I really think that it’s one of the best scarfs that could be knitted as a gift for man - simple and masculine, but elegant, very quick&easy to knit (this one took only one evening), reversable and very warm (especially when knitted from pure wool).

Scarf would look cool in solids, but IMHO blended colors/variegates in khaki, sand or gray would add this pattern even more masculinity as they resemble camouflage.

Gauge is NOT important, as well as number of stitches to cast - just ensure it’s even number :) However, rib would look better (IMHO) when knitted with loose, so take larger needles if you tend to knit tight.