Father’s Day is right around the corner and that means many children, spouses and other family members will be scrambling to locate the perfect gifts for the men in their lives.

Put away those coupons for neckties and remote control caddies. There’s a good chance Dad wants something a little less cliche and more in tune with his interests. If you think carefully about gift ideas, there’s bound to be something that will be a perfect fit.

Sports

If Dad follows a particular team or sport, gifts inspired by his love of a favorite team are a surefire bet for success. Team jersies, game memorabilia, tickets to the next at-home game, or an expanded satellite dish or cable TV sports programming package are some gift ideas that will coordinate with a sports theme. Some dads also may be content to simply hit the links or spend a few hours at the batting cages.

Personalized Gifts

Personalized gifts can show that special man in your life that you care about him in a special way. Instead of a run-of-the-mill item pulled off a store shelf, a personalized gift can feature a name, date or sentiment right on the gift itself. Think about giving Dad a personalized plaque that designates his work area in the garage or a pocket lighter or photo frame engraved with a special message or his name. An embroidered bath robe, or a golf bag embroidered with his initials may also be a special treat.

Fit for Foodies

As the adage goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Take advantage of these words of wisdom by gifting your Dad with food or culinary-themed items. Dad may be an amateur chef and will enjoy a cookbook by his favorite Food Network personality. Or he may have a restaurant he insists on going to all the time, so guaranteeing a gift card to said restaurant will be a hit. If Dad appreciates not only the taste, but also the culture of food, plan a tour of food shops in the area or go on a wine- and cheese-tasting adventure.

Gear Heads

Some dads get revved up about automotive gifts, especially if they spend the weekends pampering their prized cars or trucks. If he tends to have a wrench in hand and head under the hood, treat your father to some new supplies for his automotive pursuits. Quality car waxes and upholstery cleaners are always in demand. Or give him a gift certificate to his favorite hand-wash, auto-detailing center. Gas station gift cards or a new ratchet set are other good auto gift ideas.

Techies

Some dads get excited about the latest tablets or smartphones. They may keep abreast of virus-detection software or think the technological gadgets sold in those speciality magazines and mall stores are must-haves. Chances are if you spend enough time with Dad you know just what he likes to dabble in, and you can get him an electronic device he’ll find invaluable.

Although it may seem difficult on the surface to find a gift for Dad that he truly will enjoy and use, all it takes is a close examination of his likes to find something appropriate.