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Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Full-sized air compressors are overkill for most households, but portable inflators are gaining popularity because they make quick and easy work of filling up everything from bike tires to camping mattresses. And while these good-to-have tools still aren't quite as prevalent as a cordless drill or a ratchet set, thanks to Walmart, they don't cost much to add to your collection. The Ophanie Cordless Portable Tire Inflator is now on sale for $30, a 63% discount on its normal retail price of $80. This portable inflator has stacked up over 1,400 five-star ratings at Walmart thanks to its stellar performance and ease of use—especially when compared with bulkier air compressors. Ophanie Cordless Portable Tire Inflator, $30 (was $80) at Walmart
This tool is designed to make inflating all kinds of items simple and easy. It has four pressure presets to take the guesswork out of inflating tires, sports balls, and other common items. Just attach the device, select a preset using the menu buttons, and turn it on—it’ll automatically shut off once it reaches the desired air pressure. The rechargeable design makes it super portable—no need to unspool a tangled extension cord—and it also includes a power cord that plugs into a car's 12-volt outlet, so you can get extended run time on the road. This portable inflator is a bestseller at Walmart, and reviewers have been impressed with its power despite its size. “This is the best purchase I've made in some time,” a shopper said. “I charge it and bring it anywhere I need it.” Another shopper agreed, calling it “an excellent little machine,” adding, “It works hard for a small compressor.” While reviewers have used the inflator to fill up a wide range of items, many recommended keeping it in the car. One reviewer said it “brings peace of mind” on the road. “It worked great and filled the tire in a relatively short time,” they added. Another reviewer said, “I think all drivers need this.” “I was able to air up all four tires on a truck, all four tires on a car, and 1.75 tires on a trailer on one charge,” another shopper exclaimed. “You can set the desired inflation level and relax while it fills your tire to the set point and shuts off automatically.” The Ophanie Cordless Tire Inflator is one of those tools that proves its utility over and over again. Now’s the time to swoop in and grab one: At 63% off, these popular inflators are selling fast, and a deal this good certainly won’t last forever. Медиа: | ↑ |
The sarcophagus for many people has become synonymous with ancient burial rituals. The coffins were usually reserved for esteemed leaders and wealthy individuals, giving scientists much to learn with every one discovered over the centuries. While often associated with ancient Egypt, sarcophagi were also used in ancient Rome and Greece. A recent discovery at the Tomb of Cerberus in the Italian town of Giugliano outside Naples has taught archaeologists more about the preservation of bodies in ancient Roman society. When a team of archaeologists opened the 2,000-year-old sarcophagus, they were shocked to find the remains of a person laying face-up in an "excellent state of preservation," according to a statement obtained by Popular Mechanics. The body was covered by a shroud of fabric and surrounded by typical burial goods like ointment jars and body-cleaning tools. “The Tomb of Cerberus continues to provide valuable information on the Phlegraean territory near Liternum, expanding knowledge of the past and offering opportunities for research of a multidisciplinary nature," Italian Ministry of Culture superintendent Marian Nuzzo said in a statement. Now, the team will be busy learning more about a lot of the things they found. "In recent months, laboratory analyses conducted on samples taken from the burials and depositional beds have returned a considerable amount of data regarding the treatment of the body of the deceased and the funerary rituals implanted, considerably enriching the panorama of our knowledge," Nuzzo said. It must have been quite the burial if people are still excited about it thousands of years later. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Golfers know that the best deals on golf clubs are found at PGA Tour Superstore, whether they're looking for a tried-and-true Titleist hammer or a comprehensive set of TaylorMade irons. But recently, shoppers have been swarming the site to get last year's revolutionary Ping driver that finally went on sale and is said to crush tee-offs with unmatched forgiveness. The Ping G430 Max Driver is now on sale at PGA Tour Superstore for as low as $400—a 27% discount on the normal $549 retail price. This is one of the site's bestselling drivers alongside the Ping G430 Max 10K that debuted this year, but it's $200 less and owns over 150 five-star ratings from golfers who swear by it, including one who poetically said it's "as forgiving as a Golden Retriever." This driver is also highly customizable, with over three loft angles, six shaft types, and six flexes among stock models. PGA Tour Superstore can also build a truly customized model for an extra charge with hundreds of thousands of possible shaft, grip, and wrap options. Ping G430 Max Driver, From $400 (was $549) at PGA Tour Superstore
While the club head is on the larger side, this Ping driver is said to be the longest and most forgiving from the brand to date, and some even say it's the leader among all brands. It uses a variable-thickness face to create deflection that improves ball speeds and distance while a new internal build produces a sound you'll enjoy hearing at tee-off. It also has an adjustable 25-gram tungsten back weight that helps better define the center of gravity of your swing while loft and lie can be adjusted in eight positions to ensure your club works for your natural form. Ping's drivers hold up well over time, but those who have shot the G430 Max say it's in a league of its own. "Absolutely amazing driver," one golfer exclaimed. "I was going to reshaft my existing driver and hit it ok during the fitting. Then they gave me this thing and I reeled off four drives that were dead straight. It looked like they were right on top of each other! Then the fitter showed me the iPad—all four were longer than anything I hit all day. I ordered this, a fairway wood and a hybrid." Many others say this driver was the one that finally made them part with former long-time favorite brands. "Ping's finest driver," as one shopper put it. "I recently test-drove the latest offerings from TaylorMade, Cobra, Callaway, and Ping. Long time TaylorMade player, but my experience was that Ping presently has the best combination of accuracy, forgiveness, and distance. I am sold." If you're looking for an immediate upgrade in accuracy and power off the tee, Ping's G430 Max Driver is one of the best ways to get there, especially while it's on sale. We're not sure if the discount will be going away, so make sure to customize yours and pick it up before the price changes. Медиа: | ↑ |
For decades, Cracker Barrel has been a go-to spot to get typical American eats for an affordable price. But in CEO Julie Felss Masino's own words, the chain is "not as relevant" as it once was. As a result, the company is implementing a three-year plan to revive the brand amid sagging sales. Masino spoke about the changes in a July 25 interview with CNBC. "Fiscal [year] ’25, which starts for us in another week or two, is really an investment year," she said. "We’ve got five pillars in our plan, we’re really bringing those together, starting to get those rocking and rolling, and then we’ll start to see the benefits in the back half of our fiscal ’26 and into ’27." It'll be a multi-pronged approach to get more customers through the doors in the next few years. The company plans to remodel locations, try new dishes, and improve technology for its loyalty program and to-go meal business to make the customer experience more enjoyable. As for what the new Cracker Barrels will look like, they're testing out four different designs in Tennessee to determine "which level of investment is going to drive the right return." It also plans on "the largest menu test in the history of the brand" as more than 20 items will be added to the menu to see what sticks. The new options will be available in locations across the country starting in early August. "Our goal is to take what people love about Cracker Barrel and open the aperture a little bit so that more people love Cracker Barrel," she said of the reasoning behind the changes. "So we want to appeal to all generations." Next time you stop in to Cracker Barrel, see if you notice anything different. Медиа: | ↑ |
The Boys may be coming to an end following its fifth and final season, but the popular Prime Video television franchise just gave fans a reason to celebrate in a big way. During the "Let's Hear It for Prime Video's The Boys" panel at the San Diego International Comic-Con on Friday, it was announced that a prequel series is in the works called Vought Rising, which will bring back former guest stars Jensen Ackles and Aya Cash. In addition to reprising their characters Soldier Boy and Stormfront, respectively, Ackles and Cash are also set to produce the series, which will be led by The Boys executive producer Paul Grellong, Deadline reports exclusively. Ackles joined The Boys cast, Grellong, and series creator Eric Kripke on the panel to deliver the news in person. Cash, who wasn't able to attend, likewise appeared on video.
"Producers are writing the scripts right now, it'll be a lurid, pulp saga prequel set in New York City at the dawn of the 1950s about the humble yet diabolical beginnings of the Vought corporation," Ackles explained. Cash likewise gushed that she was "so excited" about the prequel and to be working with Ackles. "I think this thing is gonna be incredible," she revealed. "We got everything from Judy Garland to Joan McCarthy—how, I don't know—I didn't write it, but I have read it, and it's really, really good." "It’s a twisted murder mystery about the origins of Vought in the 1950s, the early exploits of Soldier Boy, and the diabolical maneuvers of a Supe known to fans as Stormfront, who was then going by the name Clara Vought," Kripke and Grellong added. "We cannot wait to blow your minds and trouble your souls with this salacious, grisly saga drenched in blood and Compound V." Cash's Stormfront had an arc in the second season of The Boys, and became involved in a relationship with Homelander (Anthony Starr) before being killed off early in season three. Ackles' Soldier Boy, meanwhile, who was found to have been Homelander's father, had a memorable run in season three. His character was last seen in a post credits scene following the fourth season finale. Season five of The Boys is expected sometime in 2026. In addition to Vought Rising, the series has already seen several successful spinoffs, including a web series Seven on 7, an adult animated anthology series Diabolical, and the live-action Gen V, which is currently filming its second season. There is also a The Boys: Mexico in the works, which is being executive produced by Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Sand, water, and that unchained feeling of summer. These aren’t the elements or emotions that usually jibe with a quality timepiece. G-Shock, however, may be the one exception here—having built its reputation on making tough yet stylish watches that are comfortable in any situation and can hold up to practically anything, including your next big beach day or week. In celebration of summer, the Japanese watchmaker has dropped six eye-popping new timepieces built for the shore and wherever else summer sends you and your wrist: DW5600TL, DW5600TLS, GA2100TL, GA2100TLS, GA110TL, GA110TLS. 
Courtesy Image Each model is meant to evoke the light and vibes of sunny days and peaceful evenings spent by the sea. Three come in white, the other three in a deep blue. All feature a special vapor deposition treatment on the glass that offers a unique radiance specific to each watch face. Classic G-Shock specifications include a shock-resistant structure, 200M water resistance, and a countdown timer. Related: The 13 Best Dive Watches of 2024 
Courtesy Image The DW5600 also features a 1/100-second stopwatch, multi-function alarm, and flash alert. The GA2100 offers a hand shift feature, 1/100-second stopwatch, world time (48 cities), and five daily alarms. The GA110 provides those last three features plus ISO 764-compliant magnetism resistance. All of the watches come with bands made with bio-based resin, produced using renewable organic resources. Each has its own LED light style that's easy to read after the sun dips behind the water. G-Shock watches are known for having reasonable price tags—especially considering their myriad features. The brand's latest six summer stunners are an especially good deal, priced between $110 and $150. Related: Best Charcoal Grills of 2024 to Elevate Your Backyard BBQs Медиа: | ↑ |
The quick thinking of security saved a Jason Aldean concert from going awry, after an out-of-control fan managed to get onstage at a concert on Thursday night. But the threat was quickly neutralized, and didn't interrupt the country singer's performance. According to TMZ, the incident went down about halfway through a stop on Aldean's Highway Desperado tour at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, GA on July 25. In video footage obtained by the outlet, the man can be seen being held down by one security guard, after already having been tackled onto the stage. Two others soon come to his assistance, and the three guards then pick the man up and promptly carry him offstage. For his part, Aldean did not seem to even notice the commotion, while his band continued playing as though nothing was out of the ordinary. Although Aldean is an outspoken member of the Republican Party who has voiced his support for former President Donald Trump's reelection campaign—even making an appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention earlier this month—TMZ reports that the man did not appear to be a protester, but just "a fan who let his enthusiasm get the best of him." A Savannah Police Department source claimed that the unnamed fan was not arrested and simply escorted out of the venue. However, he has reportedly since been banned from both the venue and future Ticketmaster events. As they say, play stupid games, win stupid prizes. In similar news, a Phish fan was banned from the Sphere in Las Vegas and any other Madison Square Garden-owned venues after posting video of himself smoking "the first bong hit to ever be ripped in the Sphere" during the jam band's four-show residency on April 20. The company reversed its decision not long after, but we can't say the Jason Aldean fan will have as much luck after the stunt he pulled. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. E-bikes are becoming more popular every year, offering riders an alternative to manual pedaling that makes getting to work, touring the outdoors, and having a leisurely weekend easier and more fun. But many popular models are still expensive, often fetching prices over $1,000. Thankfully, Walmart continues to roll back prices on its e-bikes, and recently, one of the retailer's top sellers received a discount greater than the price of the average bike. The TotGuard Foldable Fat Tire E-Bike is now on sale at Walmart for $660—a 67% discount on its normal $2,000 price. This horse-of-a-bike has been turning heads, and it's currently one of the top-selling models at Walmart after having earned over 200 five-star ratings from shoppers who say it's a "monster bike and moves well." It's only available in black, but there are three accent colors to choose from—blue, orange, or red—and, unlike many other e-bikes, this one will ship for free. TotGuard Foldable Fat Tire E-Bike in Black/Blue, $660 (was $2,000) at Walmart
This e-bike features thick 26-by-4-inch off-road tires, dual shock absorbers (in the seat and fork), and a 500-watt brushless motor that combine to deliver a fast, comfortable ride up to 21.6mph whether you're taking it to the street or on a light trail. It comes with a 48-volt, 10Ah removable water-resistant battery that'll get up to 40 miles on a single charge, and it can juice back up from 0 to 100 in about five hours. This e-bike can be used in three modes—normal bike, pedal assist, and throttle—and has a handy LCD screen that highlights remaining battery life, mileage, speed, and use time, among other statistics. Shoppers who have picked this TotGuard e-bike as their ride of choice were won over by the price, but once they get on, they're even more wowed by its performance. "I'm truly impressed," a shopper exclaimed. "This bike offers the best value out there—it's amazing! The bike is sturdy, with fat tires and a cool, solid frame. As an e-bike, it's fast, reaching 22 mph for me. It glides like a dream, and I highly recommend it…This one is a steal for $600 to $700." One shopper even found this e-bike a worthy companion for hunting. "A beast for the price," they said. "It effortlessly tows a trailer with my tree stand gear, deer, or even my hunting companion. Both of us have found it capable of navigating over logs, through ditches, and even across water without any issues…The bike is foldable for easy transport and was straightforward to assemble." Rugged e-bikes just like TotGuard's Foldable Fat Tire model are catching on rapidly among commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, and joy riders, but many of them can cost upward of $1,500 or more, which is why this is such a score. If this is the right one for you, make sure to grab your favorite color soon before the price rolls back up. Медиа: | ↑ |
Shipwrecks can tell us a lot about the people who were traveling aboard the vessels and the time periods they lived in. The Titanic wreck, for example, contained precious items like cutlery and violins. A recent discovery off the coast of Sweden showed what the passengers were imbibing hundreds of years ago. A team of Polish divers were recently poking around a 19th-century shipwreck off the coast of Sweden when they found a treasure trove of historical artifacts. They found it in the Baltic Sea approximately 20 nautical miles off the country's coast. Among them were 100 bottles of champagne as well as other beverages and items that could hold clues about life at the time. "We encountered a 19th century sailing ship in very good condition, loaded to the sides with champagne, wine, mineral water, and porcelain. There was so much of it that it was difficult for us to judge the quantities," the team said in a statement. "We certainly saw more than 100 bottles of champagne and baskets of mineral water in clay bottles." Related: Archaeologists Salvage Centuries-Old Secrets From Swedish Shipwreck The mineral water in particular was of particular interest to the researchers. "It was this water that proved most interesting and led us to further clues. In those days, mineral water was treated almost like medicine and only found its way to royal tables. Its value was so precious that transports were escorted by the police," they said. "We came across about 100 sealed bottles of Selters water. This is a German producer which still exists, and its products are still considered exquisite." "Thanks to the shape of the stamp and with historians help, we know that our shipment was produced between 1850 [and] 1867," they added. "Interestingly, the pottery factory [where] the water was bottled also exists, and we are in contact with them to find out more details." One can only imagine what the bubbly tastes like after hundreds of years at the bottom of the ocean. Медиа: | ↑ |
A pair of inconvenienced Delta passengers took matters into their own hands after their flights were delayed for days and they received no compensation for "thousands of dollars" they lost in the process. The beleaguered airline has taken quite the hit over the past week in the wake of widespread CrowdStrike outages, which disproportionately impacted Delta compared to other leading airlines. As of earlier in the week, thousands of Delta flights around the world had been delayed with the CEO of the company estimating that "100 percent functionality" wouldn't be expected until Thursday. Unfortunately, restored operations didn't come in time for the two aforementioned travelers, who shared their ordeal on TikTok. “POV: Delta doesn’t compensate for thousands of dollars lost from delaying our flights for days so we gonna get it back in the Sky Club," content creator Kyle Philippi captioned the minute-long video, adding a succinct: "This will set them back!"
In the video, which was appropriately set to AC/DC's "Thunderstruck," Philippi and his traveling companion could be seen taking the Delta lounge for all that it was worth—piling up plates upon plates of food from the buffet, including appetizers, ribs, wings, popcorn, cookies, and so on. In one of the more egregious moments, Philippi filmed himself ordering a glass of red wine, which he then proceeded to pour directly into then trashcan. The pair also made off with a pile of Business Traveler magazines and pocketed handfuls of single-serve bags of Cheez-Its. But their wave of destruction was not relegated to food and magazines, as they also documented themselves wasting amenities such as hand sanitizer, shower water, and pump bottles of shampoo and conditioner. People quickly rallied around the stranded travelers, sounding off in the comments. "I won’t lie pouring the wine out went hard," wrote one user, while another added: "This is the level of petty we strive for." "As someone who has been completely wronged by Delta, thank you for your service!" wrote another admirer. However, it may have been Delta that had the last laugh. In a follow-up video responding to a commenter who wrote "that toilet break is gonna be fire," Philippi asked his companion whether "he showed Delta or they showed him."
"Delta showed me ... I've got Delta's revenge," he quipped. "Oh, you gonna eat me out of house and home, here's what you get for that. You gonna eat everything in our lounge? This is what you get." When asked how many times he had used the bathroom since they finally arrived at their destination, he admitted: "No kidding, at least 20 times." As they say, not all heroes wear capes. Some just use an absolutely astounding amount of hotel room toilet paper. Медиа: | ↑ |
Deadpool & Wolverine, the long-awaited reunion of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman's iconic Marvel characters, opens in theaters across the country today. Many fans, however, opted to watch the movie in the Thursday preview period rather than wait for the Friday release. It turns out the enthusiasm was so high to see the movie right away that the movie has already smashed a box office record. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the movie grossed $38.5 million in Thursday previews alone. This makes it the best-performing R-rated film ever in terms of previews and eighth overall among previews for all films. Other big-budget blockbusters that raked in the cash in Thursday screenings include Avengers: Endgame, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2. By comparison, the first Deadpool brought in $12.7 million in Thursday night previews and the sequel Deadpool 2 held the R-rated record until now with $18.6 million. Related: Ryan Reynolds Dishes on Getting Madonna Involved in 'Deadpool & Wolverine' Deadpool & Wolverine could outdo the first two movies' opening weekend numbers as well. The original Deadpool opened to $133.7 million at the domestic box office back in 2016, which remains the record for biggest opening weekend for an R-rated movie. Deadpool 2 generated $125.5 million in sales in its opening weekend two years later. Though it may be a Marvel franchise, the Deadpool series isn't exactly kid-friendly, so leave them at home if you're planning to see Deadpool & Wolverine this weekend. Медиа: | ↑ |
A California couple who were engaged and expecting their first child died in a tragic accident earlier this month, when they were swept out to sea by a huge wave while posing for a photo together. According to KTVU 2 News, Pedro David Guadarrama Ceron, 30, and Emma Nelly Diazleal Lopez, 33, of San Jose had been standing on rocks near West Cliff Drive and David Way in Santa Cruz on July 16 when they were suddenly pulled into the water by large waves. Santa Cruz Fire Department Chief Rob Oatey said that locals refer to the spot as "death rocks" due to the turbulent, unpredictable currents. First responders located the couple face down in the water, but they were unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene. Ceron's father told NBC Bay Area that the couple had climbed onto the rock to take pictures when the wave "came out of nowhere." He said that his son had just immigrated to the United States from Mexico four years ago in search of the American dream. The family was heartbroken at learning that Lopez had been pregnant.
David Hill, a deputy harbor master who responded to the scene on his boat, said that swimmers jumped into the ocean and pulled the victims onboard, but emergency responders were unsuccessful in their resuscitation efforts. "You may have a perfectly calm day where it's not a lot of wind, there's not a lot of chop in the water," Hill told the outlet. "But there could be a swell system that creates a wave every 15 minutes. You may not realize it." "Any surface before standing on it, you want to see if it's wet first because if there's water, water splashed on it," he continued, noting that beachgoers should also pay close attention to any blocked off areas or warning signs when visiting the coast. Медиа: | ↑ |
The famed and historic Canadian mountain town of Jasper, Alberta was hit by a fast-moving wildfire this week, with the town suffering significant damage from the blaze. Photos and videos spread on social media showed the extent of the devastation, with blocks of homes and tourist lodges reduced to ash. Fires first broke out in the area on Monday, July 22, and reached the town within 48 hours. Evacuation orders soon followed, with 20,000 tourists and around 5,000 year-round residents fleeing for safety. Now, many are just beginning to get a view of the destruction.
During a Thursday press conference, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said that "potentially 30 to 50 percent" of buildings in the town had been destroyed, BBC reported. "There is no denying that this is the worst nightmare for any community," she said. While damage to the town was significant, it was not complete. The famous Jasper Park Lodge shared that it had largely survived the fires, and other parts of town appeared to be spared. No deaths have been reported.
Jasper is a hugely popular tourist spot, serving as a gateway to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Jasper National Park—the largest and most popular national park in Canada—remains indefinitely closed due to the fires. Nearby Banff National Park remains open at this time. Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland shared a heartfelt message on Facebook amid the devastation, imploring residents to stick together. "In the face of such overwhelming adversity, it is imperative that we support and strengthen each other," he wrote. "While the road ahead is daunting and remains uncertain, please remember that you are not alone. Our community is resilient, and united we will find a way to get through this, together." Firefighters continue to battle blazes in the area, with rain and cooler temperatures helping to tamp down the spread. Медиа: | ↑ |
A series of coordinated, malicious arson attacks on the rail system of France have stranded hundreds of thousands of travelers and brought transportation into and out of the city of Paris to a standstill overnight, just hours before the 2024 Olympic Games were set to kick off. SNCF CEO Jean-Pierre Farandou, head of France's national state-owned railway company, said in a news briefing on Friday that the fiber optic cables that connect to signal boxes and other rail infrastructure had been taken apart and set on fire. It's still unclear who is behind the attacks, but French intelligence services are "fully mobilized" to find out who is responsible, per CNN. An intelligence source said that similar methods have been employed by far-left activists in the past, but that "there is no evidence to tie today’s actions to them." Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines were impacted due to the attacks, which caused damage to several facilities. A planned attack on the South East line, meanwhile, had been foiled by authorities. At least 250,000 travelers were impacted on Friday, with roughly 800,000 expected to be affected through the weekend while crews high to make repairs. "Following this massive attack aimed at paralyzing the high-speed line network, a large number of trains were diverted or canceled," the company said in a statement. "Affected travelers will be contacted by email or SMS. We ask all travelers who can to postpone their trip and not to go to the station. All tickets for these disrupted journeys are exchangeable and refundable." French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal called the consequences to the rail network "massive and serious" in a social media post on Friday, warning that "intelligence services and law enforcement are mobilized to find and punish the perpetrators of these criminal acts." The prosecutor’s office in Paris have detailed four separate criminal charges in an investigation into the attacks, pertaining to the damage of state property and coordinating organized crime. Those found to be responsible could face up to 20 years in prison with a fine of $325,000. As of Friday afternoon, Attal said he was not aware that any arrests had taken place. The Opening Ceremony for the 2024 Olympic Games is set to take place today at 1:30 p.m. eastern time. Athletes will parade down the river Seine through the center of the city. The ceremony is still scheduled to take place as planned, although some spectators and athletes may not be able to attend. Медиа: | ↑ |
Whether you’re looking for your fastest mile ever, itching to cook your friends on the court in pickup or pickleball, or cooking through a sprint workout on the track like an Olympian, you need a rock-solid abs. “If you have a straight stick, and you throw its end on the ground, it’ll bounce back up; but if there’s bend in the stick, it might bounce in any direction,” says Team USA’s Noah Lyles, a favorite to win gold in the 100m at the Paris Olympics. "It’s the same thing when you’re running. If you don’t have a tight midline—a stable, well-structured core—when you make contact with the ground, you’re not using all the power you’re producing.” Few athletes know more about building power and speed than Lyles. To create the explosive stride that's led him to eight track and field world championship and Olympic medals—including double gold in the 100 and 200 meters at the 2023 world champs—the 27-year-old sprinter spends four days per week in the weight room, doing workouts that focus on building power: Exercises like cleans, hex bar deadlifts, front squats, back squats, and power throws. To make sure he’s converting his power into speed with each step, Lyles also sweats through a core workout in just about every session, building that springy, power-saving stiffness in his middle that lets him unleash the power he builds through his barbell work and track sessions. As part of his partnership with CELSIUS energy drinks, Lyles spoke with Men’s Journal to share one of the core routines he uses to help build gold medal abs. There are also some easier alternatives for each exercise for non-Olympians who need to scale down. Try this workout at the end of your next strength training session, or as a workout on its own. For each move in this six-exercise routine, rest 1 to 2 minutes between sets. 1. GHD Machine Hollow Hold Westend61/ Getty Images Why It's EffectiveYou may have done hollow holds before on the floor, but Lyles’ version adds an extra challenge: Instead of on the ground, this move is performed on the glute-ham developer bench. A staple in CrossFit gyms, this machine can be used for butt and leg development, as the name suggests, but is also popular for intense, full-range situps and other core moves. How to Do It
Easier Variation: Hollow Body Hold Justin Steele The closer your torso is to perpendicular, the easier the move will be. And if you don’t have access to a GHD machine, you can perform hollow holds on the floor. How to Do It
2. Toes to Bar James Michelfelder Why It's EffectiveToes to bar does more than just build a six-pack: Studies have shown this type of move is one of the most effective for strengthening the obliques, even when done without twisting. Lyles does the full toes to bar variation. How to Do It
Easier Variation: Hanging Knee Raise
3. V-Up Why It's EffectiveFor someone as strong as Lyles, this advanced sit-up might seem easy. To keep it challenging, he says, he’s uncompromising on form: “It has to be that V shape in the middle, and you have to be touching your toes,” he says, in order to get the full benefit. How to Do It
Easier Variation: Deconstructed V-UpIf you’re flailing and throwing your torso up and down, split the move in two: Perform the upper body portion of the V-up, doing a situp with a straight back. Then do the lower body portion, raising your legs from the ground while your upper body is flat on the ground. 4. Star Plank sergio_kumer/ Getty Images Why It's EffectiveThis move, Lyles says, is probably the most important in his core routine because it engages the core and the glutes at the same time. Running requires front and posterior muscles to work together in balance, and this trains just that. To help fire up your glutes in this move, try getting into the side plank in a different way: Instead of lifting your hips off the floor laterally, do so from a position where your knees are slightly bent, and your feet are a little closer to your waist than they will be in the full side plank position. As you raise your body up, squeeze your butt to press your hips forward and take the bend out of your knees. As you do this, your feet will slide a bit on the ground into position. How to Do It
Easier Variation: Side PlankToo hard? Skip the star shape. Stop at step 3, and perform the four 15-second holds on each side. 5. Forearm Plank Beth Bischoff Why It's EffectiveDon’t just hang out in a plank, Lyles says. Engage your core by drawing your belly button towards your spine. Feel your lats in your back firing. Squeeze your glutes. And grip the floor with your fingers. This, he says, will turn this “easy” move into a challenge. How to Do It
Easier Variation: Plank From KneesYou can also perform planks on your knees. Instead of a rigid line from head to heels, maintain a rigid body line from head to knees. 6. Glute Kickback Machine Getty Images Note: This image depicts cable glute kickback, which is an alternative if you don't have access to a glute kickback machine. Why It's Effective“A lot of people think that this machine is about how far you can throw the weight up using your hamstring, but they’re missing the point,” Lyles says. “Your core should be more turned on than your hamstrings.” Lyles says to concentrate on doing this move with purpose. “Go at a slower pace, and push the weight up and down with the same intent and same speed. You should feel every muscle working,” he says. How to Do It
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Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Between plane tickets, hotel rooms, and eating at restaurants, traveling gets expensive in a hurry, and that's not even including your travel gear. Thankfully, a massively popular luggage set at Walmart just plummeted in price, and it's the perfect pick-up for any frequent flier. The Sunbee 3-Piece Luggage Set is now on sale at Walmart for only $110—a 72% discount on its original price of $399. This spacious luggage set has earned nearly 1,000 five-star ratings from enthusiastic shoppers who rave about its sturdy build and maneuverability. The set includes a 20-inch carry-on bag as well as 24- and 28-inch checked suitcases, and it's available in five great colors, including green, tan, and navy. Sunbee 3-Piece Luggage Set in Black, $110 (was $399) at Walmart
This set of luggage offers a full range of sizes for trips of any length, from quick overnighters to weeks-long vacations. The convenient sizing of the roller bags lets you tailor your packing for different situations—the carry-on is perfect for shorter trips while the larger checked bags can handle a whole dresser’s worth of clothing. Each piece features a lightweight, impact-resistant plastic hardshell design and molded corner guards to keep your belongings secure, standing up to bumps and scrapes. Inside, a zippered mesh divider and interior straps keep your clothes and accessories organized in transit. These bags are also a snap to move around: Double caster wheels at all four corners help them roll smoothly through airports, and the three-stage telescoping handle and exterior grab handles make them easy to pull, push, and lift. Reviewers are not shy about praising this affordable, well-built luggage set. One reviewer called the bags “very sturdy” and added they “made it through Nashville and Chicago O'Hare in one piece.” Another shopper called them “amazing,” and said, “Took the luggage on a cruise and it sustained the tossing and throwing and took a beating.” Other shoppers loved the set’s value and ease of use. One shopper called the bags “very strong and good quality,” and another said they “have not found a better deal for the quality and price for a three-piece set of luggage.” Not all luggage is created the same, but thousands of satisfied shoppers have commended the Sunbee 3-Piece Luggage Set, and at $110, it’s a screaming deal. But act fast: A deal this good won’t last long. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Most camping gear isn't as useful away from the campsite—why would you fire up your portable grill on a weeknight when you have a full kitchen in your home? But that’s what makes Rumpl's camping blankets so special—they're not just for sleeping outside. This super versatile, super tough insulated blanket has so many uses, both indoors and out, and now’s the perfect time to get one while they're nearly 50% off. The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket Print is on sale at Dick’s Sporting Goods for as low as $67, up to 46% off its normal price of $125. This machine-washable blanket is ideal for camping, outdoor movie nights, backyard bonfires, and more, and reviewers love its comfortable feel and warmth—one shopper even called it “the best blanket ever.” It's on sale in 10 colors, all of which are discounted, though three of them (Rocky Mountain Fade and Rocky Mountain Sunset Fade) are a slightly higher price. Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket in Arizona Fade, $68 (was $125) at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Rumpl's all-purpose insulated blankets are constructed with a polyester shell and filled with 3D hollow fiber synthetic insulation, and both the shell and the stuffing are derived from 100% recycled plastic. Loops at all four corners allow you to stake it to the ground and use it as a picnic blanket, and you can use a clip at one end to wear the blanket like a cape and keep your hands free. The shell has a water-repellent finish to slick moisture and prevent stains, and if the blanket does get dirty, cleaning it is super easy: Just toss it in the washing machine on a cold cycle and hang it to dry (you can also put it in the dryer on a low setting). Reviewers have been raving about these Rumpl blankets, with many highlighting their unique versatility for camping and beyond. One shopper called it “the best and most versatile blanket on the market.” Another said the blanket is “amazing for indoor, outdoor, camping, beach, car travel, campfires at the cottages and just a great comfort layer.” Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket in Cascade Fade Green, $68 (was $125) at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Another highlight: Rumpl’s effective insulation. “My wife is finally warm,” a shopper said. “She literally wears her blanket all over the house, car trips, hiking…all of it.” Other shoppers agreed, with one noting, “When I wanted an extra layer, it provided a noticeable difference in warmth.” The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket Print is one of those camping gear items that won’t stay in the closet very often—it's easy to find all kinds of ways to use this rugged, comfy layer at home and beyond. Just make sure to grab one now—they might be on sale, but once they're gone, they're gone for good. Медиа: | ↑ |
When ordering wings at a restaurant, Americans will opt for either the boneless or bone-in option depending on their preferences. When you bite into a boneless wing, you probably aren't expecting to bite a bone. But in Ohio, it turns out wings advertised as boneless can actually have bones in them. In a ruling handed down July 25, the Ohio Supreme Court decided that consumers can't expect boneless chicken wings to not have any bones in them. It all started after Michael Berkheimer and his wife were eating at the Wings on Brookwood restaurant in the city of Hamilton and a bite of boneless wing felt wrong as it went down Berkheimer's throat. He soon became quite ill and couldn't keep food down for three days, finally rushing to the emergency room for treatment. A doctor ended up finding a long, thin bone that had torn his esophagus and caused an infection. Berkheimer sued the restaurant for not warning him that the boneless wings could contain bones, as well as the supplier and the farm where the chicken came from for their negligence. In a 5–4 ruling, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled in favor of the defendants. "A diner reading 'boneless wings' on a menu would no more believe that the restaurant was warranting the absence of bones in the items than believe that the items were made from chicken wings, just as a person eating ' chicken fingers' would know that he had not been served fingers," Justice Joseph T. Deters wrote in the majority opinion, per The Associated Press. The dissenting justices, meanwhile, recognized the majority's opinion as "utter jabberwocky." This case, they said, should have been left up to a jury to decide. "The question must be asked: Does anyone really believe that the parents in this country who feed their young children boneless wings or chicken tenders or chicken nuggets or chicken fingers expect bones to be in the chicken? Of course they don’t,” Justice Michael P. Donnelly dissented. "When they read the word ‘boneless,’ they think that it means 'without bones,' as do all sensible people." If you're a boneless wing lover, you might want to bite into your next piece with extra caution. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Business casual style has all but become the norm for most offices, employing minimalist sneakers, untucked shirts, and clean tech chinos instead of the stuffy sack suits that were once the norm. It doesn't stop there— men's joggers are a mainstay for modern workers, boasting a look similar to flat-front pants with the feel and comfort of sweatpants. Some pairs, like Lululemon's ABC Pant and Vuori's Meta Jogger, can cost upward of $125, but right now, you can score Dick's Sporting Goods' most beloved pair for under $25. The Vrst Limitless Slim-Fit 4-Way Stretch Joggers are now on sale at Dick's starting at $23—up to 74% off the normal $88 price. These shopper-favorite joggers have earned a 4.5-star rating after nearly 150 votes from shoppers who say they're "some of the most versatile and comfortable pants you can buy." They're on sale in four neutral colors and come in sizes small through 2XL, but availability is shrinking rapidly. And while the price depends on the color selected, none are more than $38. Vrst Limitless Slim-Fit 4-Way Stretch Joggers in Dark Green, $23 (was $88) at Dick's Sporting Goods
These slim-fit joggers are made from moisture-wicking polyester that allows them to stretch and breathe without making you sweat, even during the summer. They're fitted through the thigh and have a proportional taper down toward the ankle that provides a sharp aesthetic that's perfectly appropriate for most modern offices, golf courses, and just for weekend errands. The pants are outfitted with ribbed cuffs at the bottom as well as on the drawstring waistband, making them even cozier. Shoppers who have tried these Vrst joggers have been astounded by how comfortable they are despite looking like actual pants. "These are not like typical joggers that tend to be a little sloppy looking," a shopper began. "These have more structure to them like a pant, so they look neater, but the material is stretchy, light, comfortable, and just plain perfect in my opinion." Vrst Limitless Slim-Fit 4-Way Stretch Joggers in Warm Stone, $27 (was $88) at Dick's Sporting Goods
Others love how versatile this pair of joggers is for everyday use, whether it's for work or play. "Vrst has been killing it with their joggers the past year," a shopper said. "I wear these in multiple colors as clean dressy-casual and business-casual pants with a nice clean dress sneaker much like the way that a pair of pressed khakis used to be my go-to, only these are unrestrictedly super comfortable." If you're looking to switch it up from daily chinos and jeans, this pair of Vrst joggers is a logical next step, and you can get away with trying them for under $25 right now. Make sure to pick up a pair soon, though, because at this price, they'll surely sell out soon. Медиа: | ↑ |
There’s nothing as challenging and exhilarating as scaling a vertical rock face. Rock climbing develops sinewy forearms, ripped abs, and well-defined calves. It’s a safer, more accessible version of mountaineering and free soloing, requiring little more than a rock outcrop, some gear, and a partner. After learning the basics of how to rock climb, you can take those skills to any of the best rock climbing destinations for beginners—well beyond your local climbing gym to thousands of sport climbing cliffs around the globe. Still feeling a little shy? The following five steps will serve as your perfect rock climbing starter guide—and from there, the limits are endless. Related: These 5 Simple Surfing Steps Will Help You Ride Your First Wave With sport climbing, you have a safety rope and permanent bolts and anchors attached to the rock. You move up slowly, a few inches to a foot or two at a time. It’s an excellent way to explore the outdoors—and also make close connections with fellow climbers. With more than 650 climbing gyms throughout the U.S., there are many spots to safely learn the sport before getting out there for real. To help you get started, we spoke with three of the world’s greatest climbers. Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Meet the Experts
 Promo Ascent/Xmedia/Getty Images 1. Rock Climbing Basics: How to StartYou can learn to climb outdoors, but indoors is the safer bet at first. There’s no worrying about rock fall, bad weather, or route finding. By taking an intro climbing course at a rock climbing gym (or gym with rock climbing facilities), you’ll quickly learn the basics. “Gyms allow you to drastically shorten the learning curve,” says Long. “You’ll learn to put on your harness, belay, use your hands and feet, and lower off a route—all in a controlled environment.” “Anyone can sport climb,” adds Grupper, who also advises starting in a gym. “While it can be dangerous, if done incorrectly, with some proper training, you can quickly start having fun while upping your skill level.” Invest in the Best Climbing Shoes and HarnessClimbing shoes are designed to fit more like a snug sock than a running shoe. Pick a pair that’s tight without being painful. “It's not uncommon to size down an entire size from your street shoe,” says Wright. The climbing harness should also fit tight around your waist with the buckle securely fastened. See our top picks below. Master the Figure 8 KnotRock climbing involves several knots, but none is as important as the figure eight. Practice tying it until you can do it in your sleep. “Always double-check your harness buckle and figure eight,” says Grupper. “Then, have your partner or instructor check them. Once you know you’re secure, you can focus on the business of climbing.”  Alex Ratson/Getty Images Learn How to BelayWhen you climb with a rope, you use what’s called a belay. The belayer is the climber who holds the rope in order to protect their climbing partner from a fall. The device is attached to your harness, while the rope runs through it to provide friction so you can arrest a fall. Learning how to belay is as critical in sport climbing as knowing how to step on the brakes in a car. You attach the belay device to your harness, then double check that the carabiner is locked. “Most climbing gyms will have a belay course, then a belay test you can take that allows you to belay without supervision in the gym,” says Wright. Practice Climbing Lingo and Terms“Climbing safely depends on clear, explicit communication,” emphasizes Long. “The first thing you need to learn is how to communicate with your partner.” If you’re belaying, when the climber or leader is ready to start up the wall, you say, “Belay on!” This indicates that the equipment is set up correctly and you’re paying attention. Your partner then responds with “Climbing!” When he’s at the anchors and ready to be lowered to the ground, he says, “Lower!” You respond with “Lowering!” When your partner reaches the ground safely or if he’s going to rappel, he’ll say, “Off belay!” and you reply with “Belay off." Never skip these steps.  Jesse Grupper Collection 2. Practice Handholds and Foot WorkYou don’t need the muscle mass of Jason Momoa to climb. In fact, many sport climbers can barely do a single pullup, but they dance up what appears to be a seemingly blank wall. This is because they have excellent footwork and flawless technique. Climbing successfully requires concentrating on three things: footwork, handholds, and body position. Smart Feet“Learn good footwork and body position indoors, then bring those skills to outdoor routes,” says Grupper. “The most important lesson for beginning climbers, as well as experts, is to trust your feet. The more weight you put on your foot, the more likely it will stay in place.” Climbing shoes are designed to edge and smear. To edge, place the ball of your foot, just behind the toe, firmly on a hold. Then, using your hands to balance, move your weight over your foot and stand up. You can stand on the inside edge of the shoe, the outside edge, and toe. Related: 7 Wild New Mountain Bike Trails and Destinations Good HandsDon’t over-grip. The harder you grip, the more tired your hands and forearms become. “Try to use a hold as a point of balance to move your feet up, especially on lower-angle routes,” says Grupper. “Practice using different types of handholds in the gym, they don’t exactly mimic what you’ll find outdoors, but you’ll learn how to adjust the angle and pressure of your grip.” Keep your arms straight whenever possible. “When bent, your arms will tire much faster,” adds Long. Hang from your arms, move your feet up, pull up with one arm, which is called a “lock off," and move the other one to the next handhold. Practice keeping your body close to the rock. Sometimes you’ll turn your hips to the left or right to extend your reach and improve your center of balance. As Wright explains, “Learning different grab holds as well as foot placements is like building a complete toolbox—with all the tools you need for any project that presents itself.”  kylewolfe/Getty Images 3. Maximize FlexibilityClimbing is all about body movement. Flexibility can make tough moves easier, allowing you to float through sequences with a fluidity that defies gravity. Stretching is essential in sport climbing. “It protects your body from injury and allows you to more fluidly adopt different body positions,” says Grupper, who does yoga, as well as back and hamstring stretches in the morning, repeating the process at night.  John Long Collection 4. Manage FearClimbing can be dangerous, but if you do it right, you can control risk and make it less intimidating. That’s where the safety part comes in. You’ve learned all about tying knots, double-checking your harness, and trusting the rope. Then there’s the mental aspect of climbing, which accounts for at least half of the challenge with this activity. Much of it involves working through natural fear and intimidation. Related: How to Overcome Fear: Alex Honnold, Lindsey Vonn & More "When climbing, you want to be able to acknowledge fear, then act in spite of it," says Grupper. “It can be fear of heights, fear of failure, or any other source of fear, but the best way to manage it in climbing is to understand the potential consequences of what you’re doing. Is it a justifiable fear or just fear of the unknown? “The first time I was facing a big whipper, or fall, while sport climbing, I was terrified. But my coach asked, ‘What is the worst thing that can happen?’ The truth is, with sport climbing, you'll generally fall 10 or 15 feet and be caught by the rope.”  Cedar Wright Collection Learning to trust the equipment is vital when it comes to fear management, Grupper adds. “On your first climb, when you’re on belay, climb up a dozen feet, have your partner take in all the slack, and hang by the rope. You’ll see how you can sit in your harness, and that the rope is not going to break.” Falling is also a component of sport climbing. As you progress, you’ll take practice falls, first with a rope above your head, so you experience just letting go, hanging by the rope and your harness, and having your belayer catch you. “You start with short, baby falls, and come to understand that the system really works,” explains Grupper.  PK Smith/TFA/Ascent/Getty Images 5. Take It Outside“When you’re transitioning from sport climbing in a gym to outside, there will be an adjustment period to more subtle and intricate techniques used outside,” says Wright. Reading real rock, and thinking and moving on the fly outside is a leap, he adds, “but climbing outside is nothing to be freaked out by. Just start with safe climbs below your max grade.” First, you need to decide where to go. Get a guidebook to your local area or go on Mountain Project to read route descriptions. Start on the easy stuff. Wright suggests trying to team up with a mentor or a group of experienced climbers via an outdoor club or guide service. Above all, make sure you have a climbing partner you trust. Remember, the rope is your safety device, but you need a person on both ends. Examine your climbing equipment before you climb. Do a visual check of your rope, harness, and quickdraws, which are two carabiners connected by strong nylon webbing. “Scan the rock above you and the ground you’re standing on,” says Long. “Chances are, if it's a standard, well-used sport climbing area, the routes will be free of loose rock. But always be prepared for someone to break a foothold or snap off a handhold.” One of the most important words in a climber’s language is: “Rock!” It’s the signal you shout if you or another climber dislodges a piece of rock or drops a carabiner. When you’re belaying someone outdoors, always keep in mind the angle that rocks from above would fall and know your safe zone. If the leader falls, “Falling!” is the correct signal. You’ll always have your partner on belay but knowing that he’s about to fall puts you on high alert. Same goes for when you’re climbing or leading. Finally, know your climbing partner. Sport climbing can be safely done, but it’s the communication and double-checking between partners that keeps it safe. “When you’re starting to go outside, it’s very important to pick partners who know exactly what they’re doing,” says Grupper. “I’d strongly recommend taking an outdoor climbing course or hiring a local guide for the day. Definitely pick someone who has experience in the area where you intend to go. Some of the biggest dangers in climbing happen when risks aren’t fully recognized. Communication with your climbing partner is key.” Best Rock Climbing Gear to Get StartedScarpa Generator V Climbing Shoe
Courtesy image The Scarpa Generator V has standard-setting Vibram XS rubber soles, providing powerful underfoot support and precision for edging and smearing without cramming your toes. Climbers with narrow feet should consider the Tenaya RA ($160) with its double Velcro closure, low volume heel, and slightly downturned last. Related: How to Pick the Best Climbing Shoe for Your Foot Sterling Aero 9.2mm Xeros Rope
Courtesy image The Sterling Aero 9.2mm Xeros Rope balances a durable, tough sheath with a lighter-weight core construction. The result is a rope that won’t weigh you down when you’re hiking to your climb, with great handling and fall protection. A middle mark lets you know the halfway point for rappels. Trango Reaction Quickdraws and Superfly Evo Autolock
Courtesy image You’ll need a dozen quickdraws—carabiners attached to slings—to get started with sport climbing. The Trango Reaction is the No. 1 safety pick by the International Sport Climbing Federation for all world competition. It’s light and durable with a wide gate opening for fumble-free clipping. Trango's Superfly Evo Autolock ($15) is ideal when you’re setting up an anchor at the route. Arc‘teryx Konseal Harness
Courtesy image The Arc'teryx Konseal padded harness is designed for both the climbing gym and the crag. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and has four big gear loops, so you can carry all the quickdraws you’ll need. We like the adjustable leg loops that are snug, but not restrictive. Petzl Neox
Courtesy image Thanks to a stainless-steel inner wheel, this new cam-assisted belay device lets you feed out rope when someone is leading, and easily take in slack when you’re top-roping. If a climber falls, the Petzl Neox's internal mechanism automatically locks down on the rope. Get the Petzl Freino ($50) carabiner with the extra “friction spur,” as it’s designed to give you more control when lowering a climber. La Sportiva TX4 Evo Approach Shoe
Courtesy image Sometimes walking to the base of a cliff can be nearly as technical as the climb itself. La Sportiva TX4 EVO is a lightweight leather shoe with high-friction Vibram soles. We love the angular, slanted lugs, as they provide excellent all-terrain traction. For gym use and shorter approaches, the Bedrock Mountain Clog ($175) has a zero-profile drop and a grippy Vibram outsole with toe protection and the in-and-out ease of a sport sandal. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. This month has been a great time to pick up new men's shoes at a discount thanks to massive deal events like Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale and Amazon Prime Day, but another major sale just went live on the site of American icon Florsheim, and it's likely you haven't heard about it. Florsheim is offering shoppers 20% off its entire site until August 4 when you use the promo code ANFW4 at checkout. The brand is not advertising the discount on its website, so only those in the know can reap the benefits. It couldn't have come at a better time, either—with wedding season in full swing and many realizing their old dress shoes don't quite fit the bill anymore, styles like the Sorrento Wingtip and the Dubino Moc Toe Venetian Loafer are prime pick-ups just north of $100. But Florsheim is also filled with some of the most comfortable business casual sneakers you'll wear, and many are less than the price of the average Cole Haan. Whether it's dress shoes, sneakers, or even fall boots you're looking for, these are the four Florsheim shoes to shop at during the secret sale. Florsheim Sorrento Wingtip Oxford in Cognac, $104 (was $130) at Florsheim
Flosheim's Sorrento Wingtip is sleek, classy, and a fraction of the price of the Magnanni dress shoes it resembles. It features a handsome medallion on the toe that elevates any business or smart-casual outfit and offers great traction underneath thanks to a partial rubber sole. It's exactly the type of shoe every man needs in his closet, and right now, it's yours for just over $100. Find it in sizes 7 to 14 and in wide widths, but opt for the cognac over the black. What Shoppers Are Saying: "This is the second pair of wingtips I've purchased from the Florsheim brand. Love the leather bottom, sturdy heels, good construction, and perfect fit. It's hard to find all of these attributes in a good shoe today." Also Check Out:
Florsheim Lodge Cap Toe Lace Boot in Black CH, $112 (was $140) at Florsheim
If you're looking to get ahead of boot shopping this fall, one of Florsheim's shining stars of the last year was the Lodge Cap Toe. This classic inside-zip boot features a nicely padded shin collar and a rubber lug sole for extra comfort and traction, and it also has an OrthoLite footbed that's supremely well-cushioned. They're available in two shades of brown and in black with sizes ranging from 7 to 14. What Shoppers Are Saying: "Very comfortable, no need to break it in like others, soft inside, well insulated. Looks good on every occasion with every style of pants." Also Check Out:
Florsheim Heist Lace To Toe Sneaker in Black/White, $96 (was $120) at Florsheim
Although Florsheim is best known for its dress shoes, it also makes some great affordable minimalist sneakers, including the Heist. This shoe is reminiscent of Cole Haan's business casual sneakers that have become all but the dress code for the modern offices, pairing perfectly with everything from slim tech pants to jeans. It's an excellent choice in the white colorway but it also comes in black and brown. Find it in sizes 7 to 14 and in wide widths. What Shoppers Are Saying: "I'm starting to go back to the office and was looking for a stylish comfy shoe that I could also use on the weekends, going on dates, etc. These shoes fill that bill. Very comfortable and so light! The shoes are true to size and seem very well made. I have a lot of shoes in my closet but I reach for these quite a bit." Also Check Out:
Florsheim Dubino Moc Toe Venetian Slip-On in Cognac, $120 (was $150) at Florsheim
Florsheim's Dubino Moc Toe Venetian Slip-On is the ultimate summer dress shoe. With clean lines and full rubber sole, it offers enough versatility to pair perfectly with flat-front shorts, breezy linen pants, and even swim trunks for a post-beach lunch date. It's the type of shoe you can bring on vacation with you and wear with literally every outfit, saving you a ton of space in your suitcase. It's available in three other colors—black, dark brown, and navy suede—and comes in sizes 7 to 14. What Shoppers Are Saying: "Can't go wrong with the Imperial line, very high class…They are thin-soled but durable for what I wear them for—office and some casual settings." Also Check Out:
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Jennifer Lopez has been entertaining audiences for more than three decades. From her start as a Fly Girl dancer on In Living Color to her larger-than-life performances today, Lopez has made her body an essential piece of the J. Lo puzzle. The Grammy-winning singer celebrated her 55th birthday on July 24, and to mark the occasion, she threw a Bridgerton-themed birthday party in The Hamptons filled with celebrity friends and family. She also took a moment to remind her Instagram followers what she looks like in a swimsuit halfway through her 50s. "This Is Me... Now," she captioned the post, referring to her album released earlier this year. After all the party balloons were popped, J. Lo shared a message of appreciation for all her fans. "I’ve been seeing all of your birthday wishes, beautiful videos, and posts all last night and this morning from all over the world. I have laughed, smiled, shed some tears, and when I saw the billboard in Times Square, I was completely overwhelmed. I really do have the best, most amazing fans in the world. I could never express how moved I am or how incredibly blessed I feel to have all of you be a part of my life," she wrote. "It’s hard to believe we have spent all this time together. It’s funny as I sit here contemplating on the most extraordinary journey I still feel like the same girl starting out so full of energy and bravado, so ready to take on the whole world on the outside and yet so tender, fragile and sometimes frightened but always full of love on the inside," she continued. "I have so much love for you. I want you to know on my birthday that YOU are my biggest gift. Besides my family and friends, you have always been there for me in the good times and in the tough times. I can always count on you. And I want you to know that you can always count on me. Thank you for your caring, your understanding, your loyalty and most importantly your love." Медиа: | ↑ |
Phase Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is set to kick off next summer with the hotly-anticipated The Fantastic Four. And the cast just gave fans their first look at the group together, with filming expected to begin in London in late July. The latest reimagining of the popular comic book franchise will star Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby (Mission Impossible) as Susan Storm / Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things) as Johnny Storm / the Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) as Ben Grimm / the Thing. On Thursday, Pascal shared a first image of the foursome together in an Instagram post, albeit sans superhero costumes. "Our first mission," the 49-year-old actor captioned the photo with his co-stars, which showed Kirby embracing him with her arms wrapped around his neck and Moss-Bachrach likewise with his arms around the group. In addition to the principal cast, Julia Garner (Ozark) has been tapped to portray Silver Surfer, with British actor Ralph Ineson cast as the villain Galactus. John Malkovich, Paul Walter Hauser, and Natasha Lyonne have also joined the cast in undisclosed roles. Per Variety, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed on The Official Marvel Podcast last month that the upcoming blockbuster would be a 1960s period piece set in New York City. “There was another piece of art we released with Johnny Storm flying in the air making a 4 symbol and there was a cityscape in the corner of that image,” Feige explained at the time. "There were a lot of smart people who noticed that that cityscape didn’t look exactly like the New York that we know, or the New York that existed in the ‘60s in our world. Those are smart observations, I’ll say." The Fantastic Four is scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on July 25, 2025. Медиа: | ↑ |
A Tennessee gas station store clerk is behind bars after an alleged million-dollar lottery ticket theft. According to the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office, 23-year-old Meer Patel of Murfreesboro was arrested and charged with theft of over $250,000 after he allegedly stole a winning lottery ticket and tried to cash out the $1 million prize. It all started when a man bought two lottery tickets at a Shell gas station on July 13. They were both winning tickets, with one being for $40 and the other for a whopping $1 million. Per NBC News, the customer handed both tickets to Patel and was paid just $40; the clerk allegedly threw the million-dollar winner in the trash. Surveillance footage from the store obtained by the Tennessee Lottery showed Patel allegedly digging through the trash and taking out the ticket and putting it in his pocket after the man left. "He threw it on top of the trash as the gentleman left he took the trash out on camera you can see him grab the ticket and put it in his pocket," detective Steve Craig told WTVF. Detective Dennis Ward added that Patel was "seen later in the video celebrating in the store after scratching off the front of the ticket and learning it was a $1 million winner." When Patel tried to cash out the million-dollar prize for himself, Tennessee Lottery employees became suspicious after he told them he found the ticket in the trash. "He went to the lottery commission to claim the ticket as his own, but there were red flags and they held onto the ticket," Craig explained. Throughout all of this, the real winner didn't know he'd won that money until police made their arrest. "The feel-good side of this story is the [man] never knew he was the winner until we made contact with him," Craig said. "That is absolutely life-changing money." "He was very thankful," he added.
Patel is being held on $100,000 bond and is set to appear in court on July 30. If you're thinking about doing something similar, think about all the possible ways you could get caught. Медиа: | ↑ |
As the NFL prepares to kick off the 2024–25 season, Aaron Rodgers will likely be making the rounds on radio shows. After all, he has been a regular on The Pat McAfee Show in recent years, sometimes to significant controversy. But one place we can probably not expect the 40-year-old New York Jets quarterback to turn up is on WFAN’s morning sports talk show Boomer and Gio, after a disastrous appearance last year. On Wednesday's show, Gregg "Gio" Giannotti, who has hosted the show alongside Boomer Esiason for the past seven years, called the August 2023 Rodgers interview the "the most awkward, horrible" moment in the show's history. Giannotti recalled the incident while speaking with Jon "Stugotz" Weiner, who hosts The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz on ESPN Radio and was filling in for Esiason for the week. "Honestly, I'd rather you interview Aaron Rodgers than us, after what happened last year," Giannotti said. "And I’m dead serious about that. I don’t need another crack at that. I’m fine. Honestly, you can have that, I don’t need to interview him again. I don't." Stugotz then pointed out that you don't have Rodgers on your show if you want to talk about football, as he's much more interested in discussing aliens and conspiracy theories. When asked whether he led with football, Giannotti said: "No, that's the thing ... I led with, ‘Does he buy his own furniture?’ And he was not happy. And then Boomer went to a dishwashing story, he was even angrier." At the time, Rodgers had just plunked down $9.5 million for a home in New Jersey, as he was preparing for his first season with the Jets. (Of course, we all know how that panned out.) But Rodgers, who had gotten stuck in traffic on his way to the studio, clearly did not want to discuss furniture or washing dishes. "That had a lot to do with his day," Giannotti continued. "But I'm just assuming he's gonna have that type of day again, it's New Jersey, you know? These things happen." They then briefly played a clip of the pair attempting to talk to Rodgers about traffic, and he indeed did not seem amused. "Please, for the love of god, just post it somewhere so people can listen to it, I cannot listen back to that. I really cannot," the co-host said, to which it was pointed out that the full 18-minute interview is on YouTube. "So yeah, if you'd like to listen to the most horrible, awkward 18 minutes of the Boomer & Gio show," Giannotti quipped. "I don’t think he ever looked at us. Not one time." "It was a combination of everything," he later recalled. "It was him being upset, us freaking out when he wasn’t playing along. It's just—the whole thing was just turds in a blender." "I can't. It's like watching a video of you crapping your pants, I'm not gonna go back and watch that again," he noted, admitting that one time he actually threw up in a trash can in the studio after coming in to work with a stomach bug. "I'd rather watch that then listen back—I swear to god—I'd rather watch me puking in a garbage pail with the norovirus than go back and listen to that Aaron Rodgers interview again," Giannotti added. Медиа: | ↑ |
In a major change, Southwest Airlines will end its controversial open seating boarding process and begin assigning seats to all of its customers. Its the first time in 50 years that the low-cost carrier has changed its unique boarding process, which previously saw customers lining up next to numbered posts when called by boarding group. According to the company, the update comes due to changing customer demand. “The research is clear and indicates that 80% of Southwest customers, and 86% of potential customers, prefer an assigned seat,” the airline said in a press statement. “By moving to an assigned seating model, Southwest expects to broaden its appeal and attract more flying from its current and future customers.” It's worth noting, however, that the move will also allow the airline to charge a premium on some of its seats, potentially earning the company more money in the process. There is currently no implementation date for the change, but it comes after months of speculation that open seating was on the chopping block. The company is under pressure from both ends, with the three major carriers making significant profits from premium offerings, while budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier offer extremely low ticket prices while charging for add-ons. Investors have been pushing for the company to become more profitable. Southwest currently stands alone amongst major airlines for offering two complementary checked bags to all customers, and it doesn't charge for changed flights. "Although our unique open-seating model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear this is the right choice—at the right time—for our customers, our people and our shareholders," CEO Bob Jordan said. Медиа: | ↑ |
Despite our feverish obsession with health hacks, one vital component, regardless of how many times it's reiterated, often gets overlooked— sleep. The coveted recommendation of clocking six to eight hours of sleep has been shoved down our throats, but with social media scrolling, late nights out, endless work hours, and more, proper sleep more often than not becomes a last priority. However, consistently getting inconsistent sleep has a direct link to a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a new study published in Diabetes Care. In the study, which spanned 2013 and 2015, a team analyzed the sleep patterns of more than 84,000 UK Biobank participants over a seven-night period. To get the most accurate information, the participants wore an accelerometer, a device similar to a FitBit or Oura Ring, to capture activity levels. The patients, who had a mean age of 62, were also checked for polygenic risk scores for diabetes, in which known genetic risk variants for the condition estimates an individual's likelihood of developing disease. The researchers discovered that participants with a deviation of between 31 and 45 minutes from their average sleep duration, had a 15 percent increased risk of developing diabetes compared to those whose sleep duration deviated by 30 minutes or less. They also analyzed individuals who over or underslept by 60 minutes, concluding that those who overslept had a 34 percent increased risk. Lastly, those with the most variability, with a sleep duration deviation of 91 minutes or more, had a 59 percent increased risk. Related: Best Sleep Products That Really Work This isn't the first time too little or too much sleep has been in the spotlight for affecting people's health. In fact, the importance of adequate sleep has become even more prevalent over the last decade with studies and research stating the lack thereof can increase your risk of an array of issues such as reduced immunity, hypertension, obesity, depression, heart disease, and beyond. For night owls and individuals with sleep conditions such as insomnia, getting enough sleep can feel unfeasible. But adjusting your nightly routine, sticking to a schedule, and creating optimal sleep conditions (we're talking silky sleep masks and a room at 65–68°F) can help craft an environment that leads to a much-needed night's rest. Медиа: | ↑ |
An Amazon delivery driver has been let go from the company after a viral video caught the vehicle hurtling down a sidewalk in the Georgia suburbs. According to the New York Post, the video was first posted to Storyful on July 14, and was said to have been filmed by a passenger driving on Friendship Road in Flowery Branch, GA, about 45 miles northeast of Atlanta. However, the nine-second clip has since made its way to the Everything Georgia TikTok account, where it has been viewed nearly five million times. "Someone seen driving an Amazon truck on the sidewalk in Flowery Branch," the account captioned the video. "This heat has people acting different."
The delivery driver was estimated to have been going about 35 miles per hour on the path, and thankfully did not seem to encounter any pedestrians—at least during the short clip. Given that the video was posted to TikTok on July 16, the kickoff of Prime Day 2024, the peanut gallery wasted no time giving their two cents in the comments. "POV: Prime day started today," posted the official Eggo TikTok account, along with a cry-face emoji. "How do you think Prime shipping gets there so fast?!" quipped one user. Joked another, of the potential safety implications: "It's July in Georgia. Ain't nobody walking nowhere. It's 8,000 degrees. He good." Be that as it may, Amazon has since parted ways with the driver. "This was reckless and unacceptable behavior," a company spokesperson said in a statement. "We’ve investigated the incident and this driver is no longer delivering packages on behalf of Amazon." Медиа: | ↑ |
As the streaming wars continue apace, competitors are starting to get into business together. Today, Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery officially launched their new streaming bundle partnership, which combines Max, Disney+, and Hulu into one subscription. The new bundle service comes into both ad-supported and ad-free options, with the former running $16.99 per month, and the latter costing $29.99 per month. These prices represent a fairly significant savings. All three services' ad-supported tiers would total to roughly $26 per month, or about $9 more. Meanwhile, the ad-free tiers would add up to about $37, roughly $7 more. It's the first time that media companies have directly teamed up with competitors to offer bundles for their services, although it's likely to remind many of the concept of cable television. Indeed, cable companies like Comcast already offered combo streaming bundles. Streamers are hoping it will reduce subscriber churn, a growing problem for many services that have seen high cancellation rates. “We have found that when you bundle together with other content that more people in the family like—on a very basic level—the more often you watch product, the more people in the family that watch the product, the lower the churn,” said Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav earlier this year. You can subscribe to the new bundle packages here. Медиа: | ↑ |
When the 2024 Summer Olympic Games kicks off in Paris, France on Friday, July 26, the USA water polo team will have the backing of the best hype man in the game with Public Enemy's Flavor Flav. The unlikely partnership came about after women's team captain Maggie Steffens put out a call for financial support on social media back in May. But what Steffens almost certainly wasn't expecting was a founding member of one of the most influential hip hop groups ever to come to the team's rescue. Since then, Flavor Flav has signed a five-year sponsorship deal as the official hype man for both the USA women's and men's National Water Polo teams. And as he prepares to cheer the women on in person and hopefully witness them win their fourth consecutive Gold Medal, the 65-year-old spoke to Men's Journal about attending his first-ever Olympics, as well as what else he's got cooking. "Yeah I'm going to Paris for the Olympics. Can't wait to get there, never been [to an Olympics] ever a day in my life. Always seen it on TV, never in person; now I get to see it with my own eyes," Flav tells us. "Definitely extra excited for that. I’m excited for my girls, anxious for my girls, I wanna see them get their fourth gold medal—they’ve got three already—I wanna see them get their fourth one." Until he became involved with the team, Flav had no idea the physical endurance that was required for the sport. "I learned how difficult that it is to play water polo. Seven feet deep, eight feet deep, some 15," he says. "It takes a lot of endurance to play that game and to participate in it, period." Flav's sponsorship is also unprecedented in that he's actually the first celebrity to ever fund an Olympics team. He's now hoping that more celebrities will step forward. "It came to me through my manager. I looked at the post and I was like, ‘Hey, know what, this wouldn’t be a bad idea to give these girls a little lift up,'" he explains. "So now I’m gonna go live it out to the max. And not only am I their sponsor until 2029, but I’m the only one that’s sponsoring an Olympic team, period." "Maybe this will open up the doors of other celebrities like myself to just step in and help sponsor some of these Olympic teams. Not just water polo, but track and field, gymnastics, the whole kit and kaboodle. Hopefully there will be other celebs that will step up to the plate and do like me." Ever the trendsetter, Flav says now that he's proud to be the blazing the path, so to speak. "So I’m honored, I’m honored—I’m tickled more than pink, trust ya boy. This is a big thing to me," he says. While in Paris, which will most likely involve a jam-packed schedule, Flav also has a literal ace up his sleeve to keep him going. He recently partnered with 5-hour ENERGY to promote the brand's limited edition, custom cufflinks, which have been hand-crafted by Verstolo Fine Jewelry with 12-karat, gold-plated sterling silver.  5-hour Energy "Right now, you know what I’m saying, we got these cufflinks we gonna put out there and I’m gonna let everybody know how much fits inside these cufflinks. We gonna try to turn the whole world onto these," he tells us, excitedly showing off his own pair. "Now each one holds half a bottle. So when you fill both of these up, both of these equals one of these," motioning to the energy drink bottle. "Yeah, you know doggone right, I’m wearing these everywhere," Flav says, when asked if he plans on wearing them in Paris. "I’m wearing these everywhere, man!! Wearing my cufflinks around, you know what I’m saying, raise the roof! They’re great to have, you gotta get a pair for your dad, get a pair for your brother, these are the bomb." We also got to chat with Flav about another career milestone, when he launched himself to reality TV stardom in the aughts with VH1's Flavor of Love franchise. The reality dating series—which came about following the successes of The Surreal Life, and later Strange Love, about his relationship with actress Brigitte Nielsen—spawned a gaggle of spinoffs and still boasts an enduring popularity to this day in the streaming era. "Honestly, to tell you the truth, I’m amazed. Because that show is over 10 years old now. I haven’t been on reality television in over 10 years," he gushes. "And for this show right now to be as big as it still is—I’m just amazed, I’m blown out of the water. I ain’t gonna say overwhelmed, but I’m overjoyed for the love and support I’ve been given from you guys, because if it wasn‘t for y’all, this show would not be what it is." Flav also teased a possible return to the format someday. Though he declined to elaborate, he says that his next foray into reality television will ideally go beyond the dating format. "When it comes down to reality television, I will be back with something different, something that’s going to last longer, and I feel that’s gonna be bigger, and the whole nine," he says. "As far as the dating shows, I’ve been there, done that, I’ve set the tone, and I don’t feel like I have to come back doing something that I’ve already done." Медиа: | ↑ |
It's now been more than five years since Game of Thrones ended its eight-season run, but it seems safe to say that Kit Harington has kept up with his Jon Snow physique, and then some. The 37-year-old actor is currently starring in a West End production of playwright Jeremy O. Harris' Tony-nominated Slave Play. The charged, three-act play follows three interracial couples who turn to something called "Antebellum Sexual Performance Therapy" when the Black partners no longer feel sexually attracted to their white partners. The latest production kicked off on June 29 at London's Noel Coward Theatre and is scheduled to run through September 21. To celebrate the first few weeks of the show's run, as well as West End's first "Black Out" night, which involved two performances available exclusively for audience members of color, Harris shared a gallery of cast photos, candid shots, and video footage of audience members. "This has been a once in a lifetime experience can’t wait to do it again," Harris wrote in the caption of the post. And although he's not on social media, eagle-eyed fans couldn't help notice one backstage photo in which Harington appears shirtless, looking as buff as ever. It didn't take long for that image, in particular, to make its way to X, formerly Twitter, as one fan account all-caps gushed: "KIT HARINGTON I HAVE NO WORDS."
Given his fandom, both Harris and Harington were all too cognizant of the unwanted attention his fame might bring to the production. In an interview with The Guardian earlier this year, Harris admitted that he doesn't generally believe that you need a "marquee name" to sell tickets. "It’s something that takes away from great theatre because people treat it like a Disney World attraction, where the play is background to the amusement of seeing their favourite celebrity in front of them," he explained. "Kit was saying 'I don’t want this to be 'Kit Harington in Slave Play,' this is an ensemble play and I’m not even the lead,'" Harris recalled. "He knows the weight his name carries and how that could become a distraction, if we allowed it to be." Nope, no distractions detected. Медиа: | ↑ |
Blending has always been an essential part of the American whiskey industry. After all, the process of selecting a few hundred barrels for a batch of Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, or Evan Williams involves—you guessed it—blending the liquid from those casks together before bottling and selling. But, over time, the term has earned a bad rap. That's because American whiskey that falls into the “blended” category comprises mostly neutral grain spirits with a touch of actual whiskey and added colors and flavors to make them seem like the real thing. Such spirits are still a staple in the U.S.—brands like Seagram’s 7 move a lot of units at dive bars around the country. But distilleries and non-distilling producers have rejuvenated the art of blending, showing just how good the final product can be when done properly. Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS) from Louisville, KY, has led the way, sourcing barrels from different states (and sometimes other countries), combining them to create a product that is greater than the sum of its parts. BCS focuses on blending straight bourbon: a legal term that means there's no grain spirits or additives allowed. And while the exact source distilleries are undisclosed, BCS usually blends bourbon from Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky. BCS often cask finishes its bourbon as well, which involves putting the spirit into a secondary cask to age further after initial maturation in new charred oak. The most recent example of this method is the new entry in the BCS Cask Finish Series: Mizunara.  Courtesy Image As you can possibly glean by the name, it's a blend of bourbons that was finished in Japanese mizunara oak. This type of wood has been used for cask-finishing bourbon, Scotch, Irish whiskey, and Japanese whisky for decades. But mizunara is notoriously hard to work with because it’s prone to leaking, and the barrels tend to be expensive. The blend of whiskey for this new expression is made up of bourbon from Indiana (six, seven, and nine years old), Kentucky (eight years old) and Tennessee (eight and 14 years old). The blend's final mash bill is 76 percent corn, 20 percent rye, and four percent malted barley. After blending, the whiskey was finished in mizunara oak barrels for one and a half years and bottled at cask strength of 116.42 proof. It's not the first in the BCS Cask Finish Series, but it's the best so far. The brand's last release was finished in amburana casks. Amburana is a type of wood from Brazil that, in this writer’s opinion, makes nearly every whiskey it touches taste like a sickly sweet ball of potpourri that explodes in your mouth like a spray of Febreze. Thankfully, that's not the case here. BCS Cask Finish Mizunara is a really tasty bourbon and a great example of how a thoughtful cask finish can augment a whiskey’s flavor. Mizunara is known to impart notes of sandalwood and spice on a whiskey, and those are indeed present. Despite that lengthy secondary maturation, these flavors are relatively subtle. The palate is rich with chocolate and oak, along with dried fruit, tobacco, vanilla pudding, cinnamon roll, toasted almond, and a healthy dose of stone fruit and blood orange. Go ahead and add a few drops of water if you’d like to proof it down a little. The palate will open up even further. Overall, the new Barrell Craft Spirits Cask Finish Series: Mizunara is a bit pricey at $90 per bottle, but it’s one that whiskey fans should seek out. Related: I've Tested Dozens of Bottles of the Hottest Trend in Whiskey. Don't Believe the Hype Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale to Huckberry's summer clearance and even Amazon Prime Day, there have been plenty of great sales this month to help you complete a mid-year wardrobe revamp. If it's basics like underwear you need to stock up on, some of the biggest discounts can be found at Walmart right now, including Hanes' iconic boxer briefs that are just $2 apiece for a limited time. The Hanes Super Value Pack Boxer Briefs are on sale at Walmart for just $20, a 33% discount on its usual price of $30. These boxer briefs come from a trusted brand and have racked up over 1,600 five-star ratings from shoppers who say it's the "best price" they've found online. The pack includes six pairs of black and four pairs of gray boxer briefs, and they’re available in sizes small to XL. Hanes Super Value Pack Boxer Briefs, 10-Pack, $20 (was $30) at Walmart
Hanes Boxer Briefs are the ideal basic comfortable underwear. They feature a tagless design, so there’s no irritating tag digging into your skin at the waistband. They’re made with a stretchy, soft fabric that moves with you and feels great against the skin—no bunching or itchiness here. Better yet, the fabric breathes well and offers some moisture-wicking capability, so you won’t feel swampy on warm days. Simple, well-made, and dependable—these are exactly the kind of underwear you want to stockpile in your drawer. With their classic design, Hanes boxer briefs are a go-to choice for many, including one shopper who called them “tried and true” and loved their “really good quality.” Another shopper said they've worn these boxer briefs their “entire adult life” and loves their rugged construction: “These remain durable and breathable after many wash cycles.” Other shoppers gave these undies top marks for comfort. “Durable and well-crafted, these undergarments are a testament to quality,” one shopper said. “The fabric feels incredibly soft against the skin, providing all-day comfort.” If it's time to refresh the underwear drawer, Walmart has you covered with this great deal on Hanes' classic boxer briefs. Just make sure to act fast, because it's not clear how long the discount will last. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Whether you’re firmly in the charcoal grill camp, prefer your gas rig, or opt for a wood pellet setup, there's no shortage of ways to get grilling. But if you want to really max out on versatility—cooking everything from pancakes to perfectly charred smashburgers—you need a flat-top griddle. Thankfully, one of Walmart's most popular models just went on sale, and it's the perfect entry point to the flat-top lifestyle. The Blackstone 1935 Griddle is on sale at Walmart for $270, a 29% discount on its usual price of $380. This portable, propane-powered griddle has earned nearly 2,500 five-star ratings from customers who’ve used it for backyard cookouts, camping, and tailgating. In addition to its tidy size and extreme portability, the flat-top surface makes it super versatile—you can make breakfast, lunch, and dinner all on one surface. Blackstone 1935 Griddle, $270 (was $380) at Walmart
The Blackstone 1935 Griddle is a propane-powered flat-top grill designed for easy transportation. It features a 22-inch cooking surface with two cooking zones, each powered by an H-style burner; together, they pump out 24,000 BTUs of heat. A side shelf gives you a convenient staging area and a place to hang utensils, and the griddle is designed with Blackstone’s proprietary “grease management system” that makes cleanup a snap: Just scrape grease and food residue off the cooking area directly into a receptacle at the back of the griddle. Its scissor legs, dual wheels, and large grab handles will also help you maneuver the griddle into place, and the legs fold down, so the whole package takes up very little space when packed in a car or tucked into a garage. With thousands of glowing reviews from Walmart shoppers, it’s safe to say this Blackstone griddle is well-loved. Many have pointed to its portability and size as major selling points. “This is every dad's dream,” one shopper said. "A griddle that is just the right size for the family, but also portable and low maintenance.” Another shopper called it “great for camping” and said, “Couldn't be happier with how easy and convenient this is to use on our camper.” Of course, a griddle is only as good as the meals it cooks, but reviewers say the Blackstone offers stellar performance in that department. “You can literally cook anything and everything on these,” one shopper said. Another reviewer uses theirs to cook breakfast every week and loves it. “I now cook outside every Saturday on my Blackstone,” they said. “It's a pleasure doing so, no more messy kitchen stove top and a pile of frying pans!” Whether you’re an accomplished grillmaster or looking for your first flat-top grill, you can’t beat the portability and versatile cooking power of the Blackstone 1935 Griddle. Make sure to order yours from Walmart ASAP—this 29% discount surely won’t last long. Медиа: | ↑ |
Death Valley National Park has seen record-breaking heat this summer that presents a serious danger to visitors passing through, with one person even dying earlier this month. With temperatures soaring upwards of 120 degrees Fahrenheit and sand temperatures even hotter, keeping your skin protected is crucial. One recent visitor to Death Valley learned the hard way why safety is essential when visiting the park. According to a statement from the National Park Service, a 42-year-old Belgian tourist was walking on the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes on July 20 when he either broke or lost his flip-flops in the sand. The steaming sand ended up giving him third-degree burns on his feet. “The skin was melted off his foot," Death Valley National Park Service ranger Gia Ponce told The Los Angeles Times. “The ground can be much hotter—170 [or] 180 [degrees]. Sometimes up into the 200 range." Authorities say the man was in extreme pain as his family got other visitors to help carry him to the dunes parking lot. There, park rangers looked at his injuries and determined he needed treatment. Unfortunately, because heat creates thinner air, a helicopter couldn't land to airlift him to a hospital, so they took him in an ambulance to higher ground where he was flown out. It goes without saying that going to Death Valley's sand dunes is nothing like going to other sandy locations. "People think it’s going to be like the beach where you can get out there with flip-flops or sandals, but because of the extreme temperatures, those dunes heat up just as much as the pavement does," Ponce said. The park rangers themselves don't play with the heat and often wear gloves when touching anything that's been in the sun. "We gingerly touch surfaces if we’re outside, like doorknobs," she said. If you plan to go to Death Valley this summer, don't do so without following NPS protocol and coming prepared with proper shoes, plenty of water, and a good amount of sunscreen. Медиа: | ↑ |
New Zealand takes the preservation of their wildlife incredibly seriously. The South Pacific nation is home to tens of thousands of species, many of which can't be found anywhere else on Earth. As a result, ensuring their safety is an utmost priority for the government, and for locals. With so much lush wilderness, New Zealand's South Island is also an ideal backdrop for Race to Survive, a survival reality competition show airing on USA Network. The show's second season, Race to Survive: New Zealand, featured a team of two American adventurers that found themselves in hot water after one of them killed and ate a rare bird on camera. The eighth episode showed contestant Spencer "Corry" Jones explaining what led to the desperate decision. "We did have strategies in place for the racing, but we didn't prepare for hunger," Jones confessed. "There's creatures running around camp that we're not allowed to eat. You get into that mindset of starvation mode and this slowing down of your cognition. It's this mental shift where the thoughts kind of drift a little more and there's this very deep need to eat, and there was this idea: 'Just break the rule.'"
Jones and his team partner Oliver Dev were disqualified after producers told them they broke competition regulations. In order to quell his hunger, Jones killed and ate a weka, also known as a Maori hen, a flightless bird similar in size to a chicken. Wekas are native to New Zealand and are currently considered a threatened species. "I made a mistake," Jones said on the show, per The New York Times. "It was shortsighted. It was foolish." The episode aired earlier this month, though New Zealand's Department of Conservation issued a statement this week acknowledging what happened. According to Radio New Zealand, the agency understood that while the whitewater raft guides were hungry, it didn't excuse killing and eating a native protected species. The department confirmed that they were notified of the incident shortly after it happened when they were filming back in October. The show has now been put "on notice" about participants needing to follow local conservation rules. When trying local cuisine in a new place, this isn't exactly the way to go. Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Citizen watches continue to shine on Amazon. Some of the brand's most popular chronograph and pilot's watches have received surprising discounts over the past few months, and during Amazon Prime Day 2024, shoppers were wowed with a rare discount on a handsome Weekender sports watch. Recently, another one of Citizen's best watches dipped in price, and it's one of the nicest we've seen under $150 in a while. Citizen's Garrison Eco-Drive Watch is on sale for just $137 right now—a 45% discount on the normal $250 price. This classic field watch is an Amazon darling, having cracked the site's top 150 most popular watches out of the thousands of styles available with an impressive 6,000 five-star ratings to show for it. It's available in three colors—black, green, and camouflage—but the green currently has the steepest discount. Citizen Garrison Eco-Drive Watch in Green Strap/Black Dial, $137 (was $250) on Amazon
This military-inspired watch encapsulates the best of rugged field watches with Citizen's modern technology. It features a compact 37mm stainless steel case and a protective mineral crystal, and it's water-resistant up to 100 meters. It has large Arabic numerals for easy reading with sharp triangular indices that line the edge of the face while a convenient window displays the day and date. It also comes with a rugged nylon strap, but it's Citizen's Eco-Drive technology that stands out the most. With it, the battery will charge when exposed to any light source, including artificial light. For many, owning this watch is all about aesthetics. "Great watch, great looks, great performance," a shopper said. "After almost three years of daily use, this watch is still in pretty impressive shape and I have thoroughly enjoyed wearing it as my first ever daily watch. The color scheme of the military green band, black face, and steel/silver colored case and metal give it a classic yet rugged look that can be worn with almost any outfit." Related: Amazon's Bestselling Tactical Knife That's 'Excellent' for Daily Use Is Just $10 Right Now For others, the watch's versatility has made them everyday fans. "The face style strikes a nice balance," a shopper pointed out. "Casual enough not to seem fussy, formal enough to wear in any business context." Another shopper agreed, saying, "If you seek a reliable, attractive, versatile watch and a great value to boot, buy this watch." If you're looking for a casual and rugged watch that can also shine in smart-casual business settings, Citizen's Garrison Eco-Drive might be the perfect pick for you. It won't be on sale forever, so make sure to grab one while it's over $110 off. Медиа: | ↑ |
A Boeing 737 Max 8 jet flown by Southwest Airlines suddenly plummeted over one hundred feet as it was passing over the water, causing a diversion that deposited passengers 200 miles from their intended destination, The New York Post and UPI reported. According to data from Flightradar 24, Southwest Flight 425—traveling from Columbus, OH to Tampa, FL—was nearing its destination on the evening of July 14 when, without warning, the plane dropped 150 feet as it crossed over the ocean off the coast of Florida. A federal investigation into the incident is underway. The white-knuckle episode occurred as the aircraft was passing over Old Tampa Bay near the Courtney Campbell Causeway. At the time, the area was being pelted with severe thunderstorms and low visibility. An air traffic controller alerted the pilots of their low altitude, at which point they adjusted course. The plane had to skip its intended landing spot and instead docked at an airport 200 miles away. “ Southwest Flight 425 safely diverted to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on July 14 after the crew discontinued their planned approach into Tampa International Airport. The aircraft returned to Tampa after a short time on the ground in Fort Lauderdale,” Southwest confirmed in a statement. "Southwest is following its robust Safety Management System and is in contact with the Federal Aviation Administration to understand and address any irregularities," the airline’s statement continued. "Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees." This is the third low-altitude incident for Southwest Airlines in the past four months; and the latest in a litany of troubling incidents involving Boeing jets. In June, a Southwest jet approaching Oklahoma’s Will Rogers airport dropped to an altitude of 525 feet before regaining air, terrifying neighborhood residents. In April, a Southwest flight bound for Hawaii plunged an astonishing 4,000 feet, coming to a rest just 400 feet above the sea off the coast of Kuai. In the latter case, Southwest claimed the error was due to the somewhat inexperienced first officer accidentally pushing a control forward switch. Медиа: | ↑ |
Kevin Hart has opened up about his experience hosting The Roast of Tom Brady, which streamed live on Netflix back in May, particularly after Tom Brady himself came forward with regrets about his participating in the comedy special. The 46-year-old former star quarterback later aired his grievances about the special, which ended up drawing in over 13 million viewers in its first week alone, but particularly how it affected his kids. "I liked when the jokes were about me. I thought they were so fun," Brady said in a May 13 episode of The Pivot Podcast. "I didn’t like the way they affected my kids... [It's] the bittersweet aspect of when you do something that you think is one way and then all of a sudden you realize I wouldn’t do that again because of the way that it affected actually the people that I care about the most in the world." While recently speaking with the Bleacher Report, Hart was asked what he thought about Brady's comments. And though he understands why Brady was upset, the comedian also thinks he could have set better parameters heading into it. "When he says he regretted doing it... I think what he’s referring to is saying, 'I could have tapered it a little differently, saying or having a conversation [before] of like, 'Guys, let’s go and do this, but let’s not touch this, or this,'" Hart reasoned. "And I think the idea of going all in and just saying, 'I don’t care, because I know the world would love to see me being on the receiving end of s--t, because I'm Tom Brady and I've been at the highest stage of my life,' I think it was that," he continued. "But also, what it did for comedy and like, our climate of sensitivity, I think was necessary and valuable." "Although, I can side with Tom and see where he's coming from, and just wanting to protect the idea of family and the conversation attached to that," Hart explained. "And I'm not privy to everything he dealt with after, so I know his response and saying something about it was a result of possibly that." Hart continued, noting that everyone who went up on stage "got hit," but that every comic who participated got a chance to show off their sharp-witted talents and what makes them special. He also pointed out that it was his job as roast master to get everyone comfortable with what would be some envelope-pushing jokes. "I love the moment, I love Tom, I understand why Tom came back and said what he said," Hart said. "But... I think when he says that, he just knows that he could have policed it a little better." "Also, not being aware of where people were going to go and how they were going to come in... it's a learning lesson," he added. "So moving forward, if we're roasting someone and there's something crazy that they don't want, then it's just a conversation beforehand and people go around it." Be that as it may, apparently Brady did set some ground rules when it came to off-limits jokes about New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, which comedian Jeff Ross allegedly ignored, leading to an awkward, onstage exchange. In either case, one would have to imagine Brady's roast days are decidedly behind him, particularly as he looks ahead to his new gig with Fox Sports. Медиа: | ↑ |
For many Americans, stopping in at a fast casual chain is the perfect way to get a quick and full meal at any time of day. They've risen to compete with the country's classic fast food chains (known in the industry as quick-service restaurants or QSRs), offering a higher-end dining experience at a more premium price point. USA Today readers readers weighed in on their favorite fast casual restaurants across the country and came up with 10 great options for diners of all kinds. The cuisines range from Mexican and Middle Eastern to classic burger joints. At the top of the list is Qdoba Mexican Eats, which maintains a hardcore customer base in many cities. It's also not the only Mexican chain on the list, with Torchy's Tacos right behind Qdoba in second and the ubiquitous Chipotle Mexican Grill rounding out the list at tenth. If you're looking for a traditional burger and fries, there's plenty to choose from. BurgerFi sits at number three on the list with Culver's at seven and the iconic Five Guys in eighth. In the mood for Chicago-style hot dogs? Check out Portillo's. And if you're looking to go a little healthier, you can stop by Tropical Smoothie Cafe or Mendocino Farms. Check out the top 10 list below and read up on the full report over on USA Today.
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A polar bear died in a freak accident at a popular Canadian zoo on July 19 as it played with a fellow bear, The Daily Mail reported. Baffin, a 7-year-old male, was roughhousing with 8-year-old Siku in a pond at the Calgary Zoo when the tragic event occurred. Siku apparently bit down on Baffin’s neck, unintentionally crushing the bear’s trachea. Baffin disappeared under the water, alarming the witnesses at the scene, as zoo officials quickly corralled Siku and took him back to the polar bear enclosure. Park visitors were also vacated from the scene while staff drained the pond to recover Baffin’s body. Siku’s bite did not pierce Baffin’s skin, but Sandie Black, a senior veterinarian with the Calgary Zoo, reported that the bite was in exactly the right place to crush the bear’s trachea. Black further explained that the style of play in which the bears were engaging was not considered at all aggressive or unusual. A necropsy later revealed that Baffin’s death was practically instantaneous. Officials say he “lost consciousness underwater due to the tracheal injury and subsequently drowned.” Black called the necropsy’s findings a “hollow comfort,” noting that “nothing would have changed” even if she had been able to render aid to Baffin in the moments after his injury. “Had this been on land,” Black said, “it would have been very different [outcome].” On their Facebook page, the Calgary Zoo posted a heartwarming tribute to Baffinafter his untimely death. “Our hearts go out to the Assiniboine Park & Zoo family, who loved him first. Although Baffin was with us for a short time, his passing will leave a hole in hearts across the zoo and our community,” the zoo wrote. “He will be remembered for his endearing ‘teddy-bear’ face, his playful and curious nature, and his fondness for interacting with visitors during pool time. His presence brought immense joy to our lives and he will be deeply missed by all.” Медиа: | ↑ |
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. This month has been host to a ton of special deals on hand and power tools from DeWalt, Craftsman, and Milwaukee thanks to Amazon Prime Day 2024, but one of the best discounts you'll find is hiding in plain sight at Walmart. Recently, a massive tool set that shoppers are using for everything from fixing their cars to home DIY projects dropped in price by more than $225—and it even comes in a shiny lockable chest. The Workpro 408-Piece Mechanics Tool Set is now on sale at Walmart for just $162—a 58% discount on the normal $390 price. This well-equipped tool kit is popular, having earned nearly 150 five-star ratings from Walmart shoppers who say it's the "perfect tool set for home use," whether working on projects around the house or under the hood of the car. It comes in two sizes—a 125-piece and a 408-piece set—but the larger set is a far greater value with a more comprehensive lineup of tools. Workpro 408-PIece Mechanics Tool Set, $162 (was $390) at Walmart
This tool set is everything a DIYer, homeowner, or at-home car tinkerer needs to complete any project in front of them. It includes all the essentials, including screwdrivers and bits, a hammer, and a tape measure, but it has an impressive variety of ratchet handles, sockets, and wrenches as well—likely every size needed around the house. This kit is also housed in a lockable metal toolbox that features sliding drawers and nesting spots for each tool. Those who have brought this tool kit into their homes have been impressed with its depth and quality, especially for the price. "Truly impressed," a shopper said. "Considering the price, I expected lower-quality tools. However, I am genuinely impressed with both the quality and quantity of the set." Another shopper agreed, saying, "Everything needed in a home tool set and the case is so much nicer than most." Related: Amazon's Bestselling Tactical Knife That's 'Excellent' for Daily Use Is Just $10 Right Now Many shoppers also found that this kit makes a great gift. "Perfect gift for a new homeowner," a shopper stated. "My nephew is a new homeowner and was busy trying to assemble some Ikea purchases but did not have any tools, so I got him this as a gift. It has all the basic tools and then some to equip him to do the many tasks ahead. The tools seem sturdy and fit perfectly in the metal storage box. Just the perfect size too because storage right now is minimal." Whether you're looking to fix up parts of the house or a classic car in the garage, having a well-fleshed-out tool set like this one from Workpro will help you do it without having to take extra trips to the hardware store. If it's the right size for your project, pick one up soon, because it's unclear how long the discount will last. Медиа: | ↑ |
The global IT outage last week grounded thousands of flights around the world and left millions of passengers stranded with no way of getting to their destination. In the days since then, airlines have steadily gotten back online and resumed normal operations. Delta Air Lines, however, has been the slowest major U.S. airline to get back up and running—so much so that the Department of Transportation launched an investigation into the company for its response. Now, the airline's CEO is offering a clear timeline of when Delta will be back to 100 percent functionality. Delta CEO Ed Bastian offered an update in a note to statement sent out July 24. "While our initial efforts to stabilize the operations were difficult and frustratingly slow and complex, we have made good progress this week and the worst impacts of the CrowdStrike-caused outage are clearly behind us," Bastian said. "Delays and cancellations were down 50 percent Tuesday [July 23] compared to Monday [July 22], and we anticipate cancellations Wednesday [July 24] to be minimal. Thursday [July 25] is expected to be a normal day, with the airline fully recovered and operating at a traditional level of reliability." Things seem to be moving in the right direction. "As of Wednesday morning, Delta's operations were returning to normal," the airline said in a statement, per CBS News. "Ed remains fully engaged with senior operations leaders." Bastian emphasized in his memo that Delta was dedicated to "taking care of those whose flights may still be impacted, with meals, hotel accommodations, and ground transportation offered through vouchers and reimbursements." With the Olympics in Paris just a few days away, the meltdown of Team USA's official airline couldn't have come at a worse time. Медиа: | ↑ |
It seems as though no beaches in the United States have been safe from shark-related activity or attacks this summer, with areas from Cape Cod to Texas seeing upticks in abnormal shark behavior. And in yet another incident, a beachgoer in South Carolina suffered an apparent "likely shark bite" earlier this week. According to WSAV 3 News, the incident went down on Monday afternoon at a beach at the Sea Pines Resort off the coast of Hilton Head Island. Lifeguards reported that a woman came out of the water bleeding, and that her wound was treated at the scene. The extent of her injuries is unclear, but she did not require being taken to the hospital. Shore Beach Services said that it was the second possible shark bite this year in the area. Officials were said to have closed the water to swimmers for about 30 minutes until it could be determined that it was safe. In 2023, a man swimming in Hilton Head said he was bitten on the foot by a shark while swimming in waist-deep water. He was later transported to the hospital for treatment of the bite wound. Although it could not be determined whether the most recent Hilton Head incident was conclusively a shark attack, it would follow other recent incidents around the US. Back in June, three people were injured in two separate shark attacks that took place in less than two hours on the same stretch of beach along the Florida panhandle coastline, with two victims were left in critical condition. And over the July 4 holiday weekend, four swimmers were injured by what was believed to have been the same shark off the coast of South Padre Island, TX. Медиа: | ↑ |
There’s nothing in New Zealand’s backcountry that can seriously bite, sting, strike, poke, jab, stick, or generally hurt you, my Kiwi fishing guide Alex assures me. At least not in any debilitating way. “So we can move fast through the bush without worrying too much,” he explains. “Or we can stay here and hope the helicopter comes.” Alex is telling me this because we’re huddled under the branches of a massive beech tree, taking shelter from an incoming lightning storm. To no avail, he's tried to radio the helicopter pilot who dropped us off here, on the upper reaches of the South Island’s Young River. The dense cloud cover seems to be affecting communication. Now we’re about to hightail it through the forest to reach a trekking shelter roughly two miles downstream, where two other members of our fishing group have taken refuge. Between us and the shelter, however, is a steep, slippery mountainside and the only “trail” to follow is the faint impression of a track where local biologists occasionally traipse through to check on traps they’ve set to catch stoats, an invasive ferret-like varmint.  Ryan Krogh “If we don’t reach the shelter before the helicopter picks them up, we could be waiting all day for conditions to improve. But at least if we’re in the bush, we may not get struck by lightning.” Related: I Spent 4 Days Hiding Out in the Caribbean's Best Secret Getaway With the less bad option clear, we start speed-hiking across the forest, plowing through fern branches and sliding down moss-covered hillsides. Within 10 minutes, we’re muddy and dripping with sweat. As we begin picking our way across a rockslide, I hear Alex’s radio squawk with static. Then he’s on it, talking with the pilot. I’m far enough away to miss most of the back-and-forth, but as I get closer, I do hear: “We’re on the west slope, where the creek comes in. There’s a big boulder here. It may be large enough.” When I catch up with Alex, all he says is: “He’s not going to be able to land, so we need to jump in when his skids touch down. Everything goes in the cockpit this time. Just jump in.”  Brian O'Keefe Before it’s even possible to comprehend how this extraction might work, the thwop, thwop, thwop of the helicopter echoes off the walls of the valley. Suddenly, it appears below us, only a few meters above the Young River, and then it banks sharply up towards us. We hunker down next to a large boulder. It’s no bigger than a pickup truck. But without any hesitation the pilot steers the helicopter above us. “Okay, let’s go,” Alex shouts under the whirring blades. In a matter of seconds, we’re piling into the backseat and then lifting off into the rain and low clouds. When I get the headset on, the first thing I hear is the pilot. “A little dicey, eh?” he says as we rush down valley, thunder rumbling up valley. A little dicey indeed, but in less than a couple minutes we’re picking up the rest of our group. Ten minutes later, we’re back at Eleven Cedar Lodge with warm coffees in hand, joking about the whole incident, and trying to decide what pub to head to for fish and chips. Or should we get a lamb burger? “It’s a shame we had to bail so early into the morning,” Alex says. “That first rainbow you caught was a beauty.”  Brian O'Keefe Turning Up the Adventure LevelThe world is full of glistening streams that produce impressive numbers of trout on a fly, but there are only a handful of locations around the globe can produce a true behemoth that you can sight cast to. Fewer still can pair those big fish with world-class hospitality and food—or a helicopter to give you a last-minute lift to escape an approaching storm. Such is the singularity of Eleven Cedar Lodge. The lodge, on the banks of the Makarora River, is the handiwork of Eleven, the high-end adventure company based in Colorado that has more than a dozen lodges around the globe, including its largest, Iceland’s Eleven Deplar Farm. In 2018, it purchased Cedar, which is often whispered about in fly-fishing circles as being home to some of the best trout fishing on the planet. In its 25-year existence before Eleven, it had hosted a who’s who of serious anglers, including legends like Lefty Krey, Mel Krieger, and Dave Whitlock. But the years had taken a toll, and Eleven’s plan was to bring new energy to the well-worn property. Then the pandemic happened, throwing off the upgrade schedule.  Brian O'Keefe When I visited, in March of 2023, the lodge was just finishing its first full summer season since COVID and I was visiting the property with Brian O’Keefe, Eleven’s Angling Product Manager, who helps the company develop fishing adventures across its portfolio. By then, the main lodge had been refreshed and Eleven was in the process of acquiring another New Zealand property, Eleven Owen River Lodge, to further expand its portfolio. Tagging along at Cedar were two other Eleven team members, helping to hone Cedar’s hospitality offerings and fill out the activity options, which include mountain biking, jet boating, wine tasting, and hiking on a few of the South Island’s most memorable trails. Eleven was even in the process of sorting out how to offer heli-skiing in the winter. But our trip was all about fishing. “You won’t believe the clarity of these rivers,” O’Keefe told me when we talked prior to arrival. “And the fish, they’re just unbelievable fighters.” Unlike most other trout fishing, fly-fishing in New Zealand is primarily a stalking sport. Instead of casting repeatedly into a good-looking spot, here you often don’t make a cast until you see a fish under the glass-like water. Once you’ve managed to accomplish that, you then need to sneak within striking distance to make a cast. Deliver the fly perfectly and you could be fighting a 25-inch rainbow. Make a splash, slip on a rock, cast a shadow in the wrong direction, get your fly line over a fish—or any other numerous ways to botch the delivery—and you’ll watch as a two-foot fish slowly moves off into deeper water, likely never to be seen again. For dedicated trout fishermen, it’s the equivalent of watching your favorite team flub the Super Bowl in the last minute. Related: Best Places to Visit in Australia for Every Type of Traveler Of course, this is all assuming you can even spot the trout first, because doing that is near impossible for newbies to New Zealand fly-fishing. “It helps to look for smudges in the water,” O’Keefe told me as we were fishing together one day. “The water is clear enough that you can see through to the bottom. But if there’s a smudge instead of clear rocks, that’s probably a fish.”  Brian O'Keefe On our first day at Cedar, we helicoptered out and across a band of the Southern Alps to a remote creek called the Dingle Burn. The stream is impossibly picturesque, wending its way through grass tussocks in a remote valley with beech tree–covered hillsides. It’s a popular hiking destination, and we flew over two groups of trekkers as we cruised up valley to our landing zone, on a sandbar next to the Dingle Burn. To get here on foot would have required a day or two of trekking, but we were stringing up our rods within 30 minutes of leaving the lodge. The sun was out. The fish were easy to spot—at least for the guides—and, between four of us, we caught roughly six apiece. Of course, in New Zealand, numbers aren’t the point. It’s quality over quantity, and while we all caught fish that would have been a season’s best in Colorado or Montana, they were just “decent” by Kiwi standards.  Brian O'Keefe “This is small stream fishing at its best in New Zealand,” O’Keefe told me as we waited for our helicopter ride back to Cedar. “But just wait. You haven’t seen anything yet.” Naturally, that only piqued my anticipation for the next morning. But that was when we got extracted ahead of the incoming lightning storm. That left only two days to land a true Kiwi bruiser. And while hanging out at Cedar would have been more than enough to make coming all this way worthwhile, the building itself is not the reason anyone comes here.  Brian O'Keefe A Country House With World-Class ServiceEleven Cedar Lodge is small—just four rooms in the main house. Staying in it is like crashing at your rich friend’s cabin, if your friend had a private chef churning out New Zealand classics like poached green-lipped mussels and roasted lamb cutlets. Instead of the overattentive coddling you get at many high-end resorts, Eleven lodges are focused on laid-back indulgence. They are the “quiet luxury” of the hospitality world, and Cedar is no different. Every morning, after a choose-your-own breakfast whipped up by the chef, we’d gear up for the day. Lunches are usually in the backcountry, depending on the activity. So, on the way out, everyone grabs a few snacks and the guides pack up a cooler of food from the kitchen. We’d then wait on the front porch for our helicopter pickup.  Brian O'Keefe When we’d return at the end of the day, a host would be waiting at the edge of the lawn with cocktails to greet us as we walked beyond the helicopter’s rotor wash. A tray of appetizers would be sitting out on a table near the firepit. It was all very civilized—and over the top, of course. But because the entire atmosphere of Eleven Cedar Lodge is so relaxed and convivial, the pampering is comfortable in a way that few properties can match. Upon returning to the lodge in the afternoon, the guides would often join in for a beer or two, giving everyone the chance to hash over the day’s adventures. With such an intimate lodge, many groups rent out the entire place, though plenty of people come with their spouse or a buddy or two. For guests not fishing, there’s no shortage of things to do—everything from hiking or mountain biking to wine tasting at a nearby vineyard. Many people will even take the two-hour car ride to Queenstown, the Aspen of the South Island.  Brian O'Keefe During our rained-out afternoon, we headed into Wanaka, roughly an hour away. The town, full of boutiques and good restaurants, is set on the shores of Lake Wanaka, 300 meters deep and roughly 26 miles long. It’s massive, to say the least, and pristine. The snow-covered Southern Alps reflect off its waters like a glacial lake in Canada or Norway. Along one shoreline, there’s a lone willow tree in the middle of the lake, seemingly emerging from the deep (it’s actually growing on a tiny island). This single tree has become pop star-level famous in recent years, and nearly anyone visiting Wanaka can’t help but snag their own pic. Missing the shot would be like going to Honshu and not taking a shot of Mount Fuji for Instagram. Of course, everywhere you turn in this part of New Zealand is another Mount Fuji–worthy view, whether it’s Lake Wanaka, the peaks of the Southern Alps, or just a meandering river cutting through a perfect valley floor. When it comes to landscapes—and fishing, hiking, food, wine, and just about everything else that’s worthwhile in life—New Zealand does it better.  Brian O'Keefe Bragging Rights for the YearAfter our second day at Eleven Cedar Lodge got stormed out, our third day was washed out on account of muddy rivers, which made fishing near impossible. But the skies were clear and the weather stunning, so we hopped in the helicopter for a “tramp,” as the Kiwis call it, in Mount Aspiring National Park. We were dropped off at Siberia Hut, a 20-bed trekkers lodge in a remote valley, for the four-hour hike down to the Wilkin River, which flows into the Makaroro near Eleven Cedar Lodge. Hiking in New Zealand is a national pastime, with an entire system devoted to constructing trails, maintaining them, and promoting it all. Tracks crisscross the entire nation, traversing everything from thick rainforest canopies and grass-covered hillsides to high-mountain saddles. Our hike, on the Gillespie Pass Circuit, started in an open valley with clear views of snow-covered peaks, and took us through a beech forest canyon where we could hear the roar of the river below us. We ended on the banks of the Wilkin River, where Eleven Cedar Lodge had arranged for a jet boat to meet us, with cold beer and cocktails, for the ride back to the lodge.  Ryan Krogh Even on a “ruined” day of fishing, the adventure proved next-level. Of course, that left just one final day to land a postcard-worthy trout. Luckily, it delivered. On the closing day, we returned to the Young River, where we had been chased out two days earlier. This time, however, we were dropped off down valley, closer to its junction with the Makaroro. The largest fish of the day came towards the end, in maybe 20 inches of water where a side channel rejoined the main river. The sun glared off the water and Alex scrambled up onto the bank to get a better vantage point of the river. “Ryan, there’s a biggun’ here,” he said. “I need you to come up ten steps.”  Brian O'Keefe Blinded by the sun, I simply listened to his instructions like I was following Google Maps. I cast once out into the main river to gauge distance on my cast, readjusted, then cast directly to the fish. The rainbow turned toward my fly but didn’t take it. Alex came down and tied on a different pattern. The trout did the same thing with that fly. So we tied on yet another one and waited ten minutes. Most fish would have hightailed it out of such shallow water by this point, knowing the jig was up, but this one stayed put. I cast again. And after maybe ten casts and changing the fly four times, the fish finally took it—and raced downstream like a speedboat. Before I could even slow him, I was down to the backing on my reel. So I ran along the shoreline, trying to catch up with the fish as best I could, followed by Alex and O’Keefe. It took me down to a large pool, where I was able reel enough line back in to gain control of the fish. When Alex netted him, there wasn’t even anything to say. We just smiled and high-fived. After a few moments, O’Keefe lifted the rainbow out of the net to show me how he wanted me to pose with it for his camera. “It may be six pounds, definitely five,” he said. We spent the next moment getting a few quick shots before we released it back into the deep. At the lodge later that night, word made its way around and everyone was keen to check out the pic. That biggun’ constituted my bragging rights for the next year.  Brian O'Keefe And yet, even though it was the biggest fish of the trip, I kept thinking back to a rainbow I'd caught earlier in the day. It was one of the few fish that I’d spotted rising before anyone else—before the guides even—and I had to wade across a fast section of riffles to get close enough to even make a cast. Branches were hanging over the water near where it was rising, so it was a tight window to cast into. I had to wade into place, nearly up to my chest, then wait until I could pinpoint its exact location. When it rose again, I paused for a beat, then slung a sidearm cast under the tree branches into a spot five feet in front of the rise. As it drifted down, I could see the fish rise, like a breaching submarine, to take my fly. Alex, who was looking on from a high bank, hooted when my line went taught. It took five minutes to land the fish, and up to that point it was the largest I’d caught on the trip—superseding the fish before that, which was larger than the one before that. This one, of course, would soon get outsized by the biggest of the trip, and yet it remained stuck in my mind. I had put in the work to spot it and wade to it. I’d made the ideal cast to it, and I was able to land it after a hectic fight. Everything, basically, fell into place. The moral of that big-ish fish story: In New Zealand, perfection is not only something you can hope for. Occasionally, you can actually find it, too.  Brian O'Keefe The Details: Eleven Cedar LodgeGetting Here: Queenstown, two hours from Eleven Cedar Lodge, is the nearest large airport in New Zealand's South Island. Nearly all direct flights from the U.S. land in Auckland, where you’ll transfer to an in-country flight to Queenstown. Eleven offers shuttles from Queenstown. What’s Included: Besides top-shelf liquor and any special requests like extra helicopter flights or unique activities, just about everything is included in the price. From $2,249 per night, with a three-night minimum. Медиа: | ↑ |
Keanu Reeves stopped by The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on July 22, where he detailed the nasty leg injury that left him using a cane earlier this year. Reeves incurred the injury while working Aziz Ansari’s directorial debut, Good Fortune, which is a straight-up comedy role rather than the action parts for which Reeves is known. Ansari also stars in the movie alongside Reeves and Seth Rogen. Despite doing all manner of stunts for his John Wick franchise, Reeves told Colbert that his knee “cracked like a potato chip” after shooting a seemingly innocuous sequence. “I was filming a scene with Aziz Ansari and Seth Rogen and we were in a cold plunge,” Reeves explained. “I was loving it, I was standing there, and we finish the scene, and you know when you’re cold and you’re [shuffling]? I had a bathing suit and a towel, and you put it over your head and you do the cold shuffle?” the actor asked to laughter “I’m doing the cold shuffle in this room that had protective carpets down and then,” the actor said as he acted out the incident. “There was like a little pocket, just here, and my foot got caught in the pocket in the shuffle, and then I went [down], but [my knee] didn’t follow,” he continued. “And then, in slow motion, I went falling. My arms came out, but then my knee failed because it’s got some stuff [wrong with it], and I spiked it. And my patella—kneecap—cracked like a potato chip.” Ansari previously spoke at Cinema Con (via People) about Reeves being “such a trooper” on set following his injury. “He still filmed everything, except some scenes where we needed him to do salsa dancing, which we need to pick up.” Ansari clarified. "He was like, 'I'll do it!' We're like, 'Keanu, calm down. We'll do the salsa dancing once your knee's healed.’” Good Fortune does not yet have a release date. You can check out Reeves’ interview with Colbert below. Медиа: | ↑ |
President Joe Biden sent an already breakneck political news cycle into utter chaos on Sunday when he announced that he would be stepping down from his 2024 presidential campaign and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his replacement. The news sent a shockwave into the Democratic party, with the tides quickly turning in favor of the former prosecutor. And the news also triggered a renewed interest into the political satire Veep, which ran on HBO for seven seasons from 2012 through 2019. The series starred Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Selina Meyer, a fictional United States vice president who eventually ascends to the rank of commander-in-chief, in a potential "truth is stranger than fiction" turn. The series earned 17 total Primetime Emmy Awards during its run, including six consecutive wins for Louis-Dreyfus alone. According to TMZ via the data company Luminate, viewership for Veep, which currently streams on Max, skyrocketed from 486,000 minutes watched on Sunday to 2.2 million minutes on Monday, at a whopping 350 percent increase. In the wake of Biden's announcement, Veep series creator Armando Iannucci responded to a social media post noting the similarities between the series and real life, noting a possible outcome in the 2024 election if things continue to steer along the same course. "Don’t forget we made all that up, though," Iannucci quipped.
Interestingly enough, the Harris endorsement is not the only current event to have an impact on streaming numbers. In the wake of former President Donald Trump choosing Hillbilly Elegy author J.D. Vance as his running mate, the Netflix biopic of the same name based on Vance's 2016 memoir began trending on the streamer. Forbes reports that the film debuted in the eighth spot for the week of July 15 to 21 on Netflix's Global Top 10 Movies chart, with 4.8 million views or roughly 9.4 million viewing hours. Медиа: | ↑ |
This article was published in partnership with 5-hour ENERGY Smoked pork butt is a staple of barbecue in America and one of the easiest cuts of meat for those new to smoking (you'll want to invest in one of the best smokers). This oversized cut has enough fat to stay moist and tender through the long cooking process required to break down its copious, flavor-infusing connective tissue. Because pork butt is large—usually between six to 10 pounds—it’s also great for feeding a crowd, which is another reason for its ubiquity at backyard barbecues. If there’s a downside, it’s the extended cooking time, which requires planning a day in advance. “Pork butt” is sometimes used interchangeably with “pork shoulder” despite them being two different sections of the foreleg quarter of a hog. The characteristics and preparations of the two cuts are fairly similar. Whatever you call it, it’s the raw material for some of the best low-cost meals on the planet, including pulled pork sandwiches and carnitas tacos. Read on for expert tips on the best ways to make crowd-pleasing smoked pork butt at home. Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. The Benefits of Smoked Pork Butt Easy for Beginners to CookSmoked pork butt is hard to screw up, which makes it a favorite for beginners and experts alike. “People want to start with brisket and I'm like, ‘Whoa, whoa,’ ” says BBQ enthusiast and fire fanatic Jordan Morris. “You can cook pork butt in so many ways, try to screw it up, and still get great results. There’s lots of room for error, thanks to all the fat and connective tissue.” The time scales involved also help. When you’re searing a steak, the difference between medium and overdone can be minutes, if not seconds. When smoking a pork butt for eight to 15 hours, it takes a criminal level of neglect or absentmindedness to take it too far. The price to be paid for this ultra-high margin for error is the time and effort. Running a smoker for 10 hours—especially manual wood or charcoal smokers—can be therapeutic time spent outdoors, but it’s a commitment to all-day cooking. Computer-controlled and WiFi-enabled pellet smokers require less management, but you’ll still need to make occasional check-ins. “Think of it as the kind of meat that rewards patience,” says Serge Krikorian, executive chef and managing partner at Vibrant Occasions catering. “When you cook it low and slow, you get incredibly tender, juicy meat.”  It Stays Moist and TenderWhile pork butt is fattier than pork loin or tenderloin, it’s not nearly as rich as pork belly and bacon, but there’s enough to keep the meat moist over long duration cooks on a smoker or in a slow cooker. The fairly neutral-tasting pork fat also adds tongue-coating flavor and readily absorbs the flavors from rubs and marinades. Pork butt’s flavor personality and profile are very rich, savory, and slightly fatty, but don’t think this is a very fatty cut, says Alejandro Najar, executive chef at The Butcher’s Cellar in Waco, TX. It Packs Flavor“The pork shoulder packs some umami flavors, and that’s due to the shoulder being closer to the pig's head so it makes it more succulent.” Connective tissue gets a bad rap for making meats “tough” when quick-cooked on a grill, but that same connective tissue breaks down when cooked low and slow to bring massive flavor that leaner cuts can’t provide. Related: The Chef-Approved Trick to Make the Best Grilled Chicken How to Prepare Smoked Pork ButtSpice RubsJordan Morris and the professional cooks we spoke with almost always use a generous spice rub on pork butt rather than the brines you might use on other big pork cuts, such as hams. The size of most pork butts means it’s actually rather difficult to overseason with a rub. Salt is an essential ingredient, but also adding some kind of granulated sugar will help create the characteristic “bark” or “crust” of quality barbecue pulled pork. The bark packs a flavor punch, but it also provides a variation in texture by contrasting the crunchy, crispy bark with moist and tender inner fibers.  Adam Bible Morris recommends a binder rubbed on the meat’s exterior to help hold the spice rub, but says not to believe the hype around the supposed powers of different binding agents. “Some people use mustard and claim it tenderizes the meat, but I promise you the binder will have a minimal impact,” he says. “You can lather a ton of mayonnaise on and after six-plus hours, you won't taste mayonnaise. There’s a famous Texas barbecue place that just uses water.” Jed Hanson, executive chef for PS Seasoning, recommends liberally applying hot sauce as a binder for a little extra heat, then coating in a spice rub such as PS Seasoning’s Notorious P.I.G., made especially for smoking pulled pork. Morris says to make your spice rub appropriate to how you’ll ultimately serve the pork, but to keep in mind that you’ll almost always be adding additional seasoning—think BBQ sauce (think outside the box with Alabama white sauce) or salsa—later since it’s difficult to season a pork butt enough just by spice rubbing the outside. MarinadeIf you want to try something a little different with your pork butt, Najar’s current favorite preparation for taco filling from a pork butt starts with a marinade. “The marinade consists of orange and lime juice, bay leaf, lots of garlic, rice wine vinegar, and some salt and pepper,” Najar says. “Cook the meat at 275 degrees until tender, then give it a good shredding, and serve with a side of tortillas and all the best taco fixings.” The bonus of this method is that if you choose to braise (rather than smoke) with the marinade liquid in a Dutch oven or slow cooker, the fat and meat juices create a rich broth or sauce that minimizes the need for additional seasoning after cooking. Related: Best Grill Brushes and Tools of 2024 to Master Any Flame Smoked Pork Butt Temp: How to Smoke Pork Butt There are tons of smoker brands and smoker setups on the market these days. Whether it’s a Kamado-style charcoal grill or a $3,000 fully automated pellet smoker, the goal for a smoked pork butt is the same: hold a low temperature with mild smoke for a long time. Most pulled pork recipes will call for smoking at 225 degrees, which is usually at minimum an eight- to 10-hour process, depending on the size of the butt. You should plan on at least 1.5 hours of smoking per pound of meat at 225 degrees, which math wizards may have already calculated to require 15 hours on a larger 10-pound butt. Morris likes to speed things up just a little bit by smoking between 250 and 275 degrees on his Kamado-style charcoal grill. When the internal temperature hits at least 165 degrees (usually after six hours), he wraps the butt in foil to let the meat braise in its own internal moisture—colloquially called a "Texas crutch." “Some add liquid inside the foil, but I think it makes it mushy. I want the bark. The existing meat juice and fat is sufficient,” he says. Once wrapped, an average butt will cook for another 2 to 3 hours for a total cook time of 8 to 9 hours. Just be careful not to let your smoker go much above 275 or you risk burning the spice rub and creating bitter or burnt flavors. The key number, however, isn’t how many hours or your smoker’s settings, but the internal temperature and texture of the meat. Morris says the generally accepted “perfect” internal temperature for smoked pulled pork is 203 degrees, but he recommends probing the meat with your probe thermometer or a utensil as well. “You gotta feel it. It should be easy to probe. It should feel like butter,” he says.  Adam Bible Once you get to that finger-licking, fall-apart pork, all you have to do is let it cool for 20 minutes or so. Then you can start shredding it with forks or Bear Paws The Original Meat Shredder Claws. Two people can use them to process a big hunk of butt in about 10 minutes. Thick rubber gloves may be needed if you and your guests get impatient. After that, how you choose to eat it is up to you: in tacos, on potato rolls, mixed with mac and cheese, stuffed into a burrito...or just straight out of the pan with your bare hands. Smoked Pork Butt RecipeHoned in the heart of the Mississippi, this pulled pork recipe comes from Killer Hogs Barbecue, and is as close as one can get to perfect southern barbecue, without actually being ankle-deep in Old Man River. Ingredients
For the Baste
Instructions
For the Rub
Instructions
Instructions if Grilling With Charcoal
Instructions if Smoking
Best Gear for Smoking a Pork ButtLavatools Javelin Instant Read Digital Thermometer
Courtesy Image An instant-read meat thermometer gives highly accurate probe temperature readings in a few seconds and is essential equipment for proper grilling. Lavatools Javelin is the very affordable model Morris uses. “The revolution from my parents’ generation to my generation is cooking to temperature instead of cooking to time,” says Morris. ThermoPro Twin Temp Spike Meat Thermometers
Courtesy Image There’s nothing wrong with one of the many cheaper single probe meat thermometers available, but having a dual probe setup like ThermoPro Twin Temp Spike Meat Thermometers gives you a more balanced picture of your meat’s internal temperature. The Bluetooth functionality also lets you keep tabs from your phone up to 500 feet away. Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Drum Smoker
Adam Bible Selected as the best overall smoker from our 2024 Grilling Awards, Bronco Drum Smoker costs less than most charcoal or pellet smokers and takes up less square footage in your outdoor kitchen with its vertical barrel design. It’s a manual charcoal- and wood-fired option that requires more attention than an automated pellet smoker, but when set up properly, it’s nearly as hands-off—plus will get you a better smoke for more satisfying results. PS Seasonings Notorious P.I.G. Spice Rub
Courtesy Image Creating a spice rub for smoked pork butt isn’t rocket science, but it adds time to an already time-consuming process. PS Seasoning’s Notorious P.I.G. is formulated with pulled pork in mind, mixing heat from peppers with sweetness from white and brown sugars. Ooni 12-Inch Pizza Peel
Courtesy Image Trying to wrangle a 10-pound pork butt with tongs is like trying to grab a softball with tweezers. Morris employs a metal pizza peel (you may already have one if you make pies at home in a pizza oven) to get underneath the butt for moving it to and from the smoker and around the grates, if needed. We love this light Ooni 12-Inch Pizza Peel; it's light and made of aluminum. 5-hour ENERGY Inspired Energizing BBQ Sauce Courtesy Image If you're a fan of the kick you get from 5-hour ENERGY, level up your grilling game with 5-hour ENERGY Inspired Energizing BBQ Sauce. Not only will it help you stay on the ball during a marathon weekend grilling session, the tangy peach-mango sauce gives pork an unexpected zing. For other 5-hour ENERGY purchases, get 5% off with code NoFOMO5. Related: Best Cheap Whiskey of 2024 for a Great Bottle on a Budget Медиа: | ↑ |
Here at Men's Journal, our team of editors and writers are constantly testing the latest gear and cool gadgets to find the best new products. This is the newest and best stuff out there that you should know about to take on your next adventure, use during a workout, add to your wardrobe, or simply enhance every other part of your life. That includes everything from the best new adventure gear and outdoor gadgets to the absolutely coolest home tech along with the latest and greatest in tools, electronics, and cookware. Here, check out our writers' and editors' favorite picks for Gear of the Week. Come back each week to see an updated list of our favorite new products, along with a selection of the previous weeks' gear picks. Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Week of July 22Garmin Echomap Ultra 2 10-inch Chartplotter
Peter Matlashweski If you’re looking to take your fishing to the next level, the Garmin Echomap Ultra 2 chartplotter is one of the most capable sonar devices on the market that will no doubt enhance your odds of putting fish in the boat. Having used multiple fish finders over the years, none come close to the clarity, processing power, easy to use interface and high end features this model has to offer. The Ultra 2 is compatible with forward facing sonar, has a 10-inch high resolution touch screen display that can remain crystal clear in full sun and for those who run multiple units, it can be paired wirelessly to other Gamin devices on your boat. The Echomap Ultra 2 delivers some of the best SideVu and ClearVu data I’ve come across which allows you to make out with precision what type of structure lies beneath the surface. That data alone has increased my catch rate significantly and more importantly helped me better understand fish behavior in relation to bottom structure. Navigating new waters has never been easier thanks to Garmin’s Navionics mapping network which delivers all the data you’d ever need to map out points of interest while giving you the peace of mind of knowing where you can safely navigate. With the depth range shading feature turned on you can set colors to corresponding depths so you can target areas that might hold fish much more easily. This unit is not necessarily meant for the entry-level fisherman but more for anyone who is looking to upgrade their current sonar device to one that has state of the art mapping and imaging technology while also being as future proof as it gets. The Echomap Ultra 2 will not catch the fish for you but it will certainly help you find where they are, teach you a lot along the way but most importantly make for a great day on the water.—Peter Matlashweski, contributor [From $1,899; basspro.com] Stihl MS 212 C-BE Chainsaw
Adam Bible There are lots of choices for chainsaws these days, including quite a few stellar electric saws that can perform as well as some of the best gas saws. But there's still no substitute for a well-made gas saw to really rip through a day's work felling trees and processing wood. Stihl's new MS 212 C-BE saw is one of the best mid-range, all-around choices for the tasks most homeowners or small farmers/ranchers will need. The 212 hit the sweet spot for me while dealing with downed trees on ATV trails around my friend's farm, cleaning up multiple trees felled by storms, and making sure wood for the fire pit was cut and stacked for future bonfires. It's light enough (10.8 pounds for the power head) to be easily toted around—whether on an ATV, in the back of SXS, or walking through the woods—but its punchy, 38.6cc two-stroke engine provided me plenty of power to quickly slice through a thick bough junction of a downed tree. The 18-inch bar is also made to be extra lightweight but still durable. Modern features like Quickstop chain brake helps cut the risk of injury from kickback by stopping the rotation of the chain within fractions of a second if you hit it or it will also activate by inertia if the saw kicks back hard enough, which I didn't have to experience, thankfully. Anther great feature is the the built-in anti-vibration system, which made it comfortable to use of extended sawing sessions throughout the days. Tops on the list though is the Easy2Star system, which makes starting the 212 super easy. All you have to do is switch on the choke, pull the cord out a bit, until you feel tension, and then just lightly pull. One cough, then turn off the choke and pull the cord the same way and the 212 started up every time for me. (You do have to remember not to crank down on the cord like you'd usually do for older saws, it won't start with that much force.) Other great additions that make modern saws like the 212 a no-brainer for those who need a robust but idiot-proof saw is the IntelliCarb carburetor which will automatically adjust the air/fuel ratio to maintain the correct RPM at all times. You don't have to fiddle with idle adjustment screws (and you can't as there are none) to keep performance up when the air filter gets dirty or clogged. And for those of us that hate the balancing game that comes with adjusting and tightening the chain with an old school wrench, the Stihl comes with a Quick Chain Adjuster—similar to some new electric saws—that lets you dial in the chain with a dial, no tool needed.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$360; acehardware.com] TRUE Linkswear Lux G Golf Shoes
David Weiss 21st-century golf shoes ain’t what your daddy used to wear, with or without green-destroying metal spikes. These days, forward-thinking companies like TRUE Linkswear blur the line between an athletic shoe specific to golf, and a casual sneaker you can walk right off the course and into the 19th-hole lounge for cold beer and squabbling over bets with your mates. Putting innovative materials to use, the new Lux G is waterproof and easy to clean, as well as lightweight and breathable. Comfort is a big deal in a golf shoes—especially for us Luddites who still walk instead of ride—and these kicks are beyond gentle on your heels and toes alike. Too often, I’ve finished a round in actual pain from an ill-fitting shoe, but TRUE’s shoes can be worn all day without need of pharmaceutical intervention. How they achieve the stability necessary for a vigorous golf swing and still remain comfortable is owed to a rubberized saddle and a mountaineering grade tread system working in tandem. The new upper is designed to remain flexible, and the Wanderlux midsole makes for a supportive and cushiony feel. Add to that a padded heel lock system and an Achilles heel pad and you’ve eliminated the enemy: friction. Last but not least, Lux G’s are style-forward—even in the potentially squaresville saddle shoe, black and white motif pictured here. Better to feel good than look good but these achieve both.—David Weiss, contributor [$175; truelinkswear.com] Week of July 15Garmin R10 Launch Monitor
David Weiss Nowadays, the idea of developing one’s golf game without high-tech gizmos seems terribly retrograde. Data is king in the new millennium, whether you’re running for political office or trying to nudge your handicap down a few digits. The good news is that the price of participation in this brave new world keeps getting more affordable–what used to cost $10K is down to a reasonable entry fee: The Garmin Approach R10 launch monitor is a number-crunching marvel at less than $600. Even better news is the reliability and accuracy that Garmin offers, as well as a smallish footprint given its ability to collect and store an immense amount of data points. Paired with Garmin’s proprietary app and a handy-dandy smartphone, the R10 is a true unbox-and-swing bit of technology: fire up the power, pair with your iPhone or Android and sync the monitor with the app. After doing the setup routine once, the rest is automatic. The following metrics are available seconds after setup. Distance (both carry and total), club speed, ball speed, launch angle and direction, club face angle and path, backspin and sidespin, spin axis and rate, attack angle, apex height, and smash factor. Of course, if you’re human and subject to slight user error now and again, it will also track total deviation measured in yards, as well as carry deviation in degrees and yards. Not only is the R10 affordable, it is consistent and accurate enough to warrant everyday use on the driving range, or at home if you’ve got the room for a full simulator experience.—David Weiss, contributor [$600; amazon.com] Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke HL Irons Golf Clubs
David Weiss Just when disappointment and despair were curbing my zeal for golf, along comes Callaway with their new Paradym Ai Smoke HL irons, tailor-made for players who pray for higher launch, more distance and consistent ball-striking. Along with a realization that my preference for stiff shafts no longer matched my diminished swing speed, I’ve recently started using the Smoke HL’s with a Project X Cypher graphite shaft and dramatically changed my ball flight and carry overnight. Hallelujah. The Smoke HL’s are definitely a game improvement design, but without apologies: The company used data collected from thousands of real golfers to incorporate face orientation, swing speed and club delivery, resulting in a face that launches higher and with more spin. As a result of all that number-crunching, Callaway increased the club length in the long and mid irons without giving up control. When the clubs are even a half-inch longer, distance follows, aided by the Ai Smart Face and a deep cavity-back construction to aid and abet tight dispersion. Give credit to the sci-fi eggheads in Callaway’s R&D department for the design of the Paradym HL’s, but also their handy supercomputer that simulated untold thousands of impacts to create a face that improves launch and spin and thus keeps the ball in the air longer. For those of us who dream of hitting high, feathery shots into Augusta’s unforgiving greens, these irons are heaven-sent. Forgiveness, distance and more spin? Yes please! For the record, the Smoke HL’s have restored my faltering faith in the game, and addicted me to the pleasures of golf once again. Will wonders never cease?—David Weiss, contributor [From $1,000; callaway.com] Montana Knife Company Wargoat Knife
Montana Knife Company has been turning out some of the most-sought-after hunting, fishing, and outdoor knives since their founding by Josh Smith in 2020. Adhering to a small-batch, hand-crafted ethos that resonates with most outdoorsmen, whether hunting or not, they've built up a cult-like following that eagerly awaits their website-advertised countdowns that drop every week or so. And they are so in demand that MKC has to have a separate page for the knives that actually in stock, since so many get snapped up in minutes after going live. MKC's latest venture in the knife world is called MKC Tactical, which takes the same small run, extremely well-designed blades to the world of the military and law enforcement, and for those who want a blade that can help defend their lives. The first knife in that line up is called the Wargoat—a variation on their nimble Speedgoat 2.0, which is a ultralight hunting/fishing/skinning knife. The new blade is near-identical to the Speedgoat, with a barely shorter length (3.5 inches vs. 3.6), but is slightly thicker (0.125 vs. 0.095) to increase its robustness in the field, plus they added jimping and a choil to the Wargoat. (Bonus: if you already have a Speedgoat, the Wargoat will fit perfectly into your Kydex sheath, only a slight adjustment in tension needed.) The most radical change is the addition of a ring at the rear to help with deploying the knife quickly from the included Kydex sheath and to help maintain control of the knife in dicey situations. It also has a bit of jimping on the back of the outer ring to help with control and defense. And instead of a paracord-wrapped handle, MKC upgraded to a super-grippy G-10 that feels great in your palm. I'm not an operator or involved in law enforcement, but to me, this knife is just as well suited to the life of an outdoorsman. You get all of the benefits of the Speedgoat, plus added enhancements that can only help when in the woods—whether skinning an elk, cleaning a fish, or even defending yourself from man or animal. It served me well during a weekend in the forest at my friend's farm, completing all manner of tasks—including a few fish filets—quickly and deliberately. I like the ring for its sure-handed deployment compared to my usual dangling lanyard, no matter the situation. I'm looking forward to the upcoming hunting season to put it further to the test.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$325; montanaknifecompany.com] Beatbot AquaSense Pro Pool Vacuum
Sal Vaglica A pool is many things: a place to cool off during this infinite summer heatwave of 2024, a great source of entertainment for families, and a good reason to host a party. A pool is also absolute misery to maintain. Pricey pool robots can help you keep an already relatively clean pool looking tidy between dips by scrubbing the floor and walls in a random pattern. But the Beatbot AquaSense Pro promises to go beyond that. It includes a mode called surface cleaning, which is why we wanted to test it. Skimming the surface of a pool is something, if you have leaf-dropping trees nearby, that happens before you get into the pool. There are always leaves or other debris to fish out before your first cannonball. And since the leaves that end up on the floor of your pool where they are harder to clean were, not too long ago, ones that rested on the surface (ignored), it pays to get to them early. To see if the Beatbot is worth the steep price tag we charged it with cleaning our suburban New York pool, which is right underneath a neighbor’s leaf-dropping birch tree. Beatbox claims it’s the first 5-in-1 cleaning robot with the ability to help with walls, floors, waterline, surface, and clarification (though the cleaning bottles range $30 to $40 depending on what they resolve). Nearly all robots handle the first three, and we have a filter and chlorinator to handle clarification once the chemistry is balanced, so we were most interested in overall cleaning ability and surface cleaning. The AquaSense acts more like an indoor robot vacuum: Instead of a random pattern, it runs across the floor back and forth, the way you’d mow a lawn. That’s much different than the random pattern most pool vacuums clean—and kind of fun to watch. In surface cleaning mode the bot cruises around the pool, with about a quarter of the machine sticking out above the water line as you see a stream of water pushed out a bubbling stream of water. It didn’t get every leaf in our oval pool, but it did nab most of them. When it comes to cleaning surfaces, the four brushes clean more effectively than bots with only two brushes. Unlike robots that are tethered to a cord, which you use to yank the bot up, you’ll need to fish the AquaSense out of the water when the cleaning is done with a hook, we attached ours to the end of the skimmer poll. The app shows the mapping of your pool, which is cool, but it won’t let you surface the robot once it’s underwater, which is a handy feature to have—you either have to wait for the robot to finish or chase it down with the hook. Also, the setup can be tricky if your home’s Wi-Fi network does not prioritize 2.4Ghz, which is what the Beatbox wants to pair to. If you loathe pool maintenance, this one robot might be able to handle most of what you need cleaning.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$2,200; amazon.com] Coway Airmega 400 Air Purifier
Peter Matlashewski Having just moved into a new home a few weeks ago that had been neglected over the years, we found ourselves in the best environment to test the Coway Airmega 400 air purifier. This machine can handle up to 3,120 square feet of coverage but worked wonders as we tackled the entire home room by room removing dust, cat odors, and other VOCs from painting. This model has a powerful air pull that can propel and circulate air very efficiently, even in a room with high vaulted ceilings. The Airmega 400 is also equipped with various smart settings that make it easy to keep up with routine maintenance that ensures its always running at optimal efficiency. There is a light on the front of the unit that indicates air quality and can be programmed to turn on only when it senses purifying is needed. The Airmega 400 comes with two sizable replaceable filters on each side of the unit and each has two layers of filtration. The initial layer is a true green HEPA filter that traps bacteria, pollen and other airborne particles while the active carbon filter component targets food smells, pet odors and other VOCs. The overall design is quite sleek, making it easy to blend into most rooms without standing out too much. Depending on the setting, it can be hardly noticeable when in operation especially if you program it to run at night. With the previous owners of our home having two cats and my wife being allergic, the odds were stacked against us but with a bit of cleaning paired with the Airmega 400 there are no longer any traces of cats to trigger her allergy.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$339; cowaymega.com] Week of July 8Yellow Leaf Vista Hammock
Jon Coen I once slept in a fishing net hammock in a little shack on a remote beach in Mexico. We’d surfed all day and driven half the night in search of a wave that we never found. We did find this little shack and decided to crash there for the night. Not that comfortable but I had no trouble sleeping. The fishermen made us coffee in the morning. Good memories. If you’re going to buy a hammock, it better be comfy. Yellow Leaf handcrafted hammocks check every box for a good lounging—perfect after a long day of building a shed or ripping two surf sessions. I dig these because they are 100-percent handwoven in a community in Thailand. Each hammock is hand signed by the actual weaver. The Vista is super comfortable, specifically far softer than your standard big box store yard hammock with a lush weave. You won’t wind up with crisscrossed lines on your back like a fishing net in Mexico. There are over a dozen fun colors and patterns to choose from and the Weathersafe performance yarn won’t fade, even in the tropics where the sun blazes all year. It also stands up to moisture and won’t rot or grow mildew. They’re also designed to not flip or wobble, which makes for less adult stress at the next party in your yard when the kids are swinging it back and forth all hopped up on sugar. Ideally, this would hang between two trees at your beach or lake spot. But it’s easy to hang in the yard too, if you have ample trees or fence posts. Yellow Leaf also has a few options of hangers you can buy separately to fit your rooftop, deck, lanai, etc. I may or may not be writing this review from the Yellow Leaf.—Jon Coen, contributor [From $399; yellowleafhammocks.com] Benchmade Fishcrafter 7-Inch Trailing Point Filet Knife
Jon Coen Benchmade just launched a Water Collection that is made in Oregon and I don’t know that there is a finer knife than the Fishcrafter 7-Inch out there for salt or freshwater anglers. You pretty much just hold it next to the fish and the filets just fall right off. When gear is made in the U.S., you can certainly tell the difference. This is made of ultra-premium corrosion-resistant CPM-MagnaCut stainless steel and it’s simply a joy to clean fish with. The 7-inch is a perfect size for smaller- to medium-sized catch and the trailing point blade has an incredible flex to move across bone and separate with ease. Imagine a knife that won’t ever corrode. It’s almost hard to believe—especially in salt water communities—you could literally be using it for the rest of your fishing life.—Jon Coen, contributor [$240; bladehq.com] Rab Mythic Alpine Down Jacket
Courtesy Image It is truly baffling (no pun) how warm Rab down jackets are. The Mythic Alpine Down Jacket is ultra lightweight for its warmth and packs down into a very small pouch. Filled with 900FP European goose down with a Nikwax fluorocarbon-free, hydrophobic finish, each baffle in the Mythic Alpine Down jacket packs a punch of heat above most jackets in its class. Also, the 10D recycled Pertex Quantum nylon ripstop outer fabric makes this jacket more durable than other down jackets that rip by just looking at them. However, what is often the most overlooked feature of the Mythic Alpine Down jacket is its breathability. It is surprisingly efficient with temperature regulation and moisture management, meaning you can ski or do other higher output activities and it doesn’t get too hot but is a perfect layer for cold conditions when you take a break. Last but not least, the comfort factor is off the charts with nice big square baffles that are just downright cozy.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$330; backcountry.com] Mystery Ranch Radix 47 Pack
Jon Coen Lightweight and fully functional. Mystery Ranch has really hit its stride in the outdoor world by not only telling good stories but making quality gear. First off, note that the new backpacking pack, the Radix, comes with men's and women's harness options for a more ergonomic fit. We recently did a few miles on and around the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey (don’t laugh, some through hikers say it’s one of the nicest stretches of the whole 2,190-mile slog) and the Radix met every expectation. I chose the 47, which was ideal for relatively warm weather hiking, as in I did need to carry a jacket but not a ton of heavy clothing. It easily and carried my gear and shouldering some of my 12-year-old’s as well. The harnessing is lightweight and easy to customize. A few days of use and it was clear that the Radix is plenty durable, made with Ultra-PE “Birdseye,” which is a technical, strong polyethelene and recycled 100D Robic Ripstop. It’s well designed to evenly spread the load on your body. As for usability, I appreciated the full vertical off-centered zipper; makes it much easier to find my gear without emptying half the contents. It’s also compatible with your hydration reservoir. One external pouch held my tent, the other a small camp chair and the third was able to easily carry a first-aid kid and a few other items should I need to access them quickly. My sleeping bag easily strapped to the pack loops. I can see using this pack for not only the trail, but road trips or other outdoor journeys, for a day trip or a few nights.—Jon Coen, contributor [$249; mysteryranch.com] Lodge Solar Speaker 4 Series 2
Adam Bible Outdoor speakers are great to have around the backyard or when on a camping trip (as long as you are mindful of any other campers nearby). And technology has gotten so advanced that portable Bluetooth speakers can rival the soundscape from expensive indoor speakers made only a few decades ago. The one annoyance with portable speakers, whether in your backyard or campsite, is that they need power, whether a cord or battery. The Lodge Solar Speaker eliminates that problem by integrating a solar panel into all sides of the speaker so your battery will always be topped off as long as the sun is shining. And not only will the Lodge erase any charging anxiety, it also produces stunning sound that blew me away the first time I heard it. The Lodge mates a 50-watt amp with specially tuned tweeter and bass driver with a passive radiator for a full range of sweet sounding audio. And it boasts the latest Bluetooth tech so you can stay connected up to 100 feet away—which I tested extensively and found to be true. It's rated to IP66, meaning it's waterproof and dustproof, and you can link an unlimited number of Lodge's together for an immersive experience across your yard. It comes with a yard stake to keep the speaker at an optimum height and attaches via magnet so it's easy to relocate to a table.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$399; amazon.com] Week of July 1Vortex Optics Razor UHD 10x32 Binoculars
Peter Matlashewski It’s not every day that we get the chance to test out some cutting-edge optics technology and when we do it’s always a treat. The new Vortex Razor UHD 10x32’s are state of the art binoculars that are compact enough to easily bring around with you anywhere and are optically strong enough to handle a wide variety of everyday situations. Although the Razor UHD series comes in various sizes the 10x32 is a great balance of compact meets performance. If you primarily scan across long flats and open plains, you might want to size up but if you’re walking in the woods or scouting for specific details within 200 to 300 feet, the 10x32 range will offer crystal clear clarity. This model excels in low light conditions so if you’re up early on a walk or hiking up a mountain for sunset these binoculars can pick out the slightest detail in color and shape in otherwise difficult to see conditions. In terms of build quality, it doesn’t get any better than this as they are shock, water and fog proof, while also having a scratch resistant Armortek coating. This model comes with an intuitive protective carry case that makes it easy to stow away on the go. Packing a pair of quality binoculars when you go camping or hiking can really open your eyes up to your surroundings beyond what’s just in front of you not to mention it’s really fun passing them to friends and family to share what you’re looking at. Whether you’re using these for hunting, animal watching or just curious about what’s around you the Razor UHD 10x32’s are a great all-around pair that will give you more than enough performance that you’ll never need to upgrade.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$1,499; amazon.com] Ariat Rebar Chukka Waterproof Work Boots
Courtesy Image I have bamboo. It’s mostly contained but that doesn’t stop those roots from running horizontally a few inches underground right across the yard. Specifically this time of year, if you don’t venture to one area for a few days, you can come back and find a four-foot tall vertical green shoot coming out of the ground. It’s terrifying. Every spring I have the daunting task of scraping back the landscaping stone and attacking the errant roots with a pickaxe and shovel, then ripping the lateral roots from the ground back to the original stand and cutting them. If I didn’t, it would swallow my house. I have to get stone delivered to fill in the mess left where the roots had spider webbed out. In the season I’ve worn Ariat's Rebar Chukkas, a basic but quality work boot, I have done both sides of my yard in addition to the stone refresh, staining, rearranging, planting, mowing, and painting. I’ve put these through the ringer and the full grain leather held up great. They are light (the sole is Ariat’s SmartLite material) and ergonomic support for a full day on my feet. The bamboo days were exhausting but without these, my legs would have been jelly. And any pair of sneakers would be in the trash. They have a solid, classic aesthetic. The DryShield waterproof construction has kept my feet dry through spring rain and a bit of power-washing, but they’re also breathable. The lining is made of 50 percent recycled polyester. They meet American Society for Testing and Materials F3445 Standards for slip resistance and F2892 standards for electric hazard resistance too. Great boots. And that wall of bamboo is almost worth it.—Jon Coen, contributor [$170; ariat.com] Exped Widget Pump
Kate Erwin Sometimes a product comes around that you didn’t think you need but then, after multiple uses, you realize that you wouldn’t want to live without it. Enter the Widget Pump by Exped! The Widget is a rechargeable little cube that has three main functions—as a lamp (with three brightness settings), as a power bank, and as a tiny electric pump that makes inflating pads easy with its universal valve adapter. It is absolutely an essential piece of gear in my camping kit that makes my trips more enjoyable.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$50; exped.com] Knog Scout Travel Smart Luggage Tag
Jon Coen In 2022, the airline industry worldwide lost, damaged or delayed about 26 million pieces of luggage. Things have gotten better but beyond luggage fees there’s good reason everyone is trying to smash their belongings into the overhead compartment. A good amount of bags don’t come cruising along on the correct carousel. Knog has taken this to heart and created a luggage tag that does everything. The Scout is the exact same price as an Apple Airtag, but the Knog works with Apple’s Find My function, so in addition to the tracking it has an 85 decibel alarm, should it be stolen. The other huge advantage is the Digital ID. Through the app, you load in your contact information. When the airline or hotel finds your bag, they can access all your information by bringing up the QR code printed on the tag. In addition, it’s FAA compliant, rechargeable, (no need to replace batteres) and it comes with a bolt & braided stainless-steel cable. There’s no saying your bag won’t get lost, but your chances of finding it are now greatly improved.—Jon Coen, contributor [$60; knog.com] Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes
Kate Erwin When you are camping you don’t have to lose your skincare regime. Or for some folks you can start your skincare regime. Like many people, I want to keep things simple when I am home and camping and I am not keen to bring a bunch of products. Although the Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes are single use and have the potential to create more trash, the packets are small and can roll up small that you can stash in your pack trash. The wipes “clean, exfoliate, soothe and hydrate” as Ursa Major says on their site and I don’t disagree. The benefits of using the Essential Wipes is that they are just big enough to use on your face and body and smell amazing and are energizing. If you aren’t familiar with the small Vermont brand, they are a plastic negative natural skincare brand who make a variety of products that unburden the process of taking care of your skin. Using ingredients like cedar, aloe, birch sap, willow bark, witch hazel, white and green tea, Ursa Major makes fresh products that are all natural, but work. Unlike some natural products that typically have good intentions, but don’t really clean, Ursa Major actually works and doesn’t leave any residue or b.o. behind.—Kate Erwin, contributor [From $6.50; ursamajorvt.com] Week of June 24Leatherman Skeletool CX Multitool
Jon Coen I have long carried a Leatherman tool in my fishing bibs or on my belt. The Portland brand remains at the top of the game where it comes to quality functional multi-tools. My faith in the brand was even bolstered recently when I broke a blade on the Leatherman Free and they they simply replaced it under their 25-year warranty. The Free isn’t heavy but you certainly know it’s in your pocket. And that’s why the Skeletool CX is so clutch. It features seven tools and only weighs 5 ounces! In a piece that weighs the same as your keychain, you’re carrying needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, a 2.6-inch knife blade, a carabiner/bottle opener and large bit driver (with option for regular or Phillips). Clip it to a belt loop or slide it in your hip pocket and you don’t even know it’s there. The blade’s upgrade to 154CM stainless steel means it stays sharp longer and resists corrosion. This is an essential if you’re trying to reduce weight or just looking for an easy carry, easy access multi-tool.—Jon Coen, contributor [$90; leatherman.com] Metolius Upshot Belay Glasses
Kate Erwin Getting old is not for the faint of heart. With two shoulder tears that my surgeon will not operate on, I have to manage neck, shoulder, hand pain constantly. Part of that regime includes belay glasses. I learned the hard way that not having belay glasses, even for just a few hours while a friend hangdogged on a climb outside of their ability. After seeing my osteopath and getting a few massages, I promptly ordered the Upshot belay glasses from Metolius. Prior to the Upshot, I had a metal pair of belay glasses and a cheaper plastic pair. The metal pair sagged with the weight of the glass lens and although they were lightweight and weren’t obtrusive on my face, they weren’t that comfortable. The cheaper plastic pair were made of hard plastic that wasn’t supple. The Upshot's meet in the middle. Weighing 1.6 ounces, the Upshot's are light, but also have a nice structure with the plastic. The plastic is supple and doesn’t hurt after long use like some cheaper harder plastic glasses. The Upshot's are comfortable and you can wear over sunglasses and still have a good field of vision. The Upshot come with a lanyard and a durable case that hangs well on a harness.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$49; backcountry.com] Daiwa Lexa LX400 Baitcasting Reel
Peter Matlashewski If your goal is landing big fish this year and you’re looking for a casting reel that can handle strong hits and powerful runs, the new Lexa LX400 series reel from Daiwa offers a ton of bang for your buck. If you’re using a reel this size it’s likely you’ll be casting big lures and the Magforce magnetic control system makes it easy to cast very accurately with big baits. This magnetic control system is a spool braking system that allows the rotational speed to slow down gradually throughout your cast and the result is a lot less bird nests and much more time fishing. Having brought in several big pike and an elusive musky on this reel the retrieve felt powerful, and I was able to land them effectively thanks to the very ample 25 pounds of drag. The reel is rather large but has a great feel to it in the palm of your hand, almost like a baseball and the EVA knob on the handle is a nice touch for grip and control when you’re cranking down on an important fight. Tossing big baits around for hours at a time can sometimes get tiring but this reel makes it easy and quite frankly a whole lot of fun thanks to how efficient and smooth the gears work for you.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$280; westmarine.com] Udpatio Aluminum Patio Set
Sal Vaglica Modern patio furniture doesn’t have to break the bank. While wood versions, usually made in teak or some other tropical hardwood that resists decay, come with clean lines they often also pack a hefty price and are cumbersome to move around—just ask anyone who has scuff marks on a deck under wood furniture. Aluminum is lightweight, rust resistant, and, in this set from Udpatio, packs all the minimalist lines you want. We assembled this four-piece set, which includes two generously sized chairs, a three-seat sofa, and a coffee table in about 45 minutes. The directions were easy to follow and the machined bolts worked well. We've put together enough ready-to-assemble furniture to know you'll want to speed things along by using a hex head bit in your drill/driver, or in a ratchet, and disregard the included Allen key, which is inherently slow. We also added a dab of WD-40 to the bolts to ensure we didn’t cross-thread any fasteners. The setup works in either an L shape or with the chairs next to one another and opposite the sofa. We like the wide armrests on the chairs, the squared-off legs, and the adjustable feet. The seat cushions are a chunky 5 inches thick, which is more than standard, and the foam inside is substantial enough to support you through a long hang after dinner. The underside of the cushions are covered in grippy dots, which keeps them in place on the frames, though it also means you can’t flip them over if there’s an accident. Like all outdoor seating, the fabric here resists water, stains, and fading, but the Udpaio set comes with covers so you can protect everything, even with the cushions in place, at the end of each night—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$750; amazon.com] Fox Racing ADV Riding Gear Collection
Courtesy Image The road to popularity for adventure motorcycle riding has been thrilling, with the sport growing exponentially year over year and anticipated to reach $64.4 billion in the next decade. Actors Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman might have sparked that passion in riders almost 20 years ago with their film Long Way Round, but a variety of factors like the explosion of the motorcycle tourism industry (you can’t travel around an island in the Mediterranean without seeing a BMW GS), social media, and an aging riding population with disposable income have all cemented a sport that is here to stay. For riders destined to live out their own version of Motorcycle Diaries, Fox Racing recently premiered their first collection of ADV riding gear that caters to the needs of the weekend warriors, credit card tourers, and those willing to go the distance. With decades as a leader in the motocross and mountain bike gear world, the design team took their time to address every single detail to ensure the gear riders wear is as reliable as the machines they ride. The collection is split into three different styles built on the same chassis that cater to the various needs and conditions of the ADV rider. We tested the Defend pants and jacket that boast a “not-too-hot, not-too-cold, just right for the right-now adventures–pure, and functional,” perfect for the microclimates we experienced ripping across the California ranges with Fox athletes Ricky Carmichael and Carey Hart. The pants and jacket fit better than any ADV gear we’ve worn over the course of the last twenty years. Where competitors over-engineer theirs, the Defend top and bottom feel minimalist in comparison while still providing guaranteed GORE-TEX waterproofing for water crossings or precipitation and the confidence of D30 technology for crash protection. That’s all tied together with various stretch fabrics, easy access ventilation, and plenty of storage pockets for all your carry needs. Defend sits right in the middle of the higher-end Recon ADV pants and jacket that have a similar fit but are built for the longer haul. That would be our one-stop pick for spring trips through Idaho or Montana, where the feel of the Ranger ADV pants and jacket is a lighter style with a more accessible price point. Whatever pairing you choose, Fox guarantees that you get out and back with safety and style.—Dustin A. Beatty, contributor [From $500; foxracing.com] Week of June 17YETI 34 Ounce French Press
Peter Matlashewski If you’re like us and enjoy making coffee in the outdoors, the new French press from YETI is quite likely the most durable option available on the market. While the price tag may be a bit high compared to its peers, you gain a very sturdy device that is very unlikely to fail you. Anyone who has brought a French press camping knows that glass and plastic can crack very easily in transit and there’s nothing worse than not being able to make coffee after crawling out of your tent on a cool morning. Aside from its durability it also offers a level of insulation that is not commonly found on the market. If ever you’ve used an insulated YETI product before then you know it will hold its temperature efficiently and this French press is no exception. The strainer component is also designed with the same approach with overengineered durability. We tested the 34-ounce version which can comfortably serve three large cups of coffee or four smaller ones. However, if you find yourself making coffee for five or more people in the morning you might want to get the 64-ounce version. In the end, you may not need a YETI French press but if you’re tired of breaking generic one’s over and over by accident like me and want an option that is built to last, this is the one.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$110; yeti.com] Klymit Insulated Klymaloft Sleeping Pad
Peter Matlashewski If you’re someone who wakes up stiff or sore every time you go camping, a proper sleeping pad could be the solution you’re looking for. We recently tested the new insulated Klymaloft sleeping pad from Klymit and they definitely made some great design choices with this model. Firstly, and most noticeably, the fabric you sleep on feels more like a bed sheet than the typical nylon like surface found on other mats. This soft but foam like fabric provides better grip throughout the night so you don’t slide around in your sleeping bag and It’s also quiet which helps to not disturb your partner throughout the night. Sometimes you don’t have to upgrade your sleeping bag if you venture out on colder nights, all it takes is a versatile sleeping mat like this with built in insulation to further isolate you from the ground. This model comes in a slightly oversized carry pouch, which makes it easier to pack up in the morning but also doubles as an inflator if you’re in a pinch and forget your pump. This model would not be my first choice if I had limited backpack space but for car camping or any other occasion it certainly would be. While the insulated klymaloft is designed to handle colder evenings it’s still a very comfortable sleeping pad for warmer summer nights. When it got too warm, I found myself using my sleeping bag as a cover and just slept directly on the mat because it’s that comfortable to the touch. If you’re trying to get your partner or friend into camping and they always say no because they don’t sleep well, this pad is likely to change their mind.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$190; klymit.com] Sourhouse Goldie
Sal Vaglica While just about everyone you know made a loaf of bread during the pandemic, sourdough is seeing a bit of a resurgence as of late. The thing about making your own sourdough is there aren't many shortcuts and plenty of variables. Temperature is a big one when it comes to how active the bacteria is in a starter. Sourhouse’s Goldie works like a mini greenhouse to keep the starter at an ideal temperature because the bacterial hot tub that is your mixture of flour and water wants to live in a range between 75 and 82 degrees. That temperature is a little too toasty for most of us, especially in summer. We’ve been testing the Goldie for a few months to make loaves of sourdough and the device is pretty simple so there aren’t many things that can go wrong. The base warms to the high 70s, transferring that energy to the jar holding the starter, all held under a tall glass cloche. We used it with Sourhouse’s pint-sized starter jar ($17), which has dots denoting increments so you can gauge when the starter has doubled, though we found the included rubber yellow band easier to track. If you've got a Mason jar that'll work just as well (nearly anything glass that is less than 4x7 inches should fit). Over weeks, once we dialed in a starter from scratch which was a bit fussy, we found the Goldie worked well in keeping the water and flour mixture ready to go when we wanted to bake. While finding a warm spot in the house isn't all that difficult for most of us during the summer, it might be harder than you think if your air conditioner is cranking from now until mid-September. In the Goldie our starter proofed nicely, consistently doubling, and adding way more control to the entire sourdough baking process. There is really only one button so there isn't much to mess up here and it looks nice sitting on the countertop. If, in the winter your house struggles to keep a nook somewhere that is about 78 degrees, or conversely, if your air condition thermostat is set below that in summer, the Goldie could help even the temperature playing field.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$130; sourhouse.co] Pelican Dayventure Sling Cooler
Peter Matlashewski Sometimes a traditional cooler is a bit inconvenient to bring along for certain outdoor activities but that doesn’t mean you have to skip out on bringing some cold beverages. We tested the Pelican Dayventure Sling Cooler and found it to be a great solution for keeping your drinks cold when you’re on the go. True to Pelican’s reputation, this water-resistant sling cooler is built to last with a rugged tear-proof outer shell that can handle a whole lot of abuse. This narrow sling cooler is great for day trips on a SUP or kayak, floating down a river, hiking up a mountain hands-free or just tossing it in the back of your golf cart. The cooler weighs just over 2 pounds empty so if you add your drinks, it’s not cumbersome at all to bring around. In terms of capacity, it can comfortably accommodate thirteen 12-ounce cans but if you’re adding ice or an icepack you’ll need to subtract accordingly. The double walled insulation is more than enough to keep your drinks cool all day long even if you’re in the sun for most of it. If you’re looking for that in-between sized cooler than doesn’t quite feel like it’s a cooler the Dayventure sling from Pelican is a solid choice.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$156; amazon] Husqvarna W520 Push Lawn Mower
Peter Matlashewski If you have yet to experience the benefits of a self-propelled lawn mower, it might be time to check out what’s available on the market. We tested out the W520 push lawn mower from Husqvarna which is equipped with a commercial grade Kawasaki FJ180 motor and it’s an absolute powerhouse. It arrives with minimal assembly required and fires up right out the gate. Depending on the size of your yard, you may not need a self-propelled push mower like this but for medium to large lots or hilly terrain, the AutoWalk drive system on the W520 makes mowing feel much closer to walking your dog than pushing a machine. The rear-wheel propulsion makes it easy to rotate the lawn mower when looping back around and is only engaged by pulling the hand lever which gives you a lot of control when negotiating turns. The variable speed drive allows you to propel slowly around edges but speed up on longer straight lines to save time. The blade height on this model can be adjusted mid-mow with a single lever that moves the entire deck up and down giving you a cutting range of 1.5 inches up to 4.5 inches. This lawn mower also comes with a sizable collection bag which gives your lawn that overall cleaner look and doesn’t spray clipping in unwanted areas like your walkways or driveway. While I haven’t tested it for leaf removal yet, with a motor this powerful I anticipate this will be a great tool for picking up leaves as they fall. Another feature that is really underrated is the handlebar’s ability to easily fold down when not in use effectively taking up less space in your garage. I used to enjoy the exercise of using a standard push lawn mower but as time becomes more scarce getting the job done faster has become a priority and the W520 from Husqvarna certainly does that while making it easier at the same time.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$1,299; husqvarna.com] Week of June 10Traeger Timberline Pellet Grill
Peter Matlashewski Over the past few weeks, we tested the Timberline pellet grill from Traeger, and it is indeed the luxury car of pellet grills. If you have a decent budget and you’re looking for a turnkey solution for quality smoking without having to actively manage temperature yourself, this barbecue is a top-shelf option. The Timberline can easily produce fall-off-the-bone ribs and moist pork butts with next to no smoking experience, and still function as a barbecue for grilling up some quick burgers for friends and family. With the ability to control the temperature of the grill with a click of a button while simultaneous monitoring your meat’s temperature all in one place, this style of barbecue can be as hands on (or off) as you’d like. The Timberline comes with two wired temperature probes that connect directly to the pellet grill and two wireless meat thermometers so you can track a variety of proteins all at once to ensure a perfect cook. This model can roll smoke as low as 165 degrees or fire up to 500 degrees and thanks to the convection function and double walled construction the smoke only exits through the back which gives it a leg up over a lot of other pellet grills on the market. When it comes to pellet grills, Traeger is no stranger to streamlining the process of making great tasting food. This model comes with an induction cooktop unit right beside the grill so you can work on your sauce or toss on the cast iron pan and sear your meat right at the grill without having to go into the kitchen. The grill stacking system is customizable but also convenient for food management and capitalizes on the full 880 square feet of cooking real estate. All in all, this grill is the king of convenience with ample storage for all your grilling accessories, pellets and even has a built-in, magnetically attached cutting board on top of the hopper. As any barbecue enthusiast knows, clean-up is an important part of the game but this model makes it easy and convenient to scrap away grease or food debris into a safety located ash keg bellow that is easy to access. Given its price tag, this pellet grill may not be for everyone but if you want the Ferrari of pellet grills with an abundance of premium features that stack all the odds on your side to making perfect cooks every single time, the Timberline from Traeger should be your next grill.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [From $3,000; acehardware.com] Mustang Survival Highwater 60L Waterproof Gear Hauler
Peter Matlashewski When it comes to outdoor activities, having a few waterproof storage options handy can really take the edge off when dark clouds start rolling in. We got our hands on the Mustang Survival Highwater 60L Gear Hauler and it checks all the boxes in terms of keeping your gear dry while being easy to lug around. When empty it can pack down fairly small and the roll-top design for sealing it makes it easy to reduce it's size to accommodate changing gear quantities as needed. Equipped with a rugged, 420D double-coated nylon fabric it helps keeps the rain away from all your belongings no matter how hard the downpour. If you’re an avid canoe camper, a bag like this is the ultimate cheat code to keep all your belongings dry while heading out on the water. The shoulder straps make it easy to travel longer distances hands free, but the real kicker is the many anchored handles that make it easy to pass along from boat to shore. This bag is also great for day trips to the beach when you just want to throw everything in one bag and go, while not having to worry about your stuff getting wet.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$165; amazon.com] Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro
Peter Matlashewski Our Place has consistently been pushing out new and innovative cookware and the Titanium Always Pan Pro is their latest release. This coating-free, non-stick pan with an elegant chrome finish is made with titanium which is significantly more durable than traditional stainless steel. With a temperature rating of up to 1,000 degrees, this pan can handle pretty much any type of cooking application from stove top to oven or even deep frying. I was skeptical about its non-stick properties at first but after a couple weeks of frying eggs, searing steaks and whipping up stir fries this pan is the real deal. The Always Pan Pro is not lightweight by any means given its very tough composition but still light enough to saute or flip your food with ease. There is a bit of a learning curve with a pan of this caliber, but it’s still beginner friendly and actually demands a more hands-off cooking approach where you let your food cook enough to unstick itself before flipping. This pan produces that sought-after deep golden sear on your food and conversely, when it comes time to clean the grime or burnt ends, it all comes off quite easily. Although their catalog mentions it's dishwasher safe, out of habit, I chose to hand wash it which has proven to be not a bother at all. If you’re looking for a frying pan capable of doing it all that is completely free of harmful toxins and is built to last, the Always Pan Pro could be for you.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$195; fromourplace.com] NewAge Outdoor Kitchen Set
Courtesy Image Barbecue season is in full swing. This means it’s officially time to gear up and get your backyard barbecue setup in order. And we’re not talking heading to Lowe’s and grabbing the bargain grill off the sidewalk sale…we’re talking about seriously upgrading your backyard kit so that all the neighbors will be buzzing about your pitmaster paradise. We recently got our hands on some new products from perhaps the best one-stop-shop offering in the whole barbecue space. Introducing NewAge Products. Not only do they offer every tool of the trade for grill masters and enthusiasts of all types, but you can customize, and piece together dozens of styles and sizes, as well as every type of backyard cooker you can imagine—achieve that perfect haven for all your backyard gatherings this summer. And they also have a full line of home products outside of the barbecue space like outdoor furniture, garage storage, and indoor bars. For our dream outdoor barbecue setup, we kept things relatively simple, and went with the full NewAge Outdoor Kitchen Set. The whole set comes to your door almost completely assembled. This full package is certainly not small, but this a huge benefit for people seeking plug-and-play operation. Once in the backyard, the whole setup took less than half an hour. A few screws here and there to help secure pieces together, but overall, it came 95 percent ready to rock and roll. This was a stellar first impression of NewAge products for us. We got the weather-resistant 304 stainless steel finish all around—which we think looks so badass in our backyard ensemble—but they also offer a really nice Grove wood veneer finish for the same package. We got the 33-inch propane grill which is equipped with three main burners (each 12,000 BTUs). The grill itself is very well-built, easy to operate, and the lid is delightfully weighted which makes for a very solid, premium feel when lifting up and down. We love this grill. It has a very handsome design, thoughtfully engineered for a luxurious look and feel. The whole set comes with a grill cabinet underneath the main grill for a propane tank and other storage, a 32-inch 3-drawer cabinet with ample room for all your grill accessories like cast ironware, tongs, spatulas, pizza stones, grill gloves, and all your grill cleaning tools. The amount of space within each drawer is very impressive. The additional storage from this kit freed up ample new cabinet space and drawer real estate in our kitchen. This was a huge added bonus we hadn't really anticipated. Last, but not least, the 32-inch bar cabinet is perhaps our favorite feature in the whole set. Within this cabinet space, you get dual trash cans, a dedicated spice and sauce rack, as well as multiple smaller compartments for condiments, utensils, cooking knives, and turners, as well as a very handy bottle opener that's always at the ready. Not to mention that all drawers and cabinets are soft-closing (which we can’t get enough of—we love the premium feel). The possibilities for organization are quite limitless when it comes to these customizable sets from NewAge. If you can dream it up, chances are, NewAge has a solution for you (without having to hire a contractor or consultant to come and evaluate your space). You’re in complete control of this project without the added costs. This handsome outdoor kitchen has become a beloved and permanent fixture in our backyard, and is now the new spot for all the dads in our neighborhood to gather, drink beer, and small talk about the mouthwatering food we’re all about to devour. That’s what summertime is all about, right? If you’re looking for your next home upgrade, we suggest you check out the NewAge site for your next new addition (or additions) to your home entertaining arsenal. [Bonus: At the time of this writing, the whole set is on sale for $3,999, marked down from $5,809]—Jon Perino, contributor [$3,999; shopnewage.com] Groove Life Groove Belt Ultra
Sal Vaglica If the Groove Belt Ultra isn’t the best belt we’ve ever tried, it’s pretty damn close. The list of places where we wouldn’t wear this thing is pretty small and might just include formal events like a summer wedding—although if Groove Life managed to make a version that looked like rich leather, we’d wear it with a suit too. The Ultra is a dynamic belt, meaning its webbing stretches and contracts as you move, which keeps your pants up regardless of how you bend, reach, or run. A cowhide belt can’t do that. The 11/4-inch-tall webbing resists curling over on itself too, which can happen when you pack on the pounds turning a leather belt into a long strip of the letter “C.” The webbing, unlike leather, doesn’t have memory in that direction, so it won’t easily deform over time. Besides the lightweight, which is about the same as a handful of pencils, the strap locks in and is easily adjustable—it works a lot like backpack straps. We’ve been wearing this out socially, while doing yard work, and on hikes, and in every case, it has kept our pants exactly where they’re supposed to be. The buckle is magnetic too, which makes a satisfying click when the two parts come together. The result is a very clean-looking, matte finish belt that almost disappears with darker-colored pants.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$40; amazon.com] Week of June 3Rad Power Bike Radster Road Electric Commuter Bike
Peter Matlashewski If you’ve ever thought about ditching your bus pass or got tired of getting caught in traffic over small distances, there has never been a better time to buy an e-bike. Having tested a few over the past few years I can say with confidence that the new Radster commuter bike from Rad Powered bikes is a market leader in terms of comfort, power, riding distance, and safety features. This model arrived almost entirely assembled with only minor assembly needed, making it a great choice for first timers. They offer two frame sizes for cyclists of all heights, and although I was on the edge of qualifying for a large frame at 5’9" the added size still felt very manageable to manoeuvre. The bike itself is a little on the heavy side so it would not be my first choice if I had to bring it up and down stairs every day. The seat was a little stiff but still quite comfortable over long periods of time and the height of the handlebars puts you in an ergonomic position. The front hydraulic suspension also made for a very smooth ride even on bumpy roads. This model handled hills flawlessly, which might be due to the upgraded torque sensor, but it certainly climbed faster than any other bike I’ve been on including other Rad bikes. This new model has an upgraded battery that extends the cycling range to 65 miles depending on the terrain so you can likely go a few days without having to charge it. If the weather suddenly shifts and you get caught in a rainstorm, you have nothing to worry about because this bike is also rated to a IPX6 weatherproofing. Once you hop on a bike of this caliber, you’ll without a doubt be sharing the road with motorized vehicles which means safety features should always be a big consideration when purchasing an e-bike. This bike has a powerful 200 lumen headlight along with many reflective accents all over the bicycle including on the wheels for those riding into the night. The Radster Road also comes equipped with a break light and turn signals which gives you that extra margin of security when signaling a turn. Another safety feature is that the motor automatically shuts off anytime the brakes are used, giving you more control when you need to stop. Like most other e-bikes there is a throttle you can use if you suddenly want to take a break from peddling and it’s also equipped with 8 gears to match your desired speed. Another great new feature is its ability to be digitally locked when you park. It can only be unlocked with the use of a passcode or an RFID chip that you can attach to your keychain. The peace of mind you get from knowing your bike cannot be operated without you is definitely a game-changer. Finally, what further sets this model apart is its ability to be programmed to operate as a class 3 bike meaning it can reach speeds of 28 mph. Overall, the Radster Road bike is packed with so many great features that make it both enjoyable and safe to use for all type of cyclists.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$1,999; radpowerbikes.com] The James Brand The Warrick EDC Tool
Courtesy Image There are dozens of cheapo screwdriver sets sold at the local pharmacy or dollar store. And there are dozens of sprawling tool sets at the hardware store that probably have more complex bits than you’ll ever need. Now, imagine a top quality (as in, the best you can get) screwdriver set in a tiny, streamlined tool. The James Brand is known for taking every day items and reinventing them into something easy to use, cool to carry and supremely stylish. The Warrick is the latest example. This could likely fit on your key ring and easily in your pocket—even into that sleek little coin pocket. (And really, how many coins are you carrying around anymore?) There are four bits—two flat, two Phillips, the most common WIHA bits that all fit snugly inside the lightweight aluminum body and slip into the magnetized bit receiver for handy functioning. And if you use a specific bit size, you can swap out to store whatever you need most. Plus, the body is designed to give you extra torque for those tight ones. Extremely functional with a fantastic look and feel.—Jon Coen, contributor [$85; thejamesbrand.com] Tivoli SongBook MAX
Peter Matlashewski With so many Bluetooth speakers on the market these days, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. If you’re looking for an ultra-portable and rugged speaker, the SongBook MAX from Tivoli may not be your first choice. However, if you want a portable speaker that becomes a statement piece in your home and also delivers great sound, it is definitely a solid contender. Equipped with a 4-inch subwoofer, a 4-inch midrange driver, and a 0.75-inch tweeter, it effortlessly fills a large living room or backyard with great sound. This portable Bluetooth speaker not only looks great with its retro analog appearance, but it’s also packed with useful and enjoyable features as well. The battery lasts just under 10 hours at normal use and recharges relatively quickly through USB-C. The SongBook MAX can stream music from your preferred streaming service, but true to its retro look, it is also equipped with a telescopic antenna and plays FM/AM radio. The EQ levels are adjusted with physical sliders on the face of the speaker, and there's something oddly satisfying about turning it on with a flip of a toggle switch. There is also a 1/4 -inch auxiliary input, so you can plug in a microphone for an at-home event or even a guitar on the go. The built-in carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room, and it’s also coated with IPX4 weatherproofing, so it can be taken outside without too much caution. Whether you’re trying to fill a nostalgic void from your younger years with a stylish analog looking speaker or you simply want a portable speaker that can play loud great sound, the Tivoli SongBook MAX is worth looking into.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$599; amazon.com] Gorewear Spinshift GORE-TEX Jacket
Peter Matlashewski We recently tested Gorewear’s Spinshift GORE-TEX jacket, which is their newest completely PFC-free waterproof and windproof cycling garment. This model incorporates their new ePE GORE-TEX membrane, and it undoubtedly matches the performance of its predecessor. Having tested numerous GORE-TEX jackets over the years across multiple brands, this one beads water off as effectively as most and definitely better than some. Through prolonged rain, the Spinshift kept me dry while still being breathable enough to not overheat when the sun came back out. The jacket itself is quite thin and lightweight making it easy to pack up and stuff into a pocket or bike pouch. In a size medium it weighed a mere 145 grams and is fairly minimal in the sense that it only has one zippered pocket on the rear that can house your smartphone but also doubles as a pouch for the jacket itself. The fit has a slim cut, I typically wear a medium and went with that but probably could have sized up into a large for a tad more roominess. The Spinshift GTX has zero bulking anywhere on it and offers unrestricted movement once you’re on the saddle. It’s not always easy to find a muted color cycling jacket given the need to be seen on the road, but the utility green looks incredible in person and still offers reflective accents. The Spinshift GTX jacket is definitely an investment, but its ability to keep you cycling regardless of the weather makes it well worth it.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$270; competitivecyclist.com] Tumbler Diamond Rolling Knife Sharpener
Peter Matlashewski For many of us, knife sharpening is either a guessing game or simply not part of our household maintenance routine due to fear of doing it wrong. We tested out the Tumbler Diamond rolling knife sharpener, which aims to remove all the guesswork and provide a straightforward, methodical way to get your angles just right. The true artists of knife sharpening understand the importance of applying the right amount of pressure and using consistent, long strokes at just the right angle. This device ensures you work with the perfect 15- or 20-degree angle and the rolling action ensures you target the full blade. With the static pressure of the resting knife on its rear and the consistent rolling of the diamond disc, the knife gets progressively sharper, making it easy to match both sides. In a matter of minutes (or longer for more neglected knives), your dull kitchen knives can snap right back into tomato-slicing machines. One slight drawback is that this sharpener only comes in a D35 grit, so there’s no further honing beyond that. However, this level of grit is still more than enough to get the job done—it might just take a bit longer to achieve the desired results on certain knives. If you value the longevity of your cooking knives, the Tumbler diamond sharpener is a very beginner friendly option that delivers great results. As a little bonus, it’s easy to transport so you can be a hero and take care of your friends’ or family’s knives as well.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$136; tumblerware.com] Медиа: | ↑ |
Footwear doesn't need laces to make you look smart. The best slip-on shoes for men are nice enough to take you almost anywhere, and they'll never make your feet feel imprisoned by tight knots. “Every guy should have at least two or three pairs in his closet,” says style expert and creative consultant Seth Howard. “The convenience of no laces makes them great for busy mornings and quick errands." Even better, there are plenty of options that look right for any occasion, all of them very easy to take on and off. Whether you’re a dressed-up loafer guy, laid-back sandal dude, or even fashionable mule bro, nailing the right slip-on shoe look can show your style chops—and make you the most comfortable guy in the room. Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. I found Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA to be the best slip-on shoe. It’s a bit of a no-duh pick—the brand’s Arizona-style shoes have been ubiquitous for decades. And this EVA version hits unparalleled marks for durability, comfort, water-friendliness, and value. Bonus: At a price like this, you can easily afford to buy a new pair every year. But they’re far from the only options you have. Keep scrolling for the best slip-on shoes that’ll have you covered and comfortable year-round. If you're interested in more footwear, check out our lists of the best moc-toe boots, top chelsea boots, and even trail shoes for your next adventure. Related: The 12 Best Hiking Sandals of 2024 Best Slip-On Shoes at a Glance
Best Slip-On Shoes of 2024Overall Best Slip-On Shoe: Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA
Courtesy Image Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA are the ultimate slip-on shoes. They're flattering, comfortable, and come in a dozen colors. And because they're made of soft, flexible EVA, they're super tough, water-friendly, and the straps don’t fall flat when you’re not wearing them, unlike their suede counterparts. More attractive than a flip-flop and more comfortable than sneakers, these are ideal shoes for any guy’s closet. I’ll surely be buying more in the future. Best Dressed-Up Slip-On Shoe: Todd Snyder Nomad Suede Crossover Sandal
Courtesy Image Slides are a popular style right now, but instead of wearing a pair that looks like shower shoes, try a more stylish alternative like Todd Snyder Nomade Suede Crossover Sandals. They feel as luxe as they look because the upper is suede, too. Wear them with dark linen pants cropped at the ankle to a nice outdoor dinner or with shorts and a polo to a pool party. Just keep them away from the water. Best Engineered Slip-On Shoe: Kizik London
Courtesy Image Kizik took the idea of slip-on shoes and went high-tech, designing what the brand calls the Cage, the heel part of the shoe it's designed to compresses as you step into the pair. They then spring back up, comfortably locking you in place. Kizik London is a nice-looking sneaker—one your friends probably don’t have yet—that can help you get out the door that much faster. Best Throwback Slip-On Shoe: Vans Classic Slip-On
Courtesy Image Vans Classic Slip-On is a bona fide staple every guy can and should rock—a skater-style sneaker that hasn’t changed much since the ’70s. And why should it? It’s timelessly cool, durable, and easily washable if you rough it up. What it lacks in support, it certainly makes up for in style points. I’m partial to the iconic checkerboard pattern, but solid colors won’t do you wrong. Best Slipper-Style Slip-On Shoe: Sabah El Paso Baba
Courtesy Image Not all slippers are made for the house alone. Sabah El Paso Baba are Turkish-inspired shoes that can be worn anywhere and come in tons of different colors of leather—cowhide, too. The brand has a workshop in Turkey, plus one in Texas, where they’re made by hand. But more importantly, they’re a conversation piece and a style flex. Wear them with jeans during the day or with a tuxedo (as the founder did), if you dare. Most Comfortable Slip-On Shoe: Sketchers Ultra Flex 3.0 Viewpoint Slip-In Loafers
Courtesy Image Sketchers takes slipping one’s shoes on really freaking seriously, and we’re here for it. The comfort-forward brand even shows you how satisfying it can be to slip on your shoes without bending over to pull the heel back in commercials—and it's not lying. Sketchers Ultra Flex 3.0 Viewpoint Slip-In Loafers are among the brand's more modern styles—a kind of sneaker-loafer hybrid. Best Huarache Slip-On Shoe: Nisolo Huarache Sandal
Courtesy Image Before you ask: Yes, you can pull off a huarache. These traditional Mexican shoes are having a moment. Nisolo is a climate-neutral, certified B Corp that produces a high-quality, sturdy Huarache Sandal made to fit well. Coolest Slip-On Shoe: Nike Calm Mules
Courtesy Image Mules are a severely underrated slip-on shoe category for men. You can go more sporty with the Nike Calm Mules, favored by athletes and musicians. Or you can go higher-end with a leather pair. Either way, wearing a mule says two things: One, you’re above laces. And two, you have the cajones to wear something different and interesting—also a great option for those who don’t want to display their toes in public. Best Flip-Flop Slip-On Shoe: Hari Mari Fields Camino
Courtesy Image If you’re in the market for flip-flops, you might as well buy the best. Hari Mari Fields Camino took a form that hadn’t been improved upon in many years and made it better. This pair has a cool, Southwest-inspired pattern, comfy footbed, and in my favorite part, a toe post that won’t beat the hell out of that space between your toes. They’re a sure upgrade to the old pair in your closet right now. Best Ethically Made Slip-On Shoe: Adelante Shoe Co. Tomas
Courtesy Image The Adelante Shoe Co. Tomas is an extremely well-made shoe with a collapsible back, meaning it’s technically both a shoe and a slipper. What makes them special? A skilled Guatemalan craftsman handcrafts them to your exact length and width specifications. What to Look for When Choosing the Best Slip-On Shoes for MenAhead of this story, I tried on a lot of slip-on shoes. It’s a hugely broad category, so you must start with one simple question: What kind of shoes do you need? If you just need something casual to wear around the house, go for a slip-on sandal or slipper. If you want something you can go out in, try a slip-on sneaker or loafer. Some nicer pairs can be worn anywhere. Once you have an idea of the kind of shoe you need, start browsing. Look at all options and start considering a price you’re willing to meet. Cost per wear is a good way to think about how much to invest in slip-on shoes. If you expect to wear them every day, go for the nicer or more durable version—the investment will be worthwhile. Next choose a material. The standard for dressier shoes is leather, but you could also opt for something more durable like EVA. At this point, you’re likely close to finding the right shoes. It’s time to start trying on and looking for details like how easy a pair slips on and off—or any areas that might cause friction. “The most common pitfall is not paying attention to the fit,” says Howard. “If they’re too loose, they can be uncomfortable and look sloppy. Too tight and they can cause blisters and restrict movement.” When in doubt, buy a pair and return them if they don’t work. Slip-on shoes can be forgiving when it comes to fit, but you’ll know what’s right for you after just a few wears. Why You Should Trust UsI’m a men’s style expert who has been writing about and styling menswear for nearly 15 years. I’m the former fashion and grooming editor at Men’s Health, and my work has also appeared in Travel + Leisure, Bloomberg Pursuits, Rolling Stone, and more. To start, I contacted slip-on shoe brands and called in new and best-selling styles to test. We tried all types and prices, not restricting ourselves to just one area. For this story, I interviewed style expert and creative consultant Seth Howard, who has worked with Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar, Nordstrom, and Nautica. He has many years of experience in style, fashion, and accessories. Plus, he has a master’s degree in global fashion management and currently teaches fashion merchandising at the college level. His knowledge uniquely qualifies him to speak about men’s slip-on shoes. Related: The Best White Sneakers of 2024 Will Clean Up Any Outfit Медиа: | ↑ |
