It’s the holidays, meaning it is time to get something for those nerds in your life. I’m here to help you not screw it up.
Tech
- $79 Kindle — Amazon’s new e-reader is great. It’s cheap, small and has incredible battery life. I’ve read more than I ever have since purchasing mine several weeks ago.
- Apple TV — For $99, you get iTunes, AirPlay and more. Apple’s set-top box is an amazing value, and a must-have for any TV setup.
- Bose SoundDock Series II — It’s a Bose iPhone dock. Everyone needs good tunes that sounds good.
- The Glif — iPhone 4/4S + tripod. What a slick combination.
- Twelve South Compass iPad Stand — Twelve South’s iPad stand is well-built, handsome and sturdy. When not in use, it folds down in to a small, well-designed pouch.
Writing
- Field Notes — These little notebooks are my favorite in the world. They are pocketable, sturdy and affordable. They ship in multiple colors and setups, so there’s an option for just about any writer.
- Blue Pilot G2 07 — Don’t listen to the others — this is the best pen on the market.
- The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law 2011 — This book isn’t just for those of us with journalism majors. If your favorite nerd writes on the web, they need this book on their desk.
Fashion
- Casio Men’s DBC30–1 Databank Digital Watch — This is my new watch, and although I’ve had it just a week, I already feel smarter.
- Saucony Originals Men’s Jazz Low Pro Sneaker — I’ve worn these sneakers since 2002. I’m currently wearing a pair of green and gray ones, but it’s about time to replace them. These are comfortable, cheap and colorful. Nerds like consistency, and these shoes offer it.
- Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses — Like a boss.
- Batman Classic Distressed Logo Adult Ringer T-Shirt — If your nerd is a Superman guy, I can’t help you.
Entertainment
- Mad Men: Seasons 1–4 on DVD — Uh, it’s freaking Mad Men. Why are you even questioning this?
- Sigh No More – Deluxe Edition by Mumford and Sons — The deluxe edition of Sigh No More included a full-length recording of Mumford and Sons live. These additional tracks are well mixed, unlike some live albums. This is a must-have for those long coding stretches.
- Sennheiser HD–280 PRO Headphones — The best way to listen to the above album without bugging those around you.
- The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe — The first NASA astronauts and the numerous test pilots before them pushed the envelope over and over. These guys, who were real badasses. This book chronicles their journeys into space.
Vices
- Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Whiskey — While it is hard to beat straight Jack after a bad day at the office, the honey version takes the bite off, replacing it with a smooth, sweet flavor.
- Zippo Black Ice Pocket Lighter — Smoking may not be cool anymore, but this lighter sure is.
- LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Collector’s Millennium Falcon — Star Wars. LEGOs. Hours of fun.
- PowerMac Cube G4 — This is the best-looking Mac in my collection, and a great talking point while showing off a man-cave.