We have all been there: looking for gifts for the men in our life. Whether it’s your brother, boyfriend, husband, father or a friend, searching for the perfect present can sometimes be really challenging, even if we know the person very well. And sometimes, if we are looking for something specific, buying a present that’s cruelty free and vegan can be a bit harder.
My boyfriend’s birthday is approaching and I have been doing lots of research—of course, always keeping in mind his likes and dislikes. I have found a few companies I didn’t know about before and I would like to share them with you, since it never hurts to find out about companies and products you didn’t know about.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan Presents for Men
Corkor
The founders of Corkor “grew up surrounded by cork oak trees” and always loved them; later on, they started wondering why nobody was really using cork in vegan fashion when it has so many advantages: it’s all-natural, sustainable, light, soft and smooth, resistant to abrasion and water. So, they started their own company, which now employs Portuguese artisans that make wallets, bags and belts. I personally love their wallets and their messenger bags, and they are affordable compared to some other brands, which helps when you want to get a nice present for someone while on a budget.
Watson&Wolfe
Or, If it’s wallets you’re after, another good brand is the British company Watson&Wolfe. They use corn and other plant materials, and the lining is made from recycled plastic bottles. Their CO2 footprint is much lower than regular companies. You can even request them to personalize a wallet, embossing a monogram to front, bottom right-hand corner, so that the gift would be even more special for the person receiving it.
Will’s Vegan Shoes
If it’s vegan shoes you’re after, Will’s Vegan Shoes offer a great selection of boots, trainers, classics… everything you could possibly want. Will Green, the founder of the company, states that he wanted to make shoes people would fall in love with, devoid of animal parts. His inspiration comes from looking at the people he sees out and about in London, where he lives. His products are ethically made in Portugal, where people work in good conditions and are paid a fair wage.
Noah Shoes
A bit more pricey but totally worth it, Noah Shoes works with small workshops in Italy to make their shoes using only plant-based and/or synthetic materials that are light, durable, breathable, water-resistant and hypoallergenic. They also support fair trade and sell other items on their website, such as bags and accessories.
Bulldog Skincare
I think if you care a lot about skincare, like me, you’ll have noticed that most men don’t seem to share our love for it and dismiss everything you say about moisturizing. In fact, why don’t you take advantage of somebody’s birthday to give them some nice skin or grooming products? Pretty much everybody knows Lush, which has a great selection of products, but another good company I have recently found out about is called Bulldog Skincare. Affordable prices and all vegan, this line is definitely a must try.
Cookbooks
Maybe the man you’re searching a present for is a good cook. Maybe not. Either way, why not get him a plant-based cookbook? Personally, I think you can never have too many!
Farmacy Kitchen is a London based restaurant but they have recently opened in New York, as well. Some of their famous customers include Stella McCartney and Liv Tyler, but the London restaurant is very much appreciated by everybody in town. They published Farmacy Kitchen Cookbook: Plant-based recipes for a conscious way of life last year, meant to uplift and nourish you, and I especially recommend you try their chickpea protein omelette!
How Not to Die cookbook is an excellent introduction to vegan cooking by Dr. Michael Greger. There are recipes of all sorts and they don’t require weird, difficult-to-find ingredients (like it sometimes happens with plant-based recipes). You are going to eat healthy but without compromising the flavor! The Mac and Cheese is to die for, and the Roasted Cauliflower, which is a vegetable I have never been good at cooking before trying out this recipe, is delicious and will make you rethink your dislike for cruciferous veggies.
If you end up getting one or more of the presents from this list, I am sure you’ll prove that vegan is not limited or boring and you’ll change those misconceptions for good. Happy shopping!
Also by Anna: Fascinating Secrets To Japanese Beauty & Health I Learned While Living In Tokyo
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Photo: Respective brands
