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Today in Gear: June 8, 2016

A backpack for discerning gentlemen, a driving loafer for the color-happy gearhead, a Dakar Rally truck and much more.

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Good morning and happy Wednesday. A clinical trial published on June 2 found that a new, wearable artificial kidney may be a suitable — and certainly more desirable — replacement for large, immobile dialysis machines for people int he late stages of kidney disease. Instead of needing to be anchored to a large machine every few weeks, patients could wear the device and go about their days, undergoing longer treatments. Sounds like a win for science. Speaking of wins, here’s what’s good in gear: a backpack for discerning gentlemen, a driving loafer for the color-happy gearhead, a Dakar Rally truck for those who appreciate displacement and much more.

And here are some fresh stories to start the day.

The Backpack by TravelTeq

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It’s often said that a proper adult, especially a businessman, should forego a backpack in favor of a handsome briefcase. It’s also often the case that there are exceptions to the rule. Made in Tuscany out of sturdy leather and rubber-coated nylon (making it water resistant), this backpack is gorgeous enough and capable enough that any commuter with a computer (there’s a padded laptop sleeve) should consider it.

Learn More: Here

StrongArm Knife by Gerber

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The full-tang 4.8-inch blade on this knife features a hard ceramic coating and grippy rubber handle. Perfect for all those tactical situations you’re always getting yourself into. For more fixed-blade knives, check out our guide here.

Buy Now: $86

Parker Driving Loafer by Jack Erwin

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Every man needs a good driving shoe in his arsenal. These feature a clever design to reduce slippage and stay snug on your foot — perfect for a jaunt around town or for heel-toeing those perfect, grippy downshifts. Featuring an Italian nubuck upper in nine colors.

Buy Now: $115

Dakar Racing Truck by Kamaz Master

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The Dakar Rally is a 1,000-mile race across the desert in which teams have to carry all their equipment in the very vehicle that’s racing. Kamaz lost the 2016 race, but is aiming to take the race in 2017. Case in point: this bad mother of a truck, with 980 horsepower out of a gargantuan 12.5-liter diesel engine and a 15-speed transmission. Which is… crazy. Especially since it’s easy to go dune riding with so much (okay, just slightly) less.

Learn More: Here

T7 Bluetooth Speaker by Bowers & Wilkins x Burberry

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This collab has generated one very capable, luxuriously appointed Bluetooth speaker. The B&W unit is known for its premium sound and long battery life; now it’s adorned with golden accents and one of two cases — black leather or tan suede.

Buy Now: $995

Parce Rum

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Colombia. Land of beauty, land of… rum. Receiving a 92 rating in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and available in 8- and 12-year vintages, this might just be the tipple your old man needs come Father’s Day. (In case you need way, way more excellent ideas: our Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide has your back.)

Learn More: Here


Fresh Stories to Start Your Day

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The Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide
A complete rundown of exactly what dads really want.


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How 5 Important People Fly
Take your seat, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready to learn some flying tips, rookie.


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The Finest Automobile Auctions is Changing the Way You Bid on Classics
With his new automobile auction company, The Finest, Bradley Farrell hopes to upend traditional auctions and inject passion back into the car world.


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Want to Finally Understand Physics? Read This Book
An excerpt from a book that will make you smarter.


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Ties, Cufflinks, Socks and More, All for Under $30
At just under $30 a month, Sprezzabox subscribers receive a delivery box of ties, socks, pocket squares and other accessories.


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The Originals: 6 Iconic Products That Define Their Own Category
These products lead categories by example rather than by contrivance, each serving as inspiration and aspiration. They are icons, and very deserving of the title.


Behind the Scenes


Sightings from Instagram


The storm. (?@sungsdynasty) #floridakeys #everglades #nationalpark #adventure

A photo posted by Gear Patrol (@gearpatrol) on

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