The Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Pickiest Dude in Your Life (2024)

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Say it with a ritzy cologne (or a fuzzy sweater).

By Lori Keong and Timothy Beck Werth

The Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Pickiest Dude in Your Life (4)

    Yeah, yeah, Valentine’s Day is a fake holiday. But don’t get it twisted: the stakes are very much real. Making a shortlist of Valentine's gifts for him is a good place to start, because no matter how anti-capitalist your giftee claims to be, they will be secretly disappointed if you don’t buy them a gift, and will read way too deeply into whatever you get them if you do. It’s a real rock-and-a-hard-place situation, but it’s better to take your chances with the latter. That's why we’ve compiled this list of can’t-fail Valentine's Day gift ideas for him that just about every guy will love—including gadgets that both of you can enjoy on a date night in, comfy but stylish layers for his glossiest fits yet, and skincare picks that'll nudge him in the right direction. Good luck out there, everybody.

    The Best Valentine's Day Gifts for Men, at a Glance

    We still have time before Valentine's Day shopping truly kicks off in earnest (i.e. before you need to shell out extra for expedited shipping). But just in case you want to get straight to the goodies, here are some sure winners that make for the perfect gift for the man you're shopping for.

    Looking for more? Head over to our massive list ofValentine’s Day gift ideas, or subscribe to theGQ Recommends newsletterto get all our shopping guides and weekly sale picks.

    All products featured on GQ are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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      Filson

      24-Hour Tin Cloth Briefcase

      This classic briefcase is a grown-up version of his backpack, and who knows, it might just score him a promotion.

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      Caldera + Lab

      The Body Bar

      Give your guy a fresh-scented body bar from this GQ Grooming Award-winning brand. Instead of plastic microbeads, it uses a blend of natural exfoliants and essential oils.

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      Bang and Olufsen

      Beosound A1 Waterproof Portable Speaker

      Most party speakers favor tacky designs and RGB lights, but not this one. And where other speakers are merely splashproof, the A1 is a true submersible.

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      Epic Games

      Alan Wake 2

      A new game he can lose himself in for hours that ranks among the greatest of all time for horror aficionados.

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      Todd Snyder x Timex

      Blackout Watch

      If your giftee is into the all black everything aesthetic, he'll love this blackout watch, which he'll actually be able to read.

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      Cableami

      Boa Aviator Hat

      Let him cosplay as Elmer Fudd while he chases you, his wascally wabbit.

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      Le17septembre

      Knitted Polo

      Everyone's wearing a knitted polo nowadays, and it's about as close as a guy can get to looking like Jacob Elordi without standing on stilts and speaking in an Australian accent.

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      Byredo

      Suede Hand Lotion

      He'd never buy himself bougie lotion, but you know he deserves to smell like a million bucks and have the smoothest skin known to man.

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      New Balance

      Fresh Foam X 1080v13

      New Balance really nailed the cushiony feel with the Fresh Foam, so much so that he'll feel like he's running on clouds.

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      Ooni

      Volt 12 Pizza Oven

      If you're lucky, he'll invite you over for weekly pizza nights with pies that didn't come from the freezer.

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      Aesop

      Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream

      You can lead a man to water, but you can't always make him drink. Thankfully, Aesop has enough curb appeal that with this in hand, he'll at least be tempted to hydrate his face every once in a while.

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      Abercrombie & Fitch

      Handcrafted Long-Sleeve 3-Button Sweater Polo

      An invitation to show a little more skin this year.

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      REI

      America the Beautiful Parks Pass 2024/2025

      For the guy who's always down to break new ground, explore the unknown, and maybe even share a tiny van with you out there off the grid, this pass gains you entry to a bunch of new territory to explore around the country.

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      Nike

      ACG Moc Sneakers

      Sensible slip-ons in a pulse-spiking shade, from the Swoosh's ACG line? A slam-dunk as far as Valentine's Day gifts go.

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      Braun

      13-in-1 Hair Trimmer

      Getting him one of our favorite beard trimmers will be a subtle nudge to remind him that No Shave November ended two months ago.

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      Todd Snyder

      Space-Dyed Linen Cotton Cardigan

      Wearing his heart on his sleeve has never looked dreamier.

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      Huckberry x Blundstone

      1320 Chelsea Boot

      Turns out limited-edition Blunnies are the key to his heart.

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      Tom Ford

      Myrrh Mystere Eau de Parfum

      Ford's typically sultry cologne—which mixes notes of myrrhe, sandalwood, and sweet vanilla—is practically an aphrodisiac, and makes for a sensational signature scent all year-long.

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      Le Mont St Michel

      French Moleskin Work Jacket

      Nothing more romantic than the kind of trend-resistant jacket that he'll want to keep around for decades to come, no matter what life throws at him. Everytime he wears it, he'll have reason to think of you.

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      Apple

      Watch Series 9 [GPS + Cellular 45mm]

      For your type A valentine who's always self-optimizing, stat by stat by stat.

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      Acne Studios

      Multicolor Check Scarf

      It's a classic for a reason, but in a pattern that feels as new and exhilarating as a first crush.

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      Beer Drop

      Craft Beer Box

      For the guy whose love language is receiving a trove of deep cuts from the best breweries from across the land.

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      David Yurman

      Helios Band Ring

      To infinity and beyond.

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      Atlas Coffee

      Chocolate and Coffee Gift Set

      Name a better duo than chocolate and rich coffee beans...we'll wait.

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      Alex Mill

      V-Neck Lightweight Cashmere Sweater

      This sweater is so soft he'll be wondering why you keep hugging him (it's the sweater).

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      Fellow

      Clara French Press

      Get him to finally ditch the Keurig.

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      The Elder Statesman

      Cashmere Socks

      Remember when socks as a gift used to be a punishment? That quickly ended once we became adults, especially when those socks are as luxe and soft as cashmere.

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      Firsthand

      Find Your Style Sample Kit

      Whether he has Yu-Gi-Oh spikes or a Johnny Bravo pomp, he can keep his hair in check with some of this excellent schmutz.

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      Fluance

      RT81 Turntable

      Turn that funky music up!

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      Miansai

      Thin Lennox Jasper Ring

      You liked it, so you put a ring on it. Just not that ring.

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      Flint and Tinder

      Flannel-Lined Waxed Jacket

      He's always under-dressing for the weather, but a jacket this good (and warm) will be the perfect outerwear piece for many years to come.

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      Sonos

      One Speaker

      He'll finally stop talking about how badly he wants a Sonos One now that he actually has one of the best speakers around.

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      Nintendo

      Switch

      A Nintendo Switch could take your relationship to the next level. Playing head-to-head on Mario Kart is another story.

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      Fast and Free Lined Shorts

      "Babe, maybe this year should actually give running a shot before you decide it's not worth all that effort."

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      Routine Pack

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      High Stride Pant

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    The Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Pickiest Dude in Your Life (2024)

    FAQs

    What is the best gift to give a man on Valentine's Day? ›

    Some guys may be yearning for a high-quality turntable; others may want nothing more than a reliable chef's knife. Some want a trip to the spa and fancy skin care. (And, of course, there are the guys who truly just want a nice dinner and chocolate.)

    How do I make my man feel special on Valentine's Day? ›

    How to Surprise Your Boyfriend at Home
    1. Set a romantic scene. Create a romantic environment in his or your home as a surprise after a long day at work. ...
    2. Movie night in. ...
    3. Make art together. ...
    4. Create a grand entrance. ...
    5. Give him a spa treatment. ...
    6. Music and dancing. ...
    7. Plan an outdoor adventure. ...
    8. Take him out of town.
    Jan 16, 2019

    What do guys like on Valentine's Day? ›

    On the list of things guys want for Valentine's Day, intimate alone time with you is at the top. Make it special by turning up the romance more than normal or trying something new. Book a hotel room for the night or turn up the heat with a few toys; he'll be thrilled.

    What should a girl get a guy on Valentine's Day? ›

    That's precisely why something thoughtful is the best option for a Valentine's Day gift for your boyfriend. There are plenty of cute things (think: a matching set of coffee mugs) and creative finds (from neck massagers to DIY books or even personalized whiskey glasses) that will fit the bill.

    Do you give a guy a Valentines gift? ›

    Therefore, Valentine's Day is a perfect time to get your boyfriend a gift that will make them feel loved and appreciated for all they do for you and your relationship. It's important to appreciate each other throughout the year with gifts of love and tokens of appreciation.

    How to spoil your man without spending money? ›

    10 Unique Ways to Show Love Without Spending Money
    1. Make a photo book or collage. ...
    2. Or go digital, and edit a video. ...
    3. Send them on a scavenger hunt. ...
    4. Curate a personal playlist for them. ...
    5. Stay in for a cozy movie night. ...
    6. Offer up a service or favor (and actually follow through). ...
    7. Take them on a romantic hike.
    Jul 12, 2023

    Do guys expect something on Valentine's Day? ›

    “While I wouldn't be weirded out by the girl reciprocating, I definitely look at it as my time to shine more than hers.” Still, most men responded overwhelmingly positively to the idea of a woman using the holiday as an excuse to show her affection: “[Receiving something] isn't expected, but it'd warm my heart.

    How do you tell a guy Happy Valentines Day? ›

    Valentine Messages For Lover
    1. You're sweet, strong, smart and sexy. ...
    2. Every time I'm with you, the room gets a whole lot hotter.
    3. You are my lover, my partner, my inspiration, my best friend, my one and only, my life. ...
    4. From the first touch in the morning to the last kiss at night, I love every little romantic thing we share.

    How to make him feel special? ›

    Strengthen your relationship with these 9 ways to make your significant other feel special.
    1. Show your appreciation. ...
    2. Tell them 'I love you' throughout the day. ...
    3. It's in the little things. ...
    4. Try to do at least one nice thing for your partner every day. ...
    5. Give them your undivided attention.

    Do men like to celebrate Valentines Day? ›

    Valentine's Day is a popular holiday for couples that dates back to the 1300s. Throughout history, this holiday has been celebrated by couples but, more so, the women in the relationships. However, a survey has proven that men enjoy celebrating the holiday and getting showered with gifts too.

    What is the male Valentines Day? ›

    Steak and blowj*b Day (sometimes Steak & BJ Day or Steak and Knobber Day) is a satirical unofficial holiday created in the United States as a male response to Valentine's Day and celebrated a month later, on March 14.

    What to gift a man on Valentine's? ›

    No matter if you're shopping for your doting husband or loving boyfriend, there are tons of creative gift ideas on this list. A few favorites? A screen magnifier so he watch his favorite shows right on his smartphone, a mini indoor fireplace and a personalized framed print of your favorite song as a couple.

    How much should I spend on my boyfriend for Valentines? ›

    Driver's data finds those who are in one to two-year relationships are the most susceptible to high prices. They will be dropping $247 on average, whereas those together for less than a year will be spending $186. Those who've been at each other's sides for over ten years will spend about $189.

    When he doesn't get you anything for Valentine's day? ›

    Generally, some reasons why this embarrassing and heartbreaking event happened include: he's just too busy, your gift might still be in transit, or worse, he doesn't love you anymore. It might also be because he's planning a surprise for you or because he views valentine's as a “Hallmark Holiday.”

    What to make for Valentine's Day gifts for him? ›

    Surprise him with a heartfelt card, plan a cozy movie night with his favorite films, or create a personalized playlist. Consider cooking his favorite meal or gifting a thoughtful item, like a book or gadget he's been eyeing.

    What to get your situationship for Valentine's Day? ›

    Have no worries, because although your relationship is vague and undefined, these seven gift ideas are too!
    • A Yankee Candle. Normally, candles are a great way to help someone relax and set a romantic mood. ...
    • A cactus. ...
    • A SIM card. ...
    • A nice, thoughtful book. ...
    • A chess set. ...
    • A personalized playlist. ...
    • A $20 Amazon gift card.
    Feb 10, 2024

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