The Father’s Day Gift Guide for Active Dads

Father’s Day is a marginalized holiday. If you’re looking for proof just check out the card aisle. Dad is largely portrayed as either: a. A vapid oaf, or b. Some anonymous shadowy figure walking off with a child who is not you into the sunset. Either way, when it comes to parent-based holidays, Mother’s Day takes the cake. Maybe it’s because moms are seen as more sentimental, maybe it’s because dads have less patience when it comes to waiting in restaurant lines, or maybe you feel weird giving Dad chocolate and roses. We have a feeling, however, that the most valuable thing you can give your Dad on Father’s Day is your time. So whether you end up playing games in the backyard, or go for a hike nearby, try to be present in the moment. Here’s some gifts that will help him make the most of his day and summer as well.

ArchRival Sports, Nike Unisex Featherlight Cap Black, $26

The Dri-fit fabric in this cap wicks away sweat and its mesh panels are perfect for optimal breathability. Not only that, but the reflective detailing throughout adds visibility without being obnoxious.

Demo Sport, Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler, $299

When it comes to coolers, YETI is king. These are built to last and keep your contents ice-cold even in sweltering conditions, like a triple-digit summer day.

The Golf Mart, Oakley Holbrook XL Sunglasses, $186

Durable and comfortable, these Oakley’s are available with prescription lenses and offer top UV protection filtering 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm.

Live Water Surf Shop, No Sharks Hoodie, $55

Keep warm when the sun sets and represent local with this hoodie. Available in light blue, navy, white black, grey and sizes Small-XXL.

Proof Lab, Vans Classic Slip-Ons, $50

This classic style transitions well from day to night, whether you’re outside being active or just hanging out. Plus, the black and white checkerboard adds personality to any outfit.

REI, prAna Stretch Zion Shorts, $69

These shorts not only offer UPF 50+ ultraviolet protection but are also made of abrasion-resistant performance fabric with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that resists water and stains. 

Sports Basement, Patagonia Back Step Shirt, $69

An airy, everyday shirt, this one is made of a soft, breathable hemp/organic cotton blend for warm-weather comfort. Buttons made of coconuts add just enough flair.

T & B Sports, Champion Croquet Set, $100

Tired of cornhole, darts and the like? Give croquet a shot. The set comes with everything you need: six solid hardwood mallets and balls, end posts, wickets, rules and a bag to carry it all in.


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For more on Marin:

Namaste at Home: Yoga, Fitness and More

Birdwatching in Marin: Get to Know Your Backyard Visitors

Stay Home and Shop Local: Items We’re Ordering Right Now from Marin Stores


Kasia Pawlowska

Kasia Pawlowska loves words. A native of Poland, Kasia moved to the States when she was seven. The San Francisco State University creative writing graduate went on to write for publications like the San Francisco Bay Guardian and KQED Arts among others prior to joining the Marin Magazine staff. Topics Kasia has covered include travel, trends, mushroom hunting, an award-winning series on social media addiction and loads of other random things. When she’s not busy blogging or researching and writing articles, she’s either at home writing postcards and reading or going to shows. Recently, Kasia has been trying to branch out and diversify, ie: use different emojis. Her quest for the perfect chip is never-ending.