Latest news with #Smartwool
Yahoo
25-07-2025
- Yahoo
I hike when it's 30°C outside. How? This merino wool gear helps keep me cool
I'm an avid hiker and I tested top-rated hiking gear from Smartwool. Any seasoned hiker will tell you that lightweight, breathable apparel makes a load of difference on the trail, especially during the sweltering summer months — I certainly am among them. Over the past year, I have trekked 500 kilometres of the Camino de Santiago, hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and done dozens of one-off hikes in Ontario and Alberta. I'm an all-season hiker (we Canadians aren't afraid of winter!), but I find that I get out the most often during summer. Quick shop: I live in southern Ontario, which, temperature-wise, means summer hikes often hover around 30°C, not including humidity. As long as I'm well-hydrated (this Yeti truly keeps drinks cold for hours), the heat doesn't bother me too much, but wearing the right clothes is a huge part of that. When I first got into hiking, I would head out in any old T-shirt and leggings. Over the years, I've swapped out my heavy cotton tees for those made of ultralight performance fabrics and my leggings for adjustable bottoms laden with pockets. The result is longer, more comfortable hikes, wearing materials that shed moisture rather than lock it in. There are several brands that I love and wear often, depending on where I'm headed and for how long. One brand, in particular, that I've been wearing this summer is Smartwool. Like all hiking brands worth their salt, Smartwool uses merino wool in most of its products, which is essential for managing moisture, regulating temperature and keeping out odours. Merino wool was my go-to choice on the Camino and remains so today. I had the chance to test Smartwool's merino gear for summer hiking. Keep scrolling to read my honest reviews of the brand's Women's Active Ultralite Short Sleeve, Women's Active Mesh Racerback Tank and Women's Merino 4" Hike Short.
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Travel + Leisure
24-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
These Wool Socks Survived a 24-hour Travel Day—Plus, 6 More Pairs We Love
Whether for lounging, embarking on a cold-weather endeavor, or hiking in warm temperatures, wool socks are always my top choice. I personally love wool socks from Smartwool and Ibex for all types of trips and adventures. Wool is known to be far superior when it comes to a do-it-all material. With its moisture-wicking properties and ability to regulate temperatures, wool is an ideal material for socks. Since the fibers are particularly travel-friendly, we tested 15 pairs of wool-blend socks. We evaluated them for comfort, fit, quality, and breathability. From sightseeing to sitting on a plane, these are the wool socks that impressed us most with a high-quality feel and comfortable fit. Credit: L.L. Bean The Adults' Merino Wool Ragg Socks earned top points in our tests, landing them as our best overall pick. We wore these socks for more than 24 hours straight during a long-haul flight (and extra-long travel day) to Europe. After clocking more than 20,000 steps in one day while wearing these socks, we noticed that they maintained their shape well, with minimal shrinkage or stretching. Their stretch added to the comfort level, and we found them to be fantastic at temperature regulation. We appreciated that they stayed in place and didn't bunch up. Though they are on the thicker side, it's important to decide what kind of shoes you will use them with regularly. Even when our feet became warm, they did a great job of keeping moisture away, so our feet didn't feel sweaty. We also really like that they come in a two-pack. After a short time of wearing the socks, there were some loose threads, but nothing excessive. The Details: S-XL | Crew length | 77 percent Merino wool, 21 percent stretch nylon, 2 percent Lycra elastane blend Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Smartwool These running socks performed so well that our testers used them for everything from daily runs and hikes to a half-marathon. We found them to be very soft and extremely comfortable to wear, with no blisters, hot spots, or bunching, perfect for high-impact activities. Since they are crafted from about half Merino wool and half synthetic fabric, they are breathable yet stretchy, which is key for runners. Light cushioning maximizes comfort and support in the arch of your foot, while keeping its thin profile. The ankle height works well for running shoes or low hiking shoes. We appreciated that our feet didn't feel sweaty, even on longer runs, thanks to their moisture-wicking properties. They've also held up over time, staying true to their size after several washes, with no shrinking or stretching evident. The Details: S-2XL | Ankle length | 55 percent Merino wool, 43 percent nylon, 2 percent elastane Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Falke We love the luxurious feel of the Falke Cosy Wool Socks, as well as the numerous color options they come in. The material is super soft and breathable, and it kept our feet dry and odor-free. Made from a blend of wool, cashmere, and synthetic fabrics, we found them to be exceptionally soft and breathable, making them ideal for a cozy day at home in pajamas. We did notice small signs of pilling and some stretching out after a couple of washes, making them more appropriate for casual lounge wear. We think these would be the perfect pair of socks to slip on during a long-haul flight when you want a touch of coziness and luxury. The Details: Sizes 5-7.5 to 8-10.5 | Crew length | 31 percent wool, 27 percent rayon, 24 percent polyamide, 18 percent cashmere Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: ONDO No-show socks have a reputation for not staying put, but we found that wasn't the case with the Ondo Merino Wool No Show Socks. The fit was superior, and we found them to have fantastic breathability with impressive odor control. While these socks are very thin, their standout feature is their ability to stay in place, so you don't have to keep pulling them up. This is thanks to the sticky grip on the back of the sock that worked effectively during our real-world testing. We appreciated the reinforced toe, which should help with their longevity. Combined with their moisture-wicking capability as well, these proved to be the perfect pair of discreet socks to wear with comfy flats to slip-on sneakers. During our tests, we noted that they run large, so you may want to size down. The Details: XS-XL | No-show length | 67 percent Merino wool, 27 percent nylon, 6 percent spandex Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Icebreaker $21 $15 at Amazon View on The Icebreaker Merino Lifestyle Crew Casual Wool Socks earned high praise for being very comfortable when worn for long days in a variety of settings. We wore them for everything from commuting to hiking or biking, and they performed well. During our tests, we found that they were durable with high-quality construction that maintained their shape even after several washes. We liked the fit and appreciated that they stayed up. While they are more suitable for colder temperatures, we found them to be breathable, and they didn't leave our feet sweaty. They offer some support in the ankle and arch, and the wool fabric didn't pill or shed. The Details: S-XL | Crew length | 64 percent wool, 34 percent nylon, 2 percent elastane Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: REI What's better than one good pair of socks? Four pairs of good socks, of course. We found the Bombas Merino Wool Blend Quarter Sock 4-pack to be comfortable and true to size, with a snug enough fit to stay up and prevent bunching. They are great for lounging or as an everyday sock, and have great moisture-wicking capabilities. During our tests, we found them to be breathable despite being on the slightly thicker and warmer side. They feel high quality despite showing signs of wear after washing them multiple times, though it didn't affect their functionality. The Details: S-L | Quarter length | 81 percent Merino wool, 17 percent polyester, 2 percent elastane Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Darn Tough View on REI $25 at Zappos $25 at Travel + Leisure editor Taylor Fox wore these socks while hiking the Camino de Santiago, and was impressed by how comfortable these were. During our tests, Fox found these hiking socks to be an ideal height, coming over the top of her hiking boots without being too tall. She appreciated how soft the fabric felt, with ample cushioning and insulation. On her hikes, Fox noticed that they stayed in place and didn't experience any hotspots or uncomfortable seams. Though she didn't find them to be as breathable as other models, Fox still didn't end up with sweaty feet or odor after use. Even after hiking in them for a year, they remain durable and high quality with no holes or fraying. The Details: S-L | Crew length | 54 percent nylon, 43 percent Merino wool, 3 percent Lycra spandex Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure
Tom's Guide
10-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
7 Backcountry outdoor gear deals that blow Amazon Prime Day out of the water
Amazon isn't really known for having a highly curated selection of high-end hiking gear or technical outerwear, but Backcountry is. Best of all, amid the massive Amazon Prime Day sales event, Backcountry is having its own wallet-busting flash sale with some of my favorite gear from Columbia and Marmot reduced by as much as 65% off. The most impressive deal is on the Marmot half-zip fleece. Normally $114, this cozy, technical layer is only $40 right now on Backcountry, with both men's and women's styles eligible for savings. That's not all, my favorite Smartwool Hiking Socks are 35% off, and Camelbak Vacuum Mugs are just $16. That's just scratching the surface! Find details and links to these deals and more below. This slim, cup-holder-friendly vacuum-insulated travel mug boasts 16 ounces of capacity for hot or cold beverages and features an easy-sip cap, making it a fab travel companion. Also, doesn't it look snazzy AF in that metallic 'Moss' Green? My favorite comfortable, breathable, warm, and long-lasting Merino wool hiking socks don't go on sale all that often, so don't let this deal walk on by. Sorry, dudes, this bargain is ladies' only. Little waistpacks are supremely handy, especially come summertime, when you've got the essentials to carry but limited pocket real estate. For less than $20, the Eastpak Spring Pack is here to rescue you from this conundrum with a wide range of eye-pleasing colorways to choose from, both on sale and full price. If you'd prefer a pack with lots of separate compartments for greater organization than the Eastpak above, consider this fresh-looking option from Dakine. While I don't personally own the Jagger Hybrid, I do own several other Dakine packs, which have served me well over the years. So, I have no doubt this bad boy will meet your needs, too. A comfy, stylish and warm Columbia fleece jacket for just $34? That's right, folks. This deal, available for the guys, applies to three styles, ranging from timeless to funky-fun, with tons of sizes still available... for now. Marmot may not be as big a brand as Patagonia or Columbia, but maybe it should be, because its outerwear is just as good. This ultra-plus half-zip fleece, for instance, is packed with features, highly rated, and a whopping 65% off. Choose from two discounted styles. Guys can also take advantage of the 65% off Marmot Half-Zip Fleece deal on with just one style, but plenty of sizes still on offer. Trust me, you'll thank me when you're snug as a bug in a rug this fall in your new, wallet-friendly fleece. (You're welcome).
CNN
13-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
I'm a self-proclaimed sweaty gal. Here are my favorite products for keeping cool during summer workouts
With the temperatures up and the sun out, I love getting out of the gym and adding more outdoor workouts into my weekly exercise rotation. From running by the water to doing an alfresco yoga class, swimming some laps in the pool or getting in a HIIT workout on some grass, there's just something gratifying about sweating it out in the great outdoors. But as you get your blood pumping and feel the heat take its toll, making sure you stay cool is paramount to ensure you can enjoy every outdoor workout you set out on. As the days get longer and hotter, I'm making some much-needed swaps to my workout wear and wellness routine to beat the heat. Ahead, I've compiled 18 cooling exercise products I'll be reaching for again and again this summer to keep me comfortable no matter the weather. Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Shorts The first thing I do when temperatures start to rise is dig out my running shorts from the back of my closet. Sometimes it's just too hot to wear leggings, and these Lululemon Fast and Free shorts have been my favorite for the last few summers. They've gotten an update this year too, with more color options and an even lighter feel. As long as you're not afraid to show a little thigh, these shorts will keep you moving and stay in place for miles upon miles. Smartwool Active Mesh High-Neck Tank If I'm running or moving outside, I prefer to do it in just a sports bra if I can (the fewer layers on my skin, the better). But for casual strolls or games like tennis, golf or pickleball where shirts are required, I reach for this Smartwool tank made from a merino wool blend. Though you might think of wool as a cold weather material, wool blends can be excellent for summer since they're breathable, quick-drying and odor-resistant. Related article The best sun-protective clothing, according to dermatologists and outdoor expertsGymshark Adapt Fleck T-Back Bra Speaking of sports bras, I've been a longtime fan of the ones from Gymshark, as they stay in place and hold up well over time. For summer, I try to keep things open and airy when I can, and this T-back-style bra is perfect for outdoor yoga or HIIT sessions. Unlike other T-back or halter bras I've seen, I like that this one has adjustable straps for dialing in the tightness and support to just where you need it. Nike Dri-Fit Club Unstructured Featherlight Cap I wear a hat year-round for both indoor and outdoor workouts. It keeps hair and sweat out of my face, and during the summer, it protects my head and scalp from the sun. Ball caps made of cotton can get weighed down and stained with sweat, which is why I like these exercise-specific hats from Nike. Made of breathable, sweat-wicking material, this hat keeps my head from getting too hot and the Velcro strap keeps it securely in place while I move. Bombas Women's Cushioned No-Show Socks Unless I'm headed for the trails and need hiking socks, my tall crew socks generally get retired for the summer season. These Bombas socks are a more cushioned version of our best-tested no-show socks, and I like that they stay in place, have extra padding for my feet and keep a low profile in my exercise sneakers. Knockaround Campeones Sunglasses Because I almost always have a hat on when I workout, I tend to forego workout sunglasses. But they're definitely a great idea for runners, bikers or anyone else who doesn't want to deal with squinting and shielding their face. You don't have to drop a fortune to get a good pair either. These Knockaround glasses are our pick for best budget running sunglasses. They're lightweight, offer 100% UV protection and have water- and oil-resistant coatings that our tester said helped prevent sweat droplets and fingerprints from clouding their field of our review First Aid Beauty Anti-Chafe Stick If you have thicker thighs, you know the start of summer and the onset of shorts season correlates to a much higher potential for chafing. An anti-chafe stick can be a lifesaver for outdoor activities like running, hiking or even just walking around. This First Aid Beauty stick is my current go-to with a creamy and clear application that prevents unsightly and uncomfortable bumps or burns. Hawaiian Tropic Everyday Active Clear Spray Sunscreen SPF 30 As leggings turn to shorts and long-sleeved shirts turn to tanks, it's important to keep every inch of your skin protected from the sun. Before heading out for jogs or any outdoor errands, I make sure to apply a healthy dose of sunscreen to all exposed skin. A spray sunscreen — like this best-tested Hawaiian Tropic one — makes it easy to get every nook and cranny covered. Plus, we love this one's lightweight feel and pleasant coconut scent. Read our review Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 If you don't already have a daily face sunscreen, summer is the time to get one. This affordable Blue Lizard mineral sunscreen is dermatologist-recommended and safe for those with sensitive skin. I used this sunscreen on a recent trip to Mexico, and though it takes some work to fully rub the reef-safe formula into the skin, it never stung my eyes or irritated my face, no matter how sweaty I got. Degree Clinical Protection Antiperspirant As a self-proclaimed sweaty gal, I like a strong antiperspirant for both my workouts and day-to-day summer activities. This Degree one gets the job done and dries quickly, so you can get where you need to go and smell good while doing it. Lume Whole Body Women's Unscented Deodorant Spray Sometimes, underarm deodorant just doesn't do enough to keep you feeling fresh. That's where this whole body deodorant from Lume comes in. You can apply this to any place you tend to feel sweaty like your feet, back, chest or privates. The spray bottle ensures a quick, mess-free application, and the formula helps eliminate odors so you can tackle everything from workouts to daily errands with more confidence. Grand Tongo DEET-Free Insect Repellent I'm great about remembering to slather myself in sunscreen, but the itchy, red bug bites up and down my legs will tell you I'm not good at remembering my insect repellent. Whether you're doing an outdoor yoga class at dawn, going on a trail run or stretching in the evening air, spraying on a layer of insect repellent is a good idea. We tested this Grand Tongo repellent earlier this year and liked that it comes in both fresh scented and fragrance-free options and applies without leaving a greasy feeling on the skin. Read our reviewRelated article I tried the viral Bug Bite Thing to see if it really works. Here's what I thinkMission Original Cooling Towel I'd never used a cooling towel until last spring when I reviewed them for our best-tested story, and this Mission Instant Cooling Towel was my favorite of the bunch. Not only does it get incredibly cool in just a few seconds but the brushed microfiber material is soft and comfortable against the skin. It might be a little big to take on a run, but it's an excellent tool to keep in your tennis, golf or yoga bag for when your skin needs some relief. Read our review Nomadix Tiny Towel, 3-Pack These tiny towels from Nomadix have helped me out more times than I can count when I'm physically dripping with sweat. They're small enough to tuck in a pocket or running pouch but still large enough to easily wipe sweat away from your face, neck or anywhere else. They're super-portable sweat towels that can give you the instant refresh you need to continue your workout this summer. Hydro Flask 32-Ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottle Everyone needs a good water bottle to help hydrate in the heat, and Hydro Flask makes some of the best ones around. I pack this 32-ounce bottle when I head to the gym, park or pool, and the built-in carrying handle makes it easy to tote around even when I don't have a bag with me. CamelBak 50-Ounce Hydrobak Hydration Pack On especially hot or humid days, I like knowing I have water at the ready whenever I need it, and this 50-ounce hydration pack holds enough fluid to comfortably support my summer long runs. It also has a small pocket for holding my keys or running gels, and the main compartment is roomy enough to hold a phone or small towel too. Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds I use these Powerbeats Pro headphones almost every day and prefer their exercise-specific design to over-ear or on-ear headphones that I tend to find too bulky for working out. These earbuds provide great sound and secure behind my ears to stay in place during workouts of varying intensities. Plus, they're sweat- and water-resistant, so I don't worry about them getting damaged during my runs or weightlifting sessions. You can also grab the newly released and updated Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds. Tailwind Nutrition Rapid Hydration Electrolyte Powder Variety Pack, 15-Count You really can never be too hydrated, especially during the hottest days of summer. Dropping an electrolyte powder packet, like these ones from Tailwind Nutrition, into my water bottle helps me properly prepare for my workouts and recover faster once I get home. They taste great as well, so you can actually look forward to getting to use them. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy rounded up a list of products she uses to help keep cool during her warm weather outdoor workouts.
Vancouver Sun
06-06-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
Exceptional Father's Day gifts at every budget
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Father's Day in Canada falls on June 15 this year — still plenty of time to find the perfect gift for the father figure in our lives. Whether that person is your birth father, adoptive dad, uncle, grandfather, important friend, husband, partner or dog dad, we're here to help you find the ideal gift. You can also check out Amazon's Canada Showcase for some great Canadian-made gift ideas. Each of the products on this list has been tested by the Shopping Essentials team and we're happy to verify that they are top quality, excellent at what they do and priced appropriately. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Why buy: This proudly Canadian company is Fairtrade certified, meaning producers are paid a fair wage and the company is committed to sustainably. The brand processes coffee at its Ottawa roastery. You can order Bridgehead Coffee on Amazon, making things convenient and speedy. We recommend the Centro House blend , a full medium roast that delivers a flavourful, smooth and consistent profile, great for all coffee lovers. You can also find more of our picks in our guide to the best Canadian coffee brands. Price: $20 Where to buy: Amazon | Bridgehead Coffee Why buy: If you really want to impress your coffee-loving giftee, go for this subscription service which offers a new coffee each month with a plan that is completely personalized to their preferences. You'll need to answer a few questions on behalf of your giftee, such as coffee type (ground, whole or pods), grind type (which machine they use to make coffee), roast preference (light, medium or dark), number of bags per shipment and how often you'd like for them to receive it. Price: $9-28 per shipment Where to buy: Atlas Coffee Club Why buy: Flexitol offers some of the best dry-skin lotions we've tested. Going into the summer months it's important to hydrate our skin, especially after time spent in the sun. This lotion is like magic. If your giftee has dry feet or heels, opt for the Heel Magic . Price: $19 Where to buy: Amazon | Shoppers Drug Mart Why buy: These are not your average socks. These lightly cushioned hiking, trekking, biking, and all-around adventure socks are made with more than 50 per cent merino wool, meaning they are soft, sustainable, moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. They have a performance-oriented fit with a 'Virtually Seamless Toe' for added comfort and Smartwool's much-loved 'Indestructawool tech' for enhanced durability. \ Price: $33 Where to buy: Amazon | Smartwool | MEC Why buy: These reusable food-grade silicone pouches may be designed to replace plastic sandwich bags, but they are perfect for travel. They are lightweight, fit toiletries perfectly and won't take up space in a bag or suitcase. Your giftee can use them for snacks too, of course. They're BPA, BPS, lead, latex and phthalates free and offer a leak-free pinch loc seal system. Best part? They're dishwasher, microwave and oven safe up to 425 F. Price: $82 Where to buy: Stasher | Amazon Why buy: Ensure your special guy smells amazing at all times. This extra-strength natural deodorant is formulated for 24-hour protection and comes in a variety of swoon-worthy scents. Our favourites are the Santal & Vetiver and the Eucalyptus & Cedarwood. A combination of hyaluronic acid and seaweed extracts act to moisturize while neutralizing odours. Aluminum, alcohol, parabens and phthalates free. Price: $27 Where to buy: Salt & Stone | Sephora Why buy: This t-shirt is made from 55 per cent hemp and 45 per cent recycled polyester, making it just about as sustainable as they come. We love Canadian clothing brand Tentree not only because the clothing quality is great, but because of its commitment to plant ten trees (see what they did there?) for every item purchased. All products are made with an Earth-first approach — think Fairtrade, sustainably sourced materials and safe working conditions. Price: $55 Where to buy: Tentree Why buy: The perfect lightweight blanket to keep in the car for all impromptu adventures, be it the beach, the river, a picnic or camping. Made from salvaged sleeping bag fabric, the nylon ripstop is durable and easy to care for. Worry less about spills and getting dirty — just throw the blanket into the washing machine for a deep clean. The blanket is covered in DWR (durable water repellent) treatment to shed light rain easily and includes 100 per cent recycled insulation to keep you warm during cool summer nights. Stuff it into the included pouch for easy carrying. Price: $80 Where to buy: MEC Why buy: This bundle includes three pairs of boxer briefs and two pairs of crew socks — but these aren't your typical basics. The undies are crafted from 100 per cent modal, making them three times softer and more breathable than your average cotton knickers. Give your man chafe-free comfort during exercise and say sayonara to pilling. The crew socks are a combo of cotton, nylon and spandex, helping them stay put. Both are editor-tested and approved. Price: $91 Where to buy: Manmade Why buy: The Norvan run collection is built for performance — expect comfort and breathability, plus the high quality we've come to expect from Arc'teryx. Great for running, training or any type of movement. The tank is made from soft, high-performance fabric on the front with ultralight mesh on the back, making for ideal airflow as your giftee moves. Special seams and finishes minimize chafe and the tank is patterned to remove restriction. Price: $110 Where to buy: Arc'teryx | MEC Why buy: These lightweight joggers have four-way stretch and are sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They're a good-for-everything kind of pant, made with zips at the cuffs and tapered fit. A stand-out feature is the reflective trim for added visibility on late night or early morning runs. Price: $128 Where to buy: lululemon Why buy: If you haven't heard of On Running yet — get ready. Creeping up in popularity to compete with trendy Hoka , On is becoming known for high-performance gear inspired by athletes and backed by Swiss engineering. And boy, can the Swiss engineer. The Cloudsurfer Trail shoes are fast and lightweight trail runners the brand offers. Price: $200 Where to buy: On Running Why buy: This versatile 27L pack is great for a day trip around the city or out in the wilds of Canada and beyond. Its minimalist design makes it an easy choice for most dads and it comes with multiple pockets so your giftee can organize all of their belongings into neat little pouches. It comes with an internal sleeve for either a laptop or a hydration reservoir. Comes complete with a padded back and adjustable side pockets for water bottles, cameras or cell phones. Price: $280 Where to buy: Yeti Why buy: This solar-powered watch is well worth the splurge for the one you love. The Solios watch that started it all, the Solar Classic combines green technology with elegance and durability for a minimal piece that he'll keep forever. The solar cell allows the watch to recharge by itself and comes equipped with a six-month energy reserve so dad can forget about watch batteries. The face is protected by hardened mineral glass and a sapphire crystal coasting to limit wear and tear. The brand is committed to sustainability, restoring one acre of rainforest for every watch sold. Price: $340 Where to buy: Solios Why buy: If you're close to your giftee, this gift is for you both. The Weber Traveler packs outstanding cooking performance you'd expect from the Weber brand, in an easy-to-transport package. Bring this grill along to the beach, the park or your friend's backyard. It folds down for minimal storage and fits neatly into the trunk of a small car. Plus, it's on wheels, so no huffing and puffing when carrying it from the car to the final destination. If you really want to splurge, check out our comprehensive list of the best grills . Price: $499 Where to buy: Weber | Home Depot | Canadian Tire Shopping Essentials , a category written by research-obsessed shopping fanatics, is now on . Explore in-depth product reviews, expert recommendations and exciting collaborations — plus get behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and trending products — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter . ltaveroff@
