Let’s be real, Dad doesn’t want another coffee mug, and he definitely doesn’t want socks (unless they’re merino wool and made for thru-hiking). What does he want? Gear that gets him outside, keeps up with his adventures and maybe makes him look a little cooler while doing it.
So this Father’s Day, skip the “World’s Okayest Dad” T-shirt and get him something that speaks his language—grit, gear and a love for the great outdoors.
1. Camp Chef Grid Iron Game Day
Photo Credit: Camp Chef
For the dad who treats the tailgate like a Top Chef audition
The Gridiron Gameday flattop grill is compact, sturdy and packs enough cooking power to sear steaks, burgers and maybe a few bragging rights. It’s easy to transport and quick to set up, making it perfect for campouts, lake days or flexing on the neighbors in the cul-de-sac.
Add in Camp Chef’s new Smash Burger kit for a total game changing experience. This three-piece set is the perfect companion to the GridIron Grill and sure to turn Dad into the neighborhood burger maestro.
Why Dad will love it: Because burnt hot dogs are a thing of the past, and the man deserves sear marks he can be proud of.
2. Smith Outrigger Sunglasses
Photo Credit: Smith
So he can spot wildlife, trail markers or the cooler from a mile away
The Outrigger shades are more than just good looks—they’re high-performance, wraparound warriors with ChromaPop lenses that turn your average fishing trip into an IMAX-level visual experience. Plus, they’re rugged enough to survive being dropped, sat on or borrowed by your brother-in-law.
Why Dad will love it: Because every dad deserves to feel like a backcountry James Bond.
3. RovR TravelR 24L Backpack Cooler
Photo Credit: RovR
Cold beer. Two hands. No compromises.
Imagine a cooler that wears like a backpack and works like a refrigerator. That’s the Travelr 24L. Whether Dad’s fishing, hiking or heading to his kid’s soccer game with a few “adult beverages,” this soft-sided beast keeps things chilled and comfortable.
Why Dad will love it: Because warm drinks are for rookies, and this thing screams “prepared outdoorsman.”
4. Onix Supercell Pickleball Paddle
Photo Credit: Onix
For the dad who refuses to go easy on anyone—especially Grandma
Like everyone else, pickleball is officially Dad’s new obsession, and the Onix Supercell is his new secret weapon. Lightweight, responsive and engineered for that sweet spot between power and finesse, it’s ideal for dinking and donking his way to suburban glory.
Why Dad will love it: Because crushing it on the court is his cardio now.
5. Helly Hansen Men’s Escape Utility Rain Jacket
Photo Credit: Helly Hansen
Because Dad doesn’t cancel hikes—he just layers better
The Escape Utility Rain jacket is light, tough and ready for anything the weather throws at him…whether it’s a misty mountain climb or a backyard beer run during a surprise squall. With a sleek design and Helly Hansen-level waterproofing, it’s basically a forcefield for Father Nature.
Why Dad will love it: Staying dry without sweating like he’s in a sauna? That’s a win.
6. Oka Sustainable Recovery Sandals
Photo Credit: Oka
Give the man’s feet a vacation
Even adventure dads need rest days. Oka recovery sandals are ridiculously cushy, supportive and (bonus!) made from sustainable materials. Whether he’s lounging post-hike or flipping pancakes on Sunday morning, his feet will be living their best life.
Why Dad will love it: Like walking on clouds—if clouds were designed by orthopedic wizards.
7. Stio Valis Shorts + Hylas Long Sleeve
Photo Credit: Anthony Swentosky
For mountain town style that doesn’t scream “tourist”
The Valis Shorts are breathable, versatile and built for climbing rocks or barstools. Pair them with the Hylas LS for a technical, good-looking combo that transitions effortlessly from trail to town. It’s outdoor performance without the “dad cargo short” energy.
Why Dad will love it: He’ll look good, feel good and might even stop wearing his 1997 zip-offs.
8. Huk Kona Button Down + Kona Shorts
Photo Credit: Huk
From casting lines to crushing piña coladas
The Kona Button Down and shorts is a duo that is made for days on the water—or at least looking like you were on the water. Lightweight, moisture-wicking and built with anglers in mind, they’ll keep Dad cool and styled whether he’s reeling in a bass or crushing Surfsides with a water view.
Why Dad will love it: Because fishing shirts that actually look good are harder to find than a decent boat ramp on a Saturday.
9. onX Backcountry
Photo Credit: Joey Schusler
For the dad who always knows “a better trail”
This app is the ultimate digital sidekick for dads who treat every weekend like a scouting mission. With offline maps, trail stats, terrain overlays and gear planning features, onX Backcountry is a must-have for backcountry hikes, hut trips or that one trail he swears isn’t on AllTrails.
Why Dad will love it: Because claiming you know which trail to take is cool—until you can’t find your way back.
10. Altra Lone Peak 9+ Trail Runners
Photo Credit: Altra
Feet-first into the wild
These are the trail shoes that legends are made of. Cushy yet responsive, zero-drop but not zero-comfort and grippy enough for the sketchiest switchbacks. The Lone Peak 9+ are for dads who move fast and don’t mind getting dirty doing it.
Why Dad will love it: No break-in needed, just lace-up-and-go kind of freedom.
Gear Up, Dad’s Going Places
This Father’s Day, don’t settle for the usual. Get Dad something he’ll actually use—on the trail, at the lake or in full grill-master glory. Bonus points if you grab two of these gifts and join him on his next adventure.
He gave you snacks, life advice and probably some questionable mixtapes growing up—the least you can do is upgrade his gear game.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres