Rolling Stone Essentials 2023: Our Favorite Gear of the Year
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Thousands of products come across our desks each year, so how can we possibly choose which few earn the Rolling Stone stamp of approval? For the RS Recommends editors, it meant getting out of the office and trying stuff in the real world — from day trips to the beach, to cross-country flights and massive, outdoor music fests.
We put this year’s coolest new devices and electronics, high-tech home accessories, and outdoor gadgets to the test, and after months of rocking out with the most innovative audio gear or pushing the limits of the freshest wearables, we narrowed our picks down to nearly 100 must-have items. With a focus on performance, innovation, and design, this year’s list features the gear we found ourselves reaching for again and again. Products were reviewed based on utility and uniqueness, while also considering that unquantifiable “it” factor, of course.
Our favorite products of 2023 include a red light therapy wand you can use on the go, a sweet electric motorbike, and a next-level outdoor speaker. Here are our editors’ favorite products that made our Rolling Stone Essentials list for 2023.
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Best Fire Pit: Solo Stove Pit Surround
Image Credit: Solo Using the Solo Stove has always made bringing the campfire vibes to our backyard an easy and wonderfully smoke-free affair. But now that arranging plastic patio chairs in a circle has given way to stylish outdoor living rooms, we can think of no better upgrade for your open-air kickback than the Fire Pit Surround. Made of powder-coated steel and durable UV-resistant fabric, the Surround transforms your fire pit into a cozy backyard centerpiece with a safe, stylish barrier that’ll protect wandering hands (but maybe not your burning marshmallow) from the flames.
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Best Grill: Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill
Image Credit: Traeger The grilling pros at Traeger know that one size doesn’t always fit all your BBQing needs when you’re entertaining. Enter the new Flatrock Flat Top Grill, the ultimate versatile grilling setup for firing up a meal and entertaining the whole family. What sets the Flatrock apart from the competition? For starters, you get separate cooking zones to give you better heating control over your veggies, meat, and beyond. (In other words, you’ll never overdo the burgers again.) Under the sleek Flat Top, Traeger used a U-burner design to also keep the heat more evenly distributed. We also like that it has a couple of folding side shelves for a more efficient grilling experience, plus its own fuel gauge so you know you’ve got a full tank before grilling for the entire family. From griddling to sautéing, Traeger’s Flatrock just might be the thing that turns you into the grilling expert you’ve always wanted to be.
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Best Water Bottle: Otterbox Elevation Sports Water Bottle
Image Credit: Otterbox OtterBox might be best known for its rugged, protective phone cases, but the company’s accessories are just as tough. Case in point: Its Elevation Sports Water Bottle is a contender for the ultimate beverage holder and a commuter’s new best friend. You can thank the leakproof lid, dishwasher-friendly steel construction, plus its copper-lined insulation that helps keep your drink as ice-cold as it was when you filled it.
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Best Soft Cooler: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30 Can
Image Credit: RTIC Sometimes your day trip to the beach doesn’t necessitate schlepping an entire hard cooler just to take the party with you. For wherever your next adventure goes, RTIC’s portable Soft Pack cooler is up to the task — it’s tough as nails yet still lightweight, 100% leak proof and keeps a whopping 30 bevvies cold for days. With more structure than your typical soft-sided cooler, it’s especially great for making sure those glass bottles of your favorite wine won’t tip over and break.
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Best Hard Cooler: Brümate BrüTank 35-Quart Rolling Cooler
Image Credit: Brümate Compact and lightweight are the main features we look for when shopping for coolers, and the Brümate BrüTank certainly delivers on meeting this criteria. It’s 30% lighter than its 55-quart equivalent meaning you can transport your favorite canned or bottled bevs with ease and sophistication (did we mention that it’s available in a variety of head-turning shades?). Not to mention the all-terrain wheels and removable 1.8-gallon drink tank will afford it the ability to be a mainstay for all your backyard, park, and beach hangs.
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Best Tent: Snow Peak Festival Landbreeze Pro Air Duo Tent
Image Credit: Snow Peak Equipped for up to two people, Snow Peak’s Festival Tent is lightweight and—like its name suggests—a breeze to put up during the warmer-weather months. But don’t let its simple 9.5-pound construction fool you — it’s still plenty durable thanks to its silicone polyester ripstop and nylon ripstop materials. In other words, it’s fit for everything from music fest camping to spontaneous trips alike.
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Best Backpack: Camelbak The A.T.P 26 Backpack
Image Credit: Camelbak If you’re constantly on the never-ending search for that perfect travel backpack, we’re telling you to stop looking. Camelbak’s go-anywhere, do-anything A.T.P. 26 pack is a jetsetter’s best friend, with plenty of storage at 26L to work from a cafe in Austin or glide through customs on the way to Puebla. The streamlined design could clearly be mistaken for hiker’s gear, but little touches like the compression straps and removable laptop sleeve help this pack punch far above its weight in the luggage category.
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Gozney Dome S1
Contrary to popular belief, no, you do not need to import water from the Big Apple to make a worthy pizza pie. All you need is a workhorse of an oven, or maybe just the impeccably-designed Dome S1. Its removable stone floor, integrated temperature display, and high-heat gas control give you all the essentials to turn you into a bonafide pizzaiolo at home (just promise us you won’t use store-bought dough).
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Best Pool Float: Barbie The Movie x FUNBOY Iconic “B” Inflatable Pool Float
Image Credit: FUNBOY Pool floats for adults tend to be relegated to boring inner tubes or loungers only used as an excuse to get a cupholder above water. Now, you can get all dolled up and play chess by the pool with FUNBOY’s soon-to-be-iconic inflatable Barbie “B” float. It’ll immediately transport you to Barbie Land with its oversized, six-foot tall design meant to fit you and your best friend (or just Allan).
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Best Rooftop Tent: Roofnest Sparrow EYE 2
Image Credit: Roofnest Cozy, easy-to-use rooftop tents like the Sparrow EYE make it obvious why the tent style has become so popular. Roofnest’s sleek clamshell tent is extremely easy to set up and take down, while its large windows and 40-inch height lend plenty of comfort.
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Best Beach Towel: Sand Cloud Turks Party Blanket
Image Credit: Sand Cloud Measuring a whopping 89 x 95 inches, Sand Cloud’s oversized beach towel is light as sand, but won’t carry any of the stuff with you. Made from ultra-soft Turkish cotton and a four layer jacquard weave, it’s comfortable enough to sit your whole crew for those all-day seaside hangs, yet dries quick and wicks sand like no one’s business when it’s time to pack up and go home. The retro design really puts the “party” in party blanket, too.
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Osprey Skarab 30
Image Credit: Amazon Osprey’s Skarab reminds us why the brand is so beloved. This 30-liter pack comes with a 2.5-liter reservoir and plenty of space for gear. All of this space is cleverly organized into a main rucksack compartment, a front shove-it pocket, and plenty of small zippered pockets for keeping things separated and easy to access.
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Best Inflatable Kayak: Isle Switch Inflatable Kayak/SUP
Image Credit: Isle Can’t decide between a kayak and an SUP? Grab this Switch from Isle, a hybrid kayak/SUP board that’s also inflatable for easier transportation. Once inflated, it’s still light enough to carry down to the beach, despite measuring a beefy 11-foot-six-inches long. This size makes it stable enough for beginners, or even activities like yoga and fishing.
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Best Camping Chair: Kijaro Dual Lock
Image Credit: Amazon The days of slouching and fumbling to get in and out of your camping chair are over thanks to the insanely-supportive Kijaro Dual Lock. It locks open and closed to achieve that crucial ‘sag-free seating” for long evenings prepping your campfire grub or watching your fishing line by the edge of the river. The carry strap is also on the chair itself, so it’ll keep you supported no matter where you’re off to.
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Best Big-Screen TV: Hisense 100 U8K TV
Image Credit: Hisense Take a look at the ultimate big-screen mini LED TV for movie nights: Hisense’s 100-inch U8K television. From streaming NBA games to ensuring low-lag gaming, the big-screen TV delivers 1,500 nits for a brighter picture, and thousands of localized dimming zones for a more detailed display. The TV also boasts Dolby Atmos for immersive sound that aims to put you even further into the action at home. Available Fall 2023.
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Best Smartphone: Google Pixel Fold
Image Credit: Google A multitasker’s dream, the Google Pixel Fold looks like a regular phone at first glance. But open it up and you get a 7.6-inch screen that lets you manage two apps at once – or just watch your favorite show without holding your phone. Both splash-and-scratch-resistant, Google’s foldable smartphone features a sleek, thin design that you can easily slip into your pocket – though we doubt you’ll ever want to take it out of your hand.
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Best Indoor Projector: BenQ GV31 Portable Projector
Image Credit: BenQ Sure, the movie theater’s great and all, but have you ever reclined back and watched a blockbuster at home on your ceiling? The innovative BenQ GV31 portable smart projector has a built-in 2.1-channel sound system, plus an adjustable lens that beams a vibrant 1080 HP display across your walls that will have your friends inviting themselves over for movie night every weekend.
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Best Outdoor Speaker: Sonos Move 2
Image Credit: Sonos Sonos might’ve revolutionized the home sound system category with its line of pairable sleek speakers, but the company has taken things out of the house with its latest Move 2 model. It’s a powerhouse Bluetooth-compatible speaker that lets you take your tunes on the go. It features a water-resistant construction, a built-in handle, plus double the amount of battery life as its previous model, meaning you get a whopping 24 hours of juice on a charge. Most importantly, with an extra tweeter and more immersive sound, it’s Sonos’ best portable speaker to date.
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Best Bluetooth Speaker: Ultimate Ears Epicboom Speaker
Image Credit: Ed Ritger Ultimate Ears has a history of reliable portable speakers. But now it’s taken the category up a notch – or two – with its new 360-degree Epicboom Bluetooth speaker. The water- and drop-resistant Epicboom blasts a beefy bass sound fit for your next backyard bash, plus an equally impressive battery life built to last up to 17 hours on a single charge.
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Best Waterproof Earbuds: JBL Endurance Peak 3 Earbuds
Image Credit: JBL There’s no shortage of workout earbuds on the market, but few can hold up to your gym days quite like JBL’s Endurance Peak 3 buds. The pair holds a 50-hour total runtime when used with their included charging case (10 hours per charge), and deliver bold bass in each track. Most importantly, they’re waterproof, so you don’t have to sweat it when you’re putting them through their paces during your next workout.
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Best DSLR Camera: Nikon D5300
Image Credit: Amazon Consider the Nikon D5300 the future of DSLR photography. With built-in Wi-Fi, this device allows you to share your images straight to your smartphone or tablet and the outstanding quality that comes from the 24.2-megapixel image sensor is enough to leave anyone short of breath. Now every memory that you capture will look rich, vivid, and ultra HD.
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Best Point-and-Shoot Camera: Leica Q3 Digital Camera
If you’re looking to take your photography to the next level, go for Leica’s Q3. Built around a 60MP BSI CMOS sensor, the digital camera is integrating all the the best parts of Leica’s rangefinder series that goes back to 1954. The camera’s vintage look references this heritage, but the cutting-edge tech is quite the opposite, letting you capture some of the highest-quality images possible.
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Best Turntable: U-Turn Orbit Plus Turntable
Image Credit: U-Turn Audio For an audiophile-worthy turntable that won’t break the bank, U-Turn Audio’s Orbit Plus delivers big with a modern design, an acrylic platter that minimizes vibrations while spinning, plus comes with a Ortofon OM 5E cartridge and manual speed control for 33 and 45 RPM.
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Best Portable Charger: Mophie Powerstation Pro AC Portable Charger
Image Credit: Amazon Your devices will thank you for this: the Mophie Powerstation Pro AC. Allowing you to simultaneously charge up to four of your most-used devices on the go, this 100W-powered portable charger will ensure that you never run out of juice when you need it most. Conveniently stocked with USB-C and USB-A ports, it’s considered a travel MVP.
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Best Solar-Powered Charger: BigBlue 3 SolarPowa 28 Charger
Image Credit: Amazon Innovation and convenience are at the core of the ever-reliable BigBlue 3 solar charger. Perfect for those known to traverse a multitude of terrains, your adventures will never be without power again. Take it for an extended camping trip or away while sailing, since this boasts up to a 24% energy conversion rate from its smart sunlight detector that can generate juice for your phone and small electronics. In a word? Genius.
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Best Streaming Service: DirecTV Stream
Image Credit: DirecTV The best all-around streaming service for cord-cutters, DirecTV Stream makes it easy to watch everything from live sports to local TV channels without traditional cable. Viewers can choose among four different packages that offer between 75 to 150 channels and unlimited DVR storage – all of which make it the ultimate streamer for TV lovers.
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Best Office Chair: Flexispot C7 Chair
Image Credit: Flexispot If you’re constantly experiencing back pain after a long day at the office, there’s a good chance it’s time to revisit your office chair setup. Enter FlexiSpot’s Premium Ergonomic C7, an innovative and supportive piece of furniture that comes with an adjustable frame, lumbar support, and comfortable seat that your spine will thank you for down the road. No more checking your posture – the FlexiSpot’s forward seat design helps take the pressure off your lower back.
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Best Outdoor Furniture: Floyd Outdoor Set
Image Credit: Floyd Unless you haven’t opened up Instagram in the last few years, you’ve undoubtedly seen Floyd’s trendy bed frame, complete with a modular construction. But the brand has plenty to offer outside of the bedroom too, including its minimal, durable Outdoor Set. Built with sturdy aluminum and available in up to four colors, it’s the chicest outdoor furniture set your patio will ever see.
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Best Couch: Article Sven Leather Sofa
Image Credit: Article Article has become a go-to for stylish furniture for good reason. With an affordable price tag, durable materials, and a mid-century modern look, its Sven Sofa checks all the boxes for a versatile, timeless couch that won’t break the bank. Bonus: Its natural leather will only wear in and get better over time. Trust us, we own one (and you should, too).
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Best Chair: noho Move Chair
Image Credit: noho noho aimed to overhaul the dining chair with this Move, and they’ve done it in style. The main difference between the Move and traditional dining chairs is that they support and respond to the natural fidgeting and movement we all do while sitting. In other words, it’s a chair made for humans — not stationary objects.
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Best Rug: Noa Shag Rug
Image Credit: Lulu and Georgia If you’re looking to add the perfect amount of warmth and texture to your room, look no further than this shag rug from Lulu and Georgia. It brings a welcoming weight to any room that requires depth and brightness and comes with proper care instructions for maintaining longevity.
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Best Lamp: Noguchi Akari 21A Lamp
Image Credit: Dansk Own a pinnacle of 1950s modernism — these Akari light sculptures by Isamu Noguchi in 1951, blend Japanese craftsmanship with mid-century design. Sold as new at the Noguchi Museum in Queens, NY or as resold collectibles on 1st Dibs and similar resale sites.
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Best Candle: Le Labo Santal 26 Candle
Image Credit: Le Labo Bring the smell of New York’s finest hotels and hotel bars to your own space — Santal 26 is the iconic scent of some of the most luxurious lobbies, powder rooms, and bars in the Big Apple. If you’re ever far away from the irreparable energy that the city brings, let this candle make you a little scent-imental.
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Best Bedding: Quince European Linen Duvet Cover Set
Image Credit: Quince Out of all of the linen bedding brands that exist, an unexpected reigns supreme. Quince’s European Linen Duvet Cover Set outperforms its competitors in terms of utility, texture, softness, and long-term wear after washing. Available in many styles and colors, this set transitions well through all seasons.
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Best Hybrid Mattress: Casper Wave Hybrid Snow Mattress
Image Credit: Casper What’s cooler than being cool? Casper’s latest Wave Hybrid mattress, an obsessively-engineered breath of fresh, cool air for everyone whose body happens to run like a sauna at night. Its specialized “HeatDelete” Bands continuously pull heat away from your body for 12+ hours, so you’ll catch some Zzz’s without any interruptions. If that wasn’t enough, the mattress’ breathable top layer helps keep things even cooler during those late hours so you can say goodnight to sweat and overheating.
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Best Outdoor Chair: AllModern Louise Outdoor Armless Lounge Chairs
Image Credit: AllModern Who says outdoor chairs can’t be just as stylish as the ones in your living room? These low-slung seats from AllModern rival anything you’d find indoors, but they can hold up to the elements with their solid acacia wood frames, plus water-resistant cushions and seat covers that you can throw in the washing machine if they get dirty. Put simply, they instantly spruce up any patio.
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Best Air Purifier: Blueair Blue Pure 311i+ Max
Image Credit: Blueair Haven’t already snatched an air purifier off the shelves to stave off wildfire smoke this year? When Blueair isn’t specializing in clearing your space of at least 99.97% unwanted airborne particles, the exceptionally silent performance combined with the powerful intuitive auto mode of their Blue Pure 311i+ Max means you’ll barely notice when its running — but the air quality around your home will let you know its getting the job done right.
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Best Espresso Machine: Breville Barista Touch Impress
Image Credit: Breville Breville’s best-selling Barista Express recently got a high-tech upgrade in the form of this Barista Touch Impress. Complete with a built-in grinder, tamper, and steam wand, the machine not only makes coffee drinks easier to whip up but also more precise: Every step of the process is adjustable and saved in the machine, so you can quickly start pulling the same delicious shot every morning.
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Best Coffee Maker: Ratio Eight
Image Credit: Ratio Elaborate coffee prep has already become its own genre of aesthetically-pleasing Tiktok content. But if you want to get serious about your morning brew, the Ratio Eight coffee maker will help you turn your cup of Joe, into a cup of Joseph. It combines the one-touch philosophy of a Nespresso machine, with a brewing algorithm to mimic the skilled hand of a barista’s pour-over, so you’ll get all the taste without any of the work.
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Best Smoking Pipe: Sackville x Playboy Crystal Ball Pipe
Image Credit: Sackville For 70 years, Playboy has been all about spreading the pleasure around, and for their “platinum” anniversary, Sackville wants you to get in on the pleasure, too. But this metallic-soaked version of their fan-favorite crystal ball piece isn’t your momma’s pipe. It’s a functional work of art, an ode to your favorite herb — and made to be shared. So puff it, pass it, and then put it on display.
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Best Pre-Roll: Cannaflower CBD Pre-Rolls
Image Credit: Cannaflower Much like sailing ships, and ski trails, it’s fun to imagine why cannabis strains are named the way they are — and Cannaflower’s CBD pre-rolls belong in your pantry, because their delicious flavors like Hawaiian Haze will have you wondering why you ever inhaled anything super grassy. Each of their 1 gram pre-rolls contain around 150mg of CBD, making them a super convenient way to enjoy a premium, “heady” amount of relaxation without going overboard into couch-sinking territory.
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Best Flower Storage: Stori Full Stori
Image Credit: Stori For everyone with the obsessive need to organize everything in their space, including their stash, let us introduce you to the Full Stori system. From the sleek, watercolor palette-esque Case, to the color-coded Pods and Tubes, the Full Stori was designed to make your high times as streamlined as possible. Each Stori Pod holds up to ¼ oz (7 grams) of your plant based goods, and keeps the air tightly in and any UV light out. Bonus: the case lid doubles as a rolling tray.
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Best Portable Massage Gun: Therabody Theragun Pro (5th Gen)
Image Credit: Therabody Behold: the answer to your aching, sore-as-hell muscles. Therabody’s latest generation Theragun massage tool helps relieve your tight spots post-workout, and its ergonomic design makes it easier to target hard-to-reach knots thanks to six attachments. It’s a must-have for athletic recovery thanks to its 150-minute runtime and 20 percent quieter sound. In other words, it’s a game-changing recovery device for the person always on the go.
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Best Red Light Therapy Device: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
Image Credit: Solawave Just as the sun will set, your skin will eventually lose its elasticity and become wrinkled. Make the transition more graceful with Solawave’s new Radiant Renewal Wand, which uses red light therapy to help turn the clock on the appearance of fine lines and blemishes. This latest wand packs Galvanic Currents as opposed to Microcurrents, promoting better absorption of your favorite (and possibly pricey) skincare products. Just sit back, relax, and glow.
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Best Gym Bag: POPFLEX Ella Duffle
Image Credit: POPFLEX The Ella Duffle will enchant you with its chic and sporty look, but will keep you hooked with its incredibly welcome upgrades to the average gym bag. After years of teaching and training, POPFLEX creator Cassey Ho, entrepreneur and star of the YouTube workout series Blogilates, shows she really knows her stuff here. It gives you everything you never knew you needed, from a waterproof shoe compartment, to a secret yoga mat sleeve and a crazy amount of pockets. We’ll take five, please.
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Best Cold Plunge Pool: Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Kit
Image Credit: Redwood Outdoors Cold plunges are all the rage right now, but only a handful of brands are making the kind of high-end tubs we’d want in our homes. One such brand is Redwood Outdoors, whose premium wood plunge kits deliver a premium build and, of course, a refreshing plunge every time. This upright Alaskan plunge kit is one of their latest releases, and should satisfy any cold plunge enthusiast.
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Best Workout Sneakers: NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pros 2
Image Credit: Nike When Carlos Alcaraz scored the Wimbledon title in July 2023, it solidified the durability and performance credibility of the NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pros. Wearing them during his match against Novak Djokovic was all the proof sports lovers needed to buy the sneakers. Even better, Nike released the NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pros 2, offering the same performance abilities in a modern design and style range. The “low-to-the-ground design and springy Zoom Air cushioning,” keep you nimble, whether on the court or out for a run. If they’re good enough for a Wimbledon champ, they’re good enough for anyone.
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Best Workout Shirt: On Athletics Performance-T
Image Credit: On Ben Shelton being one of their brand ambassadors only amplifies the fact that this is a great product. As the young athlete quickly rises to stardom, his endorsement of On apparel has solidified their place in performance wear. But out of their curated selection of high-end products, nothing quite compares to the basic Performance-T. The design is pretty simple, but the best things in life are. Apart from the color-blocking mesh backside, the intrigue lies within its promise: ultra-lightweight fabric with taped seams so it feels like a second skin and “abrasion-proof” fabric for breathability and airflow. It truly is a quality product for any athlete.
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Best Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Gunmetal Aviators
Image Credit: Ray-Ban The brand has been seen on everyone from Taylor Swift to JFK, and featured in movies like The Blues Brothers where they became film iconography. It’s hard not to say Ray-Ban is probably one of the most revered brands in history. Of their vast selection, we chose the Gunmetal Aviators not only for their classic appeal, but also their duality to make any fit look cool, sharp, edgy, and casual all in one frame. The sleek design and gradient lenses are timeless, so it’s safe to say you’ll have these around for some time.
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Best Watch: Timex Giorgio Galli S2 Automatic
Image Credit: Timex Timex has been killing the affordable watch game for a few years now, but it recently proved it can do more than just budget-friendly with this Giorgio Galli S2. The 38-millimeter timepiece boasts a retro, minimal design, an automatic movement, and a sapphire crystal face. In other words, you get all the quality and style of a premium, Swiss-made timepiece for just under a grand.
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Best Swim Trunks: J.Crew Stretch Swim Trunk
Image Credit: J.Crew As a brand with a rich historical lens for American style, J.Crew’s selection is top tier. They understand the fundamentals of great style and develop silhouettes that move with the times. Of their top product selections, Stretch Swim Trunk hits all the right notes. The 6-inch inseam sits comfortably on the upper leg, allowing those tree trunks to shine in all of their glory. The elastic stretch on the material also allows for the thick thighs to feel comfortable while splashing in the waves or playing volleyball in the sand.
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Best Shield Sunglasses: Moncler Avionn Shield Sunglasses
Shield sunglasses seem to be everywhere, from the runways of our favorite designers to the faces of celebrities. It’s hard not to notice a stylistic choice so bold as this one. But Moncler is the only brand we’re shopping for when thinking about this look. The lux outdoor apparel company is world-renowned for its stylish approach to utilitarian products, and the Avionn Shield Sunglasses meet all of our requirements. Their wide shape offers full glare protection from the sun or snow, while the ovular shape looks modern. It’s the perfect pick for a fashion-forward day on the slopes.
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Best Everyday Sunglasses: Guess Plastic Aviator Sunglasses
It’s great to have a stylish pair of shades for everyday wear, and we’re going with the Guess Aviators for that. The scratch-resistant coating and plastic frame can take a beating, whether you’re throwing them in your bag or tossing them in the seat of your car. They’ll hold up much better for the day-to-day wear that can happen when you’re rushing or on the go.
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Best Board Shorts: Patagonia Hydrolock Board Shorts
Image Credit: Patagonia We’ve been surfing in Patagonia’s new Hydrolock shorts all summer, and our review is simple: They’re the best board shorts we’ve ever owned. They’re stretchy and lightweight, like many great pairs of board shorts, but the Hydrolocks out-do the rest with their unique waistband that refuses to move, keeping the shorts comfortable and in-place as you paddle, transition from sitting to laying, and do just about anything else throughout your surf or beach day.
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Best Budget Board Shorts: Nike Essential Swim Board Shorts
Nike already has your workout apparel needs covered for gym days and recovery sessions alike, but the Swoosh team didn’t forget you still need the proper gear for days out on the water. Enter the Nike Essential Swim Board Shorts, complete with a 7-inch inseam that hits just above the knee, vents for added breathability, and a functional zippered pocket so you don’t lose your keys or a card in between dips in the pool. At this point, you know the drill: Just do it, buy these actually-essential board shorts, and don’t leave for the water without ‘em.
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Best T-Shirt: Richer Poorer Relaxed Tee
Image Credit: Richer Poorer Great all-around T-shirts are hard to find, which is why we’re so into Richer Poorer’s relaxed tee. It features a slightly dropped shoulder, an oversized neck, and pigment-dyed coloring, combining for a T-shirt that’s both low-key and pulled together. Plus, unlike some premium tees, we think the Richer Poorer shirt is very well-priced — especially if you’re looking to get a couple of colors.
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Best Sandals: Madewell Cari Fisherman Sandals
Image Credit: Madewell Hailey Bieber set the trend when she wore them during the summer of 2023, and now the world can’t get enough. Fisherman sandals, when worn the right way with socks, are the best accessory to add some texture to an otherwise simple outfit. For those looking for an entry into this amazing trend, look no further than Madewell’s Cari Fisherman Sandal. Expect the leather upper to form perfectly to your feet over time, and the added buckle detailing adds some charming hardware to an otherwise simple shoe.
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Best Baseball Hat: The Rolling Stone Modern Cap
Image Credit: Rolling Stone Who doesn’t love a baseball cap? Monsters, that’s who. Rolling Stone’s latest headwear takes everything you love about the previous style and encapsulates some updates. Still printed with our same historical logo, the structured design is reminiscent of bulky trucker hats, minus the mesh back, and embroidered with the magazine’s founding date and location on the side.
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Best Shorts: Stussy Water Short Big Basic
Image Credit: Stussy Stussy’s Water Short brings a sleek street edge to the beachwear scene with their monochrome colorways, accented at the hem with the label’s signature logos. While we’ve declared logomania officially deader than a jellyfish washed up to shore, these shorts are pure California cool, both in style and substance. The lightweight nylon and split hem provides plenty of breathability, while the extra pocket space is clutch when you want to wear these as a regular pair.
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Best Outdoor Hat: The North Face 66 Brimmer Bucket Hatb
Image Credit: The North Face Few companies have had a better resurgence than The North Face. After several collaborations with Gucci, Supreme, and famed artist KAWS, the outdoor apparel brand came out on top feeling revitalized. That’s partially why this bucket hat feels so fresh. Riding the coattails of the collabs that came before it, the wide brim silhouette, cord, and eyelet details look more lux than the average hat. Paired with a black monotone design and a white embroidered logo, it’s a sleek product perfect for a hike or worn casually to lunch.
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Best Fashion Hat: Stetson Square Eyelet Oval Hat
Image Credit: Stetson Stetson really doesn’t have a rival when it comes to cowboy hats. They developed the original design that all others copy today. That’s why, when it comes to Western-style headwear, Stetson is the only brand you should think about donning. The straw base material and leather detail make this particular style versatile for almost any occasion. Dress it down for a day at the beach, or finish it off with a nicely tailored suit. The Stetson Eyelet Oval Hat is worth the spend time and time again.
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Best Weekender Bag: Herschel Novel Duffle Bag
Image Credit: Herschel Herschel hasn’t been around for long, but the brand has become a cult fave, and it’s easy to see why. Their classic design and range of colors not only give them a simple appeal, able to fit any personal style, but the leather straps and waterproof design give the Novel Duffle Bag some durability. We also love the signature shoe compartment. For those fresh kicks you don’t want to get scratched up, this added feature keeps them away from the rest of your bag. Whether going on a trip or just heading to the gym, this bag is the best pick for everyone.
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Best Sneakers: Adidas Gazelles
Image Credit: Adidas It was the 2023 Grammys when Harry Styles took to the stage, performing in metallic Gucci x Adidas Gazelles as he thrashed about to his hit single “As It Was.” It was the catalyst to a summer of Gazelles as everyone from celebrity to TikToker had a pair. The sneakers have become a staple to the wardrobe, set in a range of colors and styles — Perfect for the style-savant who is on the run and moving.
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Best Commuter Bag: Béis The Commuter Duffle In Black
Image Credit: Béis From the makers of the near-bottomless Weekender you’ve probably seen all over your TikTok feed, Bés has officially ended the race for the perfect elevated duffle. This sleek, durable bag will keep all your business in order, with multiple exterior pockets, interior organization, and a laptop-friendly sleeve. What we love most? The modern design and vegan leather details give off more “I’m headed to brunch” vibes than “I’ve brought twelve pairs of underwear for a three-day trip”.
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Best Motorcycle: 2023 Honda Rebel 500
Image Credit: Honda Unsurprisingly, Honda nailed it with their latest Rebel 500. The beloved low-displacement bike features the same low-slung seat and handsome blacked-out styling, as well as comfort, impressive handling, and throttle oomph that’s made Rebel a best-seller.
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Best Scooter: NIU KQi3 Pro Electric Kick Scooter
Image Credit: Walmart Known to go farther and faster, you should consider taking on your commute with the Niu KQi3 Pro scooter. Designed with comfort and key safety features like a triple-braking system, and complete with a bright headlight and braking lights, you’ll love being seen zipping through your city atop this.
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Best E-Bike: Ride1Up Revv 1 E-Bike
Image Credit: Ride1Up The Revv 1 from Ride1Up doesn’t just look like one of the coolest new e-bikes on the block — it rides like it too. The beefy “moped-style” e-bike puts you in charge of a very powerful 750-watt battery, which propels the rugged ride to more than 30 miles per hour (even without pedaling) in our testing.
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Best Car: 2024 Acura Integra Type S
Image Credit: Acura Acura’s new Type S-spec Integra is getting a lot of rave reviews, and we have to agree. The 320-horsepower, manual-only ride is unsurprisingly capital F fun, but it also has all the daily usability of a hatchback and all the luxury you’d expect from a top-spec Acura. Add the ELS Studio 3D sound system, and you’ve got one of, if not the best new car of 2024.
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Best Wine Spritzer: Hoxie Spritzer (Grapefruit Elderflower)
Image Credit: Hoxie Long gone are the days of cloyingly sweet, post-imbibement headache-inducing wine spritzers. Hoxie Spritzer is refreshingly different, with thoughtfully-crafted flavors beyond fruit-forward notes, like their Grapefruit Elderflower. Using a dry Riesling base with botanical extracts, the fragrance of fresh blossoms and cool spring water will take you beyond your backyard party and into the Californian landscape where their sustainable grapes are grown.
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Best Hard Seltzer: Flying Embers (Black Lime Juniper)
Image Credit: Flying Embers Flying Embers is the graduate school of seltzers, for when you want to move on to a more elevated taste after leaving your old-school days of Mike’s Hard Lemonade behind. The carbonation here is almost as light as champagne, which makes sense, as it has a unique fermentation process using champagne yeast mixed with black tea. Their flavors are sophisticated and almost cocktail-like including a Gin and Tonic-inspired flavor, made with juniper and zesty black lime peel.
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Best Canned Cocktail: Tip Top Proper Cocktails (Daiquiri)
Image Credit: Tip Top Proper Cocktails When you want the feeling of an old bartender giving you not what you think you want, but what you need, reach for Tip Top Proper cocktails. The measured touch of sweetness in their Daiquiri makes them oh-so-drinkable, whether on the rocks, or straight out of the can. It’s unpretentious, a canned cocktail you can crack open at a tailgate, or paired with a fish filet. At 24% ABV, it’s spirit-forward enough that you feel like you’re drinking something actually made at a bar, so it’s made to be savored.
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Best Wine: Robert Sinskey Vineyards Vin Gris of Pinot Noir Rosé
Image Credit: Robert Sinskey Vineyards RSV’s philosophy has always been “grow it well and try not to “eff” it up” — and we think they more than exceeded their goal. A rosé for all seasons, this Vin Gris of Pinot Noir is made from whole cluster-pressed grapes, with only the delicious “free-run” juice (no skins, stems or seeds) cold fermented. That’s it! Not only does it have a clean and pure taste on its own, it’s a win-win when you pair it with gamey meats like lamb chops.
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Best Beer: Other Half Brewing Co. Forever Ever Hazy IPA
Image Credit: Other Half Brewing Co. One of our main complaints with IPAs is that for all that time developing flavor, you can really only crush one or two without getting knocked back. But this massively hoppy brew from Other Half Brewing Co. packs full flavor into a small package, and with a low enough ABV to make it insanely sessionable to boot. With notes of peach tea, and citrus, and passionfruit (oh my), sip it slow and savor the sweetness, or just throw it back and party on, dudes.
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Best Tequila: Loco Puro Corazón
Image Credit: Loco Tequila Blanco tequila allows for the natural agave flavor to shine through, and we can think of no better crafting of this principle than Loco Puro Corazón. With a clean look and an even cleaner taste, that light body is impressively silky-smooth going down. Notes of mint and eucalyptus combined with the herbaceousness of the fresh agave make it a refreshing summertime sip that deserves a place on your liquor cabinet.
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Best Whiskey: Still Austin “The Musician” Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Image Credit: Still Austin The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, if you’re looking for a bourbon that’s as layered as the harmonies of your favorite song, Still Austin’s “The Musician” Straight Bourbon Whiskey is set to become a timeless classic. By using a method that lends itself to a nuanced palette, Still Austin allows the sweetness of the white corn — the same kind used in Austin’s famous tortillas — and the high-rye mash do the talking.
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Best Gin: Two Shores Gin
Image Credit: Two Shores Gin Gin can be hard to approach if you’re not a fan of floral notes, but Two Shores Gin keeps its roots in London-style distilling while creating a distinctly Cali flair. Made in small batches distilled in L.A., it’s got a distinct, velvety mouthfeel that shines in cocktails or just sipping neat. But the use of California botanicals including dragon fruit, prickly pear and pepper tree really makes it stand out from the crowd.
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Best Vodka: Harridan Vodka
Image Credit: Harridan Vodka Three cheers to the spirit of defiance, to the spirit of Harridan, disrupting the premium vodka game simply through attention to detail usually reserved for whiskey or tequila. Its overproof strength (88 proof to be exact) is an homage to the bossy women of the world, and we just love that it won’t get lost in your favorite mixers, but is still smooth enough to drink on the rocks. And can we talk about those bottles, blown with recycled glass and dipped in black wax? This is craft vodka that demands to be remembered.
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Best Hard Kombucha: JuneShine (Midnight Painkiller)
Image Credit: JuneShine Tiki cocktails lend themselves well to being caned up, although some can end up either sickly sweet, or taste like nothing but burning alcohol — Juneshine strikes the perfect balance of tropical vibes and craft-minded distilling with their hard kombucha. Their Midnight Painkiller is bold and flavorful, ready to impress kombucha drinkers and high-brow mixologists alike with a blend of pineapple, coconut, orange, and nutmeg. Your gut microbiome (and your Friday night) will thank you.
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Best CBD Drink: Flyers Cocktail Company (BKLN Gold)
Image Credit: Flyers Whether you’re rocking through one of the “Sober” months, or looking to not get into hangover territory this weekend, Flyers Cocktail Company has the solution for you. Their CBD bevvies taste like an alcohol-free version of your favorite cocktail, but they can still help you feel more comfortable and relaxed from head to toe. The best of both worlds, their sophisticated flavors like the Highball-inspired BKLN Gold won’t make you feel like you’re missing out on any of the fun.
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Best NA Drink: De Soi Très Rosé
Image Credit: De Soi It’s not just you – non-alcoholic drinks are having a moment, from mocktails to booze-free canned drinks. For proof, look no further than our favorite new NA aperitif from De Soi, the sober-friendly beverage brand co-founded by pop superstar Katy Perry and master distiller Morgan McLachlan. Its newest Très Rosé has a bevy of ingredients you won’t find in your typical canned wine, from adaptogens like lion’s mane and saffron, plus a delicious flavor that makes it a contender for year-round sipping at dinner and happy hour alike.
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Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen
Image Credit: Vacation Sun protection has never looked so appetizing. No, this isn’t just another can of whipped cream. Instead, Vacation’s trendy canister’s broad spectrum SPF 30 mousse sunscreen helps prevent sun damage in a cruelty-, paraben-, and oxybenzone-and-octinoxate-free package. It’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes, and designed for sensitive skin to boot. The bottom line: You won’t find a more fun reef-safe sunscreen at the beach this year.
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Best Face Sunscreen: Trader Joe’s Facial Sunscreen
Image Credit: Trader Joe's Hear us out: One of the best sunscreens we’ve ever tried for our face is from…Trader Joe’s? Yes. And we buy multiple bottles of the stuff just in case it sells out at our local store. The reason: The Supergoop! dupe boasts a $9 price tag, and it skips any fragrances or oxybenzone. Best of all, the water-resistant broad spectrum SPF 40 formula offers a matte-like, lightweight finish.
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Best Fragrance: Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme Eau de Parfum
Image Credit: Boy Smells Fragrances should linger and shift in notes over time. It’s an elusive behavior that only great perfumes can achieve. Boy Smells embodies this quality through a range of sensuous products that not only have body but transform as the day carries on. However, their Hinoki Fantôme scent is as elusive as it gets. It starts off slightly sweet but leaves a spicy, sort of woodsy smell after it settles. It can only be described as chewing Big Red gum next to a fire.
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Best Beard Trimmer: Wahl Professional Cordless Magic Clip
Image Credit: Amazon Powerful and reliable, this is one of those cases when a tool designed specifically for the pros (barbers and stylists alike) deserves a spot on your cabinet. Wahl’s cordless Magic Clip uses a patented stagger-tooth blade that creates seamless blends and textures when hard or soft line fading. When it makes that crisp, crunch finishing sound, you know your cut is going to be capital “C” clean. That flawless build will help you achieve flawless style.
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Best Lip Mask: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Image Credit: Amazon It’s hard to talk about skincare these days without someone bringing up the Lip Sleeping Mask from K-beauty brand Laneige, and we’re not exaggerating when we say the hype is real. From music festivals in the desert, to post-flight dryness, this mask helped our lips bounce back fast from flakiness and cracking every time we used it. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and minerals in its hydrating formula, a combination of hyaluronic acid and a humectant makes sure moisture says locked in and sealed with a kiss.
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Best Body Groomer: Mowbie Body Groomer
Image Credit: Mowbie From your neck to your back to… everywhere else… we all have a lot of hair to contend with, and this Mowbie body groomer helps tackle all of it. With a precision foil shaver and four guide attachments, you can leave different amounts of hair on different parts of your body, letting you quickly clean up with one tool.
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Best Razor: Billie Razor
Image Credit: Billie Edgewell Personal Care Co. — the parent company of our grandparents’ favorite razor brand; Schtick — strategically acquired Billie Inc. for $310M in 2021. Their cult favorite razor disrupted the women’s razor market with its simple yet modernized handle and razor design that reviewers say eliminates razor burn. Billie also offers a “set it and forget it” monthly subscription that ensures you’ll never run out of new blades again. A very elite no-brainer purchase for personal care.
BUY: From Billie for $10 or on Amazon for $14.99
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Best Hairdryer: Dyson Supersonic Hairdryer
Image Credit: Dyson Purchasing the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer will have you rethinking how you ever managed to style your hair before owning it. Dyson’s patented technology works to minimize the amount of heat required to dry and style your hair — known to increase hair smoothness by more than 75% compared to comparable dryers. Reviewers have expressed noticeable improvements in hair health and texture with long-term use.
BUY: From Dyson for $429.99 or on Amazon for $399.99
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Best Body Wash: Drunk Elephant Cream Body Cleanser
Image Credit: Drunk Elephant Drunk Elephant is known most for their no-fuss ingredients, nixing artificial scents and filler products for a concentration of high-quality ingredients that get the job done. This applies not only to their face products but to body care, too. The Kamili Cream Body Cleanser is formulated with oils that not only clean the body but keep your skin hydrated. It’s also designed at a pH compatible with the body, eliminating irritation to protect the skin’s barrier.
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Best Face Mask: House of Dohwa Rice Mask
Image Credit: House of Dohwa Rice is a revered ingredient in Korean skincare that leaves the skin glowing. The Dohwa Mask is essentially a concentration of rice products, that gently cleanse the skin removing dead cells while also deeply hydrating the face. Its light formula is great for those with sensitive skin and helps soothe irritation. This is a product you probably wouldn’t have traditionally bought, but you’ll be glad you did.
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Best Electric Car: Lucid Air Sapphire
Image Credit: Lucid Motors Speed from instant torque is the best part of driving electric cars. And the new Lucid Air Sapphire — the world’s fastest production sedan — does speed better than others with a bonkers 0-60 time of 1.89 seconds. But what really impressed us was that this ludicrous acceleration happens from the comfort of a spacious luxury sedan with an EPA-estimated range of 427 miles.
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Best Mattress: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt LuxeAdapt Mattress
Image Credit: Tempur-Pedic In the market for a new mattress? Check out this TEMPUR-Adapt LuxeAdapt from Tempur-Pedic. It’s a mouthful, but all the names mean something: TEMPUR-Adapt is the brand’s proprietary support material, and the LuxeAdapt is Tempur-Pedic’s thickest mattress that seamlessly relieves pressure in key areas of the body. Plus, the mattress boasts cooling yarn for year-round temperature regulation.