Garmin was on fire in 2025 – releasing more products than any year in recent memory. One part of those new releases was the inclusion of their inReach satellite communication capabilities in products like their new GPSMAP H1 and H1i Plus, as well as their Fenix 8 Pro. 

While adding this technology to various products in their product lineup wasn’t new, it might seem a little odd to some folks to see them release a new version of their inReach Mini – especially when the focus has been on including this technology in various devices. However, after spending nearly a month with the new inReach Mini 3 Plus, I have found it’s worth as a stand-alone device to have a greater impact than being included as a feature in another device.

This all being said, before receiving the inReach Mini 3 Plus from Garmin to test, I had little to no experience with any of its predecessors. I have friends who have them, and I’ve seen them hanging off of packs and jackets while wandering around in the woods and backcountry, but I never considered one until now. 

Whether it’s in my 4Runner linked to my Tread 2 Overland, or hanging off my pack strap, its worth has become immeasurable. It goes where I go when I’m driving around or wandering around off the beaten path. 

Specs 

• Dimensions: 2.16 in x 3.85 in x 1.05 in
• Weight: 4.31 oz
• Rating: IP67 / MIL-STD-810 
• Battery: Lithium Ion
• Battery Life: Up to 350 hours
• Charging Interface: USB-C
• GPS Sensors: GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou

Features

• Multiband Frequency Support
• Touchscreen
• Voice Commands
• Turn By Turn Directions
• Satellite Imagery
• Hydrographic Features
• Searchable Points of Interest
• Waypoints
• Weather Forecasts
• Digital Compass
• Livetrack Remote Tracking and Location Sharing
• Tracback Routing
• Interactive SOS Messaging
• Text Messaging (including Photo)

What’s It All About?

Where the inReach Mini series started as a gadget that allowed you to send out an SOS message when you get into trouble off-grid, it has evolved into one that allows you to stay connected when you’re out there. Where some people might be rolling their eyes at this, don’t think of it as just another device for texting. Instead, consider it a tool that keeps you connected to your friends and loved ones and allows them to keep track of your location. 

Additionally, by expanding its capabilities, the Mini 3 has become more functional and easier to use, overall. Its color touchscreen and onboard keyboard, as well as voice commands — means the interface is familiar to most modern users. However, if you’ve been using Garmin handheld products for a while, there are still button commands for you to interact with. The addition of the color screen allows for more detailed maps, which makes things easier to identify on the go.

On the technical side of things, the Mini 3 series is the first to feature multi-band functionality. This means that instead of being connected to just one satellite system, you’re connected to GPS (United States), Galileo (Europe), QZSS (Japan), and BeiDou (China). This equates to consistent tracking and improved positioning. It also means you don’t need to hold the inReach up in the air while looking for a clear shot of the sky to connect. When you turn on the inReach Mini 3 and 3 Plus, you are connected in seconds.

Last but not least is the overall build. All of the inReach Minis have been lauded for their rugged build and ability to persevere in demanding environments. They have also all met the MIL-STD-810 standard for temperature, shock, and exposure to liquids. The one change from the 2 to the 3 that is easy to miss is the IP rating from IPX7 to IP67. Where the Mini 2 allowed for the unit to be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to half an hour, the Mini 3 series is also dust-tight. This means that nothing is getting inside that little complicated marvel of modern technology.

What’s the difference between the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Plus?

The standard Mini 3 focuses on basic text messaging and location tracking, and the Mini 3 Plus has more robust features, which makes spending the extra $50 a no-brainer. 

On the surface, Garmin is promoting the Mini 3 Plus as being able to share photos and send voice messages, but it also has the ability to operate through voice commands. Additionally, the inclusion of a speaker allowed Garmin to include an emergency siren in the Mini 3 Plus.

Although sending and receiving photos doesn’t appeal much to me, the addition of a siren and voice commands does. If you’re in an emergency situation where you might not be able to access the Mini 3 Plus physically, it can still function as needed by the sound of your voice.

For $50 more, I would recommend getting the Plus version.

Battery Life

For two weeks, I either left the Mini 3 Plus in my 4Runner or I hiked with it. We hit a cold streak for a solid week during that time, when temperatures were in the single digits. At the end of this period, the unit still had 20% battery life remaining. 

Now, granted, I wasn’t using it all the time – but cold can have a significant impact on lithium batteries. Keeping that in mind, I was able to get more than 336 hours out of a single battery charge. Garmin claims you can get up to 350 hours. I suspect the Mini 3 Plus would last for longer than that.

Wait a minute. Maps?

Another notable feature that makes the inReach Mini 3 series nearly self-sufficient is the inclusion of basemaps. By adding this capability, Garmin has turned their once SOS-specific gadget into a basic GPS navigator. And though you’re not going to get topographic detail, you’ll be able to see cities, roads, and points of interest. 

This is actually a big deal. If you plan out your adventure ahead of time with the aid of Garmin Explore, you’ll be able to access enough navigational data on the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Plus to get to your destination. Throughout the journey, you’ll also be able to see any points of interest in your vicinity – things like campsites, rivers, hospitals and more.

To give you an idea of where this puts the inReach Mini 3 series in the grand scheme of things, it’s at the same level of sophistication that some of Garmin’s dedicated handheld navigators were at just a couple of years ago, with the addition of a color touchscreen.

Subscriptions

Earlier this year, with the launches of the Fenix 8 Pro as well as the GPSMAP H1 line we saw a finely tuned subscription plan offering. You do not need an inReach subscription to use basic features like the compass and maps, but you will need one for everything else that the inReach Mini is capable of. The nice thing is that you can pay month to month. 

The plans start at $7.99 a month and go as high as $49.99 a month. I’ve been using the Essential plan for $14.99 a month since I received my Fenix 8 Pro in the summer. WIth that I get unlimited check-ins, 50 text messages/weather requests, and 10 photo or voice messages. 

For $29.99 a month, the Standard plan more than doubles those numbers and adds in unlimited live tracking. For those of you spending days out in the backcountry, that plan may be better suited. Either way, it goes without saying that the more you pay the more you get.

Note: you can’t share subscriptions between inReach enabled devices. You can, however, switch an existing subscription to a new device. I switched it over from my Fenix 8 Pro to the Mini 3 Plus when it arrived and avoided the $40 activation fee.

Food For Thought: Long-Term Viability

With Apple and Google phones adding built-in satellite connectivity, and even a growing number of Garmin products having inReach technology baked into them, it might seem that the inReach Mini 3 series might be the last of the product line. However, I don’t think that’s going to be the case as the Minis are still stand-alone, dedicated products that work as satellite messengers. 

I’ve been a dedicated iPhone user since the first iPhone came out. I love my iPhone. That said, I have had the 14 Pro, 16 Pro, and now 17 Pro. The SOS connectivity leaves a lot to be desired. 

When you’re in an emergency, you may not be able to get a clear shot of the sky. This can leave you SOL with the SOS. Additionally, if you can secure a connection with it, you can only send short test messages, share your location, and request roadside assistance. Now, where this may be the intended use of an emergency device, it’s also a battery drain for the iPhone.

With the Mini 3 Plus, I’ve yet to find a place where I wasn’t connected to the Iridium Satellite Network. I turn it on, it locates the satellites, and I never have to worry about it. Additionally, it allows me to send texts, voice messages, and share my location with live updates at predetermined intervals. All of these things can help get someone out of an emergency on a level that has yet to be rivaled by any other brand that has satellite connectivity in its products.

The One Con: Lack of Mounting and Carry Options

As I found out with their GPSMap H1i Plus, Garmin changed the spine mount on the back of some of their products, which limits how they mount and how you can carry them. 

Out of the box, the inReach Mini 3 series comes with a carabiner, which makes it easy to strap to a pack. However, if you want to mount it anywhere in your vehicle, which is common for the Minis, you’re going to need to get creative. Where companies like RAM Mounts have a bunch of vehicle mounts for the original spine mount, none of them have yet to come up with one for the new version.

I ended up retrofitting Garmin’s Backpack Tether by zip-tying it to a 4Runner Lifestyle Tactical Sun Visor MOLLE Panel. This allows me to use it with my Tread 2 Overland as well as remove it and lash it to my pack with minimal effort. That said, in order to do that, I needed to order their Spine Mount Adapter made specifically for the inReach Mini 3 series.

Overall, no harm – no foul. I just thought it was worth mentioning, especially for those folks who have any of the older spine mount accessories. 

Overall

At its core, the Mini 3 series is still an SOS beacon that connects you directly to Garmin’s Response Center to get you out of a jam. However, with capabilities such as voice messaging, detailed map navigation, and voice commands, it’s not only a great device to have on you, but also for your friends and family. With the ability for them to message you and track your location, even if you end up in an emergency situation, the pile of breadcrumbs is there to get you out of it. Peace of mind goes a long way.

That leaves the question if you should upgrade to the Mini 3 or Mini 3 Plus if you have a previous version. Where I will agree that $500 is an investment, if you’re someone who finds themselves off grid more often than not, then yes – you’ll benefit from the new features and should probably upgrade. However, if you’re someone who uses their Mini 1 or 2 casually, you can probably continue to rely on them.

Overall, I am happy to have finally gotten an inReach Mini. Something that seemed like a “nice to have” has quickly proven to be a necessity. If you’ve never had one before, or you’re itching to upgrade your current inReach Mini, head right for the 3 Plus. You get way more than what you’re paying for.

I understand that some people might not want to receive texts when they’re out on an adventure, you don’t actually need to. Texting is merely one feature that may come in handy. As someone who has only sent a test text – I assure you, it’s easy to avoid. I just like knowing I have it if I need it.

The Garmin inReach Mini 3 — An Absolute Necessity originally appeared on Gear Institute.

Still looking for the ideal gift for our outdoor lover? Look no further – we found another collection of great gear that any adventurer would love.

REI Flash Power Wool Gloves

Gloves are a perennial favorite for stocking stuffers. The new REI Flash Power Wool Gloves are ideal daily-wear gloves. With 47 percent wool content, these lightweight gloves are incredibly warm, even when they get damp (from a snowball fight for instance!). But the 11 percent spandex, and 42 percent nylon gives their durability and stretch for comfort.

A rubberized pattern on the palm and fingers provide grip in slick conditions. And the face material on the finger tips is touch-screen compatible so you can operate your phone on the go. $35. Buy now.

REI Women’s Campwell Henley Shirt

Whether relaxing around the house, or an apré ski dinner, the Campwell Henley looks and feels great. It works as a stand-alone top or as a mid-layer adventure top. The Henley sports a unique blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester to create comfort, warmth, and durability. The fit is somewhat relaxed, with ribbed collar and cuffs and a rolled shoulder seam for comfort even under pack straps. $50. Buy now.

Trxstle Rod Boots

I started fly fishing nearly 50 years ago as a pre-teen. I spent money earned by mowing lawns to buy my first fly rod – a fiberglass Berkeley 7 weight that I still own. That was a precious purchase in the late 1970s, costing me something like $30. Today, fly rods routinely top $1,000 and are delicate wands of composite materials. To protect these 4-figure investments, Trstle offers a unique soft Rod Boot. A braided polyester fabric makes up the Boot. It is a durable fabric sleeve that easily slips over fully set-up rods. I use them when transporting rods in my SUV when moving between fishing holes or rivers. I’ll also slip my rods into the Boot when leaving the rods in camp overnight, just in case someone bumps them. A stretchy leash attaches around the reel to keep the Boot in place. When not in use, the Rod Boot rolls up into a compact spool that fits into a pocket. Sold in a 2-pack. $29. Buy now.

Swiftcurrent Traverse Zip-Front Waders

When pursuing cold-water fish, it’s often necessary to get into that aquatic environment to be effective. But while trout, steelhead and salmon love cold water, anglers typically prefer to stay warm and dry. The Patagonia Zip-Front Swiftcurrent Traverse offers a great compromise between weight and durability. The Swiftcurrent Traverse sports a 4-layer construction that is breathable without the use of PFAS compounds. The waterproof front zipper makes it easy to slip in and out of the waders, and it also provides convenience on the river when nature calls. The fit is spot-on thanks to a wide range of sizes to accommodate different angler heights, girth, and show size. $549. Buy Now.

Patagonia Provisions Tinned Fish Variety Pack

Canned fish invokes a range of mental images in many of us. Frequently, the images aren’t complementary. But Patagonia Provisions tinned fish proves that canned seafood can be high quality and incredibly tasty. Patagonia buys their fish from responsible sources, ensuring the fish is sustainably harvested and carefully handled. The Variety Pack features a perfect blend of different fish and flavors. The pack include roasted garlic anchovies, spicy anchovies, lemon-olive anchovies, spicy mussels, smoked mussels, sardines in olive oil, coconut curry sardines, tomato sardines, sardines with black bean-corn salsa, and sardines with lemon white beans and leeks. $87. Buy now.

Huk Rogue Wave Boots

Sometimes the best gear is the stuff you use before and after adventures. Huk’s new Rogue Wave boots are ideal for traveling to and from rivers, but I also love them for stomping around my NW property. The waterproof neoprene and rubber uppers are soft and comfortable. Easy to slip on and off but stiff enough to stay up to keep out mud and water. The Grip-X outsoles are textured for grip, but non-marking on boat decks or hardwood floors. The simple slip-on design is made for comfort and performance. $110. Buy Now.

Huk Chesapeake KC Printed Flannel

Flannel shirts are classic Christmas gifts, and the Huk Chesapeake series are the best you’ll find this season. The mid-weight soft cotton material features 3 percent spandex for a little extra stretch and durability. The KC Printed version features a grey-green base color with a subtle pattern of fish throughout. The looks is unique and attractive and the fit is relaxed as flannel should be.  $68. Buy now.

Grayl Mission EXP Backpack – 30L

The Mission EXP could be the perfect day pack (or day-and-a-half pack for ultralight enthusiasts). The Mission sports 16 pocks and supports Grayl’s modular storage system for those who want more space. The pack offers two waterbottle pockets as well a a hydration sleeve pocket. The shoulder straps include Grayl’s G-Mod Pouch System Velcro attachment area and a Velcro-loop landing panel on front of pack. The Mission features 100 percent recycled materials. It weighs 4.1 pounds and a wide range of torso lengths and waist girths. $254. Buy now.

Last minute ideas for great holiday gifts originally appeared on Gear Institute.

Once again, we’ve scoured the outdoor industry for the best gear for outdoor enthusiasts to give to their adventure-loving family and friends. The following items are surefire winners for your gift exchanges.

Rux Packing System Mesh Bundle

An array of ‘packing solutions’ exists out there, but the new Rux Packing System products are the best we’ve seen. The mesh bags and cubes are tough, lightweight, and very compressible. The bundle includes a 20-liter bag, a 10-liter cube, and a 2-liter ‘pocket’. These are perfect for organizing things like socks and underwear (2-liter), shirts and baselayers (10-liter,) and pants, jackets, and sweaters (20-liter). The breathable mesh walls keep your clothing fresh and improve compressibility. This is the perfect gift for active travelers. $100. Buy now.

Rux Cube Cooler

Some of us grew up with colorful lunchboxes. It’s hard to beat a classic Scooby-Do lunch box. But the Rux Cube Cooler comes close. This 5-liter insulated soft cooler is perfect for kids who need to tote lunch to school, or hikers who want to keep their charcuterie meal cold during a trek into the desert. The Cube Cooler is built from an RF-welded TPU material that is tough, durable, and stain-resistant. The cooler features a water-tight roll-top closure and is roomy enough for a lunch for two, or one hearty lunch with a bottle or two of beverages. $64. Buy now.

Grayl 24oz GeoPress Ti Purifier

One of the most vital issues for backcountry travelers is hydration. Efficient, safe backcountry travel requires proper hydration. But water weighs a lot – 2 pounds per quart. So, any system that lets hikers ‘harvest’ water in the field can be a huge benefit. The Grayl GeoPress Purifier system puts a water purifying filter right into your bottle. And the titanium version cuts the weight to a mere 20 ounces for a 24-ounce container. The filtration system is an elegant design. Just fill up the outer shell from any water source. Press in the inner shell (with integrated filter) and drink.

The titanium outer shell also doubles as a cookpot, thus eliminating the dreaded ‘single-function gear’ designation (for best efficiency in backpacking – and in life – look for gear that serves more than one purpose). So at just over a pound of pack weight, you get a water filtration system, a water bottle, and a cook pot. $176. Buy now.

Grayl Mission Tote 45L

Gear storage and transport have long been a problem for outdoor enthusiasts. A range of plastic totes, Cordura duffels, and various storage bags have been tried and largely rejected as suitable solutions.

The new Grayl Mission Tote system proved to be one of the best options for both storage and transport of random outdoor gear. The 45-liter tote earned our favorite designation as a good option for our fly fishing gear. It gobbled up our fly fishing sling pack, our rolled-up waders, and a selection of jackets, sandals, wading shoes, and other accessories. After a fishing trip, my wife and I would dry our gear then store it in our Mission Totes. When it came time to hit the river again, we’d just grab our totes and take off without delay.

The totes also work well with the Grayl Accessory Pods, but we liked them with the Rux packs (see above). For those who need more storage, the tote is also offered in a 58-liter option, as well as a smaller 32-liter version. $125. Buy now.

Coros Apex 4 smart watch

Modern technology has changed the world of watches, especially for outdoor adventurers. The classic chronometer has gave way to way to tech watches that measure time, elevation, direction, and distance. Modern smart watches, though, do so much more, and the new Coros Apex 4 highlights the best of the modern innovations.

This ‘watch’ provides a complete adventure tool whether you are a trail runner, hiker, climber, skier, or mountain biker. The Apex 4 boasts incredible battery life – up to 65 hours with all features fully activated. I’ve used it for a week-long backing trip without a recharge using simplified GPS settings. It also has some of the best mapping functions I’ve seen in a watch. The user interface is also remarkably clean and intuitive, with just a couple of side buttons and a rolling control dial.

The Apex 4 includes a fast, efficient GPS, heart rate monitor, sleep monitor, and a host of other features that come to health-focused smart watches. But the Coros Apex does each function as good or better than the competition.

The Apex 4 comes in two sizes: 46 mm face and 42 mm face. The 46 mm is ideal for just about everyone. The 42mm is best for those with very slender wrists or extreme weight-consciousness. The 46mm weighs just 64 grams with the silicone band. $479, Buy now.

Paka Hoodie

Hooded apparel has become a common trend this decade, but the Paka Hoodie sets a high standard that other sweaters can’t meet. The Paka Hoodie boasts a unique blend of alpaca wool (65 percent) and recycled nylon fiber (35 percent). The Hoodie is lightweight and breathable, but also warm and cozy. The design features a comfortable neck opening and a sleek hood that cups the head without constriction or bulk. The overall fit is sleek without being tight.

The Hoodie, available in men’s and women’s sizing, is the best mid-layer hoodie we’ve ever worn. $149. Buy now.

Paka Women’s Aire Base layer

The women on our test team often complain about baselayers. Arms can be too long, torsos too short, necks too tight – or too droopy. The Paka Aire, though, earned universal acclaim for fit and comfort. The women’s specific long-sleeve tee shirt features a soft, ultra-light blend of alpaca wool and Tencel – a fiber derived from eucalyptus.

The Aire, though incredibly light, proved to be warm and cozy whether worn by itself or as a baselayer under other hiking apparel. The cut of the Aire provided enough torso coverage to be tuckable into pants – and long enough not to ride up under packs. Overall, the fit was sleek without being too tight or constrictive. The neck opening especially earned praise for being roomy without sag. $75. Buy now.

adidas Skychaser AX5

The newest addition to the well-respected adidas Terrex collection of trail shoes, the Skychaser AX5, could be their best hiker yet. The Skychase AX5 Gore-Tex provides waterproof support on the roughest mountain trails. We scrambled around the Cascades and Olympic ranges in Washington for months and found a lot to like about the shoes. The fit is snug in the heel but roomy in the toebox. There’s great support underfoot without being overly stiff or constrictive. The heel cup, though supportive, is also well-padded and comfortable, so when scrambling over uneven terrain, there’s no heel pressure or bruising.

Priced under $100, the adidas Skychasers are sure to please any enthusiastic hiker who wants support and comfort without bulk and weight. $90. Buy now.

High Camp Parkside Wine Flask

High Camp has established itself as a leader in offering wilderness-ready flasks (see their original Firelight Flask in this review package and this one).

One of their newest offerings moves out of whiskey into fine wine flasks. The Parkside Wine Flask, offered in a limited Sundown Edition, is the ideal carrier for your favorite wine. The insulated steel flask holds a full 750ml bottle of wine and includes two insulated wine goblets.

The tough 18/8 steel construction stands up to the worst abuse you can dish out. And as a bonus. $25. Buy Now.

The Season’s Best Gifts for Adventurers! originally appeared on Gear Institute.

The winter backcountry boom of the past few decades has resulted in a corresponding golden age of new snow safety products, including avalanche transceivers with improved search capabilities, inflatable airbags, and even state of the art communications systems to help multiple users coordinate their wild mountain travel.

All of this has helped significantly raise awareness about the importance of training with safety equipment and working with your off-piste companions to maintain a shared sense of out of bounds protocol.

People are still triggering slides, often with serious consequences, but also with a greater chance of survival.

That is what makes the recent news out of Bolzano, Italy from avalanche safety gear brand Safeback so remarkable. Based on the results of a clinical trial of its SBX avalanche survival system, which have been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), people using the system can dramatically increase their rescue window after burial.

Game Changer

The study, led by Eurac Research’s Institute for Mountain Emergency Medicine, demonstrated that the SBX system can increase survival time fivefold for individuals buried in an avalanche.

Granted, this is contingent on slide victims not being “mechanically destroyed,” as the avy parlance goes, due to significant trauma. Asphyxiation is the main cause of avalanche deaths, which the SBX system is built to mitigate.

According to Safeback, the “SBX is a patented, battery-powered air pump system that leverages the natural porosity of snow to circulate fresh, breathable air from the snowpack behind a buried victim’s back to their face via the backpack’s shoulder straps. This continuous airflow delays asphyxia, even in the absence of an air pocket, as demonstrated in the recent study.”

“Safeback was founded with a goal-zero vision: a world without avalanche fatalities,” said Tor Berge, Safeback’s CEO and Co-founder. “By supplying burial victims with a continuous supply of fresh air, SBX helps buried victims stay alive longer, giving rescuers more time to reach them.”

“We know survival depends on more than one tool,” Berge said. “That’s why SBX stands alongside continued education, advanced prevention methods, and cutting-edge rescue technologies.”

The Study

Conducted in 2023 with complete independence from Safeback, the study involved 24 volunteers who were buried face-down under 50 cm of avalanche-density snow, which in itself sounds pretty scary.

Participants were randomly assigned to either a control group, using placebo SBX devices, or an SBX group, equipped with functioning SBX devices.

Key Findings from the JAMA-Published Study report that in the control group, four of 12 volunteers requested the experiment be stopped due to distress, and seven had their burials terminated after a median of 6.4 minutes due to oxygen saturation falling below 80 percent, as required by protocol.

In the SBX group, no participant buried with a functioning SBX device had their experiment stopped due to low oxygen saturation. Their median burial time was 35 minutes, reaching the maximum duration planned for the experiment.

Researchers noted, “In a real-life situation, emergency services or the victim’s companions would likely have had more than five times as much time to respond (with SBX), and potential cardiac arrest would occur much later.”

Read the JAMA study results here.

The Gear

Designed for simplicity and reliability, the lightweight SBX unit (520g) features only three moving parts, occupying approximately 0.75L in a compatible backpack’s main compartment.

Activated by a T-shaped handle, similar to avalanche airbags, SBX operates for 90 minutes at -22°F / -30°C using readily available Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA batteries.

SBX is integrated into avalanche backpacks developed by leading outdoor brands. For the clinical trial, volunteers wore the Snow Pro Vest 8L from Db.

Currently, SBX-equipped backpacks are available from Db, Raide Research, and Bergans of Norway through specialty retailers. In February 2023, Safeback was granted a US Patent for the SBX Avalanche Survival System.

Snow Survival Study Yields Significant Results for New Safety Product originally appeared on Gear Institute.

I’m not sure if it was part of a midlife crisis or just a change in direction, but a few years back I got really into bird watching. It started out my kitchen window, then from the backyard, and then while hiking. This all led to the need for a good set of binoculars.

Around the same time, I found this incredible nature center in Quechee, Vermont called Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS). Though VINS is known for a variety of things, the most notable is its Forest Canopy Walk, which takes you in and up into the woods to give you a literal bird’s-eye view of everything. This is where I was first introduced to NOCS Provisions binoculars and monoculars, which are sold in their gift shop.

Where the look and feel of binoculars are generally standardized, NOCS Provisions has taken binoculars and monoculars and made them cool by creating color combinations and an appealing brand presence to match. What’s more is that their products are made from high-quality materials and have exceptional clarity for the recreational user, from a brand that’s notably less expensive than names like Nikon, Maven, and ZEISS.

Being that VINS is the genesis of my fascination with looking glasses, it felt apropos for me to head back out there to test NOCS Provisions’ latest product – the Zero Tube. Both in June and October, and many times in between, I took the opportunity to test out the monocular and can confidently say that its balance between size, power, and clarity is uncanny. Oh! And it has a pocket clip.

Specs

• Power: 10x
• Objective Lens: 25 mm
• Field of View: 341 ft @ 1000 yards
• Minimum Focus Length: 4.9 ft.
• Lens Coating: Fully multi-coated, ED glass
• Prism: Roof / Phase Coated BaK4
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7
• Fogproofing: Yes. Nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed
• Eye Relief: 16.3 mm
• Size: 4.33 in x 1.57 in x 1.73 in
• Weight: 7.2 oz

NOCS Monoculars

The Zero Tube represents the third monocular in the NOCS lineup. There is the original Zoom Tube, and then there is the Field Tube. The big difference between the two is that the Field Tube is fully rated for the great outdoors, where the Zoom Tube is not. Additionally, the Field Tube is available in both 8×32 and 10×32, whereas the Zoom Tube is only available in 8×32. 

Although neither of these is an apples-to-apples equivalent to the Zero Tube, the Field Tube 10×32 is more closely related. All three have the same prism type; however, the coating on the Field Tube will provide more clarity that pairs nicely with the 10×32’s ability to still operate at an optimal level in low light conditions.

That all being said, out of the three, the Field Tube is probably the best overall in terms of power and adaptability. However, even though monoculars are more compact than binoculars by design, the Zero Tube is the smallest in the series. For me, that adds to the overall appeal when it comes to bird watching and general glassing (scanning the landscape). 

Unboxing and Initial Thoughts

The Zero Tube is the smallest outdoor monocular I have ever encountered. The focus knob is built into the barrel for one-handed adjustments, and the pocket clip is great for carrying. I think it’s better than a neck strap, which can be cumbersome if you’re wearing a pack or have anything else around your neck.

The Zero Tube feels rugged and has the NOCS standard grippy rubber coating. The focus is smooth, where I figured it would be a little jumpy, since it’s built into the tube and being operated by one hand. In fact, I find the Zero Tube to be a lot easier to hold and adjust compared to the Zoom and Field Tubes. It’s not just the smaller size, but the relocation of the focus knob into the body. All three can be used with one hand, but the way you hold and adjust the Zero Tube feels more natural.

Monoculars vs. Binoculars

The major benefits of monoculars over binoculars are ease of use and one-handed use. Something that the Zero Tube excels at. However, for prolonged use, Binoculars will generally give you a better viewing experience. That said, people who wear contact lenses or glasses can have a harder time using binoculars.

I’ve been near-sighted my whole life. Now that I’m getting older, I have to wear reading glasses, in addition to my contacts, when reading or looking at things up close. This creates an issue for me when trying to focus with some binoculars that isn’t present when I use monoculars. After checking Google, I guess I’m not alone – this is actually really common. I have really benefited from the Zero Tube and monoculars in general. It’s easy for me to adjust and use it for both quick looks and longer scanning.

Overall

I had a lot of fun using the Zero Tube over the last few months – both randomly and on planned trips. It’s compact enough to throw into a fanny pack or even tuck it into your pocket.

Even though the Field Tube 10×32 is a more powerful monocular for $50 less, the benefits of the Zero Tube are in its size and function. It also has a wider field of view than the Field Tube, which means you’ll see more in one shot with less distortion.

The fact that the focus knob is built into the body really makes adjusting the Zero Tube on the fly a breeze. And, as I mentioned earlier, it’s not choppy – the change in focus is seamless. Initially, I had concerns about how the Zero Tube would work with gloves on. I am happy to report that there were no issues whatsoever. It’s as if NOCS stuffed some ball bearings inside to make the adjustment intentionally smoother.

In Conclusion

NOCS has really grown as a brand in the last few years. I have had the rare opportunity to test out everything in their lineup, for one purpose or another. Their balance between form, function, and price is a real challenge in an industry known for binoculars and monoculars that could easily run you $500 or more.

At $180, the NOCS Zero Tube is $50 more than their award-winning Field Tube. But overall, it’s still a good price compared to what’s out there from other manufacturers. However, I think that might still be a pinch point for some people. That said, if you were shopping for your first monocular, go with the Zero Tube. Its size makes it less of a burden and more of a necessity.

Whether you’re just breaking into glassing or you’ve been doing it for a while, the Zero Tube will check off many more boxes than you might expect in a monocular – or even a binocular. Its smaller size and pocket clip make it easy to carry and access. Its field of view and clarity are impressive, even in low light conditions, and the ability to adjust the focus with one hand is chef’s kiss.

Compact Yet Powerful: NOCS Provisions Zero Tube originally appeared on Gear Institute.

I’ve been on a bit of a roll with Garmin lately. With the brand stacking their new product releases, my summer has been spent navigating off-road with their Tread 2: Overland and, more recently, on the trail with their GPSMap H1i Plus. I have also been wearing and enjoying their Instinct 3 watch since the end of January. To say I’m tuned into what Garmin is all about right now would be a fair statement.

On September 3rd, Garmin launched its Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED. Generally speaking, the purpose behind the brand’s wearable tech is to keep you informed. Now, by adding LTE and satellite communications to the Fenix line, they’re keeping you connected as well. As an added bonus, they’re keeping your loved ones up to date on where you are and what you’re doing in your adventurous life as well.

With watches like the recently released Google Pixel Watch 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, the Fenix 8 Pro isn’t alone in the world of watches that have satellite communication built in. However, due to its other features, build, and battery life, it might be the best one – all around. 

General Specs

Overall Size: 51 x 51 x 16.5 mm
Display Size: 1.4 in
Display Resolution: 454 x 454 pixels
Overall Weight: 65 g
Battery Type: Lithium Ion
Battery Life: up to 27 Days
Memory: 32GB
Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, LTE-M, GPS, GLONASS, GALILIEO, QZSS, BEIDOU
Price (AMOLED, 51mm): $1300

Teamwork Makes The Dream Work

Where all of the Fenix watches can stand on their own, you won’t get the full features of them without using some of Garmin’s apps. Anyone familiar with these watches is probably used to using Connect, Explore, and ConnectIQ, but for the 8 Pro, the Messenger app is paramount to utilize the functionality of the watch.

Connect exists as your information station. You can access your statistics as well as your activity feed and the feeds of people you follow. This is where you can manage activities and settings as well as the overall connection to the watch.

Explore is where you can map out routes and access the ones you saved. It pairs really well with the Outdoor Maps+ service which gives you expanded details like topo and satellite imagery and information as well as access to boundaries: state land, hunting land, campgrounds, and even LTE coverage maps. Explore is also your basecamp, allowing you to plan things off-line and off-grid so you can be prepared ahead of time.

ConnectIQ is Garmin’s app store. This is where you can access apps, see what’s trending, and even find new watch faces to amplify your experience with your Fenix 8 Pro and other Garmin devices.

Messenger allows you to set up your contacts, manage your subscription, send and receive messages, and send check-in’s to let people know where you are. It’s also a great place to get a detailed forecast for your current location.

In addition to those apps, if you’re using other Garmin devices, some of that information will be shared through these apps to keep you informed and connected. Most notable being any waypoints, trails, or courses you create. These all get stored in Explore and can be accessed from one device to the other. 

Premium Connectivity

The big idea behind the LTE and Satellite technology baked into the Fenix 8 Pro is to allow you to leave your phone behind when you’re out and about. We’ve seen this LTE feature on other smartwatches for a few years now, but pairing it with satellite is new – across brands adopting it – for 2025.

On the Fenix 8 Pro, you’ll need to pay to access these features. Thankfully, it’s not very expensive. In fact, it’s cheaper than your favorite latte at Starbucks. Additionally, there’s no need 

Starting at $8 a month, you have access to unlimited LTE tracking, voice calls, and messaging. You also get unlimited SOS messaging over satellite, but need to pay extra for features like satellite messaging. What’s the difference between SOS messaging and standard satellite messaging? SOS messaging is canned responses similar to inReach where standard satellite messaging is full texting and images sent to and from your contacts.

I opted for the $15 Essential Plan which gives me access to everything the $8 Enabled plan did, but with the addition of 50 standard satellite text messages. I am not outside of cell service or Wifi in my day to day life, but there are a multitude of times where I’m either off-grid on foot or in 4WD where a simple plan like this will benefit me.

The only catch to all of this is the limitations of the LTE and satellite coverage based on where you are on the planet. In regards to LTE, most of the world is covered. However, with regard to satellite coverage, if you’re in Canada, Finland, Norway or Sweden, only certain areas will have coverage. If you’re in Alaska or Hawaii, you won’t get any.

Making and Receiving Calls

Where the 8 Pro can make or receive phone calls, it does not do it over satellite – but you can send messages and voice memos over satellite. Additionally, with LTE, you can either make calls with or without your smartphone and transfer them from one device or another.

In order to make calls on the Fenix 8 Pro, however, you need to first add your contacts in the Messenger app so they can be accessed from the watch. This being the case – at some point you’re going to need your phone to have full access – unless you spend the time to set up contacts as well as things like map routes.

As I said earlier, this watch will function without a smartphone or apps – but you’ll get more features from it using the other techno-gadgets you have.

That all being said, I leave my watch on “LTE: Auto Standby” to save battery life. This keeps me disconnected from LTE until my phone is out of reach and the Fenix 8 Pro cannot access its cellular network. It’s a bit of a genius toggle. But if you’re someone who always leaves their phone behind, you may just want to keep it on “LTE: On Using Phone” where it will prioritize the watch over your phone for calls and messages.

The Watch, Itself

To date, I have tested and relied on the Fenix 6, Fenix 7, and Instinct 3 in terms of watches from Garmin. I also used an Apple Watch Ultra 2 for an extended period of time. So, I’ll make this statement now to get it out of the way: If Apple ever found a way to match Garmin’s battery life, Garmin would have a challenge on its hands. 

As it stands, Apple, even with all the ruggedness and connectivity claims they back into and support their Ultra line with, they’re still a lifestyle watch where the Fenix line is aimed at adventure. Even the Google Pixel Watch 4, which is boasting similar connectivity to the Fenix 8 Pro and Apple Watch Ultra 3, is still just a lifestyle watch. That being said, all three watches will get the job done for the majority of us. 

Where the Fenix 8 Pro edges ahead, aside from battery life, is durability and reliability. I appreciate the ability to manipulate and change the data fields on the watch face to show me what I need when I want it, but that’s not exclusive to Garmin. However, Garmin does it the best. At a glance, I can see everything from the time and date to the weather, sunrise and sunset, the steps I’ve taken, the calories I’ve burned, and my heart rate – all without needing to swipe through screens or press any buttons. And, if I want more details on any of those data points, I can access them with the push of a button.

Then there’s the flashlight. If I had to pick out any of the “extras” that I use more than any other on this watch it would be the weather, the compass, and the flashlight. Prior to experiencing it on the Instinct 3, I thought it was a bit of a gimmick. That is the farthest from the truth. So far from it that I used the flashlight to navigate back down to a trailhead the other night. 

AMOLED vs. MicroLED

Part of smart gadgets is the user interface. In launching the Fenix 8 Pro, Garmin also launched a new screen innovation; MicroLED. Boasted as being the “brightest smartwatch ever built” the Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED improves not only on screen brightness, but also clarity and viewing angles. 

From the images and videos I have seen, the MicroLED screen, with its 400,000 LEDs, looks great. However, the trade off is battery life. Where the AMOLED model is capable of 15-27 days on a single battery charge, the MicroLED variant is good for 4-10 days. 

Yes, I love things that look good when I stare into them. I love to be wowed by contrast and depth – but for $2000, I need something with better battery life. Granted, it’s still better than an Apple Watch Ultra 3. 

The Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED provides all of the light, vibrance, depth, and viewing at odd angles that I need. I picked the AMOLED model because I want all the battery life I can get.

Other Notable Features

In the last month, I’ve really taken a shine to the Fenix 8 Pro. Its interface and menus aren’t much different than the Instinct 3’s, however, the built quality of the 8 Pro is in a league of its own. With that being said, there are a few features on the 8 Pro that I’ve come to rely on – or at least enjoy – day to day.

Morning and Evening Reports

These simple informative round-ups let me know how I slept or how my day was and the amount of sleep I should be aiming for to be recharged to take on the next day. These can be modified to show you as little or as much as you want from a preset collection of data points.

Spotify

You can access a few different music services directly from the Fenix 8 Pro. I thought the whole idea of this was silly – then I mowed the lawn and left my phone in the house. With this feature, I have full access to my Spotify library while I am out and about taming half an acre with an old walk behind mower. This allows you to listen to music right through the watch speaker or pair it with your bluetooth earbuds. Note, the music doesn’t stream – instead, you download it on to the watch ahead of time.

Satellite Messaging

A few years back I probably would have complained about having so much access to someone while I was in the middle of nowhere, or them having so much access to me. However, now I see the benefit in it as I find myself seeking to be in more off-grid places, without being disconnected from loved ones. This is more than likely due to not wanting to miss anything from my kids, but it’s nice to know I am connected if an emergency arises. 

My Journey, Thus Far (Conclusion)

In the course of the last five years, I have gone back and forth between Garmin and Apple for my watches. However, during my time with Apple, I was relying on other apps or products to do the job that the Garmin does on its own, with the help of its apps. I am never without my phone, so I can appreciate being tethered to it, even with a device that can function without it as long as I plan ahead.

That said, being that I am using other Garmin devices while wearing and using the Fenix 8 Pro, I am benefitting from what I have coined the “Garmin Suite”. Because of the apps and the shared technology between the different gizmos, I have access to information across them. I think that’s a terrific feature. Though, not as important to me as the flashlight on the watch!

I love the fact that Garmin has essentially baked their once-stand-alone inReach unit into their premium products. Having the ability to stay connected, off-grid, is great. Though I don’t see myself making or taking calls from the Fenix 8 Pro all the time, it’s there when I need it – which makes the ability to choose between connection plans incredible.

The one thing I will say to people looking at investing in a watch like this – make sure you’re going to use it. $1300 is a mortgage payment for some people and if you’re just looking for pretty colors and a lot of data, your money might be better spent elsewhere. But, if you want to stay connected, stay informed, and have your loved ones stay informed about your whereabouts, the Fenix 8 Pro is an incredible choice.

At the time of writing, I only charged the watch twice – right out of the box. So, I am getting 20-22 days out of each charge. I have gone on numerous hikes and plotted just as many courses. I have also invested time into setting up my contacts in Messenger, editing the menus on the watch to be what I want them to be, and — in the end —creating an experience that serves me best.

The Most Reliable Watch On The Planet: Garmin Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED (51mm) originally appeared on Gear Institute.

Let’s be honest, ski to art collaborations are a mix of the obvious and the impossible, often pairing unlikely partners like sports cars and carvers with a deference to how the on-slope performance transfers from the road to the snow.

Every high road Autobahn to Austrian groomer company comparative has tried to make it work in some way or form over the past 20 years. But it’s never held snow. Why? Because nothing goes together better than listening to the Grateful Dead and skiing pow.

Seriously, if you were arcing a fresh line right now, what would you be listening to? I’ve got a soft spot for Peggy-O!

Atomic’s new limited edition Bent 110 GFD, a ski born at the intersection of music, art, and sport is the only the ski to art collab that actually makes it work.

Designed in collaboration with Atomic athlete and artist Chris Benchetler, and featuring original artwork inspired by the Grateful Dead, the Bent 110 GFD launches in coordination with Benchetler’s multi-year film project, Mountains of the Moon.

This unique release also coincides with the 60th Anniversary of the Grateful Dead, whose music and culture have long been part of the rhythm of ski life. The Bent 110 GFD features the special GD60 logo and vibrant, psychedelic graphics created by Benchetler himself, reminiscent of vintage album covers and the Dead’s timeless visual legacy.

This marks the third creative collaboration between Atomic and the Grateful Dead. The journey began in 2019 with the Bent 120 GFD, released alongside Benchetler’s Fire On The Mountain film, followed by the Bent 100 GFD in a broader release. Now, the Bent 110 GFD continues this legacy as it launches in anticipation of Mountains of the Moon.

The limited edition Atomic Bent 110 GFD will be available at select retailers and on atomic.com starting today.

Skiing’s Coolest Collab Continues with Launch of New Atomic Bent 110 GD Ski originally appeared on Gear Institute.

With more and more passenger vehicles coming standard with onboard navigation systems, and smartphones having the capability to navigate through apps like Google Maps, it might seem a little silly to even consider buying a separate, turn-by-turn GPS unit. And you might be right if you stick to paved roads and highways — but if you’re someone who finds themselves in four-wheel drive on unimproved roads, old cart paths, and trails in the middle of nowhere, the Garmin Tread 2 might be one of the best investments you make this year.

In this review, I am going to talk about the last three months of my life with the Tread 2 Overland. We’ll discuss its on-road features, as well as the benefits of having superior weather protection and its off-road capabilities. As a guy who’s relied on Google Maps for the last decade, I can confidently now say that its accuracy and alerts pale in comparison to what the Tread 2 has to offer. But that all comes with a few adjustments to what I’ve gotten used to.

The Garmin Tread 2 is a stand-alone satellite-infused GPS unit that comes in six different versions, depending on what kind of adventures you get into. The Powersport, SXS, XL Baja Chase, and XL Baja Race versions have features and accessories tailored to ATV, UTV, and powersport-based adventures. The Overland edition is just as feature-packed, but it is aimed more at on-road and off-road adventures that don’t require a roll cage, helmet, goggles, and a Red Bull IV line tapped into your neck.

All of the standard models have a touchscreen of 8” where the XL versions have a 10.1” touchscreen. They’re also IP6X and IPX7 rated, which means they’re sealed up tight so no dust or debris can get in, but they’re not rated to be submerged. Don’t worry, you can still get them wet – just don’t take them for a swim. This protection goes right down to the cables and ports which are all designed to resist the elements.

Additionally, each model is good for up to seven hours of battery life, features 10 Hz Multi-GNSS satellite positioning for incredible accuracy, and can pair with Garmin’s inReach devices. The XL versions have inReach built in.

I chose the Overland edition because it features turn-by-turn navigation for streets and highways, as well as unpaved roads, trails, etc. This included the U.S. Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps and Adventure Roads and Trails state-by-state map content. Accessible through different map layers, these features indicate all those paths and trails without a road name or route number that require you to turn on some tasty jams, switch into four-wheel-drive, and go nice and slow through the mud and ruts. There’s also the added benefits of having over 46,000 camping locations across the U.S. preloaded into the unit. 

Garmin Tread 2 vs. Garmin Tread

With these Tread 2 units starting at $1000, they’re an investment to say the least. If you’re someone who already owns the original Tread, you’re probably wondering if it’s worth upgrading. So, I’ll say this – although there aren’t a lot of differences between the original Tread and the Tread 2, they are pretty significant.

• Positioning: The Tread 2 features multi-band GNSS. What does this mean? More satellites! This allows for pinpoint tracking with no lag. Aside from directions, this improves both traffic and weather alerts.
• Maps: The Tread 2 has higher detailed maps, advanced mapping tools, and the ability to plan and share with ease. Using both the Explore and Tread Apps on your phone creates an unparalleled navigating and traveling experience.
• USB-C Charging: With the world doing its best to unify charging, I’m glad that Garmin jumped on the USB-C train because those are the only cables I carry with me anymore.

These features do not make the original Tread obsolete, but they do make the Tread 2 more appealing. I don’t know if it’s enough for someone to upgrade to the 2 from the original Tread, but if someone was looking to buy one of them, I would tell them to ignore the crazy deals you can find on the original Tread and go right to the sequel.

Navigating, In General

The convenience of having the ability to punch in your destination into an app or stand-alone navigation unit has made us reliant on their benefits. Is this a bad thing? Well, no – at least not until you don’t have it and find yourself anxious, having to navigate through road signs and memory.

Where most of us have become accustomed to Google Maps because of its reliability and convenience, I cannot sing the praises of the Tread 2’s navigation interface and software. And a lot of that has to do with the traffic and weather alerts I get when I am NOT using it to navigate.

A couple of weeks ago, I was coming home from a friend’s house with no need for navigation assistance. With the Tread 2 mounted in my 4Runner, it alerted me to an accident up ahead that would have caused me to sit in traffic for half an hour.

Additionally, the Tread 2 has allowed me to cut a subscription to a pretty popular off-road navigation service. I’ve been using that service for years to create routes, and it’s been great. However, it relies on cell service and, in this instance, would require me to have two separate services that do not communicate to do the same thing. Through Garmin Explore, I can seamlessly share anything and everything I have done between Garmin Devices. Which means that I can see my hiking routes on both devices – some of which marry up with my off-roading routes.

Vehicle Profiles / Navigation / Pitch & Roll

The Tread 2 allows users to create vehicle profiles, which include vehicle type, width & height, ground clearance, and other bits of information that will influence the routes recommended to the driver. Those routes can also be adjusted depending on how aggressive you want your ride to be.

This also comes in handy with the Pitch & Roll feature. On the surface, it looks cool to see the angles your vehicle is at, but at the core – this also helps Garmin’s software decide which route is best for you. By taking into consideration the vehicle type, height, and ground clearance, it might recommend a safer trail for you, over one where you could roll your vehicle.

It’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

Transferring Between Vehicles

The Tread 2 features a magnetic mount that attaches to a ball mount. This allows you to create a RAM arm mount that works for your particular vehicle. The magnetic mount also makes it easy to transfer your unit from your passenger vehicle to an ATV or UTV. All you need to do is switch your vehicle profile to match what you’re driving, and your navigation experience is automatically adjusted to the capabilities of that vehicle.

Display Size, Touchscreen, and Relationships

The one thing I love about the Tread 2 Overland is its 8” touchscreen display, which is also compatible with gloves. The icons on the screen are large, allowing you to make changes and selections while driving without wholly shifting your focus from driving.

You can switch between maps and weather, as well as access deeper information about traffic and weather alerts with ease. Garmin did a great job pairing its software’s features with the capabilities of the touchscreen. You’re never hunting for buttons to try and find something. You can also change what you see on your screen based on the information you want. I love knowing which direction I am going and what the elevation is, but seeing when the sun sets is also a nice addition. To me, it creates a symbiosis between Garmin’s handheld and wearable products.

Echoing what I said earlier about the convenience of having these kinds of navigation services and then not having them, suddenly, familiarity is a big part of that as well. Familiar interfaces eliminate adjustment periods and learning curves. The Tread 2 functions the same as the Montana 710, which also has a similar interface to the Instinct 3 smart watch. That connection is enhanced by the Explore app that ties everything together, allowing you to share information across devices. Using all three in unison has created an all-encompassing experience that I’m really benefiting from.

Other Notable Features

There’s no way I can cover everything the Tread 2 has to offer in this review, but there are a couple of other features I want to mention.

• Group Ride: If you’re driving with a group of friends, you can stay in constant contact with them through this feature. This can either be achieved through Bluetooth or by adding on the Group Ride Radio, which turns the Tread 2 into a really fancy CB-style radio.
• Media Player: Music turns a good time into a great time. The Tread 2 has a built-in music player that allows you to play music via Bluetooth or off of the microSD card you can install in the slot next to the USB-C port. With a 256GB card capacity, you might want to limit those spacey Grateful Dead jams to a couple of your core favorites.

Outdoor Maps+

If you’re someone, like me, who has many Garmin products, you’re going to enjoy the added benefits of Garmin’s Outdoor Maps+ subscription. This service allows you to unlock more map layers, like public and private land boundaries, known concentrated wildlife areas, and more features to improve your navigation experience.

I purchased the yearly plan, and it’s been a joy to add these aforementioned enhancements – as well as more detailed topo and satellite map layers.

In Conclusion

Don’t tell my editor, but sitting down to write this review was a HUGE experience in editing. I have much to say about the benefits of having the Tread 2 guiding my 4Runner through all sorts of on and off-road adventures, so I needed to cherry-pick what I was going to write about.

That said, in an attempt to wrap this up, I will leave you with this: not only does the Tread 2 feature staple turn-by-turn directions, but it also has the ability to add maps and layers to zero in on your needs. It has premium features like weather, and weather alerts. It also has traffic alerts – that don’t require you to be navigating to receive them. For those of you with a lead foot, the Tread 2 can also alert you when the speed limit changes on established roads and highways.

Additionally, there are off-road-oriented features like pitch and roll, and elevation, all of which take their cue from your vehicle profiles. When you consider its portability and ability to be exposed to the elements, the Tread not only becomes the right choice for your truck or SUV, but also your ATV or UTV.

If you’re a fan of Garmin products, especially if you’re someone who uses some of their other devices, you’re the kind of person who will benefit from the Tread 2 Overland or the other available versions of the Tread 2.

Garmin Tread 2 – Ports. Photo: Nick LeFort

The Garmin Tread 2 Overland: Bringing More Detail, Alerts, and Personalized Features originally appeared on Gear Institute.

One of my favorite aspects of being in the outdoor industry is the thrill of watching a new brand emerge—especially if they’ve got some new technology or fresh take on style that makes you stop and say, “Yeah, outdoors needs this!”

That’s how I feel about 3Bird, a new apparel brand out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming that adds enough pop and style to the mountain town aesthetic that when you put it on you feel like you’re stepping out of the standard wool shirt and blue jeans woodwork.

I was lucky to get a couple pieces to test this spring and wearing them around Santa Fe kind of felt like listening to one of your favorite songs on vinyl again, with just a little more soul in the moment.

From long sleeve shirts to pants, shorts, outerwear and some super soft tees and hoodies, 3Bird offers a curated collection of reliable—and sustainably built—apparel that will quickly roll into your regular lineup.

As the brand says, “Our pursuit is to dampen the noise of telling you what you need by delivering what you want—sustainable, high-quality, everyday apparel that wears in, not out.”

The three founders of 3Bird also have some serious outdoor apparel bonafides, having pioneered and created landmark outdoor gear with other brands in the past.

Here, Gear Institute sat down with Co-Founder and CEO Noah Robertson to talk about 3Bird’s flight path.

Why launch now?

We were ready. Our collection is very balanced from a seasonality perspective, so we had some flexibility for the timing of our launch.

Where do you see the most immediate opportunity?

Anytime you launch something new, the immediate opportunity is within your own community, your professional network, and of course, friends and family. We collectively have over 70 years of experience in the industry, so the excitement of being new is real, but we must build a strong foundation in order to support our customers and future retail partners.

How do you guys explain the brand to consumers or retail partners who are hearing about 3Bird for the first time?

3Bird is about people, their stories, and delivering a collection of apparel that is part of your personal brand. We believe clothes are more than just what we wear…they help shape the most powerful memories of our lives.

You have a lot of experience in making and selling outdoor apparel in the room, how did that lead to this new business coming together?

It’s funny to think through this a bit, but in the end, it simply lined up with the right people. We’ve always been passionate about what we do. I think we have a little unfinished business, have learned a lot, and are focused on doing it right.

Any fun company origin stories to share?

It started by thinking about the change of seasons and the first sign of spring when you hear the birds singing from your open window. The inverse, of course, happens when you see the birds migrating south as winter approaches. This emotion led us to the Belted Kingfisher as a distinctive local bird with its shaggy crested head, annual residence to long distance migration, and always around some body water, including lakes, rivers, or oceans.

It is not an easy task coming up with a brand name in today’s world with all the informational access. In the end, I’ll give credit to my 19-year-old daughter, who said, “What about 3Bird” over the phone one day. I put it on the list, shared it with the others, and day after day it simply rose to the top.

What are there two or three products that really define the 3Bird launch?

Hard to pick just three but the Woolie Shacket, Migration Collection, and Tidal Knit Shirt are certainly special products.

Check it out:  https://3bird.com

3Bird Launches with Distinct Style, Timeless Appeal originally appeared on Gear Institute.

The Good

• Machine Washable
• PFAS-Free
• DWR coating for stain and water resistance
• 100% recycled shell and liner
• 7 color options
• Warmth

The Bad

• Slippery
• Flimsy Stuff Sack
• Fewer color options than the original puffy

The Verdict

The Rumpl Travel Puffy Blanket truly excels when it comes to providing warmth without the bulk of a traditional sleeping bag. While some sleeping bags and blankets take up loads of space, this travel blanket packs down to the size of a Nalgene water bottle, making it great to keep in the car, on the couch, or in your backpack while you’re on the go. The warmth-to-weight ratio is also surprisingly good, keeping even the coldest campers cozy on chilly summer evenings. But one of our favorite features is this blanket’s machine washability, which makes it easy to keep it fresh even after a rugged journey. 

Full Review

The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket has been an outdoor fan-favorite item for years due to its warmth, convenience, and colorful prints. Now, the Travel Puffy Blanket offers a more compact and portable way to stay warm at a slightly lower cost. 

The Rumpl brand came to be when the company’s founders were on an adventure in California. On one frigid morning, their van wouldn’t start. Tucked away in a remote corner of the state, their cell phones had no reception and had to wait for a random passerby to stop and help them. The sub-zero temperatures prompted them to decide, then and there, to create packable, lightweight, efficient blankets for adventurers of all kinds. 

While most sleeping bag companies fashion their products out of new materials, Rumpl stands out in its focus on sustainable efforts. The Rumpl Travel Puffy Blanket demonstrates this ethos in its usage of an 100% post-consumer recycled material that’s used to make the shell, liner, and the insulation. The NanoLoft(R) insulation recreates the warmth of a traditional down material, but it surpasses down’s abilities in that it continues to insulate the user even when it’s wet. NanoLoft(R) is Rumpl’s proprietary insulation. It utilizes a combination of synthetic and plant-based materials to create a blanket with a bit of loft and an eco-forward manufacturing footprint. Overall, this blanket is a great pick for adventurers that never want to be caught in the cold. 

Compressibility

This blanket packs down to the size of a Nalgene water bottle (4 x 10 inches), which is essential while you’re on flights or working with limited car space. It also weighs 12.64 ounces – less than a pound, which is great for those who prefer to travel light. 

Warmth to Weight Ratio and Comfort

Rumpl Travel Blankets aren’t officially temperature rated, but these blankets generally accommodate 40-degree settings. This makes it a great option for summertime campfires, and chilly airplane flights. While most adventurers wouldn’t use this blanket as their main sleep system while camping or backpacking, it’s a good item to have if you struggle with cold sensitivities or you like to have an emergency plan in place for cold situations. 

In the name of testing, we used this blanket on airplanes, on the couch, and on a camping trip to see how reliable it’d be. We were pleasantly surprised to find that it was warmer than all of our other blankets. While some sleeping bags and down-style blankets have a tendency to lose loft or bunch up in particular areas, the Rumpl travel blanket remained consistently warm with evenly-dispersed material throughout our adventures. 

Features

The travel-sized Rumpl Puffy Blanket comes in a 5-foot 5-inch height to accommodate full-body usage. It comes with a roll-top stuff sack for convenient storage. And the blanket has a “cape clip,” which basically means that you can transform this blanket into a cape by fastening it around your neck. 

Durability

The Rampl Travel Blanket’s stuff sack quickly tore after just a few days of usage. The delicate fabric makes for a lightweight sack, but it’s a sack that has serious limitations. Thus far, the actual travel blanket has not demonstrated similar delicacies, but it’s possible that the lightweight construction will make it less durable in the long run.

Rumpl Travel Puffy Blanket Review originally appeared on Gear Institute.