newsletter issue 160

Dads (and all father figures) are notoriously hard to shop for. They’re not the ones to drop hints. They’re often suspicious of “fancy” things. And they’ll claim they don’t need anything right before borrowing your charger, gaming console, or face wash. So this Father’s Day, skip the cliché mugs and instead gift something he’ll actually use and brag about at the next family lunch.

Whether the dad in question is a Star Wars superfan, a casual gamer, or a backyard pizza chef in the making, we’ve rounded up gifts that feel personal, indulgent, and unexpected. For the “cool dad” who’s at pickleball every Saturday morning, trying keep up with the Gen Zs on court, the sleek Tumi Alpha Pickleball Bag is equal parts utilitarian and flex. If he’s more of an “indoor sports” guy, there’s the newly launched Nintendo Switch 2—a no-brainer for gamers who grew up on Mario Kart. Or go the sentimental route with a custom Lego Minifigure he’ll want to keep on his desk, not in the toy box.

For the dad who geeks out over collectables, there’s the Grogu (Baby Yoda) sculpture by Lladró, a high-gloss take on his favourite galaxy-far-far-away character. Would he rather fire up the grill than order in? The Ooni gas-powered pizza oven turns backyard dinners into wood-fired events. And if you’re playing it safe but stylish, the Panerai Luminor Marina watch is a classic gift you truly can’t go wrong with.

Point is: whatever kind of dad you’re shopping for, this guide will help you land on something thoughtful, well above average—and won’t end up buried in a drawer. For the full list, head to The Nod.