All posts in “Outdoor”

Smart & Savior Designs’ Transforming Flashlight Blade Is The Camping Tool You Need

When you want to pack light, especially during outdoor or camping excursions, then it’s better to bring a versatile tool that caters to your needs. A flashlight and knife are two of the most important camping tools you should have in your bag. But if you want an even lighter carry, then Smart & Savior Designs’ Transforming Flashlight Blade is for you.

This keychain multitool, as its name suggests, packs both a mini blade and a torch. The core of the tool is stainless steel but with an outer surface made with titanium bonded with nitrogen for high corrosion resistance. The nitrogen bond creates a nano-coating of TiN that renders an anti-bacterial surface when exposed to light.

Sharpened by hand grinding, the blade can cut small ropes, hard plastic, open sealed boxes or cut and peel fruits and vegetables. The blade when deployed stays in place via a magnetic system.  Meanwhile, the flashlight emits 100 lumens from its SMD power LED bulb with a lifespan of 30,000 to 50,000 hours. It uses a single alkaline battery 29A or a set of LR 626 button cells. The battery has a life span of  60 hours with constant use and an integrated resistor prevents overheating. 

The Smart & Savior Designs’ Transforming Flashlight Blade powers with an easy twist open/off movement. It is designed to be pocket-friendly at a small size of 3.25″ long and easy in the hand and pocket with a weight of 30 grams. A keyhole makes it easy to attach to a keychain, carabiner, or tether so you can hang it on your belt, bag, or anywhere else within easy reach. Plus it looks elegant with its reverse helix shape.

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Images courtesy of Smart & Savior Designs

The IKamper Skycamp 2x Rooftop Tent Offers A Safe and Comfortable Camping Experience

You still have time to take that much-needed outdoor adventure before summer ends. Especially with the pandemic, there’s no better place to unwind than in the open air, away from civilization. If you fancy camping but want to avoid the trek or hike, then you can pack up the iKamper Skycamp 2x to your van or pickup truck.

This rooftop tent has a high-density polyfoam camping mattress that can sleep two adults and one child. It sets up fast in as little as one minute and features a hard shell to provide you with a safe and best-ever camping experience.

The iKamper Skycamp 2x offers several storage options for a rooftop camper. It has storage space for your bedding even when closed. This lessens the hassle of having to stash them separately inside your vehicle every time you need to close the tent. Then retrieve the beddings again during sleeping time.

This camping tent doesn’t add heft to the roof of your vehicle because it is made with two layers of a lightweight and aerodynamic hard shell. It is also wind-resistant and packed with insulation for a comfortable outdoor stay. It has a thick, durable, and breathable blackout canvass, a quilted and insulated lining for more warmth and condensation, and features high-performance honeycomb aluminum floor panels.

Moreover, the iKamper Skycamp 2x comes with a rain fly for extra protection and waterproof zippers. It also features a sky view window and 3-layer canopy windows for versatility and airflow. To keep intruders out especially at night, it has sturdy closing straps with custom stainless steel hardshell locks. For ease of access, this rooftop tent comes with a telescoping ladder with angled steps.

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Images courtesy of iKamper

The Wanderr Chair from OME Gear Is The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Companion

Fancy a camping chair, lounger, cart, and bed for trips to the beach, while camping and fishing? Then the Wanderr Chair fits the bill with its versatile design that transforms into any position you want.

When it comes to trips to the beach with the family, the problem can be lugging all the necessities. Often times you’d have to pack different bags just to fit everything. This 5-in-one gear though solves this problem. Better than a beach caddy and a wagon, it can carry a total of 150 pounds of weight. This means no more towing the cooler, the surfboard, and leaving other important gear behind.

Plus, the patented Sandtrakz, non-air-filled, and all-terrain wheels on the Wanderr Chair make transport easy and comfortable. They roll easily on any surface, even on sand, while industrial strength bungee cargo net keeps items safely tucked in when in cart mode.

This outdoor recreational product is built to last with its durable UV-resistant fabric and corrosion-tested construction. It’s made with a tough aluminum frame that’s weather and saltwater resistant. It weighs 30 pounds but the wheels can easily be dislodged to reduce its weight to 6 pounds.

When in seating mode, the Wanderr Chair has a 300-pound weight capacity and has two cup holders. It is fully reclinable in low chair and lounger mode. It also easily transforms into a high field chair and camping cot. Best of all, this gear requires no installation so it sets up fast and easy. It even folds down for easy packing and storage.

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Images courtesy of OME Gear

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

5SOG Flash II Serrated

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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

The Victorinox Mexican Zarape Classic SD Makes a Colorful Addition To Your Knife Collection

Pocket knives are versatile in nature. They make great outdoor and survival tools and can even perform small jobs at the garage. But when it comes packed with utility tools then it becomes an essential everyday carry. The Victorinox Mexican Zarape Classic SD pocket knife, for one, makes a great addition to your collection of pocket tools.

This miniature knife reflects this year’s winner of the brand’s annual design project. It is one of ten limited-edition releases that celebrate the theme “Patterns of the World.” It is a limited-edition Swiss Army pocket knife that boasts colorful aesthetics on its Cellidor scales. It features the bright, rainbow-colored stripes of Mexican Zarape shawls and blankets. Each side comes with different patterns.

Aside from its attractive layout, this keychain tool packs essential tools for small and quick indoor and outdoor fixes. The Victorinox Mexican Zarape Classic SD pocket knife comes with seven functions. These include a small blade, scissors, a nail file, and a screwdriver 2.55mm. It also has a key ring to hang the knife along with your bunch of keys. Then there’s a toothpick that could come in handy when the occasion calls for it and tweezers.

The Victorinox Mexican Zarape Classic SD pocket knife is small enough to fit in any pocket, handbag, pouch, or glove compartment. It only measures 2.25 inches when closed and has a height of 0.4 inches. Likewise, it is lightweight despite its added tools. It only weighs 0.7 ounces which makes it a great summertime carry. It feels comfortable in the hands and in the pocket and pleasing to the eyes.

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Images courtesy of Victorinox

TEDS says its TEDPoP expandable rooftop tent can comfortably fit a family of five

Most pickup trucks or SUVs are enjoying the benefits of their horsepower and torque for overlanding. Additionally, the higher towing capacity allows owners to enjoy the creature comforts of more rugged camper trailers. As for the rest of us, TEDS is cooking up something cool for outdoor enthusiasts. This here is the TEDPoP – a rooftop tent that can accommodate a family of five.

Although there is nothing wrong with traditional portable shelters or sleeping bags, sometimes we just want a hassle-free alternative. This is where pop-up tents shine, but the TEDPoP is perfect for spots you can just drive and park. In other words, locations that are ideal for weekend getaways form the urban jungle.

According to TEDS, their product is supposedly the “world’s first pop-up dual expandable rooftop tent.” It seems all 691 backers of their Kickstarter project believe so and funded them way beyond their $20,000 goal. So far, it’s cool that you can pack it all in a sleek hardshell top.

This means you can just install the TEDPoP and leave it there safe from the elements and more. The manufacturer wants to make setup virtually effortless as much as possible. Thus, the folding support frames easily lift up with the help of condensed gas strut bars.

This mechanism also deploys the extension panels. You can access the tent via two telescopic ladders on each side. Inside, there is a 2.5-inch-thick mattress so you can relax in any position. Moreover, windows on each side provide a 360-view of your surroundings.

The entire thing measures 90 x 50 x 14 when closed and 125 x 50 x 120 when opened. Its ABS hardshell comes in white or black. Also, the polycotton canvas of the TEDPoP is available in three colors: Green, Gray, and Dark Wine Red.

Buy – $4,190

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Images courtesy of TEDS

Kuckoo introduces its compact square-drop camper trailer called the Bruno

If you don’t want to install a camper on your pickup truck or SUV, there are other alternatives. Since your ride likely has a good towing capacity, why not go for a trailer type instead? We have a couple of suggestions in mind depending on your needs. For a more compact yet feature-packed platform, Kuckoo presents its Bruno.

The Lochgau, Germany-based outfit notes that it’s time for outdoor leisure-seekers to consider non-tear-drop profiles. Thus, the Bruno features what the brand calls a square-drop silhouette. Now, this is a camper that packs a lot of features into something with a smaller footprint.

It measures approximately 15 x 6.1 x 6.4 feet (L x H x W) and tips the scales at 1,168.45 lbs. Keep in mind the weight is based on the standard setup and will change with add-ons. No parking on the driveway as the camper trailer can fit inside your average garage.

By default, Kuckoo builds it on a braked chassis. The camper trailer mostly uses wood for its construction. To keep the exterior safe from the elements, epoxy resin, fiberglass, and a 2K PU coating available in RAL colors. Meanwhile, the interior looks elegant with oiled wooden surfaces.

For privacy, all windows come with roller shutters and mesh screens to keep annoying insects out. Cook inside or outside as the Bruno lets you slide out the cooking area along with the shelves. A 12V battery system powers the interior and exterior lights, but you can also add optional solar panels.

Organize your stuff with ease as the Bruno boasts multiple storage areas. Get in touch with Kuckoo to personalize the camper trailer according to your specifications.

Learn more

Images courtesy of Kuckoo Camper

Take A Swim With Your Cards and Cash With The Submerge Wearable Waterproof Wallet

If you’re someone who does not want to risk losing important documents or money while out at the beach, the most you can do is leave them in a locker. Or better yet, take them with you while swimming or diving. This is possible not just with any wallet but with the Submerge Wearable Waterproof Wallet.

This everyday carry guarantees your cash, bills, or cards stay safe and dry even when you accidentally take a dip with them. That’s all thanks to its IP-X8 rated waterproof quality, meaning it is 100 waterproof, meaning you can totally submerge it underwater up to three meters. Plus, its quick-drying outer layer allows you to stash it right away after use without having to wait hours for it to dry under the sun.

The Submerge Wearable Waterproof Wallet is also durable and has a silky-smooth feel that glides through the water. It gives you two hidden pockets for storage and three sections to hold up to eight cards with an RFID blocker ready. This minimalist wallet can even hold keys and other important small items. A zipper gives you access to the contents while strong detachable velcro straps offer an additional option for carrying.

You can easily use it as a front pocket wallet as it is very compact and slim it slides in neatly. You can also use the straps to wrap the wallet around your arm, waist, clothing, and so on if you decide to bring it in the water with you. But there is also an option for a carabiner to keep the Submerge Wearable Waterproof Wallet safe from pickpockets during travel.

Get It Here

Images courtesy of Ronan Finnegan

GREATS uses 100% recycled ballistic nylon from fishing nets for the Classon Utility Slide

As the heat index goes up it’s finally time to break out our summer gear and head out to the beach, pool, or just hang out in our backyard. Some might prefer the first two, but a grill all fired up, a cold one in hand, music, and an ergonomic chair is practically paradise in our current situation. Also maybe slip on some comfy footwear like the Classon Utility Slide from GREATS.

Unless you’re the fickle time, most guys would choose a durable pair of slides to last almost a lifetime. GREATS understands this and crafts the Classon Utility Slide to stick with you for a long time. Moreover, another great feature that makes it appealing is the eco-friendly effort behind it.

Much like some of the sustainable initiatives from global brands, GREATS goes green. Without compromising weight, the upper is made of 100% recycled ballistic nylon. Aside from single-use plastic, another big contributor to marine pollution is discarded fishing nets.

It becomes the material of choice as the manufacturer turns it into fabric. This then becomes an integral part of the Classon Utility Slide. Meanwhile the plush lycra lining aids in breathability here. Next, a Velcro closure system ensures a secure fit around your foot.

Also, a pair of side release buckles with an adjustable gives you a little more control over how snug you want it. As for the footbed, GREATS uses bio-based PU for the footbed and an EVA outsole for superior shock absorption. The Classon Utility Slide is a classy and reliable piece of gear for urban or outdoor excursions this season.

Buy – $129

Images courtesy of GREATS

Top DSLR Photography Tips to be a Better Photographer

The ability to take a good photograph is a talent. There is a world of difference between the snaps we take for fun and those that have become part of the iconic photographic record of our progress as a civilization. Countless times, we have rediscovered that a picture really does speak a thousand words. But, even Michelangelo himself, a guy stuffed full of creative talent, made sure his tools and materials were the very latest technology. Thankfully, there are easier ways of keeping an image than spending hours on your back painting your living room ceiling. Before you release your inner Michelangelo and go all DSLR creative, read this useful information on modern digital single lens reflex cameras, the image capturing, and sharing the technology of the 21st century.

Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority Modes

If you are not confident about handling your DSLR camera manually with perfection, you can opt for semi-auto or semi-manual modes. Semi-manual modes are modes with Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority. Many professionals prefer Aperture Priority mode for their pro shoots.

In Aperture Priority mode, you choose to control the aperture manually and leave the control of shutter to the camera. Aperture controls the extent the lens is open restricting the amount of light entering. This mode helps capture well-exposed photographs.

In Shutter Priority mode, you choose to control the shutter speed manually and leave the control of aperture size to the camera. Shutter speed manages exposure time. It decides the time length the camera lens remains open to allow a sufficient amount of light for professional standard photographs. Usually, a longer shutter time is required for low light and a relatively shorter span in well-lit conditions.

Manipulating the Depth of Field

Aperture Priority mode allows you to manipulate the depth of field (DOF). You can achieve a shallow depth of field by setting the aperture to a larger size that is a smaller f-number on your camera.  This allows you to take shots with a subject in focus but with the background blurred in contrast. Shallow depth of field is ideal for food photography and portrait shoots.

A deep depth of field can be achieved by selecting a small aperture size that is higher f-number on your camera. This will allow the camera lens to focus equally on the object and the background. Neither the object nor the background is out of focus making settings for deep depth of field ideal for landscape photography.

Manipulating the Motion of Object

Shutter Priority mode allows you to manipulate the motion of the moving object. With fast shutter speed, you can capture a moving object as a still image, referred to as freezing of image. A slow shutter speed lets you capture the movement of the object. With a slower shutter speed moving objects appear blurred whilst with a faster shutter speed they appear clear and vivid.

Making Use of a Camera Tripod

Capturing photos at night and in dim light requires steady handling of the camera. Even the slightest movement of your hand will result in blurred images.  A good quality DSLR camera tripod will resolve this issue. With your camera stand firmly positioned, you don’t need to hold your camera and can capture vibrant, eye-catching images of fireworks or the beauty of skies at sunset.

Before investing in a specific camera tripod, be sure to pay attention to the speed of adjusting its ball head and the telescoping speed of the legs, or else you will have a hard time setting it up when you have no time to capture a moment. Similarly, it is important to consider the weight of your tripod. Sometimes, the weight is directly correlated to the durability of the tripod, but you should take your time to find what is sturdy but is still easy to carry around.

Speaking of durability, you may have to consider the material of your tripod here. You may opt for an aluminum tripod, which is quite affordable but can be on the heavier side. A carbon fiber DSLR camera tripod is usually a lighter option but be ready to cough up some good money.

Get a Shoulder Rig

If your main goal is to take DSLR video, you may definitely want to invest in one of the best DSLR shoulder rigs currently available in the market. It really has a huge impact on how people perceive you as a DSLR artist.  Besides looking more professional, you will be able to shoot things without having to worry too much about stability. It really goes a long way in simplifying shooting things such as run and gun or b-roll shooting where it is important to be quick and mobile. You should also consider buying a shoulder rig if you don’t really like the idea of locking down your camera on a monopod or tripod.

Go Get a DSLR Gimbal

Just like other tools and accessories, it really makes a difference to have DSLR camera gimbals and stabilizers handy. A gimbal is basically pivoted point that lets you rotate something along a single axis. What it means is that you give yourself a chance to take incredible photos from some interesting angles when you decide to shoot with a gimbal. You will really need it while making videos, but many professionals use it even while taking still photos, as it allows you to rotate your camera smoothly.

Along with adding shake-free motion to your DSLR camera, your gimbal will facilitate a wide variety of motions, which is going to save a lot of your time and energy as well. Interestingly, these  DSLR camera gimbals and stabilizers are quite lightweight, so it is easy to move them as you please, which in turn allows for comfortable handling and stabilization of your camera.

Setting the Focus Point

The focus point array is part of the lens system and determines the quality of your image. You can choose an off-center focus or straight focus depending on the position of your object. To set the correct focus point a pro technique is to use the lock focus option. Simply press the shutter button halfway down to lock the focus. You cannot use this lock focus technique for wider aperture size without blurred photographs.

Using the Correct AF Mode

There are normally two AF modes by default in all DSLR cameras. You can choose the desired mode according to the movement of your subject. If you are capturing a still image ‘One Shot’ mode is ideal with ‘Continuous’ mode best for capturing movement. This mode allows you to take multiple snaps of your object in series increasing the chance of capturing the desired image.

Using White Balance Settings

The white balancing feature of your camera balances the intensity of incoming light. Objects appear different in different colored lights and backgrounds. The white balance setting minimizes the effect of negative ambient lighting enabling you to take perfect shots. There are various white balancing options available including Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent and Flash. Each of these modes is designed for different light conditions and you can further adjust them according to customize the pictures to your own preferences. Playing with different lighting modes yields some amazing results.

Experimenting with Spatial Reality

Capturing distinctive and signature photographs never comes by following traditional techniques. It pays off to be experimental and explore ways of capturing perfect photos. Try being adventurous with where you position yourself for a shot in relationship to the subject. Bend down, lay on the ground, climb up high and be innovative as to where the photo is taken from to capture the shot that will amaze your audience. DSLR cameras can handle it.

Conclusion

Whether you end up with a preference for taking portraits or landscapes, still life or action shots, with a good DSLR camera helping you out with lighting, focus, and composition you’ll soon be discovering your talent for creating your own photographic masterpieces. When inspiration strikes for your next picture, you know there will be a mode for the right lighting and your focus point will be set to give every chance of creating stunning compositions complete with a wow factor that would make the likes of the great Michelangelo so very jealous.

The Nother EShiner EcoTable 30 Solar Charging Table Is Great For Off-Grid Adventures

Power banks are great for charging portable devices. But when it comes to refueling numerous devices simultaneously, then you want something that offers this versatility. Take for instance the Nother EShiner EcoTable 30 Solar Charging Table.

Whether you’re off camping, fishing, backpacking, or venturing off-grid for a few days, then you can always rely on the power of the sun to fuel your electrical devices. Laptops, mobile phones, tablets, Bluetooth headsets, power banks, cameras, and portable gaming devices. You name it, all these are compatible with the charging table. This is made possible thanks to numerous built-in charging ports. These include two 5V2.1A USB ports and one 18V/1.6aMAX DC port.

The solar panels are built-in and found on the other side of the tabletop. You can switch or flip the table over to recharge the panels. Plus, the Nother EShiner EcoTable 30 Solar Charging Table employs a battery management system that ensures the safety of your devices from overcharge, overheating, and short circuits.

Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, this one comes in a portable weight of 2.5kg and a size that can easily be carried on your backpack. It measures 65cm×20cm×12cm when folded and is easy to set up with a simple pop-open method. Its aluminum base makes it easy to attach the tabletop to the legs.

The Nother EShiner EcoTable 30 Solar Charging Table is a great addition to your outdoor or survival gear. It is waterproof, scratch-resistant, rust-free, and easy to clean with a simple wipe with a damp cloth, or you can also rinse it with soap and water.

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Images courtesy of Nother

The Thumbsize Lumintop Pimi Flashlight Is A Great Outdoor Gear

Gone are the days when handheld torches stench gas or run on large D batteries. Now lithium-ion is the number one choice for most devices be it smartphones, portable electronics, or other everyday carry like flashlights. When it comes to flashlights though, you don’t really want those giant ones as they prove more bulky than effective. You want compact ones that provide enough illumination and if you can go tiny, then why not opt for the Lumintop Pimi Flashlight.

Thumb size, mini, or key-chain size, you can call it any way you want. This flashlight is literally small, it can be held just with the tip of two fingers. It measures 1.3 inches long and is extremely lightweight at just 0.6 ounces. You can easily hang it on a keychain, keep it in your wallet or pocket, although with its size you might forget you have it with you. ,

Despite its minute size, the Lumintop Pimi Flashlight provides enough illumination in the dark (it is brighter than an iPhone flashlight). It gives out a wide beam of either 60 or 100 lumens of light output. It pairs with Nichia E17a 50000 lifespan LED for a pleasing neutral white tint and runs on a single rechargeable 10180 cell.

Powering this flashlight on and off is simple. A loosening and tightening twist action on the head turns it on and off, respectively. This way you don’t have to worry about it accidentally turning on sans a power button.

Best of all, the Lumintop Pimi Flashlight is great for outdoor use with its solid copper construction. It is a great addition to your survival gear collection not just for its size. It is also IP68-rated to withstand dust and water up to two meters.

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Images courtesy of Lumintop

Best 16 Throwing Knives

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The Noori V02 Airy Adds Ambiance To Any Outdoor BBQ Setting

The Noori V02 Airy is an enameled steel construction that lets you cook up a storm while providing an ambient backdrop to any outdoor setting. It’s a versatile cooking/baking station designed with metal mesh covering for a calming and mesmerizing visual effect.

This is a multi-function outdoor grill, rocket stove, pizza oven, and a firepit in one. It is easy to assemble and requires just one person. Speaking of assembly, it comes in six internal plates to form the innovative AIRY System. This means that to get an open fire, you just need to remove a few refractory plates from inside the cylinder to expose the flames. and you can start reaping off its benefits.

Now when it comes to its features, the Noori V02 Airy comes with a pizza disc to bake pizza. The disc also works with bread, roasters, and oven-suitable containers. Then there is the upper half-moon grill for cooking and the lower “orbital” grill that centralizes the tube of the Rocket System, which is composed of enameled steel tubes, in the refractory body. It also serves to hold the coal during BBQ.

Of course, you can’t bake in an open flame so this cooking gear also comes with a removable lid with a reclaimed wood and steel handle. The lid is also great for BBQ and for smoker functions. Then there’s the convenience of a built-in thermometer that shows both Celsius and Fahrenheit heat temperatures.

In terms of portability, the Noori V02 Airy has four wheels made with carbon steel for ease of transport. There are also side handles. Probably what makes this cooking gear great is its meshed exterior design which gives off a relaxing ambiance using the flame.

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Images courtesy of Noori

Keep The Flame Burning With The Atomic Bear Fire Wand

The Atomic Bear Fire Wand saves you time when it comes to setting up your campfire or bonfire. Lighting up is made easy with this wand that uses wax-infused hemp rope that ignites with a single spark.

It may resemble the hollow body of a pen but it serves its purpose. It gives a cumulative slow and steady burn time of 60 minutes and keeps your hand safe from burns with the fire at a safe distance. This way you can easily transport the flame to where you need to start a fire.

Moreover, unlike matchsticks and lighters, you don’t have to re-ignite to keep the flame going. You simply have to adjust or extend the length of the wick. You also have full control of the size of the flame once you fray the end of the hemp. When it comes to extinguishing the flame, you simply pull the rope inside its tube case. Aside from cigarette lighters, the Atomic Bear Fire Wand ignites with a ferrocerium rod, magnesium, matches, fire starter kit, and more.

Aesthetics-wise, this fire starter keeps up a minimalist and covert design. At first glance, you never know what it is about until you see the hemp rope and ignite it. It keeps the flame strong thanks to its black anodized aluminum sleeve that lets you safely carry the hot flame to your tinder.

The Atomic Bear Fire Wand is also compact and lightweight which makes it a great outdoor gear to add to your survival tool kit. It doesn’t reek of gas and the hemp is easily replaceable.

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Images courtesy of Atomic Bear

Best 11 Inflatable SUPS

BEST INFLATABLE SUPS

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First up we’ve got the Expedition stand up paddle board from Isle Surf & SUP which has been designed with longer trips in mind. They’ve incorporated their spectacular own Fusion Lite build to provide you with an awesome board you’re able to carry wherever and whenever you want. It doesn’t matter where you’re intending on taking your trip, it’s been constructed to cope with it all.

So, whether you want to head to the ocean, lake, river or just that little stream, it will handle obstacles that come its way or that are thrown in its watery pathway with the same durability. You’ll find a diamond traction pad fitted to the deck that stops you from slipping while also keep your feet comfortable.

Another nice touch is the fact this inflatable stand up paddle board is 100% pet friendly. Perfect for when you want to take your pooch out to catch some waves. Storage-wise, this also provides in the form of two bungee systems, one at the tail and one at the nose. If you’re looking for variety, it’s limited with this, but it does come in two nice and watery colors, known as moss and aqua.

Our favorite thing about this product is the money-saving package you get. There’s just about everything you could want or need and some things you probably never knew you needed. A coil leash, center fin that’s detachable, high pressure pump, paddle, backpack and even a waterproof phone case are all included for the retailing price.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10.6/11 x 32 x 6-feet
  • Weight Limit 240-300lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, paddle, center fin, leash, pump, backpack and waterproof phone case
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Given the name the Adventurer, the next inflatable SUP board comes from Tower. In response to the many worries and concerns about where the compromises lie when you invest in these inflatable alternatives, this 6-inch thick board can hold medium to large sized riders easily. Its stability is never compromised, and if you stay within the 400-pound guideline, there’s no chance of it bending.

The thickness is important, particularly if you’re new to stand up paddle boarding or are hitting onto the current craze of Yoga boarding. IT’s also ideal if you’re looking to draft in your little ones to nurture a passion in them for this exhilarating pastime.

From a maintenance point of view, if you’re not looking to fuss around too much before and after you’re on the water, this is a must have. You’ll find across brands and models, there’s one feature of paddle boards of the inflatable variety that’s the same – their all made using drop-stitching and from a military-grade PVC. This is no different and is robust to deal with anything.

So, if you are new to this sporting activity, it’s forgiving enough to cope with the serious number of dents, dinks and dings you might put it through. Similarly, to board above, this comes in an economically-sound package that provides you with a fiberglass paddle in three parts for easier storage, a fin and reasonable quality pump. Everything you need to have a blast on the water!

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10.4 x 32 x 0.6-inches
  • Weight Limit 400lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, three-part fiberglass paddle, pump and fin
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Not to be confused with the, in many people’s eyes, vastly superior paddle boards from iRocker, this next one from Roc is hardly an unknown quantity. It’s one of the most popular and best-selling, not just inflatable but SUPs in general of all time. We especially love the coating this features that provides protection against the harmful UV rays from the sun that can normally damage PVC.

You’ll never have any issues with this board and overheating, that’s for sure. To be honest, when you consider the excellent and safe amount of grip it gives you with the exceptional flotation balance it provides, you’d be hard pushed to find fault with it.

One issue we noticed though, and this is a small one, the D-rings you get to use as an anchorage for your leash, are a bit small and can be fragile. It’s also difficult to pump up. However, once you find the sweet spot, it won’t take nearly as long each subsequent time you use the board. We’ve featured it for a reason, though, so let’s not harp on about the minor issues.

Let’s instead discuss the great package you get with this board. As well as the board, in all its glory, you get a rather nifty and sturdy allow paddle, a separate key bag, so you know where they are when you get out of the water, waterproof holder for your pride and joy (phone), pump, leash and probably one of the best ever backpacks. Seriously, there’s so much love for that backpack online.

As well as being generous in size, it’s also comfortable when worn on your back and completely waterproof. Nothing you put in there, when it’s sealed properly and in fine working condition, will get damaged by water. Did we also mention that the Roc paddle board is backed by the company’s 1-year warranty? Now you can see, despite the flaws, why it’s here!

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10.5 x 32 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 275lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, high-quality alloy paddle, leash, key bag, premium quality waterproof backpack, leash and pump
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You’d think, give it’s made by a bunch of SUP enthusiasts who know the aquatic pastime inside and out, that whenever Atoll released a SUP, it was a big deal. When it comes to this 11-foot inflatable wonder of a stand-up board, it is! There’s so much to love and admire about this board. You’d almost think we’re lying and it’s a traditional hard-body model instead.

However, inflatable it is, so like most it’s extremely lightweight. Does that come at a price? Is it weaker? No, because although they’ve used machine lamination to work on a dual layer of PVC. Is that some fancy-smancy sales talk? Not at all, dual layer inflatable SUPs fare better against the usual wear and tear than even hardboards and less expensive inflatable types.

The stability is another thing to behold and celebrate, as because of its dimensions, it’s got a stability that will suit both beginners and those expert veterans too. It really needs stability too, when you consider how much the manufacturer reckons this can handle and handle it can. We’re talking a massive 350-pounds, making it an inflatable SUP with one of the largest capacities around.

In terms of how well it performs, you get a huge amount of speed and stability. Due to the three-fin design of the board and its precise and refined shape, it tracks, that is maintains course, superbly. Whereas it’s probably one of the largest capacity boards, it’s also one of the lightest in terms of its own weight. With the D-rings on its tail and bungee at the nose, you’ve got lots of storage space.

The package, as you’d expect from a manufacturer like Atoll is also sublime in what it includes. There’s that astonishingly light weight adjustable paddle, removable fins that can be attached and removed without the use of any tools, the backpack, leash, repair kit, bungee tie downs for the nose and tail and the Bravo dual-action hand pump.

You’d need that pump if you tried to rattle that list off too quickly out loud!

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 11 x 32 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 350lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, coil paddle leash, three-part floating nylon paddle, waterproof phone case, pump and travel backpack.
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Okay, so it may not have the most subtle of color schemes, compared to the other cool paddle boards we’ve featured. However, just as you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, don’t judge a paddle board by its color. Color does not denote quality, after all. Just as a barista having bright blue hair doesn’t make her better or worse at her job than the cute brunette with pigtails.

In fact, it’s often the opposite, if you’ve been to a trendy coffee house recently! Anyway, we digress. The thing that’s most striking about this Pathfinder inflatable stand-up paddle board, is the price tag. It’s one of the least expensive on the market and one of the cheapest in our guide. So, if you’re not sure you want to invest the 100’s of $ required for most start-up kits, this might be for you!

Despite its price, though, like we said about its looks, it’s still a great allrounder when it comes to performance. Although it’s not made from military-grade PVC like most, it still includes the almost standard these days, drop stitching which helps to reinforce the seams and make a paddle board bulletproof.

Well, it’s not actually bulletproofed. Like, if you find yourself under attack by a hail of enemy bullets, and you’re balding and either a tall muscular dude from Hayward down in Cali or a shorter muscular bald guy from Shirebrook in Derbyshire, we’re not going to suggest you use this to dodge those bullets. But, for dinks, dings, rocks and other stuff – sure, it’ll mostly cope with them fine.

Now we know it’ll have not escaped you eagle-eyed readers that this is slightly thinner than the rest of the gang here. Although that does put it at a distinct advantage in the long run and means you suffer in the stability department, remember it’s around half the price of most of the big guns. Again, while we’re not suggesting a seasoned pro or avid Super would want this, it’s great for beginners.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 9.9 x 30 x 5-inches
  • Weight Limit 240lbs
  • Material Commercial quality PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, aluminum adjustable paddle, valve wrench, carry bag and shoulder straps, center fin (detachable) and pump.
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As you’ve undoubtedly seen, there are a lot of things we need to discuss when looking at each of these individual inflatable SUPs. A lot of the issues you find with inflatable paddle boards, SereneLife in their wisdom have tackled. Most crucially, they’ve went to a lot of effort to deal with the problem of sun exposure and its effect on the PVC rubber used in.

With this board, the UV-resistant coating provides it with additional durability as well as reducing the damage the sun can have on it. The grit you get with this paddle board is why we’d recommend it for beginners. However, we’d not really recommend the riding style for beginners whatsoever. 

You’d have a hard time trying to get balanced because the abilities of the board is very much dependent on PSI. This isn’t exactly a bad thing, because it doesn’t make the board less functional or anything, but it just means boarders with more experience will have a better and more successful time, rather than beginners using it as their first model.

With the design of the board, SereneLife have ensured the board is extremely light in all important ways while keeping a reasonable size. Even the oar has been created with a different tact than other models – to contend with and fight against the water currents rather than bending to them. This means, unlike with some inflatable SUPs, you’ve got an oar that you can use to row.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10 x 30 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 275lbs
  • Material Commercial quality PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, manual air pump, patch repair accessory kit, oar pedal, ankle-cuff coil safety leash and handy storage bag
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iRocker, for the people already in the know, is a name that needs no real introduction. With their All-Around SUP board, they’ve created something that’s appealing for all riders. That’s regardless of skill level and where they intend to use it. It can cope with just about any water environment. Right off the bat, it’s best to point out this board is recommended for bigger riders.

Either that or if you’re intending on taking more than one person out at the same time. One of the things you’ll notice straight away with this board compared to others on the market, is the fact that it doesn’t have one layer or even just two layers of PVCV rubber. Nope, iRocker have went full hog and made it with four different layers of rubber.

What does this mean for the board, though? It means, according to the company, it will always pass the test no matter how rough the waters are. So, that’s one thing it has in favor of it. Another thing that sets it apart is its high maximum capacity limit of 435-pounds and the fact it is much wider than a lot of the other ones, measuring at 32-inches. This increases the stability of the board.

In terms of its performance, it appears to provide a very joyful and exhilarating experience. Although it’s wider than another great iRocker product, the Sport, it doesn’t lose anything in terms of fast movement over and through the surface of the water. A key component to this board, as with most, is the backpack, which can fit everything that comes with this SUP and more still.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 11 x 32, x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 435lbs
  • Material Quad-layer PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, 2 removable side fins and 1 removable center fin, 3-part fiberglass paddle, dual-chamber triple-action hand pump, ankle leash and backpack
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Although you’ve possibly never heard the brand name before, it’s a solely hand-made product that has multiple levels of stitching to give it a stable and weight-saving structure. What’s more, the company has been making inflatable paddle boards for stand-up paddle boarding for years, since 2005. This inflatable SUP is another that’s been firmly been designed with touring riders in mind. D-rings are featured on the board, making it possible to attach a comfortable seat, as well as other items.

Items you’d need on longer journeys. So, if you want to go on a nice trek through forests, woodlands and along various bodies of water, this might be a great option for you. It remains suitably stiff even at lower air pressures and will stand the test of time and various tricky situations when you’re having to contend with choppier and exciting waters.

Like the others in our guide, this pack comes with everything you need. It differs mostly in terms of price tag. So, if you’re looking to give paddle boarding a go for the first time, this would be a better investment than those more expensive models.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10 x 32 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 280lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, Bravo hand pump, waterproof phone case, eye-glass rope, center fin, high quality backpack and 3-part paddle.
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From another brand you may not be exactly familiar with, Aqua Plus, comes the next great paddle board in our guide. This is an awesome, all-inclusive style package that features just about everything except for the kitchen sink. Unless there’s some code you can give at the checkout when you buy it, we don’t think it features a kitchen sink.

What you do get for your investment in Aqua Plus’s entry to the inflatable SUP field is an incredibly portable and lightweight board that’s capable of handling a rather respectable load capacity of 330-pounds. It’s been made with both ends of the spectrum when it comes to experience and skill in mind. Both beginners and experts will find joy with this SUP.

It’s curiously very rigid design almost makes it feel like a hardbody board, rather than one filled with pressurized air. As ever, military-grade PVC is featured extensively, as is the reliably robust and durable drop stitching to hold it all together by strengthening the seams. Another standard feature is the diamond groove traction pad for comfortable, safe and confident ride.

There are also several D-rings and a bungee cord setup for storing things on your paddleboard securely. With a jam-packed special deal, we’re not sure we can really say much against this supper cool inflatable SUP. If you’re looking to save a little but want to spend enough on a decent paddle board, this would be an awesome choice to settle on.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10.6 x 33 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 330lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, double-action pump, removable fin, TPU waterproof pack, coiled ankle leash, shoulder strap, Navigator iSUP travel backpack and adjustable paddle made from aluminum.
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The penultimate in our guide is another smaller brand, but based on the features of this SUP, it deserves some recognition. Following in so many footsteps that came before it, this standup paddle board benefits from a highly robust construction consisting of dual-layer of plastic and the drop-stitch that helps to reinforce everything together and keep the seams tight and well finished.

This inflatable paddle board has been designed with users of all skills in mind and has a reasonable weight capacity of 240-punds. One of the things we really like about this model though, is the fast inflation you gain the benefit of, with it taking just 12 minutes to pump up fully, even by hand. This means there’s less time between arriving at the water and getting on it.

It’s been made to be kid friendly with a safety rope that enables you to take your little one out with you for their first experience of stand-up paddle boarding. Everything, as is standard these days, fits conveniently into the included backpack.

All in all, although this may not be from one of the more prestigious brands, it’s still a great beginner board for those of you who’ve yet to experience the simple, though tricky, joy of paddle boarding.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 11 x 30 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 240lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package SUP board, adjustable paddle, repair kit and pump, one removable fin, hand pump featuring PSI gauge, backpack and frontal bungee for storage options
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The final SUP in our guide is one you’ve probably seen advertised and mentioned everywhere, because these beauties seem to get…well…everywhere. The Gili inflatable paddleboard gets everywhere for a reason, though. It’s a nice medium-priced board. In terms of its package, you get everything you really need and want.

However, whereas some packages, admittedly are just cobbled together seemingly as an afterthought to sell the board, the Gili one has branded items that have clearly been chosen because they do their specific job well. One thing we’d say though, is that while it’s a good all-rounder and suitable for rides of extended periods of time, keep in mind it’s got no UV-protection.

Given that it weighs just under 20-pounds, you know you’ll not have too much travelling with this in tow. There’s a lot to love with this board…and a few…forgivable errors. When you consider the nuts and bolts of it, though, you start to see why many people highly regard and recommend Gili. A worthy rival to iRocker and Atoll.

Specs

  • Board Dimensions 10.6 x 31 x 6-inches
  • Weight Limit 275lbs
  • Material Military-grade PVC
  • What is included in the package Board, repair kit, snap-on center fin, coiled leash, 2-stage hand pump, inflatable backpack, travel paddle

Time to Paddle!

There you have its guys, our guide to the best 11 inflatable stand up paddle boards right now. Was there any surprises or names you didn’t expect to see? If you already had one or two options in mind, did this guide change your initial decisions much? Did you find yourself attracted to one of the models by one of the lesser known manufacturers? Whether we confirmed things you already suspected or gave you a fresh set of eyes on a board you’d always ignored in the past, we’re just glad to have been part of the decision process. IT’s why we’re here. To help our readers and visitors by guiding them towards the best (whatever floats you on the surface of the water.

Rather than focusing on the most expensive SUPs on the market, we’ve tried to provide you with a more versatile range of paddle boards. We’ve not tried to make a list of products we know for sure that everyone will like, because that’d be impossible anyway. Instead, we just picked out our favorite models at various price ranges and tried to show there’s good value to be found in the lower end of the market as much as there is at the higher end of the market. We’re happy and been successful if we manage to find that one paddle board that makes you say ‘yes that’s the one for me’ or if we’ve given you lots of food for thought.

We can’t tell you which to buy in as direct terms, but we know which we’d invest in, as outlined by our top picks. If you’re still struggling to pick out one, check out our buying guide for additional help.

BUYING GUIDE & FAQ’S

To further help you make your decision about which inflatable stand up paddle board is best for you, we’ve put together a buying guide and FAQs tackling the most pertinent questions people have. You’ll find out which features are most important and the specification you should be paying most attention to when choosing a board as well as the different types of paddle boards there are out there.

How to Choose the Best Inflatable Paddle Board?

When it comes to choosing the best, and that is the best for you, inflatable paddle board, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you to more quickly identify the paddle board for you from the thousands out there and even from the 11 models we’ve selected in our guide above. The factors that should be of most concern to you are:

  • SUP Length
  • SUP Volume
  • Material the SUP is Made From
  • Weather Conditions Where You will Be Using the SUP
  • Paddle Selection
  • Leash and Tie Down Components and Attachments
  • Carry Handles
  • Deck Pad

We’ll take each of these individually and discuss them in detail.

SUP Length

The length of an inflatable stand up paddle board is obviously very important. Obviously, as you’ll see in a short amount of time, the SUP length is factored into the volume, but it’s also important to consider it based on your height. This is like when you choose a surfboard, just in a smaller fashion. Basically, it’s important that your height is around 45 to 55% the overall length of the paddle board. For instance, in paddle boards with a length of 10-foot 4-inches, if you were 6-foot 2-inches, that’s around half of the height of the board.

This means, in theory and depending on your skill and ability, you’d have a far easier time riding that board. Your center of gravity comes into play too. Having a board that’s just right will ensure you’re able to concentrate on enjoying yourself from the very beginning.

SUP Volume

The volume is very easy to understand, and even easier to calculate. You take the thickness, width and length and find the volume shared by them all. The volume capacity of a paddle board is crucial because it’s connected directly to your, the user’s, weight. Along with the level of comfort you’ll have using it and the results you expect to achieve from using that board.

Materials the SUP is Made From

You can never be sure exactly what you’ll find below the surface in the water when you’re on your stand-up paddle board. However, there is one thing you can trust in – there will always be things under there that could so easily pop, damage or just scrape the inflatable elements of your board. Therefore, it’s vital you pay close attention to what a SUP is made from and the grade of those materials.

As with any product in any industry, if you choose a cheaper product, you can expect that it will be made from cheaper materials. The same can be said of many paddle boards on the market. The type of materials and their grades also has a bearing on where you’ll be able to ride your paddle board in the end, so if you’ve got a specific use in mind or particular bodies of water you want to explore and enjoy, figure out whether the material is going to be suitable or not.

With cheaper paddle boards that have much thinner materials, you’re better using them on oceans and bodies of water where you’re less likely to bang into jagged rocks that could slice through its body. Whereas more expensive and military grade materials used in paddle boards mean they can be used on rivers and lakes where there are more unforgiving and aggressive elements in the landscape.

Weather Conditions Where You Will Be Using the SUP

This is very much a personal thing. If you’re all about the crazy, live hard lifestyle, and wanna paddle through river rapids and rainy weather, do it with the correct amount of caution. Or at least try to. Remember, you’ll need reinforced bungee cables a deck surface with greater amount of grip and gear with greater durability. However, if you’re more interested in the calm waves and a lazy day at the beach or at the lake, you don’t need to rock up with Bear Grylls-style resources and accessories.

Paddle Selection

You will need the option to choose from a selection of different lengths when it comes to finding a paddle that works. IT depends on the size of the paddle board you are using, your body weight and height. The best thing you can do is invest in a paddle that can be adjusted to different lengths. Many of the stand-up paddle boards we’ve featured in our guide come with adjustable paddles.

This gives you the chance to through trial and error, find your own sweet spot when it comes to paddle length. You also need to think of your physical condition, because you don’t want a paddle that’s way too short so that it causes issues with your lower lumbar, whereas you want to avoid using a  paddle that’s way too long as you could start to feel a lot of pressure and tension in the shoulders.

Leash and Tie Down Components and Attachments

This is another aspect of stand-up paddle boarding that is completely down to your own personal preference. Not everyone use a leash, while others always do. The good thing is, though, regardless of what you choose, you will find that most SUPs, including the paddle boards in our guide, offer tie down or leash type accessory in their package deals.

Carry Handle

You will find that when it comes to built-in carry handles, not all stand up paddle boards, especially the inflatable variety, are equal. Some don’t have the benefit of carry handles that can perform that role. In those situations, if you still have your heart set on that board, you need to avail yourself of a carry strap or carry sling to help lug it around.

The carry handle normally found on the side of your inflatable stand up paddle board is the component you can use to easily move your board from one are to another. However, it really depends on how much your board weighs, because it’s often not the best way to get things done, certainly not the quickest or safest.

Deck Pad

The deck pads perform several duties, heroically without any question or need for reward, they are just happy in their subservient, ass and feet on them constantly, existence. Whether it’s distributing your weight in a balanced and even manner across the whole of the paddle board or ensuring you have adequate and safe amount of traction and grip on the board or simply providing your feet with a soft and comfortable place to stand while you enjoy your madcap sporting activity.

This sport sees you move through the water at high speeds, depending on how fast you can go. However, for much of the time, although your upper body and board are moving quickly, your feet are left standing, maintaining grip with the board, for extended periods of time.

Therefore, the cushioning aspect is not because you think of yourself as oh so precious and a princess, it’s because it helps to avoid rather painful and sore feet and fatigue. Deck pads can be versatile.

However, that versatility doesn’t come easily and not all deck pads, while they may look alike, are like one another. Therefore, even for such a small component, you need to pay close attention to the kind of deck pad that comes with your iSUP. You need to decide if it’s one you can make use of or if you need to look elsewhere. Of course, you could always buy the board and then modify or upgrade the deck pad. It’s up to you. Your feet, your problem dude!

What Board Types Are Available?

Although we’ve covered inflatable stand up paddle boards, if you take to the sport like duck to water. Yes, we’re sticking with that! Then you may want to explore the other kinds of paddle boards out there and the other types of paddle boarding you can do with them. To make things easier for you, we’ve kindly collected the most common below for you to read through:

Inflatable SUPs

Okay, this is a given, seeing as we’ve just spent almost 6000 words discussing these beauties. Although they are much better when it comes to storage and transportation compared to hardbody versions, they are less great when it comes to avoiding damage and deterioration. That’s why it matters the grading of the material the inflatable paddle board you choose is made from. Inflatable SUPs are also inexpensive compared to other boards, and ideal for just getting out there and having a go and not worrying about much else.

Universal SUP

As you might imagine, brainbox, universal SUPs are designed to be used for any of the other purposes the other types of paddles are used for. They are low in price, but you really need to have your A game in check to handle one of these bad boys. Not for beginners or wimps and drama llamas!

Racing SUP

If you’ve been following the ‘guess what the word before SUP means it will be used for’ game, you’ll probably have figured this one out. Tortoises need not apply. These are built to be streamline and aerodynamic, and hydrodynamic too. The manufacturers are interested in two things and two things alone when creating these beasts – go faster and stripes. Only kidding, but speed and efficiency are their main concerns.

Fishing SUP

Yeah, you’ve guessed it, this is the kind of SUP you’d use for ballet dancing. Seriously though, if you’re looking to get out on the water and fish in a paddle board, you’re the kinda dude we’d wanna meet. These are not known for their aerodynamic design, but they’re amazing for storage capabilities and you’ll never be short on space for tackle box, bait and many have attachments for holding your rod, helping you to untangle your line and many other useful features.

Surf SUP

Obviously, when you’re on a stand-up paddle board, you see a wave coming towards you and you want to paddle right into that wave like some kinda Patrick Swayze. These are essentially beefed up and widened out surfboards, as their design and construction is based along that of a surfboard.

Yoga SUP

Okay, so if you’ve ever been flicking through Instagram and looking and all those people living their best lives, you may have seen some guys and gals doing some crazy-ass yoga on paddle boards. That is basically what a Yoga SUP is – a stand-up paddle board you use to perform your yoga on. Obviously, these boards need to be as balanced as you are, as you’ll be performing a multitude of positions and poses on them and will want to avoid falling off. They are also usable as touring SUPs though, so when you’re finished meditating you can go on a lovely little trip up stream.

Touring SUP

See how seamlessly we moved onto this one? Impressed? How would you like a stand-up paddle board you can use to go on a small trip? They have a nice sweet spot between being comfortable for extended and long use and efficient in terms of tracking and movement. If you find a universal SUP a little daunting, touring SUPs make for great beginner ones.

Obviously, unless you’re intending on investing in one of the extremely cool inflatable standup paddle boards, we’ve just went to all that bother discussing for you and your benefit.

The GoSun Chillest Cooler Is Off-Grid Ready

While venturing the outdoors can be fun and exciting, it can also be exhilarating. Camping and trekking, for instance, requires physical strength from walking or setting up camp. And when it’s time to rest, you normally reach for a bottle of cold drink and coolers are especially handy in this area. The GoSun Chillest Cooler, for one, supports off-grid adventures so you always stay quenched and refreshed after a tiring day. Icecream anyone?

This 45L cooler harnesses the power of the sun to keep your beverages, food and deserts cold and fresh. Its built-in compressor lets you adjust temperatures of -4°F to 68°F (-20°C to 20°C), which you can control via a companion app. Or you can manually adjust the temperature via its built-in control panel. No ice needed but you can chill water and make ice. Sans the water you have more space for storage.

The GoSun Chillest Cooler can hold 60 canned beers and has space for other perishables including meat, cheese, vegetables, medicine, and more. It is a portable dual-cooling zone cooling machine that features a freezer and a fridge. It even has interior lighting for visibility in the dark.

This cooler keeps the cold in for over ten hours and recharges multiple ways. You can use its backup 12V AC or DC outlet, using its external power bank which gives you an additional 30 hours of battery life, its built-in 100wh Lithium-Ion battery, or via solar panels, which double as a table.

For portability, the GoSun Chillest Cooler has wheels for transport and is built for all-terrain adventures. It comes with tie-down straps and organization baskets, and a bottle opener. This is definitely one convenient, versatile, and efficient cooler that you want to get your hands on.

Get It Here

Images courtesy of GoSun