The sitcom dad that’s populated the TV landscape for more than a half-century has largely been a beer-bellied, lazy underachiever, but real fathers are far more varied. A great number of dads are athletes in actuality, hitting the gym regularly, taking on the kids in a game of driveway basketball, and going full weekend warrior every Saturday morning. If this sounds more like the dad you know, then you need our guide to the best Father’s Day gifts for the athlete.
Fitness enthusiasts can be hard to shop for. After all, how does one distinguish between the best athletic gear and all of the junk that’s out there? By following our guide, naturally. We’ve gathered together a list of only the highest-quality athletic gear and apparel from fantastic brands that will keep Dad feeling healthy and strong while helping him perform at the top of his game. So take a look below at our guide to the best Father’s Day gifts for the athlete and see what you’ll need to help Dad get his sweat on.
lululemon Fast And Free Windbreaker
Dad’s never had a windbreaker quite like this. Sure, lululemon’s Fast and Free Windbreaker offers standout protection from water and wind, but it also makes use of said wind by way of an innovative hidden 360-degree ventilation system that lets fresh air flow around Dad’s body while releasing body heat, keeping him fresh and comfortable during his run. The jacket also features Speedweave fabric construction that stretches with the body, as well as reflectivity on all sides for safety’s sake.
YETI Rambler 18 Oz Water Bottle
Hydration is key when working out, so make sure Dad’s getting the replenishment he needs by picking him up a nice water bottle. YETI’s Rambler is about the best around, as it’s built like a tank and will keep its contents ice-cold all day.
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller
Recovery is an all-important aspect of fitness that gets neglected too often, but you can make sure Dad is taking care of his body by gifting him this foam roller. It features a multi-density grid exterior that allows Dad to pinpoint pressure where he needs it.
lululemon License To Train Pant
A great training pant is one of the most underutilized weapons in the everyday athlete’s arsenal, as pants offer better protection from the elements than shorts. That’s especially true of these lululemon sweats that are made from a special fabric that resists water, wind, and abrasions.
Aer Gym Duffel 2 Small
If Dad plans on heading back to the gym soon, he’s going to need a solid bag for his gear. This gym duffel from Aer is about as good as it gets, with a ventilated shoe compartment, an isolated section for clean clothes, and durable water-resistant construction.
Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
If Dad’s more the home gym type, then you might as well help him create the best at-home workout possible. This Bowflex SelectTech Kettlebell will surely help you do that, as it allows Dad to dial in his resistance from 8 to 40 lbs.
HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge
Nobody makes running shoes as soft and plush as French cult favorite HOKA ONE ONE, and these shoes especially will really pamper Dad’s tired feet thanks to cushioning from the brand’s softest and lightest foam yet and a unique heel geometry that makes for a smooth impact.
Jaybird Vista 2 Earthproof Wireless Headphones
The world’s toughest true wireless headphones just got tougher with Jaybird’s recent update to the Vista. These mil-spec earbuds are tested to withstand hurricane-force water and desert sandstorm conditions, so they can definitely handle Dad’s next Murph workout.
Theragun Prime
Remember what we said about recovery being important? Yeah, we meant it. Nothing beats a massage gun for soothing tired muscles, and Theragun makes the best and most user-friendly examples you’ll find.
Montblanc Summit Lite Smartwatch
There’s nothing that says a fitness watch has to be dorky. Made from lightweight recycled aluminum and boasting a suite of exclusive health and fitness apps, Montblanc’s Summit Lite will add style and luxury to Dad’s workout wardrobe.
Hydrow
Let Dad relive his college crew days with this high-tech home rower that mimics the feel of an actual boat on the water. To up the realism, Hydrow’s virtual training classes are all taught outdoors on an actual body of water by pro rowers.