What are the best gifts for men in their midlives? I’m looking to give something fun, rather than stereotypical or utilitarian… no bbq gear! no ties!

Question

Robert Palmer patiently explains to the void · Answer

A day of not having to decide anything: This might be unique to me as a middle-aged man, but the best vacation days I've had are the ones where I don't have to make any decisions.

Being able to say "it's not up to me!" sometimes is real mental freedom!

Not having to worry about what to buy, where's our next meal coming from, where we have to drive, what to prep or clean or wash, what the dogs or kids need ... just being relieved of the need to be mentally and physically prepared for something to happen. The feeling that everything is handled and there's nothing that needs doing ... is a real gift.

pairofgeese · Answer

Connect them with their younger self: What were they into when they were younger and had more disposable time? Sports? Get them a back-of-the-door hoop to mess around with at home or office. Movies? Get them a gift card for guilt-free cinema trips. Gamer? Get them a handheld gaming console or a board game. Help them reconnect with anything that brought uncomplicated joy!

Dawno · Answer

Theragun!: I love the mini. Can travel with it. The big guy for big guys.

Jess · Answer

The gift of prototyping: If you want to give a great gift, but you aren't entirely sure what will work for the other person, you can give the gift of prototyping!

Pick several small, cheap options for your gift for them to test. (Think samplers, travel sizes, or dupes.) Once they've tried all the options, let them tell you all about what they thought. Then use that information to get them the full version that's best for them.

Bonus points for any of the following:
- Add photos of the final gifts you're considering
- Choose an entirely unreasonable number of prototypes to create a sense of abundance
- Include a pretty notebook for them to record their thoughts
- Invite them to a coffee date to hear about their testing
- Offer to recycle or repurpose any unwanted prototypes for them