I am sending some gifts to Ivy's school and the list had one for a 14 year old boy. Usually, if it was a family member, I would just do a gift card but I don't think i can do that -
If so, maybe gloves, hat, scarf set? Did they request a toy or clothes?
I know I asked the MS boys a cheap gift and they always said a sports ball like a basketball, football or something like that. Most kids are into video games, but you cannot get something like that.
In the past I would do what Melissa said, put it in a backpack with a few school supplies and a couple of card-type games (Uno, Phase Ten, etc). I agree, REALLY tough age. I went more practical.
I know you said no gift cards, but you could put a small one in there for a fast food place. Most teens like that. It never ceases to amaze me how much teenagers like getting junk food.