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Archaeologists in Poland recently discovered the decapitated skeletal remains of what were likely believed to have been "vampire" children, based on specific 13th century burial rituals that were intended to prevent the deceased from rising from the grave. The remains of two children were uncovered by workers removing tree roots as part of a renovation project on the gardens surrounding the Palace of the Uniate Bishops in Chelm, a local site with rich historical and religious significance. According to historical records, the remains had not previously been associated with any known cemetery. Based on geological factors and nearby pottery fragments, archaeologists believe the remains date back to the 13th century. What is interesting about the find is the unusual positioning on the skeletons. The skull of one of the children had been intentionally separated from the body and placed face-down in the grave, with heavy stones positioned on top of the torso. The practice of a face-down burial, along with the removal of the head or stones holding down the body, are characteristic of anti-vampire rituals that were prevalent at the time, particularly in medieval Eastern Europe. "The burial clearly shows signs of anti-vampire practices, which were aimed at stopping the dead from rising again," said Dr. Stanislaw Golub, an archaeologist with the Lublin Voivodeship Conservator of Monuments who led the excavation, in a statement to Archaeology News. Supernatural folklore at the time suggested that the dead could return as vampires and feed on the blood of the living. Further supporting the notion that the children were believed to have been vampires was the proximity of two poles that marked the burial site from the east and west. The posts were most likely intended to serve as grave markers, which suggested that the burial sites were being monitored for any potential signs of reanimation. The discovery adds yet another piece of evidence to support the lengths in which medieval people were believed to have gone to protect themselves from perceived threats of the undead. In 2022, the remains of a woman were likewise unearthed in Pien, Poland, who had been buried with a sickle across her neck and a padlock attached to her toe to ostensibly prevent her from returning from the grave. Медиа: | ↑ |
As the sun sets across the Northern Hemisphere on Tuesday, spectators will be treated to an unbelievable site: this year’s Supermoon will coincide with a Harvest Moon and a partial lunar eclipse. As the moon ascends this evening, it will be partially covered by Earth’s shadow as our planet passes between its natural satellite and the sun. Here’s where you can catch the lunar eclipse. Where can I see the lunar eclipse?This particular eclipse can be seen across the entire Northern Hemisphere, including all of North America with the exception of Alaska. In the United States, each of the 48 lower states are expected to get a full view of the natural wonder. In addition to North America, the eclipse will be visible in Africa, Europe, Greenland, South America, and much of the Middle East. When is the lunar eclipse happening?According to NASA, the moon will first enter Earth’s shadow at 8:41 p.m. EDT, but the peak of the eclipse won’t occur until around 10:13 p.m. It will last until about 10:44 p.m. The moon will exit the full shadow at 11:16 p.m., and pass beyond the partial shadow at 12:47 a.m. Wednesday morning. What can I expect to see during a partial lunar eclipse?During a total lunar eclipse, the moon moves into the inner portion of Earth’s shadow, which turns the moon a gleaming red. In the case of tonight’s partial eclipse, the shadow of Earth crests over but does not entirely cover the moon. The phenomenon only takes place during a full moon, making them a fairly rare but always spectacular event. The most recent lunar eclipse occurred in April. Медиа: | ↑ |
Rugged, reliable, attractive, American-turned-Swiss watchmaker Hamilton makes watches that do everything one needs a standout timepiece to do. The brand’s Khaki Field Mechanical watches, in particular, are iconic among price-conscious watch aficionados who don't wanting to forgo quality or impeccable style. Now, Hamilton has rolled out a trio of new editions to the beloved collection. 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. Few timepieces can match the lasting military aesthetics, functionality, and outright rugged reliability of the Khaki Field Mechanical—known as the original soldier’s watch. The three latest variations include a white dial, green Super-LumiNova piece paired with a classy yet rugged black NATO strap; an all-new blue dial with a matte stainless-steel case and matching blue NATO strap; and a Khaki Field Mechanical Bronze with a white dial and brown calf leather NATO strap. Related: The Best Field Watches of 2024 Are Beautiful—and Built for a Beating 
Courtesy Image It’s not just the military that loves the brand. Hamilton has a storied history with Hollywood, having appeared in over 500 movies—including Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Men in Black I, III, and IV, Interstellar, Tenet, and most recently Dune: Part Two. In the early spring blockbuster, director Denis Villeneuve worked with prop master Doug Harlocker to design a wrist device perfect for the Fremen to wear on the big screen. While the brand's latest three field watches have yet to appear on the big screen, it won't be surprising to see one up there soon—especially following the bronze Khaki Field Mechanical's recent appearance in last year's latest Ant-Man flick. 
Courtesy Image All three of the new watches are 38mm, keeping Hamilton’s traditional thin look (they’re only 9.5mm thick), while measuring 20mm lug to lug. The watches use a H-50 mechanical movement with 80-hour power reserve and are water resistant up to 50 meters. The bronze watch is priced at $645, while the blue watch and the timepiece with the white dial and black band cost $595. Related: Best Cheap Whiskey of 2024 for a Great Bottle on a Budget Медиа: | ↑ |
Eric Roberts apologized to his sister, Julia Roberts, in the pages of his new memoir, Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far. Despite growing up together in Georgia, Eric and Julia have had a publicly contentious relationship for the best part of 40 years. The siblings’ bond began to sour in the early ‘80s, as actor Eric was at the height of his fame and struggling with cocaine addiction while Julia was just entering the business. But they officially fell out around 1992, when Julia financially supported her brother’s ex-wife, Kelly Cunningham, during a bitter custody dispute over the couple’s child, American Horror Story star Emma Roberts. In 2018, Eric made a bold claim to Vanity Fair which didn't sit well with the Pretty Woman star. “If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts and no Emma Roberts as celebrities, as actresses, and I’m very proud of that," he said. “When Julia first came to New York, I went into William Morris and I said, ‘Which one of you is going to sign my sister Julia?’ And I am so proud that everybody knows I was first, because I was first by a long shot. I was first to get Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations, so I’m proud of that.” In his new memoir, Eric apologized to Julia for the statement. “I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an asinine thing to have said,” he wrote. Eric also admits that he has only himself to blame for the fractured bond between himself, Julia, and their sister, Lisa. “I wouldn’t be surprised if they suffered from PTSD from when it was dangerous to be around me,” he says in the book. “Lisa and Julia needed love and protection—instead they got fear and uncertainty.” The book continues: “Of course, the biggest consequence of my drug use was losing Emma,” the actor writes of the custody battle. But the actor is hopeful that his family will forgive his transgressions. “I imagine I will remain as Julia’s brother and Emma Roberts’ dad for the rest of my life,” he wrote. “I’d like to make good on that, to move aside proudly and with grace. That’s part of the reason for writing the book.” Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far is on sale now. Медиа: | ↑ |
The Macallan 12 is the consummate example of a timeless style of Scotch whisky that deserves a spot on any home bar. As a no-smoke single malt aged in sherry-seasoned casks from Spain, it's rich, full-bodied, and redolent of dried fruit and dark chocolate. Simply put, it's the perfect sipper when fall starts to crispen and shorten the days. “If there is one classic sherry cask-matured Speysider, it has to be The Macallan 12,” says Hans Offringa, spirits expert and the author of A Field Guide to Whisky, among many other books on the subject. 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. We dug beneath the surface of the world-renowned whisky (known by its full name, The Macallan 12 Years Old Sherry Oak Cask, or simply as The Macallan 12) to learn about its history, production process, and flavor profile. If you're interested in more in-depth whisk(e)y reviews, check out our deep-dives into Johnnie Walker Blue Label or Maker's Mark No. 46. Want the latest whiskey news, deals, and reviews? Sign up for the Whiskey Wednesday newsletter. Related: I've Tried Thousands of Whiskies. This Affordable Bottle Is Perfect for Easy Sipping The Macallan 12 at a Glance
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The Macallan 12 Pros and Cons
The Macallan 12 ReviewThe Macallan Sherry Oak 12 was the first Scotch I ever tasted. This was back in the nineties, when the term “single malt” was still a fairly exotic designation in the U.S. My godfather had come for a visit when I was in my teens and was showing off a bit by bringing a bottle of “The Good Stuff” as a gift. I remember sneaking into the pantry, grabbing the bottle from the top shelf and pulling out the cork—which felt fancy in itself. I gave it a smell, then took a tiny taste from the bottle. I didn’t get past a few drops on my tongue before I backed down. But those few drops formed my first memory of fine Scotch. A couple decades after that first pantry sip of The Macallan, when it came time to plan my bachelor party, I hosted a whisky tasting for my closest friends. But I still didn’t really know it until I started writing about it. To get a handle on The Macallan, and this expression in particular, I connected with The Macallan whisky maker Diane Stewart, who says the casks are the most important ingredient. “Up to 80 percent of the distinctive flavors and aromas of The Macallan, as well as all of the wonderful natural color of the whisky, comes from our casks,” says Stewart. The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old is part of the Sherry Oak Collection, which also includes 18-, 25-, and 30-year-old expressions. According to Stewart, the 12 “captures the overall classic taste of the brand,” including “flavor notes of dried fruits, oak spice and nutmeg, and a warming ginger finish.” How to Drink The Macallan 12Most brands have a “no rules with our whisky” messaging. And while it is true that you should enjoy your whisky however you want to enjoy it, it’s also nice to have some guidance before you dump your finely crafted Scotch into a tumbler of Diet Coke. The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 is rich, which makes it easy to sip on its own. While Stewart expresses the “no rules” attitude, she also says that, in her personal opinion, drinkers should sip the whisky neat out of a proper tasting glass, which creates a “heightened tasting experience by concentrating aromas up the funneled neck of the glass,” she says.  Stinson Carter Stewart also recommends trying it in a cocktail, such as the maple old fashioned: “A twist on the classic [pairs] the sweetness and depth of Canadian maple syrup with the Sherry Oak 12 Years Old’s notes of wood-spice and dried-fruit, further demonstrating the versatility of the spirit.” Offringa, who has been drinking The Macallan since the 1970s and as such has a special place in his heart for it, says no ice or water is needed—especially when drinking in the fall or early winter. The sherry characteristics are particularly nice when there’s a nip in the air. How Does The Macallan Make 12-Year?Over decades, The Macallan has cultivated alliances with sherry producers in Jerez de la Frontera in northern Spain. In 2023, they formed a partnership with Bodegas Grupo Estevez, who own the Valdespino vineyards and bodega dating back to 1264. Stewart says that their “investment and understanding in sherry-seasoned oak casks have shaped our signature style and the quality and consistency synonymous with our brand.” These alliances allow The Macallan a high level of influence over the entire lifespan of the casks. Starting with the raw materials, the brand's casks are made of both European and American oak. “European oak, which we source from the forests of northern Spain and across the Pyrenees into southern France have a high tannin content, which provides dark gold and mahogany colors to the whisky, along with rich dried fruit and sweet spice flavors,” says Stewart. “American oak, which we source from forests in Ohio, Missouri, and Kentucky, has less tannin, provides bright gold colors to the whisky, and vanilla, fresh fruit and coconut flavors.” The virgin casks are filled with sherry for 18 to 24 months, says Stewart: “This allows the sherry and wood to interact and create the perfect conditions for extraction of flavor and color from the casks during whisky maturation.”  Getty Images Meanwhile, the distillery produces the base liquid at its headquarters in Speyside, a subregion of the Scottish Highlands. The Macallan uses smaller stills than other Scotch whisky distilleries do, which is unique. Stewart explains that small stills give the whisky optimum contact with the copper during distillation, which helps to concentrate new-make spirit (the clear liquid that's later placed in casks to age) and creates the rich, robust, and fruity character that The Macallan is known for. “The distinctive small size and shape of our short stills allow heavier oily vapors to easily rise during distillation and travel down the arm of the still to be captured as they condense,” says Stewart. Once the casks arrive in Speyside, they're filled with new-make spirit and the wood begins to age the liquid. Stewart says that the majority of The Macallan’s casks are “first-fill,” meaning that the new-make is the first liquid besides sherry to touch the barrels. That way, the liquid extracts more color and flavor out of the casks during maturation. History of The Macallan 12The Macallan has a 200-year history stretching back to 1824, and one of the original licenses in Speyside when the area’s many distillers began shifting over from illicit stills to legal operations. The distillery was founded by barley farmer and schoolteacher Alexander Reid. The name itself comes from the word “Maghellen,” which was the original name of the area. The word was derived from the Gaelic word “Magh” meaning fertile ground, and “Ellan,” from the Monk St. Fillan who had an association with a church on the grounds of present The Macallan Estate prior to 1400 AD. The name has changed a bit through the years, originally called Elchies, then Macallan-Glenlivet. According to whisky expert Charlie MacLean, the distillery shifted from blended malt to single malt in the 1970s, and in 1980 they dropped the Glenlivet suffix and began promoting their single malt. The Macallan is owned by Edrington, a holding company that also owns Highland Park, The Glenrothes, Famous Grouse, Brugal rum, and Wyoming Whiskey. The largest shareholder in Edrington is a charitable trust called The Robertson Trust, Scotland’s largest independent grant-making body, according to the trust. The story behind it is pretty cool. Three unmarried sisters inherited The Macallan distillery along with Highland Distillers from their father and managed it well, with the youngest, ‘Miss Babs,’ running day-to-day operations at The Macallan. As the sisters got older and were faced with creating a succession plan not just for their businesses, but also for their employees at a time when there was an 80 percent death tax in Scotland, they got creative. In 1961, they established the holding company Edrington, named for the property where the Robertson sisters all lived together. At the same time, they created a charity. Then, they gifted their majority stake in the whisky holding company to this charity. The Robertson Trust, The Macallan’s unlikely majority owner, distributes GBP20 million annually. "When you buy a bottle of The Macallan, you are in effect supporting a charitable cause,” says Hans Offringa. If You Like The Macallan 12, You’ll Also Like…Glendronach 12
Courtesy Image This sherried Highland single malt is aged in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso Sherry casks. The Glendronach 12 is the perfect bottle to buy next if you like The Macallan Sherry Oak, with the two sherry varietals adding different flavor notes. Bunnahabhain 12
Courtesy Image One of my all-time favorites, Bunnahabhain 12 is an unpeated Islay single malt that's mainly aged in sherry casks, with some time in ex-bourbon casks. Matured on the Isle of Islay, the casks pick up maritime notes from the wind-blasted seas nearby. The combination of salinity to the sherry flavor profile gives it an umami that is hard to beat. At 46.3 percent ABV, it stands up well to ice dilution. Dalmore 12 Sherry Cask Select
Courtesy Image Finished in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks, the sherry influence is different. It’s a less dominant but still very present sherry flavor, making it a great cold-weather crossover bottle for rye or bourbon lovers. Dalmore 12 Sherry Cask Select a particularly nice bottle for gifting with the metallic stag’s head applied to the bottle. Why You Should Trust MeI've been writing about bars, cocktails, and spirits for 16 years—and, before that, I bartended for more than a decade at Hollywood's legendary Chateau Marmont Hotel. In one way or another, I've been employed in the realm of booze since the turn of the millennium. Scotch whisky has a special place in my heart. To better understand it, I have made three trips to Scotland, visiting distilleries in different whisky producing regions to meet and interview the people who dedicate their lives to making it. Related: I've Tasted Thousands of Whiskeys. Every Home Bar Needs This Affordable Bourbon Медиа: | ↑ |
After his big Emmy wins on Sunday night, Netflix announced that Baby Reindeer creator and star Richard Gadd had inked a multi-year with the streamer for future scripted series. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos confirmed the deal on Tuesday at the Royal Television Society‘s London Convention. "I can give you a bit of news this morning, we have finished our first-look deal with Richard Gadd to do his first work at Netflix," Sarandos said, via The Hollywood Reporter. "I think he’s a brilliant storyteller … I’m very proud of Richard of the story he told and the way he told it, and it is his true story." The 35-year-old took home wins for outstanding limited or anthology series as well as best lead actor and writing in a outstanding limited or anthology series, even as a real-life defamation lawsuit plays out about the facts portrayed in the comedy-drama thriller, which Gadd said was based on his real-life stalker. Scottish lawyer Fiona Harvey, who claims the character of "Martha" was not-so-loosely based on her, has sued the streamer in a $170 million lawsuit. Baby Reindeer quickly became a pop culture phenomenon when it debuted back in April. However, after a small subset of internet sleuths got to work at uncovering the woman Gadd essentially accused of stalking and harassing him over the course of several years, Harvey revealed her own identity to the world. However, she denies the events that played out in the series, in which it's insinuated that she sent Gadd over 41,000 emails, 744 tweets, 100 pages of letters, and 350 hours of voicemails. In the series, "Martha" is sent to prison for nine months after leaving threatening voicemails to Gadd, who was at the time a standup comedian who had served her in a London pub. Netflix admitted back in May that Harvey had only been subject to a court order, rather than a prison sentence, leaving one of the biggest claims of the "true story" up in the air. Baby Reindeer spent a month in the top spot on Netflix, earning a whopping 56.5 million views within 26 days of its release, and received a total of 11 Emmy nominations. 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. REI has been getting ready for fall adventures with tons of deals on bestselling outdoor gear, like top-rated backpacks, all-weather sleeping bags, compact camping stoves, and more. But one of the best-kept secrets of the store's sale section is this lightweight three-season Mountain Hardware tent—and it's nearly $400 off the normal price. Mountain Hardware’s Outpost 2 Tent is on sale at REI for $315, which is 55% off of the regular cost of $700. This tent has earned rave reviews from happy campers who have used it, saying it's a "great all-around" shelter in the spring, summer, and fall. Though all Mountain Hardware tents are currently on sale, this one offers the biggest discount. Mountain Hardware’s Outpost 2 Tent in Alpine Red, $315 (was $700) at REI
This Mountain Hardware tent offers just over 30 square feet of floor space and weighs just over 5 pounds—it's the perfect pick for campers who want something compact and lightweight but strong enough to take on weather. If you aren’t stuck in sub-zero temps, the dual-canopy, rain fly, mesh doors, and mesh vents will help keep you comfortable from spring to fall. It comes with superbly-made DAC Featherlight poles and similarly high-quality DAC J-stakes. Nice touches like multiple guyout points and guylines, along with reflective accents make this tent a hardcore camper's dream. Satisfied shoppers praised the versatility of the Outpost 2. "This is the best, most universal tent I have ever owned," a shopper said. "Perfect for many uses.” Another shopper echoed that sentiment, commenting, “This tent is pretty much our favorite.” Other shoppers have hyped up its ability to actually weather extreme conditions. One would-be mountaineer said that he “spent over 21 continuous hours in the tent taking refuge from non-stop variations of rain, sleet, and snow accompanied by howling winds in the 30-plus mph range,” and that it held up great. REI is one of the prime spots to look for deals on essential outdoor gear, and this 2-person tent is one of the best we’ve found this month for an expedition-quality shelter. Almost $400 off of the steep retail price of $700, this tent is almost guaranteed to sell out, so make sure to put this into your cart ASAP. Медиа: | ↑ |
Nobody had more fun at the Philadelphia Eagles home opener than Jason Kelce, who was on hand for his new gig with ESPN's Monday Night Countdown. But unfortunately, one notorious Philly superfan inadvertently injured himself while joining in on the merriment. Prior to the game between the Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons, Kelce was seen dancing onstage to hype up the crowd in video that has since gone viral. In the clip, the 36-year-old former NFL center could be seen nailing a bunch of dance moves to pumping EDM music, including the running man and high-knee galloping, all the while exuberantly pumping his fist. "Jason Kelce is BACK in Philly," ESPN captioned the post on social media.
In another clip, Kelce called Ron Dunphy, otherwise known as the heavily-tattooed Philly sportfan who has the Philly Phantic permanently inked around his belly button, up to the stage for a celebratory chest bump. However, after bouncing off the six-foot-three Kelce, Dunphy could be seen wincing and pain and limping off to the side. For his part, Kelce seemed fully unaware of the fan's injury. "The Phanatic belly tattoo guy 100 percent tore his ACL chest bumping Kelce on the ESPN broadcast by the way," wrote local fan Mike Bradley. Shortly after the live moment went down, Dunphy responded to another fan on social media who asked him if he twisted his ankle on a chest bump. "F--k my whole knee up," the father of two responded, adding, "So worth it lmao."
In a follow-up post, Dunphy admitted that he was icing his leg. "Say what you want. Yeah I got hurt doing a chest bump. But I got higher than Kelce," he later added. — Dunphy215 (@dunphy215) September 17, 2024
Dunphy has become something of a celebrity among Philly sports fans for his prolific tattoos, which he typically shows off by going shirtless at games. In addition to his Phanatic tattoo, Dunphy's chest piece also features the Eagles logo, the 76ers logo, the Flyers' mascot Gritty, an interstate 95 highway sign, and the Philadelphia skyline, among other Philly-centric Easter eggs. But sadly, despite the hype ahead of the game, the Eagles ended up losing their first home match of the season to the Falcons by a heartbreaking 22–21 margin. With any luck, Dunphy's knee will be on the mend before the next home game. Медиа: | ↑ |
Marvel’s Agatha All Along premiere turned into an impromptu Parks and Rec reunion, as Agatha stars Kathryn Hahn and Aubrey Plaza were joined by their former cast members Amy Poehler and Adam Scott on Monday night’s purple carpet. Parks and Rec starred Poehler as officious city employee Leslie Knope, while Scott played Ben Wyatt, her co-worker and eventual husband. Plaza rose to fame on the show as acerbic office assistant April, and Hahn appeared in 10 episodes as a big-city political consultant whose cutthroat advice often leads to chaos. Agatha All Along finds Hahn reprising the role of the titular witch that she established in WandaVision, while Plaza will play Rio Vidal, aka the Green Witch, Agatha’s primary adversary. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at Agatha’s premiere, Hahn said that reuniting with Plaza was “a dream.” One video posted to social media shows Hahn, Plaza, and Poehler posing for a photo as Scott surreptitiously hops the press line and joins the visibly surprised group.
“We had never had any scenes together in Parks and Rec, I think we passed each other in hallways,” Hahn explained, “but for this to be the first time we really worked together was incredible. I think she’s such an extraordinary actor so to be able to play with her like this was so fun.”
Speaking to The Upcoming on Monday night, Plaza admitted that she was slightly hesitant to take on a role in such a high-profile project. “Kathryn Hahn warned me. She was like, ‘This is no joke. Once you’re on one of these shows there is such a huge fan base and excitement about it.’ It’s insane,” she said. “So, I was a little bit nervous about it, honestly. But I treated it like every other show. I’m just so happy they let me play this character. I can’t spoil it, but what happens, the reveal is pretty amazing. And I think for the fans especially, they’re going to go crazy.” Agatha All Along premieres Sept. 18 on Disney+. 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. Amazon is one of the best places to look if you're in search of a deal on a fantastic watch. The site carries thousands of models from brands like Movado, G-Shock, and Timex, and if you're lucky, you can score discounts of nearly half off the original price. Right now is one of those times, because one of Citizen's cleanest dive watches was just marked down by $180, and it's the lowest price we've seen in the last year. The Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch is now available on Amazon for $195, a substantial 48% discount on its normal retail price of $375. This well-reviewed dive watch has earned over 3,000 five-star ratings from shoppers who say it’s " by far, the best deal in watches," and over 200 have been purchased in the last month alone. The navy blue watch offers the highest discount, but it's also over $125 off in black and over $150 off in the monochromatic black color scheme. Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch, $195 (was $375) on Amazon
This Citizen watch is an affordable entryway into the world of dive watches. It features a bold 44mm stainless steel case with a deep blue dial, so it makes a statement on the wrist. The rotating bezel—a hallmark of dive watches—features a blue aluminum insert to match the dial color, and the blue polyurethane strap completes the look. It’s powered by Citizen’s unique Eco-Drive technology, which uses ambient light to charge up its power cell, and a highly accurate quartz movement keeps it ticking. The hands and indices are lumed for good low-light visibility, and a date window at 4 o’clock keeps you on schedule. Its mineral crystal glass offers solid durability, and the watch has 200 meters of water resistance, so you really can dive and snorkel with it. Reviewers have been thrilled with the look, feel, and performance of the Citizen Promaster Dive. “This watch looks great, and it's built to last,” one shopper said. “I know I'll get a lot of years of use out of this timepiece.” Other shoppers commented on the watch's ability to handle water. "Absolutely amazing," a shopper said. “It has been extremely accurate, exceptionally waterproof, and still looks like new…I highly recommend this watch for anyone looking for a solid, reliable, well-built, hassle-free dive watch.” Getting a quality watch for under $200 is a screaming deal, especially one as stylish and dependable as this Citizen Promaster diver. Don’t miss your chance to add this timepiece to your collection—grab yours today before this hefty discount disappears. 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. Hoka shoes are popular for a reason: They’re just so comfortable. With their well-padded midsoles, they make every step feel like you’re walking on pillows, whether you opt for the brand’s tough hiking boots, trail runners, or walking shoes. If you want to get a pair in your closet, you're in luck: Dick’s has a secret discount on the highly rated Hoka Challenger 7—and it's perfect for any terrain. The Hoka Challenger 7 Running Shoe is on sale at Dick's Sporting Goods right now for $109, a 25% discount on its normal price of $145. This versatile running sneaker has earned a 4.3-star rating after more than 400 votes from shoppers who call it a "versatile crossover" to wear for everything from hiking to walking the dog, and it features Hoka’s signature plush midsole design for a comfortable ride. There's one color on sale right now—Blue/Yellow—and it's still available in sizes 8.5 to 14, but they're selling fast. Hoka Challenger 7 Running Shoe in Blue/Yellow, $109 (was $145) at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Hoka designed the Challenger 7 to perform on any kind of surface, be it dirt, gravel, grass, or pavement, and it’s a great pick if you need a versatile, go-anywhere pair of sneakers. The Challenger features a compression-molded EVA midsole for reliable shock absorption, and it’s topped with an engineered mesh upper for good breathability and a snug fit. Underneath, the tough rubber outsole can stand up to plenty of wear, and its 4mm lugs hit the sweet spot for grip: They’re big enough to bite into dirt but not so large that they’ll feel unorthodox on city streets and sidewalks. The reviews rave about the Challenger 7, with multiple shoppers commenting on their superb feel. “The comfort of these shoes is amazing,” a shopper said. “Now I can walk longer and stand longer and it has taken almost all pain away.” Another shopper agreed, calling them “comfortable beyond belief.” Other shoppers commented on their versatile sole construction that makes running easier. "I have been wearing these on dirt trails and asphalt and love them," a shopper said. "I also wear them to run around at the park with my kids. They are a sleeker fit than the Cliftons I have, but they still fit true to size. Great Hoka product, like always!" Hoka shoes set the standard for comfort in running, and the Challenger 7 is one of the brand’s most popular models. Grabbing these shoes for just $109 is an excellent deal, but get ‘em in your cart quickly, because they’re going fast and certain sizes are already sold out. Медиа: | ↑ |
Michael Che and Colin Jost have been sitting next to each other at the Weekend Update desk for a decade, becoming the longest-running anchors of the iconic Saturday Night Live segment in the show's half-century history. At one point, however, Che says he was on the verge of quitting the show all due to a joke Jost wanted to make on air. The comedy duo spoke about the incident in a recent interview on the Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade podcast. When asked if there was ever a point where one of them wanted to "kick [their] a--," Che reflected on a joke from the season 40 finale that aired in May 2015. "Yeah, I think 'jalapeno business.' I was pretty furious about that one," Che said. For his part, Jost fired back, "You were just upset that it worked so well." It was less than a year into their time together and their first season finale as a pair on the Weekend Update desk. Jost recounted a local news story with a zinger at the end, saying, " Ohio police arrested a woman who allegedly stabbed her boyfriend for eating all of their salsa. Though you’d be angry too if your boyfriend was jalapeno business." Che tried to stop the cringe-worthy moment before they went live, even threatening to leave the show if he told the joke. "I remember in run-through when you did it, because I never heard it before. I don’t remember what the setup was, but the punchline was ' jalapeno business,'" Che remembered. "And I was like, ‘If you tell that joke on air, I’m leaving. I’m quitting the show.'" To Che's surprise, the joke killed. "He did it on air and it destroyed. And I was so frustrated. I was so frustrated. I was like, 'I don’t even know what we do anymore,'" he admitted. Jost, ever the comedian, remarked that he only did it to get under Che's skin. "I would have honestly cut it if it wasn’t so upsetting to you. And then I was like, ‘I’m definitely, definitely doing this,'" he said. The landmark 50th season of Saturday Night Live premieres Sept. 28. Медиа: | ↑ |
Whether you just finished a HIIT class, sprint session, or upper-body workout, muscle soreness is expected. Everyone has their favorite way to recover, relying on foam rolling, stretching, ice baths (see benefits of cold therapy), and saunas. But there's a new discovery that could blow them all out of the water. It's a strategic type of massage called the "triple-eight technique," and evidence suggests it can reduce muscle stiffness and soreness almost instantly, according to a new study published in Cell Reports. The study, which was led by Michael Dimitriou, an associate professor at the Department of Medical and Translational Biology at Umea University, focused on muscle spindles, sensory receptors that help protect muscles. When a muscle is stretched, muscle spindles activate and alert the brain that certain joints, ligaments, or muscles are in danger of being stretched too far, too quickly. They can tell the muscles to stay contracted to reduce the stretch (aka the stretch reflex), minimizing injury. "The results provide an important piece of the puzzle in understanding what information our nervous system receives from muscles," says Dimitriou. What Is the Triple Eight Technique?For the study, researchers applied three different levels of sustained pressure to participants' forearm muscles. As they applied pressure, they simultaneously recorded signals from nerve fibers within the muscle spindles they pressed on. When the participants kept their muscles motionless, the muscle spindles reacted strongly to muscle pressure. The reaction suggested that pressure alone is a sufficient stimulus for these receptors. On the other hand, when the participants moved their hands while the forearm was under pressure, it significantly enhanced the spindles' response. According to the researchers, this finding challenges the current understanding that muscle spindles only respond to a stretching motion. The study also revealed that when the researchers suddenly removed pressure from muscles, the activity of spindles dropped rapidly below the levels they were at before any pressure was applied. Because of this finding, the researchers proposed the “triple-eight” technique, which involves using a finger to apply low amounts of pressure over a sore or stiff muscle area for eight seconds, releasing pressure for eight seconds, then reapplying pressure for another eight seconds. You then follow this with a slow stretching of the relaxed muscle. Related: Study Reveals One Simple Way to Limit Your Caloric Intake While Snacking Similar to trigger or massage therapy, this method may be able to reduce muscle stiffness and soreness by applying pressure to the affected area. With trigger point or massage therapy, massage therapists will apply pressure to the affected spot in order to temporarily cut off circulation. This then raises levels of nitric oxide and allows blood flow to break up the trigger point. While the news that the triple-eight technique can help reduce stiffness and soreness in the muscles is promising, more research is needed to determine if this is a foolproof method that can work on other individuals and other muscles. Медиа: | ↑ |
Rock band Jane's Addiction is dealing with the fallout of an on-stage altercation between lead vocalist Perry Farrell and guitarist Dave Navarro. The fight led to the cancelation of their U.S. tour, and now, Farrell is addressing the situation head-on. "This weekend has been incredibly difficult and after having the time and space to reflect, it is only right that I apologize to my bandmates, especially Dave Navarro, fans, family and friends for my actions during Friday’s show," Farrell said in a statement, per Rolling Stone. "Unfortunately, my breaking point resulted in inexcusable behavior, and I take full accountability for how I chose to handle the situation." Tensions between Farrell and Navarro reached a boiling point during their performance at Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston on Sept. 13. Farrell's wife Etty Lau Farrell explained on social media that "there had been a lot of tension and animosity between the members." "Perry’s frustration had been mounting, night after night; he felt that the stage volume had been extremely loud and his voice was being drowned out by the band. Perry had been suffering from tinnitus and a sore throat every night. But when the audience in the first row started complaining up to Perry, cussing at him that the band was planning too loud and that they couldn’t hear him, Perry lost it," she said. Farrell went on to punch Navarro, prompting bassist Eric Avery and two show crew members to try to get him off the stage. After the incident, Navarro, Avery, and drummer Stephen Perkins took to Instagram to issue a joint statement on the situation. "Due to a continuing pattern of behavior and the mental health difficulties of our singer Perry Farrell, we have come to the conclusion that we have no choice but to discontinue the current U.S. tour. Our concern for his personal health and safety as well as our own has left us no alternative. We hope that he will find the help he needs," the statement read. "We deeply regret that we are not able to come through for all our fans who have already bought tickets. We can see no solution that would either ensure a safe environment on stage or reliably allow us to deliver a great performance on a nightly basis," the trio concluded. "Our hearts are broken." All tickets will be refunded at point of purchase. 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. REI's deals on outdoor apparel and footwear are on fire right now with discounts of up to 50% off everything from REI Co-op Hiking Pants to Arc'teryx jackets and even select running shoes. Finding a great deal on a pair of hiking boots might prove to be more of a challenge, but one pair of Danners was just marked down by $100—and they're selling lightning fast. Danner's Trail 2650 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are now on sale at REI for just $100—a 50% markdown on their normal price of $200. These mid-top hiking boots have earned over 350 five-star ratings from shoppers who say they're "very comfortable and well made," and the discount has them swiftly rising in popularity among the bestselling hiking boots for men on the site. They come in two colors—brown and black—and are available in sizes 8 to 13. They're selling quickly now that they're on sale, so make sure to grab your size soon. Danner Trail 2650 Mid GTX Hiking Boots in Dusty Olive, $100 (was $200) at REI
These hiking boots hit just above the ankle and are made with a combination of durable leather and textile fabric. Inside, waterproof Gore-Tex membranes are built in to keep water out while allowing perspiration to escape, and OrthoLite footbeds offer ample cushioning underfoot. Everything sits on a shock-absorbing foam midsole and a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole that works with the grippy multi-directional lug tread to keep you sure-footed over gravel, roots, and wet surfaces. Shoppers who have worn these Danner hiking boots say they're one of the best choices you could make for wet hikes. "I tried these for a trip to Norway," a shopper began. "Norway is wet, steep, and rocky. These were incredible. My feet were dry and they were light and nimble, and the shank kept my feet happy over the stones. For big-mile day hikes, these are awesome! I have a narrow heel and bunions. These have room in the toe box but lock my heel in. With the exception of Lowa boots, these are unique in their ability to hold my heel and free my toes." Danner Trail 2650 Mid GTX Hiking Boots in Black/Khaki, $100 (was $200) at REI
Others raved about the all-day comfort. "Best hiking boot I’ve owned," a shopper said. "So comfortable, like a running shoe with the support you want and need. Hiked many miles in these boots in Alaska and my feet never felt better. They were dry and comfortable the entire time." If fall hiking is in your future, it pays to have a great boot with comprehensive Gore-Tex waterproofing to protect your feet against wet weather, and that's what Danner's Trail 2650 Mid GTX boots do. Make sure to grab your size soon, because when Danner boots go on sale, they don't stick around for long before selling out. Медиа: | ↑ |
Residents of a Houston suburb have been evacuated with major roads and businesses shut down after an oil pipeline caught fire just before 10 a.m. in the areas of Deer Park and La Porte, TX on Monday. The blaze was still ongoing by afternoon, with officials reporting that it could be Tuesday before the fire is contained. The local Spencer Highway was closed in both directions on Monday, with the areas surrounding a nearby Walmart and H-E-B grocery store blocked off to traffic. More than 700 customers in the area were likewise without power, with evacuated residents unable to return to their homes due to the heat emanating from the flames. One firefighter was injured and treated for minor injuries as emergency personnel struggled to contain the heavy flames, which could be seen shooting hundreds of feet into the air in harrowing video circulating online.
"The fire is contained within a set perimeter, but it will take several hours for the product to burn off,” said Deer Park Mayor Jerry Mouton Jr. in a statement. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, however oil and gas expert Bob Cavnar told Click2Houston that the fire may have been caused by a crude line, and possibly the result of a mechanical failure. "The way the fire looks, the smoke, it looks like a product or a crude line and not natural gas. Natural gas doesn’t tend to burn that dirty," Cavnar said. "They should be able to shut the pipeline off. I’m not sure why it’s been going this long unless they’re having a hard time getting to terminal valves."
Energy Transfer, the company that owns the pipeline, said that the fire, involving a 20-inch natural gas liquids pipeline, occurred at a valve station. "We experienced an incident this morning in La Porte, Texas, at a valve station along Spencer Highway for a 20-inch natural gas liquids line that resulted in a fire," read the statement, via KHOU 11 News. There are no reports of injuries at this time. The LaPorte Fire Department is on the scene and has evacuated all homes and businesses within a half mile of the incident site. The line has been isolated so that the residual product in the line can safely burn itself out." "We have no timeline at this point on how long that process will take, but we are working closely with local authorities," the statement continued. "We are aware of early reports indicating that an unknown passenger car entered our right-of-way and struck the value location. Air monitoring equipment is in the process of being set up in the area. We will continue to release details as they become available." Медиа: | ↑ |
Fast food burgers usually aren't looked at as the healthiest dining options in the world. But when it comes to your choices, some might set your diet back more than others. A new study by telehealth platform Plushcare examined the health contents of items like cheeseburgers and French fries at some of the country's most popular chains and ranked them based on how bad for you they are. The company compared calories, sugar, saturated fat, and sodium values and scored them according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' nutrient profiling method. This produced a total "unhealthiness score" that showed just how unhealthy some burgers are. At the top of the list with the unhealthiest cheese burger is Five Guys, notching a total unhealthiness score of 50. Five Guys' French fries, which are known for using fresh potatoes and fried in peanut oil, also ranked as the unhealthiest fast food fries. McDonald's and Burger King, perhaps the most ubiquitous fast food chains in the country, performed better than many of their counterparts, relatively speaking. The two institutions tied for 14th place with a total unhealthiness score of 18.  Read up on the unhealthiest burgers in America, ranked from worst to least bad.
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When you're hosting a party, you don't want to pull your best whiskey, tequila, mezcal, and gin from your home bar. No offense to your guests, but it's far more economical to buy a handle of Tito's (among the best cheap vodka brands) or Casamigos (a top pick among cheap tequila). Usually spirits come in standard 750mL bottles; it's among the most popular size for stashing on bar carts and in liquor cabinets. Handles are the big bottles that dwarf them. To save you the momentary panic of fast math at the liquor store, muttering How many shots in a handle?—we've crunched the numbers for you. In fact, to help you ace your next housewarming or dinner party, we're covering a whole slew of questions. We're sure you know how many mL are in a liter and how many ounces in a shot. But how about how many shots are in a handle? How many milliliters are in a shot? Or how to convert ounces to mL in the first place? And if you want to know what liquor is worth buying in the first place, check out our roundups of the best vodka for a martini, best bourbons, and best whiskey for old fashioneds. 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. What Is a Handle of Liquor?"Handle" is the nickname for half-gallon bottles of liquor, earned because they usually feature a handle on the side to help carry it. Handles are twice the size of standard 750mL bottles, which are nicknamed fifths. Handles can be filled with any kind of liquor, whether vodka, tequila, whiskey, or gin. But typically, only popular brands come in handle sizes. Many small batch bourbons, for example, are only available as fifths. It's perhaps more common to ask, How many shots in a handle of vodka? since the clear spirit is the most ubiquitously found in handles. Related: 32 Best Grocery Store Beers How Many Ounces Are in a 1.75L Bottle?A handle contains just under a half-gallon—1.75L, or 59.2oz, of liquor. While the exact calculations come down to decimals, you can generally figure conversions out using rounded numbers. There are 1,000mL in a liter. Therefore, there are 1,750mL in a handle. Next, there are just under 30mL in an ounce. Divide the total 1,750mL by the 30mL in an ounce, and you get just over 58oz per handle. Sure, we're a hair under the exact amount because we didn't use all the decimals, but if you ever need a rough estimate, just focus on rounded numbers. Your brain will thank you. Related: Best Cheap Whiskey of 2024 for a Great Bottle on a Budget How Many Shots Are in a 1.75L Bottle?In the U.S., there's no federally mandated shot size. Therefore, it's not clear-cut how many ounces are in a shot, let alone how many shots are in a handle. It's situational, according to Sother Teague, beverage director of Amor y Amargo in New York and author of I’m Just Here for the Drinks. "If I'm doing a shot—literally putting in a glass and taking it down—it's going to be an ounce, because that's about all you can fit in your mouth at one time," Teague says. But if he's making a cocktail—depending on how boozy—that amount can jump. When Teague makes tequila cocktails, for example, he'll use 2oz of liquor because, unlike a shot, which he calls "ephemeral," a marg is meant to be sipped over a longer period of time. But when he crafts a Manhattan, which requires more than just 2oz of liquor, because it includes multiple alcoholic ingredients, the lines are blurry. When it comes to measuring bottles, though, he concedes to a simple answer: "If someone pointed at a liter bottle, which is 33-and-change ounces, I would say you can get get 33 shots out of there." Using that same 1oz-per-shot guideline, a handle—which is 1.75L, or 59.2oz—contains approximately 59 shots. Related: The 11 Best Whiskey Glasses You Can Buy How to Properly Pour a ShotIf you pour straight from the bottle into a glass, you'll never get the exact amount you're hoping for, and you're probably gonna spill everywhere. When you go to the bar, all the liquor bottles are topped with a special cap. Those caps, called pour spouts, are designed to cleanly and effectively transfer liquor from the bottle to the glass. Some of them are even made to pour exactly 1oz at a time. So, if you want to get the most out of your handle—meaning you pour exactly 59 shots, no more, no less—you can buy your own measure pour spouts. How's that for being cost effective? Automatic 1oz Measured Bottle Pourer (4-pack)
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A couple of sticky-fingered thieves made off with over 500,000 frozen shrimp valued at more than $300,000, as well as the truck in which they were transported, in a bizarre heist caught on camera, Law & Crime and WCAU reported. The jilted truck driver, who declined to identify himself, discovered the theft when he returned to the Middlesex, New Jersey parking lot where he’d been parking the vehicle. The delivery was intended for a Costco in Monroe Township, which is less than 30 miles away from Middlesex. Surveillance video from the parking lot reportedly shows a pair of thieves driving the truck away during the “late morning” hours of Sept. 5, shortly before the truck’s owner arrived on the scene. “When I came into the yard, I don’t see my truck,” he recalled. “I don’t understand what happened. Where’s my truck? It's only me and my truck, now I don't have a job for a week,” the driver lamented. “I've tried to make applications, [but] I need to keep waiting." He’s hopeful that the two men will be caught and his truck returned to him. It seems that the thieves were unaware the truck contained shrimp, as the shipment was later found discarded about 16 miles away. The roughly 500,000 frozen shrimp were valued at around $305,000, but authorities were skeptical as to how the criminals planned to store or sell 25,000 pounds of contraband before it expired. Apparently, they never intended to. However, in a peculiar twist, officers saw on the security tapes that the two men had broken into four other trailers on the lot during the first week of September. For some reason, they opted not to steal those vehicles but decided to move on the one filled with shrimp. "We see everything. It's not like anything surprises us," Middlesex Police Det. Sgt. Sean Flanagan told WCAU. "It's part of [the job], we see weird crimes reported." However, Flanagan conceded that this incident was “definitely unusual.” “We haven’t had something like this in Middlesex Borough before,” he admitted. Медиа: | ↑ |
The final messages between the doomed Titan submersible and its support ship, the Polar Prince have been revealed, piecing together the final moments for the OceanGate vessel's five passengers who died last June when the expedition went awry, killing everyone aboard. The messages were made public as part of what is expected to be a two-week hearing into the incident that started on Monday. The evidence, presented by U.S. Coast Guard officials, detailed how the Titan and Polar Prince were in routine communication for approximately 40 minutes after the craft began its decent to the ocean floor to tour the wreckage of the Titanic off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada around 9:20 a.m. on June 18, 2023. However, just before 10 a.m. an issue arose, and communication temporarily dropped off. According to People, the Polar Prince had repeatedly asked the Titan whether the ship could be seen on its display. When it initially received no answer, the messages became more urgent until the Titan finally responded 15 minutes later, acknowledging that it had communication. The Polar Prince sent a message back stating "I need better comms from you," to which the Titan responded "yes" and that it had "lost system oand [sic] chat settings." After being asked for its status and, for a second time, whether the support ship could be seen on the display, the Titan responded "yes" and "all good here" at 10:15 a.m. Nine minutes later, the Titan seemed to indicate to the Polar Prince that it was "east south east" of the bow of the undersea wreckage. After the Polar Prince asked for a third time whether the Titan could see the ship on its display, the Titan asked if the Polar Prince was also at the bow. The Polar Prince responded that it was "making our way there … your position jumps significantly each ping." The Coast Guard said that the final message from the Titan was sent at 10:47 a.m., at a depth of about 3,350 meters and a pressure of 4,900 pounds per square inch, when the vessel said that it had "dropped two [weights]," and then contact was almost immediately lost. The messages were believed to have been sent by French deep sea explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, whose family has since filed a $50 million wrongful death lawsuit against OceanGate. In addition to Nargeolet, 77, the other victims included OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, British adventurer Hamish Harding, Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood, and his 19-year-old son, Sulaiman Dawood. Four days after communication was lost, a debris field was discovered on the ocean floor less than 2,000 feet away from the wreckage of the Titanic, concluding a search and rescue operation that gripped the world. Just weeks later, OceanGate said that it was ceasing all exploration and commercial operations. Медиа: | ↑ |
A New York Times story profiling the huge financial success of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice revealed that director Tim Burton drastically slashed the sequel’s budget shortly before filming began. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice producers and Warner Bros. executives Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy told the outlet that Burton agreed to reduce the film’s budget by $48 million in order to secure an exclusive theatrical release. While the film was ultimately produced for $99 million, its original budget hovered around $147 million largely due to the salaries of its stars and producers. At that point, the movie was being developed for a straight-to-streaming release on Max (formerly HBO Max). “That was never going to work for Tim,” Abdy said of the streaming premiere. “You’re talking about a visionary artist whose films demand to be seen on a big screen.” The problem was that Burton hadn’t had a substantial critical hit in a decade, since 2014’s Big Eyes, and he hadn’t found financial success since 2010, when Alice in Wonderland grossed over $1 billion globally. Burton’s most recent film, his live-action Dumbo remake, fared disastrously with critics, ticket buyers, and even its own stars. Abdy and De Luca told Burton that if he could make the film for under $100 million before advertising costs, they would greenlight Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and ensure a theatrical release. The director was able to lower the budget to a prospective $99 million, but that was largely contingent on the stars and producers taking drastically reduced paydays. “Two months went by where every day the movie almost died,” Burton’s manager, Mike Simpson, told NYT. As Burton and Simpson tried to convince the all-star cast to sign on, De Luca and Abdy were spending hundreds of thousands of dollars each week on pre-production against the advice of their Warner Bros. peers. But when the cast eventually did sign on, that meant the film could immediately commence shooting. Ultimately, Burton and “some producers,” along with stars Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, and Jenna Ortega all agreed to reduce their up-front fees for a larger portion of the film’s “back end,” or lifetime profits. The gamble seems to have worked out for everyone involved. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has grossed $264 million worldwide in its first week and a half of release, and seems poised to surpass the $500 million mark. 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. Walmart's deals on fitness equipment over the past few months have been jaw-dropping. The retailer has been offering discounts of up to 85% off everything from adjustable dumbbells to Olympic weight sets and even full-sized treadmills. The most impressive discounts have been on home gyms, and right now, Walmart is running a flash deal on a combination multi-gym that's a must-see at over $2,100 off the normal price. The Mikolo Smith Machine Home Gym is on sale at Walmart for $870 right now—71% off the normal $3,000 price tag. This multi-gym has earned over 1,000 five-star ratings from shoppers who say the price is "unbeatable" among similar products online and that it helps you get "well-rounded workouts" without having to go to a gym. Like some other multi-gyms, this one requires weights to operate. Mikolo offers a bundle deal that comes with a weight bench and 230 pounds of plates for $1,800 (after an on-page coupon), but Walmart has a 260-pound set on sale right now for $230 and a great weight bench for $60, so you can save more when completing your set. Regardless of how you build your home gym, Walmart will ship it for free. Mikolo Smith Machine Home Gym, $870 (was $3,000) at Walmart
This multi-functional Smith machine is made from a rock-solid 50-by-50mm commercial-grade steel tube and has a weight capacity of up to 2,200 pounds. It combines components from various machines that'll help you get a total body workout and includes grips for wide and narrow pull-ups, barbell holders, dual pulley systems, dip attachments, safety stoppers, eight weight storage pins, and more. It also comes with great attachments, like a T-bar, tricep rope, and a lat pull-down bar, among others. Combined with a weight plate set, the machine and attachments allow you to perform well over 100 types of exercises. Shoppers who have brought this multi-gym into their homes say it's been one of the best additions to their fitness routine. "Worth every penny," one shopper said. "Countless exercises to do. Everything works smoothly and the setup is very sturdy. Smith is fluid and safety hooks are reliable. Cables are quiet and easy to route." Another shopper agreed saying, "This rack is amazing…my girlfriend and I can work out at the same time and do different things with different weights." If you've been looking for the perfect cornerstone piece to put in your home gym, Mikolo's Smith Machine Home Gym needs to be at the top of the list, especially while it's over 70% off. Just make sure to grab yours soon because it's one of Walmart's flash deals and the price could soar back up at any given time. Медиа: | ↑ |
Jodie Foster gave a rare update about her two children to People during the 76th Annual Emmy Awards. The legendary actor, who won her first Emmy last night for her role in True Detective: Night Country, shares sons Charlie, 26, and Kit, 22, with her ex, Cydney Bernard. Foster admitted that both of her sons are "at that age where they're starting their careers, and they're pretty insecure about what's gonna happen.” While Charlie has followed his mother into acting, Kit doesn't share the same aspirations. But despite the trying times of their 20s, Foster has found much to celebrate in her sons’ lives. "Every time they get a joy, like I got an 'A' or I got this job or I got an audition, my heart just fills up 14 times because I have this memory of a beautiful career that's built on doing meaningful work, and I know that's the recipe for happiness. So I'm just thrilled for them, for the future,” she marveled. While Kit has kept his professional aspirations private within the family, Foster told More back in 2007 that Charlie has long voiced his desire to be in movies. “[He’ll say] ‘I want to be in movies. Why can’t you get me a job?’” the Oscar-winner recalled. “Then I say, ‘You have to earn that. If you want to be an actor, you can start by doing a little theater.’ Then he says, ‘I’m not interested in that. I just want to be famous and see my face.’” Despite her talent running in the family, Foster told People that neither Charlie nor Kit have much desire to watch their mom’s work. "They have no interest in watching my movies with me,” she admitted. “I think they’re going to catch True Detective, 'cause they’re really into that. And yeah, there’s a few films that I would never show them because I would be worried about being teased.” Медиа: | ↑ |
Home Depot landed in some hot water after it was accused of false advertising and unfair competition over allegedly overcharging customers in a California civil complaint. As a result, the home improvement retail chain, which has admitted to no wrongdoing, has been ordered to pay more than $2 million to settle the claim. The complaint, which was filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, alleged that Home Depot had been charging customers prices higher than the lowest price it advertised or posted. In what is commonly known as a "scanner violation," the practice occurs when the shelf tag of an item does not match the price when the UPC code is scanned at the point-of-sale device or register. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement that "false advertising and unfair competition are serious offenses that undermine consumer trust and distort the marketplace." "When companies engage in deceptive practices, they not only cheat consumers but also gain an unjust advantage over businesses that operate ethically and transparently," Gascon continued. "This settlement is a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and underscores our commitment to safeguarding the rights of consumers in our community." As part of the Aug. 26 judgment, Home Depot is prohibited from "engaging in false or misleading advertising and charging an amount greater than the lowest price posted for an item." The chain is also being required to implement a price accuracy program, which will involve more audits and training, as well as eliminating price increases on weekend days. The company also also being ordered to pay $1.7 million in civil penalties and $277,251 in costs and restitution. In a statement to Fox Business, Home Depot noted that it has updated the timing of its price changes to "ensure consistency" for customers. Медиа: | ↑ |
Microplastics continue to be found in some concerning parts of the human body. A new study published Sept. 16 in the JAMA Network Open journal explains how microplastics in the human brain can affect an important part of our daily lives: how we smell. Researchers in Brazil examined the olfactory bulbs of 15 cadavers and detected the presence of microplastics in the olfactory bulbs of eight of them. The olfactory bulbs, located at the bottom of the brain with one in each nasal cavity, contain different kinds of nerve cells that are responsible for helping us smell. The most common material they found was polypropylene, of the most widely used polymers in plastic products today. "Previous studies in humans and animals have shown that air pollution reaches the brain, and that particles have been found in the olfactory bulb, which is why we think the olfactory bulb is probably one of the first points for microplastics to reach the brain," study lead author Dr. Thais Mauad told NBC News of the research. "We thought that if bacteria can pass through this pathway, microplastics might be able to too." Unfortunately, the base compound of polypropylene is hard to escape in our everyday lives. " Propylene is everywhere—in furniture, rugs, clothes," Mauad said. "We know the place we are most exposed to particles is indoors, because all of our homes are full of plastic." Related: Study Finds Microplastics in Testicles, With Possible Fertility Effects Because the study subjects were deceased, the scientists could only learn so much from the phenomenon. More research needs to be done to investigate just how these microplastics in our olfactory bulbs can actually affect our sense of smell in our lives. "This case series provides evidence of [microplastics] found in the human olfactory bulb, suggesting a potential pathway for the translocation of [microplastics] to the brain," the authors wrote in the study. "The findings underscore the need for further research on the health implications of [microplastic] exposure, particularly concerning neurotoxicity and the potential for [microplastics] to bypass the blood-brain barrier." Медиа: | ↑ |
Over the next two years, tequila is poised to overtake vodka to become the top-selling spirit category in the United States. Across the globe, in fact, the beloved Mexican export has never been as broadly received as it is right now. So, it’s no surprise that seemingly every week brings the arrival of a new expression to shelf. They’re not all equal in importance, of course. But today we’re able to tell you about one that’s mightier than most. Tequila Ocho has just unveiled the 2024 edition of Plata Puntas. At 54 percent, it’s the highest ABV release to date from the revered brand. And it’s high in the running for best tequila we’ve tasted all year. Tequila Ocho was co-founded in 2008 by none other than Carlos Camarena, the legendary fifth generation farmer and tequilero behind some of the most respected agave offerings on earth. With this particular label, he set out to establish the world’s first single estate tequila. Each bottling relies entirely on extra-mature agave from a specific farm in the highlands of Jalisco. In so doing, Camarena could implement an unparalleled degree of control over the evolution of his spirit, from agricultural product in the field to distilled liquid in the glass. It was an immediate hit amongst connoisseurs and bartenders before eventually catching on with even the most casual of consumers. Fast forward to 2022. Ocho was ready to dial things up for the brand, figuratively and literally. Introducing a high proof mark was the way to do it. Although the vast majority of tequilas on shelf today sit at the 80-proof mark—the legal minimum for the category in the U.S.—agave enthusiasts typically prefer something closer to “still strength.” That is, a liquid that hasn’t been watered down after distillation. It affords a more assertive spirit, exhibiting the unadulterated essence of the plant itself. That’s what you’ll get with Plata Puntas. The latest example noses with vegetal earth. Aloe and eucalyptus lead the charge. A slow and steady sip of the spirit conjures up connections to rain-washed stone, before creme brulee and cacao take hold. Those sweeter threads are the result of all that mature agave, roasted and fermented with patient resolve. As pleasing as these notes all are, perhaps the most striking characteristic of the juice is its impossibly creamy mouthfeel. It coats the palate and sustains all the aforementioned tasting notes in place long after each swig goes down. There’s not even that much heat to speak of, given its 108-proof bottling strength. It’s the type of tequila that you’ll enjoy sitting with for quite some time in the snifter. The very name of the release, “puntas,” references the distiller’s cut, which tequileros traditionally hold back for friends and family on special occasions. So count yourself in Camarena’s inner circle, if you’d like. Just make sure you don’t move too slow in seeking some out. At $75 a bottle, this latest Plata Puntas won’t just be high-proof, it’ll be in supremely high demand. Related: 11 Best Anejo Tequilas for Sipping and Mixing Медиа: | ↑ |
A tailgate party after yesterday's Detroit Lions game turned into a tragedy after a shooting killed one fan and injured another. It all happened in Eastern Market, a neighborhood adjacent to the Lions' home of Ford Field that is popular for its tailgate parties and food vendors. According to The Associated Press, a fight broke out at a tailgate around 4:30 p.m. and quickly escalated into a violent altercation. Gunshots soon rang out, leaving one person dead and another wounded. "This is ridiculous. It's absolutely ridiculous," police chief James White said after the shooting, per WXYZ. According to authorities, officers were nearby at the time of the shooting because of the large gatherings taking place there. They heard the gunshots as soon as they broke out. "Tailgating, drinking, guns, they don't mix," White said. "It's a beautiful day. It shouldn't have led to this." The suspect is reportedly a man in his 30s from Oak Park, a suburb of Detroit, who is a legal gun owner with a concealed pistol license. The person killed was a Detroit man in his 40s and the injured person was another Detroit man in his 20s. Police are investigating whether the people involved knew each other or were strangers who crossed paths. Witness Ja'vion Oliver described a chaotic scene that left everyone in the vicinity of the tailgate terrified. "Everything just went left after a gunshot went off," Oliver told WXYZ. "It was crazy. You see unoccupied kids running around... It was crazy." Charges in the suspect's case are now pending. 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. DeWalt tools are renowned for their exceptional performance, ease of use, and quality build, but those with tool collections within the brand's ecosystem know that they don't always come cheap. Thankfully, DeWalt deals on spare 20V batteries, essential cordless power tools, and even some of the good-to-have accessories can be found on sale if you know where to look, especially around major holidays and sale events. Although DeWalt doesn't sell directly through its website, there are several authorized retailers it lists as destinations for its tools, including The Home Depot, Lowe's, and Tractor Supply Co., among others. Despite that, it's Amazon that's become one of the largest hubs for DeWalt tools—and deals on DeWalt tools, as well. Since Men's Journal is constantly searching online for the best deals on power tools from all brands, we stay up-to-date on where the best DeWalt deals can be found at any given time. Right now, these are the top five must-see DeWalt tools on sale. The Best DeWalt Deals at a Glance
The Best DeWalt Deals Online Right NowBest DeWalt 20V Battery Deal: DeWalt 20V Max 5Ah Lithium Ion Batteries, 2-Pack, From $169 (was $259)
This two-pack of DeWalt 20V Max 5Ah batteries is a consistent top 10 bestseller on Amazon, and it's received nearly 20,000 five-star ratings from shoppers who say they're " absolutely genuine." DeWalt makes batteries of all power capacities, but having a 5Ah pack in front of you means not having to constantly switch out when running more power-hungry tools like a chainsaw or a leaf blower. These batteries weigh just under 1.5 pounds and have no memory, which means consistent power over time without having to worry about loss of efficacy. They also include an LED fuel gauge on the front that lets you know how much juice is left. Most retailers sell this specific set for around $200, but Amazon usually has it for a little bit less. Best DeWalt Drill Deal: DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, From $99 (was $179)
This DeWalt drill set is a No. 1 bestseller on Amazon and also at The Home Depot. On sale right now for less than $100, you get the prized DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver—an essential for DIYers and pros alike—as well as two 20V Max 1.3Ah batteries, a charger, and a bag to safely store everything. Priced individually, this set costs north of $250, which blows its value through the roof. While the batteries don't pack nearly as much juice as the aforementioned 5Ah model, they're plenty powerful for household projects or intermittent drilling. This DeWalt drill also makes an incredible gift for any new homeowner, first-time apartment dweller, and anybody looking to upgrade their tool collection. Best DeWalt Oscillating Tool Deal: DeWalt 20V Max XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, From $115 (was $179)
DeWalt's XR Oscillating Multi-Tool is cordless and brushless, which means you can use it beyond the length of a power cord for longer than older brushed models could last. But what stands out most is DeWalt's quick-change system, which makes changing attachments quick and easy without any loosening or tightening. It also has a speed selector at the base and a variable speed trigger that allows you to truly customize the power needed for whatever task is in front of you. Of the 11,000-plus Amazon shoppers who have given this DeWalt oscillating tool a five-star rating, many say that it's " one of the best tools " in their collection. It's not widely discounted online and it doesn't come with a battery, but you can usually find a great deal on Amazon, and right now, it's over 30% off the normal price. Best DeWalt Fan Deal: DeWalt 20V Max Jobsite Fan, From $95 (was $169)
Whether it's for a work project, the campsite, or the garage, DeWalt's 20V Max Jobsite Fan is one of the brand's most popular non-power tool pick-ups. This DeWalt fan operates on any 20V battery and kicks around air at speeds of up to 650 CFM, which is about what you'd expect from a leaf blower, and if you use one with a 5Ah battery, you can run it continuously for up to 4.5 hours. It has a tilting cabinet that allows you to control the direction of airflow and it comes with hooks built into its legs that allow you to hang it on a pipe, beam, or hook. If you have batteries to spare, it's an amazing accessory to have, and you can get as creative as you want with it— one shopper even used it to cool down their chickens in the summer. "I used this in my chicken coop when it was 108 this summer. It really helped with the heat when they were going to sleep," they said. Best DeWalt Leaf Blower Deal: DeWalt 20V Max Leaf Blower, From $100 (was $169)
Amazon has the best price on this DeWalt leaf blower, now over 40% off in time for falling leaves. This leaf blower features a three-speed switch and variable speed trigger—much like DeWalt's oscillating tool—that allows you to control the airflow to match the debris that needs moving. It has a trigger lock that saves fingers from fatigue, but it's also super lightweight, weighing less than 3 pounds. Reviewers say it gets anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes with a 5Ah battery, depending on which speed setting you've selected. Whether it's the foliage, sawdust, or other debris you're needing to clear, you're no longer restricted to power outlets with this tool. What to Know About Buying Amazon DeWalt Tools Some shoppers approach Amazon DeWalt tools with skepticism because the retail giant isn't listed on the tool company's website as an authorized retailer the way Lowe's or The Home Depot is. MJ reached out to DeWalt to learn more about how it works with Amazon and found that, in spite of it not appearing in the brand's list of authorized retailers, DeWalt does sell directly through Amazon. If you want to take advantage of DeWalt deals on Amazon but prefer to buy directly from the brand itself, you have to ensure the product's "Sold by" field, which is typically listed underneath the price, says "Amazon.com" instead of a third-party retailer. DeWalt told us if you purchase tools this way, you're getting it from them directly. The brand also told MJ that to take advantage of any DeWalt warranty program, products must be purchased in this way and proof of purchase must be presented when inquiring. Медиа: | ↑ |
The Bear’s Ebon Moss Bachrach arrived at the 76th Annual Emmy Awards clean-shaven and looking notably different from his on-screen counterpart, Richie Jerimovich. As Bachrach explained, his work as Ben Grimm, aka The Thing, in Marvel’s upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps involves a great deal of motion-capture work, for which the actor had to shave off his signature facial hair. "I’m doing a lot of motion capture. So for maximum-data facial capture, I have to be clean-shaven,” he explained. “They got so many amazing animators working on it, literally hundreds of people working on it.” Though Bachrach has only seen “crude renderings” of himself as The Thing, he's hoping to see some of the real footage soon. “We’ve been shooting for about six weeks, and I haven’t been able to see anything yet. I don’t know exactly what the lead time is. I’m very excited to see something.” Bachrach explained that his fellow cast members—Joseph Quinn, Vanessa Kirby, and Pedro Pascal—sent him a “sweet card” for Emmy’s night, which the actor admitted made him “tear up a bit.” “It’s really kind,” Bachrach said. “I love them. We’ve been working so hard together. We’re so close, so even going away for a second I get a little separation anxiety,” he admitted. “Beautiful hearts, just a pleasure working with these guys. I miss them already.” Shortly after the interview, Bachrach took the stage at the Emmys to accept his award for supporting actor in a comedy. Fantastic Four: First Steps also stars Ozark’s Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal and Ralph Ineson as Galactus. It’s expected to hit cinemas on July 25, 2025. Медиа: | ↑ |
The 1970s was a challenging period for American watchmakers—with inexpensive mechanical watches from Asia and the advent of digital quartz technology leading to plummeting domestic sales, while companies like Hamilton relocated from the U.S. to Europe. The overall wristwatch world seemingly changed overnight. Despite the turmoil (and perhaps because of it), Timex not only survived those tough times but also innovated. Some of the brand's most successful ideas crafted during the tumultuous '70s have become the focus of a variety of vintage reissues—many from their Q Timex and Marlin series. Most recently, Timex rolled out a reimagined version of its 1975 “Mystery Dial,”the Q Timex 1975 Enigma Reissue. 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. Let’s be clear, this isn’t a real “mystery dial” like the one from Cartier. Rather, the Q Timex 1975 Enigma Reissue is an almost exact reproduction of its original “Mystery Dial” timepiece. The watch was originally born from a desire to craft an illusion of floating hands. A navy dot painted on the center of the underside of the crystal covers the main hub, while the navy blue hands are made to blend in with the dial. This creates the illusion that the red and white details are mysteriously floating. Related: The 11 Best Citizen Watches of 2024 
Courtesy Image There are a few changes in this reissue from the original, which featured a 33mm case. The new release is bigger, having been enlarged to 37mm, and features battery-powered quartz movement. Also, the caseback is screwed on, unlike the (pressed on) original, and the stainless steel bracelet has been upped to 20mm from the initial (19mm) model. At just under $200, the Q Timex 1975 Enigma Reissue is a fun and affordable reissue made to pair with modern ensembles. The face features a day and date window, and a 12mm domed acrylic crystal that brings depth and dimension. It's also water resistant up to 50 meters. Related: The Coolest Pieces of Gear We Tested This Week Медиа: | ↑ |
Casa Bonita, the Lakewood, CO institution known as the "Disneyland of Mexican restaurants," is finally taking reservations more than a year after its May 2023 soft opening. Until now, the only way to score a table at the restaurant, which was bought by South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker in 2021, was to join a waitlist of over 600,000 people and be randomly selected by lottery. The restaurant will begin accepting reservations on its website starting at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 16 and is currently booking out from Oct. 1 with the calendar extending through November. Although guests will no longer be required to buy a ticket in advance, the Denver Post reports that the purchase of a meal is required. The restaurant serves seven entrees which all cost the same price; $29.99 during lunch and $39.99 during dinner with kids meals $19.99 and $24.99, respectively. The grand opening is the latest chapter in the over $40 million saga since Stone and Parker purchased the giant pink landmark in 2021 after the previous owners filed for bankruptcy, only to find themselves stuck with a money pit. In addition to cosmetic upgrades such as refurbishing the interior, sculptures, fake trees, and artwork; the 52,000-square-foot restaurant had a myriad of safety hazards, such as a 30-inch-wide underwater tunnel cliff divers had to exit into an electrical room. Related: 28-Year-Old ‘Simpsons’ Prophecy Will Come True Tonight Then, just months after opening, last July employees mobilized with a list of demands to the new owners over fair wages, among other things. Stone and Parker said that they didn't expect the grand opening to take so long, explaining in an interview with the Denver Post earlier this months that the delay was necessary to work out the logistics of such a unique venue while accommodating thousands of guests. They noted that Casa Bonita has served 500,000-plus diners to date and currently welcomes 11,000 to 12,000 per week. In fact, the "comedy of errors" over the costly investment has taken such a toll on the new owners that it's the subject of a new documentary, !Casa Bonita Mi Amor!, which "tracks the rise, fall and revival of the beloved Colorado landmark." "We did zero due diligence," Stone said, shaking his head, while speaking with Rolling Stone about the film. "It was very much like, we bought Casa Bonita, sweet! You know, we’ll fix it up and Trey can make a new and improved Black Bart’s Cave. How hard could it be? Well … you’ve seen the movie. The answer is millions and millions and millions of dollars worth of hard." You can watch the trailer below. Or, for those living in the Lakewood area, head to Casa Bonita's website to try to score a reservation to the hottest spot in town. Медиа: | ↑ |
Ron Howard and Henry Winkler reunited at the 76th Annual Emmy Awards on Sept. 15 to celebrate Happy Days’ 50th anniversary. Howard and Winkler arrived on a recreation of the show’s iconic Arnold’s Drive-In set, where Richy Cunningham (Howard) and the Fonz ( Winkler) often gathered with their fellow pals. But when the duo reunited to present the evening’s next award, they were somewhat galled to realize the set’s jukebox wasn’t working. “I have a solution,” Howard told Winkler. “You could do it,” he suggested, referring to one of the Fonz's signature moves. “Oh, come on. First of all, I’m out of practice,” Winkler told his pal. “And second of all, it takes schooling.” “You went to the Yale School of Drama, Henry,” Howard said to laughs from the crowd. “You know you can do it.” Winkler then sauntered over to the jukebox and gave it a firm slap, and the Happy Days theme song sprung forth from the speakers. Neither Winkler nor Howard are strangers to the Emmys stage. Winkler won three times for his performance on Happy Days, and most recently won in 2018 for best supporting actor in a comedy for Barry. While the audience of celebs seemed positively thrilled at the Happy Days reunion, Emmys executive producer Jesse Collins told Variety on Thursday that he was somewhat concerned viewers would pick apart the set’s details. “I’m curious to see if you think we matched the jukebox. There’s a whole jukebox conversation,” Collins teased. Медиа: | ↑ |
Tito Jackson of the beloved Motown pop group The Jackson 5 has died at age 70. Jackson was the third of nine Jackson siblings born to Joe Jackson and Katherine Jackson in Gary, Indiana, and older brother to Michael Jackson. Jackson's three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, announced their father's passing in an Instagram post early Monday. A cause of death has not been revealed, however Jackson had performed a concert in Munich alongside his brothers Jackie and Marlon under "The Jacksons" just days before his passing. "It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us," Jackson's sons captioned the Instagram post. "We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as 'Coach Tito' or some know him as 'Poppa T.'" Related: Rare Dime Expected to Fetch Eye-Popping Amount at Auction "Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be 'Tito Time' for us," the post continued. "Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is 'Love One Another.'" Tito, who was born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, formed The Jackson 5 in 1964 alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael; managed by their father Joe Jackson. The group was known for their hit songs including "I Want You Back," "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I'll Be There." In 1997, just two years before Michael's passing, the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In addition to The Jackson 5, Tito began a solo career performing as a blues musician in 2003, recording two albums, 2016's Tito Time and Under Your Spell in 2021. In addition to his sons, Jackson is survived by his mother Katherine and siblings Rebbie, Jackie, Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, Brandon, Randy, and Janet. 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. Some of the most essential camping gear is already on sale ahead of the incoming season. REI is one of the most prominent players, with deals on everything from camp stoves to three-season tents, while retailers like Walmart and Dick's Sporting Goods are serving up discounts on sleeping pads, Yeti coolers, and more. Amazon is the other place to look for sizable markdowns, and right now, its most popular hatchet—a must-have for backcountry gear kits—is less than the cost of lunch. The Kseibi Wood Axe is on sale for $15, a 38% discount on its normal price of $24. This lightweight axe has over 1,700 five-star ratings on Amazon from shoppers who say it's " the perfect camp hatchet," and it’s currently the No. 1 bestselling model on the site with over 3,000 purchased in the last month. It comes in four fun colors, but the best deal is on the highly visible orange. Kesibi Wood Axe in Modern Orange, $15 (was $24) on Amazon
This hatchet features a head made from forged, heat-treated carbon steel with an anticorrosive coating for maximum durability, sharpness, and cutting power. The head also has a flat back section that’s perfect for driving tent stakes into the ground. It’s mounted on a 14-inch fiberglass handle, which saves weight, and the handle sports a rubberized grip, so you get a firm hold on the axe even when wearing gloves. The handle’s gently-curved shape makes it comfortable to swing whether you’re chopping firewood or clearing brush. Don’t be fooled by the bargain price tag: According to Amazon reviewers, this axe is a high-quality tool that feels good and cuts well right out of the box. “The edge is razor sharp,” a shopper said. “Seems like I could shave with it! Well-balanced and comfortable in my hand.” Another shopper agreed, calling it “extremely light and well-balanced!” With its low weight and sturdy build, the Kseibi Wood Axe is exactly the kind of versatile tool you can count on when camping or handling chores in your own backyard. Grab one while you can—this limited-time deal could disappear at any moment. Медиа: | ↑ |
The Balvenie is a revered Scotch whisky brand with lore stretching back to 1892. That’s the year when industry legend William Grant set out to build his dream distillery alongside the 13th century castle that ultimately lent the liquid its name. Balvenie is a Scottish word for “village of luck,” which is highly appropriate considering the depth of fortune you’ll need to get your hands on its latest release: a 50-year-old single cask as rare as anything the distillery has ever unveiled before. We’ve procured a precious pour of the liquid to give you a preview of what awaits under the cork. The Balvenie Fifty Collection launches this month, the first in a trilogy of half-century-old single malts set to arrive over the next three years. A scant 125 bottles are all we’ll ever see of each, globally. The First Edition is pulled entirely from a single European oak refill butt, initially filled in 1973. A sturdy decanter of the 104.6 percent ABV scotch is suggested to retail for a jaw-dropping $53,000. And since only 14 of them are earmarked for American shelves, it’ll likely fetch far more than that on secondary markets. Cask number 8,720 was hand-selected by Balvenie malt master Kelsey McKechnie on account of its supernatural elegance and seductive complexity. It offers ample aromas of stone fruit upon first nosing. But after allowing it to sit in the snifter—for even a moment—the bouquet soon belongs to candied nut spice. The signature style of the malthouse involves honey, vanilla, and orchard fruit. When greeting the palate, this particular barrel dials all of those elements up to full volume before they fade into a subtle splash of citrusy bergamot. Typically, to alchemize all these notes into a single expression, malt makers need to marry dozens—if not hundreds—of casks together in the vatting process. Here, McKechnie has found it all inside one auspicious vessel of liquid gold. It didn’t occur by accident. “Each edition in this collection is a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined our liquid over the past 50 years,” she explains. “Using a refill butt for the First Edition provides us with a distinctive flavor thread that will run through our next two releases, demonstrating the spectrum of flavors and aromas in our aged spirit.” The thick-gauged bottle rests in a pedestaled tube, composed of four layers of wood. It flaunts a helix structure, opening ever-so-slightly to hint at the treasure hidden within. Though an impressive statement, it’s not nearly as over-the-top in its approach as we’ve seen from other ultra-rare releases over the last several years. The restraint signifies feature rather than flaw: Balvenie wants its liquid to do the talking. Related: I've Tasted Hundreds of Whiskies. This Classic Luxury Scotch Is the Best You Can Buy Медиа: | ↑ |
A rare dime struck in 1975 by the U.S. Mint in San Francisco, CA, is set to sell at auction for an eye-popping amount of money. Ian Russell, president of currency auction site Great Collections, contends that the 10-cent piece will sell for as much as $500,000 when the auction concludes in October. A similarly rare dime sold for $456,000 back in 2019, and was later acquired by a private collector. The two coins are considered especially rare because they are missing a printed “S” to denote they were made in San Francisco. Collectors have been aware of their existence for decades, but their exact location has remained unknown for nearly 50 years. “They were hidden for decades,” Russell explained. “Most major collectors and dealers have never seen one.” The dime currently on auction was finally discovered when three sisters in Ohio inherited the treasured items of a deceased relative, who had kept the coin in a bank vault since the late 1970s. Though the siblings wish to remain anonymous, they revealed to Russell that their family of dairy farmer’s purchased the coin in 1978 for $18,200—roughly $90,000 today. They did so as a form of financial security, holding onto the coin until it accrued enough value to sell off. Still, none of the family members expected its value to be almost half of a million dollars. After Russell returned his appraisal of the coin, one of the sisters reportedly asked him, “Is that really possible?” "This is a very exciting coin for our company to auction,” Russell told Newsweek. “As you can see, bidding is already up to $250,000. We've handled many trophy coins over the years, including two 1913 Nickels and two 1804 Silver Dollars—but this is the first time for the 1975 No S Proof Dime, the most important modern U.S. coin." Медиа: | ↑ |
The love affair Americans have with salty snacks is hardly a secret; snacks make up for about a quarter of the daily calories in the average person's diet. However, a new study found the crucial mistake many snackers make, which could result in them consuming a staggeringly greater amount of calories during a nosh session. In the study, which will be published in the November issue of Food Quality and Preference, researchers with the Penn State Sensory Evaluation Center sought to learn how eating behaviors change when Americans are served a dip with a salty snack. And as it turns out, people consumed 77 percent more calories when pairing chips with a dip, even if they ultimately end up eating the same number of chips. To come up with the findings, the research team assessed 46 adult participants over the course of two sessions. During these visits, the subjects were served 70 grams, or the equivalent of about 2.5 servings, of ranch-flavored chips—with or without about one-third cup of ranch-flavored dip—and permitted to eat as much as they wanted. In the recorded sessions, the participants had their overall intake measured, along with factors such as number of bites and active eating time in minutes. The data was then used to calculate measures of "eating microstructure." Researchers ultimately found that there was a greater intake due to participants taking larger bites when there was dip involved. In fact, participants ended up consuming an average of 345 calories of chips and dip, compared to 195 calories of just the chips alone. John Hayes, director of the Penn State Sensory Evaluation Center and corresponding author of the study, noted the discrepancy in caloric intake even when there was no difference in chips consumed. "The most striking findings of our study is that people didn't eat fewer chips when dip was available—they ate the same amount of chips, plus the dip," Hayes explained to Penn State Research. “This lack of compensation means that adding dip to chips can substantially increase overall energy intake without people realizing it.” Hayes pointed out that most people would assume that when a snack was paired with a dip, that individuals would compensate by eating less of the snack that was a vehicle for the dip. But that just wasn't the case. “But our research shows this is not the case with chips and dip," he added. "Our participants consumed the same amount of chips regardless of whether dip was present, leading to much greater energy intake when dip was available." According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly one in three adults in the United States are overweight and more than two in five suffer from obesity. However, while the study was conducted with a fattier cream-based dip, an easy solution for chips and dip lovers to cut back on the calories would be to simply swap the ranch for a vegetable or legume-based dips such as salsa or hummus. Not to mention, keeping an eye on portion size certainly does not hurt, either. Медиа: | ↑ |
Beam Distilling just announced a new innovation from its esteemed Booker's label: Booker's Bourbon The Reserves. It's the very first edition of a soon-to-be annual release made by eighth generation master distiller Freddie Noe to commemorate his grandfather and the label's namesake Booker Noe. "Liquid like this can take awhile to find, but when I do, it feels like the big man himself picked them out," Freddie said in a press release. "It's just the kind of bourbon I believe my granddaddy would be making if he were still alive with us now." Although the release is an ode to Booker, this whiskey has Freddie's fingerprints all over it. While experimenting with different liquids and barrels in the Fred B. Noe Distillery on the James B. Beam campus in Clermont, KY, one word kept coming to Freddie's mind: scraps. With so many barrels sitting around, he decided to meld the best flavor possible with what already existed.  Courtesy Image Freddie hand-picked eight lots of barrels from across the distillery of the following ages and warehouses:
I got a first taste of the bourbon while sitting across from Freddie in the Noe Distillery tasting room. The whiskey had notes of dried fruit and brown sugar on the nose. When I sipped, classic yet complex notes of vanilla and charred oak spread across my palate. Once swallowed, a long, lingering finish left notes of baking spice on my tongue. Although it's a hot whiskey—125.9 proof—it was well-rounded and smooth. Freddie credits that lack of burn to picking barrels from the middle three floors of each warehouse, the "sweet spot" as his grandfather Booker would say. The final bourbon blend, Freddie told me, is more like a baked potato than a steak. When you cook a steak on the grill, he says, you get a different texture outside versus inside. But when you bake a potato, you get a consistent texture all the way through. "These barrels had a very nice, even, uniform aging process to develop that unique flavor," he told me. Booker's Bourbon The Reserves is bottled at 62.95 percent ABV and will be available across the U.S. at $130 MSRP for a 750mL bottle in a commemorative wooden box. It's not the only innovative bourbon Freddie released this year. He also created the first edition of Little Book The Infinite, a new annual release that started as four whiskeys blended together: one aged by his grandfather Booker, one by his father Fred, one by Freddie himself, and one that all three had a hand in. For each subsequent year, Freddie will fold in a new whiskey, slightly changing the flavor profile as the years go on. Related: Best Bourbons for an Old Fashioned, Tasted and Reviewed Медиа: | ↑ |
Archaeologists have discovered an ancient Roman military encampment high atop a mountain range in the Swiss Alps located between eastern Switzerland and northern Italy, Live Science reported. A “volunteer detectorist” discovered the site in 2023 located about 7,200 feet above sea level and overlooking a Roman-era battlefield. Experts from the Canton of Graubunden believe it dates back to the first century B.C. Researchers had previously identified the field as the first-known Roman battle site in Switzerland, but the camp itself remained undiscovered until recently. The site was the location of a battle between Roman forces and the Suanetes tribe as the former attempted to overtake all available land. Scientists at Switzerland’s University of Basel used Light Detection and Ranging lasers to create 3D models of the terrain, which revealed that the encampment was fortified with three ditches and a defensive wall, also known as a rampart. Archaeologists explained that the “sensational discovery” was in a “strategically favorable location” when it came to conflict. Also found at the site were a wealth of artifacts from so-called “Roman Switzerland,” such as shoe nails, arrowheads, and weapons, as well as equipment and gear belonging to soldiers. Included amongst the finds were slingshots embossed with the stamp of the Roman army’s third legion, an Imperial Roman army which is known to have fought upon the battlefield below. “The sensational discovery of a Roman military camp in Graubunden once again underlines the fact that archaeological research in 'Roman Switzerland' continues to produce wonderful surprises,” researchers said in a statement.  Andrea Badrutt/Canton of Graubünden  Andrea Badrutt/Canton of Graubünden Медиа: | ↑ |
Anyone who travels with any regularity has likely experienced the unfortunate feeling of leaving behind a personal item in a hotel room, whether that might be something as innocuous as a phone charger to an object less replaceable; such as a piece of jewelry or beloved, decades-old t-shirt. But while these losses may be frustrating, they barely scratch the surface of what some guests leave behind. Hotels.com released its annual Hotel Room Innsights Report, which uncovers the most surprising services and stories from the website's more than 400 partner hotels worldwide. And as part of the findings, the report details the most common and strangest items left behind in hotel rooms. The most common forgotten items are about what you might expect, if not personally experienced, with the top five comprising of: device chargers and power banks; dirty laundry and clothing; adapters; makeup and toiletries; and finally, underwear. However, the most unusual things guests have left behind is where the data really goes beyond the pale, with everything from live animals to an actual car tire. Among the most expensive items are a Rolex wristwatch, Hermes Birkin handbag, keys to a luxury car (as well as documents for said car), literal stacks of cash, and a diamond engagement ring. Hotel guests have also sometimes forgotten pets, which were apparently thankfully returned, such as a live chick and pet lizard. And then there are the unexplainable items. These include the aforementioned car tire, a rice cooker and blender (for those who inexplicably do their cooking inside hotel rooms), construction pipes, and in at least two cases, full-leg casts. Of the hotels surveyed, a shocking 10 percent also say that guests have left dentures behind. Check out the infographic below, or head to Hotels.com for more insights.  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. As summer days wind down, you can ease the sting a little by scoring great deals on outdoor gear for fall at REI. The adventure retailer has been going live with major discounts on all kinds of items ahead of the new season, including spacious backpacking packs, sleeping bags, and a ton of Patagonia gear. Today, though, one of Arc’teryx's most beloved lightweight layers is on sale—and sizes are selling fast. The Arc'teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie is on sale for $200, a 23% discount on its usual price of $260. This versatile and warm layer has earned nearly 200 five-star ratings from REI shoppers who call it “stylish, comfy, and versatile” and “a must-have for anyone.” The vibrant Edziza colorway is currently available in sizes small to 2XL for $200, but there are two additional colors also on sale for $40 more. Arc'teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie in Edziza, $200 (was $260) at REI
This Arc'teryx hoodie is designed to be worn as a mid-layer or as a standalone lightweight jacket. It’s stuffed with Coreloft Compact 60 synthetic insulation for reliable warmth (even if it gets damp), while the wind- and water-resistant Tyono 20 outer fabric feels soft and breathes well to keep you comfortable during high-output activities. It also has a DWR finish for added weather resistance. The Atom offers great mobility, too: Articulated elbows and gusseted arms give you room to move, and the sides of the jacket feature stretch fleece panels that flex with your body and also dump hot air to boost breathability. The insulated, adjustable hood protects your noggin from cold winds, and the jacket’s slim, tailored fit makes it easy to layer—it also gives it a stylish look when worn alone. It's a layer with many uses, and REI shoppers have put it to the test in all kinds of scenarios. The consensus is that this jacket offers excellent performance just about anywhere. One shopper called it “the best Arc’teryx product.” Another called it “the most versatile jacket I own,” noting that it’s “perfect for walking and ideal for traveling.” Other shoppers raved about this hoodie's perfect weight. “The Atom Hoodie is perfect for daily wear,” a shopper said. “The jacket provides just the right amount of insulation for cold and chilly days, and it effectively blocks the sun and strong winds.” Another shopper agreed, saying, “Absolutely awesome…Lightweight but super warm and super compact.” Arc’teryx is a trusted source for outdoor apparel, and the Atom Insulated Hoodie is one of the brand’s best—it’s an ideal choice for everything from backcountry hikes to everyday errand running. These sought-after jackets rarely get big discounts, so scoring one for $200 is a steal. Make sure to grab yours today, because the sizes are selling fast, and some are already gone. Медиа: | ↑ |
A Colorado Panera Bread employee sprang into action after an altercation in their restaurant turned violent, using a tool from the kitchen to subdue an unruly customer. According to KDVR, footage of the incident shows an enraged customer at the Glendale, Colorado Panera location knocking things off a counter and repeatedly asking employees to give them their phone. Witness Natalie Wiersma, who recorded the incident, explained that the workers seemingly had no idea what the person was talking about. "They all looked super confused and said, 'We don't have your phone,'" Wiersma said. Police said the suspect, identified as Isaac Ross, came into Panera and caused a scene. He threw a smoothie at employees and yelled a racial slur at one of them before continuing to wreak havoc on the store. At one point, another customer tried to get Ross to stop. “The next guy then actually kind of saved that guy from getting attacked further and tried his best to hold them down,” Wiersma said. To break up the scuffle, an employee came out from behind the counter and started hitting Ross on the head with a metal baker's peel, used to remove pizzas from the oven. "My personal hero," Wiersma said of the paddle-wielding worker. "That, I think, was very effective." Ross fled the scene before police arrived but later returned and began agitating people in the restaurant once again. This time, one person suffered minor injuries during an altercation. The suspect remains at large. Медиа: | ↑ |
Spending thousands on liquor isn't a new phenomenon, considering products like a bottle of Louis XIII cognac can easily set you back a few grand. Paying more than $10,000 for a single drink, however, is much less common. But when one Chicago restaurant added a unique $13,000 martini to its menu, one diner knew he had to have it. Italian restaurant Adalina has begun offering customers a $13,000 "Marrow Martini," which comes served with a tennis necklace from California-based jeweler Marrow Fine. The necklace comes in 14-karat gold and features 150 diamonds. With a staggering price tag, the cocktail is purportedly the most expensive martini in the United States. The Marrow Martini was created by Michelin Guide's 2022 sommelier of the year Colin Hofer. The drink is made with Clase Axul Mezcal, clarified heirloom tomato water, and lemon basil olive oil. When it arrives at your table, it's presented to you in a smoke-filled cloche. "The client that purchased the martini wanted to do something special and surprise his wife," Marrow Fine founder Jillian Sassone said, per CBS News. "They both love Marrow Fine, and the martini was the perfect gift. They were the first to order the martini." Hofer added that the unique presentation is done to complement the one-of-a-kind martini's flavors. "This step not only emphasizes the uniqueness of the drink but also amplifies the mezcal's natural smokiness, turning it into something truly unforgettable," he said. If you're in the Chicago area and are looking to treat a loved one to something special, consider ordering a Marrow Martini. Медиа: | ↑ |
Sticking to new habits isn't easy, especially when they mean giving up old ones that make you feel good—at least temporarily—like binging talking dog videos or inhaling a burger on the way home from work. But there comes a time when making a change in the name of your health and happiness is more attractive than another night spent plastered to your couch. That's where a program like the 75 Hard Challenge comes in. It's not a weight-loss app, although followers do tend to shed some pounds. Instead, it's a " mental toughness" protocol that helps instill new habits in fewer than three months. That's not to say it's without flaws. This challenge is not easy to stick to. People often believe the more intense something is, the better the results. But this is a mistake if you aren't careful. It's important to learn about any new routine that overhauls your diet, exercise, and entire life and really evaluate if the pros and cons make it worthwhile. Learn all about 75 Hard, including 75 Hard Challenge rules and what you might stand to gain—or lose—if you try it. What Is the 75 Hard Challenge?The 75 Hard Challenge is primarily a mental toughness program with physical and behavioral habits created by entrepreneur and author Andy Frisella in 2019. In short, the challenge aims to build discipline and resilience—physically and mentally—by adopting a set of daily rules that you complete without fail for 75 days straight. Frisella sells a book about the challenge, but you can also learn about it from his podcast and all over the internet.  Jarren Vink 75 Hard Challenge RulesThere are five 75 Hard rules to follow during the 75 Hard Challenge. Here's where it gets particularly tough: If you skip any of the items on the 75 Hard checklist on any given day, you need to start over from day one as a practice in forging mental toughness and self-control. 1. Follow a DietDuring the entire challenge, you should stick to a specific meal plan without cheat meals or alcohol. There's no 75 Hard diet, per se. You get to choose. If you're hoping to drop body fat, we recommend the best diets for weight loss. But if you're just trying to adhere to a lifelong habit of healthy eating, stick to the best diets recommended by experts. Something like the Mediterranean Diet is more sustainable for life than, say, the keto or Paleo diet. Get more tips below. 2. Two Daily WorkoutsEvery day, you have to complete two 45-minute workouts with one being outdoors. Unfortunately, you can't count activities like mowing the lawn, yard work, or leisure sports into the 75 Hard workout plan like golf, because they're considered "daily chores" or "routines." Typically, we don't recommend two-a-days, especially if you're not a professional athlete. To ensure you don't overtrain, keep one akin to an active recovery, like steady-state cycling or yoga. If it starts to diminish your physical and mental well-being, stop. 3. Drink a Gallon of WaterDrink one gallon of water every day. This doesn't include any other fluid intake, just clear H2O. Hydrating is obviously important. Drinking a gallon is likely unnecessary, but it won't necessarily hurt you. If it helps up your intake, great. 4. Read NonfictionPart of the mental fortitude aspect of the challenge is reading 10 pages of a nonfiction book each day. Unfortunately, audiobooks don't count, nor do magazines or sports pages. Sorry—there's a reason this is called the hard 75 challenge. 5. Take a Daily Progress PictureTake a photo of your body to track your progress each day. This could be a mirror selfie or one you loop your partner or roommate into taking for you. Just be sure to keep the lighting, location, time of day, and clothing items similar for each shot. For some, this is helpful over time to see incremental progress, however a daily log can be detrimental to others' self-esteem if their body image isn't positive.  Sam Kaplan 75 Hard DietDiet just might be the worst four-letter word in the English language. The good news is that you can choose your own diet structure for the 75 Hard Challenge. Choose a Diet PlanWhile you can pick your ideal diet, it has to be one that fosters positive physical change. Whether you're losing fat, gaining muscle, building strength, boosting your intake of a specific micro or macronutrient ( like protein), or improving overall diet quality for skin health, just pick something you think you can stick to for the entire 75 days without falling off the wagon. Here are some of the best structured diets to consider:
No Cheat MealsCan you go 75 days without a hot slice of pizza or a burger? If you want to complete the 75 Hard Challenge, you'll have to give up all of your normal cheat meals for the duration. That's right—zero cheat meals (what would Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson say?). Instead, make some healthier swaps that are still tasty but easier on the waistline. No AlcoholThere's a strict no-booze rule for the 75 Hard Challenge, so plan accordingly. If you know you'll be in a high-pressure social situation like a bachelor party or Super Bowl gathering, and you don't have the willpower of steel, you might want to forego the plan until you know you can stick to it. Might we suggest nonalcoholic drinks like NA spirits, wine, and beer.  Patrick Giardino/Getty Images 75 Hard Workout PlanIf you aren't currently very physically active or have a difficult time sticking to a consistent routine, this may be a wallop: For the 75 Hard Challenge, you have to do two 45-minute workouts each day, and one of them has to be in the great outdoors. Luckily, the types of workouts you can do are pretty flexible so long as they are physically challenging and aren’t part of your regular daily routine. Here are some examples: Cardio WorkoutsCardio should be part of your workout routine during 75 Hard, but you don't have to go hell-for-leather every day. Many of the best cardio workouts can double up as your outdoor workout session.
Related: The Best Workout Apps for Beginners Resistance TrainingResistance training is a must for any serious training plan, so pick a style you enjoy or one you're excited to try and stick to it for 75 days. Be sure to plan out your sessions in advance, increase the challenge as you go, and track your progress.
Recovery and Flexibility TrainingIncluding some low-key workouts into your routine is the ultimate overtraining prevention strategy. The less fit you are, the more of these sessions you should include—maybe four to five per week counting toward the 45-minute sessions. Scale down from there if you are more fit or as you progress throughout the challenge.
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)If you plan to include HIIT training, do it sparingly. Too much high-intensity work will burn you out in no time. It's not possible to do true HIIT training for a full 45 minutes, so if you're going to add this modality to your routine, stick to 10 to 15 minutes at the end of a cardio session or after resistance training two to three times a week. Pro tip: Skip high-intensity training altogether if your diet plan includes cutting calories. It's a recipe for burnout.
 Justin Steele 75 Hard ProsThere's a lot going for the 75 day Hard Challenge. Here are some of the main pros. Builds HabitsWe all know that consistency is king when it comes to results, and that's the main tenant of 75 Hard: to build and maintain a consistent routine that includes five daily tasks every day without fail. Habits are automatic behaviors triggered by specific cues and learned through repetition, strengthening every time you complete the behavior—think brushing your teeth every night before bed or locking up when you leave the house, according to 2021 research published in Social Psychology. Good habits help you keep up desirable behaviors over time since you'll start to automatically perform them without having to rely on conscious motivation—something that's notoriously fickle, according to the study. Tracks ProgressTracking your progress is the best way to see how far you've come and it's also a great way to get a motivational buzz when you start seeing a difference in how you look, feel, and act. Progress tracking with a photo is one of the Hard 75 rules, so it's built into the routine. Gets You ActiveObviously, physical activity is a huge part of the challenge and a behavior many people struggle to maintain. If you're doing 75 Hard, you'll definitely get your daily movement in through the two 45-minute workouts each day. Includes Time in NatureWhile you don't explicitly have to go on a nature walk, even cityscape fresh air and sunlight are better than nothing. Since the challenge requires you to complete one 45-minute workout outdoors each day, you'll get benefits from sunlight exposure (which improves sleep), stress relief, and a brain boost. Related: The Best Workout Routine Ever, According to Science 75 Hard ConsAside from giving up your favorite tasty snacks and foregoing a beer during the game, the 75 Hard Challenge has other practical issues. Not for EveryoneAlthough 75 Hard has consistency built in, if you don't include your own context cues for each habit you want to keep once the challenge is over, you likely won't stick to it. In other words, if you don't incorporate the habits into your everyday routine in a way that you'll stick to once the challenge ends, you'll probably revert to the same old habits—good or bad—that you were doing before. This is the exact reason why most people regain all the weight they lose during diets. Easy to Overdo ItWithout any actual professional nutritional or fitness guidance (Frisella is not a health expert), you can easily go overboard trying to meet the steep expectations of the challenge. You might not pair the ideal diet with your exercise program—such as a muscle-building calorie surplus with your hypertrophy training—unless you know what you're doing. You can accidentally choose habits that do more harm than good if you attempt high-intensity training alongside a low-carb diet or push past your body's signals for rest in order to get in that second 45-minute workout. Very StrictRigidity is the entire point of the 75 Hard Challenge. In fact, Frisella says in an interview with Megyn Kelly, "The whole point of the program is to put yourself in the most inconvenient, non-compromising situation that you possibly can," with no room for substitutions. He goes on to say that giving yourself a break or a "mental day" is a no-go because "letting yourself off the hook is the reason you are where you are in this state of unhappiness and unfulfillment." If you get sick, sore, or have an emergency—too bad—you've failed. Can Lower ConfidenceBattering yourself into submission is not always the best for your mental health and certainly won't work for everyone. Plus, not everyone who wants to improve their health is unhappy or unfulfilled. In reality, positive thinking can boost self-confidence by helping you see challenges as temporary and conquerable. Overcoming setbacks and still working toward your health goals is a fast track to becoming more resilient and increases internal motivation and confidence. And for the record, internal motivation is stronger than the kind you'll get from any challenge. Related: The Best Workout Routine Ever, According to Science Final Verdict: What Do Experts Say About the 75 Hard Challenge?As a personal trainer and nutrition coach, I believe that most people, even those with advanced fitness levels, shouldn’t attempt two workouts every single day. Combining cardio and strength training can interfere with recovery and overall results and is a recipe for burnout. Physically, mentally, and socially, two-a-day workouts can be draining and unsustainable and put you at risk of overtraining, which requires lengthy recovery. If you're set on following the two-workouts rule, make sure one is recovery-based—light yoga, walking, or stretching. Organized activities like jiu-jitsu or gym classes can count as one workout, with walking or something gentle for the second. For strength training, limit it to three to five days a week and always pair with recovery exercises. I don’t recommend avoiding rest days, as even lighter workouts can be mentally exhausting and, on a practical level, can get in the way of other areas of your life, like relationships, work, and family responsibilities. Missing a session and starting over can feel defeating, which I’d never want for my clients. If you miss a workout you had intended to complete, it’s better to reassess and adjust instead of stressing over rigid plans. In my opinion, the idea that "mental toughness" comes from strict workout rules is absurd. True consistency comes from internal motivation, doing what you enjoy for reasons that matter to you. Building skills in activities you love—whether yoga, strength training, running, or a new sport—will make you proud and boost your confidence in the long term. Real toughness also means listening to your body. Sometimes, backing off is harder than following a rigid plan. Focus on consistency and finding joy in what you do rather than chasing the next challenge. Why You Should Trust UsI'm a certified personal trainer, strength and conditioning specialist, and nutrition coach, among other fancy titles—but my passion is communicating the countless benefits of being active and striving toward a healthier mind and body through attainable action. I use a hefty dose of science to guide the advice I give, along with the real-world experience I've gained over the last 15 years. 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. Walmart has been red-hot with discounts on essential fitness equipment. In the last month, the retailer has rolled back the prices on everything from folding treadmills to adjustable dumbbells by as much as 85% with new discounts popping up every day. Now, an underrated home gym has been marked down by $800, and it's the perfect size for any garage or spare bedroom. The Upgo Home Gym Station is on sale for $500—62% off the normal $1,300 price at Walmart. This multi-functional home gym has earned nearly 50 five-star ratings from shoppers who have used it and say it's "an excellent value for the money." This model is the smaller of two sizes, but the larger version, which comes with additional leg exercise components, is also on sale and costs just $30 more (after an extra $50 coupon). And, though it's quite heavy and comes in multiple packages, Walmart will ship it to you for free. Upgo Home Gym Station, $500 (was $1,300) at Walmart
This machine has everything you need to skip out on the gym and get a comprehensive workout at home. It's made from commercial-grade steel and has non-slip pads underneath. With its many components, it's capable of performing over 50 exercises for arms, chest, legs, back, and more, and features a 154-pound weight stack that's easy to adjust when crushing supersets and drop sets. Most importantly, this machine is compact, measuring 69-by-41-by-80 inches—small enough for garages, medium-sized spare bedrooms, and even outdoor patios. Shoppers note that it's not decked out with the bells and whistles of a commercial product, but most agree that it's a good investment for home use. "Excellent for a beginner," a shopper said. "This piece of equipment is suitable for basic, affordable domestic use. The process of assembling the item required approximately three hours. Now, if you are comparing this to professional equipment at the gym or if you are an advanced user, it is unlikely that it will meet your standards. However, it is a decent option for the price." If you're tired of paying to use a gym and want to bring the exercises into your home, look to Upgo's Home Gym Station to get the job done, especially while it's on sale for less than what it would cost to use some facilities for three months. Make sure to pick yours up soon, though, because this discount could disappear at any time. Медиа: | ↑ |
The deadly listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats has prompted the company to take action at the source. On Sept. 13, Boar's Head indefinitely shuttered the Virginia plant that has been linked to the bacterial outbreak that has so far been connected to nine deaths and nearly 60 hospitalizations, per The New York Times. In addition, after launching a recall in July and an investigation into the root causes of the outbreak, the company found that the spread was limited to its liverwurst products. As a result, the company will permanently discontinue liverwurst. "In response to the inspection records and noncompliance reports at the Jarratt plant, we will not make excuses," the company said in a Sept. 13 statement on its website. "Given the seriousness of the outbreak, and the fact that it originated at Jarratt, we have made the difficult decision to indefinitely close this location, which has not been operational since late July 2024." "We do not take lightly our responsibility as one of the area’s largest employers. But, under these circumstances, we feel that a plant closure is the most prudent course," it added. Related: Popular Spinach Brand Recalls Packages in 7 States Due to Listeria Concerns Boar's Head recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli meats and other products earlier this summer after tests confirmed the presence of listeria bacteria. Moving forward, the food giant hopes to use this deadly outbreak as a chance to improve, starting with the appointment of a new chief food safety and quality assurance officer and the establishment of a "Boar's Head Food Safety Council." "This is a dark moment in our company’s history, but we intend to use this as an opportunity to enhance food safety programs not just for our company, but for the entire industry," it concluded. For now, exercise caution and discretion when shopping for sandwich ingredients. Медиа: | ↑ |
Demi Moore has once again opened up about the health status of her ex-husband Bruce Willis, who was diagnosed with the neurocognitive disorder frontotemporal dementia early last year. In addition to sharing three adult daughters together, Moore has remained a close part of the family unit, including the 69-year-old actor's second wife of 15 years, Emma Heming ?Willis. During an appearance on Friday's episode of The Drew Barrymore Show to promote her new horror film, The Substance, Moore was reunited with her Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle co-star, who shared her own memories of Willis. "When we did Charlie’s Angels, Bruce came and played on it and he opens up the film, and we got to work with him," recalled host Drew Barrymore, via Entertainment Weekly. Willis appeared in an uncredited role in the 2003 action comedy as Justice Department official William Rose Bailey. "I mean, I used to know him when he was a bartender at Cafe Central! I’ve known him my whole life, too." When asked how he was doing right now, Moore gave about as hopeful of a response as can be expected, all things considered. "Given the givens, he’s in a stable place," she shared. "What I say to my kids is you meet them where they’re at," Moore continued. "You don’t hold on to who they were or what you want them to be, but who they are in this moment. And from that, there is such beauty and joy and loving and sweetness." The 61-year-old also revealed that she makes a point to visit her ex as much as possible. "When I’m in L.A., I go over every week and I really treasure the time that we all share," she added. Moore's latest update echoes her comments from earlier this year when speaking with Andy Cohen on his Radio Andy SiriusXM show. At the time, Cohen asked Moore what she would tell people who have family members living with dementia. "When you let go of who they’ve been or who you think they [should be], or who even you would like them to be, you can then really stay in the present and take in the joy and the love that is present and there for all that they are, not all that they’re not," she said in the January interview. Say what you will, but for an actor who spent much of his career as a tough-as-nails action hero, Willis certainly is lucky to be surrounded by such strong and compassionate women in his ailing heath. 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 September 9Ooni Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Peter Matlashewski Restaurant-grade pizza at home has become more achievable than ever, but depending on what type of oven you’re using it can sometimes require a lot of prep and time. The Ooni Karu 16 multi-fuel pizza oven fires up past 800 degrees in under 10 minutes and if you include cook time you can be enjoying fresh homemade pizza in 15 minutes. This model requires about 10 minutes of easy, out-of-the-box assembly and after a quick burn-off it’s ready to use. What makes the Karu 16 unique is how you can use various fuel types to cook your pizza from propane, wood to charcoal. Propane is great for fast and easy temperature control but the flavor you get from wood or charcoal adds that special touch. The gas burner outputs an almost flame thrower like heat source which gives the oven end to end heat distribution so you seldom have to rotate your pizza more than once while cooking. It’s important to note that the gas burner attachment does not come included with the Karu 16, but it’s well worth the extra investment, though not necessary for cooking excellent pizza. Another point worth highlighting is the oven’s capacity; it can accommodate pizzas up to 16 inches, so you’re not limited to smaller four-slice pizzas. All the components of this oven feel robust and when you lock the door or hatch in place it feels snug and airtight. The level of insulation has me thinking this oven will work wonders all year round as long as it’s stored properly and away from the elements. The Karu 16 still weighs a fair amount and although feasible to carry alone, it’s a little awkward given its size so it’s best to be two people if you’re planning to take it on the go. Overall, the Karu 16 multi fuel oven takes pizza night or “easy dinner” to a whole new level.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [649; ooni.com] Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Plus Headphones
David Weiss Headphones are a personal affair—some folks like a boomy bass, others prefer a crystalline high-end, while the prosumer crowd goes for realism and accuracy when recording, mastering and mixing. Sennheiser has been serving the latter contingent reliably for a long while, and their HD 490 Pro’s are a worthy addition to the line, both in terms of comfort and sonic detail. Yes, the open-back, dynamic driver phones are targeted for audiophiles and studio usage, but will deliver more than satisfying sound for lay-listeners in search of the golden chord. The open back design ensures proper ventilation, and makes for a snazzy look and see-through view of the driver assembly. The build is solid and the 490’s are accessorized to the max—there are two sets of ear pads, one designed for mixing and the other for producing. And the durable, hard plastic travel case makes for easy storage and carefree traveling. There are zippered compartments and a mesh pocket for the earpads, as well as for the proprietary 3.5mm, mini-XLR cable and an extra headband pad. Again, comfort is key when wearing headphones for long stretches, whether at home or in the studio. As for the sound quality, Sennheiser 490s deliver warmth and clarity without unduly emphasizing the high or low end. I tested them with classical music and sub-bass heavy hiphop and didn’t detect a decibel of distortion, even when listened to at high levels. A low-frequency cylinder system is responsible for that fat bass response, and the company’s “neodymium” magnets with ultralight voice coils promote consistency and reliable performance. Home studio pro’s and earnest amateurs would do well to add these cans to their arsenal, as well as those whose yen for sonic honey warrants the formidable price tag.—David Weiss, contributor [$448; amazon.com] Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio
Adam Bible For the longest time, there wasn't much choice when selecting a walkie talkie for venturing outdoors. The main choices are standard, similar-looking two-way radios that work well—and made by multiple companies—but aren't made to be that rugged. They are usually built with a cheaper grade of plastic for the shell that can crack easily if dropped during a summit bid, and aren't that well-sealed to stand up to the elements. Rocky Talkie, started by adventurers Bryce Jones and Alex Page in Colorado in 2019, bucked that solid-but-kind-of-fragile radio trend with the creation of their Mountain Radio. They made sure it was outfitted with a special lithium-ion battery that can get you more than four days of charge in up to 20 below zero weather. The Mountain Radio also has an upgraded shatterproof LED screen with a thermoplastic covering for increased durability all around. And then, instead of slapping another delicate plastic clip to stow it on your belt or backpack, they pivoted to tough and light aluminum carabiner, plus added in a coiled leash to make sure your radio doesn't go skittering down a mountain trail at the least opportune moment. Powerwise, the FRS radio is the maximum power allowed without a license at 2 watts, but you can still get 35 miles of range (line of sight), but in hilly country you'll get up 5 miles usually. It's also rated to the IP56 standard, which means it's splash- and dust-proof, but not submersible. And, even though it's beefy, it's only weighs 6.5 ounces. (If you're looking for more battery life, more range, and waterproofness, step up to their recently released 5 Watt Radio.) I found the Mountain Radio fun to use (once you have a quick tutorial) as it's simpler than most radios with only five buttons to mess with. Once you get used to the interface it's more intuitive and easier to manipulate without looking at the screen. I tested it over a few months in a variety of situations, from climbing Mount Whitney and scouting for the upcoming hunting season to keeping tabs on folks during the opening day of dove season and communicating while working on a backhoe and tractor during farm chores. It worked well in all situations and the solid-feeling (and cool-looking) radio was a pleasure to use, especially knowing it wouldn't fail or break very easily. [$110; rockytalkie.com] Combat Flip Flops Coyote Floperator Jon Coen When a lousy product has a good story, it’s still a lousy product. Combat Flip Flops is not a lousy product and it has a great story. This is a veteran owned brand that makes footwear and apparel. And while it could drip of overtly masculine cliches, the folks at Combat actually profess to doing positive, like “stopping the cycle of violence and human suffering around the world.” That’s admirable. And they made a solid slap as well. “Bad for running. Worse for fighting” should be an award-winning tagline. No matter what our politics, we can all support those who serve our country. And they certainly deserve to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors after their service. These guys were on the front lines in combat zones. And now they want to chill...Flip flops are chill. The Coyote Floperator (three colorways in mens and two in womens) are designed with a fully contoured zero-drop sole, not for coordinated assault missions through Fallujah, but more like climbing over rocks to get a quiet beach. They offer all the features you’d expect from active slaps—injection molded arch support, rubber outsole and EVA-contoured midsole, as well as other features you won’t find in any other flip flops, like military-grade tubular nylon upper. They also have a lifetime warranty and a fair price tag. Best of all, they’ve funded efforts to support young girls in Afghanistan and continue to support groups like One More Wave, which is empowering and healing veterans through the surf community.—Jon Coen, contributor [$50; combatflipflops.com] Week of September 2Ambient Weather WS-2902 Home Weather Station
Peter Matlashewski As someone who is obsessed with tracking weather patterns and knowing what the forecast is, testing Ambient Weather’s WS-902 Home Weather Station was a real pleasure. Not only does this device provide an accurate forecast but it offers extensive real-time local weather data wherever it’s installed. The WS-2902 comes with WiFi capabilities allowing you to access your data remotely which can be especially handy if you’re away and want to check in on what’s happening at your house. This device tracks wind speed along with its direction, rainfall accumulation, UV levels, solar radiation, barometric pressure as well as temperature, humidity, the dew point, heat index, and wind chill. This information is stored remotely and accessible via the Ambient Weather app. However, this weather station also comes with a sleek 6-inch color LCD dashboard you can place inside your home to access all this information at a glance. This is especially nice when you’re about to head out and you want to know if you should bring an extra layer or not. The installation process is easy and straight forward to the point where the biggest obstacle is finding the perfect spot to mount it. One feature I particularly enjoy is the ability to view your weather data in real-time or as a graph over a custom period of time. Tracking rainfall after a storm can be fascinating, as it shows millimeters per hour, how much fell during a specific rain event as well as cumulatively per day, week, month or yearly. This system also comes with an inside temperature monitor, which is nice to keep an eye on and lets you know when it’s time to turn the AC off and start opening the windows. Another interesting feature on the app is a map function, which connects you to other weather stations in your area, allowing you to compare local conditions which can surprisingly vary quite a lot. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the WS-2902 proves to not just be a useful tool, but it’s also a whole lot of fun to see visual data sets of what is going on right outside your home.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$189; amazon.com] East Oak Courtyard Outdoor Furniture Set
Sal Vaglica Your living room sofa has it easy—even if it endures a dog. When it comes to outdoor furniture, not only do you have to sift through a dizzying number of styles, but the materials play a far more important role since the chairs and tables are exposed to the elements. If you embrace modern styling, East Oak’s outdoor furniture's aesthetics cut through the noise with clean lines and simple color combinations that match any stone, brick, or paver patio or decking. I’ve been using the Courtyard set this summer and what I love about it are the generously sized chairs, which have a seat cushion about 25 inches wide and 16 inches deep. The rear of all the seating is angled away so your torso is more relaxed and you can really sink into the 10-inch-thick back cushion. The love seat, like the rest of the set, has 3.9-inch-thick foam, and all of the fabric has a TPU coating to shed water, and a UV resistant to prevent fading, though if the latter is a concern in a bright backyard, you might want to opt for one of East Oak’s lighter colors like beige or light gray. The four-piece Courtyard comes in seven combinations, where the powder-coated iron frame matches the seat cushions. An easy way to ensure you get a complementary outdoor setup is to pair the cushion color with the surface of your patio or deck. The nearly 40x22-inch coffee table is a comfortable height to set down a drink or prop up your feet and the top is tempered glass, for safety. All of the pieces have adjustable feet underneath to help level off uneven surfaces, protect the metal legs from scuffing, and avoid trapping water on deck boards. Assembling is easy and requires driving stainless steel hex head bolts, though you might want to speed things up with a drill/driver set to a low speed. While the frame is thin, to keep the look modern, it’s plenty strong: the loveseat can support up to 600 pounds and half as much for the chairs. Try as we might, we couldn’t get the sofa cushions to distort, which is nice because they won’t turn lumpy over time. The cushion covers hold in place with hook and loop tape, and are removable to toss into the washing machine. While the metal can get toasty in the sun, the composite wood look material on the armrests won’t get as hot. What’s nice about a four-piece set is the setup’s versatility: You can set them up linear to watch a movie outside, make an L shape to take advantage of your patio, or set the chairs on the other side of the table from the loveseat to encourage conversation.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$510; amazon.com] Wilson Staff Irons
David Weiss Wilson Staff Irons have been around a good long while, but are often overlooked given the massive marketing push behind competing clubs: think Callaway, TaylorMade, and Titleist for starters. Not that there’s anything wrong with those premium sticks, but dollar for dollar the latest iteration of the Staff brand—dubbed “Dynapower”— makes them an appealing choice for those journeyman players in need of both distance and forgiveness. Don’t be put off by the game-improvement category that these irons fall into. If you’re a mid- to high-handicapper, there’s no shame in a cavity-back game, as it rewards slightly off-center strikes, and even “toe” hits aren’t unduly punished by diminished distance or control. Shorter irons produce admirable ball speed and enough spin to stop the ball when it hits the green. On longer irons, the advantage is discernible by a bump in overall distance, as they produce a consistently mid-altitude launch and spin. Think Tiger’s penetrating “stinger” shot even if you haven’t notched 14 major titles. Low and fast is not a bad thing. Wilson managed to outdo their last generation of D9 irons with the help of, what else?, artificial intelligence to optimize the face-design for consistent strikes, and the capacious offset and wide sole are encouraging for double-digit handicappers like yours truly. Lofts are admittedly pretty strong, which means you’ll likely be hitting your eight iron as far as a seven iron from a comparable set. And the all-important sonics are satisfying, especially in the longer irons, where a palpably explosive whip-crack sound helps boost confidence and may even impress your buddies, an all-important X-factor.—David Weiss, contributor [$700; wilson.com] Front Runners Outfitters 2 Cook 3 Pro Stove
Kate Erwin Menus while car camping shouldn’t suck. Having a decent stove that is small enough to pack away but big enough to actually cook real meals is crucial. The 2 Cook 3 Pro by Front Runner Outfitters is a simple, no fuss gas barbecue that ticks all the boxes. The stove weighs 13.44 pounds and is slightly slimmer than other stoves in the two burner category. The 2 Cook 3 Pro has two independent burners that can allow you to cook at different temperatures.The stove comes with a non-stick (GreenGrill) flat grill and a griddle top—both are made with die-cast aluminum and both are interchangeable for either burner. The stove also comes along with two pot stands, a coffee pot holder and a carry bag. The gas fixture works for tabletop cooking using a 1 pound gas cartridge but also comes with a fixture compatible with a 12 foot quick connect propane hose. This stove has a consistent flame that cooks evenly and can stay on a low setting without going out. The grill and griddle top are easy to clean and pack away neatly in the carry bag. The 2 Cook 3 Pro is an efficient stove that makes camp cooking fun so you can focus on the recipes, not the equipment.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$200; frontrunneroutfitters.com] 66°North Laugardalur Pants
Kate Erwin The Laugardalur pants from the Icelandic brand 66°North is a piece of gear that I didn’t know I needed. Considered “stylish, functional streetwear” the Laugardalur have had more walks with me on dirt roads and trails than any pavement. With a nod to '90s fashion, the Laugardalur pants are a loose-fitting, lightweight tracksuit mesh pant with a drawstring and two pockets. Named after the hot spring valley in central Reykjavik, this collection pays homage to the brand's hometown. There isn’t anything particularly techy about these pants—they are made from 100-percent recycled nylon, have an elasticated waist and hems. They are baggy, but that's the genius of these pants. While the rest of the market is going for slender pants, the Laugardalur pants go over anything—shorts, jeans, etc., and when you have mosquitos trying to eat you or random rain storms that like to take the sun away, the Laugardalur pants are super handy. I stash them in my car to have for hot buggy hikes, light rain protection, or just a light layer. The simplicity of the pants are nostalgic of a time when gear wasn’t so specialized or complicated. I also love the print and am a huge fan of 66°’s unique lichen-inspired prints. Although the Laugardalur comes in black and off white for those who don’t need to blend into the tundra.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$210; 66north.com] Week of August 26DOD Kamaboko Super Tent
Kate Erwin Lately, I haven't been getting excited about gear. Although I can appreciate good design and esthetics, I have been hard pressed to enjoy and review a piece of gear outside of a utilitarian perspective. That has changed since getting the Japanese brand's DOD Kamaboko Super Tent, and that emotional connection to gear that has been dormant has been awakened. I love this tent. It has changed my view and relationship to outdoor living. This statement might seem a bit superfluous, but hear me out, I'll still honor my utilitarian roots. The DOD Kamaboko Super Tent, in large, covers 312 square feet in area and the footprint is 25x12.5 feet. The height of the tent is 6.5 feet (yes, if you're shorter like me, you can do sun salutations no problem). The packed size of the Kamaboko is 20x15 x13 inches—imagine a lightweight four-person tent and two-person tent wrapped together. When packed, the tent doesn't take much space and can easily be stowed in a car (think behind a seat) or trunk or ski box. It is a bit heavy at 53 pounds, but it is a massive tent. Most of the weight comes from aluminum-alloy poles. Setting up the tent is surprisingly easy. The directions came in Japanese, and I do not read or speak Japanese, so I was at the mercy of the images (you can find the directions online here, but setting something up blind is often where you can gauge the intuitive qualities of a product). The Kamaboko is erected with just four tent poles and a handful of steel stakes. It does require two people to erect the tent, but once it is up, that's when the fun starts. All of the 12 panels on Kamaboko Super Tent are adjustable for ventilation—the eight main panels (three on each side and two on either end) have two zippers with three settings—open, rainfly, and mesh. There are straightforward toggles that secure the various configurations. These configurations allow the user to change the space throughout the day and make a comfortable and, in my case, an inspiring space to interact with. The Kamaboko is big enough that you could fit a smaller tent inside to have a fully enclosed sleeping space within the cavernous tent, however DOD makes various accessories that are perfectly compatible with the Kamaboko. The Kam Zashiki floor mat is a removable tarp that fits within four panel sections and has four hooks a cinch to fasten or remove. This can come in a set of two or in a single. When clipped it has a slight lip that helps keep out dirt, sand, and whatever other elements are around your tent. This floor can serve as the "mud room" for the tent or can be used as a tarp to go under the Inner Tent for the Kamboko Super Tent that hooks up on either end. Both of these accessories transform the tent into a home. They also are water resistant as I found out after leaving the Kamboko Super Tent, Inner Tent, and Floor Mat out for three days in the rain and didn't experience any leaks. The durability of both the Floor Mat and the Inner Tent's bottom was impressive. I thought for sure there will be a wet floor, but the sturdy 210D woven polyester and polyurethane coating makes the floor and tent bottom waterproof to 5,000mm. Even more impressive was the rainfly of the main tent—at the bottom of each panel there is a little extra material that serves as a gutter in a storm and helps keep out water. I have used this tent for over a week consecutively. I read in it, write in it, watch movies in it, sleep in it, and just live in it. I didn't know a tent could bring so much joy. It has single handedly removed my FOMO of having a big trailer or Sprinter (for now...) and is a cost-effective option for an adventure basecamp.—Kate Erwin, contributor [From $1,049; dodoutdoors.com] Curious Creatures Sun Dog Pants
Courtesy Image Up until a couple weeks ago, with the exception of a few days, the 60th parallel has been wet and cool, and, at times, downright cold. While this can be favorable for riding in a fairly dry place (the rain makes the sandy, dry dirt more pleasant) it is also favorable for mosquitos. Wearing shorts mountain biking hasn’t always been an option, but wearing pants has been a requirement. The era of the mountain bike pant is upon us—from BMX-inspired enduro race pants, to waterproof pants, and even denim, there are more styles than ever to choose from for your trail ride. Somewhere in the middle are the Curious Creatures' Sun Dog Pants. These lightweight riding pants are as comfortable as sweatpants, as functional as a super sporty tech pant, but casual enough that you can wear them for other sports. The Sun Dog features two nice big zippered side thigh pockets, a very agreeable knit waistband (with an adjustable drawstring), a back pocket, and are knee pad compatible. The Sun Dog pants also feature a snap cuff to cinch in the bottom of each leg. The majority of the pants are made with a four-way stretch polyester fabric that has a PFC-free DWR finish and a 100-percent polyester midweight breathable fabric that's extra soft. The “extra soft” is not an exaggeration—these pants are curiously soft, which I suppose is on brand for this cool brand.—Kate Erwin, contributor [$180; wearecuriouscreatures.com] Weber Genesis S-435 Gas Grill
Peter Matlashewski Barbecue grills have come along way over the years, especially in terms of incorporating smart technology. However, sometimes keeping it simple works just fine and not every component needs to be digitally controlled. After testing the Weber Genesis S-435 gas grill over the past few months, it’s clear that this model is a true master of its domain when it comes to straightforward, propane fueled grilling. While it doesn’t feature remote heat controlling or real-time meat temperature tracking, it excels where it counts. This impressively large grill heats up quickly, sears meats and veggies effortlessly and retains heat exceptionally well. This model can reach 450° degrees in just over 4 minutes and after conducting the infamous toast test, the heat distribution is even across the length with a slightly warmer lean towards the rear. This S-435 is equipped with four burners and a side burner, totaling just under 1,000 square inches of grilling space which may sound like overkill for some but once you grill on an area this large it’s hard to go back. There’s something very satisfying about laying out a dozen burgers plus all your veggies at once and still have room to manage your rotations effectively. We all live a busy life these days and being able to do your veggie or meat meal prep for the week outside in a single go can be a major time saver. The 7mm stainless grates give your food a nice thick and quick sear, and once removed make it easy to clean the insides. If you’ve ever assembled a Weber, you know they arrive in quite a number of pieces, so you’ll need to budget a good chunk of time for assembly. However the instructions are clear and although more labour intensive than other barbecue assemblies, it’s still beginner friendly. This barbecue is by far the best I’ve come across in terms of quality of components, heat distribution and knowing it’s going to fire up every time and get the job done.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$1,499; weber.com] Nemo Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad
Jon Coen We took the new Nemo Tensor Trail out on an overnighter. It was just one night, not all that technical, nothing crazy cold or challenging (except for a gassy dog in a tent). I carried more food for my family that we needed and some unnecessary gear. In short, there was dead weight on my back. But the one thing that certainly didn’t weigh me down was my Tensor Trail. In terms of weight to function ratio, the 1 pound Tensor is worth every ounce and then some. At 3.5 inches thick, it is stable and comfortable, customizable for how inflated you like it. The Tensor Trail is a three-season pad, an updated version of Nemo’s original Tensor, with a Spaceframe baffle design that separates it from the cheap version you’ll find at a department store, a well-designed balance of support and softness. The other thing that sets it apart from other blow-up pads is durability. If it’s a cheap and light pad, it’s probably going to puncture at some point. Nemo has taken care to add premium 20D top and 40D nylon to the top and bottom respectively, so you will have this for many miles, many nights and many stinky dog butts. The Tensor is made to keep you warm most seasons, with a suspended layer of ultra-thin metaliized Thermal Mirror film to return your body heat back up to your sleeping bag. And because it’s suspended, you don’t hear the cracking and crinkling every time you move in the night. Imagine—quiet in the great outdoors. It comes complete with its own pump sack for more efficiently bow up time and the Nemo Lifetime warranty. There are also several versions for different body types.—Jon Coen, contributor [From $180; rei.com] Philips Barista Brew Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Peter Matlashewski Philips recently came out with their all new Barista Brew semi-automatic espresso machine and I’m here to let you know it’s an easy to operate machine that brews an excellent cup of coffee. Like any espresso machine, it will require some initial tweaks depending on the type of bean you use. However, the user friendly pre-programed functions does almost all the work for you. The interface is elegant and simple by design with just one click to make a single, double espresso or Americano coffee. There is also a pressure gauge that helps ensure you’re pulling that perfect cup while letting you know if you need to make any adjustments. Once you dial it in, the machine is very consistent. The Barista Brew is a great choice for those who are new to home espresso, want something relatively plug and play but still want that manual process of turning a portafilter in the morning. This espresso machine arrives ready to go out of the box with just a few small assembly tasks required. The water reservoir is larger than most espresso machines of this size and the bean hopper holds 250 grams of coffee, making it likely that your morning routine will be maintenance free. The portafilter sits level on your counter and the calibrated tamper has a nice premium feel when pushing down on your grounds. Another feature that makes this machine easy for beginners is the temperature gauge on the milk jug that lets you know once you’ve reached optimal temperature for pouring those cappuccinos. Overall, this is a display worthy espresso machine that checks all the boxes for making a good morning brew.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$546; amazon.com] Week of August 19Oru Camp Furniture: PopLounge and FlipCube
Adam Bible A few years back, Oru Kayak came out with their origami-inspired foldable kayaks that brought portable watercraft into the modern age. No more canvas and wood kayaks that took over an hour to assemble, or flimsy inflatable versions that didn't track well or hold up to much abuse. Using a tough corrugated plastic (similar to the material used for the USPS white mail bins, but way sturdier) with baked in creases and straps with buttons, they were able to create a light and fast kayak that folded up in minutes and was small enough to stow in a compact car trunk. Now they have a whole line of fantastic foldable kayaks, but their latest innovation was moving that design and engineering language over to camp furniture. Released this year, Oru Camp Furniture includes three styles, a chair, a short table, and a large table; called PopLounge, FlipCube, and SwitchTable. I was able to test out the lounger and small table on a few trips this summer and I found them easy-to-use (once you set them up one or two times), very lightweight, and useful around camp. (I didn't test the large table, which some reviews said feels wobbly and unstable.) The chair and table have a similar set up procedure, where you open up the flat pack and push two panels down to make the base of each. This floor also serves to form a storage area underneath the seat which is handy when hanging around a campsite while car or canoe camping. To wrap up constructing them, you then locate the relevant snaps and tighten everything up with the buttons on the straps. They are clever and cool, bringing a modern look to your campsite. The chair is comfortable though not quite as comfy as a compact fabric and aluminum sling style seat—you are sitting on what is basically hard plastic. The small table is great, offering easily accessible storage and is sturdy on a variety of surfaces. My only drawback to both is that though they do fold up fairly flat, they are a still a bit bulky when storing in a truck or canoe compared to camp furniture that breaks down into a more-easily stowed cylindrical package.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$59, table, $109, chair; orukayak.com] Leia Lume Pad 2 Tablet
David Weiss Take a premium Android tablet with all the whistles and bells— fingerprint sensor, quick-charge USB-C port, SD card storage—and what do you have? Truth be told, good as it looks and performs, it’s just another tablet in a crowded retail war-zone. But wait, there’s more! Equipped with built-in stereoscopic cameras (with the 120hz display yielding images up to 5K resolution), Leia Lume Pad 2 becomes a 3D-dabbler’s dream gadget. Fascinated by View Master toys as a kid? This is the 21st century’s digital answer to perusing the Giza pyramids and feeling a goodly dose of awe and wonder—and all from the privacy of your boudoir! Pretty dope tech. As a party starter—especially for children, who will gasp and grab at the magic box’s life-like illusions—it is a 10-out-of-10 and then some. Snap a shot with the stereo-cam and then marvel at what appears to be the five-inch depth of the image. You will reflexively be reaching into the screen like you did in the theater watching Avatar, only to find your fingers slipping through empty space. The picture might jitter or flicker just a tad, but the goggle-free sensation of three-dimensional rendering is a mind-bender. Once the party has broken up and you’ve temporarily regained your actual five senses, the Lume Pad 2 is a beyond-capable tablet for surfing, YouTubing and the rest. By the numbers, it competes with rival screens with its Snapdragon 888 chipset and Qualcomm Kryo 680 octa-core processor. Add to that 8GB of RAM and a 128 GB Flash UFS 3.1 for storage and you’ve got all the firepower you need to stream and game. The high-strength, 12.5” Gorilla Glass display and an anodized aluminum enclosure give it a solid feel and well-protected innards. There is not a plethora of 3D content available quite yet, though third-party game developers are bee-busy working on more. Pre-rendered 3D movies are available on a rental app as well. Toy or tool? When it looks this good, who really cares? Prepare to be dazzled.—David Weiss, contributor [$499; amazon.com] Ciele Athletics NTRT T-Shirt
Peter Matlashewski Plain white tee’s don’t necessarily need to be plain anymore. If you’re looking for a piece that performs like a tech T-shirt but feels and fits like a luxury shirt, the new NTRT Shirt from Ciele is worth checking out. This shirt is part of their new LE (Life Edition) collection which is still designed for physical activity but with a touch more versatility which makes it a great shirt for a post run meet-up or just casual wear on a hot day. The material feels soft to the touch while still providing UPF protection, a good amount of stretch, concealed reflective accents and has quick moisture wicking properties. The fabric also has a micro waffle texture, giving it a subtle but unique look compared to other performance shirts on the market. The fit is slightly more relaxed than your traditional tech shirts, but it offers zero restriction whatsoever and feels really comfortable. If you’re in the market for a versatile and functional active lifestyle shirt this is a great choice.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$115; cieleathletics.com] TCL QM7 QD-MINI LED Smart Television
Peter Matlashewski With so many TV display variations on the market it’s sometimes hard to decide which option is best for you. The good news is you don’t always have to buy the latest or most expensive model to enjoy a great viewing experience. I tested TCL’s QM7 QD-MINI LED smart television, which offers features comparable to TVs that cost thousands of dollars last year but available now for just a few hundred. What sets this TV apart is its ability to deliver next-level dynamic brightness with vivid QLED colors, while looking sharp in any lighting condition. I found that switching your picture profile to match what you’re watching—whether its sports, movies, gaming or just leaving it in smart HDR mode makes a world of difference. The ability to do that isn’t new but the enhancements the QM7 offers in these profiles makes a significant impact. Sometimes the out of box settings can be a little different from expectations but this model allows for a lot of customization in terms of brightness and saturation, so you get the most out of your TV. Combine stunning image quality with a fast 120 Hz refresh rate and your action movies or sports games becomes ultra-smooth lifelike spectacles. The QM7 is powered by Google which means all you have to do is log into your Gmail account and you’ll have access to all your apps and entertainment platforms. The user interface is intuitive, but I was blown away by how snappy and fast it is to navigate through the menus. I tested the 65-inch model which is more than large enough to command a living room, but this model also comes in sizes ranging from 55-inch all the way up to a 98-inch. Chromecast is directly built in, but you can also operate Alexa or Apple Homekit. The QM7 also supports Dolby Vision, Atmos and IQ so you can unlock a full cinematic experience. If you’re upgrading from an older TV or an entry level 4K model, you’ll instantly notice a significant improvement in picture quality. You’ll also be fully equipped for compatibility with new image and audio formats and have all the outputs you might want to use in the future.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$698; bestbuy.com] Reolink Argus 4 Pro Security Camera
David Weiss Paranoia seems to be more in accord with reality than ever before, thus a couple of eagle-eyes on the rooftop can’t hurt when bad actors are hatching a heist. Enter the Reolink Argus 4 Pro, a whip-smart security camera that delivers crisp dual images stitched into one glorious, 180-degree view of who or what is skulking around the perimeter of chez vous. Billed as a “blindspot free” field of vision, the Argus 4 captures full-color imagery in true-to-life detail no matter the time of day or night. A 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor snags four times more light, resulting in crystalline video that ought to stand up in a court of law, heaven forbid. Looking cute and benign and bearing a strong resemblance to Wall-E, the camera is wireless and solar-powered when plugged into Reolink’s companion panel. Battery life is robust when fully-charged (in just 10 minutes!), offering up to 12 extra days of standby time. Seamless 4K images are handled by Wi-Fi 6 tech, facilitating improved stability and lower latency. The proprietary app allows for customized motion zones and smart real-time alerts without the burden of ponying up an annual subscription fee. As for storage, Argus 4 Pro tucks up to a 128GB microSD card in its weatherproof port, and of course it integrates with your Google Assistant for handy-dandy voice control. And if you’re inclined to growl or shout at any would-be intruders, that too can be done in real-time as the camera captures audio and video. Setup with the Reolink app is intuitive and relatively simple, though getting used to its advanced features involves a slight learning curve. Tweaking the cam’s sensitivity to make sure passing moths don’t summon the cavalry is not a bad idea.—David Weiss, contributor [$200; amazon.com] Week of August 12Benchmade Claymore Tanto Knife
David Farrell I recently tested out a upgrade to my usual everyday carry (EDC) knife—the new Benchmade Claymore Tanto with serrated blade, and my first thought when picking it up was, "This knife means business." It's heavy-duty and well-constructed, and exactly what you'd expect from Benchmade. The thick, tough 60-62HRC steel powder blade is impressive, especially for its wear and corrosion resistance, which is great since I put this knife through daily tests to challenge its durability. As my new EDC, I use it for everything. From opening packages (I can almost hear the knife laughing at such a feeble task) to handling all sorts of tasks in my shop—cutting paracord like a hot knife through butter, shaving, prying, and slicing through thick, braided rope with the serration. It handles plastic and just about anything else I throw at it with ease. A word of caution: the auto spring strength is no joke. The first time I opened it, it almost flew out of my hand. But after several hundred deployments, it’s still strong but has settled into just the right snappiness. The belt clip is also robust and hasn’t bent or warped at all. Sharpening can be a challenge, but that’s true for any tanto-style knife, especially with a serrated blade. The good news is it holds an edge longer than any other knife I’ve used, and Benchmade offers free, lifetime sharpening—you just have to send it in to them. I tried something interesting with the safety switch, which shows red when ready to deploy. I pressed the deploy button with the safety on, then switched the safety off, expecting it to deploy. But it stayed locked as expected, which is reassuring for accidental presses in the pocket. Overall, I'm thrilled with the Benchmade Claymore Tanto automatic knife. It’s tough, reliable, and was ready for anything I threw at it, whether in the backcountry or around home.—David Farrell, contributor [$260; smkw.com] Shimano Metanium DC 70 Baitcasting Reel
Peter Matlashweski The all new Metanium DC 70 from Shimano is a state-of-the-art baitcasting reel that replaces its long-time predecessor of 10 years and comes with significant upgrades. The first thing you notice about this reel is how small the body is and how nicely it palms in your hand. The feeling of holding the entire reel in your hand gives off a natural connection to the action and a great level of sensitivity when retrieving. This model also has the new MGL Spool III technology which allows for incredibly long casts no matter what size lure you’re using. What really sets this reel a part is it’s DC (Digital Control) technology which magnetically adjusts the braking settings for you when casting while significantly reducing the chances of over spooling (birds nest). There are dial adjustments you can set based on any lure from 3/16th oz all the way up to 1 oz but there is also an auto setting that lets the reel handle it all for you. Casting light lures into the wind without having to deal with line tangle is something pretty unheard of with casting reels and really opens the door for more possibility in terms of pinpointing your cast exactly where you want it without worrying about external factors. There hasn’t been a day of fishing this season where the Metanium DC was not used because it’s so plug and play for a variety fishing application but more so it’s incredibly fun to cast with all day long. The sound on this new DC reel is also much more muted than previous models which might come as a relief for some. This reel was primarily used to target freshwater fish from perch and walleye to bass and pike and the new Metanium handed all species flawlessly. If you’re looking to add a new casting reel to your lineup that has a large range of capabilities for a wide variety of fishing techniques, the new Metanium DC is a hard one to beat. This reel does come at a higher cost than many of its peers but it this case you certainly get what you pay for.—Peter Matlashweski, contributor [$500; basspro.com] Hoto Air Pump Master
Adam Bible The last few years have seen a glut of compact, portable, rechargeable air compressors that offer a ton of features and promise a lot of power. One that I got the chance to test on a recent road trip across the East Coast is the sleek and modern Hoto Air Pump Master. Before heading out on my 1,000-mile trip from North Carolina to Brooklyn and then upstate New York, I used the pump to make sure my truck's tires were inflated to the proper PSI, and then, during the trip it kept my mountain bike tires filled up and worked to pump up an inflatable SUP and quickly deflate it after a day on the water. For such a small package—3x6x7.5 inches at 3.5 pounds—the Air Pump Master packs in a lot of features. It uses an easy-to-read OLED screen within the dial on the top of the pump that displays icons for each pump modes, nine in all that cover everything from bike and car tires to inflatables off all kinds. I found it simple to spin to select your required PSI—then all you have to do is press the dial to start it. It's not super quiet, but quiet enough to not be annoying. There two options for inflation, a higher pressure screw-on hose for car and bike tires, and then a flexible hose that locks in to inflate You can use the Hoto as a stand-alone since it has a rechargeable 7,500mAh battery pack (USB-C) but it can also be operated through the 12-volt outlet in your car. And one charge is good for topping off around 16 car tires. A small, integrated LED light offers decent illumination at night and helps to locate hard-to-read PSI numbers on tires. All in all, it's a great little pump that earned a permanent spot in my truck.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$170; hoto.com] Vortex Blade Slope Laser Rangefinder
Peter Matlashweski If you’ve become an avid golfer over the years and you’ve reached a consistent level of play, it might be time to consider further honing your game with a rangefinder. This tool can be incredibly valuable not only for selecting the right club but also for strategizing how to play more effectively and learn from the data that it provides. We tested Vortex’s new Blade Slope Rangefinder and it’s just as impressive as their line of binoculars. The user interface is quite analog in the sense that it’s not complex, it’s easy to navigate, confirm your stats and generate accurate information rapidly because the last thing you want to do when playing golf is fiddle around with too many digital settings. The PinSpotter mode confirms when you’re properly targeting the flag rather than something in the background, which is surprisingly helpful. Additionally, the Scan Mode continuously updates the distance you’re looking at so you can really set yourself up for hitting the green on those dog-leg par 4’s. This rangefinder also comes with a slope function which takes into consideration drops and height changes so you can better pinpoint your distances when shooting down or up at the green. After testing its accuracy all summer both in the driving range and on the course with players much better than I am this device has proven to be a huge aid in better understanding my gameplay. Sometimes after a great drive or shot I’ll stand where my ball landed and aim back to my starting point to get an accurate reading on my distances, which has been very insightful. Other features that make this a dependable choice is its excellent optics with 6x magnification, a rugged shockproof and waterproof body, and a handy magnetic strip that allows you to stick it on your golf cart or bag for easy access. If you’re looking for a rangefinder that you won’t feel the need to upgrade the next season and that’s built to last with a lifetime warranty, the Blade Slope edition from Vortex is worth looking into.—Peter Matlashweski, contributor [$250; cabelas.com] Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Generation)
Courtesy Image I've lived with enough smart thermostats over the years to know that what makes one better than the other can come down to user experience. That’s why the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Generation) isn’t likely to come off the wall anytime soon—even as Google releases its newest generation, which has a sleeker look. Out of the box the Nest is a breeze to install and it requires little more than taking a photo of your existing thermostat’s wiring, so you know which wire goes where. Trust us, neither you nor the home’s previous owner or its HVAC contractor took the time to label those wires. To follow best practice, you should confirm your existing wiring includes a C wire to provide constant power to the Nest, which usually is included with homes built within the last 40 years. If you have a central air conditioning system you likely have the C wire. Unlike my previous thermostat, which would log itself out of its app and sometimes just not work, the Nest has a rock-solid connection to your Wi-Fi network when you’re home or out. Both the thermostat and the app are easy to navigate so adjusting settings feels intuitive. After 15 minutes of installing, and another 10 or so setting up the thermostat, it was off and running. Upgrading to an Energy Star-certified smart thermostat can trim about 8 percent off your heating and cooling bills, and is a no-brainer even if you have a basic programable version. After the initial setup, Google’s AI goes to work understanding what you find comfortable over about a week. What’s been helpful during the summer heatwave is the Nest and app communicating in real-time how long it will take to cool the house down to your preferred setting. You can pair the system with puck-like sensors, to stash in other rooms, so the Nest can average out the temperature across the house.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [From $109; amazon.com] Week of August 5Garmin Instinct 2X Solar 50mm Smartwatch
David Farrell When I first switched from the Garmin 45mm Instinct Solar to the 50mm Instinct 2X Solar smartwatch, my immediate and dubious reaction was: "Damn, this watch is huge!" But it didn't take long for me to realize that the bigger face was exactly what I needed. The larger display made it so much easier to read the digits clearly, and the updated software now offers more functionality. I can more easily see my steps, battery life, sunrise and sunset times, calories, altitude, temperature, and date, all at a glance. There's also the addition of numerous face options for customizing the display for highlighting different activities like working out, biking, or hiking. One major difference—unlike any other smartwatch I've used—is the additional solar panel built into the face. The increased surface area keeps the watch charged for an incredibly long time. Seriously, I rarely need to charge it. If the battery is down to just two days, it can recharge to 30 days in less than an hour. It's an incredible feature and one that makes the watch that much more useable on a daily basis. I also love the Garmin Connect app that pairs with the watch. It provides detailed reports and tracks trends for weight loss, sleep and stress patterns, heart rate, and more—there are so many more features I still haven't even had time to explore yet. You can control music, use Garmin Pay for contactless payments, send quick customizable responses to texts, view your calendar, mark waypoints with GPS, monitor blood oxygen levels, and more. The capabilities of the Garmin 2X Solar are just crazy. Writing this review makes me appreciate how awesome this watch really is. In my eyes, it has earned its smartwatch moniker—it is an advanced computer on your wrist. And the best part is that Garmin actively sends updates whenever developers add new features or enhance existing ones. One last cool feature I use way more than I expected is the "torch" or light. You can quickly activate it with a double click and choose between a white light or a red light. The red light is there to keep your night vision intact, and it's surprisingly bright at the highest setting. Nice job, Garmin!—David Farrell, contributor [$450; amazon.com] Viviobarefoot Jungle ESC Boots
Adam Bible The barefoot shoe craze seems to have died down in the running shoe scene—most brands have turned toward maximalist designs like those pioneered by Hoka—but for lower impact pursuits like hiking, hunting, and backpacking, there's a good variety of options to choose from. Vivobarefoot, who have been the standard-bearers of barefoot-style shoes since 2012 and haven't let up. One of their newest, and most daring, pair of boots are the Jungle ESCs. Specifically made for hot and humid environments, natch, these expedition-grade minimalist boots use mesh to allow fast drainage and quick drying without allow dirt or pebbles in. Though obviously not waterproof, they are made from water-resistant materials to limit water absorption. Other jungle-fighting touches include synthetic vegan materials made to resist decomposition, brass hardware that won't rust, gusseted tongue to keep creepy crawlies out, and long Dyneema laces that you can wrap around your cuffs to further up pest protection. I wore them over the hot and humid summer in North Carolina and Virginia, and though not technically a jungle, heat indexes hit near 110 degrees for a few days, along with lots of rain falling during that time. They performed well while hiking through in slippery pine plantations and mossy, fern-filled hardwood forests because the luggy Michelin outsole provided lots of grip with 7mm deep tread which bit into muddy spots and gripped slick logs. I liked the looser fit of the upper which allowed for lots of mobility and breathability. The "bio-inspired" construction was comfortable enough for all-day bushwhacking and let my feet with a good, workout-like soreness that showed my feet were actually getting stronger, instead of the worn-out pain and soreness you get with heavy, inflexible boots with rigid soles. Walking through deep puddles or small streams did get my feet wet, which was to be expected, but they were still comfortable and didn't cause any hot spots. If you want to try out the barefoot boot experience but want something a little closer to a traditional hiking boot, try out the Tracker II FGs or Tracker Forest ESCs. [$280; vivobarefoot.com] SanDisk Desk Drive 4TB SSD Hard Drive
Peter Matlashewski If you’ve shopped around for a laptop recently, you’ve probably noticed that they seldom come with enough storage to house all your files unless you pay a premium for marginally more storage. SanDisk recently came out with their all new Desk Drive that aims to solve this issue with one single high performing solid-state drive (SSD) that can fit in the palm of your hand. The processing speed on this piece of tech has blown past most other external hard drives on the market and makes you feel like the additional storage space is a part of your computer’s hardware with the added benefit of portability. This device is compatible with both Windows and Mac via USB-C and comes in a 4TB or 8TB capacity providing ample storage for all your data in one of the most secure ways of storing your files remotely. While the desk drive does need to be plugged into a power source to operate, it runs completely silently, a feature not commonly found in other powered drives. The desk drive takes mobile workstation to a whole new level and is perfect for photo or video enthusiasts who want to store their content libraries separately from their computer but still be able to work on them with lighting fast speeds.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$380; westerndigital.com] White Duck Rover Scout Tent
Peter Matlashewski If you’re in the market for a sturdy shelter that can serve as an outdoor lounge or large sleeping quarters, the Rover Scout Tent from White Duck is one of the best we’ve tried. We got our hands on the 8x13-foot model which can easily house a picnic table or five to six people with chairs while still leaving room for coolers and totes. This shelter can also be used as a tent and comfortably accommodate three to four sleepers plus a small lounge area for sheltered relaxation not to mention the roof extends well over 6 feet tall which makes it feel quite roomy. The Rover Scout also comes in a 8x9-foot footprint if you don’t need that extra square footage. The fabric is made of Dynatek canvas which is nice to the touch while also being able to repel water effectively. If temperatures rise and you need a break from the sun, the Rover Scout can be a shade solution that still makes you feel like you’re outside thanks to its ability to roll up all four walls and take full advantage of a passing breeze. The design is not only aesthetically pleasing and a nod to old military tents, but it’s also built like a tank. The flooring is made of a heavy-duty thick tarp like material so if you bring your furry friend along on your camping trip you have nothing to worry about. The tent comes with a well-stocked toolkit and an oversized stuff sack that makes set-up and take down organized and easy. While I didn’t have the chance to test it, there’s also a stove jack so you can really turn up the cozy factor when it gets cold. The only drawback with this large tent is it’s a little on the heavy side. However, if you are car camping or setting up camp with a small approach the carry bag is still manageable to handle solo and quite easily with two people. One of my favorite parts about this tent is how easily air flows through it so it never feels stuffy and gives you the sensation of truly sleeping outside. The Rover Scout tent allows for ample flexibility for small or large parties while providing all the space you need to create the perfect outdoor living area or bedroom.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$670; whiteduckoutdoors.com] Silk & Snow Wooden Bed Frame
Peter Matlashewski Furniture assembly no longer needs to be cumbersome and what if I told you, it can even be an enjoyable experience. We recently tested Silk & Snow’s wooden bed frame and it’s an absolute stunner in person. Made from solid and sturdy rubberwood and acacia wood, this bed frame has a rich wood grain tone that pops and a nice smooth to the touch finish. This model came with a matching headboard, though you can order it without one if you prefer. After several weeks of use, there is very little noise at all when moving around at night and all the components still feel very solid. With six points of contact on the floor with built in rubber beneath each leg the entire bed feels well balanced and supported. The bed frame arrived in just a few boxes and was extremely satisfying to set up thanks to the use of Japanese joinery to stitch it all together. There were no wrenches, screws or nails used during the process and on top of that it took under 10 minutes from start to finish. There’s also something oddly satisfying about putting together your bed with just your bare hands. If you’re in the market to upgrade your bed frame to one that looks and feels a lot more expensive than its retailed price—this model is worth checking out.—Peter Matlashewski, contributor [$1,170; silkandsnow.com] Week of July 29Isle Coronado Surfboard
Jon Coen People have a lot of different feelings about soft surfboards. If you learned to surf and ride competently on a straight-up fiberglass board, you undoubtably see them as a toy used by people who tend to get in the way. However, they serve a purpose. And if you’re a parent and your kid is surfing in a group where every set is a party wave, a soft top has saved you trips to the ER. But it’s important to note that they’re not all the same. There are certain soft tops that are basically a block of foam and plastic. They aren’t made well and they don’t ride well. The Isle Coronado longboard falls into the category of soft tops that do ride well. They’re going to serve a purpose for helping beginners learn to surf safely. And when its lying on the beach, an experienced surfer will be able to glide along just fine. It’s the largest of Isle’s surfboard at 7’6" a stable squash tail funshape. Isle has made its mark in the outdoor world by creating a good inflatable SUP board—easy to pack and store with a rigidity comparable to a fiberglass board. The Coronado, while not inflatable obviously, has a similar solid feel, where other SUPs bend and flex. They’ve used their PowerFuse construction for performance but also to keep it lightweight. It’s made of two layers of 6 ounce fiberglass on top and one layer of 4 ounce fiberglass on the bottom, underneath the EVA foam. The bottom is a durable 1.3mm polycarbonate skin. The entire deck is an EVA pad that offers traction, though you still might want to rub a little wax on there, The Isle can be ridden as a singlefin or a 2+1 (center fin with two sidebites) all included as well as a leash. If you’re adding a softie to the quiver or looking for a board to learn on, the Coronado is a good choice and far better than the big box store offering.—Jon Coen, contributor [$495; islesurfandsup.com] Greenworks 3000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer
Sal Vaglica There was a time when plug-in electric pressure washers had a bad reputation. Perhaps because they were lumped in with early versions of battery-powered pressure washers, which had anemic power and runtimes—although that category is getting better too. If you have routine cleaning tasks around the house, from your car to a patio, this Greenworks 3000 PSI pressure washer with 2 GPM (gallons per minute) of flow is all the power you need. Are there some with higher PSI at the home center that run on gas engines? Yes—but not many, and those all come with far more maintenance. Here’s our take on the convenience of a cordless pressure washer powered by gas or batteries: You’re already tethered to the house through a garden hose so chances are a power outlet is nearby. Using an electric pressure washer isn’t as restrictive as you think. And while this Greenworks had all the power we needed this summer, the PSI and GPM listed on the box are maximum numbers and not likely what you’ll experience all the time. Marketing the max performance is something all manufacturers do and is worth keeping in mind. We worked with the 48 1/2 pound Greenworks to blast winter crud off a concrete patio, outdoor furniture, bricks, grills, vinyl fencing, and siding. The cord gives you about 35 feet of length to reach an outlet and the steel-braded hose—a step up from what you normally find with pressure washers—adds another 25 feet of reach. If you need more you can upgrade to longer hose as an aftermarket part. Operation is one button simple and, maybe even better than the effortless power and not having to yank a ripcord to start it is not having to listen to an idling gas engine. The steel frame and big wheels make this unit easy to move around, especially over grass, and you can store it vertically against the wall in a garage or shed to save floor space. Along with the standard rainbow of spray tips for 15 (yellow), 25 (green), and 40 (white) degree tips, along with the black soap dispenser, Greenworks includes a longer turbo tip, which spins the water as it exits the machine cleaning a wider surface area without having to move the gun back and forth. This is the tip you’ll want to use to clean large horizontal or flat surfaces, like a patio, deck, or fence. The flow rate is closer to 1.1 gallons, which is still enough volume to move crud away, and the soap tank holds about a gallon of cleaner with a secure lid. The Greenworks only calls for detergent when it senses the low pressure called for by the black soap tip. While we don’t always put them in the correct spots, we appreciate dedicated storage for the cord and the hose.—Sal Vaglica, contributor [$450; amazon.com] Benchmade Mini Osborne Knife
Adam Bible Benchmade inarguably makes some of the best mass market knives around—they are constantly breaking out new styles and models, while continually refining their current blades. This new version of their Osborne (in regular size and the Mini featured here), which has been a longtime EDC fav, ups their game again by adding 6061-T6 aluminum scales anodized in a eye-catching Burnt Copper color. The aggressive tanto-style CPM-MagnaCut—laser cut from high-grade steel—blade also gets an upgrade with a more durable (and handsome) DLC Battlewash, stonewash-like finish, and the hardware is black oxide-coated. All blades and knives are put together by hand and sharpened in their factory in Oregon. I was lucky enough to try out both the normal-size Osborne and the Mini, but ended up gravitating more toward the easily everyday-carried smaller blade. Fit and function is excellent, which is the norm on most Benchmade knives, and though the pivot screw was a little stiff out of the box, a quick tweak with a Torx bit and I had the blade flipping in and out effortlessly. As an EDC knife, the Mini was a treat, being light enough (2 ounces) to not notice in your pocket and felt deft and nimble in my hand when performing regular chores like breaking down cardboard. In the woods, it also performed admirably, with the sharp, 2.92-inch reverse tanto nicely handling outdoor tasks like making feathersticks, slicing meat, and cutting cordage. All in all, this upgraded Osborne with copper scales is a welcome and robust addition to the long-revered knife model.—Adam Bible, Gear Editor [$261; bladehq.com] Peak Design 50L Travel Duffel Bag
Peter Matlashweski There’s nothing quite like a duffel that delivers additional organizational features beyond its main storage compartment. We tested Peak Design’s all new 50L travel duffel and it’s a one of a kind bag that marries durability and versatility quite flawlessly. Whether you’re using it as a weekender bag or a larger pack for all your tech gear, this duffel can handle the elements with its weatherproof zippers and 600D nylon shell which as a bonus makes it easy to clean. This 50L duffel is rigid yet soft enough to pass most carry-on regulations making this a great choice for travel. This duffel has external side pouches to store easy to access essentials while the interior has mesh pockets on either side to stay organized and conceal more important belongings. Being a big fan of high-density nylon bags this duffel feels as premium as many other backcountry grade duffels we’ve tested and alleviates the worry of whether your gear will be protected on your next journey or adventure.—Peter Matlashweski, contributor [$155; peakdesign.com] Luno Packable Camp Pillow
Jon Coen Towels make OK pillows when you're camping. So does the folded over end of your ground pad or a hoodie crammed into an empty stuff sack. But you’re not sleeping on any of those in your bed at home. And an inflatable camp pillow isn’t a whole lot more comfortable than any of the above mentioned. Luno is a brand that specializes in car camping gear, understanding that if you’re doing more than one night in a vehicle, it’s a much different thing than backpacking where every ounce matters, or even tent camping. When you aren’t carrying your gear on your back, there is less worry about weight. But it still has to be packable. The Luno Camp Pillow weighs 2.8 pounds. And for the small amount more space it takes up, it’s a whole lot more comfortable. Really, it’s a travel pillow more so than just a camp pillow. Made of plush memory foam fill, it’s close to the size of a regular pillow, easily packable and super comfortable. There is literally always “the other side of the pillow" too. One side is spandex to keep cool in the heat and other is a poly jersey blend for a cozier feel on colder nights. The cover is easily removable for easy washing. This is a pillow you would actually sleep on at home.—Jon Coen, contributor [$70; luno.com] 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: | ↑ |
Autumn is prime time for enjoying ales and lagers, and there's no shortage of fall beers waiting to be tapped—be it while watching a football game, reading up on IPA beer history, or raking leaves (we'd also recommend hoisting lager steins at your local Oktoberfest bash). Fall’s cooler weather welcomes a bounty of fall beers. There are plenty of heartier styles suited for taking off the chill and pairing with that bubbling pot of chili. Stouts, porters, and nitro beers are once again fair game, and coolers swell with fleeting releases such as fresh-hopped pale ales and pumpkin everything. We welcome several intriguing ales to store shelves, including IPAs seasoned with spruce tips to ambers ales spiked with maple syrup. Below you’ll find 24 of the best fall beers to drink during fall’s crunchy, leaf-filled glory. Try the best fall beers of 2024 before winter’s first snowfall. Related: The Best Pumpkin Beers, Ranked Best Fall Beers of 2024 at a Glance
Pumpkin BeersForget the Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino. Come fall, there’s no finer seasonal treat than a pumpkin beer brewed with pie spices and plenty of pumpkin too. Pumpkin beers are American brewing’s signature fall seasonal. New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin
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New Belgium tweaks the pumpkin beer template by pairing pumpkin pie’s classic cinnamon spice with fiery habanero peppers. They give the richly malty fall seasonal an enlivening, spicy punch that distinguishes Atomic Pumpkin from the spiced pack. Dogfish Head Punkin Ale
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Since 1995, Delaware’s Dogfish Head has brewed this culinary inspired brown ale that’s packed with pumpkin flesh, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Punkin is both more warming and balanced than most pumpkin beers. “It’s the perfect accompaniment for a hearty dinner or a sunset hike,” Dogfish Head founder Sam Calagione has said. Two Roads Brewing Roadsmary’s Baby
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The Connecticut brewery takes a different path to create this cult favorite pumpkin ale. The spiced beer is aged in rum barrels by Two Roads for a spirited twist that’s not unlike boozy pumpkin pie. Smoked BeersA crackling backyard fire can set the stage for sipping a rauchbier, a style of beer made with smoked malts. If you like BBQ, you might love a few smoked beers. Alaskan Brewing Co. Smoked Porter
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In 1988, inspired by Alaska’s can-do brewers who once kilned their own malts, Alaskan cofounder Geoff Larson asked a salmon smokehouse to smoke some malt over alder wood. He then brewed a robust beer with the smoky malt and glacier water from the Juneau Icefield, creating one of America’s earliest and most enduring versions of rauchbier. Seek out the annual release on November 1. Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Marzen
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Bacon lovers, this beer is for you. Brewed with malt smoked over beechwood by Schlenkerla, this delightfully hammy beer is highlighted by flavors of dark fruit and even chocolate. The beer might seem intense on its own, so try drinking a bottle alongside some brisket or pulled pork. Smoke flavor will recede, and you’ll get the beer’s true flavor. Festbier and Marzen LagersWhether you’re tailgating before a football game or pulling on lederhosen for an Oktoberfest party, you’ll want to stock up on these signature fall lagers. The malty and robust marzen and golden festbier lagers are a little stronger than your average light lager but no less refreshing. P.S. Oktoberfest celebrations start in September, not October. Jack’s Abby Copper Legend
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Who says you can’t get a jumpstart on fall drinking? Starting in August, the Massachusetts lager specialist unveils its annual ode to Oktoberfest imbibing. The lager’s name is truth in advertising from Jack's Abby: It’s the color of freshly minted pennies—a caramel-packed refresher that’s toasty and totally ready to drink by the liter. Firestone Walker Brewing Company Oaktoberfest
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To distinguish this fall lager, Firestone Walker finishes aging its marzen in French oak barrels. The process further smooths out the lager, adding a touch of vanilla and tannic complexity that would be welcome with a glass of good bourbon. Commerzienrat Riegele Privat
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Established in 1386, family-owned Brauhaus Riegele continues to excel at making lagers like this lauded festbier that features heirloom Steffi barley, a German variety, and the brewery’s unique yeast strain. The lager is fermented cold for two-plus months to produce a snappy, floral festbier with a touch of honey. Weihenstephaner Festbier
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Some breweries just get better with age. The Bavarian State Brewery of Weihenstephan is reportedly the world’s oldest brewery, with beer production dating back to 1040, and its festbier remains a master class in refinement. The golden festbier is brewed with native-grown Halltertauer hops that impart a floral, spicy profile that aligns well with roast chicken. Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest
Sierra Nevada’s annual Oktoberfest collaboration with an independent German brewery is among our most anticipated releases—and this edition absolutely delivered. Brauerei Gutmann, 2024’s partner, is largely known for its traditional wheat beers and Sierra Nevada gave over a portion of the malt bill to the grain. Scott Jennings, technical brewmaster at Sierra Nevada, says that the “wheat malt adds more sensation of a creamy, smooth mouthfeel without adding actual sweetness.” Overall, the festbier strikes a delicious balance between spicy, subtly floral hops and toasty, lightly kilned malts. Amber and Brown AlesCooler weather calls for richer beers that lean on malt character, namely the amber and brown ales. Some versions opt for a heavier hand with hops and complementary flavors such as maple syrup. Left Hand Brewing Sawtooth Amber Ale
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The veteran Colorado brewery began life in 1993 as Indian Peaks, before changing its name to Left Hand in honor of Arapahoe tribal leader Chief Niwot (“Left Hand”). One thing that’s unchanged: the brewery’s launch beer, Sawtooth, that's named after a Colorado mountain. The amber ale matches pleasant malt sweetness with an earthy, somewhat pine-y bitterness due to Willamette, Cascade, U.S. Goldings, and CTZ hops. Harpoon Brewery Flannel Friday
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Don’t wait until Friday to crack a can of this malty fall seasonal that stitches together a brown ale and red IPA. The autumnal ale from Harpoon is layered with Citra and Cascade hops for a citrusy, piney profile that’s ideal for IPA fans burned out on too much haze. Cigar City Brewing Maduro Brown Ale
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The Tampa neighborhood of Ybor City was once known as the cigar capital of the world. Cigar City pays homage to the incendiary past with Maduro, an English-style brown ale named after a cigar variety famed for its dark wrapper. The chocolatey, toffee-tinged brown ale is brewed with flaked oats, resulting in a silky sip that’s a solid friend to grilled steak and fireside chats with friends. Lawson's Finest Liquids Mad River Maple Ale
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Two of Vermont’s greatest exports are maple syrup and beer. Lawson’s unites them in this imperial-strength amber ale made with Vermont maple syrup and named after the Mad River Valley, which is home to some of the state’s top maple syrup makers. The brawny amber ale isn’t too sweet due to a pleasant but not overpowering bitterness. Partner a can with leaf peeping. Porters, Stouts, and SchwarzbiersWhen the nights grow longer, you’ll want to turn to warming porters and stouts that taste of chocolate and coffee thanks to the use of dark malts. You’ll also want to look for a schwarzbier, a dark lager that should be your go-to grilling beer. Kostritzer Schwarzbier
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One of the biggest misconceptions in brewing is that dark beers are heavy. To burst that myth, try this classic German schwarzbier. The dark lager from Kostritzer drinks dry and light, and you’ll delight in the rounded flavors of roasted coffee and dark chocolate. It’s an ideal choice to drink alongside grilled sausage. Bell’s Brewery Kalamazoo Stout
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It’s tough these days to find a stout that’s not been loaded with candy, breakfast cereal, or other sweet treats. This blacktop-colored stout is testament to the fact that sometimes simpler is better. First brewed in 1988 by Bell's, the classic Kalamazoo is a smooth operator that tastes of dark chocolate and roasted coffee, along with a bit of anise from brewer’s licorice. Surly Brewing Darkness Barrel-Aged
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Since 2006, Surly Brewing has celebrated spooky season with the October release of Darkness, a monstrously strong imperial stout that tastes of cherries, raisins, toffee, and chocolate. Each year’s release features a different label, and Surly regularly releases special editions aged in different bourbon barrels and dosed with special ingredients like cold-smoked cherries. Allagash Haunted House
This perfect-for-fall beer draws on the Maine’s brewery’s love of rich, roasty porters and its own dry, hoppy House Ale. The result is a sort of Belgian-tinged Black IPA that’s hoppier and lighter-bodied than a porter or stout. It has a spicy, citrus hop character that’s more on par with a pale ale than bitter punch of an aggressive IPA. Pale Ales and IPAsIn the fertile fields of the Pacific Northwest, late summer is harvest time for hops, the little green flowers that add aroma, flavor, and bitterness to beer. Most hops are dried and packaged for later use. But some freshly picked hops are rushed to breweries to create a fleeting taste of the harvest season: freshly hopped pale ales and IPAs. Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale
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This seasonal treat is brewed during the hop harvest, with cones rushed straight from the farms to Sierra Nevada's brew kettles. The result is heady perfume of citrus- and pine-forward American hops over red-hued malt bill that's a touch pinier than the average IPA. Other Half Space Diamonds
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This modern classic exemplifies the hazy IPA, packed to the can seams with the peach and passionfruit flavors of Galaxy hops. The flavor is big—massive really—but a smooth, not quite sweet malt backbone balances out the bold hops for a surprisingly balanced, pleasantly warming IPA. Three Floyds Broo Doo
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This modern classic exemplifies the hazy IPA, packed to the can seams with the peach and passionfruit flavors of Galaxy hops. The flavor is big—massive really—but a smooth, not quite sweet malt backbone balances out the bold hops for a surprisingly balanced, pleasantly warming IPA. Non-Alcoholic BeersPerhaps the greatest advancement in beer of the last decade is the elevation of non-alcoholic beer to a beverage that indeed tastes like beer. We admit they're not all winners, but the best ones are practically indistinguishable from their full-strength peers. Guinness 0
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It tastes just like Guinness—can there be higher praise than that? Overthink this beer and you might notice the body is a touch thinner, but otherwise it feels like a clone. It features the same nitrogenation, snappy bite, and roasted barley. Partake Brewing Oktoberfest
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Partake recalls the classic amber lagers of Oktoberfest with this crisp, quaffable beer. Toasted barley dominates, but isn't overwhelming, and is balanced by a kiss of spicy German hops. Pair with a giant pretzel and you're ready to fest. Athletic Brewing Free Wave
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With a little more body and a ton more hops than most non-alcoholic IPAs, Free Wave satisfies and feels substantial—like a good hazy IPA should. Athletic brews Free Wave with a trio of crowd-pleasing American hops—Citra, Mosaic, and Amarillo—that bring bold juicy citrus flavors and aromas. Related: The 50 Best Beers in the World Медиа: | ↑ |
The best upper-body workout should comprise a combination of exercises. Whether you're on the hunt for a big chest or sleeve-splitting arms, you need constant stimulation to keep muscles guessing. Some of the best upper-body exercises include equipment like barbells, dumbbells, and machines, but others just require your own body weight or resistance bands. Believe it or not, you don't have to hit a three-plate bench in order to do the best upper-body workout for men. On a mission to find a full upper-body workout? We combed through our database to find the exercises that will give you the most bang for your buck. They’ll target and trigger muscle growth in your back, biceps, triceps, chest, forearms, and shoulders, giving you one killer upper-body strength workout. Most of these exercises can be modified, too. (For instance, one-arm rows can be done with either a cable pulley or a dumbbell, and a face pull can be done with a band, TRX, or cable pulley) during an upper-body workout routine. So, mix up the variations by using either your body weight, a resistance band, a dumbbell, or a suspension trainer, depending on your personal fitness goals and the readily available equipment you have. Here are 10 strength-training moves to create the best upper-body workouts. Related: 10 At-Home Workouts to Lose Weight and Build Muscle Best Upper-Body Workout of All Time1. Pushup Beth Bischoff How to Do It
2. Bench Press Beth Bischoff How to Do It
3. Overhead Press Beth Bischoff How to Do It
4. Incline Bench Press James Michelfelder How to Do It
5. One-Arm Row Beth Bischoff How to Do It
6. Chinup/Pullup James Michelfelder How to Do It
7. Hammer Curl Beth Bischoff How to Do It
8. Lying Tricep Extension James Michelfelder and Therese Sommerseth How to Do It
9. Bentover Lateral Raise James Michelfelder How to Do It
10. Face Pull James Michelfelder How to Do It
How Should I Split My Upper-Body Workout?"There is no 'perfect' split because you can see progress in many different ways, but I always advise a push/pull split," says Nike Global Performance Trainer David Carson. "It's a great way to develop balance in the upper body and also reduce injury." For people who don't have the time to train individual muscle groups, he suggests using a two day split (at least to start). The workout split would include a pull day where you train your back, rear delts, and biceps and a push day where you train your chest, shoulders, and triceps. Related: The Push-Pull Workout for a Well-Balanced Upper Body How Many Upper-Body Exercises Should I Do Per Workout?"It is hard to say an exact number because there are many different smart approaches to training," says Nike trainer and cofounder of Sona Fitness Kenna Johnson. "However, generally speaking, after you properly build up and activate each muscle group, you want four to eight upper body exercises as the 'meat' of your workout. The reason for the wide range depends on your goal. For example, if you are doing a superset workout, you will have a higher amount of exercises so you can work the same muscle group back to back." How Should I Split My Upper-Body Workout?"Split your upper body workout by anterior chain and posterior chain," Johnson says. "The anterior chain muscles lie on the front side of the body and the posterior chain muscles lie on the back side of the body. For your anterior chain workout, focus on the chest, anterior deltoids, and biceps. For your posterior chain workout, focus on [the] posterior deltoid, rhomboids, lats, traps, and levator scapulae. Related: Daniel Craig's 'No Time to Die' Strength and Conditioning Workout What Upper-Body Muscles Should I Work Out Together?"To get the best and most out of a session, it is great to group muscles based on their function," Carson says. "For example, chest and triceps are both push muscles and many moves that utilize the chest also use the triceps. My favorite groupings are chest and triceps, back and biceps, and shoulders and traps." Медиа: | ↑ |
