Gift Ideas for Guys

Whether it's a new boyfriend, fun-loving big brother or your wonderful husband, coming up with gift ideas for guys requires some intense effort to give something more original than a tie, socks or a video game.

Hobby-related gifts are always a hit, especially if you do your research. Is he an angler, bowler, hiker or couch potato? Dozens of gifts are geared to every hobby out there. There are two ways to go on a hobby gift. Choose something that he will actually use in his hobby, such as a new tackle box, bowling ball bag, backpack or surround sound system. Then there are related hobby gift items, such as T-shirts, bags or artwork that reflect his hobby. While the avid angler may have all the fishing equipment he needs, he'll likely love a framed watercolor of a fly fisherman in a pristine mountain stream.

Beyond hobbies, give him the gift of adventure. No matter what age he is, the guy in your life could likely use some excitement and a chance to do something completely different. Present him with a certificate for a skydiving adventure or a snowboarding lesson. Snowshoeing or snowmobiling are wonderful winter activities, while whitewater rafting and rock climbing work well for summer. Hot air balloon rides, sky tram rides, helicopter rides and similar thrill-rides also make wonderful gifts.

If he is more of a stay-at-home type, many guys like games, from video games to unusual board games. Puzzles and brainteasers often go over well. An exquisite chess set made of Italian marble or an antique backgammon set might be just the thing he'll love. Other ideas are unusual games such as dao (an Asian game played with a bamboo board and smooth stones) or konane, a board game unique to Hawaii.

Odds are that the guy in your life also watches or plays some kind of sport, from football and basketball to sculling or cricket. Any sports memorabilia from his favorite team will always please him. Select from game tickets to jerseys, coffee table books on team history or a subscription to a sports magazine that provides in-depth coverage of his sport.

Your guy is probably a gadget fanatic, too. With such an array of toys out there for grown men, you'll have to check for what he already has. Some high-end gadget ideas range from the ever-popular Wii and accessories to a camcorder, game system or fancy cell phone. Other less-pricey gadget ideas are a wireless iPod radio transmitter, a charging station, a digital picture frame or key chain, noise-canceling headphones, a beverage chiller or photography accessories, such as a tripod, case or new zoom lens.

Then again, you don't have to go with the traditional guy-friendly gifts. Appeal to his luxurious side by presenting a gift that allows him to indulge. Fine wine is always a lovely gift for the wine connoisseur, along with wine and bar accessories. Decanters, monogrammed wine glasses and even a leather wine carrier bring a touch of class to any home. For the more casual drinker who appreciates mixed drinks and domestic and imported beer, consider imported beer steins, fluted shot glasses, quality coasters or cocktail accessories. If your guy appreciates a good cigar, a silver cigar case, humidor or a box of premium cigars may be just right.

Chances are, when he's not enjoying wine or a cigar, this guy spends a lot of time at a desk, and desk accessories might make his work day easier. Purchase a leather desk set or a combination photo frame and calendar. A nice desktop caddy would organize and inspire him, while a chrome hourglass on a marble base or a crystal globe would bring an air of sophistication to his office.

Because a man's home is his castle, any gift that would compliment his role there is another great gift idea for guys. If the gift-giving occasion falls during the summer or fall months, look for a barbecue tool kit. These cleverly packaged kits come with an array of high quality barbecue tools, an apron and often some gourmet barbecue sauces and seasonings. Power tools are also wonderful gifts, if the tools are something a little out of the ordinary or perhaps a higher quality than the guy already has. The green-thumbed guy will appreciate garden tools, exotic plants or seeds and gardening accessories.

Once you survey his likes and dislikes and do a little research, you can certainly find a present that fits your budget and his tastes.