The 56 best gifts for sports fans in 2024

Oct 19, 2024

Whether their weekends are spent analyzing how their fantasy football team is performing or coaching a Little League team, sports are something that always bring people together.

There's a wide world of gift-worthy items that'll suit their interests, whether they’re into all forms of athleticism or have a specific soft spot for golf, tennis, basketball or skiing. From specialized gear that'll elevate their technique to compelling reads highlighting groundbreaking moments and matches, these thoughtful presents are sure to be a home run with any sports lover who thrives on the thrill of the game.

For the lucky fan who gets to watch a race in person rather than on TV, gift them with this seat cushion so they can sit in comfort. Reviewers love this branded cushion because it's "lightweight and easy to carry."

An autobiography that offers insight to how F1 cars are meticulously designed and engineered, this book — written by Adrian Newey, an engineer and chief technical officer for an F1 racing team — gives readers an inside look at his 35-year career in autosports.

For fans who are, or one day hope to be, part of the prestigious Paddock Club that grants you special access and privileges at F1 races, this ultra-soft sweatshirt helps show your passion on race day. It comes in a dozen colors and is offered in sizes S-5XL.

I'm not personally invested in the F1 world, but there's one name that seems to reign: McLaren. This hoodie features a graphic of the automobile racing through the finish line. The brand also has a grey crewneck option, featuring a pit crew tending to the racecar.

Boxing wraps help to protect the hands and wrists from injury while practicing. This version from Everlast features a thumb hole as well as a hook-and-loop closure that'll make sure it fits securely.

Store your boxing gloves in a bag specifically designed to keep them safe. The sides are lined with a mesh fabric that helps air the gloves out, rather than trap sweat and odor in.

These boxing gloves feature foam padding that ensure your fingers and knuckles don't feel much of the impact when working out and also have an adjustable wrist strap that make sure they fit comfortably.

"I like that they’re open, because it’s easier to put on," says deputy editorial director Ali Deabler. "And they’re lighter weight, so I don’t get as tired as fast."

For the person who prefers to play pickleball on a court, give them these wooden paddles and a set of balls to truly perfect their sport. According to one reviewer, this set has “excellent value and superb comfort for beginners,” while another said that “this is a great starter pack for our family.”

An intimate inside look into the career and life of Billie Jean King, gift this autobiography to the history buff who cannot seem to get enough of the news surrounding the U.S. Open or is curious to learn more about the sport. Whether they enjoy reading about women’s sports, overcoming groundbreaking barriers or what life was like in the 1950s and ‘60s, this is a “must read,” according to reviewers.

Open the legs to create a standing method of storage, or fold them up to create a shopping basket-like method to carry and pick up stray tennis balls. With nearly 4,000 verified five-star ratings, Wilson proves yet again that they are a tried, true and trusted tennis brand.

This vintage-inspired tee reminds us of a certain tennis romance movie that was released earlier this year... With a navy blue border surrounding the sleeves and collar, this worn-in shirt is light enough for days spent courtside.

Measuring in at just under 30 inches, this basketball can be used by both tweens, teens and adults alike. "It is a good basketball for basic skills," one reviewer said, adding that "the colors make it easy to find." Turn to this red-and-blue rubber ball when playing pickup in the driveway or bring it to practice when you want to stand out among the sea of orange.

For the beginner who is looking to get all their questions answered or the pro who needs a little refresher from time to time, this informative (and hilarious) read from author and journalist Shea Serrano has it all. From off-kilter player profiles to rules of the game and analysis on who's truly the best of the best, this book will keep basketball lovers occupied for hours.

For the fan who's always looking forward to the NBA season, gift them with a cap that can show their love for their team. This vintage-looking hat from the brand '47 is a "great fit" and "great quality" cap, according to reviewers.

Former college roommates-turned-NBA teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart host a weekly podcast called "Roommates Show" highlighting their success stories from college hoops to the big leagues.

This tee features a cartoon version of the duo, high-fiving over a New York City skyline.

Senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil recently gifted her husband this hat to sport during the Knicks recent playoff run.

"It’s a great site to checkout if you’re searching for the perfect gift for a sports fan but want something a little more unique than a basic jersey or hat," she says

Available in a number of different consoles from PlayStation 5 to Nintendo Switch, players can hit the virtual court as their favorite athletes and work towards building a legacy team.

Read the remarkable story on how Somali refugees and Maine locals unite over a shared love for the game of soccer in this novel. “Buy it, read it and buy more for your family and friends,” one reviewer raved, adding, “A great read for ALL ages. Teachers and parents can make it a read-aloud, middle schoolers and high schoolers will devour it. Enjoy!”

Read the story written by the GOAT herself, Megan Rapinoe. "This is very well-written," said one reviewer. "It is the story of a young white woman, a world-class athlete, bettering herself and those around her as much as she's able as soon as she understands what's needed."

Whether they’re a fan of a fictional team or one that plays IRL, this logo is recognizable to fans across the pond and here at home. Reviewers love tees from Homage because they’re “soft and comfortable.” What more could you want?

Lionel Messi's reign grew when he made the international move to Miami. This bright pink tee shows off where your support stands, and it's with #10.

Remind them of the slopes they frequent with one glance at this durable phone case. Available in iPhone-compatible shapes and sizes, they'll be wishing they were skiing in fresh snow rather than cooped up inside. Plus, select phone models are on sale for less than $15.

Whether they're stowing keys, jewelry items or loose change, this dish in the shape of ski goggles will get them excited about their next opportunity to hit the slopes. You can even take it one step further by personalizing it with their initials!

Made from recycled skis, Dad can crack open a cold one with these bottle openers. Made for mounting in a man cave or elsewhere, he can make a game out of it by trying to catch the cap in an empty can that rests at a base at the bottom.

No, these aren't an optical illusion — the art on these glasses depicts skiers on a slanting slope. "These glasses are a perfect and unique gift for your ski loving friends," one reviewer said, adding, "They are wonderful conversation starters."

Sometimes we all need a little reminder to never give up, worded wonderfully by the late Babe Ruth. Gift this sign to someone who can hang this quote in their office or in an area where they know they’ll always need a little positive pep talk!

A gift that is sure to be a home run no matter their favorite scene from "The Sandlot," this poster will serve as a reminder to follow their heart despite any obstacles that land in their path.

For a subtle nod to one of the greatest baseball movies, gift them with this "The Sandlot"-themed snapback, featuring Hercules, the oh-so-scary mutt who hoards baseballs.

"The brand sent me a few pieces from my favorite teams including this cropped tee," says associate editor Kamari Stewart. "It’s made with a thicker and more durable material than I expected which was a nice surprise. I like the fit because it’s cropped but not too cropped. I’ve worn it to both work with high-waisted pants and sporting events with shorts!"

If their goal is to visit all of the ballparks in the nation, gift them with this map that will help them track their progress and plan out which one to visit next. "This is a great way to track what fun is left to come," shared one reviewer.

Upgrade them from the pennies and tees they normally use to mark their ball to this shark fin, sure to cause some laughs on an otherwise quiet course. This is a "big hit with the golf fans," said one reviewer who gifted this to her son.

Golf fans can sport a cap donning their alma mater's logo or turn to classic colors like blue, navy and black with these tried-and-true golfing caps.

Combine passions of barbecue and golf with this seven piece set, that features a golf club-inspired handle on each utensil, as well as salt and pepper shakers designed to look like golf balls.

For the avid runner, gift them a unique way to display their medals. While most frames used to display medals are shadow boxes that have lots of leftover space, their race medal will fit perfectly in this 9-by-7 inch wooden frame.

Perfect for race days, running around the block or just going on a walk, this slim fanny pack is adjustable, so it can be worn over-the-shoulder or simply sit comfortably at their waist. With enough room for keys, a phone and another basic item, this fanny will be their new favorite.

If they’ve amassed a collection of both bibs and medals, give them something that’ll help them show it all off like this bibfolio and medal holder. According to the brand, it can hold up to 24 medals and 100 bibs.

A coffee table book that will have one itching to lace up their running shoes and set a new personal record, it offers a rich history of the race that has taken over the New York City streets for the past 50 years. "It is really fun to see how the NYC marathon has evolved over the years,'' one reviewer said of this photo book that takes readers through different eras and time periods.

If they spend their Sundays in front of the TV rooting for their fantasy football roster, gift them this book to read in the offseason that will help them learn how their favorite league came to be.

If Dad is superstitious, he may want to add lighting this candle as part of his pre-game ritual. With teams such as the Rams, Bills, Steelers and many more up for grabs, may they be so lucky to secure a win thanks to this candle.

If they tune into the Kelce brothers podcast each week, whether to gain perspective on the NFL from two players or to hear back-and-forth banter from the duo, they’ll recognize this t-shirt’s slogan which is derived from a bit from the show.

Help them relive their favorite sports moments with these "best of" coasters. Choose from either their alma mater or their favorite NFL team — as well as slate or leather coasters — for them to set their game day drink on.

Comfortable, cozy and not overwhelmed with their team's colors, this neutral hoodie offers a different take on sports gear. Available in five different teams and a range of sizes, it's a low-key yet fashionable way to support their favorite teams. It also comes in a crewneck version, if that's their preferred style.

Whether they love cheering on Taylor's boyfriend or have been a fan of the KC team since before she entered the chat, sporting this tote bag shows their support for the team nonetheless.

With 20 different teams to choose from, the bandana-like print is decorated with the team's logo and is made out of a quilted cotton material.

The GIST is a women-founded brand helping to break down barriers and make sports more accessible for certain communities that have faced oppression in athletics.

This tee highlights one of their many goals, leveling the playing field to make sports a more welcoming space for anyone and everyone.

Established in August 2023, the Professional Women's Hockey League has since introduced a new generation and demographic of people to professional hockey.

They're going to need something to stay warm during games, making this beanie the perfect gift.

The sports fan in your life has most likely seen this tee making the rounds on social media, having been worn by WNBA stars, rugby players and celebrities alike. It's available in sizes XS-3XL, and the brand says they run a bit oversized, recommending you size down if you want one more fitting.

There's also a version in French, to commemorate the recent Olympics. Stewart owns the New York Liberty version of this tee to celebrate their current WNBA Finals appearance.

"With the rise of the WNBA, I love that the Liberty were able to get in on the fun of these shirts during their playoff run," she says. "I bought my usual size of an XL but it really is unisex so I think a L would’ve been sufficient. It’s a heavier/more sturdy material than your typical T-shirt which helps me feel better about the price! I think it’s a worthwhile investment and can’t wait to wear it throughout the rest of this Finals run and for seasons to come."

This dish towel is the perfect accessory to wear over their shoulder while cooking game day appetizers and snacks. With an embroidered border based off of each school's colors, it also features designs, buildings and traditions unique to each school and team.

Available in a number of different colleges and teams, they can show their support subtly with this beaded bracelet from Little Words Project.

With all of the major Big 10, SEC and ACC schools represented, this drinkware collection includes tumblers, bedazzled wine tumblers, water bottles and more.

The entire collection is $40 or less, making it an affordable option compared to other sports-related gifts.

"Hollister recently launched their very own collegiate game day graphics collection and who doesn’t love to represent their alma mater?" says production coordinator Camryn Privette. "If you went to a large state school, chances are the brand has a style or two available."

Privette says it provides the perfect oversized look and feel for layering during fall game days.

Celebrate the new members of the SEC Conference with this crewneck proudly displaying their mascots, allowing wearers to pledge allegiance to multiple teams, rather than just one.

Instead of "Mahomes" or "Brady" on the back, customize a jersey with their last name or nickname on it. With every NFL team to choose from, it won't be hard to score a touchdown with this gift.

This quarter zip from Peter Millar allows them to show support for their favorite team in a more professional setting, like the office! Available in polos, crew necks, vests and an entire roster of teams, there are plenty of options available for you to upgrade their wardrobe.

Pay homage to the styles and designs of the '90s with this quarter-zip pullover jacket that features a front pocket and provides an extra layer on those chilly days spent in the stadium.

Designed for a variety of elements and forecasts, these large goggles are made to guarantee your eyes are covered and protection. Gift these to the snow bunny who cannot wait to ski or snowboard!

"Lusso is a women-owned fashion brand that works with sports teams and Fanatics to create sports licensed accessories for women," explains writer Danielle Murphy. "These are actually super nice, quality pieces — not the typical nylon bag or cotton tee. I got this Yankee tote at an event a few weeks ago and haven’t stopped receiving compliments on it. It’s such a cool way to rep my team but in a fashion-forward way. Plus, it’s spacious and makes for the perfect work bag."

Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s other gift guides to find the perfect present Dad this Father’s Day including gifts under $50, gifts for Grandpa, gifts for husbands, cool gifts and gift baskets.

Sierra is an associate editor for Shop TODAY.

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