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The 6 Best Home Rowing Machines

It’s time for a revolution — a rowing revolution. For too long, the rowing machine has been the default loner in the corner of the gym that seems to always be available. The desperation needs to end, because the modality is a marvel of full-body fitness. Engaging 86 percent of your muscles — nearly twice as many as running or cycling, including quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, shoulders, upper back, arms and core — rowing burns more calories than any other single piece of equipment.

“The rowing machine makes for the most efficient workouts, and intervals on the rowing machine are great,” says Bryan Volpenheim, two-time Olympic medalist and previous head coach of the US Men’s National Rowing Team. “You don’t have to do it for hours like you would running or cycling. You can get an incredible workout in thirty minutes… and it’s low impact so it’s not hard on your joints.”

With a combination of testing and scouring the internet, we’ve rounded up a few of the best. Scroll down and you’re sure to find one that will help you row your way to a fitter physique, fast.

Smartest Home Rower

Hydrow Rower

Yes, it’s pricey. But you get what you pay for, and in this case that means not only a top-notch rower but a whole online community that’ll keep you motivated and moving. The Hydro boasts a computer-controlled electromagnetic drag system for a real on-the-water feel, plus a sweatproof 22-inch HD touchscreen monitor to unlock a world of rowing experience. Through a membership ($456/year), you gain access to expert trainer-led live classes plus more than 1,000 streaming river and studio rowing sessions. The connected set-up also lets you track your progress and compete with others via leaderboards, daily rows, challenges and special events.

Most Gym-Like Home Rower

Cityrow Go

CityRow Go Max

City Row has close to a dozen energizing row-centric gyms across the country, with more on the way, and this unit is the rower of choice. So even when you use it at home, you get that dynamic gym feel, especially with the app and a subscription ($29/month), which lets you tap into all sorts of pumped-up trainer-led classes — rowing plus HIIT, strength, yoga and more. The rower itself is based on the classic WaterRower (see below) and its original WaterFlywheel, but it’s updated with a rotating touchscreen, hi-fi speakers, Bluetooth connectivity and realtime performance data.

Best Budget Home Rower

Courtesy

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515

$399.00

$249.99 (37% off)

If you wanna bring home a reliable rower for less than $300, this currently discounted option is your best bet. Relatively easy to jump on and use (or fold up and store), it features an LCD screen displaying time, count, calories and other key data. Meanwhile, a twist of the dial near the feet lets you access eight levels of magnetic resistance, so you can challenge yourself as you get stronger. You’ll have to supply your own motivation however — there’s no fancy screen on this unit, nor is there any place to add one.

Most User-Friendly Home Rower

Concept 2 Model D

First launched in 1976, Concept 2 churns out high-quality equipment that can be found in gyms nationwide, as well as at the indoor world rowing championships. Elite athletes use Concept 2 machines to push themselves to new levels. The Model D is easy to use: on the performance monitor, just hit row to get going. The harder you pull, the more muscles you’ll engage and the more intensity you’ll feel. You can also raise and lower the damper to control how much air gets into the flywheel housing. To store, separate the machine at the middle, tuck away the arm and roll the resistance sphere to a closet or corner.

Best-Looking Home Rower

WaterRower Classic

While the WaterRower has been around since 1988, it experienced a revival of sorts after its starring role in House of Cards. The beauty of the machine is that it’s built to blend in with its surroundings, so you don’t have to banish it to your gym dungeon. The machine is smooth, easy-to-use and works for everyone from beginners to experts. Even with its classic aesthetics, it has modern touches, too — most notably a performance monitor that tracks speed, intensity, time, distance and stroke rate. Of course, the soothing sound of water rushing around the base of the machine is also a plus.

Most Versatile Home Rower

Nordic Track RW900

If Peloton and Concept 2 were to have a baby, you’d get the RW900. Your first year of an iFit membership, which can be used on the RW900, is free, so you can enjoy expert-led workouts for not only rowing but also cross training, boot camp, HIIT and active recovery and more — both on and off the rower. The digital screen transports you to majestic spots around the world, immersing you in the rowing experience right from your living room. And not unlike the latest Peloton screen, it also rotates for easy viewing when you transition to other workout modalities.

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July 26, 2021 / Comments Off

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Men’s Gear Awards: Best Pocket Knife Brands Of 2021

One of the most common things we’re asked about at Men’s Gear is our stance on knives. We cover a lot of them, so we can understand why this comes up so often. The hardest question to ask us is which pocket knife we love the most. It’s a nearly impossible answer. However, we do have certain pocket knife brands that we swear by over others.

To us, it is still difficult to pick the best. There are a lot of factors to consider there. It was like when we had to pick out just 150 camping gadgets. We went over the top and picked more because we loved this stuff so much. When you ask about the top pocket knife brands, you’re looping together just about every company that makes outdoor knives.

They all make a pocket knife or something in that world like it. They also make hatchets and axes, with some even going as far as making tactical tomahawks. In fact, tactical-led companies have some of the best knives you’ll ever find, and they have to be when you’re going to need them in the field.

Overall, pocket knives are another breed of knife altogether. The pocket knife brands picked by us below were all judged by a number of factors. However, the main thing we focused on was only legal versions of knives. Most brands have assisted open and others that are legal in most countries but switchblades are not.

We only picked brands that fit the closed, smaller knife criteria. They have to count as a pocket knife, as in one that fits in your pocket, basically. Without further wait, enjoy our list of the best pocket knife brands in the world today.

Editors Rating

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Spyderco makes some of the best knives you’ll ever see. This is especially true of pocket knives. In fact, people are discovering just how impressive Spyderco’s pocket knives are as of late.

So much so, several of these knives from the brand has reached top ten lists for top knife-centered websites as well as outdoor sites.

This is not shocking when you see what they have to offer. All of the knives are made with only the best materials, yet they don’t charge an arm and a leg for their products either. More on that later.

What makes Spyderco stand out over some of the others out there is their countless list of knives that are only sold by them. They trademarked or have copyright on a ton of their knives. Most of the ones that are pocket knife related are in that listing of brand-only knives too.

With that said, let’s get to some of these amazing knives and why they stand out.

Spyderco Pocket Knives

While some may define pocket knives differently than us, we define them as knives that can fit in your pocket without a protective sheath. That means they are either too small to stab you in the leg if you put them in your pants pocket, or they fold up.

Something must cover them with a protector otherwise, which to us cannot count as a pocket knife. Everything that makes a pocket knife must come attached to the base of the knife or something of that nature. At Spyderco, they have multiple knives that fit this.

Here are the brand knives you should know about:

A.T.R.™ 2
Advocate™
Alcyone™ G-10 Grey
Amalgam™
Bradley Folder™ 2
Brouwer™ Folder
Caly™ 3.5 Carbon Fiber ZDP 189
Caribbean™ Leaf
Caribbean™ Sheepfoot
Civilian™ G-10 Black
ClipiTool™ Rescue™
ClipiTool™ Standard™
Cricket™ Stainless Steel
Harpy™
Hundred Pacer™
Karahawk™ G-10 All Black
Karahawk™ G-10 Black
Magnitude™ Carbon Fiber
Manbug™ Salt Sheepfoot
McBee™
Opus™
P’Kal™
Reinhold Rhino™
Rescue 79 mm™ Lightweight
Rubicon™ 2
Salt™ 2
Saver Salt™
Schempp Bowie™
Snap-It Salt™ Lightweight / Kraton
SpydieChef™ Titanium
Subvert™
Tatanka™ G-10
Techno™
Tropen™
Tusk™
Vallotton Sub-Hilt™
Wolfspyder

As you can tell, their list of impressive one-off knives is fantastic. However, Spyderco decided to continue some beyond a few knives. In fact, they have entire knife lines dedicated to them. These are the lines you should really check out:

The Assist Salt™ Lightweight Line
The Chaparral™ Line
The D’Allara™ 4 Line
The Dragonfly™ 2 Line
The Endura® 4 Line
The Lil’ Native® Line
The Manix™ 2 Line
The Matriarch™ 2 Lightweight Line
The Military™ Model Line
The Native® 5 Line
The Para Military™ 2 Line
The Para™ 3 Line
The Police™ Model Line
The Sage™ Line
The Shaman™ Line
The Spyderco Line
The Stretch™ 2 Line
The Tasman™ Salt 2 Line
The Tenacious™ Line
The Yojimbo™ Line

Each line and knife is made for different reasons. Some are better for hunting or fishing while others are better for camping. Carbon fiber, Titanium, and other materials are used in these knives too. Overall, you cannot go wrong with any of them.

Some of the designs are unique, not just in the handle but in the blade itself. While you still see the classic serrated or straight look in the blade, it may be shaped differently than you might normally see. This only makes them more valuable and unique, in our opinion.

Price Range:

The prices at Spyderco are around the industry average for pocket knife brands. You’ll pay as much here as anywhere else, but not every brand makes knives as impressively as they do. It is quite clear that they are in the average, but what is it exactly?

You’ll spend anywhere between $60 to $800 here. However, most of their knives meet in the middle where you won’t spend much more than $300 most days. The higher knives are usually more specialty-driven. This is why for $140 or $250, you can buy a quality knife from them just as easily as you could for those north of $300.

Spyderco does offer a warranty, but it looks to be a basic Limited Lifetime Warranty. They do have conditions with their warranty, however. One of them is that the service life of a knife will run out eventually, due to the knife needing to be retired from use. Sometimes, knives do reach their expiration. At this point, Spyderco does not fix anything.

They also do not fix the knife if it was used outside the realm of its abilities. If you would like to know more about what the warranty does or doesn’t cover, click here.

Spyderco is also a very big supporter of the Armed Forces. This led them to do what they call a Military Lottery. Each month, they pick 50 Military Personel to give a knife to for absolutely free of charge. This had to do mostly with deploying men and women.

If you want to find out more or you wish to enter the knife lottery with Spyderco, click here.

Editors Rating

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Victorinox is a master in the craft of Swiss Army Knives. This is likely due to the fact that they are a Switzerland based company. This sort of helps them with that sort of thing, we feel.

Due to Victorinox being so good with Swiss Army Knives, they obviously have to land on the pocket knife brands list. These types of knives are really what people think about first when they think up a pocket knife.

Swiss Army Knives have been popular for years and it makes sense. They include a blade, sometimes multiple. They may also include tweezers, a bottle opener, nail file, and much more.

Overall, when you think about these types of knives, you know you’re getting more bang for your buck. This is due to the fact that they come with so much, so it feels like you have a one-stop shop for all the things you might need in a given day.

No one is better than Victorinox at making these knives. That said, let’s examine the knives they have and why you should pay attention to them.

Victorinox Pocket Knives

The Victorinox pocket knives are not nearly as vast as Spyderco. This was to be expected, considering this brand focuses so much on the Swiss Army Knife. That means for every knife other brands might make, Victorinox is making 5 to 6 in one basically.

What knives should you keep an eye on here? These are our favorites among them:

Cadet Alox Limited Edition 2019
Pioneer Alox Limited Edition 2019
Classic Limited Edition 2018
Hunter Pro
Hunter Pro M Alox
Skipper
Skipper Pro
Huntsman
Classic SD
Huntsman Year of the Pig 2018
Sportsman
Spartan Wood
Victorinox@Work
Jettsetter@Work
Midnite Manager@Work
Work Champ
Hercules
Evolution S54
Equestrian
CyberTool L
Swiss Champ XLT
Ranger Grip

As you’ll notice, the selection is vast at Victorinox. It is pretty clear that you’ll find exactly what you need here too. For proper Swiss Army Knives that count as Pocket Knives, there are few better places to shop.

Unlike other models of these knife types, the blades are not half-assed. They make them perfectly and they don’t just mess up with the smallest issue. The blade or blades you get here are perfectly designed for doing what they’re supposed to.

That means you won’t deal with the unsharp problems. The tools inside are also high-quality, making them worth the buy.

Price Range:

The prices on the Victorinox knives are all relatively good. They are a bit under the median of the industry standard. Pocket knife brands do not always have clear pricing. Sometimes you can see a knife for $50 then one similar for $500. This makes a range heavily needed.

Due to being made in Switzerland, they do not charge as much as Victorinox as people might think. The prices can range a bit wildly though. This seems to be from $25 to $250. The reason for the price difference makes a lot of sense, however.

They charge more depending on the number of tools or blades they have inside their particular Swiss Army knife. That means it’s worth the extra money, and you’re not getting cheated.

The company currently has a nice free 2-day shipping option, which should save you money on orders of any amount. They also have free returns if you need to send something back. This is only for a limited time after your purchase, however.

Victorinox even has a good warranty on their knives. Each knife has a Lifetime Warranty on it.

These guys do not mess around, as they feel their products are the best possible version of Swiss Army Knives you’ll find. So if you ever need to get something fixed, you just need to go to their Product Service Center.

You just have to go online and find the service center, fill out the form, and they’ll get back to you on what they can do. Since we’re nice guys, we found the place to go. That said, just click here to go straight to the service center and form area.

Editors Rating

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The Columbia River Knife & Tool brand is one of the very best knife companies in the world today. They can literally do it all. It’s almost shocking to see how they can make some of the most incredible knives today.

We’re constantly seeing them make top ten lists on the internet, and some people swear by their knives right now. They are consistently making new and improved knives in every category.

They make perfect knives for fishing and hunting, yet they also make great tactical and protective knives too. CRKT knows how to make a proper pocket knife, so we’re not shocked that they make so many lists along with other great knives.

That said, let’s examine the best pocket knives from the CRKT brand.

CRKT Knives

CRKT likes to make knives that can be used for just about anything. While they design them for specific tasks, we’ve found that you can use them in several crossover projects. Their pocket knives are a huge area that they love to perfect.

With that knowledge, we were sure they had plenty of knives to show off. However, they have major top rated versions that we feel need to be highlighted more. From single make to major lines, we wanted to highlight the best of the best CRKT has to offer. Let’s do that now:

HOMEFRONT™
K.I.S.S.® COMMEMORATIVE
SHENANIGAN™ Z CAMO REALTREE XTRA®
SQUID™ COPPER – LIMITED EDITION
SLACKER™
PREQUEL™
AVANT™
FLAT OUT™
BEV-EDGE™
INCENDIARY™
DAKTYL™
SNAP LOCK™ WITH TRIPLE POINT™ SERRATIONS
RIPSNORT™
HELICAL™
GUSSET™
DELILAH’S P.E.C.K.™
JETTISON™
GRAPHITE™
MOXIE™
DEVIATION™
MY TIGHE™
TIGHE TAC™
WRINKLE™ Red

As for those impressive lines we mentioned, here’s the best of the best:

The PILAR® Line
The Crossbones Line
The FOSSIL™ Line
The M4™ Line
The M16™ Line
The M21™ Line
The PAZODA™ Line

We cannot get enough of Columbia River’s major lines that seriously continue to improve, and only become greater each time they add more to them. They are often made with nearly indestructible blades. This only makes them more valuable.

They are perfect for hunting, fishing, and everyday activity. Overall, we see these knives all over the place and it is for good reason. They’re simply too difficult to kill and that adds value that cannot be overlooked.

Price Range:

We know that the CRKT knives are impressive, but did you know they are insanely well-priced too? It’s true. The company is actually under the median normal price range among pocket knife brands.

You’ll pay anywhere between $25 and $300 here. Nearly all are under $100, which makes the knives very affordable for everyone. This is perfect for fishermen and hunters who do not like overspending. The newer the knife, the higher the knife’s price is at CRKT.

The brand offers free shipping for any orders over $100. They even have a Limited Lifetime Warranty on all of their knives too. To find out what it does and does not cover, click here.

Editors Rating

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Gerber Knives have been huge in the last few years. They have developed key partnerships with impressive people, like Survivalist and TV Presenter Bear Grylls alone. Heck, he even has his own knife with them.

Their Gator Grip knife is known by many to be among the best knives in the world, full stop. Yet when you’re trying to think of the best pocket knife brands, Gerber continues to rank highly. It is hard to overlook them mostly because they make incredibly popular knives.

The respect they have earned and the popularity they have managed to get over the last few years is clearly giving them an edge in the market right now. While they may be known for their hunting and fishing knives, their pocket knife listing is downright massive.

Let’s examine those knives and explain why they’re so well-liked.

Gerber Pocket Knives

The Gerber line of knives is massive, but the biggest collection they have is clearly in their pocket knife section. They have dozens that can all be considered top tier. Most feel the biggest issue Gerber has is that their selection is so hard to choose from.

Happily, unlike some other knife brands, they don’t have a bunch of the same knife. They have multiple different types that can all be used for different things. These are a few that you should keep your eye on:

HINDERER RESCUE – SERRATED, SHEATH
HINDERER CLS
EAB POCKET KNIFE
GERBER EDGE
VITAL POCKET FOLDER
POCKET SQUARE – ALUMINUM HANDLE
COVERT FAST – BLACK, SERRATED
PROPEL AO
PROPEL DOWNRANGE AO
US-ASSIST S30V
HAUL
ANSWER F.A.S.T. SM, DROP POINT, FINE EDGE
SWAGGER AO

They have several automatic open knives too. These do not technically count as switchblades, but they can be considered similar. Some states in the United States ban auto-open, so we won’t highlight those here.

Of course, they also partner up with survival experts and military personnel too. The BEAR GRYLLS SCOUT and BEAR GRYLLS FOLDING SHEATH are spectacular, top-rated knives. Meanwhile, they have a serrated option called the SHARKBELLY that has been tested and used in disaster relief efforts.

Overall, Gerber gets it done every time with their work. They even do it at fair prices. Speaking of those.

Price Range:

The Gerber prices are actually quite impressive. They are actually on the low end of prices compared to other pocket knife brands from what we can tell. At Gerber, you’ll spend anywhere between $25 and $225.

Almost all of the major pocket knives are less than $100 too, making even their specialty knives completely affordable.

While not all of their products are made in the United States, a large number of them are. This could be why there is a price difference on those compared to the other knives, however, it is not by much.

Gerber has one of the best warranties you’ll find among pocket knife brands too. They have a Limited Lifetime Warranty on their products for customers in North America only. For those outside the continent, they have a 25-year warranty. This is pretty impressive, we think.

Not everything is covered by Gerber, but a lot is. To know what the company does and does not cover, click here. They also have knife sharpening covered within this warranty, which often costs more elsewhere.

If you think you might buy a lot from the Gerber brand, and who can blame you, why not save some money while you do it? Gerber has a Pro Program that provides exclusive offers to get their products at reduced prices. To find out more about the program, click here.

Editors Rating

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SOG might be known as a tactical company, yet they are masters when it comes to knives overall. It’s quite clear that they can make just about any type of knife they want, including pocket knives, and rank high on any list.

Since they have a large selection of pocket knives, it should come as no surprise that people love SOG for their work in this department. In fact, one might say that SOG really made their name on the backs of their pocket knives.

They are specially made, each and every single one. This is why, even if they have a knife line, all of those knives end up being different. Whether it’s the handle, the blade, the style, etc. It really does not matter, as they will continue to differ.

Let’s go over some of SOG’s biggest and most well-liked knives of today to prove this.

SOG Pocket Knives

SOG has a lot of smaller knives, but not all of them fold up to count in our pocket knife category we established at the start. This is why we only counted the folded versions of their knives, whether they were part of a line or a special solo version knife.

Here are some to keep your eye on:

The Flash II Line
The Twitch II Line
Trident
Kiku Assisted
Kiku Folding
SOG-TAC Line
Strat Ops Auto
Traction Tanto
Aegis
Slimjim Line
X-Ray Vision
Zoom Mini
Flashback-Black Tini
Vulcan Tanto Mini
Terminus
Salute Mini-Beaded Blast
Ultra C-Ti
Kilowatt

Overall, the company has all sorts of knives. The ones that are folded or assisted open are listed here, but not their automatic types. Again, we wanted to avoid any that are considered illegal for any state in the United States.

The SOG brand has been known to vary their knives and you can tell the differences in all of these we highlighted above. This is the key thing we feel makes everything better for them. They put their hard work to good use and made everything better in the end.

Price Range:

The prices for SOG knives are relatively industry standard. Here you’ll pay between $50 and $300 with most knives coming under $200.

SOG also has a Limited Lifetime Warranty on all of their knives. To learn more about what they do or do not cover, click here.

Overview Of The Best Pocket Knife Brands

As you clearly noticed from our list, the premier pocket knife brands are those that know their customers. While some knives may be used only for hunting, tactical, fishing, etc., it really does not matter. Pocket knives can be used for a lot of different things, and the right brands will know this.

That is why they may separate them out for what a knife might be perfect at, but they won’t hold them back either. They won’t tell a hunter that he cannot use a certain pocket knife for something, even though they may guide them to better-equipped versions.

This is essential, we feel, to making a good knife. When you can do just about anything with it, regardless of its original design, that is a great thing. Proper pocket knife brands will have knives that may include a lot of extra material beyond the normal blade. The infamous Swiss Army Knives often have several tool attachments, for example.

Yet the proper pocket knife will be one that, well, fits in the pocket. The Swiss are great at making those it appears. To us, it comes down to the fit at the end of the day. Some blade are bigger than others, and some are straight over serrated. In the end, none of that matters as long as it fits the job you needed the knife for.

These pocket knife brands seem to deliver what you need each time. If you’re getting the opinion of Men’s Gear, that is what one must deem most important in a brand. When they can deliver, no matter what, they have done the job you need. These brands just so happen to be the best at it in this category.

Buyer’s Guide To The Best Tactical Pens

Would you like to have a pocket knife but need something more covert? Why not try out a tactical pen? They double as a real pen that also works as a knife. This is better than Janice from Accounting trying to use her letter opener, right? Check these tactical pens out and keep yourself protected at the office or anywhere else you may end up.

CLICK HERE

July 25, 2021 / Comments Off

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Lamborghini’s Final Aventador Is a Wild Tribute to the Iconic Supercar

Believe it or not, it’s been more than 10 years since the world first laid eyes on the Lamborghini Aventador. The successor to the Murcielago, Diablo, Countach and Miura first appeared in late 2010, back when the best smartphone you could buy was the iPhone 4 and NASA was still flying astronauts into space aboard the space shuttle. Since then, variants have risen and faded away as competitors have come and gone, but the car whose name was seemingly inspired by its left-side profile view has managed to keep on consistently drawing in eyes and buyers like a scissor-door Lambo should.

Indeed, few cars have aged as well as Lamborghini’s mid-engined V12-powered supercar — at least when it comes to appearances — so we’ll fully admit that we’re glad to see that the final version of the old-school, purely V12-powered Lamborghini distills the classic Aventador looks down to perhaps their purest form yet. Meet the Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae.

The Ultimae marks the end of the road for the Aventador

Lamborghini’s own press release makes no bones about it: the Aventador Ultime is “a celebration of the iconic V12 super sports car and combustion engine in a final production model, concentrating the purest features of all Aventador editions into a perfect finale.”

How, exactly, does it do that? Well, for starters, by taking the body and comfort-minded features of the “regular” Aventador S model and combining them with a tweaked version of the powerplant from the borderline-insane Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.

The power of the SVJ, without the wild looks

Granted, many a Lamborghini driver is in it for the attention, so the idea of taking the wild Aventador SVJ’s screaming engine, adding 10 ponies to the top and dropping it into a more subtle body designed to look more like the Aventador S may not appeal to everyone. Keep in mind, however…it’s still a Lamborghini Aventador. People will stare, even without the SVJ’s wild wing.

More ponies, less weight

In addition to packing 40 more horses than the Aventador S it most closely resembles, the Aventador Ultime also weighs in at 55 pounds less than that variant, bringing its power-to-weight ratio in line with the SVJ.

0-62 miles per hour passes in 2.8 seconds, according to Lamborghini (although based on independent tests of the SVJ, we’re guessing it’ll actually take even less time). Top speed? 220 miles per hour, once you find a long enough straightaway. And when it comes time to scrub off speed, like the McLaren 765LT, this Lambo can go from 60 to a stop in less than seven car lengths.

The Aventador Ultime isn’t afraid of turns

While Lambos of old may not have needed to excel at turning in order to prove their bona fides, today’s crop of supercars need to handle as well as go quick. To that end, the Aventador Ultime boasts four-wheel-steering and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive, as well as a computerized central brain that takes input from motion sensors all over the car’s body and constantly adjusts the vehicle’s settings to provide the sharpest responses.

Inside, it’s still an Aventador

The interior of the Lamborghini Aventador is among the more stylish ones of the automotive world, even if it is a bit cramped and outdated by 2021 standards. Still, there’s an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, a fully digital instrument panel to show off the fast-revving tachometer…and, of course, the start button hidden under that missile launch-esque flip cover.

Choose between coupe and roadster versions

Did you notice the conspicuous lack of roof in that interior picture? That’s right — the Aventador Ultime comes in both coupe and roadster forms. Of course, like other Aventadors, the “roadster” is more of a T-top with a manually removable two-piece roof; it can indeed fit in the frunk, but doing so means giving up what little cargo space the car has. Still, going roadster means little sacrifice in terms of looks with the roof up…and a far sweeter auditory experience with it tucked away.

Only 600 Aventador Ultimaes will be made

The McLaren 765LT Is a Fighter Jet on Wheels

Feel the need for speed? Be ready to be blown away by this Macca.

READ THE REVIEW

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

July 25, 2021 / Comments Off on Lamborghini’s Final Aventador Is a Wild Tribute to the Iconic Supercar
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The Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets of 2021

Gear Patrol

A Bluetooth-equipped helmet can be an essential piece of motorcycle safety tech, whether you’re staying in touch with your posse or getting turn-by-turn directions from a paired phone. But the term Bluetooth helmet technically can be a bit of a misnomer. Bluetooth handles the phone pairing in a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet; communicating with other riders happens via proprietary mesh networks with distinct radio bandwidths, sort of like walkie-talkies.

What’s this about Cardo versus Sena?

Cardo and Sena build the two leading Bluetooth helmet communication systems. Cardo sells its PackTalk system; Sena manufacturers its own third-party units and builds the backbone of the proprietary system for manufacturers.

Both the Cardo and Sena systems work fluidly; they’re quick and easy to set up with a smartphone app. Both also feature oversized and fairly straightforward onboard controls. Cardo offers its own voice command system, while Sena allows you to use Apple and Google systems.

Sena offers a couple of advantages. Units like the 50R and 50S include noise-canceling tech, and newer Sena models can accommodate up to 24 riders, while Cardo Packtalk tops out at 15. But the systems are so close in quality that the deciding factor for many buyers may be which system their friends are already using.

What to look for in a Bluetooth helmet

The key trait of Bluetooth-ready helmets: they have built-in space for small speakers to nest beside your ears. Stuffing the speakers into a helmet without added space will put pressure on your ear. It could also affect the fit of the helmet and, consequently, be dangerous during a crash.

Worried about getting the fit right? You could always get a helmet with communication technology already built in.

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SRT Modular Transmit Helmet

The Best All-Around Bluetooth Helmet

This is a full-featured modular helmet that is built with recessed ear pockets and compatible with either Cardo or Sena systems. It’s also quite lightweight for a modular helmet at a little under four pounds, includes a drop-down sun visor and has an extra-wide viewing field. Plus, the helmet comes in high-vis yellow that makes it harder for drivers to miss you on the road, even if the rest of your getup is stealth black.

The interior is designed for comfort. with secure padding that won’t shift. It’s well-vented with both a mouth port inlet and an exhaust port at the top. Switchgear is oversized to work with gloves and a Pinlock face shield’s heavy-duty detents hold firm when you’ve high-lifted the lid for extra venting. Bell even left some extra room behind both visors for eyeglass wearers.

Sportmodular Carbon Solid Helmet

AGV Helmets

The Best Upgrade Bluetooth Helmet

The AGV Sportmodular was designed to be one of the most versatile pieces of kit you can buy. Using carbon fiber construction tech developed for Moto GP, it’s almost as light as the AGV K6, weighing just 3.06 pounds. But it’s also a modular helmet with a hinged chin bar, so it’s extra comfortable for ADV riders who want to swing open a lid to get a swig of water without removing the helmet.

AGV offers an extra-wide 190-degree field of view, and the sun shield and visor offer distortion-free viewing from all angles. The Sportmodular was designed in a wind tunnel, to ensure it would be very quiet and have less drag/turbulence. A special internal cuff reduces wind noise and is reversible, to let in more air in the summer or block it out in cooler conditions.

Sena makes AGV’s comms system, called ARK; the Sportmodular can be upgraded to use it for around $280.

Sena Momentum Evo Bluetooth-Integrated Helmet

The Best Affordable Bluetooth Helmet

For $399, you’re getting the comms integration of a standalone $288 Sena unit and a fully-featured composite fiberglass helmet. Dual front vents couple to an oversized rear exhaust port and a hydrophobic liner fabric — easily removed and washable — wicks away sweat. The integrated Sena system means the components come ready to use.

The EVO includes a Pinlock face shield with strong detents (so a partial flip-up stays put, even at speed). Plus, the included Sena unit is good for 17 hours of talk time between charges.

AGV K6 Helmet

AGV Helmets

Best Bluetooth Helmet for Urban Riders

Built from a combination of carbon fiber and aramid fibers, the K6 helmet is insanely lightweight, checking in at just 2.76 pounds (some helmets can weigh nearly twice that). The helmet features a 190-degree field of view, and five large front air vents keep your bean cooler on hot summer days or in stop-and-go traffic.

At speed, the K6 was wind-tunnel tested to be quieter with less wind buffeting. AGV scales their helmets from small to 2XL, rather than keeping the same helmet and adding different amounts of foam. Wear glasses? Designers gave the K6 a tad bit more room behind the shield to accommodate specs.

Shoei Neotec II Helmet

Best Bluetooth Helmet for Touring

Modular helmets can be loud, because the split that allows the chin bar to swing up can introduce turbulence. But Shoei’s Neotec 2 helmet works around that by being extra slippery and aerodynamic with a wind deflector along the chin bar and a small rim at the cheek pads as well. Shoei even formed a sports car-style spoiler into the helmet shell, reducing the noise and quelling the lift from higher speed riding that can cause neck fatigue.

While we love old-school D-ring chin straps, the ratchet mechanism you get here is just easier to operate, especially while wearing gloves. This lid also gets a built-in 100% UV-block sun shield that retracts quickly via a single slider to block sudden glare easily. The Neotec II is designed for Sena SRL Communication system integration.

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Schuberth R2 Traction Helmet

Schuberth Helmets

Best Bluetooth Helmet for Commuters

If you ride frequently, you need a helmet designed around safety, comfort and clean-ability. Schuberth handles the safety, giving the R2 Traction an extra-wide field of view lens, a larger eye port and an anti-fogging shield. Schuberth also heat forms the R2 Traction out of glass fiber, allowing varying wall thicknesses. This practice gives you extra protection where you need it while reducing weight where you don’t need it.

The R2 Traction also gets a chin spoiler to reduce drag and noise. To avoid sweat buildup that can lead to a smelly bucket, the R2 Traction has a continuous anti-microbial liner that’s removable and washable. The helmet is designed to pair with the $229 Sena SC1 comms system, with a pre-installed speaker, microphone and antenna to improve reception.

Icon Airform Conflux Helmet

Built for Speed

If you ride in a tuck, you’ve experienced the bite from the back of a helmet digging into your spine. Icon’s Conflux solves this issue with a neck roll explicitly designed for that riding position and remaining pliable as you lean forward. The liner and cheek pads are made from moisture-wicking fiber. And internal air channels funnel air directly over the inside of the liner, blow-drying away your sweat.

Icon includes a slot for an inner drop-down sun visor (sold separately) and a mouth vent, and the Conflux is compatible with Icon’s own R.A.U. Bluetooth Communicator (for $195), which works on the Sena frequency.

Nexx X-Vilitur Helmet

Nexx Helmets

Best Bluetooth Helmet for Using a GoPro

Need your moto helmet to also be a tripod? Check out Nexx’s X Vilitur, which incorporates dual mounting brackets for a pair of GoPros. Wire that up along with Nexx’s X-Com 2 Bluetooth headset ($329) and you could direct an action-adventure series from the seat of your bike.

And you wouldn’t have to yell “Quiet on the set!” either. This modular led gets double rubber seals between the chin bar and the helmet frame and spoilers at the leading chin edge to reduce wind chatter. An adjustable chin curtain deflects more wind. The neck roll is a single piece to reduce irritation. We like the micro-ratchet chin strap that’s easier to operate while wearing gloves, as well as the integrated sun shield. The cheek pads are formed to let your glasses hit your ears without causing extra pressure on your skull.

LS2 Valiant II Helmet

LS2 Helmets

Best Bluetooth Helmet for Hot-Weather Riding

Modular? Full-face? Half shell? Can’t decide? The Valiant II means you don’t have to, since the LS2 has both flip-up modularity and can be used as a three-quarter open face helmet. You get the benefits of dual shields (sun or clear), both of which are fog-resistant and distortion-free. Carefully structured padding around the lower opening ensures a quiet ride for the money.

The liner is removable and washable, and venting is free-flowing and constant. This helmet has two shell sizes, with a 2XL-3XL version that could be a better helmet if you have a larger head. Need comms? This helmet accepts ant communication setup, with carve-outs for speakers at the ears.

Klim Krios Pro Helmet

Best Bluetooth Helmet for ADV Riders

Even beyond the sexy carbon fiber shell and three-pound weight, there are standout features that make the Klim Krios Pro helmet unique. Its Koroyd honeycomb internal structure works like a car’s crumple zone in an accident, so it self-destructs on impact, sucking up forces caused by deceleration. The helmet also has a transitions lens that changes with the available light, so you can always see clearly and ride more safely.

This is also an extra versatile ADV lid, with a quick-change function to ditch the visor and swap to a street look in an instance without tools. When you do ride, both the venting and the shell of the Klim are shaped to reduce wind noise. It’s compatible with Bluetooth systems and has ear pockets ready for inserting speakers.

The 50 Most Iconic Motorcycles of All Time

There are countless combinations of speed, sex, beauty, design and freedom found between two tires — but these are the icons hand-picked as our favorites.

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July 25, 2021 / Comments Off on The Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmets of 2021
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The new BRABUS 800 GLE Coupé

Personally, I still think the BRABUS B63S 6×6 is the most impressive ‘car’ this German tuner ever made, agreed, it’s ‘only’ 700 hp, but just look at this one for a second … it’s a six-wheeled, extremely tall Mercedes based beast with portal axles, what more could you ask for? Perhaps a little smaller and possibly less expensive? In that case, a BRABUS 800 based on the Mercedes G-Wagon might be an option, 800 hp in somewhat the same body style (not a pickup mind you), but lower than the 6×6, with regular axles, so less intimidating.

If you want to most extreme SUV possible you’ll be set with the BRABUS 900 ROCKET EDITION, their latest conversion based on the G63 model, limited to only 25 units worldwide at nearly $700,000, this is the one if you really want to have the comfort of a massive off-road vehicle, but still want to reach 100 km/h from a standstill in 3.7 seconds and have a car that doesn’t run out of breath until she reaches 280 km/h … in a car that’s styled like a brick house!

But for argument’s sake, let’s say you’re not a fan of the box-style found on the Mercedes G-Class vehicles … in that case, BRABUS now has an alternative for you, based on the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SMatic+ Coupé (try fitting that on the rear fascia in chrome lettering), called the BRABUS 800 SUV Coupe, and you’ve guessed it, this coupe-styled SUV comes with 800 hp from the big V8 engine at the front.

This one comes with a much rounder, more contemporary design compared to the big G-Wagon, and because it’s called an SUV Coupe, there is a sloping rear window, much like on a two-door car, now keep in mind that could mean a little less headroom for the rear seat occupants, but it does look cool nonetheless, something we’ve also seen on the BMW X6 model for instance, but back to the BRABUS 800 SUV Coupe now, which on these presentation photos is finished in black, the trademark color from BRABUS.

When you receive your Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SMatic+ Coupé from the factory, there will be a 4-Liter V8 twin-turbo engine fitted with 612 hp and 450 kW of torque under your right foot pedal, which isn’t bad already … but it’s nothing compared to what BRABUS will give you after a visit to their workshop in Bottrop, Germany. A power increase to 800 hp (588 kW) and no less than 1,000 Nm of torque … and while this isn’t the 900 hp from the ROCKET G-Wagon version, this SUV Coupe takes only 3.4 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h (3 seconds less than the 900 ROCKET) and has it’s top speed electronically limited at 280 km/h (174 mph), so this black beauty will outrun the G-Class ROCKET by 10 km/h.

A lot of this power increase is thanks to the modifications to the base engine, BRABUS has over four decades of experience in this field, adding 188 hp or 138 kW to a modern engine might be more difficult than you imagine, and let’s not forget the base GLE 63 S comes with an integrated mild-hybrid starter generator, so any engine tuning has to take that into consideration too.

To get to a power output of 588 kW (800 hp) at 5,900 rpm and reach a peak torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) at a low 3,500 rpm, custom turbos with larger compressor unit, modified core assembly, and reinforced axial bearings are required, these new units can produce a maximum boost pressure of 1.6 bar, add the BRABUS PowerXtra auxiliary control unit and the engine is remapped in terms of injection, boost pressure, and ignition. More importantly, BRABUS engine tuning comes with a 3-year/100,000 km (62,000 miles) warranty.

If you are not ready to go for the full BRABUS 800 package on your Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV, there is also the BRABUS PowerXtra B40 option, this plug-and-play control unit will add 88 hp (64.7 kW) to the base engine effectively creating a BRABUS 700 model in that case, which is still not bad, but that 800 does sound a lot more impressive in the end.

BRABUS engine tuning can be requested on its own, but you really should add their stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system to your order too, if you do something, do it right from the start, with actively controlled flaps in the pipes, and a quartet of massive 90mm (3.5 in) titanium/carbon fiber exhaust tips, I’m sure you’ll have the ‘Sport’ mode set all the time … except when you have to leave early in the morning or arrive late at night … and you are still on speaking terms with your neighbors… in that case, the ‘Comfort’ mode might be a good idea so you don’t wake them up.

Now you have the power and the sound to match … so what’s next? The looks of course, and we wouldn’t be talking about this BRABUS 800 SUV Coupe if they didn’t have a nice aerodynamic package available too, available in either glossy or satin-finished, clear carbon fiber. For the front, you can get a lower spoiler that fits onto the factory original bumper, the BRABUS spoiler comes with vertical stabilizers on either side for that aggressive look, add the custom BRABUS front grille, with their touch of red on two spokes, and you’ve completely transformed the looks of your GLE as seen by your fellow drivers in their rearview mirror.

Air intakes for the front bumper made from carbon fiber are another option from BRABUS, as are the integrated intakes in the grille, on the driver’s side there is even a crosspiece with the famous BRABUS logo, complete with lights that are activated by pulling a door handle or when you approach the super SUV with the key card in its vicinity.

If you did opt for the BRABUS exhaust system, you might want to consider the custom rear diffuser too, made from visible carbon fiber, it is integrated perfectly into the factory original rear bumper, but more importantly, it comes with the perfect openings to fit those 90 mm exhaust tips from the BRABUS sport exhaust system. Beautiful carbon fiber side air vents for the rear bumper are another must-have, especially if you also fit the BRABUS exposed carbon fiber wheel arch extensions and the rear spoiler, which is a three-piece unit for this GLE 63 based BRABUS conversion.

A BRABUS car wouldn’t be complete without a new set of shoes either, so you can choose between Monoblock alloys in different designs and sizes that go from 22 up to 24 inches, the show car on these photos rolls on a set of BRABUS Monoblock Y “BLACK PLATINUM” hi-tech forged wheels, 10×23 inch at the front and an even wider 12×23 on the rear axle, shed with 295/35 R 23 and 335/30 R 23 respectively so those wheel arches are nicely filled, especially with the BRABUS control module for the standard AIRMATIC air suspension that results in a 25 mm (1 in) lowered ride height.

The BRABUS 800 SUV Coupe can be bought as a complete BRABUS vehicle but you can also ship your GLE 62 S to them for conversion, both options are available, as is a complete interior overhaul with the finest leathers and custom stitching patterns, prefer Alcantara, no problem. Aluminum pedals, carbon fiber interior parts, tv screens for the rear … BRABUS can accomplish just about any request a client might have … and if you bring in your existing Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S you can ask to convert it in stages, so you can save up for the invoice inbetween.

July 25, 2021 / Comments Off on The new BRABUS 800 GLE Coupé
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Huckberry’s Summer Sale Is Live — Here’s 30 Great Deals to Shop

The Ridge Forged Carbon Wallet + Money Clip

~~$125~~ $88 (30% OFF)

Taylor Stitch The Après Pant

~~$118~~ $94 (20% OFF)

Relwen Windbreak Blazer

~~$348~~ $261 (25% OFF)

Proof Nomad Short 7-Inch

~~$68~~ $48 (30% OFF)

The James Brand The Pike

~~$120~~ $90 (25% OFF)

Teva Hurricane XLT2

~~$70~~ $53 (24% OFF)

Malibu Colony

~~$130~~ $111 (22% OFF)

Raen Optics Aren

~~$175~~ $140 (20% OFF)

Wellen Shibori Stripe Tee

~~$42~~ $32 (24% OFF)

Flint and Tinder Unlined Waxed Trucker Jacket

~~$188~~ $122 (35% OFF)

Flint and Tinder 10-Year Crew

~~$88~~ $57 (35% OFF)

Janji Transit Tech Short Unlined 6-Inch

~~$74~~ $56 (24% OFF)

Looft Charcoal Electric Lighter & Firestarter

~~$100~~ $85 (15% OFF)

Barebones Edison String Lights

~~$65~~ $46 (29% OFF)

Taylor Stitch The Heavy Bag Tee

~~$45~~ $32 (30% OFF)

The James Brand Hell’s Canyon – Exclusive

~~$295~~ $207 (30% OFF)

Proclamation Goods Co. Stainless Sidekick Skillet

~~$169~~ $143 (15% OFF)

Yuketen All Handsewn Maine Guide Chukka

~~$572~~ $372 (35% OFF)

Whiskey Peaks Mountain Decanter + American Mountain Set of 4 Whiskey Glasses

~~$130~~ $111 (15% OFF)

Luminox Scott Cassell Deep Dive

~~$695~~ $487 (30% OFF)

Free Fly Bamboo Fleece Jogger

~~$85~~ $55 (35% OFF)

VSSL Java Handheld Coffee Grinder

~~$145~~ $116 (20% OFF)

Foehn Brise Short 8-Inch

~~$80~~ $60 (25% OFF)

Marathon MSAR Automatic

~~$1,050~~ $735 (30% OFF)

OrbitKey Desk Mat – Medium

~~$65~~ $45 (38% OFF)

Astorflex Greenflex Rough

~~$175~~ $114 (35% OFF)

Smithey Ironware Co. No. 6 Cast Iron Skillet – Set of 2

~~$160~~ $153 (4% OFF)

Veja Nova

~~$140~~ $105 (25% OFF)

Mission Workshop 500D Drift Tote – 28L

~~$265~~ $225 (15% OFF)

Bellroy Hide & Seek Premium

~~$129~~ $90 (30% OFF)

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Huckberry’s Summer Sale Is Live — Here’s 30 Great Deals to Shop
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Today’s Best Deals: 35% off a Waxed Trucker, A Deal on a Todd Snyder Q Timex & More

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.

Welcome to Deals of Note, where Gear Patrol captures all the best deals of the day. You can also follow all our deal posts in the Deals section.

Jul 23, 2021

July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Today’s Best Deals: 35% off a Waxed Trucker, A Deal on a Todd Snyder Q Timex & More
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Today in Gear: Upgrade Your Coat Game, How to Care For Your Vinyl Records, Expensive Bottles of Bourbon & More

Upgrade Your Sport Coat Game with This Sale from Nordstrom Rack

After more than a year of dressing in athleisure, it might be time to give your wardrobe an upgrade — and there is no better time than now thanks to Nordstrom Rack. You can score deep discounts on a wide array of sport coats (they have suits and separates on sale as well) that will keep you looking sharp this wedding season. For a smart wool jacket with a subtle plaid pattern, check out the Canali Plaid Jersey Sport Coat. If you want to switch it up with something that can dress up or down, try this Billy Reid Rust Felted Sportcoat that delivers a polished and professional style. And if you’re in the market for a modern sport coat at a great price, look no further than Ted Baker’s Tucker Navy Wool Sport Coat. But even if none of those fit your style, there’s a wide selection of options at Nordstrom Rack with deals up to 85 percent off. Shop the 123 other sport coats at the link below.

SHOP NOW

Vegan Chicken Nuggets? Impossible.

In this episode, we’re talking about three news items from the last week. First, we discuss at-home spin bike giant Peloton’s new video game. Then, we look into the just-announced Chicken Nuggets from Impossible Foods. And lastly, Gear Patrol’s Commerce Editor, Ryan Brower, will be joining to discuss his beef with Stone Brewing’s new Buena Vida “premium” hard seltzer.

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What’s the Most Expensive Bottle of Bourbon?

From extra-rare Pappy to a bottle dubbed “the best bourbon you’ll never drink,” these are the most expensive bottles of Kentucky’s finest in the land.

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Please, Shelve Your V-Neck T-Shirts

Look for One of These Scratch-Resistant Features in Your Next Watch

Brands use high-tech methods to make timepieces nearly impervious to dings and dents.

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Apple’s New MacBooks Will Be Game-Changers. Here’s What We Know So Far

Apple’s upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros are expected to be announced in September.

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How to Clean and Take Care of your Vinyl Collection

For the best listening experience, you want to make sure your vinyl records are in tip-top shape.

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The New Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Will Get Awesome New Towing Tech

Long-haul highway trips will never be the same.

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Surprise! Yeti Just Added Fun Fall Colors to Its Most Popular Products

Meet the Harvest, Highlands and Sharptail collections — and shop while they last.

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Today We’d Wear: A California Collar Shirt, White Pants, and Pebble Grain Leather Loafers

An outfit assembled by our style editors.

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The Best Pocket Knives of 2021

A decent pocket knife can be practical, but a great one will be indispensable.

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20 Dorm Room Essentials Every College Student Should Have

These are the items you need to make your dorm house into a dorm home.

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11 Style Releases and New Watches We’re Obsessed With This Week

A bag made from boardshorts, ’70s-inspired sunglasses, tennis attire, a watch made with the company behind airplane ejection seats and more.

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Want to Buy a Camper Van? Here Are the Brands You Need to Know

Europeans and Aussies get many of the best camper vans. But there are still some great options you can buy in the United States.

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5 Gadgets to Have on Your Radar This Week

Including Sony’s innovative home theater system, Anker’s USB-C dock and One Plus’s next-gen wireless earbuds.

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Today in Gear: Upgrade Your Coat Game, How to Care For Your Vinyl Records, Expensive Bottles of Bourbon & More
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Let the Nespresso Vertuo Next craft your next cup of coffee

Before capsule/pod coffee machines became ubiquitous fixtures in every modern home, we had to prepare everything by hand. Depending on how you take your java, these kitchen gadgets will craft a perfect cup of joe for you each time. There are limitations, however, which Nespresso addresses with the Vertuo Next and its Aeroccino3 add-on.

This new model is noticeable bigger than its predecessors, but it still sports a stylish design. You can barely see any sharp edges as Nespresso goes for curves all around. To give you an idea of how much space it will take up, the Vertuo Next measures 5.5 x 16.8 x 12.4 inches (WxDxH).

The Vertuo Next weighs 8.8 lbs with its 37-ounce removable water tank empty. Nespresso claims the housing uses 54% recycled plastic, which is a welcome bonus. You can brew in five serving sizes: Espresso, Doppio Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug, and Alto.

Choose from over 25 blends or just stick with what your taste buds love the most. Meanwhile, the Aeroccino3 is a must-have when the recipe calls for creamy milk foam. Just bust it out when you need it for iced coffee or cappuccino.

Just like how you have a generous selection of coffee pods available, Nespresso does the same for the colors. In total, there are 9 shades, which should be enough to match your home’s decorative theme

Owners can even remotely operate the Vertuo Next via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, since you will be loading the pods, pressing the button should be no problem at all. Overall, Nespresso really knows how to cater to coffee drinkers around the world.

Buy – $239

Images courtesy of Nespresso

July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Let the Nespresso Vertuo Next craft your next cup of coffee
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Alphavan Introduces 4X4 Super-Size Sprinter Conversion

No doubt you’ve seen your share of sweet Sprinters. But take a second and scope the latest from Alphavan. The German conversion company blew minds with its big-boy debut Sprinter in 2020 but now they’re back with a 4X4 version. It comfortably sleeps and houses four plus it carries all your gear, bikes, kayaks, and other toys with its flexible interior architecture. All the comforts of home plus legit off-road capability.

July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Alphavan Introduces 4X4 Super-Size Sprinter Conversion
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Bremont’s MB Savanna is a Sharp, Titanium Automatic

Smooth minimalism and the precision of Martin-Baker’s battle-tested aviation engineering combine to create a technically flawless automatic in Bremont’s newest Britain-built watch, the MB Savanna. With its 43mm Grade 5 Titanium case and BE-36AE movement, it is both lightweight & heavy-duty. Knurled lugs and a scratch-resistant matte coating keep it looking fresh through all you dish out. A skeletonized rotor and stepped windows in the case back showcase its mechanical movement.

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Bremont’s MB Savanna is a Sharp, Titanium Automatic
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The First 21 – How I Became Nikki Sixx: A Memoir

Certified Metal God & 2-time best-selling author Nikki Sixx is back with another heavy hitter. It tracks the early years and salad days of Franklin Carlton Feranna, a troubled L.A.-kid who would one day become a global rock-n-roll icon with his bros in Mötley Crüe. But this is no tale of 80s debauchery—this is a story of overcoming the odds & living out your dreams. Regardless of where you come from.

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on The First 21 – How I Became Nikki Sixx: A Memoir
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Omega Motors EV200: Turning a 1975 Honda CB200 into a one-off Electric Motorcycle

While the adoption of all-electric powertrains continues to grow, many leading brands have already met success with their respective models. When it comes to motorcycles, however, several renowned marques are yet to make any announcements. As such, Omega Motors and its roster of enthusiasts are taking matters into their own hands. The EV200 is their first offering and it’s an exciting one.

What we like about this electric motorcycle, is the effort to retain the silhouette of the donor bike. For their first project, the group based in San Francisco went with a popular platform from Honda – a 1975 CB200. Normally, when shops convert conventional bikes into green machines, the profile changes.

Omega Motors appears to have painstakingly kept the distinct outline intact. Although tweaks were made allowing the frame to accommodate the new components, the EV200 still oozes a stylish retro vibe. The space where the engine once was now houses its 48V 1.6-kWh battery unit.

To charge, just lift the fuel cap and plug it in. Below that, we can see the 5-kW nominal to 10-kW peak Golden Motor electric motor. A full charge is enough to take the EV200 up to 30 miles. Meanwhile, the EV200 peaks at 60 mph, which should be good enough for a drive around the city minus any emissions.

Some of the original parts such as the front forks, brakes, and wheels have been reconditioned as well. Even the original switches and analog speedometer of the CB200 are still in use. To stay on top of your batteries, Omega Motors cleverly hides a status display under the leather flap on the tank. Sadly, the EV200 is a one-off creation only.

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Images courtesy of Omega Motors

July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Omega Motors EV200: Turning a 1975 Honda CB200 into a one-off Electric Motorcycle
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Volvo May Be Making Its Most Radical Shift Yet

Volvo has a change coming this decade. And it may be even more of a shock than converting to 100% electric powertrains by 2030. Volvo has used minimalist alphanumeric nomenclature for its cars throughout its existence. The big radical shift came in the 1990s when Volvo switched from three-digit (Volvo 240) to the current letter plus two-digit (S60, V90) labeling.

According to Autocar, however, Volvo is plotting a “new beginning” for its conversion to EVs with “emotional” names. Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson told them the successor to the XC90 would have a “name, like a child” and the practice would continue moving forward.

“We’re talking about a totally new architecture, a new-generation of born-electric, all-electric cars with central computing,” Samuelsson told Autocar. “It’s good and clear to mark that this is a new beginning, and that’s why we’re not going to have numbers and letters, an engineering type of name. We’re going to give them a name as you give a newborn child a name.”

Volvo is moving counter to the prevailing trend. Manufacturers that use model names like Volkswagen with the ID.4, Hyundai with the Ioniq 5 and Kia with the EV6 have all gone alphanumeric for EVs to highlight the engineering involved. And BMW and Mercedes have incorporated their new EVs within their existing nomenclature.

However, Volvo’s departure from tradition may prove fitting. Volvo is a flashier, more luxurious brand than it once was, and it’s poised to move even further upmarket. And they are going to be focused on selling vehicles in new markets like China. Cadillac, attempting a similar trick with its own EV conversion, is moving vehicles back to model names too. Escalade sounds a bit more premium than XT8.

Of course, even if the decision to switch to model names is correct, you still have to come up with good ones, which is a potential pitfall that alphanumeric nomenclature eliminates.

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Volvo May Be Making Its Most Radical Shift Yet
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Spruce Up Your Space with These Discounted Rugs

Looking for even more great savings? Subscribe to our daily newsletter Today’s Best Deals and have them sent straight to your inbox.

Cooler temperatures are going to be here sooner than we think. That means that we’ll inevitably be spending more time inside (again), so you should probably start thinking about giving your home a refresh for the hours indoors ahead. One of the best ways to give new life to your space is by laying down a new rug. After all, they do really tie a room together.

Right now at Ruggable, you can get up to 20 percent off any rug with code CHEERS during the site’s Birthday Sale that runs through July 27. Ruggable’s rugs are all machine washable and come in a huge variety of patterns, from distressed Moroccan prints to vintage Southwestern motifs. Plus, each rug comes with either a classic rug pad or a cushioned rug pad, so you can make those hardwood floors a little comfier under your feet.

SAVE NOW

Editor’s Picks: Best Deals Today

Flint and Tinder Unlined Waxed Trucker Jacket

Huckberry

Timex Q + Todd Snyder Bracelet Watch

Todd Snyder

Outerknown Apex Trunk by Kelly Slater

Outerknown

OXO Brew 8 Cup Coffee Maker

OXO Amazon

James Brand The Pike – Exclusive

Huckberry

August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen) + Connect Hub

Amazon

Barbour Ashby Jacket

End

Whiskey Peaks Mountain Decanter + American Mountain Set of 4 Whiskey Glasses

Huckberry

~~$130~~ $111 (15% OFF)

Don’t keep your favorite whiskey in the bottle, let it breathe in this awesome decanter that livens any bar cart.

READ ABOUT STAGG JR. BOURBON

Persol 54mm Square Sunglasses

Nordstrom Rack

Apple AirPods Max

Amazon

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Spruce Up Your Space with These Discounted Rugs
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Surprise! Yeti Just Added Fun Fall Colors to Its Most Popular Products

We are very much sweating through summer at the moment, but fall really isn’t that far away. How do we know? Because Starbucks is bringing back Pumpkin Spiced Lattes in July.

Psyche! The real, much better news is that in anticipation of that cool, crisp, leaf-turning time of year, Yeti has added three evocative fall-themed colorways to a bunch of our favorite products.

It’s a tribute to the brand’s rabid following that fresh hues qualify as news. But these most definitely do, particularly because the colors adorn so many of Yeti’s most popular products: 45 to be exact. Everything from coolers and tumblers to backpacks and dog bowls now come in Harvest Red, Highlands Olive and Sharptail Taupe.

Now, what autumn inspirations birthed these specific shades? Ruby wines, Scottish coastlines and prairie skies, respectively.

Of course, if you’d like to actually take them on some adventures — even this summer — now’s the time to pounce. If the speed with which Yeti’s last special color drop disappeared is any indication, these limited-edition tints won’t stick around too long.

SHOP NOW

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Surprise! Yeti Just Added Fun Fall Colors to Its Most Popular Products
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The New Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Will Get Awesome New Towing Tech

Super Cruise is GM’s Level 2 driver assistant technology. We’ve tested it before on the new Cadillac Escalade and the Bolt EUV. It’s the gold standard for manufacturer Level 2 driving assistants. It’s intuitive. You can take your hands off the wheel. And it doesn’t ask so much of the driver to make activating it not worthwhile.

GM just announced some cool new upgrades for 2022 that will make SuperCruise more useful and add it to more vehicles beyond the often $100,000-plus flagship SUV.

Updates to Super Cruise for 2022

The 2022 upgrades add two awesome new features. Super Cruise now performs automatic lane changes. If the system detects a slow car ahead, it can move one lane to the left, pass the car and return to the previous lane without driver input. Previously, the driver would have instructed the system to change lanes by activating the turn signals.

The other key upgrade is that Super Cruise now works while you are towing. You can’t do the aforementioned automatic lane changes while towing. But you can input your trailer information and tow your trailer while using Super Cruise. And the camera system gives you a nifty graphic to help judge your lane change.

We tested both systems at GM’s Proving Grounds in Michigan this week. On a closed test course with no other cars around, the features seemed flawless and easy to use. We should also note that 2021 Super Cruise vehicles will get access to these features with software updates.

More 2022 Super Cruise-Equipped Vehicles

GM is in the process of what they termed “democratizing” Super Cruise, which basically means extending it throughout the lineup beyond the $100,000-plus flagship Escalade. For the 2022 model year, these Super Cruise features will be available on the Chevy Silverado, the GMC Sierra, the GMC Hummer EV, the Cadillac CT4 and the Cadillac CT5. Expect Super Cruise to move to even more of the GM lineup in the next few years.

LEARN MORE

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Take Our Summer Audience Survey for a Chance to Win $270 Worth of Gear

We’re committed to delivering one-of-a-kind product journalism, and giving our audience the best of Gear Patrol. As we plan our calendar of partnerships, content and collaborations over the next few months, it only makes sense for us to ask you, our readers, directly about your preferences.

We want to hear all about your upcoming trips, the gifts you plan to give to loved ones and the gear that will be by your side through it all. Completing the survey will take about two minutes of your time.

To thank those who take time to participate, we’ve put together a special giveaway. Three lucky winners will receive a $270 gift package that includes a Gear Patrol x Topo Designs Backpack Tote, Sunski Yuba Tortoise Amber Sunglasses, Gear Patrol Pocket Notebook, Gear Patrol Magazine Subscription and a copy of Gear Patrol Magazine, Issue Sixteen.

Take the Survey Here

Terms: No purchase necessary. Enter from July 23, 2021-August 6, 2021 for your chance to win. Sweepstakes is open to residents of the United States and the District of Columbia who are lawful U.S. residents, and are 18 years of age or older, as of the start date of the sweepstakes. Void where prohibited by law. Sponsor: Gear Patrol. See official rules for details and Sponsor’s privacy policy.

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July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on Take Our Summer Audience Survey for a Chance to Win $270 Worth of Gear
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The Yohann iPad Pro Stand Stays Stable Even on Soft Surfaces

The Yohann iPad Pro Stand speaks of elegance and functionality. It is a great substitute for plastic or steel stands but doesn’t look too monotonous with any of its kind.

This great addition to your work setup lets you view in either portrait or landscape mode and stays standing even on soft surfaces. It doesn’t tip or fall down when placed on a duvet or soft pillow. That’s because it has a specifically designed contoured base that adapts to any surface.

Moreover, the Yohann iPad Pro Stand gives you three angles to choose from for the ideal comfortable position. Tip it farthest to the back and make your device looks like it’s floating in the air. Despite the incline, you still have a large space on the back for a charging cable to pass through, or better yet, there’s a hole on the front under the holder that lets you charge while at work.

Best of all, it can hold an Apple pencil so you don’t have to stash the pen somewhere else and it is within easy reach. Various built-in magnets in the front edge make it possible to attach both generations of the Apple Pens. Meanwhile, a ridge along the entire width of the stand stabilizes the pen in its correct position.

Likewise, the backrest for the iPad is purposely raised to incorporate a slot for the Apple Pen that has a velvet lining to prevent scratches. The Yohann iPad Pro Stand, unfortunately, does not support those with a protective case and is ideal for uncovered iPads. Now all you need is a wireless keyboard to complete your work desk setup.

Get It Here

Images courtesy of Yohann

July 23, 2021 / Comments Off on The Yohann iPad Pro Stand Stays Stable Even on Soft Surfaces
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How to Clean and Take Care of your Vinyl Collection

The immense popularity of music streaming has also, ironically, helped bumper vinyl sales. It turns out that the ease of listening to music these days, from services like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal and Youtube, has actually cultivated a desire for people to have an analog listening experience. They want to physically hold, place and play a record, and then ultimately collect it; a growing vinyl collection can actually be shown off as decor.

A proper vinyl collection requires more care that storing CDs or, of course, digital music files; and there are a few fundamental things that every vinyl enthusiast, whether they have a large or small collection, should know. That way their records can sound great and last years to come.

How to dry clean your vinyl records.

Using a carbon fiber anti-static brush — like this one from the Turntable Lab — to clean your records is important and easy. It safely gets in the record’s grooves to get rid of dust and other particles that could impact sound quality. To properly clean, spin the record on the turntable and have the brush resting lightly on top. After a few seconds, carefully drag the brush off the record. (Here’s a helpful instructional video.) In an ideal world, you should use a brush to clean a record before and after each use.

How to wet clean your vinyl records.

Wet cleaning your records involves using a cleaning fluid — like this one from Pro-Ject — and a micro-fiber cloth, with the goal to remove dust, dirt and even fingerprints from your records. It takes more time than the dry brush method, but it gives the record a deeper clean. To clean, simply spray the solution on the record, wait a few seconds for it to seep into the grooves, and the dry the record by using the micro-fiber cloth and following the groves around. (Here’s a helpful instructional video.)

Keep your collection cool and dry.

Vinyl is, in layman’s terms, a type of plastic material and thus needs to be taken care of accordingly. To preserve any time of plastic you want to keep it in a cool, dark and dry climate. If the room where you’re storing your records is too hot or humid, they are more prone to bending or warping and thus can’t be played.

Never stack your records. Store upright like books.

There’s a reason why you rarely see records stacked on top of each other: it’s not good for them. It doesn’t matter whether they’re in their jackets or inner sleeves, stacking your records can lead to warping. The weight of each record puts unneeded pressure on the records, which can cause them to crack or bend. It’s not great for the album artwork on the sleeve, either.

Don’t touch the surface of the records.

All of the musical information of record is stored in its grooves and anything, especially your hands, can affect the playback of the record. If you want the best possible sound quality, you should only handle the record by touching its outside edges or its inner label.

The Short List: Top Vinyl LPs to Buy

Harvest by Neil Young

musicdirect.com

$46.99

Reprise

Maggot Brain by Funkadelic

Westbound Records amazon.com

$59.96

Southbound Records

Natty Dread by Bob Marley and the Wailers

Bob Marley musicdirect.com

$24.99

Island Records

Revolver by The Beatles

musicdirect.com

$22.99

Capitol Records

Don’t leave records out.

A record should live in its sleeve and jacket, meaning the only time it should be out is when it’s playing. The idea is that this minimizes the chances or dirt and dust from getting into the record’s grooves.

Inner sleeves aren’t overkill.

While polypropylene sleeves are probably better than paper sleeves (more durable, better protection, last longer), an inner sleeve serves an important purpose no matter the material. It prevents the record from shaking or scratching while inside the jacket, while also keeping out dust and other things that could potentially hide inside the record and affect its sound quality. Basically, don’t throw out your inner sleeves. And replace them when ripped, damaged or lost.

Place — don’t drop — your records back in their inner sleeves.

When you’re done listening to a record, you want to place it back into its inner sleeve and jacket as carefully as possible. Quickly dropping it back in can damage the record as well as the sleeve.

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