The best new food and drink drops of the year stand out because they take what you thought you knew about eating and drinking and stand it on its head.

Can mashed potatoes be a THC edible? Sure. Can ready-to-drink cocktails actually be good? Why not! Can a barn-burner of a 21-year-old single malt whiskey be from Vermont? It sure can.

Some things about eating and drinking will never change, but all the things that can? This year was about shaking them up.

Glenlivet Twist and Mix Cocktails

Glenlivet

Why It Matters: Ready-to-drink cocktails are nothing new, but The Glenlivet is taking the idea in a fascinating new direction: why make your cocktail before you’re ready to drink it?

The Big Picture: You’ve probably tried ready-to-drink cocktails before — and if you’re actually someone who likes their booze, you’ve probably been disappointed by them, too. But The Glenlivet’s reimagined version aims to elevate the concept to new heights by simplifying it into its constituent parts. The idea is simple: the Scotch is in the bottle, the ingredients for the cocktail are in the cap; when you’re ready to drink, just twist the cap, and it launches the ingredients into the whisky, at which point all you have to do is pour. The collection launched with Manhattan and Old Fashioned variants; granted, neither is usually made with Scotch whisky … but considering you get eight servings per bottle, it may be untraditional, but it’s also a killer deal.

Reserve Bar

The Glenlivet Twist and Mix Old Fashioned

• $21.00 at Reserve Bar

Appleton Estate 17 Year Old Legend Rum

Appleton Estate

Why It Matters: The secret ingredient behind the one, true mai tai returns (in a way) in the form of this 17-year-old limited-run rum.

The Big Picture: If you’ve ever had a mai tai, odds are good you haven’t had a real one. The cocktail was invented by Victor Bergeron, a.k.a. Trader Vic — yes, from the Warren Zevon song — as a way to showcase J. Wray and Nephew 17 Year rum, but that particular expression vanished from the market a few years later. Now, however, Appleton Estate has recreated it, calling it their 17 Year Old Legend rum. Consumed neat, it serves up delightful flavors of caramelized and burnt tropical fruits with a distinctive, pleasant Jamaican rum funk. In a proper mai tai, however, it’s an experience for the ages — one that makes you understand why ol’ Vic was so excited to create it back in 1944.

Reserve Bar

Appleton Estate 17 Year Old Legend

• $500.00 at Reserve Bar

Dogfish Head Citrus Squall

Dogfish Head

Why It Matters: Made with grapefruit juice and blue agave nectar, this new brew is, effectively, a blend of a golden ale and a paloma — an innovative intermingling of beer and cocktail.

The Big Picture: The craft beer world is always innovating, but odds are good you’ve never tried anything quite like this double golden ale. (Or perhaps any double golden, considering it’s hardly a popular style in 2023.) Delaware-based Dogfish Head’s Citrus Squall is brewed with agave nectar and grapefruit juice, making it almost like a beer-paloma hybrid. Yet take a sip, and you’ll discover a unique flavor that is reminiscent of a hazy IPA. It’s fun, unorthodox and truly innovative — characteristics we love to see any brewery impart into its beers.

Drizly

Dogfish Head Beer Citrus Squall Double Golden Ale

• $12.99 at Drizly

WhistlePig Béhôlden

WhistlePig

Why It Matters: The Vermont distillery’s first entry into the single malt whiskey world proves every bit a revelation.

The Big Picture: If someone told you that you were about to sample a 21-year-old single malt whiskey, you’d probably assume it hailed from Scotland, maybe Japan — but not the Green Mountain State. WhistlePig’s The Béhôlden actually traces its lineage across the continent — the original liquid is believed to hail from Canada — but it finishes its journey at the distillery in Vermont, where it enters its bottles at 92 proof. However you describe its roots, though, there’s no arguing about the quality of the finished product: packing flavors that dance from honey to baking spice to oatmeal cookie and (of course) maple, this single malt is one of the best whiskeys we’ve ever tasted. Too bad only 18 barrels worth of it will ever exist.

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WhistlePig Beholden 21 Year Old Single Malt Whiskey

• $1,300.00 at frootbat.com

MIIR New Standard French Press

MiiR

Why It Matters: A forward-thinking brand improves on a century-old process with premium materials and a unique, coffee grounds-isolating approach.

The Big Picture: While the French press was patented in 1924, the design hasn’t evolved much since Michael Caine raised its profile in the 1965 spy flick The Ipcress File — until now. The New Standard’s big differentiator is a quick-release grounds basket you can surgically extract from the carafe after brewing. We’ve found that not only does it strain like a champ, but because you must add just the right amount of grounds and water for the whole thing to function properly, it actually trains you to brew the perfect cup. MIIR’s sturdy stainless steel vacuum-insulated carafe keeps that java toasty too.

Courtesy

MIIR New Standard French Press

• $99.95 at miir.com

Daniel Weller Bourbon

Daniel Weller

Why It Matters: The Weller name is well-known in the whiskey world. But with the new Daniel Weller line, Buffalo Trace Distillery is going experimental with its beloved brand.

The Big Picture: If you know bourbon, you probably know the name Weller; its 12-year expression has grown from a mighty bargain to practical unobtanium in recent years. But Buffalo Trace Distillery, which puts out the fabled liquid, sees room for the brand to grow — in the form of an experimental new line called the Daniel Weller Bourbon series. The first installment from the collection, Daniel Weller Emmer Wheat, dropped this year with a $499 MSRP and a fascinating taste courtesy of the aforementioned wheat, distilled to perfection in a E.H. Taylor microstill then aged for just under 12 years. Expect a fresh Daniel Weller expression to arrive every two years … and believe us, we’ll be in line to try them every time they do.

Daniel Weller

Daniel Weller Bourbon

• $2,023.00 at buffalotracedistillery.com

Choices Premium Edibles

Choices

Why It Matters: Revolutionizing the THC edibles category, Choices offers a whopping 100+ different cannabis-infused products, ranging from traditional varieties — like chocolates and cookies — to the more unique. Mashed potatoes, anyone?

The Big Picture: Most of us associate weed edibles with classic interpretations: brownies, gummies, butter, etc. However, THC as a food additive is essentially limitless. Sadly, this has not been reflected by the cannabis industry at large. The majority of edible manufacturers still make a select few categories. Choices, a recreational THC brand out of Los Angeles (created by Milk Bar Pastry Chef Casey Shea), seeks to change that and turn the industry on its head. Having launched just last year, Choices already offers over 100 different SKUs covering a range of doses as low as 2.5mg per serving up to 10mg. And they run the gamut of foods, too, including (but not limited to) condiments, confections, drink mixes, popsicles — the list goes on and on. The brand even offers a range of dairy-free, gluten-free, sugar-free and vegan options. Weed edibles have never been so versatile.

Courtesy

Choices Premium Edibles

• $5.00 at itsallaboutchoices.us

Vibes Release Papers

Vibes

Why It Matters: Using its sizable platform for good, fan-favorite joint rolling papers brand Vibes’ latest release maintains the high-quality materials and performance we love while redistributing a portion of the profits to benefit the Last Prisoner Project, a cannabis reform non-profit.

The Big Picture: Vibes is one of the biggest names in rolling papers — and there’s good reason for that. Along with being well-made — largely courtesy of their slow-burning yet still easy to roll rice paper makeup — the brand’s products are the brainchild of Berner, a Bay Area rapper and the CEO of Cookies (another cannabis-related company). That means these must-haves are created by and for stoners. But the well-known brand took a step into the social justice space with this release. Yes, the papers are as well-crafted as awalys. But the fact that the profits benefit a charity concerned with freeing incarcerated peoples still serving time for crimes that are no longer crimes (like possession of marijuana) means Vibes is putting its money where its mouth is, so to speak. And that is a very good thing for everyone, incarcerated or not.

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Vibes Release Papers

• $150.00 at vibespapers.com

Storz & Bickel Venty

Storz & Bickel

Why It Matters: This heavy-hitting vape brand’s first completely new release in about a decade is a new vaporizer that’s also its fastest — and the first with its own adjustable airflow.

The Big Picture: Storz & Bickel is no stranger to innovation, having helped to essentially kickstart the weed vaporizer industry as we know it. But the Venty marks the brand’s first major step forward in a long time — one that will likely send ripples through the rest of the industry. This is because the vape in question has a lightning-quick heat-up time of just 20 seconds (nearly half the time of the next-fastest dry herb vape). As if that incredible speed is not enough, the Venty is also the first of the brand’s offerings to have an adjustable airflow — meaning you can change how much (or how little) vapor it emits per hit. Package that all in an incredibly precise, portable package and it’s easy to see what makes this cannabis device a technological marvel.

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Storz & Bickel Venty Vaporizer

• $450.00 at storz-bickel.com

Airhood Wireless Portable Range Hood

Airhood

Why It Matters: Your range hood is the unsung hero of your kitchen. Or, it would be if it sucked more. The AirHood fixes that problem.

The Big Picture: If you live in an apartment, you may never know the merits of a good range hood designed to temper smoke, odor and that thin layer of oily residue that coats half your kitchen every time you cook. The AirHood aims to change that. Debuting on Kickstarter last year, the countertop range hood (available in both a wired and wireless version) sits on the counter next to your stove, while a fan spinning at up to 5,000 rpm sucks in smoke and grease. Its stainless steel mesh oil filter is removable and its space-age-inspired design fits right into a modern kitchen’s aesthetics.

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Airhood Wireless Portable Range Hood

• $199.99 at theairhood.com

Our Place Wonder Oven

Our Place

Why It Matters: Our Place’s first foray into countertop appliances cooks sides and small bites faster than your normal oven — and more stylishly, too.

The Big Picture: Our Place took the internet by storm when it released its viral Always Pan in 2019, following up with a bevy of pots, pans and accessories. This year, they finally ventured into countertop appliances with the Wonder Oven — a 6-in-1 cooker that toasts, roasts, bakes, broils, air fries and reheats. Two things set it apart from the myriad alternatives on the market: First, it boasts a steam infusion feature a la the much more expensive Balmuda Toaster, which keeps food like toast from drying out. Secondly, the Wonder Oven looks better than anything else you could put on your countertop. We’re sold.

Our Place

Our Place Wonder Oven

• $175.00 at Our Place

Ember Baby Bottle System Plus

Ember

Why It Matters: A brand known for its divisive coffee mugs may have finally found its ultimate niche in baby bottles that heat milk or formula to the perfect temperature exactly when you need it.

The Big Picture: Ember was founded on the premise that people need a coffee mug that keeps coffee or tea at the perfect temperature. We’re not here to debate the merits of such devices, only to praise the brand for carrying it technology into the absolute perfect category: baby bottles. The System includes two 6-ounce bottles, a warming puck that you can charge for two feedings, an insulating “Thermal Dome” that keeps milk cold for up to four hours before you warm it up for drinking and various adapters for compatibility with Dr. Brown’s Wide-Neck and Philips Avent Natural nipples. Say goodbye to guesswork and fussy water baths.

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Ember Baby Bottle System Plus

• $399.95 at ember.com

Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Grill

Kamado Joe

Why It Matters: The Konnected Joe isn’t just the most technologically advanced kamado you can buy. It might be the most convenient charcoal grill ever made.

The Big Picture: Grilling with charcoal is great. It’s also fussy as hell, requiring steps to light the bed, maintain the heat and, ultimately, clean all that dusty ash out. Enter the Konnected Joe, which offers the flavor and heat of your decades-old kettle grill with the convenience and precision of an indoor oven. Like with all grills, assembly and setup here are admittedly arduous. But once you’re going, the Konnected Joe requires little more of you than to load up the charcoal and push a button. The main selling point is the grill’s ability to autoregulate its temperature like an oven, however, plenty of other features add to the overall convenience like a slide-out ash drawer for easy cleanup and heat deflector that can create direct and indirect heating zones.

Kamado Joe

Kamado Joe Konnected Joe

• $1,699.00 at bbqguys.com

Ooni Volt Electric Pizza Oven

Ooni

Why It Matters: An oven steel will only get you so far. Ooni’s first indoor pizza oven soars up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit (in less than 20 minutes) to deliver restaurant-quality pies — without the delivery fee.

The Big Picture: Ooni isn’t the first brand to release an indoor pizza oven but it might be the one most poised to popularize the novelty appliance. The Volt is the company’s first take on an indoor pizza oven, and it’s angled towards apartment dwellers with limited outdoor space — or any cooks who would prefer a seamless pizza experience powered by electricity instead of gas or fire. The Volt gets hotter than its next closest competitor, Breville’s Smart Oven Pizzaiolo, and two independently adjustable heating elements allow for maximum control. More often than not, the result is an evenly cooked pizza on the top, bottom and sides, whether you’re cooking Neapolitan or New York-style pie.

Huckberry

Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven

• $899.00 at Huckberry

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There are far more products for your home than could possibly fit inside it. Even if you limit yourself to just the good ones, there are more than you can store or afford. When kitting out your ever-less humble abode, the trick is finding the products that put a new twist on existing styles or add a hidden functionality to an everyday necessity.

Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one robot vacuum or an inflatable dog kennel, these innovative, interesting, inimitable products will make your home an even better place.

Diggs Enventur Travel Kennel

Diggs

Why It Matters: This clever inflatable dog kennel makes a typically bulky necessity sleek and easy to store for that large amount of time that you aren’t actually using it.

The Big Picture: Of all your pup’s belongings, a kennel probably manages to take up the most space while providing the least frequent use. The Eventur Travel Kennel by Diggs skips the usually hefty and — let’s be honest — ugly plastic frame for an inflatable design made with waterproof, puncture-resistant materials. Not only is the kennel easier to store once deflated and folded down for your convenience, but it’s also designed with your pet‘s comfort in mind, featuring ventilation as well as cushioned, angled walls that make it compatible with most cars. And yes, the pump is included.

95 Reviews

Diggs Enventur Travel Kennel

• $500.00 at diggs.pet

Curio Ionic Brush Set

Curio | Matthew Barnes

Why It Matters: Curio’s beautiful home goods, like its elegant, magnetic brush set, have us wondering why we ever had to choose between function and style.

The Big Picture: If you’re obsessed with beautifying the little details of your home, then Curio is the new home goods brand to keep your eye on, turning eyesores like kitchen sponges and brushes into functional and visually appealing accessories. The brand’s Iconic Brush Set comes with three brushes — a bottle brush, palm brush and dish brush — featuring stainless steel handles available in four metallic finishes and a magnetic pedestal that allows the brushes to stand upright on display.

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Curio Ionic Brush Set

• $100.00 at curiohomegoods.com

Knoll Florence Knoll Model 33 Sofa

Knoll

Why It Matters: A classic piece of mid-century modern design is back on the market — at a price that isn’t totally absurd.

The Big Picture: Despite its name, mid-century modern furniture is virtually timeless, and few do the style better than Knoll. The furniture brand has revived the Florence Knoll Model 33, a classic 1950s sofa design, though perhaps not the classic sofa design, a title that belongs to the pre-eminently iconic and chunkier Florance Knoll Sofa. The Model 33’s more spartan design boasts a steel frame and two long, rectangular cushions and is available in a variety of upholstery and colors to match your space. But crucially, it’s also about a third of the price of the Florence Knoll Sofa.

Design Within Reach

Knoll Florence Knoll Model 33

• $3,318.40 at Design Within Reach
  $4,148.00 (20% off)

Backdrop x Porsche

Backdrop

Why It Matters: Breaking the staid conventions of interior design, this collaboration between Porsche and Backdrop brings iconic colors from the driveway into your living room.

The Big Picture: For the Porsche owner who has everything — or for the Porsche fan who can’t afford an entire car—comes this collab with paint brand Backdrop featuring paints in four vibrant colors. “Speed Yellow” or “Ruby Star” may not be particularly conservative choices for your bedroom or foyer, but if you’re feeling bold, you can grab any one of the four available colors in interior, exterior, and semi-gloss formulations. And it comes with a Porsche (keychain) to match!

paint

Backdrop x Porsche

• $1,967.00 at backdrophome.com

Vipp15 Rubbish

Vipp

Why It Matters: A trashcan made of trash that doesn’t look like trash is the pinnacle of trashcan technology.

The Big Picture: The fact that this trash can is made with, well, trash is only upstaged by the fact that it’s incredibly handsome. Who knew garbage could be so beautiful? Vipp created a material composed of plastic waste and sawdust for this rubbish bin that gives it an almost natural-looking hue and texture that’s neither hideous nor ostentatious. So why pick up a trash can from a big box store when you could have this interior design masterpiece? Well, you will have to pay a premium to enjoy the surprisingly charming gag.

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Vipp15 Rubbish

• $500.00 at vipp.com

iRobot Roomba Combo j9+

iRobot

Why It Matters: iRobot’s latest Roomba model takes its form-factor to the logical conclusion by doing (almost) everything for you, from its self-emptying docking station to a new scrubbing mop feature.

The Big Picture: While the robot vacuums of the past have been easy targets for criticism, thanks to high prices and disappointing performance, the Roomba Combo j9+ has caught our attention for all the right reasons. The device’s mop improves upon the j7+ with a new back-and-forth scrubbing motion that should be more effective and reduce streaks. Plus, the robot vacuum’s docking station will not only quietly auto-empty but also fill the vacuum’s mop tank for 30 days, profoundly changing how useful the mopping feature is. And thanks to a new “Dirt Detective” feature, the vacuum will work smarter by prioritizing the dirtiest areas of your space.

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iRobot Roomba Combo j9+

• $999.99 at irobot.com
  $1,399.99 (29% off)

Gantri x Craighill Flux Table Light

Gantri

Why It Matters:Playful design and high-quality light makes this Gantri and Craighill collaboration whimsical and exemplary.

The Big Picture: A room’s lighting is everything, especially during the darker winter months. And Craighill’s first light in collaboration with Gantri, the Flux Table Light, features a calming, modern design inspired by a melting candle. The light has dimmable, museum-grade LEDs, is made with plant-based materials and comes in three colors (Forest, Stone and Persimmon).

Craighill

Gantri x Craighill Flux Table Light

• $298.00 at gantri.com

Herman Miller Passport Work Table

Herman Miller

Why It Matters:Characteristically practical and sleek, the Herman Miller Passport Work Table is also uniquely suited for modern-day work.

The Big Picture: If you’re working from home, you aren’t sitting at a desk eight hours a day. Fortunately, that’s the actual reality Herman Miller’s Passport Work Table is designed for. With optional wheels and adjustable height, it allows you to change positions and even locations without sacrificing floor space on single-purpose furniture or moving your equipment from surface to surface. The table comes in small and large sizes, boasting a maximum height of 31 to 45 inches respectively. While it won’t offer you the same surface area or storage as a traditional desk, it can make your day more mobile and save space.

Design Within Reach

Herman Miller Passport Work Table

• $816.00 at Design Within Reach
  $1,020.00 (20% off)

Article Kera Coffee Table

Article

Why It Matters: Article is making outdoor furniture cool with its retro-inspired designs, like this coffee table that’s at home in the living room or on the patio.

The Big Picture: The DTC furniture brand Article is known for modern, high-quality designs at relatively reasonable prices. And its spring release “The 70s Edit” offers a chic retro throwback makeover for your outdoor space. The funky, ceramic tiled table shown above is simple yet unique and — just as importantly — absurdly resistant to hurricanes and coffee stains. And don’t worry, while it may look like it weighs about two tons, it actually comes in at a manageable 141 pounds.

Article

Article Kera Beige Coffee Table

• $18,951.00 at Article

Related Topics

Congratulations are in order for the team behind the first ever pole-to-pole expedition powered by an eclectic vehicle. On December 15th, Chris and Julie Ramsey completed the 17,000-mile journey in a Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE which was modified slightly to ensure the mission was a success. Still, the couple had to make the journey in 150-200 mile segments to allow the car to recharge frequently. This charging necessity actually resulted in new EV charging stations being installed throughout Central and South America, which will power locals for years to come.

Today we’re taking a look at a pocket watch for the modern times, a non-alcoholic brew for craft beer fans and a hand-knit sportswear release. This is Today in Gear.

Today in Gear is our daily roundup of all the latest product announcements, drops and news from Gear Patrol Studios. Send your most pressing product questions to [email protected].

Bring the Pocket Watch Back

Bulova

Bulova has recently refreshed their Sutton line, including a pair of high-quality pocket watches that may give your wristwatch a run for its money. These surprisingly modern timepieces feature a 50mm steel case with a snap case back (in either gold or silver colorways), 30m water residences and a 42-hour power reserve. Each watch comes to life with meticulous detailing that elevates the pocket watch to a statement piece. The Sutton Pocket Watches are available now starting at $595.

Hit the Trail with this New NA Beer

Sierra Nevada Brewing

Just in time for dry January, Sierra Nevada has released their first non-alcoholic beers. The Trail Pass IPA and Trail Pass Golden are the result of five years of research, experimentation and testing to ensure that they stand up to the quality Sierra Nevada prides themselves on. The IPA features notes of citrus and pine alongside the hoppy bitterness you’d expect from a full-fledged IPA. The Golden has a smooth malt that is complemented by floral and citrus notes to ensure an easy drinking experience. Whichever new Trail Pass brew you choose, you know you’ll still be having a craft beer experience. Available in California, Colorado and Washington now.

Relive the Glory Days with this Collegiate Collection

Reigning Champ

Boutique brand Reigning Champ has a legacy of creating designs inspired by the culture of sport. Their newest knitwear release showcases impeccable craftsmanship and classic details to inspire you to go the extra mile. The Handknit Varsity Sweater ($650) is the clear stand-out of the collection. With vintage-inspired stripes and chunky knit, this is more than your go-to sweater this season: It’s a heritage piece that will serve you for years to come.

Slow Down and Enjoy the Moment with Yeti

Yeti

Yeti’s newest short film brings together a professional snowboarder with a professional chef. These two individuals, both experts in their own rights, connect through premium products and an appreciation for the culture of Japan. Throughlines takes place in the Hakuba Valley and dives into Japanese ceramics, snowboarding the local way and the pieces that make a good meal, all amongst awe-inspiring scenery. The resulting film is a can’t-miss and is available now.

Go the Distance with this Waistpack

Huckberry

If you’re searching for a last-minute holiday present for the athlete in your life, look no further than the Distance Pro Run Waistpack ($49) from SPI Belts. Any runner will tell you that what you carry on the go can be make or break for your experience. This belt has one large zippered pocket perfect for a phone, external loops for storing gels and snacks and comes with two water bottles that slide onto the belt for easy access. There is no better tool for avid runners this season; grab it now at Huckberry.

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I’ve owned Volkswagens for more than 10 years. The first car I bought as an adult was a used 2008 two-door VW Rabbit (a.k.a. Golf) hatchback. I upgraded to a used 2016 Golf Sportswagen when my family began to expand. But in the intervening years, I’ve gone from a VW proponent to a bit of a skeptic. When looking for a new car now, it’s tough to say there’s a VW that’s even on my radar.

See, here’s the thing: Volkswagen has dramatically shifted its priorities and choices since I was last in the market. The brand has deemphasized building driver’s cars on a budget and now builds predominately spacious and soft SUVs for American tastes — cars it’s hard to be an enthusiast about. But even the cars I still like have a glaring weakness: the interior.

VW

VW’s current “digital cockpit” is a nightmare

Whether it’s the ID.4, the Golf GTI or the upcoming ID. Buzz, VW has shifted to a new digital cockpit concept. The interiors don’t go full Tesla, thankfully, but they lean heavily on the touchscreen and swap out physical buttons and dials for haptic ones. Most importantly — and most annoyingly — the effort has been poorly executed.

The remnant haptic controls and sliders are far from ergonomically wise. They make vital functions challenging to use while operating the vehicle, And that’s if you can see the controls with the non-existing backlighting. And that’s before we get to more specific quibbles, like putting a touch-sensitive heated steering wheel button right next to where your palm rests on the GTI.

Compounding that issue is the touchscreen itself. Iterations of the software I’ve tested have been laggy, hard to see without taking your eyes completely off the road (all the buttons are in one color, with thin line graphics delineating them), and just downright unintuitive. My drive partner and I had to ask for help to adjust the fan in the 2024 Atlas — a process that required diving into multiple sub-menus.

The interior VW sells as tech-forward feels both annoying and — unlike VWs of years past — cheap.

But it looks like VW is about to fix its interiors

Volkswagen has offered a peek at the ID.2all concept’s interior. The ID2.all is VW’s new affordable EV, which is probably not coming to America. But VW told Autocar it shows off a “new approach for all models.” The concept mercifully displays a row of physical toggle switches below the screen for controlling vital functions like temperature regulation. And, importantly, those switches are backlit.

It’s unclear when Volkswagen will begin rolling this out to the rest of the lineup; it has been shown in concept form in one interior, and a new interior would likely have to come with a new model or a mid-cycle refresh. But we can be hopeful it will end up in the new electric GTI, if not several models before that.

Related Topics

What’s ahead for Apple? Look to Android, says Ian Carlos Campbell over at Inverse. In an intriguing article, Campbell lays out how Apple dovetails its advances with Android — and why that’s been a good thing for users.

“It’s been commonly accepted that Apple arrives late to ideas popularized by other platforms like Android so it can apply its signature level of polish and deep integration to its hardware and software,” Campbell writes. “In this way, Apple stays current (relatively) while keeping the implementation and look of new features distinctly Apple.” This is of course describing a normal, healthy relationship between competitors in our modern tech world. And, as Campbell notes, that dynamic looks to continue into the near future.

Today we’re taking a look at ostrich-and-goat cowboy boots, an après-ski ball cap, candles from Kyoto and more. This is Today in Gear.

Today in Gear is our daily roundup of all the latest product announcements, drops and news from Gear Patrol Studios. Send your most pressing product questions to [email protected].

A Snappy Car Charger

ESR

The ESR 15W Car Charger with MagSafe + CryoBoost ($100) securely and easily attaches to almost any car’s vents with a three-point support clip, and connects to the latest iPhone 15 with an Apple-certified MagSafe charging mount. Both the mount and magnet will hold your phone rock-steady over even the bumpiest roads, and the fast charger with CryoBoost tech provides a cooling fan to keep your device from overheating while charging, protecting your battery life over the long term. Now through January 31, save ten percent with code GearPatrol10 to keep yourself and your device safe while driving.

Boots for the Modern Cowboy

Tecovas

Tecovas stores have been popping up across the country since 2014. The young brand is thriving, thanks to their great designs, build qualities and prices. Their latest boot, The Garret ($495), ups the ante with a classic snip-toe design and a blend of goat and ostrich leathers.

Weed Vape, Cali Surf Style

Bloom

The “passionate stoners and borderline weed snobs” at Bloom have been perfecting quality Cali marijuana vaping tools since 2014 and won the Cannabis Cup in 2018. Their latest One Gram Surf ($34) is an all-in-one disposable vape with ceramic heating elements and triple-airflow for smooth, consistent vapor and flavor.

A Crushable Après Ballcap

RELYK

Sleek and low-key, Relyk’s five-panel unstructured Lodge Hat ($65) was inspired by skate caps. Its shell is water resistant, its interior is lined with comfy mesh and its crushable crown means you can shove it in your parka pocket when the beanie needs to go back on for one last run.

Teacup Candles from Kyoto

NOSTALGIANA

Whether you’re looking for tasteful gifts for friends or just need a good bath candle, Kyoto- and LA-based brand Nostalgiana’s Signature Yunomi Candle ($55) is a good bet. Select from four different teacup designs (fish, dog, samurai and sumo) and expect lovely scents from this 100 percent soy candle that’s hand-poured in Japan. Along with a hand-made kimono coaster, it’s a deal that will make you say “arigatou gozaimasu!”

Related Topics

Two hours, 11 minutes and 53 seconds. That’s all it took for Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa to finish September’s Berlin Marathon, crushing the previous world record by more than two minutes. On her feet? A pair of Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1s, some of the most advanced running shoes to date.

While fancy footwear is only one factor in Assefa’s dominance, it is yet another example of how cutting-edge gear enables the human race to go ever faster, higher, stronger. This year, as the GP100 celebrates innovation, fitness breakthroughs contribute to all kinds of spectacular feats, helping a vast array of people work out harder, recover quicker, track their progress better and so much more. Like Assefa herself, the 10 products here have broken away from the pack.

Nike Aerogami Storm-FIT ADV Jacket

Nike

Why It Matters: The Nike Aerogami Jacket defies convention, showcasing an ever-changing venting system that detects the accumulation of sweat on the skin and automatically opens to allow for cooling.

The Big Picture: Conventional wisdom says waterproof and breathability are on opposite sides of the spectrum. All other things being equal, the more waterproof a jacket is, the less breathable, and vice versa. Nike’s Aerogami Jacket begs to differ, armed with a groundbreaking dynamic venting system. Thanks to a moisture-reactive film, tiny winged vents, strategically located around high-heat areas like the chest and upper back, can sense sweat building up on the skin and automatically open to let your skin breathe. They can also close back up as you cool down, leaving conventional wisdom scratching its head.

Nike

Nike Aerogami Storm-FIT ADV Jacket

• $250.00 at Nike

Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

Reebok

Why It Matters: Reebok’s smartest Nano yet combines the optimal stability of a cross-training shoe with the plush cushioning of a running shoe, allowing wearers to lift and sprint with equal aplomb.

The Big Picture: Quality cross-training shoes offer a stable and firm platform to support the foot through varied exercises. Reliable running shoes provide a comfortable, cushioned underfoot experience. Athletes seeking to both things in the same workout typically have to sacrifice one or the other — until now. The Reebok Nano X3 splits the difference via a brand-new adaptive Lift and Run Chassis System. A dome-shaped piece of thermoplastic polyurethane embedded in the midsole compresses under pressure, enhancing stability during lifting, and subsequently softens during running or jumping to provide additional cushioning. Finally, the best of both worlds.

Reebok

Nano X3 Training Shoes

• $140.00 at Reebok

Maurten Bicarb System

Maurten

Why It Matters: Maurten’s exclusive formulation enables athletes to consume elevated levels of sodium bicarbonate, a legal endurance booster, without adverse GI effects.

The Big Picture: Since the dawn of sports, runners and cyclists have been looking for an edge. One of the more researched legal supplements is sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda), which neutralizes harmful acidity levels in the muscles to delay fatigue. Unfortunately, it also wreaks havoc on the gastrointestinal system. Maurten, a leader in high-end sports nutrition, developed a proprietary way to take sodium bicarbonate. In scientific terms, a biopolymer matrix holds carbohydrates to encapsulate the sodium bicarbonate without GI distress. In athletic terms, Maurten’s Hydrogel Technology lets you fuel up and kick ass in long-distance contests, without having to race to the port-a-potty.

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Maurten Bicarb System

• $65.00 at maurten.com

Keen WK400 Walking Shoe

Keen

Why It Matters: These pedestrian-specific kicks employ a rockered sole and full-length nylon plate to put a literal spring in your step.

The Big Picture: If you’re like most people, your walking shoes are just running sneakers. Keen wants to change that. Specifically designed for walking, the WK400 boasts a rockered sole that rolls your foot from heel to toe, reducing the energy needed to push off. Meanwhile, a full-length nylon plate embedded in a lively midsole adds stability without sacrificing a soft underfoot experience. (Similar elements are present in performance running shoes, but optimized for, you know, actually running.) If you experience foot pain while walking, or just want every step to be more pleasant, the WK400s are hands down the best and most comfortable shoes we’ve tried.

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Keen WK400 Walking Shoe

• $160.00 at keenfootwear.com

Therabody Theragun PRO Plus

Therabody

Why It Matters: The Theragun Pro Plus represents the next level of massage gun performance, combining powerful percussion with cutting-edge infrared light and heat therapy.

The Big Picture: These days, massage guns are a dime a dozen. But massage guns with this much power and technology come around once in a blue moon. With a best-in-class 16-millimeter amplitude and high 60-pound stall force, the Theragun Pro Plus is by far the best massage gun you can buy. Beyond its insane stats, a heated head attachment loosens up stiff muscles, while LED infrared light therapy stimulates circulation and boosts healing. You can also connect with an app via Bluetooth to access guided recovery routines and soothing breathing tours. Yes, it’s pricy, but you’d be hard-pressed to find an elite recovery tool with damn near as many modalities as the finest Leatherman.

Therabody

Therabody Theragun Pro Plus

• $599.00 at Therabody

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1

Adidas

Why It Matters: If the jaw-dropping price doesn’t get your attention, the speed-friendly blend of incredibly light weight and funky, forward-motion-boosting geometry surely will.

The Big Picture: These kicks made headlines for their $500 price tag. But once Tigst Assefa’s pair reached the Berlin Marathon finish line in less than 2 hours and 12 minutes, we knew Adidas had created something special. Ditching the sockliner and adding a grooveless-but-grippy outsole trims the weight to an insane 4.87 ounces (less than a D battery). Incorporating non-compression-molded Lightstrike Pro foam into a bonkers forefoot rocker that makes up 60 percent of the length encourages unprecedented forward motion. And selling them for a borderline obscene amount leaves us all wondering, how much is a PR really worth?

ADIDAS

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1

• $500.00 at ADIDAS

Coros Pace 3 GPS Sport Watch

Coros

Why It Matters: An already elite GPS watch adds more accurate GPS — and a battery delivering an eye-popping amount of continuous GPS use.

The Big Picture: With loads of improvements over its predecessor, the Coros 3 stakes its claim to the title of best everyday GPS watch. An updated satellite chipset featuring the choice of dual-frequency ensures precise GPS data reliability, even in densely populated urban areas such as New York and Chicago, where there were GPS issues previously. Perhaps even more impressive? Adding 8 hours more of continuous GPS usage, meaning a whopping 38 hours of continuous GPS use (in standard GPS mode). You also get 24 days of continuous regular usage to play around with a top-notch touchscreen, wifi, music and a pulse ox meter.

Amazon

Coros Pace 3 GPS Sport Watch

• $229.00 at Amazon

Cionic Neural Sleeve

Cionic

Why It Matters: This high-tech wrap transmits electrical impulses to leg muscles, fostering contractions that enable folks with conditions like multiple sclerosis to walk with greater ease, fluidity and endurance.

The Big Picture: Developed by a former Apple employee seeking better walking assistance options for a daughter with cerebral palsy, the Cionic Neural Sleeve is a one-of-a-kind wearable that uses technology to correct mobility issues. Advanced sensors in the fabric track muscle movement and limb positioning in real-time — and deliver precise electrical stimulation, triggering the necessary contractions in coordination with a person’s gait cycle. Studies have show that 94 percent of users experience increased ankle dorsiflexion at heel strike with nine degrees of improvement in range of motion. Available only with a prescription, the sleeve offers more than hope; it offers results.

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Cionic Neural Sleeve

• $2,600.00 at cionic.com

KingSmith WR1 Foldable Water Rowing Machine

KingSmith

Why It Matters: This full-size rowing machine folds down to a third of its length, delivering a great cardio and strength workout you can stash in the corner.

The Big Picture: Having a home cardio machine isn’t an option for many because of the space it takes up, and let’s face it, unless you have a dedicated gym room, these bulky units can be an eyesore. Now, from the people who brought you TikTok’s favorite folding WalkingPad, comes the good-looking, nicely priced KingSmith WR1 Foldable Water Rowing Machine, which folds down to the size of a 26-inch suitcase. It may not be the most high-tech unit out there, but the seat’s comfy, the resistance is adjustable and, most importantly, it doesn’t turn your living room into “the rowing room.”

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KingSmith WR1 Foldable Water Rowing Machine

• $549.00 at walkingpad.com
  $799.00 (31% off)

Oobli Sweet Iced Tea

Oobli Tea

Why It Matters: Oobli’s delicious iced teas harbor a healthy twist — the sweetness comes not from sugar but from “sweet proteins,” with none of the negative side effects of artificial alternatives.

The Big Picture: Found in oubli, a West African fruit, sweet proteins taste like sugar but don’t impact your body the same way. They work by activating the same taste receptors sugar does, but the digestion and metabolism in your body result in zero or neutral effects on your blood sugar, insulin levels and gut microbiome. Oobli puts that magic to work in 60-calorie iced teas with tasty flavors we have tried and adore, including mango, lemon, peach and a new “Arnie P.” half tea/half lemonade. Which means you can finally slake your thirst for sugar without jeopardizing your waistline.

Collection:

Oobli Sweet Iced Tea Variety Pack

• $7.50 at oobli.com
  $15.00 (50% off)

Related Topics

Yes, the motoring world is converting from internal combustion to battery-electric power. But 2023 highlighted how that transition is happening in fits and starts. It turns out, the interregnum between gas and electric in the present still offers plenty to get excited about.

The year didn’t just see an onslaught of cool new electric cars but innovation happening with icons like the Toyota Tacoma reinventing themselves as hybrids — and even a few intriguing last gasps of internal combustion for the road. For good measure, we also met burgeoning new segments like the midsize pickup and electric-powered camping vehicles.

Acura Integra Type S

Acura

Why It Matters: The Civic Type R is a purpose-built track monster. The Integra Type S refines it into a car an adult could actually own.

The Big Picture: The Honda Civic Type R is impressive. But owning one forces you to make some compromises, whether it’s the moderate discomfort, the quirkiness or having to drive around with a goofy wing in real life. The Integra Type S eliminates the compromises. It takes everything except the power down a notch — from 11 to 10. It offers normal seats and a shift lever you can easily grip without driving gloves. It looks surprisingly more like an aggressive sports car. And it’s a bonafide luxury sedan with a 6-speed manual, in a world where such a thing is approaching unicorn status.

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2024 Acura Integra Type S

• $50,800.00 at acura.com

Airstream Trade Wind

Airstream

Why It Matters: By packing extra battery and solar charging power into one of its most popular trailer sizes, Airstream has made a camper even better suited to off-grid adventures.

The Big Picture: For nearly a century, Airstream travel trailers have been helping Americans lead their best lives, but the new Trade Wind brings even more comfort to the party. The Trade Wind packs a lithium-ion battery potent enough to run the A/C and microwave simultaneously, while the 600-watt solar panels can sustain an ample charge as long as you can find a sunny place to camp, enabling owners to enjoy many of the luxuries of a campsite off the grid — and without a noisy generator running in the background. A 3-inch lift kit over other 25-foot Airstreams enables it to travel down the unbeaten path more easily, while inside, there’s generous sleeping space for up to four. It’s the perfect home away from home … or from anything else.

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Airstream Trade Wind

• $129,400.00 at airstream.com

BMW M2

BMW

Why It Matters: Combining a manual gearbox, a potent straight-six and lively handling in a tidy package, the M2 keeps the faith for the BMW.

The Big Picture: While BMW has long sold itself as the maker of The Ultimate Driving Machine, recent decisions — moving towards electrification; choosing luxury over sportiness for models like the XM — have made its commitment to that ideal seem questionable.

The M2, though, proves that philosophy is still alive at the Bavarian Motor Works. It’s basically all the best parts of the M3 and M4, repackaged in a tighter, (arguably) better-looking package and sold at a 20 percent discount. It’s an absolute blast to drive, boasting the tossable handling and exquisite power that have long defined the best BMWs.

Buy one now while they’re cheap; they’re only going to get more popular as the car world goes electric.

BMW

2024 BMW M2 Coupe

• $63,200.00 at bmwusa.com

Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon

GMC

Why It Matters: The midsize truck segment has grown far more mature than it was last decade, and GM delivered with its most premium, sophisticated and capable small truck offerings to date.

The Big Picture: Midsize trucks are a far bigger deal than they were in 2017, and GM’s all-new Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon reflect the shift. The trucks look different. All Canyons and non-base Colorados receive a wider track and a two-inch suspension lift. A new 2.7-liter four-cylinder can pump out up to 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. And GM is taking the fight — a fight GM has shied away from with the Wrangler/Bronco and Raptor/TRX — to its competitors with the premium, off-road accessories-laden GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition.

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2023 Chevrolet Colorado

• Shop Now

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Hyundai

Why It Matters: Hyundai followed up its World Car of the Year-winning Ioniq 5 with the Ioniq 6 … and won the award again, delivering Tesla and Lucid-like range at a seriously affordable price.

The Big Picture: When it comes to Hyundai Motoring Group’s 2023 updates, Kia took a more conventional route, following up its E-GMP standout EV6 with the EV9 three-row crossover. Hyundai took a different tack with the Ioniq 5 and the Ioniq 6. The latter is a weird, swoopy sedan with a super-sleek 0.219 drag coefficient. It delivers a top range of 361 miles, third-best behind the Lucid Air and Tesla Model S. It offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience while doing so. And in a world where EV tech remains super expensive, Hyundai starts the bidding at just $42,250.

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Hyundai IONIQ 6

• $42,450.00 at hyundaiusa.com

Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato

Lamborghini

Why It Matters: The Huracan will soon ride into the sunset. But before it does, Lamborghini is dropping one last crazy version in the form of an off-road rally car.

The Big Picture: The words “off-road” and “supercar” seem almost antonymic. But crazy ideas are always in vogue at Lamborghini.

Lambo teased the Huracan Sterrato in concept form back in 2019 and finally released a production model earlier this year to great success.

The Sterrato boasts a raised suspension that’s softer than a regular Huracan, custom all-terrain tires (including an optional spare that rides on a roof rack) and a roof-mounted snorkel air intake to feed the howling 5.2-liter V10. The result isn’t just an absolute blast to drive on dirt roads — it’s also better to drive in the city, on the open road, or pretty much anywhere else besides a race track, thanks to its more forgiving ride. Here’s hoping Lambo keeps this combination alive for the Huracan’s future replacement.

lamborghini

Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato

• $278,972.00 at lamborghini.com

Lexus TX

Lexus

Why It Matters: Lexus has been selling SUVs for a while. It finally built one that’s the right size and package for modern families.

The Big Picture: Lexus has sort of a crazy SUV lineup, with the RX covering the vast gulf between tiny UX and NX Crossovers and hulking body-on-frame Land Cruisers with the GX and LX. For 2024, the TX joins the mix. It’s a three-row, unibody crossover, with a package families want and need. The TX offers two hybrid options that balance performance and efficiency: a 404 horsepower PHEV with 33 miles of EV range and a 366 hp conventional hybrid earning an estimated 27 mpg. Either way, adults can use its third row in reasonable comfort. Lexus may have a vibrant electric future coming with solid-state batteries, but the TX is the car Lexus needed right now.

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2024 Lexus TX

• $56,650.00 at lexus.com

Read More

• 

  2024 Lexus TX Review: The Toyota Grand Highlander, But Fancy
• 

  The 2024 Lexus TX: Everything You Need to Know

Mazda CX-90 Turbo S

Mazda

Why It Matters: Mazda’s flashy new flagship SUV makes debuting a new gas engine in 2023 feel modern and paying $60,000 for a Mazda feel like a sensible move.

The Big Picture: Mazda replaced its flagship CX-9 crossover with the CX-90 for 2024, and it’s excellent. The CX-90 isn’t dramatically bigger and it looks sort of bulbous in the rear. But it packs a brand-new 3.3-liter inline-six motor that’s buttery smooth (or a not-quite-as-smooth plug-in hybrid option). And while not particularly sporty, it boasts a strong blend of Mazda’s patented Jinba Ittai driving dynamics and a luxurious interior that makes the car feel more expensive than it is. Some of our relatives did not know they were in the market for a Mazda before scoping out the new CX-90. We suspect a lot of three-row crossover buyers will end up in the same (metaphorical) boat.

mazda

2024 Mazda CX-90

• $39,595.00 at mazdausa.com

Toyota Tacoma

Toyota

Why It Matters: Toyota didn’t need to upgrade the Tacoma to sell oodles of them. It now sets the standard for midsize trucks.

The Big Picture: Toyota could have kept on selling Tacomas based on reputation with a slight refresh. Instead, the brand followed the lead of the Tundra and Sequoia with a comprehensive overhaul — and it’s now the most modern and capable all-around midsize truck you can get. The Tacoma’s on-road manners improve radically with a new platform, a coil-sprung rear suspension and the upgrade to a modern 8-speed transmission. It’s supremely off-road capable with a new Trailhunter overlanding trim joining the TRD Pro and a beefed-up TRD Off-Road model. Last but not least, a new four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque should set a new benchmark for performance and efficiency.

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Toyota Tacoma

• Shop Now

Toyota Prius Prime

Toyota

Why It Matters: The Toyota Prius was America’s OG eco car before it was cool. And with a new generation bringing some serious aesthetic, performance and (yes, of course) efficiency upgrades, it may actually be cool.

The Big Picture: Few cars have cultivated a more distinct vibe than the Toyota Prius. Inveterately dorky-looking and prioritizing hyper-miling over driving verve, it has been the car for people who don’t like cars but need one. Until now …

The Prius Prime plug-in hybrid looks like a spaceship and packs 220 horsepower. With 44 miles of EV range, it can function more or less as an electric car for most people doing local driving — while maintaining road trip flexibility. And starting at just $32,675, it’s cheaper than almost every electric car around.

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Toyota 2024 Prius Prime

• $32,975.00 at toyota.com

Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness

Subaru

Why It Matters: The Crosstrek was already the best small crossover on the road. With the Wilderness package providing more ground clearance than the Land Cruiser, it ascends into a serious off-roader for less than $35,000.

The Big Picture: Subaru’s Crosstrek has been a hit from its inception as a smaller, cheaper Outback. The new Wilderness treatment is the Crosstrek but enhanced. It sports a skid plate, all-terrain tires and an upgraded suspension. Its 9.3 inches of ground clearance are more than a Toyota Land Cruiser and just a hair shy of the Jeep Wrangler.

The Crosstrek Wilderness is more optimally proportioned for tackling trails than its larger Wilderness brethren. Even better, the features that make it off-road practical — easy-to-clean seats and wide-access openings — also make it a great buy for young, families and, yes, older empty nesters.

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Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness

• Shop Now

Honda Accord Hybrid

Honda

Why It Matters: Honda boldly ditched the driver-preferred V6 for a less powerful hybrid. But it’s still one of the best all-around cars (and driver’s cars) you can buy — if you’re willing to entertain a front-wheel-drive sedan.

The Big Picture: Honda has dropped both the V6 and the manual transmission from the Accord lineup. The driver’s car for the eleventh generation is now the Accord Hybrid, with 48 fewer horsepower. Though you wouldn’t expect it on paper, it’s still every bit as great. The Accord Hybrid is quick, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. It handles sublimely in normal and spirited driving. It’s practical and roomy with ample second-row space and a huge trunk. Even driving it not particularly efficiently, we achieved nearly 40 mpg. Bottom line: The Accord Hybrid is probably the car you should buy, even if you’re probably going to get a crossover.

2024

2024 Honda Accord Hybrid

• $32,545.00 at honda.com

Mercedes Benz E-Class

Mercedes

Why It Matters: Cars of the future will be as much tech devices as means of conveyance. Mercedes’s tech-forward new E-Class sedan previews what that connected future will look like.

The Big Picture: The E-Class is a benchmark vehicle for Mercedes and the luxury auto industry writ large. What will the automotive future look like when the car is yet one more connected smart device? The E-Class delivers a vision for it. All your sensory needs are succored with massaging seats, 4D surround sound and crystal clear displays on the immersive coast-to-coast MBUX screen. It has app integrations for TikTok and Zoom and the first glimmerings of AI virtual assistance. Oh, and there’s still a silky 3.0-liter inline-six with a pillow-like air suspension if you’re into actually driving the car.

Mercedes-Benz

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan

• $60,000.00 at mbusa.com

Read More

• 

  2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review: A Cozy, Connected Cocoon of a Car

Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

Royal Enfield

Why It Matters: Sometimes, how a winning product is marketed can blaze a trail all on its own. Such is the case with one motorcycle brand’s understated but outsized outreach to 51.1 percent of the US population.

The Big Picture: The Super Meteor’s 648cc parallel-twin engine places it squarely in the middleweight cruiser division, but the bike punches well above that class. Impressive in testing were its nimble handling, easy acceleration and tip-to-tail good looks. Still, what stood out most at the Dallas launch was the unprecedented number of female riders (seven, including the one above) on our media ride. Combined with beginner-friendly geometry, an approachable base price ($6,999) and surprisingly diverse promo materials — not to mention Royal Enfield’s continued sponsorship of the awesome, all-female Build.Train.Race program — the real breakthrough here is kicking down motorcycling’s barriers to entry.

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Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

• $6,999.00 at royalenfield.com

Related Topics

When it comes to products that live inside your home, few are larger or more expensive than a sofa. The living room sofa may also be the most-used product for many of us. Between watching TV, taking naps, general lounging and — increasingly — working remotely, a lot of people are spending countless hours on their couch.

So, as a major financial investment, the visual centerpiece of our living rooms and something we’re constantly using day in and day out, doesn’t it make sense to buy a sofa that’s truly great? And if you want a great sofa, there’s no beating a leather sofa. Below, you’ll find the best leather sofas we’ve tested.

How We Tested

Gear Patrol Staff

We know a thing or two about sofa brands, so we called in leather sofas from some of our favorite names in furniture (except in one case, where a staffer already owned the sofa we wanted to test) and tested them in our own living rooms. We took into account the sofas’ delivery process and assembly while noting how comfortable they were for lounging and napping and how they held up with the wear and tear of normal use.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

Best Overall Leather Sofa

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Castlery Madison Leather Sofa

• $1,899.00 at castlery.com

I prefer a mid-century modern aesthetic when it comes to my decor, and Castlery’s Madison fit the bill perfectly. While not mimicking any specific designer couch from the era, it nails that generic, mid-century sofa look I was going for thanks to its clean lines, sleek peg legs, thin arms, round bolster pillows and tufted bench seat. It’s a beautiful couch and has been a compliment-generating machine whenever I have guests over.

Delivery of the sofa could not have been much easier. It’s delivered mostly put together in one long box, and a trio of delivery men brought it up three flights of stairs and into my living room. It was up to me to unpack and assemble the couch, which I did easily by myself in about 15 minutes. Unwrapping all of the plastic and styrofoam is the biggest hassle, the couch itself simply requires screwing on five legs and arranging the cushions.

The Madison is comfortable. Very comfortable. The bench seat has the perfect amount of cushioning that’s both soft and supportive, and since it’s one long section, there are no gaps to fall into between seats. The back cushions are loose, but because they’re so large they don’t move around much, and they’re extra soft and great for sinking into. It also includes a pair of bolster pillows, which are great at protecting you from the hard-ish sides of the sofa and allow you to forego throw pillows if you want to keep a minimalist look. The sofa is so comfy and welcoming that I’ve developed a habit of falling asleep on the couch most nights and then waking up in a daze in the wee hours of the morning, at which time I begrudgingly make my way to the bedroom.

Johnny Brayson

The leather used on the sofa is buttery smooth and smells amazing. I love the way it looks too, as it has visible grain and is quite natural looking. The natural charm is shown off most around the biscuit tufting of the seat, as here the leather is stretched and wrinkled in a way that’s quite aesthetically pleasing to my eye.

The tufting is also the source of one of my two beefs with this sofa. The indentations caused by the tufting in the seat may look stylish, but they are also absolute magnets for dirt and crumbs. They’re easy enough to clean — just run a handheld vacuum over them — but they seem to fill up with debris quickly. Or maybe I’m just a slob.

My other beef has to do with the leather itself. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love the leather. But it scratches very easily. Within hours of setting up the sofa, I noticed a couple of small peeling punctures on the seat. These soon began to appear elsewhere on the sofa, most notably on the back. Thankfully, these punctures and scratches weren’t caused spontaneously, they were the work of my cats. I can’t really fault the leather for the damage the cats do to it, but I do wish it held up better against their destruction. So just know that if you have cats, this sofa will show scratches.

Other than that, this sofa has been an absolute dream. It’s affordable, beautiful and by far the most comfortable sofa I’ve owned. It isn’t feline-proof, but then again, what sofa is? — Johnny Brayson, Associate Editor

Best Budget Leather Sofa

Article

Article Nirvana Dakota Leather Sofa

• $407.00 at Article
  $1,799.00 (77% off)

Yes, our budget pick is only a hundred bucks cheaper than our top pick. But the truth is, you really can’t spend much less on a leather sofa while still getting something worth buying.

We bought the Article Nirvana Sofa in early 2018 when my wife and I were living in a shoebox apartment in New York City. We needed a specific size of couch to fit the limited layout we had, and this sofa fit the bill. Delivery was super easy thanks to the logistics team from Article; they hoofed the box up three flights of stairs and right into our living room.

Unpacking and assembling the couch was easy, but breaking down the box was not. Imagine tearing down a 6-foot x 3-foot thick cardboard box in a Manhattan studio and attempting to cut the cardboard down small enough to fit into the clear trashbags your super provided to then throw into the mouse-infested streetside trash bins. I think people who order this couch in the burbs will have a much easier time with the assembly aftermath.

Joe Tornatzky

The couch has been solid over the nearly six years we’ve had it. We’ve moved multiple times, and the sofa’s easy disassembly and perfect size and weight make it a dream to get through doorways and jigsawed into moving trucks. The cushions need to be swapped to different positions every now and then as they tend to sag and require frequent fluffing, but even they have held their own quite well.

I have to say that one of the stars of the couch has been the leather. A lot of times, when spending under $2,000 on a leather couch, the leather you’re getting is not of the greatest quality. But that’s certainly not the case with Articla’s Dakota leather. It’s aged beautifully, like an worn-in baseball mit, and it wears its spills well as stylish blemishes. There are a couple of scratches from our toddler, but we like the story it tells, and any leather is going to scratch at the end of the day. All in all, I would recommend this couch for any family that has good taste and lives with a small footprint. — Joe Tornatzky, Creative Director

Best Leather Sectional

Burrow

Burrow Mambo 7-Piece U-Sectional

• $6,889.00 at Burrow
  $8,099.00 (15% off)

Burrow offers a safer, easier and more stylish approach to modular sofas. While many competitors connect modules with alligator clips, Burrow uses custom molded hardware to screw each section together, ensuring a solid connection. What’s more, the pieces ship via FedEx and arrive ready to be assembled so you can quickly assemble a new sofa or add new modules to an existing one.

The brand’s newest sofa, the Mambo, is inspired by classic European designs with a large blocky shape, minimal floor clearance and wide comfortable seats. But, because it’s modular, the configurations are endless. Customers can choose a layout between three and eight pieces and decide whether they want high or low arms. Additionally, they can choose to add an ottoman or lumbar pillows as needed.

Having a larger living room, I opted for the L-shape 7-piece sofa. Though the FedEx delivery is relatively painless, you are ultimately at the whims of the carrier, so be aware of that during peak shipping seasons. Assembly of the sofa is actually pretty simple: each back or arm attaches to the base cushion with three long hand screws. It takes a little finessing but is a very solid attachment once secured. After each cushion has a back and/or side attached, you connect it to the other modules with connectors that hook around adjacent legs. These snap into place and ensure the modules won’t budge.

John Zientek

The Mambo has deep seats that are great for leaning back and relaxing. Unlike other blocky-style sofas, the back cushions have a curve that encourages reclining and lounging. If you’d prefer to sit more upright, the lumbar pillows are a nice addition. Out of the box, the cushions are comfortable and firm — you don’t sink into them and they feel like they’ll hold their shape nicely for the foreseeable future — perfect for lounging, napping and sitting with friends or family.

The leather is smooth and taut, and numerous guests have commented on how nice it looks and feels. During assembly and initial use, there haven’t been any notable scuffs, scrapes or marks. Each module has a solid build, so the final sofa layout is heavy when assembled, making sure it won’t shift or move when guests sit down.

Because the Mambo is a blocky sofa, it is an anchor in the room and takes up more visual space than other styles. If you like the aesthetic, it’s hard to beat. In my space, it’s a perfect fit and delivers both style and comfort. It’s a notably tasteful design and stands out among other sofas you can order online. I was happy to see that the final build matched the photos online to a T — what you see is definitely what you get.

If you like blocky, stylish sofas but want something modular, this is your best bet. You can customize your layout to your space and needs, and even adjust if you move or want to build it out. Unlike pre-built sofas, the assembly takes a little extra work to ensure everything is lined up perfectly and secured, but once it is, you won’t be able to tell the difference. If compelling layouts, deep seats, comfortable backs and corners, beautiful leather and the option to change things up sounds good to you, the Mambo is worth investing in. — John Zientek, Managing Editor

Best Vegan Leather Sofa

Crate & Barrel

Crate & Barrel Wells Renew Vegan Leather Sofa

• $2,999.00 at Crate & Barrel

Starting with delivery, the Crate & Barrel White Glove Delivery removed all the hassle around getting a new couch and allowed me to start enjoying the new piece within 15 minutes. The friendly, attentive team wore shoe covers in my home, protected my hardwood floors, took care of all the setup in record time and took away the packaging, so all I had to do was sit down and relax. My partner and I were easily able to move the couch around our space after the delivery team was gone to find the perfect spot for it, so if we had to move it ourselves, it would not be a struggle.

My first impression of the sofa was exceptional; it has clean lines, the vegan leather is buttery soft and the cushions have the perfect amount of flex. At 7 feet wide, the Wells Sofa is a great size for a small living room and in a larger space would be well-complemented by a couple of chairs. It seats two people super comfortably, three to four with closer quarters. The design is minimalist, so it can easily be integrated into any style space.

Erica Givans

You barely need extra pillows with this couch, as the adjustable arm cushions are great to lean up against, throw your arm over, or use as a headrest for a well-deserved nap. You may notice that the back cushions slip down a bit, pushing the seat forward in some positions as they aren’t secured by anything but a little friction, but that’s an easy fix and doesn’t affect the comfort of the sofa.

After two months, I can tell where we sit the most on the couch as there’s a bit of a distortion in the cushions, but otherwise, the sofa looks as good as the day it arrived … even with a little bit of cat hair on it. — Erica Givans, Content Strategist

Other Leather Sofas We Considered

Not every sofa could be called in for testing. The following models all drew consideration from our team, but without hands-on testing, we aren’t able to fully recommend them.

West Elm

West Elm Haven Leather Sofa

Part of West Elm’s Contract Grade series, this sofa is built to withstand heavy commercial use, so your living room won’t be an issue.

• $2,999.00 at West Elm
  $3,299.00 (9% off)

Industry West

Industry West Finland Sofa

Black leather couches aren’t just for bachelor pads — this could work in any space.

• $3,200.00 at Industry West
  $3,580.00 (11% off)

Courtesy

Blu Dot Bonnie 96″ Sofa

This clean and contemporary look from Minnesota’s Blu Dot is for the ultra-minimalist.

• $2,395.00 at bludot.com
  $4,840.00 (51% off)

Arhaus

Arhaus Rowland Leather Three Piece Motion Modular Sofa

A leather recliner that actually looks good? Apparently, they do exist.

• $8,997.00 at Arhaus
  $12,797.00 (30% off)

What to Look for in a Leather Sofa

Buying furniture online can sometimes feel like a challenge since you can’t actually sit on or feel the item you’re purchasing. This is especially important when shopping for a big-ticket item like a leather sofa. Make a mistake, and you’re looking at a considerable hassle to get that sofa out of your home and returned. So, to keep your risk level low, here are a few things to look out for when shopping for a leather sofa online.

Delivery and Assembly: Sofas are big and heavy, so you’ll want to check and see how your furniture will be delivered and what the assembly process looks like. Look at the sofa’s dimensions and measure your own doorways, hallways, staircases and living room — there’s nothing worse than having a piece of furniture show up at your door only to learn it’s too big to get into your home. You’ll also want to see what kind of delivery options are offered, and how much they cost. A white-glove delivery where the sofa is assembled for you and all packaging is hauled away can save you a lot of headaches, but may cost a small fortune. Be sure to closely examine your options.

Quality Leather: You’ll want real leather for your sofa, meaning either top-grain or full-grain. The former is more affordable and more uniform in appearance while being slightly less durable. The latter is more expensive but can take more of a beating and has a more varied appearance that some people value. You’ll also want to avoid bonded leather, which is made up of a layer of leather glued onto cheaper fabric. This can peel and flake away and won’t last nearly as long as real leather.

Construction: There’s more that goes into a sofa besides the leather you actually come into contact with. You’ll also want to check out the frame and cushions as well. Most sites should give you an idea of what sort of comfort level is offered by the cushions, whether they’re sink-in, supportive or somewhere in between, and you’ll need to consider what kind of lounging experience you want. You should also take note of how the frame is constructed. Look for frames made of durable materials like solid wood and plywood, and avoid anything made from MDF or particle board that will break down in a short amount of time.

Related Topics

The ESR 15W Car Charger with MagSafe + CryoBoost ($100) securely and easily attaches to almost any car’s vents with a three-point support clip, and connects to the latest iPhone 15 with an Apple-certified MagSafe charging mount. Both the mount and magnet will hold your phone rock-steady over even the bumpiest roads, and the fast charger with CryoBoost tech provides a cooling fan to keep your device from overheating while charging, protecting your battery life over the long term.

Now through January 31, save ten percent with code GearPatrol10 to keep yourself and your device safe while driving.

Price: $100

Related Topics

Times are tough for fans of convertibles these days. While they once numbered in the dozens in new car showrooms, these days, there are only a handful of droptops to be found in 2023–2024 model year lineups — and even fewer if you exclude the open-top SUV likes the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler.

Still, if you have a bit more cash to spend, you have a few more options. (Isn’t that always the case?) Many luxury carmakers still offer at least one convertible, even if it may not sell as well as all those fancy crossovers. But if you want four usable seats and serious speed, your options grow limited again. Porsche, Audi and Lexus are out; so are the BMW Z4 and the Mercedes-AMG SL-Class. And since I’m assuming you don’t have the quarter-million-plus bucks for a Bentley Continental GTC — or if you do, you may want something a little less ostentatious — that’s out, as well.

Which brings us to the two subjects of this piece. The BMW M4 and Mercedes-AMG E 53 aren’t exactly the most natural of competitors, but in this day and age, they’re as close as you can come to direct droptop rivals from Mercedes and BMW. Both pack turbocharged inline-six engines, both have performance-tuned all-wheel-drive and both cost pretty much the same: the M4 Convertible starts at $90,595, while the E 53 Cabriolet starts at $91,500.

So on paper, these two seem like a solid matchup. But which is best in the real world? Well, I took each on a trip from New York to Vermont to see how each handles highway cruising, backroad blitzing and everything in-between.

BMW M4 Competition Convertible Vs. Mercedes-AMG E 53 Cabriolet: What We Think

Will Sabel Courtney

Will Sabel Courtney

While they may be similarly sized, closely priced and equally potent, the M4 and E 53 offer different driving experiences. The Bimmer is sharper and harder-edged, more excited to carve up corners and attack the road; the AMG is a bit softer, preferring to cruise at 7/10ths rather than roar around at 10/10th commitment. Still, either car is more than quick enough to dispatch most other rides on the road with ease, whether passing on straights or pulling away in the curves.

Both are comfortable and surprisingly usable, with plenty of space and cabins that feel every bit as secure as coupes when the top is raised. The M4 ekes out a win by doing more things — being a sports car, a grand tourer, a daily driver — just a little bit better than the E 53 … even if the Bimmer’s face still remains hard to look at.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

The E 53 is better-looking, but not by as much as you might think

Will Sabel Courtney

Will Sabel Courtney

By now, odds are good you’ve already formed your opinion of the BMW M3 and M4’s design. Some people find it compelling in its unabashed aggression; other people think it looks like an Angry Birds pig hooked on amphetamines and steroids. I think you can guess where I land on this matter. The army green paint of my test car certainly gave it a distinct look, but distinct and attractive are two very different ideas.

The E 53, by contrast, is much more unassuming — even stylish, from some angles. Still, it’s hard not to feel as though it would look even better if Mercedes hadn’t given this generation of E-Class the midlife visual update that stripped some of the power and presence from the likes of the E 63 S. As it turns out, the ideal amount of visual belligerence for a performance-oriented convertible lies somewhere in-between the M4 and the E 53 … but it’s definitely closer to the Mercedes.

The M4 is much more fun to drive

Will Sabel Courtney

Will Sabel Courtney

Once you’re behind the wheel, though, the M4 proves its worth. It drives with all the grace, pace and panache we’ve come to expect from BMW’s M division, their occasional whiffs aside. The twin-turbo inline-six feels way punchier than its claimed 503 horsepower output would lead you to believe, especially considering the car’s 4,300-pound curb weight. It feels even more superb when you dial up the all-wheel-drive system, stability control and eight-speed automatic for max attack and pitch it down a back road as fast as you dare; if it weren’t for the wind in your face, you’d think this car was a rigid coupe. Yet while it’s taut and balanced, the M4 also doesn’t punish you with a harsh ride … at least, so long as you avoid the worst of the potholes.

The E 53 is no slowpoke, granted, but it feels a step behind the M4 when you drop the hammer and a step and a half behind when you tackle the turns. Pardon my double negative, but that’s not unexpected; after all, the E 53 — which packs roughly 80 percent of the power of the M4 — follows in the footsteps of what fans and journalists have often referred to with terms like “AMG Light” — half-caf versions of the full-throated, traditionally-V8-powered full AMG models with their handbuilt engines and greater emphasis on performance.

That distinction certainly doesn’t mean as much in 2023 / 2024, what with V8-powered AMGs increasingly rare and four-cylinder-PHEVs and EVs taking up more and more roles in the Mercedes performance lineup. Besides, there’s little to complain about in the abstract here — the E 53 is still sportier than most cars, while offering a pleasant ride to boot. It’s just not as much fun as the M4.

Both convertibles offer plenty of comfort inside

Will Sabel Courtney

Will Sabel Courtney

Should you stop at a light and happen to see a driver in the front seat of an M4 or E 53 in the lane next to you, don’t feel bad if you feel a pang of jealousy. Odds are good he or she is more comfortable than you. Both the Merc and the Bimmer offer delightful thrones up front, although the latter depends on you choosing the standard seats instead of the $4,500 M carbon buckets. Even on multi-hour driving stretches, I didn’t suffer from a whit of numb butt discomfort.

I will note, as an aside, that my M4 was actually a 2023 model year vehicle, which means that it came with the pre-facelift interior instead of the new post-life-cycle-update version found in all 2024 3 Series models. I’ve gone on record saying I prefer the previous layout, and while I found the ’23 M4’s interior more user-focused than the E 53’s setup, the updates pull them up to about parity, if not giving the edge to the AMG. Either way, though, there’s no disputing that the Merc’s dashboard and interior design look way nicer.

Neither car’s second row offers Maybach-like accommodations, but each set of two rear seats is roomy enough for an average-sized adult to sit behind another such person for an hour or so — long enough to make it to dinner or to a meeting. And there’s an unexpected benefit of sitting in the back of a convertible instead of a sedan: no matter how tall you are, there’s plenty of headroom.

2023 BMW M4 Competition xDrive Convertible

Will Sabel Courtney

Base Price / Price as Tested: $90,595 / $119,795

Powertrain: 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six; eight-speed automatic; all-wheel-drive

Horsepower: 503

Torque: 479 lb-ft

EPA Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway

Seats: 4

2023 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Cabriolet

Will Sabel Courtney

Base Price / Price as Tested: $91,500 / $106,500

Powertrain: 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six; nine-speed automatic; all-wheel-drive

Horsepower: 429

Torque: 384 lb-ft

EPA Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway

Seats: 4

Related Topics

Gear Patrol’s editors test and review thousands of products every year to recommend the best gear in every category. Though many products carry price tags that reflect their superlative design and function, there are just as many that offer incredible value for affordable prices. So if you’re looking for great gear that won’t break the bank, keep reading to check out the 100 products we love for less than $100.

Outdoors

REI

BEST TRAVEL MUG FOR BACKPACKERS

Hydro Flask 20-Ounce Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Along with keeping your coffee piping hot for hours at a time, this extremely durable mug also comes with a leakproof lid.

READ ABOUT THE BEST TRAVEL MUGS

• $34.95 at REI

Courtesy

BEST TOWN-TO-TRAIL SUN SHIRT

Topo Designs Global Shirt

With a 30+ UPF rating, soft cotton blend fabric and perfectly placed pockets, this shirt can protect you from the sun and looks great.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SUN SHIRTS

• $720.00 at topodesigns.com

Roark

BEST HIP PACK FOR HIKING

Roark Compadre Bag

With comfortable cushioning for all-day wear and plenty of internal storage compartments, this might become your favorite outdoor pack, period.

READ ABOUT THE BEST HIP PACKS

• $59.00 at roark.com

REI

BEST UPGRADE HIKING SOCKS

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Cushion Socks

These cozy and cushiony hiking socks will last you a lifetime — and they come with a simple, no-nonsense warranty to back up that claim.

READ ABOUT THE BEST HIKING SOCKS

• $27.00 at REI

REI

BEST HIKING SUNGLASSES

Camp by Shwood Topo

These polarized, 100% UV-protective, bio-based sunglasses were built specifically with outdoor adventure in mind.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SUNGLASSES

• $79.00 at REI

Patagonia

BEST CARGO-STYLE HIKING SHORT

Patagonia Outdoor Everyday Shorts

Lightweight, comfortable, durable hiking shorts with integrated storage from a time-tested, reputable brand? Sign us up.

READ ABOUT THE BEST HIKING SHORTS

• $89.00 at Patagonia

Details

BEST HIKING SANDALS

Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandal

With their secure straps, comfortable footbed and lightness (20 percent lighter than previous versions), it’s easy to see why these hiking sandals shine.

READ ABOUT THE BEST HIKING SANDALS

• $105.00 at chacos.com

The North Face

BEST OVERALL TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES

The North Face Apex Etip Glove

Throw these touchscreen gloves in your pack while hiking in cold or unpredictable weather, and you’ll be covered (literally) in most situations.

READ ABOUT THE BEST TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES

• $50.00 at The North Face

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BEST INCLUSIVE DESIGN

Thousand Heritage 2.0 Bike & Skate Helmet

Thousand used eight years of feedback to create this helmet with its hybrid head form that can fit a wide range of head shapes comfortably.

READ ABOUT THE BEST BIKE HELMETS

• Shop Now

Amazon

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT BIKE LOCK

Ottolock Sidekick Compact U-Lock

One of the most compact bike locks you can buy, this offering from Otto is still incredibly secure.

READ ABOUT THE BEST BIKE LOCKS

• $39.00 at Amazon

Amazon

BEST BIKE BOTTLE

Velo Canteen

This super-durable bike bottle fits any standard cage, offers double-wall insulation and looks spectacular.

READ ABOUT THE BEST WATER BOTTLES

• $45.00 at Amazon

ADIDAS

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY MTB SHOES

Adidas Five Ten Sleuth DLX

The Sleuth is a dependable, comfortable flat mountain bike shoe that delivers just what it promises: no-nonsense performance.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MTB SHOES

• $66.00 at ADIDAS
  $120.00 (45% off)

Courtesy

BEST ROAD AND GRAVEL HELMET

100% Altis Gravel Helmet

Surprisingly lightweight, with more coverage than the average road helmet, the Altis feels right at home both on-road and off.

READ ABOUT THE BEST BIKE HELMETS

• $75.40 at merlincycles.com
  $116.99 (36% off)

Leatherman

BEST MINI MULTI-TOOL

Leatherman Free T4

This impressive multi-tool boasts 12+ functions, Leatherman’s groundbreaking FREE magnetic tech and so much more — all while taking up about the same amount of room as a pocket knife.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MULTI-TOOLS

• $69.95 at Leatherman

Blade HQ

BEST OVERALL POCKET KNIFE

CRKT Pilar III

With its brilliant balance between materials and price, CRKT’s Pilar III is an achievement in EDC excellence — and it’s the best daily knife for most people.

READ ABOUT THE BEST POCKET KNIVES

• $55.95 at Blade HQ
  $84.99 (34% off)

Gerber

BEST SMALL BUDGET MULTI-TOOL

Gerber Armbar Drive

With its pocket-knife-sized silhouette, signature Center-Drive driver attachment and numerous other functions, this is a multi-tool you can carry almost anywhere and everywhere.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MINI MULTI-TOOLS

• $45.00 at gerbergear.com

Amazon

Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener, Compact Travel Hunting Knife Sharpener Tool

This is one of the best manual pocket knife sharpeners on the market, thanks to its multiple sharpening and honing surfaces.

READ ABOUT THE BEST POCKET KNIFE SHARPENERS

• $34.95 at Amazon
  $39.95 (13% off)

Amazon

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY BUSHCRAFT KNIFE

Morakniv Companion

Considering how reliable and durable this fixed-blade knife is, it’s hard to believe it’s also so affordable.

READ ABOUT THE BEST FIXED-BLADE KNIVES

• $21.22 at Amazon

Huckberry

BEST KEYCHAIN CARABINER

The James Brand The Mehlville

Balancing style and substance (and adding a handy bottle opener), TJB’s Mehlville is a great example of how to do a keychain carabiner right.

READ ABOUT THE BEST KEYCHAIN CARABINERS

• $60.00 at Huckberry

Amazon

BEST MULTI-TOOL FOR BIKES

Blackburn Tradesman

Bike commuting is a unique challenge that requires unique solutions — this multi-tool has you covered whenever you’re tooling around on two wheels.

READ ABOUT THE BEST BIKE BAG TOOL KITS

• $34.95 at Amazon
  $34.95 (0% off)

Home Depot

BEST HEAVY DUTY UTILITY KNIFE

Dewalt Retractable Utility Knife

This Dewalt offering — with its grippy ergonomic handle and integrated carabiner — proves not all utility knives are created equal.

READ ABOUT THE BEST UTILITY KNIVES

• $14.97 at Home Depot

BioLite

BEST HEADLAMP

BioLite HeadLamp 325

Offering plenty of brightness, versatile lighting modes and a 40-hour battery, this might be the last headlamp you’ll ever want to buy.

READ ABOUT THE BEST HEADLAMPS

• $49.95 at BioLite

REI

BEST FIRST AID KIT FOR CAMPING IN GROUPS

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit

At 7.2 ounces, this teeny-tiny overnight first aid kit comes with almost everything you’d need for first aid in the wild.

READ ABOUT THE BEST FIRST-AID KITS

• $25.00 at REI

Amazon

MOST DURABLE FLASHLIGHT

MagLite Mag-Tac TRM1RA4

Impressive battery life, a quick charge time and an efficient crowned bezel make this the utilitarian, tough-as-nails option you need in almost any scenario.

READ ABOUT THE BEST FLASHLIGHTS

• $86.00 at Amazon
  $90.06 (5% off)

Huckberry

COOLEST LOOKING BINOCULARS

Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8×25 Waterproof Binoculars

Yes, they look great — but these binoculars also offer 8x magnification, IPX7 waterproofing, fogproof lenses and more.

READ ABOUT THE BEST BINOCULARS

• $95.00 at Huckberry

Tech

Amazon

BEST MAGSAFE PORTABLE BATTERY

Mophie Snap+ Juice Pack Mini

With its USB-C charging, MagSafe compatibility, thin silhouette and a high-capacity battery, we actually like this better than Apple’s offerings.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MAGSAFE BATTERY PACKS

• $44.99 at Amazon
  $49.95 (10% off)

Apple

BEST MAGSAFE CAR MOUNT

Mophie Wireless Charging Vent Mount

This Mophie Magsafe car charger is one of the few that Apple actually sells. It’s highly adjustable and can actually charge your iPhone while holding it in place.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MAGSAFE CAR MOUNTS

• $79.95 at Apple

OtterBox

BEST RUGGED IPHONE CASE

Otterbox Defender Series

Otterbox’s Defender Series strikes a fine balance between protection and bulk, but it still doesn’t feel huge and there are a bunch of colors available.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MAGSAFE IPHONE CASES

• $64.95 at OtterBox

Amazon

BEST THIN IPHONE CASE

Totallee Super Thin Case

This case is perfect for those who want to add a little protection to their iPhone without adding any real bulk.

READ ABOUT THE BEST MAGSAFE ACCESSORIES

• $39.00 at Amazon
  $39.00 (0% off)

Amazon

BEST WIRELESS EARBUDS UNDER $50

Amazon Echo Buds (2023)

Don’t be dismissive of Amazon’s modestly priced Echo Buds — they sound better than you might think and come with built-in Alexa.

READ ABOUT THE BEST WIRELESS EARBUDS UNDER $100

• $49.99 at Amazon
  $49.99 (0% off)

Amazon

BEST ANC HEADPHONES UNDER $100

Anker Soundcore Space One

Anker’s Soundcore Space Ones are probably as close as you can get to “flagship quality” ANC headphones under $100.

READ ABOUT THE BEST NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES

• $99.00 at Amazon

Amazon

WIRELESS EARBUDS WITH THE BEST DESIGN

Nothing Ear (Stick)

Nothing’s Ear (Stick) boast a transparent design, a lipstick-shaped charging case that twists open and close and a fit and format similar to Apple’s AirPods Pro.

READ ABOUT THE BEST WIRELESS EARBUDS

• $64.00 at Amazon

Amazon

BEST ULTRA-PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER

Sony SRS-XB100

This Bluetooth speaker is incredibly compact, offers true 360-degree sound and is shockingly rugged.

READ ABOUT THE BEST PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS

• $58.00 at Amazon
  $58.00 (0% off)

Amazon

BEST SMART PLUG

Wemo Smart Plug with Thread

With its small silhouette, physical power button and compatibility with most smart systems, this Wemo offering has everything you could want in a smart plug.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SMART PLUGS

• $20.99 at Amazon
  $29.99 (30% off)

Amazon

BEST SMART LIGHT BULB

Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance

Though expensive, Philips Hue light bulbs offer unrivaled customization and superb (dimmable) brightness. Plus, they’re compatible with most smart ecosystems.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SMART BULBS

• $36.81 at Amazon
  $54.99 (33% off)

Walmart

BEST SMART ALARM CLOCK

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)

Google’s second-generation Nest Hub makes an excellent smart alarm clock with its relatively big and bright display and a built-in radar sensor that can actually track your quality of sleep.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SMART ALARM CLOCKS

• $83.00 at Walmart
  $99.98 (17% off)

Amazon

BEST SMART HOME CAMERA (INDOORS)

Nest Cam Indoor

This security cam comes with most of the features you’d want from such a device: 24/7 recording, two-way talk, night vision and more.

READ ABOUT THE BEST SMART HOME CAMERAS

• $87.00 at Amazon
  $99.99 (13% off)

Amazon

BEST ALL-AROUND EXTERNAL WEBCAM

Logitech Brio 500

The Logitech Brio 500 is our favorite external webcam, as it’s easy to set up and use, delivers a good high-def picture and so much more.

READ ABOUT THE BEST EXTERNAL WEBCAMS

• $94.99 at Amazon
  $129.99 (27% off)

B&H Photo

BEST WIRELESS MOUSE

Logitech MX Master 3S

Logitech’s MX Master 3S has an ergonomic design, dual scroll wheels and customizable buttons, but it’s more sensitive and significantly quieter than its predecessor.

READ ABOUT THE BEST WIRELESS MOUSE

• $91.99 at B&H Photo

Style

Outerknown

Best Overall T-Shirt

Outerknown Groovy Pocket Tee

Made from organic cotton, this shirt is loosely knit for an airy feel which goes well with its relaxed silhouette.

RELATED: Best T-Shirts

• $58.00 at Outerknown

Richer Poorer

Best Overall Sweatpants

Richer Poorer Recycled Fleece Tapered Sweatpants

Richer Poorer’s sweats look like a successful vintage score — like super soft, worn-in sweatpants colleges would assign to student athletes.

RELATED: Best Sweatpants

• $76.00 at Richer Poorer

Levi

Best Overall Jeans

Levi’s 501 Jeans

These button-fly, straight-leg jeans work as well with a pair sneakers as they do boots.

RELATED: Best Jeans

• $69.50 at Levi

Outerknown

Best Overall Crewneck Sweatshirt

Outerknown Sur Sweatshirt

Outerknown’s Sur Sweatshirt has a hemp and organic blend terry fabric that make it a hefty-yet-soft option.

RELATED: Best Crewneck Sweatshirts

• $98.00 at Outerknown

Arvin Goods

Best Overall Socks

Arvin Goods Crew Sock

Built with an elasticated cuff and arch, these socks also have a padded footbed for added comfort.

RELATED: Best Everyday Socks

• $14.00 at Arvin Goods

Courtesy

Best Overall Beanie

Colorful Standard Merino Wool Beanie

This beanie’s perfectly proportioned, made in Portugal with Italian superfine merino wool for a silky touch and comes in every color you could conceivably want.

RELATED: Best Beanies

• $40.00 at colorfulstandard.com

Converse

Best Overall Classic Sneakers

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star

Converse named its rubber-soled, high-top basketball sneaker the All-Star in 1920 and more than a century later, people still wear it.

RELATED: Best Classic Sneakers

• $60.00 at Converse

Courtesy

Best Overall Slippers

Overland Clyde Australian Merino Sheepskin Scuff Mule Slippers with Arch Support

Overland’s Clyde slippers are made from Australian merino sheepskin in a classic mule shape, which means there’s no heel.

RELATED: Best Slippers

• $99.00 at overland.com

Levi

Best Overall Denim Jacket

Levi’s Trucker Jacket

This denim jacket is great overtop base layers, just beware the body runs slightly slim if you intend to button it all the way up.

RELATED: Best Denim Jackets

• $62.65 at Levi

Uniqlo

Best Affordable Down Jacket

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down Jacket is indispensable to have on hand, even though it lacks some of the fit and finish of (much) more expensive competitors.

RELATED: Best Puffer Jackets

• $79.90 at Uniqlo

Bellroy

Best Slim Wallet

Bellroy Card Sleeve

This thin leather wallet has a big slot for up to eight cards, a tinier one for cash and a pull tab to make getting both out a bit easier.

RELATED: Best Wallets

• $8.00 at Bellroy
  $59.00 (86% off)

Courtesy

Best Overall Crossbody Bag

Moment Fanny Sling

Moment’s Fanny Sling has compartmentalized pockets for a phone, your keys, wallet and even a camera.

RELATED: Best Crossbody Bags

• $69.99 at shopmoment.com

L.L.Bean

Best Overall Tote Bag

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Originally made to haul loads of ice, this is the perfect tote for everyday use.

RELATED: Best Tote Bags

• $29.95 at L.L.Bean

Courtesy

Best Overall Dopp Kit

Billykirk No. 258 Standard Issue Toiletry Bag

Billykirk’s Toiletry Bag is constructed from a water-resistant waxed canvas exterior, water-resistant nylon lining and a durable, full-grain leather bottom.

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• $95.00 at billykirk.com

Mystery Ranch

Mystery Ranch Zoid Cube

Available in three different sizes (245, 505 and 885 cubic inches), these cubes are made from lightweight yet durable 210d Hitra Robic nylon and feature YKK zippers.

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• $24.00 at mysteryranch.com

Amazon

Best Overall Comb

Baxter of California Comb

This handcrafted, Swiss-made comb by Baxter of California is designed for styling, trimming and detangling straight or fine hair.

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• $23.00 at Amazon

Amazon

Best Overall Beard Trimmer

Wahl 9864 Beard Trimmer

Wahl’s bear trimmer is housed in a durable stainless steel shell and utilizes rechargeable Lithium Ion 2.0 technology that can provide six hours of trimming on one charge.

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• $79.99 at Amazon
  $89.99 (11% off)

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Best Overall Shampoo

Oars + Alps Hydrating Shampoo

Oars + Alps’ Hydrating Shampoo is free from everything that could damage your hair — such as, sulfates — and infused with natural extracts like kelp and algae.

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• $14.00 at oarsandalps.com

Amazon

Best Overall Pomade

Alex Costa Forte Series Pomade

The Forte Series pomade offers serious hold without the greasy, shiny look of most other pomades.

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• $22.95 at Amazon

Kiehl’s

Best Overall Lip Balm

Kiehls Lip Balm #1

Kiehl’s longstanding best-seller, Lip Balm #1, features a formula comprising squalane, aloe vera and vitamin E.

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• $12.00 at Kiehl's

helmm.com

Best Upgrade Deodorant

Helmm Reusable Deodorant

Helmm’s customizable deodorant comes in four colors, four scents and three different formulas.

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• $28.00 at helmm.com

Amazon

Best Overall Electric Shaver

Andis 17220 Pro Foil Shaver

This durable copper-shelled shaver delivers nick-free neckline and stubble cleanups with maximum speed and precision.

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• $94.99 at Amazon

Baxter of California

Best Overall Beard Oil

Baxter of California Beard Oil

With an avocado- and apricot-oil base, Baxter’s blend gives a healthy shine while it softens the skin and hair with squalane.

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• $29.00 at Baxter of California

Amazon

Best Overall Electric Toothbrush

Colgate Hum Electric Toothbrush

Hum’s main selling point is that it’s compatible with an app that can track your brushing in real time.

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• $69.80 at Amazon
  $79.99 (13% off)

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Best Overall Body Wash

Bathing Culture Mind and Body Wash

Bathing Culture created an organic, biodegradable formula that feels (and smells) more refreshing than it does intense.

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• $20.00 at bathingculture.com

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Best Overall Shaving Cream

Oars+Alps Soothing Shave Cream

This option from Oars + Alps employs aloe, coconut and olive oils to restore the skin’s natural moisture.

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• $12.00 at oarsandalps.com

Grove Collaborative

Best Overall Razor

Leaf Shave Plastic Free Razor

The Leaf razor can shave your head and pivot to all of the contours — not to mention a stellar face shave.

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• $88.00 at Grove Collaborative

Fitness

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BEST UPGRADE WEIGHTLIFTING GLOVES

Versa Gripps Pro

“Non-Slip” custom-engineered palm pads help ensure a better grip.

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• $74.95 at versagripps.com

SPIbelt

BEST RUNNING BELT

SPIbelt Reflective Running Belt

Keep your smartphone, keys and other gear well secured during your run.

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• $32.99 at spibelt.com

Amazon

BEST OVERALL SHAKER BOTTLE

BlenderBottle Strada Insulated Stainless Steel

A locking lid and insulated steel body put this bottle a cut above.

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• $23.57 at Amazon
  $24.99 (6% off)

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BEST WEARABLE GPS ENHANCER

Coros Pod 2

This GPS enhancer clips easily to your clothes and is impressively accurate.

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• $99.00 at coros.com

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MOST INNOVATIVE DAILY SUPPLEMENT

Mikra CELLF

This daily gel can deliver better focus, energy rejuvenation and more.

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• $98.00 at wearemikra.com

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BEST OVERALL GREENS POWDER

Bare Performance Nutrition Strong Greens

This is one greens powder that doesn’t taste like grass.

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• $44.99 at bareperformancenutrition.com

Gut Health

BEST DAILY SUPPLEMENT FOR GUT HEALTH

Ritual Synbiotic+

A pre-, pro- and postbiotic makeup offers plenty of gut-boosting potential.

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• $54.00 at ritual.com

cellucor

BEST BUDGET BCAA POWDER

XTEND Original BCAA Powder

Bonus points for the inclusion of citrulline malate, which may help improve circulation.

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• $27.99 at cellucor.com

4.6 out of 5 star rating

BEST FULL SPECTRUM CBD DROPS

FOCL Premium Full Spectrum CBD Drops

This CBD tincture takes extracts from the entire hemp plant for full-spectrum benefits.

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• $69.00 at focl.com

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BEST OVERALL CREATINE POWDER

Bare Performance Nutrition Creatine Monohydrate

Derived from Creapure, one of the most widely-studied forms of creatine.

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• $34.99 at bareperformancenutrition.com

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BEST VEGAN PROTEIN POWDER

Kaged Plantein Vegan Protein

This impressive vegan protein powder is designed for quicker absorption.

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• $23.99 at kaged.com
  $29.99 (20% off)

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BEST OVERALL PRE-WORKOUT

Huge Supplements Wrecked

This powder is especially effective at delivering sustained energy and focus.

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• $49.95 at hugesupplements.com

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BEST ON-THE-GO COLLAGEN PEPTIDES

Momentous Collagen Shot

Boost your hair and joint health on the go with these single-serve gel packets.

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• $41.95 at livemomentous.com

MyProtein

BEST ANIMAL-FREE WHEY PROTEIN POWDER

Myprotein Whey Forward

No animals were harmed in the making of this whey protein powder.

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• $20.99 at MyProtein
  $29.99 (30% off)

Best Buy

BEST MOUNTABLE MASSAGE BALL

Symbodi Vertiball

The mountable Vertiball is ideal for targeting scapular and back knots.

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• $49.99 at Best Buy

Amazon

BEST MASSAGE STICK

Tiger Tail Original 18-Inch Massage Stick

This handheld design puts muscle-relieving power in your palms.

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• $39.95 at Amazon

Amazon

BEST OVERALL FOAM ROLLER

Rollga “The Everyday” Foam Roller

The contoured design allows you to pinpoint smaller and larger muscles at once.

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• $44.97 at Amazon

Amazon

BEST BUDGET MASSAGE GUN

Renpho R3 Active Massage Gun

At just 1.5 pounds, this budget-friendly massage gun is highly maneuverable.

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• $89.99 at Amazon
  $119.99 (25% off)

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BEST SHOES FOR POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY

Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes

Raised footbed nodes help promote better blood flow to your tired feet post-training.

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• $75.00 at kanefootwear.com

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BEST RUNNING SOCKS

Near Earth Distance Running Socks

Cozy Lycra fiber and a snug fit around the arch make for a secure fit.

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• $24.00 at nearearth.run

Rhone

MOST VERSATILE TRAINING SHORTS

Rhone 7-Inch Mako Tech Unlined Short

These versatile shorts handle everything from yoga to deadlifts.

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• $34.00 at Rhone
  $68.00 (50% off)

Patagonia

BEST TRAINING SHORTS FOR RUNNING

Patagonia Strider Pro 5-Inch Running Shorts

A Polygiene treatment helps keep these shorts from getting too funky.

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• $50.99 at Patagonia
  $85.00 (40% off)

Arc’teryx

BEST LONG SLEEVE GYM SHIRT

Arc’teryx Cormac Crew Neck

The highly breathable material allows sweat vapors to escape more easily.

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• $80.00 at Arc'teryx

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BEST BUCKET RUNNING HAT

Fractel B-Series Bucket Hat

Protect your head from harmful rays with this hat’s UPF+50 sun protection.

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• $55.00 at fractel.us