Best gifts of 2024, tested by our editors

Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Gifts are like 2024 — getting all wrapped up.

This list could easily be called “Best Christmas presents,” but the gifts aren’t holiday-specific. I’m constantly testing products and this is my year-end roundup of my favourites. In general, I like gifting useful things over gadgets — which is why you’ll find bed sheets on this list and not a jalapeno corer. I also like high-quality products because they tend to last longer — so they might be more expensive off the bat. If I’m getting picky, I also prefer Canadian brands.

This list captures products that I love and I’d buy for myself or family and friends. There’s a range of prices that should capture options for various budgets. 

Why I love them: This bundle comes with one sheet set, a duvet cover and one set of shams. The linens are made from cotton and organic dyes. Silk & Snow is Canadian and based out of Ontario. The brand practices transparent manufacturing and shares where its products are manufactured (this bundle is made in Portugal). Silk & Snow is featured in our “Best bed sheets” article, a roundup of linens tested by our in-house writers.

Price: Starting from $290 Where to buy: Silk & Snow

Why I love it: Get ready to yell. I love a good games night and Blockbuster is a fun one for four or more people. The game includes aspects of charades and Password (the game show). I was introduced to it a few weeks ago and immediately ordered it for myself. Price: $19 Where to buy: Amazon

Why I love them: To know me is to know my love of Roots — namely its sweatpants. Roots’ sweatpants are so comfortable, they wash well and last for years. I wear them during the day, to low-impact fitness classes and in and around the city. I arguably wear them too much as a family member had to check in to ensure that I wasn’t “wearing sweatpants” to a formal-ish function. 

Price: $84 Where to buy: Roots

Why I love it: It’s a perfect pan (read my review). It’s expensive, but I have mostly only positive things to say about it. It’s non-stick (actually), it’s durable (you can even use metal utensils directly on it), it’s easy to maintain, it’s dishwasher and oven safe, there’s no coating and it comes with a lifetime warranty. My only issue with it (and it’s my issue) is that it creates a pattern on some food surfaces and I prefer it didn’t — but that pattern is why the pan works so well.

Price: $250 Where to buy: Our Place | Amazon

Why I love them: I’m a nonfiction reader but appreciate storytelling. Erik Larson’s books are nonfiction but are written so vividly and engagingly like fiction. I was first introduced to his books with Dead Wake and ploughed through those 480 pages. I recommend his books to both nonfiction and fiction readers. Price: From $20 Where to buy: Amazon | Indigo

Why I love them: I recently tried a bunch of popular running shoes to find my favourite (check out my full report) and the Nike Pegasus 41s were tied for first. They’re light, supportive and have the perfect amount of cushioning — a great neutral shoe. Of course, everyone has different preferences, but I love these for everyday running (also great for travelling when you’re walking a lot). 

Price: $180 Where to buy: Nike

Why I love them: They’re easy to slip on and I like their silhouette. I prefer the winter thermal boots over the regular ones as I find them more comfortable and they’re waterproof and winterized. These have quickly become a staple in my fall-winter-spring wardrobe.

Price: $290 Where to buy: Amazon | Australian Boot Company

Why I love it: I’m a fan of mulled wine and appreciate that these packets come pre-portioned; all you have to do is add cider or wine (See Ya Later Ranch is a Canadian vineyard and an editor favourite. Grab this advent calendar complete with 12 of it’s best varietals).

Price: $16 Where to buy: Amazon

Why I love them: These jeans fit me really well. It’s hard to recommend a style of denim for different body types, but I like that these are high-rise, have a bit of a stretch and have room for my muscular thighs and ample bottom. In general, I like DUER because its clothes balance function and fashion. I look forward to wearing these jeans versus dreading wearing stiff denim. DUER is a Canadian brand based in Vancouver. 

Price: $69 – $139 | Men’s ($139) Where to buy: DUER

Why I love it: I appreciate Aesop’s products because they’re effective and smell wonderful. They’re expensive, so they can make the perfect gift to treat someone to something luxurious. This gift kit has a full-size soap, a travel body soap, room spray and hand lotion – a nice sampling of what the brand offers.

Price: $149 Where to buy: Aesop (many options on Amazon too)

Shopping Essentials is a category written by research-obsessed shopping experts. Explore product reviews, recommendations and launches — plus behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and hidden gems — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter.
[email protected]
instagram.com/randimann