John Shugart

Opening weekend is early November, and Texas whitetails don't give second chances when your gear fails. This is the gear that actually matters, from the blind to field dressing, all under $100 each. Pick what you're missing now and be ready before the first cold front hits. (affiliate links)

After 18 years in the Army, I'll tell you the best care packages aren't fancy: they're the everyday stuff soldiers run out of first, plus a couple of things that make downtime feel like home. This is my checklist, from good boot socks and baby wipes to coffee, a Kindle, and a drive loaded with movies, with packing tips so your box ships APO/FPO before the November holiday mail cutoffs. Some links may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.

As a veteran, I've learned that cheap gear fails right when you need it most. The Mystery Ranch packs, Peltor ear pro, and Darn Tough socks here are gear I've run myself, and the rest is what the guys I trust swear by. Some links may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.

Every November I shop for the veterans in my life, from old Army buddies to family members who are impossible to buy for, so this is my list of Veterans Day gifts that honor their service and actually get used. Some links may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.

Halloween night here means a full neighborhood loop with the kids, then a candy sort at the kitchen table before anyone sleeps. This is my list for keeping them easy to see after dark, hauling the candy home, setting up a porch the trick-or-treaters actually stop at, and getting through the face-paint cleanup. Some links may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fall is the best time to get the family out camping: cool nights, no bugs, and campfires that actually feel good. This is the gear I'd pack for a weekend tent-camping trip with the kids, from a roomy family tent and cold-weather sleeping bags to camp kitchen basics, campfire treats, and warm layers for chilly mornings. Some links may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.

After years of piecing together my home setup, these are the items that actually earned their space in my garage gym. Every piece below pulls double (or triple) duty, no gimmicks, no “as seen on TV” nonsense. Just solid, reliable gear that makes me want to train. Whether you’re tight on space, budget, or both, these are the kind of tools that make lifting at home feel legit.

When I think about the best memories from growing up, most of them happened outside. swinging, digging in the sandbox, making giant bubbles, or just running through the sprinkler until sunset. That’s the kind of childhood I want to create for my kids too, so I’ve pulled together the gear and toys we actually use in our yard. This list is split into two parts: the big backyard play gear that turns a lawn into a mini adventure park, and the creative smaller toys that spark imagination and keep kids busy for hours. Every item here is from a brand I trust, built to last, and most importantly, it’s stuff my kids genuinely love. Whether it’s a trampoline for endless energy, a water table for the little ones, or a glow-in-the-dark capture-the-flag kit for nighttime fun, these picks are all about turning the backyard into the best place to play.

I spend a lot of time outside taking care of my lawn and garden, and over the years I’ve figured out which tools and products really make a difference. These aren’t just random picks, they’re the things I reach for when I want the yard looking sharp without wasting time or energy. From the reel mower that gives a crisp, clean cut to the cart that makes hauling bags of mulch way easier, these are the essentials that I’ve used, tested, and actually enjoy having around. If you’re looking to make yard work less of a chore and more satisfying, this list has you covered.

This is the ultimate toolkit for creators, hand-picked essentials that make content creation easier, sharper, and way more fun. From reliable cameras and crisp mics to lighting setups, editing software, and recovery gear, every item here has been tested and trusted to level up your workflow. Whether you’re shooting TikToks on your phone, streaming on Twitch, podcasting with friends, or building a full YouTube studio, these are the tools that help you look professional, sound great, and stay consistent. Think of this list as your all-in-one creator starter pack, gear that saves time, boosts quality, and keeps you inspired to keep making.

Whether you’re just starting out or logging marathon miles, this is my complete runner’s gear guide. Inspired by the comfort and reliability of Brooks Ghost running shoes, I’ve put together my go-to running essentials that cover every part of the run - shoes, apparel, hydration, tech, and recovery. Each item comes with personal notes on why it works, how I use it, and what makes it worth your time (and money). Think of this as a runner-to runner recommendation list: practical, tested, and built to keep you running stronger, longer, and happier. (affiliate links)