Our team of fitness editors and certified personal trainers here at Men’s Health know that fitness doesn’t stop at the gym; it’s a lifestyle. And it can extend beyond the home to the city park, trail, mountain—the list goes on. It incorporates any number of worthwhile physical activities, from weight-lifting and rowing to running and cross-training, and nowadays, the afterward: aka recovery. This is why the best fitness gifts have to be versatile and functional.

Below you’ll find a list of health and fitness-based gear—from dynamic wellness tech gifts to state-of-the-art recovery modalities—that has something for any individual looking to get stronger. Whether you’re shopping for Father’s Day or simply because, read on for the best fitness gifts for men in 2025.

Finding the best gifts for your brother can feel like an impossible task, whether he’s a hard-to-impress teen or adult who swears, “I don’t need anything.” The key to a thoughtful gift is understanding what he’s into — of course, that’s a challenge if you don’t share the same hobbies. My brother’s into cars, tools and random outdoor activities, so I can relate. Luckily as a commerce editor, I love tracking down unique gift ideas.

To compile this list, we combed through our top-tested items that are loved by our Lab pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute, analyzed the shopping habits of GH readers and scoured online reviews. We’ve also included a few of the best gifts for men and the most popular presents for teen boys. So whether he loves backyard grilling, playing golf or gaming on the couch, we’re confident you can find something to impress your brother.

Let’s be honest: writing the perfect Father’s Day card isn’t as easy as you might think. You want to be touching but not too mushy, funny but not eye-roll-inducing (that’s his job), and say something meaningful without sounding like a greeting card clichè. It’s a fine line—and after everything Dad’s done, you want to get it just right.

Whether your dad is the strong, silent type, the king of corny jokes, or the unexpected softie who tears up at commercials, we’ve got the words to match. These 85 Father’s Day messages cover all the bases—from heartfelt to hilarious—so you can give him a card that earns a proud spot on the fridge (or at least a solid chuckle). Just pick your favorite, grab a pen, and prepare to make Dad’s day a little brighter—and maybe his eyes a little misty

Messages of Appreciation

Thank you for all the little things you do and the big ones too. I appreciate you more than words can express. You’ve taught me the true meaning of strength, kindness, and love.

Dad, thank you for all the things you do for this family every day. You’re the best!

You make this family fun. We love you, Dad!

Dad, you’re the first person I turn to when I have a question or need some advice. Thank you for always answering.

Thank you for always being there with your love, guidance and patience.

Dad, thank you for your time, which you give daily; your care, which you give freely and your love, which you give unconditionally. Happy Father’s Day!

Although we may be separated, your guidance and love has stuck with me through it all. Happy Father’s Day!

I am so grateful to have a dad who is as wonderful as you. Thank you for everything. Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day to the best Dad I could ask for. Thank you for being you!

Dad, you give Superman a run for his money.

Short Father’s Day Wishes

You inspire me every day, Dad. Happy Father’s Day!

Dad, you are rad! Wishing you a very happy Father’s Day!

There’s no better role model than you, Dad.

There’s no one I’d rather look up to than you.

I’m so proud to be your daughter/son.

You’re my one and only dad, and you’ll always have a special place in my heart.

Dad, you’ve made all my favorite memories.

Happy Father’s Day to my biggest hero.

There’s no other father like you in the world.

You are an amazing father and husband!

There’s no one else I’d rather parent beside.

You inspire me every day, Happy Father’s Day!

Sweet Father’s Day Messages

You’ve always been my biggest supporter and my greatest role model. I hope your day is as special as you are, Dad!

Dad, you’ve filled my life with love, laughter, and wisdom. I’m so blessed to have you by my side. Happy Father’s Day.

The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to have a dad like you.

Fathers and kids may not always see eye to eye, but they always see heart to heart.

No matter how old someone gets, they never stop needing their father (especially if they have a dad like you).

Every year, I learn to appreciate more the values you passed on to me.

I would not be who I am today without you. Thank you, Dad!

You bring so much joy into our lives. I hope today, we can return some.

Dad, your guiding hand on my shoulder will remain with me forever.

As time goes on, our relationship only gets stronger and stronger. Thanks for being an amazing example. Love you, Dad!

Funny Messages

Happy Father’s Day, Dad! Thanks for always letting me blame you for my bad decisions.

Happy Father’s Day from your favorite pain in the butt.

Happy Father’s Day! You did great — I turned out perfect.

Gouda. Mozzarella. Brie. Sorry this card is so cheesy, but I really love you, Dad!

Dad, you may not know everything, but you sure had me fooled for a while.

I wouldn’t trade you for anything, Dad. I mean, nobody’s offered me anything, but I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t!

World’s greatest farter … I mean father.

Dear Dad, Thank you for always saying yes when mom said no.

Happy Father’s Day to one of my favorite parents.

Dear Dad, Thanks for not leaving me somewhere in a bucket.

Related Story 88 Sweet and Silly Father’s Day Quotes

For Your Husband

You’re the best at helping with the kids, but the kitchen… not so much. But you are an amazing dad and still love you!

Happy First Father’s Day! I wouldn’t want to raise our kid with anyone else.

I’m so grateful to be on this journey with you.

You make our family whole. We love you!

Our kids are learning from the best!

Thank you for being such a great role model.

To the best father, parent and partner a person could ask for! We couldn’t do it without you.

Seeing what a great father you are makes me love you even more.

I’ll never get tired of watching you become an amazing dad.

I can’t imagine doing this parenthood thing without you.

Thank you for always putting our family first. We love you, Happy Father’s Day!

From the Kids

You’re our hero, Dad. Thanks for always taking care of us and making us smile.

Thank you for helping us grow!

We’re so lucky to have you as a father.

Our favorite thing about you is _______.

You’re the best dad in the whole, wide world!

We love it when you play ______ with us.

When we grow up, we want to be just like you!

Dad, you’re always number 1 in our hearts.

Happy Father’s Day to the world’s best dad!

Father’s Day Messages to a Brother

Your nieces and nephews think the world of you, enjoy your special day, Uncle!

Hope your kids don’t cause you the trouble that we caused our dad!

To a wonderful uncle, and an even better dad!

Your nieces and nephews think the world of you, enjoy the day!

Happy Father’s Day to the man who gives our dad a run for his money.

It’s amazing to see you grow into the dad you are today.

Growing up together was great, but raising our kids together is even better!

Father’s Day Messages to a Friend

Here’s to the guy who’s not only a great friend but also a wonderful father. Enjoy your special day!

Happy Father’s Day to a man who’s both a great father and a great friend!

Happy Father’s Day to a great dad — you must be doing something right to have such terrific kids.

Cheers to a dad that makes the rest of us look bad!

Congrats on being such a great dad — the rest of us can learn a thing or two from you!

Happy Father’s Day to a guy who has kids but somehow still manages to be the coolest person I know.

Your kids and I have something in common: We’re lucky to have you in our lives.

Father’s Day Quotes

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: He believed in me.” — Jim Valvano

“My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived and let me watch him do it.” – Clarence Budington Kelland

“Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.” —Unknown

“A father is a man who expects his son to be as good a man as he meant to be.” —Frank A. Clark

“Dads are the most ordinary men who are turned by love into the biggest hero, adventurers, storyteller and singer of songs.” —Pam Brown

“A father is neither an anchor to hold us back nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way.” —Unknown

“The older I get, the smarter my father seems to get.” —Tim Russert

“A father carries pictures where his money used to be.” —Steve Martin

“A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow.” —Unknown

Becoming a new parent is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Men stepping into the chapter of fatherhood for the first time may have many questions about feeling unsure or how to move forward. Fatherhood is not merely a life-changing experience, but with it come striking emotional and psychological shifts.

“While immense attention is rightfully given to mothers during the perinatal period, research finds that 5–10% of new fathers experience perinatal depression and 5–15% experience anxiety. These mood disturbances can impact infant bonding, strain relationships, and disrupt overall well-being. Dads feel in some way obligated to “be strong” or suppress feelings, ending up with undiagnosed or underdiagnosed mental illness,” says Dr.Vinit Banga, Director of Neurology at Fortis Hospital, Faridabad.

Credit: Pexels

Why mental health matters to new dads

Placing priority on mental health allows the fathers to be more present, engaged, and hardy—not only for the children but for themselves too. According to Dr. Banga, “It’s not weakness; it’s a strength to seek help. By being open, seeking help, and taking the emotional roller coaster of fatherhood, dads can empower their inner superhero.”

“Supporting fathers’ mental health isn’t all about looking after yourself—it’s a key part of creating healthy families and becoming emotionally intelligent, attuned parents.”

Tips to cope with a new father’s mental health strategies

New father mental health management starts with self-compassion and honesty. “First of all, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed—becoming a dad is overwhelming. Stay in touch with your partner and friends; communication prevents isolation. Sleep well, eat well, and exercise—small things add up to mental toughness,” advises Arouba Kabir, counselling psychologist at Founder-Ensowellness.

Credit: Pexels

Be realistic: You don’t have to be perfect to be a wonderful dad. Kabir says, “Make it a priority to do things that recharge you, such as a hobby, some quiet time, or a short walk.”

Don’t bottle up emotions: Talking it out to a friend, going to a support group, or speaking with a therapist can bring perspective and relief.

Learn to say no to the nice-to-haves: Your time and energy are valuable. Finally, learn about postpartum mental health; understanding what is normal and what is not keeps you connected to seeking help when you need it.

Taking care of your mind is not selfish: it enables you to show up fully for your child and partner.

I test products for a living, and I’m also a chronic gift giver. That means I’ve tried everything from fitness trackers, menswear basics, and grooming gadgets that will replace his shaving routine in one fell swoop. Every item on this list has been tested, worn, or used by our shopping team—and in most cases, gifted to the guys in our lives.

These gifts are anything but ordinary, from hybrid swim trunks to all-in-one that make the chore a little more enjoyable. And we didn’t stop there, as we took into account all kinds of personalities and hobby types, from athletes and gamers to DIY dudes and tech buffs. The best part about these gifts for men? They’re built well, multi-functional, and will leave you deeply satisfied when you gift them (or receive them, you can shop a little for yourself too).

Read on for gifts of all shapes and sizes. We have the top-of-the-line items for those who love to run, wish to cook better at home, love a cozy morning in, or want some proper recovery after a hearty workout. It’s an expansive list, indeed. Read on for the 40+ best gifts for men in 2025.