It is a scientifically proven fact that the male of the species is incredibly difficult to buy for.

Whether it's your father, brother, husband or boyfriend, it's the same hopeless task. I can think of a hundred things I'd like but ask a man and the best you'll get is a new wash bag, a jumper or - wait for it - a power drill?

So basically, it's up to you to summon up your own inspiration. And luckily, you've now got the Internet on your side, the Web is literally bursting with gift ideas and here are a few of the best sites to get you started.

If the man you're buying for is still a boy at heart then look no further than Boys Stuff. They aim to provide the best products for grown-up boys, independently tested and at lower than high street prices.

The site is well organised and designed for fun, including the enticingly named product categories such as 'Gadget Stuff', 'Party Stuff' and 'Bachelor Pad Stuff'.

The home page lists the hottest nine products, which currently include a radio controlled UFO (£59.99) and table football game (£399). If he's not an adult space hopper kind of guy, don't worry you'll also find more sensible options in each of the categories, including espresso machines, luggage, cameras and watches.

Most items will be dispatched in 48 hours unless they notify you otherwise.

For the sophisticated gentleman who has everything, try the very grown up, stylish site from mail order company, Tamlin and Brown.

There are good product pictures and descriptions with items arranged into 'Shaving', 'Dress', 'Garden', 'Games' and 'Sport'.

Choose from yachting knives, leather hip flasks, wine thermometers and equipment for hunting, shooting or fishing. Delivery takes five to 15 working days.

Links of London also sells its exclusive, must-have silver and gold jewellery and accessories from its web site. The layout is easy to navigate with lots of enticing photos. And you'll find loads of gift ideas for men, including picture frames, clocks, cufflinks and dress shirt studs.

You can even send the gift direct to the recipient with your own special message. Items take three working days to arrive.

Or why not give a day to remember from Exhilaration Gift Experiences, who have 150 different activities to choose from. For the dare devil or action man, browse the 'Air Adventures', 'Driving Days' and 'Wet and Wild' sections for helicopter flights (£149+) and Ferrari driving (£199). For a more gentle experience, how about brunch for two on the Orient Express (£250).

Vouchers can be open-ended or fixed for a certain date and will be dispatched, complete with gift pack in 24 hours.

If you're still struggling, you're bound to find something at Cody Gifts. This emporium chain and Internet retailer has literally thousands of gift ideas with price tags ranging from £5 to £2,500.

Choose a digital camera watch (£180) or shot glasses (£22). If you're really stuck, seek extra help in the 'What's Hot', 'What's New' and 'Inspire Me' sections.

Purchases come gift wrapped, with 24 hour or standard delivery.

www.boysstuff.co.uk
www.tamlinandbrown.com
www.linksoflondon.com
www.exhilaration.co.uk
www.codygifts.com