That Groove Is All About Buttons

The groove, which usually runs along the outer edge of the soleplate (that’s the flat, hot part of the iron), is there to help you navigate around buttons, snaps, and other little details on your clothes. Instead of awkwardly maneuvering around buttons or risking melting or flattening them, the groove gives the button a place to “sit” safely while you press the surrounding fabric.

It’s one of those small touches that makes a surprisingly big difference, especially when you’re ironing a button-down shirt or anything with decorative elements.

More Hidden Features Built Into Your Iron

While we’re talking about it, that little groove isn’t the only clever design feature built into your iron. In fact, a lot of what’s built into the shape and structure of an iron is there to make your life easier — even if you’ve never really thought about it before. For example, most irons have a pointed tip, and that’s not just for looks.

That point is designed for precision, helping you easily slip into tight spots like between pleats, along seams, and around tricky collars without needing to keep readjusting your garment. Then there’s the steam holes scattered across the soleplate.

Those aren’t random either — they’re strategically placed to release steam and deeply penetrate fabrics, relaxing even the most stubborn wrinkles. Many irons even let you adjust the amount of steam depending on what kind of material you’re ironing.

Small Settings That Make a Big Difference

Another hidden helper is the temperature dial. It might seem basic, but it’s crucial for protecting your clothes. Setting the temperature correctly according to the fabric type — cotton, linen, silk, wool, or synthetics — means you won’t accidentally scorch or melt anything. It’s easy to skip over, but using it properly can help your clothes stay in better shape for longer.

Some modern irons even come with a self-cleaning mode, usually a small button that helps flush out mineral buildup from using regular tap water. If you’ve noticed your iron spitting or leaving behind little spots, it might be time to give that function a try.

It’s easy to take something as everyday as an iron for granted, but when you start to notice the thought that goes into features like the button groove, you realize how much they actually help. That little channel isn’t just a decorative touch — it’s a smart solution for a common ironing headache.

RELATED: 

• The Real Reason Aluminum Foil Has a Shiny Side and a Dull Side 
• Think Adirondack Chairs Are Uncomfortable? You’re Using Them Wrong 
• Why You Shouldn’t Crush Aluminum Cans Before Recycling 

The post That Little Groove on your Iron Actually Has a Big Job appeared first on Family Handyman.

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PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

The best welding helmet offers good features and a reasonable price tag, among other things. The Miller welding helmet checks all of those boxes. It arrives fully assembled and ready for use. It even includes a tote bag for storage and lots of interior (ADF) and exterior replacement lenses.

At just over $100, the Miller welding helmet is an economical choice. When compared to pricier helmets, our tester Pamela Bondurant found few noticeable differences. “The band material is not as beefy and the knobs are not as strong,” she explains. “Also, the lens replacement part was difficult to pull on and off.” She also found the buttons to be on the smaller side. “The buttons are small and maybe not great for large fingers and definitely not usable with gloves on,” she says.

However, there’s plenty to like about the Miller welding helmet. “The display was very easy to read and adjust and the automatic setting for grinding, cutting and welding were nice,” she raves. “It was easy to see while welding and had a good field of view. It also transitioned quickly and the vision was clear during welding.” Bondurant also liked the helmet’s memory feature, which allows you to store up to two settings.

All things considered, we think this is the best choice for metalworking hobbyists, as it provides the best balance between features and affordability.

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Yes | Cut mode: Yes  | Grind mode: Yes

PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Budget

Hobart Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

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Shop on Northern Tool

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$118.19 at Amazon

Bondurant calls the Hobart welding helmet the best entry-level helmet. It boasts all of the features you need to get the job done without spending a small fortune.

This helmet features a variety of settings and controls that are easy to adjust. “The delay, sensitivity and shade controls are dials, which is nice if you don’t like trying to press small buttons. It might be easier to move them with gloves on,” says Bondurant. “The weld and grind setting is an up/down toggle switch.”

While Bondurant found the screen difficult to read because of its extra-small font, she appreciated the helmet’s strength indicators. “All of the dials are low on the left and high on the right so once you know your settings, you can eyeball it,” she explains. “Also, a small light flashes when you have the helmet on grind mode. This serves as error reduction as well as a safety feature.”

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Yes | Cut mode: No  | Grind mode: Yes

PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Splurge

Lincoln Electric Viking 2450 ADV Series Black Helmet

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Shop on Global Industrial

$426.66 at Amazon

A comfortable fit, sturdy construction and easy-to-reach controls are just a few features that make the Lincoln Viking helmet one of the best welding helmets on the market. “The headband is the beefiest of all the helmets and probably the most comfortable with the most padding,” raves Bondurant.

In addition to being comfortable, Bondurant also found the helmet to be one of the best looking. “The plastic is shiny and the black with red accents make it pop,” she says.

What really makes the Lincoln Viking helmet stand out, however, are the unusual settings. Bondurant points out that the grind button is on the outside of the helmet with an electrical connection to the ADF. “This seems to be an obvious afterthought but it works,” says Bondurant. She also found the shade setting unusual.

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Uses shades | Cut mode: No  | Grind mode: Yes

How We Found the Best Welding Helmets

In order to find the best welding helmets, we began by researching the best-selling models and brands. We considered a wide range of factors, including settings, auto darkening and comfort. We also consulted with industry experts to better understand the key considerations for hobbyists and professionals alike. After narrowing down our list, we sent five welding helmets to our dedicated product tester, Pamela Bondurant. During testing, Bondurant paid careful attention to the comfort of each welding helmet as well as its overall performance, safety features and ease of use.

Other Welding Helmets We Tested

• Jackson HSL2 Welding Helmet: The Jackson welding helmet is the most basic helmet we tested. It doesn’t have any settings and is not auto-darkening. Bondurant described this helmet as old-school thanks to its flip-up lens and the need to tilt the entire helmet down when it’s time to start welding. “Flipping down the shield can be tricky. Timing and starting with the shield down can be tricky as well,” says Bondurant. “Of course, people did this before auto-darkening helmets, so it can be done.”
• 3M Speedglas Welding Helmet: While Bondurant initially liked the on/off button on this helmet, she ultimately found that it wasn’t helpful in determining whether or not the power was actually on. “The only way to confirm your settings is to press the buttons and see where they light up,” she says. And while the controls were easy to use, Bondurant did not feel that the quality matched the price tag.

What to Look for When Buying a Welding Helmet

According to Torrey Alexis, welding program director at Fortis College in Smyrna, Georgia, there are several things to consider when buying a welding helmet. Most importantly, you need a helmet that fits properly. Alexis recommends choosing a helmet that provides comfort and visibility under the shield. “Consider the size and weight of the shield on your head,” he says.

In addition to a comfortable fit, Matt Carfo, owner of Collector Car Services in Danbury, Connecticut, recommends choosing a helmet with auto-darkening capabilities. “The lens of a welding helmet has to be very dark to protect your eyes. It’s pretty much black under normal lights,” he explains. “Auto-darkening allows you to see as normal with your helmet on until you start welding. Then it automatically darkens. This makes setup so much easier and improves your weld quality.”

Carfo also recommends blue lenses over green. “For a long time, green lenses were the industry standard,” he says. “The newer blue lenses provide a much better view. I can easily see what I’m doing while still protecting my eyes.”

FAQ

How often do you need to replace a welding helmet?

With proper use and maintenance, the best welding helmets can last a long time. “If the user takes good care of the shield, no replacement would be needed,” says Alexis. “I have had one of my shields for over twenty years.”

How do I choose a good welding helmet?

“The main feature I look for is auto-darkening,” says Carfo. Alexis emphasizes the importance of choosing a helmet that feels good on your head. In addition to a comfortable fit, you should have good visibility under the shield.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we have personally tested dozens of the best tools to help you through all of your projects. From budget-friendly picks to splurge-worthy tools, we’ve covered it all. And not just because testing products is an awesome gig (it is, by the way), but because our goal is to help you make the most informed shopping decisions based on real-life testing. We will never recommend a product that does not meet or exceed our expectations.

The post We Found the Best Welding Helmets After Weeks of Testing appeared first on Family Handyman.

I’d been hearing a lot about the brand, which broke onto the scene just a few years ago and has since become a large social media presence. As the story goes, founder Eric Girouard set out to create a relatively affordable boot with an easy break-in time and, of course, all of the necessary safety and convenience features.

Brunt makes several styles. I chose the Marin, one of their most popular models. It has a moc-toe (moccasin-reminiscent) design. Boots with this u-shaped seam on top of the toe box are known for being more flexible and lighter than those with a solid-toe design. That makes for a boot that’s easier to wear all day, especially if your job keeps you, literally, on your toes.

Here’s how my testing went and what to expect from these boots.

What are Brunt Work Boots?

Brunt work boots are a line of safety boots made for construction, agriculture and other job site work. They come in various models: moc-toe, traditional toe, pull-on (cowboy boot) and running-shoe styles.

Brunt makes only one women-specific model, the Marin Women’s. It’s available down to size 6.5. Beyond that, most of their models start at size 7 men (8.5 women), which is limiting for those of us with smaller feet. On the plus side, most of their models are available up to size 16, which is fantastic for those with huge trotters.

The model I tested, the Marin Women’s, has an appealing look — tough enough to be taken seriously on a job site but also a tad fashionable. I wouldn’t be surprised if some women keep wearing them after the proverbial quittin’-time whistle blows.

However, the boots’ safety features are much more important than aesthetics: they are waterproof and designed specifically to withstand slick and muddy environments, with slip-resistant, oil-resistant and heat-resistant soles.

The women’s model is only available with a soft toe and in a 6-inch height. The men’s version, however, is available in 6 and 8-inch heights and with added toe-box options, including a non-metallic composite safety toe or their “brunt” toe, which includes a durable rubber reinforcement on the front.

Each pair includes an extra insole, which is removable to accommodate wider feet (up to EE), plus a nylon shank for mid-foot support. They are also made from “barnyard-resistant leather,” which the company claims helps protect them from oleic acid, sodium chloride and ammonium hydroxide, which can damage regular leather.

Their leather is also sourced from Texas steers, which the company claims are “the highest quality hides available.” I’m sure Texans agree, though there are likely some ranchers in my Colorado Valley who would beg to differ! (Also, note that while the leather is from the USA, it’s ultimately made into boots in China, Vietnam and India.)

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

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$145.99 at Amazon

Brunt Work Boots Features

Brunt work boots were designed with safety in mind. The Marin models include a waterproof and breathable membrane, and the men’s version also comes with a composite safety toe option. The soles are touted as being slip and oil-resistant, non-marking and heat-resistant to 572 degrees. They also have an ASTM electrical hazard rating of F2413-18.

For comfort, they’re made to break in quickly, like in a matter of hours. An internal nylon shank for mid-foot support helps prevent foot fatigue, and polyurethane midsoles provide extra cushion. The insoles have three layers, again for more precise support and cushion, and include an anti-odor treatment. There’s a second insole insert, which can be removed to accommodate wider feet. They are also lightweight compared with many other brands, coming in at 1 lb. 14 oz. for a single boot.

For durability, they have barnyard-resistant leather, heavy-duty eyelets with pass-through and wrap-around lace hooks and double and triple stitching at the various stress points.

How We Tested It

My first impression of the Brunt Marin boots is a little embarrassing. Instead of admiring their burly nature, I thought, “Wow, these are actually kind of cute.”

But, at least for me, aesthetics don’t carry much weight on the job site. I care about how my feet feel after a long day and how well they are protected when I drop a hammer on my toes. To figure out the answers to those, I slipped them on and got to work framing our garage.

First, the boots have a quality lacing system. Thanks to heavy-duty metal eyelets and upper cuff adjustments, including wrap-around lace hooks, it’s easy to fine-tune their fit. The hooks particularly came in handy since my ankle is a little small for the cuff of these boots, so those helped me crank down on the laces to get ample support.

For the first half hour or so, the boots were dastardly uncomfortable. My heel wouldn’t nestle into the pocket, so the heel cup dug into my Achilles. I ended up pulling out the extra insole—a design intended to accommodate extra-wide feet—and that did the trick. My heels settled down into a much better position. And even though I have pretty narrow feet, the extra width wasn’t entirely annoying.

After that, the boots broke in quickly. Within an hour they were starting to conform to my feet, and at the end of the day, I didn’t have any sore spots to complain about. The slip-resistant soles worked fine on concrete, even after it rained, though I did not test them in an oily environment (that will have to wait until the garage is done and we’ve been fixing our cars in it!). They also kept my feet at a comfortable temperature on warm days, and then also after a cold front came roaring in and we were working in 40-degree weather.

While we were waiting on a materials delivery one day, I also decided to test the Brunts out in the garden. I normally wouldn’t wear work boots for such an occasion, but it felt like a good chance to see how versatile they are, especially with tasks that require a lot of kneeling.

I was pleasantly surprised at how flexible they were. I was up, down and stretched out all over the place, trying to spread mulch on a few dozen plants to protect them from the impending winter. I didn’t feel like I was being held back in terms of range of motion, and the boots held a nice shape: they didn’t buckle or put undue pressure across my toes.

They also didn’t pick up any thorns, burs or dirty splotches, which was way more than I can say for the seat of my pants. While I was at it, I also let the garden hose run on them for a while. Yep, they’re waterproof! The leather got slightly darker, but only for five minutes or so; then it popped back to its original color.

Finally, I gave the Brunts the hiking test. I know that’s not what they’re meant for. But we went camping, so I figured I’d give that a shot, too. As it turned out, that was not such a great idea. Although they are lightweight, they lack padding and really aren’t comfortable enough to walk long distances in, at least for me. The tread pattern also doesn’t grip well enough for proper scrambling around on rocks. I guess that’s why hiking boots are for hiking and work boots for working.

Sadly, I only ended up wearing the Marins for a week. Ultimately, they were too boxy for my feet, and that clunky feeling caused me to stumble a few times. I prefer a more nimble shoe, which is why I often choose hiking boots over work boots in general, especially on lighter-duty projects (and since Brunt doesn’t make a women’s work boot model with a protective toe box, I wouldn’t choose these for tougher job sites anyway).

Beyond that, the Marins also didn’t fit well overall, which isn’t unusual for me and my footwear. I’ve never been able to stand wearing a pair of Nike’s, either. Unfortunately, that means I didn’t get to test them for longevity and durability.

But I did talk to someone who switched to Brunt Boots a few years ago and has had success with them lasting a long time. “When choosing boots, I consider the price point, durability, weight and overall appearance. Brunt is a great choice as it meets all these criteria,” says Glenn Gracey, President and Founder of Glenn Gracey Plastering in Pennsylvania.

In the end, though, I do like my Brunts enough that I’ll definitely keep them around for those occasions when I have to get particularly mucky or when I need to look like a fashionable handyperson.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been testing and recommending precision footwear for over three decades, starting when I became a professional ski boot fitter at age 16. I have tested everything from leather and hard-shell mountaineering expedition boots to hiking boots, trail-running shoes and even flip-flops. While I have personally gone through a number of work boots during my home construction projects over the years, for this review, I also enlisted the expertise of mountaineer and avalanche forecaster Brian Raffio and construction worker/Brunt boot enthusiast Glenn Gracey.

FAQ

Can you only buy brunt boots online?

No, besides being sold on Brunt’s website and other online shopping sites, Brunt boots are available in several retail stores as well.

Who owns BRUNT Workwear?

Brunt Workwear is a privately held company based in Massachusetts. It was founded by Eric Girouard, who is still the CEO, and financing is made possible by venture capital backers.

What to look for in a work boot?

Fit is one of the most important considerations when buying a work boot. “Your work boots should feel snug but not too tight,” says Brian Raffio with Climbing Kilimanjaro. “Ensure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle and that your heel stays in place to prevent blisters and discomfort during long hours.”

He also recommends paying attention to boot height, material (whether leather, synthetic or combo), waterproofing, traction, insoles, toe protection, lacing system, weight, breathability, insulation and price. “Before making a decision, try on several pairs and walk around in them to assess comfort and fit,” he says. “Keep in mind that the right boot for one person may not be the best for another, so select the pair that suits your individual needs and preferences!”

The other vital consideration is safety. “Wearing the right work boots can mean the difference between a safe day on the job and a debilitating injury,” says OSHA spokesperson Danisha Braxton. “Strong, durable footwear not only protects workers’ feet but also supports long-term health and productivity.”

When purchasing work boots, OSHA recommends considering protection, including:

• Metatarsal guards,
• Toe guards,
• Combination foot and shin guards,
• Electrical hazard, safety-toe shoes or boots, and
• More, as detailed in this bulletin, as well as this one about protective footwear requirements.

What Others Had to Say

Reviews of Brunt work boots range from rave reviews about their comfort and price to those who find them a bit uncomfortable and to wear out faster than expected.

Adam Beasley of the blog Lazy Guy DIY was pleased with their quick break-in time. “I had them on for maybe 20 minutes before I felt that comfort level hit while digging holes,” he writes. But ultimately they didn’t fit him well, plus he received a number of comments from readers about their (lack of) durability. “Sometimes it’s hard to pick through jaded ambassadors, legit reviews and review bombers. So I’ll leave it at that,” he writes.

An unidentified writer on Iron Pros was overwhelmingly positive about the boots, writing, “Overall, the BRUNT Marin is a game-changer for me. They’re the most comfortable work boots I’ve ever worn, and they seem built to withstand the daily grind of construction work. If you’re looking for a top-notch boot delivered straight to your door, the Brunt Marin is absolutely worth checking out.”

Glenn Gracey, President of Glenn Gracey Plastering and a consultant on this article, is a “massive fan of the Brunt boots,” which he switched to from Red Wings a few years ago. “Overall, I appreciate the price point,” he says. “Additionally, Brunt boots are lighter than Red Wings, providing protection and comfort without the extra weight. A common misconception is that big name brands are the only quality options. These brands often come with a higher price tag, but Brunt offers the same quality and functionality without the premium price.”

Brunt Work Boots vs. Timberland Pro Boots

Which is better: Brunt or Timberland? It depends since both companies offer a wide variety of options. However, in general, both companies offer models that are price-competitive and which feature composite toes, waterproofing and electrical hazard ASTM ratings. Timberland offers a superior variety of women’s models, while Brunts tend to be lighter weight. In the end, the best boots to buy are those that feel the most comfortable on your foot since everyone’s feet are shaped a bit differently.

Final Verdict

Overall, I found the Brunt Marins to be of decent quality, with plenty of desirable features like waterproof leather, reinforced stitching and safety certifications. On the plus side, they are relatively lightweight and take no time at all to break in. They are also a great price, especially for how stylish they look. But, in the end, they just don’t fit my feet. Because of that, I couldn’t wear them long enough to test their durability.

Where to Buy the Brunt Work Boots

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

Depending on the model, Brunt work boots range in price from around $140 to $269. The Marin Women’s, which we tested in this article, costs $140. The largest range of choices concerning style, height, color, toe box protection and waterproof options can be found on Brunt’s website (you can also buy Brunt Workwear clothing there). Otherwise, Brunt boots are available online on Amazon and Zappos.

The post Brunt Boots Review: I Built a Garage in Brunt Work Boots, And Here’s What Happened appeared first on Family Handyman.

The launch of John Deere shoes has something for every age group, from toddlers to adults. Whether you need new boots for the job site or new kicks for the trails, the iconic collaboration has you covered.

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Skechers x John Deere

This rugged shoe line from two iconic brands is a perfect fit for all ages!

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What is the Skechers x John Deere collab?

The new John Deere line of Skechers includes work boots, utility sneakers, adventure shoes and casual footwear for adults and kids. It is designed for rugged play and hard work alike.

Skechers x John Deere combines the high-quality comfort of Skechers shoes with the classic John Deere brand. The new collection includes all-terrain sneakers featuring Goodyear outsoles built from the tire brand’s rubber for enhanced traction and durability. The rugged work boots from the line feature waterproof and protective materials like a composite toe, nano carbon safety and metatarsal protection.

The fun and playful children’s styles include tractor-inspired sneakers with lights, memory foam insoles and machine-washable technology. Like many of the adult offerings, the kid’s sneakers feature hands-free, slip-in technology—perfect for little ones who haven’t learned to tie shoes.

As a brand, Skechers has been developing a diverse range of lifestyle and performance footwear since 1992. John Deere has been a global leader in agricultural, construction and forestry equipment for nearly 200 years. Combine those leading brands with Goodyear, one of the world’s largest tire companies, and you’ve got shoes you can trust to carry you through just about any job.

Our Favorite Skechers x John Deere Shoes

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Relaxed Fit Terraform Veckman Boots

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Built for safety and comfort, this waterproof mid-top outdoor work boot features a lace-up leather, memory foam insole and durable Goodyear rubber outsoles. Skechers work boots come with features like slip-resistant soles and steel or composite toes, making them ideal for all-day use on the job.

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Rowood Moss Burrow Boots

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This slip-resistant waterproof boot features a durable Goodyear welt construction, a leather upper with woven Mossy Oak camo print and a cushioned insole.

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Play Scene Barn-Squad Buddies Shoes

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This easy-wearing design is for youngsters who dream of driving a tractor someday. It features stretch laces, a Skechers adaptive closure, and a farm-themed midsole.

Where to Shop Skechers x John Deere Shoes

You can shop all of the Skechers x John Deere Shoes on the brand’s website. Shop shoes for you and your mini-me in time for the holiday season.

The post Skechers and John Deere Team Up to Create Tough Footwear for Any Outdoor Task appeared first on Family Handyman.

Most recently, L.L. Bean teamed up with singer-songwriter Noah Kahan on a capsule collection that includes hats, jackets and the beloved Bean Boots. The pieces were released on October 22, 2024. Ready to shop the collection before it sells out? Check it out below:

The Northern Altitude Collection

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Five-Panel Hat

This hat is made of water- and wind-resistant material (it is also UPF 50+ rated) and features a woven patch touting the collection's name.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Signature 1933 Chamois Cloth Shirt

Perfect for fall, this soft flannel shirt buttons down the front and has a slim fit throughout.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan L.L. Beanie

The all-black L.L. Beanie can be adjusted, thanks to the rolled cuff, and is made from recycled polyester.

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L.L.Bean & Noah Kahan Hoodie Sweatshirt

Grab this cozy hoodie with the embroidered Noah Kahan and L.L. Bean logo on the front (we give bonus points for the kangaroo pouch).

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Bean Boots

Handmade in Maine, these Bean Boots are built to last, thanks to the rubber outsole and waxed canvas upper.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Boat and Tote Zip Pouch

This zip pouch fits inside a larger bag (ahem, the Boat and Tote bag), and comes emblazoned with the Noah Kahan patch.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Anorak

Keep the rain out with this water resistant jacket, which comes in both men's and women's sizes.

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The post The Noah Kahan x L.L. Bean ‘Northern Altitude Collection’ is a Love Letter to New England appeared first on Family Handyman.

The limited-edition boot has returned in four neutral colors: black, tan, olive green and blush. If you want a pair, you’ll have to act fast because certain sizes and color combos are already selling out. Here’s everything we know about the comeback.

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What are the Kizik Boots?

Kizik has been making headlines recently for its sneakers, which you can put on completely hands-free. The ultra-comfy Juno Mid boots are no different, featuring the same slip-on design with a sneaker sole for ultimate traction and comfort. That’s right—come winter, you won’t have to worry about bending down in all your bulky outerwear to tug on your boots as you’re running out the door to beat the morning rush. Simply step into them and go.

The boots’ quilted, lined upper is made for warmth and weather resistance, with a nylon exterior that looks like a cozy puffer coat. The faux-fur lining and insulated foam add extra warmth, while the rugged lug sole ensures good traction and arch support for all-day wear.

While not as waterproof as a snow boot, the Kizik Juno Mid boots are made to keep your feet warm and comfortable in cold weather (while making a chic statement).

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Kizik Women's Juno Mid

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Other Kizik Shoes We Love

The Kizik Wasatch sneakers are made for casual and rugged conditions. Plus, they are water resistant, so you can go from airport to trail, ensuring comfort and durability. The Wasatch comes in six colors and extended sizes (up to 13 in women’s).

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Kizik Women's Wasatch

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Another new shoe launch from Kizik is the Sierra, a slip-on ankle boot with plenty of support. The Sierra looks great with joggers, jeans and leggings—so you’re ready for anything from city steps to outdoor walks. These shoes have “pumpkin patch” written all over them.

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Kizik Women's Sierra

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If you want a taller boot, the Kizik Juno is higher than the Juno Mid—and it still slips on hands-free! The Juno provides a little more warmth than the Juno Mid but comes in two colors: white and black. These boots are selling out fast, too, so don’t snooze!

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Kizik Women's Juno

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Where to Buy the Kizik Boots

You can shop all the boots listed above on the Kizik site. The Juno Mid boots sell for $150 in women’s sizes 6-11. We think we’ll see many of these walking on autumn leaves and light snow flurries this year.

The post These Kizik Boots Sold Out in 4 Hours Last Year—They’re Back in 2024, But Not for Long appeared first on Family Handyman.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

From the sandy scrub forests of South Florida to the desert terrain of New Mexico to the 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, my Altra Lone Peak hiking boots have successfully taken me everywhere I’ve wanted to go—and I plan for them to continue taking me places until I bust a hole through the toe box. (Which, at more than 200 miles, hasn’t happened yet.)

The Altra Lone Peak hikers are wildly flexible, capable of moving with your foot through the entirety of each stride, from toe-off to foot strike. When I’m in my Altra hiking boots, it’s as if I can almost feel the earth beneath my feet; as if I’m hiking barefoot. This checks out, as the Altra Lone Peak hikers are zero-drop hiking boots with an ultra-wide footbed that allows for maximum toe splay.

As much as I love them, I must point out that they aren’t for everyone. If you’ve never worn zero-drop shoes before, it would be a bad idea to buy these and take them out for a hike right away. Individuals accustomed to more cushioned shoes with a substantial heel-to-toe drop should take their time adjusting to the zero-drop style to avoid pain and discomfort.

That said, if you’re anything like me, once you get used to these boots, you’ll never go back. They drain exceptionally well thanks to the breathable construction (I can’t speak for the waterproof version, because I don’t own them); the deep outsole lugs grip slippery terrain like shale and slate; and the extended heel clip provides extra stability with each foot strike.

As these boots are some of the best hiking gear, you can read more about the specifications, pros and cons of the Altra Lone Peak hikers in my full Altra Lone Peak hiking boot review.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Socks

Darn Tough Micro Crew Hiking Socks

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I thought Darn Tough was off its rocker for charging $25 and higher for socks until I slipped my feet into a pair of these magical, slipper-like, sweat-wicking, warmth-giving socks. Yes, they are all of the above and more, because they are made of mystical Merino wool, a fabric that makes me think wizardry must be real.

In temperatures ranging from 10 degrees to 100, Darn Tough socks have kept my feet not too cold, not too warm, but just right. I currently own three pairs of the Darn Tough Micro Crew socks and I’d own four if a dryer hadn’t eaten one. Sigh.

These socks are available in three weights (lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight) and two cushioning options (cushion and full cushion). I’m particularly fond of the midweight, full cushion option, especially for logging a lot of miles through various climates (for instance, starting in 60-degree weather at the trailhead and being met with 40-degree weather at the summit).

For the best hiking gear, I recommend the Micro Crew height, because they sit just above the collar on most hiking boots, preventing any rub from the boot. However, the hiking socks are also available in full crew, boot, quarter crew, and no-show options.

If, after reading all of these great things about Darn Tough socks, you’re still hesitant to spend that much on a pair of socks, you should know that they are backed by an unconditional lifetime warranty. If your Darn Tough socks rip, tear, or otherwise fail, you can send them back to Darn Tough and the company will send you a new pair free of charge. Darn Tough uses the returned socks to understand what went wrong and improve their products moving forward.

Related: Garmin inReach Mini 2

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best GPS Hiking Watch

Garmin Forerunner 945/955/965

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A GPS device is essential for hikers who hike solo, partake in cross-country (off-trail) hiking, hike to remote locations without cellular service or otherwise tend to find themselves in situations in which turn-by-turn directions might be required.

I recommend the Garmin Forerunner smartwatch series, which serves as both a highly capable fitness tracking device and a full-fledged GPS and mapping tool. I wear the Garmin Forerunner 935.

With the Garmin Forerunner 945/955/965, you can create routes with Garmin Courses or send routes to your Garmin watch via AllTrails once your AllTrails account is synced with your Garmin Connect account. When you download a route onto your watch, you can get turn-by-turn directions during your hike.

In addition to turn-by-turn directions, the Forerunner series also offers full-color mapping, round-trip routing, ClimbPro ascent planning and LiveTrack, a feature that allows you to share your real-time location with other people for safety.

What I love about this watch, though, is that it’s not just a hiking watch. If you participate in other active hobbies, including running, cycling, swimming, lifting weights, using cardio machines or doing HIIT workouts, the Garmin Forerunner smartwatch can track those, too.

Garmin does have “adventure watches” that are a bit more rugged and geared specifically toward hiking, but I think they may be a bit overkill for the average recreational hiker. We don’t all need enhanced topographic mapping, satellite imagery and access to the worldwide aeronautical database. (That’s just a smidge of what the Garmin tactix 7 watch offers if you were wondering.)

Related: Garmin inReach Mini 2

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Pants

Coalatree Trailhead Pants

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If you’re into hiking at all, and you haven’t seen the Coalatree Trailhead Pants on Instagram yet, I’d be very, very surprised. These hiking pants are all the rage and have been for months—and that shows in how hard they are to get. I was lucky enough to snag a pair in the beautiful Rust color, and I’ve been trying to get my hands on another pair (or three or four…) since the moment I finished my first hike.

Normally, I would try not to send my readers to a product that is often out of stock or available for pre-order only. But I would be wrong to lead you astray. Are there other excellent hiking pants available? Yes, there are, such as the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, of which I own two pairs. But are there better hiking pants available? I truly don’t think so.

The Coalatree Trailhead Pants are 88% ripstop nylon and 12% spandex with four-way stretch, making them both highly abrasion-resistant (hello, bushwhacking) and spectacularly stretchy (hi, rock scrambling). They have deep pockets on each thigh that can fit an entire 16-ounce water bottle and a buttoned pocket on each hiney cheek. The antimicrobial fabric keeps sweaty smells at bay better than any other hiking pants I own, and it’s also water-repellent.

These pants are very breathable, making them the best hiking gear for warm weather. I recommend wearing a pair of leggings or long johns underneath them for winter hiking. I hiked to Guadalupe Peak (the highest point in Texas, located in Guadalupe National Monument) with a 6-degree trailhead start and 18-degree summit wearing the Trailhead Pants over a pair of Girlfriend Collective Compressive Leggings and my legs didn’t feel cold at all.

Additionally, the Coalatree pants are sized inclusively, without men’s or women’s labeling. They are simply available in sizes extra-small to 2XL and slim and regular fit. I fervently believe these are the best all-around hiking pants available today, with the only downside being that they are hard to get.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Hat

Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat

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My Bora Bora Booney hat tags along with me for almost every hike, unless I know I’m going to be walking through a shaded canyon for most of the route. Even in winter, the sun can be brutal, and a wide-brimmed hat is key to protecting your face and neck simultaneously.

This Columbia hat is lightweight and adjustable, featuring mesh detailing for breathability and two adjustment points: the chinstrap and toggle at the back of the head. The sun is no match for its UPF 50 rating and 3-inch brim.

Made of 100% nylon, the Bora Bora Booney hat wicks sweat quickly, and the darker underside of the brim prevents sweat stains from showing prominently. This is a simple and easy way to protect your eyes, face, and neck from the sun while hiking.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Backpack

Osprey Skarab 30 Hiking Pack

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I splurged on the Osprey Skarab 30-liter hiking backpack when, after a could’ve-gone-really-wrong scenario on a solo hike in remote Utah, I realized that my then-current day pack didn’t have enough carrying capacity for long hikes in hot weather, especially if I was bringing my pup along.

After I miraculously got un-lost and recovered from a serious bout of dehydration, I went straight to the nearest REI and bought this pack: One that can carry 2.5 liters of water in a water bladder, with room for additional water bottles for my dog, and sufficient carrying capacity for ample food (human and dog).

The Osprey Skarab also has ample organizational components that make it easy to carry essential safety and wellness items. A satellite phone clips to the shoulder strap and there’s a bear spray holster. Sunscreen and insect repellent fit into side pockets. Lip balm, pain reliever, blister kit and an anti-venom device drop right into the two hip pockets. A mosquito net and emergency blanket fit in the front “shove-it” pocket.

This pack also has trekking pole attachment loops and an ice axe loop. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter Hydrapak water bladder, with a dedicated sleeve and hydration tube port for easy sipping. The hydration bladder has a small magnet that connects to the integrated magnet on the pack’s chest strap, so the tube doesn’t fly around as you’re hiking.

The Skarab features a rucksack design with an open-mouth, top-load zip. This means the closure can be sort of annoying and floppy when the pack isn’t full, but it serves as a very voluminous lid when you’re stuffing it to the max.

All in all, after hiking with this pack for hundreds of miles, I’m pleased with my purchase. I recommend it to anyone looking for a high-capacity day pack. It’s overkill for short hikes, but I always prefer being over-prepared to the alternative.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Headlamp

Petzl Tikka Original Headlamp

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$20.92 at Amazon

Planning to start your hikes before sunrise or watch the sunset at the summit? Then a headlamp is a top pick for the best hiking gear. I recommend the Petzl Tikka headlamp, which has been around for more than 20 years. I’ve had my Petzl Tikka since 2018 and it still works like a charm.

This simple but useful headlamp puts out up to 350 lumens, with three levels of white light and two red light (static and blinking) functions. It operates with just one button and features a tilting plate, so you can avoid blinding passers-by but still see the ground in front of you.

With a water-resistance rating of IPX4, the Petzl Tikka is not completely waterproof but can stand up to the rain you might encounter while hiking or camping. Don’t submerge it. The adjustable headband is soft and detachable, so you can remove the electronic portion and wash the band if it gets sweaty or dirty.

The Petzl Tikka functions on three AAA batteries, or you can purchase the compatible CORE rechargeable battery if you prefer a rechargeable option.

There are certainly some more robust headlamp options and an ultralight backpacker might scoff at the 94-gram weight of the Petzl Tikka. However, for most hikers, this simple and comfortable headlamp will more than suffice.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Fanny Pack

REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack

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My newest obsession, the REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack, is a large fanny pack with multiple pockets, including a water bottle pocket and a secret valuables pocket. It’s designed to be worn in the back, resting on your lumbar region, but I prefer to wear it in front, kind of off to one side, for easier access to my gear.

The 5-liter carrying capacity of this large waist pack accommodates my second camera lens, a 20-ounce water bottle, cell phone, headlamp, small first aid items, lip balm, small sunscreen stick, snacks, car keys and ID. It even has compression straps that allow you to minimize the size of the pack and/or clip on extra gear like a small towel.

Made of ripstop nylon, the Trail 5 Waist Pack is water-repellent and abrasion-resistant, yet lightweight at 9 ounces. It’s the best hiking gear for short hikes or for increasing your carrying capacity on longer excursions.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hands-Free Dog Leash for Hiking

Nathan Hands-Free Dog Leash With Waist Belt

$65.49 at Amazon

If you like to go hiking with your pup, a hands-free dog leash is a must. I picked up the Natahn Hands-Free Dog Leash with Runner’s Waistpack a year or so ago, and I use it every time I hike or walk with my dog. It clips to my fanny pack or backpack, with the clip on the opposite end attached to my dog’s collar.

I searched far and wide before deciding on this collar because I specifically wanted one shorter than the standard 6 feet. A 6-foot or even 4-foot leash attached at my waist is far too long and tangles up in my dog’s legs as she runs—and that doesn’t end well for anyone involved.

This leash is 3 feet in length and allows my dog enough leeway to adjust as needed, but doesn’t have so much slack it gets in the way. The included waist belt features a side-to-side glide for the leash, which is a nice touch. I typically just attach this leash to my usual hiking fanny pack or the waist strap on my backpack and find that it’s still long and adjustable enough thanks to the bungee design.

After more than a year of using the leash regularly, it’s still holding up perfectly and shows no signs of wear, other than the fact that the bright pink color is muted due to a few (or more) layers of dirt.

Heads up: This product includes a waist belt, not a waist pack, meaning it does not have carrying capacity. You can always clip the leash to a waist pack you already have, but if you need a waist pack, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

What to Look for When Buying Hiking Gear

Safety and comfort are paramount during hiking adventures, even short excursions. It’s impossible to be over-prepared, but always possible to be under-prepared, especially if you are hiking alone. Here are a few things to consider for the best hiking gear.

Clothing

For clothing, look for a relaxed fit with enough stretch to comfortably and freely move all of your limbs through a full range of motion. This means some inclusion of elastane (often as spandex or Lycra) is essential. Abrasion-resistant fabrics like nylon are ideal for pants and shorts, and durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment is a must for wet-weather hikes. For tops, I typically recommend something soft but breathable and moisture-wicking, such as a blend of merino wool and elastane.

Hiking Boots

For hiking boots, the ideal fit is flexible in the forefoot but secure around the heel and ankle. An extended crash pad is key for added stability, and depending on the conditions, you’ll want an upper that is either breathable and quick to drain (like knit mesh) or waterproof. Deep outsole lugs are necessary for slippery terrain. Heel-to-toe drop is preferential. A more minimal drop and low stack height allow you to feel what’s underfoot, but a higher drop with more cushion is more comfortable for many people.

Hiking Packs

When it comes to the best hiking gear packs—daypacks, backpacking packs, and waist packs—the most important thing is that the pack comfortably fits you and has the carrying capacity for what you need. It’s best to go in-store and try them on. You can always order online after finding one you like. If you hike a lot of trails with widely varying distances, as I do, you may end up with more than one pack to suit different excursions.

Electronics

For electronics, such as GPS devices and satellite phones, ensure that the battery life is adequate for the types of adventures you plan to take. A watch that only lasts three hours in GPS mode, for instance, won’t be of much help on a six-hour hike. It’s always a good idea to carry a portable charger or small power bank, too.

Why You Should Trust Us

I use every piece of gear that appears in this guide on a near-daily basis. I hike multiple times per week, with my excursions ranging from established trails and National Parks to (permitted) cross-country expeditions in wilderness areas. I’ve been hiking for years and have worn my way through multiple pairs of boots, pants and shorts. I’ve tried gear from dozens of brands and have learned lessons about proper hiking gear the hard way.

My hiking hobby began like most people’s: without any clue of what I was doing or how to prepare for it. Over nearly a decade, my love for this hobby has grown tremendously, and over time, I’ve invested in the best hiking gear to keep myself safe, comfortable and confident on the trail. Now, as a hiking- and outdoors-focused fitness coach, I even coach others to prepare for longer, tougher hikes, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts.

I recognize that gear preferences are highly preferential, but my top picks come from recognizable, reputable brands with a solid history of quality product production and strong warranties—because good hiking gear is designed to get beat up.

How We Found the Best Hiking Gear

FAQ

What kind of clothing is best for a hike?

The best clothing for hiking depends entirely on the season and weather. For warm weather, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing with a UPF rating of at least 30 is ideal. For overgrown trails, wear long pants made of an abrasion-resistant fabric like nylon. Winter calls for warmer, heavier fabrics like wool and fleece. Rainwear is also essential. In all cases, some form of stretch is appreciated, so look for spandex, elastane or Lycra.

What not to take on a hike?

In my potentially controversial opinion, I think it’s hard to be over-prepared for a hike, especially when going solo. Even if you don’t end up needing everything you take, it is highly possible to encounter another hiker who didn’t bring enough water, food, sun protection, insect repellent or something else.

Even then, what to pack and what not to pack is a highly variable topic, considering different hike lengths and conditions call for different essentials. An ultralight hiker will have a different opinion about what’s essential for a given hike than someone willing to carry additional items for fun or comfort.

That being said, there are some things you don’t need to bring. For one, don’t bring any extra clothing that the forecast doesn’t call for. If you’re going hiking during the dry season in Arizona and there’s a 0% chance of rain, you don’t need to bring a rain shell “just in case.” If you’re not staying overnight, you don’t need a cot or a sleeping bag.

Check the detailed weather forecast, estimate the number of hours you’ll need to complete the hike, review the terrain and altitude changes, download the trail map and read reviews of the trail.

What gear do I need for a multi-day hike?

For a multi-day hike, you’ll need sturdy hiking boots, a large backpack, a sleeping bag, shelter (tent or hammock), layered clothing, cooking supplies, food, water filtration, navigation tools, a first-aid kit and safety gear like a personal locator beacon.

What should I pack for a day hike in cold weather?

For a cold-weather day hike, pack moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, a waterproof outer layer, gloves, a hat, warm socks and sturdy boots. Don’t forget food, water, a headlamp, navigation tools and a small first-aid kit.

The post The Best Hiking Gear, According to a Hiking Enthusiast and Coach appeared first on Family Handyman.

The famous luggage brand isn’t the first to partner with Jeep. Not long ago, Merrell and Jeep collaborated on a special-edition hiking boot. Jeep’s signature elements, like the seven-slot grille and Willys star, are featured on the luggage. Even the suitcases’ interior lining features a printed topography map. The luggage line’s bold hues are also a nod to the Jeep brand.

Because we like to get our hands on all things outdoors, we knew we had to snag some products from the new luggage line for ourselves. We secured multiple bags: a backpack and two luggage pieces, to be exact. Here’s how the pieces arrived in person.

What is the Jeep Collection from Delsey Paris?

The Jeep Collection features hard-sided luggage in four core styles: carry-ons, standard spinners and trunks. They’re designed to be bold and rugged with off-road, dual-density traction wheels, convenient handles and shock-absorbing corner protectors.

The line also has duffle bags and backpacks. The duffles are available in three rolling styles and various sizes. Each includes trail-tested wheels and water-repellent material. Six backpack styles feature comfortable designs, laptop sleeves, water bottle pockets and reflective straps.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Product Launch

Delsey Paris x Jeep Large Spinner Trunk

We tried the all-new Jeep-inspired luggage from Delsey Paris.

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We Put the Luggage to the Test

I used the hard-shell luggage pieces from the Delsey Paris x Jeep line on a road trip across multiple states. The large spinner trunk is huge and has enough space to hold everything you’d typically need for a few weeks of travel. It weighs about 11 pounds and measures 14-1/2 by 16-1/4 by 31-1/2 inches. Its volume is approximately 121 liters. Meanwhile, the medium expandable spinner is less than nine pounds and measures 11-1/4 by 17-1/4 by 26-3/4 inches. Its volume is about 85 liters.

Both spinners checked the boxes for my luggage must-have features: easy-glide wheels and a telescopic handle, a durable outer shell, and top and side handles for easy grabbing. The large trunk spinner has a TSA-approved lock at the top for added security and two additional handles on the front.

Because the luggage is designed with Jeep durability, it seemed only right to use it for a road trip. So, I packed up and loaded up my Subaru (not a Jeep, unfortunately). The luggage stacked nicely in my trunk and held its shape despite other things being packed in on top. While unloading, I dropped the smaller suitcase, which remained free of dents and scratches.

I have yet to take the pieces through the TSA, but I’m confident they’d hold up. The construction of the suitcases is not unlike that of Calpak luggage, which I own multiples of and have used for years on various trips and flights. Additionally, Delsey Paris offers two- and three-year limited worldwide warranties, depending on which products you purchase.

Both suitcases are expandable and have various interior pockets for organizing. They also have tie-down straps and a mesh divider to help hold contents in place during travel. I liked that I could zip away my shoes to keep them off of my clothes and that I could separate my clothes and toiletries on each side of the suitcase. When it came time to open the suitcases and unpack, the contents were neatly in place. The suitcases’ wheels are also designed with extra traction for rugged landscapes, and I had no problem hauling them across gravel and grass.

Our Favorite Delsey Paris x Jeep Products

If you’re an over-packer looking for a large, easy-to-haul trunk, the large expandable spinner trunk is our top pick. It’s available in four colors: chili pepper red, elm green, black and warm sand. The Jeep logo is at the top, and the famous Jeep grille design is at the center. All four colors are accented with bright orange wheels and telescopic handles. The ABS/PC shell protects against the elements.

The multi-purpose laptop backpack is a convenient size for an everyday bag. It comes in elm green, bright orange, peacoat navy and black. The top pocket has the Jeep logo, and the bottom pocket has a star, a nod to the brand’s military heritage. The durable recycled polyester makes transitioning from class to an outdoor adventure a breeze.

The medium expandable spinner offers plenty of space for weekend trips. It has an expandable zipper, tie-down straps, pockets and a mesh divider. It comes in classic colors like avocado green and beige, as well as peacoat navy and black. It doesn’t have a built-in lock system, but it does have interlocking zippers suitable for a combination lock.

Where to Buy the Delsey Paris x Jeep Luggage

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Product Launch

Delsey Paris x Jeep Medium Expandable Spinner

Delsey Paris teamed up with Jeep for an exclusive, rugged luggage line.

Shop at Delsey Paris

You can shop the Jeep luggage line at Delsey Paris. The large expandable spinner trunk retails for $300, while the medium expandable spinner is $240. The backpacks range in price from $60 to $90, and rolling duffle bags are between $120 to $180 (depending on the size you select).

The post Delsey Paris x Jeep Launched a New Outdoor Luggage Line, and We Tried It appeared first on Family Handyman.

I was in the first grade when I got my first sewing machine. While my mother worked on matching Christmas outfits for my sister and me, I used her scraps of fabric to make doll clothes and tiny heart pillows. I think about how teaching this skill is part of my family’s tradition—passed down from generation to generation, much like my great-great grandmother’s rocking chair now sitting in my bedroom. It’s a link to the past and those that came before us. I think about the Great Depression, when my great-grandmother made dresses from flour sack fabric so my grandmother would have something pretty and new to wear, and how they mended clothes because they couldn’t just buy something new whenever they wanted. I think of my grandfather, who learned to mend clothes and sew on buttons during the war and took such good care of his machine that it still works today. And while much of our clothing is no longer handmade, in this age of affordable but always-revolving fashion, sewing still allows me to mend the clothes that I love and revitalize clothes I no longer wear by adding some creativity.

It gives me great pleasure to share this knowledge with you. So, let’s explore how to use a sewing machine and how to mend a hole in your clothes.

The Machine

To begin, note that each sewing machine can be a bit different. With a price range of $80 to over $2000, sewing machines can be basic, while others have some technical gadgetry and are made for heavy-duty sewing, like upholstery repair and leather. Whichever you purchase, it will be important to learn the specifics of that model by reviewing the manual that comes with your specific machine.

On average, all basic machines have similar parts and thread similarly. In this example, we are using a Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine that is on the lower end of cost. This basic machine might not have all the bells and whistles, but it should allow you to do a basic stitch for sewing clothing, darning holes, and to use a zigzag stitch for sewing on a patch. You really don’t need to purchase an expensive machine if you are just getting started—just make sure that you don’t purchase something that is so cheap it doesn’t work very well and you end up getting frustrated.

Once you have your machine, let’s set it up!

Parts of a Sewing machine

Setting up a sewing machine

Put the machine on a sturdy table wide enough to arrange some of your tools and fabric. I like to take over the kitchen table; just make sure the maple syrup is cleaned up from breakfast.

Plug the pedal into the machine and the machine into the wall.

Attach thread

Place the spool of thread onto the thread pin. The spool has a little notch that holds the end of the pin. I recommend ensuring that the notch is on top of the spool rather than the bottom when placing the spool onto the pin. This will keep the thread from catching on that notch when spinning.

Threading a bobbin

Sewing machines need two threads to work: the spool on the top and the bobbin on the bottom. Some machines will come with a bobbin already filled with thread, but you will want the bobbin thread to be the same as the spool so the threads match. Grab an empty bobbin and add the thread to it.

This can look different depending on the machine. Typically, you follow the arrows and images on the machine or review the manual for its specific set-up.

Choose a needle

There might already be a needle installed in the machine. However, different needles work for different fabrics. For mending a hole in jeans or denim, there are specific denim needles that will puncture through that tough fabric. A pack of universal needles might also work; just look for the numbers on the package. The numbers correspond with the type of fabric they work with.

Universal Needles: 70/10 is used for silk, 80/10 is used for everyday projects and are the most universal, and 90/14 can be used for heavier materials like denim.

Install the needle

When installing, press the needle into place with the flat edge facing back and tighten the clamp screw.

How to thread a sewing machine

Depending on the type of machine you are using, the process may differ slightly, but essentially, you follow the same steps:

1. Pull the thread from the spool pin on top of the machine through the thread guide.
2. Then, down the front of the machine in the slot to the right of the tension control
3. Around the tension control
4. Then, back up the front face of the machine through the slot on the left side of the tension control and through the take up lever, which you must manually turn the hand wheel towards you to make appear.
5. From here, you will return down the same slot that the take-up lever occupies and pass through the needle’s eye.

Insert and thread the bobbin

Lift the bobbin cover plate and follow the arrows to insert your bobbin thread appropriately under the needle.

Next, pull up the bobbin thread by grabbing the needle thread with your left hand and pulling it tight. Use your right hand to rotate the hand wheel towards you. This will bring the needle into the bottom and back up. Tug the needle thread slightly, as this will then pull the bobbin thread up and through the needle plate. Pull both thread ends out towards the back of the machine and replace the bobbin cover plate. Now, the machine is set up.

Test the machine

Once the machine is set up, practice with a basic stitch and get the hang of applying pressure to the foot pedal. Use scrap fabric or a piece of paper to test it out. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Lift the presser foot and place the fabric or paper underneath it.
2. Once the foot has been lowered down, apply pressure to the foot pedal. This will start the sewing machine.
3. Most machines have a stitch wheel that changes the type of stitch you can use. Depending on the stitch, different presser feet plates may be required. For starters, stick with the standard presser foot plate and learn the basics with a straight stitch.
4. Use your hands to guide the fabric as it runs through the machine.
5. At the end of the stitch, press the back stitch button to ensure that the stitch does not unravel. This is not necessary when a stitch is temporary.
6. Release the presser foot, pull the fabric out and cut the string.

How to sew a hole

For straight holes and tears in fabric that isn’t stretchy, use an iron-on patch the color of the fabric secured to the inside of the garment and a darning stitch. A darning stitch essentially fills the hole with straight stitches while keeping the rest of the fabric from fraying, and it will help reinforce the patch. This is a bit more complicated and needs steady hands to execute.

1. Prep the hole by cutting away any frayed edges around the hole with sharp scissors. Cut the iron-on patch roughly 3/4-to-1-inch bigger than the hole in each direction and place it inside the garment with the adhesive facing the hole. Iron on the patch. Use a scrap piece of fabric over the hole so you don’t accidentally iron the patch to the ironing board through the hole in the garment.
2. Use a cotton thread that is the same color as the pants (unless you want a more creative and decorative look). Place the fabric under the needle and then lower the foot. Adjust the stitch wheel so it’s a straight stitch. Sew a box around the hole in sturdy fabric approximately 3/8- to 1/2-inch away from the hole. When you get to the corners of the box, stop with the needle down through the fabric, raise the presser foot, turn the garment 90°, re-lower the presser foot and continue to sew.
3. Fill the box with straight stitches, stitching rows across the tear that are just a few millimeters apart.
4. For extra protection and durability, stitch across the box’s width, going parallel to the tear as well. When you are finished, cut the thread so that you can use a hand needle to get both thread ends to the inside of the garment and knot them.

FAQ

What happens if you turn the handwheel the wrong way?

Always turn the hand wheel toward you. Going the opposite direction could disrupt the machine’s timing and cause it to need to be repaired.

Why is my zig-zag stitch not working?

Check your manual to ensure you are using the correct presser foot. Then, review the thread tension to ensure that it is between one and five. Incorrect tension can cause skipped stitches or broken stitches. If that doesn’t work, rethread the machine and bobbin and make sure you are using a bobbin that is appropriate for your machine.

The post How To Sew: The Basics appeared first on Family Handyman.

While losing buttons is common, losing one from your favorite shirt demands immediate action to fix it. Many methods are available for sewing a button onto a shirt, but this method has never failed me.

It is a very inexpensive fix. All you need is a travel sewing kit and a pair of sharp scissors.

Before getting started, I recommend working in a space with plenty of light so you can see exactly what you’re doing.  As you are replacing one button, be sure to check all the other buttons on the shirt to ensure no others require tightening. If there are some wobbly buttons, now is the best time to secure them before they are lost.

Double-thread a needle

Measure out 24 inches of thread and thread the needle. Take both ends of the thread and knot them together near the ends of the thread, creating a loop.

Create an “X” guide

With the double-threaded needle, sew an “X” on the location where you will be securing the button to the shirt. Use the distance between the button holes as a rough length for the legs of the “X.” Start at the back side of the shirt and sew through to the front so that the knot at the end of the loop is on the inside of the garment.

Lay extra needle on button

Place the button on the “X” you just created, then lay the extra sewing needle on top of it. This creates extra thread under the button to allow enough space for it to work properly when fastening to the shirt.

Sew on button

Repeat the process of sewing the “X.” This time, though, sew through the button holes, over the needle lying on top of the button, and back through the button and garment. Pull the thread taught after each pass to avoid loose threads. Repeat the process of sewing through the button holes until the thread buildup looks similar to the other buttons from the factory.

Tighten the button

When the thread buildup looks similar to the other buttons, remove the extra sewing needle sitting on top of the button and pull the thread tight. Wrap the needle around the extra thread underneath the button a few times to strengthen the connection.

Knot the thread

Sew the threaded needle through the shirt to the backside. Create a loop by pulling the needle under the threads holding the button in place, and insert the needle through the loop to make a knot. Repeat this a few times.

Cut off extra thread

After the knots have been created, cut off the excess thread with your scissors.

FAQ

What is the best thread for sewing on buttons?
For increased strength, sew buttons using heavy-duty threads, such as button and buttonhole thread, or core-spun thread.

Does it matter if you use single or double thread to sew a button?
Double thread is recommended for increased durability and strength. Using a double thread creates a sturdier hold for the button, reducing the risk of it falling loose or falling off again.

Should the button thread match the button or the fabric?
Most people prefer to match the thread to the fabric because this gives a seamless appearance.  An exception to this would be for decorative purposes. You can use a contrasting color to draw attention to the button.

The post How To Sew a Button appeared first on Family Handyman.

Upgrade a Factory Roof Rack

The roof rack that came with your car may look rugged, but most have a load rating of only 100 lbs., the equivalent of just nine 8-ft. 2×4 studs. If that’s all you plan to haul, you don’t need to modify your factory rack.

But if you plan to haul more than 100 lbs., buy a set of heavy-duty crossbars to retrofit your factory rails. Retrofit crossbars are wider than the factory units, are flat instead of curved, and carry more weight, as much as 200 lbs., depending on the vehicle. The factory roof racks on some cars have convertible crossbar/side rails. If that’s the style you have, just switch them into side rails as shown. Otherwise, remove your factory crossbars and install the new ones on the factory rails.

Install a Removable Roof Rack

Open all four doors and locate the crossbars and rubber-cushioned feet in the recommended locations. Then swing the locking lever down to secure the clamp to the roof. Lift the front and back crossbars onto the factory side rails. Space them according to the crossbar manufacturer’s instructions. Then secure the feet to the rails using the wrench provided.

If your car doesn’t have a roof rack, you can add one without drilling any holes in your roof. Buy a set of universal crossbars and towers and a set of vehicle-specific clamps to attach it.

The best part about buying universal crossbars is that you can use them on more than one vehicle. Just buy the vehicle-specific clamps and install them in the towers. If you want to leave the crossbars on your car, buy a set of lock cylinders and install the towers to prevent theft. Otherwise, remove the crossbars to increase your gas mileage.

To install the crossbars, just locate them according to the directions that came with the clamps. Adjust the tension screw on the tower, then snap the lever down to lock in place.

How to Safely Load Your Roof Rack

Many DIYers don’t think about how they’ll secure the load once they get the items onto the roof. So they rely on the free twine provided at checkout. Or they buy inexpensive bungee cords at the store. That’s a big mistake.

A roof rack’s load rating is based on a ‘static load’—the weight of the load when the vehicle isn’t moving. But once you hit the road, turn, encounter bumps and dips, or slow down, inertia multiplies the weight of your load by four to five times. So your tie-downs must be strong enough to keep the items from shifting or flying off. You’ll need a minimum of four 14-ft., 1,000-lb.-rated ratchet straps to get your load home safely.

Secure the load to itself

This three-point tie-down and bundling method may seem like overkill, but it’s really the only safe way to get material home without damage or injury. Start by loading dimensional lumber onto the rack with the narrow edges resting on the crossbars. Then secure the front and back ends of each lumber bundle to prevent movement. Wrap the straps around the lumber bundle at the front and rear. Then tighten until you can’t move the middle pieces.

Secure the load to the rack

Hook a ratchet strap to the front bundle strap. Then wrap this strap around both crossbars and tighten. Repeat for the rear end of the bundle.

Open the rear doors and run a ratchet strap over the top of the rack and through the rear seat area of the passenger compartment. Make sure the strap is behind the driver’s headrest and tighten. This important step counteracts the ‘lift’ created by air coming off the windshield and is especially important if you have a factory roof rack that’s held in place only with small rivets.

Tips for Using Your Car Top Carrier

Plan your trips

Overloading a roof rack (even heavier-duty crossbars) is the single biggest hauling mistake DIYers make. So get your shopping list and search the home center’s website and online to find the weight of lumber and other construction materials you intend to haul on your rack. Then plan what you’ll carry on each trip, because big projects will require several trips.

Tape the lighter items

Start the duct or nylon filament tape about 6 in. back from the end of the bundle and wrap it around to the opposite side. Repeat to cover the end of each item. Then wrap tape tightly around the entire bundle at the front and rear, making sure you cover the pieces of tape applied earlier. Then secure the bundle to the rack with ratchet straps.

Secure the overhang

If your load extends over the hood of the car, secure it with hood loops and cinch straps. Pop the hood and drop in temporary hood straps. Or mount the straps permanently under a fender bolt. Run a rope or cinch strap through them and over and around the leading edge of the overhanging load. Snug the cinch strap just enough to prevent upward movement, but not enough to bend the hood.

Roof rack safety tips

• Special items require special rack attachments. Contact the rack manufacturer to buy attachments for bikes, boats and camping gear. Never jury-rig those items to a standard roof rack.
• Roof loads change the dynamics of your vehicle, and the extra weight increases stopping distances. So stay off the highway whenever possible, drive slower, brake sooner and make wider, slower turns.
• Pay attention to overhead clearances, especially when entering your garage.
• Sometimes, it’s just not worth it to haul it yourself. Heavy-duty crossbars, add-on racks and ratchet straps often cost more than the store charges for a delivery right to your door, especially when you add in the risk factor!
• Never connect hooks, rope or straps to a bumper or fenderwell. A shift in weight can crack the plastic, scrape the paint or bend the body panels, costing hundreds to repair.
• A bare roof can’t carry a load because it can’t distribute the weight out to the pillars and door frames. If you place a load on a bare roof, you’ll damage it.
• Never haul sheet goods or mattresses. The huge surface area can create enough lift to rip the entire rack off your vehicle.

The post Hack Your Car Top Carrier: Loading Tips and Safety Smarts appeared first on Family Handyman.

When it comes to leading retailers of outdoor gear and clothing, two brands land at the top of any list: Patagonia and The North Face. Both brands are known for their quality goods, style and commitment to the environment.

Before you stock up for your next family camping trip, check out the perks and differences of Patagonia vs North Face.

What’s the Difference Between Patagonia and The North Face?

Patagonia and North Face offer similar products. Both brands sell comparable items if you’re looking for outdoor clothing like fleece jackets and snow boots.

However, The North Face offers a much wider product range of camping gear and bags, like our all-time favorite gear box.  North Face also has a significantly larger product line when it comes to affordable, casual clothing. Patagonia, on the other hand, offers little in the way of cheaper, everyday attire and workwear.

Beyond product range, Patagonia and The North Face differ in a few areas, including brand history, pricing and repairs.

All About Patagonia

Patagonia fits the bill if you’re looking for a brand with a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability. Founded in 1973, the company has always been well-regarded for its quality goods and ethics. Today, a large portion of Patagonia products are made from recycled materials, and all of their cotton is either recycled or organic.

More than half of their fabrics are also Bluesign-certified, which means they are guaranteed to be safe for the environment, its workers and their customers. Additionally, Patagonia actively invests in environmental nonprofit organizations working to preserve the planet.

In an effort to keep clothing out of landfills, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program allows you to trade in gently worn clothing in exchange for a credit toward new purchases. You can then save money by buying this pre-loved merchandise at a discount.

The Care & Repair service brings items back to like-new condition in about 12 weeks. Repairs may not look exactly like the original product based on the materials available (different color patches on clothing, for example). But we love the way the results look—they’re kind of like a badge of honor. Plus, Patagonia doesn’t charge for most repairs.

Regarding general returns, you can receive a refund on anything purchased directly from Patagonia—both new and sale items. Items should be in new condition with the tags still attached. Returns made more than one year after the purchase date receive a Patagonia merchandise credit.

Patagonia is often more expensive because of its high-quality clothing and long-lasting products made from sustainable materials. If you’re someone who hikes just a few times a year, you may be reluctant to spend a couple hundred dollars on a jacket. However, minimalists will love Patagonia’s lightweight and packable designs—so it might be worth the investment.

Some of Our Favorite Patagonia Products

All About The North Face

The North Face prioritized innovation ahead of other brand concerns. It wasn’t until recently that they began taking action to become more eco-friendly. Now, North Face plans to manufacture all its apparel with recycled, responsibly sourced or renewable materials by 2025. They expect the same for footwear and equipment by 2030.

The North Face’s Renewed program is similar to Patagonia’s Worn Wear initiative to reduce waste. Join The North Face’s Explore Pass (their rewards program), then bring in gently used gear to any store and receive a $10 credit. Based on their condition, they’ll refurbish items or recycle and donate them. The result is the Remade collection: one-of-a-kind products creatively repaired, cleaned, inspected and certified to meet The North Face’s high standards.

On the other hand, The North Face accepts returns on unworn products (with proof of payment) online or at retail stores within 60 days of the original purchase. Returns without a receipt receive a merchandise credit at the item’s lowest selling price.

The North Face tends to be slightly more affordable than Patagonia. If budget is your main concern, you’ll want to check out The North Face first.

Some of Our Favorite The North Face Products

Why You Should Trust Us

Mary Henn is an experienced shopping editor and writer with experience at Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest and Taste of Home. Mary has tested over 100 products with a focus on lifestyle products, outdoor gear and DIY gadgets. Given her extensive experience with outdoor goods, she is well-equipped to compare Patagonia and North Face.

Alexandra Mantella, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. She has over five years of experience in product testing, research and commerce writing. Previously, she served as a commerce content update editor at Bob Vila.

FAQ

Are North Face and Patagonia the same company?

No. Though North Face and Patagonia are very similar companies, the two brands are not manufactured in the same place or owned by the same company.

Who is more ethical, Patagonia or North Face?

Patagonia and North Face are both committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. However, Patagonia uses seven percent more recycled materials than North Face and plans to eliminate virgin petroleum materials. Plus, they pledge one percent of sales to restoration and preservation of the environment.

North Face integrates technologies like DryVent and ThermoBall insulation, which enhances weather resistance and incorporates recycled elements. It is also committed to a circular design, eliminating plastic packaging by 2025 and reducing CO2 emissions by over half by 2030.

Which is better quality, North Face or Patagonia?

While both of these brands are capable of making high-quality gear, some users have been known to favor Patagonia when it comes to durability. However, North Face has plenty of options in stock that can take on heavy-duty use and look fashion-forward.

The Bottom Line

When deciding whether to shop at Patagonia or The North Face, it’s likely going to come down to personal preference. Patagonia is more known for being environmentally conscious and eco-friendly, while The North Face directs its efforts on updating and expanding its product line. Additionally, Patagonia focuses more on its product materials and durability, which is often reflected in its higher prices.

You can’t go wrong with either brand if you’re a new hiker or climber looking for gear to begin outdoor adventures.

The post Patagonia vs North Face: Which Retailer Makes Better Outdoor Gear? appeared first on Family Handyman.

This is the second collaboration between the two companies, known respectively for their durable outdoor footwear and all-inclusive hiking communities. When visiting the Unlikely Hikers about page, a positive message greets visitors: “Nature is infinitely diverse and so are we.” Jenny Bruso, founder of Unlikely Hikers, aims to crush stereotypes of what an “average hiker” looks like.

The Merrell collaboration is only the beginning of Bruso’s quest for inclusivity in the hiking community. They seek to remove barriers for people of size and color, those in the LGBTQ+ community and folks with disabilities. Unlikely Hikers is passionate about utilizing the outdoors to aid in mental health.

What is the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collection?

The Moab 3 x Unlikely Hikers collection sits apart from traditional hiking gear, most specifically in its commitment to inclusivity in sizing and availability. Customers of any background and/or body type can find a perfect fit with several width options and hard-to-find sizes. Both the tall and short styles of boots come in sizes five to 16 in wide and medium width. This size inclusivity and availability is actually a hallmark of Unlikely Hikers’ mission of promoting diversity and inclusion in outdoor activities.

The Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collection comes in a unisex, non-gendered colorway—another purpose-driven choice to appeal to those who feel restricted by traditional gendered designs—that features spirited shades of pastels, and it’s based on Merrell’s best-selling hiking boot. Customers still get the traction, waterproof materials, comfort and fit they expect.

In addition to gender- and size-inclusive boots, the Merrell and Unlikely Hikers collection features a playful assemblage of hats, t-shirts, lumbar packs and crossbody sling bags that promote Unlikely Hikers’ mission of inclusivity. Just like the boots, other items from the collaboration are available in a range of sizes designed to fit any body.

The collection was crafted using eco-friendly materials and sustainable processes, including 100% recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining. This makes these boots the most eco-friendly Moab models Merrell has ever produced.

Where can I buy the Merrell and Unlikely Hikers collection?

To shop the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collection, visit the collaboration’s landing page on Merrell’s website. Items from the collection range in price from $25 to $145, with the mid-cut boots ringing up at $145. Hikers can scoop up the low-cut boots for slightly less at $110.

If you’re looking for winter camping gear or cold-weather accessories, consider getting a pair of boots from the collection to fill your boot tray and wear over Darn Tough socks.

Thanks to the wide range of sizes and colors, the collection makes the perfect gift for any outdoors lover next to camping must-haves like emergency lights, tent heaters and camp kitchens. Peruse Merrell’s outlet section for more great camping gear on significant markdown.

As a side note, Unlikely Hikers hosts size-, gender- and identity-inclusive group hikes and events, perfect for trying out your new boots on the trail with like-minded folks.

Our Top Picks

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Moab 3 Waterproof

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Crafted from recycled materials, this eco-friendly Moab 3 x Unlikely Hikers boot features a breathable mesh upper construction and debris-free bellows tongue. Just like other Merrell boots, the sole has incredible traction for outdoor adventures anywhere. Access new heights—pick up a pair before they sell out!

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Short Sleeve Tee

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Whether worn while on the trail or snoozing on a sleeping pad, this comfy tee, made from 35% organic cotton, offers breathable coverage. It’s available in extended sizing up to 6X and highlights an upbeat message that sticks with you.

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Crest 8L Sling

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This durable, ambidextrous, eight-liter sling is the ideal travel companion. It is the perfect size for carrying everything you might need on a hike—including your water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, etc.

FAQ

Is Merrell a high-end brand?

While some may consider Merrell’s offerings—especially the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collaboration—slightly cost-prohibitive (with the lowest-priced shoe in the collection at $110 MSRP), the brand wouldn’t necessarily be classified as high-end. Merrell is known for producing tough, durable, high-quality hiking footwear, but its pricing aligns more with mid-range brands like Salomon, Hoka and The North Face.

On the bright side, much of the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collaboration is currently on sale, bringing the $110 hikers down to $75.

Are Merrell boots good for hiking?

Yes. Merrell is highly regarded for its reliable, quality hiking footwear, earning a solid reputation within the hiking community. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced hiker, Merrell boots are trusted by many for their performance and durability.

Are Merrell boots made in the USA?

No, Merrell boots are not made in the USA. They are manufactured in countries like Vietnam and China. While Merrell, a subsidiary of Wolverine Worldwide, used to display this information on its site, it has since been removed, though the reason for this is unclear.

The post Merrell and Unlikely Hikers Size-Inclusive Hiking Boots appeared first on Family Handyman.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

“The Moab 3 isn’t just my favorite Merrell-brand shoe,” says shopping editor Mary Henn. “It’s my go-to hiking shoe for any terrain.” The Moab 3 is great for beginner to advanced hikers who want a shoe that does it all; it’s truly an all-purpose shoe designed for quick trips to the park or more rugged hikes through the woods.

“I’ve owned several pairs of Moab shoes and never had to ‘break them in.’ They’re ready to go when you are,” Mary says. “They offer impressive traction and good support, whether you’re hiking one mile or ten.”

“I also find that they hold up well over the years,” Mary adds. “If you frequently hike in wet areas, I’d recommend getting waterproof Moab shoes.”

We’re big fans of the limited-edition releases and collaborations Merrell does, like the Moab 3 X Parks Project. It’s made from mushroom-biobased material, which serves as a plastic alternative. It is 100% biobased and biodegradable.

The vibrant colors and tones of national parks inspire the shoe’s look. The goal is to encourage advocates to protect natural landscapes. “These are the most visually stunning pair of Merrell Moab hiking shoes I’ve seen in person,” Mary says.

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Best Trail Running Hiking Shoes

Antora 3

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125.0024% OFF$94.95 at Amazon

Crafted from recycled materials and featuring a breathable mesh lining, the Antora 3 is our favorite trail-running hiking shoe. It’s also one of Merrell’s flagship shoes, featuring several enhancements from its predecessors. Smart details such as a rock plate for extra protection while scaling steep terrain, plus the addition of air cushion for shock absorption, make this a top find for hikers both new and accomplished. Weighing less than 10 ounces and boasting a Vibram TC5+ outsole for better grip, it comes in on top of this list of the best Merrell hiking shoes. It’s also one of our favorite gifts for hikers.

“The Antora 3 is a trail-running shoe for those who want a little speed,” Mary says. “If you’re looking for a lightweight shoe that will let you move quickly, this is it. These are one of the most comfortable pairs of tennis shoes I’ve owned—sometimes I wear them out and about with athleisure clothes because they’re that comfortable.”

“I snagged the hot pink edition from Merrell’s collab with Sweaty Betty and always get compliments on them,” Mary adds. “They look like a traditional sneaker but will let you face the obstacles and debris found on a moderate-level trail.”

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Best Water Hiking Shoes

Hydro Moc

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60.0041% OFF$35.25 at Amazon

In our Merrell Hydro Moc review we praise this waterproof slip-on as the perfect find for lazy days, camping and even running errands. The Hydro Moc, Merrell’s waterproof version of their classic Moc style, features a modern EVA foam construction for ample durability in the water. A slew of stylish colors rounds out this water shoe, and the generous foam padding makes it ideal for everyday wear.

Mary notes that she loves her Hydro Mocs so much that she wears them almost everywhere. “I also love that I can wear them everywhere without worrying about dirtying or scuffing them,” says Mary. She continues, “The foam slip-ons are incredibly easy to clean and wipe down—even the white pair! I like that water doesn’t collect in or adhere to the shoes. Water rolls right off the Hydro Moc, so I could step into the river and then walk a little way down to scout a new fishing spot, and my feet would be dry by the time I landed.”

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Best Leisure Hiking Shoes

Alpine 83 Sneaker Sport

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100.0025% OFF$74.99 at Amazon

If you like the look of New Balance classics, then check out those of the Alpine 83 Sneaker Sport. Those who enjoy hiking know how important it is to have a reliable leisure shoe for everyday walking and paved trails. “I absolutely love the retro look of these sneakers,” Mary says. “Initially, this shoe seemed a little outside Merrell’s wheelhouse to me, but after seeing them in person, they’re so sleek.”

The super lightweight Alpine 83 is designed for stability and comfort and is treated for natural odor control; it can truly transition with you from after-work walks to evening meetups and more. “They look great with leggings or jeans,” Mary says. “I’ve even thrown them on with a mid-length skirt.”

“I wouldn’t recommend these for trails, but they’re perfect for everyday wear and general walking,” Mary adds. “I think you could get away with pairing them with a blazer for the office. I’m a big fan.”

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Best Sandal Hiking Shoes

Speed Fusion Access Web

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Speaking of everyday wear, the Speed Fusion Access Web is a great sporty sandal for warmer days. Its barefoot construction keeps the foot in a natural position, while the rubber outsole keeps dirt and debris from getting stuck in the shoe’s bottom.

“These sandals are darling, and I just love the color combos on the straps,” Mary says. “They’re so comfy and lightweight. They truly feel like nothing’s on my feet.”

The hook and loop closure system makes it easy to adjust these sandals on the go quickly, and the heel pull tab makes it easy to slide the shoe on without undoing all of the straps. “My only complaint with this shoe is that it runs very small,” Mary says. “I typically wear a women’s 10 in Merrell shoes, and the size 10 was small for me; my toes were too close to the edge. I think they would have been even more comfortable if they were just a bit bigger.”

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Best Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet

Moab 3 X Unlikely Hikers Wide Width

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The Unlikely Hikers and Merrell line features an assortment of body-positive slogans and bright colors on the brand’s bestselling boots, tees and belt bags. To shop the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collection, visit the collaboration’s landing page on Merrell’s website.

“The Merrell and Unlikely Hikers collaboration is one of my all-time favorite Merrell collabs,” says Mary. “The Moab 3 X Unlikely Hikers are a stunning shoe that goes with any trail outfit or outdoor gear because they feature a rainbow of colors. Moabs are Merrell’s most popular hiking shoe for a reason. They’re great for rugged trails and long hikes. I grab these when I know I’m going to be on the trails for a while.”

What to Look for When Buying Merrell Hiking Shoes

Merrell really does have something for everyone, but when shopping for shoes, the options can seem a little overwhelming. To help narrow down your choice, here are some things to keep in mind.

Foot Shape and Size

Even if your hikes are on the shorter side, it’s essential that your hiking shoes fit your feet perfectly. This will help prevent injury or discomfort and allow you to hike many miles. Take into account your foot size and width as well as your arches. Read product descriptions to ensure the hiking shoes you order work with your foot. While it will take a few wears to break in your hiking shoes, there shouldn’t be any pinching or rubbing. Also, test out your hiking shoes with the same socks you’ll wear when you hit the trails.

Terrain and Activity

We’ve gathered some of our favorite Merrell hiking shoes, but they offer a much wider selection. They have hiking shoes that are fit for everything from light trails to rugged mountains. Look for hiking shoes with the proper support, traction and durability for the terrain and activity you plan to use them for.

Water Resistance

The Hydro Moc above is fully waterproof, but Merrell also offers shoes with varying degrees of water resistance. If you’ll be hiking through streams or in wet areas, this feature is worth considering when selecting your shoe.

Breathability

Breathability is an important feature that will keep your feet dry and comfortable while hiking. If hiking in damp, humid, or hot climates, ensure your shoes have breathability.

Cost

The options we’ve included from Merrell range from $60 to $150. Before you start shopping, make sure that you have a set budget. Also, if you’re not in a rush, start looking as soon as possible and track the price for sales or discounts that can help you score a deal.

Our Editor Owns More Than 20 Pairs of Merrell Hiking Shoes

At Family Handyman, we’re continuously looking to help readers discover top products when it comes to outdoor gear, and finding the best hiking shoe brands is no different. Our shopping editor, Mary Henn, loves Merrell and ranks it among her top outdoor brands. She has single-handedly shopped, worn and tested over 20 Merrell hiking shoes. She picked her all-time favorites for different occasions and terrains for this list. From the best shoes for rugged terrain to water shoes and sandals, Mary has worn Merrell shoes for nearly every outdoor occasion.

Why You Should Trust Us

Mary Henn, an award-winning writer, editor and product tester at Family Handyman, has tested over 100 products—outdoor gear, camping tools and DIY gadgets. In her spare time, she hikes regularly. With her personal and professional experience with outdoor gear and hiking equipment, she offers top-notch advice on Merrell hiking boots.

Our editors have tested dozens of Merrell hiking shoes, from Merrell x Jeep Hiking Boots to sustainable Scrap shoes and water shoes. When Merrell launches a new product or collab, we get it first and test it ourselves. This way, you can make informed decisions based on real-life walking, hiking and running before investing in a pair of shoes.

Alexandra Mantella, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. She has over five years of experience in product testing, research and commerce writing. Previously, she served as a commerce content update editor at Bob Vila.

FAQ

What is the difference between the Merrell Moab 2 and 3?

The Moab 3 is a new and improved version of the Moab 2. It features a newer design, improved durability and fit and other features.

Are hiking shoes or hiking boots better?

This depends on your personal preference. Hiking boots offer more ankle support but can be clunkier, heavier and take longer to break in. Hiking shoes tend to be lighter while offering enough foot and ankle support to keep you agile and safe on the trails.

Are Merrell hiking shoes waterproof?

Some Merrell mid- and low-top hiking shoes are waterproof, thanks to their Gore-Tex water membrane. This feature effectively keeps water and moisture out while providing a breathable, insulating layer to protect against cold weather.

The post Our Favorite Editor-Tested Merrell Hiking Shoes for Every Type of Terrain appeared first on Family Handyman.

I had a couple of diving and snorkeling excursions coming up at some Central Florida springs and in the Florida Keys, so I decided to take the box along with me as often as it made sense. (Spoiler: I ended up liking the box so much I even take it out for a simple beach day now.)

In my in-depth North Face Base Camp review, I cover all of the pros, cons and need-to-know information about this popular gear box.

What is The North Face Base Camp gear box?

The North Face gear box is exactly what it sounds like: a box that holds gear. But this isn’t your average plastic, snap-lid storage box you can pick up on a whim at The Home Depot. This box was built with purpose.

It’s clear that the Base Camp box was thoughtfully crafted with outdoorsy people in mind. For starters, the box is constructed of The North Face’s Base Camp material, a well-known and well-loved textile among outdoor enthusiasts. This material is 300-denier polyester with a durable, water-resistant thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coating that resists abrasion and tearing and is ultra-easy to clean.

Additionally, the Base Camp box proves that The North Face knows its customers, thanks to its collapsible and stackable properties. When not in use, the box folds down and flattens out to be no thicker than a good book. This is a big bonus for those of us who live in camper vans or RVs (or, like me, tiny studio apartments to make it easier to fund an adventurous lifestyle).

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The North Face Base Camp Gear Box Features

You might be thinking, “OK, so? A box is a box.” As an avid outdoors person who is constantly packing, unpacking and storing things, I’m here to tell you that isn’t true! Let’s take a more in-depth look at the features of the Base Camp box and how it makes outdoor adventures easier.

Sturdy Frame

The Base Camp gear box sports a lightweight, yet durable, metal frame consisting of two fold-in arms. When the box is in its collapsed position, you simply push each metal arm downward and outward to pop the frame into place.

Collapsible

As mentioned above, the frame collapses so the box compresses and lies flat when you’re not using it. This makes it fantastic for people living in small spaces—I can easily slide the collapsed box under my bed or couch when I don’t need it. To collapse the frame, all you have to do is pull the nylon tab on each metal arm. (When I first got the box, I didn’t notice the tabs, and it was difficult to pop the arms out of place. But with the tabs, it couldn’t be easier, so make sure to look for them.)

Stackable

In addition to being collapsible, The North Face Base Camp box is stackable whether it’s collapsed or filled with gear. The top of the box is broad, flat and smooth, making it easy to place another box on top (or really anything, for that matter).

Lightweight

The medium-sized box weighs just 4 pounds, 1.8 ounces, and the large-sized box weighs slightly more at 5 pounds, 8.2 ounces. For reference, this plastic gear box with a lid that can hold the same amount as the medium box (about 15 gallons or 58 liters) weighs 5 pounds, 2 ounces, so not only is it heavier, but it’s also more difficult to carry due to the hard plastic and handle design.

Dual Handles

Speaking of being difficult to carry, the Base Camp box won’t be: It features tote handles and fabric side handles, so you have multiple comfortable grip options for transportation. In my experience, it’s easier to use the tote handles when you’re alone and the side handles if you have another person to help. That said, I was able to use the side handles on my own, too.

Durable

Perhaps the biggest draw to The North Face Base Camp gear box is its 300-denier polyester and TPU construction. This combination of textiles is ultra durable and abrasion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about scuffing, ripping or tearing the fabric.

One thing I will call out about the fabric is that it can hold onto smells. I left some damp beach towels in this box for about 24 hours (oops) and after removing them, I noticed that the interior of the box continued to smell mildewy until I wiped it clean with antimicrobial cleaner. So it seems to be an easy fix, but it’s something to be aware of.

Weather-Resistant

The Base Camp material is also resistant to water; I know this because I got caught in a torrential downpour at the beach (#MiamiThings). Thanks to the TPU construction, my beach towels, phone, wallet and, most importantly, snacks, were safe and sound.

That said, because this box features a zippered closure and a canvas bottom (though lined), I wouldn’t recommend leaving it full of items in a weather-exposed area. While the fabric is water-resistant, the box isn’t entirely waterproof, and extended exposure to precipitation could result in your gear being compromised.

100% Recycled Fabric

According to the The North Face website, these gear boxes are made of 100% recycled material. As someone who loves the outdoors and strives to protect it, this is a really important component.

Interior Storage Pockets

The Base Camp gear box features multiple interior storage pockets to better organize your gear, no matter the adventure. There are four mesh drop-in pockets along the sidewalls, plus a fifth zippered mesh pocket on the interior of the lid. There’s even a Velcro pocket on the interior of the bottom of the box. I haven’t found a use for that bottom pocket yet, but I’m sure it’ll come in handy at some point—maybe for dirty hiking clothes?

Outer Storage

What’s more is that the box has additional outer storage. Just beneath the zipper on the exterior, you’ll find wraparound daisy-chain storage links made of woven nylon. You can clip carabiners to these for easy access to things like a headlamp, flashlight, car keys, dog collar or first aid kit. And on one side of the box (the left, if The North Face logo is facing you), there’s a drop-in pocket with a flap closure. I’ve found this side pocket to be useful for doggy bags, sunglasses, snacks and my wallet.

Gear View Window

You can see what’s in your box without unzipping it, which is helpful when you have multiple boxes stacked, thanks to the view window on the front of the box. I will say it’s still a little tough to see through the panel, but if you look hard enough, you can do it.

Outer ID Label

On the front exterior, The North Face added an ID label, where you can slip in an ID card just like you’d put in a luggage tag on your suitcase.

Two Size Options

The Base Camp gear box is available in a medium size (holding about 58 liters) and a large size (holding about 86 liters).

Zippered Closure

When you’ve got everything packed up and it’s time to hit the road, secure your gear with the box’s durable zipper. The North Face included zipper grips for ultimate ease.

How We Tested It

At the time of writing, I’ve been using and testing The North Face Base Camp gear box for several weeks. I used it to pack my gear for several outdoor adventures, including free diving and swimming excursions in Central Florida, a 10.5-mile river kayaking trip, and a snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys. I also used the box in place of a tote bag for beach days at my favorite local spots. I also tested the box in my home with various camping gear, packing and unpacking with various items to see how much (and what types of gear) it could conveniently and easily fit.

During my testing, I made sure to take note of several factors, including:

• Ease of use
• Comfort while toting the box
• Capacity
• Weather-resistance and durability
• Convenience
• Storage of the box itself when not in use

Ultimately, I’d recommend this gear box as a general storage item, but not necessarily something to take with you on active excursions. For instance, the Base Camp box was perfect for neatly transporting my gear to the drop-in for my kayaking trip, but it’s too bulky to actually bring on a kayak. It also proved to be the ideal fit for beach days, and while I haven’t been able to take it car camping yet (it’s too hot and buggy in South Florida), this gives me an inkling that it’s the optimal fit for that, too.

Pros of North Face Base Camp Gear Box

• Stackable and collapsible
• Abrasion-resistant, durable fabric
• Holds 58 or 86 liters, depending on size
• Water-resistant
• Easy to wipe down
• Durable, easy-to-close zipper
• Multiple interior storage pockets
• Exterior storage pockets
• Exterior daisy-chain storage
• Gear view window
• ID card slot
• Dual handles (tote and side)
• Lighter in weight than standard hard plastic storage box

Cons of North Face Base Camp Gear Box

• Expensive
• Fabric can hold onto icky smells (but seems easy to get rid of)
• Bottom of the box is a canvas/woven material, which is not water-resistant (but the interior is protected by liners)

FAQ

What do I use my gear box for?

Use your Base Camp gear box to transport gear, clothing and food for any purpose. You can also use it for storage of items in your home or garage.

Is The North Face gear box worth it?

If you are looking for a durable, water-resistant, convenient gear box to make packing easy, yes, The North Face gear box is worth it.

What’s special about The North Face Base Camp box?

This gear box is designed to hold a lot of gear and keep it safe during unideal weather conditions, but also to pack down and be out of the way when not in use. It’s lightweight and easier to carry than a standard hard plastic gear box.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Customer reviews are largely positive. On The North Face website, customers praise the box for “perfect execution” and being a “year-round adventure solution.”

One reviewer writes, “I always struggle with organizing my gear for specific activities. A soft duffel bag makes it hard to dig to the bottom while plastic bins just fall apart after a short while. This box is amazing. It has SO MUCH storage.”

“I use it for backcountry skiing in the winter, where it’ll accommodate all my gear (ski boots included) in a neat and organized way,” the reviewer continued. “In the summer, I switch to mountain biking. I’ve also flown with it for a ski trip and while it’s not perfect for carrying over long distances, I thought the organization more than made up for the carry. Also, it looks great. I have it in black”

Many customers wrote that they’ve already ordered a second box or plan to, which tells us a lot.

Product Comparison

The North Face has an entire line of Base Camp storage, with one of the most popular items being the Base Camp duffel. This item has been around for a long time and it consistently receives high praise. We can see why: It’s made of an even more durable material than the box.

The duffel’s body boasts 1,000-denier polyester construction with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating for water resistance. You can carry it like a tote or backpack, and it’s available in sizes extra-small (31 liters) to XXL (150 liters).

Customers call this duffel “nearly indestructible,” and several reviewers say they regret not buying it sooner—and spending their money on cheaper products.

Both the Base Camp duffel and the Base Camp gear box are reliable purchases, depending on what you’re looking for. The duffel might be a better option if you need something more flexible that can compress down, whereas the gear box is a better fit if you prefer rigid storage and easy access to the entire contents.

Final Verdict

After weeks of testing, it’s clear that The North Face Base Camp gear box is a solid piece of gear. It has proven durable, weather-resistant, spacious and convenient, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for storage solutions for activities that involve car travel.

Where to Buy The North Face Base Camp Gear Box

The North Face gear box is available for $175 at Backcountry, Moosejaw and Public Lands. If you’re planning on getting outdoors or camping soon, I recommend snagging the new Base Camp gear box ahead of time.

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The post We Tried the North Face Base Camp Gear Box – Your Ideal Adventure Partner appeared first on Family Handyman.

And one of my favorite accessories is the coffee mug. In my kitchen, you’ll find cutesy mugs personalized with movie quotes from a throwback era or popular lyrics from a ’90s earworm. Adding a new mug to my collection has become somewhat of a pastime. So, when Yeti released a line of stackable mugs, I knew they needed to be the new staples under my coffee machine. After sipping on the Yeti Rambler Stackable Mugs I can safely say they fit perfectly inside my Goldilocks Zone.

What are the Yeti Stackable Cups?

The Yeti stackable cup is a mug you didn’t know you needed. Brought to you by the brand known for its ramblers and coolers—two of the best Yeti products around—the stackable mugs are much smaller but still ideal for a morning brew at home or on the go. Alongside tumblers, bottles and travel mugs, these cups are the latest editions in the Yeti coffee lineup.

Choose between a 4- or 6-ounce pair that you can stack for easy storage in your Yeti Loadout GoBox. The 4-ounce mugs are handle-free, while the 6-ounce versions feature a firm-grip handle for easy toting. Both options come in eight colorways, including rescue red and camp green.

Moreover, the mugs utilize the DuraSlip ceramic lining that the brand is known for, adding to the durability of the insulated stainless steel. Basically, these mugs don’t just look good—they’re tough, too. Additionally, the interior features a nonstick coating that keeps coffee stains at bay. But the stackable mugs are also dishwasher-safe, so you can spend less time cleaning up.

Their small capacity is intentional, as the barista-friendly mugs fit under most espresso machines. Whether sitting at your kitchen island or in the back of your camper with your Yeti Roadie, these mugs are the perfect warm-beverage companions.

Pros

• Fits under most espresso machines
• Stackable for easy storage
• Dishwasher-safe
• DuraSlip ceramic lining
• Firm-grip handle
• Kitchen-grade stainless steel
• Puncture- and rust-resistant
• BPA-free
• 5-year warranty
• Available in six core colors and two limited-edition colors
• Available in two sizes: 4 ounce and 6 ounce

Cons

• Cups don’t come with lids (but the 6-ounce mug is compatible with the 10-ounce MagSlider Lid, sold separately)
• Mugs don’t keep coffee as hot as larger tumblers

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Yeti Stackable Cups

This pack of two ultra-durable mugs is sized for strong brews and perfect pours.

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$35 at Amazon

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Why I Love the Yeti Stackable Cups

I simply can’t get enough of these perfectly sized mugs. In the morning, I brew a 12-ounce macchiato or cappuccino in my regular coffee cup. By the afternoon, I need a pick-me-up, but I don’t want to overload on caffeine. That’s where these mugs shine. I place my Yeti stackable cup under the machine and make an espresso that powers me through the rest of the evening.

Furthermore, when I want to have some fun on the weekends, I opt for a creamy affogato with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a hefty pouring of espresso. I make enough for two so that both my partner and I can enjoy this dessert straight out of our Yeti mugs.

These won’t hold as much coffee as their larger tumbler counterparts, like the leakproof BruMate Era. However, what the Yeti stackable cups lack in size, they make up for in convenience. Pack these mugs for your next outdoor adventure with grab-and-go ease. Since they come as a pair, you have 12 usable ounces to brew an Americano in one and a Ristretto in another.

As it’s not a large size, I don’t have to worry about my coffee getting cold before I can finish drinking it. Plus, the insulation keeps my beverage hot just as long as I need it to, and I can always add a compatible lid to the 6-ounce mug to maximize heat retention. If you fancy cozying up with the warmth of your mug, then consider the 4-ounce option that’s handle-free.

But Don’t Take My Word for It!

Overall, reviewers on both the Yeti website and Amazon are taken with the Yeti stackable cups for their coffee and tea.

“Absolutely LOVE these small mugs. They are made so well (of course) and are just the right size for our nightly tea before bed,” writes Sanaz S. on the Yeti website. “Totally different vibe than our rough and ready Yeti products, but still tough and durable, yet cute!”

Chrissy Ann writes, “These are the perfect size for a double espresso and cream. Bought these for my husband for Valentine’s Day not realizing the package came with two mugs so very happy.”

And Joyce Dem shares in her five-star review, “These are too cute and functional. The coffee stays hot way longer and the handle design is comfortable. We bought them for camping but now use them every day.”

“Very nice. I really just love them. I was so excited to get them. They were much cuter and nicer than I imagined. Very pleased,” writes a verified Amazon purchaser. “I hope Yeti continues to make more coffee, bar and camping-style items. Huge fan of compact, efficient and durable on-the-go items.”

Where to Buy Yeti Stackable Cups

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Yeti Stackable Cups

The Yeti Rambler 6-ounce stackable mugs are just the right size for an Americano in the kitchen and a Cortado at the campsite.

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$35 at Amazon

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Find the Yeti stackable cup on the brand’s website and start sipping your favorite flat white or doppio. The mugs are also available on Amazon, Public Lands, Scheels and Dick’s Sporting Goods for $35 per pair. These mugs aren’t too big or too small—they’re just right for an at-home espresso or cortado on the go, so get into your Goldilocks era!

The post Yeti’s New Stackable Cups Are the Perfect Camp Coffee Accessory appeared first on Family Handyman.

More recently, my partner and I have been using two-way radios on our home renovation project. Instead of yelling across the property, we’ve learned that we can request tools or a spare hand with the simple press of a button on our Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio. Walkies are also handy for mountain biking, kayaking and road trip caravanning.

Whether you need radios for outside fun, a job site, family theme-park visits, home emergency kits or security, here’s our Rocky Talkie review.

What is the Rocky Talkie?

The Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio is a durable, rechargeable two-way radio. Two adventurers who longed for a tougher radio for the demanding conditions of backcountry climbing and skiing designed it.

“Rocky Talkie started as a passion project that kicked off when our co-founder Alex Page and I were climbing Castleton Tower in Utah,” says Bryce Jones, President and Co-Founder of Rocky Talkie. “We saw a climbing party above us grappling with a communication breakdown, and it got us thinking, ‘Why don’t climbers use radios more often?'”

“Our lightbulb moment came later that very same day when our generic, Amazon-bought radios bit the dust. We realized that radios weren’t a common sight in the backcountry because the existing choices proved unreliable and impractical for adventurers. That sparked a multi-year mission to craft our own solution, culminating in the launch of Rocky Talkie in late 2019.”

Because it operates on the FRS (Family Radio Service) communication band, it doesn’t require an FCC license to operate.

Out of the Box

After unboxing for our Rocky Talkie review, we could tell our Mountain Radios were likely destined to become our new constant companions. Compared with other two-way radios we’ve owned and experimented with, these felt superbly solid. They’re encased in rugged, non-slippery plastic and sport no-glass shatterproof screens. They even include climbing-grade name-brand carabiner clips (made by Mammut). At first glance, the manufacturer certainly didn’t skimp.

They’re also incredibly simple and intuitive to operate. We started using them right away, neglecting to read any instructions first (we did, however, go back later and delve into all of their more subtle features).

While Rocky Talkies were designed to accommodate heavier-duty users in need of emergency radios, we were still excited to put them through some tests in our sub-zero temperatures and beyond—and we soon discovered why these radios have become a favorite with ice climbers, ski patrollers and others whose lives depend on reliable communication across varied terrain.

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We Tried It

Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio

Created with climbers and skiers in mind, the compact radio is suited for any rugged adventure where communication is critical.

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Rocky Talkie Features

• Long-lasting, cold-resistant battery: the 1550 mAh replaceable lithium-ion battery is capable of lasting up to four days, even at -20 degrees
• 2-watt transmission power: the maximum legally allowed without an FCC license
• Low-power mode of 0.5 watts: in case you need to conserve battery power
• Max range of 35 miles in ideal conditions: but one to five is typical in the mountains; 0.5 to two in forests and hills; and up to one in the city
• Shatterproof LED screen with thermoplastic protective covering (no glass)
• 22 FRS standard channels, plus 106 preset channel/privacy code sub-channels
• 121 privacy codes and 22 unique frequencies (giving thousands of options to find a clear channel). Channels 23 through 128 come with preassigned privacy codes
• Metal carabiner clip, for securing it to a belt, jacket, backpack or harness
• Coiled backup leash, for extra security against losing it in rough situations
• Compact size: 6.4-inches tall x 2.5-inches wide x 1-inch thick (or 3.6-inches tall with antenna removed)
• Five buttons, which are instinctive to use
• Waterproof/snow-proof rating of IP56, which means it’s splash-proof and will survive heavy rain, but it’s not submersible
• Weight: radio only, 6.1 ounces; including carabiner and leash, 8.0 ounces
• Headset port: K1 (two-prong) style

• Rechargeable with USB-C charger

• Optional waterproof hand mic
• Optional extra batteries
• Two-year warranty
• Company commitment to sustainability through net-zero practices, sustainable packaging, product durability and supply-chain influencing

How We Tested It

Job Site

The first trial for our Rocky Talkies was during a house renovation. It wasn’t the most extreme of conditions, but they did get stomped on and dropped quite a bit, as we generally didn’t bother to use the nifty carabiners to secure them to our clothing. One even slid off the second-story roof, surviving without as much as a scuff.

Even though it’s not a huge property, having radios helped us keep in communication without the frustration of yelling. Where’s the hammer? Just push the button to ask. Held up a heavy beam and dropped the screw gun? No problem. Just push the button, and help will appear.

Beyond typical radio conveniences, the Rocky Talkies did an excellent job of weathering sawdust, drywall dust and even the frequent dust storms that blanket our valley. When we’d forget and leave them outside overnight, they also survived rain, frost, snow and subzero temps.

Adventure Sports

Unlike our unintentional abuse of the radios during the home renovation, we’ve gone out of our way to manhandle them on our mountain biking and hiking adventures for this Rocky Talkie review. We’ve run over them with our bicycles, packed them in snow and banged them against rocks while scrambling up mountainsides.

Other athletes have put them through far more extreme conditions than we have, so we’re not astonished that they held up to our simple tests. But what did surprise us was how effortless it was to use them with winter gloves on, and in my case, mittens.

The large, push-talk button and the smaller volume buttons are not only easy to push, but they have a nice feel, so you can always tell when they’re depressed.

In contrast, the top toggle button, which controls the channels, is nicely protected by the housing, so it doesn’t get tripped accidentally.

Road Trip

Last fall, we took an epic six-week camping trip from Colorado to Montana, then down through the Utah desert. Typically, when we’re going places we want to explore, we’ll bring two vehicles: our converted van for camping and our Xterra for off-roading. It’s a hassle (and a danger) to have to call or text each other en route, so we habitually communicate with two-way radios.

With our old radios, we always kept communication at a bare minimum. But the sound clarity and range of the Rocky Talkies were so good that we ended up having actual conversations just for the fun of it. We found that the signal typically stretched for at least a mile, sometimes more. I would certainly recommend this camping product.

The only downside was that, depending on the engine and road noise, the volume was a little soft at times, which required us to hold the radios closer to our ears versus leaving them in the cupholders. Also, in the vehicles, the carabiners and coil leashes proved to be a bit of a hassle, as they kept the radios from sitting upright in the center consoles. But that was easy enough to remedy by removing them for the driving portions of the trip (though that led to us losing one set of them—klepto-camping gremlins are real!).

Battery Life

The actual battery life (versus the company’s claims) was a testing element we were particularly interested in for our Rocky Talkie review. It didn’t disappoint. We only had to charge the radios twice over a few thousand miles and six weeks. Even after forgetting to power them off before being holed up for ten days in a hotel room with COVID-19, they still had enough juice to get us 1,000 miles from northern Montana to Lake Powell, Utah. More than just a convenience, this kind of battery life also makes these ideal walkies for home emergency kits since they’re likely to work even if they haven’t been attended to for an extended time.

Pros

• Over-the-top durable
• Intuitive and simple to use
• Easy to use with gloves on
• Very clear audio
• Longer-than-average range
• Rechargeable
• Good battery life
• Feel good in the grip

Cons

• More expensive than some run-of-the-mill two-way radio sets
• Non-standard lithium batteries
• Not fully waterproof (though the optional handset is)
• No weather radio (but including that makes units bulkier)

FAQ

How far do Rocky Talkies reach?

Rocky Talkie Mountain Radios have a max range of 35 miles under ideal conditions. Under most real-world conditions, though, one to five miles is typical in the mountains; 0.5 to two miles in forests and hills; and up to one mile in the city.

Do Rocky Talkies work with other radios?

Yes. The Mountain Radio can connect with all other FRS or GMRS radios using channels one through 22. Remember to match both the channel and privacy code (also known as the subchannel) on the radios. There is also no limit to how many Rocky Talkies you can use together, or in combination with other brands of FRS and GMRS radios.

Who makes Rocky Talkies?

Rocky Talkie is an independent company that makes radios. Their headquarters are in Colorado, where they design and test all products. For parts and electronics assembly, they rely on manufacturing partners in China, Taiwan and Italy.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

In her Rocky Talkie review, verified buyer Lauren M. writes, “We purchased these for ski trips and to keep in touch easily with one another while working on our property. These walkie-talkies are easy to set up and get on the same channels and the usage with the hand mics are awesome!! We just ordered two more mics as it made it so much easier to keep accessible while skiing! We love our Rocky Talkies!”

Nick T. says these radios are built to last in his Rocky Talkie review. He writes, “It is really rare to find products today that are built in a single-minded way—this is a durable radio that has a great range and battery life. What else do you want? It feels sturdy and really performs.”

Rocky Talkie vs Motorola

The two Motorola models that are most comparable to Rocky Talkie are the T600 and the Talkabout T100.

The T600 is slightly smaller than the Rocky Talkie and specifically designed to be waterproof, so if you’re an avid boater or work in particularly wet conditions, this may be a better bet for you. It also can receive NOAA weather alerts and emanate a red and white flashlight beam. On the downside, if you’re not using it on the water, it’s less of a value, as the battery life is significantly smaller and the range is not quite as good.

The Talkabout T100 is a bit smaller and significantly less expensive than the Rocky Talkie. But it performs accordingly with that cost difference, with less impressive range, clarity, ease of use, durability and battery life.

Final Verdict

If you need a sturdy, compact radio that you can rely on both under tough working conditions (especially cold ones) and dangerous situations, the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio is hands-down the one to bet your life on. That also makes it a no-brainer if you’re worried about launching it off of your roof or your kid dropping it in the mud at a music festival.

The only caveats:

• If you’re going to be using it in extremely wet conditions, purchase the waterproof hand mic, so you can protect the main unit under your jacket.
• If you need a longer range or a submersible waterproof unit (up to one meter), try Rocky Talkie’s new 5W radio (but keep in mind with that wattage you’re legally obligated to register for a license with the FCC). It has the same durability and ease of use as the Mountain Radio, with more power to penetrate dense forests. It also has expanded features, including dual weather channel watch, NOAA weather channels, emergency alert monitoring and GMRS repeater capability.

Otherwise, enjoy the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio’s simple operation, outstandingly burly design, and excellent range, clarity and battery life. After this Rocky Talkie review, we know we’ll use ours for a long time. They’re so small and light that they’ve become permanent fixtures on our camping checklist in our day packs and on our job sites.

Where to Buy the Rocky Talkie

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We Tried It

Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio

The radio transmits a max range of over 35 miles and provides over four days of battery life.

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The Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio retails for $110. Find it directly on the company’s website and at some local mountaineering and outdoor stores.

The post We Tried the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio and Our Praise Is Loud and Clear appeared first on Family Handyman.

SHERI KAZ FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

When I first slipped on the VGO Winter Mechanic glove, I felt like I was a character in Transformer vs Terminator. These are serious gloves. The top of the glove is outfitted with 5-millimeter thermoplastic rubber treads to protect your knuckles and fingers from impact, which reminds me of the sole of a tennis shoe. Built to reduce vibration and impact, the glove’s palm side is reinforced with a grippy Amortex fabric, plus a layer of anti-shock neoprene padding on top of the cowhide leather palm. The leather also covers the back of the glove, while the sides of the fingers are a stretchy, waterproof fabric for greater dexterity. 

These waterproof gloves have surprisingly good dexterity, considering their rugged and protective design. The bulky design may not be for everyone, but these gloves perform. With top scores in every testing category, these gloves are shockingly waterproof, warm, agile and impact/vibration/abrasion-resistant. Perfect for snowmobiling, motorcycle riding, jackhammering or rugged construction work, they make you feel like a superhero.

If you’re looking for warmth, the VGO Winter Work Leather Mechanic glove is the warmest option I tested and designed for temperatures of minus 4 degrees. Like my warmest ski gloves, these gloves are made of supple leather with a soft layer of 3M Thinsulate surrounded by waterproof thermoplastic rubber. The elastic cuff is adjustable with a rubber-backed hook-and-loop system to keep the wind out and allow for easy on and off. 

For optimal fit and dexterity, VGO offers six sizes and a variety of colors. Be sure to check out the sizing chart and measure your hand before ordering. We ordered the size seven small. Since my middle finger is three inches long, I should have ordered the size six extra small. With the proper fit, I would have even more dexterity.

For the hardest-working glove, choose the VGO for all the comfort, protection, features, dexterity and warmth you’ll need.

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Best Value Winter Work Gloves

G&F Products Waterproof Winter Work Gloves

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13.8818% OFF$11.34 at Amazon

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O’Donnell, our resident cold-weather warrior, highly recommends these gloves and adds the G&F Waterproof glove to our best-tested winter work glove round-up.

“The winter work gloves I have been using and loving recently are the G&F 1628,” O’Donnell explains. “They’re warm, durable, and inexpensive. Because they are waterproof and covered in a durable, grippy latex coating, they are perfect for any cold-weather job that might be wet or sharp. They are my go-to winter gloves. I use them for everything. From repairing a broken snowblower to cleaning my gutters in the fall, to sorting materials in the lumber yard, and the normal tasks any Minnesotan must perform during the winter months.”

At an affordable price, these gloves might be your go-to. The double coating makes them windproof and waterproof, and they’re built for extremely cold temperatures down to minus 58 degrees. These best winter work gloves give you the protection you need against the elements as well as abrasion. Rated as an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) abrasion 3, ANSI cut level A3 and ANSI puncture 2, you’ll feel safe working in these gloves. The ergonomic grip and dexterity provide outstanding performance for all of your detailed tasks. Outfitted with a soft acrylic lining, these keep you cozy in frigid temperatures and are machine washable.

The G&F 1628 earned a top spot on on list for performance and affordability. Since these gloves lack breathability, your hands might sweat, leaving them damp inside. We suggest getting the three-pair pack (available in four sizes), so you always have a fresh, dry pair on hand.

SHERI KAZ FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Waterproof Winter Work Gloves

Dulfine 100% Waterproof Winter Work Glove

$9.98 at Amazon

Wow, I am impressed with the Dulfine 100% Waterproof Winter Work Glove. The dexterity of this glove was superior to every glove I tested. I tested these gloves by scrubbing down a piece of furniture I picked up at a thrift store. Armed with a bucket of soapy water and the Dulfine gloves, I worked on the dresser in 35-degree weather for about an hour and a half. My hands were in the water, wringing out the rag multiple times, and I never got cold or wet.

I could feel through the tips and could use my fingernail to dig into the crevices of the furniture. The sense of touch these gloves provided was outstanding. I was able to pick up an old paper clip left in the drawer and detect nailheads in the frame of the old dresser. The exterior is abrasion-resistant and didn’t puncture the glove when I ran across sharp edges or protruding nailheads.

The warm, insulated fleece lining wasn’t too thick or cumbersome but still warm enough to accomplish my job. These gloves gave me better protection than any latex or rubber glove I’ve ever used. When I was done for the evening, I dipped my hands in the water without the gloves, wrung out the rag, and it was a matter of seconds before my hands were frigid.

One notable aspect is that the glove’s spongy exterior retains moisture, leaving damp fingerprints on dry surfaces. I didn’t find this to be problematic, just surprising. 

When I tested these insulated gloves for warmth on my daily dog walks, my fingertips got a little chilly. But then again, I love these waterproof gloves’ outstanding dexterity and sense of touch. So, while these may not be the overall warmest gloves I tested, they are the best for dexterity and keeping your hands completely dry while submerged in water.

Don’t hesitate to hand over your wet jobs to the Dulfine waterproof winter work gloves. And the best part about these gloves is the price: you get two pairs for under $20. 

SHERI KAZ FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Abrasion-Resistant Winter Work Gloves

MCR Safety Ninja Ice

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$11.49 at Amazon

Need an abrasion-resistant glove that keeps your hands warm, too? Check out the MRC Safety Ninja Ice abrasion level 3 insulated glove. This glove meets the ANSI abrasion level 3, cut level A3 and puncture level 2 standards. The seamless design and tough materials are ideal for safety, dexterity and comfort. 

I hate handling chicken wire, but it was necessary if I wanted to save my newly planted bushes from the bunnies over the winter. I procrastinated until the cold weather set in, but luckily, the Ninja Ice glove came to the rescue. Handling the pokey wire and operating the wire cutters was a piece of cake. With the right protective gear, this project was easier and more enjoyable than ever. Aside from the stellar abrasion resistance, I love this glove’s dexterity and ease of movement. 

You’ll appreciate the warm, insulated terry lining inside this seamless glove. And because there are no seams, the gloves fit like a dream. The abrasion-resistant palm and fingertips are waterproof, while the back of the hand is a stretchy 15-gauge nylon fabric. The Ninja Ice resisted a quick dunk in the water but couldn’t withstand the 15-second dunk test without completely soaking through the backside of the glove. Likewise, wind resistance was not as good as others I tested, and dry time took more than 12 hours (the longest in the group). So grab a boot dryer or at least a backup pair of gloves if you’ll be working around water.

These gloves kept the chill off while working, but my fingertips were cold on long, blustery dog walks (what’s new, right?).  The Ninja Ice is one of my top choices for its comfort, abrasion resistance and high dexterity score of five out of five. Amazingly, these warm safety gloves are affordable, too. You’ll never look back once you slip your hardworking hand into this winter work glove.

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Best Workhorse Winter Gloves

Ironclad Cold Condition Waterproof Gloves

34.9918% OFF$28.55 at Amazon

I needed to install a valve cover in the frosty ground and chose to test the Ironclad Cold Condition Waterproof Gloves. The outdoor temperature was a cloudy 37 degrees with a “feels like” temperature of 32. Unfortunately, the fingers were an inch too long for me with the size 7 small, but I gave them a try because I loved how comfortable and flexible they were. The Ironclad Waterproof glove proved to have a high level of dexterity and when they became caked with damp soil, these waterproof gloves were easy to clean.

The Ironclad gloves are waterproof, wind resistant and rated to 20 degrees. They’re lined with 3M Thinsulate and the reinforced palm is a flexible faux leather, providing a steady grip. I especially like the long, soft, stretchy neoprene cuff to remove dirt and moisture. Plus, the contoured rubbery pull tab makes putting on and removing the gloves easy. If you’re looking for a work partner, this rugged glove will keep you warm and dry with the comfort and dexterity you need to get the job done.

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Best Touchscreen Compatible Winter Work Gloves

Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor

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The Flurry Sensor gloves are a great fit for using touch screens, driving and general use. Constructed of wool and fleece, these stylish gloves go from the office to the job site without missing a beat. Wool naturally wicks and stays warm, plus it’s a sustainable material.

Although these gloves aren’t waterproof, water beads up and rolls off the surface easily. I wouldn’t count on these gloves for heavy-duty work or extremely cold temperatures, but if you’re the person with the iPad on the job site, these gloves offer great dexterity (with the right fit). 

The forefinger and thumb are touchscreen compatible, while the palm and other fingertips have a grippy surface built in for added dexterity. If you have long, thin fingers, you’ll love these gloves. My fingers were a tad long, and the touchscreen feature worked best using my thumb. 

While these attractive gloves aren’t a workhorse, they’ll easily fold up to fit in a pocket when you need them most. Plus, they snap together and have a generous pull loop to attach to a jacket so they won’t go missing. Now, you can look the part and stay warm without the bulk.

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Best Winter Work Gloves for Snow

Carhartt Waterproof Insulated

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$29.27 at Amazon

I love the cozy warmth the Carhartt Waterproof Insulated glove provides. These waterproof gloves keep your hands dry no matter what Mother Nature has in store. If you’re working up a sweat, these gloves might even be too toasty for you. The long fleece cuff protects from snow getting inside, and the palm has a grippy surface. They are lightweight, flexible and a warm addition to include in your winter survival hacks.

While these gloves fit me pretty well, I was expecting better dexterity. The thumb was wonky for me, and the thick insulated fingers weren’t great for detailed tasks. It’s like wearing a puffer jacket on your fingers. It was impossible to zip my coat or pick up small objects. However, these gloves should keep you warm if you spend a lot of time standing around the job site or watching a game at Lambeau Field. I know these winter work gloves will be my go-to for blowing the snow, making snow angels or hitting the slopes.

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Best Cool Weather Garden Gloves

Wells Lamont HydraHyde

$16.01 at Amazon

When I received these HydraHyde (3250M) gloves, they looked like the simple garden variety that I would use when doing summer yard work. Much to my surprise, these gloves scored high for water resistance, wind resistance, dexterity and breathability. The leather palm is supple for ease of movement and padded for extra comfort. Thanks to the durable leather palm and fingertips, I’ll get plenty of use out of these gloves when dealing with thorny bushes and other cold-weather yard work.

I wouldn’t consider these gloves true winter work gloves, but I would recommend them for milder temperatures. They’re warmer than my summer work gloves but lack insulation. I’m a wimp when it comes to cold hands, and the HydraHyde was warm enough for working outdoors in 40-degree temps but felt too chilly for me at 30 degrees. Although not the warmest of the bunch, they repelled water quite well and dried quicker than expected (in less than eight hours) after being fully submerged in water.

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Best Winter Work Gloves for Detail Work

Milwaukee Demolition Gloves

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If you’re looking for a breathable glove with outstanding dexterity, take a look at the Milwaukee Demolition Gloves. The moisture-wicking liner keeps your hands dry and warm. The padded palms and knuckle protection pad help protect your hands from impact, and you won’t give up dexterity with these gloves. If you need to use touchscreens on the job, the Smartswipe Knuckle is an added convenience built into the Milwaukee Demolition Glove.

“If I need to repair something outside in February that requires a lot of small screws and bolts, I will opt for a pair of good quality work gloves, such as the Milwaukee Demolition Gloves that I have worn for years. In these types of situations, being able to handle the smaller components of my project outweighs the warmth and waterproofing of a winter work glove, but only for a short time,” O’Donnell says.

These may not be the warmest gloves on the market because the back is a breathable mesh. But when your nose starts dripping or you need to wipe the sweat away, the glove has a soft terry cloth sweat wipe on the side of the thumb. This glove has reinforced thumbs and fingers for durability and a hook and loop cuff closure for a secure fit. With five sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find the right fit.

What to Look For When Buying the Best Winter Work Gloves

Choosing the right work gear for the winter depends on your job needs and local temperatures.

O’Donnell says, “I would never purchase winter work gloves that are not waterproof. Even if you’re not working directly in a wet situation, tasks like throwing around 2x4s with a little snow on them are enough to saturate a regular pair of non-waterproof winter work gloves in no time. Having wet and cold hands slows down the process, and often, the completion of the project is less than ideal because you are in a hurry to get back inside and warm up.”

Often, the trade-off for warmth is dexterity. Thickly insulated gloves are clumsy, while other waterproof gloves might not be as warm. O’Donnell adds, “In terms of touch screen capabilities, it’s always nice to have a feature like this, but unless I am wearing these gloves 40 hours a week, this is not a deciding factor for the average DIYer. Moreover, I have owned many gloves advertised to work with a touch screen only to find that navigating with them on is more cumbersome and difficult than removing them every 45 minutes to make a phone call or switch podcasts.”

Why You Should Trust Us 

I used all of these gloves outdoors for my late fall and winter projects. I measured each pair’s dexterity, warmth, waterproof capabilities, wind resistance, breathability, durability and more. 

Whether it’s raking the roof, shoveling or stacking wood, I can tell you the never-ending list of projects never takes a winter break. As a skier, I’ve learned that enjoying the great outdoors in the winter depends on the performance of the cold-weather clothing you choose to wear. Admittedly, I’ve bought things, especially gloves, that I thought would be great and, in the end, were a waste of money. I hope this article saves you from that pain. In the search for the best winter work gloves, I reached out to Ethan O’Donnell, Family Handyman Senior Editor and all-around handy guy living in the Northern woods, for input. 

How We Found the Best Winter Work Gloves  

When it comes to gloves, the proper fit can make all the difference. Fit aside, we looked for gloves with high customer satisfaction ratings, read user reviews and sought out features and fabrics that could work for a variety of cold-weather work and recreation. We sourced more than 10 pairs of gloves to test, and nine of them made the cut once I rated them on dexterity, warmth, water and wind resistance as well as breathability and dry time. Additionally, I assessed the potential long-term durability and construction as well as the fabrics. 

How I Tested These Winter Work Gloves

I used all of these gloves for my outdoor, cold-weather projects and daily dog walks. The temperatures were generally in the mid-30s.

Dexterity

Every day, while walking my dog, I would try a new pair of gloves. I noted whether the gloves were nimble enough to zip a jacket, unlock the door, clean up after my dog, hold the leash and check the mail. I jotted down the actual temperature, the wind speed and the “feels like” temperature. On these daily walks, I assessed the gloves’ warmth, wind resistance, basic fit and dexterity.

Warmth

I found that high-dexterity gloves lacked some of the warmth of thicker gloves. Again, my fingers freeze when the temperature drops below 45 degrees. I used all of these gloves in temperatures in the 30s or lower. I also held ice, before and after getting them wet. 

Waterproof Test

In addition to the daily dog walks, the next test was to hold my hand in ice for five minutes. Then, I dunked the gloved hand in a bucket of water and noted the water resistance. Next, I submerged the gloved hand for 15 seconds and for good measure, I held the ice for another two minutes. This gave me a good indicator if I could build a snowman and still keep my hands warm and dry. 

Wind Resistance

As a skier, I learned to test the wind resistance of a garment by blowing through the outer fabric. If the breath or moisture penetrates the skin on the other side, I’d look elsewhere. Sales clerks will give you a sideways look, but in my experience, it’s a reliable indicator to test the windbreak ability of a garment without actually being in the elements. In addition to the daily dog walks, I performed the rudimentary blow test on the back as well as the palm of each glove I tested and scored them accordingly.

Breathability and Dry Time

After the waterproof test, I checked in on the gloves periodically to see how quickly they dried. Since I didn’t have a boot warmer or glove dryer in-house, I laid them out on a wool rug away from a heat vent. After four hours, the saturated gloves were still wet. Twelve hours later, all but the Ninja Ice were dry. It’s worth noting that the waterproof gloves lacked some of the breathability of water-resistant gloves, and as a result, these gloves may make your hands sweat and become smelly with daily use. Having two pairs to let the gloves air out between wearings is the best defense against odor.

Durability and Construction

Although I haven’t tested these gloves with a few years of hard labor, I noted the general construction and durability of the materials, while keeping user reviews in mind. 

Special Features

Several of the gloves had touchscreen compatibility, so I swiped, scrolled and tested these features to the best of my ability. If the fingers were too long, the touchscreen features were challenging to use, so be sure to get a glove that fits well. Other special features noted are abrasion and impact resistance.

FAQ

What are the best gloves for working outside?

Depending on your job, dexterity may be your most important criterion in choosing a glove. Working with tools, small buttons or parts will require precision, so your gloves may need to be thinner and fit perfectly. Be sure to measure your hand for the best fit.

No doubt you’ll have to deal with wind, rain, snow or ice when working outside, so having a waterproof or water-resistant glove will keep you dryer and warmer longer. Ideally, you want insulation for warmth. In my opinion, Thinsulate and neoprene are ideal insulators because they are less bulky than other fillers. Natural materials such as wool, silk and down will also keep you toasty.

When working outdoors for long periods in frigid temperatures have an extra pair in your truck, throw in some hand warmers or take a break with a pair of heated gloves to keep the frostbite at bay. 

O’Donnell offers this discovery: “When it comes to winter work gloves, I have always preferred leather work gloves. Recently, however, I have become a convert to latex-coated gloves for three reasons. First, nylon-coated work gloves provide a firmer grip. Furthermore, they are less expensive and can be substantially thinner while still being waterproof, which improves dexterity. The downside, of course, is that leather work gloves are much nicer looking.” 

The post The 9 Best Winter Work Gloves, Tested by Editors and Tradespeople appeared first on Family Handyman.

When it was time for a new bike rack, I told myself I just needed to fork over the cash for a good one, and I wouldn’t regret it. Sure enough, four years later, I’m still using my Kuat Sherpa 2.0 bike rack—even after it got hit by a car and warped in a tiny Miami parking lot (it was a simple fix).

In my Kuat bike rack review, I cover all of the need-to-know information about this hitch bike carrier and will help you decide if you should buy it for yourself.

What is the Kuat bike rack?

Kuat is a manufacturer of racks and carrying accessories for outdoor gear. The company makes several different types of bike racks, as well as racks for skis, snowboards and kayaks. Kuat also manufactures hitch accessories and some storage/carrying solutions for trucks.

The bike rack I’m reviewing in this guide is the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 bike rack. It’s a popular bike rack due to its middle-of-the-road price, yet supreme durability and ease of use. If you show up to a triathlon race, you’re guaranteed to lay your eyes on more Sherpa racks than you might see in your life after that point. (I say that from experience as a triathlete who uses a Sherpa bike rack.)

The Sherpa is a tray-style (as opposed to hanging-style), hitch-mounted bike rack that carries a maximum of two bikes weighing up to 40 pounds each. It’s simple to use and thoughtfully built with the needs of cyclists in mind, which is why it receives such high remarks from customers and gear experts alike.

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Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack

Although a pricier option, this Kuat bike rack proves to be worth the investment.

$689 at Amazon

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Kuat Bike Rack Features

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 has a number of features that make it well worth its $690 price tag. Let’s take a look at some of the standout components.

Aluminum Construction

The Kuat Sherpa bike rack weighs in at a surprisingly low number: just 35 pounds for the 1.25-inch version and 32 pounds for the 2-inch version. This makes it easy to take your hitch receiver in and out, a welcome feature if you’re someone who takes your bike rack off when not in use, or moves it between different vehicles.

Expanding Cam System

One of my favorite things about the Sherpa rack is its expanding cam system. When you insert the rack into your vehicle’s hitch receiver, there’s a knob you turn to the right in order to tighten the fit to the interior walls of the receiver. This eliminates movement and rattle in the hitch receiver, making for a quieter ride and peace of mind knowing your bike rack isn’t bouncing around as you drive.

Folds Up and Tilts Down

If you leave your bike rack on your car when you’re not toting bikes, you can fold it up to reduce the length of the rack. I highly recommend taking advantage of this feature, particularly in parking lots, where a driver may hit the rack. The rack also tilts down to allow access to your vehicle’s trunk. This feature is absolutely clutch, for lack of a better word, because it means you can reach into your cargo area without having to take the bikes off of the rack.

A feature I never use but is worth calling out is the foot-assist pivot. When the rack is in its folded-up position, you can use your foot to release the pin and fold the rack down with one hand. I suppose this is a helpful feature if you have your hands full, but I guess I’ve never found myself in a situation where I can’t put something down and use two hands to fold the rack down.

Locking Hitch Pin and Bike Lock Included

The Sherpa rack securely attaches to your vehicle, thanks to the including locking hitch pin. A locking hitch pin ensures that no one can steal the rack off of your vehicle when you’re not around. Kuat also includes a cable lock with the rack to protect your bikes from theft. The cable lock integrates with the rack and uses the same key as the locking hitch pin.

I still recommend purchasing a heftier bike lock to secure your bikes if you plan to leave them unattended. I lost a bike to theft once, so I may be a bit paranoid now, but I use the included Kuat cable lock plus three Kryptonite U-locks to secure my two bikes.

Adjustable Ratchet Arm

Locking your bike’s front tire into place couldn’t be easier. I can adjust the ratchet arm with one hand and fit it to my bike’s tire. Then, (with two hands) I press down on the arm to tightly lock the tire into place.

The ratchet arms can accommodate wheel sizes up to 29 inches, which covers just about all types of bikes, including mountain bikes. They can accommodate wheels as small as 20 inches, but any wheels in the 20- to 24-inch range will require an adapter.

Folding Tire Cradle and Rear Wheel Straps

The back wheel of your bike straps into the Sherpa like the closure on an early 2000s pair of rollerblades. But first, you have to fold up the rear tire cradles. They fold down when not in use to avoid unnecessary damage.

A common complaint about the Kuat Sherpa is that the rear wheel cradle can’t accommodate tires larger than 3 inches in width. While the 3-inch maximum covers all standard tire sizes, even for mountain bikes, the rising popularity of E-bikes and fat-tire bikes means this rack won’t work for all cycling enthusiasts.

The tire cradles and straps are the one weak point of this bike rack, in my opinion. Whereas the rest of the frame is constructed from aluminum, the rear tire setup is all plastic. Plastic, naturally, doesn’t have the longevity that aluminum has. Still, after four years of heavy use, the rear tire cradles and straps are working just fine.

How We Tested It

The Kuat Sherpa has been with me for four years and thousands of miles. The first part of its well-traveled life saw it on the rear of my trusty Subaru Outback, on which I toted bikes to several triathlon races throughout the state of Florida, to Ironman 70.3 Augusta, to South Florida’s surprisingly abundant but obviously man-made mountain biking trail systems and to many other places in the Southeast.

Now, my Kuat Sherpa rests in the hitch receiver of my Winnebago Revel, in which I live full-time. (Well, actually, it sits in an extender, which sits in the receiver, because the rack itself was not long enough to allow the rear van doors to open.)

I’ve toted several bikes with the Kuat Sherpa over the years, from a Trek hardtail (RIP, the one that was stolen) to the Marin hardtail I have now and my husband’s Specialized hardtail, my Cervelo triathlon race bike and my Felt road bike. All of these bikes have fit snugly into the rear tire cradles and under the ratchet arm for the front tire.

On pavement, gravel and rutted dirt roads alike, the Sherpa has remained snug in its receiver and has continued to perform fantastically. This product is a rare one: I truly have no complaints. It has met my needs and hasn’t given me any trouble.

One-Year Update

When I first wrote this review about a year ago, I had already been using the Kuat rack for several years, but I had just started van life. Before living in my van, the rack was installed on my Subaru Outback, which rarely saw anything besides paved roads (albeit with plenty of potholes in my then-home of Miami). It held up excellently in those conditions.

After starting van life, the rack had to endure much more. I take my van on all sorts of roads, from paved to gravel to sand to dry riverbed pathways. The rack has been scraped against the ground on too-sharp inclines and has even been backed into a tree (oops). Throughout it all, it has retained its performance impressively. I won’t say that it’s still in perfect condition, because it definitely squeaks, groans and wobbles more than it used to. But are my bikes still in tow, intact? Yes. And that’s really all I can ask for.

FAQ

Where are Kuat bike racks manufactured?

Kuat Racks is headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, however, manufacturing takes place overseas in China and Taiwan.

How much weight can a Kuat bike rack carry?

It depends on the specific rack. The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 bike rack, reviewed here, can carry a maximum of 80 pounds (40 pounds per bike).

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

Customers have left stellar reviews of the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. On Backcountry, the rack has an average of five out of five stars, with real-life buyers saying it makes it easy to load and unload bikes and is sturdy and well-built. I agree with one reviewer who wrote, “This thing is extremely well built and should last for many years to come. Do yourself a favor: Don’t waste your time or money on something cheap trying to save a few bucks… buy this one! Enjoy!”

On REI, the Sherpa has an average rating of 4.6 out of five stars. Customers call it “exceptional” and “worth every penny.” The few negative reviews mention issues with assembly, as well as component breakage (specifically the plastic parts). Kuat offers a lifetime warranty on manufacturer defects, so component damage may be covered depending on the exact circumstances.

Other in-depth reviews on the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 by gear experts present similar thoughts to what I’ve written about here: The Sherpa is a great all-’rounder for cyclists who stick to standard tire and wheel sizes. But for folks who have (or plan to purchase) bicycles that stray beyond those standards, the Sherpa won’t work. Again, the maximum tire width is 3 inches, the maximum wheelbase is 47 inches and the wheel range is 20 to 29 inches with 20- to 24-inch wheels requiring an adapter.

Product Comparison

Kuat itself offers several other bike racks, and then there are other brands to consider, such as Thule, Yakima, RockyMounts and 1Up. Here’s a look at two popular alternatives:

Kuat NV 2.0

The NV 2.0 is Kuat’s higher-end tray-style bike rack. It looks a lot like the Sherpa 2.0, but upon further inspection, you’d notice some pointed differences. For instance, it can handle bikes weighing up to 60 pounds in comparison to the Sherpa’s 40-pound-per-bike limit. This means it can handle some lighter-duty E-bikes in addition to rides with steel frames if that’s your jam.

Additionally, the NV 2.0 supports wheelbases up to 50 inches (as opposed to 47 inches) and can accommodate tires up to 5 inches in width with Kuat’s Phat bike kit. It also includes an integrated bike repair stand, which allows you to easily give your bike the TLC it deserves after a day on the trails (or wherever you ride). This rack is compatible with an extender so you can carry four total bikes if desired, and you can adjust the individual bike trays to make more space for bikes that don’t sit well together.

All of these extras come with a price, literally and figuratively. Literally, the NV 2.0 costs about $850, so $200 more than the Sherpa. Figuratively, you’ll pay the price in weight: The NV weighs 52 pounds compared to the Sherpa’s 32 or 35 pounds.

Thule T2 Pro

The Thule T2 Pro X, in particular, is often compared to the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. It has similar specifications: The T2 Pro X is a tray-style rack available in a version that fits 2-inch and 1.25-inch hitches, accommodates wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter, fits tires up to 3 inches in width without an adapter and it folds up and tilts down.

This rack can hold slightly more weight than the Sherpa at 50 pounds per bike, and it fits slightly larger wheelbases (about 49 inches). It comes with a locking hitch pin but no integrated cable lock.

One big difference between the Thule T2 Pro X and the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is that the trays on the Thule rack are adjustable. This means you can slide the trays laterally and lock them in custom positions to better fit your bike and/or center your bikes behind your vehicle. It’s also compatible with an extender that allows you to hold up to four bikes, whereas the Sherpa doesn’t have a compatible extender available.

Final Verdict

While the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 bike rack may not be the right choice for everyone—no product is perfect for every consumer—I do believe it is one of the best and is a great option for most people.

If you ride road, time trial or mountain bikes with standard wheel sizes and tire sizes, the Sherpa 2.0 is a moderately priced, durable bike rack that is supremely easy to use and should last a lifetime. If you need to carry kid’s bikes, E-bikes or fat-tire bikes, I recommend looking into other options, as the Kuat isn’t the best equipped to handle those rides.

Where to Buy the Kuat Bike Rack

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Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack

This particular bike rack is popular, thanks to its middle-of-the-road price, yet supreme durability and ease of use.

$689 at Amazon

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The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is available at most outdoor retailers and bike stores for about $630. You can find it on the brand’s website, as well as Amazon, REI and Backcountry. There’s a good chance you’ll find one at your local bike shop, too.

The post I’ve Been Using the Kuat Bike Rack for 4 Years, and I Recommend It to Almost Everyone appeared first on Family Handyman.

Between the wide footbed, 25 millimeters of responsive cushioning, mid-height ankle collar and supreme breathability, the Lone Peaks quickly became my go-to for almost every type of hike. In my Altra Lone Peak hiker review, I’ll explain why, as well as help you decide if these are the right boots for you.

What Is the Altra Lone Peak Hiker?

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a hiking boot spin-off of the extremely popular Lone Peak trail running shoes. Altra is on iteration two of the Lone Peak hikers while the trail runner version is now in its eighth iteration. Lone Peak boots are mid-height, zero-drop, moderately cushioned hiking shoes intended to tackle most types of terrain with ease. These boots are known for their comfort and flexibility, as is the case with most of Altra’s lineup.

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Altra Lone Peak Hiker

If you're already accustomed to zero-drop shoes or willing to put in the time to become accustomed to them, get the Altra Lone Peak Hiker.

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Altra Lone Peak Hiker Features

Here’s a look at some of the most prominent and important features of the Altra Lone Peak Hiker boots.

Wide Toe Box

The most notable feature of the Lone Peaks is the wide toe box. Altra’s patented FootShape footbed is designed to better mimic the natural anatomy of human feet, hence the wide toe box and plenty of wiggle room.

Many people remark that the Altra Lone Peaks run large; they actually run true-to-size, but the wide footbed feels very roomy compared to traditional boot footbeds. In the Lone Peaks, your toes have room to splay and grip, which feels a bit funny at first but quickly becomes a welcomed attribute of the boots.

Zero-Drop Sole

This part is really important. Zero-drop shoes can bring a lot of benefits to the table, but they aren’t for everyone—and they’re certainly not the type of shoe to take on a 10-miler without previously wearing them.

The 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop on Altra Lone Peak hikers will require an adjustment period if you have never worn zero-drop shoes before. I recommend wearing them on short walks on pavement before graduating to trails, and gradually increasing the length of your hikes while wearing these.

For what it’s worth, I didn’t wear zero-drop shoes before Altra (and, still, none of my other shoes are zero-drop), and it didn’t take long to feel perfectly comfortable in these shoes. On my first couple of short hikes with them, I felt some discomfort in my heel, but haven’t experienced any pain since then—and I’ve taken them on day hikes as long as 15 miles.

Flexible Sole

When I was on a hiking trip in Big Bend National Park, my partner stopped, looked at my feet and said, “I can see your boot moving with your foot. Man, I wish I’d gotten some of those.” And it’s true: The sole of the Altra Lone Peak Hikers is ultra flexible and it moves with you.

That’s a big part of what makes these boots so great for rocky hikes that require careful and sometimes awkward foot placement. As cheesy as it may sound, these boots make me feel closer to the ground and more connected with the trail, thanks to their flexibility.

Ankle Support

The Lone Peak hiking boots feature a mid-top height. They rise just above the ankle and the lace closure sits at the front of the ankle joint, offering ankle support on most trails and terrain. I say most because I have encountered terrain on which it didn’t feel like my ankles were supported at all—the ruts, rocks and angles just proved to be too much for the Lone Peaks. I still felt comfortable, but definitely had to be very careful about my foot placement, and I would have appreciated a more rigid ankle collar in those situations.

Extended Crash Pad

If you purchase the Lone Peak Hikers, you’ll notice that the crash pad—an extension of the rubber outsole—extends quite far past the heel cup. This helps tremendously with balance on trails with rough terrain. It’s one of my favorite features of the shoes.

Reinforced Toe Box

The Lone Peaks feature a reinforced toe box, which is clearly visible just by looking at the shoes. Without this reinforcement, you’d quickly punch a hole through the top of the toe box, particularly if you tend to take steep descents. That said, I do think the reinforcement could be stronger. I’m nearing 200 miles on my Lone Peaks and already seeing some significant signs of wear on the toe box; I expect these boots to last me 400 to 500 miles of hiking, so I’m not thrilled about that. They’re still going strong for now, though.

Deep Outsole Lugs

Hikers who love trails with slippery terrain, such as loose soil, sand or shale, will appreciate the deep lugs on the outsole of Lone Peak hiking boots. They dig deep into loose terrain, such as rocky soil and sand, and I found them to be very sticky on smooth exposed rock.

Breathable Mesh Upper (or Waterproof Upper)

The Lone Peaks are some of the most breathable hiking boots I’ve owned. They’re so breathable, in fact, that they actually drain water really well, too. While living in Florida, I took these boots through some serious slog and the water drained out quickly, which is ideal on swampy trails.

I wouldn’t, however, recommend the Lone Peaks for winter hikes in snow. In these lightweight boots, your feet will most definitely get wet and cold. But in warm weather or in scenarios where water drainage is necessary, they excel.

There’s also a waterproof version of the Altra Lone Peak called ALL-WTHR. However, many customer reviews suggest that the waterproofing isn’t ideal or even good. In this case, you’d be better off buying the regular Lone Peaks since they drain and dry so quickly, or purchasing a different pair of waterproof boots. We like the Columbia Newton Ridge waterproof boots.

How We Tested It

I’ve worn the Altra Lone Peak hiking boots for about 200 trail miles, and they continue to perform wonderfully. I expect to get 400 to 500 miles out of these boots, based on the wear-and-tear I see on them at the 200-mile mark.

I have taken the Lone Peaks on all kinds of trails, from deep sand trails through South Florida scrub forests to hard–packed dirt trails in the desert to slick scrambles on exposed rock faces in the mountains. In every scenario, I have found myself thankful for the Lone Peaks in some way. In Florida, I was thankful that the breathable shoes drained water so well and didn’t leave my feet goopy with swamp stuff. With the heat of a Utah summer, I was thankful that the breathable mesh upper kept my feet cool and reasonably dry. And in the rocky, slippery canyons of southwest Texas, I was thankful for the deep, grippy grooves on the outsoles.

But mostly, I’m thankful for the comfort. It’s wonderful to have found a pair of boots that lets me hike double-digit miles regularly without any pain, aching or discomfort. From short two-mile jaunts to grueling 15-mile day hikes, my Lone Peaks have served me well.

Pros

• Wide, comfortable toe box allows for toe splay
• Super grippy outsole
• Extended crash pad helps with balance
• Flexible foot bed moves with your feet
• Mesh upper is breathable and drains water well
• Laces stay put and stay tied
• Lightweight, yet durable

Cons

• Not waterproof
• All-weather version has bad reviews regarding waterproofness
• Zero-drop soles are not for everyone and may cause pain in people who are not accustomed to them

FAQ

Are Altra Lone Peak hikers waterproof?

There’s a waterproof version of Lone Peak Hikers called the ALL-WTHR (all-weather) model. I have not personally tried the all-weather version of these shoes, but customer reviews indicate that they may not be the best waterproof boot out there.

Should I size up or down Altra Lone Peak?

I found that the Altra Lone Peak runs true to size, but they may feel big at first as you get accustomed to the wide footbed and toe box.

How long do Altra trail shoes last?

How long any pair of hiking boots lasts depends on how often you use them and what kind of trails you hike. It’s not really about years, but about miles. In general, you can expect to get about 300 to 500 miles out of a pair of boots with a typical ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam sole (the same as running shoes).

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker boots feature a midsole made of a proprietary blend of cushioning agents, according to Altra, although online, multiple sources say the midsole is constructed from thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU). TPU is a bit stronger than EVA, so Altra Lone Peaks should perform well to the higher end of that 300 to 500 range, or higher. I’m coming up on 200 miles on my Lone Peaks and they still perform perfectly.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a favorite among trail runners and hikers alike. Still, shoes are extremely individual and everyone’s experience will differ due to differences in foot anatomy, terrain types traveled and more.

Customer reviews are generally positive, with buyers reporting that they have purchased the Lone Peaks time and time again when the need for new boots presented itself. Some customer reviews report issues with quality—as in the boots breaking down earlier than expected—but I haven’t had any problems yet (I’m keeping my eye on the toe box wear and tear, however).

In-depth reviews by other hiking experts vary greatly. Some detailed reviews spew praise, calling the Lone Peaks the best hiking boots ever designed. Others are less positive, calling the boots out for lackluster performance on technical terrain. In general, though, it seems that all experts can agree on one thing: These boots are dang comfortable.

Product Comparison

Altra Lone Peak Hikers are far from the only respectable boots available to hikers. In fact, I have a whole list of favorites that you can read about in my guide to the best hiking boots. As for zero-drop hiking boots specifically, I’d recommend no other pair than these. Based on product specs and customer reviews, the Altra Lone Peaks seem to offer the best blend of minimalism, durability and comfort.

If you’re looking for something waterproof, I have to steer you away from the Lone Peaks, though. Although I haven’t tried the waterproof version, numerous customer reviews indicate that they aren’t, in fact, very waterproof. The Columbia Newton Ridge is a quality waterproof pick for a good price (but doesn’t have zero-drop soles).

For breathability and drainability, the Lone Peaks are unmatched in my experience. They also feature some of the most effective outsoles I’ve tried. Those in search of supreme ankle support may want to look elsewhere. The mid-height ankle collar on the Lone Peaks works well in most scenarios, but if you’re going to encounter very rocky terrain or have specific needs for your ankles, something more rigid might be a better choice for you.

Another option worth looking into is the Hoka Speedgoat mid-top version. The Speedgoats have a deity-like status among trail runners, and the mid-top Speedgoat would make for a great lightweight hiking boot, albeit not a zero-drop option.

Merrell is another brand that should be on your radar. Our shopping team at Family Handyman praises the Moab boots (and Moab collaborations with brands like Unlikely Hikers and Jeep).

Final Verdict

I fully, heartily recommend the Altra Lone Peak hiking boots to anyone who’s already accustomed to zero-drop shoes or willing to put in the time to become accustomed to them. Are they the perfect boots in every scenario? No, but they’re the best all-rounders I’ve tried. Despite my minor complaints about the lackluster toe box reinforcement and ankle support, I will be purchasing a new pair of Altra Lone Peak Hikers when it’s time for new boots.

Where to Buy the Altra Lone Peak Hiker

On Sale

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We Tried It

Altra Lone Peak Hiker

The sole of the Altra Lone Peak Hiker is ultra flexible and it moves with you.

149.9513% OFF$130.89 at Amazon

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The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is available on the brand’s website, as well as Amazon, REI and Zappos, for $150. The all-weather version is slightly higher at $180.

149.9513% OFF$130.89 at Amazon

The post I’m an Avid Hiker, and I Wear the Altra Lone Peak Hikers for Almost Every Trail appeared first on Family Handyman.

Best Overall Hand Warmer

Ocoopa Quick-Charge Hand Warmers

The Ocoopa quick-charge hand warmer is a fan-favorite on TikTok with thousands of positive reviews—and it was hands down the best-performing hand warmer out of the ones we tested. I loved that it was slimmer than other rechargeable hand warmers, so it could easily fit in my pocket or camping bag and not take up much space. Plus, the heat is very warm without being so hot that it starts to feel uncomfortable. It can be used for keeping warm while the car de-ices to nighttime walks.

This rechargeable hand warmer has three heat levels, with the highest reaching up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. The USB-C port can also be used to charge your phone or laptop. It was the fastest-charging electronic hand warmer I tested and has an eight-hour battery life, depending on usage.

Pros

• Reaches up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit
• Three heat levels
• Quick-charging
• Can be used to charge phones
• Easily fits in pockets and bags

Cons

• Not the best battery life

$26.99 at Amazon

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Best Budget Hand Warmer

HotHands Hand Warmers

Even with all the advances in hand warmer technology, there’s still a place and time for the original HotHands hand warmers. I lived with a pair of them in my hands at all times when my old house had insulation issues that made it feel like an Arctic ice box, and I’m convinced they saved me. Thank you, HotHands.

Are they hotter than rechargeable hand warmers? No, but they can last for 10 hours and are still warm. The toe warmers were new to me, but even after using them once to walk the dog at night, I’m a big fan.

Pros

• Affordable
• Last 10 hours
• No electricity needed
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-approved

Cons

• Single-use

13.9526% OFF$10.34 at Amazon

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Best Reusable Hand Warmer

HotSnapZ Reusable Hand Warmers

The HotSnapZ reusable hand warmers were made for people who want to reuse chemical hand warmers instead of throwing them away after each use, or for anyone who needs instant heat. You simply snap the internal activation disc and an instant chemical reaction produces heat that can reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit, which is more than enough to keep your digits warm, though they only last for up to 40 minutes.

I’ve reached for these every morning to alleviate the cold hands I have due to iron-deficiency anemia. The quick reaction means I only have to wait a second before I get to keep the cold away, and I only need to boil them for a few minutes to make them reusable. My one callout is the disc gets more sensitive each time you use it, so keep that in mind if you plan on throwing these best hand warmers in a bag.

Pros

• Can be used more than once
• Instant heat
• Affordable
• No electricity

Cons

• Only lasts 40 minutes

$19.99 at Amazon

$19.99 at Amazon

Best Rechargeable Hand Warmer

Survival Frog QuickHeat Pro Rechargeable Hand Warmer

A 14-hour battery life and a 9,000 milliampere-hour (mAh) lithium battery are the two things that make the Survival Frog hand warmer the best rechargeable hand warmer on the market. I have large hands, so I like the bulkier feel of this hand warmer compared to others, but that might not be best for you.

The powerful battery allows the two lower heat levels to feel just as hot as the maximum setting on other options, which could extend the battery life. The only reason I didn’t name this my top hand warmer is the eight-hour charging time, but I love that it can be used to charge your other devices and comes with a lanyard. It’s worth putting on your cold-weather wish list.

Pros

• 14-hour battery life
• Three heat levels
• Includes a lanyard
• Can be used as a power bank

Cons

• Bulkier design not for everyone

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Best Catalytic Hand Warmer

Zippo 12-Hour Refillable Hand Warmer

The Zippo hand warmer is a smart pick for hunters, winter campers or anyone else who spends a lot of time outside in frigid temperatures. This giant Zippo is filled with lighter fluid and lit—a catalytic process then creates heat for up to 12 hours, depending on how much fuel you’ve used.

Most people place the Zippo with its carrying case in their jacket to feel warm while outside. It hasn’t gotten that cold in North Carolina as of this writing, but as a hand warmer it works well. Be warned: There’s no way to stop the heat, so it’s best to leave it in its pouch on a fireproof surface until all the fuel is burned.

Pros

• Doesn’t use electricity
• Reusable
• Lightweight
• Lighter fluid included

Cons

• Can’t turn off heat

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Best Hand Warmer for Walks

Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer

The Orastone rechargeable hand warmer lives by my girlfriend’s dog’s leash and collar, because it is the perfect hand warmer for walks. It’s small, has an included lanyard and gives off 107 degrees Fahrenheit of heat—all of which make me more willing to extend Brodie’s walks, which in turn makes him happy. Everyone wins.

Another reason I recommend this for walks is the light-emitting diode (LED) light, which can be great for cold-weather emergencies or finding your dog’s “business” during night walks. The battery life is only four hours, but on the bright side, it only takes three hours to fully charge.

Pros

• Small and only weighs 2.4 ounces
• Reaches up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit
• Only take three hours to fully charge
• LED light
• Included lanyard

Cons

• Four-hour battery life

23.9925% OFF$17.99 at Amazon

Best Hand Warmer for Hunting

Savior Heat Electric Heating Hand Warmer Pouch

Your hands are instantly warm the second you place them in the Savior Heat electric hand warmer pouch, and toasty as soon as the heating element kicks in. Yup, it’s essentially a heated fanny pack with three levels of heat that reaches up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Like a fanny pack, it also comes with internal storage.

While I haven’t had a chance to properly test this electric hand warmer, I can attest that the heat is impressive and would certainly hold up during a winter hike or a tailgating party. Yes, it’s a little expensive, but it’s made with high-quality materials that are water- and tear-resistant.

Pros

• Waistband design
• Three heat levels
• Internal storage
• Lasts up to 12.5 hours on low

Cons

• Pricey

$95.99 at Amazon

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What to Look for When Buying a Hand Warmer

The first thing to look for when buying a hand warmer is the type that’s best for your needs. If you’re someone who only gets a handful of cold days, you’re better off going with a disposable hand warmer because a large pack of them is affordable. “Get a large multi-pack for convenience and cost savings over time,” says Jason Ingamells, an outdoors specialist. Disposable hand warmers can also be placed in gloves and hiking boots to provide heat for up to 10 hours to our limbs, which can help promote blood flow and prevent frostbite.

Go for an electric rechargeable hand warmer if you need a reliable source of heat—and a lot of it. Most electric hand warmers go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the best can reach up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s not enough to burn skin, though you should always limit direct skin contact with high temperatures.

“Our hands are useful for so much when traveling, and not having access to those skills can be a massive problem if you are doing any dangerous tasks,” says Will Hatton, founder and CEO of The Broke Backpacker.

Look for an electric hand warmer with adjustable heat settings, a battery indicator and a battery life of at least six hours.

Types of Hand Warmers

There are three main types of hand warmers: disposable, electric and catalytic. There’s no “best” type, it just depends on what your climate and activities look like.

• Disposable hand warmers: This type, such as HotHands, are good for those who need long-term heat. The air-activated packets take about 15 to 20 minutes to fully activate, but they’ll last for up to 10 hours. They’re also small enough to fit in gloves or boots to help further promote blood flow to your fingers and toes.
• Electric/rechargeable hand warmers: These can reach temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with the industry standard being around 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Electric hand warmers are powered by a lithium-ion battery, which may malfunction if exposed to freezing temperatures. “Rechargeable electric hand warmers are perfect for those expecting prolonged periods out in the cold, like camping trips or hunting expeditions,” says Mike Millerson, founder of SurviveNature. “It’s essential to select a device with dependable battery life, preferably one offering dual-sided heat and adjustable temperature controls for versatility.” This type is also good for those with iron-deficiency anemia, peripheral cyanosis or anyone else with a condition that causes cold hands.
• Catalytic hand warmers: These work through a chemical reaction that burns chemicals at a lower temperature to produce heat without a flame. The good news is you can get up to 12 hours of heat with a catalytic hand warmer, but the bad news is there’s no way to stop it. The heat will only stop once all the fuel is burned.

Why You Should Trust Us

I have cold hands due to a condition called iron-deficiency anemia, so I’m always looking for ways to keep my hands warm. That’s why I’m able to provide hands-on (pun intended) experience with the best rechargeable hand warmers, disposable hand warmers and more. These aren’t first-glance impressions, they’re results based on a month of continuous use and experimentation.

I also heard from more than 10 hunters, hikers and other outdoors people who have used these hand warmers while on the trail. They gave us their opinions on the different types and provided some insights on what to look for when shopping for a hand warmer.

How We Got a Hand(le) on the Best Hand Warmers

After researching customer reviews and specs of more than 10 hand warmers, we put our prints all over seven of them. That’s right, we tested every hand warmer we recommended above to ensure they actually deliver. When it came to rechargeable hand warmers, we looked for models that provided at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit of heat, dual-side heating and adjustable heat levels. We wanted electric hand warmers with a four-hour charging time and eight-hour battery life, and ideally have a second feature, such as an external charging port or an LED light.

We also made sure the hand warmers were safe and did not present any risk to the user, such as getting too hot or an unreliable battery. Lastly, we spoke with outdoors experts to hear what people with years of experience with hand warmers had to say so we could develop an informed opinion on our top picks.

FAQ

What are the types of hand warmers?

There are three main types of hand warmers: disposable air-activated hand warmers that produce heat for 10 hours, electric/rechargeable hand warmers that can provide heat for four to eight hours and catalytic hand warmers that produce heat by burning lighter fluid without a flame.

Why do people use hand warmers?

People use hand warmers for many reasons, such as while hunting in the winter or walking the dog while it’s cold outside, but the underlying theme is keeping blood flowing to your fingers. The heat can help prevent extreme cold from restricting blood flow to your fingers, which can result in loss of feeling or frostbite. People may also use it if they have a condition that causes cold hands, such as iron-deficiency anemia.

Sources:

• Gracjan Poniatowski, an outdoors enthusiast
• Jason Ingamells, an outdoors specialist
• Will Hatton, founder and CEO of The Broke Backpacker
• Mike Millerson, founder of SurviveNature

The post We Tested the 7 Best Hand Warmers for Cold Weather appeared first on Family Handyman.

Unsurprisingly, it’s expensive, as is typical of the brand. I’ve been using the GoBox 15, the smallest of the lineup, for more than eight weeks as I’ve traveled around the southeast and southwest in my camper van. But is it just a box with a brand name? Or is it truly worth the hefty price tag? In my Yeti Loadout GoBox review, I answer those questions and more while providing all of the need-to-know details about this storage item and who could actually benefit from it.

What is the Yeti Loadout GoBox?

The Yeti Loadout GoBox is a storage box designed for a variety of uses. Ultra durable and waterproof, these boxes are available in three sizes: 15 liters ($125), 30 liters ($250) and 60 liters ($300). The different sizes are suited to different uses. For instance, the 15-liter box would work well as a tackle box or for storing electronics. The 30-liter box is handy for storing a camp kitchen setup or using as a camp pantry (with bear-proof locks!). The 60-liter option can serve as an entire gear closet.

What remains the same across the three sizes is that all are intended to withstand the toughest of conditions, from complete water submersion to wind storms whipping up desert dust to jostling down a rough road.

Yeti Loadout GoBox Features

“Virtually Indestructible” Construction

The Yeti Loadout GoBox has all of the typical features you’d expect to find on a Yeti product: thick rotomolded Defender material construction, the NeverFail hinge system and an impressive dual IP65 and IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating. Those ratings mean the box is completely submersible in water and entirely resistant to dust entry.

On the online product listing and product tag, Yeti says it can’t legally call the box unbreakable, so it’s called “virtually indestructible” which, after using the box for about two months, seems true.

The GoBox, like other Yeti products, just feels durable when you’re using it. The thickness of Yeti’s Defender material gives it a hefty feel, and the lockdown latches produce a satisfying seal. In use, it’s clear that this product was really designed to withstand almost anything.

LipGrip Handles

Yeti’s patented LipGrip handles are comfortable to hold for long distances. There’s just one on the 15-liter box, situated in a flip-up fashion. On the 30-liter box, there’s a sling with a LipGrip handle in the middle, and on the 60-liter box, you’ll find two LipGrip handles, one on each side.

PackAttic

The two larger GoBoxes feature the PackAttic, a mesh storage compartment in the interior of the lid. It’s a useful spot to put flat and small, loose items, such as maps or a compass. One drawback to the 15-liter box is that it doesn’t have this feature. I have the GoBox 15, and it would be really nice to have the additional organization capability.

Organization Tray and Dividers

Each GoBox comes with one removable organizational caddy. The 15-liter box fits one caddy, the 30-liter fits two and the 60-liter fits three. The two larger sizes also accommodate dividers (one in the 30-liter box and two in the 60-liter box), and come with one divider each. You can purchase more dividers and trays separately.

Tiedown Slots

If you’re taking your GoBox out on a boat, raft, kayak or other water vessel—or in the bed of your truck on an off-roading mission—you’ll want to take advantage of the patented AnchorPoint tie-down slots. These allow you to secure the box to your vessel or vehicle.

Lockable

On the sides of each latch, you’ll find prefabricated holes for padlocks or thin cable locks. Yeti sells bear-proof locks that can make the boxes more resistant to wildlife, but the GoBoxes are not certified bear-proof.

Stackable

Stackability is a major feature of the Yeti Loadout GoBox lineup. Regardless of which size you get, they’ll stack. For instance, three 15-liter GoBoxes will nestle right on top of a 60-liter GoBox. Having stackable boxes, such as The North Face Base Camp storage box that I also have and love, is ideal when you’re hauling a lot of gear in tight quarters.

How We Tested It

I’ve been using the Yeti Loadout GoBox as a camping storage box in my campervan. I travel full time, so having durable storage bins and cases is necessary to protect my gear on the road, particularly on unpaved roads when things can get a bit rocky (literally).

In the eight weeks or so that I’ve had the Yeti GoBox, its purpose has changed over time. To be frank, I wasn’t quite sure what to do with it at first, especially since the 15-liter size is small. It held miscellaneous items until I decided that it was best suited to be an electronics vault. Now, it holds (and organizes) all of my charging cables and blocks, extension cords, portable chargers and battery packs, and rechargeable batteries. I store this box in my van’s gear closet, which doubles as a wet bath, so I have peace of mind knowing that if something were to happen—like the shower faucet getting bumped and turned on—all of my electronics are thoroughly protected.

I’ll sometimes use my GoBox to store my DSLR camera and lenses when I’m driving down a particularly rough road. Normally, I store those items in overhead cabin storage, but they could fall if I hit a bad bump. It’s nice to know the strong-walled Yeti GoBox will protect them from all of the ruts, rivets and rocks.

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Completely watertight and dustproof
• Compatible with Yeti’s bear-proof locks
• Comfy handle(s)
• Included organization tray
• Stackable
• Five-year warranty

Cons

• Expensive
• May be overkill for some pursuits

FAQ

Can I use the Yeti GoBox as a cooler?

No, Yeti Loadout GoBoxes are not coolers. If you put food and ice in this gear box, the ice will melt and your food will spoil. Check out Yeti’s lineup of coolers to suit this need.

Can you stand on a Yeti Loadout GoBox?

Yes, you can stand on a GoBox, especially the larger sizes, but Yeti doesn’t recommend using them as a casting platform or for general standing use. However, Yeti discloses that sitting on the boxes is fine.

What is a Yeti Loadout GoBox used for?

The Yeti Loudout GoBox is a gear storage box intended to keep contents dry, free from dust and safe from wildlife (and humans) when locked with compatible locks. You can store anything you want in a GoBox, but common uses include storing electronics, any essentials on kayak/canoe/raft trips, and camp kitchen setups.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

There is no shortage of reviews on the Yeti Loadout GoBox online, from both gear testers and consumers alike. Among product and shopping experts, the general consensus seems to be that the Yeti Loadout GoBox is truly worth the price tag if you intend to take valuables on trips where there’s a high likelihood they could get wet or dropped from great heights. And it’s true—if you lock your precious camera up in the GoBox and it falls out of your kayak into the river, the box will have paid for itself many times over.

“I just picked up the GoBox 30 to keep my Yeti 1000X Power Station dry and secure on road trips,” shares one five-star reviewer. “The GoBox is perfect with the added lid dimensions (depth), internal tie-down points and for keeping all of the various connectors handy in the zipper compartments. Great design and quality, Yeti.”

“Price is definitely high, but the organization and build quality is excellent, made for the perfect dry storage on my boat and seat,” writes another reviewer.

Product Comparison: Yeti Loadout vs. Pelican Air

Pelican is another brand known for its hardy storage cases. The Pelican Air case in particular is very popular among outdoors people and tactical recreationalists. How does it stack up to the Yeti Loadout GoBox?

One of the first things you’ll notice upon researching Pelican Air cases is that there are many more options than there are for Yeti GoBoxes. Air cases are available in different lengths and styles with different features to suit different needs. For instance, the 1745 Air Long Case is a popular choice for overlanders who want a durable storage case on their vehicle’s roof rack. This low-profile option doesn’t add much height to a vehicle, but does offer a roomy, safe space for long gear items, such as hunting rifles or tripods. Pelican Air cases also come in carry-on friendly sizes for air travel, as well as more standard tool box-like shapes and sizes.

Another factor to consider is Pelican’s customizable Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam. This system allows you to create shapes in protective foam specific to the items you intend to carry in the case, effectively creating snug pockets for your valuables to lie in.

A common complaint about Air cases, however, is the lack of comfortable handles. Many customer reviews indicate that the cases can be tough to transport due to handle placement and the hard plastic of the design. The handles on the Yeti GoBoxes, on the other hand, feature contoured grip and are placed so that one person can transport even the largest 60-liter box.

Both are quality product lines, as evidenced by expert and customer reviews, so choosing one will come down to your specific gear needs.

Final Verdict

Is the Yeti Loadout GoBox an absolute must-have? Unless you’re headed out on serious rafting trips with whitewater or other intense water-based activities, I’m inclined to say no. There are other options worth exploring that won’t cost you a minimum of $125 for 15 liters of storage space. The Dometic GO Soft-Sided camping storage box is an example, and a personal favorite. At a list price of $100, the 20-liter box offers adequate waterproofing and is made of a durable 840-denier, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-coated polyester. Like the Yeti Loadout GoBox, the Dometic GO box offers watertight small-item storage, but is more flexible to use and weighs significantly less, yet has an additional 5 liters of storage space.

Still, depending on your needs, the Yeti Loadout GoBox would be worth the investment. And even if you don’t need it per se, it’s certainly a fun item to have—you know, just in case you decide to finally take that whitewater trip. Plus, the included cargo tray does make organization easy.

Where to Buy the Yeti Loadout GoBox

The Yeti Loadout GoBox is available at several online retailers. You can find it at the official online Yeti store, as well as Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bass Pro Shops. You can also order online and pick up in a store local to you. The GoBox series starts at $125 for the 15-liter gear case, $250 for the 30-liter case and tops out at $300 for the 60-liter case.

The post I Live in a Van Full Time, and I Use the Yeti Loadout GoBox Every Day appeared first on Family Handyman.

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The Thetford Porta Potti 565E unit is packed with more features than I’ve seen in just about any other portable toilet, especially those in this price range. Running on electricity supplied by included AA batteries, the 565E has a push-button flusher connected to an electric pump. I found adding water for flushing through the fill port at the back to be a breeze, and the bottom waste pipe made dumping as safe and easy as possible.

The upper and lower tanks (for water and waste, respectively) total nearly 10 gallons of capacity. Even though this unit is on the tall side for a portable toilet (nearly 18 inches), I found it surprisingly light and easy to carry. A big part of this ease was thanks to a very well-placed handle at the back. It’s even got a toilet paper compartment built into the side and a capacity gauge at the back. Note: The manufacturer recommends using liquid waste treatment in the top tank and sewage treatment in the lower tank to keep the toilet as clean as possible.

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Best Budget Portable Toilet

Reliance Luggable Loo Portable Toilet with Metal Handle

$43.99 at Amazon

At a budget-friendly price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a lower-cost portable toilet than this Reliance one. I’ve used this unit before and can tell you from experience that sometimes, when nature calls, you don’t need or even want all the bells and whistles some fancier units include. The simple 5-gallon bucket topped with a snap-on toilet seat is more than adequate for those truly roughing it. It is lightweight and has plenty of capacity, and the seat is surprisingly comfortable. Most importantly, the seat snaps onto the bucket very securely. Forgoing those bells and whistles, unfortunately, comes with a cost–that cost being an unpleasant dumping experience. It is just a bucket, after all. But with thousands of 5-star reviews on Amazon, it can’t be that bad.

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Best Composting Portable Toilet

Trelino Evo M Portable Composting Toilet

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This German-designed portable toilet has the most streamlined, user-friendly design I’ve ever seen in a composting portable toilet. Next time I go on a wilderness adventure, this is the toilet I’ll bring. It’s small (15.4 inches by 13 inches by 14 inches) and lightweight (9.5 pounds), making it great for wilderness camping or van life.

Number one and number two are automatically separated, with solids directed into a plastic container lined with a compostable bag and liquids funneled into a second sealed container with a flexible rubber membrane at the top to prevent spills. I love that this unit doesn’t have many confusing moving parts and doesn’t require water or electricity.

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Best Tankless Portable Toilet

Cleanwaste GO Anywhere Portable Toilet Seat

$89.99 at Amazon

The Cleanwaste GO Anywhere offers the best solution I know of for folks who want the comfort of a portable toilet without the trouble of emptying a built-in waste tank. Its sturdy, three-legged design supports a seat, which can either be left open to a hole dug in the ground below or hold a waste disposal bag if digging isn’t an option. The bags that come with the unit are more than strong enough to do their duty; each one even comes with some toilet paper and a wet wipe inside.

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Best Compact Portable Toilet

Boxio Portable Toilet

$179 at Amazon

At just 16 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches, this portable composting toilet is about as compact as they come. Like other models of this style, it divides waste into liquids and solids via two separate tanks below the seat. Composting material is added to the rear tank to help break things down and prevent odors. The main advantage of this unit is its small size. For avid camping enthusiasts, wilderness explorers, and van-dwelling nomads, storage and pack space comes at a premium. That’s where the Boxio really shines. Some folks even build custom cabinets with a drawer to keep this unit out of sight when not in use.

What to Look for When Buying a Portable Toilet

• Comfort vs. simplicity: Your first decision when shopping for a portable toilet is what sort of features you want. Will you be happy with a solid seat and a plastic tank, figuring out the rest as you go? Or perhaps you’d prefer a toilet the comes as close as possible to the comfort of home, including battery-powered flushing—even if it means more steps and less portability. Decide for yourself how much you value toilet comfort versus simplicity.
• Disposal system: Some portable toilets contain waste in a bag, others in a sealed container, and others in a removable tank. Some don’t contain waste at all. Think ahead to the sort of waste disposal options you’ll have available when using your portable toilet, and shop accordingly.
• Size and portability: Will you be using your portable toilet on hikes? At wilderness campsites? While touring America in your van or RV? Depending on your answer, choose a toilet that matches your size and portability needs. Personally, I’m the wilderness explorer type, so the smaller and more compact my portable toilet, the better.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been exploring the wilderness here in Northern Ontario, Canada since I could walk, and I’ve tried many portable toilets over the years. I’ve used them on long canoe trips where I didn’t see a sign of civilization for weeks at a time, on wilderness hikes that lasted all day (or multiple days) and carried them in the back of my pickup as I drove it along the flat, undisturbed limestone shoreline of the island where I live, foraging for wild foods.

I’ve also gone without a portable toilet often enough to know just how much of a help and comfort it can be. Nothing makes you appreciate a plastic box with a toilet seat more than squatting over a poison ivy patch deep in the woods in the pouring rain at night with nothing to support your backside. Trust me, I know. It’s also why I know which portable toilets are worth it.

We’ve Tested a Handful of the Best Portable Toilets on the Market

Of the five portable toilets mentioned in this article, I’ve personally tested three. I’ve also used a handful of other similar models over the years. Based on my experience using these since 2009, I can confidently say the portable toilets listed here are some of the best on the market.

FAQ

Where do I empty my portable toilet?

It depends. Many campsites include designated waste dump sites you can use to empty your portable toilet for a small fee. RV parks have similar facilities, often using separate disposal facilities for gray water (sinks and showers) and black water (human waste). If none of these are around, you can always tie up your stuff tightly in a plastic bag (they often come with portable toilets) and throw it in the trash. This, of course, only works for solids. Liquids can be poured out discreetly in the woods if there are woods around.

How do I clean my portable toilet for storage?

Our resident expert, Deane Biermeier, has suggestions for cleaning a portable toilet for storage or for cleaning maintenance. “The most important thing is to follow any manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your toilet, especially regarding chemical use,” he says. “While there are many commercially available products around to accomplish the task, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasives when cleaning plastic surfaces is crucial. Try using vinegar, water and mild disinfectants in the absence of manufacturer recommendations. If your toilet’s maker offers a proprietary cleaning solution, it’s often your best bet.”

The post 5 Best Portable Toilets of 2025, Tested by an Outdoorsman appeared first on Family Handyman.

This isn’t Merrell’s first rodeo (and by that, I mean collaboration). Recently, Merrell collaborated with Unlikely Hikers to create stunning rainbow Moab shoes with inclusive sizing options. Basically, whenever Merrell drops a collab, we’re the first in line to see what it’s all about, and we didn’t waste any time testing out the new Moab Mids from the Merrell x Jeep collab.

The new Merrell hiking shoes are designed to mimic Jeep brand vehicles in appearance, even down to the monochromatic color schemes. The shoes are available in three limited-edition colors to match Jeep brand coat names: sting grey, sarge green and hydro blue. Here’s what you can expect from the ultimate off-roading brand collab.

What are the Merrell x Jeep Moab 3 boots?

So, what makes the Moab 3 x Jeep boots special? Merrell has incorporated design elements found in Jeep 4x4s into footwear. The outsoles of the Moab 3 x Jeep have the famous Vibram TC5+ with custom molded Rubicon badging for optimal traction on any terrain, and gray accents to represent Jeep wheel trim. While the insoles feature a topographical map of Hell’s Revenge—a popular trail in Moab, Utah for off-roading—and cushion for maximum shock absorption.

The mid-height hiking boot features Merrell’s classic durability and style with upper mesh that resembles the hexagon pattern found on Jeep Wrangler grilles, and a larger heel hook to represent a seatbelt. The Jeep brand’s seven-slot grille is embossed onto the back of the rubber sole, too.

Merrell Moabs in general are my (and many outdoor enthusiasts’) go-to shoe when it comes to trekking rugged trails and taking long hikes. I grab my Moabs when I know I’m going to be on the trails for a while, and they never disappoint. I love that the Moab Mid boots have plenty of ankle support and my feet never hurt while wearing them, even after hours of moving around on rough terrain.

Even the fine details were well thought out for this collab. The red metal lace hooks on the boots represent the red tow hooks on the Wrangler Rubicon, and the metal lace hardware that holds the shoestrings in place symbolize the hatches on the Jeep 4×4 hood. If you’re a Jeep fan who loves to go off-roading, these shoes were made for you. Also, check the new Merrell Parks project collab.

VIA MERCHANT

Product Launch

Merrell x Jeep Moab 3 Mid

Our favorite hiking shoe brand is collaborating with your favorite off-roading vehicle to make the ultimate hiking shoe.

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Our Favorite Merrell x Jeep Moab 3 Boots

Typically, Merrell’s Moab shoes are designed with multiple colors featured in a single shoe. While we’ve seen a few all-black or all-brown editions of the Moab 3, it’s rare to find them with a monochromatic design—and that’s what we love about this collab.

Our favorites of the Moab 3 x Jeep collab are the sarge green and hydro blue. The sarge green boots are a single-color, deep forest green that’s commonly found on Wranglers. They’re the ultimate color for fall time hiking boots. The hydro blue boots mimic bold, electric Jeep paint color, and we’ve never seen Merrell do a shoe color like it.

Where to Buy Them

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Product Launch

Merrell x Jeep Moab 3 Mid

The latest Merrell shoe collaboration is transforming the Moab 3.

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The Moab 3 Mid x Jeep boots just dropped on Merrell’s website, and you can shop them now for $170. They’re available in men’s and women’s sizes. So, if you’re ready for the ultimate rugged off-roading boot, act fast before they’re gone!

The post Merrell and Jeep Have Teamed Up for a Special-Edition Moab 3 Hiking Boot appeared first on Family Handyman.

The Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Backpack is our best overall pick for best tool backpacks for a number of reasons. Its long list of convenient features includes adjustable padded shoulder straps with a sternum strap for effortless carrying, an added D-ring to hang at the job site, adjustable front pouches and lockable zippers for security—just to name a few.

This backpack stands nearly 20 inches tall and expands to 11 inches deep, so there are few hand tools that won’t fit. However, the convenient exterior straps can likely handle them if they don’t. A removable tool caddy is convenient for when you need to bring just a few smaller tools and want to leave the entire pack in the truck.

The Klein Tool backpack contains 48 pockets in total with 21 inside the pack. Its construction is all heavy-duty, from the polyester material to the molded bottom and duty-ready carrying handle. Klein Tools stands behind this pack with a limited lifetime warranty.

Best Budget Tool Backpack

Husky Tool Backpack

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Excellent for DIYers and pros alike who’d rather not spend a bunch of money, the Husky Tool Backpack has nice features and an even nicer price tag. As our best budget pick among the best tool backpacks, Husky’s feature list is impressive. It includes water-resistant construction, a molded base to stand on, 19 internal pockets in three separate compartments and a sturdy carrying handle.

Husky backs the 16-inch tool backpack with a three-year warranty. And while the pack is convenient for DIYers and small projects, its 7-inch depth is a little less than expected from a tool pack. Your pocket hole jig and a cordless drill will fit just fine, but for larger power tools, you’ll likely need something bigger to transport them.

Best Modular Tool Backpack

Milwaukee Packout Backpack

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The best tools aren’t always stand-alone items. Such is the case with the Milwaukee Packout Backpack. It’s our pick for the best modular backpack and is part of Milwaukee’s premium line of Packout modular storage system components. The Packout line consists of several parts, including toolboxes, a rolling dolly, tool bags and even a cooler.

The Milwaukee Packout Backpack can work just fine on its own, but having the ability to increase its functionality even more is an excellent bonus. The 15-inch backpack carries a five-year warranty, and its feature list includes heavy-duty polyester construction, 48 pockets, shoulder straps with a sternum strap, a hardshell compartment and a convenient external tape measure clip.

On Sale

Best Tool Backpack for Small Tools

CLC Work Gear Pocket Molded Base Backpack

106.116% OFF$99.95 at Amazon

Custom LeatherCraft (CLC) Work Gear has been an industry standard for years, helping professionals and DIYers protect their hands, knees and body, and providing numerous tool transportation solutions. The company’s Pocket Molded Base Tool Backpack continues CLC’s reputation.

While not a large tool backpack, it provides 38 pockets in and around the pack, making it just right for electricians, DIYers, outdoor enthusiasts or anyone else who must carry far more small-sized tools than a handful.

Best Multipiece Tool Backpack

Klein Tools 4-Piece Backpack Tool Set

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Klein Tools offers more than just a “tool backpack” with this set, which is why it is our pick for the best on-the-go multipiece tool storage system. The Klein Tools Backpack Tool Set is a four-piece set consisting of a full-size tool backpack, two smaller zippered tool pouches with stand-up bases and a tool magnetizer that works with nearly any screwdriver.

The tool pouches and the pack feature a contrasting orange-colored interior, making identifying and finding tools easy. A rigid front pocket protects the contents from damage, but can somewhat limit the pack’s flexibility. Klein Tools’ limited lifetime warranty covers the backpack and its accessories.

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Lowest Price in 30 days

Best Tool Backpack for Staying Organized

CLC 75-Pocket Tool Backpack

149.9515% OFF$127.42 at Amazon

Anyone who’s ever had to make multiple trips to the workbench or work truck to grab a pair of pliers that got left behind can appreciate our pick for the best backpack for staying organized. The Custom LeatherCraft 75-Pocket Tool Backpack consists of six zippered compartments and 75 individual pockets for tools and parts.

While the compartments and pockets generally won’t fit large tools, this backpack has you covered when it comes to keeping track of countless small tools and parts. And if you need even more organization, it includes a plastic parts tray. This offering comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

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Best Tool Backpack with Wheels

DeWalt Pro Backpack on Wheels

109.9815% OFF$93 at Amazon

Tools are heavy. That’s why there are tools designed to help you transport other tools. While putting wheels on toolboxes and tool bags isn’t anything new, the DeWalt Pro Backpack on Wheels does its job particularly well.

The DeWalt Pro features a pair of wheels tucked into the rear of the pack and an extendable handle—meaning it’s a backpack that you may not have to carry at all. And the removable straps stay out of your way until you need to carry the pack. It also features a dedicated, water-resistant laptop compartment and a place just for power tool batteries.

Few backpacks are as versatile and convenient, and its 21-inch height means a lot will fit into it. The only downside is the extra weight (almost 8.5 pounds) associated with having such excellent extra features.

Most Compact Tool Backpack

DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Compact Tool Bag

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A backpack with compact in its name should be good at being just that. The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Compact Tool Bag is an 11-inch wide and 15.25-inch tall tool backpack that rivals the functionality of larger packs. It does so by incorporating multiple smart storage ideas into one small package. For that reason, it is our pick for the best tool backpack in the compact category.

Its storage features include vertical side pockets for tall, skinny tools, a front bungee cord system for handling larger tools, a personal item compartment and convenient access from both sides of the main compartment. Other features include heavy-duty fabric construction, a padded carrying handle, 25 pockets and a waterproof base.

What to Look for When Buying a Tool Backpack

When looking for the best hand tools or the best way to get them from place to place, a few factors are more important than others. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or an avid DIYer, spending any time at all with an uncomfortable tool can make for a long day.

Designed to make work easier, the best tool backpacks are convenient and comfortable. However, they must be capable of doing the job as well. Look for the following essentials when deciding which tool backpack is best for your needs.

Size

Ensure the backpack you purchase has enough room for the tools you wish to carry. On the other hand, if you need a compact tool transportation solution, ensure it’s small enough.

Pockets

Decide whether the number of pockets—as well as pocket size—is appropriate for your needs and choose accordingly. In general, tool backpacks offer either many small pockets or fewer large ones.

Comfort

A tool backpack is only good if you can carry it with you where your tools are needed. It’s not fun to drag around an uncomfortable pack, and it can also hinder production.

Straps

Padded shoulder straps increase a tool backpack’s comfort, making it easy to carry when it’s packed to the brim. Some tool backpacks also have a handle on the top or side.

Material

Select a durable, waterproof material that’s resistant to tears. Polyester, tough leather and faux leather are good options. The outer coating, especially on the bottom of a tool backpack, is often molded plastic.

Durability

Durability is important for making the investment worthwhile over the long run for both DIYers and professionals.

Versatility

Sometimes needs change, and tool backpacks cost real money. If your tool needs vary with every project, ensure your pack can handle the varying demands.

Extra Features

Additional features to consider include laptop sleeves, USB ports, LED lights, padded handles, removable bases and hanging hooks.

Why You Should Trust Us

Deane Biermeier has worked in residential construction, contracting, remodeling, maintenance and home repair for over 30 years. His passion is helping clients find the potential hidden in every home’s walls and providing them with the information and tools to take control of their repair and remodeling pursuits. Biermeier enjoys creating content for Family Handyman to help readers with DIY projects and helpful tips.

How We Found the Best Tool Backpacks

After more than 30 years of dragging tools in and out of customers’ homes and constantly trying to find the best way to do it, our writer can attest to the importance of finding the right tool backpack to make the job less hassle. While this is crucial for professionals, DIYers are also familiar with procrastinating a project just because it’s difficult to get started. We evaluated numerous packs to compile this list of the best tool backpacks available to make choosing yours as easy as possible.

FAQs

Why should I use a tool backpack?

While there are many ways to get your tools from one place to another, a tool backpack makes the task easier than carrying a rigid box or taking multiple trips to carry one or two at a time. Perhaps the greatest benefits include organizing and keeping several of your tools together in a single, easy-to-grab location.

How do I keep my tool bag organized?

Keeping a tool bag organized is a learned skill. Start by keeping your most commonly used tools upfront or in external pockets that are easy to grab. To maintain organization, keep the pack zipped up on the job site to avoid getting dirt and debris inside. Refrain from putting items other than tools or parts in the pack, and develop a habit of putting each tool back in its place either immediately after use or after the job is complete.

Are there any tools that I shouldn’t place in a tool backpack?

The only tools that can’t go in a tool backpack are those that won’t fit—and many of those can be strapped to the outside. In general, it’s a good idea to remove protruding saw blades and sharp drill bits from power tools and place them in a side pocket where they won’t sustain damage or puncture the pack.

The post 8 Best Tool Backpacks for Easy Transport appeared first on Family Handyman.

Now, I reach for my Tifosi glasses almost anytime I’m heading outdoors. Whether I’m hiking, in the pool or out playing with my dog, I want sunglasses that aren’t only going to stay put on my face, but also resist breaking if they do slide off my head.

Here’s the full scoop on Tifosi sunglasses and how they perform.

What are Tifosi sunglasses?

Tifosi makes eyewear for sports and outdoor activities, from running and cycling to golfing and tennis. Several months ago, I received my first pair of Tifosis, the Svago sunglasses in polarized tortoise. The Svagos are a stylish, round lens pair of sunglasses that are shatterproof and scratch resistant. Plus, like my beloved Ray-Bans, they have brown polarized lenses that reduce glare and provide protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays.

The Svago sunglasses also have a nose pad for comfortability and increased gripping, so they don’t slide around on my face when I’m hiking—even if I’m sweating. One of my favorite features is the sunglasses’ integrated hinge that doesn’t get caught in my hair when I push the sunglasses to the top of my head in shaded, wooded areas. Bonus: I always get compliments on the Svagos when I wear them in public at sporting games and other outdoor events.

After many months of loving the Svago sunglasses, I decided to try the Rail cycling glasses and Vogel SL sport glasses, too. The Vogel SL sunglasses are just $40, and they’re made for running, baseball and golf. While they’re not polarized, I find the shatterproof, smoke-tint blackout lens keep the sun comfortably out of eyes even on the sunniest days. The Rails are a little more pricey, but they come with three interchangeable lenses for bright and low-light occasions: smoke-tinted lenses, AC red lenses and clear lenses. The Rail sunglasses are lightweight and durable, and the nose and ear pads are fully adjustable. Both the Rail and Vogel SL sunglasses provide maximum protection from debris, so you can enjoy your outdoor activity with peace of mind knowing your eyes are protected.

Below is a full pros and cons list for my beloved Svagos.

Pros

• Affordable
• Durable
• Polarized
• Shatterproof
• Glare-resistant
• No-slip fit
• Multiple color options
• Cleaning bag included

Cons

• Not adjustable, but they fit my large head comfortably

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Tifosi Svago Sunglasses

Affordable, polarized sunglasses made for any outdoor occasion.

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$25 at Amazon

Why I Love Them

My two favorite things about Tifosi sunglasses are their durability and price point. I’ve dropped my Svago sunglasses several times while moving across rough terrain, thrown them in the bottom of tote bags and hiking packs and had them ripped of my head by nieces and nephews. And after all that, still no scratches!

I love that if anything does happen to my Tifosi glasses (knock on wood), I won’t be out a small fortune. Additionally, when it comes to polarization, I don’t notice much of a difference between the polarized lenses of the Tifosi Svago glasses and other high-end glasses I own. In other words, it doesn’t feel like your sacrificing quality for affordability with Tifosi—because who wants to do that?

If you’re looking for a durable, affordable pair of sunglasses for daily or moderate outdoor activity, I recommend going with the Svago glasses. (They make a useful gift for hikers, too!) If you’re looking for sunglasses suited for golfing, cycling, baseball or similar activities, I would shop the Rail or Vogel SL sunglasses, as they offer eye protection, too.

But Don’t Take My Word for It!

The Savgo sunglasses have a near-perfect five-star rating on the Tifosi website. Here’s what real-life shoppers have to say.

Verified buyer, Lisa S., says, “I’ve been looking for a comfortable pair of sunglasses for horseback riding that last through all the sweat and bounce. These are perfection. I made it through a whole lesson without even thinking about my glasses. They didn’t slip or move once. 10/10 would purchase again.”

“I am so happy with my new glasses! This is my second pair,” shares five-star reviewer, Cathy Clough. “I love how they don’t slip on my nose or stretch out on the sides. I love the different colors and styles! Makes it hard to choose!”

Anja H., another five-star reviewer, loves them, too. “To be fair, these are my first ‘good’ pair of sunglasses (i.e. with any polarization), so of course I love them, but they’re really wonderful beyond that,” she writes. “I often step on my sunglasses or otherwise break them, but these are sturdy and strong. Additionally, these have a little rubberized piece on the nose which holds them in place perfectly. I absolutely love these! Purchased for a trip in Death Valley and they did not disappoint.”

Where to Buy Tifosi Sunglasses

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Tifosi Svago Sunglasses

Durable, stylish sunglasses designed for a range of outdoor sports and activities.

Shop on Tifosi

$25 at Amazon

The Tifosi Svago sunglasses retail for $55 ($25 for non-polarized options) while the Vogel SL and Rail glasses sell for $40 and $80, respectively. You can shop them directly from the Tifosi website or you can snag the Svago, Rail and Vogel SL styles on Amazon.

The post Meet Tifosi Sunglasses, My Go-To Affordable, Polarized Pair for Hiking appeared first on Family Handyman.

Best Overall Golf Bag Garage Storage

Suncast Rack Golf Equipment Organizer Storage

There’s a lot to like about this highly functional golf gear storage rack from Suncast. First and foremost is that it keeps all your golf gear in one place—we’re talking space for two bags, plus shelves for golf shoes, golf balls, tees and other gear. It keeps bags off the floor, yet doesn’t require wall mounting. This versatile unit is made of sturdy metal, and has adjustable feet so you can properly level is with your garage’s floor.

Pros

• Freestanding system with adjustable feet
• No wall screws or anchors required
• Quick assembly
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• May be a tight squeeze for two bags

99.009% OFF$89.99 at Amazon

Best Budget Golf Bag Garage Storage

Jef World of Golf Bag Holder

If you’re on a budget but still want to tidy up your garage, this golf bag holder from Jef World is a smart option. Available in either single or double bag sizes, this rack conveniently fits in corners and comes with an adjustable strap to keep bags in place. We like the durable metal construction, but do want to note that the holder requires some assembly. Luckily, the assembly process is reportedly not too difficult, and many customers were able to tackle the task without another set of hands.

Pros

• Won’t break the bank
• Available in single and double bag sizes
• Metal construction
• Removable shoe tray

Cons

• Could be sturdier

$139.99 at Amazon

Best Rail System Golf Bag Garage Storage

Gladiator GearTrack 12-Piece System

If your objective is straightforward—aka to get your golf clubs off the ground—this simple rail system from Gladiator is a sure bet. The kit is composed of two rails and comes with eight hooks for holding golf clubs and any other garage essentials that you’d like to keep off the ground. Colson bought a similar Gladiator system and says he likes it because “I can modify the hooks easily to hang either a golf bag or a push cart, and I can hang four bags at once.”

Pros

• Holds multiple golf bags at once
• Comes with a range of hooks
• Suitable for all sorts of garage gear
• Affordable

Cons

• 75-pound weight limit per rail

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Best Splurge Golf Bag Garage Storage

Gladiator GearTrack Golf Bag Storage Rail System

Gladiator GearTrack systems are a consistently solid choice for anyone who wants a well-organized garage. This golf bag shelving unit mounts on two rails, so it does double duty—it keeps bags off the ground and keeps the garage floor free of a bulky shelf. The good news is that the kit comes with everything you need, including the wall brackets, screws and more, to get started.

Pros

• Kit includes all needed parts
• Compact system
• Holds two standard golf bags and accessories
• Has a limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• 75-pound weight limit

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Most Versatile Golf Bag Garage Storage

Mythinglogic Golf Storage Garage Organizer

“Comprehensive” is the word that comes to mind with this multitasking golf and sports gear organizer that’s ideal for a family of athletes. The wall-mounted system holds two golf bags, with ample shelves for shoes, balls and other gear. Other racks and components hold baseball bats, hockey sticks, skates, rackets and other sports equipment, and there’s a big bin for balls. Basically, if you’re looking for a large unit that’ll give you room to grow into your favorite sport, this is it.

Pros

• Has many shelves, hooks and storage components
• Accommodates multiple sports equipment
• Additional shelves and racks can be added
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• May require two-person assembly
• Needs to be anchored to the wall

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Best Wooden Golf Bag Garage Storage

GoSports Premium Wooden Golf Bag Organizer and Storage Rack

If you’d like a more sophisticated look for your golf bag garage storage, or you just don’t like the looks of metal racks, this wooden rack is an attractive option. It holds two golf bags in separate bins, and has center shelves made to hold shoes, balls, golf towels and more. The wooden construction means it’s a good choice for indoor use, such as in a rec room, mudroom or study.

Pros

• Attractive alternative to metal
• Also available in black and white painted wood
• Suitable for garage or indoor use
• Holds two golf bags

Cons

• Wood material not suitable for damp areas

$219.99 at Amazon

Best Golf Bag Garage Storage for One

Fhxzh Golf Bag Storage Rack

This compact and portable golf bag storage rack is handy for a golfer who hasn’t accumulated a ton of gear, but still wants to keep things neat and orderly. And for a small rack, it outpunches its weight—there’s a shelf for a pair of shoes, a bin for golf balls, hooks for hats, rooms for tees and even a rack for freestanding clubs and a golf towel. Built with casters, the rack is portable, so you don’t have to commit to mounting it in one place.

Pros

• Holds one golf bag
• Compact storage rack
• Easy assembly and no drilling required
• Has four wheels

Cons

• Top-heavy with a full bag of clubs

$69.89 at Amazon

What to Look for When Buying Garage Golf Bag Storage

Golf expert Colson, who settled on a Gladiator GearTrack system, says that “knowing what I know now, I would suggest looking for the following in a golf storage system”:

• Enough space for the number of golf bags you want to store
• Shelves or baskets for shoes, hats, balls and other golf gear
• Something that keeps your gear off the ground to keep clubs from getting damaged
• Sturdy enough to handle the weight of a few loaded golf bags
• Easy to mount securely so it won’t fall

Be sure to consider how much space in your garage you can dedicate to golf gear, and whether you want this to be the permanent home for your clubs. If you’re inclined to rearrange your garage often, you may want a rolling or freestanding system rather than a wall-mounted one.

How We Found the Best Garage Golf Bag Storage

We heard from a golfing pro, and researched dozens of different garage golf bag storage options before settling on the seven best for this shopping guide. We looked at features and benefits of each system, pored over user comments and reviews, and considered price to quality ratio when making our picks.

FAQ

How do I organize my golf equipment in my garage?

How you organize your golf gear depends largely on your existing garage storage situation. If you already have shelving units or a storage wall where you can stash balls, tees, golf shoes and other equipment, then you may just be interested in getting your golf clubs off the ground. If that’s the case, then a simple rail storage system for hanging clubs may suffice. If you want to keep all of your golf gear in a single place in the garage, then a golf storage system with shelves, hooks for hats and towels, as well as compartments for clubs is a better option.

How do you organize an overwhelming garage?

Organizing a cluttered garage will probably start with a big clean-up and clean out. Donate, sell or dump items that you no longer use or that are broken beyond repair. Separate remaining items into categories, for example, hand tools and hardware, power tools, automotive gear and sports equipment. Then consult our DIY guides and ideas for garage storage and organization.

Source:

• Reid Colson, a lifelong golfer who runs Yardstick Golf and an active Reddit forum for golf enthusiasts

The post 7 Best Golf Bag Garage Storage Ideas to Keep Your Clubs Organized appeared first on Family Handyman.

Let’s just say we’re kind of obsessed with these all-terrain water shoes. For starters, you can wear them without socks near water or with socks on the trail or at the gym. If you’re like me and hesitant to buy Crocs (for various reasons), these shoes are, in my opinion, a step up from the trendy rubber shoe. Keep reading, and I’ll explain why.

What Is the Merrell Hydro Moc Water Shoe?

The Hydro Moc is a perforated, slip-on foam shoe with a strap that can be worn on top of the shoes or at the back (around the heels) in what I like to call “sport mode.” While you don’t see the Hydro Moc as frequently as Crocs or Yeezys, they do resemble shoes from the two popular footwear brands. However, I think the Hydro Moc looks sleeker on the feet and has a more comfortable, ergonomic design than most other foam and rubber shoes.

The quick-drying, water-friendly Hydro Moc is ideal for hiking and kayaking, but with renewed interest in rubber and foam slip-ons, the water shoes have become somewhat of a streetwear trend, too. They’re supportive, airy, breathable, lightweight and more.

VIA MERCHANT

Merrell Hydro Moc Water Shoe

These adventure-ready water shoes from Merrell outperform their rivals in many ways and come in a wide variety of styles and colors.

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Merrell Hydro Moc Water Shoe Features

The lightweight, performance slip-ons provide cushion at the soles of your feet and are available in both women’s and men’s sizes, as well as a range of colors from neutral tones to tie-dye patterns. There’s no lacing system on the Hydro Moc, so there’s no way to tighten or loosen it (see the Hydro Moc AT Cage 1TRL if you’re interested in a model with lacing) apart from wearing socks.

I typically wear a women’s size 10 (or 9.5, depending on the shoe), and I ordered the Hydro Moc in a women’s 10. While there is a little room to slide around, I find that the shoes fit well with the strap at the back or with socks. If you’re someone who likes your water shoes snug, I would recommend sizing down, especially if you’re in between sizes.

I like how lightweight the Hydro Moc is for packing purposes and wearing near water, In fact, it feels like you’re not wearing anything at all! Each shoe weighs less than 8 ounces, and the new Hydro Moc is made with Bloom foam, which is an eco-friendly foam comprised of 10% algae.

How We Tested Them

I was pumped when the Merrell Hydro Moc arrived at my door just before my summer fishing trip to Roaring River State Park. I wore them in and around the river, on rocky terrain and pavement, through grass and by the pool where I stayed. They did not disappoint.

These water shoes are comfy, and I love the way they’re slightly tapered toward the center and back of the shoe while being a bit wider around the toes. I never feel like my toes are getting smashed, and I can still wiggle them in the water.

I also love that I can wear them everywhere without worrying about dirtying them or scuffing them. The foam slip-ons are incredibly easy to clean and wipe down—even the white pair! I like that water doesn’t collect in or adhere to the shoes. Water rolls right off the Hydro Moc, so I could step into the river and then walk a little way down to scout a new fishing spot and my feet would be dry by the time I landed.

I tend to prefer wearing my Hydro Mocs without socks, especially around water, to keep my feet dry and feel a little airflow on my feet. However, if I were going to wear them in an area without water, I would wear them with socks to prevent sweating and slippage—though I find slippage to be minimal without socks.

The comfort lasts for hours, too. I didn’t notice any blistering or discomfort while wearing the Hydro Moc outdoors for hours at a time while on my fishing trip. As far as styling goes, I often wear mine with athleisure clothes. I think they look best with athletic shorts or leggings, but I’ve seen people rock them out and about with casual, non-athletic fits, too.

Why You Should Trust Us

Mary Henn is a shopping editor, product tester and writer for Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest and Taste of Home. She has personally tested over a hundred products, ranging from outdoor gear and DIY gadgets to mattresses and vacuums, making her the perfect candidate to speak on these water shoes. Other publications she’s contributed to include MSN, NewsBreak, Flipboard and more.

Sean Tirman, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the Merrell Hydro Moc?

Hydro Mocs are made to work in and around water, as the name suggests, but the comfy slip-ons can be worn for the gym, taking the dog out and as gardening shoes, too. They’re non-absorbent, lightweight and breathable, so they make for a smart casual shoe on most terrains.

Are Hydro Mocs worth it?

We think so! For the price point and the quality, we think the Hydro Moc makes for a solid water shoe. They’re also durable, so don’t be surprised if they last you season after season.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

With nearly 2,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating on Amazon alone, it’s safe to say people are loving the Merrell water shoes as much as we are.

Verified purchaser, Sally Foster, says, “These are absolutely the best shoes ever!!! Very comfortable and great for your feet. I work in the healthcare industry and am on my feet 10 to 12 hours a day and my feet feel great at the end of a long shift. Buy them! You will not regret it!!!”

Chaniel Dennis, a five-star reviewer, says the Hydro Moc is exactly what she needed. “Take a size down,” she suggests. “I’m glad I did. It fits perfectly. Lightweight, cute, comfortable. I love that it looks exactly like the picture. The quality is amazing.”

Verified buyer, Meredith McTague, calls them a great alternative to Crocs. “Love Crocs? Hate the price? These are for you! Get the same breathable comfort for way less,” she writes. “These also offer a bit more stability on the heel while still being easy to put on and take off. The strap can be worn on the front or flipped to back. They have [a] very vibrant color.”

Product Comparison

Compared to Crocs, Merrell’s water shoes stand out, especially for outdoor use. They have a sleeker design, cradle the foot better and are less likely to slip off—making them ideal for hiking. The shoes offer more grip and security without adding weight, boosting confidence on trails or in rivers. They’re just as comfortable as Crocs, making them a better choice unless you’re set on Crocs for their name or popularity. Overall, Merrell Hydro Mocs are the superior option.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for lightweight, breathable slip-on shoes that will function in and around water, the Hydro Moc is unbeatable. (And if you’re looking for a cooler alternative to Crocs, these are it.) Best of all? You can snag them at a reasonable price point.

Where to Buy Merrell Hydro Moc

The Hydro Moc retails from $45 to $60 on the Merrell site. You can also shop them on Amazon (sometimes for a lower price and different color options). However, we recommend going directly to Merrell for the most accurate shopping experience when it comes to sizing and color.

Wherever you decide to shop the Hydro Moc, we’re sure you’re going to love these water shoes as much as we do. They’re a solid value, and you’ll probably find them replacing your favorite slides and slip-ons by the time summer is over.

VIA MERCHANT

Merrell Hydro Moc Water Shoe

Stylistically similar to Crocs, Merrell's trail-ready alternative is far better for outdoor use, especially in the summer. These mocs are lightweight, durable, breathable and sturdy, making them excellent water-ready footwear.

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The post Merrell Hydro Moc Water Shoe Review: Unisex Pick, Beats Crocs appeared first on Family Handyman.

via merchant

Nothing wears the new Yeti colors better than the best-selling Tundra hard cooler. This large and in-charge chest comes in an assortment of measurements that fit everything from deep-water catches to game, catered lunches and a whole lot of beverages. We’re not talking a few dozen drinks, either—the biggest size fits 549 cans and up to 353 pounds of ice!

Rotomolded construction makes this cooler virtually indestructible, and T-Rex lid latches ensure there’s never a broken seal. Even better, a freezer-quality gasket locks out the cold, keeping its contents chilly through several days on the trail. It’s the best way to keep food cold while camping, period.

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Rambler Water Bottle

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Leakproof and equipped with double-walled insulation, the Yeti Rambler water bottle is the ideal way to haul along drinks. This 26-ounce tumbler offers a chip-resistant, rugged coating that keeps colors bright and contaminants out. Because it’s kitchen-grade stainless steel, it never rusts, shatters or punctures—even during the most grueling trips. Our Senior Shopping Editors, Caroline and Daria, tout this as their emotional support water bottle.

The Rambler is so popular that it’s inspired an entire line of outdoor accessories, including a party-ready ice and beverage bucket. Get it in one of the new Yeti colors before they’re gone!

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Boomer Dog Bowl

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This editor-reviewed addition to Yeti’s outdoor catalog is fit for man’s best friend. The Boomer dog bowl isn’t just attractive—it’s made from extra-strong stainless steel that protects against rough pups and accidental drops, and it’s dishwasher-safe. Pick from two sizes: four-cup or eight-cup capacities.

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Hopper Flip Cooler

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Because Yeti has a reputation as some of the best tailgating gear on the market, it’s easy to see why folks splurge on their Hopper flip cooler. Smaller than the Tundra, this soft cooler holds 30 cans, up to 28 pounds of ice or enough food for an entire day trip. Superior insulation keeps contents cold for days at a time, while a leakproof zipper stops spills. Crafted to be UV and mold-resistant, this is our go-to cooler for trips out on the water.

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Crossroads Backpack

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Whether traveling by plane or trekking on foot, the Crossroads backpack is the quintessential weekend bag. Water-resistant Tuffskin nylon allows for fuss-free traveling on the trailhead since it protects the bag from rips, tears and snagging. A large main compartment fits clothing and toiletries, while two Rambler bottle pockets provide easy access to hydration. Plus, a built-in laptop pocket fits computers up to 15 inches wide.

Cushioned shoulder straps and a no-pressure back panel prevent back pain, making the backpack an ideal pick for both hiking trips and train rides. Snag it in one of the new shades and say hello to your new “go everywhere” bag.

The post Yeti Just Launched New Colors: Cosmic Lilac and Camp Green appeared first on Family Handyman.

As if the soft-to-the-touch component wasn’t enough, each article of clothing has ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) for sun protection. Every product mentioned in this piece has been personally tested in a variety of climates on varying terrains by yours truly. My dad, brothers and friends have tested the men’s clothing.

What is Free Fly Apparel?

Free Fly Apparel is known for its versatile, buttery-soft UPF clothing. Certified organic bamboo is blended with quick-dry material for an OEKO-TEX- and FSC-certified fabric that’s odor-resistant and wicks moisture.

The founders of Free Fly worked as fishing guides in Montana and found a gap in the market with a need for simple, comfortable performance apparel. Tanner Sutton convinced his sister, Jenna, and brother-in-law, Austin, to leave their jobs and move to Charleston to further Free Fly as a family business.

“We are a family business, and to us, that runs deeper than the three of us,” shared Jenna Sutton. “At Free Fly, we want to keep things simple. Simplicity. Freedom. Comfort… That feeling when you’re just enjoying nature, that’s a feeling that everyone relates to. How can we bring that feeling of freedom back? That’s what kind of inspired Free Fly.”

Free Fly’s motto is “Comfort On. Adventure Out”—and, rightfully so. With Free Fly’s gear, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for protection while enjoying time outdoors. The brand crafts its gear with a variety of climates and destinations in mind, and it offers several different fabrics and fits. (Follow the guides on their website to discover what styles best suit your lifestyle.)

Pros

• Buttery-soft comfort
• UV protection, ranging from UPF 20 to 50+
• Quick-drying
• Breathable
• Odor-resistant
• Durable and made to last
• Vast selection of colors and materials
• Versatile to wear from boat to bar

Cons

• Must air dry, not safe for the dryer
• Fewer styles available in women’s offerings

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Why I Love It

Free Fly really is the most comfortable outdoor clothing I’ve ever worn. The bamboo blend creates buttery-soft fabric, and every bamboo article of clothing delivers UV protection with ratings from UPF 20 to 50+. Plus, the clothing is durable and made to last. I still wear pieces I purchased six years ago! I’ve hooked every single male in my life on Free Fly, and it’s my go-to gift for any male for every occasion.

When the temperatures rise, Free Fly Apparel’s quick-dry fabric keeps me cool and dry, making it smart for transitional clothing. If you’ve never experienced it, wearing bamboo feels like you’re wearing nothing. It’s the most breathable material for clothing and sheets—better than cotton, hemp, wool and synthetics.

Free Fly Apparel is crafted to be worn all day with no odors, as bamboo resists odor retention. Each piece of clothing is strategically versatile from first catch to happy hour and engineered with a specific activity in mind. Real fishing guides and outdoorsmen and women test Free Fly gear in the field.

The company places an emphasis on giving back, focusing on three initiatives: conservation, humanitarian and next-gen. They partner with Charleston Waterkeeper, Windwood Farm and OneWorld Health. And, the bamboo is renewable, free of pesticides and irrigation.

But Don’t Take My Word for It!

What sets Free Fly’s gear apart is its specialization in bamboo, and reviewers agree.

Andrew K., a five-star reviewer, says, “Bamboo believer. I have become a huge bamboo convert, difficult to go back to wearing anything else in fact.”

Regarding the men’s bamboo lightweight hoodie, Jason C. shares, “I’m going to spend the rest of my life in these shirts, so incredibly comfortable.”

It’s the best hoodie Richard M owns, and he says, “I tried several ‘fishing’ shirts, but none were comfortable. I bought two of these Free Fly on a whim. I couldn’t be happier. It’s been upwards of 90 degrees Fahrenheit while fishing in the open sun with no shade and I am still comfortable.”

From sunny Arizona, Connie T. remarks, “Great coverage in any weather, but I especially love for sunny day protection, hood up hat on. I’m a 70-year-old Arizona woman and my skin has had enough sun…I own five of this style now for year-round wear. My oldest ones are still in great shape.”

Where to Buy Free Fly Apparel

Free Fly Apparel can be purchased via the brand’s website or in person at a Free Fly dealer. Most pieces range from $75 to $100. If you don’t own a piece of Free Fly Apparel, what are you waiting for?

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Best Free Fly Apparel Products

Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie

While on the water (on a boat or inflatable kayak), a bamboo hoodie and breeze shorts are my everyday uniform—I own six of the hoodies. It serves as a buttery-soft, lightweight layer, complete with a crossover hood and thumb holes. The bamboo is breathable and odor-resistant with a UPF 20+ rating and offers an airy, relaxed fit. No wonder it has hundreds of five-star ratings!

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Breeze Shorts

Made with UPF 50+ and four-way stretch, the breeze shorts are lightweight and airy with an interior drawstring for a custom fit and a wide elastic waistband. Women’s breeze shorts offer a mid-rise fit and feature a 3.5-inch inseam.

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Latitude Shorts

The latitude short is constructed from a quick-dry fabric with a durable water-repellent finish and UPF 50+ for all-day, moisture-wicking comfort.  Men’s latitude shorts have a fixed waist with a belt loop, button closure and tapered leg with a 7.5-inch inseam.

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Elevate Hoodie

Elevate fabric was created with lightning-fast drying times in mind while prioritizing protection and durability. Enjoy extended performance with UPF 30+ for hours on the water. The Elevate Hoodie features an innovative sun cuff, crossover hood and raglan sleeves for easy movement. Pair it with polarized sunglasses for all-day sun protection.

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Bamboo Fleece Jogger

These are truly the coziest sweatpants I’ve ever owned. Crafted with bamboo fleece, the bamboo jogger features an elastic waistband with a drawstring and side pockets, and offers a tailored, slim fit just for her.

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Cloudshield Rain Jacket

The Cloudshield rain jacket is 100% waterproof and whisper-quiet with two-way stretch. Every seam on the three-layer waterproof shell is fully taped with a breathable waterproof membrane. It’s designed to be worn over light layers, ideal for travel. Both the men’s and women’s styles feature a tapered arm and sleeve.

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Breeze Jacket

Living on the coast, you’ll quickly learn that it’s always 10 degrees cooler on the water or shore. That’s when I whip out my breeze jacket, a must-have for boating and just everyday use. I sunburn very easily, and this jacket is always on my person or in my car during the summer months for that very reason.

The breeze jacket is lightweight, breathable, made from UPF 50+ and has a durable water-repellent finish. It features a hood, zippered hand pockets and two chest pockets with concealed zippers. While I typically order a small in Free Fly Apparel, I opt for a medium in jackets for a roomier fit.

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FAQ

What is UPF clothing and how does it work?

UPF denotes a fabric’s ability to fight against the sun’s rays. The higher a piece of clothing’s UPF number, the more protection it provides. If a shirt has a UPF of 50, only 1/50 of the sun’s rays can perforate through it, so it’s 98% efficient in blocking UVA and UVB rays.

Sunscreen is vital, but your clothes can also protect you from the sun. There’s no need to reapply sunscreen over areas in which you’re wearing UPF clothing—and you can enjoy the outdoors for longer. Lake days extended!

How do you wash Free Fly Apparel?

I recommend washing with cold water and a light detergent on the gentle cycle. Do not, I repeat, do not put Free Fly Apparel in the dryer. It won’t ruin your clothing after one mistake, but it shortens garments’ lifespans.

Where is Free Fly Apparel made?

Free Fly is a family business based out of Charleston, South Carolina. Products are manufactured in a few sustainable Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP)-certified factories in China and Vietnam.

Free Fly bamboo is sourced from China’s northern forests and is grown on Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified regenerative farmland. No pesticides or fertilizers are involved. When harvesting bamboo, they only take the top part to minimize replanting and soil erosion.

The post Free Fly Apparel Review: Buttery-soft UPF clothing (We Tried It!) appeared first on Family Handyman.