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Smith Somerset Sunglasses ($139)
Whether you’re headed out for an hourlong run or six hours behind the wheel, you want lasting comfort from your shades. The lightweight stainless-steel arms and stabilizing silicone nose pads of the Somerset offer just that. Available with ($169) or without polarized lenses.
Blundstone #584 Thermal Chelsea Boots ($230)
If you can pack only one shoe for a winter road trip, make it this. Besides Blundstone’s legendary durability and good looks, it features a sheepskin footbed and waterproof liner, so it’s just as suitable for hiking in the snow as it is for dressing up for a date.
Norrøna Women’s Falketind Alpha 120 Zip Hood Midlayer ($189)
Fur-like Polartec fleece throughout, and accented with a breathable grid fleece in key movement spots (read: under the armpits) had testers calling the Falketind “one of the most versatile pieces ever” and “ideal for a variety of climates.” (XS–XL)
L.L.Bean Waxed Canvas Duffle ($159)
This classically styled bag was remarkably durable and weather-resistant during a six-month test by a family of three. It swallows 40 liters of gear and has two external zip pouches, plus a small interior stash pocket.
Cairn Collection Subscription Box ($35 per month)
Cairn’s outdoor-themed box will thrill any adventurous friend or family member. Goodies might include a Cotopaxi Luzon 18L backpack, Humangear’s GoBites Quattro utensil kit, and one of our favorites for long drives—Honey Stinger waffles.
Olympus 10×42 Pro Binoculars ($520)
A solid pair of binocs are a smart tool to have in your glove compartment, for anything from spotting wildlife to scouting the road. The Olympus 10×42 Pro is optimized for sporting use, with a glare-reducing coating on the lenses and a waterproof, fog-resistant body.
Hydro Flask Mug ($30)
This 24-ounce vacuum-insulated cup is tough—and versatile. Testers loved its extra-large size, which was just as good for morning granola as for pit-stop gas-station coffee. Plus, the slidable lid tames splashes on bumpy gravel roads and opens wide enough to insert a straw.
Clevr Matcha SuperLatte Drink Mix ($28)
Enjoy a 45-milligram dose of caffeine in this delightful breakfast drink—a combination of premium matcha with mushrooms and vegan creamers. Just heat up some water and stir this in for a smooth-burning kick.
Bandits Bandana ($30)
It’s a face mask, a sweatband, a personal swamp cooler—the bandana is the ultimate utility accessory. And when yours has a stylish artistic print on soft, fair-trade organic cotton, like Bandits bandanas do, you’ll find even more excuses to wear it.
