The Best Part

It's that time of year again, and gift guides are popping up everywhere once more. In order to perhaps bring a different perspective to the holiday table, I'm focusing on what I know and offering the ladies a few ideas of what guys would like (or at least what I would enjoy...hint, hint).

First up, every man (especially the creative among us) needs to keep his thoughts in order, and what better instrument for doing so than the well-designed, Futura-laden Field Notes. Available in nearly every color and line format, Field Notes are the notebook of choice for the obsessive designer.

For the more adventurous outdoorsman/lumberjack type, you really can't go wrong with a simple, well-made knife. The Japanese Carpenter's Knife, available in the Cooper-Hewitt Design Shop, fits the bill perfectly as an everyday all-around utility knife. Also available at Cooper-Hewitt is the Areaware/Ravenhill bottle opener, a model of functionality and simplicity of design, this rugged opener will last a lifetime under the roughest of circumstances.

If your knife-wielding, beer-consuming gift recipient also happens to be a bit accident-prone, the Best Made All-Purpose First Aid Kit will be in order. As are all things Best Made, this incredibly comprehensive and functional metal-boxed kit is also worthy of hanging on your wall. If you're feeling exceptionally generous, their handmade axes are also second-to-none.

This adventure and outdoorsiness is all well and good, but for those who prefer a bit of repose with a good book, I have just the solution. Victore or, Who Died and Made You Boss? follows the lifelong work of controversial icon James Victore. A surprisingly funny and brutally honest read, Victore tells the stories behind his inspirations, his process, and the lessons learned.

I couldn't conclude this list without offering a few accessories for the discerning gentleman, and for the average guy this means a simple, well-made wallet, bag and watch. If like me, simplicity and functionality are of importance to your gift recipient, the products of Jason Gregory, aka MAKR are unsurpassed. Nearly indestructable, these wallets and bags are created from the highest quality materials and handmade here in the U.S.A. For accessories that last a lifetime, you'll also need a timeless watch, and nothing beats the surprisingly affordable 100 series from Uniform Wares. Available in a virtual rainbow of colors, the 100 series' simple design is sure to be a classic that wears well with its owner.

Hopefully at least one of these products fit the price range and preference of one of your lucky holiday gift recipients (if not, there's always a nice poster or print from TBP's own shop), so good luck, happy shopping, and happy holidays from The Best Part.