Merino wool is a super fiber. The best merino wool clothing somehow manages to be comfortable in 95-degree-Fahrenheit heat, and merino base layers keep you warm well below freezing. Unlike synthetic fibers derived from petroleum, merino wool is natural and renewable. Merino wool’s versatility means there’s a bewildering array ofContinue Reading
Buying the most feature-packed, premium priced walking boots does not guarantee you a comfortable fit. A good pair of hiking boots should be snug, but never tight, and remain comfortable no matter how far you roam. Here’s how to dial in the perfect fit. Know your size: Specialist retailers willContinue Reading
Honorable Mentions We’ve tested a bunch of hoodies. They’re not all worthy of the top spot, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth buying. Below, we’ve listed a few more that we think are good but aren’t as great as the ones above. Photograph: Arcteryx Arcteryx Covert Hoodie for $180:Continue Reading
Layering is not a complicated thing. It’s the process of adding and removing layers of clothing to keep your body comfortable in changing weather and temperature conditions. Billions of dollars have been spent trying to optimize this process (and sell you stuff), but it’s really very simple: Put clothing onContinue Reading
I’m on an overnight flight from New York to Frankfurt, Germany, and the accoutrements given to me in business class have a sustainable sheen. Both the polyester blanket and polyester flight kit proudly claim they are made of fabric spun from recycled plastic bottles. But doesn’t United Airlines know thatContinue Reading
Spin class is not for the faint of heart—or the unprepared. Among the heart-pounding playlists, the flashing neon lights, and the hyperactive choreography, you’ll want gear that keeps you comfortable and locked in. From cycling shoes that can keep pace with your power intervals to reusable water bottles that won’tContinue Reading
The internet’s collective wisdom says that you should replace your shoes somewhere between 300 and 500 miles. However, this decades-old rule of thumb is based on a few limited studies and general advice from brands. New foam varieties, outsole rubbers, and upper technology means it’s now harder to offer blanketContinue Reading
The temptation with down jackets is get the warmest one you can. If you’re spending the winter in northern Wisconsin as I did while testing these, that’s not a bad idea. But if you’re just looking for a little extra warm during shoulder season trips, or even high altitude summerContinue Reading
Have you run across the term “down fill power” while shopping for sleeping bags, puffer jackets, or a duvet? These numbers range from 450 to 900, and sometimes above. Generally—but not always—the higher that number, the better the warmth-to-weight ratio. But what does fill power actually measure? To measure fillContinue Reading
Base layer: A good set of thermals is essential in the fight against cold, especially when you’re working hard. The best fabrics wick away sweat as you heat up, which helps regulate your temperature. Merino wool is the best at this, but also the most expensive. Synthetic fabrics are gettingContinue Reading
