One of our constant missions at Gear Patrol is to seek out the stories, products, places and people that we feel will improve our own lives and the lives of our devoted readers. This week, that goal materialized full-form in an overflowing bounty of new articles centered around ways to make one’s life a little better. A bit of an upgrade, if you will. Maybe some reflection too. Not that we’d ever steer you wrong: if you’re looking for a fine watch on a budget, cutting-edge, award-nominated literature or $400 umbrellas, we’ll always have you covered. Below, for your consideration, is a handful of pieces with advice on what to buy, where to go, how to organize and much more. Here’s to never settling. – Nick Caruso
Words Without Context
A Notable Quote From The Week
“Emotionally, carnally, politically and socially, Prince could be assertive, submissive, playful, deadly serious, hardheaded and sensitive; there was never any question that he could be all of these things, none of them, or some of them, all at once. That plurality of experiences exists in all of us and always has. But we often lock them away like toys we’ve decided we’ve outgrown.”
– Nick Milanes
Upgrade Everything
Change your look and change your surroundings
Three New Hotel Openings, All Worthy of a Reservation
These are three — in South Carolina, New York and California — that you should plan on staying at this summer.
Buying Guide: Short-Sleeve Shirts for Summer
Summer is the enemy of body temperature and presentability. But a crop of new companies is combining technical fabrics and quality cuts for easy breathing style. That isn’t to say we’re willing to ditch our madras and seersucker just yet, but here are 10 of our favorite lightweight shirt options, new and old.
The Ultimate 72-Hour International Carry-On Bag
From business meetings to the gym, this gear has you covered.
The Obsessive’s Guide to Uncluttering Your Work Desk
Your little corner of office space, perfectly curated.
A Guide to All-Natural Protein Powders
Most protein powders contain some questionable ingredients. It’s best to stay on the safe side and go all-natural.
Your Next Purchase: A Better Hoodie
With loopback, fleece-back and waffle-knit fabrics, the ol’ hoodie is all grown up.
In the Social Circle
Sightings From Instagram