Although most smartphones are made to survive simple accidents (or should be), there is a certain class that takes durability to the extreme. Rugged smartphones are targeted at users who often venture into unknown territory, either for fun or for work, and need a partner that’s just as adventurous as them. These rugged phones are unapologetic in how they look like tanks ready for battle, but there have been a few that tried to break the mould and adopt designs that piqued interest without sacrificing what makes them special. That seems to be the inspiration behind what could be the weirdest rugged phone we’ve come across, built and looking like an alien or futuristic device, thanks to the rather large and very visible speaker sitting on its back.
Most of the time, you’d see large camera enclosures on the back of phones. To some extent, that’s also true with the Oukitel WP33 Pro, but in reality, its cameras are actually so small that they don’t take up much space. Instead, the biggest element center of attraction is 5W speaker. Yes, this phone 36mm diameter “pro-level” speaker that’s advertised to get as loud as 136dB. That’s plenty loud, especially for a smartphone.
Rather than the industrial work settings that most rugged phones try to target, the Oukitel WP33 Pro favors more fun and adventurous activities like camping, trekking, hiking, or even wildlife photography. The speaker is then used to set the mood for parties with friends or even for your lonesome self, though the loudspeaker is probably something you shouldn’t use around wild animals, especially at night.
Oukitel wants that latter to be one of the use cases for its latest rugged phone, especially with a 20MP Sony night camera vision. The main camera is a 64MP shooter, so it should at least be decent, while a 2MP macro might satisfy your extreme nature close-up urges. Part of the reason for the phone’s size is its humongous 22,000mAh battery, which you can use to charge the regular “main” phone you might have in your other pocket.
The rest of the Oukitel WP33 Pro’s specs are on par with late 2023 mid-range smartphones, so don’t expect record-breaking performance, especially for mobile games. Of course, the real value of this phone comes from its durability, with IP68 dust and water resistance rating joined by IP69K resistance against high-pressure water jets. It’s not going to win design awards, but it will definitely get you plenty of attention, especially when you start blasting out music from your rugged tank of a mobile device.
In a blend of sustainable energy and outdoor adventure, Jackery is redefining the concept of off-grid living with its latest innovation: a rooftop tent that doubles as a powerful solar generator. Debuting at CES this year, this 1000W system, featuring retractable solar panels, is not just a fleeting showcase but a promising reality set to enter production in the latter part of 2024. Positioned atop a pickup, the tent unfurls to reveal a sizable solar array, angling gracefully toward the sun. The retractable panels are designed to generate up to 4.96kWh daily in the sunny western U.S., diminishing slightly to 4kWh as one travels eastward. While details about its wind resilience are pending, the focus, for now, is on its remarkable energy-harnessing capability.
Rooftop tents equipped with solar panels aren’t novel, but Jackery’s approach is. Traditional setups often rely on lightweight, flexible panels that don’t fully utilize the available surface area, leading to suboptimal energy conversion. Jackery changes the game by covering the entire roof with solar cells and extending them outward, ensuring maximum power generation and neatly integrating the necessary wiring to feed the Jackery power station.
The concept feeds into a separate 1.26kWh E1000 Plus power station, boasting 2000W of AC output, enough to power a range of appliances from a portable air conditioner to an electric cooker. Interestingly, the E1000 Plus isn’t just sun-dependent; it can also recharge from your car or a wall jack, offering flexibility for various travel scenarios.
Beyond power, the tent promises comfort and convenience. It’s equipped with a memory foam mattress, insulation, dimmable and color-controllable lighting, and waterproof fabric with blackout windows. The promise of an “onboard charging module” in the production version adds a layer of anticipation to what’s already an exciting proposition.
As Jackery prepares to bring this concept to life, outdoor enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike wait with bated breath. The company’s innovation not only offers a greener way to travel but also promises a blend of comfort and convenience that’s often lacking in off-grid adventures. While we await more details and the eventual roll-out in Q4, one thing is clear: the future of outdoor living looks a lot brighter, and it’s powered by the sun.
Small enough to fit into a duffle when packed, but large enough to seat up to 10 people when opened out, the Gather table from AroundFire might just be the big upgrade to the age-old campfire. It puts the fire front and center, with tabletop space for multiple people to sit around as they grill their food. The setup is lightweight, fireproof, height-adjustable, and accommodates everything from coals to pellets, firewood, or even a portable stove.
Designed to make outdoor barbecues a much more personalized and interactive experience, the Gather is a foldable table small enough to fit in the back of your car when flat-packed. Opening it up takes all of 30 seconds, but once you do, your barbecues will never be the same. Quite like its name suggests, the Gather gets everyone huddled around in a circle with the fire at the center. Each person has their own table-space and can grill their food right where they’re seated like a mini outdoor Benihana. The table features an adaptable center that accommodates a variety of fuel sources, letting you effectively (and safely) set up your outdoor barbecue with no hassle, and no smoke, thanks to the table’s relatively uninterrupted airflow system.
The Gather table sports an all-metal design, which allows it to be robust, lightweight, and completely fire-resistant. The outer table itself is made from double-layer powder-coated steel mesh that’s heat-resistant and fast-cooling, while also being fairly light. The inside, on the other hand, features a setup with modular accessories that you can add based on the kind of fire you want to light. At the heart of it is AroundFire’s mesh pit, which accepts wood, coal, or pellets. The ultra-light mesh comes with a rectangular profile that ensures your fuel is scattered evenly and doesn’t clump to the center due to sagging. Its tight weave also prevents loose sparks from falling down, while ensuring proper airflow so that your wood/coal burns cleanly, completely, and without smoke.
Once you’re ready to grill away, the Gather comes with two grill tops – a standard stainless steel grill that everyone knows and is familiar with, and the woven grill mesh seen on Korean or Japanese grills. The grills fit perfectly into the window left at the center of the table, and are accessible to anyone no matter where they’re seated. If the fire burns too hot, the grills can be elevated a few inches thanks to a kickstand that helps ensure your food gets cooked without charring, and if it’s exceptionally windy, a foldable windscreen lets you guard your fire against gusts of breeze. The foldable windscreen’s individual panels can be used to ‘plug’ the table’s fire-hole, making it a conventional flat table on which you can put food or even place a portable stove.
The Gather table comes in two sizes, accommodating up to 6 or 10 people respectively. Both the Gather Lite and the Gather Grand, as they’re called, are designed explicitly for travel and for providing a zero-compromise grilling experience. They weigh 16 lbs (7.4 kgs) and 20 lbs (9.1 kgs) respectively, and stand at 15 inches (38cm) tall, extendable up to 21.6 inches (55cm) with the leg-risers. Each Gather table is accompanied by the fire mesh that holds the wood/coal, along with a grill plate that goes on top, and a travel bag that helps you carry your table along with you anywhere you go. You can add extra modules to your table by purchasing them separately, like the KBBQ grill mesh, the windscreen that doubles as a tabletop, a camping stove, or even a pair of barbecue tongs.
The Gather Lite starts at a 50% discount of $149, while the Grand has an early bird price of $179. Each table ships globally, and comes with a 2-year rust-free warranty.
Located in South Korea, the Volvo Circle Pavilion presents a unique approach to outdoor spaces. Built on the principles of komorebi, or the phenomenon where light passes through the gaps in leaves, this pavilion allows people to gather in its shade, while using Tyvek facades with leaf-shaped holes that allow the sun to weave through, mimicking the feeling of basking under a tree!
The Volvo Circle Pavilion’s most striking feature lies in its innovative use of materials. The pavilion is enveloped in a paper-thin and light Tyvek covering, a waterproof material with physical properties akin to paper. This Tyvek covering, far from being a mere aesthetic choice, serves as a canvas for intricate patterns. Crafted by cutting the material with precision, these patterns cast three-dimensional shadows reminiscent of dappled sunlight filtering through leaves in a forest—a captivating metaphor for the play of light, or “Komorebi.” (Japanese word for sunlight, which is filtered through the leaves of the trees.)
What sets this Pavilion apart is its commitment to a circular and sustainable material lifecycle. The Tyvek covering, after serving its purpose, is dismantled and repurposed into recycled plastic boards for public furniture. This innovative approach to recycling not only minimizes waste but also breathes new life into materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
The creation of the Pavilion was a collaborative effort that brought together craftsmen, engineers, and makers from various fields, united by a shared ambition for sustainability. Front INC, renowned for its expertise in crafting minimal and lightweight structures, collaborated with DSLSM, known for its eco-friendly works using Tyvek material. Together, they orchestrated a symphony of sustainable design and material innovation.
A key strategy employed in the construction of the pavilion was prefabrication, where almost all elements were fabricated off-site and then assembled on location. This approach not only streamlined the construction process but also significantly reduced the environmental impact and carbon emissions associated with traditional on-site construction methods. This is an upcoming method of construction as the contemporary methods are the most significant contributors to GHG emissions, accounting for one-third of global carbon emissions, one-third of global resource consumption, and 40% of global energy consumption.
The commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with the pavilion’s construction. The minimal steel structure that supports the pavilion is disassembled and reused, ensuring that every element finds a new purpose. Puzzle benches, crafted from forged and neglected structural wood, are fully recycled and generously donated to elementary schools, daycare centers, and children’s libraries in the Seoul area. This goes beyond mere recycling; it’s a commitment to meaningful reuse that benefits the community. The modular design of these benches facilitates efficient stacking and transportation of larger pieces, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions. Additionally, their water-resistant features and chamfered edges make them ideal for children.
The Volvo Circle Pavilion in South Korea stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture, showcasing that beauty and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously. From its lightweight Tyvek covering to the recycled plastic boards and donated puzzle benches, every element of this pavilion is a testament to a circular and eco-conscious approach to design and construction. As we celebrate the Volvo Circle Pavilion, we are reminded that the future of architecture lies not just in grand designs but in the thoughtful and sustainable use of materials that shape our built environment.
Street art is a form of visual art that is found in public buildings, streets, bridges, trains, and other spaces, particularly for public visibility and to reach a broader audience. Street art not only forms a powerful tool to convey messages to society but also enhances the beauty of public spaces. Street art is found all around the world and street artists are known to transform the streets with their creativity and imagination. The traditional form of street art included graffiti artists who worked with spray paint. Some of the other media include stencil art, mosaic tiling, LED art, and outdoor sculptures while the recent forms of street art include video projections of large city buildings.
The origin of street art can be found in ancient civilizations where graffiti was used to mark territories, express cultural identities, and served as historic records. The modern street art movement started in the 1960s in cities like New York and Philadelphia and 1970s artists in cities like Paris and London. In the 1980s and 1990s street art evolved, and artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Banksy rose to prominence. Today street art is touching new heights with the integration of new technology and adapting to the changing socio-political context.
Here are the top ten types of street art that one will often come across on urban streets. Each art comes with its distinct characteristics and techniques.
1. Graffiti Artwork
Designer: Banksy (via Banksy Archive)
Graffiti artwork is one of the most iconic forms of street art that has been around for ages. In this form of art images or text is painted on the building using spray paint, large bubble lettering, and decorative scripts to convey messages, evoke emotions and enhance the beauty of public walls. The term “graffiti” refers to inscriptions, figure drawings, and markings that have been found on the walls of ancient sepulchers or ruins just like those in the Catacombs of Rome or at Pompeii. Graffiti formed a part of the hip-hop culture in the 1970s, it is a form of self-expression and rebellion, allowing youth from disadvantaged communities to gain recognition for their creative ideas in public spaces.
2. 3D Wall Graffiti
Designer: Joe Fafard
3D wall graffiti is also known as anamorphic art which can create an optical illusion of objects popping out from the wall and the artwork coming to life. It makes two-dimensional paintings appear like three-dimensional paintings when viewed from a specific angle. This skill is honed through artists by employing perspective, shading, and anamorphic methods through dedicated time and practice as it appeals to both young and old when exhibited in public spaces. Chalk or paint is used to create these incredible pieces of art.
3. Stencil Graffiti
Designer: selfie_stencils
Stencil Graffiti employs stencils to create images on public spaces like walls, and buildings. The artists use pre-cut templates to reproduce the same image multiple times and then use spray paint to make a clear representation of the design. This ensures faster execution and replication and is effective in communicating ideas to a broader audience in multiple locations.
4. Street Poster Art
Street poster art involves the pasting of posters in public spaces like walls, poles, or any other visible surface to stimulate public thought. The posters may display controversial or abstract visuals to give political statements or social messages to bring forth public awareness about their causes.
Note: Wheatpasting art is the technique of applying posters in public using a mixture of wheat flour or natural adhesives to water to create a paste. These posters are weather resistant in comparison to other simple paper posters.
5. Video Projection
Designer: Eye Studio
Also known as projection mapping street art, it combines the use of video projections to project images, animations, or videos on buildings or other urban surfaces to create an immersive visual experience. The biggest difference between street art is that is static and uses paint for the surface, video projection is dynamic, and special software is used to map the content on the surface, including captivating animations and colorful visuals. It is temporary and used for special events and festivals.
6. Guerrilla Art
Designer: S.c. MeRo
Guerrilla art is also known as street intervention, where impromptu and temporary installations are created in public without seeking permission. It blurs the line between art and activism, raises awareness of social issues, urges the public to question their surroundings, and transforms the urban city into an ever-changing canvas for artistic expression. Some of the innovative methods of incorporating this art include wheat pasting, sculptures, and yarn bombing that aims to disrupt the urban environment.
7. Flash Mobbing
Among the various forms of street art, the flash mob is most enjoyable as it usually involves dancing in a public space. A flash mob involves a spontaneous assembly of individuals in a public space where they perform and then disperse swiftly. The main aim of flash mobbing is to deliver entertainment, satire, or artistic expression. They usually perform in crowded places like malls, parks, and public squares to spread a message. Street plays are also a form of art where a large group wears simple costumes and use banners and posters to attract attention.
Street Installations are 3D structures made by artists that are displayed on the streets. They can be categorized as sculptures with or without historic significance and interactive or temporary art installations. These three-dimensional artworks are usually connected with political, religious, and historic belongings and are made in materials like stone, wood, metal, recycled materials, and fiber to name a few. Unlike conventional street art, street installations occupy physical space. It brings art to the public and blurs the boundaries between artwork and the urban environment. This is a beautiful form of street art as it evokes emotions and reactions from people who pass by. In addition, the installations can be interactive and invite viewers to engage with the art in unique ways. Kinetic sculptures, artworks incorporating movement often powered by natural elements or mechanical means, can be considered a form of street art. Installed in public spaces like streets, parks, and plazas, they offer engaging and interactive art experiences for passersby.
Also known as Earth Art, it aims to bridge the gap between art and nature. Environmental art is an artistic expression where artists create site-specific artworks with natural materials found in the landscape like sand, rock, water, plants, and wood. These artworks are temporary and they emerged in the 1960s and early 1970s in response to the concern about environmental issues and indicate that it is our responsibility to protect it.
This is a large-scale artwork that is painted onto the walls or public surfaces of urban cities. It’s a great way to beautify public spaces with vibrant colors and themes that cover entire walls, including realistic portraits, landscapes, or abstract designs. The different techniques used in mural art may include spray paint, rollers, brushes, or any other technique. The best part about mural art is that it reflects the local culture, tells stories, and attracts both locals and tourists who appreciate its beauty in public spaces. The impressive artworks effortlessly transform the urban landscapes into iconic landmarks of the city.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Co3zKdVsRmA/
Hence, every form of street art leaves a unique impression on urban landscapes and plays a vital role in the dynamic and continuously evolving global street art movement.
A trend that grew ever so popular during the pandemic was “domes’. Sneakily enough, little garden domes started to rise in popularity during the pandemic, since a lot of people felt frustrated working and being cooped up in their homes all day long. Although offices, and the rest of the world, have started to open up now, somehow domes still manage to be a favorite amongst the people. We’re used to garden domes that function as cool home offices, but this garden dome by Hypedome is a home office…but also much more!
Designed by Hypedome, these garden domes are designed to function as office spaces, calm lounges to relax in, yoga dens, and even additional sleeping quarters if you like to sleep under the stars in the outdoors – without the fear of rain and snow. These geodesic domes were created to make indoor-outdoor living even more accessible, and to provide an indoor-outdoor space that lets you enjoy the beauty of nature without having to deal with its harsh side.
Made from solid polycarbonate panels, the hemispherical garden domes look like glass, but are in fact 200 times more durable and weather-resistant, and UV-protected as well. This provides protection to the furniture and other items placed within the domes. “Our goal was to create durable domes that would not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also provide a practical living space that can withstand various weather conditions,” said Hypedome.
The innovative garden domes can be used all year round since you can easily heat them during the winter. And of course, during summer they’ll be a plush little lounge spot to spend your days in, allowing you to soak up the sun, but not too much of it. The garden domes come in three different sizes, with a crystal clear finish as the standard finish. You can also pick mirror, grey, and translucent finish options – they also add a bit of privacy. Hypedome says that the garden domes have a life expectancy of fifteen years, and once they’ve died down, they can be fully recycled, which makes this design worthy of some extra brownie points!
Imagine a wind turbine, but not as you know it. Instead of the familiar towering structures with rotating blades, picture a compact, hexagonal grid resembling a honeycomb, perched atop urban buildings or integrated into existing structures. This is the essence of Katrick’s design – a radical departure from traditional wind turbines, both in form and function. These turbines harness the power of wind through oscillating aerofoils, a far cry from the spinning blades we’re used to.
Designer: Katrick Technologies
As companies rush to figure out better and more effective solutions for harnessing sustainable energy (while the world grapples with the migration to these energies), the Glasgow-based startup, is making waves (or should I say, catching them?) with their innovative bladeless honeycomb wind turbines. Unlike the towering, rotary-blade turbines that dominate our landscapes, Katrick Technologies’ creation is a breath of fresh air in both design and functionality.
At the heart of this technology are the aerofoils, the unsung heroes of Katrick’s design. They work by capturing wind energy and converting it into mechanical oscillations. These oscillations are then transformed into electricity, providing a greener energy solution. This method not only captures lower levels of wind, making it more efficient in less windy conditions, but also makes the turbines more suited for urban environments, where space is at a premium and wind levels can be lower.
The design philosophy of Katrick Technologies is rooted in creating eco-friendly, innovative engineering solutions. While the firm is relatively new, it’s already carving a niche for itself in the renewable energy sector. Traditional wind turbines, with their considerable land and maintenance requirements, often pose logistical and financial challenges. In contrast, Katrick’s honeycomb turbines offer a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative, especially in urban landscapes where space is limited.
But it’s not all sunshine and breezes. Bladeless turbines, including Katrick’s design, have faced some skepticism. Critics, including those from the MIT Technology Review, have pointed out that despite their lower cost and environmental footprint, bladeless turbines might not be as efficient in energy generation as their traditional counterparts. However, Katrick’s innovative approach might just tip the scales. According to the company, just 1 kilometer of their roadside panels could charge a significant number of electric vehicles or power hundreds of homes annually.
Moreover, the design’s safety and environmental features can’t be overlooked. The slower-moving aerofoils in the honeycomb structure are likely less hazardous to birds than traditional turbines. Plus, their unobtrusive design, small footprint, and minimal environmental impact make them an attractive option for urban settings.
Katrick’s wind turbines being tested at Glasgow Airport.
There are some who conceive an idea, build on it, and sit back and relax on the royalty. Then, there are others who gather feedback and set out to recreate what the people really want. Aigars Lauzis of BeTriton – formally Z-Triton – is from the league of recreators. Thriving on the success of the sustainable adventure partner, BeTriton 2.0 released in Spring 2023, designed for uninterrupted journey on land and water; the adventuring builder is back with a new camper/trailer for your electric bike. This would let you camp on land and water again with equal convenience.
An exciting and practical combination of a boat + camper + trailer, the BeTriton e-bike trailer is not starkly different from what we got with the full-fledged BeTriton 2.0. In fact, it strips down some unnecessary elements – identified on consumer feedback – and retains the cabin to still accommodate two people and a dog. The significant change here is an option for e-bike owners to use their standard bike, instead of an integrated variant, to tow the trailer on land.
The more affordable and flexible BeTriton trailer also carries on with the most beloved, core functionality: boating, users wanted the company to carry forward with, when the BeTriton 2.0 was rented out during the summer for trails. The flexible towing design allows various e-bike variants to be used as hauling ride for the trailer that was unveiled at the Nexpo Exhibition in Tallinn.
According to the information shared in a YouTube video, the BeTriton Trailer is an affordable and convenient adventure camper and boat. Unbolting four bolts, the users can remove the wheels and get into the super fun electric boating mode. Rear wheels can even fold up on the buoyant floats if you don’t want to make the extra effort. 24-inch wheels are used in the trike contraption of the trailer, which can connect through a simple mechanism to the bike seat post when you are up for the road journey.
The cabin maintains the structural integrity and interiors of the predecessor yet it is highly customizable to give users the tailored convenience for the journey. There is an electronic Lift System for the motor, on the front, and the cabin can be used in open configuration with just the windscreen or covered up with PVC cover to weatherproof the cabin. And when you are riding on an unbeaten path, you can also have an aluminum frame installed for a full cabin look.
There is no information, at the time of writing, about the battery power or range of the BeTriton trailer. What we readily know is the trailer camper can make space to store your foldable electric bike, but if you don’t have a foldable one, the company may soon have a mount so you can carry the bike onboard when you go floating on the water. The initial variant of the e-bike trailer is ready for production with worldwide limited edition delivery expected in the summer of 2024.
If you are someone who loves spending time in the outdoors, whether it is camping, hiking, or trekking, then you’re well aware that you need the ultimate set of clothing. Being outdoors gives us a major relief from our hectic lives, allowing us to soak up some sun, and get in touch with nature. But at the same time, you have to get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. Hence you need the perfect set of apparel to protect you from harsh weather conditions, and the inconsistency of the elements. We’ve curated a collection of functional, protective, and exceptionally designed outdoor clothing for you. Have a look!
1. Aerogel Puffer
Dubbed the Aerogel Puffer, this jacket is made from the lightest solid material in the world, which is utilized to line spacesuits and insulate electronics. The jacket is pretty lightweight since Aerogel is made of individual neoprenes that are 10,000 times thinner than human hair.
Why is it noteworthy?
The jacket itself has advanced synthetic insulation and its outer shell uses ultra-lightweight yarn so that you’ll be protected from extreme cold weather (even -30 degrees!). Still, it also won’t weigh you down totally.
What we like
Features five zipped pockets, two large ones on the side to keep your hands warm and the others to hold your stuff like phone, wallet, keys, etc
What we dislike
Not sure if it’ll be as effective as puffer jackets made with down
2. UZE Heated Jacket
The UZE Heated Jacket changes the jacket game completely, providing you with a jacket that you can wear in all four seasons while allowing you to have the power to decide how warm you really want to be.
Why is it noteworthy?
It uses the same graphene technology that the brand uses for popular power banks. It features four graphene heat zones and three heat settings of 120°F, 140°F, and 160°F, so with the simple click of a button you can select the level of warmth that will be comfy and cozy for you.
What we like
Can keep you warm for up to 10 hours and charges in 45 minutes
10x faster than your usual heated jacket
What we dislike
Available in black color, no other color options
3. Indestructible Hoodie
The Indestructible Hoodie is a high-durability design built using materials such as Cordura and Dyneema. It is designed for a comfy and neat fit, and is equipped with two side pockets for storage, and is wind-resistant as well.
Why is it noteworthy?
This hoodie looks like it was made for extreme athletes with a need for serious protection. Vollebak advertises it as being “highly abrasion and rip resistant,” even so far as being able to mitigate damage caused by an “extreme 4-way stretch”.
What we like
Lightweight and breathable design
What we dislike
A hefty price tag that may not be preferred by everyone
4. Omega Pants
The Omega Pants by Graphene-X is designed with a 3-layer fabric and can be used for any activity that requires pants. It is stretchable, waterproof, and can regulate your body temperature.
Why is it noteworthy?
The fabric as well as the construction of the pants help it play multiple roles. It is styled like a pair of all-purpose pants with removable leg pieces, so it can transform from full pants to a pair of durable everyday shorts within seconds.
What we like
Allows complete freedom of movement
The pants allow you to stretch around while rock climbing, trekking, or engaging in any outdoor activity
What we dislike
The pants run hot and don’t have enough vents to cool them down
5. The Indestructible Belt
Recently launched by Vollebak, the Indestructible Belt is designed to be the strongest belt ever made. It is designed to be a true marvel in engineering, as well as a major fashion statement that will definitely grab eyeballs.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Indestructible Belt is built with the ultimate strong core which is made from Dyneema – the single strongest fiber known to man today. Vollebak uses Dyneema in its Indestructible range. Dyneema is supposed to be 15 times stronger than steel, which basically signifies that the belt strap is only breakable if you hang more than 4 tonnes of it.
What we like
The buckle never releases under pressure and can tolerate 1.8 tonnes of force before it breaks apart
What we dislike
The price tag is quite heavy for a belt and may be considered unreasonable by some
6. Baubax
Baubax created the world’s best travel pants! They are designed and engineered for durability, comfort, and dirt-dust-stain resistance. They are comfortable, stylish as well as breathable.
Why is it noteworthy?
They’re engineered to be UV-resistant, anti-microbial, and anti-odor, allowing them to be worn for as long as 3 days without needing a wash. When you eventually do need to wash them, they wash easily and dry quickly.
What we like
Features five pockets
Available across trousers, chinos, leggings, and joggers
What we dislike
We’re not sure how comfy the pants will be to wear for longer durations
7. The Century Jacket
The Century Jacket is made using all-natural, non-synthetic fabrics, and is designed to be functional in 100 years. It is designed to be water, wind, fire, and abrasion-resistant, and is applicable for free repairs for life.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Century Jacket is designed for outdoor use and features a construction that is equal parts durable, comfortable, and functional. It is made using Ventile cotton which gives it its durability.
What we like
Zipper-lined pockets on your chest and waist hold and store your EDC
The pockets are silk-lined for comfort and to protect your valuables
What we dislike
Not recommended to machine-wash it, as it may dampen its life cycle
8. Deep Sleep Cocoon
The Deep Sleep Cocoon is a jacket designed to aid you in sleeping almost anywhere, on Earth and off Earth. It draws inspiration from the protective exoskeleton of the woodlouse and the cocoons weaved by caterpillars.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Deep Sleep Cocoon is a self-contained microhabitat that will lull you to sleep whether you’re on a plane journey on Earth or on a space shuttle to Mars. The star of the jacket is its hood! Mimicking a visor on a space helmet, the hood has been crafted from five different segments, which can be conveniently folded over your face, forming a protective cocoon and allowing you to sleep peacefully.
What we like
Waterproof and windproof as well as abrasion-resistant
Perfect for catching some shut-eye irrespective of your location
What we dislike
The jacket is quite big and could occupy a substantial amount of space in your bag/suitcase
9. Carbon Fiber Shirt
This Carbon Fiber shirt is made using Carbon Fiber as its name implies, and it is a material that is found exclusively in jet engines, supercars, and missile housings. It is lighter than aluminum and stronger than steel.
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed to be worn close to the skin, the material is breathable, lightweight, and wicks moisture incredibly well. It is designed to last longer than any traditional t-shirt, even in the toughest of scenarios.
What we like
The fabric also protects your skin, preventing any damage from occurring to you
What we dislike
The aesthetics of the shirt are a bit unassuming, it could have been more stylish
10. Off Grid Shirt
Called the Off Grid shirt, this unique shirt was designed to help you live off the grid. It is made using materials before the grid even existed, and this shirt is designed to withstand ‘unconventional living’.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Off Grid shirt works rather well in heat and humidity, and just by virtue of its fabric, has these unique wrinkles on the shirt that contribute to its character. The shirt uses a proprietary blend of ramie (nettle fabric) and Pima cotton.
What we like
The shirt is ideal for humidity, as it wicks moisture well, and dries off quite fast
What we dislike
It has only 2 pockets, so could be considered less for those who prefer loads of hidden storage
Opportunity rarely knocks twice, but this is one of those times. If you missed CIVIVI’s Thanksgiving Month discounts, you may be in luck! Their top-of-the-line EDC is still on a 15-25% discount, which means your new favorite folding knife is still quite literally within grasp. CIVIVI’s knives are loved by tens of thousands of patrons who form the broad EDC community. Designed to be a handy carry-on that you can keep in your pocket, bag, or even attached to the strap of your backpack, CIVIVI’s folding knives are perfect for everything from opening holiday gifts to using as a survival tool in the great outdoors if you plan on heading camping or alternatively to more temperate climates for the wintertime. The discounts make these knives absolute no-brainers, and like all of CIVIVI’s gear, they’re all built to be incredibly resilient, so your first CIVIVI folding blade might just end up being the last one you ever need… Unless you’re a collector like us!
01. CIVIVI Mini Praxis
CIVIVI’s Mini Praxis knife is a compact powerhouse that draws inspiration from its larger counterpart, the Praxis. With a 2.98-inch D2 steel drop-point blade, it balances strength and sharpness. The wide G10 handle offers excellent grip, supported by a skeletonized stainless steel liner for added stability without excess weight. Remarkably, the Mini Praxis comes at an affordable price point, making it accessible to a broad audience. Engineered as a reliable workhorse, this pocket-sized gem offers blade options in both D2 steel and stunning Damascus steel, known for its marbling patterns. The handle choices include G10, translucent Ultem, and the luxurious Guibourtia Wood for the Damascus variant. The blade measures just under 3 inches, while the overall design prioritizes compactness for everyday carry (EDC). Weighing a mere 2.77 ounces (78.5 grams) and equipped with a practical pocket clip, it ensures easy and discreet portability.
The Mini Praxis seamlessly blends compact design with uncompromising performance, making it an essential companion for modern adventurers.
What we like
Portable and lightweight
That 25% discount makes it even more attractive!
What we dislike
The 2.98-inch blade may be too short for certain applications
02. CIVIVI Baby Banter
The CIVIVI Baby Banter excels as an everyday carry (EDC) knife, combining compact design and practicality for effortless portability. Its petite 59mm (2.34 inch) blade is surprisingly versatile, thanks to the drop-point shape, suitable for various tasks indoors, outdoors, or in tactical situations. Crafted from durable Nitro-V steel with a hardness rating of up to 60HRC, the blade ensures long-lasting sharpness. The full-sized handle, made from G10, offers a comfortable and secure grip while remaining lightweight and rugged.
Incorporating the perfect balance of compactness and functionality, the CIVIVI Baby Banter is a reliable companion for daily adventures. Whether you’re tackling everyday challenges or outdoor escapades, this EDC knife is up to the task, delivering dependable performance in a compact form.
What we like
Small and powerful, like dynamite
Nitro-V Steel is much tougher than D2 Steel
What we dislike
It’s smaller than the Mini Praxis, but double the price because of that Nitro-V Blade
03. CIVIVI Qubit
Designed for those who appreciate efficiency in a small package, this unassuming knife boasts a clever feature – an integrated bottle opener discreetly hidden within the closed blade. Unfold the Qubit, and you’ll discover a classic drop-point blade, now crafted from Swedish 14C28N Steel. This choice of steel ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion, chipping, and everyday wear and tear. The Qubit also offers the convenience of a button-lock mechanism for quick and secure closure. Its aluminum handle adds both heft and maneuverability, enhancing not only functionality but also the knife’s all-metal aesthetic appeal. The knife is running a site-wide 25% discount, and CIVIVI’s just dropped a pink-handled variant which has an introductory 15% discount.
The Qubit effortlessly combines practicality and style, making it a versatile companion for various tasks. Whether you require a reliable cutting tool or a bottle opener, this knife has you covered. Its compact size and innovative design make it an essential addition to your everyday carry toolkit.
What we like
Aluminum handle gives the Qubit a premium touch
The integrated bottle opener makes the Qubit a jack of all trades
What we dislike
At 80 grams (2.82 ounces) some small-knife cravers may find the Qubit a tad too heavy
04. CIVIVI StellarQuill Pen & Button Lock Elementum II Knife Combo Pack
Although well known for their knife craftsmanship, CIVIVI also has a reputation for stepping out of its comfort zone ever so often. By which I mean that if its audience demands it, they’ll redesign one of their best knives with a new feature, like the Elementum II which now has a button lock. Heck, they’ll even design pens if there’s enough buzz from the fan base. The StellarQuill Pen and Button Lock Elementum II Knife Combo Pack are a perfect culmination of this, giving you an updated crowd-favorite pocket folder, along with a compact all-metal ballpoint pen. The Elementum II retains its modern classic status with a beloved drop-point blade, now made from Nitro-V Steel. The most notable detail is the absence of the liner-lock from the previous model, replaced by a tactile button-lock mechanism that most enthusiasts will love.
Dedicated patrons get a special-edition version of the Elementum II with an ivory-colored G10 handle and bright red liner on the inside. The knife is accompanied by CIVIVI’s StellarQuill pen, a precisely machined piece of stationery made from aerospace-grade aluminum that’s perfectly sized to slide right into your pocket. It even comes with a lanyard hole to string into your keychain or a lanyard.
What we like
The button-lock and caged ceramic ball-bearing allow you to easily deploy that gorgeous Nitro-V blade
The StellarQuill pen gets all the points for its small-yet-hefty all-metal build
What we dislike
The pen could use a pocket clip to prevent it from rolling around
05. CIVIVI Button Lock Praxis
Built on the framework of one of their most popular knives, this variation of the full-size Praxis now comes with a button lock, allowing for a more engaging and reliable deploying and retracting experience. Unlike the Mini Praxis (which has its own fan base), the Button Lock Praxis is a little larger and a little more capable, thanks to its full-size grip and 3.75″ Nitro-V blade. The blade still retains its drop-point design, which most people will say is the most popular design in the knife world, but the handle now comes made from Aluminum, giving the knife a balanced grip and a wee bit of weight (6.55oz / 185.6g) that makes it much more stable during use. If you felt like the Mini Praxis was the right design but just a tad too small for your liking, the Button Lock Praxis may just be the perfect alternative.
The Button Lock Praxis is just one of those knives that has been perfected over time and has reached a place where it arguably couldn’t be improved any further. Aside from adding extra tools/features, there’s not much you can do to make this knife better than it already is, aside from a discount I guess?! *wink wink nudge nudge*
What we like
Great value for money with that Nitro-V blade and Aluminum handle
Reliable button lock makes opening and closing easy
What we dislike
The clean design is great, but a thumb stud would have really given the Button Lock Praxis a fun opening interaction
06. CIVIVI Chevalier Ⅱ
The Chevalier II isn’t too different from its predecessor, the Chevalier, except for the fact that it now comes with a gorgeous machined aluminum handle that elevates the knife’s design. When you close your eyes and imagine a classic pocket knife, chances are your brain thinks of something like the Chevalier II – a simple, sophisticated little EDC that’s no-fuss and no-nonsense. The 3.47″ 14C28N steel blade is arguably the perfect size (not too small or big) and comes in a sheepsfoot profile that is great for cutting and slicing, and minimizes the risk of accidentally piercing yourself with the blade’s tip.
There’s something beautiful about how clean and slick the Chevalier II’s design is. This doesn’t, however, compromise on its functionality, whether it’s the balanced all-metal design, the pocket-clip that can be reversed, or the years of expertise its maker CIVIVI has in the knife business.
What we like
Gorgeous clean design with a premium metal handle
What we dislike
The lack of jimping on the top of the blade, which was present on the older Chevalier
07. CIVIVI Propugnator
The Propugnator stands out in this entire list because unlike every other knife, it comes with a fixed D2 blade that doesn’t fold into the handle. This significant design directions means the Propugnator is significantly more robust and is designed for heavy-duty tasks. If you want an EDC that doubles as a letter-opener, owning the Propugnator would be like using a flamethrower to light a candle – it’s kind of overkill. Instead, the Propugnator is built for a more hardcore lifestyle, whether it’s hunting, fishing, bushcraft, survival, or tactical use. The knife comes with a full-tang design, which means the blade’s metal extends all the way to the back, forming the skeleton of its handle. The edge of the blade measures well over 4 inches and comes with a rather edgy-looking reverse-tanto design that resembles the raw appeal of chiseled obsidian. You’ve got a choice between G10, Micarta, or Ultem handles, which give your knife a distinct design and tactile grip. The fixed-blade structure means each knife also comes with its own sheath crafted from Black Kydex, with a loop that lets it attach to your pants or belt loop.
The Propugnator, which means defender or vindicator, is far from your average EDC knife. It clearly means business and nothing else. The full-tang fixed D2 blade is sturdy and reliable, and that sculpted reverse tanto edge works remarkably well for all sorts of cutting, piercing, slicing, stabbing, and scraping tasks. Look away if you’re faint-hearted…
What we like
The raw, brutish design and grippy ergonomic handle is perfect for tactical use
What we dislike
The fixed-blade design makes the Propugnator significantly bigger than its folding friends, which won’t appeal to people looking for compact knives.
08. CIVIVI Typhoeus
The Typhoeus takes the term ‘folding knife’ to an entirely new level. While most knives simply have a blade that folds into a handle, the Typhoeus has a folding handle too that transforms from your regular handheld knife to a push-dagger-style knife that’s better suited for all-out tactical warfare. While the likelihood of needing a push-dagger as EDC is fairly low for us common citizens, the Typhoeus conveniently gives us the option with its convertible design. The knife sports a 2.27″ clip-point blade crafted from 14C28N steel, sitting within a two-part G10 handle that morphs from a linear form factor to a T-shaped one that you can hold in the grip of your hand with the blade pointing out between your fingers. “Perfect for general work or self-defence,” says one reviewer on CIVIVI’s site, and we can’t help but feel that might just be the best way to describe the Typhoeus… a perfectly good everyday folder, but with a wild alter-ego!
The knife’s Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde persona is perfect for anything life throws at you, whether it’s an Amazon parcel or a mugger. Each knife also comes with its own black leather sheath that lets you stash your bad-boy away when not in use.
What we like
Innovative shapeshifting design
Fun to fidget with!
What we dislike
The folding handle means there’s no locking function, which might be a deal-breaker for some
There’s no pocket clip on the knife, but CIVIVI makes up for it with a leather sheath
09. CIVIVI Button Lock Brazen
Like the Typhoeus, the Brazen too has a tactical personality. It boasts an edgy, aggressive design with an American Tanto-style blade that offers dual edges and a pointed tip, perfect for piercing, slicing, chopping, and more. Crafted from 14C28N steel, the 3.46-inch (88mm) blade is housed within a slim yet grippy G10 handle, and in this variant, it ditches the liner lock for a button lock. Rightfully christened Brazen, it isn’t afraid of challenges, making it the top choice for those who confront adversity head-on. With a weight of 3.91 ounces (101.8 grams), it’s a practical everyday carry that’s ready to prove itself, and be carried everywhere you go, thanks to the deep pocket clip attached to the handle.
The Brazen, now with a button-lock, is effortless yet tactical – which sound like conflicting attributes, but they aren’t. The Button Lock Brazen is a lovely companion that gives you two edges for the price of one (thanks to the American Tanto blade), allowing you to cut, pierce, score, and do everything you would with your knife, using whichever edge you find more convenient. It also has a cool-kid aesthetic that should rub off on you too, making everyone ask you where you got your EDC from.
What we like
Two separate edges, where one can be used for scraping or opening packages, while the other can be used for slicing
What we dislike
The double-edged American Tanto blade can be a little tricky to sharpen
10. CIVIVI Vision FG
The Vision FG is our new favorite CIVIVI knife because it ticks all the boxes with an eye-catching ambidextrous design, a unique handle that comes with holes that let you peek through and see the blade when closed (and also make the knife lightweight), and a Superlock on top that lets you effortlessly deploy and dock the knife’s highly capable blade in seconds. Before we admire the superlock and the handle, it’s worth noting that the Vision FG comes with a different kind of drop-point, boasting a straight-back that gives the blade a ‘belly’ of sorts that lets you rock the knife back and forth while using it. The blade, crafted from Nitro-V, measures a respectable 3.54 inches (89.9mm), and will slice even through paracords with practically zero resistance. The handle, on the other hand, comes in translucent Ultem, highly durable Micarta, and the standard G10 variants. A noteworthy detail is the presence of holes that make the handle rather interesting to look at, giving it visual as well as physical lightness (the Vision FG weighs 4.35 ounces or 123.4 grams). Built into the top of the handle is a superlock that relaxes the blade, allowing you to deploy or retract it in milliseconds. The superlock is unique to just the Vision FG, and play with it once and you’ll never want to go back to a button or liner lock ever again!
The Vision FG is a rare combination of good-looking, powerful, and uniquely pleasurable to hold and use. The ambidextrous handle and superlock are sure to keep your hands and fingers occupied at all times, and that straight-back Nitro-V blade is formidable, to say the least.
What we like
The unique design is unlike any of the other knives on this list
That superlock is both functional and fidgety, and is arguably the feature you’ll love the most
What we dislike
Superlock exclusivity! We wish more CIVIVI knives had this kind of satisfying action.
