Zach Pina

There is really so much to the Ambit that it's difficult to summarize in a single review. What I will say though, is that it combines some of the best elements of the entire Suunto line, presenting itself as one of the most advanced and robust training tools on the market. It's missing a few rudimentary features found on the Core (like a dedicated chronograph or storm alarm), but it more than makes up for their absence in other areas which I'll touch on below. Rather than gloss over every feature of the watch though, I'll just call out some of my favorite features that are most relevant to me personally, and leave the rest for you to discover and appreciate on your own.

* Real-time speed readouts (Suunto's new FusedSpeed technology): this is one of the more breakthrough features of the watch, which integrates an accelerometer into the GPS tracking for impressively accurate and responsive speed readings. Even with abrupt course alterations or at slow walking speeds, the watch performs above expectations. This feature alone negated my need for an on-board cycling computer.
* Highly accurate and reliable GPS: the Ambit GPS is guided by SiRFstarIV technology - the same used in many smartphones. It has excellent location-awareness and is able to self-assist without constantly needing to reacquire a location fix - all this, at a fraction of the power consumption of many GPS units. You can run the Ambit GPS in one of the watch's "training" modes up to 50 hours (as opposed to 30 days in normal 'watch' mode) off a single full charge. Higher-drain activities like trail running or cycling will still get you 15 hours.
* Real-time 12-hour altitude/barometric trend readout: as photographed, this readout is one of my favorite features in the watch. All of your elevation activity travels across the high-resolution display as you move through the day, which is super helpful for monitoring your progress across an entire day's worth of hiking, climbing, or cycling. It's also handy for presentation in impromptu bragging sessions. You can also choose to display the time (dual zone capable), or current temperature beneath.
* Movescount: the online interface is simple, intuitive, and provides a dizzying wealth of training and mapping data that is neatly organized so you never feel overwhelmed when poring over your results. The Peak Training Effect and Recovery Time measurements are especially helpful. Suunto calls the Ambit the "GPS for explorers," which it certainly is, but this bevy of invaluable training data makes it more than just a fancy compass (even though it does have a very fancy 3D compass).
* The 3D compass: I'm not using this watch for orienteering, but that doesn't make the compass any less cool. Unlike a conventional analog compass which requires you to hold it flat, the Ambit compensates for wrist tilt, giving you an accurate reading from any angle.
* The display: like the Core, the Ambit allows you to change from a negative to positive display at just the touch of a button, which is really nice for maximizing readability in flat light, under direct sunlight, or if you're wearing polarized sunglasses.

* note that this version of the Ambit does NOT come with the HR belt (like the Foot POD, ANT+ Cadence Sensor, and other accessories, it is sold separately)
* the black and silver come with different bands - the black is arguably more ventilated, but both are very comfortable and highly wear resistant
* a lot has been said on the size of the watch, but it's really not overly large by modern timepiece standards - especially compared to the Suunto Core. The only issue I've heard is of the thickness, but if you're concerned about this watch's wearability with a dress shirt, you might want to look at something else
* made in Finland, just like the superlative Suunto Elementum line

There is really so much to the Ambit that it's difficult to summarize in a single review. What I will say though, is that it combines some of the best elements of the entire Suunto line, presenting itself as one of the most advanced and robust training tools on the market. It's missing a few rudimentary features found on the Core (like a dedicated chronograph or storm alarm), but it more than makes up for their absence in other areas which I'll touch on below. Rather than gloss over every feature of the watch though, I'll just call out some of my favorite features that are most relevant to me personally, and leave the rest for you to discover and appreciate on your own.

* Real-time speed readouts (Suunto's new FusedSpeed technology): this is one of the more breakthrough features of the watch, which integrates an accelerometer into the GPS tracking for impressively accurate and responsive speed readings. Even with abrupt course alterations or at slow walking speeds, the watch performs above expectations. This feature alone negated my need for an on-board cycling computer.
* Highly accurate and reliable GPS: the Ambit GPS is guided by SiRFstarIV technology - the same used in many smartphones. It has excellent location-awareness and is able to self-assist without constantly needing to reacquire a location fix - all this, at a fraction of the power consumption of many GPS units. You can run the Ambit GPS in one of the watch's "training" modes up to 50 hours (as opposed to 30 days in normal 'watch' mode) off a single full charge. Higher-drain activities like trail running or cycling will still get you 15 hours.
* Real-time 12-hour altitude/barometric trend readout: as photographed, this readout is one of my favorite features in the watch. All of your elevation activity travels across the high-resolution display as you move through the day, which is super helpful for monitoring your progress across an entire day's worth of hiking, climbing, or cycling. It's also handy for presentation in impromptu bragging sessions. You can also choose to display the time (dual zone capable), or current temperature beneath.
* Movescount: the online interface is simple, intuitive, and provides a dizzying wealth of training and mapping data that is neatly organized so you never feel overwhelmed when poring over your results. The Peak Training Effect and Recovery Time measurements are especially helpful. Suunto calls the Ambit the "GPS for explorers," which it certainly is, but this bevy of invaluable training data makes it more than just a fancy compass (even though it does have a very fancy 3D compass).
* The 3D compass: I'm not using this watch for orienteering, but that doesn't make the compass any less cool. Unlike a conventional analog compass which requires you to hold it flat, the Ambit compensates for wrist tilt, giving you an accurate reading from any angle.
* The display: like the Core, the Ambit allows you to change from a negative to positive display at just the touch of a button, which is really nice for maximizing readability in flat light, under direct sunlight, or if you're wearing polarized sunglasses.

* note that the black and silver come with different bands - the black is arguably more ventilated, but both are very comfortable and highly wear resistant
* a lot has been said on the size of the watch, but it's really not overly large by modern timepiece standards - especially compared to the Suunto Core. The only issue I've heard is of the thickness, but if you're concerned about this watch's wearability with a dress shirt, you might want to look at something else
* made in Finland, just like the superlative Suunto Elementum line

Granted, this isn't a cycling-specific blazer, but it's magnificently tailored for a life of riding while looking exceptionally dapper. The functional amenities of a normal blazer abound, but it's the single back pocket that functions like a jersey pocket, the weatherproof flip-up collar, and the ergonomic sleeves and tapered cuffs which let you ride completely covered (even in the drops!) that really set the Vice apart. And despite not being insulated, the soft lining and outer shell's weatherproofing provide a surprising amount of warmth even on colder evenings. Once you get to your destination, leave your bike with the valet, fold the collar down, and run the Vice as a traditional blazer, or evening jacket. Paired with the right scarf or skinny tie, this is a hugely versatile piece that is both perfectly formal and highly functional, and an all-around style godsend to anyone who lives on their bike.

* I'm about 5'11, 150lbs and typically wear Small tees. the Small here fits perfectly
* the fabric is essentially a heavyweight cotton polyester blend, which, while very soft, wrinkles fairly easily, so keep the jacket hung up, and you'll be fine

Calling the Scalpel anything other than a great, versatile pair of sport sunnies ("Oakley Forceps" just doesn't have the same effect) would be something of an injustice. But after trying both, all I can find myself thinking about these, is that they're essentially a "poor man's Jawbone." Near identical optical clarity (the Plus Red Irid lenses are amazing in flat light), similar taller frame profile, and flexible, yet comfortably snug fit (thanks to the Unobtanium in the ear socks and nose pads). At first glance, they don't appear as technical as the Jawbones, due in part to their less aggressive styling, and the obvious lack of each 'jaw' hinge. The frame material is also different - still a fairly lightweight plastic - typical of many Oakley frames, but with a slightly more brittle feel.

Despite minor nit-picking on the construction, I still really like these glasses, and they've spent a great deal of time on my face in a wide variety of activities - I just reach for something else on race day.

After two years on the drawing board, Mick says Dragon's top-end Shield are "the only sunnies you'll ever need," and he could very well be right. All the performance you could want from a high-end sport model (great coverage, protective lens coatings, burly construction, secure and comfortable fit), with a very bold and modern utilitarian profile that begs to be taken to the street, or out on the open water. If you need something else, you're probably not doing it right.

* polarization on these lenses is already great, but go with an Ionized lens option for maximum on-the-water glare-decimation
* XL profile/coverage, but not XL temple width
* comes with a custom fanning/shield soft case
* made in italy, if you're into that kind of thing

While the frame profile may look suspiciously like the Oakley Holbrook (ie: nearly identical), there are still a few very subtle design differences (like the Knoxville being made in Italy), and a few more eye-popping colorway/lens options to ensure that the Knoxville is another bitching piece more than worth adding to your collection. Besides, who cares about which design came first? This timeless and rad throwback design deserves to be owned more than once.

So, technically this iteration of the Frogskin isn't part of a collection of super-exclusive limited editions we've seen in the past, but do you really give a shart? The Frogskin is one of the most copied and sought-after sunnies in the industry thanks to its awesome fit and sick optics. Plus, this re-issue features the Frogskin's most popular limited colorways from the past, at a price that definitely beats the hell out of flogging your wallet on some sketchy ebay auction.

Who knows what Oakley has in store for the Jupiter? For the moment though, it has been discontinued so now's your last chance to swoop up what is arguably the most unique, and best-fitting retro-inspired design they've ever produced.

* yeah, the style may be a little androgynous, but they're still rad as hell. sack up and snag a pair

It's no secret that the outdoor optic industry isn't very well known for its originality - often resorting to regurgitation on vintage-inspired designs. However, when done right, an homage that recognizes the strengths of its inspirations and improves on them, is always more than welcome. Thankfully, the Grand Sixties fall into the latter. This sunny is unabashedly a sly blend of two of the most celebrated and imitated designs on the street today: the Oakley Frogskin, and the Ray Ban Wayfarer. The frontal frame profile and slight horned lens taper slightly hint 'wayfarer,' but the sportier temple arms and pristine optics (thanks to Revo sharing a fair amount of its lens technology with its parent company Oakley) are all a modern, heavy-handed dose of Frogskin. There are two points worth making that set the Grand Sixties apart from the mold: firstly, the glass lenses are phenomenal - on par with the standards set by Maui Jim or Costa. Coming in at 58 millimeters, these lenses are hardly small, but not as awkwardly pie-plate large as the Frogskins appear on some faces. This naturally universal fit is also accomplished due in part to a deeper base curvature compared to the flatter profile of the Wayfarer or Frogskin. And secondly, the frame is constructed from recycled nylon plastic, making them lightweight, without compromising a supremely durable feel (a complaint common from Frogskin wearers). Another blend of those two iconic styles, the frames also feature bulletproof stainless steel hinges, ensuring the arms stay in place on any adventure.

In order for a frame to metaphorically withstand the test of time, it must first literally withstand the test of time, and I wholly believe the Grand Sixties are up to the task.

Dunno why anyone would want to settle for only a single pair, but if you absolutely had to, make it this one. Hard to not love the Jupiter Squared. The super-universal fit is just like the awesome Jupiter, except more of a modern, squared off profile because apparently retro androgynous sunnies don't cut it with the Oakley crowd. Polarized lenses and Unobtanium earsocks are a nice addition, making this piece a little more versatile than your typical lifestyle sunny.

* fun fact: the rivets on the arms are inspired by a pocket knife that one of the Oakley designers carried around

The Fast Jacket is the latest in a long line of pieces in the 'Jacket' line (Half Jacket, Straight Jacket, Flak Jacket, etc.), and quite unequivocally, the greatest. Finally, a design that brings everything to the table; Oakley's amazing optics, a lightweight and comfortable frame, excellent facial coverage (lenses are significantly larger than the Flaks), and a truly interchangeable lens system (easier than even the Jawbone, whose Switchlock tends to stiffen over time). Nice being able to change lenses without a flowchart, or fear of breaking the frame, as common with previous Jacket iterations. Granted, because of the alloy elements in the Switchlock functionality, the Fast Jacket is somewhat heavier than a Radar or a Flak Jacket, however, according to Oakley, their weight is actually identical to that of the Jawbone.

Extremely impressed with this piece - another true evolution in sports sunglasses.

The Fast Jacket is the latest in a long line of pieces in the 'Jacket' line (Half Jacket, Straight Jacket, Flak Jacket, etc.), and quite unequivocally, the greatest. Finally, a design that brings everything to the table; Oakley's amazing optics, a lightweight and comfortable frame, excellent facial coverage (lenses are significantly larger than the Flaks), and a truly interchangeable lens system (easier than even the Jawbone, whose Switchlock tends to stiffen over time). Nice being able to change lenses without a flowchart, or fear of breaking the frame, as common with previous Jacket iterations. Granted, because of the alloy elements in the Switchlock functionality, the Fast Jacket is somewhat heavier than a Radar or a Flak Jacket, however, according to Oakley, their weight is actually identical to that of the Jawbone.

Extremely impressed with this piece - another true evolution in sports sunglasses.

As already mentioned, despite having the same great fit and distinct sole/strap profile, the Yampa uses an entirely different outsole, which shaves a great deal of weight off its Unaweep brethren, making it just as perfect for crossing the street to get a newspaper, as it would for hiking a dry riverbed in Moab. The sole isn't as lugged or stiff as the aforementioned, but that makes the Yampa a little more versatile, and less of a chore to wear. Comfortable right out of the box, they broke in very quickly.

* if you're in-between sizes, I wouldn't recommend going up. my street shoe size is a 10.5, but the 10 here fits great

The Phase AR has quickly and single-handedly replaced several other layering pieces including Under Armour, polyester shirts, and lightweight jackets in my wardrobe. Lightweight enough to run under a cycling jersey for chilly mornings, but still warm and comfortable enough to wear on its own for a trail run. Come winter, I imagine it'll be the idea base layer for skiing as well. Haven't had any problem with stink, but then again I tend to stay away from onions and asparagus.

* I'm a lean 6 foot, and the Small is a perfect, against-body fit. piece has a tall zip neck, and runs slim and long - size accordingly

Pulling an about-face on all the lightweight wire and acetate lifestyle frames out there, the unique aesthetic of the Jury's frame (clever hinges notwithstanding) still comes as a bit of a surprise. It's an extremely bold, chunky, and very post-industrial feeling piece that feels as though it were hewn from the barrel of a vintage machine gun. The raw metal is even cold to the touch. Due to the weight and styling, it's by no means a finesse piece, probably instead better suited for heavier-duty pursuits like facepunching grizzly bears.

If you fastpack, run, or ride, you probably already know that most microweight wind/rain jackets aren't worth their salt in breathability or rain protection. The Celeris is a definitive answer, as a micro-packable (down to the size of a kitchen sponge!), yet highly breathable wind jacket that doesn't greenhouse on a hard climb, but protects you from the wind when you descend at mach 2. All of the fabric fibers of the jacket are also coated in a silicone sheath for fantastic water resistancy, without the stiffness of a full-bore Gore shell. Granted, not for running in a deluge, but definite protection in light rain and snow.

* fit is close to body, so size up if you're in between sizes

The POC design team definitely deserve credit for the smooth lines and for cramming a lot of very legit tech into this lid (and all their other helmets as well). Very nice looking 'met. That being said though, the sheer versatility comes at the cost of weight, and size--this helmet will look undeniably massive if you've got a smallish, and/or skinny noggin.

I don't have trouble believing this helmet will protect my grey matter in a crash, I do however, have trouble believing it's not doubling as a satellite transceiver every time I strap it on.

Killer optics--would expect nothing less from Smith. Comfortable, and stable on my head even at ridiculous speeds on the bike. Keep in mind that the two-tone blue on the Blue/Ivory colorway is definitely very dark--to the bystanders you blow past on the Boulevard, it might look like a black.

Very soft, very warm vest that's clearly not intended as a base layer, but it fits as a base layer would--slimmer and shorter, compared to most other TNF vests. Might want to either size up, or rock the slim--regardless though, the Mossbud is a super comfortable vest that's guaranteed a lot of milage.

Gave up on trying to grow my own Tom Selleck 'stache, and just went with the shirt instead. Infinitely better decision.

Spacecraft never fails to deliver the steeze.

The earthy babes at your local beanery will be fighting over who gets to fill this up with your favorite toasty beverage. My only advice would be to buy several, so there's enough for everyone to have a chance.

Portable Sigg keeps it hot. Good enough for me.

Perfect for tuning out the office talking heads, and styling it hard at the same time. Not so perfect build quailty... Kinda wondering when I'm gonna whip these off my head and snap something in half.

Genuine leather, nice studded details, great fit, yada yada yada. More importantly--finally, a belt with a stash pocket.
Smuggling Ricola or herbal suppliments down the mountain in a half a parsec to your boys in the lodge has never been easier.

Cons: "bluegrass" is more of a "tealgrass," as in, "it's totally, undeniably, your girlfriend's teal belt."
Just a heads-up.