The AO Father's Day Edit: What He Actually Wants
Posted by Sophie Palmer | Alabama Outdoors on May 30th 2026
We know them, we love them, and we never truly know what to get them when the day comes. Dads rarely express the random things they want, so we here at Alabama Outdoors put together a gift guide for every type of Dad! We know he’ll love whatever you get him, but we hope this helps narrow down your options.
1. The Smathers & Branson Can Cooler
Perfect for: The Garage Dad | Price Point: $ | Shop Here
If there is one thing any dad loves, it is showing off his dad status. This can cooler? Perfect for the occasion. The high-quality Italian leather and impressive needlepoint make this can cooler the ultimate option. Whether he is in the garage with a few buddies and needs to keep his drink cool, or out in the yard with the fam—this will be his new favorite gift.
Perfect for: The Dad On-The-Go | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
Whether he’s a traveler by heart or work demands his movement, he’ll love the Vuori Kore Short for all his busy days. Built for comfort while busy, this short boasts 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking technology—meaning he’ll be covered and comfy all day long!
3. The Floafers Men’s Country Club 2.0
Perfect for: The Beach Dad | Price Point: $ | Shop Here
Elevated yet comfy, the Floafer is the ultimate shoe for your coastal-loving dad. With non-slip soles, arch support, and sustainable materials, this simple loafer will be his new favorite pair; one shoe to rule them all.
4. The Johnnie-O Men’s Charmer Performance Jersey Polo
Perfect for: The Upscale Dad | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
A breathable fabric, lightweight build, and wrinkle-resistant? What more could he want? (No, seriously, this shirt is the whole package.) Whether he’s in the office daily and needs a new polo or just enjoys dressing more upscale, this shirt is perfect for Dad. A bonus? Johnnie-O was built around golf-- so this could very well be his new favorite tee-time polo too.
5. The Smathers & Branson Toiletry Bag
Perfect for: All Dads | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
Whether he is on the go or just likes to keep his essentials tucked away, this toiletry bag is sure to be his new favorite packing essential. That signature Smathers & Branson leather and needlepoint come together once more to create a staple piece he won’t be able to live without. Additionally, Smathers & Branson pride themselves on their heritage products, meaning this gift can be the newest heirloom in your family.
6. The On Men’s Cloudmonster 3 Running Shoes
Perfect for: The Active Dad | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
If you really want to wow Dad this Father’s Day, this shoe is the way to go. This installment by On features CloudTec cushioning for all his movements—whether that is running after the kids or hitting the trail. Another plus is the built-in Speedboard for propulsion-- so he can make every run count.
7. The Rhoback Men’s Hesi Hoodie
Perfect for: All Dads | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
Lightweight and perfect for everyday movement, the Rhoback Hesi Hoodie is sure to be one of his new must-haves. Moisture-wicking and incredibly soft, this hoodie is built for everything: from rounding up the kids to a relaxed tee time with the buddies.
8. The Gentlemen’s Hardware Beer Playing Cards
Perfect for: All Dads/The Playful Dad | Price Point: $ | Shop Here
Beer and cards—what could be better? This pack by Gentlemen’s Hardware combines two of Dad’s favorite things into a fun activity for the whole family. Whether it's poker night or Go Fish with the little ones, he is sure to get good use out of these.
9. The Southern Tide Men’s Coastal Breeze Birdie Short
Perfect for: The Upscale Dad/The Beach Dad | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
Dad deserves something dressy that still has the performance he needs, wouldn’t you agree? That is why we’re recommending these shorts from Southern Tide. Perfect for those warm summer nights out to dinner, or to the driving range with his friends. No matter where he wears them, we know he’ll be impressed.
10. The Rhoback Men’s Trout Run Polo
Perfect for: The Upscale Dad | Price Point: $$ | Shop Here
Last but certainly not least, the Rhoback Men’s Trout Run Polo. Built for long days of performance, this polo delivers the upscale look without sacrificing the specs that Dad needs. Moisture-wicking and wrinkle-resistant, this shirt will carry him from school carpools to office debriefings.
Need more options? Shop our Father’s Day page here.