Sports fans can be both easy and tricky to shop for. While you can always guarantee that they’ll appreciate a jersey or tickets to the game, these gifts can get a bit predictable.

If you want to step out of the box, take a look at these 4 unconventional gift ideas—they’re guaranteed to surprise and delight even the most diehard fan.
Personalized Memorabilia
Personalizing memorabilia is a time-honored way to celebrate someone’s fandom, and there’s no need to stop at the more stereotypical options (like a jersey or a signed ball).
Companies now offer personalized options that turn everyday items into unique keepsakes. A fun example is that you can order a fully customized bobblehead of the recipient dressed in their favorite team’s uniform. These add a personal touch to any collection and should bring amusement to your giftee every time they see them.
Tech Gear
Gadgets are another area where you can get creative when it comes to gifting a diehard sports fan. There are all sorts of options to consider, from smart drink coolers that keep drinks cold throughout the game to high-tech portable grills that take the tailgating experience to another level.
A new trend that’s worth considering is VR headsets that offer 360-degree views of the game when you’re watching at home—ideal for fans who want to feel like they’re in the stadium even when they’re on the couch.
Custom Car Accessories
While our cars might be functional first and foremost, there are still ways to make them an extension of our personality, especially if we’re diehard sports fans.
Custom car air fresheners are a novelty way to bring a little bit of fandom into your recipient’s daily drive. You thought the concept of a pet air freshener was cool—many companies now allow you to send in any image that can be used in any air freshener design. For sports fans, that means getting to display their team logos or colors, or even player photos, with the added bonus of a nice scent.
Unique Experiences
If your giftee prefers experiences over objects, consider giving them the gift of access. Your options here depend on your location and the particular team, but you might be able to buy tickets for stadium tours or even meet-and-greets with players.
Some teams also offer fantasy camps, where you can train and play alongside retired pros—a dream if your recipient is a huge fan of playing the game and has always dreamed of being part of the team.
Takeaway
Hopefully, this guide has given you a good place to start if you were looking for some gifting inspiration for a diehard sports fan.
Many of these gifts are functional, which is a great way to give a bit more meaning than just another item for their collection. But ultimately, gift-giving is about showing your recipient that you understand their love for sports in a way that’s unique. So have fun with it!