Shopping·12 min read

Crowd-Pleasing Presents for Guys Under $50

Gifts for Guys Under $50
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Uncommon Goods, Truff
October 21, 2022

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Raise your hand if every year you find yourself fighting the same battle. Aka the men on your shopping list claim “they don’t really need anything.” And let’s be real: You would rather gift them anything else instead of just another pair of plain socks. Well, we’re here to help. Consider your woes a thing of the past, thanks to these crowd-pleasing, wow-worthy gifts he’s sure to love (and brag about). We’ve found something for everyone — even the toughest, most stubborn guys to shop for. And what’s better? They’re all items with an affordable price tag. Oh, and there might be some socks on this list, but trust us, they’re anything but average.Want more holiday gifting ideas? Check out The Shoppes at Skimm Ave. for our recs for everyone on your list.

new york times travel guide book
Amazon

A coffee table book for the world traveler…

This book of city guides, based on the popular New York Times series, is like their own personal travel agent. It offers restaurant and hotel recs, plus photos, maps, and insider knowledge for planning a 36-hour stay in 150 different cities worldwide. The world really is their oyster. And for more great holiday gifts from Amazon, check out our storefront. ($30.49, Amazon)

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truff hot sauce
Truff

A truffle hot sauce that is oh-so decadent…

Truff hot sauce has a cult-like following for a reason. The artisanal, spicy star also comes in a white version. Much like the classic version they likely already know and love, this one is also made with white truffle and organic coriander. And if you’re worried about giving hot sauce as a gift, don’t be — this one comes in its own gold and white box. Delicious and chic. Psst…use code THESKIMM15 at checkout for 15% off. ($34.99, Truff)

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shower steamers
Uncommon Goods

Essential oil steamers that will turn their shower into a spa…

Give their daily routine a much needed dose of relaxation with a package of shower steamers that emit scents like eucalyptus and lemongrass. There’s an energizing option that helps wake them up in the morning, and one that helps promote a good night’s sleep too. Each steamer lasts a couple of uses and will leave them feeling refreshed in more ways than one. ($16, Uncommon Goods)

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patterned socks for guys
Amazon

Themed socks that’ll add a fun splash to their everyday outfits...

Because everyone appreciates a new pair of socks. This playful pack of ‘em will brighten up their drawer (and their day) — whether they’re a foodie, an animal lover, or an art buff. There are plenty of themes and designs to choose from. Sock yeah. ($24.99/12 pack, Amazon)

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personalized dog leash holder
Etsy

A custom dog leash holder for their best friend (besides you)...

Man’s best friend deserves the best accessories. This personalized wooden dog leash holder comes in various shades with adorable paw prints and is embossed with their pup’s name. With two hooks for a leash and belongings, they’ll never have to ask have you seen the leash? ever again. It’s a gift for everyone. And for more great holiday gifts from Etsy, shop here. ($29.99, Koinoniaandco via Etsy)

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birkenstock slip on sandals
Nordstrom

A waterproof shoe that’s also stylish…

Get him the Birkenstock look with a slightly less hefty price tag. This rubber version, which comes in three neutral colors, goes with everything and offers the same footbed support as its suede counterpart. Not to mention they’re waterproof, making them perfect for his next adventure. Or, you know, just sitting on the beach. ($49.95, Nordstrom)

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bartender cocktail kit
Amazon

An entire bartender kit that will help perfect their martini recipe…

Skip the overpriced cocktails on your next date night and give him this comprehensive bartender’s kit instead. It comes with everything you need to create any cocktail: There’s a muddler, a strainer, an ice crusher, and more. It even comes with its own wood display and a book of recipes. He’ll be drinking well all season long. ($39.65, Amazon)

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pizza griller
Uncommon Goods

A personal pizza griller that’s so convenient…

No brick oven? No problem. Gift them the taste of a freshly grilled pizza, without the legwork or heavy equipment. This small-but-mighty personal pizza pan pops right on the grill and makes a small, crispy pie in under 10 minutes. Plus, it’s compact enough to take with you wherever you go. Pizza time, all the time. And for more great holiday gifts from Uncommon Goods, shop here. ($40, Uncommon Goods)

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AirTag accessory
STM Goods

A flexible AirTag accessory to help them track their most prized valuables…

Give them the gift of not losing stuff (literally). This lightweight, silicone AirTag accessory loops onto basically anything they want to keep tabs on. The flexible shape makes it perfect for oddly shaped items, and each pack comes with a set of two. It’s the perfect useful present for your most forgetful friend. ($24.95/2 pack, STM Goods)

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Carhartt shirt
Nordstrom

A solid wardrobe staple in an unusual color…

It’s Carhartt beanie season, but this T-shirt from the brand can be worn year-round. Made from 100% cotton, it’s just structured enough to stand on its own, but would look great as a base layer too. It comes embroidered with the Carhartt logo and also comes in black and white. But the misty thistle color is definitely the most fun. ($48, Nordstrom)

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insulated cooler bag
Out of the Woods

A sleek, water-resistant cooler they can bring anywhere…

Forget about the bulky plastic coolers of the past. This sustainable cooler is made with materials from responsibly harvested trees, and is part fashion, part function. The water-resistant bag can hold up to 12 cans and is machine-washable. So spills are no problem. It’s a beach lover’s new best friend. ($29, Out of the Woods)

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tech holder
Amazon

A tech case that holds literally everything they need…

For the person constantly searching for their AirPods, this tech folio offers a stylish solution. The roomy case, which can hold a phone, laptop, headphones, chargers, and more, closes up into a compact folder with a handle so they can grab it before heading out the door. ($33.49, Amazon)

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travel coffee cup
Amazon

An on-the-go coffee cup that has thought of everything…

There’s nothing like a steaming cup of coffee in the morning. Especially if it’s still piping hot by the time they get to work. This tumbler keeps liquids hot for up to 12 hours, so they can keep sipping all day long. And don’t worry if they’re accident-prone. The commute-friendly tumbler comes with a splash guard to prevent spills. ($30, Amazon)

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dog dad baseball cap
Etsy

A hat for the dog dad in your life…

This soft, embroidered baseball hat lets him show off his favorite title to the world. Available in a range of colors, it’s a perfect piece to throw on for that early morning (or late night) walk. And an equally good conversation starter for the dog park. ($16.99, Hatphilemade via Etsy)

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national park-themed playing cards
Parks Project

A deck of cards that celebrate the beauty of our national parks…

Bring adventure to his living room with this deck of cards printed with various wildlife, plants, and landscape graphics. Parks Project works to, among other things, restore our natural resources and educate consumers about the importance of protecting our natural parks. Purchases made help the site with its financial goals. It’s a win-win for everyone. ($14, Parks Project)

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condiment cookbook
Amazon

A cookbook that’ll help him create tasty condiments…

Condiments simply make everything taste better. Just ask beloved chef Yotam Ottolenghi. He wrote an entire book on them. "Extra Good Things" is jam packed with recipes for dips, dressings, sauces, and more designed to make any dish pop. They’ll be whipping up deliciousness in no time. ($26.99+, Amazon)

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linen journal for men
Shinola

A linen journal in a ton of great colors…

Whether they’re into journaling, live by a to-do list, or just like doodling, this durable journal helps them write in style. It’s made with sustainable materials, acid-free paper, and comes in a whopping 10 colors. Bonus: It can be monogrammed for an extra-special touch. Write on. ($30, Shinola)

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leather keychain
Leatherology

A leather keychain with a vintage touch…

You might not think of a keychain as a go-to gift. But we’re here to help you reconsider. This leather piece, made to look like a retro hotel keychain, is the perfect addition to their set of keys. It comes in a wide range of fun colors and can be personalized. Too. Cool. ($15, Leatherology)

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oyster shucker
Made In

An oyster shucker that will make them the hit of the clambake…

There’s something inherently impressive about a person who knows how to shuck oysters. Especially someone who comes with their own tools. This durable shucker is made with a walnut wood handle and a stainless steel blade. Now oyster happy hour can be every hour. ($49, Made In)

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dash air fryer
Amazon

An affordable air fryer that looks good on their counter…

It’s true. Everyone is still obsessed with air fryers. But some of the options on the market are too clunky for small kitchens. This one, which comes in a range of eye-catching colors, is perfectly sized for an apartment, a dorm room, a camper van, and more. The 2-quart basket will even shut itself off. Getting french fries on demand has never been easier. ($49.95, Amazon)

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