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15 Last Minute Graduation Gifts for Him

There was a time in most of our lives when the rhythms and cadence of the school year were inseparable from our own. When we were feeling the crunch of tests and essays, so were our peers. When we had time off for vacation, so did most everyone we knew. Life outside of school slowly but surely obliterates that shared sense of time. Things like finals, spring break, or the duration of semesters become, at best, things we are only vaguely aware of.

It is more than excusable, then, to have the graduation of a family member or loved-one creep up on us (“didn’t they just start school?”). Thankfully, we all live in a world where two-day shipping isn’t that hard to come by. To help narrow down the frenzied search for a last minute graduation gift, we’ve rounded up 15 items for you to peruse through. If they aren’t exactly what you’re looking for, we’re sure they’ll at least spark a great idea.

The online retail behemoth has a bevy of great gifts for those who are wrapping up their education and starting on a new chapter in their life. You may want to include a calendar, too.

New Yorker Subscription

After college reading is no longer mandatory (if it ever really was), but it’s still essential. One of the best ways to keep the young grad in your life hungry and curious? Get them a subscription to one of the best weekly magazines ever published.

Lodge 10.25-inch Cast Iron Skillet

Want to give something that will both last and be of real use? Consider a solid cast-iron skillet like this one from Lodge. The American-made cooking tool is totally free of synthetic coatings, is seasoned with vegetable oil, and cooks up things like a Sunday hash or steaks like a champ. It’s that rare kitchen tool that’ll survive the multiple moves.

Harry’s Razor

While the working world is getting a lot more relaxed with its wardrobe and manners, there are still a basic set of standards to adhere too. One way to make sure the young graduate-to-be in your life is set up for success? Hook them up with a good razor. Thanks to the reasonable pricing on the replacement blades, the chance that they’ll actually use it is higher than you’d think.

How to Cook Everything

It may be a while before the young graduate in your life actually shows interest in anything other than takeout, but for when they finally come around — get them this book. It’s simple, to the point collection of recipes that’ll set them on the path to culinary independence and fulfillment.

Tile Pro

While losing keys, wallets, and more may not a phenomenon restricted to the recently matriculated, it doesn’t mean they won’t appreciate it all the same. These life-saving little gadgets help you keep track of your items and cuts down on the last-minute-rushing-around when you’re trying to get out of the door.

Jack Black All-Over Body Spray

Neither a super high-end designer fragrance nor a ‘spray’, Jack Black’s cologne is an ideal gift for the young adult who is open to wearing a scent but not quite committed to it yet. Featuring scents like Rosemary, juniper berry and eucalyptus, it may very well win them over.

Incase ICON Lite Pack

While we’re all right to hope that graduates take a lot with them after college — friendships, perspective, expertise — there are other things that shouldn’t last long after the mortarboards are tossed. That ratty backpack is chief among them. Encourage the graduate in your life to make the switch by gifting the Incase ICON Lite pack. It’s a sharp, professional bag that is smart enough to bring into work but not so stuffy as to look out of place off the clock.

Global 7-inch Stainless Steel Chef’s Knife

One of the biggest barriers to going from being Dominos-dependent to something closer to a capable cook is getting the right tools. Help catalyze that change is by gifting a chef’s knife as solid as this one from Global. This one-piece stainless steel knife is sharp, durable and built for regular use.

Gerber Fastball

Carrying something like a pocket knife around all the time used to raise eyebrows. Now, it’s pretty widely accepted that it’s a useful tool to have on hand. One of our favorites? Gerber’s American-made fastball. Built on the proprietary B.O.S.S. system, the knife’s three-inch long blade deploys and closes using a ball bearing and a liner-lock.

Kindle Paperwhite

One thing that recent grads know all too well is just how expensive physical books can be. And between starting to pay off loans and getting their professional life started, one could forgive a recently matriculated student for balking at getting that new hardcover everyone is talking about. One way to save without compromising on reading is by using a Kindle. The trusty device is glare-free, waterproof, and can store everything from hefty histories to graphic novels and magazines, all for less than a physical copy.

Allen Edmonds Cornwallis Oxford

While they may end up wearing sneakers or running shoes more often than not, it never hurts to help the graduate in your life build a more formal wardrobe. Something like these leather dress shoes from Allen Edmonds, for instance, with their Goodyear welt construction and classic design can go a long way.

Sonos One Gen2

Despite what their fraternity brothers may have believed, bigger isn’t better when it comes to audio. If any speaker proves that, it’s the Sonos One. The smart speaker has Alexa built in, can play music from a variety of different streaming services and can connect wirelessly to speakers in other rooms.

Seiko SKX009K2

If you’re thinking about keeping it simple and gifting a nice automatic watch, it’s hard to go wrong with Seiko’s famous SKX. Dollar for dollar, it offers just about the best value in the world of automatic mechanical watches. Whether your grad is sporty or just digs classic design, it’s sure not to disappoint.

Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM3

There is a pretty good chance that your grad is about to encounter first-hand the challenges of the open office plan. Equip them with the best tool for tuning out the ambient chatter by gifting these noise-canceling headphones from Sony. Regarded as best-in-class by our tech writers, these boast 30 hours of battery life, a great hi-fidelity sounds, and Alexa built-in.

Fujifilm X100F 24.3 MP APS-C Digital Camera

While there are great smartphone cameras out there, but it’s still hard to measure up against a dedicated digital point and shoot. This one from Fujifilm features a CMOS III APS-C sensor, a built-in ISO dial, high-speed focusing and an attractive look — all of which make it great for the amateur.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 13 Best College Graduation Gifts to Give Under $50

College graduation marks the end of one thing — pre-professional life, for most — and the beginning of real adulthood. Life changes in a hurry and demands some upgrades in utility, if not always in price, with job interviews, meetings and other steps upward looming in the near future. But giving the right gift doesn’t necessarily have to be investment-level; you can put something both thoughtful and useful in the basket for well below $50. If that sounds like the strategy you’re going for this season, you can get started with our picks below, and check out our other graduation gift guides.

Dueple Socks

You don’t know how good socks can be until you’ve tried the best, and Dueple socks are, at the very least, in the running for best socks ever.

Where I’m Calling From: Selected Stories by Raymond Carver

Carver helped revitalize the American short story in the 1970s and 80s, writing in deceptively simple prose about complex themes like love, marriage, family, blue-collar working life and personal struggle. It’s a crime that his work isn’t on most English class reading lists, but as they say, you shouldn’t let your schooling get in the way of your education.

Tweezerman Essential Grooming Kit

Putting your best face forward becomes more important than ever when you first enter the professional world — all the more reason to form good habits around grooming and hygiene. This kit of essentials will help.

Shinola Runwell Planner

Late spring might seem like a funny time to buy a planner, but this one goes for 18 months, ensuring whoever you gift it to will get at least a full year’s use out of it. And for the fresh-faced grad about to be busier than they’ve ever been before, a solid planner will be more than welcome.

Timex Weekender 38mm Watch

This is the analog watch at its most plain and basic, with a reliable quartz movement that’ll keep time for years. Add a leather strap to dress it up, or swap out colored NATO straps to match outfits — the price of entry is low and the potential for looking good is remarkably high.

Eddie Bauer Packable 45L Duffel

Weekend trips, gym sessions, beach vacations and overnights — a nice mid-sized duffel bag is eminently useful and more versatile (plus easier to store) than a suitcase. This bag also packs down into a little bundle when it’s not in use, allowing you to cram it just about anywhere.

Weber Smokey 14″ Grill

This compact little number from Weber is a classic choice that’s hard to mess up, and it’ll make a welcome addition to just about anyone’s first house or apartment.

Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket

It’s no high-end designer rain jacket, but it’s packable enough to fit into a large purse, backpack or briefcase, which means it’ll serve its purpose and then some when the umbrella gets left at home. That’s a lot of value for not much money if it means the difference between getting soaked and staying dry en route to work in the morning.

Goal Zero Sherpa 15 Power Bank

Cheap power banks are all over the place, but most all of them are poorly made, poorly designed and don’t carry enough juice to keep your phone alive all day. This is the antithesis of all that.

Amazon Basics Home Tool Kit

Having the right tools for a home repair is at least half the battle, and with a toolkit this well-appointed, the new homeowner (or apartment tenant, as it may be) is equipped for just about any task.

Davek Mini Umbrella

This might seem like a lot of money for a tiny umbrella, but the tiny size makes it perfect to stow in your bag and forget it’s even there — until the next downpour, anyway. What’s more, Davek’s umbrellas are well-made and sturdy, meaning it’ll last through more than a few stormy walks home before you need to find a new one.

Uniqlo Ultralight Down Vest

Uniqlo does a lot of things well for not much money; its Ultralight Down collection is one of those things. The men’s vest is warm, ready for layering, and it looks just as good with modern office attire as it does with jeans, sneakers and a hoodie.

Brooks Brothers Repp Tie

There are plenty of great neckties out there, but this one from Brooks Brothers comes in multiple colors and can match just about any suit or ensemble. It’s also made well enough to last for years of regular wearing.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

30 Great College Graduation Gifts to Give This Spring

Graduation marks ,ore than just being the culmination of four or more years of hard work — it’s the commencement of a new phase in a person’s life. It stands to reason, than, that the best types of graduation gifts manage to celebrate both a graduate’s accomplishments as well as prepare them for their next phase. The 30 gifts in our roundup below does just that — whether it’s as utilitarian as a great mattress or as indulgent as a fine watch — we’re sure you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Graduation Gifts Under $100

Kuju Coffee

Any post-graduation backpacking or road trip should be fueled by the same nitro as all those late nights in the library: good coffee. Kuju Coffee has perfected the instant-coffee game, with ethically sourced blends packed in disposable pour-over pouches. And when they finally does move into his first post-grad apartment, there won’t be space for a countertop espresso machine anyway.

Suily Universal Cell Phone Holder

Simple yet practical, the Suily universal cell phone holder is an essential tool for any modern driver. The Suily works as a third limb to hold your phone where you need it when you need it.

Rastal Teku Stemmed Beer Glass

The red Solo cup has a time and a place, and that’s a backyard BBQ. For literally every other occasion, they’ll want a real beer glass. The Teku has become somewhat of a standard in the craft-beer community. It has a flared lip for easy-drinking, as well as thick glass that won’t readily chip when things get saucy.

CRKT Bev-Edge Pocket Knife

One of CRKT’s handiest new pocket knives is simple: just a short yet effective high-carbon steel blade and a bottle opener built into the handle. It likely has the two tools they’ll use most, and it fits comfortably into a pocket.

Best Made Co. The 15″ Toolbox

This toolbox is made from 22-gauge, powder-coated steel and looks good enough to keep out in the open. Beyond tools, your grad could just as well use it to store whatever else needs a home — stray cables, sticky notes, petty cash.

Givenchy Gentleman Cologne

A fresh take on the 45-year-old classic, Givenchy’s Gentleman is sophisticated and approachable. The men’s fragrance balances iris with notes of bergamot, lemon, rosemary and musk.

Nomad Base Station

Apple dashed many dreams when it canceled its all-in-one charging solution, AirPower. If you’re looking for the next-best-thing to simultaneously charge your iPhone and new AirPods, this is it. Nomad also sells a model that can charge your Apple Watch as well.

Graduation Gifts Under $500

Zojirushi Rice Cooker

Cooking is one of the hardest habits to pick up — especially after years hitting the university food hall. With a rice cooker, there are no excuses. And few manufacturers stand up to Zojirushi, whose rice cookers are standard in the company’s native Japan.

Sonos One (Gen 2)

The One is still the best smart speaker for most people. It’s completely versatile, able to play on its own, in a multi-room system or in a home theater setup. It also works with many streaming services such as Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Music.

Powerbeats Pro

These are essentially sweat-proof AirPods. They’re the only other true wireless earbuds other than AirPods that have Apple’s new H1 chip, meaning they can pair super seamlessly with an iPhone. Also, if AirPods don’t fit in somebody’s ears, these probably will.

Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speaker System

These are terrific little speakers that can be hooked up to a computer, turntable or stereo receiver. Thanks to built-in Bluetooth, you can stream audio directly from your smartphone or tablet, too.

Peak Design Travel Backpack

With access points on the back, side and top, multiple handles for carrying, and shoulder straps and a hipbelt that tuck neatly away, Peak Design’s Travel Backpack is as well-designed as a bag can be. It also has theft-deterrent zippers, a hidden passport stash pocket and a specific place for sunglasses. All this and a volume that expands from 35 to 45 liters make it a bag they can truly live out of.

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots

This classic style from Minnesota’s respected Red Wing Heritage brand is a worthy investment. With proper upkeep it will last for decades and it can be rebuilt again and again.

David Kind Richmond Sunglasses

Go for a quality pair of sunglasses has the power to elevate any outfit. This style from David Kind offers a great value for the materials and finish — you’d be hard pressed to find a Japanese-made frame with five-barrel rivet hinges and lenses with anti-reflective coatings for less.

Tecovas Large Weekender Duffle

Made from thick semi-vegetable-tanned leather, this weekender is the perfect size for short trips. It features a cotton canvas lining, a handful of interior pockets, brass hardware and a snap-close grab handle.

Seiko SRPB43J9

The new grad will be served well by Seiko’s popular Presage Cocktail Time. Dressy enough for a suit, retro-stylish enough for hanging out, and built well enough to last far down the road as a treasured memento, it’s a great way to enter the workforce as well as the world of mechanical watches.

Nexx XG100 Racer Record Helmet

Nexx Helmets is only 18 years old, but that doesn’t mean it can’t evoke the spirit and style of the ‘70s. The XG100 Racer blends modern performance and construction seamlessly with timeless style and design for an ideal helmet for the 21t century everyday rider.

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Teach your grad the finer points of coffee with Breville’s Bambino Plus, one of the best value-driven espresso machines out there. It features a three-second heat-up time, shot pre-infusion and a uniquely impressive milk wand.

Graduation Gifts Under $1000

Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2 Platinum Tent

With room for two people and dual vestibules for gear storage, the Tiger Wall 2 offers a suite of comfort that exceeds its 2 pounds 4-ounce weight. Whether they take it on the trail or decide to live in it full-time, they’ll do so in comfort.

J.Crew Ludlow Suit

Everyone should own at least one versatile, tasteful suit. This option from J.Crew is cut from Italian four-season wool and features a 3-inch notch lapel, a two-button closure, and a double-vent.

Escort MAX360C Radar Detector

With graduation out of the way, it’s time to start paying off all the bills and loans. It’s sad but true. One thing a new graduate doesn’t need to add to the debt is speeding tickets and the Escort Max 360C is one of the best in the business.

Autodromo Group B Series 2 Automatic Orange

A watch might be a standard graduation gift but an Autodromo Group B Series 2 is anything but standard. The Series 2 evokes all the right parts from the wild-eyed Group B era of rallying with a high-contrast color pallet and industrial-like efficiency of design.

Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto

In the movie Interstellar, the character played by Matthew McConaughey gives this watch to his daughter and it serves to help them communicate across dimensions. Beginning life as a film prop and only later available for sale to the public, the watch has an added sentimental quality, and its timeless design is perfect for representing significant moments like graduations.

For the Grad Who Has Everything

Parachute The Mattress

Is your grad moving into their first apartment? Let them splurge on the things they want by taking care of the things they need — like a mattress. Parachute’s version is made to order in the U.S., and it skips the foam for a longer-lasting combination of wool, cotton and steel coils.

2018 MacBook Air 256GB Model

This is the perfect lightweight laptop for most people. It’s pretty, thin and powerful enough for everyday tasks. We recommend the MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, as the base model with 128GB of storage might not be enough.

Garmin Marq Athlete

A watch is a very traditional graduation gift, but the Marq is no traditional watch. It comes in different builds for athletes, explorers, drivers, pilots, and sailors and can display muscle recovery time or topographic maps. It’s a best-in-class activity watch disguised elegantly as something well, a little more traditional.

Nomos Glasshutte Club Campus 38 Night

This is one of the few watches specifically marketed with a collegiate theme, making it particularly appropriate for the young graduate. Furthermore, it’s one of Nomos’s most affordable watches, a German brand respected for its hip, Bauhaus design sense and in-house mechanical movements.

Oris Divers Sixty Five

The Divers Sixty-Five has been a home run for Oris with its retro-chic 1960s design, wearable size, and approachable price. With a Swiss automatic movement inside, it will get an approving nod from watch enthusiasts, is stylistically versatile, and will probably still be that way when your grandchild is graduating.

Tudor Black Bay GMT

The Tudor Black Bay GMT is for the graduate that’s going places, both in terms of career and international travel. The quality, in-house movement, and Tudor name afford some prestige, while the GMT function helps track a second time zone. It does all this with sporty panache and never looks boring.

Mazda Miata

Giving a car as a graduation gift can be a lofty endeavor, especially if the new graduate has their eyes set on a sports car. A fair compromise? The Mazda MX-5. It’s perfectly balanced in every way, is immensely fun in corners, but it’s still a car that flies under the radar.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Best New Running Shoes Out This Month: April

Each month new running shoes are released. We see everything from brand new sneakers to re-designs and updates and cover the top five each month. Whether you’re gearing up for a training block pre-half or full marathon, or are looking for a pair of sneakers that will help you hit that 5k or 10k PR (personal record or personal best), there’s a new pair for you. Here are the latest speed and stability shoes out now.

Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 3

The Fli-Lyte 3 walks the line between being a running shoe and a fitness trainer. These neutral shoes are not for someone who needs a lot of stability, but rather for someone who wants a flexible feel and relatively little support. If you liked the feel of the Fli-Lyte 2, the updated version might surprise you with its new lighter weight upper thanks to an engineered mesh. The weight stays the same from version 2 due to the 5mm anti-microbial Ortholite footbed which cushions your entire foot. The 23mm heel height is also the same.

Hoka One One Gaviota 2

For runners who are looking for a stable upper that’ll hold their feet in place and prevent pronation or supination (when your arch flattens out or gets super high — neither of which is great for running), the Hoka One One Gaviota 2 is ideal. At 10.60-ounces, it’s not so heavy that you’ll feel like you’re pounding the pavement with each step, yet still sturdy enough to keep your feet in one place. True to the Hoka One One brand, you’ll find plush cushioning underfoot in addition to a rocker technology that helps guide your stride.

Under Armour Velociti

The UA Hovr Velociti 2 is a speed shoe. As a part of the connected line, the sneaker connects to the MapMyRun app and automatically logs all your miles — meaning you can go for a run without a watch or a phone. A lightweight upper features stretchy mesh that’s supportive yet breathable. At just 9-ounces, the speedy Velociti allows for an explosive take-off, whether you’re starting a mile or finishing up five. It comes in three colors.

New Balance Fresh Foam More

The Fresh Foam More is what it sounds like — more cushion. At 10.3 ounces, it’s not a heavy sneaker, but it combines a low offset (meaning your heel isn’t much higher than your toes) with a lot of Fresh Foam cushioning (New Balance’s proprietary foam). The 4mm drop is relatively low for a sneaker this high and the lower the drop, the easier it is for your feet to move more naturally.

Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%

This top-secret shoe is the next iteration of the very popular racing sneaker, the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 4% that Nike created as part of the attempt to break the two-hour barrier that still exists in the marathon (that’s 26.2 miles). The NEXT% has a smaller offset (the height difference between the cushion under your toes and heel) — it dropped from 11mm to 8mm to help the runner feel more stable. In addition to those changes, Nike bulked up the traction to make it more grippy and changed the upper from Flyknit to a new fiber called Vaporweave. Inspired by sailcloth fabric, Vaporweave doesn’t absorb water and is very light, so during races where there is heavy rainfall like the 2018 Boston Marathon, the shoes won’t weigh you down. The sneakers launch on April 24th.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

8 Fantastic Adventure Motorcycles You Can Buy Right Now

Sportbikes are great for high speeds and getting low in turns; dirt bikes are right at home slingin’ dirt and threading through dense wooded trails. But, if you were to ask either to do the other’s job, they—and you—would quite literally fall flat.

Luckily, there’s something in-between the two extremes. With the looks and utility of a capable off-roader and the balance and handling of a sport-standard, adventure motorcycles are a jack-of-all-trades way to tackle both paved roads and dirt. With a set of purpose-balanced tires that aren’t too knobby and aren’t too slick, an adventure motorcycle can handle a long-haul tour then confidently set off down a forest service road in search of a quality campsite.

Like the crossover in the four-wheeled world, the adventure motorcycle segment is rapidly expanding, thanks to the combination of sportiness and utility it provides—and these days, there are now more options than ever to take you wherever. We pulled together eight of them that are absolutely worth considering.

Adventure Touring

Even in the adventure bike world, there are varying degrees of dedication to getting dirty. If you find yourself off the road more than on it, the “adventure touring” category is where to look. These are the bikes you’ll see teams prepping for the Dakar Rally. In stock trim, though, these bikes are more than capable on asphalt…even if they prefer to be caked in dirt.

KTM 790 Adventure R


KTM has long teased a middleweight adventure motorcycle like the 790 Adventure R; now, the Austrian marque has finally come through. Now that the top-tier ADV bikes are somewhere around 500-600 pounds and boast price tags nearing $20,000, there’s a segment opening up underneath for a bike like this to slot into the lineup. Armed with a WP-tuned suspension with 9.4 inches of travel both front and rear and the latest in Bosch traction control and ABS systems, this 417-pound adventure bike will easily outmaneuver the heavyweights and outlast the lightweight dual sports on longer rides. It might be the Goldilocks option of the ADV world, if you have $13,499 to give KTM.

Engine: 799cc parallel twin
Horsepower: 95
Torque: 66 lb-ft
Weight (dry): 417 pounds

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE


The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE is the bike everyone started asking for the moment the first person took a Street Scrambler off-road. Thankfully, Triumph put some real muscle behind the upgraded Scrambler, making it a genuine off-roader instead of a half-assed wannabe. With a full suite of electronics, modern connectivity features, rider modes, lifted suspension, and cutting-edge traction and ABS systems, the Scrambler 1200 XE sounds like any other top-rated ADV—but when you consider the package is wrapped in classic Triumph style, it stands out as one of the best bikes in the segment.

Engine: 1,200cc parallel twin
Horsepower: 89
Torque: 81 lb-ft
Weight (dry): 452 pounds

The EDC Items We Can’t Live Without

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Some favor flair, others prefer practical. The collection of things that gets us through the day-to-day is a mini representation of who we are and how we move through life. Here are the everyday carry items we can’t lie without. Read the Story

Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports


The base-level Africa Twin is an incredibly capable bike; the Adventure Sports kicks it up a notch. The chassis and suspension shine, thanks to the incredible engineering at work. Regardless if you choose the dual-clutch gearbox or six-speed manual transmission, the Africa Twin is a seriously well-sorted machine, and won’t disappoint adventurers keen on piloting a direct descendant of a Dakar winner down any dusty path.

Engine: 998cc parallel twin
Horsepower: 94
Torque: 72 lb-ft
Weight (fully-loaded): 511 pounds

BMW R1250 GS Adventure


The BMW GS is one of the most iconic and recognizable adventure bikes for a reason. The GS spent decades proving its capability in the remote parts of the world, with each generation improving on the last. For 2019, BMW overhauled its ADV flagship, gave it a larger, more advanced engine and a host of electronic updates for further refinement. You can rest assured the 2019 R1250 GS Adventure is the best BMW has to offer as far as the adventure touring motorcycle experience is concerned.

Engine: 1,254cc air/oil-cooled flat-twin
Horsepower: 136
Torque: 105 lb-ft
Weight (wet): 580 pounds

Sport Touring

For the giant piece of the world’s population that has to navigate city blocks and taxicabs before they can spin a wheel on dirt trails, the adventure sport touring segment makes more sense in the day-to-day. Packing shorter suspension travel than a full-on adventure bike but more utility than a stiffer sport bike, adventure sport touring bikes could live their entire life on the pavement without complaint; with street tires, they make for decent commuters. But why not slap some knobbies on ’em and hit some backwoods two-tracks to take full advantage of their potential?

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS


At a fraction of the price of most of its competitors, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS makes big-ticket tech attainable. With ABS, two-stage traction control, and adjustable suspension, the V-Strom stands apart at its price point; at $12,999, it’s hard to ask for more. And with proper dirt tires, you can throw an entire mountain range worth of trails at the V-Strom and it’ll take it in stride.

Engine: 1,037cc 90-degree V-twin
Horsepower: 99
Torque: 76 lb-ft
Weight (Wet): 511 pounds

Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro


The 1262cc 158 horsepower V-Twin hints at superbike performance, and there’s no doubting the Multistrada’s track capabilities. It may sit tall, but its balance only lends itself to total versatility; the quirky Italian style is just a plus. The Testastretta engine with Desmodromic variable timing and dual spark ignition combined with cornering ABS, four ride modes, traction control, double-sided swing arm, and semi-active suspension make the Multistrada 1260 the most advanced bike in Ducati’s lineup.

Engine: 1,262cc 90-degree L-lwin
Horsepower: 158
Torque: 129.5 lb-ft
Weight (dry): 496 pounds

Enduro / Dual Sport

On the spectrum of adventure motorcycles, enduros and dual sports are the best equipped for tight trail rides, not long distance touring. An enduro or dual can handle a few bags and some cargo, but the ideal way to maximize one of these smaller bikes is to get to your destination, set up camp, then go exploring. Due to their smaller fuel tanks, they don’t have a superb range (trailering them to base camp isn’t uncommon) but you don’t want to spend days on end in the saddle; they’re not far from road-legal dirtbikes.

Honda CRF450L


The CRF450L is based on its race-bred brother, the 450 R, but the tweaks and additions Honda bolted on make it more civilized for everyday use both on road and off. A tamer engine and less aggressive gear are the most noticeable changes, but the retuned suspension and hidden rubber mounts and bushings throughout the bike soften up the whole experience and reduce rider fatigue.

Engine: 449cc single cylinder
Horsepower: 44
Torque: 28 lb-ft
Weight (Wet): 289 pounds

KTM 690 Enduro R


KTM built its reputation for building beastly enduros. When it comes to performance in this category, there are very few other factory bikes which can hold a candle to the 690 Enduro R. The 690 Enduro R tips the scales at a scant 322 lbs, almost half the weight of the BMW R1200 GS, and comes packing similar power stats as the Honda Afric Twin Adventure Sport. To put it in industry terms, this thing rips.

Engine: 690cc single cylinder
Horsepower: 74
Torque: 54.2 lb-ft
Weight (Wet): 322 pounds

Something More Commuter Friendly

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The Roundup: 70 Of the Best Products In The World

Welcome to Gear Patrol Redux. Here you’ll find a living list of the products we recommend most, from all our areas of greatest expertise. If you’re looking to invest in the best of something, this is the place to learn what that best option is, why it’s the best, and maybe even how we figured all that out.

Because the gear and product landscape is ever-evolving, our team will keep this list up to date when we find new products to include (or when better versions come out). So please do check back in before you kit up for a summer camping trip, outfit a new kitchen or dive into holiday shopping — it’s what we’re here for.


Motoring

AGV AX9


Best Motorcycle Helmet: The AGV AX9 is the Italian brand’s new flagship adventure riding helmet and a serious step up from its predecessor, the AX8. The AX9 is a versatile multi-season motorcycle helmet and can be customized for different riding environments with a removable, visor, shield and chin vent. Read more here.

Aether Ramble


Best Motorcycle Pants: Aether Ramble Not many adventure riding motorcycle jackets can pull double duty as a casual everyday jacket, but the Aether Mojave gets the job done. There are interior pockets at the elbows, shoulders and back to hold armor to make it road-worthy and safe, but the minimalist style and design allow the Mojave to look appropriate almost anywhere.

Aether Mojave Jacket

Best Motorcycle Jacket:
The Ramble Pants are further proof Aether is a master at blending form and function and coming up with an incredibly versatile product. Like the rest of Aether’s moto line, the Ramble Pants are capable of having D3O armor at the knees for protection when riding, but they work just as well as casual pants around town. Read more here.

REV’IT! Bastille Gloves

Best Motorcycle Gloves: Rev’It made its name on perfectly over-engineered motorcycle gear for hard riding. But, when it tries its hand at a more subtle, less tactical style, like with the Bastille gloves, Rev’It still knocks it out of the park. The goatskin gloves are more at home on a cafe racer than an adventure bike, but you can rest easy, knowing Rev’It puts just as much energy into there gear, regardless of where the rider takes it.

Velomacchi 28L Speedway Backpack


Best Motorcycle Bag: Not many backpacks can claim the same durability and functionality as the Velomacchi 28L Speedway. Using materials designed for special forces and the coast guard, Velomacchi built a bag made to take the abuse of almost any motorcycle ride, regardless of the elements. Where the 28L Speedway, stands out, though, like all of Velomachi’s products, is there isn’t anything on the bag that doesn’t have a function or works to keep you comfortable, even at highway speeds. Read more here.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro


Best Motorcycle: The Husqvarna 701 Enduro proves an adventure motorcycle doesn’t have to be a massive, two-wheeled tank. Throw on a pair of saddlebags, a dry bag on the tail and a tank bag up front and you’ve got yourself a full-stocked lightweight ADV ready to tackle tight single track as soon as you set up camp. Read more here.

2018 Toyota Corolla XSE Hatchback


Best Car: Toyota pulled a fast one on everybody with the 2018 Toyota Corolla XSE Hatchback. Instead of making another mundane econo-car, it injected some real performance into the approachable little city car. Read more here.

2019 Ford Ranger


Best Truck: The overland and adventure lifestyle worlds are rapidly growing in size and scope and Ford positioned the 2019 Ranger to be right in the thick of it, stepping on the Toyota Tacoma’s toes. Perfectly sized for trail rides, either in open desert or tighter mountain fire roads, and capable of being outfitted with over two-dozen Yakima camping upgrades, the new Ford Ranger is a major player in the adventure industry for 2019. Read more here.

2018 Mazda MX-5


Best Sports Car: When Mazda came out with the latest generation MX-5, it was almost perfect. At 155 horsepower, the featherweight roadster handles itself elegantly on tight twisty roads, but runs out of steam on faster roads and the highway, when it’s near its top end. For 2018, Mazda addressed this flaw and bumped the power up to 187hp. Now the Miata is one of the most complete sports cars on the market — it’s expertly balanced in corners and for the price, its performance is difficult to beat. Read more here.

2018 Cake Kalk


Best Electric Motorcycle: There’s no denying the inevitable rise of all-electric motorcycles. The compact, lightweight architecture, lends itself beautifully to the technology and propulsion systems — the trick is trying to convince today’s and tomorrow’s riders of the gospel. The Cake Kalk is one of the first steps in showing new riders what the future of motorcycles might look like, with a fun, approachable, well-designed motorcycle with real-world performance and functionality. Read more here.

Style

Everlane Cashmere Crew


Best Cashmere Sweater: A cashmere sweater is always welcome in the cooler months, but the price of traditional styles can be prohibitive. Everlane’s style offers a Grad-A cashmere in a classic silhouette for just $100 — hard to beat that.
Read more here.

Wahl Beard Trimmer


Best Beard Trimmer: Made in the USA, this stainless steel beard trimmer features a Lithium ion battery that delivers hours of performance on with one charge. The Model 9818 comes with four attachments and 12 T-Blade guide combs to achieve different length trims. Read more here.

Outerknown S.E.A Jeans


Best Jeans: These jeans have a slim silhouette that sits at the waist and is slim through the thigh and down the leg. The 12-ounce organic cotton denim is sourced from the Candiani mill in Italy and the jeans are sewn at the industry-leading Saitex factory in Vietnam. Read more here.

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger


Best Boots: Originally designed for iron miners in Minnesota’s Mesabi Range, this boot features a double layered toe to protect worker’s feet around heavy machinery. Made with a oil-resistant outer sole and speed lacing hooks, the Iron Ranger can be rebuilt after years of wear. Read more here.

Harry’s Body Wash

Best Body Wash: This affordable body wash come in three scents: shiso, stone and fig. Formulated to cleanse without drying, it is free of sulfates, parabens and dyes. Read more here.

Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses


Best Sunglasses: Originally design for military pilots, the Ray-Ban aviator features teardrop lenses and lightweight metal frames. And what’s more, the polarized green G-15 lenses are one of the best values on the market. Read more here.

Brooks Brothers Regent Fitted Shirt

Best Shirt: Brooks Brothers iconic button-down shirt features a signature rolled collar, mother-of-pearl buttons and gusseted side seams. Made from American-grown Supima cotton, it is available in sizes 14.5 to 18 in four different silhouettes. Read more here.

Lady White T-Shirts


Best T-Shirt: Lady White Co. shirts have premium details like tubular construction and double-needle binded collars. Made from American cotton, they are cut, sewn and knit in Los Angeles. Read more here.

Schott Perfect Jacket


Best Jacket: This iconic motorcycle jacket is made from drum-dyed heavyweight steerhide. The style features an asymmetrical front zipper, belt snap-down lapels and zippered cuffs. Read more here.

Away Aluminum Edition


Best Luggage: This durable aluminum suitcase is designed to fit in the overhead bin of most airlines and is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Featuring spinner wheels, a leather-wrapped handles and an interior compression system, it is one of the best values in hard-shell luggage.
Read more here.

Home

Breville Precision Brewer


Best Coffee Maker: Breville’s drip coffee brewer is consistent, programmable and customizable. It can brew both filtered drip coffee or, with an attachment, pour-over coffee. It’s one of very few brewers to hold a certification badge from the Specialty Coffee Association’s Home Brewer Program. It’s as good as home coffee brewing gets.
Read more here.

Lodge 10.5-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet


Best Cast Iron Skillet: The classic Lodge can be used for steak, cornbread, pies or to build a crispy exterior on just about anything. On top of that, it’s laughably cheap and can be delivered to any home within two days. You could invest more in a pan made with more craftsmanship, or you could start with a Lodge and upgrade from there. Read more here.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon


Best Bourbon: It is ridiculous to say there is just one, all-encompassing, good-for-everything bourbon. There isn’t. But Buffalo Trace is, to our estimation, as close as it gets. Using the famous Buffalo Trace Distillery Mashbill #1, it’s a low-rye, smooth, reasonably aged, slightly hot on the tongue, well-priced bottle. In recent years it’s become a bit harder to track down, but it’s well worth it. Read more here.

Knoll ReGeneration



Best Office Chair:
The ReGeneration is the affordable update to Knoll’s legendary Generation chair. ReGeneration adjusts to weight and weird leaning tendencies automatically with up to 270 degrees of posture change. It’s the proud owner of a Good Design Award, a huge 12-year warranty and a fair price tag. Read more here.

Global G-2


Best Kitchen Knife: It’s lightweight, affordable, durable and has soft edges. Its blade is narrow in the Japanese style but the forward-leaning balance splices it with Western knife DNA. Read more here.


Boll & Branch Percale Solid Sheet Set



Best Sheets:
There is nothing new about Boll & Branch’s mattress. It blends the best of the spring mattress era with the best of the memory foam mattress era. It comes with a 10-year warranty and every sustainability certification you could ask for. Read more here.

Weber Spirit II



Best Grill:
Do all the research you want, there’s not better value than Weber’s OG kettle grill. Sturdy enameled steel, a one-touch cleaning system, wheels that actually work and availability in any size you could want make it the category leader since its 1952 creation. Read more here.

Dyson V8 Animal



Best Vacuum:
Buying a brand new Dyson is a good way to burn a hole in your wallet. The V8 features more suction than anyone needs, solid battery life and full-machine HEPA filtration. It’s all you really need. Read more here.

Burrow Sofa



Best Sofa:
Burrow’s approach to direct-to-consumer is to make less and better things. Its couch is a manifestation of this — it’s sturdy, customizable, modular and ships within a week. It’s got a subtle mid-century aesthetic that prides itself on blending into your home. Plus, it features a charging cable and very approachable $1,000 starting price point. Read more here.

Founder’s All Day IPA



Best Beer:
The session IPA, perfected. No session IPA has come close to challenging All Day’s dominance in the making of a complex, low ABV, light, always available India Pale Ale. Read more here.

Tech

Sony WH1000XM3 Headphones


Best Noise Cancelling Headphones: When it comes to active noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM3 are the total package. They’re comfortable and sound great, and come with a bunch of neat features. Most importantly, they have the best noise-canceling abilities of any headphones we’ve tested. Read more here.

Jabra Elite Active 65t


Best True Wireless Earbuds: While AirPods are great, Jabra’s true wireless earbuds are more versatile. The Elite Active 65t are sweat resistant, unlike Apple’s offerings, so you can comfortably run and workout with. They also deliver the best call experience of any true wireless earbuds. Read more here.

Nikon D850


Best DSLR Camera: The Nikon D850 is still our favorite full-frame DSLR. It combines high frame rate and high megapixels into one robust and reliable package. It’s also weather-sealed and fairly lightweight, making it a great camera for professional and amateur photographers alike. Read more here.

Apple Watch Series 4


Best Smartwatch: The Apple Watch is hands down the best smartwatch for anybody with an iPhone, but that’s been the case for years. The Series 4 differentiates itself with a swath of new fitness and wellness features. It’s also the first Apple Watch in years to have a big hardware redesign in years. Read more here.

KEF LSX Wireless Bookshelf Speakers


Best All-in-One Hi-Fi System: This wireless speaker system is essentially a smaller and more versatile version of KEF’s acclaimed LS50 Wireless. It’s all-in-one hi-fi package that’s super easy to use; it can be connected to your TV or turntable, or stream straight from your smartphone. If you’re great stereo sound, this is what you want. Read more here.

Sonos One


Best Smart Speaker: Sonos’s first smart speaker works great on its own; it’s sort of like a prettier and better-sounding Echo. It really flexes its speaker muscles as part of a larger Sonos system. You can integrate into a multi-room setup or as part of a 5.1 surround sound system. It makes a great gift for anybody who already has a Sonos speaker, or even somebody who doesn’t. Read more here.

Sony Alpha a7 III Mirrorless Camera


Best Mirrorless Camera (Interchangeable): The Sony a7R III is one of the best digital cameras you can buy. It’s also pretty expensive. Released in 2018, the Sony’s a7 III takes most everything that’s great about the a7R III and puts it into a more enthusiast-friendly package. Read more here.

Leica Q


Best Mirrorless Camera (Fixed): The Leica Q is a fixed-lens, full-frame camera and one of our favorite Leica’s ever made. It combines great image quality, autofocus and image stabilization in one immensely stylish package. The Q is expensive — true — but it’s the idea for casual photographers looking to shoot quick, beautiful photos. Read more here.

MacBook Air


Best Lightweight Laptop: Hands down, the MacBook Air is the best lightweight laptop for most people. It’s thin, fast and powerful. Best of all, it has some of the MacBook Pro’s best features, such as Touch ID and a beautiful Retina display. Read more here.

Vizio P-Series (2018)


Best 4K TV Under $1,000: The Vizio P-Series has everything you want in a 4K TV. It produces a beautiful, bright picture with great contrast. It supports the major HDR formats, including HDR10 and Dolby Vision. It has thin bezels. Best of all, its 55- and 65-inch models come in at the sub-$1,000 mark. Read more here.

Watches

Casio G-Shock Classic


Best Outdoor Watch: The G-Shock in its many forms is not only incredibly durable but inexpensive, meaning it is the ultimate go-to watch for outdoor or any physical activities. With a highly accurate Japanese quartz movement, the versions that feature solar charging will be reliable in every situation. It is also a design icon and quite comfortable in the classic square shape that introduced it to the world in 1983.
Read more here.

Worn & Wound Strap Changing Multi-Tool

Best Strap Changing Multi-Tool: This strap-changing tool uses two capped ends that each holds a reversible bit held in place with a gasket — so they are very easy to change and no rethreading is required. You get four tools: a 0.8mm poker, a 1.6mm fork, a 1.4mm flat-head, and a 1.8mm flat-head screwdriver. Each end has a screw-on cap to protect it, obviating the need for a special case.
Read more here.

Maratac Mil-NATO Strap

Best NATO Strap: Maratac’s Mil-NATO straps take the UK Ministry of Defence’s specifications and go a step further. They feature nylon webbing with extra durability features including ultrasonic welding and stitching, as well as ultrasonically drilled holes to prevent any rough spots. It’s all the toughness of mil-spec, but with refinements the picky civilian will appreciate. Read more here.

Worn and Wound EDC Watch Pouch

Best Watch Storage: This is a handy and durable way to carry a watch and keep it safe from scuffs alongside your other gear. Made with 1000D nylon, neoprene, and shock cord it’s got purposeful design livened up with some great-looking color options. Read more here.

Baltic BiCompax 001

Best Vintage-Inspired Watch: There are a lot of vintage-inspired watches out there, but French brand Baltic takes a refreshingly minimalist approach while remaining casual and affordable. The BiCompax 001 is one of their best, with a hand-wound ST1901 chronograph movement and wearable 38mm steel case. You can’t beat its combination of style, quality, and price. Read more here.

Orient Mako II Dive Watch


Best Affordable Dive Watch: There are affordable dive watches, and then there are those with mechanical movements which can often be found for under $150 and yet are truly built to last. The Orinet Mako II is all of that and gives you the (in-house) Orient F6922 automatic movement with hand-winding capability and hacking seconds, a precise 120-click bezel, mineral crystal, 41.5mm steel case on a steel bracelet, and 200m of water resistance. Read more here.

Rolex Submariner


Best Dive Watch: Budget option it is not, but Rolex cuts no corners and builds a better dive watch than about anyone else. There is a reason that a Rolex represents so much more than a watch to so many people, and the Submariner exemplifies the brand like no other. The Submariner has earned its reputation with unparalleled quality and longevity in just about every sense with a 40mm steel case and unbeatable in-house automatic movement. You can actually dive with it, wear it with a suit like James Bond, and pass it on to your offspring. Read more here.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch


Best Chronograph Watch: The watch that accompanied the first humans to the Moon in 1969 not only has an unbeatable story, but a totally timeless look. Selected by NASA to withstand the rigors of space travel, it was built to a high standard and has only improved with technological developments in its modern incarnation. While featuring cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, its design, 42mm steel case, and in-house chronograph movement have remained remarkably consistent with the original. Omega’s Moonwatch easily rises above the crowd as an uncontroversially special chronograph watch. Read more here.

Friction Ball Watch Case Opener


Best Case Back Opener: If you need to open the back of a watch, this cheap tool will work for many watches that use a screw-down case back. We don’t recommend doing this yourself without good reason, but if you need to, we do recommend this tool for its cost and ease of use. Read more here.

CREMAX Watch Repair Kit

Best Watch Repair Kit: Changing straps and sizing bracelets are the kind of tinkering that actually adds to the satisfaction of watch ownership, and amateur enthusiasts can easily learn to do it themselves. You just need a few basic tools, and they needn’t be expensive. This kit includes basically all you need — anything more should really be performed by a trained watchmaker anyway — and it comes in a compact and convenient case for hardly a few bucks. Read more here.

Outdoors

The James Brand Ellis


Best Pocket Knife: The Ellis is a multi-tool, but not a 20-plus implement contraption that looks like a brick and weighs heavy in the pocket. It has a partially serrated knife, a scraper, a flathead screwdriver and a bottle opener; and that’s likely all you’ll need. Read more here.

Osprey Stratos 24


Best Dayhike Pack: The Stratos is a Goldilocks-approved daypack: it has enough space for a dusk-to-dawn adventure but isn’t so big that it’s overkill for hour-long hikes. Those include a spacious main compartment, smaller exterior pockets, attachments for trekking poles and an ice axe and an incredibly comfortable mesh back panel that Osprey expertly pulled over from its long-distance backpacking bags. Read more here.

Technica Forge


Best Hiking Boot: By using the same heat-molding technology that it brings to its ski boots, Tecnica has created a hiking boot that’s customizable to any pair of feet. It ensures that the fit is perfect and does away with lengthy (and painful) break-in periods. The only catch? You’ll have to find an authorized dealer to mold it. Read more here.

Patagonia Nano Puff


Best Insulated Coat: Puffy jackets are the Swiss Army Knife of outdoor layers; they’re warm, lightweight and pack down tiny. Patagonia’s Nano Puff is one of the best available — not only does it hit all these targets but it’s also backed by the company’s replace or repair guarantee. Read more here.

Black Diamond Spot 325


Best Headlamp: The Spot headlamp is bright, easily dimmable, includes useful red night vision, strobe and lock modes, and is waterproof in the rain and submersion up to one meter. All that, and it’s only $40 (so you don’t have to coddle it; put it through the wringer). Read more here.

Marmot Eclipse Jacket


Best Rain Jacket: When you need to stay dry on a hike or during your day-to-day, Marmot’s no-frills rain Eclipse is a fully capable jacket. Marmot bonded the waterproofing DWR to the yarn at a molecular level, so it’ll never deteriorate or need to be reapplied. Read more here.

Nemo Equipment Dagger Tent


Best Tent: Somewhere between ultralight and oversized is the Nemo Dagger. It is, technically, a backpacking tent, but Nemo designed it to max out interior volume so that you don’t feel claustrophobic inside. That makes it ideal for casual camping as well as multi-day treks. Read more here.

Helinox Chair One Camp Chair


Best Camp Chair: Even compared to the smallest camp chairs, Helinox’s Chair One masters portability. It weighs less roughly two pounds and packs down smaller than most sleeping bags. Plus, it’s actually comfortable to sit in. Read more here.

Smartwool Merino 150 Base Layer Bottom

Best Baselayer: Baselayers are the foundation of any layering system. Smartwool’s lightweight merino wool bottoms provide year-round versatility; summer or winter, whether you’re hiking or camping, snowboarding or trudging to work in the snow. Read more here.

Yeti Rambler 26oz


Best Water Bottle: There are hundreds of water bottles available today, but we like Yeti’s Rambler because it’s sufficiently rugged, has an oversized loop on its lid to attach to things and keeps drinks cold for longer than necessary. (Plus, the selection of matte colors is good-looking enough to make it hard to choose.) Read more here.

Fitness

Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo


Best Running Shoe: This every day trainer is built for a runner who’s looking for support and speed. The midsole features a combination of ZoomX and Epic react foam from Nike — from the super popular Epic React and Vaporfly 4% shoes. The Pegasus Turbo is the shoe you’ll reach for on tempo days, and for long training runs. It weighs less than nine ounces and feels fast and a look to match, thanks to the zippy racing stripe. Read more here.

Giro Aether MIPS


Best Bike Helmet: As a part of the GP 100, the Giro MIPS Cycling helmet is the best all-around helmet for comfort, weight, ventilation and of course, safety. Giro swapped the single EPS foam shell into two very thin spherical EPS shells, a la ball-and-socket-style. The shells are attached with elastomers and eliminates the need for a liner. While safety comes first, style is an important part of the overall picture, and this one checks all the boxes. Read more here.

Specialized S-Works


Best Bicycle: It’s the most aerodynamic road bike that Specialized has ever created, meaning if you’re planning for a race, this is the one to look at. It’s the third generation of this bike, meaning it handles extremely well with a re-optimized handlebar shape and stem (it’s stiffer and lighter). Afterall, it’s the race day bike of Peter Sagan, one of the best road riders racing today. Read more here.

TriggerPoint Charge Vibe


Best Foam Roller: This vibrating foam roller is essentially two lacrosse balls attached in the middle with a divot between them that’s incredibly helpful along your calves, quads and hamstrings. TriggerPoint is a leader in recovery tools, especially ones that work for a wide range of athletes. With three intensity levels and a weight of just two pounds, it’s easy for anyone to throw in their gym bag or carry-on suitcase to treat themselves to a miniature massage at any point during the day. Read more here.

Suunto 9 GPS


Best GPS Watch: Suunto makes some of the highest quality GPS trackers for endurance athletes, mountaineers and adventurers. The Suunto 9’s unique battery lets you pick from three modes that balance GPS connectivity with battery drain, so you can go for up to 120 hours on a single charge. Plus, you get everything else Suunto is known for like its waterproofing, compass, barometer, multi-sport activity and sleep tracking. Read more here.

Revere Post-Workout Recovery

Best Protein Powder: Protein powders are polarizing — you either use them or you don’t. But once you find one that you like, you’re probably going to stick with it. That’s what happened to our team when we tried Revere’s Post-Workout Recovery. After a long run, mixing this powder into a glass of water or squeezable water bottle is easier than foam rolling and stretching (other post-run necessities). Plus, each packet comes from all-natural ingredients, is diary-, gluten-, soy- and GMO-free. Did we mention that it tastes good, too?

Reebok Crossfit Nano 8 Flexweave


Best Gym Shoe: This is consistently one of the best gym sneakers every year. Reebok continues to update its Crossfit shoe that fills up boxes (Crossfit gyms) nationwide. The Shoe has been around since 2010 and the latest update includes a Flexweave upper that’s breathable, yet sturdy, so you can go from ladders to rope climbs to AMRAP burpees without having to change your shoes.

Lululemon T.H.E. Short

Best Running Short: Whether you prefer a gym short with a liner or no liner, T.H.E. Short is the right pick. Each pair is incredibly lightweight, wicks sweat better than anything else we’ve tried and comes in enough colors that you can hit the gym five days a week and never repeat one pattern. Read more here.

Aer Fit Pack 2

Best Gym Bag: This is the perfect commuter gym bag thanks to its sleek look and plethora of pockets. The 1680 Cordura ballistic nylon exterior is tough enough to handle getting thrown around in addition to looking good in the boardroom. There’s even a separate pocket for your shoes post-HIIT class. Read more here.

Beats by Dre Powerbeats Wireless



Best Earbuds:
While expensive, the PowerBeats 3 has a great fit thanks to over the ear buds. The sound quality is a bit heavy on the bass, but overall pretty good for a running headphone. These won’t slip out when you’re racing to catch up with a pacer or when you’re bobbing and weaving through rush hour traffic. Read more here.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Five Ways to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry

This post is presented by the Gear Patrol Store. Purchasing products from our store supports our editorial efforts.

Everyday carry items say a lot about who we are. But from the most pared-down, minimalist designs to the boldest our EDC kits are also the ones that take the most abuse and get the most wear and tear. So, we put together a short list of EDC upgrades from brands that are making some of the most thoughtfully-designed and well-built products you can find on the market today. From proprietary materials to patented designs and manufacturing techniques, these products should be on your EDC upgrade list.

The James Brand Chapter


Ryan Coulter, founder of The James Brand, designed this folding knife when his search for the perfect EDC blade came up empty. The Chapter has clean lines, a simple functional blade and minimal moving parts for easy maintenance. It features a titanium handle, Crucible stainless steel blade and ceramic bearings. It’s a practical — not tactical — folding knife imbued with a design language that has become the rubric for the entire brand.

Inventery Bolt Action Pen


Bold Action Pen is Inventery’s answer to the temporary and disposable stylus. It is precision machined from raw brass stock using a single tungsten blade and outfitted with a carefully considered and high-quality internal mechanism that, unlike other bolt contraptions, offers a seamless and satisfying trigger and release action. It comes in three sizes and three distinct finishes to match every EDC style.

Pioneer Carry Ion Wallet


Pioneer Carry wallets are constructed with the care you find in a luxury leather wallet in a trademark 10XD ripstop nylon that’s ten times stronger per weight than steel. The Ion is Pioneer’s slimmest folding design with room for essential cards and a small wad of cash; an elegant, eye-catching alternative to a humdrum wallet.

Muyshondt Aeon MK III S2


Each Muyshondt Electric Torch cut by machine, meticulously finished and hand assembled. Inside, the torches feature heatsinks made of solid copper which are then polished before begin gold plated, a process that creates a superlative thermal juncture to the copper core LED board. The Aeon MK III is a great everyday carry choice, packing ample punch while being small enough for a pants pocket.

Craighill Closed Helix Keychain


This Closed Helix keyring from Craighill takes key-carry up a notch with a simple but elegant helix shape. The handmade ring features a wire core with turned, knurled endcaps that breaks the monotony of boring rings and overcooked carabiners. Simply unscrew the knurled side to add or remove keys.

The 7 Best Inflatable and Collapsible Kayaks for Summer 2019

Kayaks give you unrivaled access to quiet lakes, rushing rivers and hidden inlets. And, on calm water, they require little-to-no technical skill. The only problem with ‘yaks is when you’re out of the water — most are heavy, bulky and take up a ton of space in your home (if you live in an apartment, you’ll need to get creative).

Enter: Inflatable kayaks. (While most collapsible kayaks are inflatable, there are a few others that use frames and folds instead of air; some are good, some are more cumbersome than convenient.) Inflatables simplify that process. They pack down small, which means they’re easy to store and transport. While an inflatable kayak will never outperform a hard boat, they do handle well on most water thanks to advancements in materials and boat designs, says Wes Eads, Gearhead and Sales Associate at outdoor e-retailer Backcountry.

Take note: inflatable kayaks offer less control since they sit on the water instead of in it, and they require perfect air pressure for optimal performance. But, generally, inflatable, collapsible and foldable kayaks make everything else easier — from transportation to storage. Plus, they open up a world of new paddling possibilities; put one on your back and you can hike in five miles to a hidden lake, or check it underneath a plane for international travel. They’re usually lighter on your bank account, too.

Don’t fall for the $100 boats you can get at Walmart, though. “To ensure you’re getting a quality boat, you need high-quality materials and construction methods,” says Eads. Look for vessels made from Hypalon (like commercial rafts) and PVC with high-pressure valves (especially C7s produced by Leafield), and ideally welded seams instead of glued, which are tougher on rough water. And, bonus if the boat has an internal cell of air (called an air chamber) as well as an external shell. “This acts as a second layer of defense against puncturing,” Eads adds.

Here are seven high-quality collapsible kayaks worth your money.

Best Budget Kayak: Sevylor Quikpak K5

The QuikPak hits the sweet spot of relatively cheap without compromising quality with the bonus of being quite convenient to carry. Made of 25-gauge PVC with a few skegs, which are similar to a rudder but immovable, on the bottom to help with tracking, this inflatable kayak is reliable enough for a riled-up lake or light river paddle. The built-in spray skirt stretches across the cockpit and is an excellent guard against weather and water. Multiple air chambers are a must when working with inflatable boats — these are your first guard against having the boat pop when there’s a leak. Most intriguing, the whole kayak (minus the pump) packs down into the seat to become a 25-pound backpack for easy transport, and it can be off your back and on the water in under 10 minutes. You’ll probably want to upgrade to a less finicky pump and paddle, but $300 for a ‘yak is still a pretty sweet deal.

Best For White Water Paddling: NRS MaverIK I

From legacy-brand NRS, the MaverIK is one of the most trustworthy traditional duckies — that’s kayaker jargon for an inflatable vessel — available to tackle whitewater. The sizable width and higher rocker angles on the tip and tail make the boat secure and super responsive on big rapids, yet it’s also easy to exit and enter if you get dumped. Multiple air chambers are sealed with the gold-standard of valves, the Leafield C7, and NRS’s Pennel Orca material, a super high-quality Hypalon, is so durable that the MaverIK I comes with a 10-year warranty. For an extra $100 you can upgrade to the performance pack — it includes thigh straps and a factory-installed foot peg, which you’ll want when you hit Class III rapids.

Best for Beginners: Oru Beach LT

Oru’s origami kayaks are maybe the coolest thing to happen to the category since, well, inflatables were created. The hull is one piece of a custom polypropylene — the same material used on plastic mailboxes — that’s been pre-folded (20,000 times). With strategically-placed straps, buckles and neoprene fairings, the polypropylene sheet easily transforms into a legit kayak — and one that stays afloat, keeps water out, isn’t threatened by rough rocks and tracks decently, even in open water. When you’re done, unfold and refold it into a box the size of a large portfolio case, complete with a carrying strap.

As cool and reliable as the design is, an Oru kayak can still be awkward to lug around. But you can buy a backpack case that lets you load the 26-pound hunk up a short hike more easily or even check it on a plane. The company offers four different designs for various types of paddling, including a new tandem model this Spring. We love the entry-level, 12-foot Beach LT for a kayak that’ll keep up with any spontaneous day trips on a lake, bay, or calmer river.

Best for More Than One Person: Sea Eagle 370

Sea Eagle’s tandem offering is the poster child of why people have been turning to the company for reliable inflatable kayaks for over 50 years. It weighs just 32 pounds and packs down small enough to throw in the trunk, yet it can fit three people and ferry up to 650 pounds, making it an excellent option for bigger guys or overnight trips on flat water with a ton of gear. It’s made from a toughened PolyKrylar (a PVC material that will hold up to UV light, oil and gas) and all of its seams are welded. Plus, the I-beam floor has five inflatable tubes and two skegs underneath, making for a speedy and relatively responsive 12-foot vessel.

Best for Clean Tracking: Advanced Elements AE1012 AdvancedFrame Kayak

A hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable, this boat packs down relatively well (it fits into a medium duffel). At 36 pounds, it’s a little heavier than others — but it performs way above most. The aluminum ribs in the bow and stern give the boat more control and tracking in the water so it handles as close to a hard-shell kayak as you’ll find in an inflatable, which, to many, makes it worth the extra weight. Plus, the construction is top-notch: the boat is made from a triple-layer of polyester material with a double PVC coating, has welded seams, convenient carrying handles, multiple air chambers and the right amount of onboard storage room for long trips. (Advanced Elements also make a cool tandem-convertible kayak in a longer version of the same frame that’s worth checking out).

Best for Tackling Rapids: Cronin Ugly Ducky

While most inflatable kayaks are notoriously terrible in white water, the Ugly Ducky is made specifically to help you tackle rapids. It may look like a glorified pool float (hence the name), but the huge rocker nose and tail allow you to plow through lateral waves rather than dive into them as traditional or inflatable kayaks tend to do (no rolling required, either). Instead of the typical I-beam floor of a ducky that forces you to sit higher in the water, Cronin’s has a drop-stitch floor, putting you essentially at water level, making you more stable on rapids. It won’t treat you well on a calm lake since the square front isn’t ideal there, and the rocker nose catches the wind, but in white water, fans say the goofy-slash-ingenious design lets them tackle rapids a class above what they can handle in a hard boat. One downside: while the boat does pack down to about the size of a carry-on suitcase, it doesn’t come with a carrying case or a pump.

Best for Long Hikes In: Kokopelli Rogue-Lite

Kokopelli’s new Rogue-lite, on pre-order now, is a pack raft, not a kayak — but considering it rolls up to be just 4.8 pounds and the size of a paper towel roll, it’s the most ideal boat on this list for stuffing into a backpack or on a bike for hike-in launches and high-alpine lake fishing. Don’t be fooled by its compact size, either — the boat, crafted for easy white water, moderate rivers and lakes, is made from Kokopelli’s uber-durable proprietary blend, in addition to a Kevlar-reinforced floor with seams that are bot stitched and double-taped. The lighter weight does come with some comfort compromises — there’s no seat back — and just a single inflation chamber, but with the featherweight of this boat and reliability of the Kokopelli brand, the payoff is well worth it.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

6 Post-Marathon Muscle Soothers You Haven’t Considered

The first thing most runners do (or should) after a long run is to stretch followed by a soak in the tub and keeping their legs up for the rest of the day. While we love the runner’s high we get from distance runs, we don’t love the soreness we feel in our calves, quads and IT bands. When our team trains for half or full marathons or any long distance race, we have to find ways to relieve our muscles, particularly leading up to the race. Biofreeze, a cooling spray found at most major marathons, is one option but there are other brands worth testing, too.

If you’re in the market for something different or have been babying an injured arm/leg/calf, etc., these seven picks are worth a try, with the caveat that what works for one exercise-enthusiast or newbie, doesn’t necessarily work for another.

Cooling sprays can be divisive — some say they work, others don’t buy it. If you fall into the latter, you can try things like massage, acupuncture and plain old sleep to relieve muscle pain. “The best thing for me has been ice cold water,” Dylan DiBona, the Director Sportif at Mission Cycling / San Francisco, who often travels to the French Alps for a week of cycling, says. “There’s a glacial run-off stream that runs by our chalet in France and nothing I’ve tried has ever worked better than that ice water. It’s difficult to sit in — almost burns as you ease into it. And you can only be in there for a few minutes before you have to get out. But it does the trick. You wake up feeling so much better — flexible, relaxed and ready to go at it again.”

Disclaimer: Please note that Gear Patrol is not providing medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All the information below is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. We highly recommend you see a healthcare professional before starting a new regimen.

Tiger Balm

If you poke around on Instagram and follow many of the runners of New York — specifically the Old Man Running Club — you’ll see mentions of Tiger Balm. This strong pain reliever is 100 years old and can be used up to four times daily due to its combo of Cajuput (similar to eucalyptus oil), Cassia (which has been shown to help reduce pain) and Clove oil (which helps improve circulation). The next time your plantar fasciitis flares up, give this a go.

Runner’s High Chill AF Muscle Rub

Runner’s High began with a couple — a nurse and a runner in a search for something better than ibuprofen. The brand makes a few recovery balms, but this one features arnica flowers and menthol, both of which relieve sore calves after a particularly brutal speed workout or tempo run. The Super Herb Plus+ also has arnica flowers but differs with its 100 mg of hemp extract; and the Some Like It Hot Muscle rub uses menthol as well, but with cayenne pepper to cause a warming effect on skin. After every race — no matter the distance — I rub this into my calves before I head to bed.

Wildflower CBD+ Healing Stick

CBD is seemingly everywhere these days — including in recovery balms. This Healing Stick features arnica — similar to the Runner’s High muscle rub — and wintergreen, which helps cool the skin. It also has peppermint and hemp seed oil, which help reduce muscle aches and inflammation respectively. CBD is helpful in these types of products due to its relaxing benefits. At $75, this is on the more expensive side of recovery due to the CO2 extraction, how cannabis is reduced to different compounds — THC and CBD. It’s typically difficult to guarantee a pure amount of CBD and low amounts of THC, which is why there are so many CBD products on the market, but the more expensive price represents the high quality of extraction and guarantee of quality ingredients. While we haven’t personally tested, we’ve heard and read many rave reviews.

J.R. Watkins Menthol Camphor Ointment

Gear Patrol editorial assistant and former triathlete, Andy Frakes, dealt with a lot of wear and tear during training and racing. “Menthol Camphor Ointment is positioned as a cough suppressant first, which it helps with, but I use it to massage into my knees, ankles and elbows when I feel an overuse issue starting to flare up,” Frakes says. Menthol is the main ingredient, which is what you’ll typically find in an AMP+ recovery lotion and makes your legs tingle upon use. The thick ointment means you’ll have to spend time massaging it into sore muscles, which only adds to the benefits of use.

Art of Sport Ultra Strength Recovery Cream

There are a lot of companies that slap the label ‘sport’ on products causing people to believe that they are healthy. Art of Sport wants to cut through the noise with its athlete-developed and -tested products like this Recovery Cream. The brand worked with athletes like baseball player Javier Baez, football player JuJu Smith-Schuster, surfer Sage Erickson and motocross athlete Ken Roczen. Roczen especially pushed for the ingredients to perform, after he was in a major crash that ended in multiple surgeries and a tough rehab process. He’s now back on the bike and is very particular around his daily recovery — including the Recovery Cream. This lotion features arnica and eucalyptus, which you can smell as soon as you massage it into your muscles. While it doesn’t make your skin instantly cold, it releases a refreshing tingle as it starts to work.

Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap

Yes, we know this is not a recovery balm, but we couldn’t help but include it. The peppermint soap is incredibly strong, especially if you use it in the shower. After a tough workout, long day on the trails or intense ride, hopping in a hot shower and using this as a face scrub or body wash will cause your entire body to tingle.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

100+ Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

The seemingly ever-growing number of retail holidays can often feel like a cynical ploy to separate you from your money. There are a few events, however, that are hard to feel fatigued or contemptuous towards, and Mother’s Day is chief among them. IT’s frankly hard to make an argument against celebrating the wonderful, unique, and kind-of-metal act of child-rearing.

Of course, like any other event or day that requires getting someone a gift, Mother’s Day can inspire a kind of crisis of choice. To help you narrow down the options, we’ve pulled together over 100 Mother’s Day gift ideas to peruse through. Whether you end up going for a big splurge, are trying to find something for the new mom, or are reading this in the 11th hour while looking for last-minute gifts, we have what you’re looking for here.


Best Mother’s Day Gifts for New Moms

Because new moms deserve a little something extra on their first (and second, and third, and fourth) Mother’s Day.

The 15 Best Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

Caught off guard by how close mother’s day is? Don’t worry – we’ve rounded up a list of great gifts that ship quickly.

The 15 Best Mother’s Day Gifts Under $50

For Mother’s Day gifts, it’s really the thought that counts. In that spirit, here are 15 ways to say “I love you, Mom” without completely emptying your billfold.

The 60+ Best Mother’s Day Gifts of 2019

Shopping for the perfect Mother’s Day gift may not be as easy as shopping for yourself, but it doesn’t have to be wildly complicated either.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Best Mother’s Day Gifts For New Moms

New moms deserve a little something extra on their first Mother’s Day. Okay, also on their second, third and fourth. Those early years — whether resting in bed just weeks out from delivering the baby or years out, covered in macaroni-and-cheese finger grease and other not-to-be-mentioned smears — can be soul-ravaging. These 14 gifts will let her take a moment to reconnect with herself — and show your gratitude for Herculean efforts.

OXO Brew Pour Over Coffee Maker with Water Tank

Using a coffeemaker to make a single pick-me-up in the middle of the day feels over the top. That’s why we love this single-cup pour over design. Buck the French press — which can taste like cowboy coffee — for this more sophisticated setup.

Herbivore Botanicals Detox Bath Soak

Sometimes, the time to take a bath is a gift in and of itself. Amplify the experience for her by letting her revel in it with these bath salts. Blue clay sourced in Cambria draws toxins from the skin while the eucalyptus and lavender scents add calmness and serenity.

Orgaid Organic Sheet Mask

Hormone loss after having a baby can leave her skin dull and depleted. These sheet masks, packed with vitamin C, lemon, orange peel, pomegranate, lavender and rose hip, work to add radiance and luminosity. And a touch of self-care.

Outdoor Tech Buckshot 2.0

This may be designed for elevating a biking experience, but there’s no reason she can’t amp up her stroller runs in the same way. This rugged bluetooth speaker can withstand some saliva, little greasy hands or a few drops in the sandbox all while blasting white noise (for naps), kid’s songs (for stroller runs) or whatever adult music you can coax your toddler into liking.

Canvas Home Cylinder Glass Large Vase

Flowers are a wonderful gift for Mother’s Day (in fact, we like Bouqs) but give her a special vase — like this beautiful recycled glass one from Canvas Home — to put them in and she’ll remember your thoughtfulness far beyond the lifespan of the bouquet.

Artifact Uprising Frames

Nothing warms up a grey day than framed photos of your loved ones lining your walls. And if your baby is just about one year old, you probably have roughly 3,000 pictures to choose from. Give those moments the quality they deserve with a museum-level frame from Artifact Uprising. All you do is choose the picture and order — it arrives to your door pre-framed and ready to hang.

Outdoor Voices TechSweat ¾ Leggings

The New York Times said this week that leggings are quite possibly the future and we’re in full agreement. If she’s just post-baby, buy her a pair of her favorite stretchy pants in one size larger than she normally wears. They will be her go-tos for months to come. We like Outdoor Voices TechSweat ¾ Leggings for their thick and supportive fabric.

The Night Sky Custom Map

Put in your little one’s birthplace, date and time and you’ll get a stylish custom map of the corresponding night sky in return. She’ll love the sentimentality, the opportunity for education (once your little one wants to learn about The Little Dipper and Orion’s Belt) and the added piece of nursery art.

Coyuchi Organic Crinkled Percale Sheet Set

In those first few weeks, new moms spend hours upon hours in bed healing from labor and delivery and snuggling their hours- or days-old babies. We can’t think of a more luxurious gift than new sheets in which to spend this all of this nesting time. These sheets from one of our favorite bedding brands, Coyuchi, is ultra soft because the organix cotton feels broken in straight out of the box. Bonus: certified Fair Trade.

Outerknown S.E.A Suit

We can’t think of a better piece of clothing than a jumpsuit for weekend farmer’s markets and coffee dates with your partner (and your wee one). This one, from Outerknown (one of our favorite men’s brands), will let her feel put together while also remaining super comfortable (and letting her nurse easily).

Athletic Propulsion Labs Women’s TechLoom Bliss

Her sneaker game may change for a bit as she finds herself chasing little legs down the sidewalk or through the playground. APL’s footwear is so lightweight, it’s a great alternative to open-toed shoes, and the fabric is incredibly stretchy, which makes these comfortable for shifts in foot shape and size after (or during) pregnancy. Not her style? A pair of Vans Checkerboard Slip-Ons are as easy to slide into and out of with full hands (and $150 less).

Beauty Counter Rejuvenation Regimen

If she’s really into beauty and skincare, you won’t lose with anything Beauty Counter. Their products are safe from toxins and chemicals and out-perform other all-natural competition. Rejuvenation is probably exactly what her skin needs after post-partum hormone-loss so this complete skincare re-do will also re-up her few moments of self care.

Margaux Loafers

Ease her transition back to work with a pair of stylish-yet-comfortable new loafers. Margaux’s footwear is amply-padded (for casual shoes) so her work day — which is probably more chaotic now with pumping and day-care drop-offs — will feel a tiny bit more smooth.

Mejuri Engraveable Bar

This delicate charm in solid gold — engraved with your kid’s name — is worth the splurge. Mejuri works to keep prices low (this is much lower than you’d find in a retailer) by selling direct to consumer. And she’ll love it on the back end just the same.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 15 Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

Holidays have a habit of creeping up on the forgetful among us. One moment Mother’s Day is months away, barely something to worry about and then, suddenly, it is breathing down our neck. Thankfully, we live in a world where a great gift can ship in just a day or two after just a few clicks and a little bit of imagination.

To make things all the easier for you anxious and forgetful shoppers, we’ve pulled together a list of last minute Mother’s Day gifts. Whether your mom deserves a new yoga mat or some good bath supplies, we have everything you can want right here. And the best thing about it? They’re all available on Amazon Prime so as long as you order a few days in advance you know it’ll get to mom on time.

San Francisco Salt Co Muscle Soak

Sometimes the best gifts are all about allowing someone to take time for themselves. These bath salts will help mom do just that. Made up of pure Epsom salt and infused with eucalyptus and peppermint oil, they’re billed help soothe muscles and aches. The salts come in two, 10 and 20-pound bags.

Teavana Tea Maker

There is tea, and then there is tea. This brewer from Teavana suspends the tea leaves and hot water above a glass while it brews, and then dispenses the infused liquid once done.

The Old Drift

For some moms, a book is just about as good — if not better — than any other gift. If that sounds familiar, consider gifting The Old Drift by Namwali Serpell. The New York Times called the debut novel from the Zambian writer “dazzling” and “audacious”.

Bee’s Wrap Assorted 3 Pack Food Wraps

If your mom is one to cook big meals and save food for leftovers, consider these bee’s wrap packs. Essentially re-usable plastic wrap, they can be used to preserve food in the fridge, rinsed off with cold water, and put away until next use. Each can last for more than a year.

OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Angled Measuring Cups

Not all measuring cups are created equal. These angled cups, for instance, not only measure up to four cups in a single container but ounces and millimeters as well. The deceptively dynamic kitchen tools are also BPA free.

S’Well Stainless Steel Travel Mug

As odd as it may sound, water bottles are their own kind of accessory. Whether we like to admit it or not the bottles we carry around say something about us. This one from S’well is made from a kitchen grade 18/8 stainless steel and features an attractive marble design and triple walled build that keeps your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot.

Bouquet

Creative gifts are overrated. More often than not, something simple like a bouquet of flowers goes a long way towards letting mom know you care for her. This particular bunch of 30 red tulips ships fast — but be sure to make a little bit of extra time because it takes a day or two for the tulips to open all the way up.

The Kombucha Shop Brewing Kit

Want to gift something a little weird for the DIY mom this Mother’s Day? Consider the Kombucha Brewing Kit. Included in the kit are a 1-gallon brew jar, pH test strips, kombucha cultures, and a temperature gauge.

Fire 7 Tablet

Boasting a thinner and lighter-weight body but with longer battery life, there is a whole lot to like about the Fire 7 tablet from Amazon. In addition to offering the same functionality of a traditional e-reader from the Seattle-based tech giant, the Fire 7 is compatible with video streaming from apps like HBO Now, Netflix, and Prime Video.

Manduka Yoga Mat

It’s firm, grippy and durable, but what separates this yoga mat from the fray is that it’s made from a special biodegradable natural tree rubber. So when you gift this mat to your yogi mom, you can rest assured that you’re adding value to her daily workout without adding more waste to the world.

Ugg Bathrobe

Like most simple things, bathrobes are underrated. And chances are if your mom already has one she’d likely appreciate a newer and plusher one like this example from Ugg. The maker of those comfy shoes everyone seemed to be wearing in the late aughts applied the same magic to their robe. Made from a cotton and spandex shell and featuring a plush fleece lining it offers nothing but comfort.

Fellow Raven Stovetop 1L Tea Kettle

Want to do something a little extra for mom? This stovetop tea kettle from Fellow is ideal. The unique design of the kettle makes it striking from a distance, while an integrated thermometer on top and tea strainer make it ideal for brewing enough tea to share for two.

Fitbit Alta HR

In addition to being the slimmest fitness tracker from Fitbit, the Alta HR also monitors heart rate, meaning that it’s easier to track cardio and calories burned. The diminutive size and color range also make it an ideal gift to give to the active mom who is trying to tracker her workouts more closely.

Glerups

These slippers are as comfortable as their name is unabashedly fun to say. Essentially woolen versions of Crocs, these mules feature a rubber sole for wearing both inside and outside the house.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

One of the more sought-after haircare products released in the past few years, this dryer from Dyson is designed to prevent heat damage. In addition to its unique design with 4 heat settings, the Supersonic Hair Dryer features a bevy of magnetic attachments for stylizing to your preference.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 15 Best Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

Holidays have a habit of creeping up on the forgetful among us. One moment Mother’s Day is months away, barely something to worry about and then, suddenly, it is breathing down our neck. Thankfully, we live in a world where a great gift can ship in just a day or two after just a few clicks and a little bit of imagination.

To make things all the easier for you anxious and forgetful shoppers, we’ve pulled together a list of last minute Mother’s Day gifts. Whether your mom deserves a new yoga mat or some good bath supplies, we have everything you can want right here. And the best thing about it? They’re all available on Amazon Prime so as long as you order a few days in advance you know it’ll get to mom on time.

San Francisco Salt Co Muscle Soak

Sometimes the best gifts are all about allowing someone to take time for themselves. These bath salts will help mom do just that. Made up of pure Epsom salt and infused with eucalyptus and peppermint oil, they’re billed help soothe muscles and aches. The salts come in two, 10 and 20-pound bags.

Teavana Tea Maker

There is tea, and then there is tea. This brewer from Teavana suspends the tea leaves and hot water above a glass while it brews, and then dispenses the infused liquid once done.

The Old Drift

For some moms, a book is just about as good — if not better — than any other gift. If that sounds familiar, consider gifting The Old Drift by Namwali Serpell. The New York Times called the debut novel from the Zambian writer “dazzling” and “audacious”.

Bee’s Wrap Assorted 3 Pack Food Wraps

If your mom is one to cook big meals and save food for leftovers, consider these bee’s wrap packs. Essentially re-usable plastic wrap, they can be used to preserve food in the fridge, rinsed off with cold water, and put away until next use. Each can last for more than a year.

OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Angled Measuring Cups

Not all measuring cups are created equal. These angled cups, for instance, not only measure up to four cups in a single container but ounces and millimeters as well. The deceptively dynamic kitchen tools are also BPA free.

S’Well Stainless Steel Travel Mug

As odd as it may sound, water bottles are their own kind of accessory. Whether we like to admit it or not the bottles we carry around say something about us. This one from S’well is made from a kitchen grade 18/8 stainless steel and features an attractive marble design and triple walled build that keeps your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot.

Bouquet

Creative gifts are overrated. More often than not, something simple like a bouquet of flowers goes a long way towards letting mom know you care for her. This particular bunch of 30 red tulips ships fast — but be sure to make a little bit of extra time because it takes a day or two for the tulips to open all the way up.

The Kombucha Shop Brewing Kit

Want to gift something a little weird for the DIY mom this Mother’s Day? Consider the Kombucha Brewing Kit. Included in the kit are a 1-gallon brew jar, pH test strips, kombucha cultures, and a temperature gauge.

Fire 7 Tablet

Boasting a thinner and lighter-weight body but with longer battery life, there is a whole lot to like about the Fire 7 tablet from Amazon. In addition to offering the same functionality of a traditional e-reader from the Seattle-based tech giant, the Fire 7 is compatible with video streaming from apps like HBO Now, Netflix, and Prime Video.

Manduka Yoga Mat

It’s firm, grippy and durable, but what separates this yoga mat from the fray is that it’s made from a special biodegradable natural tree rubber. So when you gift this mat to your yogi mom, you can rest assured that you’re adding value to her daily workout without adding more waste to the world.

Ugg Bathrobe

Like most simple things, bathrobes are underrated. And chances are if your mom already has one she’d likely appreciate a newer and plusher one like this example from Ugg. The maker of those comfy shoes everyone seemed to be wearing in the late aughts applied the same magic to their robe. Made from a cotton and spandex shell and featuring a plush fleece lining it offers nothing but comfort.

Fellow Raven Stovetop 1L Tea Kettle

Want to do something a little extra for mom? This stovetop tea kettle from Fellow is ideal. The unique design of the kettle makes it striking from a distance, while an integrated thermometer on top and tea strainer make it ideal for brewing enough tea to share for two.

Fitbit Alta HR

In addition to being the slimmest fitness tracker from Fitbit, the Alta HR also monitors heart rate, meaning that it’s easier to track cardio and calories burned. The diminutive size and color range also make it an ideal gift to give to the active mom who is trying to tracker her workouts more closely.

Glerups

These slippers are as comfortable as their name is unabashedly fun to say. Essentially woolen versions of Crocs, these mules feature a rubber sole for wearing both inside and outside the house.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

One of the more sought-after haircare products released in the past few years, this dryer from Dyson is designed to prevent heat damage. In addition to its unique design with 4 heat settings, the Supersonic Hair Dryer features a bevy of magnetic attachments for stylizing to your preference.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

9 Best Budget Sneakers of 2019: All $100 or Less

Spending a fortune on running sneakers isn’t hard to do. The lighter and faster the shoes are, the seemingly more expensive they become. But the real challenge lies in finding a pair of shoes that will last you through a training block for less than $100. We took that challenge and pulled from last year’s sneaker tests to highlight some of the “winning sneakers” step-down models. Caveat: that they had to be just as high performing.

While all of these sneakers are $100 or less, they will get you from point A to point B over and over again, all while providing proper arch support and enough room for your piggies to stretch and breathe. Whether you’re in the market for a new pair of running sneakers or are looking to save on your next pair of gym shoes, this list is for you.

Disclaimer: A lot of these shoes are on sale right now, which is what makes them such a great deal. However, they are also all on the lower end of the spectrum as compared to many others within each brand. It’s also worth scouring the web to search for deals if you can. While there are some variations between each iteration of a shoe, just because you like version six doesn’t mean you’ll like version five. Often times brands completely re-do models so we recommend you try them out before committing.

Altra Vanish-R

These extremely lightweight runners are built to fit your foot thanks to a foot-shaped toe box, and a thin upper. It’s a racing flat through and through, so lace these up on days when you want to feel zippy around the track. It’s a zero drop shoe and weighs just 4.1-ounces. Since the upper is so thin, it’s easily flexible and will mold to your feet as you continue to run at a quick clip.

361-Strata 2

361’s stability shoe comes with an engineered mesh upper, a non-irritating tongue and 361’s proprietary foam, QU!kFoam, in the crash pad and forefoot. Everything about this shoe helps to secure your foot — from the medial post to the overlay pattern around the midfoot — all working together to lock your foot to the foam to help save energy with each step. The midsole and cushion are stiff enough to provide a bit of a bouncy feeling, but just hard enough that you’re not going to want to wear them all day long — it’s quite a different feel compared to some of the plush Brooks models we tested. It’s a bit of a heftier shoe at 11.2 ounces, but if you need stability and support, test these out.

Asics GT-2000 6

Everything you know and love about Asics can be found in this stability sneaker. Trussing system technology helps guide your feet into a proper gait, while the rear and forefoot gel eliminate shock absorption in your hips — especially during the start of your footfall. Top all that off with a wider forefoot and you have a pair of shoes that’s overflowing with tech features to help over-pronators go for longer. How to know if you’re an over-pronator? Look at the bottom of your current running shoes to check if there’s more wear on the outside of your heels as opposed to the inside near your big toes.

New Balance FuelCell Impulse

These New Balances feature a boot-like construction that hugs your entire foot when you put them on. At first, they might feel a bit small, but once you start moving around you’ll be impressed at how normal they feel. They provide immediate feedback when on the treadmill with a goldilocks grip (not too sticky and not too slippery) along the tread. The shoes are just 8.2-ounces with a 6-mm drop and they are built for speed. We found that they also double as great travel shoes — you can jump onto machines or lift weights without feeling like your feet are sliding all over the place when your workout calls for lateral movements.

Skechers GoRun Ride 7

We ran a 5K race in these and were shocked at just how plush the GoRun Ride 7 felt. The outsole didn’t look like it could handle a mix of grass, trail, dirt and concrete, but it proved us wrong. The GoRun Ride also has a 6-mm drop (similar to the FuelCell) and weighs 9.3 ounces. The two-tone knit upper is on the more minimalist side for Skechers, and it’s perfectly breathable during a 30-degree day, as well as a humid 70-degree day. The padded collar and tongue are plush touches we like.

Brooks Revel 2

The Revel is part of Brooks’s neutral cushion line with BioMoGo DNA underfoot. The foam redirects impacts at all angles, meaning if you hit the ground running with your heel or toe or midfoot, you’re protected. It’s on the plusher side at 10.2-ounces, but only $100, beating both the Glycerin ($150) and Ghost ($120) prices — both of which we love for days when we could use a bit more cushion between our feet and the road. If you typically run in the Glycerin or Ghost and like the fit, feel and look, but need something slightly slimmer, try these. The sleek sneakers have an updated upper featuring flat-knit, heat-activated yarns that won’t stretch as you sweat.

Hoka One One Cavu

These neutral and responsive running shoes would do the trick for an early morning run commuter. The Cavu features a lower midsole than previous Hoka One One sneakers, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s not cushioned enough. These handled sprints and daily runs easily, thanks to a fast turnover and a lightweight feel on the feet (there’s no clunkiness between steps). With a soft heel and firm forefoot, heel strikers can enjoy a squishy landing.

Reebok Floatride Energy

The Floatride Energy are the little cousin of the Floatride Run Pro, a shoe our team has tested over the course of a Ragnar Relay, for countless 5Ks and speedwork days. We like the lightweight feel and kick of the shoes — despite the accrual of hundreds of miles — and the Floatride Energy aren’t much different. They use the same midsole and a similar engineered mesh upper, just with a slightly more dense foam underfoot, which brings them in at a lower price. While we can’t speak to the durability of these, all the reviews point to positive.

Nike Odyssey React Flyknit 2

These lightweight runners pair Nike React foam (also found in the more expensive Epic React) with a mixed Flyknit and synthetic upper. We’ve run in a version of these with a water-repellent upper (the Shield) all winter long and the foam has kept our feet healthy, regardless of if we’re running nine miles at once or doing hill sprints on repeat. The Odyssey shares a similar foam with the Epic Reacts, but the upper is more sturdy, giving these a locked-in feel.

Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2

These 8.4-ounce sneakers won an Editor’s Pick award from Runner’s World for its cushioned, yet responsive feel. After hearing complaints of a midsole that was too firm (meaning there’s no bounce in your step), Topo Athletic tweaked the foam without changing the weight to make it more peppy. If you like space for your toes, these shoes and their roomy toe box are for you.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

15 Products That Will Change Your Life For Under $25

Last week we asked our readers a simple question; what is the best thing you’ve ever bought for under $25? We’ve been overwhelmed by the responses. Over 100 of you sent writeups about that one piece of gear or tool that puts a smile on your face.

You shared tools we’d never come across before, learned about a new use for lacrosse balls of all things, and were impressed by our reader’s taste in affordable watches (shout out to Casio) and top-tier writing utensils. Take a look below and see for yourself what you can get for less than a Jackson and a Lincoln.

Champion Sports Official Lacrosse Ball

“For a few bucks at your local sporting goods store, the ROI on a lacrosse ball is second to none. Perfect for hard to get trigger points and versatile for people on the go, I always have one in my bag- whether I’m on my way to the gym or at the office. Favorite uses: bottom of the feet, glutes (can be painful) and the infraspinatus (my favorite).” — Nate R. Evanston, Illinois

Pocket Casts App

“I spend an inordinate amount of time listening to podcasts. While driving, working out, cooking, and really anytime I have downtime. Spending a couple of bucks on the most seamless, intuitive, and well-composed podcast app was the best cheap investment I have ever made.” — Andrew P. Bethesda, MD

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

“It was the book that introduced me to a world of imagination, learning, and absurdity. From there, I would go on to explore book after book, world after world, expanding my understanding of the universe and a deep love of learning.” — Jordan K. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Casio F91W-1

“It is water-resistant, accurately tells you what time it is, low profile looks great, has a hilarious light and is basically disposable at just over $10! I could buy two of them and they would be the two best products for a total still well under $25! You can’t beat it!” — William M. Denver, Colorado

TEC Accessories P-7 Keychain Suspension Clip

“Lightweight, durable, small and functional – no extra bells and whistles. It does its job simply and with no issues. I’ve had mine for years and it’s never failed me. I’ve hooked my keys on the waistband of gym shorts and in addition to not digging into my side I hardly know it’s hooked up. Can be found for well under $25 ($12 on Amazon). Perfect in every way.” — Nike F. Novato, California

Opinel No. 8 Beechwood Handle Knife

“I have it with me wherever I go. I’ve used it and abused it 1000 times in different situations and still cuts just as it did on the first day. The blade is easy to resharpen but hard to maintain (it rusts easily). 11/10 Would buy again.” — Emanuel S. Osijek, Croatia

Victorinox Classic SD

“I keep this in my desk at work and I’ve probably used it every day for the past 10 years. I’m either cutting open a box, cutting a loose thread off my clothes, or using the screwdriver head to tighten up a loose screw. I’m constantly reaching for this and it’s definitely worth the $16 USD.” — Danny L. Vancouver, British Columbia

Pentel Ener Gel 0.7 Metal Tip Pen

“Smoother, more consistent and more reliable than pens of a significantly higher price point. Easy to source and replace if given away, lost or “borrowed” My favourite gateway pen for convincing non-pen enthusiasts to start using better writing tools but most importantly to start paying attention to what they use and start making deliberate choices in order to get the most from what they spend their money on. We might as well use the best possible tools we can afford and get the most utility from.” — Eryk J. Vancouver, British Columbia

rOtring 600 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil


“Just a very well made mechanical pencil. It is beautiful, consistent, comfortable to use, robust and it will probably outlive me.” — Kristján, S. Paris, France

Gyokucho Japanese Pull Saw

“A Japanese pull saw is incredibly versatile for the price. I’ve used this saw to precisely cut joinery and its what I take with me to quickly break down wood while dumpster diving. Because you cut on the pull, rather than the push I can make a quick clean cut even when I’m trespassing.” — Mitch K. Autin, Texas

Wealers Collapsible Kettle

“I like camping and coffee. Hot water is essential for both, especially when I want coffee when I’m camping. This thing does the trick.” — Steve S. Woodstock, Georgia

ThermaRest RidgeRest Classic

“With the multiple uses and small footprint, it’s a no brainer to have in the gear room. As a backup for an expensive inflatable pad, or a basecamp retreat for the dogs. You will find a ton of use out of this closed foam sleeping pad.” — Steve B. Denver, Colorado

Anker Powerline+ II 10ft Lightning Cable

“I’ve never gone from, “this seems excessive”, to “this is great”, to “oops I have one in every room(!)” so quickly. Not only has this lasted longer than any Apple cable, but it’s also cheaper to boot.” — Maxim H. London, England

Benriner “Little Beni” Mandoline Slicer

“Ever wanted a whole sack of consistently sliced potatoes for breakfast or shaved brussel sprouts for dinner with a looming side of danger that you might lose your finger at any moment? If so, this item will be your huckleberry.” — Nick L. — New York, New York

Evan Williams Single Barrel

“This single barrel punches way above its weight. Complex, integrated, and delicious. Cheap!” — Andrew P. Bethesda, Maryland

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 5 Best Tasting Instant Coffees of 2019

Confined to hiking expeditions, road trips without stops and particularly lazy mornings, instant coffee has, historically, had a tough go of it. Well, not anymore. The third wave coffee movement has now infiltrated even the most derided of coffee types, and with it, brought about a shift in what is and isn’t instant. From traditional freeze-dried granules to disposable pour-over contraptions, these five coffees are mobile, quick to make and relatively cheap. Most importantly, however: They taste pretty darn good, too.

Kuju Coffee

The product of a successful Kickstarter campaign, Kuju Coffee was founded by two brothers aiming to bring better coffee to your outdoor activities. Kuju employs single cup, one-time use packets of coffee grinds that fit in your pocket. Each one — available in traditional light, medium and dark roasts — has two “legs” that hook over the edges of your mug or cup, so you need only pour water and wait 120 seconds for some elevated trail coffee when you need it most.

Swift Cup Coffee

Swift Cup is like your classic instant coffee — dump in cup, pour water, stir, drink. However, the Pennsylvannia-based company uses a proprietary method to roast, brew and slowly freeze-dry their product. Swift Cup comes in varieties from the likes of Kenya, Ethiopia, Brazil and Colombia.

Dripkit

Dripkit employs a disposable one-time use pourover similar to Kuju, but instead of sitting in the cup, sits on top of it. Each batch of Dripkit’s current roast — La Basa No. 5, sourced from a family farm in Guatemala — is ground, roasted and package up at their Brooklyn HQ.

Equator Coffees & Teas X Sudden Instant Coffee

When the folks at Sudden Instant Coffee, a recognized name in the small but growing not-totally-trash instant coffee game teams up with one of the best roasters in the country, there’s something good afoot. Equator Coffee & Teas partnership with Sudden yielded some seriously powerful single-origin classic instant coffee. Each of the six test tubes of instant alertness in each order are exclusive to Huckberry’s site, and your mug.

Voilà Coffee

When Voilà opened up shop online in November of 2017, they sold through their entire stock so quickly they had to disable the “shop” tab on their website. After a couple months of re-stocking, they reopened for business in January, with each individually portioned pack of instant coffee aiming to highlight the particular region each roast is sourced from.

How to Read a Bag of Coffee Beans

Three things that shape the flavor and quality of a bag of beans, according to Counter Culture Coffee’s Thomas Costello. Read the Story

The 5 Best Waterproof Backpacks

If your commute, run, hike or ride takes you outdoors in inclement weather, then a waterproof backpack is a must. There’s no point in risking a laptop or notebook full of ideas ruined by the rain, and it’s a simple fix to avoid. There are tons of water-resistant bags on the market, but to be safe, go waterproof. We tested seven of the best waterproof bags on the market to see how they fared in a downpour.

Water-proof vs. Water-resistant
Most bags and jackets are coated with some form of DWR, or Durable Water Repellant. “It’s made from hydrophobic particles suspended in a solution,” Heidi Allen, VP of Marketing for Nikwax says. “This is applied to fabrics and materials both at the factory level and in the home to make them water-repellant.” While you’re likely familiar with this coating on your belongings, the bags included in our buying guide go beyond just DWR. TPU coatings are the main feature and are the big difference between waterproof and water-resistant bags. We looked for backpacks that could almost submerge in water and keep everything inside dry (in some cases the bags are fully submersible).

The Test
To make sure these bags hold up to anything the weather throws at them, I mimicked heavy rain conditions by putting them in the shower. In each pocket, I placed a tissue and a sticky note with “TEST” written on it (to make sure the ink didn’t run). I then placed all of the bags on the ground of two showers and turned the water on to see how each fared. The power of the shower is essentially a very heavy rainstorm. Every minute I rotated the bags or the spout of water to make sure each bag had its time to shine under terrible conditions. After six minutes, I shook them out and evaluated the dryness of the notes and tissues. One overarching theme: the outside pocket of waterproof bags should hold nothing that can’t get wet — it’s the inside that does all the waterproofing work.

Black Ember Citadel Minimal Pack

With an IPX6 waterproof rating, this bag offers a lot of protection from water, except when submerged. The minimalist all-black design has two pockets in front that open to the same pouch, which includes organization pouches for small items as well as a laptop sleeve. While the handles and padded shoulder straps held water, the interior tech sleeve stayed dry. With one towel wipe the front of the bag was dry as well, so you don’t have to worry about water pooling if you happen to leave it out in a rainshower.

L.L. Bean All-Conditions Waterproof Day Pack

With a roll-top, tapered seams and a TPU coated top panel, the L.L. Bean All-Conditions pack brings a lot of features to the table and also boasts IPX6 waterproof rating. Again, do not submerge. There are a few outside pockets: two stretch mesh hip pockets and an external shove-it pocket with drainage holes. Take note: the holes mean that nothing that can’t get wet should go in there. The easy-to-access small zipper pocket that’s near your head when the bag is on stayed 100 percent dry. The underside of the flap top was damp after testing, but the inside tissue and note were dry.

Sea to Summit Rapid 26L Drypack

While the colors offered in the Rapid 26L are a bit bright, this pack is truly minimalist and works great in harsh weather conditions. As the name suggests, you can go from Sea to Summit without fearing the bag will let water in. The abrasion-proof outer material is a TPU laminate, and the roll top seals with a clip, making it hard to penetrate. After 11 minutes, this bag and all of its pockets stayed dry. The straps aren’t as waterproof, but they’re also ventilated and breathe well on the trail. As for the inside, the interior was completely dry, and there are no exterior stash pockets for water to creep inside.

Arc’Teryx Granville Backpack

In four muted, yet distinct colors, this Arc’teryx pack is the only bag that isn’t entirely sealed in some way. The flip top has magnets that keep both sides of the flap down, and the waterproofing only works if you have the bag on your back, attached to a bike, or upright on the ground. While this one laid on the ground with all the others, the padded laptop sleeve in the back stayed dry, as did the pocket that’s right under the flip top lid. There was a small amount of water pooling in the bottom of the bag, but again, it laid flat, and there’s no way to secure the top all the way.

Patagonia Stormfront Roll Top Pack 45L

While this bag is also nonsubmersible, it was the driest of all the bags tested, even after I had to adjust the roll top because it wasn’t entirely closed when I first placed it in the shower. The uber-bright orange is a lot to get used to, but the bag also comes in a more subtle black and grey. It’s just one massive pocket, so you can max it out with towels, suits, sneakers, hiking gear, food — really whatever you need to bring with you when there’s a chance of rain. The 800-denier nylon with single side TPU and DWR finish mean everything stays as dry as the desert.

Best Rain Jackets

A lot has changed since heavy, unbreathable plastic rain slickers were standard all-weather apparel; today’s rain jackets are lighter, softer, more breathable, stretchy and more waterproof than ever. Read the Story

The 6 Best Softshell Jackets of 2019

When softshells first gained popularity over ten years ago, they struck a chord with those who work up a sweat in cold weather. The flexible, breathable material shelters you from mild water and wind all while breathing better than their closest competition: the hardshell. The fabric — which falls somewhere between a hard shell and a fleece — fills a large hole; it offers breathable weather protection for high-exertion activities in cold weather like alpine skiing, ice climbing and even, snowshoeing.

Today, softshells are starting to take a backseat as brands push to take waterproof membranes (the kind found in hardshells) to new levels of breathability. New technologies, like The North Face’s Futurelight, coming next fall, are promising advancements in breathable waterproof outerwear.

But, until then, we’re still batting for the softshell. Their tightly woven fabric is inherently stretchy and easier on the skin than the crunchy tinfoil-like hardshell material. They offer uninhibited movement and they manage temperature more effectively; ultimately, they’re better at allowing heat to escape while offering some level of warmth and protection. Insulation, such as fleece lining, beefs up warmth while a DWR (durable water repellant) coating, the water-resistance treatment found on most softshells, handles moisture. Plus, softshells tend to be easier on the wallet than Gore-Tex jackets, with most ranging from $150 to $200.

Unless you’re battling heavy precipitation, a softshell will get the job done. Here are our favorites.

Rab Integrity

UK-based brand Rab may not carry the same mainstream name recognition as other brands, but don’t let that deter you from thinking this burly softshell isn’t on par with the competition you see on outdoor gear shelves. This is one of the heavier weight softshells on the list, but the slim fitting Integrity jacket holds its own in frigid temps. Its warm and protective stretchy fabric, Matrix Integrity Weave, is tough yet breathable and it has an interior with an oh-so-comfortable fleece and pit zips — a rare offering for softshells — for quick venting when things heat up.

Weight: 28.4 ounces
Shell Material: Stretch nylon
Lining: Fleece

Marmot ROM

While this jacket was the thinnest of the bunch due to no insulating layer, it shelters from the biting wind beautifully. Of the six we tested, it’s the only windproof jacket. Gore Windstopper fabric lines the upper arms, chest, shoulders and hood, protecting against all but the strongest gusts. An unrestricted range of motion means this softshell feels natural, almost second skin-like and the slim-fitted arms contrast with ample room in the long-hemmed torso — ideal for layering. Add to that an adjustable hood, cuffs, waist and four pockets.

Weight: 17.9 ounces
Fill Material: Gore Windstopper (92% Nylon, 8% Elastane Plain Weave) and Softshell Double Weave (90% Polyester, 10% Elastane Stretch)

Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Shell

For all-around versatility in varying alpine (high altitude) conditions, the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol leads the pack. It’s a mid-weight, four-season shell that’s remarkably simple, yet incredibly effective at venting. Two internal stash pockets come in handy when you need a quick warm place to store your gloves. The looser fit allows ample room for extra layers while still maintaining a technical mountain look.

Weight: 19.1 ounces
Shell Material: Four-way stretch woven (63% nylon, 26% polyester, 11% elastane) with DWR coating
Lining: Brushed back

Outdoor Research San Juan

For a predictable layer of defense for backcountry laps, it’s hard to beat the competitively-priced San Juan. The smooth-skinned polyester fabric fends off mild precipitation. Outdoor Research skipped on an insulation layer for better breathability. The San Juan is truly built for ski touring: internal “Shove-It” pockets keep skins clean and readily accessible while an oversized helmet-compatible hood cinches down tight.

Weight: 19.1 ounces
Shell Material: 100% polyester 75D double weave

Mountain Hardwear Keele Hoodie

Take your softest, most comfortable fleece, add a durable thick-skinned DWR exterior and you get one heck of a comfortable softshell. Made with Polartec Hardface, the Keele Hoody favors feel over weather protection, as wind cuts right through its outer fabric. However, despite its lack of weather protection, it makes a perfect outer layer on warm bluebird days or doubles as a warm mid-layer under a hardshell. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself wearing it around the house.

Weight: 17 ounces
Shell Material: Polartec Hardface (90% Polyester, 10% Elastane) with DWR coating
Lining: Fleece

Arc’teryx Gamma MX Hoody

The Arc’teryx logo has become somewhat of a status symbol, representing detailed craftsmanship and unmatched performance at a premium price point. The athletically cut Gamma MX Hoody continues Arc’teryx’s elite status heritage. The combo of light insulation from fleece and a weather resistant outer from the thick DWR treated fabric makes it exceptionally durable and warm. Anatomically cut to work with your every move, no other brand puts more emphasis on how a piece fits than Arc’teryx. No detail was spared, including articulated elbows and gusseted armpits and the waistline never lifted even when we tested it by working overhead.

Weight: 19.9 ounces
Shell Material: Fortius 2.0 textile (85% nylon, 15% elastane) with DWR coating
Lining: Fleece
Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The Ultimate Guide to Footwear for Off-Season Hiking

Summer hikes are all sunny trails and summit picnics. In the winter, that same trek can be riddled with opportunities for freezing, slipping and post-holing in deep snow. But, getting outside in a season that usually has us hunkered down inside can feel liberating and downright serene. The secret to spending less time fighting the elements regardless of the season is the same: better gear.

In winter, gone is the freedom of sliding your gym shoes on if you forgot trail runners or boots or needing nothing more than ankle support on rocky terrain. Like every sport in winter, hiking requires more — more layers, more bulk, more must-haves like waterproofing and insulation and traction. But don’t let slippery conditions edge you off snowy trails. With the right gear underfoot — like insulated hiking boots, microspikes, and snowshoes — cold slush and thigh-high snow just become part of the scenery.

Here’s all the gear you need to hike through the worst of winter conditions.

Waterproof Trail Runners

Best For: Muddy trail runs and hikes, 45+ degree temperatures, packed snow, wet weather

Entry Level: Adidas Terrex AX3 GTX

Adidas’s Outdoor Terrex line is ideal for those who like to hike in trail runners but don’t want to deal with complicated lacing systems. When the snow is packed down on the trails, it’s safe to break out the AX3 GTX. Ideal for moderate temps, these light hikers are lined with a breathable Gore-Tex membrane for keeping moisture out and have a Continental (yes, the tire brand) rubber outsole, so feet will stay dry and feel secure on wet rocks and muddy trail — and they’ll run you roughly half the cost of most hiking boots.

The Upgrade: Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX

Salomon’s legendary trail runner will get you through the muddiest, wettest, sloppiest of trails without a worry. The beefy lugs tear through most winter terrain while the waterproof Gore-Tex exterior keeps your feet dry. The proprietary quicklace system means durable laces that will never untie and are easy to tighten mid-hike without having to take off your gloves. The Speedcross 4 GTX are the most versatile trail runner to handle a few inches of fresh snow or a trail riddled with mud holes.

Insulated Hiking Boots

Best For: Sub-45 degree temperatures, ankle-deep snow or less, wet and muddy trails

Entry Level: Keen Targhee Lace Boot

When the temperature drops and the terrain gets tough, you’ll be happy you laced up in these insulated hiking boots. Keen’s proprietary outsole and durable lugs keep you on solid footing over icy mountainsides while the waterproof, breathable membrane keep your feet dry — and they’re surprisingly comfortable compared to many other stiff competitors. Best yet, the synthetic insulation is warm but not bulky, so your boot feels no different from a warm-weather hiker until you realize it’s 10 degrees out and you can still feel your toes.

The Upgrade: Danner Mountain 600 Weatherized

These boots marry the best of Danner’s urban aesthetics with its commitment to trail performance, even on days when the weather hits single digits. The Mountain 600 have both a Vibram midsole and outsole, so the boots feel cushiony under foot and keep up your confidence on slippery snow and wet rocks. Most importantly, the Weatherized boots are completely waterproof and lined with Primaloft synthetic down, so your feet will stay not just dry, but straight up toasty.

Microspikes

Best For: Icy roads and trails, runs and hikes

Entry Level: Yaktrax Pro

Yaktrax are the easiest way to score better traction on slick roads and trails. Using coils instead of spikes mean you can leave these on when the icy trail turns into slippery pavement. Thanks to their patented skid lock system, there’s no compromising on grip. All Yaktrax models slip over trail runners or boots with ease, but opt for the Pro—it features a velcro strap over the midfoot to secure the basket better so it won’t fly off your foot, like some of the other models are known to do.

The Upgrade: Kahtoola Microspikes

When snow-packed and ice-covered trails turn steep, you’ll need a sharper grip. Kahtoola Microspikes are light enough to toss in your pack when you don’t know what trail conditions lie ahead and their 12 stainless steel spikes provide secure footing on glassy slopes. They’re easy to slide on mid-trail, will actually stay on your boots and won’t dull or break after just one season like cheaper brands.

Gaiters

Best For: Above-ankle snow, off-trail pursuits, downpours, hiking and trail running

Entry Level: Outdoor Research Flex-Tex II Gaiters

Made from a tough nylon-spandex blend, these calf gaiters are breathable, stretchy, durable and water-resistant enough to keep your lower leg toasty and shoes snow-free — all without too much bulk or constriction. OR’s unique wrap-around velcro design is low effort and simple to throw on. Once on, pull the drawstring at the top of the gaiter to tighten. Thanks to an ‘X’ design inside the gaiter, it will form to your calf so no snow, rocks, or mud can sneak in at the top or bottom openings. Because they’re adjustable in width, the gaiters work over a trail runner or bulky hiking boot as well as a thin pair of running tights or layered rain pants. Whether in snow or rain, these calf gaiters are a gift from the precipitation-loving Pacific Northwest gods.

The Upgrade: Outdoor Research Expedition Crocodile Gaiters

For super snowy hikes, you’ll want warm, knee-high coverage. Outdoor Research’s Crocodile gaiters have been best sellers for over a decade—and for a reason. Waterproof nylon and a triple layer of Gore-Tex line the gaiters so they’ll keep your pants dry during the most unfortunate of post-holing or sudden downpours. They’re durable enough to make it through thorns and around sharp edges. The biggest bump up though: They’re front entry — eons easier than step-in gaiters when the weather turns on you — and the locked-in velcro and top hook closure keep them water-tight.

Snowshoes

Best For: Groomed and off-trail snowy walks, full day hikes

Entry Level: Crescent Moon Eva V2

If you’re tired of post-holing on Sunday strolls but don’t want to have to deal with bulky snowshoes, Crescent Moon’s fuss-free design will win you over when you need more surface area underfoot to stay afloat. Made from foam instead of metal or plastic, the Eva V2 are incredibly light, which helps with leg fatigue and allows you to strap them to your pack without added weight. The Velcro straps are easy to use and they hold your boots in securely. While the Eva V2s won’t keep up on mountain climbs or deep, unbroken trail, Eva V2’s foam deck is quite durable on moderate inclines and flat terrain, and the rocker design has a springy feel, like a giant sneaker, so it’s easier to walk (or run) in than most snowshoes.

The Upgrade: MSR Lightning Ascent

If you want to be able to hike any mountain — no matter its steepness — in wintry conditions with just one set of snowshoes, it’s worth dropping the money for the MSR Lightning Ascents. The aluminum frame weighs a feathery four pounds, so you can move fast and conserve energy, while the wide frame and comfortable (albeit copious) straps will keep your feet happy and secure into double-digit mileage. The aggressive teeth underneath will lock you onto icy trails or steep inclines and an optional 5-inch modular tail add-on can deliver even more floatation in powdery, backcountry conditions.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

A Preview of the Best Ski and Snowboard Gear of 2020

We’ve overcomplicated the mountains. We’ve walled them off with luxury condos and expensive (yet often mediocre) restaurants. We’ve covered them in webcams and lodges that call to mind the lairs of James Bond supervillains. We’ve installed speed traps on trails, complete with radar gun-wielding would-be ski cops. Worst of all, we’ve allowed lift tickets to ascend near the upper reaches of $200 per day.

But then there’s the chilled wind in the face, the gliding over a smooth crystalline surface, the plunge into deep fresh fluff, (the baptism-by-snow that follows), the momentary lapses of gravity, the conversations that can happen nowhere else but on a seat suspended precariously over frozen trees and crags. It makes the planning, the flights and the crowds all worth it.

Remove the logistics from skiing and snowboarding and what’s left isn’t dissimilar to taking off on a jog or going on a bike ride. As with those activities, the act requires a specific set of items. Three-layer jackets, insulated mittens or gloves, a warm and protective helmet, goggles and everything that’s underneath it all: baselayers, mid-layers, a balaclava, not to mention a snowboard or a pair of skis.

It’s all highly specialized to immersion and movement in the cold. Downhill skiing and, while younger, snowboarding too, are sports with decades-long histories that collectively have pushed equipment past imaginable zeniths over and again. This year’s gear is the best, until next winter rolls around. It might seem stress-inducing, but it shouldn’t be — take comfort knowing that whenever something new is needed, the best is available now and a better rendition is a season away.

In the end, the crowds might thicken to a density that makes getting uphill a much longer process than descending, the clouds might roll in and block the sun while refusing to dispense a single snowflake, the wind might howl and grind to a halt the chairlifts that reach upper elevations. None of this matters. Not as long as you’re comfortable, and in good company.

Editor’s Note: Many of the items featured in this story won’t be available until Fall 2019. We’re already at work testing it so that, come that time, we can let you know what’s worth it and what doesn’t work. All photos were shot on location in Breckenridge, Colorado.




TDS Infrared Gore-Tex Jacket by Volcom Coming Fall 2019
Stretch Gore-Tex Pant by Volcom Coming Fall 2019
Mine Over Helmet by Mine77 $140
M3 Snapback Goggle by Mine77 $300
Freeride CZone Mitten by Hestra Coming Fall 2019
Snowdrifter Backpack by Patagonia $169
Malavita EST Binding by Burton $320
B.O.D. Snowboard by Endeavor $450






DRT Jacket by The North Face Coming Fall 2019
DRT Pant by The North Face Coming Fall 2019
Level Helmet by Smith Coming Fall 2019
4D Mag Goggle by Smith Coming Fall 2019
The Pep Trigger Mitt by Oyuki ~$160
Signature Poacher 32L Pack by Dakine Coming Fall 2019
Sonic R1 Ski Pole by Swix Coming Fall 2019
Sakana Ski by Line $750






Ninjasuit Pro by Airblaster Coming Fall 2019
Jussi Oksannan Pro by Stance Coming Fall 2019
Capilene Air Hoodie by Patagonia $149
Capilene Air Bottoms by Patagonia $129
Le Send by Le Bent Coming Fall 2019
Stryka Hoody by Arc’teryx Coming Fall 2019


Better Sweater Henley by Patagonia Coming Fall 2019
Telluride Sherpa Shirtjac by Toad & Co. Coming Fall 2019
Leather Deck boots by Xtratuf Coming Fall 2019
Standard Snow Boot by Vans $160
The Bridger Cap by Coal Coming Fall 2019
Beanie by Mine77 (Available with helmet)