The gifts teens are actually asking for this year, according to shopping editors and real teens - NBC News

NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.

Editorial Operations Associate

Shopping for teenagers can be tricky. Trends come and go, interests change seemingly overnight and what was considered cool a few months ago might already be out of style. And while teenagers are often pretty vocal about what they like (and especially what they don’t like), finding a gift they’ll actually use and appreciate long term can still feel like a guessing game.

Luckily, I have a few teenagers in my corner. As the oldest of three siblings, including a 16-year-old girl, and as an occasional tutor for high schoolers, I’ve had a front-row seat to the changing trends of today’s teens. I am very good at giving gifts, according to everyone I know. Every year, I arrange dozens of gifts for my large family across many age groups and they all ask me, “how do you do it?” Shopping and testing products for a living helps, but I truly take pride in giving people gifts that make them feel special, and won’t just get added to piles of clutter somewhere. Whether you’re shopping for a fashion-obsessed 13-year-old, a high school athlete or a soon-to-be college student, these are some of the best gifts for teens to consider this year.

The best gifts for teens in 2026

With trends coming and going faster than ever, teens are constantly being told what they should want next. As a big sister, I want my siblings to discover their own taste and understand that the best things aren’t always the trendiest. These gifts strike that balance, with picks that feel exciting now but are useful and special enough to enjoy long after the hype fades.

UGG Women's Classic Ultra Mini Boot

BaubleBar Fine Line Custom iPhone Case

Shark Silki Straight Wet to Dry Straightener + Blow Dryer

Grand Theft Auto VI: Ultimate Edition

Best clothing gifts for teens

My 16-year-old sister owns this jacket in three colors and hopes to collect more like they’re Infinity Stones. It’s one of her favorite pieces to wear to school, sports practice and just about everywhere else. Made from Lululemon’s soft, stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric, the Define Jacket has a fitted silhouette, zippered pockets and thumbholes with fold-over cuffs to help keep hands warm. For teens who prefer something roomier, my sister also recommends the brand’s Scuba Evolve Hoodie, which is great for lounging, running errands or layering over workout clothes.

Etam Boat Neck Thermal T-Shirt with Cashmere

Growing up, my mother would make us wear the thickest long johns underneath our school uniforms during the winter. Between the sweating, chafing and bulkiness, I dreaded putting them on. Thankfully, thermal wear has come a long way. I own this cashmere-blend top from Etam in black and blue, and it’s become a cold-weather essential for me. It’s lightweight enough to wear underneath sweaters and jackets without adding bulk, but stylish enough to wear on its own. Think of it as an elevated alternative to traditional thermals.

Duer Tech Fleece Denim Utility Pant

I hate layering leggings or thermals underneath my jeans when it’s cold outside, which is why I’ve become such a fan of Duer’s fleece-lined denim. The brand’s Tech Fleece fabric combines the look of denim with the comfort and warmth of an insulating layer, keeping me cozy without needing to double up on pants. I own a pair and have found them particularly useful during colder months.

Ugg’s Classic Ultra Mini boots are a great gift for teens who love cozy footwear. Their low-cut silhouette makes them easy to slip on and style with leggings, jeans or sweatpants, while the sheepskin lining adds warmth. They’re especially useful for casual outings, long travel days, quick errands and lounging between activities.

For the teen who’s always keeping up with sneaker trends, Adidas’ Samba OG is an option they can always wear. Originally designed as an indoor soccer shoe, the low-profile sneaker has become a casual wardrobe staple that pairs easily with jeans, skirts and wide-leg trousers. If the recipient already owns a pair, consider another Adidas style like the Barreda Lo, Japan or Gazelle Indoor shoes.

Every teen has a pair of Crocs and their special collection of Jibbitz. My sister and I have multiples and we welcome new ones every year with gratitude. They’re just so practical.

Best winter jacket gifts for teens

Aritzia The Super Puff Shorty Jacket