With Black Friday looming, our thoughts turn to holiday shopping. Based on my conversations with friends and relations, I know I'm not alone when I say the toughest person on my gift list is my husband, Steve. I know shiny new technology is a safe bet, but am lost from there - mostly because he already has so many gadgets!
So, rather than guessing what he wants, I asked him to give me a list of gift ideas for guys (anyone want to give me points for a super sneaky way to get into his head?). Here's what he suggested:
Xbox 360 with Kinect ($299)
Did you know the average game player is 34 years old and has been playing games for 12 years? Which means video games can be a great gift for grownups! While the Xbox 360 has been around many years, the addition of extras such as Netflix, playing DVDs, and the new Kinect body activated controller, the system is hotter than ever.
A couple years ago we received a system from Microsoft to try (in the spirit of full disclosure, they also sponsored the past two Manic Mommies Escapes), and discovered that while the system is great for the kids, the real benefit for dad comes when the kids go to bed. With Xbox Live and a headset, my husband is able to play games with friends several towns, or even states, away. Steve suggested adding a "gift certificate" good for one night of gaming a week with a friend.
Grill Alert Talking Remote Meat Thermometer ($69.95)
A couple years ago, someone (not me) bought Steve the Grill Alert Talking Remote Meat Thermometer and it's still one of his favorite grilling tools. It takes away the worry of forgetting the grill while entertaining the kids or guests, and works great for the inside oven too. (Take points off for how silly he looks walking around our parties with the remote hanging off his belt).
Bosch Multi-X Oscillating Tool Cordless Combo Kit ($179)
For the home improver in your family, the latest Lithium Ion powered cordless tools are leaps and bounds better than their old counterparts with incredible power, smaller profiles, and super fast recharging. Bosch makes some of the best tools available, and has grouped some of their great Lithium powered tools into well priced kits. This particular kit includes an oscillating tool, one of the latest must-have tool inventions, and a 12v driver which is my husband's #1 go-to tool.
Garmin Edge 800 Cycle Computer ($449)
Cycling is the #1 sport in the US for spending on equipment and accessories, and with the latest Garmin Edge 800 that trend is likely to continue.
The Edge 800 is latest cycling-specific GPS computer in the Edge lineup. This amazing yet pricey unit packs in the features offering a color touch screen display (even with gloves), training partner, mapped route guidance, altimeter, heart rate and cadence capabilities, and operates ANT+™ heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors or compatible power meters.
Finding time to ride isn’t easy for parents, and all the Garmin Edge models allows a specific unique ride to be plotted ahead of time so that the time away is predictable and enjoyable.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones ($299.95)
I bought a pair of these headphones for myself a couple of years ago, and my husband is still jealous! While there are many uses and reasons to get these, in our family it is airline traveling. Simply put, the first time you settle in after takeoff to read a book or watch the in-flight entertainment and flick the headphone switch to ON, you will never travel without them again.
Logitech Harmony One Remote ($179.95)
Universal remotes have been around a long time, but if yours isn’t up the task with the latest components in the house then the Harmony One remote has you covered. Programming and settings are done online, and that information is stored on the Logitech website to easily update. This remote features macros so that certain changing the TV input, turning the receiver to DVD, changing the volume, and even dimming the lights with the right equipment can be done with the push of one button.
Don't forget toys!
I often joke that, whether buying our son a new Lego set or a remote control car, I have to buy a duplicate for my husband (otherwise our poor kid would be forced to watch his dad play with his gifts). The good news is these tech gadgets don't cost a lot, and provide loads of pajama playtime for hubby (and children, if they are good):
- Remote control mini helicopter ($29.95)
- RC dancing trucks ($29.95)
- Slot car set ($27.95)
What is on your husband's wish list?
Special thanks to my husband, and tech consultant, Steven Brandt for researching and recommending these gifts.