Latest news with #outdoors
CTV News
12 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- CTV News
12 Pieces Of Summer Picnic Gear You'll Use All Season Long
Upgrade your picnic setup with these must-haves. Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the summer. It's always fun to pack up some good bites and take them to the park to share a quick lunch with friends or a serene meal on your own with your favourite drink and a good book. If you want to ensure your picnic is the best it can be, you'll need the right gear. To help you out, we've found all the essentials you need, from blankets to baskets and beyond. Here are a few of our favourite picnic finds for 2025: You Deserve A Better Beach Chair — Here Are 11 Of Our Absolute Favourites For 2025 Everything You Need To Make Your Own Preserves And Jams At Home The Best Beach Products For Summer 2025 Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We'll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes.
WIRED
14 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- WIRED
Dyneema's New Fiber Composite Is Lighter, Stronger, and More Durable Than Ever
Jul 16, 2025 12:46 PM Hyperlite Mountain Gear and Dyneema collaborate on lighter, more durable hiking backpacks, which lets you put even more Dyneema on your Dyneema. If you went back in time 150 years and told people that in the future they will carry everything they need to live for a week on their backs, you'd get run out of town. Carrying gear is the job of horses and mules, not people! Fast forward to the present, though, and here we are, schlepping into the backcountry with the essentials on our back. Progress! The good news is that today everything you need to live for a week weighs considerably less than it did 150 years ago. The ultralight backpacking movement, born from obsessive thru-hikers and eventually widely adopted by weekend warriors, has driven innovation in the outdoor gear industry for more than 20 years. Every iteration of backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags has been lighter, stronger, and warmer. But just when you think they couldn't possibly get any better, those backpacks are getting lighter and more rugged. Today, Dyneema launches a new fabric composite called (surprise) Dyneema Woven Composite that is being used in updated backpacks by cult classic Hyperlite Mountain Gear, which is a long-time collaborator. Light as a Feather Dyneema's namesake fabric has long been noted for being not just strong, durable, and waterproof, but featherweight as well. Its new fabric, Dyneema Woven Composites, is made for the ultralight backpacking community. It melds a fully woven Dyneema face fabric to Dyneema's pre-existing composite fabric. Dyneema Woven Composites was created in conjunction with Hyperlite Mountain Gear, and for now is available exclusively in the company's core ultralight backpacks, including the Southwest, Junction, and Windrider models. Mike St. Pierre founded Hyperlite in 2009 and was one of the first manufacturers to embrace Dyneema (then known as cuben fiber). As crinkly as it was, that ultralight fabric endeared Hyperlite to backpackers. The company's minimalist, stripped-down designs and unwavering commitment to quality—my 2019 Junction pack, with hundreds of miles on it, looks like it did the day I bought it—made the company a natural fit for this collaboration. Strong as a Board Thanks to that outer layer of Dyneema, the new Woven Composite has 10 times the abrasion resistance and five times the tear resistance of the older fabric. The former statistic is particularly good news for anyone hiking in places like the desert Southwest, where brushing your pack against hard rock tends to destroy your gear quickly. The good news for those who don't like the trademark 'crinkling' sound of Dyneema? St. Pierre tells WIRED that Woven Composites are indeed quieter, with less crinkly sound than the company's older packs. The new fabric, in addition to being stronger and more durable, is also 34 percent lighter. While a few companies have previously claimed to weld Dyneema to Dyneema, the results have been disappointing, with products delaminating rather quickly in our testing. No wonder then that even Dyneema took quite a while to figure out how to make it work properly. The new fabric is the result of two years of research and development by Dyneema and Hyperlite Mountain Gear, with plenty of lab-based testing from Dyneema and real-world testing by Hyperlite's network of guides, athletes, sherpas, and thru-hikers who spend long periods of time in the backcountry. Dyneema Woven Composites fabric isn't the only change in Hyperlite's updated packs. The company has also taken user feedback from over the years and made some other changes, including a new sewn back panel and tweaks to the shoulder strap design. The pockets have also been redesigned to be more accessible, and St. Pierre tells us that the new packs feel more luxurious and more durable. We'll have a full review of the new Hyperlite Mountain Gear packs soon, after we've had a chance to put them to the test. We probably won't need that mule, after all.
CNET
14 hours ago
- Health
- CNET
Camping Tips: 10 Ways to Stay Cool While Sleeping Outside This Summer
The days are long and temperatures are high, which means it's camping season. Whether you're tent camping, glamping or backpacking, spending time outdoors and sleeping under the stars is a fantastic way to decompress and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Spending time outside has countless physical and mental health benefits. It can lower cortisol levels and stimulate the release of serotonin, often called the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. This helps to regulate mood and enhance your overall sense of well-being. It can also improve sleep quality by resetting your circadian rhythm to align with the natural rising and setting of the sun. One obvious downside to summer camping is the heat. Dr. Michael Gradisar, head of sleep science at Sleep Cycle, explains, 'Overheating during the night disrupts sleep, in the form of more frequent awakenings, night sweats and/or reduced sleep quality. For those already prone to rumination or insomnia, high nighttime temperatures act as an added stressor, making it even more likely you'll wake and struggle to drift off again. The result? Fragmented sleep and groggy warm mornings.' The good news is that there are ways to stay comfortable while camping this summer. Here are ten simple tips for keeping cool while sleeping outside. How to stay cool while camping 1. Mesh is best When camping in hot and humid conditions, choose a lightweight and breathable tent with plenty of mesh material and ventilation panels. Tents with a mesh canopy are ideal because they allow for adequate airflow and prevent heat from building up inside. If you're sharing the tent with a partner, children or pets, make sure there is sufficient space for everyone. Feeling sweaty and cramped all night is a surefire way to damper your camping experience. My two-person tent is made almost entirely of mesh, which is great for those warm summer nights outside. Aly Lopez/CNET 2. Shoo, rainfly Choosing whether to use the rainfly can significantly impact your comfort while camping. I've made the mistake of leaving it off when I shouldn't have on multiple occasions, waking up with chattering teeth to unexpected rain and snow. I've also kept the rainfly on during warm nights, leading to restless slumber in a much-too-stuffy tent. If there's no precipitation in the forecast, it's best to leave the rainfly off while sleeping on those hot summer nights. The extra airflow not only helps prevent overheating, but you'll also have a great view of the night sky above. 3. Tent location and angle Where and when you pitch your tent are crucial components for a comfortable camping experience. First, prioritize a campsite that offers plenty of shade. This will help keep you cooler and prevent your tent from accumulating heat. Consider keeping your tent disassembled during the day and reassembling it after the sun has gone down -- that way, there's less opportunity for it to heat the tent. For optimal ventilation, angle your tent so the door faces the breeze. Open all the vents and mesh windows, but ensure the door stays zipped to keep bugs out. If you want or need to use your rainfly, try one that extends past your tent door to create a small awning or shaded area in the front, which can help keep the interior cooler during the day. An awning can provide some extra shade and keep the inside of your tent cooler. Shepard/Getty Images It's best practice to go to bed and wake up with the sun while camping, as your tent will warm up quickly as soon as the sun rises. If you're trying to sleep in because you went to bed too late, you may find yourself uncomfortably tossing and turning in a stuffy tent all morning. Read more: 8 Hobbies to Boost Your Mental Wellness This Summer 4. Reflect the sun If you can't keep your tent out of direct sunlight, consider covering it with a reflective sunshade or tarp. Be mindful of the sun's movement throughout the day and adjust the tarp as needed for optimal protection. Leave space between the sunshade and your tent to prevent hot air and condensation from getting trapped. I also recommend placing a groundsheet or tarp underneath your tent. It will add an extra layer of protection between you and the hard ground and safeguard against potential rainfall. A tarp can also extend the lifespan of your tent by protecting its floor from tears and rips. 5. Use a portable fan Running a fan in your tent at night can help circulate the air and create a cool breeze, allowing you to sleep more comfortably. Portable fans come in various shapes and sizes, offering adjustable speeds and customizable airflow settings to fit your preferences. Fans designed for tent camping are typically lightweight, battery-operated (some are rechargeable) and may have hooks or clips for convenient attachment inside your tent. You'll want to consider the battery's run-time and how often you'd need to charge your fan if you're camping for multiple nights without electricity access. When setting up the fan in your tent, position it above your sleeping area rather than on the ground to avoid obstructions caused by people or gear. If your tent has vents, align the fan to draw cool air in or push warm air out through these openings. One portable option is the Coghlan's Camping Fan, which features three fan speeds, a hook for hanging and a built-in light. If you want something more powerful, check out the Shark FlexBreeze Fan, chosen by CNET editors as one of the best outdoor tech products of 2025. Air conditioning units, such as the EcoFlow Wave portable AC unit, are also available if you want to indulge a bit and your campsite situation allows for it. If you're looking for a fan to cool you down as you move around during the day, consider a wearable neck fan, which allows you to stay hands-free while enjoying a refreshing breeze. Read more: Survive the Summer Heat Wave With These Must-Have Cooling Products 6. Ditch the tent Hammocks generally sleep cooler than tents. They don't have as much insulation, and the open space between you and the ground offers more airflow and heat loss. Dillon Lopez/CNET If your camping environment is safe and the weather is clear, you might consider skipping the tent and using a hammock or trying cowboy camping instead. Cowboy camping means sleeping on the ground with a mattress pad and sleeping bag (without a tent for shelter). As always, be mindful of potential wildlife hazards and securely store any food and attractants to avoid drawing local wildlife to your campsite. 7. Skip the sleeping bag Most sleeping bags are designed to provide insulation and warmth. Unless you have a breathable warm-weather sleeping bag, you might want to ditch it altogether. Instead, pack a lightweight sheet made of moisture-wicking materials such as linen, bamboo or cotton. Check out our list of the best cooling sheets for hot sleepers in 2025, tested and approved by CNET experts. You can also stick your feet out from the sheet as you sleep, which will help regulate your core body temperature. 'As the body prepares for sleep, it naturally releases heat, especially from the hands, feet and face. This cooling coincides with increased sleepiness. But when your environment is too warm, your body can't shed heat effectively, making it harder to fall and stay asleep,' says Gradisar. 8. Stay hydrated Though it seems obvious, I cannot emphasize this enough: stay hydrated. The risk of dehydration increases as you move and sweat throughout the day, which can lead to serious issues like dizziness, fatigue and reduced cognitive functioning if you're not drinking enough water. Engaging in activities during your camping trip, such as hiking, swimming, biking or even playing outdoor games, can be physically demanding, making it even more important to stay hydrated. The general rule of thumb is to bring two gallons of water per person for each day of camping. This estimate includes the water you'll need for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Before you head out on your trip, check if the campground has a potable water system where you can refill. If you're hiking and camping in the backcountry, locate your water sources along the way, such as lakes, rivers and streams. Water is remarkably heavy -- bring a filtered water bottle or Lifestraw so you can refill and stay hydrated on the go without having to carry excess water weight. I highly recommend the Grayl GeoPress Purifier Water Bottle, which filters quickly and efficiently. If you have the capacity, pack more water and ice than you think you'll need -- especially at higher elevations, where dehydration can occur quickly. If you plan to consume alcohol, be sure to drink plenty of water to help offset its diuretic effects. Additionally, keep in mind that alcohol can affect your sleep quality. 'Even moderate alcohol intake exacerbates the likelihood of waking from sleep,' explains Gradisar. Read more: Best Filtered Water Bottles of 2025 As a salty gal, I love the citrus salt flavor of the LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix. Aly Lopez/CNET It also doesn't hurt to bring some electrolyte powder. Electrolyte packets can help you stay hydrated by replenishing the essential minerals you need to function properly. My personal favorite and one of CNET's best electrolyte powders of 2025 is LMNT. 9. Rinse off before bed If your campsite offers showers, rinse off before bed. Showering can help lower your core body temperature, which signals to your brain that it's time for sleep. If there are no showers, consider dipping in a natural body of water nearby, wiping down with potable water or using wet wipes or cooling towels. 10. Protect yourself during the day To help stay cool while you sleep at night, focus on keeping your body comfortable throughout the day. Wear airy, breathable, moisture-wicking, light-colored clothing to protect your skin from the sun's intense rays. Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your scalp, face and eyes. Finally, remember to apply sunscreen multiple times a day. The last thing you want is to add the discomfort of a sunburn on top of an already hot and stuffy tent situation. I've been bringing the Badger Daily Mineral Sunscreen on my recent camping trips, which is one of our top-rated sunscreens by CNET editors. Aly Lopez/CNET Other gear to bring camping this summer How you camp and what you bring is entirely up to you -- you can go super minimal or pack the car to the brim as if preparing for the apocalypse. Regardless of your setup, your trip will be significantly improved if everyone stays safe and comfortable with the right gear and equipment. Here are a few other camping products I use and recommend having on hand. Bear canister: If you live in bear country or are planning to enter bear territory, a bear canister is a must (unless your campsite provides bear boxes). For guidance on selecting the right one, check out this fun and informative article by Outdoor Life that evaluates the best bear canisters tested by actual grizzly bears. Bear canisters can also help prevent smaller animals, like chipmunks, pikas and marmots, from getting into your bag and accessing your food. Handheld GPS and/or satellite communicator: If you're heading into the backcountry, consider investing in a handheld GPS or satellite communicator. These devices offer accurate navigation in remote areas and can help you safely trek through unfamiliar terrain. In an emergency, a satellite communicator allows you to send distress signals and communicate with rescue services. These tools provide an added layer of security and peace of mind during your adventure, enabling you to stay connected while exploring and enjoying the remote beauty of the wilderness. If you have an iPhone 14 or later, you can also use Emergency SOS via satellite to contact emergency services in remote areas without cell service. I had to use this feature recently on a hike and was impressed by how well it worked. Portable power bank: It's fun to go off-grid and disconnect from the 'real world' while camping, but being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is important. I've found myself in multiple situations where it would have been highly beneficial -- and even potentially life-saving -- if my phone battery hadn't been dead. While I still put my phone on airplane mode to focus on living in the moment during camping and backpacking trips, I now also make a point to keep at least one person in the group's phone charged in case of emergencies. Read more: Best Power Banks for iPhones in 2025 Insect repellent: Avoid setting up camp near stagnant water, as it increases humidity and attracts unwanted insects such as mosquitoes. There's nothing worse than being too hot and getting eaten alive by bugs. I like the EPA-registered Natrapel Insect Repellent for keeping mosquitoes, ticks and other insects away.
CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Save $400 With This Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar-Powered Smartwatch Deal Before It's Gone
If you're looking for a smartwatch that's built for the rough and tumble of the great outdoors, look no further. The rugged and solar-powered Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is designed to go wherever you go, and keep ticking along no matter how long you're there. This watch means business, and so does this limited-time deal that slashes the usual $900 asking price all the way down to just $500. Keep in mind that this is a limited-time deal, so we can't promise it'll stick around for long. This smartwatch can use solar energy to extend its battery life, which means that you won't need to reach for the charger quite as often. In fact, using solar charging, you can expect your battery to run for weeks, rather than days. You won't get that from an Apple Watch. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. On the fitness front, there is support for tracking your HRV and blood oxygen levels, while morning reports and training readiness features give you a better understanding of how your body reacts to activity. Garmin preloads the watch with thousands of golf courses and ski resorts worldwide, ready for tracking, and you can monitor other fitness activities on the go as you'd expect. Other features include a heady built-in LED flashlight and a strong scratch-resistant sapphire display crystal to keep your watch looking as good as new. Why this deal matters There is no shortage of smartwatches for you to choose from, but Garmin's are definitely oriented towards the explorer. That's why they have such long battery life and strong activity-based features. That also means that they can be costly, which makes this deal all the more important. Just make sure to order your new Garmin smartwatch soon if you want to avoid missing out.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Gardening experts says 'do this urgently' as heat bomb turns weather maps red
Tending to your garden in the summer can be quite the task, with a list of chores that's as long as your arm. Whether it's snipping away at blooms, harvesting your home-grown produce, or leaving grass cuttings on the lawn to prevent it from scorching, there's no shortage of work to be done in the great outdoors. But among the most crucial of these tasks is ensuring your garden gets enough water. READ MORE: New Covid strain with unique symptom now dominant in the UK READ MORE: Pharmacist issues heatwave warning to anyone who takes these five medications During spells of hot weather, it's vital to water your plants, as the sun can quickly parch the topsoil, putting your greenery at risk. However, watering is not always as straightforward as reaching for the watering can or hose. It's essential to consider the timing of your watering to maximise hydration for your plants. Some green-fingered gurus even suggest immersing mushrooms in water to give your plants an extra nutrient boost during heatwaves. Yet, while you're busy making sure your lawn and plants don't wilt under the sun's relentless rays, there's another aspect of gardening that's often overlooked when temperatures soar. In a recent Instagram video, gardening aficionado @cookseyfarms issued a reminder to all those with green thumbs, stating: "Don't forget - your compost needs to be watered too sometimes!". Many green-fingered enthusiasts swear by homemade compost, utilising everything from weeds and shredded wood to vegetable scraps. Not only does compost enhance soil structure, but the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) also highlights its ability to increase moisture retention in soils that drain quickly. However, if your compost becomes dry, it won't be much use in your garden. The beneficial bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter require moisture, making it difficult for dry compost to decompose and fulfil its purpose. In a video shared by @cookseyfarms, the gardening aficionado captioned: "Dry compost compost! Maintaining the proper water levels can ensure your compost stays active." If you notice your compost starting to dry out, give it a good watering, but avoid soaking it. While it's crucial to keep it moist, overly wet compost can decompose slower and emit an unpleasant odour. "It shouldn't be sopping wet, just like a wrung-out sponge," advised @cookseyfarms. If your compost is too damp, the RHS recommends adding more dry material such as chopped wood, woodchip, straw or even shredded paper to help soak up the excess moisture.
