This Watch Thrives in Harsh Elements Others Can’t

Watches don’t come much tougher than what G-SHOCK builds. And those in the MASTER OF G line are the toughest the brand constructs. Made to withstand the harshest elements of land, sea and air, there is not much on Earth these watches can’t handle.

The latest addition to the MASTER OF G Series, the MUDMASTER GG1000-1A8, is the epitome of how a heavy-duty watch should be put together. Mud Resist construction means no dirt, mud, or dust will ever seep into the timepiece. The mud-resistant cylindrical guard structure uses multiple gaskets on the pipes that guide buttons and shafts. These pipes not only protect the buttons from impact, but they also enhance button operation for a two-fold benefit of durability and usability. The buttons are also fitted with a textured checkered pattern, further fortifying proper function in demanding environments by ensuring a distinct contact can always be made (like, for example, while wearing gloves in the freezing cold).

The band’s surface is also textured. While it looks like cloth at a glance, the band is actually the rugged urethane G-SHOCK has perfected. This strap acts as another line of defense for shock absorption, balancing an ideal combination of shock resistance and comfortable wearability.

Other premium G-SHOCK performance features also shine through in this MUDMASTER. Shock Resistance, 200-meter water resistance and an Auto Super Illuminator LED Light are all fitted within to establish that baseline level of G-SHOCK sturdiness and function.

Perhaps one of the standout capabilities is that of the Twin Sensor, which provides instant access to accurate direction and temperature information when needed in unrelenting conditions. The Digital Compass comes with Bearing Memory and the Thermometer has a display range from 14 to 140-degrees Fahrenheit. These are crucial capabilities for survival and usage when out in the punishing wild dealing with severe circumstances.

Made for those wanting a heavy-duty timepiece that won’t ever fail them, the MASTER OF G MUDMASTER GG1000-1A8 is an affordable utility watch ($320) that can withstand anything you throw at it.

How to Style Denim for Any Occasion

Dressed up, dressed down, ripped, tailored, cuffed, cropped, slim or straight. Whatever the vibe, the occasion or your style, good denim is a wardrobe staple. It’s not news that denim is versatile. Office culture is more casual than ever, so is a nice evening out. There’s a lot of nuance between high and low, from your work attire to your weekend wear. And it’s easy to get it wrong — or at least not quite right. We’re here to help. We’ve put together denim three ways — styled for our version of the perfect office, evening and weekend looks.

Office Style

You don’t need your garments to be too distracting in the office but you do want to be put together. Regular fit denim with a medium wash is highly reliable. Paired with timeless chukkas, a monochrome tee and clean, minimal jacket, it’s a cool, contemporary and composed look for any day of the week.

Levi’s®: 505 Made in the USA Regular Fit Jeans $98
Levi’s® Made & Crafted: Pocket Tee $98
Ami: Zipper Jacket $355
Clark’s: Beeswax $130

Denim After Hours

You don’t need a blazer to look sharp on a night out. It’s 2018. A well-cut, black denim jacket over a classic white Oxford shirt will get you in the door looking tailored but with a little edge. Refine the outfit with slim, dark jeans and brogues — and there’s a good chance you won’t be going home alone.

Levi’s®: 511 Made in the USA Slim Fit $88
Lacoste: Button-Down Oxford Shirt $90
Levi’s®: Made & Crafted Type II Trucker Jacket $198
Grenson: Archie Wingtip Derbies $310

Weekend Wear

The 501® Made in the USA Original Fit, in that soft-hued blue, is the ultimate weekend denim choice. It’s casual. It’s comfortable. It shows you care enough but you’ll still wear them with pride when they get a little muddy on that trek upstate. Style it with a chunky fisherman’s sweater, a light-weight caramel-hued bomber and rugged lace-up boots and you have a get-up for the woods — whether you actually like to get dirty or just look the part.

Levi’s®: 501® Made in the USA Original Fit Jeans $98
Levi’s® Made & Crafted: Fisherman’s Sweater $228
Baracuta: G9 Original Jacket $390
Grenson: Brady Boots $360

Upgraded iPhone Protection For Creators Who Get After It

For over seven years, Urban Armor Gear has been the hallmark creator of some of the most rugged and protective cases for Apple and Samsung mobile devices. Its secret sauce? UAG cases weigh next to nothing and are incredibly thin while still boasting MIL-SPEC protection.

While not all of us need a phone case built to military standards, it’s better safe than sorry — especially since UAG’s latest iPhone cases continue its successful formula to ensure the added durability still keeps your phone slim. Developed alongside world-renowned creators and innovators, the latest cases were inspired by UAG ambassador and esteemed water photographer Zak Noyle. Whether at home shooting Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu or traveling the globe chasing swells for Surfer Magazine, Zak Noyle’s equipment must withstand his active lifestyle.

UAG carefully engineered its new iPhone cases to withstand the intense situations Zak works in, as well as the constant drops, shocks, and bumps every on-the-go individual endures on a daily basis. With six updated series, from the luxurious Monarch Series to the slimmest Plasma Series, UAG allows content creators like Zak to go further and capture that memorable shot.

UAG classics such as the Pathfinder, Plasma, and Plyo Series have been re-designed to offer a sleeker, more refined look while still maintaining the acclaimed toughness UAG is so trusted for. Like all UAG cases, these iPhone cases meet or exceed Military Standards (MIL-STD 810G-516.6) for drop and shock, providing ultimate sturdiness that still slides into and out of your pocket with ease. Each case consists of an impact-resistant core, an armor shell and 360-degree protection, giving users confidence that their technology is as hard-working as they are.

With its updated series for the most recent iPhones, UAG makes it easy to take your iPhone further and document the world around you while leaving behind all the worry about keeping your iPhone secure.

The Dog Product Company Born in the Outdoors

Nearly three years ago, Sam Alter and his Labrador retriever Atlas couldn’t find a leash that held up to the rigors of an adventurous life of camping, hiking and swimming. So Alter decided to build a better one by founding Atlas Pet Company. He initially juggled his full-time job working in San Francisco, but quickly discovered that his commitment to quality and customer service were not the norm in the dog gear industry.

“After realizing how the majority of dog products were made overseas, using the cheapest materials available, I wanted to create the best leash available instead of the cheapest,” Alter said.

Hence, the Lifetime Leash was born. “All of our products are handcrafted in America in small batches, using the highest quality materials we can find,” Alter said.

Alter leveraged tools he saw software companies using and focused on building a remote team with an adventurous culture at the center, allowing even him and Atlas to leave the city and run the business from the road. By working directly with the consumer instead of retailers and distributors, and offering a unique lifetime guarantee, APC has blossomed.

With that dedication to man’s best friend, Atlas Pet Co. is embarking on a journey to encourage followers and customers to get involved at their local shelters. Living the vanlife for at least the next year, Sam and Atlas (along with girlfriend Pamela and second dog Brady) are driving cross-country in a custom-built van to rally local communities around animal shelters.

According to the ASPCA, approximately 6.5 million animals enter shelters each year. And Alter’s hope is that Atlas Pet Co. can help out even more dogs than they have so far. Along the way, they’ll certainly be having plenty of outdoor adventures, and they want you to join their pack in person at your local shelter to make sure all dogs get the attention they need.

Follow the vanlife adventure on Instagram at @atlaspetcompany.

Ikon Pass Adds More Bucket List Destinations and Expands Access

If having access to 36 iconic snow destinations spanning 12 states and three continents weren’t enough, then we’ve got good news for those shopping for a resort pass this winter. The Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass from Alterra Mountain Company just got even better, unlocking unmatched access to some of the best mountains for skiing and riding on the planet.

Unparalleled Utah Terrain

Make Utah a must this season. Thanks to its 10,000 acres of available terrain, the Ikon Pass offers the most Utah terrain found on any pass. Ikon Pass holders not only get to enjoy Deer Valley Resort, Alta and Snowbird, but now get Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton Resort as well.

Now With Japan’s Premier Pow

Take the trip of a lifetime — including first tracks in waist-deep powder — on Japan’s island of Hokkaido. The addition of Niseko United, home to some of the planet’s most plentiful snow, sees the Ikon Pass reach its third continent.

“Land of Enchantment” Enhancement

Treat yourself to an eclectic cultural experience that combines alpine adventure and Southwest spirit. Now a part of the Ikon Pass community, New Mexico’s Taos Ski Valley is home to 1,200 exhilarating acres, including expert hike-to terrain.

Pacific Northwest Extension

The Ikon Pass community now touches every corner of the US with the addition of The Summit at Snoqualmie and unlimited access to Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, plus Cypress Mountain in British Columbia, unlocking expanded access into the Pacific Northwest.

The Best of the Midwest

Conquer Midwest mountains with the latest additions to the Ikon Pass community: Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain in Michigan.

Even More Northeast Days

Triple your access to the best terrain New England has on tap. The Ikon Pass originally offered seven days combined between Loon Mountain, Sugarloaf and Sunday River (five days combined on the Ikon Base Pass). But it now touts seven days at each destination (five at each on the Ikon Base Pass), bringing New England Ikon Pass days to a total of 21 (or 15 total on the Ikon Base Pass).

*Any Ikon Pass access or benefits at Crystal Mountain Resort are contingent upon the completion of Alterra Mountain Company’s transaction to acquire Crystal Mountain Resort.

The Watch Collection Built Upon Sporting Heritage

Vintage watch fans know that the Memovox Polaris from Jaeger-LeCoultre is one of those rare timepieces that deserves celebrating. The brand created only 1,714 of them in 1968, so the 50th anniversary is a fitting time to reinvigorate the cherished mid-century diver. Launching the Polaris Collection earlier this year also rounds out the JLC catalog with a sports watch series for the modern man in motion.

The set is anchored by an Automatic and a Chronograph on either end and draws sporting heritage inspiration from the original Memovox, which boasted an iconic alarm function reminding divers when it was time to return to the surface.

The 41mm Polaris Automatic may be a time-only ticker, but it delivers with the impeccable styling you’d expect from a JLC piece. Echoing its predecessor, the Automatic features two off-center crowns — the second one operating the inner rotating bezel, which can be used as a timer. The sapphire case back gives a peek at the automatic movement operating inside. Sleek dial details like the three-finish dial, trapezoidal indices and angular numerals are synonymous with JLC timepieces and tie the entire Polaris collection together.

Taking these key aspects and instituting them in the popular complication of today gives us the 42mm Polaris Chronograph. Fitted on a newly engineered stainless steel bracelet, it offers a fusion of polished and brushed links that exude sporting elegance. While the chronograph departs a bit from the initial dive watch formula, it does resemble the JLC instruments that were often fitted in vintage sports cars. And with a wide tachymeter scale, it provides plenty of functionality for practical use. This is all rounded out with the three black finishes on the dial for a tasteful chronograph look.

The trapezoidal hour markers, numerals and hands that are displayed throughout each dial of the collection are all coated with Super-LumiNova for optimal readability at night or underwater (each of the pieces is water-resistant to 100 or 200 meters), further enhancing the practicality of these watches for those on-the-go.

While JLC will make many more pieces of the Polaris Collection than it did of the first Polaris Memovox, the set does justice by building upon a JLC icon of the past to produce an elegant, casual style of watches that can be at home on your wrist anywhere around the world you want to take them.

Staff Picks: A Captivating Travel Watch, a Technical Commuter Pack and More

Every day, our team filters through hundreds of style articles, clothing pieces, collection launches, brand parties, blogger fads, runway shows, fashion shoots, lookbooks and many, many more stimuli to stay on top of what’s hot in men’s fashion. In spite of all that noise, we’ll keep things simple here: just four things we’re into right now.

Montblanc 1858 Geosphere

The pioneers of exploration relied on timepieces as life or death tools in the world’s harshest conditions. And while the majority of us won’t necessarily have that need, it’s good to know that a watch can handle it all if you need it to. Of course, it doesn’t hurt if the timepiece is also as attractive as Montblanc’s Geosphere 1858. Built to commemorate the 160th anniversary of their in-house manufacture Minerva, the Geosphere 1858 is meant to pay tribute to the mountaineers who risked their livelihood to explore the ends of the earth. The timepiece features an intricate world-time complication that sees two domed globes, denoting two hemispheres, which spin in opposite directions to complete a full rotation in 24 hours. The result is a steel and ceramic top-notch timepiece, designed for those who travel the world. — Gear Patrol

Wolverine 1000 Mile Original Sneaker

Taking its iconic 1000 Mile Boot pattern, Wolverine created a lighter, more flexible version for a 1000 Mile Original Sneaker. Handmade in the US, just like the boot, the sneaker can go a bit more casual without sacrificing that supreme handmade quality you expect from Wolverine.

Finisterre 15 Years Domus Shirt

Overshirts, shackets, whatever you call them, they are a cool weather staple. UK-based surf brand Finisterre is celebrating 15 years in business and has revamped the Domus Shirt from its 2014 Cold Water Surf range with this heavyweight wool-polyester piece that will keep you warm for the fall and winter months ahead.

Bellroy Shift Backpack

A technical commuter bag should be built to withstand unintended weather incidents. Bellroy has refined this in what they dub a “super-commuter pack” for the Shift Backpack. Made from water-resistant Venture-weave polyester and leather, the sleek bag can go from the office to the streets without missing a beat.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

A Stylist’s Guide to Nailing the Denim Jacket

Summer is quickly coming to a close, but it’s not all bad news. With shorter days and cooler nights, denim jacket weather is upon us. An iconic classic, the right denim jacket operates in the sweet spot between cool and business casual.

“Denim jackets have everything going for them, a unique combination of functionality and Hollywood cool,” says Jessica Grilli, a personal stylist at Trunk Club — a company devoted to helping customers, both online and in person, build a wardrobe to suit their unique style and tastes.

Grilli continues, “There’s no intimidation factor like with a lot of fashion [trends], so pretty much everyone feels confident slipping one on. They’re one of those rare pieces that look good on anyone, with almost any outfit.”

This versatility is the real charm of the denim jacket. Whether you’re getting dressed for a nice dinner out or just a walk to the store, throwing this lightweight layer over anything adds a touch of flair. There are a few pairing concepts to keep in mind, and Trunk Club has some styling tips to make the most of this wardrobe staple.

Find The Right Fit

Stylist tip: “A classic fit is foolproof,” says Grilli, “but if you’re more fashion-forward you may want to experiment with something oversized.”

Typically, your denim jacket will be relatively form-fitting and cut at the waist. But an oversized jacket offers a more casual look and can be paired with anything from a basic tee to a button-down check shirt. If you prefer something a little snugger, don’t be afraid to find a fit that hugs your shoulders (not unlike your favorite shirt).

Embrace Layering

Stylist tip: “Toss one over a short-sleeve knit at the beginning of the season, then try wearing it under a topcoat as fall temperatures get crisper,” says Grilli. “They also look great over a textured suit vest and knit tie for a more sophisticated spin.”

On warm and sunny fall days, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and chambray; then when the leaves start to fall and the weather gets a little chillier, transition into cozy knit sweaters with long-sleeve tees underneath and a scarf on top for maximum warmth.

Brave Denim-On-Denim

Stylist tip: “Go for a light-wash jacket if you wear a lot of dark denim and darker chinos, and vice versa,” says Grilli.

The single shade, double-denim look has gotten a bad rap over the years. To make sure you achieve the perfect balance, try to create color contrast. Think about the bottom half of your wardrobe before adding a denim jacket to the mix. If you’re ready to experiment, try pairing classic gray, black or blue jeans with a light blue jacket and a basic tee for a denim-on-denim look that’ll take your style to the next level.

Play With Patterns

Stylist tip: “Try a white, black or colored jacket with graphic patterns like polka dots, geometrics or stripes,” says Grilli. “Blue denim looks great with classic fall patterns, like plaid and checks.”

Classic doesn’t have to mean boring. Pair your denim jacket with unexpected items, like a button-down in a bold pattern or vibrant color. Make sure your closet is chock-full of playful shirts and ties to keep your look fresh. Throwing your jacket over a bright plaid print can take you straight from the office to happy hour.

Wear It (A Lot)

Stylist tip: The most important tip on the denim jacket is simply to wear it. A denim jacket will only look better with age, especially if you opt for a darker wash — or better yet, raw denim. Over time, it will start to crease and fade, giving you a one-of-a-kind look that’s well earned. A slightly beat-up jacket with a bit of character gives you more options when layering or adding contrast.

If you’re looking for the perfect denim starter kit, the stylists at Trunk Club can build and ship a customized Trunk straight to your door — meaning you can nail denim jacket styling for this fall and beyond.

TRVL LITE by TOMS Is the Go-to Shoe for Life on the Move

Modern life has become increasingly mobile. Our office can be the nearest cafe, our reference point a train stop, our routine on-the-fly.

This dynamic lifestyle is the inspiration behind TRVL LITE, a new men’s collection from TOMS, the socially-conscious shoe company that first made its mark with a simple canvas slip-on.

TOMS has come a long way since that first silhouette. TRVL LITE delivers not only lightweight, durable comfort but an elevated sense of design and story that’s reflected in its materials. The unique rubber-EVA blended cupsole and molded cork-covered footbed balance ultra-lightweight construction with superior cushioning. A wave-patterned tread provides grip and traction, and the leather heel counter and grosgrain pull tab bring modern details to the timeless design.

This is an ideal shoe for life on the move — one that moves seamlessly (and comfortably) from the studio to the street or the station.

A range of colorways, patterns and silhouettes — including high and low sneakers and slip-ons — enhances the TRVL LITE collection’s versatility to fit any aspect of your daily needs. And as with all TOMS shoes, the company will match every pair you purchase with a pair of shoes for a person in need.

The Latest Socks from Stance Are Made to Jimmy Chin’s Standards

Jimmy Chin’s feet regularly take him places most only dream of. Whether the renowned photographer is climbing the tallest peaks of the Himalayas or hiking around the Tetons at home, he needs his gear to perform at the highest level — and that starts from the ground up. Which is why Stance tapped Jimmy to help develop a new Adventure line, pairing the brand’s design know-how with Jimmy’s next-level experience for socks with matchless performance.

“I’m always looking for functionality first in my gear,” Chin told Gear Patrol. “It has to perform well under all conditions. Since footwear and feet are so important in the mountains, I need something that feels good, functions well, protects my feet by keeping them dry, wicking moisture and keeping my feet from blistering.”

Stance designer Christian Schrader worked directly with Jimmy to thread the legendary climber-photographer’s profound knowledge and demands into the Adventure line. “Jimmy was great in the sense he came with a few ideas and concepts and then let us run with it,” Schrader said. “He trusted we know socks — would you question him behind a camera or on a big wall? Me neither, and he really trusted us when it came to the collection, execution and the finished product.”

The line is broken down into three categories based on intended use: Outdoor, Hike and Trek. The Outdoor sock is meant for everyday outdoor use and the Hike collection is best for longer hikes, while the Trek sock has all the bells and whistles meant for big-scale expeditions.

The entirety of the Adventure line utilizes merino wool — the ideal material for warmth and moisture control. “For the Outdoor sock we tapped into our Direct-To-Garment 3D printing,” Schrader said. “It is such an awesome way to bring art and knit together as one. The Hike and Trek styles got finished with our FEEL360 tech to just set the bar that much higher in regards to moisture management, odor control and abrasion resistance — think work truck meets badass sports car for your feet.”

While the Adventure line from Stance is built to stand up to the rigors of Jimmy Chin, he still puts on one sock at a time just like the rest of us. They are tested by Jimmy in the toughest of conditions so that whatever adventures your feet take you on, they’ll outperform your expectations.

The Toughest Camp Chair Ever Built

After a day of playing hard, you deserve to rest hard, too. And a chair inspired by the construction of climbing harness fabric and downhill mountain bike frames will help you rest your weary bones like no other camp chair before it.

The Yeti Hondo Base Camp Chair is a chair in the way it behaves, but certainly not in the way it’s built. The joints are solid, diehard cast joints, which are similar to those used for truck door hinges. Its Easybreathe Mesh Flexgrid fabric offers a sturdy, yet forgiving seat that can hold up to 500 pounds without losing its shape — something like the weight of some Gear Patrol staff, a skateboard and a mountain bike combined (that’s Associate Videographer Jarry Truong, Associate Designer Hunter Kelly and Associate Staff Writer Will Price to be exact). The frame is also coated with a special UV-resistant paint, helping it withstand saltwater, sunrays and anything else nature can throw at it. The precise attention to durability in places where most folding chairs break down means you can put the Hondo through the paces, and it won’t quit on you.

Weighing 16.5 lbs when empty, the Hondo is ideal for car camping, the beach or anywhere you’re looking for a comfy seat that you can carry — Hondo also has a handle built into the frame so it can easily be hauled to your choice spot for posting up. Of course the makers of some of the most durable coolers wouldn’t skimp in their very first base camp chair.