There’s an assumption among some people that buying gifts for men is more difficult than buying for women. This is an interesting one and one that as a gift company, we think about quite regularly – why do people think men are more difficult to buy for? Well, it might have something to do with the fact that, in general, there are far more products aimed at women anyway, so there’s just more choice for women than there is for men.

But if you think about it, this choice/lack of choice is only really a help or hindrance if you’re not really thinking too deeply about the gift, or if you don’t really know the recipient very well. If you know the person you’re buying for, you know the person you’re buying for, and them being a man or a woman doesn’t make a blind bit of difference. If you don’t know them – okay, things can be a little trickier. With that in mind, take a look at our top tips for buying great gifts for guys!

Ties, belts and socks are NOT okay. We cannot stress this strongly enough. Even if you don’t really know the likes and loves of the person you are buying presents for, you can probably safely assume that he has not been hoping for a new belt and tie or a pair of socks all year. You can always do better than that!

If you’re really stuck, and no matter how hard you think, you just keep finding yourself gravitating towards the ties again, step away from the store and get online. For some stalking. Yes, sometimes it’s okay. Almost everyone has numerous social media profiles where they literally tell you about all the things they like and dislike. Take advantage of that – the effort will be noticed.

Often, stereotypes are stereotypes for a reason. It’s very possible that he does just love beer, cars and football, and if that’s the case then it’s no problem to buy him gifts that reflect that. You may feel a little unimaginative but you’ll be making him happy, so just go with it, embrace the macho! If you want to be a little different, you could give him something experiential rather than stuff – a beer brewing workshop or NASCAR driving experience is a sure winner.

Try not to let budget get in the way of giving him something he’ll love, if possible. If you’ve found something you know he’ll love, but it’s just to expensive for your budget, pool resources. We say this all the time, because we mean it – it’s better for two or three people to get him one thing he’ll never forget than for two or three people to get him things like… well, belts, ties, or socks!

Finally, don’t worry too much. If you’re here, reading this, it means that you’re at least trying to find great gifts for men in your life, and that’s bound to shine through on the day! Happy shopping.