This Sunday, June 20, is Father’s Day in South Africa and a day to celebrate the patriarch of the family, usually with a tie, socks or braai tongs. Given such unusual times, The Sandton Times ventured out to look for some alternatives to these firm favourites.
- There’s something for all kinds of Dad’s from sweet treats to great beats.
- Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June, in most parts of the globe.
- Electronic gadgets, clothing, home improvement items and sporting goods are some of the most popular Father’s Day gifts.
- Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.
PRACTICAL PAPA: KÄRCHER HIGH-PRESSURE CLEANER [FROM R1599]
Nothing feels quite as empowering as blowing away dirt from pavements, patios, walls and cars with a jet of water – this is putting on the pressure in a whole new way!
WHY WE REALLY LIKE THIS: German designed and now the first app-connected pressure washers ever, the Kärcher selection of super-cleaners is less of a call to work for Papa and more of a chance for him to switch off and switch on – if you know what we mean? He’ll be terminating even the hardest to reach grime and grit with some serious power and have fun doing it.
ALTERNATIVE: VERTICAL CAR PHONE HOLDER MOUNT [FROM R180]
So simple yet so effective, this little gadget clips onto the dashboard of your car, holding any smartphone in place, ideal for apps like Waze or Google Maps. Gone are the days of balancing mobile phones on knees or having to find a gap to glance at the screen to find out where in the world he’s going!
FITNESS FATHER: SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS LIVE [R2999]
With an iconic shape and ergonomic design, these wireless earphones are going to be his favourite! With Active Noise Cancellation, working out will never be the same again, never mind the ‘secret agent like’ tap to the ear, to change tracks.
WHY WE REALLY LIKE THIS: Many have released wireless earphones yet few have focused on design, quality and execution quite like Samsung has with these magic beans. With great battery life, great fit and super sound, they deliver Podcasts and Playlists like never before.
ALTERNATIVE: UNDER ARMOUR SPORTS MASK [2 FOR R700]
As South Africa faces another wave of COVID-19 infections, it’s probably one of the most functional Father’s Day gifts that is also stylish, comfortable and keeps him safe, be it at the gym or training outdoors.
PLUSH POPS: CAPE UNION MEN’S SHEEP WOOL CLASSIC SLIPPERS [R699]
Made from genuine sheep wool, these delicious chocolate colour slippers come complete with a durable outsole and marshmallow-like inner for amazing comfort and warmth.
WHY WE REALLY LIKE THIS: It’s the perfect gift during these icy temperatures and Pops will love the fact that he can keep his feet warm, in comfort, whilst relaxing at home and they’ll probably last him for a few winters!
ALTERNATIVE: K-WAY MEN’S DRAKE ’18 DOWN JACKET [R1499]
This is a quintessential South African icon, much like the Springbok, Magwinya, Rooibos Tea and ‘Just Now’. Made to withstand bleak weather whilst looking good too, it’s a jacket that will go with him anywhere, anytime!
DRAM DAD: WOODFORD RESERVE CLASSIC MALT [R2700]
Every year Woodford Reserve release a special, and sometimes experimental, whiskey in their Master’s Collection range – some might say he’s a bit like that. The tasting notes speak of Sweet, almost cane sugar like flavours with vanilla, stewed fruits and some berries on the palate – sounds good!
WHY WE REALLY LIKE THIS: Apart from an unusual yet gorgeous bottle, the flavours of this classic malt had us wanting more from the first sip. In part a collector’s item, this might be one for the Dad that’s tried them all or likes something unusual and hard to find.
ALTERNATIVE: BLOEDLEMOEN GIN [R399]
Considered the first Blood Orange Gin in the World, this South African gin is made from the luscious Tarocco Blood Orange and as far as gin drinkers go, trying a new and different liquid is par for the course, especially if it can be combined with wild and wonderful tonic variations and garnishes.
DESSERT DADDY: FILIGRANA ‘AUTHENTIC PERUVIAN TREATS’ [R100 for 12]
An authentic Peruvian family recipe, these handcrafted, melt-in-your-mouth biscuits with Dulce de Leche filling will have him chilling on the sofa with a cappuccino, finishing the whole box that same afternoon.
WHY WE REALLY LIKE THIS: For those with a sweet tooth, there is nothing quite like discovering a new favourite dessert, never mind one that is crafted by hand and won’t last a day longer than necessary – just try it and you’ll know what we mean.
ALTERNATIVE: DAD’S TOASTY CAMPFIRE CAKE [R390]
Even if the rest of your ‘surprise’ Father’s Day lunch was more of an experiment than a meal, make sure dessert hits the mark with this toasty malt chocolate cake reminiscent of warm hot chocolates by the fire. This creamy malted milk chocolate ice cream cake is swirled with dark chocolate fudge sauce and set in an Oreo cookie crust. The cake is finished with pillows of homemade marshmallow fluff gently toasted with a blowtorch by those nice people at Paul’s Homemade Ice-Cream.
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