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Get 'down' with the Shirt Jacket this winter

1/2/2019

The holidays might be over but there is still plenty of time to add what might be the most versatile garment to your mudroom quiver. The Shirt Jacket has grown increasingly popular due to its season-round wearability. Enter the ramped up down shirt jacket that functions great as both a mid or top-layer and plays in just about any environment or temperature range depending on how you wear it. Plenty of brands have gotten into the “Shacket” game, from lifestyle startups and outerwear giants to classic workwear brands like Filson. Scope these eight brands that offer the best down shirt jackets available just in time to rock during your Apres boilermaker sessions at the base lodge.

Atmosphere Shirt Jacket - Faherty Brand ($198)

The Faherty Fam has re-invented the wheel when it comes to building a community of loyal customers and fans by being present. Whether its posting up at their various shop locations across the US (6 to be exact) or by hosting their now infamous ‘Sun Sessions’ guided meditation and music events you immediately get drawn in by their passion for people and overall warmth. The New York based beach/lifestyle juggernaut has recently made a big push into the technical outerwear game and despite being relative newcomers the results are astounding. Faherty’s expansive down collection gives you everything you’d want from technical outerwear pieces but smoothed over with the signature high-end casual style they are famous for. Check out the clean aesthetic of Atmosphere Shirt Jacket (available in Blue, Black and Grey) that works as well underneath a pair of powder bibs as it does over a button-down oxford shirt.

Airloft Quilted Jacket - Western Rise ($228)

From the brand born in Telluride, the folks at Western Rise have been producing sleek, mountain lifestyle gear that is not just relegated to the Rockies. Western Rise changed the game when they released their uber successful AT Slim Rivet commuter style pant and now they are back with their attempt perfect the top layer. The second generation of their Airloft Quilted Jacket which along with its popular modern cut and articulated arms now boasts 4-way stretch capability that will keep you looking crispy even while you’re on the go.

Foreman’s Jacket - American Giant ($168)

As a start-up clothing brand it’s tough to pivot from being the prefered hoodie maker for Silicon Valley keyboard warriors after going viral for their “World’s Greatest Hoodie” campaign but the San Francisco based clothing brand American Giant powered through the pigeon hole to prove it’s not just a novelty. With the help of a clean yet rugged workwear inspired line that includes heavy duty stretch canvas pants and a whole assortment of aggressive top layers that don’t involve hoods, American Giant has proven that they can churn out more than just a damn good sweatshirt. The Foreman’s button down jacket is inspired by classic work shirts and is designed with added room in the chest to be worn over a hoodie. Made in the good ol’ USA with heavy duty nylon and finished off with a durable water repellent coating this down jacket is a steal at $168.

Silent Down Shirt - Patagonia ($229)

What is there to say about Patagonia that hasn’t already been said; In terms of value you won’t find a brand that delivers a combination of quality, price and no-questions-asked warranty as well as Patagonia does. With that said, don’t expect to be the only head at the bar donning the alpen glow of the Fratagonia patch on your chest. The sport of skiing is 90% style and 10% talent...Apres on the other hand is 100% originality. For the safe bet and clean look (avail in 5 colorways) check out the 700 fill water resistant Silent Down Shirt by Patagonia.

Down CPO Shirt by Best Made Co ($229 - on sale from $328)

Perhaps one of the more unique brands on this list Best Made Co. based out of Brooklyn, NY produces timeless classics that tow line between vintage americana, workwear and street ready apparel built to the highest standards of craftsmanship. Don’t be turned off by the sticker price as each garment is considered an investment piece not a fleeting trend. The Down CPO shirt, inspired by Naval jackets of yore, is sure to turn heads with its vintage muted colorways (Brown/Navy) and stuffed with 850 fill power goose down that is substantial enough to be worn as a stand alone jacket.

Hyder Quilted Jac-Shirt - Filson ($250)

Filson has been the go-to outfitter for ranch hands and lumberjacks alike in the Pac Northwest for over 120 years but up until 2013 the brand remained a relative secret outside a small weathered circle or connoisseurs of high quality, American made garments. Equipped with new ownership group, design vision and marketing strategy Filson burst in to the mainstream with a planned 25 locations and its first flagship store outside the United States (London). Flash forward 5 years later to 2018 and you’d be hard pressed to find a find a menswear or outerwear brand that hasn’t paid homage to Filson’s classic Oil Tin, Mackinaw Wool, Moleskin or even flannel top layers. However, like most O.G. brands that stay true to the game Filson has remained the gold standard when it comes to style and more importantly: quality. It’s no surprise that their Hyder Quilted Jac-Shirt is the Brinks truck of down shackets. The Hyder buttondown is a midweight 4-oz. cotton shell with dry wax finish offers the weight of a shirt with the water-resistant performance of a jacket. Ultralight PrimaLoft® Silver Echo™ 100g insulation provides warmth through even the coldest of winters but light enough to wear on chilly fall and spring evenings. Per usual Filson prefers function over fashion so the roomy snap cuffs allow ample room for your elkskin gloves should you (gasp) actually put this bad boy to work.

Quilted Shirt Jacket - Billy Reid ($325)

This vintage inspired shirt jacket is brought to you by the undisputed king of detail: Billy Reid. The Alabama based premium menswear designer has a knack for creating his take on traditional American clothing with the perfect amount of flair without going overboard. The heirloom ribbon quilted Shirt Jacket is the perfect example as it features antique brass buttons and leather under collar that sets this garment apart from the competition. For a dressier option with the same style check out the cashmere Michael Shirt Jacket.

The Albion - Mission Workshop ($285)

This gritty messenger inspired brand based in San Francisco has been pushing the limit of style and durability since 2009. Designed for the rough and tumble lifestyle of some of the bay areas gnarliest mail men Mission Workshop started off with messenger bags and backpacks and naturally progressed in to apparel. Before joining Mission Workshop to head up the apparel design team, Jeff Roberts was the co-founder and CEO of Massif Mountain Gear Company, a manufacturer of advanced combat apparel for the world’s most elite teams, including the CIA, Navy SEALs, fighter pilots etc. It goes without saying that each garment in the Mission Workshop collection has toughness and dependability deeply rooted in its DNA.

Check out Mission’s water repellent, ultralight and two-way stretch modern rendition of the classic flannel. The Albion features Japanese engineered nylon fabric on the outside and high loft fleece insulation for added warmth. Available in Charcoal and black but for a unique look scope the Sutra Camo version. Like all Mission Workshops bags and garments this piece is cut and sewn in San Francisco.

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5 sneaker-boot hybrids that will keep you stunting through winter this year

11/8/2018

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Depending on where you live chances are you don’t need a full-blown winter boot every day of the week but it’s more than likely if you're posted up in the northern part of the lower 48 states between October and April you, sure as hell, cannot afford to be caught with your pants..err boots off.

Peep the 5 best looking, lightweight, weather-proof sneaker-boot hybrids the that won’t have you trudging around like Old Man Marley this winter.

keen - glenhaven mid (black)

These Keens are not your crunchy uncle’s hiking boots. Combining city performance with an outdoor aesthetic; the Glenhaven Mid shoe may not be most weatherproof option on this list, as they are not fully waterproof (see below note for waterproof care options), but they are certainly the sharpest looking of the bunch.

Keen, who has always been on the cutting edge of shoe technology and notorious for their Avantgarde designs and cult following, did not miss a beat on the Glenhaven. This hybrid features “Cleansport NXT™” for natural odor control and a metatomical footbed design that is anatomically designed to provide maximum arch support and cradle the natural contours of your foot making this the go-to all weather commuter.

The Glenhaven Mids are like Chuck Taylors on an HGH cycle. Fully murdered out premium oiled leather upper, breathable lining and high traction outsole this shoe is durable, lightweight and most importantly comfortable. These badass high tops pair as well with a blazer and dark denim as they do with your commuter bike and messenger bag.

Note: Keen recommends Niki Wax waterproof treatment for all of their products including leather shoes.

Price: $130

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huckberry - all weather duckboot

Brand new from the finest purveyors of outdoor adjacent menswear and gear on the internet; Huckberry has released their first solo branded product and it could not have come at a more opportune time. The fully waterproof “All Weather Duck Boot” was designed on the premise of 4 key ideas: weather resistance, versatility, traction, and comfort. Built with a shoe in mind, the sole on Huckberry’s rendition of the traditional Duck Boot incorporates cushion like feel that will add more stunt and less trudge to your stride this winter. Made from a fully waterproof combination of grain leather and suede sealed off with a robust rubber toe piece, a la LL Bean, these are the boots you’ll wish you had when you eventually stomp that rogue slush puddle while you were too busy scrolling old Joe Rogan podcasts. Eyes and ears to the street playboy!

Note: For New Yorkers check out Huckberry’s first foray into brick and mortar at their Holiday Pop-up Shop on Bleecker Street in the West Village.

Price: $180

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Teva - Arrowood 2 Mid (Waterproof)

No sandals and socks here. Teva’s latest rendition of their sporty, waterproof Arrowood sneaker-boot was re-engineered for improved versatility and performance. The Arrowood 2 has a sealed waterproof leather upper paired with waterproof membrane for added protection inside as well as beefed up outsole for max grip and traction. This aggressive hiker-like sneaker-boot is hip enough for your inner #hypebeast but designed to handle all that mother nature can throw at your outer #commuterbeast.

Available in 3 colorways: Midnight Navy, Tortoise Shell and Black

Price: $130

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Clark’s x Land Rover - CLR 52.N Hi Gore-Tex Collaboration boot

The British-based shoe giant Clark’s hit a home-run with its newly inked collaboration partnership with British off-road behemoth Land Rover. According to sources, expect 10 collaborative collections to be released over the course of the next 5 years.

True to the Land Rover brand the CLR boot is built with a painfully perfect mix aggressiveness, style and performance. This boot has city slickness with backroad roots. The black uppers feature GORE-TEX Performance stretch technology offering waterproof, insulated and breathable properties while the shock-absorbing EVA midsole keeps the boot light and provides flexibility and traction that can withstand the harshest of conditions.

Better act fast as these swaggy, high-end hikers are already sold-out in popular sizes

Available in 3 colorways: Black, Light Grey and Khaki

Price: $220

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Vans - SK8-HI MTE (BOA)

The SK8-HI MTE (BOA) is perfect for the guy who can’t seem to relinquish his skate vibes during the winter months. Vans’ longtime partnership with BOA Closure System used in their snow boots have taken on a new adventure with the latest member of the All-Weather MTE family. This addition optimizes a secure and precise fit achieved by a micro-adjustable dial and strong-yet-lightweight laces. The Sk8-Hi MTE series also includes weather-resistant leather uppers, warm linings, a heat retention layer between sockliner and outsole keep feet warm and dry, and vulcanized lug outsoles for maximum traction. The skate shoe jugernaut also has a few toned down lace-up versions of their all weather MTE series are just beefed up version of the SK8-Hi shoe with added lining and exaggerated tread.

The one gripe against the All Weather MTE boots has been durability. Like many of their traditional shoes wear and tear is part of the deal and oftentimes a big part of “the look”, however, it’s easier to justify lite damage on a pair of $40 canvas shoes not winter boots at $110 price point. Purchase at your own risk.

Price: $110

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the 3 Freshest backcountry kits on the market this winter

10/25/2018

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Orage Clothing - Montreal, CA

Don't call it a come back but a couple years ago the Quebec based Outerwear company went through metamorphosis of sorts and dropped the park skiers on their team in favor of backcountry juggernauts like Callum Pettit, Mason Mashun and Banks Gilberti. With a new vision came a new aesthetic. Orage set out to shed their skittle thug freeskier vibe by creating pieces more at home in the pillow infested backcountry of British Columbia than say hot lapping the park in the Breck. Armed with better fits and more thought-out colorways Orage has created what I think is by far the most intriguing outerwear and lifestyle offering for skiers on the market this winter.

Spire Shell Jacket - Field tested in the backcountry of the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, the Spire offers an ergonomically engineered jacket that will keep you warm and dry on the days where you need to take a rainy lift ride at lower elevations to access the fresh new snow at the peak. Available in White, Yellow or Black.

Gibson Shell Bib Pant - The 3-ply shell fabric and articulated fit results in a backcountry-focused bib that will stand up to the deepest powder while keeping you bone dry. For serious skiers, the Gibson bib is a no-brainer. More importantly, the orange suspenders is a step in the right direction reminiscent to a time when brands like Phenix spiced things up with their eccentric braces on their Norge line full zips rocked by alpine racers in the 90s. Often an overlooked detail, suspenders are an easy opportunity for brands to express themselves as its the only part of the pant that sticks out when you are bellied up to the bar ordering apres boiler makers and trying to put out the vibe but i digress...

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Strafe Outerwear - Aspen, CO

Aspen could be the perfect ski town. The combination of rugged backcountry terrain, nightlife, style, wealth and constant stream of "interesting" people all make for the ideal place to live...if you can afford it.

The boys at Strafe, in a relatively short period, have tapped in to the Aspen way of life and produced some of the sleekest outerwear on the planet. Tested year round in the playground of The Rockies; Strafe does a phenomenal job of combining mature colors with top of the line materials that stand up to the harshest of conditions. Furthermore, the Nomad Bib Pant might just be the best pant on the market right now. Lightweight, warm and sharp looking the Nomad pulls no punches...it just performs. Spring for the Sickbird one piece fart bag if you have the skills...err balls to back it up.

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Black Crows - Chamonix

Last but certainly not least: The dudes at Black Crows are the undisputed kings of cool in the ski world. Beyond the fact they produce some of the most badass skis on the market this Chamonix (ever heard of it?) based company prides itself on creating a community of artists, musicians, skiers and fashion icons in what results in a uniquely French brand that is unparalleled in the outdoor scene. Take one look at their product line and it will blow your mind on the creativity, inspiration and attention to detail that goes into each and every piece.

Corpus 3L Gore-Tex Jacket - This clean yet distinctive jacket is inspired by the fishtail parka seen in many urban environments but is injected with a dose of durability and tech geared for high alpine, ski mountaineering and all-terrain skiing. Don’t let the muted color-ways fool you this jacket stands out amongst a crowded tramline

Corpus 3L Gore-Tex Bib -Tested in the ski mountaineering capital of the world you can be sure that these bibs will meet every technical requirement you could possibly throw at them in the backcountry. Despite being built like a pair of Carhartt overalls from the future the tasteful two tone accent on the cuff and edge guard make the Corpus Bibs look like a RUF Porsche Turbo from the mid 2000's. These won't be available for long so grab them while you still can.

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Honorable Mentions:

Hestra - Henrik Leather Pro Model

Yniq - Four Black Pro Goggle

Klattermusen - Brage Jacket

Trew Gear - Trewth Bib

Houdini Sportswear - Ms D Jacket

Klattermusen - Barre Beanie

Oyuki - The Sencho Glove

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introducing 3 foreign outdoor brands you should get acquainted with

9/25/2018

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It goes without saying that brands like 'Patagonia' and 'North Face' have been instrumental in bringing technical outdoor gear into the "mainstream" and it’s hard to argue the value they provide: Patagonia’s environmental efforts and no questions asked return/exchange policy are good enough reasons to support the brand and North Face makes cost-conscious, weather proof products for the masses.

However, in an effort to escape that @midtownuniform style monotony lets explore some of the hottest brands from abroad that are about to make waves in the US.

Klattermusen (Sweden)

Born out of necessity for the harsh living conditions in Scandinavia, Klattermusen has been outfitting climbers, hikers and adventurers for unforgiving weather and unpredictable situations since 1975. Notorious amongst hardcore mountaineers for their durability and attention to detail, Klattermusen’s offering which spans from backpacks to shell and insulated jackets, will expand its visibility in the States in the coming months.

Klattermusen is a breath of fresh air for folks looking for cool outerwear options beyond the typical Arc’tyrx/Patagonia vortex we find ourselves stuck in. The LIV Unisex Mountain Down Sweater is a unique take on the classic pullover-style fleece (a la patagonia) that comes in various tonal and two-tone colorways, with added shoulder protection and a high collar that looks as good as it performs.

Other notable options include the soft yet strong Falen Wooly; constructed out of silk, wool and polyester this mid layer hoodie upgrade is perfect for ski touring, running or crushing apres grain grenades on your truck bed in the parking lot.

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Houdini Sportswear (Sweden)

Sustainable Swedish outdoor brand Houdini Sportswear that has been turning heads in Europe since 1993, and is currently ramping up its North American distribution

Houdini is like Fjallraven’s more fashion conscious younger brother with their tonal colorways and sleek designs that combine only the best parts of off-piste ski trends and Scandinavian streetwear. For fans of layering, Houdini offers plenty of great options like the Ms Steep Houdi hooded fleece jacket made from Polartec Ⓡ PowerDry Ⓡ which is perfect for powering through long hikes or road trips. Best paired up with their Ms D Jacket Shell for that crispy European pro-skier vibe that you’ve been going for...

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Nanga (Japan)

The Goose Down Dons of Japan are making a big push into the American market with their exclusive, top-of-the-line constructed products. Famous for their carefully crafted metallic sleeping bags, ‘futon’ camp blanket and responsibly sourced goose/duck down, Nanga also produces some of the radest top layers available on the market. The ‘Down T-Shirt’ is a perfect option for the adventurous dresser with an eye for flair or for a slightly toned down option look no further than the ‘Down Cardigan’ which pairs nicely over a hoodie for cozy nights around the campfire.

Be on the lookout for various product collaborations with stateside outdoor tastemakers like Westerlind US and Hatchet Outdoor Supply Company.

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new retro hiking appropriate footwear that will get you feeling all nostalgic and shit

9/6/2018

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For all those 80s babies out there these footwear brands have tapped into your roots with their minimal, old school inspired mountain sleds. Umbros sold separately...

Merrell - Eagle Boot

The OG. When you think of classic hiking boots Merrell is usually the first brand that comes to mind. They certainly did not invent them but in a cluster of clunky brown boots Merrell broke the mold introducing their lightweight, athletic-style hikers topped off with flashy, bright colorways. Unfortunately, the 2018 schemes are not the most awe-inspiring styles they've ever released but its comforting to know that they are keeping the Eagle boot around.

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Fronteer - Geotrekker

Shoe designer and footwear guru, Jon Tang, taps into his love for the outdoors and design with this clean take on the retro approach-style low top. In a market that is increasingly pumping out aggressive, brand heavy kicks that look more like sponsored monster trucks, the Geotrekker, is a breath of fresh air. For fans of the classic Scarpa and La Sportiva aesthetic these are your jam. Also, check out their climbing shoe inspired Super Gratton Lo 2.0

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Vasque - Clarion 88's

Lesser known member of the Red Wing Family, Vasque Boots throws it back with the Clarion 88s that look as good as they perform. If you are searching for rugged hikers to beat the hell out of look no further; with over 100 years in the boot game behind them you can be willing to bet these bad boys are up to the test.

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flexispot: How to work smarter and look like an asshole

8/30/2018

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Talk about a tipping point: who could have predicted that Al Roker shitting his pants in The White House during The Bush Administration would have sparked the rise in popularity of exercise desks?

Fortunately, for those cycling fans who just cant find the time to walk around the office, take the stairs or go to the gym, the fine purveyors of office furniture 'FlexiSpot' have introduced the All-in-One Deskcise Pro desk bike that, paired with a head-set and an extra large green juice, will ensure that you look like the biggest Deustchebag in the office.

Group deals are currently available for managers looking to turn their floor into a Peloton class of productivity.

mount up

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fresh new frat-cruisers from new balance

8/30/2018

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New Balance's are essentially your weekend deal sleds. Ditch your sandals and stunt into fall with these retro 90's era color-way X-90s that combine style and comfort with a chunky contemporary look. Relative steal for $99. Limited supplies available.

COPP HEre

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filson releases its affordable "c.c.f." workwear line to compete with the likes of carhartt

8/28/2018

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When you think of classic American workwear brands Filson and Carhartt are the first names that come to mind. However, up until now, Filson's price point has made their products far from affordable for the everyman. Their signature Oil Tin Cloth and Mackinaw Cruiser jackets were more investment pieces than everyday beaters unless you were, say, a wealthy landowner/cattle rancher in Montana (s/o to Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone series on Paramount)

The aptly named C.C.F line that pays homage to founder Clinton Filson who started his business selling wool jackets during the Klondike Gold Rush 120 years ago. With a price range that runs from $24 acrylic beanies up to $135 for durable canvas bombers; the C.C.F line takes direct aim at Carhartt's Work In Progress (WIP) line by offering affordable, street-ready gear built to the highest standards of quality and durability that Filson is famous for.

Sure to be a hit amongst rugged hipsters looking to bust out of the Carhartt box.

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badass gloves for fall: grifter usa

8/27/2018

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Believe it or not, chilly weather is right around the corner. Be prepared with these rad motorcycle gloves from Grifter USA. Even if you arn't a seasoned motorhead, Grifter has bison and deerskin leather (lined and un-lined) options that will add a bit of rugged flare to your mitts this fall.

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5 dopest running caps on the market

8/22/2018

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District Vision - Trenton Mesh Cap

This New York City start-up eyewear company has been making waves in the running (and fashion) community with their hyper-functional yet stylish performance shades since 2015 and its no surprise that their accessories are designed with the same sleek lines and attention to detail. The Trenton Mesh Cap is constructed from a breatheable honeycomb mesh material that is sweat wicking as well as structured. Available in Blue, Black and White.

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Ciele Athletics - CRW Cap “Chariots” Abrahams Edition

Perhaps known more for their hard to miss 'ciele' branded styles and bold color schemes, the Quebec-based cap maker has plenty of options for customers looking for a more subtle look. For starters, The Abrahams Edition of the CRWcap takes a pure casual look and infuses it with all the run ready performance you’ll find in the rest of their hats. Made with super breathable COOLwick knit fabric and a standard pliable brim; the Chariots logo gives a nod to running history while also dressing the cap up for a post run beer with the lads.

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Noah - Side Vent Runner (Black)

Former 'Supreme' creative director and 'Noah' founder, Brendon Babenzein, generates no shortage of buzz with his product releases so don't be surprised if the Side Vent Runner is hard to track down. This mesh runner will provide an instant boost your street(wear) cred...if you can find it.

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Territory Run Co. - Loowit Athletic Trucker Hat 2.0

The Loowit 2.0 is the Ford Raptor of trucker hats. Territory Run Co. took the classic mesh trucker style and gave it an an aggressive upgrade without sacrificing that old school, tobacco chewing vibe synonymous with shit-kickers you love to mow the lawn in. Soft and light materials gives you all day comfort for running, traveling or both.

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The Athletic Community - Hype Lite Embroidered Logo Cap

Funky Portland, Oregon born athletic sock company The Athletic Community has collaborated with well respected, American-made hat maker Fairends to produce this versatile, lightweight, unstructured 6 panel gem that is at home on the trail, the road or a backyard BBQ. With the perfect depth, this cap is the ideal option if you are looking to stray away from the hipster 5 panel camp hat look that has been over saturating the headwear game.

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<<Previous

​keen - glenhaven mid (black)

​huckberry - all weather duckboot

​Teva - Arrowood 2 Mid (Waterproof)

​Clark’s x Land Rover - CLR 52.N Hi Gore-Tex Collaboration boot

​Vans - SK8-HI MTE (BOA)

keen - glenhaven mid (black)

huckberry - all weather duckboot

Teva - Arrowood 2 Mid (Waterproof)

Clark’s x Land Rover - CLR 52.N Hi Gore-Tex Collaboration boot

Vans - SK8-HI MTE (BOA)