Thanksgiving has passed and December is in full-swing.. As for me, I’m living in denial that winter is here and shopping has to happen. I am notoriously known for getting a handful of gifts months in advance, but the bulk of my gifts at the very last second. Amazon Prime can only get you so far this late into the game, but fortunately for you, you’ve still got plenty of time to search. So this year, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite gifts for this year, ranging from items that I personally own or use everyday to some of the very things that sit on my own wish list. These gifts are both functional and classy, made for the uncommon gentleman. I’m honored to present the 2014 Curated Christmas for Him series.
Portable Charger, Anker
This device has been the mobile lifesaver of many adventures, from road trips to camping expeditions. About the size of an Android phone, the Anker quickly charges your mobile device or tablet (anything that charges with via USB). You get up to 7 full charges and it fits nicely into any backpack, pocket, or purse. And it sure beats navigating to the nearest outlet while at your favorite spot or while sitting in the airport terminal.
Bifold wallet, Honest Carry Goods (Columbus, OH)
I’ve been a fanboy of Honest Carry Goods since its earliest days. Last year my go-to gift was a handmade canvas dopp kit for traveling; this year, it’s the beautiful leather bifold wallet, made with a classic ball glove leather from Horween. The leather wears naturally, but the product itself remains durable. The leather takes on new colors with age, with a guarantee of quality and durability with every purchase. Stop me next time you see me and you’ll be shocked to see how perfect you can fit 5-8 cards and a few dollar bills in this slim-fit wallet. Don’t worry, I’ll even let you smell the wallet with zero judgment, because I do it on the regular.
Over the years, the HOMAGE team has exploded beyond the borders of Columbus, with hundreds of shirts to choose from ranging from state park tributes to significant moments in sports history. And, even better, they’re still so dang’d comfortable. Support your favorite team and hop on one of their holiday Free Shipping specials. I also must note, all purchases are shipped with a pack of vintage ball cards (if you’re really lucky, you’ll get the Batman cards). If I could quote myself once for 2014, it comes down to one of the best investments I made for winter: “Dem sweatpants, tho!”
Bourbon, Basil Hayden’s (Lexington, KY)
A true gentleman’s sipping bourbon; delightfully packaged and a great addition to any man’s bar. This bottle of bourbon is under $45 and is great served neat or in a classic Old Fashioned. Put the Fireball Whiskey aside for a minute and enjoy something nice. You deserve it.
Field Notes, DDC (Portland, OR)
Aaron Draplin is a no-frills designer originally from the Midwest that has made his way out to Portland, Oregon. Simple designs and a tribute to all things Futura font, Draplin’s “no BS” mentality and simple steps for living life make me a brand advocate, despite his Michigan roots that compete with my Buckeye heritage. These notebooks come in a variety of colors and sizes, including a brand new series of letterpressed covers that are fantastic. And the truth is,If you don’t buy these, Draplin doesn’t really care.
Brewing Kit, Aeropress and Hario Hand Grinder
This coffee duo has been my life support on camping trips and extended stays. It all fits nicely into a backpack or carry-on, and you can get the quality of coffee that you deserve anywhere hot water is available. I’ve seen the aeropress used on an airplane as well as on a mountain; believe it or not, there are even national competitions to see who can brew the best cup using this gear. See a winning recipe from the National Aeropress Championships here. And, if you’re looking for some quality coffee, I suggest a stop-in at Mission Coffee Co. in the Short North or online ordering from Ruby Coffee Roasters out of Wisconsin.
Wool Socks, People Socks (Brooklyn, NY)
I found the Brooklyn-based People Socks last year on Amazon in a search for affordable wool socks, and have since purchased over 10 pairs. These socks are extremely comfortable, worn in the office under a pair of dress boots or with steel-toed boots on the campsite. What’s best is the price point, which comes in a few bucks less than Woolrich or similar sock makers. I support the small guy here and am yet to wear a hole into a single pair. Go here for 10% off your first order!
Wood Bowtie, Two Guys Bowties (Oklahoma City, OK)
I met these guys in Chicago a few months ago and came back home with my very own tie. While I rarely tout a bowtie, I found these to be both classy and striking, unlike anything I’ve ever worn around my neck. From a formal dinner to a casual night of cocktails, these handmade ties can be paired with a lapel flower for a dapper evening. You can get 15% off your bowtie purchase here.
The same brand that my father and grandfather used when they were younger; Stanley is built tough and made to last. And while, admittedly, the company has started to outsource their products to other countries, the brand stands by its lifetime guarantee for all products; a must-have for anything vacuum-sealed. I’ve used my mug every single day for almost a year and have given it a fair share of concrete drops, holding steady and maintaining its heat. Need coffee to fill up? Check out Mission Coffee Co in the Short North or consider Verve Coffee Roasters out of Santa Cruz, California.
This comes from a guy who used to get all of his flannel at J Crew or Banana Republic. Feel free to judge me. This flannel is the real deal, made to keep you warm as well as stylish. I recently wore mine on a 10-miler across the Oregon Coast and managed to strip out of both upper layers thanks to this gem.
“Scary Close”Pre Order, Donald Miller
This winter, I heard Donald Miller share personal stories about his journey through intimacy and relationships, as he is happily married to his wife Betsy while managing the Storyline conference and Story Brand consulting group. I picked up this book at the conference and couldn’t put it down in the week following. A simple read with great input regarding the way you’ve placed yourself in your relationships, your work, and your life. This book ships out February 3, 2015.
Donation to Charity: Water (Manhattan, NY)
Chances are you’ve already gone an assortment from stuff and recently found something you received last year that you forgot to use. We’ve all got closets full of clothes, accessories, and housewares that we could probably do without. So my final recommendation is to make a donation in honor of your loved ones to charity:water. Scott Harrison is a former club promoter that decided it was time to do something that mattered; and if you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to watch “the Journey”, a touching yet light-hearted mini-doc series that showcases where your donations are going and how every dollar is helping communities create sustainable opportunities for clean water. I recently spoke with filmmaker and editor Jamie Pent, who shot and edited this entire production and was honored to even say thank you for creating the project. There are good people in NYC making big moves for our world. Consider donating what you would have spent (and maybe a bit more) this holiday season.