Best Gifts for Dads of 2026

Gifts for dads can be tricky, but if your dad loves the outdoors then your shopping just got easier. I pulled the best gifts for dads from our in-depth reviews to bring you a comprehensive list with something for any outdoorsy pop. 

How to Choose a Gift for Dads Who Like the Outdoors

Dads who like the outdoors are extremely easy to shop for once you crack the code. Here’s how you do it. 

What Does Dad Enjoy?

Narrow down the huge list of possibilities by focusing on his core interests. If dad likes fishing, get him a gift that supports that passion. If he has a lot of hobbies, you can’t go wrong with a gift that goes well with all of them. 

Things They Wouldn’t Buy for Themselves

Once you have the list narrowed down, the difference between a good gift and a great gift is buying something that dad wouldn’t buy from himself or something that he can make memories with for a long time. 

How to Use this Gift Guide

In the “Key Features” section for each product, I’ve written what type of hobbies the gift is good for and given you an idea of the price range. The amount of dollar symbols corresponds to how many digits there are in the gift’s price tag. So, something that’s $100 will have three dollar symbols and something that’s $5 will have one dollar symbol. To also help you find a gift in the right price range, I’ve listed them from the most expensive to the least expensive. I’ve also hyperlinked an article where you can read more about the product if you want to dive in deeper.

Key Features

• Sizes small to 4XL
• 18 different colors
• UPF 50+
• Anti-odor treatment
• Loose fit that’s ideal for warm weather 
• Price: $79

Dad needs something practical that he can wear while mowing the grass, reeling in a bass, grilling burgers, or scouting for hunting season. One shirt that fills all those roles is the Kuiu Gila Hoodie. I’ve worn mine doing all of the above and while chasing my toddler around the yard. It’s a comfortable shirt that protects skin from sunburn and keeps you cool through oppressive heat. 

The fit is loose, but not too loose and runs true to size. The hood lays flat when not in use and doesn’t obstruct your peripheral vision when it’s up. The SPF protection prevented burns, even when I spent over 8 hours in the sun. I live in the southeast where the humidity stays above 80 percent all summer, and the Gila wicks the inevitable sweat and keeps me comfortable in triple-digit heat. Another noteworthy feature is that the shirt’s material doesn’t hold odor like some synthetics, so you can probably give dad a hug when he gets home from the lake. 

The Gila Pro hoodie is another good option. It has a built in facemask for additional SPF protection or concealment while hunting. Its has a more athletic fit so that it can be worn as a base layer. One of my favorite features is the vented arm pits, which is like having central air built into a shirt. 

See It

Key Features

• 6th-gen 12μm thermal core, up to 640×512
• Sub-20 mK NETD sensitivity (the kind of image clarity usually found on thermals costing two to three times more
• SharpIR© AI image enhancement)
• Recoil Activated Video records every shot
• Detection range up to 3,500 meters
• Built-in Wi-Fi, 64 GB internal storage
• Starting at $895
• Available in six configurations, from 256×192 to 640×512
• 5-year warranty

If your old man is still running a red light for hunting hogs at night, it’s time to upgrade him with the ATN Thor 6 Mini Thermal Riflescope. Getting into the thermal scope game can seem intimidating, especially for dads who might not be the most technologically advanced. But this thermal scope is super easy to set up and use. It has three large, intuitive buttons and one knob for scrolling through settings.The scope comes with a quick-detach mount that fits to a picatinny rail (it’s an ideal match with an AR but can work with any gun that has a rail). The quick-detach mount allows the hunter to also use the thermal for scanning and spotting.

In terms of field performance, this thermal has plenty of clarity and sharpness for pulling hogs out of the brush at close and mid-ranges, where shots on hogs commonly take place. It also has some cool features like Recoil Activated Video, which saves shots automatically, and Hot Point tracking, which locks onto the warmest object in frame.

ATN has been building thermal and night vision in the US for 30 years, so this isn’t some no-name import that will quit halfway through the season. It’s also backed by a 5-year warranty and US-based service, so if you’re buying this for Dad, you’re not signing up to be his tech support for the next five years. 

Of the six available configurations, the 256 sensor is the least expensive and best for hunting hogs over feeders where shots are under 100 yards. The 640 sensor will provide sharper detail and the ability to identify animals at longer distances.

And because all six configurations share the same body and the same three-button layout, he can start with the 256 over the feeder this year and step up to the 640 later without learning a whole new scope. 

Advertised detection range is 3,500 meters (640×512), which promises long-range thermal performance in a sub-500-gram magnesium-alloy housing. The scope isn’t overly bulky or wildly expensive, like a lot of other thermals on the market. The 640 version would also work well for coyote hunting after dark. Starting at $895, it’s one of the better thermal scopes for the money.

See It

Key Features

• 14C28N stainless steel
• Overall length: 9 inches
• Blade length: 4.25 inches
• Bow drill pivot in handle
• Tweezers, pen, ferro rod included in sheath
• Polymer handle
• Lifetime warranty

Every outdoorsman needs a good fixed-blade knife and the Victorinox Venture Pro is a perfect option that won’t break the bank. This is a full-tang knife that’s designed for bushcraft but is versatile enough for camplife, hunting, or anything else your dad likes to do outdoors. 

The design of the protruding tang makes it easy to start a fire with the included ferro rod. There’s jimping far forward on the blade’s spine (near the tip), which allows you to choke up on the blade for more control when carving, whittling, or feather-sticking. 

The Venture Pro’s handle has a comfortable thumb rest for extra control when using specialized carving techniques like the sternum pull cut, pinch-grip, or power cut.  

It has a polymer handle, which will work well in all weather conditions. The knife clicks positively into its MOLLE-compatible sheath, which also holds a tweezers, ferro rod, and pressurized ballpoint pen. 

Key Features

• Runs on 12 AA batteries (buy those too for the ultimate gift)
• Doesn’t need a sim or SD card to work
• 4K video
• Superior image quality and reliability
• Outdoor Life Editor’s Choice Winner
• Price: $$$

Trail cameras are practical hunting tools that provide a wealth of insight. But, they’re also a ton of fun. That’s why a trail camera, particularly a cellular trail camera is a fantastic gift. It’s something dad has a practical use for and he’ll have a ton of fun watching photos of deer and other animals appear in the app.

The Reveal Pro 3.0 won our 2024 trail camera test because of its stellar performance and easy to use app. The key differences between the 3.0 and the 3.0 Pro are that the Pro has an LCD screen and no-glow flash. Both would make excellent gifts for the whitetail fanatic.

Key Features

• 570 square inches of cooking area
• Adjusts from 160 to 450 degrees
• Weight: 123 pounds
• Price: $$$

If dad loves the sweet smell of hickory smoke in the morning, then this is the perfect gift for him. It’s under $500, small enough to easily move around, and big enough to cook up a feast. It’s ideal for making delicious BBQ, but doesn’t require the work needed to maintain a consistent temperature of a propane or offset smoker. Keep in mind that the max temp is 450 degrees so this grill will be great for low and slow brisket and beer can chicken, but not ideal for searing steaks.

See It

Key Features

• We recommend the 7 foot, medium heavy rod as an all purpose combo
• Right or left hand retrieve refers to the hand dad uses to turn the reel handle. Look at his other baitcasting reels to find out.
• One or two piece? Most anglers prefer one-piece rods, but two piece rods are convenient for traveling or if dad uses a compact car to go to the lake.
• Hobbies: Bass fishing
• Price: $$$

The Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 is a baitcasting rod and reel setup that will make dad’s day and keep him smiling all summer. It’s a high performance rod and reel that looks as good as it fishes. You can get it in number of configurations, but you can’t go wrong with a 7 foot, medium heavy. If dad fishes a lot of places with thick vegetation, a the 7 foot 3 inch, heavy will allow him to muscle fish out of the cover. Or if he’s a smallmouth angler, the medium or medium light power rods are excellent options.

If the $230 price tag is too steep for your budget, also consider the awesome Bass Pro Shops Pro Qualifier Baitcast Combo, which is $100 less.

See It

Key Features 

• Speed: Around 900 fps
• Needs an air pump or scuba tank to the fill the reservoir 
• Calibers: .177, .22, and .25
• Hobbies: Hunting, shooting, pest management 
• Price: $$$

Today’s air rifles aren’t Ralphy’s Red Rider or inaccurate pellet guns. They’re powerful and wicked accurate. If dad likes squirrel hunting, hates squirrels, or just likes plinking, the Air Venturi Avenger is a great first reintroduction to the world of airguns. When Jim Chapman did his Air Venturi Avenger review, his rifle shot a 16-shot group at 40 yards that could be covered by a quarter. He also noted that the air rifle was backyard quiet, so it won’t disturb the neighbors. It’s no wonder he chose it as one the best air rifles. 

Something any hunter will appreciate is the price of shooting an air rifle, which costs pennies in comparison to the ammo a centerfire or even rimfire uses. Also, at well under $500 it’s a gift a few people can chip in on and provide dad with a ton of fun or a new hobby. 

See It

Key Features

• Blade length: 3.25 inches
• Blade steel: CPM-CruWear (it’s really good steel)
• Hobbies: Any outdoor hobby 
• Price: $$$

It was very difficult choosing a knife for this best gifts for dads list, but my selection ultimately landed on the Benchmade Mini Adamas, which won best overall in The Best Pocket Knives review. The Mini Adamas is a tough, rugged blade that is also convenient to carry. Anyone from hikers, anglers, to backcountry hunters will love this pocket knife. Dad will carry his new pocket knife on all his adventures and create new memories with it everywhere he goes. An heirloom piece like this is a special gift that any dad would be lucky to have. 

See It

Key Features 

• Good for throwing or splitting firewood 
• Hobbies: Any outdoorsman will like this ax 
• Price: $$

If you’re buying for a dad that loves sharp flying objects, a throwing ax is a fun yet practical gift he’ll love. The Council Tool Flying Fox is balanced for throwing, and sticks in ax targets with ease. But, it is also a great ax for turning logs into firewood and kindling. It makes a great gift because it is an utilitarian tool and backyard fun all in one. At under $60 it won’t break the bank either. If you want to see more ax options check out Drew Conover’s article, The Best Camping Axes. 

See It

Key Features

• 5.45 ounces (in 5/6 weight)
• Dual-pawl drag system
• More than 80 different color/design options
• Hobbies: Fly fishing 
• Price: $$$

The Abel Vaya is a functional work of art. In fact Monte Burke chose it as one the best fly fishing reels in his review. Its performance is stellar, but it also comes in a wide variety of colors and paint schemes. You can even order a custom reel from Abel. And that added touch makes the Vaya stand out as a great gift for a fly fisherman. 

See It

Key Features 

• Protects Against: Mosquitoes and gnats 
• Active ingredients: Metofluthrin
• Hobbies: BBQ, gardening, archery, and hanging out in the yard

If mosquitoes and gnats are preventing dad from enjoying time outdoors, a Thermacell is a must-have backyard accessory. I’ve tested them extensively while hunting in buggy places and for my best mosquito repellents article. They’re highly recommended and they really do a great job at keeping mosquitoes away.

The EX90 uses a rechargeable battery and just one consumptive refill. While the EX90 isn’t ideal for taking on a backpacking trip or a hike due to its size, it is a great option for RVing, car camping, and the backyard. The device takes 15 minutes to create a protective bubble and will provide protection for nine hours on a single charge. After the heat-up time you’ll have a 20 foot mosquito-free zone.

See It

Key Features

• AAA maple stock
• Cartridges: .308 Winchester, .300 Winchester Magnum, .30-06 Springfield, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC
• Hobbies: Hunting and recreational shooting 
• Price: $$$$

If you really love dad or you and other family members want to chip in on something really special, then an heirloom-grade hunting rifle will make an unbeatable gift for any hunter. You might actually make dad cry when he opens the box and finds a rifle with a beautifully figured wood stock. 

Buying a Winchester Model 70 Super Grade is the easy decision, but choosing the cartridge it will shoot is a tough one. If dad is a deer hunter you can’t go wrong with the .308 Winchester or the 6.5 Creedmoor. If you live west of the Mississippi and he hunts elk, mule deer, and antelope you might consider going with the 6.5 PRC or .300 Winchester Magnum. If he’s an old school dude, then get him the 30-06 Springfield or .308 Winchester, which are both great for hunting anything in North America. Outdoor Life’s editor-in-chief, Alex Robinson, wrote The Case for New, Wood-Stocked Deer Hunting Rifles, which makes a compelling case for these timeless rifles. 

Best for the Outdoor Life Dad: OL Merch

See It

Key Features

• Stickers
• Cover art
• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Hats

Not sure what to get the dad who already has all the outdoor gear he’ll ever need? Hook him up with some classic Outdoor Life merch. We’ve designed a handful of stickers, t-shirts, hoodies, and hats using vintage art from the Outdoor Life archives. We also have an expansive cover art store that features the coolest images from our century-long history. Whether your dad is in to hunting, fishing, or general outdoor adventures, you’ll find an OL image that resonates with him.  

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Gifts for Dads

Dad deserves something great this year, and the best gift for dad is one that helps him enjoy his favorite outdoor hobby even more.