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Today in Gear: March 23, 2017

A weatherproof Stio backpack, a Product(RED) Apple iPhone 7, a clever Simpsons bicycle, news about NASA and much more.

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Mark Kushimi

Good morning. NASA is getting $19.5 billion in allowance money to fund its mission to Mars. The revised budget, which was signed into action earlier this week by President Trump, is the largest budget increase NASA has received in seven years. If all goes to plan, humans will set foot on Mars in the 2030s.

• Here’s yesterday’s gear news.

• Tune in on Facebook Live tomorrow at 12 p.m. EST — our Tech Editor is giving the rundown on Samsung’s latest tablet.

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Today’s Gear


What’s New, Now


OluKai Nohea Moku Sneaker

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That its name translates to “handsome” makes perfect sense: the Nohea Moku is an extremely functional sneaker, yet doesn’t look like a neon nightmare as one might expect from such a technical tour de force. It’s built for the adventure lifestyle, which means it’s light and breathable, thanks to extensive mesh materials. An elastic lace system keeps things in place, while razor siping on the sole and medial drainage ports manage water without flinching. The jersey knit liner and gel footbed are made for comfort, and the collapsible heel cup converts easily for slip-on wear.

Buy Now: $95

Johnnie Walker Blender’s Batch

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Johnnie Walker’s latest release isn’t made for sipping neat, but for mixing into cocktails. The distillery’s Red Rye Finish, the inaugural release from its Blender’s Batch collection, is an American-inspired scotch — light and smooth with spicy notes that make for a mean Manhattan. – Emily Singer, Associate Staff Writer

Buy Now: $30+

Stio CFS Backpack

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Stio’s new CFS collection includes one roll-top backpack and two duffels, each of which is designed specifically for the wettest, roughest conditions. The 35-liter backpack is fully weatherproof, and several secondary zippered pockets provide protection for smaller stuff. Excellent for both crusty river guides and urban commuters.

Buy Now: $195

iPhone 7 and 7 Plus PRODUCT(RED) Special Edition

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Ten years ago, the original iPod Nano became the first Apple product to get the (RED) treatment. Since then, all kinds of Apple products have been painted red to help fund the fight against HIV/AIDS; now, the iPhone 7 is stepping up to the cause. Available in stores and online tomorrow.

Learn More: Here

Rolex’s New Sea-Dweller Is Glorious Overkill

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A Rolex that’s water-resistant to an astounding 4,000 feet, or nearly four times as deep as the current scuba-diving world record.

Learn More: Here

The Simpsons x State Bicycle Co.

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A Simpsons bicycle? Sounds gimmicky, right? Not when it’s a State bicycle. This is a company known for making some of the finest steel bikes in the world. And anyway, no Simpsons branding is gimmicky when it’s this clever — take a closer look at the frame. The top tube is an abstract depiction of Bart, the down tube is Marge, the seat stay is Lisa and the seat tube is Homer. Even if you’re not a Simpsons fan, that level of creativity is hard not to appreciate.

Buy Now: $499

This Rare Vintage Porsche Is Ridiculously Affordable for Incredibly Stupid Reasons

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It’s considered slightly “less perfect” by some, which makes this 911 RS America that much more affordable.

learn More: Here

Deals of Note


Great Products, Great Prices


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How to save on La Colombe coffee, retro surf trunks and New Balance sneakers.

Read the Story: Here

What’s New from GP


Read Up on Our Latest


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• Stop printing your photos at Walmart. Follow these tips instead.
• For this award-winning restaurant in Nashville, top-shelf imported knives are essential.

Note: Stories published on Gear Patrol may contain links to buy products sold in our curated store as well as by third party retail destinations. Items purchased through the GP store help directly support editorial initiatives. In some cases, we may also receive a small commission for the online customers we refer to external retailers. Learn more about our editorial policies related to commerce and affiliate sales here.

Next Page: Happy Hour Talking Points and One Thing to Watch

Happy Hour Briefing


Ice Breakers for the First Drink


• Millennials are tearing up the old notions and practices of industrial farming. And that’s a good thing. [Fortune]
• Will Roger Federer soon retire? Nope — he’s just getting started. [GQ]
• Dave Chapelle’s fantastic new comedy special is now on Netflix. Here’s some other great Netflix comedy specials. [The Ringer]
• Burger King has vowed to stop using abused chickens. [CNN Money]
• A private jet got swept up in the wake of a jumbo jet, and began free-falling to Earth like a dead leaf. [NBC News]
• And one thing to watch:

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