While tonight marks the hit series’ season 2 finale, fans won’t have to wait years—or even year—to learn what Dr. Robby and his loyal team of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are up to. Because The Pitt’s third season is getting ready to begin filming in June.

When Will The Pitt Season 3 Premiere?

While no official premiere date has been confirmed, given that production on the third season is already underway, with cameras expected to begin rolling in less than two months, audiences shouldn’t have too long to wait. 

Season 1 of The Pitt premiered on January 9, 2025, with season 2 arriving just a year later on January 8, 2026. If that tradition continues, fans could expect to see the show’s triumphant return as early as January 7, 2027.

What Will The Pitt Season 3 Be About?

While the show’s creators haven’t offered a ton of specifics, we know that—similar to what happened between the first and second seasons, there will be a time jump, but it won’t be as big. 

“The only time jump we’re interested in making is to get into a different weather season, to get into a slightly different mode of cases that come with a change in weather,” The Pitt’s star and executive producer Noah Wyle told Variety. “If that was summer, then what happens in the winter when you get cold, snow and black ice.”

Will Season 3 Be the Final Season of The Pitt?

If you’re asking Wyle when The Pitt might have run its course, his answer would be “never.” In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, he explained that “one of the gratifying things about season two is that we realized that we don’t need a big deus ex machina plot device to keep this engaging, that there is something really fascinating about watching everyday people try to get through the course of their day, beset by all the trials and tribulations that come over the course of their day.” Which is when he made a bold declaration.

“If that is satisfying television, then this show could run forever,” according to Wyle.

Valenti wasn’t shy about addressing the elephant in the room. While discussing the studios’ upcoming project with the crowd of attendees at the movie industry’s largest global trade show, she was quick to address the question on everyone’s mind, as The Hollywood Reporter noted.   

“Now, I know you’re all wondering when we’re going to announce who’s playing James Bond,” Valentin said. “Please know that we’re taking the time to do this with care and deep respect. It is the dream of a lifetime for all of us to bring audiences this next chapter, and it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”

“What I can tell you is this,” she added. “When you pair one of the most beloved franchises in history with a world-class filmmaking team, including the brilliant director Denis Villeneuve, extraordinary producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman, executive producer Tanya Lapointe, and screenwriter Steven Knight, you’re setting the stage for something that’s truly worthy of the Bond legacy. That film is coming, and when the time is right, we’ll have much more to share.”

Who Are the Actors in Contention to Play the Next James Bond?

Ever since Craig announced that he was retiring from his role as the legendary superspy in 2019, dozens of names have circulated as to who could fill his shoes. Initially, Henry Cavill, Idris Elba, Cillian Murphy, and Bridgerton star Regé-Jean Page seemed to be the main frontrunners. 

While Page called the rumors flattering, he has repeatedly stated that he has had no formal discussions. Cavill and Murphy, meanwhile, have both counted themselves out, saying they’re probably too old to play the part. Elba, however, has said that the racist backlash to his name as a possible contender has “made the whole thing disgusting and off-putting.”

While appearing on the SmartLess podcast, the Golden Globe-winning Luther star Elba spoke out about the casting rumors, admitting that he “was super complimented for a long time about this. We’re all actors and we understand that role is one of those coveted [roles]... Being asked to be James Bond [would be] like: ‘OK, you’ve sort of reached the pinnacle.’ That’s one of those things the whole world has a vote in.” 

However, the negative response from some about a Black actor playing Bond became too much for The Wire star to deal with. “It was a huge compliment that every corner of the world except for some corners, which we will not talk about, were really happy about the idea that I could be considered,” he said. “Those that weren’t happy about the idea made the whole thing disgusting and off-putting, because it became about race. And it became about nonsense and I got the brunt of it.”

Who Do Oddsmakers Say Will Be the Next James Bond?

Given the iconic nature of the role, oddsmakers have long been speculating about who could take the keys to Bond’s Aston Martin—and right now there’s one name at the top of their list: Burberry model-turned-actor Callum Turner. The Masters of the Air star, who is engaged to Dua Lipa, is quietly building his career to leading man status and could be at just the right stage in his career to make the 007 leap.

Other names currently being bandied about include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jacob Elordi, Theo James, Paul Mescal, Tom Hardy, Josh O’Connor, Jack Lowdon, Harris Dickinson, James Norton, and Tom Holland. 

When Will Bond 26 Be Released?

Given that the lead role has yet to be announced, filming has not yet begun on the film—which could mean it will be a while before we see a new Bond on our screens. Four-time Oscar nominee Villeneuve, who will direct the film, has already confirmed that work on the new Bond movie wouldn’t begin until after he was done with Dune: Part Three, which is slated for a Christmas release later this year. 

As such, filming is not expected to begin until 2027, with an anticipated 2028 release date.

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Xkjqta 750W Electric Bike, $280 (was $1,100)

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Why We Love This Deal

If you've traveled to any major city recently, one of the things you've undoubtedly noticed is the influx of electric bikes as a mode of transportation. In New York City, they've become so prevalent that the city government is taking steps to install public battery swapping stations. Part of this increase is due to prices getting lower—the barrier to entry is well below $1,000 these days. In fact, you can get a powerful one at Walmart for under $300 right now.

The Xkjqta 750W Electric Bike is now just $280 at Walmart, a whopping 75% off the normal price. The machine is part of a wave of e-bikes with fun high speeds and pedal-assistance that are getting their prices knocked down at the retailer. One thing to note is that this markdown is substantial—we've already seen it sell out once, and it's likely to sell out again. Get your hands on one while you still can.

Xkjqta 750W Electric Bike, $280 (was $1,100) at Walmart

What Shoppers Should Know

• Motor: 750W
• Powered By: Removable 48V 12.0Ah battery
• Top Speed: 25 MPH
• Range: Up to 25 miles throttle or 45 miles pedal-assist
• Best Use Case: Lengthy rides, high-speed fun, and even a touch of fitness.

Incredibly, this bike can zoom up to 25 MPH and get up to 25 miles of range with no assistance. But it’s still a bike and pedaling is fun, so you can enjoy using it in several riding modes, including a pure pedaling mode with a 7-speed gear and an assisted pedal mode with 5-speeds. You can expect to get a range of up to 45 miles if you aggressively use the pedal-assist mode.

The bike’s power comes from its 750-watt motor, which, in turn, gets its power from a 48V 12.0Ah battery. Conveniently, this battery is removable and charges to full in about 5 or 6 hours, so all you need to do is unlock it (it has anti-theft measures) and bring it inside with you when done riding. Note that the battery is waterproof, so there’s no worry about getting stuck in the rain on long rides.

Related: Lego's $15 Monster Truck Set Is 'Easy' to Build and Hard Not to Love

In my time at Men’s Journal, I’ve covered quite a few electric bikes, usually from Walmart, where fun and affordability tend to collide. When I’ve seen $200 e bikes, they usually have slower speeds and shorter range, great for neighborhood fun. Meanwhile, high-powered bikes can go for as much as $600. This bike is right in the Goldilocks zone for high levels of speed and fun at a great price.

The Xkjqta Electric Bike is just $280 while this deal lasts.

Shop More Deals

• 5th Wheel Electric Bike W18B, $399 (was $700) at Walmart
• Hipatoo Electric Bike, $670 (was $1,000) at Walmart
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A Creepy Encounter Exposed

By now, you’ve probably seen the memes of "Doorbell Chud," the internet nickname for Jason Thomas Nichols. The 29-year-old man is the subject of a viral video in which he's seen wearing a trench coat and an anime T-shirt while beating on the front door of a home, yelling at the homeowner, and at one point, demanding to see their daughter. It’s a creepy, alarming video, meme or no meme, and the incident did lead to multiple felony charges, but it’s also one more reason that video doorbells are a non-negotiable piece of safety equipment in 2026.

The viral footage was shot from a Ring camera. Having this device allowed the homeowner to converse with the intruder safely with the door closed. According to Safe Home’s 2026 review, over 40% of home security camera users cite Ring as their primary system. And if you’re not one of them yet, this incident may make you want to join their ranks.

The good news is that not only are Ring doorbells quite affordable, but there are also a ton of Ring doorbell deals going on right now at Amazon, including these three essential packages that will help you get started in no time.

Ring Battery Doorbell, $80 (was $100) on Amazon

This Ring doorbell is about as classic as it gets, and there’s a reason it is the No. 1 bestselling home security system on Amazon. It features live view, two-way talk, and motion detection, all at a very low price.

Ring Outdoor Cam, $50 (was $80) on Amazon

Just want a camera that can do two-way talk and all the other cool Ring stuff, but don’t need the doorbell? This has got you covered.

Ring Battery Doorbell Plus with Ring Outdoor Cam Plus, $140 (was $250) on Amazon

This set includes the camera alongside one of Ring’s most advanced doorbell models, complete with night vision and more to get the best experience possible.

Shop More Deals

• Ring Wired Doorbell Plus, $160 (was $195) on Amazon
• Ring Chime, $28 (was $35) on Amazon
• Ring Indoor Cam, $30 (was $50) on Amazon

Why We Love This Deal

Southern California-born Prana has focused on sustainable clothing for yoga, climbing, and outdoor activities for years. And while there's been discussion among the top brass about the need to diversify even further, there’s still a lot of care going into popular products that fans love, including the infamous Stretch Zion hiking pants. Prana expanded a bit here recently, and one variation of the classic style just popped up with a colossal discount.

The Stretch Zion Field Pant is marked down to just $29 right now. They've sold out in all colors except black and a green-gray hue (there used to be nine), but miraculously, all sizes from small to 2XL and all inseam lengths are still in stock. It's the lowest price we've seen anywhere for this pair of Stretch Zions, which means that availability may diminish in the coming weeks once Prana diehards find out about the sale.

Stretch Zion Field Pant, From $29 (was $98) at Prana

What Shoppers Should Know

• Sizes Available: Small through 2XL in 30, 32, and 34 lengths
• Color Options: 2
• Fit: Standard-tapered
• Resistances: UPF 50+, waterproof
• Notable Material: Stretch Zion fabric
• Highlights: Elastic waistband, concealed and zippered pocket, faux fly, ventilated gusset, bungee cinch hems
• Best Use Case: This is a versatile hiking pant.

The key thing to know about the Stretch Zion Field Pant is that it is born from the same cloth that made the OG Stretch Zion Pant famous, with its delightful combination of two-way stretch, UPF 50+ sun protection, waterproofness, and abrasion resistance. If those sound like a perfect recipe for hiking pants, that’s exactly why we have the pull-on variation here.

The field pants add everything (and then some) you’ll need to truly tackle an adventure. They sport a standard fit, tie-up elastic waistband, and tapered legs that can be tightened up at the hems to keep out bugs and debris. Fans of brands like Duer will also appreciate the ventilated gusset for a delightful combo of increased flexibility and breathability at the crotch.

Prana’s Stretch Zion Field Pant comes in sizes small through 2XL with 30, 32, or 34 inseams available. There are a whole host of colors available, but only three have this deal: a sharp navy, rusty brown, and orange.

Related: Vuori's 'Light' but 'Very Warm' Down Jacket Is a Rare 40% Off at REI

What Shoppers Are Saying

It’s not surprising that over 8 out of 10 reviewers recommend a pair of Prana’s Stretch Zion Field Pants.

One hiker, for instance, complimented the pants for having the perfect balance of stretch, durability, and weight, while also sporting an excellent drawstring waistband and popping colors. “The perfect pants. I want to wear these every day, everywhere, all the time.”

Other shoppers chimed in on the extreme versatility of the pants. From backpacking trips and long drives to getting the spousal approval for being good-looking enough to wear at a wine tasting, it’s evident that admirers of the pants are putting them through the paces anywhere and everywhere. As one put it, “They feel durable without being heavy and are easy pants to live in.”

The Stretch Zion Field Pant is marked down to a truly incredible $29 right now. Don’t let this deal pass you by.

The penultimate episode of the season, "Don't Do Anything Rash", was the bloodiest, most gruesome affair yet in the show. Mark, Nolan, Allen, Oliver, and Thaedus soared into battle as the underdogs against Thragg and the Viltrumites. Our heroes destroyed Viltrum once and for all, but that doesn't mean the aliens who occupied the planet went down with it. Who lived to see another fight? Let's recap!

Mark Grayson/Invincible: Alive

He's not named Invincible for nothing, right? Mark is the most invulnerable person in the story, not only because he has plot armor and there can't be a show without him, but because it makes sense for someone whose main strength is his resolve to live. Thragg decides it would not be in his best interest to kill Mark when there are so few Viltrumites left in the universe.

Nolan Grayson/Omni-Man: Alive

Things got a little touch-and-go for the most OG anti-hero in the galaxy. After his plan to destroy Viltrum instead of attacking Thragg was executed to perfection, Thragg decided to take out his frustrations on the planet's most famous specimen. Omni-Man had his insides ripped out in graphic style, but the last scene of the episode shows that his life was spared for at least a little while longer. If Nolan did die in this one, his arc would have felt satisfying anyway. Now, he gets even more time to build his redemption.

Thaedus: Dead

The leader of the resistance movement, Thaedus, had no chance in this fight. Thragg cuts Thaedus's head off the second he sees him after Viltrum explodes into the abyss. Thaedus is the one who put the Viltrumites into the near-extinction they now suffer through after infecting them with a virus that killed off almost the entire species. Thragg finally got to exact his revenge.

Oliver Grayson: Alive?

Oliver is the bravest of all the characters in the show. He's a dumb teenager with no discretion when he heads into battle. Oliver stupidly tries to fight Thragg individually and gets his arm and face taken right off. It was jarring to watch happen, and Oliver's fate is left up to interpretation until the last moments of the episode, when he's seen in a recovery tube. Nolan says he'll recover, but we're not so sure until we see him up and breathing.

As we inch closer to the movie’s April 24th premiere date, press coverage is ramping up, and more promotional clips from Michael are being released. One clip in particular has people talking. No, it’s not of star Jaafar Jackson, who portrays the adult version of his uncle (although Jaafar has been receiving lots of applause for his performance). In this particular video, it’s Juliano Valdi who shines, and it has people wondering if Valdi is just that superb as a young Michael or if movie magic is really afoot. 

Is Juliano Valdi Really Singing in ‘Michael’? 

Before answering that question, it’s best to look at the footage in question first. In exclusive footage from Extra, Valdi is a young Michael in the studio with Barry Gordy (Larenz Tate) recording a vocal for The Jackson 5’s classic hit, “ABC.” Take a look at it below. 

JUST IN: A snippet of a clip of child actor Juliano Valdi is circulating online and has people blown away by how well he portrays a young Michael Jackson and even sounds like him.

Also, Jaafar Jackson revealed in a recent interview that because they filmed different eras of… pic.twitter.com/OrMoVbCeEM

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) April 15, 2026

Now, it may only be a 10-second video, but it’s an impressive 10 seconds. The vocals sound so much like Michael at that age that people on social media are both wowed, but also questioning if it’s Valdi singing or rather it’s an old recording of Michael. 

Is that Juliano singing after the track cuts off? OMFG???

— STREAM GDLU 🤍 (@hazelsv_) April 14, 2026

Juliano Valdi truly captured the spirit of young Michael Jackson. #MichaelMovie

— JosephMoonWalkers (@JosephMoonWalk) April 14, 2026

Well, according to Extra, “the movie [Michael] blends Juliano and Michael’s voices together.” That may not add a heck of a lot of clarity as far as the clip is concerned. However, personally speaking, given that the music stops in the video while the young Michael character continues singing, I tend to believe that the vocals belong to Valdi here. Which means, Valdi is just that good. So kudos to him. 

Once again, Michael debuts in theaters nationwide on April 24. You’re able to purchase your ticket for the film now.

Related: ‘The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender’ Leaked Online, What’s Next for Paramount+?

A little after 9 p.m. ET, an influx of users began reporting problems playing games online on PlayStation 5. The data was reported on Downdetector. As of this writing, over 12,000 reports have been made of online services not working for users.

Ironically, as of this writing, PlayStation's official network status website has all of its online systems displayed as "all services are up and running." PlayStation has not yet made any announcements or updates regarding this widespread outage on socials or otherwise.

Men's Journal has also confirmed that the online systems appear to be working at first, and users can log in to their accounts, but at least some online games cannot be played. When attempting to play a game online, an error message pops up that reads, "Our online services aren't available right now. They might be temporarily busy. Please try again later."

Over on Reddit, in a thread by user Most_Assist2529, users are sharing their experiences with the outage. Some users are reporting that the outage is not just within the United States, but is also affecting other countries, too. Klutzy_Garbage5644 confirmed they are in Brazil and cannot access any online services.

Other users are reporting that they can play games fine, so the outage appears to be inconsistent, but until PlayStation makes an announcement, we may not know the official reason, areas affected, or how long the PlayStation Network may be down.

At around 10:27 p.m. ET, services got up and running again on the PlayStation Network. PlayStation has not made a statement on the cause of the outage.

He also says the justice system failed him and that he's innocent.

In a new interview set to air Friday at 9 p.m. ET on NBC's Dateline, the disgraced former professional baseball player explained to Keith Morrison why he maintains his innocence, despite a jury concluding that his actions "were deliberate and premeditated" when he shot Robert Gary Spohr and Wendy Wood at their home in Lake Tahoe following a financial dispute. As widely reported, Wood survived the attack but she died by suicide a year later.

Why Serafini Believes He's Innocent

Serafini explained that "the justice system failed" him because the case was "circumstantial."

"I believe the circumstantial stuff that they had was just making up a story. They had no proof, no anything," he tells Morrison from behind a glass in prison in an excerpt. "[The jury] just didn't like me. They didn't like my lifestyle. They didn't like the way I acted in court, which I didn't act anyway. So I sat there like I was supposed to because my lawyers told me to. Don't react. Don't respond. Sit there like nothing is bothering you."

He added, "And I did. And I got crucified for it."

Related: Former MLB Player Gets Life in Prison for Murdering His In-Laws

Serafini Convicted of Shooting Couple in the Head

Serafini was convicted of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and first-degree burglary following a six-week trial in Placer County, California, after prosecutors successfully argued the former MLB pitcher waited inside the couple's home before launching the brutal attack.

What's more, prosecutors argued in court that Serafini hated his wife's wealthy parents, which he conveyed in emails and text messages shown to the jury.

In short, prosecutors said Serafini targeted his wife's parents to inherit millions of dollars.

Serafini played with the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, San Diego Padres, and Colorado Rockies. He played in the big leagues for seven seasons.

Dateline's "Deadly Swagger" airs Friday, April 17 at 9 p.m. ET.

According to Black Box Intelligence data, as reported by CNBC, U.S. restaurant traffic fell every month in 2025 except for July. "In such a tough environment, some restaurant companies even filed for bankruptcy protection," the report states.

So, it's no wonder restaurants across the U.S. have been forced to close. But, some still have a happy ending.

Beloved Fast-Food Chain Gets a Second Chance as It Reopen Stores Across the U.S.

Now, Hardee's is making a comeback. According to research from USA Today, the fast-food chain closed 77 locations in 2025.

A statement sent to the publication from Hardee's Restaurants at the time explained, "These closures are a result of ARC Burger's failure to cure its defaults under its franchise agreements, despite solid sales and our continued attempts over the course of many months to reach a resolution that would keep these restaurants open."

But, the good news is that some of the other Hardee's locations that shut down in 2025 are reopening.

"We are pleased to have recently reopened 15 locations in Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina markets as Hardee's corporate restaurants," Hardees told Fast Company in a statement. "This is part of a broader reopening strategy by which Hardee’s expects to assume ownership and resume operations for more than 40 recently closed locations that were previously independently owned and operated by ARC Burger."

In addition to those locations, Fast Company said Hardee's also plans to reopen more of their previously closed locations. It makes sense. If those spots are still vacant, they can move back in and start up where they left off with the infrastructure already in place.

"We understand the important role these restaurants play in the neighborhoods they serve and are pleased to be bringing Hardee's back to these local communities," Hardee's told Fast Company in the report.

The History of Hardee's

Hardee's, according to the company's official website, got its start back in the 1960s. "Wilber Hardee, opens his first Hardee's restaurant in Greenville, North Carolina, on September 3, 1960," they state on their site. "The one-of-a-kind menu included 15-cent hamburgers, 10-cent fries, and 20-cent milkshakes. By the end of the 60s, there were more than 200 Hardee's locations."

The chain expanded in the 1970s, both the number of locations and menu, including the addition of its "famous, fresh Made From Scratch Biscuits and Roast Beef Sandwich, which continue to be guest favorites today."

Hardee's still serves up its offerings in the Midwest and Southeast. It's great to hear that the longstanding chain is making a comeback.

It hailed from creator, writer, and executive producer Thomas Brandon, who also shared showrunning duties with fellow writer and executive producer Jennifer Yale. Liu served as executive producer. Jet Wilkinson helmed the first two episodes, with Kevin Tancharoen directing episodes three and four, Vincenzo Natali directing episodes five and six, and Nima Nourizadeh directing the last two episodes, respectively.

Here's a synopsis per Peacock:

"This espionage thriller series follows first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst Alexander Hale (Simu Liu), who realizes his brain has been hacked, giving the perpetrators access to everything he sees and hears. Caught between his shadowy agency and the unknown hackers, he must maintain a performance 24/7 to flush out who’s responsible and prove where his allegiance lies."

Variety reports that despite mostly favorable reviews from critics, The Copenhagen Test "failed to find a wide audience." Premiering all eight episodes on Dec. 27, 2025, the series broke into Nielsen's Top 10 Streaming Originals chart for the week of Dec. 29-Jan 4 and totaled 373 million minutes watched. However, it fell out of the top 10 ranking in the weeks that followed.

Both Liu and Barrera are currently on the Great White Way. Liu is starring in Oh, Mary! as Mary's Teacher opposite John Cameron Mitchell. Meanwhile, Barrera stars as Rose DeWitt Bukater in Titaníque opposite John Riddle and Layton Williams.

On Tuesday, Russini announced her resignation from The Athletic as the outlet continues its investigation into the photos of her hanging out with the New England Patriots' head coach.

Eight days ago, photos surfaced of Russini and the two-time Coach of the Year hugging, holding hands and relaxing in a swimming pool at an adults-only hotel in Sedona, Arizona. The photos were taken on March 28.

It's unclear what the future holds for Russini as a sports journalist. But during an interview with Teresa Roca of Page Six, public relations specialist Ryan McCormick provided a blueprint on how Russini could save her career:

"Can Russini’s career recover? Potentially. The problem is that Russini must step away to allow the controversy to noticeably die down, and for public interest to wane, which it is not right now.”

If I was advising Ms. Russini, I would recommend that she start her own podcast or streaming channel. Dianna has 425,000 Twitter followers and 201,000 Instagram followers. She does have a captive audience and this program could potentially take off..I don’t think Ms. Russini will return to a mainstream media outlet for the foreseeable future, but it could happen one day."

Russini joined The Athletic in 2023 after an eight-year stint at ESPN. In her resignation letter, the 43-year-old noted that her contract was set to expire on June 30.

Mike Vrabel Said Their Interaction Was "Completely Innocent"

The photos of Russini and Vrabel sparked controversy because both are married. Vrabel and his wife, Jen, got married in 1999 and have two sons together. Russini tied the knot with Kevin Goldschmidt in 2020. They also have two sons.

After the photos surfaced, Vrabel told Page Six that it was "a completely innocent interaction." In her message to the outlet, Russini said, "The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day."

Before joining ESPN in 2015, Russini worked at NBC. She joined The Athletic in August 2023 and became their top NFL insider.

Vrabel won three Super Bowl rings with the New England Patriots in the 2000s. He coached the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023 before the Patriots hired him as their next HC a year ago.

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Patagonia Long-Sleeved Shop Sticker Pocket Responsibili-Tee, $27 (was $55)

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Why We Love This Deal

Few clothing brands make choosing eco-conscious products easier than Patagonia. You can simultaneously do your part in using less raw material and save some money thanks to the markdown on this recycled shirt, which is strictly made from recycled material.

The Patagonia Long-Sleeved Shop Sticker Pocket Responsibili-Tee is on sale for $27—that’s 51% off the original $55 price tag. This shirt is made with recycled fabrics and ranges in sizes from XS to 2XL with four different colors to pick from, including Talon Gold, Black with Basin Green, Marlow Brown, and Current Blue. They all share the same generous discount, but Talon Gold has the most sizes still in stock.

Patagonia Long-Sleeved Shop Sticker Pocket Responsibili-Tee, $27 (was $55) at Patagonia

What Shoppers Should Know

• Best For: Casual wear, hiking
• Weight: 9 ounces
• Machine Washable: Yes

It’s pretty remarkable that the materials in this shirt were sourced from everything from fabric scraps to recycled bottles. That kind of eco-friendly manufacturing is par for the course with Patagonia, though, and this shirt still delivers on comfort and matches the softness of other tees that strictly use raw materials. Regardless of the origin, this long-sleeved shirt is easy to layer with and is a great find for the spring, as it can add some extra warmth on a hike or serve as the perfect wear for a brisk night on the town.

In terms of care, this shirt is machine washable (preferably on a warmer setting) and retains its shape. The fit is listed as regular, but a few people say that it can vary, so double-check before you buy.

As for price, this is the expected cost for a long-sleeved Shop Sticker Patagonia shirt. The short-sleeved option is currently just $23 at Dick’s Sporting Goods with sizes galore.

Related: Patagonia's Cozy High-Pile Fleece Sweater Is 50% Off

What Shoppers Are Saying

One shopper said that the price and quality of this shirt work in tandem to bring consumers immense value. “For the sale price, you can't beat this quality,” they said.

Another reviewer agreed and said the time Patagonia takes to perfect its products was apparent in this shirt. “There is no arguing about the quality and care that goes into Patagonia products,” they said.

The Patagonia Long-Sleeved Shop Sticker Pocket Responsibili-Tee is under $30. Add it to your cart ASAP and save sustainably.

Shop More Deals

• Patagonia Shop Sticker Short Sleeve T-Shirt, $23 (was $45) at Dick’s Sporting Goods
• Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket, $137 (was $229) at Patagonia
• Patagonia Windshadow Parka, $239 (was $399) at Patagonia

2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the Diabloseries. The original Diablo game was released back in December 1996 on PC and quickly made its way into players' hearts and helped define the entire ARPG genre that we would come to know well today. The Diablo series is focused on an addictive loot grind through randomly generated dungeons.

Players can pick from a variety of classes (Sorcerer, Rogue, and Warrior being the original three classes in the first game) and create builds around certain powers, kill tougher bosses, get better loot, and repeat, always searching for legendary drops.

The original Diablo, according to Metacritic, is currently sitting at an impressive 94 metascore (though there are not very many scores for a game this old). Adrenaline Vault (which is no longer in operation) wrote, "About as close to Hell as you're going to get - whether you believe in it or not. Everything about this game just rules, and it will blow you away. The gameplay is the easiest I've ever come across in an RPG, which is just fantastic."

Diablo's replayability, build variety, tight gameplay, and dark tone have resonated with players for 30 years. Diablo consistently ranks as one of the greatest games ever made and is widely regarded as the title that popularized APRGs.

Game Informer ranked Diablo as the 20th greatest RPG ever made, and its sequel, Diablo 2, as the ninth greatest RPG ever made.

Since the first game, Blizzard has released Diablo 2 (which also got a remaster for modern consoles and PCs back in 2021), Diablo 3, Diablo Immortal, and Diablo 4. The newest expansion to Diablo 4, Lord of Hatred, will be released on April 28, 2026, as part of the 30th anniversary celebration.

In September this year, Blizzard will also be reviving its massive fan event, BlizzCon, which has had inconsistent showings since the COVID-19 Pandemic, but now appears to be back in full force.

If the Lord of Hatred expansion delivers for fans, Diablo might be on the way to claiming its legendary status once again--30 years later.

Northern lights are the result of charged Sun particles colliding with atoms in Earth's atmosphere. This interaction excites oxygen and nitrogen, creating a dazzling display of vivid colors like green, purple, and red.

"Aurora" is derived from the Roman goddess of the same name, who represents the dawn. "Aurora borealis" as a term first burst onto the scene as a description courtesy of French astronomer Pierre Gassendi in 1649. He used said term to recount an "auroral display" visible in France in 1621. Gassendi himself read the descriptor in Galileo Galilei's writings dating back to 1619. In 1828, the term finally entered the English language.

You can catch tonight's spectacle if you live in the following states: Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. The northern lights will be at their strongest in the northernmost regions of the US, though.

You should head outside between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., as that's when the lights will be at their peak. The auroras will reappear tomorrow night and, as mentioned above, for the remainder of the week.

For the best viewing experience, venture out to a location with the least light pollution. You don't need a special camera or equipment to capture the radiant display – your phone will do the trick. Just make sure to look up.

In a newly released video shared to her Instagram, Koch gives fans a "behind-the-scenes" look at Flight Day 8—a day she describes as the moment the crew truly found their "Integrity groove."

Dinner and Music on the Integrity Spacecraft

The footage, which Koch suggests watching with the sound on, features the crew floating through the Orion capsule while preparing one of their final dinners in deep space. Far from the sterile, high-tension environment often depicted in films, the Integrity cabin is filled with music and camaraderie.

View this post on Instagram

"This day was so fun and productive because we had gotten our groove down," Koch shared in the caption. The video highlights a "busy full day" of testing systems with Mission Control, balanced by the crew's personalized playlist. NASA famously played Chappell Roan as a wake-up call for the crew earlier in the mission, and the "evening vibes" in the capsule reflect that same high-energy, modern spirit.

Artemis II's Final Connection to Earth

Perhaps the most poignant part of Koch’s update was the mention of the crew’s final emails. Flight Day 8 served as the last window for the astronauts to communicate with their families before the spacecraft began its high-speed descent toward the Pacific.

"It was our last chance to send emails out to loved ones that we could get a reply from before packing for splashdown," Koch noted.

The video has quickly become a standout piece of media from the mission, humanizing the four explorers who just became the first humans to see the far side of the moon in over 50 years.

"NWS Storm Survey has confirmed an EF1 tornado southwest of Endeavor (southwest Marquette County). Brief tornado had a 50 yard wide path," the National Weather Service's Milwaukee/Sullivan office wrote on April 15.

"NWS Storm Survey has confirmed an EF2 tornado in the Town of Lisbon (northern Waukesha County, just north of Sussex)," the NWS added. "Maximum winds 120 MPH, path length 3.2 miles and duration of 6 minutes. Storm Survey will head to East Troy next, then to areas nearby to assess damage there."

In Union Center, Wisconsin, the tornado was even stronger. "An EF3 touched down west of Union Center at around 6 p.m. Tuesday, bringing significant damage to homes in its path," wrote Channel 3000. "Peak winds were estimated at 140 mph."

My photo of the home leveled west of Union Center, WI #wiwx https://t.co/GQebGZ0K1r pic.twitter.com/KToKglU8gQ

— Egan Young (@YoungWx07) April 15, 2026

The National Weather Service's Milwaukee/Sullivan office warns that there could be "another potential for severe storms" on Friday, April 17. The office also warned of the potential for more "rain "heavy rainfall" and flooding on Wednesday, April 15. "Some rivers may reach flood stage," NWS reported.

There Is a Chance of Another Wisconsin Tornado

Another day, another severe weather risk, though not as high end as Tuesday. The extent of the risk depends boundary placement. The further north the boundary moves, prepare for locally damaging wind gusts, hail to the size of quarters and perhaps a tornado. #wiwx pic.twitter.com/tchsGZx3CO

— NWS Milwaukee (@NWSMilwaukee) April 15, 2026

Will the April 15 weather produce another tornado? Possibly.

"Another day, another severe weather risk, though not as high end as Tuesday. The extent of the risk depends boundary placement. The further north the boundary moves, prepare for locally damaging wind gusts, hail to the size of quarters and perhaps a tornado," wrote NWS.

Wisconsin Tornado Videos Showed Damage to a Church in Sussex

Daylight reveals the scope of severe storm damage to a church, homes and businesses in Sussex after a possible tornado late Tuesday. @ChopperMatt has an exclusive look from above @WISN12News pic.twitter.com/HOhq75yKB4

— Gerron Jordan (@GerronJordan) April 15, 2026

Videos showed damage to the roof of a church in Sussex, Wisconsin, which is a community located in Waukesha County in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Video from viewer, Roberta, possibly showing tornado in Sussex tonight. #wiwx @tmj4 pic.twitter.com/v4Pf6GjNR3

— SUSAN KIM (@SusanKim4) April 15, 2026

WTMJ-TV anchor Susan Kim shared a viewer's video that may have captured the Sussex tornado.

Possibly the tornado in Sussex (could have been a rain curtain as well where the tornado was wrapped). This was a little after 6:30pm Tuesday from Mike P. pic.twitter.com/PWg9nxLhcu

— Tom Wachs, CBM (@Tom_Wachs) April 15, 2026

So I was 1 mile away from this tornado in Sussex pic.twitter.com/VldGKj3OO4

— Ali (@devlin0326) April 15, 2026

Other videos on social media showed the severe storm.

Wisconsin Sees 23 Tornadoes Per Year on Average, According to The National Weather Service

According to the National Weather Service, "Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes per year, with most tornadoes occurring in the 3 to 9 p.m. time-frame, particularly between 6 to 7 p.m. The peak tornado months in Wisconsin is May through August, with June having the highest number of documented tornadoes."

A record-setting 62 tornadoes "occurred in 2005, followed by 46 in 2010. In 2025, Wisconsin had 39 tornadoes, including 2 EF-Unknowns, 20 EF-0s, 13 EF-1s and 4 EF-2s. The "average" Wisconsin tornado has a 7 to 8 minute duration, a path length of about 4 to 5 miles, and a damage width of about 120 yards," according to NWS.

"Another hazard of the warm-season is powerful, straight-line thunderstorm winds that can peak at 75 to 150 mph. Every year Wisconsin will get a few storms that generate hurricane-force winds of at least 75 to 100 mph," the NWS noted. "Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued for these wind events, rather than Tornado Warnings. The bottom line is - if you don’t feel safe, head for a sturdy shelter, go the lowest level of the building, and get away from windows and exterior walls."

Other warm-season hazards "include large hail stones that can result in damage in the millions of dollars, localized flash floods or widespread river and lowland flooding, lightning, and excessive heat," the National Weather Service noted.

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Dr. Martens 1460 Made in England Padded Panel Lace Up Boots, $160 (was $280)

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Why We Love This Deal

I highly recommend you drop what you’re doing and take a cruise through Dr. Martens' “Last Chance” section—it’s a treasure trove of deals on great boots. The esteemed shoe brand recently posted discounts of 30% or more on coveted classics like the Made in England 1460 lace-up boots and the 2976 Chelsea boots, but this deal on a paneled version of the 1460 is a clear standout.

Dr. Martens’ 1460 Made in England Padded Panel Lace Up Boots are on sale for $160, a 43% discount from their normal price of $280. As a Made in England pair, these boots offer Dr. Martens’ best-quality craftsmanship and materials, and their unique paneled upper design sets them apart from the rest of the brand’s lineup. $160 is a killer deal for this particular 1460; major retailers don’t carry this model, and I couldn’t find them cheaper anywhere else. If you're not into the paneling, that's okay—there's a solid brown waxed 1460 boot on sale for $15 more that's very similar.

Dr. Martens 1460 Made in England Padded Panel Lace Up Boots, $160 (was $280) at Dr. Martens

What Shoppers Should Know

• Colorways Available: 2
• Sizes Available: 6-14
• Upper: Leather, cotton, suede
• Sole: PVC
• Eyelets: 8

The 1460 Padded Panel Lace Up Boots are part of Dr. Martens’ Made in England collection—an upper echelon of models that are produced in its Wollaston factory using traditional techniques. If you care about quality craftsmanship and premium materials, you want Made in England boots. 

The 1460 is a classic eight-eyelet boot, but this particular model is really something special: It features cutouts on the leather upper that are covered with Ventile, a 100% cotton fabric that’s super durable and weather-resistant. In addition, the boot has a padded ankle collar trimmed in genuine suede for a comfortable fit against your leg, and the rest of the upper is made from Dockyard leather, which boasts a smooth, waxy finish.

The upper is paired with a classic PVC lugged outsole that’s attached with the brand’s iconic bright yellow Goodyear welt stitching and a heat-seal treatment for extra longevity and moisture resistance. An “Airwair” heel loop is the finishing touch (and another Docs hallmark). Overall, these 1460s are a rugged, stylish pair of boots that are perfect for staying comfortable and looking good in unpredictable spring weather. You can pair them with all kinds of casual outfits—jeans and chinos especially.

Related: Huckberry's 'Extremely Comfortable' Chelsea Boots Are Nearly 50% Off

What Shoppers Are Saying

First off, shoppers really loved the paneled design of these 1460s: “The contrasting colors and materials really make them stand out,” said one. But aesthetics aren’t the only reason to buy ‘em. 

Shoppers also raved about their craftsmanship, durability, and high-quality materials (exactly what you’d expect from a top-tier Made in England pair). Reviewers called them “beautifully crafted” and loved their “sturdy” feel and build—you can expect to get plenty of wear out of these boots, and they’ll look great every step of the way.

Dr. Martens is a tried-and-true source for stylish, built-to-last boots, and at 43% off, these Made in England 1460 Padded Panel boots might be the best deal on Docs anywhere online. That means they won’t stay in stock long—snag your pair today before your size sells out.

Shop More Deals

• Dr. Martens 1460 Made in England Wax Commander Lace Up Boots, $175 (was $260) at Dr. Martens
• Dr. Martens 1460 Zip Arcadia Rub Off Leather Boots, $120 (was $170) at Dr. Martens
• Dr. Martens 2976 Made in England Wax Commander Chelsea Boots, $175 (was $260) at Dr. Martens

The much more documented "Zodiac Killer" was known for stalking and attacking victims in lovers' lane areas. What many don't know, however, is that there was another unidentified killer who committed such crimes more than two decades earlier.

Over a 10-week period in 1946, a serial killer dubbed "The Phantom Killer" attacked eight innocent people in the region of Texarkana, a twin city on the Arkansas-Texas border. Eighty years later, the crimes, known as the "Texarkana Moonlight Murders", officially remain unsolved.

The first victims, 25-year-old Jimmy Hollis and 19-year-old Mary Jeanne Larey, survived attacks at a lovers' lane on Feb. 22. On March 24, 29-year-old Richard Griffin and 17-year-old Polly Ann Moore were found shot to death at a lovers' lane in Bowie County, Texas.

Unfortunately, authorities were unable to catch the killer. Thus, his reign of terror was far from over.

April 14: The Phantom Killer's Final Double Murder

On Apr. 14, the masked killer would commit his second double murder. This time, he claimed the lives of 16-year-old Paul Martin and 15-year-old Betty Jo Booker, who were killed at another secluded location in Spring Lake Park.

Martin had picked Booker up from a concert performance. Both had been shot multiple times, and their bodies were found nearly two miles apart. Like the previous attacks, the killer left no significant evidence behind. Authorities had little to go on, and the unknown killer would strike one last time 19 days later.

On May 3, Virgil Starks was shot to death through a window at his home off Highway 67 East. His wife, Katie, was shot twice in the face. Miraculously, she survived and recovered from her gruesome injuries.

Youell Swinney was the prime suspect in the murders. Though plenty of circumstantial evidence points to him, police never gathered enough to charge him. He died in Dallas at the age of 77 in 1994.

Supergirl, which is undoubtedly the biggest project outside of 2025’s Superman since James Gunn and Peter Safran’s tenures began as co-heads of DC Studios in 2022, releases in theaters on June 26. There isn’t just a large financial investment involved, but the film starring Milly Alcock is a foundational piece for the DC Universe that Gunn and Safran are trying to build.

#Supergirl lands in theaters and @IMAX June 26. pic.twitter.com/N7BYoszfl0

— Supergirl (@supergirl) March 31, 2026

DC Studios does have one other movie releasing in 2026 that has not had much talk, as there has been no promotion released to this point. Releasing this October will be Clayface, an origin movie of the lesser-known Batman villain for general audiences.

The film stars Tom Rhys Harries, is directed by James Watkins, with a script from the acclaimed Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep) and Hossein Amini.

Flanagan has said that this story is heavily inspired by the monumental two-part episode of Batman: The Animated Series, “Feat of Clay,” written by Marv Wolfman, Michael Reaves and Martin Pasko. The episode follows disfigured actor Matt Hagen, who becomes addicted to a shapeshifting chemical controlled by the mob that allows him to look like his previous self so he can continue to act. Forced into crime to be able to have access to the drug, Hagen overdoses and becomes the tragic monster known as Clayface.

This episode of Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995) was animated by Tokyo Movie Shinsha, the studio behind Akira.

No wonder this scene feels so close to Tetsuo’s transformation. pic.twitter.com/ZZhxsT1U1M

— cinesthetic. (@TheCinesthetic) April 14, 2026

Tuesday night, the first trailer for the film was shown to the crowd at CinemaCon, and many online have said that they were shocked at what they saw.

Gunn had previously stated that the origin story would be a dark, body-horror film, but logical belief is that it would only go so far for a film taking place in a superhero universe. Viewers present for the trailer got a taste of how that assessment may have been very wrong.

CLAYFACE is actually committing to the comic book movie as body horror bit. Some images are outright disgusting and highly disturbing, with the name of the game here being an all-encompassing psychological, cringe-inducing experience. Pleasantly surprised. #CinemaCon2026

— James Preston Poole @ CinemaCon 2026 (@JamesPPoole) April 15, 2026

Here is the full summary of what was shown by media personality Brandon Davis of The Brandon Davis Show:

“The footage sees Matt Hagen’s face wrapped in hospital,” Davis posted on X. “His eyes and skin are red. He looks like he’s grimly in pain and also emotionally devastated. It’s intercut with himself pre-accident, as if he’s looking at himself in the hospital bed in horror. Gruesome flashes show his lips starting to get stuck together. We see shadows of his body forming hammers for hands and fighting. People are looking horrified and screaming in flashes. It’s set to a slower, intentionally creepy version of ‘Do You Realize??’ by Flaming Lips when it’s attached to this footage. This is the same song used for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’s first teaser. Matt lays in a bathtub with his face uncovered. We see his face, and he wipes it away ... there’s nothing there ... no face. Creepy.”

Clayface will be the third theatrical release from DC Studios, hitting theaters Oct. 23, 2026.

That control over the entertainment industry has led many fans to complain about high prices and limited availability for tickets. Ticketmaster has also utilized demand-based pricing, making some tickets far higher than their original face value after the demand for seats was determined by the initial online queue.

In 2024, the United States Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against both companies, alleging that their 2010 merger created an illegal monopoly - harming both customers and performers.

Many prominent artists and bands have voiced concerns over the ticketing process, including Pearl Jam, Taylor Swift, Green Day, Billie Eilish and Zach Bryan.

Best New Artist Grammy winner Olivia Dean forced Ticketmaster to issue refunds to her fans last year, as the company reimbursed fees and extra payments over face value made to resellers.

Jury Makes Decision Against Monopolization

On Wednesday, a jury deliberating on the case came to a decision, and it's one that fans and artists will welcome with open arms. A New York jury found that Live Nation and Ticketmaster violated national and state antitrust laws through their merger and subsequent business practices.

🚨BREAKING: I just secured victory against Live Nation in court to end its illegal monopolization and make live events more affordable. pic.twitter.com/h2FryaQ2SP

— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) April 15, 2026

Breaking news: New York jury finds Ticketmaster/Live Nation to be an anticompetitive monopoly.

FINALLY. A jury says the truth about what nearly everyone in Washington keeps denying.

Now we need remedies that help fans & lower prices, unlike DOJ meaningless “settlement.”

— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) April 15, 2026

"We filed this case in 2024 because Live Nation and Ticketmaster used their dominance to lock out and intimidate rivals and drive up costs," said former DOJ antitrust official and current Cal law professor Doha Mekki.

"Today's decision affirms that even the most powerful companies are not above the law – and it sends a strong signal that lawyers and citizens have the power to take on monopolies even when the federal government falls down on its obligation to do so."

Wednesday's verdict was reached after a surprise settlement in March, coming just one week after the start of the trial. Several states kept the case going, leading to Wednesday's decision and the discovery of more information over the course of the trial.

How Much Did Ticketmaster Overcharge?

According to the New York Times, the jury found that Ticketmaster had overcharged customers by nearly $2 on the face value of each ticket sold, profiting from anti-competitive business practices for over a decade.

During the court proceedings, internal messages from Live Nation employees were revealed. In those messages, employees bragged about “outrageous" prices and "robbing [customers] blind."

Judge Arun Subramanian, who has overseen the case since the beginning, will determine the next steps. The states involved in the suit have requested the reimbursement of monetary damages to consumers, while the original complaint from the Department of Justice sought the divestiture of Live Nation and Ticketmaster.

Consumers won't immediately see money return to their accounts after this verdict, but it is a victory in the battle against monopolization in the entertainment industry. We'll see what happens over the next few weeks and months as Live Nation and Ticketmaster respond to the overwhelming support for Wednesday's verdict.

Created by Keenen Ivory Wayans, In Living Color won a Primetime Emmy in 1990 for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series. Some of the program's most iconic skits are still preserved online, even if the full series is not available for streaming on any major services.

A loaded cast

In addition to the several members of the Wayans family--Keenen Ivory, Damon, Shawn, Kim and Marlon--"In Living Color" also served as a jumping off point for a number of other prominent names.

Over the years, the cast included stars such as:

• Kim Coles
• Tommy Davidson
• Jim Carrey
• David Alan Grier
• Kelly Coffield
• Jamie Foxx
• DJ Twist
• T'Keyah Crystal Keyman
• Steve Park
• Alexandra Wentworth

Also, the show's in-house dance troupe, the famous "Fly Girls," were choreographed by Rosie Perez, and at different points featured Carrie Ann Inaba, Jennifer Lopez, Laurie Ann Gibson and Lisa Joann Thompson, among other dancers.

Love Super Bowl halftime shows? Thank 'In Living Color'

In January 1992, FOX elected to run an episode of In Living Color directly against the Super Bowl XXVI halftime show on CBS. The move was bold, the results astounding.

"The episode pulled in over 20 million viewers, causing a significant dip in CBS's Super Bowl viewership, proving audiences wanted real entertainment during halftime," said Yahoo Sports. "The NFL took notice. Worried about losing viewers, they knew they had to step it up."

The following year, the NFL enlisted the King of Pop, Michael Jackson himself, to headline the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show in Pasadena, and the rest is history. The modern tradition of elaborate, star-studded halftime performances for the NFL's biggest game is a direct result of In Living Color's influence.

Here's a synopsis per CBS:

"Legendary NCIS Agent Sam Hanna (LL COOL J) returns to his hometown of New York City to their field office, partnering with a roguish agent (Scott Caan) and helping lead a new team as they are tasked with high-stakes missions to defend one of the most vital cities and ports in the world."

LL Cool J burst onto the NCIS scene in 2009, debuting in Season 6 of the flagship series on April 28 before starring in NCIS: Los Angeles opposite Chris O'Donnell later that year. The ensemble cast included Medalion Rahimi, Linda Hunt, Daniela Ruah, Eric Christian Olsen, Barrett Foa, and Renée Felice Smith. The show ran for 14 seasons before bowing out on May 22, 2023. LL Cool J went on to headline the short-lived NCIS: Hawai'i with Vanessa Lachey, which was canceled in 2024. He has also recurred in the original series, with his next appearances slated for April 21 and April 28 in the current season.

Byron Balasco will serve as the showrunner of NCIS: New York. R. Scott Gemmill, the creator of The Pitt and the showrunner for NCIS: Los Angeles, will helm the pilot episode. The new series will join NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and NCIS: Sydney in CBS's lineup.

NCIS: New York will air on Tuesday nights this fall at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. The episodes will also be available to stream on Paramount+.

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Bulova Marine Star Series B Stainless Steel 6-Hand Chronograph Watch, $268 (Normally $550)

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Why We Love This Deal

We’ve spotted a string of primo watch deals lately from Citizen, G-Shock, and other top watch brands, but we just learned about one deal on a highly sought-after Bulova watch that appears to be on another level entirely. One of the brand's classy Series B Marine Star watches recently had its price slashed to under $300. 

Bulova’s Marine Star Series B Stainless Steel 6-Hand Chronograph (model 96B256) is on sale for $268 over at Walmart. Although the retailer lists that as a 15% discount, this watch normally retails for $550, which makes the actual markdown a massive 51% drop. That easily beats the price at retailers like Macy’s ($385) and Kohl’s ($440), but Walmart tends to sell out of watches like this quickly. If it goes out of stock, Amazon also has a great deal on it at $281. 

Bulova Marine Star Series B Stainless Steel 6-Hand Chronograph Watch, $268 (Normally $550) at Walmart

What Shoppers Should Know

• Movement: Quartz
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Case Size: 43mm
• Lens: Mineral crystal
• Water Resistance Rating: 100 meters

This model is part of Bulova’s Marine Star collection, a grouping of styles that are inspired by classic dive watches. Accordingly, all Marine Star watches feature at least a 100-meter water-resistance rating, so you can swim with them without causing issues. 

With its reliable quartz movement, the Marine Star Series B is a perfect daily driver watch, but its 44mm stainless steel case and navy blue dial give it a really handsome aesthetic that dresses up well (it’ll look great with a dark blue suit). The watch features a chronograph complication, so you can use it like a stopwatch via the pushers on the side of the case, and the subdials and large second hand help you track elapsed time. A date window at 4:30 helps you track your calendar, too. 

In addition to its beautiful navy blue color, the dial showcases bright white hands and markers (they’ll glow in the dark for easier nighttime legibility), and the dial is topped with hardy mineral crystal glass. A matching stainless steel bracelet seals the deal and gives this watch an upscale, dressy aesthetic.

Related: Citizen's 'Handsome' Solar-Powered Titanium Watch Is Nearly 50% Off

What Shoppers Are Saying

Shoppers at both Walmart and Amazon have great things to report about the Marine Star Series B. Amazon shoppers couldn’t stop raving about its handsome aesthetic, calling the watch “classy” and “so darn sexy.” Other shoppers appreciated its “solid build quality,” and one Walmart shopper said its combination of rock-solid performance and beautiful design means it “could be an heirloom.” That’s right—this is the kind of well-built watch you can spend a lifetime with and then pass on to the next generation.

We’ve seen on-sale men’s watches sell out lightning fast at Walmart, so don’t snooze on this incredible 51% discount on the Bulova Marine Star Series B. With its stylish design, accurate movement, and surprisingly affordable price tag, you won’t regret adding this timepiece to your collection. 

Shop More Deals

• Casio MRW200H Series, $28 (was $40) on Amazon
• Bulova Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Stainless Steel 3-Hand Quartz Watch, $255 (was $425) on Amazon
• Bulova Archive Series Lunar Pilot 6-Hand Chronograph, $314 (was $695) on Amazon

"Most standardized labs use reference ranges that are based on averages from the general population, and the average person isn’t very healthy," says Daniel Ghiyam, MD, of MedPodLA. "That means results that fall within the 'normal' range can still be borderline low or even concerning."

For example, vitamin D levels above 20 ng/mL are often considered sufficient for bone health, but that doesn’t mean they’re optimal. Higher levels, typically in the 40 to 80 range, have been linked to better immune function and a lower risk of certain diseases.

Related: Considering Testosterone Therapy? We Break Down the Entire Process From Diagnosis to Monitoring

The same idea applies to blood sugar. A level of 99 is considered normal, but that sits right on the edge of insulin resistance. When your body stops responding well to insulin, it has to produce more to keep blood sugar under control. Over time, this can push levels into the 100 and above range. Chronically high blood sugar is linked to heart disease and other metabolic issues.

"With things like kidney or liver function, it’s also important to track trends over time," Ghiyam says. "Even if results are still in the normal range, a steady decline can be a warning sign. If issues like reduced kidney function aren’t caught early, they can eventually lead to irreversible damage and even require dialysis."

Overall, lab work shouldn’t be treated as a simple pass or fail test. Numbers that fall within the "normal" range can still leave room for improvement, especially if your goal is longevity rather than just avoiding disease.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition.

Related: This Forgotten Supplement Boosts Fat Loss and Improves Post-Workout Recovery, According to a Pharmacist

Convenience stores are an important part of the economy. According to research from the NACS/NIQ Convenience Industry Store Count, the U.S. had more than 151,000 convenience stores as of early 2026. It's also a booming small business, with 63% of stores owned by companies that have 10 or less locations.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, with the U.S. population at an estimated 343 million, there's one convenience store for every 2,257 people in the country, NACS/NIO reports.

Beloved Convenience Store Shuttering Hundreds of Locations Across the United States By the End of the Fiscal Year

Longtime convenience store chain 7-Eleven plans to close 645 locations in North America by the end of February 2027, during its fiscal year, according to documents released by the chain's parent company, Seven & I Holding.

The company is expected to finish the closures by the end of the company's current fiscal year, which closes out on Feb. 28, 2027. But, there's a silver lining, because even though 7-Eleven is closing 645 locations, it's also opening more than 200 across North America during that same time period.

Seven & I Holding didn't name the stores that will be closed but did say that some locations will be converted to "wholesale fuel stores."  According to a report from C-Store Dive, the closures mark the fifth consecutive year 7-Eleven has closed more locations than it’s opened.

Beloved Store Is Known for Its Iconic Slurpee Drinks

While 7-Eleven is known as a one-stop shop for a quick bite to eat, snack or drink, the convenience store is best known for its iconic 7-Eleven Slurpee. The sweet beverage combines the taste of your favorite soda with crushed ice, making it a ice-cold, sweet treat during the summer months or even year round.

Director of proprietary beverage brands Rusty Smith told Eater magazine in 2016 that by the 1960s, there were more than 1,000 7-Eleven stores across North America, and that's when demand for frozen drinks surged.

"Obviously ice cream has always been popular, but frozen beverages have a natural affinity with kids," Smith told the outlet. "In the early years, 7-Eleven was known for penny candy and video games, and we wanted to have something proprietary that would get kids in our stores."

The store's official website explains that the drink was created by Omar Knedliks, when the soda fountain at his restaurant broke. "He stashed some soda pop in the freezer and had the idea to turn frozen soda into a beverage," the company states. "He used parts from an automobile air conditioner to build a simple frozen beverage machine."

Today, Slurpee beverages are a celebrated beverage of millions and even a pop culture icon. Flavors change for every holiday and season, and there's no telling what you'll find any given day at the local Slurpee machine. However, some of the standard favorites are simply Wild Cherry, Blue Raspberry and Coca-Cola.

@bleacherreport

Tyrese Haliburton says he’s lost part of his eye brow and has been dealing with nerve pain for 2 month due to shingles (Via @Pacers) #nba #nbabasketball #basketball #haliburton

♬ original sound - bleacherreport

To learn more, Men’s Journal spoke Samantha Picking, PharmD, Senior Director of Immunizations at Walgreens, to discuss this overlooked men’s health risk. 

Shingles used to be considered a disease of older men; what has changed? Dr. Picking said “Although 50 is the age when men start to lose their peak immune function, shingles can be triggered at younger ages.”

What is Shingles?

For starters, shingles is the reactivation of the virus that causes chicken pox. It’s triggered by illness, when your immune system is taxed, and stress. Many people blame stress for shingles in their young adult lives.

It usually appears on one side of the body with itchy bumps that become very painful. If caught within 72 hours of the symptoms first appearing, your doctor can give you an antiviral medication to lessen symptoms.

Haliburton has said that he’s on a lot of medications, which cause side effects like weight gain, to combat the itchy and painful condition. "My eye is swollen from itching it," he said to Bleacher Report. The nerve pain can last the longest, even after the virus has passed through the system. "I've had nerve pain for two months."

"I have good and bad days, but mostly bad," he added.

One in three people in the U.S. will get shingles during their lifetime, according to the CDC. Fewer than 100 people die from this virus each year.

Preventing Shingles

“Lifestyle changes like improving your diet, getting enough rest, and addressing stress can help,” Dr. Picking said, “But the shingles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent it.”

Who Can Get the Vaccine?

It’s not only for people age 50 and up. If you are between 19 to 49 years old and you have a condition that affects your immune system, you may be eligible for this vaccine. You can get it at your local pharmacy and it should be covered by your insurance. It comes in two doses that are given a few weeks apart, and while you might have a sore arm for a day or two, it’s nothing compared to the misery of shingles.

The shingles vaccine has other benefits. It's been shown to lower dementia risk, which is a concern for many as they age.

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Wuben PL01 Pen Light, $20 (was $25)

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Why We Love This Deal

Diffused light isn’t that hard to come by; it's powerful, concentrated light that's the issue. That doesn’t mean obtaining a good flashlight has to be expensive, though. For example, Amazon is selling a pen flashlight with 650 lumens of concentrated brightness for just $20.

The Wuben PL01 Pen Light is on sale for $20 for Amazon Prime members, $5 off the original $25 price tag. This item boasts over 400 five-star ratings on Amazon and comes in two colors—green and black—that share the same discount. Even if you don’t have a Prime account or choose not to sign up for a free 30-day trial, this item will still cost just a reasonable $25, which is more than worthwhile if you use a flashlight most days.

Wuben PL01 Pen Light, $20 (was $25) on Amazon

What Shoppers Should Know

• Light Source: LED
• Maximum Lumens: 650
• Waterproof: Yes
• Runtime: 125 hours
• Batteries Included: No
• Pocket Clip: Yes

Almost everybody has a smartphone nowadays, and most models come with built-in flashlights. So why not just use those instead of a pen flashlight? Well, besides the diffused light dilemma, this pen light can produce up to 650 lumens. In comparison, the brightest flashlights iPhones have ever seen have been said to put out a max of 60 lumens. At over 10 times the amount of power, this pen light is more powerful than a phone and great for jobs that require work in narrow spaces.

Moreover, this item has a whopping 125 hours of runtime. I have one of the newer iPhone models, and I know for a fact that it doesn’t last that long, especially when you’re shining a light. So, this unique flashlight has plenty of upside that more basic lights lack.

As far as price, this is a fair one for such a powerful pen light. There are more affordable options, such as this light from Energizer, yet they don’t have the light output that this Wuben model does.

Related: Here's Why Amazon's $6 Pocket Knife Is Outselling Leading Brands

What Shoppers Are Saying

Whether you’re on an outdoor adventure or stuck on the side of the road, this pen will help in a pinch. “Very bright, easy to use,” one shopper began. “Excellent for camping, walking, and emergencies. Very durable and has an option to use regular batteries.”

Another reviewer said it’s their absolute favorite flashlight. “Great pocket flashlight, the best I’ve owned,” they raved. “When you turn it off, it remembers the last brightness setting for you; you do not need to toggle through all the options every time you want to turn it on.”

The Wuben PL01 Pen Light is just $20 for Prime members. Save with the dazzling deal today before it goes dark.

Shop More Deals

• Energizer X-400 Pen light, $15 (was $17) on Amazon
• Lepro LED Pen Flashlights, $12 (was $15) on Amazon
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In 2026, some have argued that the spirit of youth sports has been lost to the allure of big business. Parents are spending thousands to put their children in top sports programs around the United States, and youth sports has exploded as an industry following the emergence of private equity.

Those who wish for a simpler time argue that the culture around youth sports has also changed, with players often needing to establish a social media presence at a young age to stand out in college recruiting.

All of the discussions in youth sports came to a head recently when one player's home run celebration went viral on social media.

Youth Player Celebrates Home Run With Props

A player in a youth baseball game hit a home run, stared at the ball as it flew, and then threw his bat on the ground before running the bases. An on-field cameraman followed him around the bases, making the scene look more like an MLB broadcast than a Little League game.

After reaching home plate, the player dunked a toy basketball in a mini hoop held by one of his coaches.

Here we go again. Another over the top celebration at 12u. If you think this is good for baseball, you are the problem.

Bat almost hits him in the face after the spike, then all the "look at me" antics, and you gotta love the cameraman on the field running with the kid.

What… pic.twitter.com/iItVdR5kLn

— Zak Blair (@coachzblair10) April 15, 2026

Users on social media reacted to the clip, and the responses have been varied.

Social Media Reacts to Viral Baseball Celebration

"Here we go again. Another over the top celebration at 12u. If you think this is good for baseball, you are the problem," said one youth coach.

"Call me a boomer... this is really sad," said one response. "When did doing something good stop being enough? Hit the ball, run the bases, high five your teammates, and keep playing."

"The coaches tolerate and encourage this crap. One of them is actually holding the hoop for the kid to dunk on setting the poor example," said radio host Mark Zinno, shifting the blame to the adults.

"Show off culture is ruining sports in general and baseball specifically," said another parent. "I blame major league baseball's eagerness to court the casual fan and parents of little league players for wanting their precious little baby to be the hero."

"He’s wearing a GoPro on his helmet. It’s all a drama now, culture is out of control! Not enough coaches putting an end to it as soon as it happens and that’s why it spirals to this," said one response.

Some fans and commenters offered a different perspective, like one responder who said "I’ll be the problem. It’s a kids game let them have fun."

"I see absolutely nothing wrong with this. God forbid some kids have fun," said another reply.

The debate on what constitutes as an appropriate celebration is sure to continue, even at the professional level. Baseball's unwritten rules are changing by the day, and those changes are being felt at all levels of the game.

We'll see if the outrage from groups of parents and concerned onlookers changes the culture around youth sports, or if the games kids grew up playing will begin to look even more like their professional counterparts.

All that being said, the “In da Club” rapper has also built a reputation as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. He arguably helped lift the Starz network to new heights, executive-producing Power and all of its subsequent spinoffs, BMF, and the wildly explosive Diddy documentary on Netflix, Sean Combs: The Reckoning. Well, it looks like he’s adding another series to his producing resume, as he sets his eyes on a hip-hop legal drama. 

Can 50 Cent’s New Legal Drama Rival the 'Power' Universe?

50 Cent recently took to Instagram and shared with his followers a concept clip of a show he is again executive-producing. The new drama series is a legal drama based on Atlanta-area criminal defense attorney, Drew Findling. Nicknamed the “Billion Dollar Lawyer,” the State Bar of Georgia reports that Findling has represented rappers Cardi B, Lil Baby, Offset, Quavo, Glorilla, Gucci Mane, Lil Durk, Lil Nas X, and Rod Wave, just to name a few. It’s his hip-hop clientele that appears to be the inspiration for 50 Cent’s new series. 

Unfortunately, there’s not much else known about the drama. There’s no casting news, no premiere date, or even a verified network or streaming service where the show will air. However, it looks like the show may tentatively be called Billion Dollar Lawyer, and according to 50 Cent, there was a bidding war over it. Check out the post in question below. 

View this post on Instagram

With all that being said, it's definitely too early to determine whether or not the new show will be able to stand against all of the dramas in the Power universe. However, it should prove rather interesting to see a 50 Cent show where presumably hip-hop and not drug culture is at the center.

Related: NBA to Review Lamelo Ball Tripping Bam Adebayo, But It’s too Little too Late

Over 150 temperature records are projected to be shattered between now and Saturday, with Atlanta, Nashville, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., all expected to hit 90 degrees for the first time this year on Wednesday.

Two regions to see 'hazardous' conditions

All of the major cities listed above are in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic or Southeast regions.

The latter two areas will continue to see "hazardous heat" over the next few days, says the National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Prediction Center.

"Hazardous heat is forecast to continue in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast over the next couple of days," the Prediction Center said on X/Twitter. "Several daily temperature records are expected to be tied or broken, particularly today. This heat will be hazardous for vulnerable populations and those without proper cooling."

Hazardous heat is forecast to continue in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast over the next couple of days. Several daily temperature records are expected to be tied or broken, particularly today. This heat will be hazardous for vulnerable populations and those without proper cooling. pic.twitter.com/YKhBFVCCGB

— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) April 15, 2026

Several records already broken Wednesday

According to the NWS, via the @IEMBot_OKX account on X/Twitter, several locations in the Northeast have already set or equaled record high temperatures for April 15.

Central Park and LaGuardia Airport in New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey have already broken today's temperature record, with Bridgeport Sikorsky Airport in Connecticut tying its previous high mark.

How to beat the heat

Okay, it may be impossible to defeat Mother Nature and the sun, but there are definitely more than a few tips to remember when dealing with excessive heat.

Ready.gov recommends preparing your house for the hot weather by checking insulation and making sure your air conditioning is working properly, among other steps.

Additionally, in the middle of a heat wave, follow these guidelines.

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home find a cooling center.
• Take cool showers or baths.

• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face. 
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid high-energy activities or outdoor work during midday heat if possible.
• Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Consider pet safety. If your pets are outside make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.
• Heat waves may cause you to lose power. Visit Power Outages to learn how to stay safe.

As far as maintaining your workout routine, Men's Journal has five expert tips for staying in shape in the heat.

1. Time Your Workouts Accordingly
2. Stay Properly Hydrated
3. Know When to Move Indoors
4. Eat for Hydration
5. Protect Your Skin

To read more from Men's Journal on the subject, click here.

According to Rolling Stone, that oversight has now been corrected, and if you check the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame website, you'll see the following names listed for Oasis: Gem Archer, Paul Arthurs, Andy Bell, Liam Gallagher, Noel Gallagher, Tony McCarroll, Paul McGuigan, and Alan White.

A few fun facts here: Andy Bell was, and perhaps is, just as famous for his bands Ride and Hurricane #1. Meanwhile, Gem Archer was in Heavy Stereo before joining Oasis in the year 2000. Both of those guys are correctly on this list, but interestingly, none of the three drummers who played with the band after 2005 are on here. Should they be?

All 5 Oasis Drummers, Explained

From 1991 to 2025, Oasis has actually had five drummers. Obviously, there's a gap from 2009 to 2025, because the band was split up at that point, but even before they were signed, Oasis existed in 1991. That's when the band was called The Rain, and the drummer was Tony McCarroll. McCarroll played on the first Oasis record, 1994's Definitely Maybe, and was fired by 1995.

Enter Alan White, who stayed with the band through a massive shakeup in the year 2000, when founding members Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs and Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan left the band. Arthurs and McGuigan were replaced by Gem Archer and Andy Bell, starting with the Standing on the Shoulder of Giants tour.

By 2004, however, Alan White left the band and was replaced by the legendary Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr. Startkey was, in a sense, a touring musician, but was billed as the band's primary drummer until the release of their final album, Dig Out Your Soul. At that point, in 2008, Chris Sharrock became the Oasis drummer and was their final drummer until the break-up in 2009. Sharrock later played with Liam's post-Oasis band Beady Eye as well as Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds.

For the 2025 reunion tour, Joey Waronker joined the band as the touring drummer.

So, because Starkey, Sharrock, and Waronker weren't part of the recording of Oasis albums, that's probably why they're not part of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Having said that, Starkey was a huge part of the Oasis comeback in the early aughts, and considering he also played drums for The Who and his dad is a Beatle, it feels like he could have been included, too!

The Secret Extra Guitar Player on the Oasis 2025 Tour

One under-discussed aspect of the massively successful Oasis reunion tour was that the band, effectively, had an extra guitar player on stage. From the start, Oasis has generally been a five-piece: lead singer, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, and drums. But because Bonehead joined the 2025 tour along with Archer and Bell, that meant there were basically two back-up guitar players, in addition to Noel Gallagher on lead. Archer replaced Bonehead in 2000, so having them both in the live tour in 2025 meant the Oasis wall-of-sound was even stronger.

For now, though, all the primary members of Oasis will be part of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, though if you're a fan of their live shows (and who isn't?) you might really be wondering if some of these other stickmen deserve the honor, too.

It emerged in the market as a direct response to the model created by MoviePass, which offered subscribers one movie per day at just $9.95 per month. The company quickly filed for bankruptcy before reemerging in the market with dramatically different pricing.

While AMC Stubs A-List lived on, it hasn't been immune to problems of its own.

AMC Stubs A-List Raises Prices

Citing the rising costs of operaitng its venues, AMC Theaters announced that starting on July 15, the cinema chain's movie subscription membership will cost $29.99 per month – a $2 increase from its last price hike nearly a year ago.

“Even with this necessary price adjustment, A-List continues to offer you exceptional value, often costing only the price of seeing about one to two movies per month, especially when you enjoy premium formats or reserve tickets online,” AMC’s CEO Adam Aron wrote in an email to subscribers, per Variety.  ”It really is now — and will continue to be — a terrific bargain.”

While the price is changing, the perks will stay the same as patrons can see up to four movies every week in every format, including Imax and Dolby. They also get free upgrades on popcorn and fountain drinks, as well as a $5 reward for every $50 spent.

Price Change Comes Ahead of Massive Cinematic Year

The price change comes as Hollywood is in the midst of a major bounce-back year with 113 films releasing, the most of the post-pandemic era.

Fan favorite directors like Christopher Nolan (The Odyssey), Steven Spielberg (Disclosure Day) and Denis Villenueve (Dune: Part Three) will take center stage as well as Marvel's latest potential hit in Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

Related: Winter Storm Watch Issued as 18 Inches of Snow, 60 mph Winds Threaten

While Rodríguez is now well-known for being Patrón’s master distiller, in the mid‑1990s he was one of the very first inspectors hired by Mexico’s Tequila Regulatory Council (TRC). His job was to walk distillery floors, audit production methods, and make sure every bottle met the organization’s strict regulations. He spent years inside the country’s most storied facilities—Cuervo, Sauza, Herradura, Don Julio—observing and learning from some of Mexico’s greatest distillers how tequila was made.

Today, the man who once enforced the standards is now responsible for protecting one of the category’s largest brands. And his latest release, Patrón 100 ($50), is the clearest expression yet of how he thinks tequila should taste.

All Patrón expressions are made from Weber blue agave. When the plant reaches maturity after years of growing in the region's volcanic soil, it is harvested and roasted. It is then crushed to release its sugary sweet juice, which is fermented and distilled to make tequila. The brand uses both a modern roller‑mill to crush the agave as well as a traditional mill stone, which is called a tahona wheel. While the tahona wheel is much slower, traditionalists swear that it’s key to making high-quality tequila. It removes less of the agave’s natural fibers that ultimately contribute earthy, mineral notes and a rounder texture to the finished spirit. Rodríguez sees the difference every time visitors at the brand’s home, Hacienda Patrón, taste side-by-side tequila made from agave crushed by a roller mill and tequila made from agave crushed by a tahona wheel. “Seventy‑five percent choose tahona because it’s more complex,” he says.

Patrón used to produce a tequila made exclusively from tahona crushed agave, which was called Roca, but it was unfortunately and disappointingly discontinued several years ago. Its demise was long mourned by bartenders and tequila aficionados alike. 

Well, the brand just introduced a new tequila, Patrón 100 ($50), that will no doubt satisfy those who miss Roca, since it is made exclusively with agave crushed by tahona wheel. It’s the brand’s first distilled‑to‑proof tequila and is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) with no dilution. The idea came from a year of trials in Rodríguez’s lab. Distilling to proof, rather than watering down after distillation, keeps the aromatics clean and the agave character intact. But “high proof should mean high performance, not harshness,” he says.

I found the result is a blanco built for intensity without burn. Rodríguez describes the profile as sweet cooked agave layered with minerality, earthiness, and a touch of black pepper. High‑proof blancos have been gaining traction with professional bartenders for the liquor’s ability to hold structure in shaken and stirred drinks.

“With Patrón 100, you can feel the sweetness of the agave, the minerality, the earthy aromas,” he says. “It’s incredible to detect that at 50 percent.”

Rodríguez’s fixation on purity goes back to his earliest days in the industry. He trained as a biologist, writing his thesis on yeast and alcohol production before joining the CRT in 1994. The job gave him a panoramic view of the category at a pivotal moment. At the time, only about 40 tequila companies existed; today there are more than 200. Even then, he noticed how rare traditional methods were becoming rare. “Only 15 distillers produce tequila by tahona method,” he says. “Very few.”

One of the people he met during those years was Francisco Alcaraz, Patrón’s founding master distiller. Alcaraz recruited him to the brand in 2002, making Rodríguez the company’s first employee in Mexico. He rose through production roles before taking over as master distiller when Alcaraz retired in 2020. The mandate he inherited was simple: protect the process. Patrón now runs 18 tahona wheels—more than any producer in Mexico—and Rodríguez sees that scale not as a shortcut but as a responsibility. “We maintain the same process as the beginning,” he says. “We don’t change anything.”

His own palate is rooted in the raw material. “The sweetness of the agave is the main feature,” he says. He talks about minerality and earthiness the way a winemaker talks about soil, and he still prefers silver tequila above all. “I love to taste the agave. I love to taste the soul of the earth,” he says. 

After more than three decades in the industry, Rodríguez has watched tequila evolve from a rough, often misunderstood spirit into a global symbol of craft and luxury. He’s seen the rise in popularity of 100 percent agave spirits, the growth of small‑batch production, and the renewed interest in heritage methods. But his own mission hasn’t changed. 

“My first goal is to preserve our traditional, ancestral process,” he says. Patrón 100 cements that legacy.

So, if you don’t have a pet Highland cow and the only time you’ve donned a kilt was that year you dressed as William Wallace for Halloween, it’s time to explore the low-water landscaping method known as xeriscaping. Not only will you save a bundle on your monthly water bill; you’ll also have less active yard maintenance, and you can dramatically increase your home’s curb appeal. “Leave the grass to the cows,” Petersen says, “and keep for yourself a xeriscape that will provide sustainable, responsible delight for many years to come.”

Read on to find expert tips for xeric landscaping design, key principles to keep in mind, and plenty of xeriscape ideas and photos for inspiration. 

What Is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is a water-efficient landscaping method that replaces the traditional plants and grassy lawn, known as a turf lawn, with plants that have low water needs, often native species and those adapted to arid environments. Many adopters also incorporate hardscaping elements (think boulders, flagstone patios, and gravel paths) that further reduce maintenance while boosting your garden’s functionality, sustainability, and climate resilience. 

Don’t fret if you’re a guy who digs a lush and colorful lawn. “Xeriscaping doesn’t–and shouldn’t–just mean a yard full of scorching hot rock with a couple token plants thrown in,” says Jack Dash, the gardens and facilities manager at Tucson’s Tohono Chul Sonoran Botanic Garden and Arboretum and author of The Southwest Native Plant Primer. “Creating a multilayered garden that makes use of trees, shrubs, perennials, cacti, and grasses will allow you to blend beautiful colors and textures while shading and cooling the soil.”

In other words: Don’t confuse xeriscaping with zeroscaping, which involves replacing grass and other plants with a yard covered in dirt, gravel, or river rocks. That tactic will also reduce your water consumption, but it may reduce your home’s aesthetics along with it.

Key Xeriscaping Principles

Design for minimal water usage.

Start with a plan that embraces an arid environment using native and low-water plants and reduction (or elimination) of turf grass. Factor in the microclimates within your yard like the corner shaded by your house and the front yard that bakes in the sun. 

Prepare the soil.

Decide how significantly you will change, or amend, the soil in your yard. This will depend on your soils’ natural composition, your desired aesthetic and preferred plants, and your budget, notes Annie Shaw, co-founder of Xeric Oasis, a San Francisco-based sustainable landscape design firm and 2025 Best of Houzz award-winner. Amending the soil, at least to some extent, will likely open the pallet of plants suitable for your environment. If you have heavy clay in your yard, consider creating berms or raised beds of fast-draining soil to suit the type of plants you’d like to grow, she adds.

Water efficiently.

Drip irrigation systems distribute water directly to the roots through a series of small underground tubes. Valves called emitters control how much water the plant gets, effectively creating a slow drip rather than a spray or stream. Smart drip irrigation systems have controllers and sensors that further cater the water distribution to the plant’s specific needs, unlike traditional automatic timer systems that run on a fixed schedule, notes Angelica Elliott, assistant director of public horticulture at Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. Elliott also suggests using separate irrigation lines for each distinct type of plant life, e.g., one for trees, one for shrubs, etc. 

Many landscape architects advise grouping plants by their water needs, a practice known as “hydrozoning.” This helps to simplify the irrigation system but may limit your ability to be creative with the landscape design.

Related: Tomato Season Isn’t Over Yet. Here’s How Long You Can Keep Harvesting, Plus Tips for Improving Your Yield

Use rainwater to your advantage.

Some xeric designs adapt the physical terrain of the landscape–or adjust it using mounds and berms–to more effectively channel and collect rainfall. In this case, plants with extremely low water needs like cacti and succulents are placed higher (e.g., on a mound), Dash explains. Then, plants with higher water needs are grouped in a basin that collects rainwater. You might also consider planting at the start of your region’s rainy season, thereby using rainwater to help your plants get established.

Incorporate mulch.

Adding sections of mulch at least three inches thick to your yard helps to retain moisture, reduce the number of weeds, regulate soil temperatures, and improve your soil over time. Mulch requires little maintenance but not no maintenance, says Lauren Floyd, design assistant with C&H Landscaping, a custom landscaping firm in Denver. It needs to be fluffed and top-dressed each season to prevent becoming too compacted.

Add hardscaping for eye-catching flair. 

Boulders, paths, and seating areas create visual interest in your landscape design. Shaw suggests using a boulder as a focal point and developing pathways with permeable, decomposed granite or gravel to invite exploration of your garden. A dry riverbed of stones is a beautiful addition that doubles as a rain collection site. Adding a shallow, decorative bowl filled with gravel and water will benefit birds and pollinators without wasting water.

Related: The Beginner’s Guide to Composting at Home

Will Xeriscaping Save Me Money?

With xeriscaping, you’re playing the long game in terms of cost savings. Amending the soil, purchasing low-water plants, and working with a designer knowledgeable about xeriscaping will all contribute to heavy upfront costs. Xeriscape naysayers will also point out, accurately, that traditional turf grass is generally less expensive to plant. 

Once your xeric plants are established, however, they need 50 to 70 percent less water. So, expect to reduce your water bill considerably, along with fertilization costs, adds Phil Steinhauer, a landscape architect and CEO of Denver-based Designscapes Colorado. Plus, the low-maintenance nature of a xeriscaped yard will save you effort or money, depending on how much yardwork you typically outsource. There’s also the benefit to your home’s value, which will increase with a beautiful yard. On an even larger scale, you’re doing something good for the globe by not wasting water on what Shaw calls “ornamental landscaping.” 

Related: Give Your Yard the Ultimate Fall Upgrade With a DIY Fire Pit. Here’s How to Make One, Plus 10 Ideas for Inspiration

Xeriscape Ideas for Every Yard 

Think your xeriscaped yard must be full of sparse, prickly, brown plants that look “sort of alive but mostly dead”? Think again, Shaw says. “We design gardens that are xeric and drought tolerant in many different styles,” she says. “They can be rich, lush, and full of color and life. They can be architectural, modern, and dynamic, or they can be quite subtle. They can be very serene spaces as well. You can have anything you want, and it can be low water.” 

Here, Shaw and fellow landscaping expert Catherine Wells, owner of Mandala Landscape + Design in Boulder, CO, offer ideas for how to xeriscape different areas in your yard. 

Front Yard Xeriscape Ideas

Your front yard xeriscape should focus on increasing visual impact. Use design elements like:

Gravel and stepping stone pathways, which help to break up sections of your front yard, get you and your guests from Point A to Point B, and pack an aesthetically pleasing punch–and they don’t require water or seasonal maintenance.

Native plant borders, which can be used to define different “outdoor rooms” in a single area. One key thing to keep in mind: Scale matters. “Placing something too tall right next to a walkway or patio can make the space feel tight or closed in,” Wells says, “so it’s important to give those areas a little breathing room.”

Statement boulders, which are low-water (obviously) and lovely year-round. Shaw often adds them in the front-yard corners for passing dogs. “Give them a nice, beautiful rock to aim for,” she says, noting that plants don’t like that kind of watering. “It really is going to save your plants.”

A minimalist, modern aesthetic with “clean lines, strong material choices, and more intentional, spaced-out plantings,” Wells says. “What makes it work is contrast and balance.”

Backyard Xeriscape Ideas

A backyard can be a private sanctuary hidden from the world, a gathering place for barbecues and garden parties, a miniature amusement park for the kids, or all the above. “Outdoor living spaces are where a yard really becomes usable, not just something to look at,” Wells says. “The best designs reflect how a homeowner wants to use their yard based on their lifestyle, time, and budget.”

Backyard xeriscape possibilities include:

Outdoor living spaces like a fire pit, seating area, or outdoor kitchen. Keep function in mind, Wells says, noting that “placing an outdoor kitchen too far from the house might look good on a plan, but it’s not practical if you’re carrying food back and forth.”

Xeriscape patio designs, which are typically made from concrete, pavers, or flagstone. When it comes to layout, curves tend to feel more natural, though they may limit usable space for furniture. “Whatever size you think you need, go a bit larger,” Wells says. “It’s not just about fitting the furniture itself but allowing enough space for it to function properly.”

Shade gardens, which are planted in an area with minimal direct sunlight and often feature many layers (or shades) of leaf color and texture. For a xeric shade garden, choose drought-tolerant plants that can thrive in the specific low-light conditions of your yard. 

Artificial turf as a traditional turf replacement. Note, however, that artificial turf can be expensive, must be installed correctly, and still needs to be rinsed periodically, especially in homes with pets.

Small Yard Xeriscape Ideas

Minimal square footage? No problem. “A smaller footprint doesn’t mean less function,” Wells says. “When designed well, these spaces can feel incredibly intentional and usable.”

Consider xeriscaping in your smaller space with:

The addition of a small patio or seating area, which turns a water-sucking turf lawn into another space to sit, relax, and entertain.

Containers of plants, especially on patios and balconies. They add height, color, and beauty and also offer a chance to do some small-scale vegetable or herb gardening. 

Vertical gardens like trellises, screens, and climbing plants, which add visual interest using minimal space. They can also provide a sense of privacy.

Compact rock and succulent layouts where well-placed elements will look more attractive than trying to fit too much into a small area.

Fitness-related hobbies can get expensive, rather quickly. Sure, when you first start weightlifting or running, it's a low stakes game and you can just use whatever gear you've already got on hand. But once you get more serious, personal performance starts to matter more, which often leads to investing in the best equipment. A reliable pair of weightlifting shoes, for instance, can make a huge difference in the quality of your lifts. But the best pairs often come with a steep price tag.

If you're trying to watch your spending, you should check out the R.A.D R-1, which earned our pick as the best budget weightlifting shoe in our 2026 Fitness Awards. At $130, it costs much less than many of the best weightlifting shoes, while still delivering in terms of performance. It’s lightweight and breathable, offering excellent stability for heavy barbell lifts, while also providing enough responsiveness for conditioning work. Read on for our full review of the R.A.D R-1.

Related: We Hit PRs in the Industry's Best Weightlifting Shoes. These Earned Their Place on the Platform

Why R.A.D R-1 Is the Best Budget Weightlifting Shoe of 2026

R.A.D R-1 proves you don’t need to spend premium money to get a stable, well-built training shoe that handles serious lifting. We tested the R-1 using barbell squats, deadlifts, accessory lifts, sled pushes, and mixed strength circuits to assess its performance under real training demands. Right away, the shoe feels grounded and predictable, with a balanced platform that works well for most lifters who train heavy but still want flexibility for general gym work.

During strength-focused sessions, the R-1 delivers more stability than most budget-priced trainers. The heel stays firm during squats and pulls without excessive compression, and the midfoot feels secure when driving through the floor. While it lacks the rigid platform and aggressive build of elite lifting shoes, it provides enough structure to support consistent barbell work while staying comfortable during longer sessions. For lifters who train multiple days per week and want one reliable shoe that covers strength work without overcomplicating things, the R-1 hits a substantial value sweet spot.

Key Product Features

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: ~8 mm
• Weight: ~9.7 oz
• Midsole: Firm foam construction
• Upper: Durable textile upper
• Outsole: High-traction rubber

Why You Should Trust Us

Men’s Journal has spent over three decades as a leading authority on fitness and outdoor gear. We don’t just summarize product specs. Our recommendations come from legitimate hands-on testing and the direct guidance of industry experts. We constantly refine our buyer’s guides, ensuring every pick remains the absolute best available.

Related: New to Lifting? Coaches Say These Are the Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners

Their enduring legacy includes a catalog of 213 songs (188 original tracks and 25 covers), multiple accolades, a perpetually growing fan base, and an award-winning documentary directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg. Released on May 13, 1970, in New York, followed by a debut in the United Kingdom a week later, Let It Be documents The Beatles' January 1969 recording session for Let It Be, the band's 12th and final studio album. The film culminates with the group's iconic final concert atop their Apple Corps headquarters on Savile Row on Jan. 30, 1969.

Initially, reviews for the Let It Be documentary were polarizing. However, decades later, some retrospective pieces regarded it as having a place in film history and as "important viewing for all music fans."

Despite the initially unfavorable reviews, Let It Be was nominated for an Oscar for "Best Music, Original Score." The Beatles won in their category at the 43rd Academy Awards on April 15, 1971. Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr did not attend the ceremony, so Quincy Jones accepted the band's first and only Oscar on their behalf.

Let It Be also won a Grammy Award for "Best Original Score." Originally, Starr was excluded as one of the award's recipients by the Recording Academy, believing that McCartney, Lennon, and Harrison were the sole composers. However, Starr had a writing credit for "Dig It" on the Let It Be album.

While McCartney has said he could not bear to watch the film, he came around to the idea of an eventual re-release of Let It Be. This resulted in The Beatles: Get Back, a three-part miniseries directed and produced by Peter Jackson and released on Disney+ in 2021. It is considered a supplement to the original documentary, featuring eight hours of never-before-seen footage.

More folks have started paying attention to their HRV, which refers to the tiny fluctuations in time between consecutive heartbeats. That variability is a real-time readout of how well your autonomic nervous system is functioning. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for everything you don’t consciously control, from stress responses to recovery.

"Think of HRV as the bandwidth of your physiology," says Jay T. Wiles, PsyD, BCB, Chief Health & Performance Officer of Ohm Health. "High variability means your nervous system can shift gears fluidly: ramp up when you need to perform, settle down when it's time to recover, and read the difference between the two. Low variability means your system is stuck in one gear, usually the wrong one."

So, why exactly does HRV matter? Just about every health outcome men start paying closer attention to in midlife—like cardiovascular health, sleep quality, recovery, and longevity—is downstream of how well the autonomic nervous system regulates itself. And HRV happens to be one of the most accessible windows we have into that process.

Related: U.S. Army Coach Reveals the Simple HIIT Workout Proven to Boost VO2 Max in Just Weeks

What is a Good HRV?

HRV shifts constantly throughout the day, fluctuating in response to stress, activity, and rest. It typically peaks in the early morning and gradually decreases into the afternoon and evening. While population averages exist, there isn't necessarily a single "perfect" number for your age. Rather than asking what your HRV should be for your age, the better question is: Is my HRV trending in the right direction relative to my own baseline?

"A 52-year-old whose seven-day average has climbed from 38 to 47 over six months is winning, regardless of what the internet says his number should be," Wiles explains. "A 52-year-old whose average has drifted from 55 to 42 over the same window has a signal worth paying attention to, even though his absolute number still looks good."

When it comes to tracking, RMSSD (root mean square of successive differences) is the most commonly used time-domain metric. For men in their 40s to 60s, it often falls somewhere in the 20 to 60 millisecond range, with meaningful declines per decade. Additionally, HRV-CV (the coefficient of variation) looks at how much your HRV fluctuates day to day. In simple terms, it answers the question: Are my HRV fluctuations stable and adaptive, or erratic and excessive?

How to Improve Your HRV

To improve your HRV, Wiles recommends training it directly through resonance frequency breathing. Each person has an individual personal resonance frequency, which typically falls between 4.5 and 6.5 breaths per minute. When you breathe at that frequency, your heart rate, blood pressure, and baroreflex begin to synchronize, amplifying HRV in real time.

Stick with it for about 10 minutes a day, at least four to five times per week. Over the course of four to eight weeks, this kind of practice can meaningfully improve baroreflex sensitivity and vagal tone, shifting HRV. Stack this with the foundations for best results: getting quality sleep, training hard, recovering well, managing stress, and respecting alcohol's cost.

"Do not view HRV as a stress score, but rather as a nervous system resilience score. Chasing a higher HRV number is the wrong goal," Wiles says. "HRV is a readout of something deeper, and that something deeper is what you should actually be training: autonomic flexibility and nervous system resilience. Train flexibility, and HRV improves as a byproduct. Chase HRV directly, and you usually accomplish neither."

Related: This Simple Daily Habit Lowers Your Resting Heart Rate and Boosts Longevity, According to Human Performance Scientist

How This 90-Year-Old Became CrossFit's Unlikely Superstar

On April 13, 2026, CTV News covered the story of Avril Legault, the 90-year-old woman who has been dubbed the "CrossFit Queen" by many at the Ottawa gym she frequents. She may not be famous in the fitness community yet, but she is already a superstar based solely on what she has accomplished. People will have plenty of opportunities to be inspired by her since she plans to keep training for a long time to come. "I’m just going to continue to come to CrossFit until I’m 100."

After 60 years of marriage, Legault's husband passed away. After she suffered that major loss nine years ago, a friend of her daughter introduced her to CrossFit when she was already in her 80s. At the time, her goal was simple: to be able to get up by herself if she fell. After reaching that milestone, she went on to tackle burpees and other challenging movements. Video of her in the gym also shows how strong she has become.

There is another aspect of her story that makes her even more remarkable: she had never been to a gym during the first eight decades of her life. Legault offered simple encouragement to anyone else who is thinking about starting their fitness journey. "All you have to do is get off the couch and join CrossFit, and you'll feel a lot better."

Legault started out in a class for seniors, but that changed after COVID, as she was the only participant who returned after the shutdowns. “They had a class for seniors, but then after COVID, nobody bothered coming back except me. I’m the only senior here.” Still, that doesn't mean she trains alone. Younger gym member, Ashton Tessier, spoke about why working out in the same classes as Legault is so motivating. “She’s not afraid of anything, and it’s such an inspiration. I hope that I can be even half of her when I am her age.”

On her 90th birthday, Legault's regular class transformed into a celebration with cake and gifts. CrossFit NCR co-owner Reza Mashkoori had a special present for her as he surprised her with a free lifetime membership. He perfectly captured how she has changed when he said, “She’s come a long way. I remember when she first joined the gym, she walked up those stairs with a walker. After coming to the gym for about three weeks, she didn’t need it anymore.”

LIV Golf debuted in 2022 to much hype and fanfare. The tour offered veteran players guaranteed contracts in the nine-figure range, and many top PGA Tour professionals defected for higher pay and an easier event schedule.

Major champions like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm joined LIV, angering the PGA Tour and fracturing the best players in golf across two different circuits.

The tour quickly became a lightning rod for controversy, as it is financed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, a nation some have criticized for its image on the global stage.

Others felt that top players leaving the PGA Tour for a series with no cuts and a 54-hole structure undermined the competitive nature of the sport, and that those who left to play in LIV were taking the easy way out when compared to their PGA Tour counterparts.

As LIV prepares to hold an event in Mexico City this week, serious doubts are being cast about the tour's future. Rumors have surfaced regarding discord within the tour, and the possibility that PIF could remove or reduce funding.

Reports of Disarray Within LIV Golf This Week

Golf reporter Ryan French of Monday Q Info reported on social media that players and employees within LIV weren't being paid, and that "there is definitely a lot going on… Things are not good.”

When asked about the rumored announcement regarding LIV, Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee said that he wasn't surprised to hear that things seemed to be heading in a negative direction.

Given that the product was so ill-conceived and ended up being worse than anyone could have imagined - with shotgun starts, initially 54 holes, a team concept that was nothing but laughable and tournaments that meant and continue to mean nothing, and such a paltry number of… https://t.co/WJth9YyWAJ

— Brandel Chamblee (@chambleebrandel) April 15, 2026

"Given that the product was so ill-conceived and ended up being worse than anyone could have imagined...would it surprise anyone if the Saudis came to their corrupted senses and finally euthanized the whole lame-brained tour," Chamblee posited on social media.

BREAKING: Sources indicate LIV is preparing to wind down operations as the Public Investment Fund (PIF) reassesses its broader strategy amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

A recent board meeting in New York focused on the league’s near-term future, including whether to…

— trey wingo (@wingoz) April 15, 2026

Former ESPN personality and sports journalist Trey Wingo reported that LIV is "preparing to wind down operations" after a recent board meeting in New York. Wingo notes that the PIF is re-evaluating its strategy and spending amid the current conflicts in the Middle East.

Wingo noted that the decision to move on from LIV is not motivated by the tour's financial performance. He says that the tour is funded through 2030, and that this decision is driven by "evolving geopolitical priorities."

LIV Players Could Move Back to PGA Tour

If LIV does fold or significantly reduce operations, there has been an established path for former PGA Tour players to return. Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed have each begun the process of fulfilling the tour's demand for defectors.

With no equivalent tour in terms of reach or prize money readily available, players like Rahm and DeChambeau could follow suit within the coming months.

A LIV Golf event is scheduled for this weekend in Mexico City, and all official indications currently show that the event will go on as scheduled. We'll see if that's the case, and if this ends up being the final event in LIV's short history.

But as the home gym revolution has taken over our garages and spare bedrooms, space has become the new premium. This has sparked a gold rush of adjustable options, ranging from sleek, stainless steel showpieces to budget-friendly sets that—let's be honest—sometimes feel like they’re held together by luck and plastic. We’ve all dealt with those clunky dials that jam mid-circuit or "bargain" pairs that lack the durability to survive a single dropped set.

After months of grueling testing for the Men’s Journal 2026 Fitness Awards, we waded through the hype to find the gear that actually holds up. Despite a wave of new competitors, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells proved they are still the undisputed heavyweight champions of user-friendly design.

Most User-Friendly Adjustable Dumbbells: BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells has been one of the most popular adjustable dumbbell sets for years, and for good reason. No other model makes everyday use this easy. Weight changes happen with a quick twist of the dials—clearly marked, easy to grip, and intuitive even for adjustable dumbbell first-timers. You’re getting 15 different weight settings (five to 52.5 pounds), all housed in a sleek, compact tray system that keeps your space organized. 

What really earns these the “most user-friendly” title is how seamless everything feels in practice. The adjustment dial gives a clean, satisfying click at each setting, the plates stay locked in tight, and the ergonomic, non-slip handles are a pleasure to hold. Beginners will love that they’re simple and approachable, and experienced gym goers will appreciate that they’re well-equipped for fast-paced circuits and supersets. 

Despite the amount of plastic in the design, BowFlex's Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells hold up well with normal use. Our tester has been a lover of BowFlex's adjustable dumbbells for years. Are they perfect? No. This pair is long and slightly awkward at lighter weights, and the 52.5-pound top-end weight may not satisfy hardcore lifters wanting to go heavy. But for the vast majority of people looking for a foundational at-home dumbbell setup, these strike the perfect balance of ease, versatility, and high-end aesthetics.

Key Product Features

• Weight Range: 5 to 52.5 lbs per dumbbell
• Weight Increments: 2.5 to 5 lbs
• Dumbbell Shape: Round/contoured
• Materials: Steel, reinforced plastic

Why You Should Trust Us

Men’s Journal has spent over three decades as a leading authority on fitness and outdoor gear. We don’t just summarize product specs. Our recommendations come from legitimate hands-on testing and the direct guidance of industry experts. We constantly refine our buyer’s guides, ensuring every pick remains the absolute best available.

The latest updated Winter Storm Warning from the National Weather Service (NWS) calls for up to a foot of additional snow in the North Oregon Cascades, Cascades of Marion and Linn Counties, Cascades of Lane County and South Washington Cascades.

'Heavy' snow, 'hazardous' travel predicted

On Sunday, the NWS Portland outpost first warned of incoming snow in the Cascades, including 10-to-18 inches of snow above 3500 feet and 35-to-45 mph wind gusts at pass level from Tuesday night through Wednesday.

Now, the newest NWS update says the South Washington and Northern and Central Oregon Cascades can expect up to an additional foot of snow and possibly two feet of snow in total above 2500 feet, with the Winter Storm Warning remaining in effect until 5 a.m. local time Thursday.

As a result, travel may prove "hazardous."

"Consider postponing travel until weather conditions improve," the NWS warns. "If you must travel, be sure to slow down and allow extra time. If your car becomes trapped in deep snow, be sure to keep your car off to stay safe from potential carbon monoxide poisoning. Be aware that walking surfaces may be slick. Walk with extra care. Backcountry recreation is not advised."

Snow piling up elsewhere as well

Besides the cascades of Oregon and Washington, heavy snow is also falling in Wyoming, particularly in the Wind River, Absaroka, Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains and Yellowstone National Park.

"Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 9 and 18 inches, with the highest elevations could see up to 20 inches. Winds gusting between 30 and 50 mph. Higher elevations could gust up to 55 mph," says the latest NWS Winter Storm Warning, which runs through Friday evening.

How to prepare

If you're in the area of a winter storm, the best thing you can do is stay inside and wait out the inclement weather.

However, if you must travel, experts have compiled a checklist of emergency items to keep in your vehicle, courtesy of Men's Journal's Matthew Thomas.

• Flashlight (preferably crank-type, because batteries don’t last long in extreme cold)
• Reflective safety triangles or flares
• Small first-aid kit
• Snow brush and scraper
• Traction aids
• Small shovel with long handle
• Bag of abrasive material: sand, kitty litter (avoid road salt, which can cause your vehicle to rust)
• Plenty of windshield washer fluid
• Booster cables
• Gas-line antifreeze
• Lock de-icer (in extreme cold, keep it with you, rather than in your vehicle!)
• Paper towels
• Small tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, etc.)
• Extra fuses (for the vehicle’s electrical system)
• Warm blanket
• Extra socks, boots and gloves
• Hand and foot warmers
• Bottles of water
• Granola bars

Please be careful everyone.

Viatris Recalls Xanax Because of a “Dissolution” Issue

The FDA simply states that Viatris issued a voluntary recall of Xanax (a Class II recall) over “failed dissolution specifications” issues. According to an NBC story, problems with dissolution specifications could mean “pills aren't as effective, or that they don't release the correct dosage.” The particular Xanax medication being recalled is  Xanax XR, alprazolam, extended-release tablets, 3 mg, 60-tablet bottles from Lot# 8177156 with an expiration date of February 28, 2027. Additionally, the affected pills were distributed in the United States between Aug 27, 2024, and May 29, 2025. As of publication, there have been no reported illnesses or deaths associated with this latest recall from Viatris. 

It should also be noted that Class II recalls are typically deemed temporary. By FDA definition, a Class II recall is defined as:  

“A situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

If you have been prescribed Xanax and want to appropriately determine if your medication has been impacted by the recall, you should contact your prescribing physician and/or pharmacist for more clarifying information.

Related: ‘The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender’ Leaked Online, What’s Next for Paramount+?

Nike released the shoe at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday morning, and fans flooded the SNKRS website. The sneakers sold out within minutes as consumers purchased the $190 shoes in 10-minute lottery windows.

These player edition shoes are expected to become available at Dick's Sporting Goods and Foot Locker with a similar lottery format, according to USA Today. That being said, the shoes will be even more difficult to acquire as these retailers have less stock.

Resellers have already listed the Kobe 5 Protro x Caitlin Clark “Rookie of the Year" on verified resale marketplaces like Stock X. The lowest asking price is $249 — well above retail. The highest asking price is $600, as of Wednesday afternoon.

Clark signed a historic eight-year, $28 million endorsement deal with Nike after the Indiana Fever selected her with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft. The sportswear and apparel brand announced her as a signature athlete last summer.

As a signature athlete, Clark will eventually have her own signature sneaker.

There's no official release date for Clark's signature sneaker with Nike, but the brand is expected to release the shoe sometime during the 2026 WNBA season.

The 2026 CinemaCon schedule has been revealed:

Apr 13 - Sony Pictures (2hrs15mins)
Apr 14 - Warner Bros (2hrs)
Apr 15 - Universal (2hrs), Amazon MGM (1hr45mins)
Apr 16 - Paramount (1hr45mins), Disney (2hrs) pic.twitter.com/U4oJtZC5H7

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 23, 2026

Tuesday night, Warner Bros. concluded night two of the convention at Caesars Palace with a panel featuring massive projects like upcoming DC Studios films Supergirl and Clayface. WB finished its presentation with one of the most highly anticipated films of the entire convention that is now certainly the most talked about on Wednesday: Dune: Part Three.

Stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya and Jason Momoa appeared at the panel alongside writer-director of the trilogy, Denis Villeneuve. Additionally, attendees were given the opportunity of viewing the first seven minutes of the film. Since that footage finished rolling, it has dominated talk around the convention, with viewers at a loss for words at what they witnessed.

According to all accounts, the film opens with a massive war scene showing the scope of what is now reality since Paul Atreides has become emperor and has started the Holy War across the galaxy. Attendees are praising the brutal action sequence, with many comparing it to the opening of Steven Spielberg’s World War II classic Saving Private Ryan.

First seven minutes of DUNE: PART THREE features Stilgar leading his chanting warriors onto a rainy planet, to devastation. Played like an intergalactic SAVING PRIVATE RYAN. You felt it in your bones. Hate judging a film based on a few minutes, but “Lisan al-Gaib.” #CinemaCon

— Barry Hertz (@HertzBarry) April 15, 2026

Saw the first seven minutes of DUNE: PART THREE. Safe to say SAVING PRIVATE RYAN is an influencer.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) April 15, 2026

Details of the Opening Seven Minutes

Spoilers for the opening scene of Dune: Part Three!

A full summary of what the audience saw from media personality Brandon Davis of The Brandon Davis Show.

“The thumping sound played over the opening credits before we are thrust into the skies, seeing ships zip through a thunderstorm ... some unsuccessfully as lightning strikes them down. A number of them evade and make it lower to the ground, hovering a few feet from the surface while zipping forward at a fast pace,” Davis posted on X.

“Now inside the ships, we see soldiers ... Stilgar is with them. The soldiers try to find optimism in the water falling from the sky as a part of their prophecy. They unleash a chant, a war cry — it is the tune from the musical score in the trailers. The ship arrives. The ramps open and the soldiers are shocked and happy to see water fall from the sky as they described. They march out, two in the rear carrying a black case.

"Eventually, they halt. A vicious, relentless wave of massive rounds blasts through them — eviscerating some and launching others into the sky to blow apart into pieces of mist as this massive caliber weapon is so large, fast and fiery that it blows through them and starts fires. As the weapon blasting at them rises in a pile of the ground emerging from the planet, the men push forward and try to dodge the ammo flying toward them. Some reach a place to hide and take cover, black case with them.

"Stilgar uses binoculars to look at the weapon blasting them and calls out how far away it is. Stilgar’s insights allow for a massive weapon of their own to blast the weapons and pillars on which they stand. The explosion of their weapon hitting them prompts a silence as the sky turns red before an explosion illuminates it with the burn and is heard by the soldiers and audience.

"Stilgar tries to blast a rocket of his own at those weapons, but it is sent back at him, prompting the weapon to turn its aim to the cover the men had been taking. Some of them are eviscerated ... one man tries to run and another calls to him, begging him not to, accurately expecting that he will be wrecked by the blasts.

"In a more trailer-like turn for the footage, Paul asks Hayt (Momoa’s revived Duncan) what he knows about him and what he thinks. Hayt knows that Paul has risen to power and admits, ‘I think you’re way beyond redemption.’ We see Anya Taylor-Joy reading cards, Robert Pattinson describes a cloud that is blocking his vision and not allowing him to ‘see beyond this moment.’ We see Chani and Paul come face to face ... prompting Paul to point a weapon at her as she asks him how it feels to be human like the rest of everyone else. We see shots of various characters, action beats, Paul and Chani possibly standing off in a desert — a different location from the dark, dimly red-lit room from their earlier interaction — and a thunderous sandworm to wrap up the footage.”

It is only seven minutes, but it has highly impressed audiences who saw it.

Dune: Part Three concludes Villeneuve’s epic Dune trilogy, releasing Dec. 18.

In This Story

Birkenstock Milano Bold Buckle Sandal, From $97 (was $220)

Check Price

Why We Love This Deal

For most of the 20th century, Birkenstocks were the shoe of health food stores and hiking trails, embraced by those who valued function over fashion. By the 2010s, however, the brand had been fully reclaimed by the fashion world, landing on runway models and the feet of celebrities. Because of demand, deals are rare, but right now, there's a nice pair of sandals for over $100 off at Nordstrom Rack. 

Normally priced at $220, the Birkenstock Milano Bold Buckle Sandals are now just $97 at the Rack. The black sandals are going for that $97 sale price, but sizes are going fast. The brown sandals are also on sale for $2 more and have more sizes to choose from at the moment. 

Birkenstock Milano Bold Buckle Sandal, From $97 (was $220) at Nordstrom Rack

What Shoppers Should Know

• Upper: Aniline leather with brass buckles
• Footbed: Cork-latex with suede lining
• Sole: Rubber 
• Origin: Germany
• Best For: Everyday wear, warm weather, all-day comfort

The Milano is the brand’s classic Arizona sandal with a backstrap added for more support, while still providing that iconic cork footbed that molds to your feet. The “bold” part of this silhouette comes from the perforations on the upper, which definitely look unique, but they also add breathability you don’t get in a lot of other sandals. 

For $97, you’re getting handmade German sandals with a genuine cork footbed for less than half the asking price (something that seldom happens with Birkenstock). If you’re the kind of person who invests in quality basics, lives in sandals from May through October, and wants something that gets comfier the longer you wear it, these might be the last pair of sandals you buy for a while. 

Related: Birkenstock's Stylish and Supportive Chelsea Boots Are Now Over 40% Off at Nordstrom Rack

What Shoppers Are Saying

While reviews are on the lighter side, one reviewer wrote a lengthy five-star review, noting that the sandals “exude luxury and attitude.” They also wrote, “The craftsmanship of these sandals is simply out of this world.”

These are definitely a more unique take on the brand’s typical silhouette, and the perforations (along with the ankle strap) make these a great pick if you want a more practical version of the usual Birkenstock style. 

The Birkenstock Milano Bold Buckle Sandals are available now for $97. Just be sure to jump on this deal soon, because Birkenstock deals this big tend to sell out very fast. 

Shop More Deals

• Birkenstock Oswego Slip-On Sneaker, $65 (was $150) at Nordstrom Rack
• Birkenstock Shinjuku Sandal, $97 (was 230) at Nordstrom Rack
• Birkenstock Bend Decon Sneaker, $65 (was $160) at Nordstrom Rack

There's bound to be some hits and misses amongst nearly 34 years of Kirby's classics, and one of the most controversial games in the series came out on this day in Japan 22 years ago. Kirby & the Amazing Mirror was released for the Game Boy Advance on April 15, 2004.

Kirby's games aren't really known for much genre innovation or bending of the rules. Especially since they are catered to a younger audience, Kirby games are pretty cookie-cutter and repetitive. When Nintendo does challenge the series's norms, it ruffles some fans' feathers.

Kirby & the Amazing Mirror was controversial when it came out, and it still doesn't satisfy everyone in 2026. Whereas almost all other games in the series are straightforward platformers, this game decided to take on the Metroidvania formula.

Kirby could explore nine different zones in the Mirror Dimension, learning different abilities in each and forcing players to learn which ability would allow them to complete each level. The levels could be done out of order and forced much more exploration and puzzle-solving than in past games.

Players talking about the game on Reddit to this day still feel that the execution of the idea could have been better. With over two decades to reflect, others understand why the company took some chances and appreciate the idea of a Metroid-style Kirby game. The multiplayer aspects of Kirby & the Amazing Mirror were also a nice change of pace.

When you consider that Metroid Fusion and Metroid: Zero Mission were two of the most popular Game Boy Advance games during this time period, it's not that shocking that Nintendo would try using another franchise in the same genre.

Kirby will remain one of Nintendo's most comforting characters just as he has for the last three and a half decades. Games like Kirby & the Amazing Mirror help to show the progress the series has made and the experimentation that Nintendo uses to try and juice up series that could otherwise go stale.

The global outdoor technology company that is dedicated to making mobile living easy just launched a campaign that begins April 14 and runs until April 24, in which lucky adventure seekers will land one of the 17 free trips up for grabs to explore Joshua Tree in free -- yes, free -- fully kitted off-road vehicles that will be available for 36-hour bookings for two.

What Exactly Is DOMETIC?

According to DOMETIC, the company "pioneered absorption cooling technology in 1925, a breakthrough in mobile refrigeration that reshaped mobility, freedom, and everyday life. A century later, DOMETIC continues to engineer gear that slots seamlessly into adventures from sidewalk to summit."

DOMETIC's gear lineup includes sleeping and camping equipment, including a rooftop tent, roof rack kits, and seat heaters. There's also cooking equipment, including electric coolers, portable batteries, hydration jugs, and camp kitchen utensil sets.

How Can I Sign Up?

As mentioned, 17 trips are up for grabs and departing from Los Angeles. You don't have to live in Los Angeles to sign up. It's open to any U.S. resident with a valid driver's license (excluding residents of New York and Florida).

The fully tricked-out off-road vehicles are available for 36-hour bookings for two to Joshua Tree.

"Each vehicle is outfitted with premium adventure-ready gear, chef-curated meals, a reserved campsite in Joshua Tree, and a customized activity guide," DOMETIC announced Tuesday. "No prep, no planning -- just keys to get in, get out, and get lost."

The idea is to offer city dwellers the opportunity to get out and explore nature.

"Dometic exists to help more people connect with nature. Our products are engineered to simplify and enrich outdoor experiences, and this project is a true manifestation of that purpose," says Peter Jannerö, Chief Marketing Officer at DOMETIC. "The gear. The car. The food. The plan. We're taking care of it all so people can focus on actually getting out there. Just bring a taste for exploration."

There's no doubt that Los Angeles is the automotive capital of the world, but it's impossible to own an off-road vehicle and use it for the daily grind.

What's more, DOMETIC says that exploring nature in an off-road vehicle is not within reach for many, especially when you consider the expensive gear needed to make exploring nature worthwhile and luxurious.

Then there's planning and packing. Suffice it to say, with L.A. drivers losing an average of 83 hours to traffic -- the highest in the U.S. -- there's a need to escape the grind, and all it takes is signing up here.

What's Included?

DOMETIC says that a series of free 36-hour outdoor getaways for two gives people the chance to explore the wild in premium off-road rigs stocked with DOMETIC's full suite of adventure-ready gear that Swedes carefully designed."

The company has outfitted all-terrain vehicles from Lexus, Toyota, and Ford, each fully stocked with a complete base camp setup, including comfortable sleeping gear, portable power, cooking equipment, and hydration.

DOMETIC's CFX5 electric cooler is filled to the brim with a seasonal, chef-prepared menu, kept fresh and perfectly chilled, so dining under the stars feels like a gourmet experience.

The outing includes a reserved campsite in Joshua Tree and a curated guide to activities.

And if you get lost, 24/7 expert support is also being made available.

The majority of 2026 World Cup matches will take place at NFL football stadiums, which are well-equipped for tailgating activity.

On Tuesday evening, FIFA responded to these reports with an official statement. The organization said there will be no "formal policy" against tailgating, but the American tradition could be limited by "site-specific restrictions."

"FIFA does not have a formal policy that restricts tailgating (eating and drinking around parked cars in stadium areas). However, site-specific restrictions may be imposed in alignment with host city public safety authorities in certain venues based on local regulations," FIFA wrote in its statement.

"Additional fan information for all FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be communicated in advance of the tournament."

FIFA does not have a formal policy that restricts tailgating (eating and drinking around parked cars in stadium areas). However, site-specific restrictions may be imposed in alignment with host city public safety authorities in certain venues based on local regulations.…

— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) April 15, 2026

Parking options at American stadiums are expected to be "greatly reduced" as lots will feature "fan entertainment zones, sponsorship hospitality areas and broadcast centers," according to a report from USA Today.

Stadiums will also be equipped with increased security, further limiting parking space.

Organizers at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium have already encouraged fans to avoid driving to the stadium. Arrowhead Stadium officials in Kansas City have already warned fans about a drastically different game day experience.

“If there is any [parking], which I think is still to be determined, it will be greatly reduced from what it is today,” an official told the Kansas City Star last year. “Things are going to look and feel different at Arrowhead.”

Local transportation officials in New England say the 20,000 parking spaces available for Patriots games will be reduced to 5,000 for upcoming World Cup events.

If you’re looking for the best tactical pants, today’s options go far beyond military surplus or law-enforcement gear. Modern tactical trousers are built for durability, mobility, and smart storage, making them popular with outdoorsmen, tradesmen, hikers, hunters, and range regulars who need pants that can handle real abuse.

The latest designs blend rugged cotton, nylon, or canvas fabrics with stretch panels to deliver both toughness and comfort. Reinforced knees, gusseted crotches, and articulated fits help you move freely whether you’re working on a job site, hiking steep trails, or spending a day at the range. Practical pocket layouts also keep tools, knives, phones, or small gear within easy reach.

To help narrow down the options, we picked seven of the best tactical pants for work, outdoor adventures, and everyday wear, from technical trekking trousers to heavy-duty canvas work pants built to survive the toughest conditions.

Best Tactical Pants at a Glance

• Best Overall Tactical Pants:Fjallraven Keb
• Best Pro-Grade Tactical Pants:5.11 Icon
• Best Outdoor Tactical Pants:Kühl Radikl
• Best Classic Tactical Pants for Work:Dickies Tradebuilt Duck Canvas Double-Knee
• Best Modern Tactical Pants for Work:Truewerk T2 Werkpants
• Most Tactical Pants: Helikon-tex UTP
• Best Tactical Pants for Hunting:Forloh Brush to Mountain Pro

Best Tactical Pants of 2026

Best Overall Tactical Pants: Fjallraven Keb

The Fjällräven Keb Trousers are hybrid work/trekking pants that blend technical outdoor performance with rugged durability and they’re in my regular rotation thanks to their adaptability to both active use and dirty jobs.

Designed for demanding mountain environments, these trousers combine stretch fabrics with the brand’s signature G-1000 waxed canvas material in vulnerable spots to balance flexibility and abrasion resistance. G-1000 panels are made from a tightly woven polyester and cotton blend and wax-impregnated and strategically placed on high-wear areas on the Keb Trousers. Known for its durability and resistance to rough terrain, it’s not as waterproof as Gore-Tex, you can crank up the water-resistance with rub-on Greenland Wax.

The Keb Trousers give you temperature regulation options with long side zippers running from the hips toward the knees that vent heat during serious activity. Additional zips along the calves helps maintain airflow in warmer conditions. These features make them ideal for hiking, hunting, and multi-day treks, but the thin stretch panels make them a bit chilly in spots for more sedentary work in cold climates.

Unlike cargo pant-style tactical pants the Keb Trousers have a snug, articulated fit. Pre-shaped knees help when climbing steep terrain or kneeling. Reinforced panels protect high-contact zones from rocks or equipment. The pants also include large zip-and-snap leg pockets, boot hooks, and adjustable leg cinches for a secure fit over boots.

Best Pro-Grade Tactical Pants: 5.11 Icon

Designed primarily for law enforcement, range time, and tactical operations, these pants emphasize durability, functional storage, and mobility. 5.11 built them with durable fabrics and reinforced stitching to withstand demanding environments and heavy use, making them well-suited for professionals who rely on dependable clothing during long shifts or fieldwork.

The layout for the eight different storage points is also excellent. Multiple cargo and utility pockets allow you to organize tools, flashlights, magazines, or everyday gear. Unlike some older tactical designs, the pockets are streamlined to reduce bulk while maintaining accessibility. The poly-cotton Flex-Tac Ripstop with DWR fabric balances durability and weather-resistance with breathability, being much lighter than full-cotton fabrics that focus on durability.

While beefier than many of the other pants in this guide, a roomy fit offers plenty of mobility. The pants feature articulated knees and stretch panels that help maintain flexibility during dynamic movement. Whether kneeling, climbing, or transitioning between positions, the design aims to minimize restriction. The baggier hip and thigh cut is great for guys with thicker legs or that just don’t enjoy modern, tailored fits, though the lower leg is tapered, not boot cut.

Best Outdoor Tactical Pants: Kühl Radikl

The Kühl Radikl Pants are another tactical-style pant that pairs durability with comfort and flexibility. Built around the brand’s Enduro fabric—a blend of cotton, nylon, and spandex—these pants strike a balance between rugged workwear toughness and modern stretch performance.

Strategic stretch panels are integrated into key movement zones such as the waistband, crotch, and inner legs. This design allows the pants to move naturally with the body during activities like climbing, hiking, or bending and kneeling. 

Despite the focus on stretch and mobility, the Enduro fabric provides solid abrasion resistance while remaining breathable enough for outdoor activity. Reinforced seams and articulated patterning help maintain structural integrity during repeated wear in rugged conditions. Spandex and other stretch materials usually suffer in the durability department, but this blend offers the best of both worlds

Multiple pockets provide storage for tools or small gear, while the overall design keeps a relatively low-profile look compared to more overt tactical pants. This makes them versatile enough for hiking, travel, or casual wear without looking like an off-duty police officer.

Comfort is arguably where these pants shine. Their flexible construction and ergonomic fit allow for unrestricted movement, making them popular for hikers and backcountry hunters who prioritize mobility during long treks.

Best Classic Tactical Pants for Work: Dickies Tradebuilt Duck Canvas Double-Knee

The Dickies Tradebuilt Duck Canvas Double-Knee Work Pants are classic rugged workwear designed for durability and jobsite functionality. Built from heavy duck canvas with added stretch, these pants are intended to handle demanding trades such as construction, carpentry, and mechanical work.

One of the standout features is the double-knee reinforcement. This design adds an extra layer of fabric in a high-wear area, helping protect the pants from abrasion when kneeling or working on rough surfaces. The reinforcement also improves longevity, making the pants a dependable option for daily work environments more than occasional duty.

The fabric itself is durable yet flexible. Duck canvas is known for its toughness and resistance to tearing, while the slight stretch incorporated into the material helps maintain mobility during bending or climbing. These aren’t technical hiking stretch pants, so they’re a bad choice for outdoor activity, but perfect for tough jobs.

Utility leads the dance when it comes to features. The pants include carpenter pockets, a hammer loop, and a secure zippered back pocket, allowing workers to keep essential tools and items within easy reach. A durable water-repellent finish also provides basic protection against moisture.

Dickies Tradebuilt Double-Knee Pants are best suited for tradespeople who need tough, affordable work pants that can withstand heavy daily use. While they lack some of the technical features of premium tactical pants and technical hiking wear, their durability and practical design make them a dependable choice for jobsites.

Best Modern Tactical Pants for Work: Truewerk T2 Werkpants

Truewerk’s T2 Werkpants are designed specifically for professionals who work outdoors in varying conditions. Known for their modern technical approach to workwear, Colorado-based Truewerk focuses on blending durability with performance fabrics typically found in outdoor apparel.

The T2 Werkpants use a stretch fabric that offers excellent mobility while maintaining abrasion resistance. This allows users to move comfortably during physically demanding tasks like climbing ladders, crouching, or hauling materials. Compared with traditional heavy canvas pants, the T2 design feels lighter and more breathable.

Durability remains a central feature. Reinforced seams and abrasion-resistant panels help the pants withstand tough jobsite conditions. The fabric also offers water and wind resistance, making them practical for outdoor work environments where weather conditions can change quickly.

The streamlined utility layout has real tradesmen in mind. The pants feature a carpenter’s pencil slot that I didn’t know I needed until I started using it. Everyday items such as smartphone and pocketknife each get dedicated slots and there are 9 total utility pockets.

The soft fleece liner adds comfort and warmth and there’s a DWR finish that provides a base level of water resistance and wind-blocking. This also makes them less ideal for high-output activity, but these are dedicated workwear pants for the modern tradesman.

Most Tactical Pants: Helikon-tex UTP

Helikon-tex Flex-Leg Urban Tactical Pants (UTP) combine tactical functionality with a relatively low-profile appearance. Unlike some military-style trousers that announce themselves with massive cargo pockets and overt tactical aesthetics, the UTP aims to provide practical features while remaining suitable for everyday wear.

One of the defining characteristics of these pants is the pocket system. The design includes multiple compartments positioned to distribute weight evenly around the hips and thighs. This helps prevent gear from shifting and bouncing during movement and allows quick access to essential items such as flashlights, knives, or phone.

Unlike othertactical pants that try to balance durability and mobility with a compromise hybrid fabric, the UTP employ stretch panels in key locations to maintain maximum durability with their original nonelastic NyCo fabric. The stretch paneling hides the less-durable material to handle demanding environments without sacrificing flexibility.

Best Tactical Pants for Hunting: Forloh Brush to Mountain Pro

The Forloh Brush to Mountain Pro pants are a premium outdoor pant designed for hunters and backcountry users who need rugged durability in harsh environments. Forloh is also one of the few companies making their apparel 100 percent in the U.S.A.

Like the Fjallraven Keb Trousers above, the BTM pants pair high-durability canvas panels in high-wear areas with more breathable, stretchy panels on the rear leg and crotch areas. I’ve worn the BTM pants for hunting and yard work for several years and they handle everything from thick brush and rocky slopes to long hikes in the mountains. 

While not as breathable as thin, warm weather hunting pants like Forloh’s InsectShield Lightweight Pants, they’re a great fit layered for cold weather hunts where breathability isn’t as essential or for upland hunting where brush encounters destroy stretch pants. They also can pull double-duty for yard work and jobsite work.

Strategic placement ensures easy access to gear in the field without interfering with movement or pack straps. The cargo pockets sit high enough on the leg that they don’t interfere with hiking, knocking your knees climbing over rocks and downed trees.

Why Tactical Pants Are More Popular Than Ever

“Tactical pants” used to mean bulky, military-style gear—but that definition has completely changed. Today’s versions are built for real life, blending rugged durability with everyday comfort in a way that appeals to hikers, tradesmen, hunters, and even guys just looking for tougher alternatives to jeans.

What’s driving the shift is performance. Modern tactical pants combine tough materials like canvas, ripstop, and nylon with stretch panels that actually move with you. Reinforced knees, gusseted crotches, and articulated fits make long days on the jobsite, trail, or range noticeably more comfortable, while smarter pocket layouts keep tools, knives, and everyday carry within easy reach.

They’re also more versatile than ever. Lightweight, breathable options work well in warm weather and high-output activities, while heavier canvas builds are made to handle rough terrain and jobsite abuse. And unlike older designs, many newer styles tone down the overtly tactical look, making them easy to wear casually without standing out.

That said, not all tactical pants are built the same. Some lean into heavy-duty durability for work and range use, while others prioritize flexibility and comfort for hiking and everyday wear. Knowing the difference—and which features actually matter—can make all the difference when choosing the right pair.

Durable Materials That Actually Last

Tactical pants are designed to take abuse, so the fabric construction matters a lot. Many use rugged cotton canvas, ripstop fabric, or nylon blends that resist tearing and abrasion. Ripstop fabrics are particularly popular because their grid weave helps prevent small rips from spreading. Pants that incorporate stretch fibers like elastane or spandex can also make a big difference in comfort and mobility.

Mobility Features That Make a Difference

Unlike traditional work pants, good tactical pants are built to move with your body. Features like gusseted crotches, articulated knees, and stretch panels allow for better flexibility when climbing, kneeling, crouching, or hiking over uneven terrain. A slightly athletic fit also keeps the fabric from bunching up when you’re active.

Smart Pocket Layouts for Everyday Carry

One of the biggest draws of tactical pants is their extra storage. Cargo pockets, reinforced knife pockets, and hidden zip compartments make it easy to carry small tools, flashlights, multitools, or phones. The best designs keep these pockets low-profile and well-positioned, so they’re useful without making the pants bulky or uncomfortable.

Reinforcements That Prevent Wear

Look for pants with reinforced stitching in high-stress areas like the knees, seat, and belt loops. Some models also include double-layer knees or pockets that allow you to insert knee pads—handy if you spend a lot of time kneeling on rough ground or working on hard surfaces.

Weather Resistance for Real-World Conditions

Depending on how you plan to use them, weather protection may be important. Many tactical pants include water-resistant coatings that help shed light rain and mud. Others are designed with breathable fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly, making them more comfortable for hot-weather work or long hikes.

Comfort That Holds Up All Day

Even the toughest pants won’t get much use if they’re uncomfortable. Look for features like flexible waistbands, breathable fabrics, and lightweight construction if you plan to wear them all day. The best tactical pants strike a balance between rugged performance and everyday comfort.

Why You Should Trust Me

I own probably a dozen pants you could classify as “tactical” and tested several pair specifically for this guide. While I’m not a first responder or former Navy SEAL, I spend a lot of time outdoors in pants like these, whether hunting, building, or backpacking.