Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Every Type of Dad (That Aren’t Just a Shirt)

Let’s be honest—dads can be tough to shop for. If you’ve given him all the go-to Father’s Day gifts before (hello, “Best Dad Ever” mug or a generic polo shirt), maybe it’s time to try something that really fits him. Something that feels a little more personal.

This Father’s Day, skip the clichés and go for a gift that speaks to who your dad really is. Whether he’s a sports fan, tech tinkerer, bookworm, or gym regular, we’ve rounded up some unique gift ideas for every kind of dad. And hey, don’t forget to pair it with a handwritten letter to make it even more meaningful.

🏀For the Sporty Dad

He never misses a game and still boasts about that one time he won the high school game with the winning goal? Say less.

Gift idea: Surprise him with personalized sports equipment, such as an engraved baseball bat, a monogrammed golf towel, or even personalized grips for his tennis racquet. It’s useful and thoughtful, and far better than just another cap.

Bonus touch: Write a letter to your favorite memories together—rooting for the same team, playing catch, or that time he “accidentally” tackled you too hard in the backyard.

📖For the Reader or Writer Dad

If your dad’s always nose-deep in a book or still has his college essays stored away somewhere, this one’s for him.

Gift suggestion: Pick a significant book on fatherhood or go old-school with something like Tuesdays with Morrie. Put it alongside a handwritten heartfelt letter wherein you are finally the one doing the storytelling.

Bonus idea: Use a lovely bookmark or frame a quote from the book that is reminiscent of him. It’s giving him a little piece of your heart between the pages.

📱For the Techie Dad

He’s always ahead of the curve with the latest phone and probably has a few thoughts on blockchain.

Gift suggestion: Give him something smart and useful—like the Google Nest Hub, which doubles as a digital photo frame and voice assistant, or a sleek wireless charging station that organizes his desk. If he’s a fan of retro tech, consider a digital photo frame that mimics the look of old film slides—modern function, vintage feel.

Bonus touch: Add a handwritten letter about your favorite “tech talks” with him. Remember when he taught you how to burn CDs or helped you build your first playlist? That’s tech nostalgia at its finest.

🎶For the Music Lover Dad

He’s got strong opinions on vinyl and still swears music was better in “his day.”

Gift suggestion: Get him a Victrola Bluetooth record player—it looks vintage but plays from Spotify, giving him the best of both worlds. You could also design a personalized vinyl record with songs that reflect your relationship or frame a sheet music poster of his all-time favorite track. Want to get interactive? Gift him a beginner ukulele or harmonica set with an online lesson pass.

Bonus touch: In your letter, talk about the songs that remind you of him—whether it’s the soundtrack of your road trips or his beloved ’80s anthems. It’ll be music to his ears, guaranteed.

🎬For the Movie Buff Dad

Your dad has a favorite film director and a list of all the Star Wars films? Say no more.

Gift idea: Attempt a scratch-off poster of 100 classic movies to watch together, or gift him a framed print of his go-to favorite movie ticket. You can also create him a DIY “Dad’s Movie Night” box containing snacks, socks, and a gift card for streaming.

Bonus touch: Write a letter about the film moments you shared. Perhaps it’s giggling through The Princess Bride, quoting Die Hard, or sleeping through Lord of the Rings—he remembers.

🎨 For the Artsy or Creative Dad

He’s the type who would totally get into pottery or quietly sketches when no one’s looking.

Gift suggestion: A calligraphy set, needle punch kit, or a paint-by-numbers scene of a place he loves. Calligraphy, in particular, is a unique and mindful skill, perfect for dads who appreciate detail and want to try something different.

Bonus touch: Write a note about how his creativity, whether through art, ideas, or how he solves problems, has always inspired you.

🏎️For the Car Enthusiast Dad

If your father speaks of his automobile as “she” or won’t allow you to eat in it, this one’s for him.

Gift idea: Get him a customized drawing of his car and frame it, or purchase him a gift card for a vintage car driving experience (yes, you can rent those!). Need to keep it small but thoughtful? Get him a personalized key chain or license plate holder.

Bonus touch: Write a letter to your favorite drives together—perhaps your first road trip, learning to drive, or just driving around listening to his music. Instant fuel for the heart.

🏋️For the Gym Rat Dad

He wakes up early before sunrise and bulges his calf muscles as if it’s a party trick.

Gift suggestion: Move beyond the essentials—buy him a monogrammed leather lifting belt or personalized gym towels. Or schedule him for a recovery massage or body scan treatment that complements his exercise regimen.

Bonus detail: Your note can be half motivational address, half winking reference. Thank him for imparting discipline, and perhaps shoot a jab at how he can’t go 10 minutes without talking about protein.

A Handwritten Letter: The One Gift That Works for Every Dad

No matter what your dad is passionate about, there’s one thing that will make a lasting impact: your words. At Truly Handwritten, we take your message—humorous, heartfelt, retro, or all of the above—and turn it into a gorgeous, handcrafted letter. It’s the sort of gift that gets stashed in drawers and pulled out when nobody’s watching.

So whether he’s into technology, books, sports, or barbell curls, don’t forget to gift him something that screams: “Hey Dad, I see you—and I appreciate everything.” Because at the end of the day, the perfect Father’s Day gift is one that’s made with the heart.

Want help writing your letter? We’ve got you. Just send us the thoughts, memories, or even bullet points, and we’ll turn them into something he’ll never forget.