Insights ILLUSTRATIONS: RODRIGO DAMATI. PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SENNHEISER; JOHN WALSH/CONSUMER REPORTS; FITBIT; PATAGONIA
Product recommendations and practical advice
IN T HE K NO W
For a Better Walk, Try This YOU’VE PROBABLY HEARD IT a thousand times. A daily walk can boost your cardiovascular health, while helping you to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. But as you’re getting that fresh air, little annoyances—mosquitoes buzzing around you or headphones that conk out unexpectedly—can suck the fun out of your time out there. To make your walks more enjoyable this summer, consider this list of top-rated gear and editor’s picks.
GET IN THE GROOVE
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
BRING THE ESSENTIALS
STAY HYDRATED
KEEP BUGS AT BAY
! 0 Sennheiser
$ 0 Fitbit Inspire 2
Zojirushi 16-oz. mug $28
Ben’s Tick & Insect Repellent Wipes $6
73 0
84 0
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack $29
5/5
96 0
CX 350BT $80 OVERALL SCORE
These earphones offer great sound at a nice price, and because they’re connected to each other on a wire, they can rest on the back of your neck when you’re done listening to that podcast. They wirelessly connect to your phone or smartwatch (or other device) via Bluetooth.
$100
OVERALL SCORE
This band pairs easily with an iPhone or Android phone. It also rates Very Good at accurately counting steps and measuring heart rate, so you can see how your walks are stacking up each time. What’s more: You can wear the band for 10 days without charging it.
Made of weatherresistant recycled nylon, this bag clips around your waist or hips (or can be worn as a cross body sling), leaving your hands free. Though compact (4.75x8x2 inches), it offers a 1-liter capacity— enough room to fit a phone, a wallet, keys, sunscreen, and more.
Comfortable, supportive athletic shoes are also important for any walking routine. Turn the page for expert tips on how to find the best fit for you.
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TEMPERATURE RETENTION
Quench your thirst on a long walk with this slim, lightweight thermos. It keeps drinks cold for 7 hours (or hot for 13½ hours). Our testers noted that the cap is easy to open with one hand. Then simply lock the leakproof lid if you need to throw it in a bag.
OVERALL SCORE
If you love to walk in wooded areas or around high grass, it’s wise to wear insect repellent. These wipes (which come individually wrapped) are the best repellent we’ve rated. Use a sheet to quickly wipe exposed skin before you head out.
JULY 2022
CR.ORG
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5/18/22 11:25 AM
