Best wicker		Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece		SEE IT	Wicker patio furniture is a timeless, weather-enduring, and aesthetically pleasing pick to complete your outdoor space—this cushioned and sleek set certainly fits the bill.
Best metal		SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set		SEE IT	Ergonomically-designed for support and comfort, this modern set will endure any outdoor conditions without fading or weathering.
Best budget		Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set		SEE IT	Stylish patio furniture doesn’t need to break the bank—this simplistic and rust-resistant pick is durable, yet affordable.

There’s nothing quite like spending time on the patio. Not only is breathing in fresh air good for your health, but relaxing outside, or laughing with friends and family while you dine under the stars really rejuvenates your being. To be able to do it all in your own backyard is just the icing on the cake. Your particular parameters—from size to climate to your aesthetic—will determine which outdoor furniture suits your space best. The best patio furniture will enhance your outdoor space and your experience.

• Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece
• Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set
• Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs
• Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set
• Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

How we chose the best patio furniture

Shopping for the best patio furniture is an exciting time. Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your indoor space, decor-wise. Once you’ve set it up to your liking, though, be warned: Neighbors, friends, and family won’t be able to stay away. Whether you want patio dining furniture or patio lounge furniture, prefer vintage wicker patio furniture or rustic wrought iron furniture, there are plenty of options. If you like a more mix-and-match vibe, shopping for individual pieces will help execute that vision. On the other hand, if you want a one-stop-shop, there are beautiful outdoor furniture sets to give you a cohesive look. If this area is going to be a focal point in your home and you want to be able to enjoy it season after season, invest in more durable materials. With that said, if you’re on a budget, you don’t need to break the bank. Always buy what you can afford. 

The best patio furniture: Reviews & Recommendations

Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece

Amazon

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Natural wicker patio furniture can be very difficult to care for, and plenty expensive. And the all-weather, synthetic stuff has come a long way. Imagine having your morning coffee, reading the paper or having lunch at this dreamy set made from eco-friendly rattan—a.k.a. synthetic polyethylene wicker. It has the look of the natural stuff but is hardy enough for outdoors—has a pretty weave that can also stand up to any kind of precipitation. So can the all-weather cushions, which are detachable and machine-washable. 

Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set

Amazon

SEE IT

This high-quality metal patio furniture set is perfect for your patio, the porch, or poolside. Sure to last, the frame is made of rust-resistant painted iron, the table top is made of tempered glass, and the cushions are quick-drying. The ergonomically designed rocking chairs provide comfort and support, and the sponge cushions—offered in brown, gray, and red—are waterproof and fade-resistant. Additionally, there’s a fixed button clip to attach the cushions to the chair so there will be no sliding off of these bad boys, nor will the wind come and take them away. 

Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs

Amazon

SEE IT

If you’re a fan of mixing and matching furniture, this plastic patio furniture may work well for you. The chairs come in turquoise, gray, and white, and at 24 pounds each, they’re light enough to move around from your patio to your porch to your fire pit. The maintenance-free resin used to make these chairs is rustproof and weatherproof, so you can enjoy them year after year. As a bonus, there’s a built-in cup holder. Score! 

Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set

Amazon

SEE IT

This gorgeous patio furniture set is perfect for lounging around with a good book or hosting happy hour with friends. It includes four pieces: a loveseat, two armchairs, and a table. The frame of the chairs is made of powder-coated aluminum, which resists rust and UV light; and the table is constructed from sturdy faux wood. Not only are the thick polyester cushions comfortable and cozy, they’re easy to clean, should one of those cocktails from happy hour spill.

Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

Amazon

SEE IT

This inexpensive patio set is the epitome of shabby chic. The frame is made from powder-coated steel, making it durable and rust-resistant. While the bars on the seat and back of the chairs are wide to offer some comfort, they won’t be as cushy as the more expensive sets. However, if a cheap patio furniture set that will last for multiple seasons is what you’re after, this is a great option. It’s offered in black, blue, red, mint, peacock blue, and yellow. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best patio furniture

When shopping for the best patio furniture, you’ll want to take a few things into consideration.  You want pieces that fit your space. There is so much available that you can absolutely find something that enhances your yard but doesn’t take over. Ask yourself what you’ll be doing more of: lounging or dining. This will determine whether lounge chairs, a three-piece set, a patio umbrella, or a dining set is the best option. If your indoor furniture is modern, consider extending that to your outdoor domain to create a cohesive style throughout. Lastly, your climate should determine what types of materials you pick, which will then give you an idea of pricing. 

The more weatherproof and durable your furniture is, the more expensive it will be; on the upside, it will last longer. The finer materials withstand climate changes and keep pests away. Similar to your indoor furniture, outdoor furniture can be an investment, and knowing you’re buying quality that will last year after year should ease your mind (if not your wallet).

Fabric and metal

Regardless of whether you plan to put your outdoor furniture in storage during the colder months, you’ll want all-weather patio furniture to withstand all the elements. The three best materials for outdoor furniture are wood, synthetic, and metal. What you choose will be based on your style preferences and lifestyle, as some require more care than others. For something low maintenance, teak wood is your best bet, as it can withstand even the harshest environments. (To maintain its color, just apply a teak protector.) Synthetics, a.k.a. plastic furniture, are the cheapest option. All-weather wicker looks nice and is easy to clean, and metal furniture, especially aluminum, resists rust and moisture damage. An additional way to protect your outdoor furniture is to use waterproof covers when it’s not in use. 

FAQs

A final word on shopping for the best patio furniture

• Best wicker: Tangkula Patio Furniture Set 3 Piece
• Best metal: SOLAURA 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Chairs Bistro Set
• Best plastic: Keter Furniture Patio Chairs
• Best aluminum: GDF Studio Nealie Patio 4 Piece Outdoor Aluminum Chat Set
• Best budget: Grand Patio Premium Steel Bistro Set

Shopping for the best patio furniture brings you one step closer to realizing your outdoor oasis dreams. Consider what you can afford, but know that this is an investment that could potentially last for nearly two decades! Material is key, but your aesthetic is just as important, so as long as you find something that fits your vibe and is also durable, rust-resistant, and weatherproof, you can’t go wrong. Just be sure to purchase enough seating for your friends and family, because your house is going to become the one where everyone wants to be. All that’s missing is to get one of the best patio heaters, so you can enjoy your outdoor space even when it’s colder.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best patio furniture in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best backpack chair		Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair		SEE IT	A built-in cooler and flip-over pillow let you fully relax at the beach.
Best beach hammock		Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock		SEE IT	This hammock easily folds for even easier transportation.
Best budget		Coleman Camping Chair		SEE IT	Keep it simple with this lightweight, cheap beach chair

We’ve all done it: We go to the beach, bringing only a towel. “I can shape the sand into a sort of ground chair,” we tell ourselves, but it never really works out that way. So, instead of sinking into disappointment, grab a chair. The best beach chairs will allow you to enjoy the scenery, while also being durable and portable. Whether you’re on the best beach in the Pacific or in your yard next to the baby pool, take time to find the right size, style, and type of chair to best suit your needs.

• Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair
• Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair
• Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock
• Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair
• Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

How we chose the best beach chairs

When you’re shopping for the best beach chair, you want to be sure to snag a chair that will bring you hours of comfort, be durable enough to last at least through the summer, and be lightweight and collapsible for easy transport. Finding the best beach gear means asking yourself how and where you will be spending your time. If you plan on camping in a rustic, wooded coastal area, it may make sense to bring a portable beach hammock or easy-to-carry camping beach chair. If you have a smaller car or will be traveling on public transportation to your beach destination, you’ll want to opt for a smaller, low-profile beach chair—all the better if it has backpack straps.

The best beach chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair

Tommy Bahama

SEE IT

This Tommy Bahama beach chair is a folding chair that allows for five reclining positions, as well as a pillow for sneaky naps. The backpack beach chair’s insulated cooler bag keeps snacks cool and free of sand.

Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair

Amazon Basics

SEE IT

This sturdy zero-gravity folding chair will work at the beach, thanks to rust- and weather-resistant materials. Unlike some others, this option also includes padded armrests and a pillow to support your neck.

Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock

Best Choice Products

SEE IT

This beach hammock comes with a stand, as well as a carrying case; the stand disassembles with no tools needed, so you can pack up and move it around if necessary. It comes in several colors, too, if you want to coordinate with your bathing suit.

Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair

Helinox

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This camping chair packs all kinds of beach-friendly features, including UV-resistant ripstop fabric and a zippered carrying case. But it’s also only 3.5 pounds in weight, which, as for all the best camping chairs, makes it perfect for carrying around.

Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

Coleman

SEE IT

This highly rated, powder-coated, steel, low-profile Coleman chair weighs in at only 5.3 pounds. This folding chair comes with its own carrying bag for easy transportation and includes some storage options (a mesh pocket in the back, and a cup holder on the seat) as well.

Things to consider when buying the best beach chair

There are also some extra features to beach chairs that might make your day all the more relaxing, from cooler packs to cup holders and cellphone pouches. For ultimate comfort, there are even zero-gravity-style chairs, which allow you to recline and raise your feet.

Related: Grab the best beach umbrella to shade yourself from the sun’s harsh rays.

Looking for a chair and backpack combo?

A day at the beach will include, at minimum, a comfortable chair, a few snacks and drinks, and your towel. The easier it is to carry all of this, the more easy and carefree your day will be. The best backpack beach chairs include straps that make carrying your beach haul incredibly easy. Look for backpack chairs that are adjustable, allowing for reclining flat for naps, or sitting upright for eating and watching the waves. The best backpack beach chairs—these will be folding chairs—will have some fun extras built in to help you relax and minimize the overall amount of beach day packing you need to do. Look for built-in pillows, cup holders, and more; our recommendation even includes a foldable towel rack.

Looking for a chair that will be comfortable for your back?

The best beach chairs will be comfortable for all-day lounging and relaxing. So-called zero-gravity chairs distribute weight evenly and allow you to recline so that your legs are above the height of your heart. These are just about the comfiest patio chairs out there, and some of them will work just as well on the sand. In order for a zero-gravity chair to work as a folding beach chair, it must be fully collapsible and be made from durable, UV-resistant materials. Be sure to check with the manufacturer for size guides and weight limits. Some zero-gravity beach chairs even have extra features like padding, cup holders, and canopies to shade you from the sun.

Get a jealousy-inducing nap with a beach hammock

Few images conjure up quintessential relaxation more than stretching out in a hammock. While it may seem silly to bring a hammock to a crowded public beach, you’d be surprised how often you can use one on vacation: wooded beach areas, parks, lakes, and forests are all ideal for hammocks. The best beach hammock will be lightweight and easily packed, with a device that makes it easy to construct. Most portable hammocks are designed to hang between two trees, but if that doesn’t seem likely, you can find one with a stand, too. In that case, look for a stand that’s designed to be taken apart and transported. Often these stands even come with a travel bag with a shoulder strap to make carrying and moving easier. With their flexible fabric design, hammocks are a great choice if you think you might want to catch a nap. 

Looking for a chair that’s easy to carry?

For most of us, going to the beach involves lugging. You’re going to have to carry stuff—a lot of stuff—down to the sand. The best camping chairs are designed with this obstacle in mind. These have to be lightweight, because they’re going to be carried, sometimes over long distances. Nobody has to know that you’re actually reading a book on the beach, not trekking through the wilderness, in a camping beach chair. Look for camping beach chairs with tall backs; not all have this, and you’ll want to rest your head. Consider materials that are both washable and ventilated for warm summer days. 

Looking for beach chairs on a budget? 

Fortunately, there are plenty of budget folding beach chairs on the market. You’ll have to give up some features and styles; don’t bank on grabbing a zero-gravity chair or one with a high-tech folding camping frame for under $50. But there are still great options. Make sure to look for UV-resistant materials, which will keep the fabric from stretching and becoming brittle in the sun. These chairs may be affordable, but that doesn’t mean you want to replace them too often.

FAQs

Related: Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Final thoughts on the best beach chairs

• Best backpack chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair
• Best zero-gravity chair: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero-Gravity Lounge Folding Chair
• Best beach hammock: Best Choice Brazilian-Style Hammock
• Best camping chair: Helinox Sunset Chair
• Best budget: Coleman Camping Chair

The best beach chairs will allow you to kick back, relax, and enjoy a full day at the beach. Whether you want to indulge in a zero-gravity chair to feel like a vacationing astronaut, set up a portable hammock, or just grab something lightweight for a long walk to the shore, you’ll find something here to make your beach day great.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best beach chairs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller		SEE IT	No application is required for this wide-range tabletop bug repellent, which offers over five hours of protection with each charge.
Best for babies		Cutter Family Mosquito Wipes		SEE IT	These towelettes make putting on bug repellent quick and easy and give parents greater application control for small kids that want more playtime.
Best budget		OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent		SEE IT	This aerosol spray doesn’t feel greasy or oily upon application.

Whether we’re in the middle of nature or in the comfort of our own homes, biting bugs can wreak havoc on humans and pets, so effective insect repellant is the first defense. It’s a proactive way to keep the rude critters away before these scores of Davids leave their mark on our sensitive Goliath skin … or do even more serious damage. But it can be overwhelming to browse through rows of sprays, lotions, wipes, bracelets, and even electronic bug control options. We’re here to help you find the best insect repellents that really, genuinely work.

• Best overall: Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
• Best picaridin: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
• Best for babies: Cutter Mosquito Wipes
• Best premium: Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System
• Best for dogs: Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray
• Best budget: OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent

How we chose the best insect repellents

What do solar generators, tents, and coolers have in common? They’re all things you enjoy outdoors—or at least you should enjoy outdoors, insect adversaries allowing. That’s why we’d argue that effective repellent is one of the most important things you can pack on a camping trip—without it, you’d be itchy, uncomfortable, and putting yourself at risk of getting a bug from a bug. We turned to reviews, recommendations, and user testing to find the best insect repellents.

The best insect repellents: Reviews & Recommendations

The best insect repellents will help you reduce your calamine lotion and anti-itch cream use. Here are the ones we found:

Best overall: Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: No application is required for this wide-range tabletop bug repellent.

Specs

• Volume: .33 fluid ounces
• Form: Liquid
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Metofluthrin

Pros

• No application
• Long-range coverage
• Rechargeable

Cons

• Reviews say refills tend to deplete quickly

This rechargeable mosquito repeller from Thermacell gives you a 20-foot protection zone. Its refills are long-lasting (from 12 to 40 hours), and the spray-free design makes for a more comfortable gathering. One charge gets you 5.5 hours of continuous mosquito protection. The metofluthrin-based repellent is scent-free and has been independently tested and EPA-reviewed for safety. Additionally, it’s covered by a two-year warranty that can be extended an extra year with item registration.

Best picaridin: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

Sawyer Products

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get 14 hours of protection against bugs with this non-greasy, non-scented lotion bug repellent.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces
• Form: Lotion
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Picaridin

Pros

• Long-lasting
• Scent-free
• Repels ticks

Cons

• Spray not as effective as lotion

This bug repellent is completely fragrance-free and offers a stronger defense against biting flies than most DEET products. The lotion offers longer-lasting protection on skin, while the pump spray lingers longer on clothing. The lotion protects from mosquitos for up to 14 hours and provides eight hours of protection against flies and gnats. The spray provides 12 hours of protection against mosquitos and the same level of protection against flies and gnats. It is non-greasy and dries quickly. Additionally, it won’t damage synthetic coatings, and you can use the spray on clothing, backpacks, and more.

Best for babies: Cutter Mosquito Wipes

Cutter

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Why it made the cut: These wipes make putting on bug repellent quick and easy for more playtime.

Specs

• Volume: N/A
• Form: Wipes
• Scent: Yes
• Active ingredient: DEET

Pros

• Non-greasy
• Clean scent
• Easy-to-use

Cons

• Only 15 wipes

These wipes use a 7.15 percent DEET-based formula to keep mosquitoes away. They’ve got a cooling, clean scent, and don’t feel sticky, greasy, or oily on the skin. You can use them on your face, ears, and neck, which usually go untreated. A resealable packet keeps them moist and allows you to take them on the go. They repel against mosquitoes, deer ticks, gnats, biting flies, fleas, and chiggers. You can use it on children two months and older. And, DEET will not damage nylon, cotton, or wool, but it can damage some synthetic fabrics. You’ll have to buy multiple packages for heavy use since each pack only contains 15 wipes.

Best premium: Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System

Thermacell

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get on-demand protection season after season with this yard system.

Specs

• Volume: N/A
• Form: Liquid
• Scent: No
• Active ingredient: Metofluthrin

Pros

• Wide coverage
• Customizable placement
• Effective

Cons

• Expensive

Protect your entire backyard from mosquitos this summer with the LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System. You can choose between three, four, or five repellers to place around your property lines, and each kit includes a smart hub, mounts, 24-foot cables, and ground stakes. The amount you receive of each depends on the size of the kit you purchase. Each repellent can last for 40 hours and uses scent-free, heat-activated metofluthrin as its active ingredient. The Smart Hub connects multiple repellers and can be controlled using the LIV+ app. The kits are expensive to purchase (it ranges from $699-$899) and the refills are pricey too—as a six-pack is $120. However, if you want to eradicate bugs from your outdoor entertainment spaces, it might be a worthy investment.

Best for dogs: Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray

Wondercide

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This plant-based insect repellent smells great and keeps your pooch pest-free.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces; 16 fluid ounces; 32 fluid ounces, 1 gallon
• Form: Spray
• Scent: Yes: Lemongrass; peppermint; rosemary; cedarwood
• Active ingredient: Essential oils

Pros

• Not harmful to your pet
• Wide variety of sizes
• Plant-based

Cons

• The scent might irritate skin

This flea and tick control is so much more than an insect killer. It uses pet-safe plant-based essential oils to combat pests at all stages of their life cycle. As an added bonus, it won’t harm birds, bees, and butterflies that eat insects that have been treated with the product. You can use it on your pooch, or you can use it on yourself. If your pet has sensitive skin—especially cats—the scent might irritate your pet. Bathe your pet in soap and discontinue use if your pet experiences a negative reaction.

Best budget: OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent

OFF!

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This long-lasting, non-greasy insect repellent comes in a two-pack for more bang for your buck.

Specs

• Volume: 4 fluid ounces
• Form: Aerosol
• Scent: Lemon
• Active ingredient: DEET

Pros

• High DEET concentration
• Non-greasy feel
• Scent not overpowering

Cons

• Propellant can leave a white residue on clothes

This DEET OFF insect repellent approaches the maximum level of protection with a concentration of 25 percent, and it’s especially effective at repelling deadly and/or annoying mosquitoes, along with ticks, biting flies, gnats, and chiggers for long periods of time. Its powder-dry insect-repelling formula protects without feeling oily or greasy, and its lemon scent is light and pleasant. Use caution when spraying on or near fabrics, as its included propellant can leave a white residue. It can be washed off easily, however.

What to consider when buying the best insect repellents

So how do you go about choosing the best insect repellent your money can buy? There’s a wide variety, which vary in effectiveness, application style, and whether their effects are scientifically proven. (Mosquito repellent bracelets, for example, are an option but experts are not unanimously sold on their effectiveness.) 

Before settling on any product, it’s important to read the label and look for one of three key ingredients: DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and picaridin. Some experts are less than enthusiastic about natural insect repellents, like citronella, because their active ingredients aren’t as effective. That doesn’t make them useless, but they’re not ideal as a primary protector; they’re best used in tandem with the stronger stuff. Also, beware of products that combine sunscreen and bug repellent. Since sunscreen has to be reapplied every few hours, you’ll risk overexposing yourself to the chemicals in repellent.

When applying insect control, be sure you cover only exposed body parts, using only the recommended dose. Keep it away from cuts and bruises and, when using it on your face, rub it in using your hands and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and ears. At the end of the day, wash it off using soap and water, and if you’ve sprayed it onto your clothing, keep them in a separate wash pile. The best insect repellent is also often some pretty harsh stuff: it can damage leather, vinyl, and some synthetics, so proceed with caution when applying bug spray directly to fabric.

DEET vs. picaridin

DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, in case you needed to know for a Jeopardy! question or bar trivia) is the most widely used active ingredient in insect repellent, and it offers a strong defense against mosquitoes, ticks, and some flies. The amount used in most products ranges between 10 percent and 100 percent, with a protection time of two hours to 10. The level of protection maxes out at a concentration of 30 percent, with higher levels only increasing the protection time. Control-release DEET can keep working for up to 12 hours.

DEET, which was developed by the United States Army during the 1940s, is perfectly safe to use if you follow the instructions that come with it. It’s considered the old faithful of the best insect repellent, but you have to be sure to handle it carefully and keep it away from your sunglasses and trekking pole grips since it doesn’t always mix well with plastics. It can also cause some temporary numbness in your lips if it comes into contact with them, so be careful when applying.

Picaridin is the synthetic version of a repellent found in pepper plants, and it’s often mentioned alongside DEET as a prime active ingredient in insect repellent. The maximum protection of picaridin is reached at 20 percent concentration, with spray and lotion forms providing different lengths of protection. In insect repellent spray, it can keep you covered against mosquitoes and ticks for 12 hours and flies for eight. In lotion form, it can protect you from mosquitoes and ticks for 14 hours and flies for eight.

Picaridin has a few advantages over the older competitor, DEET. When dealing with mosquitoes and ticks, picaridin is similarly effective as DEET, and it’s actually a bit more effective on flies. Picaridin also has less of an odor, and when used in the best insect repellent, it doesn’t do any damage to plastics and other synthetics.

Can kids use insect repellent?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, insect repellent used on children should not contain any more than a 30 percent concentration of DEET, and insect repellent shouldn’t be used at all on babies younger than two months. Picaridin is also generally safe to use on children, though it can irritate their eyes and skin. To avoid exposing kids to these fairly serious chemicals, you might want to consider an alternative like essential oil insect repellent, but keep in mind that repellents with plant oils as a main active ingredient offer fewer hours of protection than DEET and picaridin products.

To further protect babies from the effects of bugs outdoors, cover their strollers with netting. When applying the best insect repellent to children, adults should follow the same safety guidelines when applying it to themselves.

How do I protect my pets from insects?

Collars, pills, chewables, and drops provide pets with varying levels of pest protection. DEET can be toxic to dogs, especially in large quantities, so it’s best to avoid using DEET insect repellent on dogs, or even on yourself if you’re hanging out with a dog. (They do like to lick skin, remember.) Natural bug repellent is a safer option, but some essential oils are harmful to dogs, so it’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian before using any of them.

The safe list for dogs generally includes citrus, soybean oil, and geranium oil, and you can apply those to their coat or collar. Another option is filling your yard with plants like basil, catnip, lavender, lemon balm, peppermint, and rosemary as a mosquito repellent for dogs. But dog owners beware: Plants such as geranium, citronella, and garlic can be dangerous if eaten by dogs, and if you have a cat, essential oils can be especially toxic, causing an upset stomach and damage to the liver and central nervous system.

How much will you have to pay for bug protection?

The best insect repellent won’t set you back very much—if it’s designed for humans. Solid options can be found for under $10. But specially formulated bug control for pets tends to be a bit more expensive; it can even approach the $100 range. Home systems can also get pricey, and can go for around $600-$700 dollars.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best insect repellents

The best insect repellent is likely to include one of the two power ingredients, those being DEET and picaridin. It doesn’t take a high concentration of either to maximize bug control, but the higher the concentration, the longer you’ll be protected. Natural insect repellent is an alternative to these, but they’re not always as effective. Since DEET poses a danger to dogs, natural bug repellents are a better pet option, but you have to be careful to stay away from toxic plants and essential oils that might threaten their health.

The post The best insect repellents of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best wooden		HAPPYGRILL 3PCS Outdoor Folding Picnic Table Bench Set		SEE IT	This table brings the dining table-feel anywhere you go.
Best metal		ALPHA CAMP 3-Piece Folding Camping Table with Bench Set		SEE IT	This pick is lightweight and stylish.
Best budget		2x4basics Flip Top BenchTable		SEE IT	A permanent solution that’s less than $100.

A folding picnic table is extraordinarily versatile. You can use it as a permanent fixture on your patio or deck, add one as needed during parties or backyard get-togethers, bring it along with you on camping trips, or use it for outdoor businesses such as delicatessens or ice cream shops. There are even kid-sized ones that you can use outdoors or indoors as perfect crafting tables: they’re typically easy to clean, so it’s not a big deal if they get crayons or Elmer’s glue or—gasp!—glitter stuck on them. The best folding picnic tables can fit all your delicious picnic recipes.

• Best wooden: HAPPYGRILL 3PCS Outdoor Folding Picnic Table Bench Set
• Best for a crowd: Office Star Resin 3-Piece Folding Bench and Table Set
• Best metal: ALPHA CAMP 3-Piece Folding Camping Table with Bench Set
• Best without benches: Best Choice Products 8-Foot Heavy-Duty Folding Plastic Dining Table
• Best budget: 2x4basics Flip Top BenchTable

How we chose the best folding picnic tables

With many folding picnic table options to choose from, though, you’ll want to decide on a few things: material, size, design, and whether or not it has a hole for an umbrella. You’ll also want to look into manufacturers’ warranties and how easy it is (or isn’t!) to assemble, break down, and store when it’s not in use. The best folding picnic table for you will be one that fits your budget, your style, and your desire for portability.

Being foldable doesn’t always mean an easily portable table. Some so-called portable picnic tables and picnic benches are very heavy! If you need something that you can move frequently, make sure it’s light enough for you to carry (with or without help, depending on whether or not you have someone who will reliably help you) and not too cumbersome. Some foldable picnic tables fold lengthwise as well as at the legs, and some have handles or other features to make them easier to carry. To narrow down our list, we took all of the above into consideration, conducted heavy research, and carried out plenty of user testing.

The best folding picnic tables: Reviews & Recommendations

Best wooden: HAPPYGRILL 3PCS Outdoor Folding Picnic Table Bench Set

HAPPYGRILL

SEE IT

As the best folding wooden picnic table you don’t have to worry about assembly with this one; this portable table comes fully assembled. It has fir wood tops on the table and benches, and the legs are made of steel. The benches are separate from the picnic table, and the dimensions of the table are 70 inches in length by 18 inches in width by 29.5 inches in height. 

Best for a crowd: Office Star Resin 3-Piece Folding Bench and Table Set

Office Star

SEE IT

With a heavy-duty blow mold top, this 6-foot folding table doesn’t just fold down at the legs; it also folds in half on top so you won’t have to figure out how to store a 6-foot folding table. The folding picnic table benches, too, fold in half, and have legs at the center to stabilize weight, and locking rings to keep the legs steady. This is a very sturdy pick that can fit six average-sized adults comfortably. 

Best metal: ALPHA CAMP 3-Piece Folding Camping Table with Bench Set

ALPHA CAMP

SEE IT

Aluminum is so lightweight that this whole metal picnic table set weighs just 20 pounds, and can fold up simply like a briefcase with double handles for on-the-go use. There’s a waterproof high-density fiberboard top to both the table and benches for ease of cleaning and to prevent it from being too hot to sit on or use in the heat. The height on this folding picnic table is adjustable from 20 inches to 28 inches, and the manufacturer recommends the set for two adults and two children at maximum. 

Best without benches: Best Choice Products 8-Foot Heavy-Duty Folding Plastic Dining Table

Best Choice Products

SEE IT

Already have the benches or chairs covered? If all you need is the table, then this 8-foot folding dining table may be just what you need. It’s simple to clean, and it assembles and breaks down easily, with a carrying handle built-in for ease of transport. The 8-foot version is just over 44 pounds (there are smaller sizes available, too) and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.

Best budget: 2x4basics Flip Top BenchTable

2x4basics

SEE IT

If you’re even slightly handy, you might want to go for this versatile wood folding picnic table: It’s a kit that includes heavy-gauge resin brackets and you’ll need to add two-by-four pieces of lumber (not included) to assemble the kit. One of the coolest parts is that you can choose the size—you can cut lumber up to 9 feet, depending on how wide you want the bench and table to be. It converts from a bench to a small foldable table using a slide lock, and you can put two together for a larger table that seats up to eight people. 

What to consider when buying the best folding picnic tables

Picnic tables have some advantages over traditional patio dining sets. In general, they need less maintenance: fabric seats and cushions from traditional sets wear out over time and can be magnets for mold and mildew, glass tops can shatter and show dirt easily, and metal frames can lose their paint, rust, and degrade to the point of being dangerous to use. In windy conditions, chairs may fall over or become projectiles, and it can be impossible to store a traditional patio dining set in a shed or garage for the winter or when not in use. 

With picnic tables, there are generally fewer parts to maintain. And when you’re looking for the best folding picnic table, that likely means you’re looking for something you can store when not in use, or take along with you in a car. The ability to store your picnic set will protect it from weathering and degradation for a longer period of time.

The one main downside of picnic tables, be they portable picnic tables or not, is the lack of back support or cushioning. They may not be the best option for those with back or neck problems, or those who are unsteady. But for most people, picnic seating works fine for sitting down for outdoor meals and socializing. A portable table can be a great investment for your spring, summer, and fall adventures, and if you’re a brick-and-mortar business owner who has the ability to provide outdoor seating, it can be a good addition to your business.

Related: The best supplies and gear for a picnic, outside of a table.

Choosing a portable picnic table with (or without) an umbrella hole

While none of our portable picnic tables picks support an umbrella, it’s worth noting that a table with a hole in the middle can be an option, so read the product descriptions closely. Keep in mind that if you buy an umbrella, you’ll also need a base for it, and those should be fairly heavy—so they’re not the easiest things to carry around. Umbrella bases are often made of cast iron or concrete, or they may be plastic with an opening to fill with sand or water. If you’re looking for a camping option, a water-filled base is likely the best pick for portability: just empty it out when you’re ready to pack up, and the base won’t be hard to lift in or out of a vehicle.

Patio umbrellas are helpful for several reasons: They protect people from the sun and from light rain, and they can also help to protect your food from spoiling or melting too quickly in direct sunlight. They can also shield your table from bird droppings. And if you use a tablecloth, there are many made with a hole built-in for just this purpose. But an umbrella may be more trouble than it’s worth on a picnic table if you’re doing short stints and breaking down the table regularly. It may also be unnecessary if you have a covered patio or another type of awning or a separate cantilever umbrella. So, without further ado, let’s unfold the best options for folding picnic tables.

Need some extra space? Look for a 6-foot folding picnic table

One of the great benefits of a foldable design is that you can afford to get something big, something that doesn’t seem like it would be portable—and simply fold it in half. A 6-foot folding table is an ideal size, giving you enough space to comfortably seat three people on each bench.

Should I go with aluminum or plastic?

Plastic and aluminum both have their pros and cons when you’re talking about folding picnic tables. Plastic is sturdy, easily cleaned, and won’t rust. Aluminum is exceedingly light, making it ideal for carrying around. 

What if I don’t need seating, just a table?

Already have chairs, benches, or some other seating? No problem—there’s no need to buy a full set that’s just going to clutter up your house. You can also save a few bucks by opting out of the seating element of a folding picnic table setup.

Are there options for under $50?

If you’re on a budget, one way to keep costs down is to go for a DIY option. That enables you to create something sturdier and more solid than a cheapie premade kit and can be a fun activity for families.

FAQs

Related: Don’t forget a cooler to keep your beverages and food cold.

Finals thoughts on the best folding picnic tables

• Best wooden: HAPPYGRILL 3PCS Outdoor Folding Picnic Table Bench Set
• Best for a crowd: Office Star Resin 3-Piece Folding Bench and Table Set
• Best metal: ALPHA CAMP 3-Piece Folding Camping Table with Bench Set
• Best without benches: Best Choice Products 8-Foot Heavy-Duty Folding Plastic Dining Table
• Best budget: 2x4basics Flip Top BenchTable

The best folding picnic table can help you to enjoy warm weather days even more, as it allows you to stay outside and eat comfortably, and then pack it up and store the set after you’re done. Whether you choose wood, resin, or metal picnic tables, you have some great portable table options for summertime fun.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best folding picnic tables of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best gardening gloves		Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Gardening Gloves		SEE IT	This pair of gardening gloves are comfortable and will keep your hands free from small nicks and exposure to poison ivy.
Best gardening knife		Fiskars Garden Hori Knife with Sheath		SEE IT	This knife is perfect for pruning, cutting, and weeding. The attractive sheath makes it easy to safely store, too.
Best garden hose		Aqua Joe iberJacket Non-Expanding Kink-Free Garden Hose		SEE IT	A garden hose that’s easy to move around and won’t get kinked or cut is an absolute gardening essential.

As the weather turns warmer, it’s only natural to want to spend time outdoors, which means polishing off your green thumb and grabbing some garden tools. Whether planting tomatoes in a stand-up planter or squash in a raised garden bed, there’s little as satisfying as watching your efforts pay off in the form of fresh, tasty food you can pick right in time for dinner. Seasoned pros already have a shed or basement full of equipment, but if you’re new to gardening, it can feel overwhelming to get started. The wrong gear can lead to frustration and wasted efforts, whereas the best gardening tools can help you get your garden planted, weeded, watered, pruned, and harvested easily.

• Best garden hose reel: Giraffe Retractable Hose Reel
• Best pruning shears: KOTTO Four-Pack Kit with Storage Bag
• Best wheelbarrow: Gorilla Carts Heavy-Duty Poly Yard Dump Cart
• Best shovel: Hooyman Short Handle Digging Shovel
• Best gardening knife: Fiskars Garden Hori Knife with Sheath
• Best hand rake: Fiskars Cultivator
• Best pots for seedlings: DSUWAZU Peat Pots for Seedlings
• Best garden hose: Aqua Joe iberJacket Non-Expanding Kink-Free Garden Hose
• Best rain gauge: AcuRite Magnifying Rain Gauge
• Best potting bench: Yaheetech Outdoor Garden Potting Bench
• Best gardening gloves: Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Gardening Gloves

Best garden hose reel: Giraffe Retractable Hose Reel

Giraffe Tools

SEE IT

If you’ve ever used a vacuum with a retractable cord, you know it’s hard to go back to winding long cords up yourself. The Giraffe is the best garden hose reel because it’s self-winding and can lock at any length you need. It’s 100 feet of ½-inch hose, wall-mountable with just four screws and anchors, and it’s a sturdy unit that retracts slowly so you won’t hurt yourself.

Best pruning shears: KOTTO Four-Pack Kit with Storage Bag

KOTTO

SEE IT

When it comes to garden clippers, you will likely want more than one type. For delicate work, like cutting herbs, you need something precise and narrow, whereas you’ll need something more heavy-duty with thicker branches and stems. The best pruning shears depend on your job, but versatile bypass pruning shears that make sharp, clean cuts are generally a must-have for any garden, and clippers or scissors are easier to work with when you need precision so you don’t wind up cutting things you don’t mean to cut. So the best choice is … all of the above, which you get in this convenient gardening kit.

Best wheelbarrow: Gorilla Carts Heavy-Duty Poly Yard Dump Cart

Gorilla Carts

SEE IT

The best wheelbarrow for your garden can easily and efficiently haul what you need, and this Gorilla cart fits the bill: It has a padded handle that can be pulled by hand or converted to hook up to a tractor or ATV. The difference between a traditional wheelbarrow and a dump cart is that the latter has a simple mechanism to release the tub vertically to dump out whatever you’re carrying easily—rocks, logs, dirt, what have you. This dump cart is versatile and easy to maneuver.

Best shovel: Hooyman Short Handle Digging Shovel

Hooyman

SEE IT

A good shovel is essential when digging flower beds or planting vegetables, and the no-slip handle on this one from Hooyman makes all the difference. Both the handle and shaft grips are textured, which makes them easy to grab even when your hands are sweaty, or you’re working in the rain. The shovel’s carbon blade is serrated, which Hooyman says makes it easier to break up rocks, too.

Best gardening knife: Fiskars Garden Hori Knife with Sheath

Fiskars

SEE IT

Slicing a small branch or pruning vegetables? A gardening knife is the best tool for the job, and we like the Hori Knife from Fiskars because of its two-sided construction and built-in ruler. One side of this knife is a standard blade, while the other is serrated, which means it’s ready for both slicing and cutting. Its forked tip was specifically designed for cutting through the thin stems of small weeds. The knife’s hilt has raised edges, which give you a safe place to rest your index finger and thumb while cutting things, and the included sheath is perfect for storage.

Best hand rake: Fiskars Cultivator

Fiskars

SEE IT

Some digging jobs don’t require a shovel, which is where Fiskars’ Cultivator comes in clutch. The hand rake has cast-aluminum prongs, a grippy handle, and a circular hole for easy storage on a pegboard. This tool is deceptively simple but can be used for loosening or aerating soil, and removing weeds. You could also use it to dig smaller holes for vegetable or fruit planting, or to help excavate potatoes when they’re ready to be harvested.

Best pots for seedlings: DSUWAZU Peat Pots for Seedlings

DSUWAZU

SEE IT

If you want to kickstart your gardening indoors before your area gets warm enough to keep plants outside, you’ll want a set of seeding pots. This 100-piece from DSUWAZU may seem excessive, but the pint-sized pots will last several years and even come with plant labels. We like these seedling pots because they’re made of a biodegradable material, which will break down in soil over time. The pots will stay intact before you use them, however, so picking up a big set now means you’ll be ready for several planting seasons.

Best garden hose: Aqua Joe iberJacket Non-Expanding Kink-Free Garden Hose

Aqua Joe

SEE IT

Carrying a garden hose can be cumbersome, but this one from Aqua Joe makes it a lot easier. The 50-foot hose’s outer jacket is made from marine-grade fiber that’s abrasion resistant and won’t get kinked or twisted. Additionally, the materials Aqua Joe used are free from BPA, lead, and phthalates. The company says its host is roughly half the weight of a traditional one, which makes a big difference when hauling it around your backyard. The thin hose can also be easily stored in a shed or garage once gardening season is over, though Aqua Joe says it can be used in temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best rain gauge: AcuRite Magnifying Rain Gauge

AcuRite

SEE IT

Water is essential to all life, but too much can kill your plants, so AcuRite’s Magnifying Rain Gauge is a gardening essential. It can measure up to five inches of rain, and the larger numbers are easy to read from a distance. A stake at the bottom of the rain gauge will keep it in the ground during inclement weather, but its holes allow you to screw it into the side of your home if you’d prefer to keep it elevated. In either case, its acrylic coating will prevent it from getting damaged.

Best potting bench: Yaheetech Outdoor Garden Potting Bench

Yaheetech

SEE IT

If you have enough space, a potting bench will allow you to keep all of your most-used tools in one place and give you a solid surface to pot your plants before they go outside. This one from Yaheetech has a 44.1-inch tabletop and stands 49.2-inches tall. This is enough space for you to spread out your tools and work for hour-long stretches without getting a backache. We like this potting bench because it has plentiful storage, including a top shelf, pull-out drawer, bottom shelf, and side cabinet. The cabinet has a latch, so its contents can be kept secure. Our favorite touch is the three hooks on the right side for hanging handheld tools. Most of the potting bench is wood, but its tabletop is made out of metal, which is more durable and won’t stain when soil gets spilled on it.

Best gardening gloves: Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Gardening Gloves

Pine Tree

SEE IT

Last but not least, a pair of gardening gloves is the most fundamental item we’re recommending, and they should always be worn. This is to avoid minor cuts and scrapes, but more importantly, exposure to poison ivy and ticks. This pair from Pine Tree Tools are available in multiple sizes, are easy to spot because of their green color, and is thin enough to give you complete control over all your fingers. They’re even touchscreen-friendly in case you need to use your phone. A textured grip on the palm-side of the gloves will make handheld tools even easier to hold, while their cuff makes them easy on your wrist and simple to remove.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best garden tools

• Best garden hose reel: Giraffe Retractable Hose Reel
• Best pruning shears: KOTTO Four-Pack Kit with Storage Bag
• Best wheelbarrow: Gorilla Carts Heavy-Duty Poly Yard Dump Cart
• Best shovel: Hooyman Short Handle Digging Shovel
• Best gardening knife: Fiskars Garden Hori Knife with Sheath
• Best hand rake: Fiskars Cultivator
• Best pots for seedlings: DSUWAZU Peat Pots for Seedlings
• Best garden hose: Aqua Joe iberJacket Non-Expanding Kink-Free Garden Hose
• Best rain gauge: AcuRite Magnifying Rain Gauge
• Best potting bench: Yaheetech Outdoor Garden Potting Bench
• Best gardening gloves: Pine Tree Tools Bamboo Gardening Gloves

If you put the time and effort into being the best plant parent you can be, investing in the best garden tools you can afford can make your job easier and help you achieve better results. Once you have the right garden equipment for the job, you may find that your hobby becomes a better stress-buster, and your harvest becomes more abundant. Happy gardening!

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best garden tools in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best traditional		Yuletime Clear String Lights		SEE IT	Classic Christmas charm doesn’t have to only come around the holidays. These durable and bright lights are great for year-round decorating in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Best battery-powered		Lighting Ever Globe String Lights		SEE IT	Add a customizable and warm light to your environment, no plug or extension cord needed.
Best heavy duty		Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights		SEE IT	Twinkle lights are notoriously flimsy, but this pick will withstand the test of time in any condition—including weathered outdoor environments.

If you’re looking to light up a tree, a patio, a garden, or the trim in your home in a unique way, there’s no better option than twinkle lights. Also known as fairy lights, Christmas lights, and hanging lights, these long strands of bulbs or LED lights add a subtle glow to rooms and provide moody accent lighting. Twinkle lights come with vastly different designs, so it can be tough to make the right choice without extensive research. We’ve selected the best twinkle lights and outlined all the key considerations so you can get straight to decorating.

• Best traditional: Yuletime Clear String Lights
• Best solar: Brizled Solar String Lights
• Best battery-powered: Lighting Ever Globe String Lights
• Best smart: Twinkly Multicolor LED String Lights
• Best heavy-duty: Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights
• Best budget: Twinkle Star LED String Lights

How we chose the best twinkle lights

In case overhead lighting is your enemy, or you’re looking for some LED lights for your TV, fun lights can make your home look more inviting. In order to find the bright lights from the dull ones, we did heavy researched, read reviews, asked peers for recommendations, and hung potential candidates inside, outside, and around our homes.

The best twinkle lights: Reviews & Recommendations

Decor can be expensive, but adding twinkle lights is a fun way to brighten up your home without breaking the bank. Once you decide how you want to use them, there are lots of options to fulfill your needs.

Best traditional: Yuletime Clear String Lights

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet per string: 66 feet
• Bulb count: 200
• Color options: 13
• UL certified?: Yes

Pros

• UL-certified
• low heat construction
• Waterproof

Cons

• Colors darker in person

These UL-certified lights come with male and female plugs for a long-distance extension on large objects and structures. Its durable 22 AWG wire features a pure copper core and low-heat construction, as well as a green waterproof outer shield, making this a perfect fit for decorating greenery and foliage. Because of its traditional design, paired with its ability to easily daisy-chain, this set of lights is a cost-effective choice for adding timeless cheer and ambiance to any space.

Best solar: Brizled Solar String Lights

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet per string: 39.37 feet
• Bulb count: 120
• Color options: 4
• UL certified?: No

Pros

• Solar panels included
• Waterproof and durable
• Easy to affix

Cons

• Not UL certified

This set of solar lights includes two solar panels and just under 80 feet of lights. The LEDs are fixed to a length of copper wire, which can be maneuvered around trees to add warm light to your yard. The solar panels attach to the lights and make it easy to add sparkle without any extension cords. All of the parts in this set are durable and waterproof, too, so feel free to go crazy with them on your patio, in your pool area, or in any other relatively exposed outdoor space.

Best battery-powered: Lighting Ever Globe String Lights

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet per string: 16.4 feet
• Bulb count: 50
• Color options: N/A
• UL certified?: No

Pros

• Battery-operated for ease of use
• Adjustable brightness
• Timer

Cons

• Shorter compared to other options on our list

Not unlike our pick for solar twinkle lights, these battery-powered lights are perfect for subtle placement in hard-to-reach areas. Not only are these great for indoor spaces like bookshelves and cabinetry, but they’re also ideal for portable applications such as camper vans or tent lighting. This length of 50 LED globe lights is five meters long and is powered by three AA batteries. The unit also features adjustable brightness, a remote control, and a built-in timer that automatically turns on for six hours daily.

Best smart: Twinkly Multicolor LED String Lights

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet per string: 157.5 feet
• Bulb count: 600
• Color options: N/A
• UL certified?: No

Pros

• Plenty of length to work with
• Smart home assistant-compatible
• Easy to use

Cons

• Expensive

These lights from the aptly-named brand Twinkly allow you to customize and automate your settings via the free app. Plus, they’re compatible with most popular smart home assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. You can integrate them with your existing smart lights to create whole scenes that are remote or voice-controlled. This design uses cutting-edge LEDs with diffused lenses to provide brighter with a high level of granular control. If customization and ease of use are of concern to you, these are the twinkle lights to choose from. Got an entire wall that needs

Best heavy-duty: Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet: 48 feet
• Bulb count: 15
• Color options: One
• UL certified?: Core is UL listed

Pros

• Waterproof
• Durable
• Run cool and use little power

Cons

• Lights more spaced out compared to other options on our list

If you’re looking for bright mood lighting for an outdoor area like a patio, check out these heavy-duty twinkle lights. They feature two-watt LED Edison bulbs spaced three feet apart, mounted on a sturdy industrial-grade waterproof cable. String together up to eight strands for large-scale lighting in dining areas and other large spaces. These LEDs run cool, use little power, and last relatively long, which makes them a fantastic long-term decorating option.

Best budget: Twinkle Star LED String Lights

Twinkle Star

SEE IT

Specs

• Feet per string: 33-99 feet
• Bulb count: 1,000 max
• Color options: 10
• UL certified?: Yes

Pros

• Lots of color and light function options
• UL certified
• Can get 99 feet of lights for less than $20

Cons

• Reviews mention colors aren’t as true to product photos

These warm string lights can be used indoors and out, and come in multiple lengths. Plus, there are eight light functions to choose from: Combination, Waves, Sequential, Slow Glow, Chasing/Flash, Slow fade, Twinkle/Flash, and Steady On). With 10 available color options, you get plenty of room to let your imagination run wild. Even better, they’re UL certified, meaning they’ve been tested for safety, meaning the backyard romantic moment you’ve painstakingly planned won’t go up in flames—literally. Plus, you can’t beat the price.

What to consider when shopping for the best twinkle lights

Finding the best twinkle lights for your space depends on the size of the environment you want to light. Certain designs of twinkle lights are better suited for accenting objects, while others can create mood lighting over large areas. Here are a few important questions to consider when shopping for the best lights for your home decor needs.

Will you use them for ambiance?

Longer lengths of twinkle lights are best for creating ambiance over bigger areas and are perfect for stretching across ceilings and underpasses to add mood lighting from above. Illuminating your space this way is a great alternative to spotlighting, which is often brighter and can create asymmetry and hard shadows in space. If you’re going this route, opt for lower-wattage lights in a high quantity so you can max out the vibe in every part of your space without making it so bright as to ruin the mood. If you want something with even more customization and colors, you can also look at our favorite LED strip lights, which offer a full RGB spectrum of ambient lighting.

Do you need outdoor features like waterproofing?

Twinkle lights have a reputation for falling short when it comes to durability, but that’s because people stretch them and place them outside, subjecting them to the elements. Choose a style that is specifically designed with waterproof features if you want year-round lighting in an outdoor space. The savings in maintenance and time alone more than make up for any difference in price.

Do you want smart home integration or phone control?

Smart home compatibility and remote control capability are features that were practically made for twinkle-light integration since this type of lighting is usually either hard to reach or in a strategically placed location. Pick lights that allow you to control them with an app, so you can integrate them with your existing home automation settings. This allows you to make scheduled or on-the-fly adjustments to your home’s ambiance with very little effort.

Will you need battery-powered or solar-powered functionality?

Twinkle lights consume quite a bit of power, and because they’re accent lights, they’re often in tucked-away spots where there isn’t access to electricity. For these cases, consider twinkle lights that operate with a battery pack, rechargeable batteries, or a solar panel to ensure that your out-of-reach areas never have to go without light.

Are you using them for traditional tree lighting or exterior decoration?

Sometimes, you only need a bunch of basic twinkle lights to serve traditional uses like tree decorating. In these cases, buying the simplest design of light strings is the more cost-effective to get the job done quickly. These designs are best suited for temporary installations you won’t keep up with all year.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best twinkle lights

• Best traditional: Yuletime Clear String Lights
• Best solar: Brizled Solar String Lights
• Best battery-powered: Lighting Ever Globe String Lights
• Best smart: Twinkly Multicolor LED String Lights
• Best heavy-duty: Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights
• Best budget: Twinkle Star LED String Lights

Twinkle lights are a novel way to accent your decor and add soft ambient light to indoor and outdoor spaces. Battery- and solar-powered designs are ideal for lighting hard-to-reach areas, while waterproof designs are essential for year-round outdoor use. Twinkle lights ensure the environment stays adequately lit without drawing attention to the lighting itself. This makes them an excellent choice for activities like dining and entertaining.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best twinkle lights of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Yeti Gallon Jug		SEE IT	Yeti’s stainless steel gallon water jug is rugged and cleverly designed.
Best insulated		Hydro Flask Oasis		SEE IT	Hydro Flask’s 1-gallon Oasis can quench a big thirst after a long day.
Best motivational		Fidus Motivational Water Bottle		SEE IT	The Fidus motivational water bottle has markings to help you hit your hydration goals.

The gallon water bottle is the ultimate hydration vessel. Carrying 128 ounces of liquid, these giant vessels are the perfect companion for balmy beach days, backcountry hikes, and sweaty gym sessions. They’ve also recently grown popular as a way to push yourself to drink more water every day. If your average 40-ounce water bottle just isn’t cutting it, an absolutely immense gallon bottle will ensure you never feel parched again. Chances are, you’ll have plenty left over to share with your friends and family after you absolutely crush those hydration goals. Here are the best gallon water bottles for aspirational drinkers, fitness obsessives, and anyone who wants to catch the big water bottle wave.

• Best overall: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis
• Best for the gym: Coleman One Gallon Beverage Cooler
• Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle
• Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

How we chose the best gallon water bottles

I consider myself an outdoorsy guy, so I spend a lot of time at the beach, in the mountains, and far away from clean running water. I was particularly excited to look into gallon water bottles since I’ve been thinking about picking one up myself. To make our selections, I performed hands-on testing and did hours of research, surveying critical viewpoints and user impressions, before settling on our picks.

At Popular Science, I cover a little bit of everything. I’ve researched all kinds of products, from the best energy-efficient air conditioners to the best smoke detectors. Before PopSci, I wrote about and reviewed gadgets for over 10 years for sites like iMore, XDA Developers, and CNN Underscored. 

The best gallon water bottles: Reviews & Recommendations

The type of gallon water bottle you buy depends on how you plan to use it. If you want to keep liquids hot or cold, a stainless steel bottle that’s vacuum insulated is your best option. Otherwise, plastic bottles tend to be more affordable and weigh less. Since there aren’t that many trustworthy brands making gallon water bottles, we feel confident that one of these picks is the best option for you.

Best overall: Yeti Rambler Gallon Jug

YETI

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Why it made the cut: The Yeti Gallon Jug features tough stainless steel construction and double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks icy cold all day long.

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Height: 15 inches
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Clever magnetic lid to store spout cap
• Double-wall insulation
• Sturdy handle

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

If you’re out in the field and away from refills, the Yeti Gallon Jug will keep your water cold. It’s made of durable stainless steel and features vacuum insulation, so it will keep liquids hot or cold for several hours. It also keeps your bottle from sweating, so surfaces are safe from condensation.

The Gallon Jug’s lid features a sturdy metal handle with soft grip padding, making it easier to carry on long hauls. The lid also contains a neat magnetic design, so users can store the cap when the spout is open. You can also screw the entire lid off for easy cleaning and refills. It’s a clever design that reinforces Yeti’s attention to the small details.

Like all of Yeti’s other stainless steel bottles, the Gallon Jug is BPA-free and dishwasher safe. It weighs 4.5 pounds before putting water in it, or over 12 pounds full. That’s heavy on a hike. Still, it is far and away the nicest water bottle in this size.

Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis

Hydro Flask

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Why it made the cut: The Hydro Flask Oasis is big and heavy, but it’ll keep your liquids cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Height: 14.8 inches
• Weight: 4.96 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Easy grip base
• Double-wall insulation
• Keeps liquids cold for up to 24 hours

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

Like our top pick, the Hydro Flask Oasis is a large, heavy stainless steel bottle with double-wall vacuum insulation that ensures liquids stay cold. Hydro Flask claims water stays chilled in the Oasis for up to 24 hours, making it the perfect companion for the summer months. It’s also rated for hot liquids, and keeps coffee, tea, or soup hot for up to 12 hours. It’s an excellent option for skiers who want a piping hot cup of joe after a long day on the slopes.

In addition to its superior insulation, we like the Oasis’ beveled base, which makes it easier to grab and pour. It’s a nice touch that you won’t find elsewhere. On the other hand, the Oasis’ lid doesn’t provide a place to store the spout cap and the plastic handle isn’t as durable or easy to hold.

Like the Yeti Rambler, the Hydro Flask Oasis weighs nearly 5 pounds and pushes 13 pounds when filled with water. The weight isn’t a significant hurdle if you’re keeping hydrated at home, but the Oasis’ weight could be an issue on a camping trip or climbing up a mountain when every ounce counts.

Best for the gym: Coleman One-Gallon Beverage Cooler

Coleman

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Why it made the cut: The Coleman One-Gallon Beverage Cooler features a simple flip-top spout, insulation, and a classic design you remember from childhood.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 12.8 inches
• Weight: N/A
• Dishwasher safe: No
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Sturdy design
• Insulation
• Flip-top spout

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

If you played sports as a kid, you may remember the Coleman gallon jug. Your coach may have brought it along to keep your whole team hydrated but now it’s just for you.

The fact of the matter is that Coleman still makes a great bottle, and it’s specifically the perfect option for the gym. It features a leakproof lid, flip-top spout, and insulation for keeping liquids cold. It’s also incredibly durable and features a handle that makes the Coleman Chiller easy to carry. It’s a simple, classic design and will keep you hydrated through every step of your workout.

Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle

Fidus

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Why it made the cut: For people buying a big water bottle to drink more water, the Fidus Motivational water bottle gives you regular hydration goals.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 13.8 inches
• Weight: 0.83 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Paracord handle
• Button cap
• Available in several colors

Cons

• No insulation

Drinking a gallon of water in a single day is hard work. As we mentioned, you don’t actually need to do it to stay healthily hydrated. But if you want to, this water bottle from Fidus is a trendy Tritan plastic water bottle with markers and motivational quotes to keep you on track to hit that daily goal. 

The 1-gallon water bottle from Fidus features eight motivational quotes to keep users focused and energized about hitting their water intake goals. It also features a cap that covers the spout and straw, so it’ll stay shielded from dust and particles throughout the day and comes with a detachable paracord handle for easier carrying. Who doesn’t like a bit of encouragement?

Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

Simple Modern

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle offers a basic bottle at an affordable price.

Specs

• Material: Plastic
• Height: 13.8 inches
• Weight: 1.15 pounds
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA Free: Yes

Pros

• Silicone straw
• Button cap

Cons

• No insulation

The Simple Modern 1-gallon bottle is, just like the brand name implies, a simple gallon water bottle. The dishwasher-safe Tritan plastic bottle comes in a variety of colors, including some calming color gradients like the green-to-purple “Tropical Seas,” and warm coral-to-cyan “Havana.” The best part of the Simple Modern bottle is its lid, which features a silicone mouthpiece with a lockable cover to keep it from getting dirty between sips. Press, Flip, Hydrate. Simple!

What to consider when buying the best gallon water bottles

So let’s get one thing out of the way: You don’t actually need to drink 8 cups of water every day. Giant water bottles have recently seen a surge in popularity, as people see them as a means of motivating themselves to drink more water. While you should never deny yourself water if you’re thirsty, it turns out that you don’t need to push yourself to drink that much.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t good reasons to carry around an absolutely gigantic jug of water. If you frequently go camping or spend long stretches of time away from a clean water source, it pays to bring a lot of water along. 

There aren’t as many manufacturers making gallon water bottles as the standard 32-ounce and 40-ounce options, so there isn’t as much room to get picky about style and design. That said, it still pays to know the essentials of water bottle construction so you can tell the best gallon water bottles from the knockoffs. Once you know where to look—and what to look for—in a gallon water bottle, you’ll find options that offer excellent durability, insulation, and clever designs for comfortable transportation and enhanced hydration.

Material

Most water bottles, no matter the size, are made of durable plastic or stainless steel. You may also find gallon jars made from shatter-resistant glass, but it’s fairly uncommon among bottles made for daily drinking.

Stainless steel water bottles are popular because they’re light but durable. They’re usually made from 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its elemental composition—18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is considered food safe and is resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Many stainless steel bottles are also vacuum insulated, or designed to create a sealed buffer between the liquid in the container and the environment outside the bottle, which reduces conduction and keeps liquids hot or cold for several hours. 

Reusable plastic water bottles offer a great balance of durability and affordability. High-quality plastic bottles are arguably more resistant to superficial wear and tear, though they generally lack stainless steel’s insulation. There is far more variability among the material to make plastic water bottles than there is among stainless steel water bottles. 

When buying plastic, make sure to get a plastic water bottle that’s made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is light, ultra-durable, and safe. Some studies suggest that containers made from plastics with bisphenol A, or BPA, can seep into what’s stored in the container and cause adverse health effects, so avoid plastic bottles unless the manufacturer specifies that they use a BPA-free material.

Durability

The gallon water bottle you buy will likely be by your side day and night, so it needs to withstand the pitfalls of everyday use. Stainless steel can get dented and scratched, but it’s pretty resilient over the long run and should last for several years. Stainless steel can also handle sudden temperature changes, making them more versatile than other materials on this list.

Tritan plastic water bottles are generally more scratch-resistant and won’t ding, but are by no means indestructible. Both materials are strong enough to withstand everyday wear and tear, even hiking or running. However, if you’re likely to drop your bottle off a cliff (or off a car’s roof), maybe go with stainless steel.

Weight

Here’s where things get a little tricky. There’s no way around the fact that our stainless steel picks are heavy. When filled up with water, they feel like small kettlebells. We don’t feel like their weight disqualifies them from consideration because, well … a gallon of water is always going to feel heavy. (Remember: A gallon of water weighs approximately 8 pounds.) That said, if you really want to minimize your bottle’s weight, a plastic bottle will generally weigh less than a stainless steel one.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best gallon water bottles

• Best overall: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Oasis
• Best for the gym: Coleman One Gallon Beverage Cooler
• Best motivational: Fidus Motivational Water Bottle
• Best budget: Simple Modern Gallon Water Bottle

Gallon water bottles are for people who either won’t have access to a water source for a while or need to hit a specific intake goal. Otherwise, their size and weight make them too cumbersome for most people. If you want something that’s easier to manage, you’re better off checking out our picks for the best water bottles. And if you’ve got young ones, there’s our guide to the best kids water bottles.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best gallon water bottles of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best all-in-one		Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor 7-in-1 Master Grill		SEE IT	This master grill can double as a smoker, air fryer, and more.
Best overall		Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill		SEE IT	A powerful portable grill on wheels.
Best budget		Weber Smokey Joe Premium		SEE IT	A classic kettle grill for less than $50.

No matter if you like singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” as you tailgate or if you’d rather grill without a crowd larger than just a few friends at a campsite, portable grills let you take your home cooking on the road. But finding the best portable grill for you can be as involved as developing the perfect seasoning blend. Is a gas grill better than a charcoal grill? And what about a pellet grill or even an electric grill? Knowing where you want to cook and what you want to cook is definitely a recipe for success, but more goes into finding the best portable grill than just that. This guide is meant to give you some of the secret sauce you need to find the right BBQ grill for you. 

• Best overall: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
• Best all-in-one: Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor 7-in-1 Master Grill
• Best for tailgating: Weber Q2200 Portable Propane Grill
• Best for city living: Cuisinart Electric Tabletop Grill
• Best for beach grilling: Fox Outfitters Folding Charcoal Grill
• Best budget: Weber Smokey Joe Premium

How we chose the best portable grill

There’s nothing better than food cooked on the grill. Portable grills allow you to bring a smile to everyone’s face with some grilled meats, corn, kebabs, and more. We looked at critical reviews, peer recommendations, and user impressions, plus performed heavy research on specs and realistic expectations to compile our list of best portable grills. In our judging, we considered, size, weight, and handling—a portable grill shouldn’t feel like a pile of bricks in your hand and hard to transport and set up.

The best portable grills: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you want to grill in the backyard, on the balcony, or from a truck bed, at the campsite or the lakeside, here is the best portable grill for cooking on the go.  

Best overall: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill

Coleman

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get portability and steady cooking with this mini-grill that’s practically like the real thing.

Specs

• Weight: 46.67 lbs.
• Dimensions: ‎30.25 x 19.19 x 16.13 inches
• Grilling area: 285 square inches
• Fuel type: Propane
• Interchangeable cooktops: Yes

Pros

• Steady cooking
• Multiple burners
• Large grilling area for its size

Cons

• On the heavy side

Cooking over a campfire is charming and fun. But it can also be frustrating trying to manage the uneven heat of an open flame. This Coleman portable gas grill provides up to 20,000 BTUs of steady cooking power from three adjustable burners underneath 285 square inches of cooking space. That’s easily enough room for a full dinner for four, fitting five burgers, and several skewers of veggies at once. And yet this camping grill packs up nicely. It’s heavy at more than 45 pounds, but its handy legs and useful side tables fold down into a wheelable package, much like a rolling suitcase. 

Best all-in-one: Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor 7-in-1 Master Grill

Ninja

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You can air fry, grill, and smoke in one portable electric appliance that delivers propane grill results.

Specs

• Weight: 30.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 23.62 x 18.58 x 13.31 inches
• Grilling area: 141 square inches
• Fuel type: Electric
• Interchangeable cooktops: No

Pros

• 7-in-1
• Woodfire tech adds smokiness to food
• Large grill grate

Cons

• On the heavy side

You don’t need a large charcoal or propane grill to get tons of flavor. The Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor 7-in-1 Master Grill gives the same char and searing as its larger cousins without the flare-ups. The secret? Woodfire technology that uses electricity, convection, and real wood pellets that come included with the grill. Don’t let its size fool you: you can grill six steaks and 30 hot dogs, air fry 3 lbs. of wings, and smoke a 9 lb. brisket in this thing. The whole shebang comes with a nonstick grill grate, crisper basket, pellet scoop, Ninja Woodfire pellets in Robust Blend and All-Purpose Blend starter packs, and a Quick Start Guide with 15 recipes. And, it’s weather-resistant for year-round cooking.

Best for tailgating: Weber Q2200 Portable Propane Grill

Weber

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Why it made the cut: There are plenty of features packed into this small, compact grill. It’s perfect for flipping 12 burgers at once for a pre-game party.

Specs

• Weight: 42.5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 51.4 x 19.5 inches
• Grilling area: 289 square inches
• Fuel type: Propane
• Interchangeable cooktops: Yes (sold separately)

Pros

• Porcelain-enameled
• Lots of cooking space
• Durable

Cons

• Griddle cooktop sold separately
• On the heavy side

At 19.5 inches deep and 51.4 inches wide (with the side tables extended), the Weber Q2200 Portable Propane Grill still leaves plenty of room for all the fixins. The 280 square inches of cooking space can fit 12 burgers, while the single burner, with push-button ignition, can put out 12,000 BTUs of power. The body on this Weber grill is porcelain-enameled for durability and heat retention, while the cast-iron cooking grates spread the heat evenly and prevent those burgers from sticking. All of that adds up to a hefty 42.5 pounds. But, hey, moving the propane grill from the trunk to the table and then back into the car can just be your workout for the day. 

Best for city living: Cuisinart Electric Tabletop Grill

Cuisinart

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Why it made the cut: No charcoal or propane? That’s not a problem with this compact grill that can be used indoors.

Specs

• Weight: 13 lbs.
• Dimensions: 18.6 x 11.8 x 17.6 inches
• Grilling area: 145 square inches
• Fuel type: Electric
• Interchangeable cooktops: No

Pros

• Electric means no smoke
• Easy to set-up
• Ready to use out of the box

Cons

• Grill cooktop is not dishwasher safe

You can still grill out, even if you live in an apartment building. A portable electric grill like this 1500-watt Cuisinart gives you that option, letting you plug into power up a BBQ that’s just as safe as a toaster oven. This Cuisinart measures 18.6 x 11.8 x 17.6 inches, perfect for a balcony or small patio—and for the closet come winter. And yet its 145-square-inch cooking grate can accommodate eight hamburgers at once. Messes should be kept at bay thanks to the latching porcelain-enameled lid and included drip tray.

Best for beach grilling: Fox Outfitters Folding Charcoal Grill

Fox Outfitters

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This grill can be folded up into its included carrying bag, making it easy to transport from your car to the beach.

Specs

• Weight: 4.5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 13 x 12.5 x 8.6 inches
• Grilling area: 107.5 square inches
• Fuel type: Charcoal
• Interchangeable cooktops: Yes (grate only)

Pros

• Light, small, and easy to carry
• Quick assembly
• Legs help keep grill stable in sand

Cons

• Not for large meals

Picnics near water inevitably mean lugging a bunch of stuff: floaties, coolers, chairs, towels. The Fox Outfitters Folding Charcoal Grill could actually be the easiest part of your haul. The 4.5-pound stainless steel grill folds into a carrying bag no bigger than a briefcase. Of course, you will need to cart the charcoal. You’ll also need to assemble the grill, but Fox Outfitters—and Amazon reviewers—say this can be done in less than a minute. Out of the bag, the charcoal grill stands at 17.5 x 13 x 8.5 inches, offering enough room for two large steaks with veggies on the side. 

Think the concept of a portable BBQ grill/fire pit is … well, lit? If you’re looking for a step-up, check out the Front Runner, a more durable/aesthetically oriented option thanks to its rust/corrosion-resistant stainless steel design. It packs flat for easy transport and after a quick 30-second setup can be filled with charcoal and/or wood for cooking or keeping warm post-grilling on a chilly night.  

And if you want to go ultra-premium, and really maximize your minimalism, you can pick up the Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill. This collapsible, durable steel fireplace, featuring a streamlined Japanese design, transports conveniently in a nylon bag and lets you create a gathering from the beach to the backyard. Preparing a meal or just making memories? The Takibi sits in perfect harmony with the Jikaro Fire Table and can be a camping centerpiece.   

Best budget: Weber Smokey Joe Premium

Weber

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get big grill taste in a smaller—and cheaper—package.

Specs

• Weight: 9.8 lbs.
• Dimensions: 15.4 x 15.6 x 9.2 inches
• Grilling area: 191 square inches
• Fuel type: Charcoal
• Interchangeable cooktops: Yes (grate only)

Pros

• Lightweight
• Vents control heat
• Lid helps with transport

Cons

• No bottom vent for ashes

Weber has been a leading name in charcoal cooking since 1893. And the Weber Smokey Joe Premium gives you the same grilling prowess as its classic kettles, just in a smaller package, and for a lower price. For less than $50, you can get a 14-inch porcelain-enameled Weber that’ll cook just as well as the big boys. The charcoal grill can hold three steaks and then some, and vents on top and bottom let you control the flow—and, therefore, the heat. Really, the only thing you’re sacrificing in this 10-pound portable Weber grill is size. Even in a tinier package, this charcoal grill will deliver the big flavor you’ve come to expect from Weber.   

What to consider when buying the best portable grills

From fuel type to foldability, there’s a lot to consider when shopping for the best portable grill. Here are the ingredients to look for: 

Do you want to cook with gas, charcoal, or something different? 

While gas and charcoal grills are the most common, you can also find portable pellet and electric grills. Different fuel sources have unique advantages and disadvantages. There’s little arguing against the true BBQ flavor that charcoal delivers. However, charcoal grills can be more dangerous and they also require lugging a supply of briquettes. Portable gas grills are easier to use and provide greater control, but they don’t provide quite the same BBQ flavor. Plus, on the whole, gas grills tend to be heavier than charcoal grills, though a propane canister is likely to weigh less than a bag of charcoal. Pellet grills provide a nice in-between, giving you the flavor of a flame and the control of a gas grill by feeding wood pellets into the burner based on your desired temperature level. But they also tend to be more expensive, and the wood pellets aren’t as ubiquitous as charcoal. Electric grills are probably the easiest to use, but they have the downside of needing a power outlet, which limits their usable locations. Plus, they provide the least authentic BBQ flavor.  

What’s it made of? 

The materials used to make a grill affect its durability and how well it can retain heat. Ceramic retains heat very well, making it a good choice for smokers that cook low and slow. But metal—either iron or steel—grills that are lined with a porcelain enamel provide strong heat retention as well—and at less cost. You also want a great grate. Like a cast-iron skillet, cast-iron grates retain heat and displace it effectively, preventing your food from sticking. 

Have you sized things up properly?  

When shopping for the best portable grill, pay attention to the dimensions. If a grill is too big or heavy, it won’t be easily transportable. Most portable grills are roughly the size of a breadbox, but some feature legs or stands that fold out to give them a more permanent feel when you’re using them—stands also prevent you from having to crouch around your grill. Some grills pack nicely into containers with straps, while others can roll on wheels, which is especially useful if you’re toting your grill across the park, rather than simply transferring it from your trunk to the top of your tailgating table. The best portable grills can weigh as little as a few pounds to as much as 50 pounds. Remember, the fuel has to be carted, too. So factor bags of charcoal or canisters of propane into your packing plans. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best portable grills

• Best overall: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
• Best all-in-one: Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor 7-in-1 Master Grill
• Best for tailgating: Weber Q2200 Portable Propane Grill
• Best for city living: Cuisinart Electric Tabletop Grill
• Best for beach grilling: Fox Outfitters Folding Charcoal Grill
• Best budget: Weber Smokey Joe Premium

Part of the joy of grilling is cooking outside. And with the best portable grill, you can cook in your neighborhood park, outside the ballpark, or in spaces in between. Look for grills that won’t weigh you down, that pack up in a way that lets you take them where you want, and that will deliver the high heat when you need it, or go low and slow when you prefer. Ultimately, finding the best portable grill is a bit like grilling in general: it’s all a matter of taste.     

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best portable grills of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro		SEE IT	Despite its advanced camera, this drone only weighs 249 grams so it doesn’t require registration with the FAA.
Best for pros		DJI Mavic 3		SEE IT	A very robust camera system and advanced all-around object avoidance make this drone worthy of pro work.
Best for photos		Parrot Anafi		SEE IT	A unique camera system captures 4K footage and provides a view unlike the rest of its competition.

Travel drones aren’t just for professional creatives anymore. In the last few years, these pint-sized crafts have become widely accessible thanks to compact and budget-friendly options hitting the market. A travel drone is a great way to capture photos and footage with unique perspectives while you are on the road. It’s a great tool for travel vloggers, filmmakers, or families looking for a way to keep kids entertained on vacation. While you can go seriously Hollywood with your purchase, we think the best drone options are either so compact that they don’t even need to be registered with the FAA or feature a foldable design that makes them easy to slide into a camera backpack. Price can vary widely depending on what types of advanced features that drone might include and the manufacturer. A higher-end consumer drone will typically cost about $2K, while budget options can be as low as $100. In this buying guide, you will find the best travel drones that fit various budgets and use cases.

• Best overall: DJI Mini 3 Pro
• Best value: Holy Stone HS110D FPV RC Drone
• Best for professionals: DJI Mavic 3
• Best for beginners: Ryze Tech Tello Mini Drone
• Best for photos: Parrot Anafi

How we chose the best travel drones 

When selecting the products in this buying guide, it was important to select a combination of compact travel drones (that don’t need to be registered with the FAA) and a few full-sized drones aimed at a professional user. We selected products that would fit a range of budgets and skill levels and represented different brands currently on the market. When selecting the drones in this buying guide, we also considered flight time, video capture capability, and advanced features that make specific models stand out in the field. Camera quality and functionality play a key role in our selections. The products that appear in this guide were selected through a combination of hands-on experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback.

The best travel drones: Reviews & Recommendations 

While we offer specific recommendations depending on your usage, many of the drones on this list will work for several kinds of pilots. Be sure to check out the entire list before making a purchase to make sure you’re getting what you need out of your new flying machine.

Best overall: DJI Mini 3 Pro

Mason Marsh

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: Under 249 grams
• Flight Time: 38 minutes 
• Video: 4K 

Pros

• No need to register with FAA
• Small and compact 
• Vertical shooting capabilities
• Dedicated controller
• Wind resistant up to 38kph winds

Cons

• Expensive for size 
• Visibility in air could be improved 

The DJI Mini Pro 3 claims our spot as best overall travel drone due to its compact size, substantial flight time, and advanced features like 3-way obstacle avoidance. And because this particular drone is under 249 grams, there’s no need to register it with the FAA before you take to the skies. The impressive 38-minute battery life can be extended to 51 minutes when used with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus—a flight time unheard of for most compact drones on the market. It can shoot 4K/60fps video and capture 48-megapixel RAW images; it also features vertical shooting—ideal for capturing social videos for TikTok or Instagram stories. A variety of QuickShot modes make it easy to capture panoramas and pre-programmed dynamic flight patterns. It has a fast F/1.7 lens, which means it will perform well at sunset or on overcast days, plus it features wind resistance up to 38kph so that it can withstand a bit of turbulence. The DJI Mini Pro 3’s all-in-one RC-N1 controller has a nicely sized 5-inch screen, eliminating the need to use your smartphone while flying. The DJI Mini Pro packs pro-level features into a super compact package that can easily fit into a camera backpack. Although it’s on the pricey side for its size, we think the advanced features make it a worthy investment for taking on your next adventure. 

Read our full review: DJI Mini Pro 3

Best value: Holy Stone HS110D FPV RC Drone

Holy Stone

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Specs

• Weight: 149 grams
• Flight Time: 20 minutes
• Video: 1080p 

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Easy-to-use controller
• Compact size 
• No need to register with FAA
• In air flip mode 

Cons

• No wind resistance 
• Limited flight time 

The Holy Stone HS110D FPV RC Drone is a great option if you are looking for a travel drone that won’t break the bank. At under $100, this is one of the most affordable compact drones on the market. Its compact size also means it doesn’t require registration with the FAA—making it a nice choice for care-free flying.  The Holy Stone has a 120-degree “first-person view” camera and can shoot 1080p video. Flight time is shorter than other compact drones, and this drone lacks wind resistance, but this is to be expected, given the super low price point. The Holy Stone does include fun pre-programmed flight patterns like in-air flips, and features like altitude hold and landing assists. Intuitive in-app features allow users to control the drone through gestures or draw a flight path for the drone to follow. This is a great travel drone if you aren’t looking to spend a fortune to capture your out-of-town adventures. 

Best for professionals: DJI Mavic 3

Dan Bracaglia

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Specs

• Weight: 895 grams
• Flight Time: 46 minutes
• Video: 5.1K

Pros

• 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera 
• Advanced Omnidirectional Object sensing 
• 15-kilometer transmission range 
• Smart return to home feature 
• Folding design 

Cons

• Expensive, over 2K 
• Requires registration with FAA 

If you are looking for a travel drone with all the pro-level features, look no further. The DJI Mavic 3 is the priciest option on our list, and because of its larger size must be registered with the FAA, but its foldable design still makes it an excellent option for travel. The DJI Mavic 3 is equipped with a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera and a sensor that provides 12.8 stops of dynamic range—making for footage that has a lot more detail in both the highlights and the shadows. It can shoot 5.1K video up to 50fps, 4K video up to 120fps, and capture 20-megapixel 12-bit RAW stills. It has an impressive flight time of 46 minutes, a 15-kilometer transmission range, and advanced features like omnidirectional object sensing, with improved range—giving users way more time to react and prevent crashing into a tree while flying. Other pro-level features include Advanced Return To Home, which will automatically bring your drone back to you using the most energy-efficient route. Although the DJI Mavic 3 is expensive, the top-level features and impressive camera make it well worth the price point. 

Read our full review: DJI Mavic 3

Best for beginners: Ryze Tech Tello Mini Drone

Ryze Tech

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Specs

• Weight: 79.9 grams 
• Flight Time: 13 minutes
• Video: 720p 

Pros

• Lightweight build 
• DJI-powered flight controller 
• Good for kids 
• No need to register with FAA

Cons

• Very short flight time 
• No wind resistance 
• Only capable of shooting 720p video

Ryze Tech Tello Mini Drone Quadcopter is a great choice for the novice drone pilot. Although its flight time is much shorter than some of the other drones in this buying guide and video is limited to 720p, it’s extremely easy to operate. It also happens to have a DJI-powered flight controller for performing in-air tricks. The drone’s mobile programming app supports Scratch, which allows users to program corresponding movements using coding blocks. It can shoot 5-megapixel photos, and pre-programmed modes like Circle-360 and Up & Away make it easy to capture short clips even if you don’t know how to fly. Overall, this is a great starter drone for kids and adults who want to capture an aerial perspective while traveling. 

Best for photos: Parrot Anafi

Parrot

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Specs

• Weight: 707 grams
• Flight Time: 25 minutes 
• Video: 4K 

Pros

• Capable of capturing 21-megapixel images 
• Features timer and burst mode shooting options
• Folding design 
• Built around a Sony CMOS sensor

Cons

• Limited flight time 
• Not great in low light 
• No wind resistance 

If you primarily want to capture photos with your drone, the Parrot Anafi is a great choice. It can shoot 4K video at 60fps, but it really shines as a tool for photographers. The Parrot Anafi is built around a Sony CMOS sensor with a unique camera that offers a vertical 180-degree field of view. It has a vertical folding design that makes it easy to slide into a backpack with other gear—making it an ideal choice for travel. The navigation app is intuitive and easy to use. The price point falls right in the middle of the pack, making this an appealing option for a wide variety of budgets. 

What to consider when choosing a travel drone

When shopping for a travel drone, you should consider your budget and how you will be using the drone first and foremost.

Camera

We live in a 4K world at the moment, but camera tech doesn’t necessarily stop there. Some higher-end drones can capture 5K and beyond, allowing oversampled 4K footage with more detail or simply a bigger frame so you can crop in later while maintaining a full-res picture. Ideally, you’ll get 4K footage at 60fps with a reasonable megapixel count for photos. Of course, you’ll want to think about how you will use that footage later on. You may not need 4K at a high framerate if you’re trying to make a simple travel blog. In fact, it may hinder your editing process. Find a balance between easy edibility and high quality, then stick with it.

Weight

You’re traveling with these machines, so you want them to be as light as possible. Most only weigh a few pounds at most. But be sure to note the 250g threshold. A drone weighing 250 grams or more requires registration with the FAA before you can fly. Conveniently, our top pick on this list weighs 249 grams for this exact reason.

Obstacle avoidance

While drones have gotten easier to fly in recent years, you still have to navigate the learning curve. Unfortunately, tons of trees, houses, and power lines are littering that learning curve. Higher-end drones offer dedicated object avoidance systems that automatically stop a craft from smacking into something it shouldn’t. Top-tier models offer object avoidance in almost every direction, but more consumer models typically only see in front of them and sometimes to the side. It’s a nice touch if you’re learning and want to minimize possible damage.

Range

Some high-end drones can go nearly 20 miles away from their pilots, but local regulations and practical considerations make that unlikely for most users. If you’re considering two drones and opting toward one because it has a longer range, just be sure you will need that range. If all you plan is to fly it up into your neighborhood or over the lake, you don’t need a massive flight area.

Flight time

Drone batteries are small, and the juice inside can fade fast if conditions are less than perfect. Every gust of wind or fancy maneuver requires more power to execute. Our top pick, the DJI Mini 3 Pro, promises “up to 34 minutes” of flight time, but that “up to” is doing a lot of work. Add wind or complex movements, and that will drop quickly. You also couldn’t stay fully airborne for 34 minutes unless you’re cool with the craft falling out of the sky once the battery is exhausted.

Should you buy the Fly More combo?

DJI typically offers its drones on their own or as part of a Fly More combo, which includes a carrying case, extra rotors, and (most importantly) extra batteries. The Fly More combos typically offer a better deal than buying all the products together. And since you’re definitely going to want extra batteries (and a dedicated charger that can handle more than one cell at once), we recommend you invest upfront.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best travel drones 

• Best overall: DJI Mini 3 Pro
• Best value: Holy Stone HS110D FPV RC Drone
• Best for professionals: DJI Mavic 3
• Best for beginners: Ryze Tech Tello Mini Drone
• Best for photos: Parrot Anafi

A travel drone is a great way to capture unique aerial perspectives with ease and is a worthy investment for travel vloggers, filmmakers, or families looking for a fun way to document their vacation. The DJI Mini 3 Pro takes the cake for being the best overall travel drone thanks to its impressive flight time, compact size, and video and photo capabilities. Although it’s small enough that you don’t need to register it with the FAA before you fly, it still manages to pack many pro-level features into its tiny body. If you are interested in a travel drone to capture your adventures, we recommend checking out any of these top options.  

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best travel drones for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for campers		Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock		SEE IT	A durable option that doesn’t hurt the bank.
Best for hikers		Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks		SEE IT	These socks are made of Merino wool, which will keep your feet warm and dry.
Best solar generator		Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300		SEE IT	Power small appliances while camping.

It feels safe to assume that—after spending the better part of many years cooped up inside classrooms, libraries, cafeterias, and/or dorm rooms—any grad is ready for a change of scenery, especially grads who love the actual outdoors. Once all their schoolwork is done, grades have been entered, and degrees are in hand, these grads will surely feel it’s time some exploits braving the elements, and you can help by giving graduation gifts for outdoor lovers that travel well. Wherever their love for the outdoors takes them, we have you covered with the best graduation gift guide for well-accessorized adventurers.

• Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  
• Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks
• Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro
• Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print
• Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack
• Best personalized gift: Engraved Compass
• Best useful: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife
• Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection
• Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag
• Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee
• Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag
• Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit
• Best fire starter: Pull Start Firestarter
• Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler
• Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle
• Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses
• Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot
• Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down
• Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit
• Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro
• Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  

Wise Owl Outfitters

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If your favorite grad is equipped with just about everything they need to make it through a backcountry trip, get them camping gifts to introduce even more relaxation and fun to their next outdoor escape. A camping hammock is a perfect way to sit back, take a nap, read a book, or drink a calming beverage outdoors. This is the best hammock from Wise Owl and weighs under 2 pounds, including the hanging straps, so it’s perfect for campers who prioritize portability. When packed down, it’s about the size of a grapefruit, so your grad should be able to easily carry it with them or keep it stashed away in their car. Each hammock comes with tree straps and carabiners for easy setup, with no need for any additional equipment. It comes in over 10 colors so that you can choose their favorite. It’s 9 feet long and 4.5 feet wide, with a 400-pound weight limit, which should be suitable for just about any user. You can even grab a two-person hammock (weighing only 5 ounces more) if they tend to go camping with a partner or friend.

Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3

Brandt Ranj

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No graduation gift guide would be complete without some great speakers. If your recent grad is always on the go—heading out for day hikes, camping trips, beach hangouts, long bike rides, and more—you can’t go wrong gifting them a portable Bluetooth speaker. No matter where they are or what they are doing, a smartphone and a compact speaker will provide the perfect soundtrack for any outdoor activity. The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is an excellent option, weighing under 1 pound and equipped with a flexible handle that can easily attach to a backpack, bike basket, or belt loop. It’s only 4 inches tall, but the small, compact design doesn’t mean you sacrifice anything when it comes to sound. The portable speaker can reach up to 87 decibels (equivalent to standing next to a loud blender or vacuum) and produces full 360-degree sound coverage. This powerful Bluetooth speaker can also withstand the elements and is one of our favorite waterproof speakers for a good reason; it has an IP67 rating, which means it can survive being dropped into a body of water up to a meter deep for half an hour, plus it’s dirt/dust-resistant. In addition, the battery lasts a full 13 hours, so your grad can jam outside all day long. And, if they want to be a party-goer and a party-thrower, you can up the energy with a portable party speaker.

Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks  

Smartwool

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A hiker is only as good as their socks are strong, so give a grad who loves to ramble amongst the rocks a pair that will last. While socks may seem like a simple gift, a quality pair or two is one of those hiking gifts that can go a long way. You’ll be taking care of an essential need any avid hiker has and investing in their overall outdoor experiences. Take it from us: nothing ruins a hike faster than angry blisters and constant friction. Smartwool hiking socks come in various colors and sizes, both men’s and women’s. From a tried and true brand, these socks are designed for rugged day hikes and moderate backpacking. An elasticized arch brace provides extra support, medium cushioning absorbs impact, and a flat-toe seam keeps things comfortable. Made from Merino wool and nylon, these socks will keep their feet warm even during cold winter hikes. If your loved one likes to embark on a variety of adventures, you can check out Smartwool’s other socks specifically designed for activities like running, cycling, skiing, and more. There’s a reason we listed them as our favorite wool socks.

Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro

Garmin

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Whether your grad is thinking more about the backcountry or the boardroom, they could use a smartwatch that helps them get where they need to be when they need to be there. And when it comes to multi-band GPS smartwatches, Garmin makes the best adventure accessories out there. Endurance athletes to purposeful wanderers can benefit from the rugged, sensor-embedded case, metrics-rich displays, and accurate navigation resources found in Garmin’s newest Pro editions of the company’s multisport timepieces—available in multiple sizes and colors with different types of scratch-resistant/solar-charging glass.

Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print

Fuzzy Ink

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The perfect grad gifts for outdoor lovers aren’t always the ones they’ll bring on their adventures—they can be ones they’ll appreciate before and after an excursion. A woodsy print or poster is a great present for a graduate who needs a little help decorating their new apartment. At this point, they might have all the gear they need, but what they probably don’t have are elegant pieces that express their personality but also provide a sense of maturity for an adult abode. This print from Fuzzy Ink is an artistic way for your grad to stay inspired. It measures 18 inches by 24 inches and is printed on coated paper with a matte finish, so they won’t have any trouble finding a great spot to display it. This print quietly depicts the beauty and awe that many outdoor enthusiasts find so mesmerizing about being in nature. From the crackling campfire to the expansive display of fir trees, this piece will surely bring joy to a grad who longs to roam around the forest.

Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack

CamelBak

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Any outdoor lover knows how important it is to stay hydrated. Whether hiking, cycling, or running, drinking water is key to preventing heat stroke, dehydration, fatigue, and other issues. Of course, a water bottle is the first thing we think of when it comes to H2O on the go; however, bottles can be bulky and cumbersome. So, if you want to get your grad a great outdoor gift that prioritizes function and efficiency, we recommend a CamelBak Hydration Pack. This multisport hydration backpack can hold 50 ounces of water and easily straps to your back with a long drinking tube and trap management to make hydrating hands-free. All they need to do is bite down and suck to get as much water as necessary—no need to stop during a long run or bike ride to grab a water bottle. The 3D vent mesh provides lightweight comfort and airflow, while front harness pockets can hold snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials. Reflectivity strips are added for extra safety during early morning or nighttime exercise. Your grad will be able to get a run in anytime, anywhere, and stay hydrated all the while. If you’re looking for more options, consider our list of the best hydration packs.

Best personalized gift: Engraved Compass

Etsy

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A personalized gift is always a good idea, especially when you’re celebrating a significant achievement. Giving a gift designed specifically for them—something special that only they will have—will let your grad know how much you care for and support them. If you want to give a personalized gift suited for the outdoors, check out these engraved compasses. You can choose from existing mountainscapes or upload your own favorite photos and illustrations to be perfectly recreated on the compass’s cover. Practically any part of the compass can include etching, so you won’t have to choose between a picture or a message. You can even ask for your own handwriting to be impressed on the metal so your graduate can take a piece of you with them no matter where they travel.

A useful graduation gift for the outdoors: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife

Victorinox

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Outdoor enthusiasts know that it’s essential to prioritize gear that is lightweight, portable, and multipurpose. You will rarely find a seasoned camper lugging around a toolbox, though the need for various utensils and instruments is frequent. From quick repairs to food preparation, a survival tool or multipurpose knife is a helpful gift for anyone who spends a lot of time outside (they can also be pretty practical for indoor use). A Swiss Army knife is practical, classic, and cool. A household name when it comes to compact knives, the Trekker lives up to the hype. Its attached tools include a wood saw, large blade, 3-millimeter and 5-millimeter screwdrivers, wire stripper, can opener, tweezers, toothpick, and more. It’s one of those camping gifts that offer pretty much everything you need to make it through the trek without any issues. A knife like this is a thoughtful graduation gift that they are guaranteed to use for years to come.

Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection

Paddywax Candles

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A candle is a fantastic gift for any graduate, signifying new beginnings and ordaining their adult apartment, or childhood bedroom, with sophisticated, balanced scents to keep them calm as they figure out their next steps. We’re a fan of scented gifts in general. But if your recent grad pines for the outdoors but doesn’t have time to travel just yet, a candle that brings nature to them is even more highly recommended. Paddywax has created a National Park Service-inspired collection that features the complex aromas of our country’s natural wonders. “Yellowstone” has hints of sagebrush and fir, the “Great Smoky Mountains” features Maplewood and moss, “Acadia” has seagrass and driftwood, while the “Grand Canyon” smells like cactus flowers and fern. Each candle is 11 ounces and has a burn time between 50 and 60 hours. When they’ve used up every drop of wax the candle has to offer, grads can upcycle the jars and repurpose them as plant pots, beauty tool holders, catch-alls, and more. Best of all, Paddywax donates a minimum of $25,000 per year to the National Parks Foundation, so your gift will not only go to your graduate but support the beautiful natural landmarks they love so much.

Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag

YETI

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There is only one thing better than a day outdoors, and that is a day outdoors with snacks. Whether they plan on packing a lunch for a mountaintop picnic or bringing a few celebratory drinks to a grad party on the beach, beverages, and munchies are a must-have for your graduate’s next outside hang. A cooler is the best way to keep their tasty treats fresh all day long, so they never have to worry about their food heating up in the sun while they hike or swim. This YETI lunch bag is the perfect gift for grads to take food outside or pack a tasty lunch for their new job. Available in two sizes, a standard box or larger bag, and a variety of colorways, this pack uses Coldcell Flex insulation” technology and a “thermosnap” closure to keep food at the correct temperature, hot or cold. The adjustable grid means you can set the size by simply closing the top hook into any one of the available hoops. That way, the lunch bag can easily fit under a desk or be stuffed with snacks and drinks using all of its available 15.75 inches. This bag will pair well with just about any outdoor excursion, so your grad will be able to pack all the necessities and then some.

Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee

540Brands

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If you want to get sweet, versatile graduation gifts guaranteed to make them smile, go with cute graphic tees like this one from Outdoor Life. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, the “Go Play Outside” slogan is a fun way for you to tell everyone you see where your priorities lie. Made from 100-percent cotton and available in five colorways, this T-shirt will complement any hunter, angler, hiker, camper, surfer, sailor—just about any outdoor enthusiast you could think of. The soft material makes these tees particularly great for lounging around a campfire, though we recommend sizing up for maximum coziness—your grad will thank you.

Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag

STNKY

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STNKY’s Bag Pro Wash Bag is the simple gift our adventurous grad didn’t know they needed. The zip-up laundry bag can hold all of their dirty clothes during multi-day camping and hiking trips to prevent unwanted odors and bacteria from getting onto their clean ones. When it’s time to wash their clothes, the STNKY bag can be unzipped and turned inside out, at which point the clothes will fall into the washing machine without being touched. The bag itself is also machine washable, which is a nice bonus. Anyone who struggles to stay organized and sanitary during their next outdoor trip will love this gift.

Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit

Colsen

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Sometimes setting up a big outdoor fire pit isn’t feasible or reasonable, but that doesn’t mean giving up s’mores for the night. Colsen’s Tabletop Portable Fire Pit runs on the company’s odorless liquid fuel, can be set up and ignited within a few minutes, and produces flame up to one foot tall for roughly 45 minutes. This is the ideal gift for someone who’s into glamping or wants a fire pit they can use indoors and out at any point during the year. The fact that you don’t need firewood to ignite it is particularly important because rainy weather can make dry fuel hard to find. And if you happen to have a grad living somewhere with a sizeable backyard/patio, you can give them a tasteful taste of the campfire life at home with a Solo Stove Bonfire firepit.

Best firestarter: Pull Start Firestarter

Pull Start Fire

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On the other hand, if you’re shopping for someone who spends days upon days out in the woods, they’re going to need Pull Start Firestarter. The fire starter is literally ignited by pulling a string built into its small box. Smoke will begin to billow from the box, indicating that the fire starter will be fully ignited within three seconds. It lasts up to 30 minutes once fully ignited. Beyond the convenience of not having to strike a match, keeping a pack of these around can be helpful during an emergency. It’s very difficult to light wet wood with a match, but prolonged exposure to a fire starter can do the trick. Whether they’re trying to save time or their own life, your grad will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Firestarter in their pack.

Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler

RTIC

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No campsite or boat is complete without a cooler that can reliably keep foods and beverages cold for hours—or days—at a time. If you’re shopping for a grad who’s planning a big summer trip, there’s a good chance Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler is the perfect gift. The high-capacity cooler has three inches of insulation to maintain a consistent temperature inside, but it was engineered to be nearly a third lighter than the competition. This means it’ll be easier to carry when filled with ice, food, and dozens of cans. A cooler is one of the few gifts that may actually last your grad a lifetime, so it’s important to make the right choice. If you know they tend to pack extra light, RTIC also offers a 32-Quart model of this same cooler. Want more options? Check out more of the best coolers for camping.

Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle

Hydro Flask

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Enjoying a bottle of wine on a mountain sounds like a dream—but wine bottles and hiking don’t exactly mix. Give your grad the gift of sneaky boozing with this ceramic reusable wine bottle from Hydro Flask, which fits one 750 mL bottle of wine. It’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and BPA-free for peace of mind. TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation keeps whites chilled and reds at room temp, and a ceramic-lined interior prevents flavor transfer. Although it’s advertised for wine, we think it’s also perfect for any spirit: Our favorite nature-inspired aqua vitae is Tin Cup Whiskey, cut with water from the Rocky Mountains and named after the tin cups miners used to drink. Need a more traditionally shaped option? Check out our favorite insulated water bottles.

Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses

Silipint

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We’ve included the Silipint in our best camping gifts guide, but we think it makes a great gift especially for someone who may be too transient for real drinkware. These shatterproof “glasses” are made of 100% food-grade silicone, meaning you don’t have to deal with dangerous broken glass. Plus, they’re a fun, bright way to reduce the amount of plastic your grad may use between graduation and their very first job.

Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot

Amanda Reed

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Chaco is known for its rugged and arch-supporting sandals, but we think their covered shoe offerings deserve some praise. The Ramble Puff Ankle Boot feels like a down parka for your feet, and they’re perfect for throwing on after a day of skiing or hiking. And, water-resistant rip-stop nylon means they’re not just indoor shoes—they can hold up in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for something that slips on, the Ramble Puff also comes in a clog style just as comfy and dreamy as its boot brethren. Our staff writer lives in both the clog and boot for women—don’t ask her to pick her favorite. Speaking of puffy stuff …

Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down

ThermaRest

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We all know the importance of having appropriate layers for hiking—but what if you want to stay warm without having to wear the same jacket you’ve worn all day. The Honcho Poncho from Therm-a-Rest (also makers of excellent sleeping pads) combines the lightweight, warm properties of 650-Fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down with a water-resistant 100% recycled polyester shell for a wearable sleeping bag. You can wear it around the campsite or campfire or lay it out in your tent and use it as a blanket. Its front pocket doubles as a stuff sack to make it easy to stow away back into your pack (or to use it as a lite pillow).

Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit

Opinel

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These knives are great for a grad who trying to step up their outdoor cooking game. The kit comes with a serrated folding knife, a folding corkscrew knife, a pocket peeler, a beechwood cutting board, and a microfiber cleaning cloth that doubles as a travel pouch. A Virobloc safety ring is attached to all knives/peelers to make it safer to open and transport the kit. Your grad never has to struggle to cut a piece of campfire-cook beef or a hunk of crusty bread again.

Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot

Tony Ware

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Your grad deserves a new pair of hiking boots for successfully climbing the mountain that is college. This one from Vasque is comfortable—our assistant managing editor (his ankles and dog shown above) says, “Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to … boot … the Vasque Breeze immediately impressed me by requiring zero break-in, then continued to impress me with its stability and traction.” This means grads can climb the highly-graded mountain of post-grad life and worry more about their rent than getting blisters. They’re waterproof and made of sustainable, durable materials for years and years of adventures.

Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro

BioLite

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Grad gifts are all about shiny new things, and this new headlamp from BioLite should excite your night crawler. It packs 800 powerful, bright Lumens to illuminate any dark trails … or the way to the bathroom at night. Your grad will get 150 hours of power on low; seven hours on high; and 8 hours on reserve. It recharges using a micro USB port, and includes a Constant Mode for full illumination without auto-dimming. Plus, 3D SlimFit tech gives you bounceless, slipless, and near-weightless wear. Being comfortable and able to see where you’re stepping? Sounds like a win.

Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

Jackery

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Jackery topped our list of the best solar generators, and we love the company’s small-but-mighty portable power station that can be charged by a wall outlet, car outlet, and the sun (!!!). The solar panel isn’t included, but you can get this bundle that solves the lack of solar panel upon purchase. It’s easy to carry at 7.1 pounds and can charge up to six devices while your grad is on outdoor adventures. Your grad may go outdoors to unplug, but you’ll get peace of mind that their phone or other powered essentials won’t die out in the wilderness.

Things to consider when picking gifts for folks who love the outdoors

From lite hiking gifts to entertaining accessories to full-on camping gifts, you can help recent graduates prepare for whatever their next exploration entails. Or, for graduates moving to a new city or starting a new job and unsure they’ll get out much in those early post-grad days, give graduation gifts that remind them of what they love, from naturally scented candles to beautiful nature prints. The key is determining their favorite outdoor activities, skills, comfort level, and existing accouterments, allowing you to match the grad with the gift.

Final thoughts on the best graduation gifts for outdoors enthusiasts

• Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  
• Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks
• Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro 
• Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print
• Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack
• Best personalize gift: Engraved Compass
• Best useful: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife
• Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection
• Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag
• Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee
• Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag
• Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit
• Best fire starter: Pull Start Firestarter
• Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler
• Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle
• Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses
• Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot
• Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down
• Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit
• Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro
• Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

We hope this graduation gift guide for grads who love the outdoors has filled you with ideas and inspiration for the perfect present. Whether you’re celebrating a trekking champion, kayaking aficionado, or dedicated camper, you’ll find grad gifts for outdoor lovers that fit their specific interests. After all, a graduation gift, whether it’s hiking gifts or camping gifts, or apartment decor, is about celebrating their accomplishments and encouraging them to follow their dreams while holding onto their passions. 

PopSci wants to help you find the most useful shopping recommendations for the best gifts regardless of occasion or preoccupation. Searching for more unique gifts? Check out our additional expert gift guides, including Best Gifts for Travelers, Sustainable Gifts, Gifts to Turn Any Kitchen Into a Café, New Gear for those New Year New You Resolutions, and Science Toys for Kids.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post A graduation gift guide for grads who love the outdoors: From practical tools to personalized accessories appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Shokz OpenRun		SEE IT	Impressive battery life, water resistance, and reliable connectivity make these the best pair of bone-conduction headphones around.
Best for kids		N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones		SEE IT	Give your kids a pair of headphones that will provide safe entertainment while they stay active.
Best waterproof		Shokz OpenSwim		SEE IT	A pair of open-ear headphones that’s waterproof, the OpenSwim suit doing laps in the pool swimmingly.

If you’ve got a bone to pick with the way traditional audio devices disconnect you from the world, there is another option: bone-conduction headphones. Headphones, in general, can play many valuable roles, no (or some) bones about it: they let you jam out to music, dive into podcasts, or dial into phone calls while blocking out environmental noise. This can help you concentrate on tasks, but there are some circumstances when being cut off from what’s around you isn’t optimal. The best bone-conduction headphones let you enjoy all your favorite listening experiences with your ear canal exposed so that you can drive, walk, run, bike, swim, etc.—all while remaining completely aware of your surroundings.

• Best overall: Shokz OpenRun
• Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim
• Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm
• Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best budget: Guudsound Bone Conduction Headphones

How we chose the best bone-conduction headphones

Bone-conduction headphones are still a relatively new product, but—after consulting academic articles, peer recommendations, real-world user impressions, and our own first-hand tests—we have identified certain models that stand out. Following extensive research, we selected pairs that address the specific needs of athletics, work environments, and age. We chose units that were easy to use, incorporated the features we love about traditional headphones, and prioritized sound quality.

The best bone-conduction headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Sitting right outside the ear on the jaw, bone-conduction headphones are a different physical and acoustic experience than most people are used to. But different can be good. Here are our picks for the best bone-conduction headphones to help keep you in the hear and now.

Best overall: Shokz OpenRun

SHOKZ

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Why it made the cut: Shokz is dedicated to producing top-tier bone-conducting headphones, and the OpenRun is the company’s most advanced model, employing eight-generation technology to boost sound quality.

Specs

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 2 hours
• Water resistance: IP67
• Microphone: Dual noise-canceling

Pros

• Good sound quality
• Impressive battery life
• Sweat-resistant for intense exercise

Cons

• Hard to replace charging cable
• Audio quality can’t hold up against traditional headphones
• Buttons are close together

Without a doubt, Shokz has cornered the bone-conduction headphone market. The company produces thoughtfully engineered, top-quality products, creating an audio experience to complement the activities you enjoy. The OpenRun (formerly the AfterShokz Aeropex) is an excellent pair of bone-conduction headphones overall. Available in four colors and two band sizes, the OpenRun fits gently, yet securely, around the back of the head, looping around the ears and resting against the temples. The headphones employ patented eight-generation bone-conduction technology, are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 SBC, and feature PremiumPitch 2.0+ signal processing, which prevents bleed, minimizes distortion, and produces a more dynamic bass with minimal vibrations. The battery lasts eight hours, and each pair comes with two magnetic USB charging cables, which can provide a full charge in just two hours. A dual noise-canceling mic will let you make clear calls, and included earplugs can help you tune things out when the time is right. An IP67 rating means this pair can withstand dirt, dust, sweat, and rain, while a built-in moisture detector will let you know when it’s getting wet. However, while the OpenRun is water-resistant, it’s not designed to be fully submerged in the pool.

Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim

SHOKZ

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Why it made the cut: The OpenSwim have an IP68 rating, which means they can be fully submerged in water for up to two hours; you can swim with them without making terrible sacrifices regarding audio quality.

Specs:

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz 
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 2 hours
• Water resistance: IP68
• Microphone: None

Pros

• Waterproof
• Ample storage for songs and audiobooks
• Comfortably fits under swim cap

Cons

• Single-purpose headphones
• No Bluetooth connection
• Limited color options

The Shokz OpenSwim is specifically designed to deliver your favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts while swimming. These headphones have an IP68 rating, fit comfortably under a swim cap, and can be submerged in 2 meters of water for up to two hours at a time. While these headphones are not Bluetooth compatible, they can store up to 1,200 songs (4 GB) of various file types, including MP3, WAV, AAC, and FLAC. The OpenSwim headphones feature the same command controls and PremiumPitch 2.0 technology as other Shokz open-ear headphones, so while you won’t be able to stream, you can listen to your favorites with solid, satisfying sound quality. They even come with a noseclip.

Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm

SHOKZ

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Why it made the cut: A DSP noise-canceling microphone means the OpenComm headphones are able to isolate your voice while talking, drowning out any surrounding din but keeping you in tune with your environment.

Specs

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Battery life: 16 hours of talk time // 8 hours of listening
• Charge time: 1 hour
• Water resistance: IP55
• Microphone: DSP noise-canceling boom microphone

Pros

• Comfortable for long wear
• Extended battery life for long phone calls
• Boom microphone enhances call quality

Cons

• Shape is hard to store
• Some sound bleed might limit private conversations
• IP55 rating could be better

The OpenComm headphones prioritize clear communication using an adjustable DSP boom microphone that suppresses background noise and highlights your voice when positioned near your mouth. Though the person on the other end of the line won’t pick up on your environment’s sounds, the open-ear headphones will ensure you can hear the person talking on the phone and the one right in front of you. The OpenComm system also lets you bypass your car’s choppy stereo if you have to make a call on the road, without cutting yourself off from the sound of traffic. You can also stay on the call when you’re at a job site or keep connected during a busy commute, all without losing situational awareness. You can get up to 16 hours of talk time or 8 hours of listening, and with Quick Charge, you’ll get a replenished two hours of battery life in just five minutes.

Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: These waterproof, sweatproof headphones will hold up as you pump iron or just rearrange your living room.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 10-minute quick charge
• Water resistance: IP67
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• IP67 rated
• High sound quality
• Long battery life

Cons

• Proprietary charger

Using your sweaty hands to remove your headphones because someone is asking to use the treadmill is common in the gym. So is taking your earbuds out or headphones off repeatedly while roommates/family/friends try to talk to you as you get chores done. Keep your headphones on while keeping your ears open with these sport-friendly HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones. They are IP67 rated, meaning sweat and water won’t get in the way of completing your reps—whether that’s lifting weights or emptying the washer. An eight-hour battery life gives you all-day tunes power, and 10-minute quick charging gives you two hours of power. The sound quality is superb compared to other bone-conduction headphones, with deep bass and a solid range of highs and lows thanks to a strong Bluetooth 5.2 connection. A noise-canceling microphone means you can take calls without the background bleeding into your conversation. However, a proprietary charger means you’ll be tuneless if you lose power on the go, so prep before you step.

Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones

N/0

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Why it made the cut: These headphones include a volume limit of 85 decibels, and the open-ear design means your child will always be able to hear the world around them and when you call for them.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 1-hour quick charge
• Water resistance: IP54
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• Lightweight
• Volume limiter keeps kids’ hearing safe
• Adjustable band can grow with your child

Cons

• Soundbeaming technology is difficult to grasp
• Susceptible to water damage
• No noise cancellation means they’re not great for travel

These open-ear headphones aren’t exactly the same as bone-conduction headphones, but the form factor and effect are similar. With soundbeaming speakers resting outside the ear on the cheekbones, these headphones ensure your active child can stay alert to their surroundings even when listening to their favorite songs. With an adjustable band suitable for children ages 4 to 15 and a volume limit of 85 decibels, these headphones go above and beyond to address any concerns you might have for their awareness or hearing. They are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, 8 hours of battery, and an automatic sensor to control playback. An IP54 rating means you won’t have to worry about a few spills or drops in the dirt. Whether they’re skateboarding, biking, or just running around the backyard, your kids can enjoy music and mobility safely.

Best budget: Guudsound Bone Conduction Headphones

Guudsound

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Why it made the cut: If bone conduction is new to you, you might not be ready to shell out $100 or more. The Guudsound headphones produce satisfying sound quality and suitable specs in a great intro pair.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 6-10 hours
• Charge time: 2 hours
• Water resistance: IP54
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Useful, responsive multifunction button
• Sound quality is good for the price point

Cons

• Flimsy build
• Sound quality could be improved
• Battery life is just okay

If you want to try out bone conduction but are not ready to invest in a high-end pair, this cheap model from Guudsound might be right for you. Available for less than $40, they are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, a built-in microphone, multifunction buttons, and an adjustable band for comfort. The battery can last up to 10 hours, and a 15-minute quick charge provides one hour of playback. Each pair comes with a USB charging cable and a pair of earplugs so you can create custom noise cancellation.

What to consider when buying the best bone-conduction headphones

If your mom always warns you not to listen to your headphones while walking home at night, or you need to hear the traffic behind you as you pedal to work, try out the best bone-conduction headphones. To determine which pair will work best for your needs, you’ll want to consider where and when you’ll be using them the most. You’ll also want to make sure you understand how they work, especially if this is your first pair of bone-conduction headphones.

First of all, what is bone conduction, and how does it work?

Bone-conduction headphones allow you to experience audio sans any direct interaction with your ear canal or eardrum. While this may sound like some new-fangled, tech-heavy sorcery, there is evidence that bone conduction has been around for centuries. It is rumored that Beethoven relied on bone conduction to compose music after losing his hearing by attaching a metal rod to his piano and biting down on it as he played. But how does it work? 

Typically, sound waves travel through the air and are funneled through the ear canal to the eardrums, where they are then decoded into vibrations and sent to the inner ear (or cochlea), which is connected to the auditory nerve. When the vibrations hit the inner ear fluid, tiny hair cells start to convulse, creating electrical pulses that travel up the auditory nerve to the brain. This process is called air conduction. Bone conduction completely avoids the eardrum and relies on a transducer—like headphones, or a metal conductor’s rod in Beethoven’s case—to convert sound waves into vibrations and send those through the facial bones to be received by the inner ear. Essentially, the vibrations received by the cochlea are the same no matter which way you receive them; they are simply sent via a different pathway. 

This concept has even been used in reverse. The Sony WF-1000XM4 earphones include a bone-conduction sensor that picks up the vibrations from your voice during calls to help enable clearer speech without picking up ambient sound.

Who should use bone-conduction headphones?

Medically, the best bone-conduction headphones benefit those experiencing conductive hearing loss, a condition that directly affects the transmission of sound through the eardrums. Conductive hearing loss is just one way the auditory system can be disrupted, so bone-conduction headphones won’t work for everyone with hearing difficulties. 

Bone-conduction headphones are also helpful for those who need to maintain situational awareness while they enjoy their music. These headphones provide an additional layer of safety for bikers, hikers, drivers—essentially anyone who needs to be aware of their surroundings. Active in dense urban environments? Bone conduction makes for great running headphones. Bone-conduction headphones are also particularly great for swimmers. Air conduction is heavily suppressed when we are underwater, but the vibrations created by bone conduction can still be transmitted, which means a pair of bone-conduction headphones with an Ingress Protection rating of IP68 (a.k.a. waterproof) can keep you connected to your workout playlist lap after lap. 

Now, bone conduction won’t make your entire face shake, rattle, and roll, so you don’t need to worry about experiencing discomfort while you listen. In fact, many report that these headphones are secure, comfortable, and easy to wear. However, if you are sensitive to pressure, there is a chance that you may experience dizziness or headaches after a long stretch of listening.

How’s the sound quality?

If you’re an audiophile searching for your next pair of headphones, chances are bone conduction isn’t going to be what you’re looking for. That being said, the overall audio quality of these headsets can certainly get you through a tough training session or walk to work. At high volumes, audio can start to distort or get crunchy and an expansive mix isn’t really possible. However, with a quality model, you will still get to experience impactful bass; you’ll feel the vibrations instead of highly pressurized waves from over-ear cans. 

Just remember that even the best bone-conduction headphones aren’t meant to fit or even necessarily sound like traditional headphones or earbuds. If you haven’t used bone-conduction headphones before, you might feel inclined to turn up the volume as loud as it can go in an attempt to recreate that natural, passive noise cancellation that every other type of headphone relies on. Remember that nothing is blocking your ear canal, which means that you will purposefully be able to hear your surroundings clearly; maxing out the volume won’t affect that, but it could lead to hearing loss down the road.

Can bone-conduction headphones use Bluetooth?

Yes, there are wireless bone-conduction headphones that use Bluetooth 4.2 and higher to connect to smart devices such as cellphones and computers. Set up and pairing is no different with Bluetooth bone-conduction headphones than connecting any other type of Bluetooth headphones, and some may even have onboard controls like play, pause, and skip for your streaming services. Other models are more like a portable MP3 player, with the ability to store hours of songs internally that you can then play through without any wires involved. Remember the iPod shuffle? That’s what you’ll be getting—an excellent option for folks who want to jam out to a curated playlist while they focus on working out or a walk about the town.

Can you take phone calls with bone-conduction headphones?

Yes, some bone-conduction headphones are equipped with a microphone so you can answer calls on the go. While the headphones themselves can’t employ any passive or active noise cancellation to enhance your listening experience, some models can use technology to make calls crisp and clear. The headphones with mic use various means to minimize outside sound—like wind, traffic, etc.—ensuring that the person you’re talking to can hear you without interruption. Just remember that bone-conduction headphones are subject to more sound bleed than traditional units, so you’ll want to be conscientious about volume when it comes to private calls.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best bone-conduction headphones

• Best overall: Shokz OpenRun
• Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim
• Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm
• Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best budget: Guudsound Bone Conduction Headphones

Chances are you’re either an experienced bone-conduction headphones user or a novice looking to see if these air-conduction alternatives are right for you. Regardless of your familiarity, finding the right pair means homing in on when and where you’ll use them most. Think about your surroundings and consider your priorities regarding sound quality, microphone use, and waterproof rating, then shop accordingly. If you’re accustomed to traditional earphones or over-ear models, get ready to be surprised by the best bone-conduction headphones.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best bone-conduction headphones in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Memorial Day is over, but you most likely have leftover burgers, snacks, and beers in the fridge from your celebrations. The Memorial Day deals also linger with $100 off a Jackery solar generator, among other savings.

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 $239.99 (Was $349.99)

Stan Horaczek

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The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is an excellent starter portable power station if you want to power smaller appliances before moving on to a larger, more powerful solar generator. It weights less than 10 pounds and can be charged with an outlet, car charger, and via solar power (although you’ll have to purchase solar panels separately). It can charge up to six devices, including laptops, drones, and cameras. It may not be able to power a refrigerator, but it can keep your WiFi running (important so no one gets bored in a power outage after all the board games are exhausted).

We’re also fans of Bluetti—another brand included in our best solar generators round-up—and the company’s EB3A, 268Wh portable power station (another excellent starter portable power station) is on sale for 40% off, down to $209 (from $349).

Like the meat in your fridge during a blackout, this deal will expire if you don’t act. Although it won’t smell as bad, you’ll still feel sorry that you didn’t act sooner and avoid the situation altogether.

Here are more post-Memorial Day deals for continued savings all week long:

• iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Braava Jet m6 (6112) Robot Mop Bundle $949 (Was $1,599.99)
• iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum $749 (Was $999.99)
• iRobot Roomba j7 (7150) $399 (Was $599.99)
• iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550) $599 (Was $799.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo™ j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop $799 (Was $1,099.99)
• iRobot Braava Jet M6 (6110) Robot Mop $299 (Was $449.99)
• iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO (3550) Robot Vacuum and Braava Jet m6 (6113) Robot Mop Bundle $679.99 (Was $899.99)
• iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum $179 (Was $274.99)
• Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Luggage with Spinners, 3-Piece Set $416.75 (Was $779.97)
• Casper Sleep Original Hybrid Mattress, Queen $1,196 (Was $1,495)
• LG 48GQ900-B 48” Ultragear UHD OLED Gaming Monitor $1,099.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• SAMSUNG 49” Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor $1,099.99 (Was $1,399.99)
• TP-Link WiFi Extender with Ethernet Port $17.99 (Was $34.99)
• Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs $19-$30 (was $49.99)

The post Power post-Memorial Day savings with $100 off a Jackery solar generator appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Garmin is well known for its expansive list of rugged fitness watches, with multiple lines specifically tailored to different activity types. And now, the options for adventurers and serious endurance athletes are even more extensive with the announcement of updated Pro versions of the epix and fēnix 7 watches. 

Most of the updates to these premium next-gen. multisport watches are incremental software changes, such as more activity types and new fitness measurement tools. But there are also a few notable hardware and build upgrades, including a new size option and AMOLED display for the epix Pro and an LED flashlight in all three sizes of both the epix Pro and fēnix 7 Pro. Both watches will also benefit from trickle-down features from the new Forerunners.

Garmin epix Pro details

Garmin just debuted its epix 2 line of watches last year. Despite how new the series is, the company is rolling out some worthwhile updates to make it even better in a new Pro version. With vibrant metrics-rich watch faces and extensive sensors/navigation features in a sleek body, the epix Pro remains a great choice for boardroom-to-backcountry adventures and weekend warriors, from climbers and mountaineers to ultra-marathon trail runners. 

Garmin

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epix Pro and build changes

The epix came in two sizes—42mm and 47mm—while the Pro version adds a 52mm option for those who really want a statement piece on their wrist. The larger size offers more than just a dramatic look, however. Garmin packed extra battery into the 52mm version, which promises up to 31 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The 42mm and 47mm both should provide 10 and 16 days of battery life, respectively. 

Like the epix Gen. 2, the Garmin epix Pro will be available in Standard Edition, which features Corning Gorilla Glass and stainless steel case, or the Sapphire Edition, which uses a more durable Sapphire lens and titanium case. And all three sizes get an even brighter upgraded AMOLED display for a colorful, detail-packed watch face. 

All three sizes will offer an LED flashlight, which can vary in intensity and features a strobe mode. We were glad to see the flashlight included even on the smallest watch since it is a potentially game-changing feature. It can illuminate your path while trail running or hiking in the dark and help others see you, which is invaluable if exercising near a road. 

The epix Pro also gets an updated and optimized heart rate sensor. Garmin didn’t provide any information on what exactly that means, but it says these changes will provide “enhanced multisport performance tracking.”

Fitness tracking features

Garmin watches are already robust in their fitness tracking abilities, but the company is not one to just let things be. The epix Pro will offer new activities, which include team sports such as soccer, basketball, and racquet sports, as well as horseback riding and more.

Beyond new tracking modes, Garmin also created new training features. Hill Score gives you a better idea of how your training impacts your ability to run uphill. Uphill segments are automatically detected and analyzed, and that information is combined with other physiological metrics to provide a score from one to 100. It even breaks the score down into Hill Endurance and Hill Strength, which reflect short, fast efforts versus long, sustained climbs. And it offers feedback to improve your training over time. 

The second new feature—Endurance score—looks beyond your VO2 Max, giving a more personalized look at your fitness. It analyzes both short-term and long-term endurance training and takes into account all types of activity, not just running or cycling. And, like Hill Score, it provides training feedback to help you understand your score.

Additional new features

The Garmin epix Pro will provide a unique Red Shift Mode, which changes the display to shares of red. This lessens the impact on your vision when looking at your watch in the dark and reduces any sleep cycle disturbance you might get from the standard display. You can manually turn on this display mode or schedule it to automatically turn on and off based on sunset and sunrise time. And you can even select certain activities that automatically use Red Shift Mode.

Up Ahead mode will allow you to view running points of interest, such as checkpoints and aid stations, right on the map. This allows you to better understand what’s in front of you and plan accordingly on your race or activity. 

The last feature those navigating the backcountry will especially appreciate is the new weather map overlays and relief shading on topographic maps. The weather overlays can display temperature, precipitation, and cloud cover, to help you make more informed decisions on the go. And relief shading will assist in navigation. You can also opt into Outdoor Maps+ for even more map content, including satellite imagery and more detailed maps.  

Garmin epix Pro pricing & availability

The epix Pro is available for purchase as of today, starting at $899.99.

Garmin

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Garmin fēnix 7 Pro details

Like the epix Pro, most changes to the fēnix 7 Pro are smaller software additions. The fēnix 7 Pro still comes in 42mm, 47mm, or 51mm sizes, though you no longer have the option of a version without solar charging. You can, however, choose between Standard Solar or Sapphire Solar, depending on how robust you want your watch face. 

Like many of Garmin’s new watches lately, including the Instinct 2X, the fēnix 7 Pro will feature an LED flashlight in all sizes. It offers a broad pattern, variable intensities, red safety light, and strobe mode. 

New training features

The fēnix 7 Pro also gets a new heart rate sensor. Garmin says this next-gen sensor utilizes “more spatially diverse optical sensors and sport-specific algorithms.” It should provide even better performance tracking for more activities, giving you even more accurate insight into your training. 

Like the epix Pro, the fēnix 7 Pro will also get the new Endurance Score and Hill Score for better endurance training insight. It also gets its share of new activities, including white water rafting, motocross, overlanding, and dozens more. And the watch will provide access to the weather map overlays, new relief shading, and Up Ahead mode.

Garmin fēnix 7 Pro pricing and availability

All versions of the fēnix 7 Pro are available for purchase at a starting price of $799.99.

The post Garmin’s newest smartwatches are even more adventure-ready appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Hopefully, you spent some time relaxing over the long Memorial Day weekend. But imagine how much more relaxing it would have been if you were chilling in an inflatable hot tub. Currently, Amazon has some popular inflatable hot tubs on sale for the lowest prices we have seen in a while. You’ll also find some cold plunges with discounts, so whether you want to sit in warm or cool water, these deals have you covered. Personally, I prefer warm every time because I don’t have the same warrior spirit all my CrossFit friends seem to have when it comes to dipping themselves in a big bucket of ice. I’m OK with that. You might feel differently, and there’s no better time to find out than during a sale.

Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub, 4-Person AirJet Spa $371 (Was $529)

Saluspa

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This 177-gallon tub can accommodate up to four people depending on how comfortable you are with your pals. It heats water to 104 degrees and blasts your battered body with 120 jets in an effort to turn you into a relaxed jelly. Setup doesn’t require any tools, and it’s easy to store when the cold weather comes around because you can deflate it. These aren’t going to get any cheaper as we get further into summer, so now’s the time if you want to spend your evenings soaking.

Explore Fitness Large Ice Bath $100 (Was $140)

Explore Ice

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If you prefer ice cubes over massage jets, this inflatable ice bath fits one person and a heap of ice cubes for at-home cold plunges. It sets up without tools and comes with a cover so it won’t get filled with bugs and debris when not in use. It even comes with an inflatable headrest if you want to pretend to be relaxed while cold water assaults your muscles. Honestly, the science is mixed about how effective ice baths really are in terms of muscle recovery, but some people swear by them. And if you’re looking for a solid way to wake yourself up, a dip in frigid water hits harder than any coffee I’ve ever had. Plus, if you get sick of it, you can fill it with margaritas for your upcoming Fourth of July block party. (Don’t really do that; it’s not food safe).

More inflatable hot tub deals

• Coleman SaluSpa 2 to 4 Person Inflatable Round Outdoor Hot Tub Spa $352 with coupon (was $440)
• EVAJOY Inflatable Hot Tub, Portable Inflatable Hot Tub with Built-in LED $411 (was $529)
• RELXTIME Inflatable Portable Hot Tub 2 Person Outdoor Air Jet Spa $379 (was $479)
• Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa $514 (was $649)

More ice bath deals

• Geezow Ice Bath Tub for Athletes $59 (was $129)
• Ice Bath Tub for Adults Cold Plunge Tub $70 (was $139)
• Foldable Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Tub for Adults $75 (was $89)
• Portable Bathtub Foldable $76 (was $99)
• Foldable Portable Standing Bathtub $60 (was $76)

The post Upgrade your summer with a deeply discounted outdoor hot tub or ice bath appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Celestron Inspire 100AZ		SEE IT	This lightweight telescope is also easy to assemble and comes with a carrying case.
Best for travel		Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope		SEE IT	This telescope lets kids take pictures with their phones and is great for camping.
Best budget		MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope		SEE IT	Comes with a moon filter and maps of the moon and stars—at a wallet-friendly price.

While trips to the Moon may not be commonplace yet, you can foster curiosity about the universe by letting kids see the lunar surface and the rings of Saturn up close with a telescope for kids. It’s one thing to learn about the Moon in school, and it’s another thing to see it up close. The best telescopes for kids are designed for amateur astronomers, and can provide night after night of out-of-this-world entertainment.

• Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope 76 Tablestop Telescope 
• Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope
• Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope
• Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

How we chose the best telescopes for kids

Popular Science covers the latest developments in astronomy, from stunning images from the James Webb Space Telescope’s discovery of its first exoplanet to meteor showers you can see from your backyard. Telescopes are a great way to help kids explore the galaxy and see the planets up close. But they can also be complicated instruments with many moving parts for the uninitiated.

In compiling our list of recommendations for the best telescopes for kids, we considered models from trusted brands like Celestron, optical quality and magnification, ease of set up and use, supplemental educational tools that explain what to look for in the night sky, durability, and portability. We also weighed user reviews, what kids look for at different ages, and prices.

The best telescopes for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

Looking for a telescope for the first time can be a daunting experience. Many of the considerations are the same finding telescopes for adults. Figuring out what type of telescope is best for your needs, what aperture you should look for, and the relationship between focal length and magnification are all important factors to consider. The best telescopes for kids should also be durable and easy to use. We break down what you should look for and our picks so you can compare telescopes and find the best option for your family.

Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ

Celestron

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 12.4 pounds
• Eyepieces: 10mm and 20mm
• Aperture: 100mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Good for both stargazing and birdwatching
• Wide aperture for better focus
• Comes with smartphone adapter
• Plenty of training resources

Cons

• Some users say the build quality is not great

Celestron has been making telescopes for nearly 60 years. Its Inspire AZ100 is a great tool for older kids (and adults) to start stargazing at night and observing objects on Earth during the day. 

This short refractor telescope is a good telescope for beginners as it’s easy to set up and doesn’t require any special tools. Its short optical tube of 436mm provides a wide field of view, while its higher 100mm aperture allows aspiring astronomers to focus on the planets, moons, and stars. At 12.4 pounds, this telescope is relatively lightweight, and it comes with a tripod that’s easy to adjust. The AZ1000’s alt-az mount allows users to move the telescope up and down and pan left and right. 

The 10mm and 20mm eyepieces increase magnification by 33 times and 66 times, respectively. A finderscope makes it easier for beginning astronomers to spot the surface of the Moon. And your purchase also gives you access to Celestron’s Starry Night software, which teaches kids about what they see in the night sky. This telescope is also equipped with a smartphone adapter that allows kids to capture images of both the planets and wildlife.

Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope

Celestron

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Specs

• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Eyepieces: 4mm and 20mm
• Aperture: 76mm
• Type: Dobsonian/Newtonian

Pros

• Easy to use
• Portable
• Less expensive

Cons

• Small aperture

Designed for kids from ages 4 to 8, Celestron’s FirstScope is an ideal introductory telescope. Inspired by Galileo, this telescope features the names of he and other esteemed astronomers through the ages on its optical tube. This telescope comes with 20mm and 4mm eyepieces that result in magnification of 15 times and 75 times, respectively. The FirstScope is also light and easy to transport at 4.5 pounds. Its tabletop design makes it simple to set up on level surfaces outdoors. It’s a good telescope for a 5-year-old kid, and when the child is done stargazing, it looks great on a bookshelf.

Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope

Celestron

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 16.8 pounds
• Eyepieces: 25mm, 10mm
• Aperture: 125mm
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain

Pros

• Works with smartphones and iPads
• WiFi-enabled
• Lens cap doubles as a smartphone adapter

Cons

• Challenging to use if WiFi connection is spotty
• Some users report difficulty focusing

To get kids who are always on their devices interested in the Andromeda Galaxy, consider the Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope. Kids can control the WiFi-enabled telescope using an iPhone, iPad, or Android device and Celestron’s SkyPortal app, making this a good teen telescope. Instead of searching the night sky for planets, teens can use this telescope’s interactive sky map to tap the object they want to see on their screen. Then the telescope will move to find the object and focus upon it.

Set up is easy, and at 16 pounds with an adjustable tripod, this telescope is quite portable. Its two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) provide magnification of 50 times and 125 times, respectively. That power will help kids locate the rings of Saturn, the red spot on Jupiter, the craters on the Moon at night, and wildlife and birds during the day. And the lens cap doubles as a smartphone adapter so that kids can show off images of their cosmic and terrestrial explorations.

Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope

Gskyer

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Specs

• Weight: 5.73 pounds
• Magnification: 25mm, 10mm
• Aperture: 70mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Lightweight
• Strong magnification
• Comes with smartphone adapter

Cons

• Some users say its poorly made
• May not locate celestial objects as well as other telescopes

This beginner’s telescope from Gskyer is designed for portability. This compact model weighs just under 6 pounds and comes with a travel case and an adjustable tripod so kids can take it on the go. The magnification power of the two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) increase magnification by 16 times and 40 times, respectively, which can then be tripled using the included 3x Barlow lens. The Gskyer also comes with a smartphone eyepiece adapter so your kids can take photos of their discoveries, making it a solid telescope for 10-year-olds and other kids around that age.

Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope

Celestron

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EDITOR’S NOTE: Popular Science has teamed up with Celestron on a line of products. The decision to include this model in our recommendations was made by our reviewer independently of that relationship, but we do earn a commission on its sales—all of which helps power Popular Science.

Specs

• Weight: 10 pounds 
• Magnification: 20mm and 10mm
• Aperture: 70mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• High-quality optics
• Can operate it remotely
• Comes with educational software

Cons

• Some users said components arrived broken

If your kid is a budding photographer who’s looking to capture images of the planets, the AstroMaster 80mm is a great option.  A collaboration between Celestron and Popular Science, this telescope combines high-quality optics, including an 80mm objective lens, with a smartphone adapter that allows users to take photos and videos of the Moon, planets, and birds through the eyepiece. This refractor model comes with two eyepieces (20mm and 10mm) and a Barlow lens that doubles its magnification power. It also features an erect image diagonal that allows you to use it to spot wildlife and other terrestrial objects during the day. 

This telescope allows you to connect via Bluetooth and control the shutter release remotely on both iOS and Android phones. It’s also easy to assemble and super portable at 10 pounds. And kids can get a primer on the night sky with Celestron’s Starry Night Astronomy software, which provides sky maps and details about thousands of celestial objects.

Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

MaxUSee

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Eyepieces: 20mm, 12.5mm, 6mm
• Aperture: 40mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inexpensive
• Comes with viewfinder scope

Cons

• Lenses not powerful 
• No connectivity

The maps of the moon and stars are a big hit with kids, and adults will love the price of these budget-friendly telescopes. With easy assembly and included moon filter, the MaxUSee telescope is a good tool to get your child stargazing. That said, its eyepieces are not very powerful and it doesn’t come with a lot of features, so if having a good quality telescope that you can use for years is important, this may not be the best option.

Things to consider before purchasing a telescope for kids

If you’ve purchased cameras before, some terminology around lenses and light will be familiar. While telescopes can be incredibly intricate, when it comes to finding the best telescopes for kids, look for options that are easy to set up and use, durability, and lightweight for easy portability.

Type of telescope

There are three main types of telescope: refracting, reflecting, and catadioptric.

Refractor: These telescopes use both an objective lens and an eyepiece to display an image. Light enters the telescope and is bent or refracted as it travels through the optical tube. The eyepiece then magnifies the light and straightens out the image for the viewer.

Reflector: Reflecting telescopes use mirrors to bring an image into focus. These telescopes typically have a primary mirror opposite the aperture, where light comes into the telescope, and a secondary mirror. The light is reflected from the second mirror toward the eyepiece for the viewer to see the image. 

Catadioptric: These telescopes are designed with both lenses and mirrors to show an image, combining refraction and reflection. One of the categories of this type of telescope is known as Schmidt-Cassegrain.

Focal length, magnification, and aperture

The focal length of a telescope is the distance between where the telescope’s main lens or mirror and where light enters the telescope. It can range between 300 and 4,000 millimeters. The shorter the focal length, the wider the field of view. Conversely, higher focal lengths provide greater magnification to focus on a specific object.

To find out the magnification of a telescope using a specific eyepiece, divide the focal length of the optical tube by the eyepiece.  

Aperture: A telescope’s aperture indicates the diameter of the objective lens or mirror in millimeters. The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can let in, making images brighter and easier to see.

Mounts

The three categories of mounts of telescopes are Altazimuth, Dobsonian, and Equatorial. Alt-az mounts, as they are also known, refer to the horizontal and vertical axes. They allow users to move the telescopes left and right and up and down on a tripod. Dobsonian mounts are a type of alt-az mount that are designed to support heavy telescopes with large apertures. 

Equatorial mounts are used with more sophisticated telescopes. One of their axes aligns with Earth’s rotation axis. These mounts are designed for long-term observation and astrophotography.

Ease of use

When considering what telescope to buy, look for options that will be easy for them to operate. Keep an eye out for models that are easy to set up and come with tripods. Many options are also lightweight and come with a carrying case or backpack for easy portability, such as the Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope.

Age of your child

Kids age 4 to 8 starting stargazing will do well with a tabletop model with simple controls, such as the Celestron FirstScope. Meanwhile, older kids with some experience will appreciate the flexibility of telescopes with smartphone adapters that let them take photos and images of their cosmic finds, or they can use to take photos with their smartphone and the Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope, which they can operate remotely using their smartphone or an iPad.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best telescopes for kids

• Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope 76 Tablestop Telescope 
• Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope
• Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope
• Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

If you’re looking to give your children an appreciation for the galaxy, these telescopes for kids can help them see the stars and the planets close up. These models are easy to assemble and are designed with features that kids will appreciate, such as the ability to take photos with their phones. You’ll be glad you have one of the best telescopes on hand for the next cosmic event.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best telescopes for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

A generator is a must-have if you’re RV-ing, camping, or just spending time away from an outlet. A portable power station helps you stay charged, which is incredibly important if your phone is the only thing connecting you to modern society. Plus, they’re incredibly handy in a power outage. We found plenty of generators on sale for Memorial Day, from tried-and-true gas generators to newfangled solar generators.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000, 1002Wh Capacity with 2 SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $1,299 w/ coupon (Was $1,649)

Jackery

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This Jackery solar generator-panel combo package has everything you need to get started on sustainably powering burners, laptops, drones, and cell phones when you’re not near a wall outlet. In fact, it can power up to eight devices at a time. And, the included solar panels can bring it up to full charge within 6 hours—if you’d rather charge it beforehand via AC outlet, that process is shortened to 5.5. hours. Talk about timely.

If you decide to get a beefier Jackery generator, like the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO, you’ll get a free Jackery dual-sided 80W solar panel when you spend over $2,000 on Jackery products. That’s a $249 value right there, and your savings only get bigger when you combine it with the $150-$350 coupons Jackery is offering on Amazon.

Here are more generator deals to shop this Memorial Day:

Solar generators

• Jackery Solar Generator 1500 1534Wh Capacity with 4XSolar Panels $2,298 (Was $2,899)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 $269.99 with coupon (Was $349.99)
• Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station $1,529 with coupon (Was $1,699)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000 PRO $1,447 with coupon (Was $1,597)
• Anker 521 Portable Power Station $186.99 (Was $249.99)
• BioLite BaseCharge 600 $559.20 (Was $699)
• BioLite BaseCharge 1500 $1,359.20 (Was $1,699)

Gas generators

• Generac 8250 GP2500i 2,500-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator $508.92 (Was $636.15)
• Generac 76763 GP8000E 8,000-Watt Electric-Start Gas-Powered Portable Generator $919.20 (Was $1,149)
• CRAFTSMAN C0010250 2,500-Watt Gas Portable Generator $564.58 (Was $639)
• Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 4650 Peak Watt Portable Generator $349 (Was $379)

Dual-fuel generators

• DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start Dual-Fuel Generator $549 (Was $649)
• DuroMax XP12000EH Dual-Fuel Generator $999 (Was $1,399)
• Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator $460.47 (Was $839)
• Champion Power Equipment 201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start $564 (Was $799)
• Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator $475 (Was $699.99)
• Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator $929 (Was $1,249)
• Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 9500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel $899 (Was $949)
• Westinghouse 4650 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with CARB Compliant & Champion Weather-Resistant Storage Cover $557.20 (Was $662)

Inverter generators

• Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Quiet Power Series Inverter Generator $940.64 (Was $1,399)
• Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 4500 Peak Watt Inverter Generator $879 (Was $1,099)
• Champion Power Equipment 200986 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator $715.22 (Was $1,089)

The post The best Memorial Day generator deals: Solar, electric, and gas-powered models appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The unofficial kickoff to summer is a great time to get active, indoors or out. The warmer weather invites barbecues and relaxation. So whether you’re training for a race, looking to get out on the water for the first time, or improving your putt, these Memorial Day fitness deals will help you prepare, have fun, and save money while you’re doing it.

Aquaglide Deschutes Inflatable Kayak $543.89 (was $679.99)

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Inflatable kayaks are appealing because they’re generally much easier to transport than traditional models. But you shouldn’t have to sacrifice performance for portability. Aquaglide’s Deschutes Inflatable Kayak provides a solution: It’s both a cinch to toss into your car and includes features that paddlers are looking for. Plus, it’s currently available at its lowest price in months—just in time for the weather and waters to warm up.

This single-person kayak weighs just 18 pounds and fits into an included duffle bag. You’ll need a 12-volt air pump to inflate the three chambers of this open cockpit model, which is not included. Once inflated, this 11-foot kayak is designed with handles for carrying, a cushioned, quick-release seat, and adjustable footrests for a comfortable ride. The package also includes a quick-release fin, cockpit drain, and repair kit should you encounter rough waters. 

More outdoor fitness deals

• Strata Men’s Complete Golf Set $254.15 (was $299.99)
• Intex Challenger Kayak, Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air-Pump $121.44 (was $138.99)
• GT Men’s Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike $299.98 (was $799.98)
• GT Laguna Pro Mountain Bike $299.98  (was $799.98)
• GoSports Golf Putting Green for Indoor & Outdoor Putting Practice $301.68 (was $349.99)
• Airhead Super Mable, 1-3 Rider Towable Tube for Boating $256.99 (was $541.99)
• Skywalker Trampolines Epic Series 15′ Rectangle Trampoline $800 (was $899.99)
• BCAN 40/48″ Foldable Mini Trampoline $105.99 with coupon (was $139.99)
• Franklin Sports Fun 5 Combo Outdoor Game Set $23.75 (was $54.99)
• VSSAL Portable All-in-One Badminton, Pickleball and Kids’ Volleyball Net Set $159.99 with coupon (was $169.99) 
• Seray Basketball Hoop with 4.8-10 Foot Height Adjustable for Kids/Adults $155.99 with coupon (was $189.99)

Best home gym equipment deals

• Bowflex T22 Treadmill $2,499 (was $3,599)
• NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill + 30-Day iFit Membership $2,299 (was $2,499)
• Hydrow Wave Rower $1,695 (was $1,895)
• Sunny Health & Fitness Space Efficient Multi-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine $169.98 (was $329.99)
• RHYTHM FUN Treadmill Folding Treadmill Desk Treadmill $849.15 (was $999)
• UREVO URTM012 3 in 1 Under Desk Walking Treadmill with Removable Desk $399.99 with coupon (was $499.99)
• UREVO URTM013 Walking Pad, 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill with Remote Control, LED Display $299 with coupon (was $389.99)
• Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer – Compact At Home Workout Machine $2,159.20 (was $2,499)
• FLYBIRD Weight Bench $119.99 (was $239.99)
• Sunny Health & Fitness Evolution Pro Magnetic Belt Drive Indoor Exercise Cycling Bike $720 with coupon (was $849.99)
• Tempo Studio $1,695 (was $2,495)
• Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells $379 (was $549)
• ProsourceFit Slam Medicine Balls $25.19 (was $27.99)
• Bowflex SelectTech Curl Bar $449 (was $749)

Best smartwatch and wearable deals

• Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS + Cellular 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case $459 (was $529)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Pro 5 45mm LTE Smartwatch $429.99 (was $499.99)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 40mm Bluetooth Smartwatch $229.99 (was $279.99)
• Garmin epix Gen 2 $699.99 (was $899.99)
• Garmin Vivoactive 4 $199.99 (was $329.99) 
• Garmin fenix 7 Sapphire Solar Adventure Smartwatch $699.99 (was $899.99)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) $204.99 (was $299)
• Amazfit Band 5 Activity Fitness Tracker $29.95 (was $39.99)

Best fitness accessories

• iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer $169.99 (was $199.99)
• Hypervolt Go 2 Handheld Percussion Massage Gun $125.99 (was $199)
• TOLOCO Massage Gun, Muscle Massage Gun Deep Tissue for Athletes $39.99 with coupon (was $99.99)
• Everest Mini Hiking Pack, Dark Gray/Black, One Size $13.02 (was $14.60)
• Retrospec Solana 1 inch Yoga Mat $33.79 (was $39.99)
• Etekcity Scale for Body Weight and Fat Percentage $23.99 (was $29.99) 
• TRAKK – Multi Speed & Mode Deep Tissue Massage Roller $39.99 (was $69.99)
• Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap $27 (was $34.95)

The post The best Memorial Day fitness deals let you jump into summer activities and save appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Memorial Day Weekend is the official kickoff to summer grilling season, which means it’s time to invest in shiny new equipment to ensure your burgers, dogs, and vegetables come out perfectly every single time. The tools you use can impact not only the flavor of your food but how easy it is to flip, season, and even transfer to and from a plate. The good news is that getting the good stuff means you won’t have to replace any of it for a long time.

Weber Genesis E-325s Gas Grill $899 (was $1,049)

Weber

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if you’re looking for a rock-solid, propane-powered grill with tons of useful features, you’ll have difficulty finding a better option than the Weber Genesis E-325s, especially now that it’s now at the lowest price it’s been in months. It relies on Weber’s patented burner tech, which provides consistent, clean flame to char your grub. Plus, a Sear Station part of the grill gets exceptionally hot for searing steaks or other cuts of meat that thrive under high temps. Plus, it offers several features that facilitate easier cleaning, like easily accessible grease management. That means you can spend more time eating burgers and a lot less time scrubbing old sludge out of your grill.

If you’d prefer the natural gas version, that’s also on sale for $1,219 (down from $1,319).

Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill $156.99 (Was $199)

Everdure

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The Everdure Cube is the portable charcoal grill every camper, apartment dweller, tail gator, or beach bum could use to cook up a storm on the go. The steel grill comes with a food storage tray and cutting board, which latch onto the top of it to make carrying and prepping your food easier. Similarly, metal handles make the grill simple to carry to and from a car, or indoors to outdoors. Despite its compact size, the Everdure Cube offers 115 square inches of grilling space. Everdure says this is enough room for three medium steaks or six small burgers at once.

Once your grilling is done, you can remove the Cube’s grates, empty out its chamber, wash the storage tray and board, and store. The Everdure offers the cube in five colors, and while the Khaki colorway is marked down to $150 we prefer the pop of the orange option seen above. If you’ve given up grilling due to the lack of space or high cost, don’t skip this deal.

Pellet grill deals

• Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker $499 (was $599)
• Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker $289 (was $499)

The best gas grill deals

• Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill $449 (was $550)
• Cuisinart CGG-750 Portable Venture Gas Grill, $155.99 (Was $199.99)
• Cuisinart CGG-306, $169 (Was $219.99)
• Weber Spirit II E-310, $569 (Was $639)
• Weber Genesis E-435, $1549 (Was $1,649)
• Kenmore PG-A40409S0LB-2 4 Burner Gas BBQ Grill, $449.99 (Was $499.99)

The best charcoal grill deals

• Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr. 13.5 inch Portable Charcoal Grill, $299 (Was $499)
• Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Kettleman Charcoal Grill, $185.16 (Was $239.99)
• Everdure Fusion Charcoal Grill, $623 (Was $849)

The best grilling accessory deals

• Cuisinart CGS-5020 BBQ Tool Aluminum Carrying Case, $49 (Was $59.99)
• OXO Good Grips Grilling Prep and Carry System, $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• HydroFlask Cut and Serve Platter, $37.46 (Was $49.95)
• MEATER Block, $299.95 (Was $349.95)
• Lodge LDP3 Reversible Grill/Griddle, $34.90 (Was $59.50)

The best Solo Stove fire pit deals (for marshmallow grilling, roasting … whatever)

• Bonfire 2.0, $249.99 (Was $399.99)
• Yukon 2.0, $449.99 (Was $749.99)
• Mesa, $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Ranger 2.0, $229.99 (Was $299.99)
• Fire Pit Surround, $339.99 (Was $449.99)
• Bonfire Pi Fire, $259.99 (Was $359.99)

The post The best Memorial Day grill deals are sizzling appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

If upbeat anthems and sunny savings make your heart go padam padam, you’ll want to free yourself long enough to scroll through this post. We’ve collected the best Memorial Day Weekend discounts on speakers, headphones, earbuds, and more to help you celebrate the unofficial start of pool season and beach vacations with more tunes in your ears and money in your pocket.

JBL Boombox 3 $399.95 (Was $499.95)

Tony Ware

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Live sound specialists JBL makes several of our favorite portable party speakers, and the 13-pound 160W Bluetooth 5.3 Boombox 3 is the one you want to soundtrack your summer—from patio parties to friendly pick-up games. With its three-way speaker configuration, which includes a subwoofer that extends to 40 Hz, you can get any party started. And with 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, a sturdy molded handle, and IP67 (surf and sand protection), you can keep those parties going—wherever they occur. Act now and you can get all that for $100 off, so your favorite tracks slam, but your wallet isn’t hit as hard. If that’s too much body or budget for you at this time, however, there are other JBL party speakers and soundbars on sale:

• JBL Xtreme 3: $279.95 (Was $379.95)
• JBL Pulse 5 $199.95 (Was $249.95)
• JBL Flip 6: $99.95 (Was $129.95)
• JBL PartyBox Encore Essentials $199.95 (Was $299.95)  
• JBL Bar 300: $349.95 (Was $399.95)  
• JBL Bar 500: $499.95 (Was $599.95)  
• JBL Bar 700: $799.95 (Was $899.95)
• JBL Bar 1000: $999.95 (Was $1,199.95)

Need a speaker that’s purse-, pack-, and pool-friendly? The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is our favorite pint-sized Bluetooth party to take from the bathtub to the backcountry or on a bike, and this IP67 360-degree audio orb is available for $85 (down from $99).

Want to wire something more permanent on the back deck? The fully sealed Definitive Technology AW6500 outdoor speaker—featuring a 6.5″ mid-woofer, a 1″ tweeter, and a 5″ x 10″ oval pressure-driven low bass radiator, and available in black or white—is on sale for $249 (down from $299). And the smaller AW5500 is only $199 (down from $249).

Want to go wireless in the living room instead? Save $500 when you bundle the KEF LS50 Wireless II speakers and KC62 subwoofer together for $3,799.98 (down from $4,299.98). Just add both to your cart, and you can cut cords and cost on one of our favorite powered bookshelf (or standmount) speakers, plus a compact unit that provides muscular musical bass. Or save $250 when you buy both the smaller, desktop-friendly KEF LSX II speakers and KUBE 8b subwoofer for $1,749.98.

See more sweet-sounding audio deals hear and now:

• Sony SRS-XE300 X-Series IP67 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker $148 (Was $199)
• Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series IP67 Portable Bluetooth Party Speaker $198 (Was $349)
• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds $99 (Was $129)
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds $199 (Was $249)
• Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Overhead Headphones $278 (Was $349)
• Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Soundbar $1,198 (Was $1,399)
• SAMSUNG HW-Q990C 11.1.4ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar w/ wireless rear speakers + subwoofer $1,597 (Was $1,897)
• UE FITS custom-fit true wireless earbuds $169 (Was $199)
• JBL Live Free 2 True Adaptive Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earbuds $99.95 (Was $149.95)
• JBL Live 460NC Wireless On-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones $99 (Was $129)
• JBL Live 660NC Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones $149 (Was $199)
• JBL Quantum TWS Noise-Cancelling Gaming Earbuds $99.95 (Was $149.95) 
• JBL Quantum ONE $149.95 (Was $299.95)  

The post The best Memorial Day audio deals let you blast bops all summer long appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best for serious swimmers		Intex Above-Ground 32-Foot by 16-Foot x 52-Inch Pool		SEE IT	Spacious pool for real swimming.
Best overall		Bestway Power Steel Above-Ground Pool Set		SEE IT	Perfect pool for family parties.
Best for babies and pets		YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool		SEE IT	The whole family can enjoy this easy-to-store pool.

Taking a dip in your own pool is the dream of many homeowners, and thanks to affordable, easy-to-install above-ground pools, it’s never been easier to attain. In-ground pools require industrial construction equipment and cost more than some cars. However, an above-ground pool is a simple way to add fun to just about any backyard. Today’s above-ground models come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and sizes. A large rectangular above-ground pool is great for summer parties. Smaller, inflatable, oval above-ground pools are perfect for young children. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to stay cool, the best above-ground pool turns your property into an at-home vacation destination.

• Best overall: Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set
• Best for serious swimmers: Intex 32-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Above-Ground Pool
• Best for families: Intex 28211EH Metal Frame Above-Ground Pool
• Best for babies and pets: YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool
• Best budget: Intex Swimming Pool- Easy Set

How we chose the best above-ground pool

Our splashy selections are based on personal testing, research, recommendations, reviews, and user impressions. We culled through specs and perspectives until we narrowed down the choices to ones that fit every yard and need.

The best above-ground pools: Reviews & Recommendations

Ordering a pool online may sound like trying to get a haircut via email. But today’s pools are user-friendly and the product descriptions clearly state the sizes and dimensions to give you a good idea of what the final product looks like. So use our guide to help you find the swimming pool that fits your backyard, can fit your pool float of choice, looks great next to your inflatable hot tub, and has the style and features you want in a warm-weather oasis.

Best overall: Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set

Bestway

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Why it made the cut: This mid-priced, mid-sized pool fits in smaller backyards and is easy to set up.

Specs

• Capacity: 1000 gallons
• Dimensions: 168 x 98 x 39.5 inches
• Water depth: 31 inches

Pros

• Good for smaller backyards

Cons

• Included pump is weak

This 14-foot-by-8-foot-by-39-inch Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set is a small, yet comfortable way to add warm-weather fun to the lawn. Four adults will have plenty of room to take a dip in the pool. Set up is relatively easy, but you will need two people to get the job done. The walls and supports are strong. The biggest drawback is the inadequate pump. But you can always upgrade the pump and get a more efficient and effective filtration system. For a mid-sized, mid-priced pool, this is a solid solution.

Best for serious swimmers: Intex Above-Ground 32-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Pool

Intex

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Why it made the cut: This saltwater above-ground pool brings the water workouts to your backyard.

Specs

• Capacity: 14,364 gallons
• Dimensions: 384 x 192 x 52 inches
• Water depth: 45 inches

Pros

• 90-minute set up
• Feel of an in-ground pool

Cons

• Must supply own salt

As above-ground saltwater pools go, the Intex pool is a backyard beast, measuring 36 feet in length and just over four feet deep. That’s long enough to accomplish a genuine swimming workout in your own private lap pool. The steel frame safely holds 14,364 gallons of saltwater. You will need to supply your own salt, though. The included sand filter pumps out 2,650 gallons an hour and makes maintenance simple. If you have the space and want an above-ground model with the feel of an in-ground one, the Intex saltwater pool is your best bet.  

Best for families: Intex 28211EH 12-Foot by 30-Inch Above-Ground Pool

Intex

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Why it made the cut: Fun for the entire family is less than an hour away with this above-ground pool.

Specs

• Capacity: 1,718 gallons
• Dimensions: 144 x 144 x 30 inches
• Water depth: 24 inches

Pros

• Set up takes less than an hour
• Included filter

Cons

• Small for adults
• Lasts less than five years

The circular Intex 28211EH 12-Foot by 30-Inch Above-Ground Pool holds 1,718 gallons of water. That makes this a great choice for kids who want a fun, safe place to splash. You can set it up in less than an hour, and the included filter pump works well enough to keep the pool clean. The lining and walls feel strong, and the supports are tough enough to handle a kid’s birthday party. That said, this pool may not hold up after five years of heavy use. Luckily, the price point is low enough so even if you get a few seasons of swimming in, it’s worth the money. This model is a bit undersized for adults, but your kids and their friends will have a blast in this simple Intex pool.

Best for babies and pets: YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool

YAHEETECH

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Why it made the cut: Sturdiness and durability make this small above-ground pool baby- and dog-proof.

Specs

• Capacity: 106 gallons for XXL
• Dimensions: 63 x 63 x 12 inches
• Water depth: 12 inches

Pros

• Affordable
• Versatile

Cons

• Side panels will cave in if not on a flat surface

You can’t get an Olympic workout in the YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool. In fact, it’s less of a pool than a very large puddle. But for toddlers and dogs, this affordable pool is a lot of fun. The material is strong enough to handle a rowdy Schnauzer and soft enough for your young kids to bump into. The shallow one-foot depth is safe for wobbly kids just learning to walk, though parent supervision is ALWAYS required. As an added bonus, you can use the pool as a sandbox or ball pit. (Or to soak your weary feet.) If you’re looking for the cheapest and easiest way to add summer fun to your outdoor space, this dog pool/baby pool is a fantastic and versatile option. 

Best budget: Intex Swimming Pool, Easy Set, 8 Feet by 30 Inches

Intex

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Why it made the cut: Fast set up with minimal tools required makes this above-ground pool perfect in a pinch.

Specs

• Capacity: 639 gallons
• Dimensions: 96.06 x 96.06 x 29.9 inches
• Water depth: 23 inches

Pros

• No chemicals
• Inflatable

Cons

• Small

Inflatable pools are the easiest to set up and maintain. As far as small above-ground pools go, this Intex swimming pool is the best of the blow-ups. The small, eight-foot diameter pool holds 639 gallons of water—not enough for a pool party, but plenty of room for one or two people. This pool is great for impromptu soaks after a hard day. There are no chemicals to change or filters to clean. You don’t need to snap support rods together or unfold pool covers. When you want to take a dip, inflate and go. There are holes for optional pumps, but this pool is best enjoyed as simply as possible. No need to add electricity and filtration to this solo backyard pool party. (For best results, use it in conjunction with a cocktail and ukulele.) 

What to consider when shopping for the best above-ground pool

Choosing an above-ground pool is easier than you may think. These swimming pools are designed for simple installation and minimal maintenance. Your biggest decision will be size and style. But before taking the plunge, know the do’s and don’ts of choosing an above-ground pool.

Picking the right pool size

Above-ground pool sizes are the first thing to look at when shopping for the best pool. Small, inflatable above-ground pools that hold less than 1,000 gallons of water are the easiest to use. Just inflate it when it’s time to swim and drain it when the party’s over. You don’t have to worry about any filters or chemicals. It’s basically a backyard bathtub, which is ideal for small kids. 

Large above-ground pools that hold more than 1,000 gallons of water will require more maintenance. These pools remain filled with water all season, so a filter and chemicals are needed to keep the water crystal clear and algae-free. There is more upkeep involved with the larger models than the inflatable swimming pools. However, with that said, the daily and weekly maintenance of these large above-ground models is very easy. And compared with the upkeep of a costly in-ground pool, above-ground pool maintenance is a breeze. Large above-ground pools can hold anywhere from 8,000 to 15,000 gallons of water, and they may stretch over 30 feet long. 

Reminder: Don’t forget to check the depth. While above-ground models are typically shallower than in-ground pools, they can still be too deep for small children or unsure swimmers. (Children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water.) The larger swimming pools can reach depths of about 4.5 feet. Smaller pools can be a mere three inches deep. 

Type of above-ground swimming pool

After you decide on a size, it’s time to think about what kind of above-ground pool you want: Inflatable, steel frame, resin frame, aluminum frame, hybrid, or semi-inground. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. 

Inflatable pools are self-explanatory: Blow it up, fill it with water, and you’re good to go. 

Steel frame above-ground models are held together with vertical steel supports. The walls and floor of the pool can be plastic, vinyl, or resin. These swimming pools are strong, but they’re also heavy and may rust. Steel also gets hot in the sun. Aluminum-frame pools are lighter than steel frame pools, but to prevent oxidation, the aluminum needs some love and care—and a protective coating. 

Resin above-ground pools are made of strong plastic. They are lighter than steel frame pools, and they won’t rust. They can also take a heavy beating without getting a dent, but they do cost more.

Hybrid pools use multiple materials to create a strong pool that will last. Resin is used to keep things light and cool. Steel supports keep everything in place. These hybrid models offer the best of both worlds, and they are less expensive than resin pools. 

Semi-inground pools are a more permanent solution. Also known as radiant pools, these pools are built with a strong wall of stone or vinyl that matches the outdoor decor. They are designed to fit your specific home, so you have customizable options you don’t get with off-the-shelf pools. However, they are expensive and permanent. The upside: Radiant pools look like stylish in-ground swimming pools.

Pool placement

While above-ground pools are versatile, they can’t be placed just anywhere. Inclines are a no-no, as even the slightest hill can push water against the walls of the pool, causing uneven pressure on the sides and liner. Spreading a few bags of sand across the area can help even things out. 

When installing an above-ground model, you must comply with local building codes and regulations. This usually means you can’t place a pool near power lines or too close to property lines. 

You will also need to factor in two to three feet of perimeter space for unobstructed access to the pool. You want a large, flat, open area of grass, sand, or dirt. Don’t put it on concrete or brick. Stay away from trees. And only install it on a deck if the deck is pool-ready and designed for the job.

Saltwater pool vs. chlorine

Most above-ground pools use harsh chemicals like chlorine to keep the water clear. But a saltwater above-ground pool is the safer alternative. While saltwater pools still need cleaning chemicals, they don’t use nearly as much of the stuff. Saltwater pools are becoming popular for those who want to use fewer chemicals and don’t want to be burdened with maintenance. Swimming in saltwater also feels better. The lower chemical content means the water is not as harsh on your eyes and skin. 

Saltwater above-ground pools are just as easy to set up as other types of pools. And you can also buy a conversion kit that turns standard chlorine pools into saltwater pools.

Installation

Once again, inflatable above-ground pools are the easiest to install. Use a pump to fill the pool with air, then add water. The installation is a bit more involved when using a pool made of vertical supports. While each pool will have its own set of instructions, they can usually be set up within an afternoon and don’t require extra power tools if everything snaps in place snugly. But you will need a helping hand or two to avoid frustration. Make sure the spot is level, lay out the various parts, and understand how the liner attaches to the swimming pool. Take your time, and you should have no trouble installing the pool. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best above-ground pools

With the best above-ground pool, your backyard becomes a fun zone. From large rectangle above-ground pools for swimming laps to small oval above-ground pools for parties, you can find a great new way to stay cool this season. With an eye on size and shape, zoom in on the model that fits your needs. Whatever style you choose, swim safe and always supervise children. Also, consider making the jump to a saltwater above-ground pool for a more natural, soothing swim. Whatever you choose, one of these pools will transform your home into a neighborhood oasis.

The post The best above-ground pools in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Summer cookout season is almost here, and the centerpiece of the action is, well, a grill. Kamado Joe has slashed the price of its 13.5-inch portable Joe Jr. charcoal grill down to $299—a $200 savings and its lowest price ever. This grill has all the features of Kamado Joe’s larger grills in a more compact form, making it ideal for weekend car campers and apartment dwellers with small backyards alike. Plus, its big, orange body perched on a cast iron stand is an aesthetically pleasing conversation starter if the sweet smells of your cooking aren’t enough to get people to come to ask what’s good.

Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr. $299 (Was $499)

Kamado Joe

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A big part of the appeal of Kamado Joe’s grills is the materials the company uses. Lifting the Joe Jr. grill’s lid reveals ceramic plates that insulate heat around the stainless steel grill grates. The grates can be lifted and replaced with different accessories like a sear plate for different types of cooking. If you plan on keeping the KJ13RH outside all the time, we recommend getting a bundle with a cover, which adds roughly $20 to the price but is well worth the extra couple of bucks.

The grill’s air vent allows you to monitor and adjust its heat and how much smoke is inside without opening it. An analog thermostat on the KJ13RH’s front side makes it easy to keep track of the grill’s temperature, too. Charcoal grills impart more flavor than their gas counterparts, and while they take a little extra time to get going, clean, and maintain, your effort will be rewarded with great-tasting meat and vegetables. If you thought you didn’t have enough space for a grill, or your current one is getting long in the tooth, don’t miss this deal on a compact cookout essential.

Other great deals for super summer grilling:

• Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, $219 (Was $232.80)
• Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, $499.95 (Was $599.95)
• Traeger Grills Pro Series 575 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WiFi, $799.95 (Was $899.99)
• Char-Broil 3-Burner Cabinet Style Gas Grill, $390.81 (Was $470.43)
• Royal Gourmet CC1830S, $119.99 (Was $159.99)
• Papapacks 18 Inch Portable Charcoal Grill, $59 (Was $95)
• Megamaster 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill, $178 (Was $189)
• Cuisinart CGS-W13 Wooden Handle Tool Set (13-Piece), $22.99 (Was $39.99)
• GRILLART Grill Brush and Scraper, $14.82 (Was $22.97)

The post Get a flavorful $200 discount on the Kamado Joe Jr. charcoal grill at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best for flat feet		OrthoFeet Sprint Tieless Walking Shoe		SEE IT	Flat footers of the world will feel like they are walking on a straight, supportive cloud with these shoes.
Best for high arches		Skechers Men’s GOwalk Arch Fit Idyllic Sneaker		SEE IT	These lightweight men’s Skechers shoes hold up on long walks or long workdays
Best budget		Saucony Men's VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe		SEE IT	These shoes do excellent, affordable double duty for walkers and casual runners.

Equipping your feet with the best shoes for walking is the first step to enjoyable, pain-free activities. Though it may sound obvious, taking a walk each day is one of the most beneficial things you can do, yet many don’t because of discomfort. When it comes to these aches, everything from knee soreness to back stiffness can often be traced to improper walking shoes. All muscles and nerves point to your feet during a walk and a lack of arch or ankle support will lead to pains. The best walking shoes for men address this by being well-constructed, high-quality footgear designed for their namesake activity. Shopping for them, however, can sometimes be so frustrating you want to sprint away.

In the shoe emporiums of olden days, polite salespeople accurately measured feet and offered sage advice. These days, many shoe stores at the mall lack helpful experts, and customers are left to their own devices to find the right fit. As for online shopping, trying to buy the most comfortable sneakers through the mail can lead to too many returns and much hassle. How can you tell what fits and what shoe will work best for walking? What types of shoes should you avoid for walking? What type of insole do you need? And what do you call those cold, metal measuring devices? (Answer: Those are called Brannock Devices.) All these considerations can seem intimidating, but consider the following tips and carefully curated suggestions when it comes to shopping time and you’ll find the best walking shoes for men. 

• Best for flat feet: OrthoFeet Sprint Tieless Walking Shoe
• Best for standing and working all day: Brooks Addiction Suede Walker
• Best for high arches: Skechers Men’s GOwalk Arch Fit Idyllic Sneaker
• Best for wide feet: New Balance Men’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe
• Best budget: Saucony Men’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe

The best walking shoes for men: Reviews & Recommendations 

Best for flat feet: OrthoFeet Sprint Tieless Walking Shoe

OrthoFeet

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The lightweight, comfortable material of the OrthoFeet Sprint Tieless Walking Shoe makes it one of the best walking shoes for flat feet. Many stability and orthopedic shoes can feel heavy and clunky, but the Sprint is airy, yet still supportive. It is a great walking shoe for anyone with mild pronation. The included orthotic insole is a real arch-saver and the adjustable heel grip can be loosened and tightened as needed to give you a snug fit. And, as an added bonus, you only need to tie the walking shoe once thanks to a handy slip-on and go laces. Flat footers of the world will feel like they are walking on a straight, supportive cloud.

Best for standing and working all day: Brooks Addiction Suede Walker

Brooks

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Brooks is an industry leader in walking shoes and Brooks walking shoes do for casual outdoor strolls what Nike shoes have done for basketball. Plus, they are the best walking shoes for standing at work all day. The high-quality material laughs in the face of everyday wear and tear. The non-slip tread keeps you upright, even on ice. And the insole offers the arch support that makes these the best comfortable work shoes needed by many hard-working walkers. Waiters, teachers, nurses—you can appreciate the complete and utter joy of finding good walking shoes, and Brooks shoes will become your new favorite coworker.

Best for high arches: Skechers Men’s GOwalk Arch Fit Idyllic Sneaker

Skechers

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The GOwalk Arch Fit evens out the weight placed on your heel and ankle, making it one of the best Skechers shoes, or shoes in general, with arch support. It’s also great for any type of foot. The Skechers shoes’ heel is raised enough to take the force of a step and spread it out to the entire foot. It also has great cushioning across the entire shoe and there is plenty of room for toes to move. The lightweight men’s Skechers shoes hold up on long walks or long workdays and the mesh knit fabric keeps your foot cool and comfortable through any workout. 

Best for wide feet: New Balance Men’s 847 V4 Walking Shoe

New Balance

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Shopping for the best walking shoe is a multistep process. Measuring your foot is the easy part; now you have to actually find a pair of shoes wide enough to match. New Balance has been providing customers with a nice variety of widths to help get the best fit. And the 847 Walking Shoe is a wonderful, versatile walking shoe that can slip on just about any sized foot. New Balance widths are measured in Wide and X-Wide. According to their size chart, Wide is equivalent to a EE, X-Wide is 4E, and XX-Wide is 6E. The 847 is a stylish and comfortable shoe for walking and offers the benefits of durable, comfortable cushioning from toe to heel. 

Best budget: Saucony Men’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe

Saucony

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A walking shoe is just a running shoe that takes its time. While there are significant differences between most running shoes and walking shoes (namely heel drop, weight, and ankle support), the Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe does excellent, affordable double duty for walkers and casual runners. The cloud-like heel is comfortable for high arches and the arch support adds some support for flat-footed walkers. While it won’t help much with overpronation, if you need a simple walking shoe that can handle most terrains and conditions, the Saucony Cohesion is one of the best men’s walking shoes you can find at that price.

What to consider when shopping for the best walking shoes for men

When shopping for the best walking shoes for men, you can get lost in options and materials. Some athletic shoe companies make bold claims about pressure points and their shoes with arch support. Others boast of high-tech gels and space-age toebox construction. But which of these things, you might wonder, actually makes for the most comfortable sneakers for men.

The answer is different for everyone. Some walking shoes are designed for those with high arches. Others are made for walkers with stability concerns. Therefore, the first step to buying any walking shoe is to take a long, hard look at your feet. 

Feet change as you age. What you thought was a narrow foot in your teens may have shifted to a wider foot in your 30s. Examine not only the length and width of your foot but also the arch. Place your wet foot on a paper bag or piece of cardboard and look at the footprint. If you see one long print, you have flat feet and may benefit from a walking shoe with stabilization. If you see only your toes and your heel, you have a high arch and you’ll need more cushion in the heel and toes to absorb impact.

Your arch can show signs of pronation and supination. These terms refer to how your foot “leans” when walking. Those with low arches often have pronation (leaning inwards), meaning the big toe and inside of the foot are doing most of the work when walking. Supination (leaning outwards) usually affects those with high arches and puts extra strain on the little toes and outside of the foot. Depending on the severity of pronation and supination, a specially made orthotic may be needed for walking. 

But there are over-the-counter walking shoes specifically designed to help moderate overpronation and supination. Stability shoes and motion control shoes can help those with overpronation. Walking shoes with greater flexibility can help those suffering from supination. Walk-in a straight line and take notice of how your foot, ankle, and shin line up. An inward bend is an overpronation. An outward bend is pronation. Armed with this knowledge, you can now begin the quest for your best shoes for walking.   

Related: These are athletic shoes that will give the best and the rest a run for their money.

Flat feet need significant arch support in a comfortable walking shoe

If you have flat feet, the shoe for walking is one that offers great arch support to compensate for overpronation. A stability walking shoe is designed to keep your foot facing front and center instead of rolling inwards. This is accomplished thanks to heavy-duty arch support that positions the foot and keeps it from bending off course. 

Stability shoes may be heavier than other walking shoes due to the beefy arch support and lack of flexibility, but there are still lightweight walking shoes that won’t tire you out. When trying on a stability shoe, pay attention to the arch: it should feel solid, not squishy. While extra soft walking shoes may be comfortable at the shoe store, they won’t help your flat feet and legs feel better after long walks. You want the extra rigidity, not a pillow. 

Motion-control shoes offer even more rigid support than stability shoes. These specialized shoes are used for severe overpronation. They will be heavy but greatly improve the quality of walking. Motion-control shoes will be specially made with insoles designed by your podiatrist. 

Keep in mind that mild pronation is common and many neutral walking shoes that don’t advertise explicit overpronation support will still have some level of arch support built-in.

Get great traction with comfortable shoes

Walking shoes, unlike hiking shoes, are made for the road most traveled. The tire-like tread of a great walking shoe prevents slipping on asphalt, concert, and even wet surfaces. And for active workers on their feet all day, a non-slip tread can be a literal lifesaver. 

A great walking shoe is also a great standing shoe. For standing and walking all day long, you want a shoe you won’t even notice. Heel pain, toe cramps, and more can be avoided by ditching flimsy, ultralight running shoes, and wearing a more supportive walking shoe. The bit of added weight from a walking shoe won’t exhaust feet; the right pair will make those feet happier. The best walking shoes for men are more than footwear: they are tools of the trade. 

For those on the clock, or those who need to get in their recommended 10,000 daily steps, a walking shoe must be durable and comfortable. Who cares if they look a little chunky? If they provide solid support and the feeling of walking in bedroom slippers, appearances can take a backseat. Still, you should be able to find great non-slip walking shoes that look better than two black boxes with string. 

Find soft, comfortable shoes for high arches

Many of the walking shoes on the market are aimed at those with flat feet who need a strong, stable shoe with significant arch support. But for those with high arches, the best walking shoes for men should have a few special features to keep you and your feet comfortable. 

High arches mean the weight and force of every step are concentrated at the heel, ankle, and toes. You may not feel pain in the arch of your foot, but after a walk or day of work, your feet and ankles will feel tired and sore all over. 

Because less of your foot is making contact with the ground, the walking shoe for high arches should have a high heel to strategically position your foot and help evenly distribute the weight. On any shoe, the angle of heel to toe is called the drop. Zero-drop walking shoes are flat, and not ideal for high arches. If the walking shoe doesn’t have a high enough heel, a heel insert can help give you the angle you need. 

You also want a roomy, comfortable toe box—the part of the shoe housing your toes, which needs to be spacious enough to let you move and flex. Crowded toes will make a short walk feel like an entity. And to keep your ankle happy, look for soft and strong support in the back of the shoe. Pinch the ankle of the shoe. If it folds easily and feels like a sock puppet, it won’t have the support high-arched walkers need. 

Why it’s so hard to measure the width of men’s walking shoes

The best walking shoe for men must have the best fit. But if you tried to decipher online width charts or read labels on shoe boxes, you know it’s not as easy as it seems to size. Part of the reason is that there’s no official, set-in-stone, absolute way all shoes are measured. Not only do women’s and men’s sizes not line up, but men’s widths can mean different things depending on the country and the shoe company. 

In America, a medium-width shoe will be labeled as D, M, or R…if it’s labeled at all. This is the shoe width you’ll most likely see on the shelves. Narrow shoes are harder to find and may be labeled S, A, B, N, or C.  A shoe with a 3A width will be narrower than a shoe with a 2A width. Confused? Hang in there. Wider shoe widths are easier to identify; they start at E for slightly wider feet: 2E is wider than E, 3E is wider than 2E, and so on. But some companies don’t use Es and will label wide shoes with a W, for wide, or XW, for extra-wide, just to add to the confusion. And this doesn’t include European shoes, which often don’t display width measurements at all. 

You can measure the width of your foot at home, even without a fancy Brannock Device. Simply trace your barefoot on a piece of paper and measure the distance across at the widest point. Then use an online chart to find your size and width encoded in the mysterious shoe size letter system. For best results, consult the specific brand’s website for sizing information. 

Here are the best men’s walking shoes you can get for less than $50

You don’t need to spend a lot to find a comfortable walking shoe. Even the big names in sneakers have affordable options. You can find a good pair of Nike walking shoes for around $60. And Asics sneakers can drop below the $40 mark. There are plenty of affordable options if you’re willing to sacrifice a few features: Namely style. 

Budget-priced walking shoes will look like a basic, plain shoe. There will be no bright flashes or fun accent colors. You may also be giving up some comfort. Lower-priced men’s walking shoes will be heavier and a little clunkier, without high-tech materials and streamlined edges. If they are on your feet all day, you will notice the added ounces of thick walking shoes.

Of course, cost-effective men’s walking shoes can also lean the other way and be as light as a feather. Except that’s not a good thing. These lightweight shoes are made of practically nothing—a few strands of mesh fabric over the thinnest sole imaginable. The ultra-lightweight sneakers are better for runners who aren’t looking for an all-day shoe. The flimsy materials won’t offer enough support and alignment for flat-footed walkers or enough heel cushion for high-arched walkers. 

You never want to go too cheap with your walking shoes. Anything below $40 can be made out of brittle rubber and fake leather that will crack after a few trips around the neighborhood (if the material is real leather, it will be labeled as such). And avoid any and all footwear sold at the grocery store.

FAQs

Related: Need versatile storage for specialized kicks? Check out these superb shoe racks.

The final word on choosing the best walking shoes for men

The best walking shoes for men, or any athletic shoe, will be designed for your specific feet. Flat feet need more shoes with arch support than those with high arches. Some with high arches will need soft, impact-absorbent heels. If you don’t know how your foot bends and twists, ask a professional. You may need a specialized orthotic insole or custom-made option to achieve the most comfortable sneakers. Don’t take your feet for granted; they’re the foundation for your entire life. 

The post The best walking shoes for men in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Lifetime 8 x 12.5 ft. Outdoor Steel and Plastic Storage Shed		SEE IT	This storage shed provides versatile storage options that are durable and secure, thanks to the steel-reinforced dual wall panels.
Best for pool equipment		Suncast Modernist 10' x 7' Outdoor Storage Shed		SEE IT	Stow your floaties and your pool vacuum in this ultra-durable shed.
Best budget		Oakmont Waterproof Patio Deck Box		SEE IT	You don’t need tools to assemble this small, budget-friendly storage shed.

Your backyard can and should be your oasis, and a great storage shed adds to your sanctuary’s aesthetics. Whether you have large rolling fields or only a tiny patio space, being able to relax in privacy on a nice afternoon really is a privilege and shouldn’t be disrupted by haphazard tools or a ramshackle structure in your line of sight. Maintaining your space doesn’t have to be a major financial investment either. Whether you want a purely functional storehouse or a larger arrangement with windows, organizing systems, and multiple doors, there are an amazing variety of outdoor storage sheds on the market. Below, we’ve selected some of the best storage sheds on the market to help you easily get a sturdy, durable, and attractive solution into place. 

• Best overall: Lifetime 8 x 12.5 ft. Outdoor Steel and Plastic Storage Shed
• Best for bikes: KETER Manor 4×6 Resin Outdoor Storage Shed
• Best compact: MCombo Outdoor Storage Cabinet
• Best extra-large: Majestic Do-It-Yourself 8 ft. x 12 ft. Outdoor Wood Storage Shed
• Best for pool equipment: Suncast Modernist 10′ x 7′ Outdoor Storage Shed
• Best for organization: Rubbermaid 7′ x 7′ Storage Shed
• Best steel: Arrow Classic Charcoal Steel Storage Shed
• Best budget: Oakmont Waterproof Patio Deck Box

How we chose the best storage sheds

Searching for the best storage sheds is like “The Three Little Pigs”—you have to look for those made of straws and sticks before finding the holy grail made of bricks. We looked at reviews, recommendations, user impressions, and choices from our own backyards to find the ones that will protect your gardening gear from a wolf with incredible lung capacity.

The best storage sheds: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’re on the hunt for storage shed ideas, you should be careful to select the right size and look for the property you have. Thoughtfully selected storage sheds can increase curb appeal and even drive up the value of your home. First and foremost, however, a storage shed must be functional, so consider features like doors and windows for security and convenience. You want it to be as easy as possible to put away that leaf vacuum and bring out the pool vacuum and propane grill.

Best overall: Lifetime 8 x 12.5 ft. Outdoor Steel and Plastic Storage Shed

Lifetime

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Why it made the cut: The steel-reinforced dual-wall panels and high-density polyethylene construction mean less shed maintenance and more gardening time.

Specs

• Dimensions: 146 x 92 x 96 inches
• Material: Plastic, steel
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: Yes

Pros

• Adjustable shelving
• Pitched roof
• UV-protected panels

Cons

• Anchoring hardware sold separately

This 12.5-foot-wide Lifetime outdoor storage shed is designed with steel-reinforced construction and easy-to-maintain dual-wall high-density polyethylene. A wooden cottage look with a high-pitched roof allows for quick drainage, and two double doors allow easy access to storage items. This plastic storage shed also offers steel-reinforced lockable doors and an interior shelving system for added organization (who doesn’t like to admire a well-oiled chainsaw). Five small skylights and two shatter-proof polycarbonate windows give more than enough light to grab the right screwdriver, and a slip-resistant high-density polyethylene floor protects against oil, solvents, and stains. Heavy-duty steel trusses strengthen the roof enough to withstand gusts, gales, and everything in between. The entire shed is UV-protected to prevent weather damage. This durable shed has only one downside: anchoring hardware is sold separately, a valuable purchase if the shed won’t have heavy lawn equipment like mowers to weigh it down.

Best for bikes: KETER Manor 4×6 Resin Outdoor Storage Shed

KETER

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Why it made the cut: This stylish, compact storage shed has room for a push mower, electric bike, and more.

Specs

• Dimensions: 51.2 x 75.6 x 78 inches
• Material: Resin, steel
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: No

Pros

• Skylight and window for air circulation
• Lockable
• Wood-look sans-maintenance

Cons

• No built-in storage organization

The KETER is an attractive, durable, all-weather shed that requires no maintenance, thanks to its polypropylene resin plastic material. Extra features include a skylight, window, and vent for lighting and air circulation. Advertised as easy to build, this KETER shed includes a floor panel, though it will require a level ground surface like all sheds. One of several resin storage sheds on our list, it’s lockable for security, although you must add your own padlock. This storage shed doesn’t have built-in storage but can fit a shelving system of your choosing. Steel reinforcements add an extra layer of strength and durability. Its dove-grey coloring is easy on the eyes and won’t get you in trouble with the HOA, and the wood-like texture makes it look extra classy and luxurious.

Best compact: MCombo Outdoor Storage Cabinet

Mcombo

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Why it made the cut: This quaint, stylish wood storage shed can be painted to create ethereal garden vibes.

Specs

• Dimensions: 25.6 x 18.1 x 70.5 inches
• Material: Fir wood
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: Yes

Pros

• Paintable
• Weather-resistant
• Waterproof roof

Cons

• Might be too short for brooms and rakes

A great choice for small gardens, this storage shed features solid wood construction in a natural light wood finish. Don’t let the wood construction fool you: it’s made of fir and is weather-resistant. The combination of open storage and shelving makes this storage shed easy to keep organized—three shelves for small items and one space for long tools. It even includes an upper space to keep sharp out-of-reach items away from small, curious grabby child hands. In case you’re turned off by grey plastic exteriors, you can stain or paint this storage shed to fulfill your cottagecore fairy garden fantasy. A sloping, waterproof asphalt roof prevents water accumulation and helps its longevity. Four metal brackets keep the shed anchored, and a raised bottom prevents the floor from getting wet through contact with the ground. Reviewers note that tall gardening supplies, like rakes, brooms, and garden hoes, might be too tall to fit into the storage shed.

Best extra-large: Majestic Do-It-Yourself 8 ft. x 12 ft. Outdoor Wood Storage Shed

Handy Home Products

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Specs

• Dimensions: 108 x 96  x 144 inches
• Material: Wood
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: Yes

Pros

• Provides 786 square feet of storage
• Attractive, customizable design
• Loft and shelves built in for extra storage

Cons

• Some assembly required
• Expensive

Items like riding lawnmowers, snow blowers, bikes, grills, and tools can occupy lots of space. If you’ve got that kind of equipment and more, an extra-large storage shed may be in order. Handy Home Products’ Majestic Do-It-Yourself Outdoor Wood Storage Shed provides plenty of storage space while still looking good in the backyard. 

The wooden shed measures 8 feet by 12 feet, providing 768 square feet of storage. This shed comes with a kit to install shingles on the peak roof and allows you to customize the paint color. It’s available in two versions: with or without a floor. Wide, 64-inch double doors open out, while a transom of small windows over the doors lets light in. The shed also comes with a wraparound loft and shelves for additional storage. And the lockable doors will help keep your equipment secure.

Best for pool equipment: Suncast Modernist 10′ x 7′ Outdoor Storage Shed

Suncast

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Specs

• Dimensions: 129.5 x 87.5 x 89.5 inches
• Material: Resin
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: Yes

Pros

• Provides 438 cubic feet of storage 
• Modern design
• Durable

Cons

• Heavy 
• Expensive
• Padlock for door purchased separately

If you’ve got a pool in the backyard, the equipment you need to maintain it and the floats you buy to enjoy it can quickly accumulate. The Suncast Modernist Outdoor Storage Shed may provide a tidy solution. At 129 inches long by 87.5 inches wide and 89.5 inches high, this shed offers 438 cubic feet of storage space—providing plenty of room for a pool vacuum with plenty of space left over for patio furniture.

Made of resin, this storage shed is waterproof and durable and can support up to 40 pounds of snow in the off-season. The sleek gray design looks modern, and the barn door is steel-reinforced for extra durability. This shed also has five transom windows that let in light to help you find what you’re looking for and vents to keep air circulating and resist rot. That said, this shed is an investment and, at 490 pounds, won’t be easy to move.

Best for organization: Rubbermaid Storage Shed

Rubbermaid

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Why it made the cut: This weather-resistant outdoor shed features a pegboard interior to hang tools and mount shelves or baskets.

Specs

• Dimensions: 89.75 x 45 x 20.25 inches
• Material: Resin
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: Yes (sold separately)

Pros

• Impact immune flooring
• Double-wall construction
• Can attach shelving and utility hooks to wall

Cons

• Assembly takes time

With 332 cubic feet of storage, your lawn and garden tools can be easily assessed with this Rubbermaid storage shed’s wall-mounted organization system, like a shelf and wire basket/tool organizer sold separately. Double doors allow you to store a push mower or wide patio furniture. Double-wall resin construction and an impact-resistant floor help it withstand the elements, dents, leaks, and seasonal wear and tear. The ability to attach pegboards, shelving, and utility hooks takes organization to another level. However, assembly takes time—reviewers note it takes between five to seven hours, depending on how closely you follow directions and personal handiness.

Best steel: Arrow Classic Charcoal Steel Storage Shed

Arrow

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Why it made the cut: This shed is made out of galvanized steel and coated in Valspar polyester paint to prevent rust and corrosion.

Specs

• Dimensions: 71.25 x 99.75 x 72.88 inches
• Material: Galvanized steel
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: No

Pros

• Lockable sliding doors
• 12-year limited warranty
• Low gable roof

Cons

• Floor and foundation not included

For those in the market for metal storage sheds, this heavy-duty pick from Arrow is built for ultimate protection from the elements. It’s made of galvanized steel and is finished with Valspar polyester paint to seal the steel from rust and corrosion. It’s also easy on the eyes, thanks to traditional vertical wall panels and classic lines for a timeless look. The sliding doors sit on large glides that prevent sticking and derailing—add a padlock to ensure your lawn equipment stays in your backyard. There’s a 12-year limited warranty that gives you peace of mind in case of a defect. A low gable roof prevents water from pooling. You’ll have to build your own floor or foundation, as they are not included. However, the instructions give foundation guidelines, like recommended concrete slab thickness.

Best budget: Oakmont Waterproof Patio Deck Box

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: You don’t need a large backyard to store gardening tools and cushions thanks to this chest, which fits on your patio or back porch.

Specs

• Dimensions: 47.3 x 24.0 x 24.8 inches
• Material: Polyethylene
• Assembly required: Yes
• Storage options: No

Pros

• Affordable
• Durable
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Hard to disassemble if not put together correctly

Opening from the top like a luggage chest, this patio deck box offers water-resistant storage for backyard items like cushions and gardening tools thanks to its 120-gallon storage capacity. Its affordable and durable discoloration-resistant polyethylene material comes in an on-trend neutral grey with a rattan texture for visual interest. It’s lockable in case you want to protect what’s inside. You can assemble it without tools, but follow the steps closely—it’s hard to take apart if incorrectly assembled. Reviews also say it’s not sit-proof—save the sitting for your patio furniture or a portable chair. With its smaller footprints, it’s the most portable storage shed on our list.

What to consider when buying the best storage sheds

The best storage sheds look good in your space and help you keep your garden tools, bikes, and outdoor equipment clean, safe, dry, and organized. You don’t want anything happening to the solar generator you keep topped off in case of emergencies. Storage sheds can be a go-to for all your outdoor equipment if your home doesn’t have a garage, or they can boost your overall storage if you do.

Most storage sheds are constructed using plastics, metal, wood, or a combination, and many come as storage shed kits. Wood tends to be the most attractive, expensive material and requires the most maintenance; high-end wood sheds can cost thousands of dollars and might require a contractor to build if you aren’t handy. Metals and plastics may not be quite as charming. Still, they are typically very durable and more affordable, and many imitate the look of wood sheds with faux planking, natural colors, and cottage-style windows. Metal sheds are the most economical option, but they can sometimes rust over time, especially if used in wet locations.

Be sure to select doors that open easily for more oversized items but that also lock securely. Overall, height is also an important factor; larger sheds often require the owner to enter the shed, and being able to stand comfortably is nice. While typically only higher-end sheds have operational windows, allowing natural light into the shed is also practical. Finally, consider how you will organize your stuff once you have the shed. Some shed manufacturers offer corresponding organizational systems to help you hang hooks, shelves, and bins. 

Access

If you’ve ever had the “good” fortune of managing storage in a tiny crawl space, then you realize having easy access is very important. Consider how you can lift, drag, or roll your stuff into the storage shed. Whether you will be putting items into storage for the off-season, have bulky, heavy lawn equipment, or plan to store bikes or motorcycles—door width, type, and quantity are important. In addition, look for sheds incorporating natural light and organizers to make overall access easier and more efficient.

For easier navigation, consider a storage shed that offers multiple doors. For example, if you live in a climate where you need to store many bulky items in the off-season, dragging those out is a waste of time just to dig up other tools and supplies. More than one door means you can decide to keep certain items stationary for long periods while being able to access other areas inside the shed. Door hinges also vary, with some doors opening out, sliding, lifting up, or folding down. The best storage sheds will allow for easy access to your stored items.

Bike storage

Whether storing one bike or your whole family’s collection, it’s essential to have secure, dry storage sized just right. The best bike storage shed will be at least 6 feet in either width or length because a typical adult bike is 3 inches shy of that 6-foot mark. So be sure to double-check the manufacturer’s specifications that the interior dimension of the shed is over 69 inches, as interior and exterior dimensions differ. 

Look for easily maintained and waterproof shed materials, like plastics. Look for sheds that offer a lockable door latch to keep bikes safe from theft. Even when shopping for smaller, space-saving sheds, look for a skylight or window features. Less expensive sheds may skimp on this feature (inexpensive metal sheds often offer no windows), but this added natural light feature would make retrieving your bicycle or whatever else you have in there much easier.

Yard size

While it would be nice to have a large yard, many people don’t, especially if you live in or near major cities. If you are pressed for space, selecting each addition with care becomes even more important. Luckily, there are a lot of well-made, attractive storage sheds sized for smaller spaces. 

The best small shed will be designed to hold your garden essentials. Some small storage sheds look more like rectangular chests and can also work as a coffee table or bench. These lower units can easily hold hoses, gardening equipment, outdoor cushions, and/or pillows. Taller storage sheds take advantage of height and can fit full-sized rakes, shovels, as well as offer shelves for smaller items. The best small storage sheds come in various materials and, due to the smaller footprint, will usually be pretty reasonably priced. 

Organization

Available storage is almost every homeowner’s dream. Even when you start without much and are a fan of minimal living, stuff accumulates. While it can be tempting to get the largest shed you can and fill it to the brim with all your extra stuff, you aren’t really solving problems with this method. Cluttered sheds are bound to be filled with items you forget about or may find too hard to unbury. The longer things stay tucked in a corner, the more likely a family of spiders has moved in.

The best storage sheds with tool organizers will help keep your home and garden orderly. While it’s possible to purchase shed storage systems independently, some manufacturers offer systems tailored specifically to their shed model and design. For example, some sheds offer built-in pegs or grids that work easily with coordinating shelves, hooks, bins, and racks. The benefit to purchasing a shed that coordinates with a planned storage system is that you know it will work to maximize your space, and usually it can be customized and arranged to your specific needs. The more organized your shed, the quicker, easier, and more efficient your jobs become.

Budget

The best storage sheds on a small budget may not be as large or modern-looking as some more expensive options, but they’ll still get your garden in gear and keep your tools neat. Metal sheds, while not always the cutting edge of style, tend to be very affordable. However, they usually don’t come with a floor, so a level foundation is required, ideally one slightly lifted off the ground. And maybe it’s only some accessories and smaller tools you need to stow. A bargain-priced patio box could be your best choice if you’re looking for the most compact solution in a social space.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best storage sheds

• Best overall: Lifetime 8 x 12.5 ft. Outdoor Steel and Plastic Storage Shed
• Best for bikes: KETER Manor 4×6 Resin Outdoor Storage Shed
• Best compact: MCombo Outdoor Storage Cabinet
• Best extra-large: Majestic Do-It-Yourself 8 ft. x 12 ft. Outdoor Wood Storage Shed
• Best for pool equipment: Suncast Modernist 10′ x 7′ Outdoor Storage Shed
• Best for organization: Rubbermaid 7′ x 7′ Storage Shed
• Best steel: Arrow Classic Charcoal Steel Storage Shed
• Best budget: Oakmont Waterproof Patio Deck Box

The best storage sheds will keep you organized, look attractive in your outdoor space, and be built to last. With options in various materials (solid wood and high-tech waterproof plastics, to name a couple), these structures shelter your items from the weather and will also be designed with customizable organizing systems for easy access to your garden tools and recreational equipment.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best storage sheds in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Solo Stove is responsible for making our favorite smokeless outdoor fire pits—with the Bonfire 2.0 being a particular favorite after our tests. And right now, Solo offers that model and others at up to 45% off during its Memorial Day Weekend sale. On top of that, much of its collection also comes with a free Solo Stove Mesa, the company’s $119.99 tabletop fire pit, with the promo code FREEMESA. These are some of the deepest discounts we’ve ever seen on these outdoor essentials, and we’re surprised to see Solo Stove launch them so early.

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 $249.99 (Was $399.99)

Stan Horaczek

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The Bonfire 2.0 is Solo Stove’s mid-sized smokeless fire pit, and it’s the perfect choice for most outdoor patios and backyards. The circular barrel can hold several pieces of wood, while the wide lip directs flames upward instead of outward. Ash from the burning wood falls into an ash pan, where it sits rather than getting burned up. A lot of smoke from fire pits comes as a result of burning ash. Solo Stove updated the Bonfire’s design to make this chamber easily accessible so that you can remove and empty it after every use with relative ease.

Our tests found that the Bonfire 2.0 burned wood more efficiently than a traditional fire pit, was easy to move around, and that its claim to be “smokeless” was mostly accurate. All fire pits will produce some smoke—you’re burning wood, after all—but Solo Stove’s patented design reduced it significantly. A ring of holes at the bottom sucks air in, the air rises through the fire pit (there’s a gap between the fire pit’s barrel and outer edge), and it exits through another ring of holes up at the top.

If you plan on hosting parties this summer or want to extend the time you can use your backyard from spring through autumn, don’t miss this deal. It’s straight fire.

Get these other great outdoor deals:

• Pyle Party Speaker, $99.99 (Was $197.99)
• Sony SRS-XP500, $298 (Was $399.99)
• Alpine Solar-Powered Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker, $69.41 (Was $198.40)
• Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Powered Outdoor String Lights, $35.99 (Was $47.99)
• BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner, $389.99 (Was $439.99)
• SYLVOX 43-Inch Outdoor TV, $999 (Was $1,199)
• Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller, $198.99 (Was $229.99)

The post Solo Stove’s lit Memorial Day deals include 45% off and a free mini fire pit appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		RTIC Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler		SEE IT	RTIC’s Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler its the sweet spot between performance, aesthetics, extra features, and price.
Best electric		GOSun Chill Cooler		SEE IT	GOSUN Chill Cooler can keep your perishables cold without ice—and it can even run on solar power.
Best budget		Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler		SEE IT	If cost is your concern, Coleman’s Xtreme Portable Cooler is the cream of the crop.

A well-built, long-lasting cooler for camping will keep your food and drinks cold for hours when you’re away from a power outlet, convenience store, or other modern luxuries. It needs to be rugged enough to get taken in and out of the back of a car, trekked to a campsite, and exposed to rain, snow, sunshine, bugs, and anything else you’ll find out in the wilderness. If your current camping cooler is looking a little long in the tooth, isn’t big enough for the length of your trip, it’s time for an upgrade. Here are some of the best coolers for camping in a wide range of styles for every budget.

• Best overall: RTIC Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler
• Best electric: GOSun Chill Cooler
• Best with wheels: YETI Roadie 60
• Best large: Driftsun 75 Quart Insulated Cooler
• Best soft cooler: Hydro Flask 26L Day Escape Soft Cooler
• Best budget: Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler

How we chose the best coolers for camping

There are a glut of coolers available on the Internet, but the starting point for the recommendations below started with some of our other stories. The commerce team Popular Science has already covered the best coolers and cooler bags available for all uses. Many of the metrics—size, capacity, price—that went into determining the top picks in those stories were also important here. We paid attention to options from the top brands, and were able to conduct some in-person testing to supplement our research.

Coolers can get expensive very fast—we feel the price is worthwhile since this is a piece of gear that should literally last you decades—but we made sure our selections were relatively affordable. This mentality was a through-line throughout this entire story, not just something we cared about when choosing our budget pick. Overall, you’ll find camping coolers that provide the right mix of performance and value without sacrificing either.

The best coolers for camping: Reviews & Recommendations

Camping has experienced a mainstream renaissance lately, driven in part by the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and our collective desire to be out in the world but away from crowds. When outdoor trips were seen one of the few safe summertime activities, people began investing in camping gear, especially tents and water filters. People are still discovering (or rediscovering) the benefits of spending time outdoors, known in some circles as “nature therapy.” There are a lot of fancy camping gadgets, but a camping cooler is deliberately low tech—at least in most cases. Companies have put a lot of effort into creating materials that insulate your food and drinks for longer periods of time without adding too much weight or bulk. There’s always going to be a tradeoff between size and capacity vs. portability, so it’s important to strike the right balance for your specific needs. Many of the camping coolers you’ll see below are available in multiple sizes, which was done by design. We want to make sure everyone’s needs are met regardless of their situation.

Best overall: RTIC Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler

RTIC

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Specs

• Size: 27.01 x 17.28 x 16.54 inches
• Weight: 13.4 pounds
• Capacity: 54 Qt.
• Style: Hardshell
• Materials: Closed-cell foam
• Price: $219.99

Pros

• Excellent weight to capacity ratio
• Three inches of insulation
• Price

Cons

• No separate built-in compartments

If we could only recommend one camping cooler to suit everyone’s needs, RTIC’s Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler is far and away the best choice. The company considered every angle of this cooler, and engineered one of the best pieces of outdoor gear we’ve ever seen regardless of the category.

The cooler’s 52 quart capacity allows it to hold up to 60 pounds of ice or 70 cans with no ice according to RTIC, which is more than enough space to hold everything you’d need for a two day camping trip. This is one of the biggest camping coolers we’re recommending, but thanks to RTIC’s engineering, it’s also one of the lightest. Despite its three inches of closed-cell foam insulation, it weighs roughly half as much as its competition. This will make a huge difference when transporting the cooler to and from your house.

Little touches, like the T-latches that keep it securely closed, non-skid rubber feet, marine-grade nylon rope handles, and the ability to slip in an optional divider to separate food and drink make it even more appealing. We’re even happy to see RTIC offers this camping cooler in six colorways, so you’re not stuck with a plain white one. We wish RTIC included their divider with this cooler—it’s only $7 on their site—but beyond that we couldn’t find much fault with the Ultra-Light Quart Hard Cooler.

If you’re looking for a big, light, relatively inexpensive cooler for camping, boating, tailgating, or other all-day outdoor activities, don’t hesitate to pick one up.

Best electric: GOSun Chill Cooler

GOsun

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Specs

• Size: 23.5 x 16 x 19 inches
• Weight: 30 pounds
• Capacity: 42 Qt.
• Style: Hardshell
• Materials: Close cell polyurethane foam
• Price: $649

Pros

• Built-in compressor keeps items cool without ice
• Can be run off solar power
• Separate compartments for fridge and freezer items

Cons

• You have to remember to charge it
• Price

GOsun’s Chill Cooler is the most high-tech option we’re recommending, and while its price is high, it’s arguably the most efficient choice. That’s because it has a built-in refrigeration system, which continually keeps its chamber at a pre-set temperature between -4 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. This means you won’t have to dedicate any space to ice to keep its contents cool. The cooler’s temperature is managed by a touch panel on top, which is flanked by USB-A ports and a DC cigarette lighter, so you can charge your phone and other devices on-the-go.

The Chill Cooler’s greatest strength is the ability to keep its contents cool, but its high-tech design comes with one downside: the need to keep it charged. Yes, you’ll need to plug in your cooler, which would make the Chill Cooler a no-go for camping if not for GOsun’s ingenuity. You can connect this cooler to an external battery pack or go fully off the grid by plugging it into GOsun’s Outdoor Solar Table. If you’re camping during sunny summer days, and don’t use the Chill Cooler’s cooling features continuously, you shouldn’t have too many issues with it running out of juice.

There aren’t very many electric coolers available, but GOsun’s Chill Cooler stands out in this category because of its innovative design.

Best with wheels: YETI Roadie 60

YETI

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Specs

• Size: 23.7 x 19.9 x 20.5 inches
• Weight: 29 pounds
• Capacity: 63 Qt.
• Style: Hardshell
• Materials: Polyurethane
• Price: $500

Pros

• Ultra-durable
• Highly portable given its size
• Periscoping handle for easy manuverability

Cons

• Price
• Weight

YETI is arguably the best-known premium cooler brand, and it’s brought all the design chops that make its sedentary gear popular into a wheeled version. The $500 60 Quart cooler is one of the biggest—by capacity—camping coolers we’re recommending, and it’s the most expensive non-electric model, but you’re getting what you pay for.

The biggest benefit to getting a YETI cooler is its durability—they’re literally bear proof thanks to their insulation and well-made latches. If you make the investment, you should be able to keep this cooler for life. One of the biggest potential pain points for a wheeled cooler is, well, their wheels, which are going to come into contact with tough terrain very often. YETI says it uses single-piece tires, which should be able to handle prolonged exposure rocks and dirt just fine.

Portability is the main reason to get a wheeled cooler, and the Roadie 60 excels in this area. Its squat-but-deep design offers the same capacity as a traditional cooler in a more compact form. The Roadie 60’s telescoping handle will reach high enough at its maximum height to be comfortable to roll around, but will contract to the point where it’s out of sight when it’s not needed.

Yes, the YETI Roadie 60 is expensive, but if you want the highest quality rolling camping cooler around and are able to stretch your budget, you won’t find a better option.

Best large: Driftsun 75 Quart Insulated Cooler

Driftsun

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Specs

• Size: 33.5 x 18.5 x 18 inches
• Weight: 32 pounds
• Capacity: 75 Qt.
• Style: Hardshell
• Materials: Rotomolded thermoplastic
• Price: $249.99

Pros

• Excellent ice retention
• High capacity
• Built-in bottle opener

Cons

• Large size comes with added weight

If a high-capacity camping cooler is what you crave, Driftsun has you covered with its ultra-large-but-relatively-inexpensive Insulated Cooler. Its 75 quart capacity will comfortably hold dozens of cans with room to spare ice. Driftsun is also confident in this cooler’s insulation, and says it can keep ice solid for up to 10 days—more than enough time for a week-long camping trip if you’re strategic about how long you keep it open. This level of performance is also possible because of the cooler’s locking latches, which will keep it firmly shut.

This may be the largest camping cooler we recommend, but it’s not the heaviest—even amongst non-electric models. We considered portability very strongly when selecting a camping cooler in this category because nobody want to carry it around if it’s too heavy. Many of the coolers in this guide have a capacity of between 50 and 60 quarts, and while a 75 quart option may not seem like a big difference, the ability to carry around the same number of cans with ice is a big deal for long trips. Some of Driftsun’s little extras, like a built-in bottle opener make it a little nicer to use, too.

If you need a big cooler for longer trips—or ones with a larger party—Driftsun’s 75 Quart Insulated Cooler is the way to go. There’s enough space to satisfy the thirst of a big crowd without being too unwieldy to use. This camping cooler’s affordable price is just icing on the cake.

Best soft cooler: Hydro Flask 26L Day Escape Soft Cooler

Hydro Flask

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Specs

• Size: 14.5 x 14.5 x 10.3 inches
• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Capacity: 27 Qt.
• Style: Softshell
• Materials: Polyester
• Price: $179.95

Pros

• Lightweight
• Relatively high capacity
• Features straps and handles

Cons

• Can’t hold as much stuff as hard shell coolers

If your idea of a camping trip is a one night stay at a campsite for two or three people, there isn’t much of a reason to pack a big hardshell cooler—Hydro Flask’s 26L Day Escape Soft Cooler will more than satisfy your needs. The soft cooler is ultra light, but the insulation Hyrdro Flask uses can keep its contents cold for up to 27 hours according to the company.

Because of the cooler’s relatively small size, you’re likely going to fill it to the brim, and Hydro Flask has accounted for this by offering side handles in addition to a strap, which can make it easier to carry for two people. This seems like a little touch, but it can make a big difference. Additionally, the Day Escape’s strap can be removed and reattached in such a way that you can carry it as a cross-body strap.

We’ve tried some of Hydro Flask’s soft coolers in the past, and one of the features that’s always struck us is the quality of their zipper. This is essential for a soft cooler, because a faulty zipper will let warm air inside, or let liquid leak out. We’re happy to say this has never been an issue for us. If you’re confident that your next camping trips will be short and sweet, and you’d like to be as unencumbered as possible while you’re exploring nature, Hydro Flask 26L Day Escape is the ideal cooler.

Best budget: Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler

Coleman

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Specs

• Size: 28.25 x 15.75 x 18.25 inches
• Weight: 12.3 pounds
• Capacity: 70 Qt.
• Style: Hardshell
• Materials: Plastic (with Xtreme® technology)
• Price: $79.99

Pros

• High capacity
• Cup holders and seating
• Price

Cons

• No latches to keep the lid closed

Coleman’s Xtreme Portable Cooler doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but it makes up for its simplicity by offering the best value we’ve ever seen in a full-sized hard cooler. The Xtreme has a capacity of 70 quarts, yet it’s the lightest camping cooler we’re recommending at just under 12.5 pounds. The camping cooler’s favorable capacity-to-weight ratio is complemented by its sun-$100 price tag and overall performance. Coleman says this cooler can keep its contents cold for up to five days, but we’re skeptical given its lid, which has extra insulation around the rim, but no latches to keep it closed.

Coleman touts the Xtreme Portable Cooler’s extra features, like four cup holders on top, and its ability to be used as a seat or work surface with a 250 pound weight limit. These are genuinely useful auxiliary uses, though the cup holders do reduce the insulation on top of the cooler at four points. Still, these nitpicks are immediately forgivable due to the Xtreme Portable Cooler’s price, which makes it the perfect pick for newer campers who aren’t sure they’ll go out enough times to justify getting a more luxe option.

What to consider when shopping for the best coolers for camping

Size

A cooler’s physical size—including weight—is the first factor to think about when picking the right camping cooler. This isn’t a piece of gear you’re going to want to upgrade on a regular basis. Our recommendations run the gamut, but most of them are roughly two feet wise, and a food and a half wide and deep. A cooler in that size range will weigh roughly 15 pounds when empty. Also consider the amount of space you have in your car, which will likely be packed with a lot of other gear, and on the campsite.

Capacity

A camping cooler’s capacity is measured in quarts, and determines how much space there is inside for your food and drinks. Many companies illustrate the capacity of their cooler by saying how much ice and how many cans it can hold. These rough metrics can be a big help in figuring out which cooler is right for you, so don’t disregard them even if you plan on packing liquid in bottles and dedicating part of its space to food.

Style

Camping coolers come in all shapes and sizes, but we’ve broken them down into two styles: hardshell and softshell. We’ve elected to primarily focus on hardshell coolers in large part because this is the most traditional type. We also have an entire guide to insulated cooler bags—the official name for softshell coolers—so you’re covered if you prefer this style. Softshell coolers look like a tote bag and are a lot more portable, but they can’t hold as much stuff. The solution for multi-day camping trips with a lot of hiking to and from a central camping spot may be to get one of both.

Materials

When possible, we’ve called out the materials companies have used to make their coolers. This has the biggest impact on their ability to keep your perishables cold for extended periods of time. Naturally, coolers with thick insulation will be larger and weigh more, so keep that in mind if portability is your priority.

Price

You can spend a lot of money on a camping cooler, but we’ve made sure most of our recommendations fall under $300, so they’re accessible to the highest number of people. That said, we didn’t shy away from more expensive models if they had a differentiating feature that justified the higher cost.