
Chess Christmas Gifts Guide - Christmas Gifts for Chess Lovers
by Paul Chessini
·

Need to find chess Christmas gifts that will not be missed? Pair the gift with the player: complete sets with new players or upgrading players, quality boards to display at home, practical accessories to improve on a daily basis, books to study and clothing to improve personality. Standards to be sought are durable material, legible design (high light/dark contrast), and ready to wrap packaging.
Introduction
It is simpler to find Christmas gift ideas that are in categories rather than in single items, when seeking christmas gifts for chess lovers. This guide will take you through the most suitable ones, by case of use and by taste, be it you are buying a casual coffee-house player, a club regular, or simply someone who appreciates the Chess aesthetics. We will point out the effectiveness of each category, what not to do, and where to find reliable choices.
Best chess Christmas gift categories
-
Complete sets — instant “open and play,” great for first-timers or anyone ready to upgrade.
-
Boards — the main feature of a chess corner; they are ideal when you already have pieces.
-
Accessories — clocks, bags, scorebooks, piece pouches; little things of great daily value.
-
Books — eternal betterment and upliftment.
-
Apparel — display chess identity outside the board, like North Pole Crewneck Sweatshirt wraps pill resistant NuBlend® fleece in an old-fashioned unisex style, soft inside, sleek outside.
-
Stocking stuffers — small but thoughtful add-ons for any level.

Chess sets as Christmas gift
The perfect set is a one-box solution—board + pieces that fit together and feel fantastic. Use piece shapes (Staunton style) that are easy to read, a stable base, and a board that is not glare.

Why it’s a great gift
-
Immediate functionality (no additional purchases are required).
- Great conversation piece to a house or an office.
- Works for beginners and improvers alike.
Where to shop: No matter if you are looking at classic or travel-friendly Chess Sets, browse through the Christmas Chess collections or the entire Chess Sets collection.
(Technicality note: to be precise, tournament correct dimensions are available only by consulting the official FIDE equipment standards, in which case you might not purchase an incorrectly sized game board unless you just want to be a rulebreaker).
Chess boards for holiday gifts
In case they already have pieces, then a board upgrade is ideal. Wood boards are cozy; roll ups are compact; folding boards fit into a small space. Find good contrast and square adequacy.

Why it’s a great gift
-
Raises their existing works immediately.
- Allow them to build a chess playing place in their residence.
- Numerous designs and finishes to suit interior decor.
Where to shop: Chess Boards (folding, roll-up, premium woods).
(Sizing note: 50-60mm squares used (with roughly ~95mm kings) are tournament size, smaller sizes used on smaller tables - US Chess advice)
Great chess books
Books are eternal presents: tactical training, end game books, annotated classics, and the current “how-to-think” books. Select according to level: tactical puzzles books: beginners; annotated collections of games: club players.
Why it’s a great gift
-
Enhances their chess even after the holidays.
- Pairs well with a set or board as a themed bundle.
Accessories for Christmas gift
The silent MVPs of every day play and practice are accessories.
Smart ideas
- Real game rhythm Clocks and Timers.

- Storage, pouches, and bags to secure pieces and boards.

-
Scorebooks for tracking progress and memorable wins.
Where to shop: add-ons that work are found in Chess Accessories.
Chess-Themed Apparel Christmas gifts
Allow them to dress their passion—hoodies, tees, caps and minimalist chess designs. Clothes are size-based, simple to present and good in cases where players already own equipment.

Where to shop: Apparel for subtle, modern chess looks.
Quick chooser: who gets what (at a glance)
Recipient |
Safe Pick |
Why it works |
Watch-outs |
New player |
Starter set |
All under one box; kick-off easy. |
Avoid tiny/glossy boards |
Coffee-house regular |
Folding or roll-up board |
Portable, café-friendly |
Ensure readable contrast |
Club improver |
Accessories + puzzle book |
Organization and training every day. |
Skip gimmicky gadgets |
Home decorator |
Premium wood board |
Looks great year-round |
Match interior tones |
Traveler |
Travel set |
Plays well in tight spaces |
Prefer magnetic stability |
Style-first fan |
Apparel |
Personal and fun |
Confirm size/fit |
Why these make great chess christmas gifts
Good gifts are appropriate to the way one plays (or wants to play). Practical objects are items that are used in everyday life; the aesthetic objects remind the game at home. A balanced gift bundle of christmas gifts for chess players will include one use now pick (set/board/accessory) and one identity pick (apparel/book).
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you get chess players for Christmas?
Start with a set or board if they lack a favorite setup; otherwise choose accessories (clock, bag, scorebook), a well-matched book, or chess-themed apparel. Think about where they play (home, café, travel) and choose accordingly.
What budget-friendly Christmas gifts can I buy for a chess player?
Accessories (piece pouches, scorebooks), roll-up boards, and puzzle books are affordable wins. Bundle two small items for a “ready to use” feel without overspending.
Where can I find Christmas gifts for chess lovers online?
Browse curated ideas in the Christmas Chess collection and choose whatever fits your needs or meets the criteria for a Christmas gift.
Conclusion
The chess Christmas themed gifts should be a combination of usefulness and happiness: a board on which they will see every day, a set that will make the games something special, an accessory that facilitates all sessions, or a book that will initiate the process of improvement. Make materials tough, designs readable, and the unwrapping process celebratory and you will have a gift that will continue to pay back throughout the year.