If you are aiming to make him a quilt he will appreciate as an adult, then gearing it to his current interests, likes, etc. won't work, as those will most likely change, and it will then not be appropriate for him as an adult. Since it's impossible to predict what he will like as an adult, then I agree with the other suggestions. Make the pattern one you like and think most men would like, too. Personalize either the front or the back of the quilt with his and your names and the date you finish the quilt. He will probably love that you made it in advance just for him and cherish it no matter what he thinks of the specific pattern or colors.