This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

We love camper vans and trailers, but let’s face it — they’re expensive. Besides, all you really need to explore the great outdoors is a capable vehicle … well, that and some cool gear to make the camping and sleeping arrangements a bit more comfortable.

We spotted and tested quite a few interesting off-road- and overlanding-capable vehicles in 2023, as well as quite a few cool accessories you can use to outfit them. Here are some of our favorites.

2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter

All-New

2024 Toyota Tacoma

• $31,500.00 at toyota.com

Tacomas are rugged, durable and Goldilocks-sized — making them popular base vehicles for overlanding rigs. For the new 2024 model, Toyota is building one out from the factory. The Tacoma Trailhunter joins the TRD Pro at the top of the lineup. It packs a specialized Old Man Emu suspension and 33-inch Goodyear Territory all-terrain tires.

Learn more about the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter.

2023 Can-Am Maverick X3

Maverick

Can-Am Maverick X3

• $21,999.00 at brp.com

Can-Am’s Maverick X3 makes for an amazing day out on the trails, whether you’re racing or hitting the trail with the family in tow. It’s light on the accessories and storage options, but it makes up for it with excellent handling and a 200-horsepower motor that absolutely rips.

Learn about the Can-Am Maverick X3.

2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail

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2024 Lexus GX

• $64,250.00 at lexus.com

The 2024 Lexus GX debuted with a handsome new boxy style and a powerful new turbocharged V6 putting out 479 lb-ft of torque. A new Overtrail grade includes standard features like 33-inch all-terrain tires, an aluminum skid plate, an electronic locking rear differential and styling features like black overfenders and available two-tone paint.

Learn about the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail.

2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition

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GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition

• $60,000.00 at gmc.com

The AEV package builds on GMC’s standard AT4X by adding 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires on beadlock-capable wheels (including a spare one mounted in the bed, since there was nowhere else to put it), special stamped steel bumpers front and rear with a forward one ready for a winch, boron steel skid plates and an extra 1.5 inches of lift.

Learn about the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition.

2024 Ford Ranger Raptor

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2024 Ford Ranger Raptor

• $55,470.00 at ford.com

Ford has offered a Ranger Raptor abroad. Now, it’s coming to America. It packs the same Ford Performance 3.0-liter turbo V6 as the Bronco Raptor, with 405 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. It also gets an electronic two-speed transfer case. Upgrades include a reinforced boxed frame, 2.5-inch Fox live valve shocks, a Watts link rear suspension, locking front and rear differentials, 33-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires and optional beadlock wheels.

Learn about the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor.

2024 Jeep Wrangler

Wrangler

2024 Jeep Wrangler

• $4.00 at jeep.com
  $31,995.00 (100% off)

Jeep gave the Wrangler a mild refresh for 2024. The brand stayed true to the classic Wrangler formula, but added some cool upgrades: submersible-powered front seats, for example and a power box for 4xe owners to turn their PHEV battery pack into a rolling power source.

Learn about the new 2024 Jeep Wrangler.

Roofnest Condor 2 Rooftop Tent

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Roofnest Condor 2

• $3,545.00 at roofnest.com

Roofnest launched the Condor 2 rooftop tent in 2023, and as the name suggests, it’s an updated version of the original Condor. XL versions can accommodate additional sleepers. Plus, the tent now has helpful features like crossbars for additional gear storage and storage pockets for bedding.

Learn about the Roofnest Condor 2 rooftop tent.

2023 Yamaha Wolverine RMAX2

yamaha

Yamaha Wolverine RMAX2 1000

• $25,899.00 at yamahamotorsports.com

Yamaha’s sportiest RMAX handled whatever terrain we put it through on a 200-mile ride — and quite comfortably, too. The driving modes made throttle control extremely easy, and the cockpit comfort can be likened to your daily driver. The RMAX tackled each obstacle with power and precision, ultimately delivering a killer ride.

Learn about the Yamaha Wolverine RMAX2.

Jeep x Addax Overland Gladiator Camper

Addax Overland

Jeep x Addax Overland Gladiator Camper

• $4,000.00 at

Jeep recently announced its second collaboration with Utah-based Addax Overland: the new Jeep x Addax Gladiator Overlanding Camper. This modular camper shell is built with multi-piece construction, which allows customers to keep it simple or add on accessories and other elements to fully customize their setup.

Learn more about the Jeep x Addax Overland Gladiator Camper.

Thule Caprock Rooftop Platform

Moose Jaw

Thule Caprock Rack

• $949.95 at Moose Jaw

The Thule Caprock is a jack-of-all-trades rooftop platform that will open up all kinds of possibilities for your adventures, whether you’re looking for a solid foundation for a rooftop tent, space for you and all of your buddies’ mountain bikes or a way to safely schlepp a paddleboard to and from the local waterfront.

Learn more about the Thule Caprock rooftop platform.

Polaris Xpedition XP and ADV

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Polaris Xpedition XP/ADV

• $29,999.00 at polaris.com

A side-by-side may be the most capable, appropriate vehicle for going off the beaten path. But traditionally, they aren’t that comfortable or optimal for carrying your gear. Polaris has a solution with the all-new Xpedition XP and ADV, which the brand is calling “adventure side-by-sides.”

Learn about the Polaris Xpedition XP and ADV.

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When’s the last time you took a flight? Because, whether it was a jet-setting jaunt halfway around the globe or a brief domestic day trip, chances are you wandered through duty-free on the way to your gate. And, though you may have picked up a nice new pair of sunglasses along your way, or had a quick spritz of cologne, you likely walked straight past the selection of spirits.

And that was a mistake. Because, though a bottle may seem too cumbersome to stash in your carry-on, some of the rarest whiskeys in the world can be found among the fridge magnets and triple-sized Toblerones. Given the limited size of the sector, travel retail offers distilleries the chance to market small-batch, experimental offerings that only aficionados will appreciate; single-cask showpieces and spirits finished in alternative casks.

Of course, not every travel retail exclusive is worth your recently exchanged money. Many airport expressions are too young, launched prematurely simply to populate the market and with prices hiked high for the sake of scarcity. But others are just the ticket; perfect souvenirs to bring out at your next wingding — and bottles that give the term ‘whiskey flight’ a whole new meaning. Here are nine of the finest.

Ardbeg Smoketrails ‘Manzanilla Edition’

Ardbeg

Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition

• $179.99 at frootbat.com
  $399.99 (55% off)

• Proof: 92
• Price: $92.50
• Tasting Notes: Pine resin, brazil nuts and sea spray

Both the first-ever travel exclusive from Ardberg and the first expression bottled under the whisky maker’s new ‘Smoketrails’ banner, this non-chill filtered offering runs deep with flavors of bitter dark chocolate and buttery nuts. Manzanilla (a fortified wine comparable to sherry) infuses its casks with floral flavors and these notes, in turn, have seeped and steeped into this highly herbal whisky. Keep your palate primed for an unusual undertone: that oh-so-citrusy, musky scent of saddle soap.

The Glendronach Boynsmill Aged 16 Years

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The Glendronach Boynsmill Aged 16 Years

• $1.00 at glendronachdistillery.com

• Proof: 92
• Price: $112
• Tasting Notes: Baked apricot, sandalwood and walnut cream

A well-traveled, duty-free exclusive. Hailing from Aberdeenshire — but aged in casks flown in from Portugal and southern Spain — The Glendronach’s latest limited edition is a rich, reddish spirit that, whilst available at airports right now, is a whisky best saved for winter. There’s so much stone fruit and spice swirling around this whisky that it’s like swilling a Christmas cake — with hints of quince, nutmeg and plum pudding on the palate from initial velvety mouthfeel to full-bodied finish.

Maker’s Mark City Series ‘New York’ Edition

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Maker’s Mark City Series New York Edition

• $110.70 at makersmark.com

• Proof: 107.8
• Price: $95
• Tasting Notes: Nutmeg, caramel and fresh sawdust

Maker’s Mark will release three more ‘City Series’ edition bourbons by the end of the year. But this original expression (launched late last year alongside a ‘Sydney’ bottling) will be hard to beat. The result of more than a decade of wood-science experimentation, the brand’s Manhattan-inspired spirit was cooked up by tastemakers and New York natives, Erina Yoshida and Justin Ottervanger. It’s bolder and bigger than the Apple itself, and thrums with flavors of spice, oak and rich dark chocolate.

21 Year Old Midleton Very Rare Virgin American Oak

Midleton

21 Year Old Midleton Very Rare Virgin American Oak

• £499.99 at worlddutyfree.com

• Proof: 111
• Price: $617
• Tasting Notes: Chocolate honeycomb, orange zest and red chili pepper

Landing exclusively in London, Midleton Very Rare’s new ‘Virgin American Oak’ lives up to the brand’s vaunting name. The best of the four editions in the brand’s latest travel retail collection (launched in various European cities this April), Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman opted to age this particular 21-year-old Irish whiskey in oak — which suffuses the spirit with intricate spices, praline and salted caramel notes. It’s the least expensive bottle of the four, but that earthy woodland character and roasted coffee finish give it an edge.

Benriach Smoky Quarter Cask

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Benriach Smoky Quarter Cask

• $1.00 at benriachdistillery.com

• Proof: 92
• Price: $68
• Tasting Notes: Peppered malt, smoked nectarine and creamy pear

Highland peat is no normal mulch — it’s woodier and more robust. So, when whisky makers burn it to sweetly, smokily enhance their spirits, the resulting liquids brim with intense, tastebud-flustering flavors. Benriach’s travel-exclusive ‘Smoky Quarter Cask’ may have a light look (it’s a delicate olive gold in the glass), but that pale color belies a rich, smoky taste. Matured in 45-liter bourbon barrels, these small-sized casks mean more interaction between whisky and wood — allowing spiced vanilla, nutty oak and mellow smoke notes to take hold.

Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection ‘Vat 2’

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Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection Vat 2

• $299.99 at frootbat.com

• Proof: 86
• Price: $70
• Tasting Notes: Toasted bread, baking spices and candied peel

Four distinct expressions make up this new travel-exclusive collection from Glenfiddich. Aged using the ‘Solera Vat Process’ — during which casks are never fully emptied; simply refilled to overlay different generations of spirit on top of one another — each bottling also feels the influence of the wider drinks world, utilizing barrels that previously held bourbon, red wine or, for our favorite of the four, Spanish sherry casks. ‘Vat 2’ is exceedingly affordable for such an avant-garde whisky, and its leathery sweetness is tempered, with every sip, by a marmalade tartness.

Teeling 33 Year Old Very Rare Cask

Teeling Whiskey

Teeling 33 Year Old Very Rare Cask

• €3,480.00 at theloop.ie

• Proof: 104.2
• Price: $3,727
• Tasting Notes: Rum raisin, burnt toffee and gingerbread biscuits

You could spend this sort of money on a return ticket to New Zealand, but you’d be better off seeking out Teeling’s latest travel retail exclusive — a once-in-a-lifetime purchase created using some of the very oldest spirits in the whiskey maker’s warehouses. The palate is predominantly tropical, with rum notes soaking candied orange and dried fruits back to spicy life. But its most accessible aspect — and what makes this one the smoothest, sweetest bottle on our list — is the whiskey’s biscuity, molasses-heavy heart.

Tomatin 45 Year Old Travel Retail Exclusive

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Tomatin 45 Year Old Travel Retail Exclusive

• $1.00 at tomatin.com

• Proof: 83
• Price: $9,362
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruits, salted caramel chocolate and tangy citrus

Only 250 bottles of Tomatin’s latest travel retail exclusive will be available worldwide — and each will come with a bespoke metal certificate signed by the brand’s master distiller, Graham Eunson. The whisky itself has been languishing for 45 long years in Spanish sherry casks, and has spent this half-century well; developing distinctive flavors of tangy Sanguinello blood orange and herbal bitters. Presented in an exquisite, custom-made Glencairn crystal decanter with a golden stopper, it’s a worthy cornerstone of any globe-trotter’s collection.

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt

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Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt

• $1.00 at jackdaniels.com

• Proof: 90
• Price: $100
• Tasting Notes: Vanilla, chocolate-coated nuts and rich raisins

This one may still be a month or two away from hitting airport shelves — but one of the first Jack Daniel’s forays into the single malt market will mark a big day in duty-free, and is well worth a mention. Matured in new, charred American white oak barrels for at least four years and finished in Oloroso sherry casks, this bottling contains 100% malted barley grain. Expect aromas of soft fruits and cocoa on the nose, with flavors ranging from chocolate-coated nuts to caramel-sweet berries. Make room on your bar; a new classic is about to touch down.

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If a brand names one of its products “Legend,” you’d better hope said product can back up that lofty moniker. And for the past 16 years, that has been the case for the Longines Legend Diver. Debuting in 2007 as a modernized version of the super compressor dive watches the brand produced from the late 1950s through the early ’70s, the Legend Diver has arguably been Longines’ flagship offering for the past decade and a half.

But as beloved as the vintage-style diver was, the Legend Diver still had its foibles. Enthusiasts complained about the lack of a true bracelet option, the too-large (42mm) and too-small (36mm) case sizes, the practically non-existent lume and the near-impossibility of tracking down a rare no-date reference. Well, today Longines has launched a brand-new generation of the Legend Diver that — at least on paper — would appear to address everyone’s issues with the prior version. But how does the new Longines Legend Diver translate in the metal? I spent a week wearing it to find out.

Longines Legend Diver: What We Think

Longines has clearly been listening to its customers. The completely revamped Legend Diver has a more versatile case size at 39mm, far better lume, a COSC-certified movement, a more modern design and a true stainless steel bracelet option for the first time — fitted end links and safety clasp included. The dial even eschews the date, something fans of the watch have been clamoring for.

Overall, I love the new Legend Diver and think it will be a massive hit for Longines — I don’t see the Legend losing its status as Longines’ de facto flagship anytime soon. However, I do miss the fauxtina and mesh bracelet of the older version, as they helped give it a retro-cool je ne sais quoi that the fancier new rendition doesn’t quite capture. Despite that, I think it’s still the best retro dive watch on the market for the money.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

Longines

Longines Legend Diver

• $3,200.00 at Hodinkee

• Case Size: 39mm
• Water Resistance: 300m
• Movement: Longines L888.6 automatic chronometer

The 39mm case size is pretty much perfect

Perhaps the most frequent complaint people have had about the Longines Legend Diver since its debut has been about the size of the watch. It debuted with a 42mm case, which isn’t massive for a diver — Omega’s Seamaster Diver 300M is currently only available in 42mm, much to my chagrin — but because of the exceedingly loooong lugs that are present on so many of Longines’ watches (cough, Spirit line, cough), the watch wore larger than its specs would indicate. For someone like me, with a 6.25-inch wrist, it was basically unwearable. Longines debuted a smaller 36mm version of the watch in 2018, but many found these to be too small, and they were also rare on the market and generally marketed toward women with more jewelry-like references.

Johnny Brayson

Johnny Brayson

The new Legend Diver comes in just one size: 39mm, which seems to be the mythical “sweet spot” for just about everyone’s wrist. And I will admit, the watch wears like a dream. The lugs are still long, of course, and I wouldn’t mind seeing them shaved down a tad if I’m being honest, but overall, the 39mm case size just works. It doesn’t take up a ton of room on the wrist, yet it still has plenty of presence, thanks in large part to the internal rotating that’s color-matched to the dial, making the dial appear larger. Any bigger, and the watch would feel overpowering. Any smaller, and that heavily hash-marked dial is going to look a little crowded. Longines really nailed the sizing here, and I think a lot of people are going to be very happy.

The lume is a massive improvement

One of the chief requirements of a dive watch, in addition to high water resistance and probably a timing bezel, is that it needs to have excellent lume so a diver can clearly read the time in the sea’s murky depths. But if you’ve ever seen the lume on a Longines Legend Diver, then you know it’s an absolute joke. Despite the abundance of markings on the dial, the watch only featured lume on the tiniest of hash marks for each index, the triangle for the bezel, the minute hand and the tip of the hour hand. It was basically illegible at night and was long considered one of the watch’s glaring weak spots.

Photo by Johnny Brayson for Gear Patrol

But I am happy to report that those issues are a thing of the best because the new Longines Legend Diver is lit. Again, the brand has clearly been listening to its fans (and critics), as Longines has doused the dial with a far greater amount of Super-LumiNova. The handset is the same general design but is brand-new, with a wider minute hand, a fully lumed shovel hour hand and a lumed arrow tip now present on the seconds hand. The Arabic numeral markers on the dial are now lumed for the first time, and the other indices are also more brightly lit. During my testing, I once woke up in the middle of the night to see the watch on my nightstand, where it was glowing brightly enough that I could easily read the time. A lume treatment on a watch may seem like a small thing, but in this case, it greatly increased my enjoyment of the watch. (I still like to see that bezel fully lumed, but you can’t win ’em all.)

Date window? We don’t need no stinkin’ date window

Longines has made a no-date version of the Legend Diver before, but only for a limited time. They’re highly sought-after and difficult to track down, and can sell for around twice as much as versions with the date. (The 36mm version was never offered in a no-date variant.) So given the market’s clear preference for it, it would make sense for Longines to offer a no-date version of the new Legend Diver. And that’s exactly what the brand did. In fact, you can only get a no-date version — there is no reference with a date offered this time around, at least to start. Naturally, I love the look of the no-date dial and am very happy Longines made this decision. The dial is much more balanced and attractive without the date, and it’s truer to the design of the 1959 original.

Johnny Brayson

The new bracelet is nice … but …

Okay, onto the fourth nitpick that seemingly everybody had about the Legend Diver: There was no traditional bracelet option. Virtually every competitor in the luxury dive watch market, or even sub-luxury, has an available stainless steel bracelet option with fitted end links. The Legend Diver, however, did not. Since its 2007 debut, its bracelet option has always been a stainless steel mesh bracelet with straight ends. But not anymore.

The new Legend Diver has jettisoned the retro mesh in favor of a stainless steel beads of rice (BOR) bracelet. While still considered a retro style, the BOR is more typical of what you’ll find on other modern divers with its fitted end links and dual push-button clasp. It features a nice taper and feels silky on the wrist, and it’s supremely comfortable. There’s no quick-adjust feature on the clasp, but there are plenty of micro-adjustment holes that make it easy to dial in the perfect fit. The bracelet is also nicely finished, especially when it comes to the high polish treatment applied to the inner “beads of rice.” Each one acts as its one little mirror, which can be quite hypnotic while admiring the watch.

Johnny Brayson

I like the bracelet, I do. And yet … I miss the mesh. I feel like it fit the overall vintage aesthetic of the watch better and helped make the Legend Diver stand out more in the crowded dive watch marketplace. The new bracelet is very nice, it just doesn’t feel as unique to Longines or the Legend Diver. Hopefully, Longines will offer the mesh bracelet as an option down the line. Currently, the new Legend Diver is available only on the BOR bracelet, a leather strap or a NATO.

It feels more modern and luxurious than before

Longines has been upping its game in recent years, stepping up the quality of its movements and its finishing in what appears to be a bid to take on Tudor, just as Swatch Group sibling Omega has gone upmarket to better take on its longtime rival — and Tudor’s big brother — Rolex. And the new higher-end Longines DNA is definitely present in the new Legend Diver. The watch feels more luxurious and modern than before, and it’s not just because of the bracelet. The dial has been modernized and streamlined. Gone is the vintage “fauxtina” lume of the previous generation, as it’s been replaced by stark white printing on both the black and blue dial variants (the only two colors at launch). The dial has also been tweaked to look a little less eccentric, with the minute markers being shortened ever so slightly.

The movement is now COSC-certified, which wasn’t the case before, and it’s fantastic. During my testing, the watch kept time well within chronometer specs, to the point where I didn’t even have to think about how accurate it was because it was always accurate. The movement winds buttery smooth from the screw-down four o’clock crown, and the screw-down crown at two o’clock for adjusting the timing bezel was also surprisingly easy to use — even while the watch was on my wrist (though I still prefer an external bezel, which will always be more convenient). The watch is also now a certified diver’s watch, meeting ISO 6425 certification and surpassing ISO 764 benchmarks for magnetic resistance tenfold. It’s a highly capable and polished modern luxury dive watch and is still one of the best bargains on the market.

Johnny Brayson

But I can’t help but feel the Legend Diver has lost a bit of its swagger with this new generation. Some of the changes are great — the 39mm size, the improved lume, the no-date layout, the COSC movement — but others, like the lack of fauxtina and the abandoned mesh bracelet — take away some of the spirit of the watch, in my opinion, and make it a bit more run of the mill. It’s technically a better watch than before, but style-wise, it’s lost some of its swagger.

Longines Legend Diver: Alternatives

Longines is far from the only brand to resurrect a super compressor-style dive watch this century. There are lower-tier heritage brands that have reissued their own mid-century divers that, like Longines, used EPSA super compressor cases in the 1960s, notably the Alpina Seastrong Diver Heritage (42mm, $1,795) and the Benrus Ultra-Deep (36.5mm, $1,095). A more modern yet still affordable take would be the Christopher Ward C64 Super Compressor (41mm, $1,375), which uses a functioning super compressor case that actually increases its water resistance as pressure increases, something that’s practically unheard of today. For a budget option, the Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver (40mm, $290) brings similar aesthetics for around 300 bucks, and on the opposite end of the spectrum, you have the gorgeous JLC Polaris (42mm, $10,000+) starting at ten grand.

But the most direct competitor for the Longines Legend Diver comes from Tudor. While not a super compressor-style diver, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight (39mm, $4,000) is still a retro-inspired, COSC-certified, 39mm dive watch. You can’t go wrong with either, but the Tudor is about 800 dollars more on the bracelet.

Longines

Longines Legend Diver

• $3,200.00 at Hodinkee

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One thing The James Brand is known for, besides its clean and minimalistic design, is its devotion to the process. Rather than churning out a new knife every other month, TJB has kept its selection curated and considered, thanks in part to the careful development it devotes to every new knife.

Its latest release, the Wells, is a continuation of that devotion. After spending years ideating on a back flipper design, the team at The James Brand has released what it calls “a knife aficionado’s kind of knife” — with the price point to match.

The James Brand

The Wells mixes classic design cues with some new features for The James Brand — notably, the use of a button-lock flipper. For the unfamiliar, button-lock flippers have been gaining traction in the knife space for the past couple years — they’re typically seen on automatic knives, but lately more brands are including them on manual action knives. (Which is a fun development in the world of EDC — who doesn’t like to push a button?)

The button-lock keeps the blade in place; it won’t deploy until you push the button, releasing the blade. Some button-locks even open and close the knife by pushing the button. Button-locks are as strong as the knife’s frame, and are quicker and easier to use than a liner or frame lock.

The James Brand

The James Brand didn’t take implementing the button-lock lightly; the brand says the concept has been on the drawing board for years, but wasn’t brought to life until it could be done “The James Brand way.”

Weighing in at 3.1 ounces, the Wells is 7.17 inches long overall, with a 2.9-inch Wharncliffe blade in MagnaCut steel. There are two finishes available for the Wells: black and anodized aluminum. The aluminum version features 6061 aerospace aluminum scales, but both the aluminum and black versions of the knife feature a formed wire pocket clip, caged, stainless-steel bearings and anodized scales on the handle.

The James Brand

The James Brand

On the black version of the Wells, the clip and hardware are black DLC coated with black anodized scales; the anodized aluminum version has a stonewash finish on its blade. On the black blade version, the clip and hardware are DLC coated, and on the rose gold blade, the clip and hardware are PVD coated.

When it comes to The James Brand’s reputation of blending form and function, the Wells seems to hit the mark. If you’re a knife expert, collector or just a huge fan of TJB, you won’t want to miss this release.

The James Brand

The James Brand The Wells

• $425.00 at

The James Brand

The James Brand The Wells

• $425.00 at

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Some gadgets just seem destined to be boring. It’s not really possible to have a “cool dongle” or a USB hub that you’re simply thrilled to use every day. And I’d thought power banks — heavy black bricks (or sometimes cylinders!) with an LED light or two — were among the ranks of ungussyuppable utility devices. But now that I’ve had my hands on the Shargeek Storm2 ($229 originally, $169 on sale as of 10/10/23), I can see how wrong I was.

Honestly, it might be enough if the Storm2 were just transparent. The clear-plastic case that gives visibility to both the battery’s control board, complete with diodes, capacitors, and microcontrollers, takes me back to my smoky-grey see-through Game Boy. But the real star is the 1.14-inch IPS display which is bright and crisp but, crucially, colorful. It’s really just a delight to look at, whether you’re actually looking for details on the speed and power of charging or just gazing at it because it’s fun to ogle.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

Eric Limer

Eric Limer

In the weeks I’ve had the Storm2 in my bag, it’s served me admirably as a standard power bank (aka a portable battery). It can recharge my iPhone about a half-dozen times from nearly zero, and can also bring my MacBook Air back from the brink. But what’s really been fun is how the real-time input/output wattage on the display has allowed me to finally confirm my suspicions about which of my various Lightning cables charge the fastest and slowest.

There are, as far as I can tell, only two real downsides to this badass battery. And the first, of course, is price. The Storm2 will run you a frankly insane $229. Its little brother, the Storm2 Slim, which lacks certain features like customizable DC output for charging older laptops, isn’t that much cheaper at a sky-high $200. It’s a lot! If you’re only charging mobile devices, a less tricked-out battery with more overall storage but a lower top wattage will treat you just about as well for, oh, about a 10th of the price. And even powerbanks that can charge a laptop can come in at a more modest sub-$100 price point. But the Storm2 is, quite clearly, not for people interested in modesty.

Eric Limer

Eric Limer

Eric Limer

The Shargeek Storm2 looks unique, and that’s its appeal. It also, uh, kind of looks like a bomb. Not a real bomb, of course, but more of a cartoon of a bomb, which might be plenty to spook bystanders. I haven’t tried to fly with the Storm2, but I’d be a little nervous about it. Though TSA X-ray operators should be well-accustomed to seeing power banks without their clothes on, it does helpfully declare itself “Airline Safe” right on the side.

At the end of the day, the Storm2 is overkill, sure, but that’s precisely what makes it so damn cool.

Amazon

Shargeek Storm 2 Portable Charger

• $169.15 at Amazon
  $229.00 (26% off)

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It wasn’t all that long ago that the idea of BMW building a giant, eight-passenger SUV would have seemed downright heretical. Sedans, coupes, wagons and convertibles have been Bimmer’s stock in trade most of its existence; it waited until the very end of the 20th century to jump on the sport-utility bandwagon, even though manufacturers had been using the term for the fast-growing category for more than a decade and models like the Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe and Jeep Grand Cherokee had proven the immense demand for family cars that combined four-wheel-drive grip and a civilized ride.

Of course, to paraphrase Mr. Zimmerman, the times have been a-changing. Here in 2023, the X7 isn’t even the most controversial model BMW builds on this platform; that honor would have to go to the plus-sized plug-in-hybrid performance SUV called the BMW XM, the M division’s first unique car since the M1. But the X7 has been around long enough (and sold enough copies) to earn a mid-life-cycle refresh, clearly demonstrating that, while true Bimmer believers may still cry fowl, the market says otherwise.

So with the X7 freshly updated for the 2023 model year, I took it for a spin in and around the greater New York area to see how it would handle the urban and suburban chores that the vast majority of these big BMWs will spend their lives performing. Here’s what I found.

2023 BMW X7: What We Think

The X7 is one of the best choices in the large luxury SUV category, especially if that third row of seats will be used more occasionally than regularly. Its car-like (at least for a large SUV) performance, ride and handling make it easy, even fun to drive for such a big beast. While 2023’s updates are on the milder side, and the facelift’s visual appeal is very much a matter of taste, the interior upgrades have overall made it an even more comfortable and enjoyable place to occupy while driving.

The 2023 BMW X7: Testing Notes

The X7 is big, but not overwhelmingly so

Will Sabel Courtney

Technically, the X7 competes in the same three-row SUV category as the Lexus LX 600, Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80, Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Lincoln Navigator, but it doesn’t quite feel on the same scale. Part of that is due to its car-like unibody construction, versus the pickup truck-based body-on-frame build of those other vehicles; it lends the X7 (and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, which also goes unibody) a bit more of a nimble feeling. But it’s also because, well, it is smaller. At 203.6 inches long, it’s nearly a foot shorter than an Escalade — even though the Bimmer’s wheelbase is two inches longer.

Granted, that makes the third row less usable than the equivalent of larger SUVs; it’s fine for occasional use, such as the ever-cliché duty of being pressed into transporting a couple extra tweens to soccer practice, but the toll it takes from the cargo bay means you won’t be able to carry many balls or bags back there. (And on the flip side — if you really use your third row often, odds are good you’re looking at an extended-length SUV from one of Detroit’s automakers, anyway.)

The six-cylinder X7 xDrive40i is all the power you’ll need here

Will Sabel Courtney

The X7 offers three choices of powertrain — a six-cylinder and two V8s – but you can stop at the base model. BMW’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six is so creamy-smooth and potent, you’ll never want for more power. BMW quotes a 5.8 second 0-60-mph time for this beast, but their estimates tend to be conservative; if you’re the type who enjoys launch-control-starting their big SUV, my butt-ometer suggests it’ll do the naught-to-60 in a the low five-second range.

With just shy of 400 lb-ft of torque available from 1,850 rpm all the way to 5,000, there’s a noticeable shove on the roll at any speed — and if the 375 horsepower seems a little low compared to some competitors, keep in mind BMW usually underrates their outputs. Add in the mighty $25,250 upcharge needed for eight-cylinder power, and arguments for choosing any other engine in the X7 become damn hard to make.

The interior is so nice, you won’t even miss leather

UWE FISCHER

True story: it wasn’t until I checked the window sticker halfway through my test that I realized the supple material coating the seats of my test car wasn’t leather. It was actually “Sensafin” — BMW’s new vegan leather, which comes standard in the X7 xDrive40i. I’m used to seeing other types of fake leather trim in BMW products, but usually it’s in the likes of 3 Series sedans and Mini Coopers, where buyers would be more apt to choose leatherette to save a buck. The X7, though, sits alongside the 7 Series at the top of the range, where customers have more disposable cash and, presumably, want nicer rides. The fact that Sensafin feels good enough to be worthy of such a high-end model— and one look around the cabin will make it very clear you’re in a high-end model — is impressive, indeed.

Unlike the upholstery, you won’t have such issues noticing the giant split-screen landscape display that curves halfway across the dashboard, with one side serving as instrument panel and the other as infotainment screen. BMW is implementing this design far and wide across its lineup these days, while simultaneously swapping out shift levers for electric switches and ditching most of the physical buttons. It’s a bit of a mixed bag, ergonomically; the larger screen is more legible and easier to operate, perhaps, but the disappearance of handy features like the preset buttons and tactile climate controls is irksome, at least to me. (Then again, I still don’t get the whole appeal of ChatGPT, so maybe I’m just becoming a dinosaur.)

The 2023 facelift…kind of works for it?

Will Sabel Courtney

Generally speaking, I — and many other folks — haven’t been a huge fan of BMW’s recent design language. Epitomized most clearly by the likes of the M3 / 4 Series and 7 Series, it’s a complex mish-mash of sharp creases and elements, some oversized, some undersized — a far cry from the simple lines of the BMWs of the 1980s and 1990s, or even the oceanic ovoid designs of the Chris Bangle era.

Yet while the aforementioned cars might force buyers to choose black paint simply to disguise some of those design traits, the X7, arguably, almost looks decent after its 2023 facelift. Part of it stems from the sheer size of the front fascia; as one of the biggest cars in Bimmer’s line, there’s a lot of room to fit the mega-grille and all those other design elements. But part of it is simple aggression: compared to the pre-facelift model, the latest X7 simply looks far tougher. Slower traffic that might have paid the previous one no mind in the rearview will be way more likely to move over when this face shows up on their six.

2023 BMW X7 xDrive40i

UWE FISCHER

Base Price / Price as Tested: $78,845 / $93,745

Powertrain: 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six; eight-speed automatic; all-wheel-drive

Horsepower: 375

Torque: 398 lb-ft

EPA Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city, 25 mpg highway

Seats: 8

2022 BMW i4 M50i Review: An Electric 3 Series by Another Name

Will Sabel Courtney

Bimmer’s first stab at electrifying one of its core models is a solid one.

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

Being a watch enthusiast can be challenging sometimes because so many amazing watches cost an absurd amount of money. In 2023, the top luxury brands didn’t pull any punches when it came to their new references, crazy complications, unexpected designs and just flat-out gorgeous timepieces dropping nearly every week. We’ve managed to whittle down the year’s fantastic output to the following 10 grails, which we’ve dubbed our bucket list watches for 2023.

Bulova Jet Star

Bulova

Bulova Jet Star

• $595.00 at sjv.io

Presented by Bulova

Bulova first introduced the Jet Star in 1973, and the bold, angular dial design quickly became iconic. Now, the brand is bringing back this classic style with a half a century’s worth of innovations. Behind the vintage face lies Bulova’s Precisionist movement: a mechanism that vibrates at 262kHz and is so meticulously made it’s accurate to five seconds per month. The watch is finished off with a date window, sweeping seconds hand and luminescent detailing.

Learn more about the Bulova Jet Star here.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Le Mans’

Rolex

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Le Mans’

• $51,400.00 at Rolex

In part underpinning much of Rolex’s status today (and, arguably, even the popularity of modern watches in general) is the so-called “Paul Newman Daytona.” Rolex had been holding back for years, but it finally released a modern tribute to the famous reference 6263 with a reverse-panda colorway, complete with an “exotic dial” design and everything. Announced for the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race (in which Paul Newman participated in 1979), it includes the tachymeter bezel’s “100” in red — and a custom chronograph movement that counts up to 24 hours instead of the usual 12.

Learn more about the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Le Mans’ here.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date

• $43,800.00 at vacheron-constantin.com

Easily the star of the show from Vacheron Constantin this year was this combination of some of the traits and features the brand is best known for. In the brand’s most crowd-pleasing collection, the sporty Overseas, this model features retrograde date and moon phase displays (it’s right there in the name), but it all comes together (with that striking blue dial) in a way that’s approachable but also displays Vacheron’s high sense of refinement.

Learn more about the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date here.

Girard-Perregaux Laureato Aston Martin Edition

Selfridges

Girard-Perregaux Laureato Aston Martin Edition

• $23,145 at Selfridges

Girard-Perregaux has a precedent of using ceramic and of working with Aston Martin, and the brand put both to good use here. Seeing a watch case and bracelet in full ceramic in a color other than black, white or gray is rare, which is what makes this automotive-themed version of GP’s sporty Laureato such a head-turner. The watch commits to a fully monochromatic “British racing green” look that’s quite fitting for the Aston branding, and it stands as one of the best watch/car brand collabs we’ve ever seen.

Learn more about the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Aston Martin Edition here.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 3

fifty fathoms

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 3

• $32,000.00 at blancpain.com

Despite being the oldest extant watch brand with a history dating back to 1735, Blancpain was largely unknown outside the watch enthusiast community prior to this year. But then the Blancpain x Swatch Fifty Fathoms collab happened, and suddenly, the haute horological brand was on everyone’s lips. Taking advantage of the extra attention, Blancpain followed up Swatch’s Bioceramic diver with this stone-cold stunner: A modernized take on a vintage mil-spec Fifty Fathoms in bronze gold to celebrate 70 years of the OG dive watch. It’s the best-looking and perhaps most wearable modern Fifty Fathoms and has us excited to see what the brand has in store for 2024.

Learn more about the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 3 here.

IWC Ingenieur

iwc

IWC Ingenieur

• $11,700.00 at

Everybody kind of knew IWC had to do it, and it did: The brand finally brought back the most distinctive version of the IWC Ingenieur from the 1970s, as designed by the one-and-only Gerald Genta. As just about everyone else has been jostling for position in the increasingly crowded integrated bracelet luxury sports watch genre over the past few years, IWC had one of the OGs in its back catalog lying in wait to reclaim the throne. The resurrected version is perfectly sized at 40mm and thin at 10.8mm, and it’s powered by an in-house movement.

Learn more about the IWC Ingenieur here.

Patek Philippe World Time 5330G-010

Courtesy

Patek Philippe World Time 5330G-010

• $80,000.00 at

Purple watches were seemingly everywhere in 2023, but none were more desirable than this plum-colored Patek, which the brand unveiled for its “Watch Art” Tokyo 2023 exhibition over the summer. In addition to the gorgeous and unexpected (for Patek) color, this white gold stunner also has something that no other Patek World Time reference does. Outside the 24-hour and world cities rings of the dial, there’s a third ring showing the date, making this the first Patek World Time with a date complication.

Courtesy

Breguet Type XX

• $18,000.00 at breguet.com

In 2023, Breguet brought back the Type XX as the latest in a long line of historically appropriate tool watches that the brand originally made for the military in decades past, beginning in the 1950s. Available in “military” and “civilian” versions, they’re remarkably down-to-earth for a prestigious company that typically operates in the haute horlogerie space, but are still ultra-cool. Both feature 42mm cases and in-house automatic movements with the flyback chronograph feature that characterizes the Type XX watches, both historical and in many modern interpretations.

Learn more about the Breguet Type XX here.

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Dark Grey GMT

Omega

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Dark Grey GMT

• $22,200.00 at omegawatches.com

There are so many great lines of Omega’s Seamaster — the Diver 300M, the Aqua Terra, The Ploprof, the Seamaster 300 — that the Planet Ocean sometimes gets lost in the shuffle. But it’s worth remembering that the PO is meant to be Omega’s most premium dive watch, and the Dark Grey GMT serves as a good reminder of that. The watch touts a case made from Silicon Nitride ceramic, which is twice as light as the Zircon ceramic used in most watches, while the crown, bezel, dial and even the Master Chronometer movement are all crafted from lightweight titanium.

Learn more about the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Dark Grey GMT here.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Chronograph

Jaeger-LeCoultre

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Chronograph

• $25,000.00 at jaeger-lecoultre.com

At first glance, this member of JLC’s Reverso Tribute family looks like the rest of the classically-styled line. But the two small chronograph pushers flanking the crown clue you in that there’s more going on. Flip around the case, and you’ll find the watch’s second dial as a skeletonized beauty featuring a clock face along with a chronograph seconds display and an impressive retrograde 30-minute counter, all housed in a stainless steel case.

Learn more about the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Chronograph here.

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4

Audemars Piguet

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4

• $1,670,000.00 at audemarspiguet.com

Out of the Swiss luxury watch brands known as the “Holy Trinity” — Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet — AP is arguably the one that frustrates watch nerds the most. From its overreliance of the Royal Oak in its catalog to its confusing collabs with Marvel, AP draws about as much ire as it does praise these days. So it was awesome to see the brand flex its horological muscles in 2023 with this, the most complicated watch in the 148-year-old history of the maison. The Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4 boasts 22 horological complications, including a split-seconds flyback chronograph, a perpetual calendar, a highly advanced moonphase, multiple chiming functions and many more impressive features.

Learn more about the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Ultra-Complication Universelle RD#4 here.

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

Like every year since the invention of the production motorcycle, 2023 was a great year to go riding. We rode some great bikes from brands like Royal Enfield and Harley-Davidson, and we scoped out some stylish and tech-forward (but still protective) new riding gear along the way.

Here are our favorite new motorcycles and new motorcycle gear we covered in 2023.

2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

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Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

• $6,999.00 at royalenfield.com

The Super Meteor 650 is a streamlined cruiser blending classic good looks and modern touches, with a balance of size, power and handling that’s versatile enough to let it zip along city streets, country backroads and bustling highways with equal aplomb. And it’s a strong value proposition, starting under $7,000.

Learn about the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650.

Forcite MK1S Helmet

Courtesy

Forcite MK1S Helmet

• $1,099.00 at forcitehelmets.com

Australian brand Forcite brought its new MK1S Helmet to America in 2023. It’s loaded with tech, including a camera and turn-by-turn navigation software. And with a carbon fiber construction to keep the weight down, the helmet checks in between 3.3 and 3.7 pounds. All that tech does not come cheap, though — the price tag is north of $1,000.

Learn about the Forcite MK1S helmet.

Saint Engineered Armored Jeans

Courtesy

Saint Engineered Slim Fit Armored Jean

• $199.00 at saint.cc

Leather chaps and technical racing pants are great for the actual riding. But they don’t transition well to real life. Saint’s new Engineered Armored Jeans come in regular and slim fit variations. They provide the protection you need, and they don’t scream “Moto GP” … or, for that matter, “BDSM.”

Learn about Saint’s Engineered Armored Jeans.

2024 Indian FTR x 100% R Carbon

Courtesy

Indian FTR x 100% R Carbon

• $18,999.00 at indianmotorcycle.com

Active since the 1980s, 100% has steadily built a reputation for crafting some of the finest (and best-looking) helmets, goggles and gloves for bikers, cyclists and more. The brand’s action sports style cues come to life in an eye-popping Indian FTR trim featuring a hue dubbed “blue candy” that makes the bike even more of a head-turner than usual.

Learn about the Indian FTR x 100% R Carbon

Danner Moto GTX Boot

Moose Jaw

Danner Men’s Moto Wedge GTX Boot

• $479.95 at Moose Jaw

Danner, a renowned purveyor of rugged yet stylish work, hiking and lifestyle boots, moved into the motorcycling space with two new boots, the Moto GTX and Moto Wedge GTX. They balance good looks with the legit abrasion resistance and armor you need to be properly protected in a slide.

Learn about Danner Moto GTX and Moto Wedge GTX boots.

2023 Indian Sport Chief

Chief

Indian Sport Chief

• $19,999.00 at indianmotorcycle.com

Reborn in 2021, the Chief nameplate fills the gap between the smaller Scout and larger bikes like the Chieftain. The Sport Chief is an awesome combo of power, retro style and modern touches, and it’s perfect for the rider who wants to look badass, ride hard and customize their bike.

Learn about the 2023 Indian Sport Chief.

2023 Harley-Davidson CVO Road and Street Glide

harley davidson womens

Harley Davidson 2023 CVO Street Glide

• $42,999.00 at harley-davidson.com

You could argue that Harley-Davidson is a brand boxed in by its rabid customers, but it’s good that H-D isn’t standing still (even if they are riffing off a familiar beat). The new versions of the Road and Street Glides provide much-needed variable valve timing and better cooling. Both bikes also lost weight — down 31 pounds for the Street and 35 pounds for the Road — while gaining horsepower.

Learn about the 2023 Harley-Davidsion CVO Road and Street Glide.

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

The end of another year is upon us, and whether you reached your fitness goals or not, well … don’t sweat it. All you can do at this point is refocus and reload for the next round — and now’s the perfect time to stock up for when the calendar turns.

These items have not only caught our eye over the last 12 months, but they’ve also been thoroughly researched and tested by our team, so you can be sure they’ll help you hit the ground running in ’24.

Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

Reebok

Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

• $140.00 at Reebok

Highlighted by an all-new Lift and Run Chassis System for versatile support across a range of fitness activities, the Nano X3 also features a revamped heel shape for better lockdown and comfort and a fresh tread pattern sure to give each step ample grip.

Learn more about the Reebok Nano X3 here.

Nike Aerogami Storm-FT ADV Jacket

Nike

Nike Aerogami Storm-FIT ADV Jacket

• $137.97 at Nike
  $250.00 (45% off)

Thanks to a moisture-reactive film, tiny winged vents strategically located around high-heat areas like the chest and upper back can sense sweat building up on the skin and automatically open to let your skin breathe. They can also close back up as you cool down, making this jacket the ultimate climate control system.

Learn more about the Nike Aerogami here.

Born Primitive Savage 1

Born Primitive

Born Primitive Savage 1

• $130.00 at

Born Primitive may be well-known for its stylish workout apparel, but this all-new cross trainer has the brand vying for dominance in footwear, too. The Savage 1 boasts a streamlined design offering stability in Olympic lifting, flexibility for short-distance runs and a unique tread pattern to stay grounded through it all.

Learn more about the Born Primitive Savage 1 here.

Lululemon Steady State Hoodie

Lululemon

Lululemon Steady State Hoodie

• $128.00 at Lululemon

Made primarily of a fleece-like cotton/polyester blend, Lululemon’s comfy oversized hoodie just might be the perfect post-workout athleisure garb for the cold days ahead. There’s a bit more than meets the eye, too, courtesy of hidden media and coin sleeves within the spacious kangaroo pocket.

Learn more about the Steady State Hoodie here.

Xero Prio Neo

Courtesy

Xero Prio Neo

• $99.99 at

If you’re a fan of the barefoot movement, these updated gym shoes from Xero are for you. A wide toe box allows for effective toe splaying, ideal for those big-time lifts, and a grippy outsole and adjustable midfoot tensioning system help ensure each progressive step is as confidently locked in as the last.

Learn more about the Xero Prio Neo here.

Ciele FSTSinglet

Courtesy Ciele

Ciele FSTSinglet

• $80.00 at

Ciele’s Performance Run collection carries the comfort and style of its popular running hats over to the rest of your wardrobe. This singlet boasts reflective details and COOLmatic Plus micro mesh — which is also used in many of the brand’s high-performance caps — for lightweight, quick-drying performance.

Learn more about the Ciele FSTSinglet here.

Saucony Endorphin Elite

Saucony

Saucony Endorphin Elite

• $275.00 at Saucony

Launched early this year, the Saucony Endorphin Elite is the brand’s fastest, lightest, most energy-efficient silhouette to date. With all-new PWRRUN HG foam underfoot for unrivaled springiness as well as a sleek and stylish upper, these racers are sure deliver a fast, fun race day experience for those who invest.

Learn more about the Saucony Endorphin Elite here.

Forme Ace Long Sleeve

Courtesy

Forme Ace Long Sleeve

• $188.00 at

Long winter runs can call for extra coverage, but as the miles pile up — or you just hunch your shoulders for warmth — your back can get strained. Forme’s patented techn enables the body to relearn its best alignment to keep your spine straight, reduce stiffness and elevate performance.

Learn more about the Forme Ace Long Sleeve here.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1

Adidas

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1

• $1,079.00 at StockX

These kicks made headlines when Tigist Assefa absolutely smashed the women’s marathon world record wearing them. What stands out? The incredibly light weight (4.87 ounces), a giant Lightstrike Pro foam forefoot rocker that propels you forward like no other and, yes, a price that will make your head spin.

Learn more about the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 here.

Vuori Kore Jogger Pants

Vuori

Vuori Kore Jogger Pants

• $98.00 at Vuori

We already named the Kore Shorts the best shorts for yoga disciplines; that style and performance now has a little more legroom, literally, with the Kore Jogger silhouette. Perfect for finding your flow or relaxing on rest days, these cozy pants boast a modern athletic fit, built-in liner and more.

Learn more about the Vuori Kore Jogger here.

Hoka Mach X

Hoka

Hoka Mach X

• $180.00 at hoka.com

A plated sneaker that’s a damn fine daily trainer? While most high-energy running shoes of this nature are reserved for tempo work or marathons, here’s the goldilocks of the bunch; the Pebax plate provides enough spring to keep your routes speedy yet the Mach X still delivers some plush cushioning underfoot.

Learn more about the Hoka Mach X here.

Ten Thousand A–L Short

Ten Thousand

Ten Thousand A—L Short

• $78.00 at Ten Thousand

Somewhat similar to Ten Thousand’s excellent Interval Short, the A-L’s feature a design that’s functional, comfortable and stylish. Warp-knit fabric with Proplyo Stretch helps retain shape regardless of your activity, and the 7-inch inseam is sure to look good when powering through a WOD or strolling about town.

Learn more about the Ten Thousand A–L Short here.

Norda 002

Courtesy

Norda 002

• $295.00 at

Building off the success of Norda’s original trail runner, the 002 profile boasts a lighter 8.78-ounce frame as well as a lower stack height for improved ground feel. The shoe is still tough as nails, though, thanks to a Dyneema upper primedd to conquer the dust, muck and debris you’ll encounter off the beaten path.

Learn more about the Norda 002 here.

Gymshark Apex 5-Inch Hybrid Shorts

GymShark

Gymshark Apex 5-Inch Hybrid Shorts

• $36.80 at GymShark
  $46.00 (20% off)

The lightweight polyester blend of these shorts sits effortlessly across the thighs during movement, but what we loved in testing was the Stay-Put waistband. Soft material keeps everything in place without digging into the hips, and the flat interior drawstring eliminates any bulging knots along your midriff.

Learn more about Gymshark Apex Hybrid Shorts here.

Nike Ultrafly Trail Running Shoes

Nike

Nike Ultrafly Trail Running Shoes

• $260.00 at Nike

The carbon Flyplate combines with the ZoomX midsole foam for a ride that’s snappy yet comfortable enough for extended wear. The Vibram Megagrip outsole is plenty grippy for wet and muddy conditions alike. These features add up to make Nike’s first plated trail runner quite possibly its best shoe of the year.

Learn more about the Nike Ultrafly here.

Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks

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Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks

• $14.00 at injinji.com

Toe-sleeved socks can be excellent options for those wanting more blister protection, and Injinji has become an industry leader in this area. These socks boast the lightest bulk across the brand’s stable, plus a mesh top and COOLMAX EcoMade Fiber construction for premium breathability.

Learn more about Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks here.

Keen WK400 Walking Shoe

Courtesy

Keen WK400 Walking Shoe

• $160.00 at

Did you know they make walking-specific fitness footwear — and it makes a difference? Featuring a unique constant curvature geometry that accentuates your natural walking stride, the Keen WK400s have quickly become the go-to kicks for beneficial pedestrian sessions.

Learn more about the Keen WK400 here.

Related Topics

Every month throughout 2023, we tasted a huge amount of beer, whiskey, spirits, weed drinks, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and other beverages. In some cases, we’re taste-testing the industry’s best new products, and in others, we’re coming across hidden gems in the wild.

Over the course of the year, we’ve been documenting our favorite drinks we’ve tried each month. But in case you haven’t been keeping up with our tasty journeys, we’ve got you covered, as we’ve gathered up all of the best things we drank in 2023 here in one place. Have a look below and see how many of these fantastic beverages you had a chance to try this past year — and see which bottles and cans you need to add to your shopping list.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

January – March

Weldwerks Brewing Co

To kick off the year, we filled our bellies with a wide variety of warming beverages to keep away the winter chill. Our favorites included the first “super-aged” North American single malt whiskey (which is old enough to drink itself), a craft sour ale that tastes just like one of our favorite childhood cereals, a red wine-barrel-aged tequila, a crowd-pleasing IPA from a brewery not known for making IPAs and more.

April

Cann

Not everything we drank this year had booze in it, and one of our favorite April beverages was a tasty THC-infused seltzer. Of course, there was plenty of alcohol we enjoyed too, including a peach-flavored moonshine from a notable 2000s rapper (care to guess which one?), a subdued Spanish wine that was perfect for spring, a 22-year-old single malt Scotch with Aston Martin branding and more.

May

10 Barrel Brewing

May saw many experimental libations enter our gullets, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We tried an awesome alcohol-free spirit infused with a hefty dose of THC that left us buzzing, a decadent marionberry cheesecake-flavored sour from Oregon (which we tried while visiting Oregon), a slightly alcoholic kombucha that tastes like chardonnay, a Mexican spirit aged in WhistlePig rye barrels and more.

June

Talisker Whisky

June found one of our editors in Cape Cod to try a 30-year-old version of Talisker’s classic maritime single malt — and it just may have been his favorite Scotch of the year. We also knocked back a trendy prebiotic soda (for science), tasted an outstanding 21-year-old PX sherry-finished Scotch rum, revisited an old friend (well, a classic India Ale) we hadn’t seen in some time and more.

July

ARDBEG

What do you get when you cross Scotch whisky with BBQ? You get one of the best things we drank in June, that’s what. We also enjoyed some non-alcoholic THC-infused canned cocktails, tried some great suds that are only available to members of an exclusive beer club, an ultra-refreshing prosecco rosé filled with summer flavor, a calming weed drink containing Lion’s Mane mushroom and more.

August

Allagash Brewing

We certainly didn’t take it easy during the dog days of summer — hey, somebody’s got to put in the hard work of trying all these new drinks. This month, we enjoyed a tasty light lager from a craft brewery, a summery canned cocktail made with a top bourbon brand, a beer based on a legendary southern soda, a hard-to-track-down brew exclusive to the state of Maine and more.

September

Jefferson’s

With fall on the horizon, our attention started to shift to brown spirits, and nothing warmed us up more than a bourbon aged in the tropical heat and humidity of Singapore. We also bid farewell to a longtime favorite West Coast beer, drank a local American single malt whiskey while in Pennsylvania, tried an alcohol-free witbier from the brand that’s redefining NA beer and more.

October

Tank Garage Winery

October saw the release of … a wine collab with a popular boot brand? Oh yeah, you bet we tried it (and loved it). We also imbibed a lesser-known beer from a major craft brewery, a tasty malted rye whiskey from a brand best known for bourbon, a hyped-up and impossible-to-find bourbon release from one of the nation’s most acclaimed master distillers and more.

November

Goose Island

Every fall sees the much-ballyhooed release of Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout lineup. And every year we try it, including this year. And while that was certainly the headline-grabber for November, we also tasted a Japanese-inspired single malt Scotch, a Texas single malt whiskey that knocked our socks off, a selection of West Coast IPAs that kept away the creeping cold weather and more.

December

SAM GENTRY

Did we save the best of 2023’s drinks for last? We’ll let you decide. During the last month of the year, we were lucky enough to try a cult-favorite annual American single malt release, a California Zinfandel referred to as a “musical supergroup in a bottle,” an absurdly premium Scotch distilled in 1978 at an iconic (and long-extinct) distillery, a spiced alcohol-free spirit perfect for buzz-free holiday cocktails and more.

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

Grooming may be a behavior we share with the other apes — indeed, many other animals, period — but, not to engage in speciesism, we at Gear Patrol kinda think that we humans do it best. After all, while other creatures simply use their hands, feet and teeth, we use all sorts of tools that we’ve created specially for the task. And in 2023, we at Gear Patrol came across a whole bunch of new and improved products that are made just to help you look and feel your best — from your head down to your toes.

Todd Snyder x D.S. & Durga Young Dunes

Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder x D.S. & Durga Young Dunes

• $210.00 at Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder has basically done it all, but he’s never created a cologne … at least until now. Together with D.S. & Durga founders David Seth and Kavi Moltz., they crafted a cologne that referenced not the city streets Snyder has to gallivant to get to his stores, but the beaches he escapes to when they’re closed (or at least out of mind). And, yes, this is another instance of Seinfeld becoming real life.

Learn more about Todd Snyder x D.S. & Durga Young Dunes cologne here.

Horace Cream Pomade

Courtesy

Horace Cream Pomade

• $16.00 at

Horace’s cream pomade features ingredients like beeswax, coconut butter and shea butter, lending a medium hold that’s residue-free and easy to rinse out. But its refillable packaging — part of the brand’s notable commitment to sustainabiliy — is also noteworthy: When you’ve used up the pomade, simply keep the jar and order a lower-price refill.

Read more about Horace Cream Pomade here.

Omnilux LED Mask

Courtesy

Omnilux LED Mask

• $395.00 at

At almost $400, this red light LED face mask is a steep price for something that might seem like science fiction. Still, red light therapy has many proven benefits for your skin, and this mask can help your skin feel tighter and more luminous after a few weeks of daily 10-minute treatments. (Note: the above version is the men’s model; there’s also a women’s version, which you can find here.)

Learn more about the Omnilux LED Mask here.

Curaprox Samba Robotic Toothbrush

Samba

Curaprox Samba Toothbrush

• $299.00 at curaprox.us
  $399.00 (25% off)

This life-changing dental care device makes brushing a cinch, even for people with limited mobility. Just hold the toothbrush in place in your mouth, and the 12,900 bristles will vibrate and buzz their way into every corner of your dentition for a squeaky clean smile.

Learn more about the Samba Robotic Toothbrush here.

Lumin Instant Dark Circle Corrector

Lumin

Lumin Instant Dark Circle Corrector

• $19.00 at luminskin.com

If your skin care struggles in large part revolve around the zone under your eyes giving you a tired, worn-out look, this product is just what the doctor ordered. This yellow-tinted color corrector is designed to work as a quick fix for puffiness or dark circles that might rear their ugly head on your head.

Learn more about Lumin Instant Dark Circle Corrector here.

Harry’s The Craft Set

Harry’s

Harry’s Craft Set

• $20.00 at Harry's

Harry’s new-for-2023 razor bears the influence of 20th Century industrial designer Dieter Rams, who has long subscribed to the maxim that less is more. The Craft razor is made from chrome-coated zinc with a dotted grip pattern reminiscent of the perforated holes that appeared on Rams-designed Braun speakers and a long, curved underside for better hand feel — yet it’s still priced very affordably.

Learn more about Harry’s The Craft razor here.

Hai Smart Showerhead

Hai

Hai Infusions Smart Showerhead

• $198.00 at
  $298.00 (34% off)

Hai’s latest showerhead is meant to bring the experience of the spa to your home, with a combination of improved water pressure and impactful aeromatics that you can add to the flow — with the added nerdy benefit of being able to monitor your water usage via an app. Get the showerhead, skip the add-ons.

Learn more about the Hai Smart Showerhead here.

Horace Normal to Oily Hair Shampoo

Courtesy

Horace Normal to Oily Hair Shampoo

• $15.00 at horace.com

The name says it all: it’s a new shampoo designed to clean your hair and scalp, assuming your hair lies somewhere on the oilier side of the spectrum. It’s also responsibly made, with almost 98 percent of ingredients coming from natural origins.

Learn more about Horace Normal to Oily Hair Shampoo here.

STMNT Hair Gel

Statement

STMNT Hair Gel

• $21.95 at Nordstrom

Hair gel often comes with the downside of crunchy texture and an odd appearance once it’s on your head. This new charcoal-infused gel avoids much of those issues, holding your hair in place without making you look like Ross from Friends.

Learn more about STMNT Hair Gel here.

Related Topics

Even just a couple decades ago, if you bought a men’s wristwatch, it was probably small. Really small. Like, just-a-smidge-bigger-than-a-Kennedy-half-dollar small. For nearly as long as men have been wearing watches on their wrists, watches ranged from about 33mm to 36mm, and those that were any larger were stylistic outliers and chunky sports watches. In fact, some large watch designs from way back were derided for being unnecessarily big.

Since then, times have changed, but the virtues of a small watch remain. If you’re already a believer in a restrained timepiece silhouette, it’s a good time to be alive as that’s the trend du jour among collectors and watchmakers. If you’re on the fence, wondering what’s behind the trend, or looking for ammunition for your next argument with a big-watch devotee … here’s why we think small watches are the bee’s knees. See our full small watch guide for our favorites.

What’s the Beef?

A couple of decades ago, watches got beefed up. The 40mm to 42mm range became “standard,” and a chronograph or dive watch would likely be a few millimeters bigger still. Hulking sports watches from the likes of Breitling and Panerai were status items in the ’90s and ’00s and, the popularity of sports models from big brands like Rolex led other makers to creep up case sizes — even if said watches were not actually sport models or did not require a brawny case for any functional purpose. The consensus among some prominent watch folk is that this case inflation was a holdover from an era of conspicuous consumption.

This doesn’t mean that the large watch-wearing individual is a braggart or is prone to compensate (as the argument from small-watch fans often goes), but it does mean the big and bold watch had become the norm, which as a result seems to have, in some instances, spurred a bout of neuroticism in the modern watch buyer. There’s an abundance of guides online to “finding the right size watch for your wrist” (here’s one, for example) and forum posts inquiring as to whether or not a watch will fill out an enthusiast’s wrist — wrist circumferences no doubt having been taken with a tape measure and committed to memory. The subtext? Anything too small will look like a “ladies watch.”

Photo by Zen Love for Gear Patrol

Old-School Sensibilities

Our advice, first and foremost, is to buy whatever the hell you like regardless of size. A second bit of advice is to consider embracing the small-watch movement. The vintage watch market has been booming for some time, and watch collectors have come to love the authentically small case sizes of yore.

Watchmakers today have seemingly taken notice, offering dress and sports watches that are closer in size to their forebears. Tudor’s considerably downsized Black Bay 54 for 2023 is a prominent example in dive watch form, coming in at 37mm — the same diameter as the Tudor Submariner released in 1954.

Comfort Is King

So what exactly do you get out of a smaller watch? Comfort, for one. A substantially-sized watch is an ever-present weight upon your wrist, and while some tout “heft” as a signifier of quality or actually enjoy the weight, a truly comfortable watch is one that feels like it disappears on your wrist.

Thinner, smaller watches are just inherently lighter by virtue of using less material. Further, if your wrist shape is more round than it is flat, a smaller diameter watch will sit more flush with your wrist since there’s less flat surface area.

Henry Phillips

Zen Love

Easy on the Eye

An argument about aesthetics can be made, too. Large watches have a lot of empty space to deal with, both on the case and dial. Taller, thicker watches tend to have cases that feel slab-sided, while watches large in diameter often have dials with an overabundance of negative space, making the watch feel empty and platter-like. When a case is unnecessarily beefed up in size simply to suit consumer demands, these design missteps become all the more egregious.

Moreover, smaller watches tend to feel more refined. Watches that are gratuitously big don’t feel as purposefully made; hell, making a big watch is relatively easy. But small watches require more planning and working within more constraints. Complex movements need to be engineered to be slim and compact. Cases need to be thin but still strong enough to resist shocks and water pressure. Tolerances between the dial, hands and crystal need to be as tight as possible.

Ostensibly, this is what timekeeping enthusiasm is supposed to be about: celebrating the craftsmanship required to make a tiny, intricate piece of clockwork, not appealing to tiresome notions of excess and visibility. A smaller, more discrete watch might not garner as much attention as a shining, hulking wrist piece, but that shouldn’t be why you buy a nice watch in the first place. You should buy it for you.

A Few of Favorite Small Watches

Timex

34mm

Timex Marlin Hand-Wound

• $209.00 at Timex

Khaki Aviation

33m

Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer Mechanical

• $1,150.00 at hamiltonwatch.com

Courtesy

34.5mm

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding

• $23.00 at vacheron-constantin.com
  $4,600.00 (100% off)

Related Topics

Though purists will no doubt scoff, bottled barbecue sauce is not some great sin unto the world. Many of the best options are simplified versions of sauces made by pitmasters you or I could never hope to match.

But like most goods previously made in the home, store-bought sauce can also suck. Sometimes terribly so. The trap many fall into is excess in one of the four pillars of barbecue-sauce flavor — heat, smokiness, tanginess and, the most commonly abused, sweetness. We scoured the web, grocery stores and barbecue forums to find out which retail-available, bottled barbecue sauces are actually worth putting on the meat you’ve spent all day smoking.

What Is Barbecue Sauce

Despite the best efforts of the bottom-shelf BBQ sauces at the supermarket, barbecue sauce is more than just sweet and smoky ketchup. In fact, it’s far more than a monolith, with a wide range of styles originating in various regions throughout the (mostly southern) United States. But what they all share in common is a contrasting mix of sweet, spicy, smoky and tangy flavors that makes them the perfect complement to grilled and smoked meats.

Although people have been using similar sauces and marinades to cook meat since long before there was a United States of America, the BBQ sauce that we know and love got its start in the American South during the Colonial Period. It was there that a disparate collection of ingredients from around the world came together — vinegar and salt from Spain, tomatoes from South America, sugar and molasses from the Caribbean and chile peppers from Central America — and began to be mixed in various ways. Those combinations became honed over the ensuing decades (and a couple of centuries) to eventually transform into the variety of sauces we use today.

Types of Barbecue Sauce

Kansas City Style

The most widely available style of barbecue sauce at grocery stores is at its best a balanced mix of tomato (ketchup, most of the time), sweetness, tang and smoke. This is the gloopy reddish-brown sauce you slather all over ribs — it’s great for its strong hold to meats and overall body as well.

Texas Style

Sometimes called “mop sauce” or “mop style,” these are sauces with a tomato and vinegar base. They’re typically much lighter in body than KC-style sauces, but not as light as a Carolinian vinegar sauce. They’re also applied with a lighter hand than most sauces, and feature lots of garlic, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce.

Memphis Style

Memphis barbecue tends to be served sans sauce, but there has been an uptick in Memphis-style barbeque sauces. The sauce is similar to a Kansas City-style barbeque sauce but with a richer sweetness thanks to molasses and a tad more brightness from a generous addition of vinegar.

Lexington Style (Western North Carolina)

Though some of North Carolina’s population may protest, this is essentially an earlier version of the uber-popular Kansas City sauce, sans-spiciness and with a lot more tomato product. If you don’t like the spiciness and bite that comes with a lot of KC sauces, this style is for you.

East North Carolina Vinegar-Based

It’s vinegar, pepper, salt and pepper flakes. The most fluid sauce there is gets most of its flavor from the tart vinegar and various pepper flakes and pepper powders added (cayenne being the most common). It may not be all that useful in caramelizing the outside of a pig, but it’s still delicious.

Japanese Style

While not a traditional part of American barbecue culture, Japanese BBQ sauce makes for an excellent substitution when you’re looking to mix things up. The thin and runny sauce is rich with umami flavor thanks to its base of soy sauce and mirin complemented by heavy doses of ginger and garlic.

How We Tested

Amazon

Best Overall Barbecue Sauce

Stubb’s Original BBQ Sauce

• $4.00 at Amazon

• Style: Texas
• Size: 18 oz

Though Texans aren’t prone to using sauces in the first place, Stubb’s Texas-style original sauce is as good as anyone can hope for out of a bottle. The first thing you’ll notice is that it is decidedly unsweet for a bottled sauce. It also has zero high fructose corn syrup and doesn’t use any artificial ingredients. Stubb’s opts instead for a tomato- and vinegar-forward sauce that’s way less overpowering than most things from a bottle.

Our tester found this to be as close to homemade as a shelf-borne BBQ sauce can get. It’s thick and even a little chunky, and both smells and looks like crushed tomatoes. It’s also delicious and tastes like “good BBQ,” the kind you might get from a restaurant in Austin with a line around the block. The more of it you eat, the more smokiness and spiciness you’ll begin to feel, but the sauce itself is not what you’d describe as particularly smoky or spicy. It is simply balanced, as all sauces should be.

Walmart

Best Budget Barbecue Sauce

Bull’s-Eye Original BBQ Sauce

• $2.00 at Walmart

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 18 oz

Though a bit heavier in high fructose corn syrup than you’d like, Bull’s Eye’s sauce is a great grocery store sauce pickup. Serious Eats, Cooks Illustrated and America’s Test Kitchen spoke of it too, but the sauce is as balanced as it gets without making it yourself — it sits in the middle on the sweetness scale, it’s smokier than most store-bought bottles, it’s not overly spicy (but isn’t boring) and it has enough body to cling to whatever you baste it to. If you can get past the ingredient list, it’s great.

Amazon

Best Upgrade Barbecue Sauce

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Sensuous Slathering Sauce

• $21.00 at Amazon
  $23.00 (7% off)

• Style: Texas
• Size: 19 oz

Not as widely available as the others on this list, but a treat if you can find it — Sensuous Slathering sauce is one of the lowest-sugar bottled sauces out there and, frankly, it doesn’t need it. It gets a bit of augmented sweetness from bell pepper and it’s wickedly smokey and tangy. The consistency is such that it’s ready to baste right out of the bottle. There’s no corn syrup of any kind in it and you can probably pronounce every ingredient in its makeup.

Walmart

Best Smoky Barbecue Sauce

Jack Daniel’s Original No. 7 Recipe Barbecue Sauce

• $5.00 at Walmart

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 19.5 oz

This is as smoky a sauce as you’ll find in a bottle, but not so much it drowns other flavors out; it’s fairly peppery and has a lot of body as well. If you like super-sweet sauces, this one might not be for you — though a quick simmer with a bit of honey and butter might do the trick.

Amazon

Best Spicy Barbecue Sauce

Rufus Teague Blazin’ Hot Sauce

• $13.00 at Amazon

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 15.25 oz

It’s not that hot, which is just what it ought to be. Rufus Teague’s sauces are typically well-balanced and non-destructive to your health. They’re also available in grocery stores across the country. This one is made with totally natural ingredients (read: no high fructose corn syrup) and contains more interesting ingredients than most sauces do, homemade or bottled. The heat stems from chili peppers and chipotles, but it isn’t an overly aggressive burn. If the burn proves too much, consider tossing a couple pats of butter into a saucepan with it.

Amazon

Best Sweet Barbecue Sauce

Sweet Baby Ray’s Original Barbecue Sauce

• $9.00 at Amazon
  $11.00 (20% off)

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 18 oz

Readily available in basically every grocery store and listing high-fructose corn syrup as its number-one ingredient, Sweet Baby Ray’s is never going to win over the BBQ snobs and gourmands. However, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing sauce, this is it. There is a reason why everyone knows this sauce: it tastes good. It’s your prototypical KC-style BBQ sauce that’s thick, dark and plenty sweet.

Our tester can see why it’s popular, especially among sweet tooths. The sweetness is very forward here — 17g of sugar per 2 Tbsp — but luckily it’s offset by a good amount of tang and a little smoke (no discernible spiciness here). It’s a little more complex than it gets credit for, thanks in part to some unexpected ingredients like pineapple juice and tamarind, that latter helping provide some of the tanginess.

Amazon

Best Barbecue Sauce for Brisket

Bone Suckin’ Sauce

• $20.00 at Amazon

• Style: Lexington
• Size: 16 oz

A bit sweeter than your usual fare, to the point it might remind you of a sweet and sour sauce. Fortunately, sweet and sour sauce is delicious, and this one has the added benefit of a mild hickory smoke flavor that manages to not taste like chemicals. It is a bit thinner than KC-style sauce, so if you want it to stick to ribs consider cooking it down for a few minutes on the stove.

Amazon

Best Barbecue Sauce for Ribs

Lillie’s Q Smoky Barbeque Sauce

• $22.00 at Amazon

• Style: Memphis
• Size: 21 oz

Lillie’s Q is a Chicago-based barbecue restaurant with roots in Southern cooking. The brand’s barbecue sauces have made their way into supermarkets, so they’ve become easier to track down. The Smoky sauce is a Memphis-style barbecue sauce with a molasses-like sweetness complemented by a delightful smokiness. This sauce works well on pretty much anything, but Lillie’s Q recommends eating it with ribs and smoked chicken.

Amazon

Best Barbecue Sauce for Pulled Pork

Traeger ‘Cue BBQ Sauce

• $10.00 at Amazon

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 19.5 oz

If you use the Traeger app for recipes, you might notice it calls for Traeger BBQ sauces quite often. The sauce’s consistency makes it versatile as a dip, marinade or glaze, and the addition of anchovy gives the sauce a savory umami flavor. This particular variety of Traeger BBQ sauce has hickory smoke flavoring, which is meant to pair well with Traeger hickory pellets.

Walmart

Best Japanese Barbecue Sauce

Bachan’s Original Japanese Barbecue Sauce

• $19.00 at Walmart

• Style: Kansas City
• Size: 18 oz

Traditional BBQ this is not, but it is certainly delicious. Bachan’s is billed as the original Japanese BBQ sauce, and it’s quite unlike any of its American counterparts. It’s very liquidy, not much thicker than soy sauce, so it’s not something you’ll be slathering over ribs or anything like that. But if you’re looking for a thinner sauce, the flavor is next-level.

Our tester finds the taste a bit indescribable, but “umami” is probably the most apt term to use here. It’s sweet at first, but that quickly dissipates to a salty and rich earthiness that makes your mouth water. Out of all the sauces we tested, our tester found this one to be the most crave-worthy — once having a taste, he continually wanted more. It’s closer in taste to something like hoisin sauce than to KC Masterpiece, and will level up any meat dish.

Related Topics

In my opinion, menswear’s Mount Rushmore has a few shoe-ins: the Levi’s 501, the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star and, drum roll please, Filson’s Mackinaw Wool Cruiser. Sure, there are a number of others — Brooks Brothers’ Oxford Cloth Button-Down, to name one — but these are first ballot Hall-of-Famers. And while the others have changed considerably since their debut, the Wool Cruiser has not.

There are a million variants of the 501 (the 501 ’54, for example), and the same is true for the Chuck Taylor (the beefier Chuck 70). The Wool Cruiser, however, has remained true to its roots and only deviated in pattern and color, not shape or material — meaning there are options beyond basic Buffalo Check nowadays.

But is the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser still worth it, considering you can buy fully waterproof rain jackets for less than half the price? We tested it to find out.

Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser Jacket

Filson

Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser Jacket

• $495.00 at Filson

• Material: 100% virgin Pendleton wool
• Sizes: XS – XXL Long
• Colors: 4
• Made in: USA
• Care: Dry clean only
• Pockets: 9

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

What’s Good About the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser

Evan Malachosky

It’s the original.

First released in 1914, the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser was designed for foresters and timber workers that surveyed the soaking wet Pacific Northwest forests. There, the natural wool coats, which were cut from blankets (one of Filson’s original products), protected against the elements and kept the wearer warm, all without looming worries about whether a stray branch might snag the jacket’s woolen weave.

A few years later, it became the official outerwear of choice for the U.S. Forest Service and other outdoors organizations. In other words, it was initially tested by some of the hardest-working individuals in America — proving it would work for just about everyone else.

It’s warm, thanks to its weight and tight weave, but breathable.

Courtesy

The Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser is made from boiled Pendleton wool, which means the final product has an abnormally tight weave. Wool shrinks when it’s boiled, meaning these jackets are made from even more wool than mentioned. The shrinkage isn’t bad, though; the tightened fibers help create a heat seal helping you stay warm, and a water-repellent shell, helping you stay dry.

The tight weave also protects the jacket from snags and other injuries, if you will. It’s less likely to get punctured, pierced or even simply sliced by a loose branch or stray blade, but it isn’t completely abrasion resistant. Treat it like Gore-Tex, not Kevlar.

That being said, it doesn’t suffocate like a jacket made from synthetic materials would. Wool is a natural fiber, meaning it insulates, but it also breathes. So, as the day breaks and the temperature rises, you won’t sweat through. Then, as the temperature dips as the day ends, you’ll feel warm once more.

There are nine total pockets.

Initially, every pocket on this popular Filson jacket had a purpose. That’s not to say they don’t now — trust me, I could use all of them if I wanted — but they’re less dedicated, if you will. Nine pockets on any jacket seems like a lot…especially when one pocket runs the width of your back.

Three are hidden within another one, though, as slotted places to store pencils, pens or other tiny tools. The four bigger ones across the front over sizable spaces to store phones, wallets, keys and more — like gloves or a hat.

But the back pocket, where folks originally carried a folded map, works for winter accessories as well, if you’re willing to live with the bulk a beanie adds.

Evan Malachosky

–

It can get dirty or wet, without feeling dirty or wet.

What if I told you Filson’s Mackinaw Wool Cruiser is a wearable non-stick pan? I’m getting confused looks, I can tell. But wool is actually a system of overlapping fibers coated with lanolin — a natural, waxy film that helps the material repel water, even if it doesn’t work like an Arc’teryx shell. The jacket can nearly 30 percent of its own weight in water without feeling damp or noticeably bogged down.

That being said, it doesn’t help just keep water out; it also helps keep other stuff from sticking to it, too — dirt, paint, you name it. If you get dirt on the exterior, for example, let it dry completely and scrub it off with a stiff nylon brush; it won’t hurt the wool, but it will completely detach the caked-on substance.

What’s Not Ideal About the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser

Oversized is an understatement.

To be fair, the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser is big. Sure, the original ones were long enough to protect your thighs, too, meaning they were essentially top coats, but the modern iteration is meant to hit higher. Mine does, for sure — it lands right past my pant pockets — but it’s not the length that worries me. And I actually wouldn’t even say “worries.” This is just a fit most men probably don’t seek out nowadays, even though the Mackinaw Wool Cruiser is the embodiment of endurance.

It’s wide and exaggerated, almost like the jacket John Dutton wears in Yellowstone. There’s plenty of room for mid-weight layers, which is great if you’re really trying to stay warm, but not so great if you just plan to wear a long-sleeve tee underneath, which you still should — it’s slightly itchy. The width is most evident when unbuttoned, but it just looks boxy, less shape-less, when fully done up.

As for the sleeves, they hit past my knuckles when I’m just wearing a thermal tee underneath, but halfway down the back of my new hand when I have a sweater underneath. I gravitate toward bigger silhouettes anyway — remember J.Crew’s Giant-Fit chinos? — but the sleeves sort of got in the way when I went I about my daily duties. They didn’t rise too high, though, when I raised my arms…which is the point, I think. This is a heritage design with a lengthy past life, and it was designed to a enable a particular type of federal employee.

The quirks (and the perks) stem from its history, which makes it hard to ridicule. That being said, you’d be smart to try yours on in person before buying it. A large, for me — I’m a true large — was a little big for the ways I want to wear it. If you’re also a true large, the large size might be ideal. It depends on the wearer — and where they’re wearing it.

Evan Malachosky

Evan Malachosky

Buttons (and snaps) be damned.

The only “bad” reviews about this thing mention the fit (like I did above) and the buttons. While aesthetically pleasing, they aren’t all that practical when you’re wearing or gloves or thawing frozen hands. The same can be said of the snaps, which are relatively small and hard to close without full dexterity.

They’re getting pricier, unless you buy yours used.

In 2021, Filson raised the price of this popular jacket from $395 to $495. That’s quite the jump, especially considering the myriad options available for less, but this Filson jacket is the original. The $100 jump can probably be chalked up to a rising cost of materials and labor, but I’d argue you’re paying a pretty penny for this particular design’s history, too.

That history spans over 100 years — a difficult feat to top — and surely shows no signs of shuttering anytime soon. But the new sticker price is surely forcing shoppers to consider options at a lower going rate, even if the Filson is, in my opinion, worth the price.

If you want this particular coat but for less, try buying a used one. They’re designed to last and they actually do, as evidenced by the sheer abundance of options available on eBay, Grailed and so on and so forth. You’ll find them for anywhere from $80 to $300, depending on the condition, and that’s much more manageable than the $515 it’d cost to buy a new Cruiser at Filson’s New York City flagship.

The Filson Mackinaw Cruiser Jacket: The Verdict

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it — and the Mackinaw Wool Cruiser isn’t broken, nor is it prone to breaking. It’s an enduring icon built on a legacy of true work, and in not-so-savory weather, to boot. 100 years of weather- and wear-testing informs the final product.

If you want a jacket made like they used to do it — here in the U.S. from North American-sourced Pendleton wool — Filson’s Mackinaw Cruiser fits the bill, but the bill is, ahem, high. For $495, you’re getting a long-lasting, well-made jacket that’ll be with you for life, if you care for it. But that up-front price is quite a lot, and it likely limits those that could really use it from splurging half a week’s pay for it.

This a piece for the menswear purists — the ones that appreciate the origin stories of some of menswear’s most popular garments. You can go deep on the Mackinaw Cruiser, and there will likely be more lore to uncover still. It’s that storied. As such, it’s well worth it, even if you don’t venture out into a wet forest for work.

Filson

Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser Jacket

• $495.00 at Filson

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

“Rollin’ With My Homies” was released in 1995, and although the most play time that song gets now is probably when you’re rewatching Clueless, for those of us who love a life on two wheels, Coolio’s sage advice continues to ring true.

But whether you’re meeting up with friends or riding solo, having the proper gear to stay safe, visible and fast is paramount — and fun. Cycling continues to see innovation in accessories, apparel, components and more, and in 2023, there was no slowing down. Here’s what caught our editors’ eyes this year.

State Bicycle Carbon All-Road

Courtesy

State Bicycle Carbon All-Road

• $1,999.99 at statebicycle.com

The newest version of State’s carbon road frameset (launched in January and updated in July) is the surprisingly affordable Carbon All-Road option. Featuring a lightweight frame, 1×12 drivetrain, multiple mounting points and the option to order a second set of wheels, it’s one bike you can ride almost anywhere.

Learn more about the State Bicycle Carbon All Road here.

Koo Alibi

Courtesy

Koo Alibi

• $190.00 at kooworld.cc

Available in eight colors, the Alibi cycling collection features (interchangeable) cylindrical polycarbonate lenses by Zeiss and an ergonomic fit for comfort on the road and trail. The half frame maximizes your field of view, while the overall form factor is so light and comfy, you may forget you even have them on.

Learn more about the Koo Alibi here.

Lectric Bikes XP Folding Trike

Service Partner Network

Lectric Bikes XP Folding Trike

• $1,499.00 at lectricebikes.com
  $1,803.00 (17% off)

Say hello to what Lectric calls the industry’s first folding electric tricycle. Built for hauling cargo and commuting, the XP Trike takes Lectric’s XP platform and adds a bigger battery, hydraulic brakes and a third wheel. With the included front rack and two baskets, it’s perfect for everything from beach trips to grocery runs.

Learn more about theLectric Bikes XP Folding Trike here.

Fox Union BOA Clipless Shoes

fox racing

Fox Union BOA Clipless Shoes

• $249.95 at foxracing.com

Early this year, Fox Racing debuted its brand-new line of mountain bike shoes, including this Union BOA Clipless model. Constructed with reinforced toe caps, a super grippy outsole and the BOA Li2 system, this shoe is ready to race.

Learn more about the Fox Union BOA Clipless Shoes here.

Priority Joker

Priority Bicycles

Priority Joker

• $1,299.00 at Priority Bicycles
  $1,399.00 (7% off)

This brakeless, velodrome-ready 16-pound beast boasts a belt drive and borderline bonkers 70/22 gear ratio, but that’s not all. The sports-car-compact drop bars are aggressive but comfortable, the 700×25 Goodyear Eagle F1 tires are grippy and the frame is stiff enough to be swift on the straights and steady on the turns.

Learn more about the Priority Joker here.

Thousand Crossbody Handlebar Bag

Thousand

Thousand Crossbody Handlebar Bag

• $49.00 at explorethousand.com

When your pockets simply aren’t enough to carry all the EDC gear you need on a given day, a crossbody bag is an excellent alternative. They’re still relatively small and secure yet can afford you a lot more storage. This affordable new one from Thousand is made from water-repellent nylon and doubles as a handlebar bag, making it perfect for bike commuters.

Learn more about the Thousand Crossbody Handlebar Bag here.

Specialized Turbo Tero X 4.0

Specialized

Specialized Turbo Tero X 4.0

• $3,749.99 at Specialized
  $4,500.00 (17% off)

With elevated electric assistance, full suspension and plenty of storage space (including an integrated rear rack), the Turbo Tero X 4.0 is a high-octane utility rig meant to haul more stuff over longer distances. Need more power? Specialized also offers 5.0 and 6.0 models featuring bigger motors and other upgrades.

ADIDAS

adidas Five Ten Kestrel BOA

• $230.00 at ADIDAS

This year Adidas Five Ten broadened its reach, releasing its first-ever clipless cross-country bike shoe. The Kestrel BOA features a full suite of performance-oriented features, including a full-length glass fiber-reinforced plate and a Stealth rubber instep, delivering max power output and comfort.

Learn more about the Adidas Five Ten Kestrel BOA here.

ENVE MOG

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ENVE MOG

• $7,900.00 at enve.com

Top-notch component brand ENVE continued its push into full bikes with the delightful, sub-18-pound Mother of Gravel. Our favorite features include a versatile 1×13 Campagnolo Ekar AG25 groupset, clearance for up to 50mm tires, myriad mounting options and the “Cargo Bay,” 36 cubic inches of downtube storage for gear and snacks.

Learn more about the ENVE MOG here.

Velocio Trail Access Hardshell

Velocio

Velocio Trail Access Hardshell

• $389.00 at

Velocio marked its 10th anniversary by rolling into the mountain bike space with a plethora of off-road-ready apparel, including shirts, shorts, pants and jackets. One standout piece is this lightweight technical hardshell, boasting a PFAS-Free DWR treatment, helmet-compatible hood, four discreet pockets and a relaxed fit for tearing up the trails.

Learn more about Velocio’s Off-Road Equipment here.

Chrome x Lucas Beaufort Kadet Sling Bag

chrome

Chrome Industries Kadet Sling

• $95.00 at chromeindustries.com

The latest in Chrome’s Artist Series is a skate-inspired collab hitting three packs, a wallet and a hat. Our favorite item is this 9L sling bag: with its handy bike lock slot, it can fit a surprising amount of gear.

Learn more about the Chrome x Lucas Beaufort Kadet Sling Bag here.

Ride1Up CF Racer1

Home

Ride1Up CF Racer1

• $2,195.00 at ride1up.com

It’s not often you’ll find a Class 3 ebike with a SRAM groupset and carbon-fiber frame for less than $2,200, but Ride1Up answered the call with its first-ever dropbar offering. The CF Racer1 is available in both road and gravel versions, both of which feature a 250-watt nominal BAFANG motor to help you keep rolling over tarmac and trails.

Learn more about the Ride1Up CF Racer1 here.

Ripton Classic Jeans

Ripton

Ripton Classic Jeans Indigo

• $98.00 at riptonco.com

In September, the cycling brand known for its performance jorts pulled a 180 and released what it hailed as “jants” — performance jeans infused with enough stretch and and style to transition from the bike to the bar without the wearer batting an eye. Boasting similar elements to the jorts, the pants come in multiple versions — all ready to rip it up outside.

Learn more about the Ripton Jeans here.

Quoc Gran Tourer XC

Quoc

Quoc Gran Tourer XC

• $310.00 at

UK-based Quoc launched some impressive footwear this year, highlighted by this high-end, adventure-ready gravel shoe. Notable features include dual BOA dials for a perfect fit, a carbon composite midsole with an integrated TPU tread that maximizes pedaling efficiency and a colorful, abrasion-resistant microfiber upper that turns heads on and off the beaten path.Learn more about Quoc here.

Santa Cruz Heckler SL

santa cruz

Santa Cruz Heckler SL

• $7,299.00 at santacruzbicycles.com

Santa Cruz’s Heckler is the lightest, most powerful and longest-range e-bike in its class. Featuring a Fazua Ride60 drive unit, 150mm of VPP suspension, mixed wheels, and progressive geometry, the Heckler is no joke. Wanna know more? You can check out the details in this hilarious video.

Learn more about the Santa Cruz Heckler SL here.

Rapha + Snow Peak Water-Repellent Light Shirt

End Clothing

Rapha + Snow Peak Water-Repellent Light Shirt

• $153.00 at End Clothing
  $305.00 (50% off)

When two stylish brands partner up, it’s hard not to take notice. This water-repellent nylon riding shirt from Rapha and Snow Peak is quick-drying, packable and, of course, good looking.

Learn more about the Rapha + Snow Peak Water-Repellent Light Shirt here.

Cervélo Rouvida

Cervelo

Cervélo Rouvida Force XPLR AXS 1

• $9,800.00 at

The streamlined carbon frame houses a 450-watt motor that assists up to 28 miles per hour. But what really makes Cervélo’s first e-bike (available in two road and two gravel options) sing are the brand’s performance-driven touches — vertically orienting the battery to save 25g in the wind tunnel, clever controls and silky-smooth electronic shifting.

Learn more about the Cervélo Rouvida here.

Related Topics

This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.

Now that 2023 is just about in the books, it’s time to look back on some of the most compelling audio products that were released this past year. From a modular Dolby Atmos soundbar to modern turntables with built-in streaming, a bunch of new flagship noise-canceling headphones to fun portable Bluetooth speakers, here’s what jumps out.

Sonos Era 300

Sonos

Sonos Era 300

• $449.00 at Sonos

The Era 300 is a speaker specifically designed to play immersive audio that supports Dolby Atmos. It has a total of six drivers — including one that fires upward — and you can configure two as really immersive rear-channel speakers when paired with a Sonos soundbar.

Learn more about Sonos Era 300 here.

JBL Bar 1300X

Amazon

JBL Bar 1300X

• $1,699.95 at Amazon

The JBL Bar 1300X is the newest and most high-end in JBL’s “Bar” line of soundbars with detachable rear satellite speakers. It’s an 11.1.4-channel system with 21-total drivers (including six upward-firing) and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Learn more about JBL Bar 1300X here.

Goldring E4

Amazon

Goldring E4

• $299.00 at Amazon

The E4 is Goldring’s newest moving magnet cartridge designed for audiophiles on a budget. It’s the same basic design as the rest of Golding’s entry-level (or E-Series) of cartridges, but it has a new stylus that promises even more accurate performance. It also sports a new blue body.

Learn more about Goldring E4 here.

WiiM Pro Plus

Amazon

WiiM Pro Plus

• $219.00 at Amazon

The WiiM Pro Plus is the successor to the WiiM Pro that was released earlier this year. The “Plus” does pretty much the same thing — it hooks up to your old audio system and allows you to stream to it in a multitude of ways — but boasts upgraded internals for streaming lossless audio (up to 32-bit/192kHz).

Learn more about WiiM Pro Plus here.

Apple HomePod (2nd Generation)

Apple

Apple HomePod (2nd Generation)

• $299.00 at Apple

Apple’s second-generation HomePod is slightly smaller than the original “full-sized” HomePod. It doesn’t have as many drivers, but thanks to increased processing power, it is designed to sound exactly like the original. The kicker is that this new HomePod is $50 cheaper.

Learn more about Apple HomePod (2nd Gen) here.

Sonos Era 100

Sonos

Sonos Era 100

• $199 at Amazon
  $249 (20% off)
• $199 at Sonos
  $249 (20% off)

The Era 100 is a “remastered” and redesigned version of the One speaker. It works much the same, but has an extra tweeter and a larger mid-woofer and can play stereo. It also supports Bluetooth and line-in (via USB-C) connections, so it’s a significantly more versatile speaker, too.

Learn more about Sonos Era 100 here.

Amazon Echo Buds (2023)

Amazon

Amazon Echo Buds (2023 Released)

• $34.99 at Amazon
  $49.99 (30% off)

Amazon’s newest wireless earbuds are also its most affordable. These Echo Buds have been completely redesigned with a stem-shape design (like the original AirPods) and cost less than $50. If you’re looking for the best AirPods knockoffs, these are the ones.

Learn more about Amazon Echo Buds (2023) here.

Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony

Sony WF-1000XM5

• $298.00 at Amazon

The Sony WF-1000XM5 are the company’s new flagship noise-canceling wireless earbuds. Compared to their predecessors, the XM5s boast better noise cancellation, better sound and better call clarity. Each earbud is actually 25 percent smaller, so they fit more comfortably in your ears.

Learn more about Sony WF-1000XM5 here.

FiiO R7

Amazon

FiiO R7

• $719.99 at Amazon

The FiiO R7 is for people who take desktop audio really seriously. It’s a high-resolution audio player, streamer and headphone amplifier that’s specifically designed for your desktop setup. It has a touchscreen and 64GB of local storage, and it also supports up to 2TB of storage via microSD card.

Learn more about FiiO R7 here.

Linn Sondek LP12-50

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Linn Sondek LP12-50

• $60,000.00 at www.linn.co.uk

The Sondek LP12-50 is a special-edition turntable designed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Linn releasing its iconic Sondek LP12. The most interesting thing about it is that it’s a collaboration effort with LoveFrom, the design firm that Jony Ive founded post-Apple. It’s also pretty limited edition, just 250 units.

Learn more about Linn Sondek LP12-50 here.

Anker Soundcore Space One

Soundcore

Anker Soundcore Space One

• $99.00 at Amazon

The Soundcore Space One is Anker’s newest pair of wireless over-ear headphones with active noise-cancellation. Compared to its predecessor, the Space, the Space Ones have a new design, improved noise-cancellation and longer battery life.

Learn more about Anker Soundcore Space One here.

JBL Spinner BT

JBL

JBL Spinner BT

• $399.95 at JBL

The JBL Spinner BT is a belt-driven turntable with a built-in moving-magnet phono preamp. Other than its orange accents, what makes the Spinner BT unique is that it supports Bluetooth aptX HD so you can stream vinyl to your wireless headphones or portable speakers.

Learn more about the JBL Spinner BT here.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Bose

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

• $329 at Bose
  $429.00 (23% off)

The Bose QuietComfort Ultras are the company’s new flagship noise-canceling headphones (they replace the 2019-released Noise-Canceling 700s). They have a new foldable design with plush earcups, improved noise-cancellation and call clarity, and they support spatial audio.

Learn more about Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones here.

Beats Studio Pro

Amazon

Beats Studio Pro

• $299.99 at Amazon
  $349.99 (14% off)

The Studio Pros are the first flagship wireless noise-canceling over-ear headphones that Beats has released in nearly six years. They have a familiar design, but a lot have new custom drivers, more powerful mics and a bunch of new features that make them work well with iPhones.

Learn more about Beats Studio Pro here.

Sonos Move 2

Sonos

Sonos Move 2

• $349 at Sonos
  $449.00 (22% off)
• $349 at Amazon
  $449 (22% off)

The Move 2 is a new and improved version of Sonos’s 2019-released Move. It’s been updated with stereo sound, double the battery life, a refined look and support for a USB-C line-in. It also comes in a new olive finish (in addition to black or white).

Learn more about Sonos Move 2 here.

WiiM Amp

WiiM

WiiM Amp

• $349.00 at crutchfield.com

The WiiM Amp is an all-new streaming amplifier that works very similarly to the Sonos Amp — it can drive your passive speakers (up to four) while adding both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming capabilities as well. The kicker is that the WiiM Amp is less than half the price.

Learn more about WiiM Amp here.

Ultimate Ears Epicboom

Ultimate Ears

Ultimate Ears Epicboom

• $319.99 at Amazon
  $349.99 (9% off)

The Epicboom is the first truly new portable speaker that Ultimate Ears has released in years. It’s about twice the size (and cost) of the company’s Megaboom 3. And its UE’s first portable speaker to charge via USB-C.

Learn more about Ultimate Ears Epicboom here.

Related Topics

If you use an Apple TV as your main streaming device and have it connected to a TV with an external speaker system — be it a soundbar or AVR system — you may have experienced this issue: When you adjust the volume (with your Apple TV remote or by pressing a button or knob on your soundbar or AV receiver), it works but no visual indication appears on the TV screen.

This isn’t the biggest problem, but it can be annoying. For example, when the volume is low (or off) and you rapidly mash on the volume up button only to have the volume go seemingly from 0 to 90 percent in a split second and blow out your eardrums … nobody wants that.

The good news is, Apple recently rolled out an update to Apple TV — via tvOS 17.1 — that aims to fix this issue. Specifically, it adds a Volume OSD (on-screen display) option. All you need to do is to turn it on — here’s how:

How to Turn On Volume OSD

Tucker Bowe

Tucker Bowe

1. Open the Settings app on your Apple TV.
2. Select Remotes and Devices.
3. Scroll down to the Home Theater Control section.
4. In the On-Screen Volume Display option, make sure “Show” is selected.

When Volume OSD is turned on, an additional, vertical volume slider pops up on the side of your TV screen whenever you adjust the volume. Whether you are doing so with your Apple TV remote, actual TV remote or the volume controls on your soundbar or AV receiver, you’ll get a visual indication of how much you’re increasing or lowering the volume of your system.

It’s admittedly a pretty nerdy solution and can be a little redundant — sometimes you’ll see two indicators, one horizontal bar and one vertical bar. It’s not perfect, but it’s finally a decent solution for Apple TV users who’ve been frustrated by the lack of a volume visual indicator on their TV.

For a deeper dive, check out this Reddit thread on the tvOS 17.1 update.

Related Topics

The good news is that there are a lot of really great skis available right now. That’s also the bad news. Too many choices — even if they’re good ones — can make it hard to decide on which pair to buy. I’m here to help. While there are a ton of variables you could consider, most aren’t important. Consider your skiing style, then focus on a few key points: waist width, turn radius, rocker profile and length.

Figuring out your wants in respect to those key factors will leave you a smaller selection from which to choose. From there, check out these picks for the best skis of winter 2021-2022. From my base in British Columbia, I’ve tested dozens upon dozens of pairs — that’s me in the lead photo, you know, working — so I have a pretty good idea. But I haven’t tested everything.

So talk to some shops. Read other reviews. Refine your list some more and then go demo a few pairs. The only way to know for sure if you’ll like any one of these skis is to try them for yourself. Watch for demo days at your resort or ask in your local shop. Most will deduct the cost of any demos when you buy a ski.

If that’s not possible, narrow your list to the top three and pick the one with the coolest graphics. Seriously, you should love your skis, inside and out.

How We Tested

ZargonDesign

As technical editor at Ski Canada Magazine, the Great White North’s largest circulation ski publication, I organize a ski test every spring at my local ski hill, Mount Washington Alpine Resort. I’ve been doing it for six years now. Most of the major ski manufacturers send me the skis they will debut the following winter and I assemble a team of testers, weekend warriors, full-time ski instructors and ski bums to try them out. Over two days we test more than 40 pairs of skis that vary from the widest powder planks to the race-ready bombers. The testers record their observations and opinions on comment cards.

During the testing, I’m pretty busy adjusting bindings and chatting sidecut, construction and performance, so I only get to ski a handful of the skis. But over the winter I make a point of getting out on every new model for at least a run. When the snow has melted I add my own observations to the tester feedback and check out what other ski reviewers are saying. Add it all up and the results are below.

Best New Skis of 2023: Elan Playmaker 101

evo

Elan Playmaker 101

• $699.99 at evo.com

• Sizes: 164, 172, 180, 188
• Turn radius: 16m-19.5m
• Ski weight: 3,520 grams at 180cm

The Playmaker is to Elan as a hip hop record would have been to Pearl Jam – out of character but intriguing. Elan has traditionally made classic skis: they were conservative and safe, designed for turning and carving. With twin tips and a fairly symmetrical side cut the Playmaker is more hip hop: a progressive freeride ski meant for twisting, flipping and riding both directions all over the resort and beyond. Testers were impressed with Elan’s deviation from the norm. As advertised the Playmaker skied in both directly smoothly and predictably. Generous rocker provided a surfy feel, especially in fresh snow. It felt nimble and poppy on the feet thanks to a lightweight wood core with carbon rods to add stiffness and rebound. It wouldn’t feel out of place in the backcountry. They liked to charge and there was enough stiffness to smash through chopped up powder and stomp landings. They carve okay, but were much happier in a drifted or skidded turn. Overall these are a fun ski for anyone that sees the ski hill as a playground.

Best Overall Ski: Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition

elan

Best Overall Skis

Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition

• $849.99 at evo.com

• Sizes: 164, 172, 180, 188
• Turn Radius: 18m (180)
• Ski Weight: 1710 +/- 50g (180)

This version of the Ripstick will please everyone – a rarity in the world of skiing. No matter who I handed these skis to — from a 14-year-old ripper to his groomer-loving weekend warrior dad, a 55-year-old ski instructor to accomplished experts — everyone raved.

Elan borrowed the shape from the original Ripstick 96, a ski I already really liked. There’s an early rise in the tip, which makes it easy to get on edge at the start of a turn and helps with float in fresh snow. More rocker in the tail again helps with planing and keeps the skis agile, for ditching speed in the steeps or sliding them out just for fun. Plenty of camber underfoot gives the ski a lively feel and helps with edge bite in firmer snow.

And like most Elan skis, the Ripsticks are asymmetric — there’s a right and left ski, which puts more ski over the edge, helpful for gripping on groomers and ice. Finally, the 96 mm width under the foot is a versatile size for doing a little bit of everything. The only knock on the original was at high speeds and chopped-up conditions, where it got a little unpredictable.

The Black Edition smooths out the performance by adding a bunch of carbon to the construction: twin rods down the edges of each ski, a sheet focused over the inside edge and under the binding, and more in the tip and tail. The result is a slightly stiffer ski, which translates to better edge hold on hard snow and less shakiness in tracked-up powder.

Usually adding stiffness to a ski makes it heavier and harder to ski, but because Elan used carbon (instead of metal) the Black Edition Ripsticks remain relatively light and easy to ski. It’s definitely happier in softer conditions than east coast ice and for intermediate skiers, I’d suggest sticking with the regular version over the Black. But otherwise, this is one of the most versatile and user-friendly skis I’ve tried.

There are lighter skis, stiffer skis, better carving skis — but there are few that can do as much, so intuitively, as these skis do. It defines the all-mountain category and it looks badass, too.

Best Upgrade Ski: Stockli Montero AX

Powder7

Stockli Montero AX

• $1,299.00 at evo.com

• Sizes: 163, 168, 173, 178, 183
• Turn radius: 15 m
• Ski weight: 3,530 grams

I’ve never tried a Stockli ski that wasn’t luxurious and the Montero AX is no exception. It was smooth and silky with a weighty, stable feel that felt more planted and controlled the faster I pushed it. Kind of like driving a luxury car.

Chalk that up to process. A lot of ski brands share manufacturing facilities. Not Stockli. They have a private plant in Lucerne, Switzerland where they hand-build all their skis. Each board takes an average of five days and includes up to 140 steps, whereas a major brand might spit out a finished ski in eight hours.

Most of their skis share a similar construction of high-end materials, including a lightweight wood core and a full sheet of metal. In the Montero AX the Titanal top sheet has an S-shaped cut-out at the tip and tail. This creates more flexibility for easier turn initiation and forgiving skiing while maintaining torsional stability for carving in firm snow. With tip and tail rocker to help with swiveling, these were a surprisingly easy ski to turn, even at slower speeds. As I picked up speed they never wavered in their stability and support. They crashed through slush and chunky late-day conditions and felt more nimble than most 80 mm skis, transitioning edge to edge at the flick of a toe.

While we had the most fun on these laying trenches in groomers, they were capable in all conditions. The softer tip and tail make them predictable and smooth in the moguls and there is enough tail rocker to throw them sideways to dump speed in the steeps.

There’s also a Montero AR, which is a little wider and stiffer. More powerful skiers preferred these to the more easygoing AX. But unless you’re a former racer or high-end instructor we suggest sticking to the AX. It will make you feel like a better skier no matter where you take it.

Best Budget Ski: Dynastar M-Menace 90 Skis ​+ XP 11 Bindings

Courtesy

Dynastar M-Menace 90 Skis ​+ XP 11 Bindings

• $449.95 at evo.com

• Sizes: 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180
• Turn radius: 10m to 27m
• Ski weight: 1400g to 1750g

There’s a lot to like about this ski, and the price is just the beginning. No matter where I took it, no matter the conditions, it felt comfortable. It only falls short of its high-performing brethren in a few places and more than makes up for it in versatility and easygoing attitude. That adaptability comes from a mix of construction and design. It’s a wood and fiberglass build with a 90 mm waist, and it looks like a throwback to a decade ago when twin tips were common in freeride and all-mountain skis.

The Menace can certainly play in the park. It has plenty of pop for getting airborne and feels stable on landings. The design is not as symmetrical as true park skis, but it is close enough to ski and land backwards.

But where a lot of park skis feel awkward doing anything else, the Menace easily transitioned to bumps, tight trees and groomed runs. The tip and tail rocker and a progressive flex from tip to binding and on to tail were predictable and easy to handle dropping into deep carves or making quick turns. On groomers, the heavier-weight ski sunk into turns and held on. It preferred a slightly washed-out finish to a crisp launch into the next turn, but with effort, I could bring it all the way around.

It’s not as powerful or stable as a metal ski, but it’s also not as demanding; I could ski hard on it all day without feeling like I had tanks on my feet. And in powder, the generous rocker offered decent float.

Put it all together, and the Menace impressed me before I saw the price. It feels natural and comfortable in so many different situations. People who approach skiing with a playful attitude will like it best. There are few skis that offer so much fun for so little money.

Best Eastern All Mountain Ski: Volkl Kendo 88

Backcountry

Volkl Kendo 88 Ski – 2024

• $699.95 at Backcountry

• Sizes: 163, 170, 177, 184
• Turn radius: 16 m
• Ski weight: 1898 grams

This was the most popular ski at my ski test this year. Everyone from strong intermediates to expert rippers came roaring into the test pit gushing praise for this highly versatile ski.

The 88-mm waist was easy to swing through varying-sized arcs in hard and soft snow. It felt lively and responsive everywhere, danced through the bumps, and charged through the late-day heavy slush without deflecting or jitters. But that didn’t mean it was a demanding companion. Lighter and more finesse skiers found it easy to control at any speed.

I attribute this to two things. One, tailored carbon and Titinal. A variable-shaped sheet of metal runs the length of the ski. It is full-width underfoot but quickly moves to a frame around the edges for the rest of the length. This creates lots of dampness and power without being overwhelming. In addition, at the tip Volkl placed strands of carbon in a fan shape. This adds additional torsional rigidity for strong tip engagement at the start of the turn, but without the weight penalty if it was all metal. Put the two technologies together and the ski locks into turns like a full metal ski but remains light and maneuverable.

The second key to its performance is a variable sidecut. The front and back of the ski are in the mid to high 20-meter range (depending on length) which is fairly long. Underfoot is tighter, ranging from 13 to 17 meters. This helps the Kendo feel like a long-radius ski at high speeds and in big turns while it retains the quick turning ability of a GS ski.

It was so popular with so many skiers we contemplated naming the Kendo 88 Best Overall Ski. I think the Elan Ripstick Black Edition’s wider platform gives it a little more all-around versatility. But for skiers in the east, particularly those who mostly stick to packed snow, this is one of the most approachable and exciting skis you can click into.

Best Western All-Mountain Ski: Line Blade Optic 104

evo

Line Blade Optic 104

• $749.95 at evo.com

• Sizes: 171, 178, 185, 190
• Turn radius: 19m
• Ski weight: 1890 – 2100 grams

This might be the most demanding category. A one-quiver ski for the west has to be good at floating through fresh snow and gripping rock-hard groomers, weaving through tight trees and bombing wide-open bowls. It’s asking a lot, but the Blade Optic impressed me and most testers no matter the assignment or the conditions.

The Blade Optic is a new ski from Line, a brand that leans towards the park and pipe and freestyle side of skiing. And the 104 is the second widest in the four ski families, which also include 92, 96 and 114 widths. The wider three skis share a construction of an aspen wood core, extra thick edges and base, and what Line calls Gas Pedal Metal. This is a full-length sheet of Titanal that runs down the middle of the ski with ribs that extend right to the edges underfoot. The shaping includes twin tips, lots of rocker and camber underfoot. Finally, the sidecut is variable, with five different radiuses along the ski for versatility. It averages out to a relatively long 19 meters.

The upshot is a ski that’s hard to categorize. It’s stable and powerful like we’d expect from a metal-laminate ski, but also playful and loose, which we definitely don’t. We could lay it over on firm groomers and it would hold an edge and carve like a much narrower ski. When we pushed the speed limit it always felt smooth, even in chopped-up snow and chunder. Yet, it also seemed to beg us to pop off every roll and slide out the end of our turns. It was just as happy wiggling through the bumps and trees as it was opening it up on a powder face. At the end of the day, when our legs were tired, it didn’t feel like a lot of work. Even less aggressive skiers liked its approachability.

Fun is probably the best description for this ski. It put a smile on my face with its rare combination of stability and power with playfulness and ease. I found the 104 skied like a much narrower ski when I wanted it to and like a wider ski when I needed girth. I can’t think of a ski that I’d rather have on my feet on a big western mountain.

Best Ski for Intermediates: Head Kore 85 X

Courtesy

Head Kore 85 X

• $449.10 at bobssportschalet.com
  $499.00 (10% off)

• Sizes: 156, 163, 170, 177
• Turn radius: 12.4m to 16m
• Ski weight: 1890-3000 grams

The Kore 85 X borrows technology from Head’s popular freeride skis but brings it within range of intermediates for an ideal platform to explore the mountain and improve on.

Light, powerful and versatile, the Kore family of skis has been super popular among advanced and expert skiers. But stiff and wide — starting at 93 mm underfoot — they were more ski than most intermediate and even some advanced skiers could handle. To make the same performance more approachable, Head softened the flex, narrowed the skis and added a versatile turn radius for the 21/22 Kore X family.

Among the available widths, I think the 85 hits the sweet spot. It has a wood core with a sheet of Graphene, a carbon derivative that’s extremely light and strong. It provides just enough torsional rigidity to edge the skis in firm snow but retains the soft flex that makes them easy to turn and forgiving in bumps and tight places. The 85 mm width is narrow enough to make carving and tight turns easier but wide enough not to bog down in softer snow.

Head-matched construction with a rocker profile that’s ideal for intermediate skiers looking to advance. Moderate tip rocker hooks into a turn easily and adds float in new snow. Minimal tail rocker makes it easy to release the skis at the end of the turn to manage speed. And generous camber helps with edging and adds life.

It all adds up to a ski that will help intermediates take their turning beyond blue runs to the rest of the resort — and from the groomed trails to the bumps and powder and beyond.

Best Powder Ski: Salomon QST Blank

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Salomon QST Blank

• $749.99 at evo.com

• Sizes: 178, 186, 194
• Turn radius: 15m to 18m
• Ski weight: 2100g to 2450g

Typically a powder ski is a joy until the hordes have tracked out the fresh snow — then it starts feeling like a liability. But the Blank is a powder ski that extends its worth beyond those first couple of epic runs, thanks to beefed-up construction and a reasonable waist width, 112 mm underfoot. The result is a shockingly versatile ski that surprised me and just about everyone else who tried it.

The QST Blank replaces the QST 118 and is the ski most of Salomon’s freeride skiers are riding. They have the same C/FX construction, a mix of carbon and flax fibers, that is light and stiff. What’s new: cork in the tips and tails to absorb vibration and a double sidewall for smoothness and edge bite.

They’re not as wide as their predecessor, but in deep snow, I didn’t notice. Plenty of tip and tail rocker gives them a lot of lift: even in wind crust, they felt floaty and easy. And whereas a lot of big skis turn like boats, the Blanks were responsive, pivoting on demand in tight trees and bumps.

The biggest surprise came on packed snow. Granted it was still soft, but for a wide ski, they felt surprisingly nimble and precise. Other testers agreed and common feedback included intuitive, familiar and versatile — atypical praise for a powder ski. Even people that don’t normally as big skis loved them.

As a deep-day ski, the Blank is an attractive prospect. It’s a powder ski that makes few compromises and delivers plenty of smiles long after the fresh snow is shredded.

Best Carving Ski: Blizzard Thunderbird Sport Ti Skis ​+ TPX 12 Bindings

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Blizzard Thunderbird Sport Ti Skis ​+ TPX 12 Bindings

• $849.95 at skiessentials.com

• Sizes: 145, 155, 160, 170, 175
• Turn radius: 14m (170)
• Ski weight: 1660 grams

The Thunderbird is a carving ski that can lay trenches with the best of them but is forgiving enough to ride all day. That’s where it differs from a lot of its high-performance colleagues, which are loads of fun for a couple of runs but demand a tiring level of energy and attention.

Blizzard found a nice compromise mostly through construction. The wood core is a laminate of beech and poplar laid out to create a flex pattern that’s stiffest underfoot and gradually softens toward the ends of the ski. This makes it easy to start and end a turn while retaining plenty of power in the height of the arc.

A sheet of Titanal above the core and another below add edge bite and stability. Blizzard exposed the topsheet right to the edge of the ski to armor the sidewalls. Finally, a carbon plate under the binding separates the boot attachment from the ski, allowing the ski to flex more naturally and absorb chatter and vibration.

The result? Smooth carves, great hard snow performance and incredible stability in chunky conditions and at high speeds. Thunderbird comes in several models, varying by width and turn radius. I like the 15 for its versatility and narrow width. I found it exciting on the groomers and intuitive in bumps and firm off-piste conditions. Fast or slow, big turns or snappy slalom, it’s the rare groomer ski that’s happy any which way.

Best Backcountry Ski: Völkl Rise Beyond 96

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Völkl Rise Beyond 96

• $749.95 at avantlink.com

• Sizes: 156, 163, 170, 177, 184
• Turn radius: 17m to 27m
• Ski weight: 2360 grams [163]

Weighing a little more than two pounds per ski and designed for the backcountry, the Rise Beyond predictably feels great on the skin track and floats effortlessly in powder. What surprised me was how well it handled everything else. From soggy slush to firm groomers, bottomless powder to polished wind slabs, these featherweight skis felt like powerful planks.

The construction is a complex mix of woods, handpicked for lightness: poplar for stability, paulownia for low weight and beech for strength under the binding. Volkl glues them together, then mills out channels to add liveliness and cut weight. There’s also a three-part sidecut: rather than one continuous arc, each edge has three — a longer radius at the tip and tail and shorter underfoot.

It’s a winning combination. The skis are obviously light and maneuverable when skinning up the mountain. On the way down they feel effortless: holding an edge when needed, swinging from side to side in a pinch, floating well in deep snow thanks to plenty of rockers, and rolling over heavier powder like a much bigger, burlier ski. I was shocked and impressed.

Some of that variable snow performance comes from Rise Beyond’s relatively narrow 96 mm waist. This is less than many backcountry skiers will be looking for, but I think it’s actually an ideal size. When it comes to self-propelled skiing, foot weight adds up over a day, while gravity is always there on the way down. And so often, conditions aren’t bottomless top to bottom. That’s where a versatile ski like this one will keep you smiling while your buddies are cursing their 110 mm pontoons. If you’re shopping for a dedicated backcountry setup, start here.

Best Quiver Killer: Black Diamond Impulse 104

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Black Diamond Impulse 104

• $729.95 at avantlink.com

• Sizes: 165, 172, 179, 186
• Turn radius: 16m to 18m
• Ski weight: 3539 grams [165 cm]

You can own a bunch of skis for different purposes and conditions. Or you can simplify and just own one, like the Impulse. There are better resort skis, better backcountry skis and better all-mountain weapons. But few can do it all as well as the Impulse. It’s what I’ll be packing on ski trips this winter. With a do-it-all binding (Salomon Shift, Fritschi Tecton or Marker Duke PT), they are as fun to ski deep in the backcountry as they are inside the resort a week after a storm.

Designed by Black Diamond but made in Blizzard’s Austrian factory, the Impulse marries exacting construction with modern design. It has a poplar wood core sandwiched with carbon and Titanal underfoot and full ABS sidewalls. It’s a stiff-feeling build that lends a lot of power and stability. Less technical and more apprehensive skiers might find them hard to control, but those with good technique and stance will find skis that can rip groomers with the best of them, charge through broken-up new snow and bounce around in the powder.

The 18-meter turn radius and generous tip and tail rocker provide adaptability: I found they gave me confidence whether I was wiggling through tight trees, jump-turning a steep chute, negotiating wind crust, carving mellow warmup turns or bombing a groomer back to a lift.

Like all jacks of all trades, the Impulse does make a few compromises. But when you only have room for one ski, the Impulse demands fewer concessions than most of the competition. For one ski that can do it all — from the resort to the slackcountry to the backcountry — it is damn hard to beat.

Terms to Know

Full-cap, mustache rocker, stiff tail and a damp feel. Get your mind out of the gutter, we’re talking ski features. Here are the terms you need to know, broken down by shape, construction and feel.

Camber

The arch of the ski is its camber. It’s most obvious when you place a ski on something flat. With a cambered ski, the tip and tail sit on the ground and the center is in the air. The higher the camber, the more power and bite a ski will have. Skis with no camber or even reverse camber (the center sits on the ground and the tip and tail are in the air) promote float and easy turning. These shapes are typically powder-specific.

Rocker

How much and how far the tip and tail rise above the snow. Also known as early rise. The more rocker, the easier a ski is to turn. Less rocker promotes better edge hold. The most common rocker profile is mustache rocker, tip and tail rocker with camber underfoot.

Turn Radius

A measure of a ski’s sidecut measured in meters. The shorter the turn radius, the tighter the turns the ski will want to make.

Sidecut

Directly related to turn radius. Sidecut is the profile of a ski from tip to waist to tail. Typically the arc is consistent across the ski’s length, but brands are playing with combining different arcs along a sidecut to add multiple turning behaviors to one ski.

Waist Width

A measure from edge to edge at the narrowest point on a ski in millimeters. Wider tends to float in fresh snow better, while narrower is easier to edge into hard snow.

Ski Construction

Flex

This refers to how easy it is to bend a ski. Manufacturers adjust the flex with the materials and construction. We break up a ski’s flex into three parts: tip, center and tail. Tip: A soft tip makes it easy to initiate a turn and absorbs bumps. A stiffer tip provides bite, great for hard snow carving, and stability at speed. Center: A soft center provides a forgiving ride that’s easy to turn. A stiff center feels stable at speed, even if the tip and tail are soft. Tail: A soft tail feels loose and buttery. A stiff tail adds snap and pop at the exit of a turn. It also provides a good platform for landing jumps and skiing on uneven terrain.

Sidewall

The part of the ski above the edge and below the top sheet. The style of the sidewall plays a role in performance and durability. A full sidewall has vertical walls and is the toughest and most powerful. Cap construction slopes up to the top sheet and is easier to ski. Between the two are all kinds of hybrids.

Top Sheet

The top of the ski. Usually just a protective layer with graphics.

Base

The bottom of the ski is a hard plastic. There are a couple of hardnesses of base material, but in general, it all comes from one of two factories in Europe.

Feel

• Dampness: A ski’s ability to absorb vibrations. A damp ski is stable at speed and holds an edge through a carve.
• Playful: An ambiguous term generally associated with a loose tail and a snappy feel. The opposite of powerful, playful skis is happy to skid.
• Powerful: Like an expensive car, a powerful ski feels stable at high speeds and bites into hard snow. Harder to control, they’re often stiffer and need more energy and skill to ski.

Mounting Types

System Ski

When a ski comes with a binding for a set price. The binding often integrates with the ski rather than mounting with screws.

Flat Ski

A ski that doesn’t come with a binding.

How to Know It’s Time for a New Pair of Skis

Skis have a life, but figuring out when it’s over can be challenging. When you ski the same pair of sticks for a season or a couple of seasons, the changes are incremental. They don’t just stop working, so you may not notice right away. If you don’t tune your skis regularly, try an edge sharpen and wax before writing them off. A quality pair of skis should last at least 100 days of skiing.

Beyond age, there a few other signs it’s time to upgrade: a lot of cuts and scratches to the top sheet, side walls or base, especially if any penetrate into the core materials; skis that don’t feel like they have any spring or life to them; or if the skis won’t do what you want them to. The last could be because the skis are toast or because you’re not as fit or sharp as you used to be.

“If a ski’s not fun, finding the right pair means you’re going to enjoy the experience more,” Rabinowitz says. “And if you haven’t bought a new pair in 10 years, then it’s definitely time. The technology has totally changed for the better.”

How to Shop for a New Pair of Skis

Every ski-buying expert we talked to says the buying process should start before turning on the computer or stepping out of the house. “Ask yourself a few key questions,” says Ashton Helmstaedter, the owner of Foothills Ski Life, a specialty store in Denver. “The more honest you are, the more you’re going to like your new ski.”

Is this your only ski or part of a quiver? Where in the country do you ski? What type of terrain do you like to ski? Do you like to carve your turns or prefer to skid and slide?

A Primer On Different Types of Skis

These questions should help narrow down the type of ski you need and then further down to performance attributes. Let’s start with the different categories of skis.

All-Mountain

This is your do it all ski, filling in everything between a dedicated powder ski and dedicated carving ski. Most ski sales pros will say that if you’re only going to own one pair, it should be an all-mountain ski. They’re designed to handle everything from fresh snow to moguls, groomers and steeps — which also means a certain amount of sacrifice. “Is there a true all-mountain ski that can do everything well?” asks Helmstaedter. “Absolutely not. You’re always giving something up.” Within the all-mountain category, there’s plenty of diversity; the category spans the gap between forgiving cruisers to missiles.

Powder

Once you’re into the 110mm waist and wider range, the skis only do one thing well: make skiing untracked snow easy. They’re so wide that it becomes hard to pressure the edge for carving, so they don’t do well on firm snow. But because they have so much surface area, they tend to float incredibly well, making skiing powder and even crusts much easier. This is the category where we see a lot of experimentation with things like reverse camber, upturned edges and unique shapes.

Carving

Spend more than 80 percent of your time skiing firm snow? Look for a ski with an 80mm and under waist width. This is also where the high-performance carving skis live. Both of these groups of skis can go anywhere on the mountain, but their happy place is on groomed snow.

Park

To survive the rigors of sliding rails, hucking table tops and flying out of the halfpipe, skis need to be tough. Park-focused skis tend to have full sidewalls, thicker edges and heavy-duty base material for absorbing hard landings and constant abuse. They are almost always twin-tipped for skiing and landing backwards. Their flex profile is usually soft in the tip for smearing and buttering and stiff underfoot for stability and landing jumps. With versatile side cuts and waist widths, these skis often work well as all-mountain skis outside of the park.

Ski Prices

A new pair of skis range in price from less than $300 to more than $1,300. More and more skis now come with a binding designed specifically to integrate with the ski. These “system skis” are often good value compared to buying a ski and binding separately. The drawback is weight; they’re often heavier.

But even factoring in bindings, the price range is huge. This begs the question, should you splurge or save? “You get what you pay for,” says Bernie Duval, a veteran floor manager at Fanatyk Co., a ski shop in Whistler. “The difference is in materials and workmanship. The ski will last longer.”

But most of us won’t notice the difference on the snow, says Rabinowitz. “As long as you’re paying $500 and up from a reputable manufacturer, there is no bad ski,” he says, “just a bad ski for you.”

You can save money by buying last year’s model. Often the technology is the same as an old graphic. Or, if you can wait, stores start dropping prices after Christmas. The drawback to either strategy is less selection.

One thing to keep in mind: everyone we talked to for this piece told us they recommend saving on skis and splurging on the right ski boot. “It’s fun to ski any ski if you have the right boot,” says Helmstaedter. “The opposite is not true.”

A Note On Construction

Skis are generally made from a sandwich of materials, bookended by a top sheet and base, and glued together with a resin. Material choice is getting more diverse, but even the same materials aligned a different way can create big differences in performance, so it’s hard to generalize. This is also where brands tend to put a lot of marketing energy. Bottom line, don’t worry too much about the construction details and concentrate more on what kind of skiing the brand is recommending the ski for. That should tell you more about how it will ski than what’s inside. That said, here are a couple of things to watch out for.

• Carbon: Strands, stringers or sheets of carbon add stiffness without weight.
• Metal: Most commonly Titanal, a mix of titanium and aluminum. It adds some stiffness but mostly dampening or vibration absorption.
• Wood: A wood core is the gold standard; we’d hesitate to buy a ski without a wood core.

Four Factors to Consider Before You Shop

Waist Width

The width of a ski determines how easy it is to get from edge to edge, how much it wants to float in soft snow and how easy it is to carve. Narrower widths – say 60mm to 80mm – are best for nimble and precise carving. Powder skis are on the other end of the spectrum, 110mm and wider. All-mountain and park skis land anywhere in between.

Turn Radius

Think about how you like to ski. Do you make lots of turns or prefer to open it up and ski straight and fast? Most skis list their turn radius, and it often varies slightly with ski length. 17 meters is a rough middle of the road. Anything over 20 is a missile. And 13 meters could probably carve a circle.

Rocker

Rocker makes skiing easier by making the ski feel shorter because less ski is in contact with the snow. Pretty much every ski has tip rocker. The longer the tip rocker, the easier it is to start a turn and the more a ski wants to float in fresh snow. Tail rocker helps release a ski at the end of a turn. That’s especially handy for making steep terrain easier.

Length

“I can hate a ski in one length and love it in another,” says Ben Rabinowitz, a ski advisor for Backcountry. The length of your last pair of skis is a good place to start. Otherwise, aim for about your height or a little less. And remember that rocker makes a ski feel shorter.

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As someone invested in fitness and staying active, I’m usually wearing a number of different shoes throughout the week. Whether I’m lacing up my gym shoes for an intense strength training session or hitting the pavement for a quick jog in my trusty pair of runners (weather coordinated, of course), there’s no lack of performance features and active components in my rotation.

That is, until you look at my daily footwear for running errands or travel.

Don’t get me wrong: I’m more than happy to step out for appointments in a pair of Chelseas or go on a date wearing cowboy boots. But in comparison to my normal fitness-focused footwear, these silhouettes definitely favor style and aesthetics over function and support.

That’s why when Hoka —a brand I’ve trusted for multiple running and trail running scenarios — unveiled the new Transport commuter shoe, it piqued my interest. Blending style and performance, this all-new silhouette boasts a CMEVA foam midsole, durable Vibram outsole and a subtle look that seems to favor off-day fits more than your typical workout garb. Would the performance-laden midsole provide that bridge of cushioning and support between my training shoes and dailies? Could this be the sneaker my wardrobe’s been missing?

To find out, I strapped into (more on that later) this sneaker for a few weeks, forgoing my normal loafers and boots for these kicks built with the city-dweller in mind. I took note of the underfoot performance across this all-new profile, as well as its ability to mesh with my daily outfits outside of the normal t-shirt and shorts. I also took the Transports on a few neighborhood walks, seeing if they could be solid options for this less-intense fitness discipline in an effort to save my dedicated running shoes for more strenuous cardio days.

Here’s what I found.

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Hoka Transport

• $140.00 at hoka.com

What’s Good About the Hoka Transport?

Ben Emminger

I’m a big fan of the running shoe look, and Hoka is great at giving each of their silhouettes a sense of vibrancy with bright colors and patterns. That said, though, all that brightness is not always the best accessory to a more minimalist daily ensemble — bright orange and electric blue clash with neutral pants and tops. Thankfully, however, the Transport utilizes a more subtle aesthetic across its Castlerock, Avocado and Black lineup, which meshes much more appropriately with a pair of chinos, joggers or jeans.

I also mentioned earlier that I strapped into the Transports for testing. That’s a nod to the shoe’s quick-toggle lace structure, meant for easy on-and-off action. While the tech veers away from the traditional bunny ears, it didn’t stand out too much or draw attention. Plus, the Transports feature an elastic lace strap at the middle of the tongue, so you can keep the profile tucked away when on the go.

I really enjoyed the simple on-off nature of this component, as it allowed me to quickly get up and go whether hitting the streets for an afternoon walk or rushing out the door to make a weekend appointment. The quick-toggle lace system also has me less anxious about upcoming trips, as getting these sneakers on and off when passing through TSA checkpoints is sure to be a more welcome endeavor.

Editor’s Note: Hoka does include a pair of traditional laces in the box, in case you’re less enthused about this lazy-friendly lace structure.

The geometry and outsole create a comfortable ride.

Looks aside, the Transport also surprised me in how comfortable and efficient the underfoot felt when pacing through my normal day. Thanks to the CMEVA foam in the midsole, I felt a little bit of responsiveness that was nicely tuned to my normal walking pace.

Additionally, while the foam was more dense than what you’d experience across other Hoka running silhouettes, the shoe still provides a good foundation of cushioning. I also appreciated the rocker-like geometry of the sneaker that allowed for a better heel-to-toe roll without too much stress. This allowed me to stay on my feet longer without hesitation, and alleviated any “dog barking” aches that I’d normally feel after returning home from a night wearing boots or loafers.

The Vibram outsole also adds to the performance baked into this innovative silhouette, creating a sense of traction that’s grippy, yet not overly aggressive. With work boots or other hefty profiles, I often worry about having too much tread and tracking in mud and muck. That caked debris can also lead to slipping and sliding, which can result in rather comical and exaggerated entrances to your tiled grocery store (trust me).

While the lugs are present across the Transport’s Vibram outsole, I didn’t experience any debris following me in from outside. On wood or laminate floors, the traction is still present — you’re not left slipping and sliding around.

What’s Not Ideal About the Hoka Transport?

Ben Emminger

The Cordura upper needs time to stretch out.

Another perk of the Hoka Transport is the brand’s decision to utilize durable Cordura fabric across the upper. This material has shown to be excellent at defending against scuffs and tears, giving this daily commuter a little bit of muscle across its frame.

As with most durable fabrics, however, there’s not a lot of give and stretch — at least at first. In my first few trial runs (walks) with the Transports, I definitely felt a tighter fit across the top of my foot. While the size runs true, as is the case with most Hoka silhouettes, there was a present snugness that I hadn’t previously felt with the brand, which I immediately attributed to the Cordura composition.

To get around this, I opted for thinner athletic socks to help create some separation between foot and upper. This gave me some wiggle room as the shoes slowly broke in, and after a few days, I felt that tightness dissipate. I’ll also note that I did notice the tightened fit more so when sitting or standing still, so it may be beneficial to keep the shoes unlaced as you wear them around the house for the first few go-arounds.

Now, it’s not a huge issue for a sneaker to need some break-in time, but if you’re used to Hoka profiles and their “right out of the box” performance, this could throw you for a loop. Just realize that the growing pains are worth it, even if they’ll be slightly uncomfortable.

You’ll definitely notice the Vibram outsole upon initial wears.

Along with the tighter Cordura upper, there was also another factor at play with my first few wears — squeaking. The Vibram outsole definitely had a lot to say as I paced across my laminate flooring, to the point that it became a nuisance, rather than a sign of freshness. Additionally, there was a lot of tackiness across the tread, creating a sticking sensation on toe-offs. As the shoes wore in, the stickiness and squeaking dwindled, but it’s worth calling out.

Given the looks and performance of the Transports, I suspect this silhouette to be popular with workers in retail and medical fields. It might be best to wear these around the neighborhood or house before taking them to work — unless you really want to make your presence (and new shoes) known up and down the hallways and aisles.

The Hoka Transport: The Verdict

While there are some initial issues to get through, I confidently think the Hoka Transports will continue to be my new daily sneakers. The comfort and cushioning is plenty present enough for walking, and the colorways lend themselves to multiple outfits and get-ups. I also appreciate the outsole lug pattern, as this allows for more control and traction across different environments — a great plus for those that frequent dirt walking paths or have to deal with inclement weather.

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Hoka Transport

• $140.00 at hoka.com

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