The Best Gifts of 2023

Molner-Approved Presents

collage of a vest, sneakers and hand lotion

Graphic by KCM

We asked Katie’s right-hand man for advice.

Products you buy through our links might earn us a commission. We update links when possible, but please note that all prices are subject to change.

There are a couple of things we know for sure about John Molner, Katie’s husband and co-founder of Katie Couric Media: One, he’s an incredibly supportive partner, and two, he’s got a wicked eye for fantastic products. Whether it’s perfect picks for back-to-the-office attire, the best gear for hitting the golf course, or thought-provoking reads that’ll keep you turning page after page and help you learn something new, he’s got a knack for finding just the right thing to bring someone a little joy.

Sometimes it’s easy to know exactly what will make your loved one smile as they tear open your present. If they’re a techie, that might be the gadget they’ve been dreaming of. If they love aged spirits or adventurous cocktails, one of our favorite bar-cart essentials or a whiskey advent calendar might hit the spot. But often, the perfect gift isn’t so obvious.

Enter Molner. When we started planning out our gift guide, we knew we had to pick his brain, and he shared some of the items he’s given friends and family — plus some of his personal favorite pieces. From apparel like comfy shoes and gorgeous sweaters to men’s skincare must-haves and grooming tools, his suggestions run the gamut.

For more gift ideas, visit our complete 2023 Holiday Gift Guide.

Molner’s Handpicked Gifts for 2023

Peter Millar All-Course Vest

Peter Millar All-Course Vest

Peter Millar

Just as the name implies, this vest is designed for long days of golf — and the unpredictable weather and extended walks that come with them. Made from water-resistant fabric, it’ll keep him warm and dry on drizzly days, and it’s a great base layer under jackets when temperatures drop. And, despite the down channels, it’s not so puffy that he’ll feel like the Michelin Man while wearing it. 

Kiehl’s Kiss Me Lip Balm Set

Nordstrom

Is it just us, or is lip balm the one dopp kit essential that always seems to disappear? This Kiehl’s set comes with three luxuriously smooth balms that will soothe chapped lips all winter long, and it’s perfect for those who tend to misplace things (or those who prefer to have a salve in all the necessary locations: pocket, car, and nightstand). 

$23 at Nordstrom

Shinola Money Clip Card Wallet

shinola leather card holder

Shinola

It’s time to replace that battered velcro wallet with something sleeker. Part money clip, part card wallet, this slim wonder has two card slots for essentials and a sturdy clip to hold cold, hard cash. Reviewers mention that the leather is stiff at first, which can make getting cards in and out a bit tricky, but it ages beautifully and loosens up with regular use. 

Yesglasses Wall-E Sunglasses

Yesglasses

A classic round frame will never go out of style, but what keeps this pair looking fresh is the translucent gold hue. Plus, they work hard: These sunnies will protect eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays, all while looking effortlessly cool. John likes this pair because they go with just about anything, and you can add a prescription to the lenses if need be. 

$69 at Yesglasses

On Cloud 5 Coast Running Shoes

on cloud 5 coast sneakers

On Running

No matter which kind of workout he favors, these supportive shoes will ensure he’s comfortable while doing it. This version of On’s Cloud shoe is Molner’s favorite because it’s waterproof and doesn’t require fiddling with laces. Molner has no time to waste tying his shoes — he’s got a media company to run! 

Bushnell Wingman GPS Golf Speaker

bushnell gps speaker

Dick’s Sporting Goods

While golf is meant to be a pretty quiet sport, for some, silence can be deafening. This powerful speaker not only puts out serious sound, but also has a built-in rangefinder, making it a treat even for those who prefer peaceful playing, and easily mounts to a golf cart so they won’t lose it between holes.

Aesop Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion

aesop moroccan neroli post shave tube

Aesop

Listen, we’re not shaming those who still use Aqua Velva as their aftershave of choice, but we guarantee this will be a welcome upgrade. Aesop’s soothing aftershave lotion has a subtle scent, with intoxicating notes of sandalwood and neroli. The lightweight formula won’t clog pores or irritate skin, and instead helps prevent razor bumps and redness after shaving. 

Faherty Stretch Blanket Lined CPO

Faherty

Keep him warm in this flannel-lined shirt jacket (or as Molner lovingly calls it, a shacket). It adds heat without being bulky, making it great for layering on extra-cold days. It’s available in sizes up to 3XL, and it comes in two neutral colors.

$198 at Faherty

Crossrope Weighted Jump Rope

crossrope weighted jumprope

Crossrope

Molner starts every morning with 10 minutes of jumping rope. He doesn’t just use any old child’s plaything, though — he opts for this weighted one by Crossrope. He calls this one “the best jump rope on the market,” which is a glowing endorsement from Katie’s first man. It costs more than your average rope, but the investment is worth it for the many cardiac benefits of this aerobic activity.

Dagne Dover Large Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover

We all know someone who shows up to a weekend getaway with their clothes shoved in a tattered gym bag that looks and smells like it’s seen better days. Don’t let your loved one be that guy. Not only will this duffle withstand water and wear, but it has plenty of compartments to keep them organized, all while looking sleek rather than bulky.

$215 at Dagne Dover

Free Fly Apparel Breeze Pants

Free Fly Apparel

Molner’s a huge fan of these lightweight pants with built-in sun protection, and he’s taken them everywhere — from getaways to the Bahamas to stateside fishing trips. They keep your legs covered but won’t cause you to overheat, even in the summer months.

$94 at Free Fly

Bose Quiet 45 Over the Ear Headphones

bose over the ear headphones

Amazon

Blocking out the world all the time isn’t realistic, but everyone can benefit from the occasional quiet moment. These noise-canceling headphones offer peaceful podcast- or music-filled moments during noisy commutes, loud airplanes, or in distracting environments. Molner bought the refurbished models, which were on the more-affordable side. Don’t fret, though: Despite being pre-owned, Bose makes sure that renewed headphones are as good as new, showing no cosmetic or technical differences. 

Perfect Practice Putting Green XL Edition

perfect putt xl green

Perfect Practice

Practice makes (putting) perfect. Enhance their game with this narrow putting green that they can roll out in the living room or office when they want to practice, then stash away easily once they’ve mastered the hole in one.

OHOM Self-Heating Ceramic Mug

Bespoke Post

If you’re shopping for someone who hits their daily step goal by taking trips to and from the microwave to reheat tepid coffee, consider gifting them a self-heating mug. The combo of the ceramic mug and heating coaster will keep drinks at a steamy 130 degrees. Not impressed yet? When it’s not warming up tea or java, the coaster can be used as a wireless charger for phones, AirPods, and more.

$90+ at OHOM

adidas Golf CODECHAOS 22 Spikeless Golf Shoe

adidas course chaos golf shoes

Zappos

Those who follow Molner on Instagram have probably seen him sporting these shoes on the green. Despite being spikeless, they offer great traction, even on wet grass. Reviewers and John alike say these offer support and remain comfortable through all 18 holes. 

REDVANLY Kent Pants

Nordstrom

“I wear these all the time — on and off the golf course,” John says. While these look like trousers, they’re stretchy and breathable like his favorite athletic pants. The elastic waist won’t pinch or bunch uncomfortably, and they have a faux button-fly front to dress up the overall appearance. There are eight different colors to choose from, too.

$110+ at Nordstrom

LISEN Magnetic Phone Car Mount

lisen car phone holder

Amazon

Say goodbye to wedging your hand between the car seat and center console to find your fallen phone. This contraption mounts to your car’s air vents and holds your phone magnetically, keeping it at arm’s length and making it easy to see the screen when you’re following GPS directions or chatting with a loved one on speaker phone. Hands-free conversations only, please! 

Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket

cotopaxi down jacket

REI

Packing for winter travel can be a pain when you know you’ll have to haul around a heavy jacket. Instead of a bulky wool coat, Molner loves this lightweight (yet extremely warm) option from Cotopaxi. It can be packed down into a suitcase without taking up too much space, and it’s great to throw on for day-to-day wear during brisk NYC winters. 

lululemon ABC Classic-Fit Pant

lululemon

The best way to describe these slacks? The masculine equivalent of traditional leggings. They’re stretchy, soft, and comfortable, but also look nice enough to wear to work or dinner. They even come in five different lengths and 12 different colors — talk about adaptability.

$128 at lululemon

Barsy Coaster and Mixer Combo

Barsy

Recreating your favorite cocktail at home sounds nice, but the reality is that despite pulling out about 15 tools and measuring implements, we often end up with drinks that just don’t live up to the $15 one from your go-to bar. This mixer/coaster combo takes the guesswork out of pouring up drinks and makes it simple to up your mixology game without putting on pants. It connects to an app full of recipes, and measures the volume of liquid as you pour (and notifies you when to stop). Once you’ve got your spirits and mixers ready to go, hit the button on the glass to instantly stir your beverage. You’ll always get the perfect ratio of alcohol to syrup, juice, or soda. 

$149 at Barsy

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Transmitter

Amazon

Frequent flyers know how frustrating it is to settle into an airplane seat only to see that they can’t watch a movie without plug-in headphones…which they didn’t bring. Give them the gift of being able to use their favorite noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones (instead of the cheaply made airline earbuds) anywhere they are, with this little device. The AirFly is a tiny transmitter that plugs into a headphone jack, allowing you to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth on airplanes, at the gym, and more. Simply plug it in, connect your headphones, and enjoy whatever show or movie you want to watch. 

$35 at Amazon

Paul Stuart Alligator Belt

Paul Stuart

We know it feels unnecessary to spend hundreds on a belt, but when it lasts a lifetime, we say it’s worth it. Molner wears his almost daily, and says the quality is “unbelievable.” The brand offers plenty of more-affordable options, too, like this one from Banana Republic. No matter which route you choose, a long-lasting leather belt makes a great gift for anyone who wear the pants. 

$625 at Paul Stuart

Chocolate from The Tuck Shop

The Tuck Shop

As Molner says, chocolate benefits your health and your happiness. The Tuck Shop, based in Nantucket and owned by friend of John’s, creates delicious chocolates in a variety of flavors ranging from classic milk chocolate to extra dark, even adding bits of coffee, pretzel, or cranberry in some bars. These would make amazing stocking stuffers, as you can order them in a pack of six or more bars.

$72 for 6 Bars at The Tuck Shop