Neal’s Favorite Things + Gifts For Him! – The Golden Girl

Garmin Instinct Watch: 

Have had this over a year and still love it. After my research, I decided on this watch over the Apple Watch, because it’s more rugged and fitness oriented. Has lots of cool features and is easy to track miles, steps, calories burned, and more. Plus, the battery lasts forever–up to 14 days in certain modes.

Everyman Jack Body Wipes:

Not a substitute for a shower, just a great item to own for those post-workout meetups. This company is legit–clean ingredients, affordable, and I love all their products.

Apple AirPod Pros: 

I reluctantly have to admit–the AirPod pros are worth the hype. (I was a hater when they first came out.) The sound quality is amazing and the noise cancellation is an absolute must for anyone sharing a home workspace with their family. They are constantly in my ears and have held up after a year of intense workouts. Worth every penny.

Recovery Kit: 

In my old age I need to spend a lot more time on workout recovery. This little kit has almost everything I need and has been especially helpful in helping with plantar fasciitis.

Ten Thousand Workout Shorts: 

Ten thousand has become one of my favorite small brands for workout gear. They focus on just a few items, but they make them great. (I am obviously a fan of the short shorts.)

Yeti Backpack Cooler: 

Absolutely worth the splurge! I bought this ahead of our van camping trip last summer. It served as a second fridge on the road and it has been a constant companion at the beach, long weekends, picnics, camping trips, and more. Keeps things way colder than a regular cooler and you can’t beat the ease of the backpack straps.

Kettlebells: 

Endless possibilities when it comes to home workouts, one of the most versatile things you can have in a home gym. They don’t take up much room either, which is key. They’ve been the backbone of my at-home workout routine since 2020.

Jump Rope:

Jumping rope is an awesome workout, wherever you are. It will improve your cardio, legs and general athleticism. This one is super thin and easy to pack and adjust, so it’s great for small spaces and travel (whenever that happens again).

Lululemon Long Sleeve Breathable Shirts:

I wear long sleeves to do a lot in the gym. These shirts are the best. If he likes the gym, he’ll love these! End of story.

Fitness Bands:

Most of us are of at-home workouts, but these bands are great in any setting – home, travel, or in the gym bag.

Equilibria Relief Cream: 

I might be a bit biased (as my wife works for the company) but, I truly believe this company of amazing women produce the best CBD products in the game. I use the relief cream daily and it especially helps with my sore rotator cuffs and Achilles. Would be great for any dads or uncles with arthritis or back pain, too. Use code JESSKEYS for 15% off your first purchase.

Athlean-X online workouts: 

Jeff Cavaliere is one of my favorite online trainers. I have purchased a few of his programs that I follow to structure my gym workouts. Highly recommend for any guy who likes working out, or wants to start a workout program. He also has an at-home program if that’s more his style.

ESQ Bamboo Shirt: 

ESQ is one of my go-to’s for custom suiting, and I’m also a huge fan of their Bamboo shirts. Ge Wang, the owner, has become a great friend over the years–he’s incredibly talented and knows his stuff. This shirt is cut to look great in a suit, jeans (or gym shorts for a zoom call). Moisture and sweat-wicking, but looks just as crisp as fresh-pressed cotton. If you really want to spoil your guy, get him this shirt to unwrap, and then make him an appointment to get a custom jacket or suit to match. A great local business to support. Tell Ge we sent you!

Bonobos Italian 5 Pocket Pants:

Fabulous quality. Great whether he needs statement or everyday slacks. They’re easier to dress up than a chino, super comfortable, and really sharp looking. He’ll wear them everywhere from the office to nights out. They run true to size for me.

Mark and Graham Tech Envelope:

A stylish way to stay organized on the go. Monogram it for him!

Catch-All Charger Station:

At $30 on Amazon Prime, this is a great budget-friendly gift for anyone. Your work husband, your brother––perfect for his desk, and he’ll always have you to thank for fully-charged earbuds and iPhone!

Orient Bambino 2 Watch:

A high quality, great value dress watch from a legendary Japanese brand. Comes in 5 colors and will look both stylish for work and weekend. Can’t beat it for just over $100.

Handmade Leather Home Office Accessories: 

A great gift to make his home office more official-feeling, I love the look of this handmade set from Etsy. Comes with a laptop pad, mouse pad, and pen holder.

BLVDier scarf: 

My other go-to for custom items is BLVDier, run by husband-wife duo (who have become friends!) Zach and Kirsten Uttich. I’ve had some amazing blazers made from them over the years, and highly recommend them for any custom suiting! They also have some great gifts available in their online shop. These scarves caught my eye–beautiful, versatile, lightweight and warm. Made in Salerno, Italy. They go with just about everything–from work to the weekend. Every guy needs a nice scarf in his wardrobe.

Lolë Irving Packable Jacket: 

I love Lolë’s Irving Packable Jacket (and vest!) It’s warm AF, and stylish (something that has held me back from puffy jackets), and can collapse to the size of a fist. Have had mine for years now and it’s always a go-to.

Bonobos Travel Jeans:

A great change up from traditional denim. Adds some color to an outfit, and you don’t have to worry about the wrinkles. I also think depending on the color, they can look dressier than jeans, too. I have several pairs and they’ve held up for years.

Allbirds Sneakers:

Not the MOST original, but Allbirds are popular for good reason! Great for daytime adventures, especially for vacation. I have both the wool runners (good for winter) and the tree runners (good for warmer weather because they’re more breathable) and give both two thumbs up. They’re an awesome, sustainable brand, too!

Herschel Toiletry Case: 

My constant travel companion. Fits every toiletry I need. (And I have more of them than the average guy. As you can probably guess. 🤷🏻‍♂️).

UE Boom 3 Portable Speaker: 

I’ve had a portable UE speaker for years now and it has been one of the most versatile things ever purchased. We bring it everywhere with us–from the park, to the lake house, to Europe. It’s about the size of a tall boy can and the sound is unbeatable. Would make a great gift for any guy but especially your dad who still plays music from his iPhone while doing yardwork.

Delsey Suitcase:

There is a brown, masculine version of the carry-on every blogger you know has. (Including my #1. 😉) And I have it and love it. It fit enough clothes for 10 days in Spain, and is also v stylish.

National Parks Pass:

Good for all national parks in the US, this is an awesome experience gift for him to open that will spark a much bigger adventure! Plus, it helps support and give back to our national parks.

Danner Hiking Shoes: 

I bought these for our big hiking trip this past summer and they were awesome. Super comfortable, no rubbing, and great for navigating rocky trails. As far as hiking shoes go, I think this is about as stylish as they come. A great buy for any guy who lives the outdoors or is looking to do more hiking/camping.

Yeti Tumbler:

My go-to water cup at home, and also excellent for drinks on the road–from camping, to tropical vacations. (This has been clutch for our last two trips to Mexico where your drinks usually get warm in 5 seconds!)

Herschel Weekender Duffel: 

I’ve owned this bag for a few years now and it’s a tried-and-true go-to for all weekend getaways. Functional, stylish–what more could you want from a weekender?

Barbour tartan flask and cup set: 

A nice (but kind of funny and practical) gift for your favorite outdoorsy man who likes good whiskey.

“Build his Bar” idea: 

Nice whiskey tumblers paired with a couple great bottles of whiskey make an incredible, zero fail gift for men of any age. (Tip: men don’t like receiving glassware unless it comes with booze, so don’t forget that part. 😉) We have a couple nice Waterford glasses we received for our wedding I love drinking whiskey out of, but we also have these affordable ones from Crate & Barrel if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly. Even better, if he’s into vintage stuff–is to find him a great vintage set. (Etsy is great for this!) Pair it with some great booze–I always recommend Basil Hayden’s, or if you really want to spoil him–Blanton’s, if you can get your hands on some. (This is also an excellent thing to get a guy you just started dating!) 

Winestyr Membership:

An awesome, novice-friendly wine club. (We know because we belong to it and we know very little about wine.) They work only with small vineyards that produce small-batch wines you can’t find at your normal liquor store. You can get choose the frequency, red, white, or a mix of both. Such a great gift for any wine lover.

TC Whiskey Cocktail Cherries: 

Truly the best cocktail cherries in the game. (Sometimes Jess just eats them straight from the jar with a spoon.) Support a fantastic Midwestern brand & small business working hard to create magic.  Their entire online shop is awesome, and if you ever visit in person, tell Chris and the boys we sent you!

DIY Pickled Veggie Kit 

For the Bloody Mary enthusiast. What’s a good bloody without pickled veggies? This DIY is fun to open, and a fun activity to do together.

Cigar holder: 

A great gift for any guy who loves cigars. Keeps cigars fresh and great for a trip, long weekend, bachelor parties, etc! (Would also make a great budget-friendly groomsmen gift!)

Customized apron: 

Okay I will admit I don’t personally need an apron, but I know a lot of guys out there love to cook, and I think this is a really cute gift for dads, grandpas, etc–you can get matching kid versions! (Jess has matching aprons with my MIL, mom, and June, and I think it’s just as cute of a gift for the guys!)

Cocktail smoking kit: 

This cool little kit from Etsy is perfect for any guy who loves a smoky cocktail–now he can create it at home with this torch and wooden stave made from a vintage Bourbon barrel! My sister got this for me last year and it’s a lot of fun.

Mino’s Prime Steaks: 

If you’ve followed us for a while, you know we have been huge proponents of Mino and his crew. A true pandemic success story, Mino and a few colleagues worked in a top tier Chicago steak house and started their small business out of necessity when Covid hit. The concept is simple – steak house cuts at wholesale prices….hand delivered fresh to your door the next day (all of Chicagoland). What’s not to love?? We have used Mino for special occasions at home, meal planning, stocking the freezer, and of course the holidays!  Trust me, his fantastic filets or a bone in rib-eye does indeed make a fantastic gift. Especially for the guy that has everything!

Stock MFG Chore coat:

Stock is my favorite local menswear brand. They are great guys that make great clothes. I especially love my navy chore coat, and right now, 10% of proceeds are donated to Chicago hospitality workers affected by the pandemic.

Bearbottom Stretch Joggers: 

I clicked on an instagram add one day and discovered this brand & wow have I been impressed. These joggers nail the “casual but sharp” vibe vs the typical joggers that look more like sweats.

Bookmark from Kingsly Leather: 

This is a really cool Black-owned leather shop I found on Etsy, and they make lots of beautiful leather accessories. I love the idea of this nice leather bookmark to go along with a few new books! An inexpensive, but very thoughtful gift.

A copy of Drunk: 

As the Amazon description says, an “‘entertaining and enlightening’ deep dive into the alcohol-soaked origins of civilization—and the evolutionary roots of humanity’s appetite for intoxication.” A highly interesting and entertaining read.

Some great sunglasses: 

Ray-Ban has always been my go-to brand of choice, and you can never go wrong gifting a pair of classic aviators! (You can read about all our favorite pairs here).

If your guy wants something a little bit out of the box though, check out the long-standing Italian brand, Persol. These Steve McQueen inspired shades were one of the few gifts I bought for myself this year. They’re are a bit over the top but…so am I. 😂

Spikeball: 

Spikeball is an awesome game for anyone who likes to be active and loves friendly competition–from teenagers to fit grandpas. It’s an affordable gift your whole family can get in on, and a good outdoor activity. We’ve given this as a gift to Jess’ nephews and play this on the beach with my family.

Men’s charcoal face mask: 

This affordable Black-owned skincare company is co-owned by NBA player Matt Barnes, who is also a philanthropist and activist. The company makes products for all hair and skin types. I like to indulge in some nice skincare now and then, and these make the perfect stocking stuffers. (If you tell him it’s Matt Barnes’ company, he’s way more likely to get excited about a new skincare routine.)

Barbour faux fur lined utility gloves: 

You’ve likely picked up on the fact that I’m a fan of Barbour. If you’re searching for some warm gloves,  I would personally love to receive these faux fur lined lambskin version.

Men’s Waterproof Chukka Sneakers: 

I just bought these Sorel sneakers for winter when I don’t feel like wearing boots. The high top style makes them warm, and they’re waterproof–so I don’t have to worry about ruining them in rain and slush. A stylish, practical gift for any guy.

Bonobos Flannel Lined Drawstring Chinos: 

A favorite pair from last year, updated with an elastic waist, for the guy who wants to wear joggers, but needs to dress a little nicer. These feel like sweats but look like chinos–the best of both worlds. He’ll wear them at home, to beers with friends, he might even be able to get away with them at the office. Cozy, but they won’t make him overheat. Bonobos pants run TTS for me.

Baxter of California Comb: 

I know it will surprise no one that I love my hair comb…but seriously, this comb is the best. For any guy that puts effort into his hair (you know who you are), this is the best stocking stuffer. It’s also sold on Amazon, so it’s great as a last-minute gift, too.

Custom Giant Jenga 

Who doesn’t love life size Jenga!? I happen to be a very big giant Jenga enthusiast and I think this would make a great gift for any guy and the whole family. (Especially great for socially distanced outdoor fun). Plus, you’re supporting a small biz at the same time. Great for the fun-loving guy who has everything.

Art by Aaron Ricketts: 

If your guy is into art, check out these awesome prints by photographer and visual artist, Aaron Ricketts. His prints are so cool and surreal, it will really up his art game.

Kindle + Books:

Jess got me a Kindle two years ago and I have to admit, I love it a lot more than I thought I would. Even better? Pre-load it with a couple great reads for him to start–I recommend any of the following for any guy: Boys in the Boat, Endurance, Shoe Dog, Grit, and The Chris Farley Show.

Most men don’t read enough for fun (myself included). Help change that.

Faherty Legend Sweater Shirt: 

Faherty is a new-to-me brand that is a little on the pricey side, but their stuff is amazing quality and so soft. This legend shirt is, as the name would suggest–legendary. So warm and soft. An absolute staple in any guy’s winter wardrobe. Runs TTS. (I wear M.)

Seiko Dive Watch: 

Affordable, sharp, and probably the most versatile watch I own. It’s a sport (diver) watch made by Seiko. A go-to brand of mine, especially on vacation. This thing is indestructible and I love that it’s so easy to swap watch bands–Amazon has a ton of really affordable options, like this one.

WM Brown Project Magazine: 

Matt Hranek is one of my absolute favorite follows on Instagram. He embodies eating, drinking, dressing, and traveling well and never takes himself too seriously. He’s a CondeNast writer by trade and a subscription to his magazine is the perfect gift for the stylish man in your life.

Levi’s Jeans: 

Levi’s have been my go-to jeans for years and years. I have a few washes of the 510’s and they are my favorite skinny cut. However, I also recommend the 511’s if your guy doesn’t prefer his jeans quite as slim cut. (It’s a great style for dads, too.) They’re on sale for $50 at Zappos right now too!