The Coolest Pieces of Gear We Tested This Week

Dakine Packable Duffle 40L

Sometimes you have more when you arrive than when you leave. Occasionally you return home with more than you came with. Think about men with mustaches traveling from Columbia. Or the guy from Queens who owns a waste management company traveling out to Vegas with an “extra” bag that he doesn’t need on the way home. Ok… bad examples. Your reasons are probably less suspect. But you do occasionally have to travel with more one way than round trip and it’s always good to have a sturdy bag that you can easily stash.

Check out the Dakine Packable Duffle 40L. Part of Dakine’s Venture Series, it’s made with Dakine’s well-known durability that packs into its own internal pocket. When you’re carrying your gear, it’s a light, but good-size duffle that you carry at your side or on your back with deployable lightweight mesh backpack straps. Features adjustable side compression, an exterior zip pocket and is made of recycled polyester. When you’re not, it packs into a tiny triangle that takes up no room in your other luggage. You could probably use it for a pillow as well. This is an ultra-versatile bag.—Jon Coen, Men’s Journal contributor

[$45; dakine.com]

Tecovas The Knox

The moment you crack open a brand new box of Tecovas cowboy boots, your nose is met with the intoxicating aroma of genuine leather. Designed in Austin, Texas and handmade in León, Mexico, every Tecovas boot is the result of dedicated craftsmanship, premium materials, and traditional styling. That’s certainly the case with the newest addition to their proud lineage of cowboy boots––The Knox. 

This premium roper boot is designed to provide optimal comfort and performance––whether on the ranch or the honky tonk dance floor. The oiled, full grain bovine leather is treated to resist water and stains, while the waterproof seams further enhance their durability. 

The first time you put them on, you’ll immediately notice how comfortable they are. This is due to Knox’s one-inch Vibram wedge outsole that provides outstanding cushion and superior traction––a rare combination for cowboy boots. Supremely comfortable, dependably durable, and forever stylish––The Knox is the real deal.––Jack Haworth, Contributing Editor

[$215; tecovas.com]

FootJoy x Harris Tweed Premiere Series – Black Watch Packard Limited Edition

If style means as much to you as performance—especially on the golf course—then we have precisely what you need: Introducing the FootJoy x Harris Tweed Limited Edition Premiere Series Black Watch Packard golf shoes. These shoes epitomize what it means to blend timeless style with the highest quality of craftsmanship.

Featuring genuine Harris Tweed wool cloth—each shoe is adorned with a unique piece of the legendary wool cloth dyed and spun off the coast of Scotland—which makes for a truly remarkable set of footwear that’ll compliment your game in every way, round after round. And just to put this aesthetic into perspective: Every meter of the fabric must be handwoven in the homes of Outer Hebrides islanders to ensure it upholds the quality standards protected by the Harris Tweed Act of Parliament. Sold yet? If not, then the tech specs that you’ve come to expect from the fine minds at FootJoy will surely send you to the link below.

They boast FootJoy’s VersaTrax+ outsole that’s specifically engineered with traction elements that are designed for performance on-course, without compromising wear-to-the-course versatility. They boast an OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed for an ultra cushy feel, with no complaints at all from us after walking 18 holes. And last (but not least) the outer is constructed from premium full-grain leather, and calfskin leather detailing for a beautifully classic look that’ll please players from all generations. These are the finest golf shoes we’ve ever played a round with.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$249.95; footjoy.com]

Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Surf Watch

Tide watches have been around for a long time, but Garmin has taken it to the next level by integrating its vast GPS technology into a watch designed around surfing with every other activity that you can possibly imagine.

Let us start by stating that this is not a casual watch for simple activities. With so many functions and so much capability, it is designed for more than the casual surfer or athlete needs. This is a certified super computer on your wrist that can basically have an unlimited battery life. The solar aspect means it charges by the sun, which is ideal for the full time waterman. Or charge it by your bed at night. And once you get the watch wired (which will take some time), you can work to customize the functions to preserve battery life, only using the ones you need. And it pairs with your phone for convenient texts and other info.

It’s also essentially bulletproof, shock and water resistant up to 100 meters in a fiber-reinforced polymer case with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla glass. As far as the surf aspect, most notably, the Instinct Solar works with Surfline Sessions, which will create a video of ever wave you ride in front of any of their 740 HD cameras around the world. Although the technology isn’t brand new, it still feels like the equivalent of getting your own jetpack. And if you’re not in front of one of those cameras (those spots tend to get a little crowded) you can still record your waves, length of ride and top speeds of each session.

This is also a high tech sports watch, to keep track of your snowboarding, swimming, running, biking, hiking, rowing, strength training, and anything else you do to keep in shape for wave riding. The wristband has the ability to monitor your body stats and see how your body is working or reacting to different conditions. The Pulse OX function works to help acclimate to altitude or even monitor your sleep. It even goes as far as pairing with different GPS devices to trigger an SOS to emergency response teams for when your adventures take you just too far out of bounds. This watch might be from the future.—Jon Coen, Men’s Journal contributor

[$499; garmin.com]

CRKT Trask

If you’re in the market for a new, ultra-dependable and capable every-day tool, then you need to check out the Trask from CRKT. Our favorite part about this knife is its simplicity. No unnecessary bells or whistles, just what you need—without losing sight of handsome design.

The blade is made from D2 steel for outstanding durability, and the handle is built from superb glass-reinforced nylon. This whole package is lightweight and tough-as-nails. It has a really nice low-profile with a very well-designed pocket clip for ease of carry. But one of our favrotie things about this knife is its remarkably smooth opening design: The IKBS ball bearing pivot deploys the blade in one of the finest fashions we’ve ever seen. It really a pleasure to use on a daily basis, and it hasn’t let us down yet.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$99.99; crkt.com]

Smith Express MIPS Helmet

There is no substitute for simplicity. You can keep your bells and whistles. Smith has created a simple, streamlined helmet for day-to-day cycling and commuting. The Express MIPS is a low profile, comfortable helmet that protects your dome, all the way to Point B.

It’s minimalist in shape, but still offers that advanced MIPS Brain Protection System, offering angled impact protection that you really need for whipping down the boulevard on your way to work or doing some country miles on the weekend. It has 13 fixed air vents to keep the air flowing, a removable fabric visor and integrated rear vent light. Pop-in rear light makes you visible to drivers.—Jon Coen, Men’s Journal contributor

[$100; smithoptics.com]

Made In Oyster Shucker

If you live by any coastline, oysters are a summertime staple—whether enjoyed raw or grilled with nduja butter. But shucking is no easy matter (use our guide for the right way to shuck an oyster in four simple steps), especially if you don’t have the right tool. This shucker features a walnut handle and stainless steel blade designed specifically for shucking New England oysters (the company originated in Boston), but its blade allows you to slide into the hinge of any oyster with ease. We like the crosshatch design on the handle; it lends greater grip and durability. — Brittany Smith, deputy digital editor

[$49; madeincookware.com]

Big Agnes TwisterCane BioFoam Pad

With camping season in full swing, it’s time to get your outdoor sleeping arrangements in order. And aside from a high-quality sleeping bag, a sleeping pad is one of the most important pieces of gear to have in your kit. Our favorite pad this season is by far the Big Agnes TwisterCane BioFoam Pad. Not only does this 20×72-inch pad pack down to a nice compact package, but it’s ultra-lightweight (only 14 ounces), and is impressively comfortable being only half-an-inch thick.

It’s made from EVA foam that contains more than 60-percent sustainably grown sugarcane resin, and it’ll serve you all year long, no matter what season you’re getting after your excursions. It really is one of the best sleeping pads we’ve ever used, and if you’re planning on getting outdoors this summer, we highly recommend looking into the TwisterCane BioFoam Pad from the fine folks at Big Agnes. You won’t be disappointed.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$49.95; bigagnes.com]

Power Plate Mini+

After an intense workout, long run, or even a tough day at the office, your muscles likely feel tight and sore. And while you can try to rub away the pain with your hands, a good massage gun takes your recovery to the next level. The Power Plate Mini+ is a portable and versatile handheld massager that offers pulsing relief wherever you need it most. 

The Mini+ weighs just under a pound, with its compact size perfect for taking it along to the gym, office or on trips. The two attachments and four different intensity levels provide a targeted massage that significantly aids in both recovery and warm-up by increasing blood flow, reducing muscle pain, and enhancing your range of motion. Additionally, one full charge via the USB-C cable results in an impressive five hours of runtime. And at an affordable price point of well under 200 dollars, you can enjoy instant muscle relief anytime, anywhere.––Jack Haworth, Contributing Editor

[$180; powerplate.com]

SAS High Street Lace-Up Sneaker

Finding that perfect shoe for summer can be a tall order. You want a shoe that will perform on most terrain, something that’s comfortable for long periods of time, something that will breathe, and something that simply looks good on your feet. Not many shoe brands cater to just about everything on your list, but SAS has nailed it with their High Street Lace Up Sneaker.

These shoes are ultra-durable, they feature perforated leather on the upper for excellent ventilation, a removable cushioned footbed for all-day comfort, and they simply look so nice on our feet. They can handle mild hikes, trips to the mall, nightly outings to the bar or restaurant, and even day trips to the beach. They’re styling paired with their performance capabilities fit just about every situation we can think of. And for people with wider-than-normal feet, the High Street features added depth in the toe for additional breathing room (one of our favorite features). These are our go-to all-season shoe that’ll last us well into the next seasons to come.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$219; sasshoes.com]

Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger

What’s better than a Sunday jog through the neighborhood? Better yet, what’s better than a Sunday afternoon nap on the couch? Well, for everything from active pursuits to lounging around the house, the Vuori Performance Jogger fits the bill. While we’d certainly consider these joggers to be legit activewear, they perfom just as well when you kick your feet up on the ottoman.

Their soft-stretch feel moves with you without any fuss, and they feature a shorter-than-normal inseam, which made for much less bulk around your ankles. Style meets performance, with a heavy dose of comfort. Wins across the board if you ask us.

For all your outdoor summertime activities—or all your indoor lazy afternoons—these joggers are the perfect solution. You should definitely have these in your athleisure arsenal. They’ll serve you well, in more ways than one.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$89; vuoriclothing.com]

USWE Hajker Pro 24 Daypack

It’s summertime and we’re emerging from our COVID hibernation to once again enjoy our time in the sunshine and get back to normal life. Which is why we think it’s the perfect time to get yourself into a capable pack to accommodate all the rigors of outdoor excursions that you’re sure to experience this season. Introducing the USWE Hajker Pro 24. There really aren’t many things that this pack cannot do for you.

The Hajker Pro 24 is a rolltop, weatherproof daypack that’s specifically designed for hardcore adventures. It boasts the brand’s bounce-free No Dancing Monkey 2.1 harness system and waist support belt, which keeps this pack securely to your back without any fuss of bouncing around or shifting of its position. It really is a genius design that we didn’t realize would be so amazing until we strapped this thing to our back and hit the trail—It’s crazy how much more pleasant a hike is when your pack simply stays put. (A not-so simple pleasure that we don’t think we can ever downplay again.)

It’s built from a super technical fabric (Robic + Uhmwpe Extreema Nylon) that makes for excellent durability and strength while upholding a very impressive lightweight feel. It has several dedicated pockets for everything you might need on your excursions, and the rolltop main compartment is waterproof. Not to mention that this pack has a super-slim profile that makes it feel so damn nice on your back, that you almost forget about how much you’re carrying. (This is a very refreshing feeling for us.)

This is the ultimate pack for all of your travels, and judging by its build quality, it’ll likely be that way for many years.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$269.95; uswe-sports.com]

LIVSN Flex Canvas Shorts

When it comes to outdoor activewear, LIVSN is always at the top of our list when it comes to performance. Not only are their pieces durable and capable, but they are also damn-comfortable. And their new Flex Canvas Shorts are our new go-to bottoms when it comes to everything from cycling to hiking to ‘beach day’ with the family.

These shorts are designed so well, that they cover just about any outdoor activity, while maintaining a comfort level that’s second to none, all packaged in a tapered fit that simply looks really nice (a huge plus when it comes to activewear, in our humble opinion). They’re made from sustainable EcoFlex canvas that moves with you however you torque them, and they’re reinforced in all the right palces for peace of mind while getting after it in the Great Outdoors.

Whether you’re a casual hiker, hardcore mountain biker, intermediate boulderer, avid skateboarder, adventure traveler—or anywhere in between—these shorts will perform. Period.

Bonus: They’ll even tackle all your daily chores and errands without making you feel like your overdressed for the occasion. Versatility is mantra here… These are the perfect summer shorts.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$79; livsndesigns.com]

Sterling XEROS Climbing Ropes

Sterling Rope Company is proud to announce the release of XEROS technology to most of their climbing ropes. XEROS is a new way to manufacture a UIAA Certified dry rope that is more effective, wear resistant, better for the environment, and at a lower cost. This also significantly reduces the number of SKUS and helps make the rope buying process easier on consumers and dealers. XEROS is exclusively available from Sterling Rope.

So, why are XEROS ropes so amazing? Wet rope is weaker rope. The numbers don’t lie: Rope loses 20% to 40% of its strength when wet. And that can happen if you’re caught in a downpour, climbing an icy pitch, or even just dealing with prolonged exposure to high humidity.

The solution? Dry rope. But it’s not a perfect solution. Traditional dry ropes are made “dry” with an exterior coating that keeps water out. That coating can wear (leaving the rope vulnerable to water), the finish can feel tacky (so it picks up dirt), and the process to coat the rope is labor-intensive—increasing cost and waste. Sterling wanted to do better and went back to the drawing board for what a dry rope could be. In the process, they uncovered a whole new way to make dry rope.

[Prices Vary; sterlingrope.com]

CRKT Provoke Compact

When it comes to EDC, many people are ultra-particular about the items they pack with them on a daily basis. Utility blades, specifically, are a very nit-picky segment for any person that finds comfort in being prepared with a tool that can (and will) come in clutch in a variety of situations. And we think that the Provoke Compact is the latest mind-blowing blade that we’ve seen from the brilliant crew over at CRKT.

First and foremost, the design of the original Provoke is unlike anything we’d ever seen before, and to take that same design and produce it in a slightly smaller package is sheer genius. Designed by Joe Caswell in Newbury Park, CA, the Provoke Compact features a 2.26-inch plain-edge blade with a stonewash finish, and an ultra-rugged aluminum handle for optimal lightweight feel without compromising durability.

This knife fits very neatly on your person, and the blade is deployed with one click flick of your thumb, utilizing CRKT’s Kinematic technology. This knife is just such a cool piece of gear, and for all of our outdoor summer excursions, this is our trusty tool that performs on all levels. If you’re looking for something different in your EDC kit this season, then look no further. This will get the job done, especially when that job is vital.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$150; crkt.com]

Vivelo Custom Bikes

Choosing that perfect bike for summertime can be a tall order. It should be a fun experience, but when you start to weigh one brand’s options against another’s—one company has the right color scheme you dig, but another brand has technical specs that align more with your needs—it can begin to feel taxing. So what’s more important to you? (Trick question… you don’t have to compromise on either end.)

We’d like to introduce you to Vivelo. They provide custom made-to-order bikes that are undoubtedly the finest bike we’ve had the pleasure of cruising on in quite some time. You can customize your bike from several frame and gear options, and then dial in eac the colors for each and every component of the bike—from the frame, cogs, gears shifters, spokes, tires, and even down to the tiny brand graphics and brake/gear cables. Seriously, you can make your bike into whatever you want, and then they deliver it almost entirely assembled, straight to your door.

If you’re particular about your cycling gear, then Vivelo is the ticket. We put together a ruggedly handsome Rider Boss bike with a gray and red color scheme, with Shimano Nexus 7-speed gears, and we couldn’t be more pleased with its performance on the road. Built from mostly aluminum parts, the bikes is lightweight and feels so solid on the pavement. They boast eco-leather covers on both the saddle and the grips, as well as front/rear LED lights for peace-of-mind while cruising after sundown.

In a world where many people are turning to the e-bike, we still feel like traditional human-powered bikes still have a very prominent place in our life. And the bike we’ve ridden from Vivelo exceeded our expectations when it comes to rideability and comfort (their saddles are extraordinarily comfortable), not to mention head-turning aesthetic features. We think it’s time to rethink the traditional bicycle, and Vivelo makes that a very simple and easy choice.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[Prices Vary; vivelo.com]

Sanuk Tow’d Up ST x Airstream Sandals

There are two things that are undoybtedly iconic symbols of summertime: Leather flip flops, and Airstream trailers. And when we found out that the footwear gurus at Sanuk had released a killer collaboration with Airstream, we had to get our hands on a pair of flip flops for this summer season… and we couldn’t be more stoked on the newly released Tow’d Up ST x Airstream sandals.

These things are so cushy and comfy with their Bloom x Soft Top foam midsoles, without compromising on durability, and always holding true to the fine craftsmanship you’d expect from Sanuk. They come adorned with epic custom Route 66 artwork on the footbed, as well as rubber Airstream Trailer outsoles, and even a license plate detail on the bottom. These flip flops might just be the coolest pair we’ve used this year.

If you’re in search of the perfect summer 2021 flip flop, then we’d be hard pressed to recommend anything else right now. And at a very reasonable price point, we can’t think of a reason why these shouldn’t be in your kit this season.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$60; sanuk.com]

Eddie Bauer BC Dura 3L Jacket

Even though summertime is officially here, there are still plenty of scenarios where a high-quality lightweight jacket comes in clutch. When the wind blows onshore and that evening chill sets in, when you’re hanging out all day on the fishing boat, or even when it’s late night and you’re deep in the backcountry on a multi-day excursion. A lightweight jacket performs year-round.

And this season, we discovered the Eddie Bauer BC Dura 3L Jacket. This thing is so perfect for so many situations. We wore it on a midday whale watching boat, utilized it on a beach camping trip with the kiddos, and it also came in handy on an early morning drizzly hike through the Southern California foothills. It packs up into nearly nothing, weighs a mere 11 ounces, while still boasting all-weather performance that is very impressive.

It’s waterproof with its StormRepel DWR, it’s features three-layer construction, and it’s  one of the most breathable jackets we’ve ever used. These are wins across the board if you ask us. Whether the sun’s out and you need to stow this in your pack, or the weather turns quickly and you need to layer up and throw this on over everything to keep you dry, this jacket performs for everything. Period. This should not only be your summertime go-to jacket, but also your all-year trusty companion.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$279; eddiebauer.com]

Ooni Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

The weather is warming up all over the country right now, as the official first day of summer is just about here. This means that it’s backyard cooking season, and it’s time to get prepped. However, we think it’s time you rethink your outdoor cooking endeavors and consider something slightly out of the box. We’re talking about an outdoor pizza oven. And the folks over at Ooni have just released their all-new Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Oven. And we feel like we’d be selling this thing short by categorizing it as only a “pizza oven.” This thing can cook just about anything—from veggies, to steaks, to even fresh-baked bread. But pizza is really where it shines in our humble opinion.

As the largest oven in the Ooni lineup, the Karu 16 can be powered by wood, charcoal, a combination of both (our favorite method), as well as propane with the optional Ooni Karu Gas Burner. This gives you the choice to cook with whatever you want on any given day. However, our favorite method is to fire up a base of premium lump charcoal and then top it with wood to get that beautiful flame hovering over the entire cooking surface while the charcoal keeps the overall base temperature consistent.

That smoky flavor and crispy texture just can’t be beat when it comes to homemade pizza. This oven can reach up to 950-degrees Fahrenheit in just 15 minutes, and is capable of cooking fresh, delicious pizza in just 60 seconds. Not to mention that this is the first (and only) pizza oven to be “Recommended for Domestic Use” by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana—they’re the acclaimed international authority on true Neapolitan pizza. That’s kind of a big deal in the pizza oven world.

This oven takes pizza night with the family to a whole new level, and now that gatherings with friends are coming back to life, it’ll certainly be the talk of your next backyard get-together. Who doesn’t love to build their own pizza and have it ready to eat in one minute flat? This oven is the crowd pleaser you’ve been looking for. Trust us. It’s available for pre-order now with ship dates coming soon.—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$799; ooni.com]

Ball and Buck Anorak 2.0 Jacket

Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman, or a casual angler with a simple love for the outdoors, the time is now to start gearing up for the summer season. Weekend trips to the lake with the boys, day trips by the stream with the kids, and even week-long camping trips off the grid with rod and reel in-hand and dinner to be caught. For any of these adventures—along with all your fishing hardware, of course—you’ll need a capable jacket. And we think the Anorak 2.0 from Ball and Buck is one of the finest we’ve ever worn.

Made from dry-waxed cotton, the Anorak 2.0 effectively repels water and wind, while still leaving you with plenty of range of motion for casting and moving about. It features genuine leather cording, multi-use tool attachment D-rings, Versa Patch attachable fly patch system, adjustable Velcro cuffs, water-resistant front pouch, leather waistband drawstring, all held together with impeccable solid antique brass hardware. This jacket is legit in every way.

You can finally retire your decades-old fly vest, and treat yourself to an upgrade that will not only function in every way you need, but also simply look damn handsome while doing so. And even if you don’t fish, this a hell-of-a jacket to add to your arsenal. It can handle a night on the town as well as it can tackle a week in the backcountry. Truly a fine piece of craftsmanship—But who would expect anything less from Ball and Buck?—Jon Perino, senior editor

[$348; ballandbuck.com]