At last count, over 2 million couples get married every year in the United States alone. Sure, some of those might be Vegas elopes, courthouse unions, and shotgun weddings, but a pretty big portion are going to fall under a more traditional format – a classic ceremony and dinner reception. And with traditional nuptials come wedding parties. That means some of your closest friends will be by your side as groomsmen on the day you tie the knot. As you would expect from any of them, you owe a well-considered thanks to the guys who have stood by you through thick and thin and got you to the altar.
But not all groomsmen gifts are created equal. You’ll want to avoid the pitfalls of garish, cheesy, or just genuinely bad gifts – lest you are satisfied with letting your boys down. For example and as a general rule, we say stray from getting anything engraved. Yes, even with initials. All told, if your best man wants the date or his name emblazoned on something, he can do it himself. Instead, focus on personalization by type of gift. There’s a couple ways to do this – either you can get a group-specific gift that reflects your friendships as a whole, or you can get each groomsmen something which mirrors them individually. Whichever you choose, the following 40 items are our picks for the best gifts for your best men.
Zippo Lighter
For those of you who find yourselves in the company of folks who like a celebratory smoke every know and again, we’re sure that they’d be happy to have one of these handy. Made by the most iconic lighter brand ever, these USA-made lighters are durable, they look good, and they come with a lifetime guarantee.
The Kings County Distillery: Whiskey Logbook
While we don’t suggest this as a standalone groomsman gift, it pairs great with a good bottle of whiskey and can start you and your closest friends down the long road of discovery that is the world and history of what is perhaps the most highly lauded alcoholic spirit ever imbibed. Become a part of the story.
Glencairn Crystal Whiskey Glass
Here’s a way to knock out two birds with one stone. Celebrate your upcoming union and long-lasting friendships with a toast – and then let them keep the glass afterward. These stylish, lead-free, tapered crystal glasses are an excellent shape for sniffing and sipping your favorite bourbon, whiskey, or rye (whichever you prefer). And they’re dishwasher safe, so even your laziest buddies can enjoy them time and time again.
The Original Shot Flask
If your buddies are more of a drinking on-the-go bunch, there’s the Original Shot Flask. This metal beverage container can hold up to 8 ounces of your liquor of choice and comes with a collapsible shot glass, so you don’t have to be a heathen and sip from the spout. And, with a stainless steel construction, it is easy to clean.
Gearward Keychain Duct Tape
For your friends who already have what they think is a comprehensive everyday carry gear set, surprise them with this painfully obvious probable oversight. Having all the hardware is one thing, having a means to patch things up is another beast entirely. This American-made keychain accessory can hold up to 18″ of Gorilla tape for all your spot repair needs.
Fisher Space Bullet Pen
One of the finest writing utensils on the planet, the Fisher Space Pen is a modern marvel both in style and substance. Show your appreciation by gifting your groomsmen a pen that looks professional, stylish, and can function in nearly any conditions – including upside-down, underwater, or even in zero gravity – thanks to its advanced pressurized ink cartridge.
Soto Pocket Torch
Turn any standard sized rectangular disposable lighter into a longer-lasting, wind-resistant, and incredibly hot (up to 2,300 degrees fahrenheit) blowtorch with this campground accessory from Soto. It works as a great addition for any outdoorsy types in your wedding party – just don’t be cheap. Make sure you include a lighter.
Ted’s Cigars Original Bourbon Cigar
And what better way to try out your new lighter, celebrate your impending nuptials, and relax with your groomsmen than by lighting up one of these Maker’s Mark bourbon-seasoned cigars? In wax sealed containers – just like the booze with which they were made – these cigars are kept airtight for freshness and require no humidifier, so they’re great on-the-go.
Stanley Happy Hour Shaker
This shaker – which uses a nesting system for simple self-storage – works as great as a part of a home bar as it does at a campsite. Made from stainless steel, this dishwasher safe set includes double wall steel rocks glasses, a citrus reamer, and a cap that doubles as a jigger for accurate measurements.
Bull & Stash Travel Stash
Whether your groomsmen are jet-setters or off-the-radar hiking aficionados, this refillable oiled leather notebook is an excellent tool for keeping a log of their travels. And since it’s made in the USA, the outstanding quality is sure to last through every adventure.
Old Familiar Comb Bottle Opener
Laser cut from stainless steel and hand finished, these combs from Old Familiar Comb Company are an excellent option for your friends that like to both look good and have the ability to crack open a cold one at the same time. And they’ll last far longer than their more common plastic counterparts.
Bradley Mountain Utility Roll
A gift for gear heads, everyday carriers, and craftsmen alike, this utility roll is a superb carry case for quick-access or travel-oriented tool organization. Made from Martexin heavy waxed canvas and featuring a leather strap, this American-made tool roll is a stellar option for the handy groomsman.
Griffin Pocket Tool
Perfect for anyone with a DIY personality, the Griffin Pocket Tool is a comprehensively capable multi-tool with over 25 potential functions – including multiple hex drivers, a pry bar/flathead driver, a pocket clip, a bottle opener, and more. Give one to your best men and enable them to get the job done themselves, even on-the-go.
Harry’s Winter Winston Set
A modern shaving kit that includes a unique handle, 3 German engineered blade cartridges, a blade cover, and 4 ounces of foaming shaving gel, Harry’s Winter Winston is a limited edition set that includes everything a groomsman might need to get a smooth clean shave in either the comfort of their own home or at, say, a destination wedding.
Thor Horn Viking Tankard
If your wedding party is full of Scandinavian strong-men or just a bunch of brutes who like stiff drinks and a raucous good time, have a look at the Viking Tankard by Thor Horn. Made by hand from actual ox horns, these unique vessels are perfect for anyone who fancies themselves true champions.
Maxx & Unicorn Money Clip
A great way to convey a touch of class to your friends’ carry – and to keep their spending cash separate from the rest of their wallet – this money clip is both secure and adds some flair to any set of pocket gear. And, constructed from solid brass, this superb accessory is handmade in the USA.
Deejo Wood 37g
What many pocket knives lack is a bit of refinement. It’s easy to find a beefy blade that can hack through nearly anything, but finding a functional folder that also looks really sleek is a much harder find. Which is even more true if you want something affordable. The line of Deejo Wood knives are exactly that: economical and classy. If you get these as groomsmen gifts, you’ll probably want to pick one up for yourself, as well.
J. Crew Sterling Silver Tie Bar
One of the most classic and subtle ways to inject a bit of style into your wardrobe, the tie clip is an accessory that every man should have – whether they’re young entrepreneurs, climbing the corporate ladder, or just like to suit up every once in a while. And this one is actually made from sterling silver.
FourSevens Preon P1
A more non-traditional groomsmen gift idea, the FourSevens Preon P1 is one of the finest keychain flashlights on the market and will retain its utility long after the wedding has passed. Made from anodized aircraft-grade aluminum and featuring a 5-100 lumen range and 5 reconfigurable modes, this AAA powered torch is as good as it gets.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon
An impressive spin on Woodford Reserve’s recipe, their Double Oaked Bourbon has been matured in two separate custom barrels for a unique character and flavor profile. And, although it is a very good spirit, this social lubricant isn’t a bank breaker for larger wedding parties.
Owen & Fred Valet Tray
If you and your friends are like us, you like to empty out your pockets as soon as you walk through your front door. But, rather than dumping their EDC gear onto a random table or countertop, give your buds this handsome tan leather and concrete landing tray and help them stay organized in style.
Cha-O-Ha Design Co. EDC Card
One of the most impressive everyday carry multi-tools available on the market, the EDC Card has about the same dimensions as a credit card and sports over 30 possible functions – from the ever-handy bottle opener, to a comprehensive hex driver set, and so much in-between. So if any of your groomsmen are multi-tool holdouts, they’ll have no more excuses for not carrying one. And it is completely TSA compliant.
J. Crew Italian Silk Repp Tie
Made from Italian silk, these ties are handmade in Long Island City, New York. And they’re a great gift for professionals, guys who like to suit up, or any uncouth groomsmen who need a reminder that your wedding is, in fact, a formal occasion.
Karas Kustoms Bolt Pen
If you, like us, are of the mindset that every man should be carrying around a capable and durable writing utensil, then your friends probably should, too. And, in regards to quality of construction and unique style, there’s little better than this bolt-action clicker pen from Karas Kustoms. This pen is made to last.
Quiet Carry Mini Q Organizer
Since most people lug around some measure of keys – usually on an unwieldy or annoying chain or ring – the likelihood is that your friends do, too. Help streamline their carry with the Mini Q organizer. It’ll keep their pockets tidy and jingle-free. And this unique tool comes with a 420HC stainless steel blade/bottle opener for expanded functionality.
Owen & Fred Stay Sharp Shaving Kit Bag
The perfect companion to a destination wedding, this shaving kit bag is made from ballistic nylon, #8 18oz duck canvas, 420 Denier nylon, and features a flat #10 big teeth zipper. And it was designed and made right here in the United States of America.
Brooks Brothers Malaca Wood Umbrella
When future president John F. Kennedy married Jaqueline Lee Bouvier, he gifted each of his nine groomsmen a Brooks Brothers umbrella. And while that seems a bit unusual, these high-quality accessories became intrinsically and iconically tied to the couple’s Newport Wedding. And if it’s good enough for JFK, it is certainly good enough for any of us.
Parker Safety Razor Shave Set
Give your groomsmen the gift of a barber-close shave without the trip or cost with this 96R butterfly safety razor and badger bristle brush set. This classy pair of tools is a must for anyone who wants a shop quality shave in the comfort of their own home. And each set comes with a chrome stand to keep these quality tools off the countertop.
Prometheus Lights Lambda Top
Great for anybody who is fascinated by well-crafted oddities, this ruby-tipped brass top by Prometheus Lights is a modern take on one of mankind’s oldest toys. And with spin times of up to 10 minutes, its sure to impress lovers of modern and technological design alike.
Best Made Straight-Hold Hatchet
Whether your buddies like to chop up kindling for the fireplace, build beach bonfires, or cut logs for a campfire, this American sourced and crafted hatchet – made from Hickory and 1060 steel – is perfect for the job. And it measures up as one of the more strikingly unique gifts on our list.
Form Function Form Architect’s Wallet
If you are friends with some forgetful creatives, then you can’t go wrong with the Architect’s Wallet. Each one comes with a compact Fisher Bullet Pen and two Moleskine Volant notepads – perfect for scribbling down any great ideas on-the-fly. And, on top of everything, it is a fully-functional high quality Horween leather wallet that’s made in the USA.
Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool
Widely regarded as one of the greatest multi-tools on the planet, the Wave is the perfect groomsmen gift for anyone who isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty out on the trails, in the garage, or otherwise. With over 21 different tools, this stainless steel wonder is an excellent way to stay capable without having to lug around an unwieldy tool chest.
JP Commerce Monte Carlo Poker Set
Great for any group of groomsmen with gambling in their blood, these weighty clay poker chips are a bit more substantial than your average set and promise to weather even the most turbulent of betting rounds. And they come in a reinforced aluminum case with heavy duty hinges and sponge lining to protect the set when it isn’t being used.
Bellroy Hide And Seek Wallet
For a more traditional gift with a neat twist, look to Bellroy’s Hide and Seek wallet. Styled like a classic bifold, this full-grain vegetable-tanned leather wallet has hidden currency and coin pouches to keep prying eyes off your money or lesser used cards. And it promises to remain stylish and look good for years to come.
Rayban Clubmaster Sunglasses
Occupying the space between the iconic wayfarer and aviator shapes, these Clubmaster sunglasses are a less commonplace, more exclusive groomsman gift option, especially if yours is an outdoor wedding. And they feature impact- and scratch-resistant lenses, in case the reception gets a little rowdy.
Form Function Form Weekender Chronograph
A classic offering with a bit of rugged styling, this time piece by Form Function Form features a Timex Weekender Chronograph watch with a vegetable-tanned Horween leather strap. Remind your groomsmen that your wedding is a time-sensitive affair with a handsome gift that will last them for years.
Leather Head Handsome Dan Football
Sports fans, rejoice. This groomsman gift will reflect you and your friends’ love of the gridiron with a touch of timeless class. Made from uncorrected leather, this ball – which the Wall Street Journal called “the perfect football” – promises to get better with age and through use. Or it will look just as good in a protective case. Your call.
James Brand The County Knife
Show your groomsmen that, although you’ve come a long way, you still remember from where you came with this refined reimagining of the classic pocket knife. Made from high quality stainless steel and actual walnut wood, this spin on a boy scout-style knife is both functional and handsome.
Jacob Bromwell Great American Flask
Perhaps the best flask ever made, this American crafted, 100% solid copper hooch-holder is true to its original 1819 design. Perfect for the transport of the highest-quality spirits, this beautiful flask is a timeless tribute to the past that will stay true through to the future.
Pillbox Bat Co. Baseball Bat
Heralded as America’s pastime, baseball is one of the most iconic and widely loved sports in western history. And if you and your groomsmen grew up with the sport and the surrounding culture – Sandlot, anyone? – you could do far worse than these beautifully crafted baseball bats.
