Great gift ideas for men can be in short supply, especially when making last minute purchases. You want to choose a gift that is not only age appropriate, but one that reflects the man's personal tastes. Buying for the special man in your life like your husband, brother or father should also carry some sentimentality or personal significance.

Finding the right balance when making a list of gift ideas for men can be more challenging than finding a great bargain, though. Useful, fun gifts are usually a better idea than another tie or that snazzy pair of argyle socks.

Some gift ideas for men aren't that much different than thinking of gift ideas for a young boy. Once the fun of youth passes, most men like to be let off the hook from adulthood occasionally to remember their younger side. A pack of guitar picks and some accessories for the campfire guitarist, a new video game or controller, or a baseball and glove are great gift ideas for men.

For the men in your life who are adrenaline junkies, look at giving gifts that are more experience-related rather than physical objects. Gift ideas for men of the extreme sports type can be a skydiving class, a white-water rafting trip, or maybe a gift certificate for bungee jumping. For men who love the outdoors, getting camping gear, some new hiking boots, or maybe a bigger tackle box will catch his eye.

Older men may enjoy gifts that are less extreme. Some great gift ideas for the retiree on your list might be some painting supplies and a model car kit, a good book, some cozy slippers or a warm robe.

They may also enjoy a new pipe or a box of fine cigars if they are a smoker. Even a course in cabinetmaking can be given as gift for the man who enjoys learning and working with his hands.

Gift ideas for men you know who are sports fans could involve box seats for a great baseball or basketball game of their favorite team. Present the tickets with a jersey or hat, and he'll be all set.

You could purchase a subscription to his favorite sports magazine, if he doesn't have one already. If he goes golfing with his friends every weekend, get him some new golf balls or new shoes he could wear on the green. A mini golf set for home is fun, too.

For your more open-minded husband or brother, consider treating him to a day at the spa. These days, relaxation and pampering isn't just for women, nor does a spa day make a man any less of a man.

Invigorating facials and stress-relieving massages could really open his eyes about the way he takes care of himself, and these gift ideas for men are great ones to help your man relax.

Some gift ideas for men that you could both enjoy include gifts such as silk boxers, a set of massage oils, or a facial grooming kit - no one likes a prickly beard. Other fun gifts like a gift certificate to a great restaurant or a weekend getaway to a bed and breakfast are sure to be appreciated by both of you.

Choosing a gift idea for men doesn't have to be tough, and it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Whether it is for a birthday, for Father's day, or for an anniversary, this is your token of appreciation for having these men in your life every day.

Use a little imagination, think of functional, fun or practical gifts, and whatever you choose, make sure you've picked something that matches your man's personality.