The Coolest Pieces of Gear We Tested This Week

Chubo Inox Gyutou 210mm

The Inox, part of Chubo’s introductory line, is a damn-good chef knife. Multi-purpose doesn’t even scratch the surface. The Japanese-made knife cuts through potatoes like butter, gives an impressibly close chop on herbs and vegetables, and trims meat effortlessly. It’s a popular choice for line cooks as it’s incredibly sharp, stain resistant, and a breeze to maintain. — Brittany Smith, Senior Editor

[$125; chubo.com]

Glerups

For city dwellers, we are trodding the floorboards of our apartments pretty heavily these days. I’m softening the blow wearing Glerups, made from sustainable wool from New Zealand. They’re uber-comfortable since they adjust to your foot shape, regulate temperature, come in several styles, and have either a leather or rubber sole (mine are the latter). Now’s the time for creature comforts, and also supporting socially responsible businesses—Glerups checks all the boxes. — Marjorie Korn, Senior Editor

[$95 to $155; glerups.com]

Wrangler Rooted Collection Jeans

While we appreciate the advancements and options that the glut of new denim and jean companies have brought to the market lately, one thing remains clear: Fashion is fleeting, but Style lasts forever.

The Wrangler Rooted Collection jeans are, without a doubt, the most comfortable I’ve put on in a long time. They’re not cut too slim, or washed too stiff, and they’re definitely not cowboy-cut. That just means they’ll be wearable forever, no matter the trend. They look great rolled up with sneakers, and over every pair of boots in my closet. 

The Rooted Collection features five pairs: the Alabama Jean, the Georgia Jean, the North Carolina Jean, the Tennessee Jean, and the Texas Jean. Each is made of sustainable cotton grown in that state, and all are manufactured in the USA. Wrangler Rooted jeans each have their own style, wash, and cut, as well as cool state-specific design details: custom shanks and rivets, logo patches, and pocket prints. Each jean is unique, but they all carry an iconic, simple silhouette that’ll be wearable for years.

The family farms supplying cotton to the Rooted Collection are part of the Wrangler Science and Conservation program for land stewardship and soil health best practices. These methods build crop resilience, reduce water and energy use, fight erosion, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Wrangler aims to source 100 percent of its cotton from farms using these land stewardship practices by 2025.—Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[$99; wrangler.com]

Balcones “1” Texas Single Malt Whisky

Big, bold, and rich, this Texas-sized sippin’ whisky is as full of pioneer spirit as the state that bears its name. A distinctly American take on a conventional European liquor, Balcones “1” is darker and richer than Scotch and bursting with natural flavors. As you might expect, it’s deliciously close to a fine bourbon. Single-malt traditionalists may scoff, but we laud Balcones for its fearless approach. 

The aroma bears hints of toffee and overripe fruits but on the palate, you’ll find layers of toasted malt and honey. A long, satisfying stone-fruit finish is accompanied by cinnamon, cloves—and a 106-proof warmth that’s as welcoming as the folks down in Hill Country.—Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[prices vary; balconesdistillery.com]

Outdoor Research Capstone Heated Sensor Glove

Skiing, tailgating, and hiking in sub-zero temps are all made better with heated gloves. We don’t mean cramming hand-warmer packets into your ski gloves. This pair from Outdoor Research has two battery packs nestled along the front and back of the hand to mitigate cold spots. If you suffer from poor circulation, the heat output on these suckers is just plain impressive. They’re quick to heat and adjust if you want to ramp up or dial back the toastiness. While they’re touchscreen compatible, you might have a hard time using your phone due to their size. — Brittany Smith, Senior Editor 

[$500; outdoorresearch.com]

GMC Sierra MultiPro Tailgate

Pick-up owners have long clamored for easier access to the truck’s bed. And for many, hopping up into, and getting down out of, the bed of a pick-up is a dicey proposition every time. The MultiPro tailgate lets you grab your gear without throwing out your back. And if you do need to get up there, the Multi-Pro eliminates all that awkward clambering. It’s as simple as climbing a stair.

The MultiPro is several tailgates in one clever unit. The main tailgate folds down just like the tailgate on any pickup; it’s actuated with the key fob, from the cab, or with a traditional door lever. Incorporated within that tailgate is a smaller, hinged fold-down section. At the touch of a button, it unfurls all the way down to create an entry step into the bed—and uncover a killer 100-watt Kicker audio system that’s designed for tailgate parties and beach bonfires. Or, you can fold it halfway down and pop the step up, to provide a bed extender with a vertical barrier; it’s perfect for hauling extra-long gear like surfboards, motorcycles, and lumber. Lastly, the inner section of the gate can be folded back up into the bed, giving you deeper access to your tools, gear, or luggage that’s stowed back there. Genius.

Some innovations are so blindingly obvious, so undeniably brilliant, you wonder how you ever got along without them in the first place. The GMC MultiPro tailgate qualifies. It’s available only on the SLT and Denali trims of the Sierra pick-up. For now.—Jon Langston, Commerce, Editor

[prices vary; gmc.com]

OXO 9-Cup Coffee Maker

If you’re a coffee drinker, you’ve probably searched far and wide for a well-designed machine that can get the job done each day. OXO’s 9-Cup coffee machine set-up, which has a Specialty Coffee Association certification, makes getting your caffiene fix a hell of a lot easier. It’s simple and straightforward to make up to nine cups: Once it’s plugged in, you add your ground coffee and water like usual and press the button to indicate how many cups you want. 2-4? 5-9? Turn the button, click it, and get ready for the day while a pot of joe brews. OXO made sure the water covers all your grounds so you get the best cup possible. But something that sets it apart from other machines is the carafe that will keep everything hot. The only real nitpick is that the cord is a bit on the shorter side, so you need to make sure you have a nearby outlet on your countertop. And if the 9-Cup version is too much, OXO plans to release an 8-Cup machine this summer. — John Lonsdale, Deputy Digital Editor

[$200; oxo.com]

Kelsen Collection Bundle

Many of us rely on tried-and-true hair products, body washes, and deodorants—so much so that we’re unreceptive to trying anything new. Well, if you’re in the mood to change things up a bit, then the Kelsen Collection Bundle is the ticket. The environmentally conscious brand has a full line of men’s products made from clean, organic ingredients (free of synthetic filters and microplastic). What’s more, everything is packaged in 100 percent recyclable bio-plastic tubes with compostable caps or recyclable glass jars. Founded by professional skateboard superstars Sean Malto and Curren Caples, along with pro surfers Jack Freestone and Mikey February, this brand is true to itself and practices precisely what it preaches. — Jon Perino, Senior Editor

[$68; kelsenproducts.com]

Amundsen Mountain Muck Low Cut Boots

Jorgen Amundsen launched Amundsen Sports in 2009 with the goal of producing gear that keeps you warm, inspired by his great uncle, Roland Amundsen’s, 1911 trip to the South Pole. Back then, Roland studied how the Inuits survived in brutal temps before making his own clothing. Fast forward to 2020 and we’ve got the Amundsen Mountain Muck Low Cut Boots. The vetegable-tanned leather boots are handmade in Montebelluna, Italy, and they sport Norwegian welt, a method of stitching the upper that creates a water-tight seam (often used in ski boots). A liner sandwiched inside the boot maintains your warmth. At first wear, the Vibram outsole was stiff, but it eventually softened, making this a very comfortable hiker that looks sharp enough to wear all season. — Sal Vaglica, Senior Editor

[$450; amundsensports.com]

Rodd & Gunn Harper Waxed Jacket

You want to look sharp but expect your clothes to have utilitarian functionality. We get it: Finding the perfect jacket to toggle between ambling around a mountain town by day to enjoying a night on the town is damn near impossible. But the folks at Rodd & Gunn have garnered a devoted following for their ability to deliver on that premise. Take the Harper Waxed Jacket. The field jacket is made with Italian fabric and durable press-stud closures. I especially like the corduroy trim on the inner collar, front zip storm flap, and removable quilted inner to keep warm amid frigid temps. It’s a versatile and ruggedly handsome addition to your wardrobe. — Jon Perino, Senior Editor

[$498; roddandgunn.com]

Carhartt Quick Duck Sawtooth Parka

A lot of parkas seem like they’re just for show. But the Quick Duck Sawtooth Parka from Carhartt really works. Perfectly structured and ruggedly handsome, it was pretty stiff out of the box. But now that it’s broken in, it’s still rugged but no longer rigid.

The Sawtooth is made with quick duck canvas, which is lighter but tougher than traditional sandstone duck. Pockets are bountiful inside and out, and there’s plenty of adjustability that lets you dial in the ideal fit. The strong, two-way zipper closure has a snap-button weather flap, and combined with triple-stitched, fully sealed seams there’s just no way inclement weather is getting in. Thinsulate insulation provides warmth without the weight, and to top off all that weather-resistance, it’s got Carhartt’s Storm Defender waterproof coating, which stops water but is somehow super-breathable. 

The details and durability are typical Carhartt. But what’s got me truly appreciating the Quick Duck Sawtooth Parka is its $200 price tag. You could pay two or three (or four?) times that much for a parka from some trendy tech company or fancy fashion label, and it wouldn’t work as hard, last as long, or look any better than this. It’s available in black or classic Carhartt brown.—Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[$200, carhartt.com]

Hello Activated Charcoal Toothpaste

I’ve had great luck with peroxide-based teeth-whitening kits (the ones from Smile Direct Club and Colgate both earn high marks). But I have to admit that Hello Activated Charcoal Toothpaste, when used twice a day, worked almost as quickly and just as well. It brushed away coffee stains and visibly whitened my teeth within a week or two. It might not get you the gleaming-white grill of a presidential candidate—but it’s easy, affordable, and tastes great. Opt from flavors like matcha green tea, hemp seed oil and mint, dragon fruit, and more. — Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[from $7; hello-products.com]

Olukai Lae’ahi Slip On sneakers

Olukai’s Lae’Ahi Slip On sneakers are the perfect compromise between the freedom of bare feet and the safeguard of high-quality footwear—especially during outdoor excursions. The lightweight beach sneakers feature a durable mesh forefoot for extra breathability and a soft microfiber lining for comfort; plus a lightweight EVA midsole and a “Wet Grip Rubber” outsole enable you to navigate slippery surfaces with confidence. They also boast Olukai’s trademarked “Drop-In-Heel” and a removable/washable insole. They provide everything you need to explore the great outdoors without compromising any of the island soul they were conceived from. — Jon Perino, Senior Editor

[$98; olukai.com]

Philips 3200 LatteGo

We thought that an analog machine was the only way to get a decent cup of espresso at home. But the LatteGo is the latest smart coffee maker to change that sentiment. While smart espresso machines make it easier to dose out the grind and tamp it properly, Philips does all the work for you. Once you load in the beans and pour in some cold milk, you just select your beverage of choice and press a button: The LatteGo grinds the beans, tamps them, then brews on autopilot. But the best part is the café-quality milk foam, which takes only a few seconds to generate. It’s sleek and pretty easy to keep clean. Control freaks can dial in the grind size and make a few other adjustments until the machine makes an espresso with a strong crème game. Jut know that, at 18 pounds with a 17×14.5-inch footprint, it’ll take up some serious counter space. — Sal Vaglica, Senior Editor

[$800; usa.philips.com]

The ONE Smart Piano Keyboard

Kids these days—it’s impossible to get them off screens. If they can’t touch, scroll, or watch, it’s a struggle to keep them engaged. That’s why the ONE Smart Piano is such a big hit in my house. With tablet and smartphone connectivity, The ONE syncs with an app that lets kids (or adults) learn songs, practice exercises, and more. The ONE has a minimalist design; most of the functions (EQ, MiDi connections, 128 instrument sounds) and features (lessons, games, and sheet music) are available on the app. 

But here’s the kicker: The keys light up! As our kids watch the screen and follow along with whichever songs or lesson they’re playing, the key for the next note to be played lights up red. It’s a great way to teach scales, songs, and hand-eye coordination. It’s a far better alternative to mindlessly watching a TV show. And hey, the adults in the house enjoy it, too. If we can ever get on it. — Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[$300; amazon.com]

Mous Limitless 2.0 Case

For the past decade, whenever I got a new iPhone, the first thing I did was buy a protective case. I started with an Otterbox, then switched to LifeProof, and always relished entertaining friends by casually chucking my phone into the air and watching their faces as it slammed onto the pavement. Then I’d casually stroll over and pick it up unscathed. But whenever I freed my phone from its plastic and rubber suit of armour, I was always amazed at how light (and beautiful) the original device was. I’d even use it unprotected (the horror!) when I would go to a fancy event. Then I heard about Mous. The London-based company has created an impact-absorbing material they call AiroShock, which keeps the phone safe from being dropped even at ridiculous heights (check out the proof on YouTube) all the while keeping the phone’s profile as slim as possible. The real walnut backing I got feels amazing to hold, and the cases also come in bamboo, leather, shell, and aramid carbon fiber. Finally, a durable exoskeleton with elegance in one package. — Ambrose Martos, Research Editor

[from $49.99; mous.co]

Original Grain Alterra Chrono 44mm

Original Grain watches do more than tell the time—they tell a story. They’re made with reclaimed hardwood and stainless steel. Woodgrain options range from blondes, reds, and blacks, while the stainless steel bands and cases come in multiple finishes. The source of that reclaimed wood can be Kentucky Bourbon barrels or Yankee Stadium seats, so every timepiece is truly the only one of its kind. We love the Brewmaster and Koa Stonewashed Series, particularly the Alterra Chrono 44mm, with its two-tone face and rugged but elegant countenance. — Jon Langston, Commerce Editor

[from $429; amazon.com]

Thule Crossover 2 Carry On Spinner

A few weeks back we swung through Denver to check out the latest gear at the Outdoor Retailer trade show. While comfortable shoes are a must for covering the show, a close second is a reliable bag. We packed the Crossover 2 Carry On Spinner with four days of clothes to see how Thule’s latest overhead friendly bag handles. While the design looks minimalist, the Crossover 2 has a few features that make it easy to pack, roll, and stow. Inside, there is an ideal mix of bulk and organized storage: One half keeps clothing sequestered from the other with a zippered mesh wall. The other side is open storage with compression snaps that are simple to use and cinch down. The rear wheels are larger than a normal spinner bag, which help with instances where you want to pull the bag. The telescoping hand is also rock-solid. Pull handles on two sides of the bag help with yanking it and out of the overhead. With compression packing cubes we had enough space for all our gear, but if you need a little wiggle room, a zipper converts the bag from 35L to 43L. [$350; thule.com]

— Sal Vaglica, Senior Editor

Boll & Branch Colorblock Sheet Set

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to have to break in my sheets, washing them a dozen times to yield that airy, sumptuous next-to-skin feel expected of luxury bedding. With Boll & Branch’s Colorblock Collection, you don’t have to. Their newest offering is made of 100 percent organic cotton that drapes over your body without trapping heat or feeling oppressive. Their classic white sateen comes with colorblocking in shore (grayish blue) and pewter (grey) that lends the perfect amount of contrast, maintaining a modern yet minimalist aesthetic. I also love the company’s commitment to ethical manufacturing. They’ve made a stand against unfair pay and living wages for their farmers and factory workers, as well as the employment of child labor. If you’re going to update your bedding for spring, Boll & Branch gets my top recommendation. — Brittany Smith, Senior Editor

[From $220; bollandbranch.com]

Ruffino 2014 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione

I did something a bit sacrilegious last weekend. I was in Portland, Oregon, visiting friends—and as a thank-you, brought with me a bottle of the Ruffino 2014 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione. It’s a big, fruity wine with notes of chocolate and spice—which actually stood up great to some hearty vegetarian chili. Plus, it was fun to learn that Ruffino Ducale Oro dates back to 1890, when it was the official wine supplier to the Italian Royal Court. As for why it was sacrilegious—Portlanders prefer their local pinot noir, but the Chianti was good enough that they let it slide. — Marjorie Korn, Senior Editor

[$40; ruffino.com]