We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on any of the links we provide, we may be compensated in some way. The products and services that are promoted are presented in no particular order. You’ll be ready for anything the world throws your way with these items that every man should have. Sure, you can raw dog the game of life, or you make it a whole lot easier on yourself with the essential things men.
Ranging from grown-up clothing to household goods, I’ve rounded up thirty things a man should have. And no, a new Xbox is not included.
What To Take Away
To determine the things every man should own, I went to the source itself: twenty guys that I know personally. I did in-depth interviews with each of them to find out what they think men really need for their. How many do you already own?
Shoes For A Prom
Dress shoes are a must-have accessory for any gentleman’s closet. Wear them to the office, a hot date, or the next wedding in your calendar. Hell, wear them to your own wedding. Myrqvist’s black calf Oxfords are one of the best investments a man can make and will get him where he needs to go. Get them also in brown to really do yourself a favor.
Sneakers In White
White sneakers will always outshine your friends and family. Expect to wear out these kicks a lot because they are considered one of the ultimate must-haves for men. Dress them up or keep it casual, the choice is yours. We especially like the Oliver Cabell Low 1 sneakers, which are as comfortable as they are stylish.
Oxford Dress Coat
In the morning, trot on. Additionally, because the cotton is double twisted, it creases significantly less frequently than the button-downs you already own. Perfect for the man who doesn’t have an iron.
Plain White T-Shirt
A simple white tee is all you need to look effortless. It’s just one of those things every man needs and with good reason. Style it with dark denim, cargo shorts, or natural stretch. It’s exactly what you should reach for whenever you need a polished fit.
Tailored Suit
Own, even if your job doesn’t require you to dress to the nines. For summer weddings, formal occasions, and that trip to the Maldives (we wish), this linen suit by Luca Faloni will ensure you look sharp with minimal effort.
Leather Wallet
Holder that will be in your life (and your pocket) for the next few decades. Carl Friedrik’s supple vachetta leather and slim design merit our recommendation for this elegant piece.
Everyday Belt
Sagging pants are so 1990s. Stick with this century and get yourself a quality belt. It’s one of the essential things a gent should have, not only to keep your pants up but to accessorize your outfit as well. Match a leather belt to your dress huge fans of this monochrome situation created by Nixon. Do everyone a favor and don’t wear brown shoes with it.
Wear-Everywhere Trousers
In the cubicle. They even have a hidden zippered pocket on the back. Do you believe me when I say that this is one of the best things a man should have?
Shaving Gear
Kitted out with a sleek metal razor and five blades. The brand boasts luxurious quality, so if you’re ready for a big boy shave, this razor will steer you in the right direction.
Weekender Bag
Should have if he wants to be taken seriously while on the go. God forbid you run into a client on the plane. The stench of soiled socks emanating from your gym-turned-carry-on bag begs the question.
Dependable Watch
Especially if you choose the right model. The Tangente Neomatik by Nomos keeps German watchmaking traditions alive, and despite its high price, it is built to last a lifetime. P.S., Take advantage of the complimentary engraving to really make it your own.
EDC Backpack
It’s worth spending on the right EDC backpack when you find one. We love the Tropicfeel line, especially the Nest backpack, which can carry anywhere from 16 to 30 liters, making it easy to get from the office to the campground.
A Pair Of Sunglasses
It’s high time you bought your own pair of sunglasses if you’re always squinting or taking your friend’s sunglasses. As one of the top things men need, the right pair will go a long way. We’re partial to bio-based glasses by Mueller, which are funky, polarized, and reasonably priced. Not to mention better for the environment than run of the mill Ray-Bans.
Jeans That Fit
Straight fit denim that has endless styling possibilities. You won’t go wrong with this Closed pair, especially because they have a little stretch to make them more comfortable.
Nice Underwear
From holes. If you’re reading this in tattered boxers, do yourself a favor and grab a set of three boxer briefs from CDLP. They’re breathable, silky, and moisture wicking – likely the most comfortable underwear you’ll ever own.
Solid Colored Hoodie
The year and won’t start fraying after a couple of months of wear. Elwood’s core hoodies are the perfect weight. Don’t forget to order a size up if you prefer an oversized look.
Bag For Toiletries
We love this one made from black canvas with an internal zippered pocket for safekeeping. You’ll never again have to worry about where your deodorant is.
Dress Socks
Every time a man wears leather shoes and Nike tube socks, Karl Lagerfeld recoils in horror. If you want to embrace a gentlemanly status, dress socks are just necessary. They are perfect for any nicer event on your calendar; the only thing you need to do is keep them out of your underwear drawer.
Signature Scent
One of the best colognes for men. Particularly, Aventus can be instantly identified as a status symbol, signaling to those around you that you are refined without ever having to speak.
Chelsea Heels
Versatile, simple to style, and helps prevent foot fatigue. If you don’t own a pair of Chelsea boots already, take this as your official sign to get some.
Coffee Maker
Seriously, who doesn’t need a cup of coffee the next morning? If you’re working with limited space or don’t like fancy espresso machines, a moka pot is a timeless option that is easy to use and even easier to store.
A Bed Frame
You’re ready to move on from frat house vibes because this bed frame has a lot of clearance so you can store your belongings underneath and is a good budget option.
Cast Iron Skillet
Everyone should own. In all seriousness, if you only have one pan in your kitchen, use this one. Toast sandwiches, sear steaks, and bake bread with it. There is nothing, and I mean nothing, that this cast iron skillet can’t handle.
A Coat Made Of Wool
A well-made jacket is essential. This wooly pick from Asket embodies Swedish simplicity with a super soft construction, button closure, and a sleek charcoal colorway.
Makeup Remover
What says more about self-love than a skincare regimen? If you’re not ready to commit to a ten-step process, this cleanser duo targets dull and dirty skin to bring it back to life.
Plush Towels
Towels are something that every man needs, but plush towels are what men need to make their homes feel like homes. This set is well loved with over 7,000 five star reviews, and will make your bathroom that much closer to a spa.
Tool Kit
It comes in a pretty little box that you’ll be proud to show off as the “handyman” you are, and it has everything you need to do DIYs or assemble furniture.
Reusable Water Bottle
A reusable water bottle is a necessity for all men in this day and age. Sure, it’ll save you plenty of cash from buying single use bottles, but it’ll also save the planet, cutting down on useless.
Comfy Bedding
Although maybe that’s just me, I can almost guarantee that your next date won’t want to watch Netflix and relax on your Hot Wheels sheets.
High-Quality Headsets
High-quality headphones are a must-have for every man, whether you’re using them to block out the outside world or your upstairs neighbors’ background noise. The majority of the guys I talked to mentioned the Bose Quiet Comfort headphones, which are also my favorite. However, a set of AirPods Max will also suffice.
Why You Should Have Faith In Us
I am an experienced men’s lifestyle writer who has spent thousands of hours researching the best products for guys, ranging from daily clothing and grooming necessities to helpful everyday essentials. For this article, I spoke to twenty men about what they believe every man needs and whittled down the hundreds of items to the thirty you see on this list. Ultimately, my goal is to outfit men worldwide with the tools and supplies they need to be the most successful version of themselves. Spoiler alert, it often starts with everything found on this list.
Final Verdict
The things that every man ought to have may, in the end, vary from person to person. However, the items on this list transcend age, race, ethnicity, and interests. Each thing found here is designed to help every man look and feel his best, whether you’re wandering the city streets or kicking back at home.
