1Vic Firth American Classic 5A sticks
Drummers get through sticks fast, and the Vic Firth 5A is the world's best-selling stick for good reason. It's made from tough American hickory with a teardrop tip that sounds great on cymbals. A few spare pairs are always welcome.
Pros
- The world's best-selling stick.
- Tough hickory.
- Always needed.
Cons
- Some drummers prefer a heavier 5B or 7A.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Vic Firth product page ↗
2Evans RealFeel 12in practice pad
Drummers can't play a full kit every time they want to practise. The RealFeel pad has a gum rubber side that feels like a real drum and a firmer side for building strength, and it's quiet enough to use at home. It's made in the USA.
Pros
- Practise quietly at home.
- Two playing surfaces.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Needs a stand or table to sit on.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Evans product page ↗
3Alpine MusicSafe Pro earplugs
Drums are loud enough to damage hearing over time, and serious drummers protect their ears. MusicSafe Pro plugs lower the volume while keeping the sound clear, with three swappable filters for practice, rehearsals and gigs. They come with a case and are reusable.
Pros
- Protect hearing without muffling.
- Three filter strengths.
- Case included.
Cons
- Take a little getting used to.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Alpine product page ↗
4Alesis Turbo Max electronic drum kit
The Turbo Max is a compact electronic kit that folds away, so they can practise in a bedroom or living room. It has quiet mesh pads, kick and hi-hat pedals and a module with 12 kits and Bluetooth for playing along to music. With headphones in, the neighbours hear only the tapping of the pads.
Pros
- Folds away when not in use.
- Quiet mesh pads.
- Bluetooth play-along.
Cons
- Small pads compared with a full kit.
- Basic on/off pedals.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Amazon UK listing from Alesis ↗
5Vic Firth Performer Classic stick bag
Drummers carry sticks, brushes, mallets and a drum key to every gig. Vic Firth's Performer Classic bag holds up to 12 pairs, with stitched inner pockets that keep pairs together and zipped pockets front and back. Adjustable straps with hooks hang it from the floor tom, so spare sticks are in reach mid-song, and a padded shoulder strap is included.
Pros
- Holds up to 12 pairs.
- Hangs from the floor tom.
- Zipped pockets for a key and spares.
Cons
- More than a casual player needs.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Vic Firth product page ↗
What to buy someone who loves drumming
Drummers are fussy about their kit, so stick to accessories they'll use every day. The best gifts for drummers are sticks, practice pads, hearing protection and a compact electronic kit. Ask what stick size they play before buying. A practice pad suits any drummer.
How we picked these gifts for drummers
We picked each product for what drummers enjoy and because it makes sense as a present. The order is our own choice. The pros and cons come from published product details, not customer reviews.
Amazon shows the current price and delivery. Where we've checked that the US listing is the same product, the US link goes there. Otherwise you'll get the UK listing, labelled as such. More about our research.
