Buying a gift for a 16-year-old male is not always easy. Chances are he has a number of interests, ranging from athletics and outdoor adventure to music and computers. When considering a gift for a 16-year-old male, try to align his gift with his interests, and you will be able to make the right choice.

You can never go wrong giving cash as a gift to a 16-year-old male, especially since this is an age often defined by asserting independence and expressing individuality. Cash will give him the freedom to buy what he really wants. Also consider giving him a gift card for one of his favorite stores or online sites. Clothes and accessories, such as watches, belts and wallets, can make practical and useful gifts, as well, as long as they fit his style.

Electronic gadgets are popular with many 16-year-old males. If he still enjoys video games, buy him a new game. For those who have moved away from video games, purchase audio gear such as an iPod or iPod accessories. Useful iPod accessories include headphones, speakers or a dock station. If he has a cell phone, buy him accessories for his phone. If your budget allows, consider buying him a digital camera or video camera.

If the 16-year-old is a sports fan and/or athlete, there are a number of gift options. NFL, NBA or NCAA wall art or graphics can help him deck out his room. Consider buying him T-shirts and jerseys adorned with the logo of his favorite team or player. Sports water bottles decorated with team or character memorabilia are popular and can serve more than one purpose. You can customize the gift by buying the bottle and stuffing it with treats. Purchase new sporting equipment and gear, if your budget allows.

Listening to music and watching movies are two popular pastimes of 16-year-olds. Buy him a CD by his favorite artist or a DVD of one of his favorite movies. You can also give him a gift card for iTunes or Rhapsody so he can download his favorite media himself.