The 17 Best Father’s Day Gifts for Fitness-Loving Dads

No matter what the old man’s preferred modality is — from lifting to running to cycling and more — there’s a sweat-centric item in here that’s just right.

By Steve Mazzucchi

Published June 17, 2020

Updated August 25, 2022

Got a dad with a passion for pumping iron, pounding the pavement or pinning it on pedals? You’re in luck, as there are plenty of excellent fitness-oriented products out there at a range of price points. From socks, shirts and shorts to sunnies, supplements and suspension training systems, here are a few of our favorites.

1. Swiftwick Aspire Zero Sock

With a streamlined profile, light cushioning and moisture-wicking Olefin fiber, the Aspire will put a spring in any runner or cyclist’s step.

BUY NOW: $12

2. WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

We’re moved far beyond cotton and plastic in the jump rope world. This updated version features ballistic nylon resin handles, liquid steel bearings and a kink-resistant nylon-covered steel cable guaranteed to raise Dad’s jumpin’ game.

BUY NOW: $20

3. ShakeSphere Tumbler

Seamless on the inside, the ShakeSphere uses centrifugal force to cleanly puree liquid and solid ingredients (even bananas, we tried). That made it an easy pick as one of the best fitness products of 2019 — and a fun Father’s Day gift too.

BUY NOW: $21

4. GU Energy Variety Pack

Any dad who is into endurance sports will love this combo box. Six flavors, four packets of each, and loads of tasty on-the-go energy when he needs it most.

BUY NOW: $33

5. Just Lift Curve Tee

We just love the message here, a great reminder of what it’s all about in the weight room. The brand was founded by totally jacked fitness influencer Simeon Panda, who practices what he preaches for some 6.6 million Instagram followers.

BUY NOW: $33

6. Vero Mastodon Iconic “Leg Day” Dry Fit Sports Shorts

Made of a comfortable, moisture-wicking cotton/poly blend, these shorts lend themselves to squats, lunges and step-ups while reminding Dad not to skip leg day.

BUY NOW: $33

7. Janji Transit Tech Cap 2.0

One run in this purpose-built cap and Dad will never go back to that cotton baseball one. A DWR finish, 4-way stretch, a UPF 50+ rating and a zippered side panel stash pocket combine to change his mind.

BUY NOW: $38

8. Ladder Sampler Bundle

This comprehensive package deal boasts six servings each of pre-workout formula and whey protein, three servings each of superfood greens and a hydration powder, plus a shaker bottle to kick any workout up a notch or two.

BUY NOW: $55

9. Floyd’s of Leadville CBD Sports Cream

Age may be just a number, but as that number gets bigger, post-workout recovery gets tougher. Ease Dad’s pain with this CBD-infused balm, which brings a little extra restorative magic to every muscle it touches.

BUY NOW: $69

10. Shimano Spark Cycling Sunglasses

Friends don’t let friends bike in lifestyle shades. Be a friend by gifting these aerodynamic specs, which feature a moisture-shedding hydrophobic coating, scratch-resistant treatment and a damn good price point.

BUY NOW: $70

11. Mack Weldon Ace Sweatpant

Those ratty sweats Dad’s had since the aughts have gotta go. Help Dad upgrade with this comfortable, stylish alternative, featuring micro-sanded French terry with just the right amount of stretch.

BUY NOW: $78

12. Rapha Core Lightweight Jersey

Rapha simply doesn’t make products that don’t rock. This full-zip, three-pocketed summer-weight jersey — constructed with a lightweight mesh front for breathability and a denser knit back for sun protection — is no exception.

BUY NOW: $80

13. Rhone 6-inch Fletcher Swim Trunks

With classic nautical styling, a rear zippered pocket and a power mesh brief liner, these nylon/spandex swim shorts are idea for everything from poolside lounging to body surfing to beach volleyball.

BUY NOW: $88

14. Thousand Heritage Bike Helmet

Don’t let the eye-catching form fool you; the Heritage packs function, too. Think: one-handed magnetic buckle, top and rear venting, integrated dial fit system and Thousand’s signature innovation — the Secret Poplock, a hidden channel that locks it securely to the bike.

BUY NOW: $89

15. Lululemon Active Jacket

Dad can do it all, even when it rains, in this slickly designed jacket. Standout features include a stowable hood, underarm vents, reflective accents, zipper pockets and a DWR coating to keep things warm and dry.

BUY NOW: $128

16. TRX All-in-One Suspension Training System

Invented by a Navy SEAL on an extended deployment, TRX has grown into a major force in the home fitness space. This best-selling kit also comes with a 30-day trial of the TRX app, which is packed with great workouts hitting the system’s seven foundational movements: Push, Pull, Plank, Squat, Lunge, Hinge and Rotate.

BUY NOW: $170

17. Therabody Theragun Mini

Sure, you could gift Dad a sports massage session, but Theragun is the gift that keeps on giving. With more than two hours of battery life, the Mini can beat the knots out at up 2,400 percussions per minute and boasts a quality its bigger brothers lack: pocket-sized portability.

BUY NOW: $199