Bernard O'Shea: My foolproof system to buy a perfect gift for dads at Christmas

Dads are simple creatures, but that doesn't mean we're easy to buy for. The perfect gift isn't about flash or expense; it's about thoughtfulness.

Bernard O'Shea on what to consider when Christmas shopping for dads. Picture: Moya Nolan.

Let's face it: buying for dads is like trying to guess the safe combination in a vault filled with mild indifference. Socks? Too predictable. A bottle of whiskey? OK, but uninspired. Some high-tech gadget? Congratulations, you've just given me the gift of endless YouTube tutorials on "how to set it up."

Here's the truth: dads are tricky. We're like the IKEA furniture of gift recipients—there's a specific formula to putting us together, but no one can find the instructions. I've been the giver and receiver of Dad's presents, so I know the stakes. My dad (God rest him) was a master at pretending to love whatever I gave him. He never complained, but now that I'm the dad, I understand what he was doing. He wasn't thrilled; he was protecting my feelings.