7 tech and lifestyle gifts that will score major points this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is once again right around the corner, which means you’ll probably want to go out and get your S.O. a gift, right?

Far from the typical chocolate and roses (although if you do want some of those, new Aussie service Mr Roses is a good place to start), the things that really get over are the good, solid, practical gifts. The pair of shoes they’ve been needing for months, the expensive sunglasses they’ve always hesitated to buy, a pair of good quality earphones that they can actually use at the gym, or a sturdy pack for anyone planning some hiking trips this year.

We’ve put together several gift suggestions we feel will score some major points this V-Day, just in case you’re stuck in the dreaded decision loop.

Tech

Jaybird Vista

The Jaybird Vista True Wireless In-Ear Sport Headphones ($299) were released towards the end of last year and have been praised as some of the best workout earphones to date. Jaybird have always come through for fitness buffs who demand high quality and convenience at the same time. With battery life of up to 32 hours with the compact carrying charger case, as well as an IPX7 rating, there’s no doubt that the brand has delivered with these ones, and then some.

If you’re S.O has been getting frustrated with their gym headphones falling out, or their secured oldies just not showing enough power, then grab them a pair of these. More information can be found at jaybirdsport.com/en-au.

Megaboom 3

It’s only right that one of the most beloved speaker ranges of all time gets a powerful upgrade. The Megaboom 3 ($299.95) has easily taken the successful UE series to the next level and has kept it there since it was released two years ago. With super powerful and immersive 360* sound coming out of a portable, slick and colourful cylinder-shaped speaker wrapped in high-performance fabric, it’s no wonder why this one of UE’s best products to date.

Sturdy, consistent, and perfect for outdoor activities or parties – if the S.O has been looking for a high-value portable Bluetooth speaker then pick this up before the big day. More information can be found at ultimateears.com.

Huawei Watch GT 2

It’s been called the smartwatch to beat in 2020, and it’s sure hard to argue with that. Huawei have taken their GT 2 Series watch – both the 46mm ($429) and 42mm ($399) versions – and added a remarkable array of features to boost performance and ensure this won’t get outdated anytime soon. The company’s powerful Kirin A1 chip helps the whole thing run smoothly while features include Bluetooth calling (46mm version only), up to two weeks battery life (46mm version only – 42mm can go up to one week in classic mode), enhanced sport and health management features, and a huge range of customisation options so users can pick the exact aesthetic that suits them.

It just may be the best balance between a comprehensive fitness track and a smartwatch that we’ve seen yet, so if you’re S.O is looking into getting a smartwatch click through to find out more information at consumer.huawei.com.

Style

Skechers’ New Collections

Reliable, affordable, comfortable – Skechers have always been a good choice for those looking for a bit more balance in value when it comes to everyday footwear. They’ve dropped three new collections to get their 2020 starters, and both are well worth looking into.

First, there’s the Skechers Roadies ($119.99) for those that vibe on 90s style sneakers and are looking for a day-to-day shoe in a range of colours. Then you’ve got the Skechers UNO ($129.99), an update on the classic air-cushioned style which focuses on joggers with stitching and perforation accents. The more street-style look is complemented by Skechers ultra comfort technology

Lastly, there’s the Valentine’s Day styles of the classic Skechers as well as a new range of Solar Fuse ($129.99), which is our top pick as they are perfect from on-the-go wearers wanting something sleek and sporty with air-cooled athletic comfort.

You can browse all the new collection online at skechers.com.au or head to one of their retail stores across Australia.

Maui Jim’s New Collection

It’s always worth paying attention when Maui Jim drop a bunch of new releases, as they’ve done in recent months. The Hawaiian designer sunglasses brand has been steadily showing people that a stylish pair is much more than just a fashion statement, given their primary PolarizedPlus2 lens tech which wipes out 99.9% of glare and blocks 100% of UV rays.

They’re also just some of most fashion-forward pairs on the market, so it’s well worth browsing the current collection if you’re S.O has been holding off on getting some new sunnies.

You can do so at mauijim.com.

Fjallraven Ulvo Daypack

If the S.O is planning any extensive travel this year, they better be prepared with a smart and functional carry solution. And we aren’t talking about a suitcase here. If they’re going to be out and about, they’ll need a versatile daypack to carry around with them. Luckily, Swedish brand Fkallraven has just put out its ULVO 23 ($239.95), which strikes a nice balance between form and function with the company’s award-winning water, tear and abrasion-resistant Bergshell Fabric.

Throw in a zippered opening, padded computer compartment, and a back panel and integrated shoulder straps that use air mesh for ventilation and comfort. You’ve got yourself an everyday bag that handles a lot, lets users customise their load out, and looks like it’s ready for just about anything.

For more information and to buy online head to fjallraven.com.au.

The Bondi Shoe Club

Proudly local, The Bondi Shoe Club specialise in gorgeous slip-on canvas shoes inspired by Aussie beaches. What’s more is that the entire shoe can be recycled and all packaging is biodegradable, with the brand being the first shoe makers to be certified by Vegan Australia. If the S.O is looking for something a bit different, with a clear social conscious and plenty of style, then this is a shoe-in for V-Day gift of the year. It helps that at $89, they are pretty damn affordable too (and 5% of all profits are donated to the Fight for Our Reef campaign by the Australian Marine Conservation Society).

For more information and to buy online head to thebondishoeclub.com/

Chris Singh

Chris Singh is an Editor-At-Large at the AU review, loves writing about travel and hospitality, and is partial to a perfectly textured octopus. You can reach him on Instagram: @chrisdsingh.