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Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- 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@
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Travel + Leisure
29-05-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
As a Lifelong Camper, I've Learned These Genius Tricks to Get the Best Night's Sleep at the Campground—From $8
It's hard to put a value on a good night's sleep at the campsite. Sure, the daytime is when many of my fondest camping memories are made, but it's a lot harder to experience the beauty of the outdoors after spending a night shivering or sweating thanks to a sudden change in weather. As an outdoor gear expert and lifelong camper and hiker, I've had plenty of miserable nights in every season, but those experiences taught me many handy tips and hacks for sleeping like a baby, no matter the climate or terrain. From big-ticket swaps like insulated camping tents to small, affordable tricks like a packable fan, there are so many ways to enjoy more seasons to camp in comfort. Despite all my experience, it's impossible to spend time outdoors without learning something new every time, so I'm always discovering clever methods to camp. Follow along while I reveal my favorite nighttime camping hacks for every season, from spring to winter, pulling from top-rated brands like Sea to Summit, Smartwool, and The North Face. I'm sure you'll end up with a brand new set of tricks up your sleeve, too. I got my first backpacking setup from REI when I was 12 or 13, and the chipper employee helping me handed me this exact sleeping bag liner, telling me I'd never regret it. At the moment, I thought it was a polite upsell, but it quickly became one of my favorite items in my camp sleep system. During the springtime, when temperatures can drop at night, this liner is a lifesaver. When it's unseasonably warm, simply pop the liner out of your sleeping bag and use this by itself. Marmot knows how to make an excellent sleeping bag, and its Always Summer line is designed to offer flexibility during shifting seasons. Meant to keep you cozy down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, this Marmot sleeping bag is the best option for cool, but not cold, weather. Side zippers on both edges of the bag allow you to choose how much ventilation you'd like, and a unique footbox zipper opens up to let your toes breathe if they're starting to get hot. The entire bag can unzip to become a quilt if that's more your speed. I've tried out a lot of tents, and this one is my current go-to for the season. Designed to hold its own in all seasons, the REI Co-op's half dome handles most any weather with ease. For spring camping, I'm keeping an eye out for shelters that offer top-notch waterproofing without sacrificing ventilation. With a sturdy, full-coverage rain fly, adjustable vents, and ample amounts of mesh, I also appreciate the amount of living space in this model. Two-person tents get cramped quickly, and the extra square footage offers more breathing room to appreciate that lovely spring breeze. I tend to have cold feet, regardless of the season, but it's easy to forget warm sleeping layers when camping on a sunny spring day. If I'm hiking in sandals or trail runners that don't require thick wool socks, you won't find me without a pair of cozy socks in my bag for the evening. Darn Tough makes some of my favorite socks on the market. Merino wool is naturally temperature-regulating and doesn't hold onto odors, making it a great option for any season. Plus, these socks are knit in a way that minimizes intrusive seams, so there won't be any chafing or snags to interrupt your beauty sleep. After a surprise shower on a camping trip this spring, I learned the importance of keeping things dry. These affordable dry bags from Outdoor Products offer a range of sizes to protect gear from getting soaked. The 2-liter bag is perfect for keeping sleep clothes dry and clean, no matter the weather. I always pack a few extra dry bags just in case, especially on trips where rain is a possibility. They're lightweight, practical, and a great addition to any backpack. In the summer, staying cool is essential, and good airflow makes all the difference. I've used this compact, battery-powered fan for years during muggy summers, and it provides a personal breeze when needed most. The O2Cool fan's adjustable stand allows you to position it just right, and it's quiet enough to use while you sleep. Plus, it folds flat for easy packing once camp is broken down. It's a game-changer for staying comfortable on hot nights. This Ecoopro sleeping bag is ideal for summer camping, made for 55- to 60-degree Fahrenheit weather. With an ability to unfold into a comfortable quilt if the whole bag feels too warm, it's lightweight and compact. A great option for car camping, especially when paired with a compression sack, this affordable option provides a perfect balance of warmth without overheating. At $30, it's a must-have for summer trips. The Eno DoubleNest Hammock offers ample space, making it perfect for solo or buddy camping. Its strong, durable nylon fabric and triple-stitched seams ensure it can handle plenty of weight while remaining comfortable. I love the breathable feel of a hammock in the summer, as it keeps me cool while sleeping. Pair it with a bug net for extra comfort and protection. Simplifying campsite setup, this has an intuitive hub design that practically pops up on its own. Its large windows and overhead vents ensure a bright, airy interior, even on hot summer days. The six zippered windows provide a crossbreeze, keeping the tent cool. This Gazelle four-person tent is perfect for those who want a quick setup without sacrificing space or comfort. I've been a proponent of Buff's multipurpose neck gaiters for years now. The merino wool provides surprising warmth despite its thin fabric. After an unexpected cold snap, it made all the difference during a chilly night camping. It can be used as a headband, beanie, face covering, and more, making it perfect for layering. The soft, stretchy material adapts to different weather conditions and is comfortable enough for all-day wear. Ideal for camping in unpredictable temperatures thanks to adjustable ventilation, the Nemo Disco Endless Promise sleeping bag's spoon-shaped design offers a balance of warmth and comfort, providing more room than a traditional mummy-style bag. Packed with high-quality down, it offers a great night's sleep in colder conditions. The zippered venting system allows you to regulate your temperature as needed, making it great for fall camping when temperatures can fluctuate. Merino wool is a hack for any season, but it really shines in the fall. Smartwool's merino blend provides warmth without overheating. The quarter-zip design provides great temperature control, allowing me to adjust as nights get cool. It's breathable and lightweight, ideal for layering during outdoor activities. Merino wool regulates body temperature, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The quarter-zip baselayer is one of my fall camping essentials. For me, a good night's sleep requires some comfort before I hit the hay, and there's nothing like the hypnotic crackling of a toasty campfire to put my body at ease. These Lightning Nugget Firestarters make campfires easy to start, even in wet conditions. Made from natural products, they're reliable and have an unlimited shelf life. No more worrying about gathering tinder or kindling in the dark. These fire starters make it quick and simple. They're a must-have for stress-free campfire enjoyment. There are so many reasons to love Rumpl's puffy blankets. They're hard to beat for bundling up beside the campfire, picnic table naps, and outdoor movie nights. It provides extra warmth when tossed over a sleeping bag and can also be used as a lightweight quilt on warmer nights. Its water-resistant fabric keeps me dry, and it packs down small for easy storage. I especially love the convenient clips that turn it into a cape for chilly evening outings. A lightweight and simple foam pad, the Therm-a-rest Z Lite Sol provides insulation from the cold ground. It offers decent warmth on its own but can be stacked with another pad for extra insulation. The accordion-style pad is easy to pack and durable, making it great for winter hikes, but it's especially great for backpacking, where weight and simplicity matter. These rechargeable hand warmers make it easy to preheat your sleeping bag or keep your hands warm on cold nights. With three temperature settings, adjust the warmth to your needs, from a quick burst to long-lasting heat. They're compact and easy to store in pockets or gloves during the day. With a magnetic closure that allows you to separate them into two halves for easy use, this is a handy option to keep warm when temperatures drop. There's no worse feeling than getting all zipped up and comfortable in your warm tent before being rudely interrupted by nature calling. These winter booties from The North Face provide warmth and comfort without the hassle of thick boots. The slip-on design makes them ideal for quick nighttime bathroom runs or lounging around the campsite. The grippy rubber outsoles provide traction, while the water-resistant coating keeps feet dry. The insulated booties are perfect for cold-weather camping, ensuring warmth while you stay cozy in your tent. If handwarmers in the sleeping bag aren't doing enough for you, it might be time to bring out the big guns. For winter camping, the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater provides up to 9,000 BTUs of heat using a propane canister, warming a small tent in no time. Equipped with safety features like an oxygen sensor and tip-over switch, it's safe to use in your tent. While it's not meant to run while sleeping, it's perfect for preheating or warming up at night. The portable heater is a game-changer for winter camping. A soothing blend of essential oils, this is designed to help you unwind and relax. Whether you're settling into your sleeping bag or winding down by the fire, a few drops of Elix's Yin Time are meant to help create a calming environment that promotes restful sleep. With its unique blend of lavender, chamomile, and other calming botanicals, it is designed to help ease tension, reduce stress, and prepare you for a peaceful night's rest. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Forbes
01-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Smartwool And icebreaker's Circular Fashion Initiatives
Americans alone toss out up to 11.3 million tons of textile waste annually. That's around 2,150 pieces of clothing per second—which clogs waterways, leaches toxins, and harms marine life at breakneck speed. Trendy, cheap clothes cycle in and out of closets, and many only last a few wears before being discarded. Consumers, however, are beginning to take notice. Growing awareness of the environmental cost of fashion prompts them to demand change. In fact, 71% of modern shoppers today say they would pay a premium for sustainable fashion. Despite this rising demand, progress remains slow. According to Kearney's 2024 Circular Fashion Index, only 25 out of 235 brands have begun responding to these consumer calls for sustainability. Merino wool outdoor apparel brands like Smartwool and icebreaker are pooling their resources to take on this challenge. Once competitors, the sister companies now under the VF Corporation umbrella now create a circular ecosystem for merino wool that extends its life cycle and reduces waste. Smartwool's Second Cut™ Project, for example, collected over one million old socks for recycling, while icebreaker is working toward a 100% plastic-free supply chain by 2028. In an industry built on fast turnover, can these circular brands finally break the cycle? The textile industry runs on a linear model—produce, sell, discard. Smartwool flips that script with its Second Cut™ Project in 2021 by tackling waste on two fronts: resale and recycling. In partnership with online consignment and thrift store thredUP, the Second Cut™ Resale Program incentivizes customers to buy and sell pre-owned Smartwool gear. Smartwool also offers free mail-in recycling kits and retailer drop-offs to collect, sort, shred, and repurpose used items into Second Cut™ wool blends for future apparel. This taps into the 29% of Gen Z and millennials purchasing at least half of their clothes secondhand. As thredUP CEO James Reinhart pointed out, 'Smartwool apparel is quality-made and built to last, and it comes as no surprise that the brand performs incredibly well in the secondhand market.' Another recognition further validates that Smartwool's efforts are on the right track. The Second Cut™ Hike Sock—the first product made from repurposed yarn through the program—won the ISPO Award 2023. The ISPO Award Jury recognized it as 'an ambitious, innovative project' and a crucial step toward bridging the sustainability gap in outdoor apparel. Since 2021, Smartwool has diverted over 1.07 million socks—roughly 86,500 pounds of textile waste—from landfills. Looking ahead, the brand is setting more ambitious goals. They plan to achieve 100% climate-positive wool, 100% regenerative materials, and 100% circular products by 2023. The take-back loop is only the beginning. True sustainability requires continuous transparency, accountability, and measurable progress—principles that icebreaker embraces in its pursuit of a 100% plastic-free product line. The company set an ambitious target to go 100% plastic-free by 2023 but only hit 96.14% as of 2024. Rather than sugarcoating the shortfall, they proudly celebrated their near-victory as a sign of progress, not failure. 73% of global consumers expect brands to be transparent about their environmental impact. While they don't expect perfection, they do want to see real, measurable progress. In icebreaker's 2023 Transparency Report, they highlight their ongoing efforts to phase out the remaining synthetics with natural fibers and bio-based alternatives. And icebreaker's commitment to circularity doesn't stop at the product level. It's ingrained throughout their supply chain. They know where every piece of wool comes from—down to the individual farms and growers—with 100% traceability. Icebreaker has forged long-term partnerships with its growers through 10-year supply contracts. Many of these growers are part of the ZQRX program, a certification that upholds strict environmental care, animal welfare, and social responsibility standards. For 37% of Gen Z and 36% of millennials, sustainability certifications are the key touchpoint in evaluating a brand's environmental efforts. The clearer the traceability, the more confident they feel in their choices. Sustainability efforts often carry an altruistic narrative—something brands tout as their commitment to the planet. Smartwool and icebreaker set the example for what's possible. They reinvent their entire lifecycle with take-back programs, responsible sourcing, and investment in natural, bio-based materials. For these outdoor apparel brands, sustainability doesn't have to be at odds with performance. Yet sustainable initiatives are a long-term investment that doesn't happen overnight. They require a hefty investment in technology and infrastructure. They may also involve convincing the boardroom to jump on board and finding partners who are as committed. The road ahead is lined with tough conversations, long-term strategies, and significant financial backing. But as the shift to circularity continues, the question is no longer whether the fashion industry can afford to embrace sustainability—it's whether it can afford not to.
