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Tuesday, May 14th
TIG

Today in Gear: May 14, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
Crosskix-Hybrid-EVA-Footwear-Gear-Patrol Crosskix Hybrid EVA Footwear
They look like your kid’s favorite playground footwear mated with a Pininfarina-designed body builder: lightweight, EVA construction; adjustable straps; drainage holes. The Kickstarter is ultra funded, so gird your feet for some fancy foam fun. $34+
Bosch-Powermax-Station-Gear-Patrol Bosch Power Max EV Charging Station
At half the price of other electric vehicle charging stations, Bosch’s Power Max stations are ready to tackle the inevitable flood of EVs in the consumer market. Designed to work with any electric vehicle, they’re truly “plug and play”. $450
Riveria-Vlaet-Tray-Gear-Patrol May Furniture Co. Riviera Valet Tray
Paying homage to Japanese and Swedish design, these solid wood valet trays also have a certain vintage-beach-resort feel. They’ll handle your room key (and anyone else’s) with style and ease. $175
DeLorme-inReach-SE-Satellite-Communicator-Gear-Patrol DeLorme inReach SE Satellite Communicator
Only a tenth of the world has viable cell phone coverage, and you’re somewhere in the other 90%. But you won’t have to go without smartphone tech like text messaging and the all-important call for help — the SE connects to satellites so you’ll never be too far away. $299
Brinno-TLC-200-Pro-HDR-Time-Lapse-Camera-Gear-Patrol Brinno TLC200 Pro HDR Time Lapse Video Camera
This impressive time lapse rig from Brinno gives new meaning to “set it and forget it”. Filming in full HDR, the camera shoots true time lapse against harsh light and boasts interchangeable lenses for the perfect shot, even for those who aren’t experts at the good kind of lapses. brinno.com ()
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Viewfinder: By The Lake, Tasmania

In this calm, three-minute video, we’re treated to a supreme visual experience by the aptly named Red Epic camera, a DSLR-sized rig capable of 5K resolution in every frame. We meet Phipps, a man who has lived in Tasmania his whole life, spending his time at a fishing shack that has housed his family for decades. The cabin sits on a quiet, trout-filled lake, and Phipps, genuine and wise, seems to be meant to inhabit that shack, to fish in that lake.

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A Well-Styled NYC Weekend

Banana Republic X GP | Summer in the City

Summer is imminent, and we’re already shedding the layers in anticipation of summer Fridays and weekends on the go. Teaming up with Banana Republic, we assembled a series of stylish, versatile warm-weather looks. Who better to try them out than our own Ironman, Jeremy Berger, as he took on a weekend at his favorite NYC haunts. Browse — and shop — the full looks right after the jump.

banana-republic-logoSummer in the City is presented by our friends at Banana Republic. Bright ideas for the summer.
Monday, May 13th
Buying Guide
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No ride like the present

Two Wheels Good: 5 Best Starter Motorcycles

By AMOS KWON

Now that the riding season is under way in many parts of the country, it’s time to sign up for riding lessons and start thinking about the machine that’s best suited for your needs. You could jump right into researching bikes for months online, but we’d recommend starting with our roundup of the 5 best starter motorcycles first.

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The Spirit of Burt Munro

The World’s Fastest Indian

By MATT NEUNDORF

Burt Munro set his first speed record in New Zealand in 1938. He was riding an eighteen-year-old motorcycle that was factory built to top out at 55 MPH. Burt clocked 120.8. That sort of bump doesn’t happen on its own. When it left the assembly line, Burt’s Indian Scout was powered by a side-valved 600cc V-Twin complete with a mechanical oil pump and helical gear transmission, a very advanced system for the time. The tinkering began almost immediately, and the speeds increased. Munro would continue to chase speed on the salt flats of Utah for the rest of his life.

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Con-cidre it tasty

Tasting Notes: Stella Artois Cidre

To begin: someone made a mistake in this assignment. I don’t like ciders. They’re sweet enough to send me into shock. They have a flatness that makes my tongue feel ashamed. They attract large numbers of bees. With those prejudices in mind, I gave Stella Artois’s new Cidre a taste.

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Bring on the heat

Farewell, Summer Preview

Did you see this weekend’s forecast? The warm weather’s rolling in like a happiness-creating tide. Though it seems backwards, this is the perfect moment for us to wrap up our Summer Preview. Sure, we’re sad to see it go, but the entire premise was to get you prepped — and now it’s game time.

TIG

Today in Gear: May 13, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
J-L-Lawson-M-II-Gear-Patrol J. L. Lawson & Co. M II Key Shackle
The free keychain you got from your bank is no longer acceptable for daily carry. Upgrade to a this key shackle/bottle opener combo and never look back. Its oiled and waxed machined steel should last you a lifetime, and as a bonus it lightly resembles a medieval torture device. $42
Sony-Xperia-Zr-Gear-Patrol Sony Xperia ZR Waterproof Smartphone
Texting while diving is way better than texting while driving. Sony’s new Xperia smartphone is completely waterproof, so you can shoot HD video and take pictures in the deep blue with the 13MP camera. And sext with mermaids. xperia.com
Best-Made-Co-Toolbox-Gear-Patrol Best Made Co. Front Loading Toolbox
Unloading the top tray of your toolbox and sifting through your neatly organized utensils to get that hammer is a pain in the ass. Or rather it would be a pain, if you didn’t have an innovative, handmade, front-access toolbox at your disposal. $89
Geneva-Model-S-Wireless-Gear-Patrol Geneva Sound System Model S Wireless Music Dock
This little guy packs some heat. Great sound: two 3-inch drivers, two amplifiers, two bass ports, an FM receiver and a sneaky digital clock that shines through the face. Great look: three lacquered colors (we prefer hot rod red) and a brushed metal stand; backlit, touch-sensitive controls on top. $300
The-Glenlivet-Alpha-Gear-Patrol The Glenlivet Alpha
What exactly is Alpha? No tasting notes and nary a detail of any kind have been revealed. Glenlivet wants consumers to discover for themselves what makes this stuff so unique — a mystery we’re happy to take on. $150
Briggs-and-Riley-Torq-Collection Briggs & Riley Torq Luggage
A grand study in design-meets-function, these polycarbonate hardshells have a wide, no-tilt wheelbase, outside-mounted handles for a flat packing floor inside and a lifetime guarantee. Multiple sizes for different situations and high-tech looks should impress the jet-lagged ladies at the carousel. $479+
Sena-Samsung-Galaxy-S4-Gear-Patrol Sena Galaxy S4 Leather Cases
If having the latest and greatest Samsung smartphone isn’t showy enough, or if you’re concerned about marring your new gadget, it’s time for a case. But don’t go for chintzy plastic — pick up classy leather with sporty flairs like contrast stitching and racing stripe-inspired design elements. $30+
Lamborghini-Egoista-Concept-Gear-Patrol Lamborghini Egoista Concept
Inspired by the Apache helicopter, the one-seat Egoista is aptly named — as if simply owning a Lambo wouldn’t get to your head. Carbon fiber use is extensive, and the cockpit canopy can be taken off for further insanity weight savings. Not that a 600-horsepower V10 would have any trouble with a few extra pounds. lamborghini.com
Friday, May 10th
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Gatsby's Great Garage

Rolling Deco: Stunning Rides from the Gatsby Era

By AMOS KWON
Photo by MICHAEL FURMAN ET AL.

Jay Gatsby had it all, except perhaps the presence of mind to dial down the drama so he could hold on to the good things, namely cars and bikes that would stand the test of time for unrelenting beauty and elegance. The art deco era, spanning over two decades, influenced design internationally — and vehicles were beneficiaries of this arty approach to industry. So much of what was built in the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s now only exists in the hallowed halls of museums and collectors’ garages as we drool upon this glorious motoring past. Gatsby’s greatness could’ve remained had he chosen to drive one of these beauties into the West Egg sunset, leaving Daisy behind in a cloud of rich exhaust. Fresh for Baz Luhrmann’s full throttle cinematic interpretation of the landmark Fitzgerald novel, we’ve collected 10 of the finest art deco cars and bikes ever built.

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Ferris Bueller's (Summer) Day Off

Kit: Summer Fridays

Summer Fridays are a thing to be put on a pedestal, the ultimate luxury for 9-to-5, Monday to Friday working stiffs. They’re a chance to bug out as soon as possible, to hit the road or jump a train to the beach, a cabin in the woods or some other resplendent getaway. In any case, we can’t just go into a summer Friday unprepared, men. We cannot go silently into that good mini vacation. What we need is a kit — the perfect gear for the perfect summer Friday getaway.

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Strokes of genius

Paddle Proper: 5 Great Kayaks

There’s no easier way to cool down on a hot summer day than an adventure at the local lake or river, and no better way to enjoy said body of water than a kayak. A good one will help you ditch the crowds and find the perfect hidden spot for some summer fun –- all while traveling the water less paddled. Don’t know the difference between a whitewater creek boat and an ocean kayak? We’ve got you covered with some great kayaks for summer adventure.

TIG

Today in Gear: May 10, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
The-Principals-Bare-Bones-Concrete-Dominos-Gear-Patrol The Principals x Billy Reid Bare Bones Concrete Dominos
Yes, these strangely-shaped blocks are indeed dominoes. You’ll want to haul the cotton carrying bag with you wherever you roam and play as often as possible. Just maybe not on a glass table. $55
Need-Supply-x-Alden-Patterson-Unlined-Dover-Shoe-Gear-Patrol Need Supply x Alden Patterson Unlined Dover Shoe
Do everything you can to keep cats off these blue suede shoes. You won’t want any bit of the dark, unlined suede, hidden eyelets or contrast sole stitching marred in any way. On second thought, dogs are banned, too. $490
Seagate-600-SSD-Gear-Patrol Seagate 600 Solid State Drive
Upgrade your laptop’s internals with one of Seagate’s new solid-state drives — the company’s first for non-pros — and witness the 6Gb/sec SATA interface for yourself. Or scorch your buddy’s lame rig in a speed test if you’re feeling cruel. seagate.com
Oliver-Spencer-x-Mr-Porter-Gear-Patrol Oliver Spencer x Mr. Porter
Oliver Spencer’s military-meets-streetwear catalog is now available on Mr. Porter. Snatch up everything you could want from the British clothier: thick-woven color block sweaters, unique sport jackets, distinctive sport shirts and more. mrporter.com
CrossRope-Workout-Jump-Rope-Gear-Patrol CrossRope Workout Jump Rope
If you’re using vinyl-coated galvanized steel cables as workout gear, we’re not gonna mess with you. Multi-piece sets ensure you’ll always have the perfect custom workout, and the weight and resistance of the rope can adjust to your needs. crossrope.com ()
Adobe-ideas-app-Gear-Patrol Adobe Ideas Vector Drawing App
It’s better than a diner napkin. The Vector app lets you create graphics on the go (the time when all good ideas come) using your iOS device. If you’ve got a subscription to Adobe’s Creative Cloud, you’ll be able to automatically save your files to the ether for further editing when you’re in front of your desktop. Free
Thursday, May 9th
Staff Favorites
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GP's Resident Leadfoot

Staff Favorites: Amos Kwon

By GEAR PATROL

The fifth installment of our Staff Favorites series features Mr. Amos Kwon. Amos is, simply put, a man’s man. He’s entirely focused on family (he’s a proud husband and, more recently, a father), but he’s also passionate about cars (he’s the heart and soul of our automotive coverage), cigars (it’s amazing that he hasn’t yet hired a personal Cuban roller), Scotch, and a mean EDC. He’s a diligent, talented writer, zipping absurd humor (we still can’t get over his “Whoever chose this… should be slapped with a pair of wet Depends” line) into the tight copy of his otherwise earnest reviews. We’re proud to have this proud Chicagoan on the team — and his favorite gear doesn’t disappoint.

Summer Preview
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Time to hit the deck

Resealing Your Deck: A GP How-To Guide

By MATT NEUNDORF

Spring doesn’t really exist anymore. The belief that a season actually occurs between that last dumping of snow and when your smartphone weather apps start to sweat is mythical at best. What we get now is essentially a two-week meteorological reprieve during which we need to squeeze three months’ worth of work. To make sure those precious days aren’t squandered, we’re dishing out the goods on how to git ‘er done so you can make the most of this summer — and it starts with resealing your deck.

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Take me to the Moon

Time on Our Hands: Baume & Mercier Clifton Complete Calendar

After some years occupying the dreaded fashion watch segment, Baume & Mercier has been regaining its former glory with several beautiful new timepieces and an evocative brand image. With the new Clifton series, Baume has managed to avoid the sophomore jinx, delivering yet another brace of seductive watches. We got our hands on the Baume & Mercier Clifton Complete Calendar and gave it a few weeks of wrist time.

TIG

Today in Gear: May 9, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
X-Base-Table-Gear-Patrol Mod Mobili X-Base Table
If you’re tired of using your ironing board as a workstation but don’t want to stray from the general principle, the X-Table is wildly more practical and almost definitely better-looking. Rather than relying on electricity (is that a thing for desks now?), the Scandinavian-designed beauty can be adjusted manually. $1,250
Adobe-Mighty-and-Napoleon-Tablet-Peripherals-Gear-Patrol Adobe Mighty and Napoleon Tablet Peripherals
Now that Adobe’s got their heads in the Cloud, they’re stepping into the hardware game, too. The Mighty is a pressure-sensitive stylus connected to Adobe’s Creative Cloud; the Napoleon is similar in principal but functions as a tool for tablet drawing. Both should be major boons to creative techies. adobe.com ()
SSV-Cotton-Oxford-Suits-Gear-Patrol Seize sur Vingt Cotton Oxford Weave Suits
Seize sur Vignt’s Portuges-made cotton wool separates are perfect for men who can’t dress down during the summer months. Each piece is machine washable and lightly tailored for a comfortable, cool and versatile fit. 16sur20.com
Sony-XBR-4K-Ultra-HD-TV-Gear-Patrol Sony XBR 4K Ultra HD TVs
Just in time for graduation gifts and Father’s Day, Sony has revealed two new 4K HD TVs (55-inch and 65-inch) that would look great in a first apartment or dad’s den. Or anywhere else. A 4K media player is also available for purchase, and comes with a pack of 10 movies. Just add popcorn. $5,000+
Chiefs-Energizing-Man-Soap-Gear-Patrol Chiefs Energizing Man Soap
Made especially for men, these bars are built with oatmeal to slough away dead skin and are infused with moisturizing elements and essential oils that’ll keep even the burliest fellow’s skin just smooth enough. $11
SpiderOak-Hive-Private-File-Storage-Gear-Patrol SpiderOak Hive Private File Storage
With a heavy emphasis on privacy (“100%” private, in fact), SpiderOak’s file storage system is for users who don’t want their files sullied by unwarranted eyes. The first 2 gigs are free (same as Dropbox); after that you’ll need a subscription. Of course, if you’ve got nothing to hide, it’s still nice for syncing, sharing, Et al. Free ()
Bentley-Le-Mans-Edition-Gear-Patrol Bentley Le Mans Edition
In honor of the 10th Anniversary of their 2003 Le Mans win, Bentley is issuing a limited number of Le Mans Edition Continentals and Mulsannes — 48 examples of each, to be exact. Each one will have a numbered badge, Le Mans Edition clock, embroidered Le Mans headrests, Le Mans Edition wheels and unique interior and exterior colors. bentleymotors.com
Wednesday, May 8th
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Only good things in store

Mix It Up: Great Store-Bought Mixers

A decent drink can be hard to find, especially when you’re at home. For the do-it-yourselfers who would rather the “do” simply be mixing the strong stuff with the not-so-strong stuff, we’ve compiled a list of the top five mixers you can find in your friendly neighborhood high-end liquor store. All you have to do is add booze, ice and maybe a wry wink as you drop in the cocktail straw.

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Vice President of Product Design at Kalamazoo Gourmet

30 Minutes With: Russ Faulk

Plenty of guys think they’re grill masters. But Russ Faulk, vice president of product design at Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet, actually happens to be one. After asking him to add his personal notes to our tips for mastering the grill, we caught up with him to talk about life, family, battling squid and American craftsmanship.

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Smoke some grass

Blade Runners: 5 Great Riding Mowers for Under $2k

Though you might dream about dropping lotto-winning cash on a pimped-out riding mower, the truth is that you don’t need to spend more than $2k for a mower that you can captain with pride. Whether you plan on doing your best Bill Murray (Caddyshack, not Lost in Translation) impression on your own personal links, or hope to trim a more modest green acres, we’ve got the riding mower for you.

Summer Preview
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The Heat is On

Grill Master: Tips for BBQ Bliss

By BRANDON CHUANG
Photo by ROBERT S. DONOVAN

Grabbing the tongs, stoking the coals and biting into a lightly charred piece of meat is and always will be a shared summer pleasure. That doesn’t mean everyone knows how to do it right. To teach you how to truly master the grill — or even just to bone up the old pros — we’ve compiled a list of 10 grilling tips (along with notes from Russ Faulk of Kalamazoo Grills) to make your sizzle entirely satisfactory.

TIG

Today in Gear: May 8, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
Personal-IMAX-Gear-Patrol IMAX Private Theater
Maybe you’re a sheik, maybe you bought into APL early; regardless, you’re a movie buff, so this is a no-brainer. IMAX designers work with your architects (you have those right?) to offer their expertise, and once the in-home theater is done, IMAX continues to monitor and service your system 24/7/365. imaxprivatetheatre.com
Smoke-New-Firewood-Cooking-Gear-Patrol Smoke: New Firewood Cooking
There’s nothing quite like a smoky barbecued… well, anything, to get the ol’ mouth awaterin’. Chef Tim Byres introduces recipes for cleverly smoky foods as well as instructions for making your own smokehouse, and much more. $25 ()
Nike-Mercurial-Vapor-IX-SE-Gear-Patrol Nike Mercurial Vapor IX SE
Paying homage to the 1998 Nike Mercurial soccer shoe originally designed for soccer legend Ronaldo, the Mercurial Vapor IX SE updates the tech along with the classic design. Only 1,998 pairs will be produced, so you might miss out if you don’t pre-order. Our advice? Just do it. $350
Doane-Grid-Notebook-Paper-Gear-Patrol Doane Grid + Lines Notebook Paper
Whether you’re an artist, and architect or just a practicing penman, a few extra lines can go a long way. The small-scale grid on Doane’s notebook paper is a doodler’s dream come true, and every bit as functional for pencil jockeys who need to stay between the lines. $9
Wicked-Lasers-Phosforce-Laser-Flashlight-Gear-Patrol Wicked Lasers Phosforce Laser Flashlight
A whole 500 lumens shoots out the business end of the Phosforce, which uses technology similar to BMW’s headlight systems. The laser’s blue light is transformed into white light, and can change back at your whim. $80
Tuesday, May 7th
Original Series
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American Timekeeping

Stepping Back in Time: An Horological Visit to Lancaster, PA

By JASON HEATON
Photo by JH

To the casual observer, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with its tidy towns and the waft of manure from plowed fields on the spring breeze, is a far cry from the vaunted watchmaking regions of Europe. But there are similarities between this rolling farmland and the mountain valleys of Switzerland and Germany: a history of rural isolation, strong Puritan work ethic, cold winters, and a history of fine timepieces. Lancaster was home to the Hamilton Watch Company from 1892 until the mid-1980s and was, at one time, producer of some of the finest timepieces in the world. Today it is still a treasure trove of American watchmaking.

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Hunter, Safari Guide and Photographer

30 Minutes With: Alex Walker

Alex Walker grew up in a National Geographic photo spread. Instead of a lawn with a picket fence or a city playground, the fourth generation East African’s childhood stomping grounds were the tea fields of Mufindi, the bush of southern Tanzania and Kenya’s Mau forest. Today he makes his home in Masai Mara, Kenya, one of the most famous wildlife ecosystems in the world. After staying at one of Walker’s camps on our adventure in Kenya, we were curious to hear more about what makes this safari guide tick.

Buying Guide
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What's that, now?

Sweet Sound of Silence: 10 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

By ALEJANDRO BRACETTI

A respite from noise might seem thin on paper, but spend a few hours on an inescapable airplane with crying babies, heaving green-faced passengers or even a chatty cathy neighbor and get back to us on what you’re willing to pay for a little peace and music. What’s more, NC options have some of the best sound profiles available, making them true gems for audiophiles and the easily distracted alike. Considering the vastly small market for noise-canceling headsets available at the moment, the problem isn’t necessarily narrowing down the field — it’s choosing the best one for your audio needs. From pioneering audio staples to buzzing newcomers, these are the noise cancelers worth turning your ears to.

TIG

Today in Gear: May 7, 2013

By NICK CARUSO
Halda-Watches-Gear-Patrol Halda Watches
Halda’s interchangeable concept watches feature base “time platforms” and multiple “time modules” in a horological version of Face Off. Mechanical and digital modules for both the “Race Pilot” and the “Space Discovery” mean you can tailor your look and your timekeeping features to your environment. haldasweden.com
Kreg-Tool-Automaxx-System-Gear-Patrol Kreg Tool Automaxx Bench Klamp System
This Bench Klamp System automatically adjusts for every change in material thickness with just a squeeze of its padded handles. It also gives you the freedom to work on every square inch of your workbench — not just the edges (like lesser craftsmen). $50
Black-Diamond-Vector-Gear-Patrol Black Diamond Vector Climbing Helmet
At only 231 grams (half a pound), the Vector is a high-powered lightweight. Think Vern Troyer meets the Hulk. Six vents keep your scalp cool, and headlamp clips are built in. Here’s hoping you won’t have to use it. $99 ()
Sleepy-Jones-Gear-Patrol Sleepy Jones Clothing
Andy Spade (of Jack Spade fame) is back for more with his latest project, Sleepy Jones, a stylish collection of basics, underwear, tees, socks and more. Wistful patterns and small details make up the oeuvre here, and small details (like the coin pocket on the boxers) are real gems. $36 ()
Aecraft-Macbook-Air-Sleeve-Gear-Patrol Aecraft Ultra-Slim MacBook Air 13-inch Sleeve
The problem with Apple’s Macbook Air is that it’s so gorgeously, impossibly thin that it’ll fit anywhere — but if you just throw it in any old bag bag its brushed finish will be marred in no time flat. This Merino wool and leather sleeve features a magnetic closure for slim, secure storage of your gossamer gadget. ~$79
Smoke-and-Pickles-Gear-Patrol Smoke and Pickles: Recipes and Stories from a New Southern Kitchen
Edward Lee, owner of the Beard Award-nominated restaurant 610 Magnolia in Louisville, Kentucky, combines his Korean heritage and Southern upbringing for 130 recipes and bits of narrative that make this book both a kitchen tool and a good read. $19