At Home, the home décor superstore has some great gift ideas for Dad this year. Here are a few ideas that will help Dad become the best griller this summer. Check out At Home’s 65 inch grill cover; deluxe non stick burger basket; soft grip brushand dog corn on the cob holders. At Home’s Backyard Basics 65 inch Grill Cover is made of 100 percent PVC free materials. It has dual layers for added strength and resists extreme temperatures. My Dad tester liked that it was coated for enhanced water protection and sports a drawstring for closure. My Dad tester was a little skeptical about the cute Dog Corn on the Cob Holders but these hotdog dog corn holders are also functional. At Home’s Deluxe Non-Stick Burger Basket by Mr. Bar-B-Q lets Dad grill four burgers at once. It’s made of non stick finish and has a comfortable grip handle. My Dad tester liked how simple Mr. Bar-B-Q made cooking dinner. Simply flip over and grill. The final product from At Home is Mr. Bar-B-Q’s Easy Off Grill Brush. Made of sturdy stainless steel, this brush also sports a comfortable rubberized handle. STARS: ****
Summer is nearly here and the weather is perfect for grilling. If you are considering buying Dad a new grill this Father’s Day, then check out Gas2Coal from Char-Broil. This two in one grill combines the convenience of gas with the smoky flavor of charcoal. Gas2Coal features a three burner gas grill along with a convenient side burner. And when converted becomes acharcoal grill. My Dad tester informed me that conversion was relatively easy. He followed the three steps provided by the company: 1. Remove the grates and slide out the charcoal tray; 2. Place the charcoal tray inside the firebox and fill with charcoal; 3. Use the gas burners to light the charcoal. The charcoal tray is actually patented and was designed to guide airflow to reduce flare ups and provide efficient burning and even heat. My Dad tester was happy to learn that the Gas2Coal Grill comes with a five year warranty on the burners; two year warranty on the firebox and lid; and a one year warranty on everything else. Here are more company specs: 40,000 BTUs; 12,000 BTU side burner; three stainless steel burners; charcoal tray storage area; lid temperature gauge; 420 square inches of cooking area; 130 square inches warming rack; 7 inch wheels for easy mobility and two large side shelves. The Gas2Coal Grill is available exclusively at Lowes. STARS: *****
Another great product this Father’s Day is from Sengled Solo. This energy saving LED light bulb has been combined with a JBL speaker that streams music and any other audio via Bluetooth. Yes, you read that correctly. My Dad tester really liked how he could control the audio as well as the lights via his Smartphone. He installed his Sengled Solo outside so he could enjoy listening to music while he played with his kids, grilled and got yard work done. According to the company, the Sengled Solocan also be used to stream audio from a movie on your iPad to create surround sound; create a spa like audio in your bathroom; or to use in your child’s room to play bedtime stories or music. My Dad tester was pleasantly surprised with the sound quality and gave it three and a half stars. STARS: ***
Still searching for a gift for good ole Dad? Look no further than the Epson Home Cinema 2040. The Home Cinema comes with a power cable, remote control, user manual and quick set up sheet. My Dad tester was able to set it up within minutes and was super impressed with the image quality – the 2040 delivers Full HD 1080p entertainment. The Epson 2040 is 11.69” x 4.49” and weighs 6.4 pounds.
Want to learn more? According to the company. “The Epson 2040 offers up to 3x Higher Color Brightness 1 than competitive models, and deliver up to 35,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, advanced image processing, plus 2,200 lumens of color brightness and 2,200 lumens of white brightness.” The Epson 2040 has two HDMI ports and MHL2 connectivity which allows a user to connect a Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device, and project up to 300 inches virtually anywhere. My Dad tester was impressed with the Epson 2040’s built in speaker’s output.
The Epson 2040 also lets users stream HD videos from MHL-enabled devices like a Smartphone or tablet, including ChromecastTM, RokuStickTM4. According to the company, Other devices, such as the Amazon Fire TV, Apple® TV, Google Chromecast, or Roku Stick, can be plugged directly into the MHL-enabled HDMI port for instant streaming from services such as Netflix, HBO GO , Amazon Instant Video, Pandora, Spotify and more.”
Your Epson 2040 can be placed on a table, in an entertainment center, or mounted to the ceiling 3.5 to 35.5 feet from the wall or screen. The Home Cinema allows for front or rear viewing set-ups, as well as front ceiling and rear ceiling installation. My Dad tester used his on a secure table and gave the unit five stars. STARS: *****
ShoeBuy, leading online retailer of footwear, apparel and accessories, has something for almost every Dad this Father’s Day. One favorite is the site’s Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Jacket. Made of Patagonia’s exclusive R1 fabric which is a combination of high/low interior grid polyester, the R1 Full Zip Jacketmaintains breathability while also providing insulation. My Dad tester really likes the R1’s ability to compress down to a small size. This made it idea for placing in his work bag as well as packing for short weekend trips. The R1 has two zippered pockets as well as mesh pocket bags that double as internal drop in pockets to store essentials. STARS: *****
Interested in providing Dad with peace of mind this Father’s Day? Then look no further than the Piper Security System. This home security camera allows Dad to keep an eye on what’s going on at home from the convenience of his mobile phone. The company recently launched its next generation mobile app that provides users with added functionality including the ability to tell Amazon Echo’s Alexa to arm your Piper when you leave home; send notifications and ability to disarm the camera from an Apple watch when an alarm is set off. Piper comes with three customizable security modes: home, away and vacation. It also has motion and sound detection. My Dad tester enjoyed using the microphone to communicate with his family while at work – the kids got a kick out of it too. Piper also sports a powerful 105 bB siren that can be set off when security has been breached. My Dad tester said set up was simple. The use of the app was easy to navigate and he gave Piper four stars. STARS: ****
Is Dad getting a little older? In need of some help with his hearing. While hearing aids may not be a traditional Father’s Day gift, the gift of hearing is one that many of us take for granted. If Dad needs some help in this department, then consider purchasing him a pair of MDHearingAids. My Dad tester has existing hearing aids but was happy to test out theMDHearingAids and was pleasantly surprised with their capabilities. Specifically, my Dad tester liked how he was able to change the volume control depending on the surroundings he was in. Unfortunately, his sample hearing aids were missing a comfort tip. But he said a friendly and helpful customer service representative was sending him a replacement one. Overall, he was really impressed with the MDHearingAids and very happy with the price point. STARS: ****
Jabra Sport Pulse Headphones are the company’s first range of wireless ear buds for the fitness-conscious consumer who wants to do more than just play music. Jabra is offering three models (Coach, Pulse and Pace) “which are optimized for fitness at all skill levels and work with Jabra’s Sport Life app, which provides users with in-ear coaching; ensures they are training in the right heart rate zone; and helps them better plan, monitor and evaluate their personal workouts,” according to the company. And here’s something really interesting, these ear buds are the only ones proven to provide clinical-grade accuracy – they are also sweat and weather proof. My Dad tester really liked the feel of the ear buds and said the sound quality was impressive. STARS: ****
Have you cut the cord on cable? Even if you haven’t, the Roku 4is a great gift idea for Dad. “Every Roku player provides access to 3,000channels on demand offering 300,000+ movies and TV episodes, and the ability to search across more than 20 top streaming channels to find the best price and option,” according to the company. It should be noted however that some channels require payment or subscriptions. The Roku 4 offers advanced processing for streaming at higher resolutions, plus unique new features like a lost remote finder. My Dad tester was really happy to learn that the Roku 4 also offers the old style audio output (not just HDMI) which worked better with his existing sound system. Techies will be happy to learn that the Roku 4automatically adapts to deliver the best picture -- advanced upscaling ensures that your TV’s maximum resolution will be optimized, so whether you have an HD TV or a 4K Ultra HD TV, you’ll view the best picture possible. How can you argue with that? STARS: *****
Getting Dad a router may not sound too exciting but let me assure you most Dads will appreciate it. The AC3150 Ultra Wi-Fi Router (DIR-885L/R) was designed to offer premium performance for large homes and for users who demand faster Wi-Fi speeds for HD streaming and gaming on multiple devices. My Dad tester was happy to test out the DIR-885L/R because he had been getting spotty service with his current router. He was happy to report that the DIR-885L/R provided fast connectivity; he had no issues streaming his favorite movies or shows and his kids enjoyed using the iPad without any complaints. Sometimes it’s just the fact that there are no complaints and a product just does what it’s supposed to do. That’s the DIR-885L/R, according to my Dad tester/. For techies out there, here’s the specs as provided by the company, “the DIR-885L/R features dual-band speeds of up to 3,167Mbps, SmartConnect and Advanced AC SmartBeam to enhance signal strength and throughput, D-Link’s AC5300 creates a maximum-performance wireless network designed to handle high-bandwidth activities – like HD streaming and lag-free gaming – even in the farthest corners of the house.” STARS: *****
Does Dad like to exercise? Does he want to keep track of his workouts? Then check out the new Fitbit Blaze in Gunmetal – available June 2016. The Fitbit Blaze in Gunmetal is a special edition. This ultra sleep smart fitness watch is available for purchase from BestBuy and online at Fitbit.com. The FitBit Blazeoffers Dad the ability to monitor his heart rate without an uncomfortable chest strap; it also connects with the GPS on your phone to map routes and keep track of stats. The Blaze also has a color touch screen; and multisport capabilities. Users can choose from running, biking and cardio modes. The FitBit Blazeuses SmartTrack to recognize and record your activities – in case you forget to log them. My Dad tester really liked how he could sync his Blaze to his phone so he could receive text and calendar alerts. And he also really liked the Blaze’s ability to track his sleeping patterns. Overall he gave it five stars. STARS: *****
Does Dad need a new pair of headphones? UA Headphonesare engineered by JBL combined with Under Armour’s well known sports performance. These headphones were designed to withstand sweat and water; and feature JBL’s Twistlock technology which guarantees the headphones will never fall out. My Dad tester really liked the fact that the headphones are wireless; and said they paired up quickly. He said the sound quality was good and he plans on wearing them when working out. According to the company, “the UA Headphones allows you to stream music through any Bluetooth enabled device.” My Dad tester did mention he was impressed with the battery life, it lasts 8 hours before needing a charge. STARS: *****
Did Dad get a new phone? If so, consider buying him an EvoElitecase from tech21. My Dad tester really enjoyed how lightweight the case was and was confident in its ability to protect his phone. Like most parents, my Dad tester allows his kids to play with his phone so it was a necessity that the case provides good protection against falls. The EvoElite case is available in silver, gold and space grey. STARS: *****
Do you want to help Dad be prepared? Then buy him aPRYSMAchrome Weather Station. This sleek clock displays the time and temperature. Manufactured by Oregon Scientific, The PRYSMAchrome Weather Station allows Dad to find out humidity levels and weather forecast updates. The clock’s LED display changes colors when temperatures changes too. My Dad tester enjoyed checking out the weather forecast before getting ready for work and was impressed the Weather Station also gave him updates on humidity levels. He gave the Weather Station three and a half stars. STARS: ***1/2
Personal Creations, the experts in personalized gifting, has some fabulous gift ideas for Dad. One favorite is its Best with Beer basket. This gift basket includes Anette’s award-winning beer brittle; Beer Flats; smoked Landjager German salami; Beer Nuts Bar mix; Dry Roasted BBQ Almonds; Cheddar Cheese Crisps; Pop Gourmet Spiced Carmel Popcorn; and Stonewall Kitchen Horseradish Mustard. Packaged in a willow basket, this is a great gift basket to have shipped directly to Dad. My Dad tester really enjoyed the peanut brittle and cheddar cheese crisps. Needless to say, he devoured the basket within two days. STARS: ****1/2
Summer is right around the corner and chances are Dad will be outside doing some yard work. The Pocket Hose, a collapsible lightweight hose, just might be what he needs. The Pocket Hoseisn’t heavy and bulky like a traditional hose. It’s also extremely lightweight – my Dad tester’s 8 year old was able to easily carry the 75 foot Pocket Hose. Since the hose is collapsible, storage is also easy. The only complaint from my Dad tester was that the hose still expelled some water even after the water source was turned off. So make note you have some added water coming out before transporting or wasting those precious drops. The new Pocket Hose has a solar stripe shield that was added to protect the hose from damaging UV rays and helps extend the hose’s life. It also comes with new brass connectors which are three times more durable than the original connectors. STARS: ***
Man Crates is a fantastic option for Dad. The site boasts a number of different gift options. Two favorites for Father’s Day are Man Crates’ Hunting Crate and Personalized Whiskey Crate. Each Crate is packaged in a wooden crate and comes with a small crow bar which allows Dad to bust it open. TheHunting Crate includes a large Stanley Insulated Vacuum Bottle, Elk Ridge Skinner Knife and Storm proof matches. It also includes Duke Cannon's Hunting Soap; Camo Face Paint and Camo Form Wrap. My Dad tester had a blast trying to bust into the Hunting Crate and really liked the contents – especially the Elk Ridge Skinner Knife. STARS: ****
Another Man Crate to consider is the site’s Personalized Whiskey Crate. Packed with goodies galore, the Personalized Whiskey Crate includes two personalized, heavy bottom rocks glasses which are 9 oz.; two Tovolo ice sphere molds; two slate coasters; 33 drams whiskey drinking journal; Squirrel Brand spiced peppercorn peanuts; salted pistachios; and Sahale Snacks cranberry pecans. Also packaged in a sealed wooden crate, my Dad tester who happened to be my own Dad really liked the personalized Whiskey glasses. STARS: ****
50 Strong’s line of water bottles are, according to the company, “design specifically to meet individual needs and drinking personalities.” Each bottle features a finger lanyard that allows the user to easily transport the bottle. My tester really liked the size of the water bottles as they fit into his existing car cup holder. Another plus, the bottles are BPA free, leak proof, top dishwasher safe; and made in America. A few favorites are 50 Strong’s Flip and Sip bottle which features a straw that lets the user get every last drop of water. The company’s Chug bottleallows users to take big gulps at a time – a favorite of my Dad tester when working out. Better Bottles’ Insulated bottle is squeeze activated and great for Dads on the go. The Tornado Mixer comes with a tornado shaped mixer which helps Dad mix up his favorite protein shake. And lastly, 50 Strong’s Gym Bottlewas designed with a gym pocket that allows Dad to store his ID or cards securely. STARS: *****
Disclaimer: My Dad testers were provided with product samples and/or loaner samples but all opinions are solely theirs.
via source:http://www.examiner.com/review/gift-guide-father-s-day