Sports seem to be an active and integrated aspect of life not only in America but around the globe. Sports items make great gifts for those who love sports. There are a few things to remember when buying sports related items for a sports enthusiast.
Be sure to know the sports that your loved one or friend enjoys. Buying a NASCAR jacket for a person who does not watch car racing seems impractical. Buying the right item but buying it for the wrong sport could spell gift giving disaster.
Be sure to know the teams that your loved one likes. This may seem relatively simple but there are times when just any team will not do. For example, no one would buy a Michigan sweatshirt for an Ohio State fan unless it was a joke. Make sure that you know which professional teams and which college teams are the favorite. Once you know what sport and which teams your friend or loved one likes another issue arises, what to buy.
There are a number of quality choices that are available for great gifts for those who love sports. Here are just a few simple suggestions.
Team Apparel
Sporting goods stores carry a wide variety of apparel with a variety of sports in mind. You can find jerseys for hockey, football, baseball or even basketball. There are jackets, coats, sweatshirts and various other items as well. Apparel is among the easiest and most available items for the sports fan because most retail stores carry something in sports clothing.
Most sporting goods stores and retail stores will carry team merchandise that is local and specifically represents their area. This is an important fact to keep in mind because if your fan likes a team that is not from your area, finding apparel items might be more difficult. For example, it is unlikely that you will find items for Arizona State in Pittsburgh. Make use of local stores but also check online for stores that will sell the items that you might be looking for.
Sports Magazines Subscriptions
There are a number of publications that cover the world of sports. There are some magazines that cover a variety of sports like Sports Illustrated and ESPN the Magazine. Then there are more dedicated magazines that cover a specific sport like Golf. Be sure that you know what your sports fan likes and pick a magazine that will cater to their specific tastes.
Sports Collectibles
On the higher end of the gifts are the sports collectibles. These items usually come from specialty sports stores or general collectible stores. Things to look for might include autographed items from various athletes and coaches, sporting cards, and autographed photos. These are especially hot items while the sport is in season. Be careful with autographed items because there are a large number of fakes on the market. Be sure to check on the authenticity of the item before you make a purchase.
Room Décor
Some sports fans are fortunate enough to be able to decorate a room or portion of the house in their favorite teams colors and items. For these individuals an additional item for their room would be an excellent gift. There are a wise selection of choices like clocks, pictures or posters, decorative signs, lamps and even large decals that are removable. Before you buy be sure you have the right team, the right colors and the right item. Gift giving could be awkward if you have purchased a Florida State item for a fan of the University of Florida.
Be sure to have a backup plan because sporting goods tend to disappear especially around Christmas. You may intend to purchase a college team shirt but if they are sold out have a plan with another team or another item.
