spinner
If budget isn’t a factor, a new piece of luggage is always a splurge-worthy gift, particularly this suitcase. Featuring plenty of room (but still in a carry-on-approved size), this touts an unbreakable, aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell, so you never have to worry about it getting dinged up or cracking. Vegan leather details add an upscale touch, while a built-in compression pad helps ensure you can pack as much as possible. We also appreciate that both the interior fabric and the included laundry bag are antimicrobial.
Price at time of publish: $265
Victrola The Journey Record Player
It may look like a mini suitcase on the outside, but this houses a full-on record player (that yes, is perfectly portable). Along with built-in speakers, it also has Bluetooth capability, so you can play music from any device, and not just on the turntable. Plus, it comes in eight colors that work with any aesthetic.
Price at time of publish: $80
Motsi Cold Brew Beard Oil
Here’s a fun twist on a gift idea for a coffee lover. There are real coffee beans used in this oil, which helps to condition and soften even super coarse and scruffy beards. And yes, it does have a pleasant coffee scent, a nice pick-me-up on sleepy mornings.
Price at time of publish: $48
Bellroy Tech Kit
Consider this a Dopp kit for all of your various cords and cables and tech accessories. The zip-top pouch has everything from mesh pockets for a mouse and charging brick to elastic loops that keep all kinds of cords neat and corralled. It opens up completely flat for easy access, and the softshell siding is hard enough to be durable, yet soft enough to easily wedge into a crowded suitcase or backpack.
Price at time of publish: $59
ThermoPro TP920 Wireless Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
Grilling gadgets are a dime a dozen, but this is one that we can pretty much guarantee he’ll make good use of. Two probes track the temp of any meat (be it in a grill, a smoker, or even just the oven) and sync up to an app on your phone so that you can easily keep track of cooking temps. It’s a surefire way to make even a total novice look like a legit grill master.
Price at time of publish: $45
Revo Ace Blue Light Glasses
For anyone who is spending a lot of time staring at a screen (so, um, everyone), blue light-blocking glasses can be an invaluable accessory. These are cool and stylish enough that they easily make for a fashionable and functional gift. They block out both the most harmful blue light as well as 100% of UV rays, and you can even add lens magnification to use them as readers.
Price at time of publish: $49
Anthony Skincare Starter Kit
This set of five, mini grooming essentials is the perfect way to ensure he never gets stuck with just a basic bar of generic hotel soap on his next trip. The bottles are all TSA-friendly, and the set comes with a facial cleanser, scrub, moisturizer, hair and body wash, and shave cream. They’re also easily refillable, not to mention work great split up as stocking stuffers.
Price at time of publish: $30
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX Desert Sunset
These unisex sneaks are a cool, utility-inpsired twist on classic Chucks. The iron gray and red color combo makes a statement, while stretch canvas and webbing in the heel make these high-tops extra comfortable. The style is also surprisingly versatile. Pair them with jeans, shorts, trousers—you name it, they work.
Price at time of publish: $80
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer
Boost his self-care routine with this lightweight yet ultra-nourishing moisturizer, which features a 30% hyaluronic acid complex to keep skin hydrated (but never greasy) for up to 72 hours. The water-based cream instantly calms and refreshes, and the results only get better with regular use as your skin soaks in the intense moisture to appear softer and smoother.
Price at time of publish: $54
What Our Testers Say
“Immediately after applying this Peter Thomas Roth moisturizer, my skin felt great, [but] it wasn’t until day three that I really noticed a difference. The phone rang as I was washing my face, so I didn’t get to apply anything until a good 15-20 minutes later. Normally, my face would’ve felt tight, especially around my eye area, but instead, it was as though I’d moisturized as usual.” —Bryan Levandowski, Product Tester
Realspace Gaming Vertex Faux Leather Gaming Chair
If he’s hard at work in the home office by day and a gamer by night, get him a chair that can do both. With a high back, supportive padding, and a sleek black leather finish, this seat is ideal for staying comfortable through long work or play sessions, plus it looks great in the background of a Zoom call.
Price at time of publish: $400
Afropick Fresher Prince
This stunning afro pick deserves a prominent place on any bathroom counter, as its colorful, abstract design is a mood-boosting tribute to Black culture. It’s functional, too, with an anti-static design and a comfortable grip for easy daily styling. We also love how the product name is a fun tribute to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Price at time of publish: $15
HyperChiller HC2 Iced Coffee/Beverage Cooler
This Amazon find makes at-home iced coffee a more streamlined process than ever—no need for overnight cold brew prep or settling for a lukewarm beverage. Simply brew your favorite hot coffee, pour it directly into the HyperChiller, and the patented design will cool it down to an optimal temperature in just one to two minutes. Mornings have never been easier.
Price at time of publish: $25
Quince Turkish Spa Towel Bundle
A good towel set can make everyday cleansing and grooming feel luxurious, and this one combines soft 100% Turkish cotton with a calming gray tone. Including two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, this bundle is sure to make his routine that much more elevated.
Price at time of publish: $165
Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Balm
Most of us know someone who’s a huge Aesop fan, and for good reason: The brand’s line of skin and body care products features luxurious, nourishing ingredients as well as cult-favorite scents crafted in collaboration with renowned perfumers Barnabé Fillion and Céline Barel. The smoky, woodsy-scented Reverence Aromatique Hand Balm is a great gift for anyone, whether the goal is to pair with the iconic hand soap or to keep hands soft and hydrated throughout all of 2023.
Price at time of publish: $35
Estelle Colored Glass Set of 2 Rocks Glasses
There’s something about a nice set of glasses that makes whatever cocktail or mocktail you’re drinking taste that much better. Estelle Colored Glass is sure to make any bar cart more fun with its full range of drinkware in the most stunning array of shades, upgrading at-home happy hour no matter the drink of choice. We love this set of emerald green rocks tumblers—now all he’ll need is a new recipe to try out in them.
Price at time of publish: $95
Nathan James Hallie Retro Mid-Century Rolling Trolley Bar Cart
Speaking of bar carts, if he’s in need of a place to store his favorite ingredients, tools, and glassware, this Amazon option is compact without sacrificing style and looks far more expensive than it is. We love its circular design, and it comes in three different wood grain finishes, so it’s ready to accent spaces with a wide range of color palettes and aesthetics.
Price at time of publish: $108
Urbanista Los Angeles Solar Powered Headphones
Over-the-ear headphones are having a major moment lately, and we love their potential to upgrade your listening experience while commuting or working out. This pair is solar-powered, so they’ll actually charge themselves during the day and eliminate the need to plug in (though they do still have a cable to use at night or any time you’re away from sunlight). With noise cancellation, ambient sound mode, and compatibility with both Siri and Google Voice, these innovative headphones have everything you need at a fraction of the price of some top competitors.
Price at time of publish: $199
Uncommon Goods Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle
Whether you and yours are fans of the latest wave of whodunit films (Knives Out and Glass Onion marathon, anyone?) or simply looking for a gift that doubles as a fun activity to do together, a sophisticated, sleuthing puzzle like this is sure to fit the bill. It comes in two themes, and we love how the box’s book-style design means it will look great on the shelf in between enjoying it time and time again.
Price at time of publish: $19
The Art of Shaving Beard Prep Kit
If the man in your life proudly rocks a beard, get him a grooming set to elevate his self-care routine. This one has a luxe look and feel at an accessible price, and it includes a cleanser, a beard conditioner, and a beard oil for a full routine, in addition to a travel bag to hold it all.
Price at time of publish: $40
Buly Toyako Wood Comb
This luxurious wood comb is infused with camellia oil to foster stronger, shinier strands as it glides through the hair or beard. It’s an excellent gift for someone particularly dedicated to their grooming routine, plus it comes wrapped in Japanese paper, so the work of presentation is already half-done.
Price at time of publish: $250
Youth To The People Facial Your Way: Triple Mask Set
Our skin’s needs change by the day, so cover all your bases by gifting this Youth to the People face mask set, which includes options that hydrate, gently exfoliate, and improve texture. The included Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask even won Byrdie’s 2020 Eco Beauty Award for Best Overnight Mask, so we can vouch that it’s good for both skin and the environment.
Price at time of publish: $50
What Our Testers Say
"I'm a fan of so many Youth to the People products, and one of my favorites is this brightening and hydrating mask (which is really more of a rich night cream). I swear I see a noticeable difference in the tone and texture of my skin after just one use, and with continued application, my skin looks exponentially dewier and more even. It doesn't hurt that it smells great, too." —Lindsey Metrus, Former Associate General Manager
Bombas Dress Calf Sock 4-Pack Gift Box
It’s easy to forget the power of truly amazing socks until you’re wearing them. Bombas socks are worth the investment due to their stay-up technology, Y-stitched heel design, and honeycomb arch support system, all of which make them incredibly comfortable while maintaining a sophisticated, stylish look. The man who receives these will love the upgrade from basic sock packs.
Price at time of publish: $78
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade Foam Tonic Trio
Keep his hair in tip-top shape by gifting this styling set, which includes a fan- and Byrdie-favorite pomade, a hydrating mousse with heat protectant, and a vent brush that’s ideal for use with a hairdryer. With a set like this, he’ll find achieving a healthy, well-groomed hairstyle to be more straightforward than ever.
Price at time of publish: $35
Balmain Homme Hair Perfume
Hair perfume is not something that everyone thinks to include in their routine, which is exactly what makes it the perfect gift. This one features Balmain Homme’s signature bergamot and sandalwood notes, plus it’s boosted with silk protein and argan elixir to boost hair health while it creates an invigorating olfactory experience.
Price at time of publish: $163
Monday Non-Alcoholic Whiskey & Mezcal Duo
The sober curious lifestyle has been growing in popularity in recent years, and startups have been following suit by offering new zero-proof options. For those whose drinks of choice involve whiskey or mezcal, Monday is a great place to start, as it’s created small-batch spirits that feature carefully crafted taste profiles without any of the alcohol. According to reviewers, both spirits taste remarkably similar to the real thing, helping you to up your mocktail game.
Price at time of publish: $102
Urban Outfitters Vinyl Record Storage Shelf
The resurgence of record players is not dying down any time soon, so chances are someone you know has a growing collection of favorite vinyls without a proper place to put them. This vintage-inspired storage shelf solves that problem in a way that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing—it has dividers that help organize up to 60 records, room for the record player itself and other items up top, and three colors so you can pick an option that matches the overall room aesthetic.
Price at time of publish: $119
Twice The Complete Kit
As an essential wellness practice, oral care may not be what you think of first when it comes to gifting, but new Lenny Kravitz-backed brand Twice just may change your mind. This kit has everything needed for two to three months of an innovative, elevated oral care routine—including two tubes of vitamin-enriched toothpaste, two packages of pH-balancing floss, an ultra-concentrated rinse, and a whitening pen—all in the company’s cheery yellow packaging. Pro tip: Make sure to select two of the three toothpaste flavors (spearmint eucalyptus, wintergreen peppermint, and vanilla lavender mint) to ensure your recipient gets the full experience.
Price at time of publish: $62
Brickell Restoring Eye Cream
This bestselling eye cream contains collagen, aloe, and peptides to help reduce the appearance of dark circles, lines, and wrinkles around the delicate skin around the eye area. The entire line is formulated with men's skincare in mind—he will love the understated packaging that sleek and oh-so-giftable.
Price at time of publish: $40
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has nearly 15 years of journalism experience covering the beauty and lifestyle space for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She’s written countless gift guides across a wide array of topics and categories—and is also genuinely obsessed with giving gifts and always finding the right present for whomever she is shopping for.
Byrdie contributor, Ali Webb has worked in beauty and style editorial for over five years and has been a content producer at Byrdie since 2021. She’s contributed to CR Fashion Book and Fashion Unfiltered as well as Elle UK, and Cosmopolitan.