LOOP GEAR SK05 Flashlight (US$49.50)

The LOOP GEAR SK05 Flashlight packs a punch with its multifunctional design that serves as both a flashlight and power bank. Spotlight, floodlight, and sidelight modes adapt to different lighting needs, while a magnetic tail cap and stainless steel clip provide versatile mounting options for various environments. The rechargeable flashlight also has an IP68 waterproof rating, so you can venture forth confidently whatever the weather has in store.

memobottle A6 (US$55) and Slim Stainless Steel Water Bottles (US$60)

Round bottles tend to take up a lot of space, but memobottle took inspiration from paper when designing the 500ml A6 bottle. The flat design fits conveniently inside bags, while the stainless steel construction easily stands up to daily use. But what if you want a taller, slimmer option? memobottle offers the appropriately named Slim bottle, accommodating 600ml and also available in durable stainless steel.

CRKT Nucleus (from $113)

A knife inspired by giant anime robots, with three different opening options and a choice of quality materials? The CRKT Nucleus stands out as a great option for knife enthusiasts looking for something different. Custom knifemaker Princeton Wong took inspiration from his favorite childhood TV show, the mecha anime Mobile Suit Gundam, when designing the knife. In addition to the futuristic aesthetics, the knife offers three ways to open it courtesy of front and rear flippers and a finger hole in the blade. Two options are available including a 12C27 blade steel with a stainless steel handle and G10 overlay or a MagnaCut steel option with a titanium handle and carbon fiber overlay. 

Vosteed Parallel Pocket Knife (US$129)

With a super-sleek design that weighs just 65 grams and measures only 0.28 inches/7.1mm in handle thickness, the Vosteed Parallel is easy to slot into your EDC setup, whether carrying it in a bag or pocket. The knife features a titanium handle, a 154CM steel blade with a reverse tanto style, and a reversible stainless steel pocket clip. The ambidextrous design includes two thumb studs and a cross-bar locking system. The knife comes in a choice of three finishes and also offers a lanyard hole for flexible portability.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX Running Shoes (US$170)

Can’t stand soggy feet on your trail run? Nike has you well covered with the Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX Running Shoe. A tag team waterproof GORE-TEX upper and 3D print toe cap help protect your feet from the elements, while Nike’s Trail ATC outsole performs admirably even in wet conditions. Additional features include a high ankle cuff to help prevent debris from entering the shoe and a ReactX foam midsole and Air Zoom unit for cushioning and energy return.

D1 Milano Space Grey Polycarbon Watch (US$195)

Clean and sophisticated, the D1 Milano Space Grey Polycarbon Watch is a stylish statement piece for your wrist. The watch offers an eye-catching fusion of materials including a polycarbonate case and strap with soft-touch coatings, a stainless steel bezel and caseback, and LumiNova detailing on the hands and indexes. Additional features include a quartz Seiko VJ21 movement, 5ATM (50-meter) water resistance, and a mineral glass crystal with an anti-reflective coating.

Viper Oniro UT (US$217)

Designed by Denis Simonutti and made by Viper Knives, the Oniro UT will likely raise more than a few inquisitive queries from curious onlookers thanks to its striking contrast of materials. The knife combines translucent Ultem handle scales, a CPM MagnaCut steel blade with a stonewashed finish, and a titanium pocket clip into a practical and ergonomic design for everyday use. The folding knife has a cross-bar locking mechanism and thumb studs for ease of use and weighs 106 grams.

Victorinox Farmer X Alox Damast Limited Edition 2024 (US$275)

The Victorinox Farmer X Alox Damast Limited Edition 2024 delivers classic multitool functionality with elevated craftsmanship, creating a limited-edition collector-worthy piece that looks stylish in any EDC setup. The Damasteel® steel blade is crafted with 115 layers and features a unique Hakkapella pattern with a 60 HRC hardness grade. Dark brown Alox scales offer an elegant aesthetic, while the weight comes in at a pocket-friendly 109 grams. A range of tools are on hand including a wood saw, can opener, bottle opener, scissors, and more, creating a useful and compact tool that brings excellent functionality to your daily carry.

Luminox Heritage Collection (from $545)

The Heritage Collection salutes the best of Luminox across SEA, AIR, and LAND, featuring three watches revamped from past iconic models. The F-117 NIGHTHAWK® x Skunk Works® Heritage wristwatch nods to fighter jet pilots, while the Navy SEAL Original 3001 Heritage wristwatch celebrates the original Navy SEAL wristwatch’s 30th anniversary and features a 200-meter water resistance. The final piece in the collection is the RECON Point Man 8820 Series Heritage wristwatch, created as an ode to military personnel serving in recon units. Each watch in the collection includes a Luminox Challenge Coin to celebrate the brand’s 35-year history. 

The post 9 New EDC Essentials You Need to Know appeared first on Carryology.

Introducing the GiantMouse x Carryology Sonoma Auxikko, a limited-edition marvel that seamlessly blends sophistication with practicality. This EDC pocketknife, crafted with laser-engraved titanium scales and an Elmax steel blade, epitomizes the union of refined elegance and robust utility. A gentleman’s knife with the soul of a tool, it stands as the ultimate companion for any carry enthusiast.

Introducing the GiantMouse x Carryology Sonoma Auxikko, available in one limited-edition run.

The Humans Behind the Mouse

Who are the brains behind GiantMouse? At the helm of the US-headquartered team are three co-founders: Jim Wirth, CEO, based in Michigan, and designers Jens Ansø and Jesper Voxnaes from Denmark, both world-renowned knifemakers.

In 2016, they met serendipitously at a knife show, all wearing the same Panerai watch. They hit it off, sharing the same values and vision, and decided to launch a brand together. Combining their extensive experience in everyday carry tools and knives, they aimed to design a “better mousetrap.”

Since the launch of their first knife, the GM1, the brand has grown dramatically. GiantMouse has made its mark with innovative designs, cutting-edge materials, and meticulous attention to detail, becoming worthy contenders among the giants of the knife industry.

From GiantMouse:
“At GiantMouse, our designers collaborate to craft high-quality production knives that we are confident our customers will take pleasure in owning and using. Our design team is deeply involved in every stage of production, exercising complete control over design choices, materials, finishes, and more. Production proceeds only after the entire GiantMouse team conducts a thorough review and testing of prototypes and production samples, ensuring that the finished knife is one they would proudly carry and use themselves.”

We Love GiantMouse… Why Do We Love the Sonoma?

Choosing a second platform for another collaboration was easy—we just looked in our own pockets. Explorer legend Piotr Ma calls this his “go-to folding pocket knife.” We’ve written about it six times on our website, and it won 1st place in the highly competitive Carry Awards’ EDC category.

We’re talking about the Sonoma. Sonoma County is beautiful, but we’re referring to GiantMouse’s Sonoma V2 pocket knife. What makes it different from the Riv? What makes this existing production version a favorite among Carryology staff and readers?

This first part is subjective, but for me, it’s the lines. The classic, timeless silhouette of a gentleman’s folder, where form meets function, is just perfect aesthetically. It’s like a vintage Laguiole knife combined with modern technology and functionality.

While rugged enough for serious adventures, this originally urban-designed knife blends seamlessly into a professional setting, so you won’t scare off any nervous coworkers. The sculpted handles wrap the frame like an automotive designer crafted it from a clay model—sharp, classy, and dare I say, elegant?

Aside from its form, it has a reversible stainless steel wire pocket clip for lefties and righties and features Elmax steel on a 3.4″ EDC/adventure-sized blade. It has an overall length of 8″ when opened. The GiantMouse team named it after Sonoma County, near their HQ, one of their favorite inspirational getaways.

Overall, it’s an incredible piece. But now, it was time to turn it up to 11. We all linked up and hit the drawing board. The goal was to start with a Carry Award-winning icon and make it even better. We found a winning combination of features with the Riv Auxikko, so we replicated the same features to create a matching pair of GiantMouse x Carryology folders for your collection.

Titanium Auxikko

Laser beams and titanium are an unmatchable combination, so we had to bring them back.

The Sonoma V2 pocket knife has only been made with canvas Micarta handles so far, and while they look great and provide good grip, for a special edition nothing really compares to an all-titanium finish. 

Next, we added our Carryology Auxikko pattern, laser-engraved into the titanium. Inspired by samurai armor, this pattern gives the Sonoma a distinct look. Additionally, the micro-depth of the laser engraving adds extra grip when your hands are wet, cold, or gloved. Aesthetics meets functionality.

Elmax Blade Steel

Like our Riv Auxikko and the base model Sonoma V2, we used Elmax steel for the blade. This steel is favored for its perfect balance of sharpness, edge retention, durability, and corrosion resistance. While there are many blade steels to choose from, the experts at GiantMouse carefully selected Elmax. Based on real-world usage and Piotr Ma’s feedback from his adventures with the Sonoma Auxikko, this steel lives up to its claims. It’s a top-tier premium blade steel with a Rockwell hardness of 60 HRC.

Please note, this steel can get very sharp. Sometimes, knives don’t have the best edge when they’re brand new from the manufacturer. However, the Sonoma Auxikko (and all the other GiantMouse knives we’ve handled) come near razor-sharp straight out of the box.

Scandinavian Blade DNA

The straight-back blade, typically found in fixed-blade knives, is ideal for bushcraft, survival, and everyday tasks. Tracing its roots back to Scandinavia, this blade has a curved belly and a straight back, making it great for piercing and wood carving while providing excellent control for small tasks. GiantMouse added jimping at the rear of the blade for better grip and control, as well as a well-placed finger groove at the blade’s base for a comfortable and safe grip with the index finger.

Heavy-Duty Liner Lock

Fortunately, we didn’t need to ask the GiantMouse team to re-engineer the entire locking mechanism like we did with the Riv Auxikko. That’s a major benefit of starting with an already incredible platform. The Sonoma V2 features a robust all-titanium liner lock system, which keeps the blade firmly in place when open and doesn’t budge until you deliberately disengage the lock with one hand (or even one finger) to close the blade smoothly.

There are two additional benefits to the liner lock system:

1. The clean, smooth handles on both sides feel better in the hand compared to the edges of a frame lock mechanism.
2. Well… see below…

Lefty or Righty

The liner lock enables smooth handles on both sides, allowing the stainless steel spring pocket clip to be mounted for both right-handed and left-handed users. Personally, due to a broken finger (from a funny story for another time), I prefer left-hand carry (in my left pocket) despite being right-handed. The easily swappable clip lets me carry it in my left pocket and use it in my right hand. Switching takes just seconds with milled slots and stainless steel screws.

Whether you’re left-handed preferring right pocket carry (thanks to an incident with an alligator) or any other preference, the Sonoma Auxikko accommodates. Its deep-carry clip securely positions the knife low in your pocket until needed. Additionally, the backspacer includes a built-in hole for adding paracord or Dyneema cord with a custom CNC bead or a practical knot—a favorite user modification.

Fast Action Ball Bearing Flipper

When you first handle the Sonoma Auxikko, one thing stands out: the buttery smooth but precise action. GiantMouse has perfected this with a ball-bearing pivot mechanism. This means the blade stays closed in your pocket. With just the right amount of force on the blade’s flipper tap (enhanced with jimping for grip), you can flick it open effortlessly with one finger. The blade snaps firmly into place with confidence, thanks to the ball bearings ensuring smooth and secure movement that improves with use.

Orange Ano

Orange is our brand’s color. The Chicago Bulls logo features red and black, and they sell products in those colors. Pepsi is associated with blue, while Coke uses red. Anyway, digressing aside, yes, we agree—blaze orange can be quite bold. That’s why we use it sparingly on the exterior of our products. In this case, it serves more as an accent or highlight, letting the titanium and Auxikko pattern steal the spotlight.

Here, the washers on the ball bearing pivot and the center backspacer down the spine are hard coat anodized in orange, with additional jimping on the backspacer. These details add just enough visual interest without overwhelming the knife’s timeless, clean lines.

Mini Mouse

Similar to our approach with orange, we avoid placing big, gaudy logos on the exterior of our products. Minimal and clean is our preference. Let the product’s form speak for itself without distracting text. Like we did with the Riv Auxikko, we laser-engraved both brands’ logos onto the blade, keeping the closed knife free of branding and revealing the logos when the blade is opened.

While the laser logos on the Riv Auxikko were perfect, in my opinion, those on the Sonoma Auxikko are even more precise and sharp.

Bringing Bonus Baggies Back

Again, just because, we agreed they needed to come back. So, we included a black soft fabric drawstring pouch with both brand logos printed in orange. Use the pouch to transport your knife when you need to pack it in checked luggage. Alternatively, store some Ga-Jol Ren Lakrids candies (Creative Director Taylor Welden loves these, while Senior Editor Laurence Fry hates them).

Drop Time

TBD

The post Exclusive Release | GiantMouse x Carryology Sonoma Auxikko appeared first on Carryology.

This EDC staple has a “gentleman” silhouette with all the features of a tool knife and is a Carry Awards 1st place champion. It features titanium scales with our custom Carryology Auxikko pattern laser-engraved and an Elmax steel blade, making it the perfect carry companion.

Introducing the GiantMouse x Carryology Sonoma Auxikko, available in one limited-edition run.

The Humans Behind the Mouse

Who are the brains behind GiantMouse? At the helm of the US-headquartered team are three co-founders: Jim Wirth, CEO, based in Michigan, and designers Jens Ansø and Jesper Voxnaes from Denmark, both world-renowned knifemakers.

In 2016, they met serendipitously at a knife show, all wearing the same Panerai watch. They hit it off, sharing the same values and vision, and decided to launch a brand together. Combining their extensive experience in everyday carry tools and knives, they aimed to design a “better mousetrap.”

Since the launch of their first knife, the GM1, the brand has grown dramatically. GiantMouse has made its mark with innovative designs, cutting-edge materials, and meticulous attention to detail, becoming worthy contenders among the giants of the knife industry.

From GiantMouse:
“At GiantMouse, our designers collaborate to craft high-quality production knives that we are confident our customers will take pleasure in owning and using. Our design team is deeply involved in every stage of production, exercising complete control over design choices, materials, finishes, and more. Production proceeds only after the entire GiantMouse team conducts a thorough review and testing of prototypes and production samples, ensuring that the finished knife is one they would proudly carry and use themselves.”

We Love GiantMouse… Why Do We Love the Sonoma?

Choosing a second platform for another collaboration was easy—we just looked in our own pockets. Explorer legend Piotr Ma calls this his “go-to folding pocket knife.” We’ve written about it six times on our website, and it won 1st place in the highly competitive Carry Awards’ EDC category.

We’re talking about the Sonoma. Sonoma County is beautiful, but we’re referring to GiantMouse’s Sonoma V2 pocket knife. What makes it different from the Riv? What makes this existing production version a favorite among Carryology staff and readers?

This first part is subjective, but for me, it’s the lines. The classic, timeless silhouette of a gentleman’s folder, where form meets function, is just perfect aesthetically. It’s like a vintage Laguiole knife combined with modern technology and functionality.

While rugged enough for serious adventures, this originally urban-designed knife blends seamlessly into a professional setting, so you won’t scare off any nervous coworkers. The sculpted handles wrap the frame like an automotive designer crafted it from a clay model—sharp, classy, and dare I say, elegant?

Aside from its form, it has a reversible stainless steel wire pocket clip for lefties and righties and features Elmax steel on a 3.4″ EDC/adventure-sized blade. It has an overall length of 8″ when opened. The GiantMouse team named it after Sonoma County, near their HQ, one of their favorite inspirational getaways.

Overall, it’s an incredible piece. But now, it was time to turn it up to 11. We all linked up and hit the drawing board. The goal was to start with a Carry Award-winning icon and make it even better. We found a winning combination of features with the Riv Auxikko, so we replicated the same features to create a matching pair of GiantMouse x Carryology folders for your collection.

Titanium Auxikko

Laser beams and titanium are an unmatchable combination, so we had to bring them back.

The Sonoma V2 pocket knife has only been made with canvas Micarta handles so far, and while they look great and provide good grip, for a special edition nothing really compares to an all-titanium finish. 

Next, we added our Carryology Auxikko pattern, laser-engraved into the titanium. Inspired by samurai armor, this pattern gives the Sonoma a distinct look. Additionally, the micro-depth of the laser engraving adds extra grip when your hands are wet, cold, or gloved. Aesthetics meets functionality.

Elmax Blade Steel

Like our Riv Auxikko and the base model Sonoma V2, we used Elmax steel for the blade. This steel is favored for its perfect balance of sharpness, edge retention, durability, and corrosion resistance. While there are many blade steels to choose from, the experts at GiantMouse carefully selected Elmax. Based on real-world usage and Piotr Ma’s feedback from his adventures with the Sonoma Auxikko, this steel lives up to its claims. It’s a top-tier premium blade steel with a Rockwell hardness of 60 HRC.

Please note, this steel can get very sharp. Sometimes, knives don’t have the best edge when they’re brand new from the manufacturer. However, the Sonoma Auxikko (and all the other GiantMouse knives we’ve handled) come near razor-sharp straight out of the box.

Scandinavian Blade DNA

The straight-back blade, typically found in fixed-blade knives, is ideal for bushcraft, survival, and everyday tasks. Tracing its roots back to Scandinavia, this blade has a curved belly and a straight back, making it great for piercing and wood carving while providing excellent control for small tasks. GiantMouse added jimping at the rear of the blade for better grip and control, as well as a well-placed finger groove at the blade’s base for a comfortable and safe grip with the index finger.

Heavy-Duty Liner Lock

Fortunately, we didn’t need to ask the GiantMouse team to re-engineer the entire locking mechanism like we did with the Riv Auxikko. That’s a major benefit of starting with an already incredible platform. The Sonoma V2 features a robust all-titanium liner lock system, which keeps the blade firmly in place when open and doesn’t budge until you deliberately disengage the lock with one hand (or even one finger) to close the blade smoothly.

There are two additional benefits to the liner lock system:

1. The clean, smooth handles on both sides feel better in the hand compared to the edges of a frame lock mechanism.
2. Well… see below…

Lefty or Righty

The liner lock enables smooth handles on both sides, allowing the stainless steel spring pocket clip to be mounted for both right-handed and left-handed users. Personally, due to a broken finger (from a funny story for another time), I prefer left-hand carry (in my left pocket) despite being right-handed. The easily swappable clip lets me carry it in my left pocket and use it in my right hand. Switching takes just seconds with milled slots and stainless steel screws.

Whether you’re left-handed preferring right pocket carry (thanks to an incident with an alligator) or any other preference, the Sonoma Auxikko accommodates. Its deep-carry clip securely positions the knife low in your pocket until needed. Additionally, the backspacer includes a built-in hole for adding paracord or Dyneema cord with a custom CNC bead or a practical knot—a favorite user modification.

Fast Action Ball Bearing Flipper

When you first handle the Sonoma Auxikko, one thing stands out: the buttery smooth but precise action. GiantMouse has perfected this with a ball-bearing pivot mechanism. This means the blade stays closed in your pocket. With just the right amount of force on the blade’s flipper tap (enhanced with jimping for grip), you can flick it open effortlessly with one finger. The blade snaps firmly into place with confidence, thanks to the ball bearings ensuring smooth and secure movement that improves with use.

Orange Ano

Orange is our brand’s color. The Chicago Bulls logo features red and black, and they sell products in those colors. Pepsi is associated with blue, while Coke uses red. Anyway, digressing aside, yes, we agree—blaze orange can be quite bold. That’s why we use it sparingly on the exterior of our products. In this case, it serves more as an accent or highlight, letting the titanium and Auxikko pattern steal the spotlight.

Here, the washers on the ball bearing pivot and the center backspacer down the spine are hard coat anodized in orange, with additional jimping on the backspacer. These details add just enough visual interest without overwhelming the knife’s timeless, clean lines.

Mini Mouse

Similar to our approach with orange, we avoid placing big, gaudy logos on the exterior of our products. Minimal and clean is our preference. Let the product’s form speak for itself without distracting text. Like we did with the Riv Auxikko, we laser-engraved both brands’ logos onto the blade, keeping the closed knife free of branding and revealing the logos when the blade is opened.

While the laser logos on the Riv Auxikko were perfect, in my opinion, those on the Sonoma Auxikko are even more precise and sharp.

Bringing Bonus Baggies Back

Again, just because, we agreed they needed to come back. So, we included a black soft fabric drawstring pouch with both brand logos printed in orange. Use the pouch to transport your knife when you need to pack it in checked luggage. Alternatively, store some Ga-Jol Ren Lakrids candies (Creative Director Taylor Welden loves these, while Senior Editor Laurence Fry hates them).

Drop Time

TBD

The post GiantMouse x Carryology Sonoma Auxikko appeared first on Carryology.

Featured gear:

The James Brand Mehlville

Peter Atwood P15 Titanium PryBaby

GearAid HeroClip

Big Idea Design Mini Bolt Action Pen Ti

SnowPeak Aurora Titanium Water Bottle

FourSevens x Carryology Preon MKIII Onibi Flashlight

Big Idea Design Bit Bar Inline

GiantMouse x Carryology Riv Auxxiko

Chris Reeves Sebenza 31 Small

Leatherman Charge+ TTI

The post My Top 10 Titanium EDC Tools appeared first on Carryology.

Pack and Go

The Leander Everyday Professional Collection features a Backpack, Dopp & Tech Kit, Large Flat Pack, Flat Pack, Travel Folio, and three wallets – the Card Sleeve & Money Clip, the Envelope Wallet, and the Bifold Wallet. The collection functions seamlessly together, helping streamline your setup while keeping you organized on the go.

The Backpack is designed to offer storage for each of the smaller items, making it easy to access individual pieces throughout the day. Additionally, the exterior-access laptop compartment enables quick access to tech devices.

The Dopp & Tech Kit is a versatile piece for storing toiletries or small EDC and tech accessories, with an assortment of pockets on hand and a wide-opening main compartment for tidy storage and easy access.

The Large Flat Pack offers slim and stylish storage for tech accessories and EDC essentials, while the Flat Pack is ideal for stationery items such as pens and pencils and other small items you want to keep easily accessible.

When you need to keep travel items secure but close at hand throughout your journey, look to Leander’s Travel Folio. A choice of card slots, interior sleeves, a pen holder, and an exterior sleeve keep items neat and tidy on the move so travel documents, cards, and other essentials stay within easy reach.

For carrying cards and cash, the collection offers three suave options. The Card Sleeve & Money Clip is ideal for minimalists, offering storage for up to 10 cards and a quick-access front slot, combined with a metal money clip on the rear. The Envelope Wallet features two interior slots and a rear quick-access slot, while the Bifold Wallet offers four interior slots.

Premium Proprietary Materials

Leander’s mission is to create products that inspire professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives, offering intuitive functionality with durability for the long haul and a clean, timeless look. 

And sometimes, to meet demanding standards you have to go above and beyond. So when Leander couldn’t find an ideal leather for their Everyday Professional Collection, they went ahead and created their own. Leander Leather is a proprietary American leather that deftly balances a soft hand feel with sufficient structure to retain its shape. Additionally, the leather features an eco-friendly high-compression finish for enhanced water resistance and durability.

Now when you’re prepared to create your own leather, standard zippers simply won’t do. So Leander also created their very own waterproof zipper featuring a custom matte finish that just so happens to match the color and texture of the Leander Leather (because details matter), resulting in thoughtfully sophisticated pieces that offer excellent performance.

Leander have also maximized the functionality of the collection’s wallets through clever material choices. Since leather can stretch over time and might result in cards falling out of a wallet, Leander bonded their proprietary 70D Nonslip Nylon to their Leander Leather, preventing the leather from stretching and keeping cards securely stored on the go.

Rounding off the elevated feel, the collection uses all-metal hardware to ensure long-lasting durability.

Everyday Elegance, Built To Last

With the Leander Everyday Professional Collection you can enjoy refined elegance every day, without sacrificing durability or practical design. The collection offers a lifetime guarantee, so you can carry in confidence with a setup that will stand the test of time. From work to travel and play, this collection moves easily with you, keeping you prepared in style wherever your next journey takes you.

The post A New Player in Luxe EDC | Leander Everyday Professional Collection appeared first on Carryology.

Pondering which everyday carry backpack is the best for you? Are you in need of a pack that embodies minimalist aesthetics and impeccable organization? Or perhaps you seek an EDC bag that boasts dedicated compartments for every necessity? Do you desire an everyday carry backpack featuring an exterior water bottle holder or convenient quick-access pocket?

Ultimately, the best choice hinges on your unique style and the essentials you tote. So we’re here to dive into the finest options available, perfect for urban jaunts, weekend excursions, workday commutes, and beyond.

Featured Packs:

GORUCK GR1

AER City Pack

Trakke Bannoch

Bellroy Transit Workpack

Bedouin Foundry Delireis

EVERGOODS MPL22

Filson Journeyman

Matador Refraction

Arc’teryx Granville

Alpha One Niner Whitley

A heads up: Bellroy and Carryology share the same founders. You can read about our origin story here.

And hey, we’re reader-supported too, so if you find something that sparks your interest and click through and purchase via our affiliate links, sometimes we’ll get a little kickback from the brands or retailers. It helps us to make more content and build this channel. Although, we’ll just point out, some brands don’t have affiliate options, and that’s cool with us too. If the carry is awesome, we recommend it!

The post Best Everyday Carry Backpack 2024 | Small and Compact Edition appeared first on Carryology.

Wristwatches are a common essential in many EDC and travel setups. But just like a carefully selected bag, wallet, or item of clothing, watches can also allow the wearer an opportunity for expression. And in the case of the ADPT Series 1 Dual-Time Watch, that’s exactly what it does well.

Worn and Wound created the watch in partnership with BOLDR Supply Co., designing a piece for All Day, Purpose, and Terrain (ADPT) use. Designed as a modern sports watch that’s straightforward, multifunctional, and bold in style, it features a Seiko NH34 automatic movement, along with an independent 24-hour hand that can keep note of an additional timezone or even allow the watch to be used as a compass.

Pairing quality construction with practical features, the watch has a 120-click unidirectional bezel and anodized aluminum inserts bisected to show day and night on a 24-hour scale. Colored, textured hands add playfulness and eye-catching character, while also being easily legible. A lightweight but durable titanium case and 200-meter water resistance ensure the ADPT Series 1 Dual-Time Watch will easily hold up to daily use in a variety of environments, while the US-Made Single Pass nylon strap provides all-day comfort.

Taking inspiration from outdoor gear and adventure, the watch comes in two colorway options, Aqua Berry and Mossy Shale, with the case measuring 38mm in diameter (38.5mm at the bezel) x 44mm long x 13.6mm thick. It’s also backed by a 30-month warranty for peace of mind.

At $499, while this watch isn’t cheap, it’s certainly on the more affordable end of the scale when it comes to upmarket wristwatches, making it an equally great choice for beginner watch enthusiasts looking to up their game, adventurers who want a watch that can roam near and far, or simply those who want a watch with a little zing to it.

The post EDC Meets Adventure With the ADPT Series 1 Dual-Time Watch appeared first on Carryology.

We’re gearheads in all aspects at Carry HQ, and watches are no different. There’s something everlasting about a premium watch. They can be handed down through the generations, they can be indestructible and beefy, or works of art and delicate. There’s a whole range of timepieces available to us, and most of us find ourselves yearning after something in the middle of that scale. So how do you step up the style without sacrificing user-friendly functionality?

Zodiac and Huckberry got right to it with an aerospace-grade titanium case that’s super lightweight but incredibly strong too, allowing you to confidently pursue a range of activities and settings without being weighed down, secure in the knowledge that your timepiece is tough enough to handle whatever the day throws at it.

This titanium case isn’t just performance focused either, it’s muted, subtle, and stylish. This watch feels equally at home 20 stories up at dinner as it does 200ft below the surface. Every detail is meticulously finished around the casing, and showcases a precision that you often find on watches five times the price. From the dial, to the SuperLume, to the case engraving, nothing is out of place here.

The shimmering blue face is easy to read from all angles and the iridescent dial showcases different shades at any given moment, I’ve grown immediately fond of this subtle colour choice for its personality. It feels understated, but in the same breath ready to flash some style when the time (or light) calls for it.

Divers can be notoriously bulky, but the Super Sea Wolf is slender at only 12.6mm thick, slim enough to slide under any cuff. The 39mm face is smaller than many divers, and I’ve found that to add to its versatility. While I’m no deep sea diver, I do find myself in a plethora of different environments on any given day, and the Super Sea Wolf blends in without any drama.

Automatic watches can be beautiful, but a watch must ultimately do its job of telling the time. Thanks to the ever reliable STP1-21 caliber automatic movement, you needn’t worry about being late. The 26 jewel movement is precise and quiet, as you would expect from a Swiss made movement. It provides a 44 hour power reserve, and the screw down crown also provides a self winding mechanism to get you started when the watch has been static for a few days.

Adding to the functional design of this Swiss-made watch is C3 SuperLuminova luminous paint on the hands and dial indices, which provides a wonderfully clear and concise blue hue.

What I found enjoyable about this SuperLume is its daylight performance too. The SuperLume doesn’t just come to life at night in the pitch black or when you’re 20’000 leagues under the sea, the hue helps in those less than ideal lighting conditions, whether its a glum March afternoon or a quick glance when the watch is partially covered.

As you would expect from a diver, the Super Sea Wolf comes with a 200-meter/660ft water resistance rating, meaning it can pretty much explore any watery world you find yourself intrigued by. While the hook-and-loop nylon strap is easy to adjust for secure ease of use, and also comes with its own titanium hardware.

The Huckberry x Zodiac Titanium Super Sea Wolf Dive Watch is a great timepiece for those looking to extend their collection into higher end Swiss watches, but at an affordable price point. With all of Zodiac’s flawless heritage, and Huckberry’s impeccable style, the duo have paid homage to the watches of yesteryear with this capable and reliable timepiece.

The Huckberry x Zodiac Titanium Super Sea Wolf Dive Watch is also available at an extra 15% off until 3/12 2024!

The post Timeless Titanium: Huckberry x Zodiac Team up to Release Iconic Super Sea Wolf Dive Watch appeared first on Carryology.

Can you put a camera in a backpack?

Theoretically yes. But in reality, you might need to do a bit of tweaking first. Fragile camera gear generally won’t hold up well to being carried in a bag that doesn’t offer any protection against bumps, drops, or scrapes. However, a camera bag insert provides a modular and adaptable solution. They come in diverse sizes to accommodate different camera gear setups, and can fit inside a variety of bags. Ideal if you already have a bag you love but wish it would keep your camera gear safe too.

How do I turn my luggage into a camera bag?

A camera insert for backpack use can work just as well in your travel bag as it can in your everyday bag. So long as it fits in your luggage, there’s no reason you can’t use a camera bag insert in a variety of different travel carry including backpacks, wheeled luggage, duffels, messengers, and more.  

How do you make a camera bag insert?

If you’re keen to take the DIY approach, it’s possible to make a camera insert for backpack use. You may be able to use supplies you already have (such as a cardboard box or drawstring bag). Additionally, you’ll likely be able to find relatively inexpensive padding material (such as foam sheets) online or from hardware or craft stores. The DIY approach allows you to customize a camera bag insert for your specific gear setup and design preferences. It may also be cheaper than purchasing a camera cube, depending on the supplies and tools you have at hand. Of course, it can be a tricky and time-consuming project so you should decide if it’s the right option for you!

An alternative may be to purchase a ready-made camera bag insert and customize it slightly to suit your setup, rather than starting from scratch. For instance, how do you make camera bag dividers to tailor the organization? A little bit of foam covered in fabric is a simple divider option that can be slotted between equipment. If you’re feeling extra crafty, you could add Velcro or a fold-over padded flap for added flexibility. 

Top-notch tailormade camera bag inserts

If the DIY route is not for you, don’t worry! Below we’ve rounded up some of the best tailormade camera cube and camera insert options for everyday backpacks. Ready for a range of loads and budgets, they’ll help protect your precious camera gear wherever the picture leads you…

Koolertron Shockproof DSLR Camera Insert (US$19.99)

Camera protection doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. This Koolertron DSLR Camera Insert is a budget-friendly option that can fit inside a variety of bags. The padded insert and dividers help provide shock absorption and customized organization, while the drawstring closure is quick and easy to secure or open.

Mountainsmith TAN Kit Cube – Small (US$49.95)

Mountainsmith’s TAN Kit Cube (Small) is a great option for protecting minimalist camera setups on the move. It features a cinch-top opening and a padded interior with a divider and hi-vis yellow lining to easily discern the contents. Additionally, the cube offers a quick-access front pocket. It can be carried as a standalone bag or alternatively its compact size makes it a great option for converting a wide range of larger bags into camera carry.

f-stop ICU Series (US$ 49.99-269.99)

The f-stop ICU Series features a range of Internal Camera Units that accommodate diverse camera gear setups. Designed to work with f-stop’s Mountain Series packs or as standalone storage, the units feature water-resistant exteriors and customizable padded dividers to easily adjust to changing gear needs.

Pacsafe Camsafe PCI Inserts (US$ 89.95 for Large)

Available in small, medium and large sizes, the Pacsafe Camsafe PCI inserts offer handy camera storage for a range of setups. The padded interiors and adjustable dividers protect and adapt to changing loads, with a zippered lid pocket for storing additional accessories. The zippers are also lockable for added security and peace of mind.

Tenba BYOB 10 Camera Insert (US$ 55.95)

A versatile option for converting a range of bags into camera carry, the Tenba BYOB 10 offers a padded interior and adjustable dividers to protect your gear on the go. Suitable for a DSLR or mirrorless camera body and two to four lenses, the camera insert provides a choice of interior and exterior pockets to organize accessories. The zippered lid can be stowed out of the way for convenient access, and the top carry handle makes it easy to carry or remove the insert from a bag.

Incase Camera Insert Lite (US$ 59.95)

Incase’s Camera Insert Lite can double as a standalone case or a protective insert for a larger bag. Top and side handles provide easy portability and maneuverability, while the padded and customizable dividers protect a range of camera gear setups. Additionally, a zippered lid pocket provides handy storage for further accessories. 

EVOC CB 6L Camera Block (US$ 65)

The EVOC CB 6L Camera Block can be used inside a larger bag or as a compact standalone option for protecting minimalist gear setups. The camera block can be carried with the top handle or a removable shoulder strap and features an ergonomic T-pull zipper closure. Interior padded dividers and a lid pocket organize your gear, while the gray lining helps enhance the visibility of the contents in low-light conditions.

Vanguard Supreme Divider Insert 40 (US$ 69.99)

This insert is designed to fit the Vanguard Supreme 40F Hard Case, but is compatible with a variety of other bags or as a standalone camera case. The adjustable padded dividers help provide protection against bumps and scrapes, and the lid pocket is useful for storing accessories. The insert fits two DSLRs and six additional lenses and includes a carry handle.

Pelican TrekPak system (cases from US$ 217)

The Pelican TrekPak system is a modular alternative to Velcro dividers, letting you customize organization with TrekPak divider panels. It’s compatible with a variety of Pelican cases, backpacks, and duffels and utilizes a combination of pre-installed wall sections, divider panels, and locking pins to create personalized layouts tailored to your specific gear setup. 

Boundary MK-1 Case (US$ 109)

The Boundary MK-1 Case lets you easily reach gear thanks to three zipped access points. Multiple pockets and padded dividers allow you to tailor organization to diverse carry setups. The shock-absorbing base helps protect gear on the go, while top and side handles provide easy portability. The weatherproof case also integrates with Boundary’s Prima System and can be converted to shoulder carry using the Prima’s waist belt.

Mission Workshop Capsule Camera Insert (US$ 195)

The Capsule Camera Insert introduces rugged camera protection into Mission Workshop bags and is compatible across their range except for the Fraction and Hauser. The insert also suits a variety of other bags with volumes of around 20L or larger in size. Handmade in the USA, The Capsule offers top and front access, configurable dividers, and a choice of top and side carry handles.

Peak Design Camera Cubes V2 (from US$ 49.95)

These new, updated camera cubes from Peak Design are the perfect match to any of your Peak Design bags or otherwise. Coming now in five sizes to fit extra-small to large setups, each cube features a water resistant zippered closure and side access hatches on the large and medium sizes for quick access to your most used gear. Since the cubes are highly water-resistant, we’re comfortable snatching the grab-handles and using these cubes on their own.

This article was originally published on 11 March 2018 and updated on 16 January 2024.

The post Turn Your Backpack into a Camera Bag with These Inserts appeared first on Carryology.

Best Minimalist EDC Wallets

The following wallets are featured in this video:

The Ridge Wallet
Bellroy Slim Sleeve
RE:FORM RE:02
Lost Dutchman The Franklin
Magpul DAKA Essential Wallet
Dango T01 Tactical Wallet
Popov Leather 5 Card Wallet
MAKR Round Luxe Wallet Plus
LEMUR Fold Wallet
Rustic Heirloom Hitchhiker Wallet
Open Sea Leather Houbei 2.0

A heads up: Bellroy and Carryology share the same founders. Read about our origin story.

And hey, we’re reader-supported too, so if you find something that sparks your interest and click through and purchase via our affiliate links, sometimes we’ll get a little kickback from the brands or retailers. It helps us to make more content and build this channel. Although, we’ll just point out, some brands don’t have affiliate options, and that’s cool with us too. If the carry is awesome, we recommend it!

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