Cool Gift Ideas for Boys Age 10 (or 11 or 12 or 13 or 14)

I am an average American dad. I have one wife and three kids. Two of my three kids are boys. Eli is 11 (he was 10 not too long ago) and Ethan is 14. Eli and Ethan have many friends. I see how kids in this age group like to spend their time. I know what they like and I know what they do. This is what qualifies me to write this post. I know what the cool gift ideas for boys age 10 would be. I also know that it’s pretty much the same story for ages 11, 12, 13 and 14.

How do I know what the cool gift ideas for boys are? Because I am an active parent that takes an interest in my kids hobbies and activities. I know what they want. I know what they have. I know what their friends have. I know what they don’t have. Believe me… I’m reminded over and over again by them about what they don’t have and what they think they ‘need’.

All of this useful knowledge has led to the creation of this blog post. Now I feel like I have to justify the fact that I am publishing this type of post on my ‘passive income’ blog. Okay… that’s easy! I’ve worked very hard over the years to create passive income online. Having a little extra ‘side income’ is partly what enables me to buy some of this cool stuff for my sons as gifts for Christmas or their birthdays or whatever. Okay – let’s get to the gift ideas already!

Cool Gift Ideas for Boys

The top 2 time-sucks, err… I mean activities that my boys enjoy are playing video games and watching YouTube. Any gift related to enhancing either of these activities is sure to be a hit.

Believe it or not – boys are still boys – and even though it seems like their entire worlds revolve around electronics, they actually do enjoy some of the good old-fashioned hobbies that involve physical activity. It’s really quite amazing! I’ll list out what I think are some of the top gift ideas for boys in several different categories below.

Playing Video Games

My 11-year-old, Eli, plays his video games almost exclusively on an Xbox. While the default components that come with a basic Xbox get the job done – there are a few items that improve and enhance gameplay and make the entire experience just way better, all-around.

Pro Xbox Controller

You can’t go wrong by spending a little bit of extra money on a really good Pro controller for Xbox. This is the one that Eli got for Christmas two years ago, and it is still going strong…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B074RNL1RX” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074RNL1RX?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”7″ img-sizes=”500:354,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41CXof5bwUL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ylYHiYn2L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416efSVqq1L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41aZ9IJ8NcL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417uTAFrbYL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41V4NG06R0L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SzCRqwGUL._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”With interchangeable thumbsticks and two interchangeable D Pads, swap between optimized thumbstick heights and shapes, and quickly change between a tilting or individual D Pad button layout~~~The Razer Wolverine Ultimate comes loaded with a slew of extra buttons for advanced gaming 2 remappable Multi Function bumpers, 4 Multi Function triggers and a Quick Control Panel~~~With the remapping function both on the fly or with Razer Synapse for Xbox , you can master next level techniques like moving and aiming with both thumb sticks~~~Show off your personal style with Razer Chromas wide selection of lighting effects and stunning profiles, completely customizable through Razer Synapse for Xbox~~~Optimized ergonomics that stays comfortable after hours of practice, and interchangeable parts so it adapts to your hands and playstyle” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” btn-text-bottom=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ hide-button-bottom=”0″ hide-price-bottom=”0″ hide-prime-bottom=”0″ button-bottom-text=”BUY” width=”960″ api=”true”]Razer Wolverine Ultimate Officially Licensed Xbox One Controller: 6 Remappable Buttons and Triggers – Interchangeable Thumbsticks and D-Pad – For PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S –  Black[/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search Amazon for all pro gaming controllers

Pro Gaming Headset

A good headset is essential for gameplay in this current era of gaming. Gaming in the 2020’s is the social equivalent of hanging out at the mall in the 1980’s or 90’s. It’s just where kids (and adults) hang out and a good headset is absolutely vital for being able to communicate with other players. Here is one of the best headsets available today for Xbox or other gaming systems…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B07N85FY1G” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N85FY1G?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”7″ img-sizes=”500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41kd2JkzC3L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51jhOFXZfaL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51wWO+90GtL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51YD1H5QBPL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51bQeNgm7zL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SrtUAi9kL._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”The #1 Best-Selling Gaming Peripherals Manufacturer in the US: Source – The NPD Group, Inc. U.S. Retail Tracking Service, Keyboards, Mice, PC Headset/Pc Microphone, Gaming Designed, based on dollar sales, 2017-2021~~~Immersive, 7.1 Surround Sound for Positional Audio: Outfitted with custom-tuned 50 millimeter drivers, capable of software-enabled surround sound (only available on Windows 10 64-bit)~~~All-Day Comfort: Oval, cooling gel-infused cushions that prevent overheating and pressure build-up~~~Retractable Noise Isolating Microphone: An improved cardioid mic reduces background and ambient noises for crystal-clear communication~~~In-Line Audio Controls: A built-in an analog volume control wheel and mic mute switch~~~Lightweight & Durable: Made of bauxite aluminum, the Kraken frame is flexible and designed to l” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” btn-text-bottom=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ hide-button-bottom=”0″ hide-price-bottom=”0″ hide-prime-bottom=”0″ button-bottom-text=”BUY” width=”960″ api=”true”]Razer Kraken Gaming Headset: Lightweight Aluminum Frame – Retractable Noise Isolating Microphone – For PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S, Mobile – 3.5 mm Headphone Jack – Classic Black[/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search Amazon for all Pro Gaming Headsets

Watching YouTube

The majority of kids age 10 or older (5th grade and up) now have their own cell phones. My kids watch YouTube mostly on their phones – even though they have larger screens available. Anything to enhance the YouTube watching experience via a cell phone is a a great gift idea.

Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

Headphones are not essential for watching videos… But believe me, as a parent (or other adult who happens to be in the same room), you will want you kid to be using headphones so you don’t have to hear the ridiculousness that they watch on YouTube. Beats makes a good quality Bluetooth headphone and you can get them for a fairly good price if you buy one of the older models, like these Beats Solo3 as shown below…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B07YVYZ8T5″ apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YVYZ8T5?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”7″ img-sizes=”500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41sBRQTnnFL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NI7XCEklL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41a0apzlGtL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41bS7sJ5vVL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41y2bmWEsOL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/415WW8CpApL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31M6RUlPQXL._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”High-performance wireless Bluetooth headphones in black~~~Features the Apple W1 chip and Class 1 wireless Bluetooth connectivity~~~With up to 40 hours of battery life, Beats Solo3 wireless is your perfect everyday headphone~~~Compatible with iOS and Android devices~~~With Fast Fuel, 5 minutes of charging gives you 3 hours of playback when battery is low~~~Adjustable fit with comfort-cushioned ear cups made for everyday use~~~Sleek, streamlined design that’s durable and affordable to go everywhere you do~~~Take calls, control your music, and activate Siri with the multifunction on-ear controls~~~The sound and design you’ve come to love from Beats, with premium playback with fine-tuned acoustics that maximize clarity, breadth, and balance” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” btn-text-bottom=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ hide-button-bottom=”0″ hide-price-bottom=”0″ hide-prime-bottom=”0″ button-bottom-text=”BUY” width=”960″ api=”true”]Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones – Apple W1 Headphone Chip, Class 1 Bluetooth, 40 Hours of Listening Time, Built-in Microphone – Black (Latest Model)[/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search Amazon for all Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

It’s Time to Man Up

At some point in a young boys life, the time comes when he needs to experience various rites of passage. Some of these can be actual experiences – but I’m talking about owning something that you aren’t exactly allowed to own when you are younger. There are some items that every man should own – and it’s always great to make a young man feel like a real man by giving him one of those items as a gift.

A Good Pocket Knife

I think I was 8 years old when I received my first pocket knife. I was taught how to safely use and store it and I cherished that pocket knife for many years. I loved whittling away at sticks with it, usually to make my own marshmallow roasters. I’m to have passed on this tradition to my own boys – as they’ve both owned their own pocket knives for several years. I taught them the proper way to whittle sticks so they could make their own marshmallow (or hot dog) roasters when we go camping in the woods. Here is the knife that Eli has had for several years…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B004DSX3M2″ apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004DSX3M2?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ img-sizes=”333:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/313cUcbVPyL._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”1/2 Serrated high carbon stainless steel drop point blade, ideal for edge retention and cutting rope~~~Dual-sided thumb stud for easy single-hand opening~~~Ergonomic textured rubber grip maximizes comfort and reduces slippage~~~Clip for convenient pocket carry and priorities of survival pocket guide~~~Blade Length: 3.63″ btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]GERBER Bear Grylls Scout Knife, Serrated Edge, Drop Point [31-000754][/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search Amazon for all pocket knives for boys

A High-Quality Wallet

I fondly remember the first wallet that I had as a kid. Yep, it was in the 80’s and yep, it had velcro. It was a good wallet that lasted several years for me. But at some point, I needed to man up and ditch the kiddie wallet and get a good quality wallet. The same goes for boys in the 10-year-old to 14-year-old age range. A boy needs a good wallet at this time in his life, when he is transitioning into a man. The cool thing is – there are some really awesome wallets available these days. Like this tactical ‘minimalist’ wallet…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B09FTN788Q” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FTN788Q?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”7″ img-sizes=”500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500,500:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41ifRisatSL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Cm7tV-z3L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41VYVzFPNYL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51eYYQk6DYL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51rPrWGFHyL._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61Fy-ZYZY4L._SL500_.jpg~~~https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51l7NVx-W7L._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Lifetime Project & Warranty – In the minimalistic sense, we insist on achieving the ultimate in every size and feeling. Precision engineering at its finest. Choosing our military-grade materials for their durability to create a lifetime edc wallet. We promise to provide a lifetime warranty. So dont worry about how long your wallet will last.~~~Cool & Functional – Its stylish looking and feel is spectacular. Holds 1-12 Cards. The strap pull the cards up for easier access and the fan-out operation makes the card easy to identify. Metal clip and Cash strap allows you to secure some bills outside for quick access.~~~Secure & Reliable – The inlay has a smooth surface so that your credit cards can slide in and out easily without being damaged. Our minimalist wallet can hold cards and bills firmly, even falling down from a height. RFID BLOCKING metal case prevents the card from being read, even the most powerful RFID chip reader.~~~Durable & Lightweight – Our slim tactical wallet is made of 6061-T6 military-grade aluminum. Superb sturdy! 86 x 54 x 6 mm frame , only 2.8 oz. Ultra thin. You‘ll feel nothing in your pocket.~~~Pretty & Personalized Gift – The unique American flag engraving makes it stand out from other wallets. Laser engraved will not fade or wear off. Exquisite money clip wallet is ideal for your own use or as a gift to your boyfriend, husband, dad, son” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” btn-text-bottom=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ hide-button-bottom=”0″ hide-price-bottom=”0″ hide-prime-bottom=”0″ button-bottom-text=”BUY” width=”960″ api=”true”]Minimalist Metal Wallet for Men | American USA Flag | Slim RFID Blocking Aluminum Wallet with Cash Strap Money Clip | Personalized Pocket EDC Tactical Wallet | Carbon Fiber Card Holder Money Case[/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search all tactical wallets on Amazon

A Manly Cold-Weather Carhartt Hat

You really can’t go wrong with Carhartt brand gear. It’s manly and rugged, yet also stylish and cool. Both of my boys love wearing their Carhartt hats all winter long. My daughter even owns a Carhartt hat and it looks darn good on her too! Oh – and I own this same hat as well. We all have different colors. (You can see pictures of us wearing our Carhartt hats last winter in this post.) I can’t recommend Carhartt products highly enough. Carhartt takes quality to the extreme, in my experience and opinion. Do yourself a favor and grab a couple of these…

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B002G9UDYG” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002G9UDYG?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ img-sizes=”417:500″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41tHtC05dAL._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Carhartt Company Gear Collection~~~Carhartt label sewn on front~~~Stretchable;The crown length is 13 1/4 inc” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]Carhartt Men’s Knit Cuffed Beanie, Black, One Size[/amalinkspro]

CLICK HERE to search Amazon for all Carhartt hats

More Tips for Cool Gift Ideas for Boys

Most of the gifts I highlighted above would be great for almost any boy. There are SO many other options available depending on what the boy in your life is in to. Think outdoors and sports. What sports do they play? What can you buy to enhance their experience for their sport? Do they spend a lot of time outdoors? What do they like to do outdoors?

For example… my boys are both really into mountain biking. There are all kinds of bike accessories and tools available for avid mountain bikers. Another hobby that I enjoy along with my sons is disc golf. Trust me – disc golfers are always excited to get new discs – even if it seems like they have a lot already.

Another example… my oldest son, Ethan, is into hunting and shooting guns. The possibilities are endless as far as gift ideas! Guns, bullets, camo gear, any hunting accessories.

Yet another example… my younger son, Eli, is into basketball and lacrosse. He loves watching the NBA. Super easy to buy some NBA gear to make that kid happy!

Don’t Have a Good Day. Have a Great Day!

Here’s a great example. Recently, our family watched the movie – Free Guy

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2m-08cOAbc[/embedyt]

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer directly on YouTube

Buy T-Shirts on Amazon

Tip: you can search Amazon for t-shirt designs for almost literally anything you can think of!

One of the catch phrases that we picked up from the movie is this…

“Don’t have a good day. Have a great day!”

Well, wouldn’t you know it. There is a t-shirt available for that!

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B097CXWY94″ apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097CXWY94?tag=&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”5″ img-sizes=”500:468″ imgs=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41riAWVnbAS._SL500_.jpg” link-imgs=”false” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”600″]Free Guy Don’t Have A Good Day, Have A Great Day T-Shirt[/amalinkspro]

Lol! And I think I’ll just leave you with that. This now concludes this blog post – featuring cool gift ideas for boys.

Don’t have a good day. Have a great day!

Picture of Matthew Allen
Matthew Allen
Matthew Allen is a full-time trucker, part-time blogger, and imaginary entrepreneur. He's probably not the only trucker who calls himself a dumbass. But, he is the only known trucker who is blogging about passive income."Might be crazy, but I ain't dumb!" ~ Crazy Cooter (also Matt's CB handle) 
Picture of Matthew Allen
Matthew Allen
Matthew Allen is a full-time trucker, part-time blogger, and imaginary entrepreneur. He's probably not the only trucker who calls himself a dumbass. But, he is the only known trucker who is blogging about passive income."Might be crazy, but I ain't dumb!" ~ Crazy Cooter (also Matt's CB handle) 

Get my updates in your inbox...

The Dumbass Newsletter

100% FREE! You may unsubscribe at any time.

Your email address is safe. I will never spam or share your email with anyone.