simplehuman Trashcan

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I just checked our Amazon order history. My wife bought this thing 10 years ago – almost to the day. She wanted a stainless trash can for the kitchen and just bought the most highly reviewed unit on Amazon.

I remember being annoyed that it cost damn near $150 and required very specific trash bags only sold by simplehuman. A trashcan just doesn’t seem like something that needs that kind of complexity or cost.

I was wrong. In fact, as crazy as it sounds, I would list this trash can as one of the best things we’ve spent money on in the last decade or so. We love it so much, we bought another for recycling. But… Why?

First, its made really well. You know when you go to an antique store and buy something like an old radio and say to yourself, “Man… They don’t make them like they used too.” Well, these things are made like shit used to be made. There is no planned obsolescence here.

Secondly, it’s thoughtful. Initially, I thought the proprietary bag situation was a real bummer… But, here’s the thing – The trash can has a storage area for bags. When you empty your trash, you aren’t left hunting around for a new one… You just grab it from the storage area, line the can, and move on.

Also, the second to last bag in each pack is labeled. So, when you get to that bag, you know to reorder. And since we buy our bags off Amazon Prime anyway, there really isn’t any added complexity. The added cost just goes towards convenience and the comfort in knowing this damned stainless contraption is going to outlast you.

Anyway, this is the trashcan we bought ten years ago.

Amazon Smart Sticky Note Printer

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This is definitely one of those things that Amazon will trot out to the world with promises and glee… only to recoil from later once sales goals aren’t met.

BUT, I absolutely love the idea of this. I’m tempted to buy one just to see if it’s as feasible as it is in my mind.

Details.

Alubox Vs. Pelican

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To be frank, Alubox is out of my pay grade… And despite the fact that I’ve bought a few used Pelican cases in my time, Pelican is as well. Even so, I can’t help but want what I don’t have or even have a use for.

In any regard, I thought this old article over on Expedition Portal was well done. It helps folks rationalize their decision after spending thousands on aluminum boxes.

Details here.

Aer Slim Pouch

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I’ve used and reviewed many products from Aer. They tend to make thoughtful, really well made gear for modern travel. My favorite product of theirs is probably their Dopp kit (on sale right now btw), but their most popular pouch is undoubtedly their tech pouch – every gearhead on YouTube flexes it.

Recently, however, they’ve released a new tech pouch aimed at streamlining your carry. It’s smaller, lighter, and holds less… but just enough to get you and your tech through the day.

And because it’s made by Aer, I’m sure it’s made like a brick shithouse.

Details here.

Stretch

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I’ve been a life-long Levi guy. I’ve always just felt most comfortable in jeans and the 501 and 511 have been my go-to since, well… since my mom was buying them for me.

During the pandemic, however, I found myself wearing sweat pants a lot. I had no place to go, so no reason to put on shoes and if you aren’t gonna throw on some Js, why bother with pants?

I guess I just sort of grew into the comfortability as the idea of putting on jeans just hasn’t been appealing to me. Then, a pal recommended I try a pair of Western Rise pants. Essentially, these are “tech pants” with 4-way stretch, a gusseted crotch, and cut similar to my favorite Levis.

I instantly fell in love with the pair I got for Christmas and started experimenting with other cuts and other manufacturers. Here’s a run down:

  1. Western Rise Diversion. These are the first pair I got and they are made from my favorite material. These have a similar weight to your typical jean, but they have a good amount of stretch to them and the gusseted crotch gives you a ton of room. My only complaint? They are just a tad too slim for me. One the flip side though, I think these might be more durable than even denim?
  2. Western Rise Evolution. These have a more relaxed fit (almost identical to the 501) than the Diversion, but they are made of a thinner material. In Austin, I think these are going to be fantastic in the summer time… Stretch is on par with the Diversion and comfort is incredible.
  3. Du/er field pant. I got these on sale from REI and they are amazing… Cut like a traditional VietNam era field pant, but with stretch for days (the most I’ve had). You can’t beat the comfort and they seem to be pretty durable as well? I’d guess the weight is somewhere between the Diversion and the Evolution.

(Editor’s Note: Du/er makes a popular denim with stretch. I’ve yet to try them, but certainly plan too and will report back.)

In any regard, if you are like I was and stuck on obsolete materials just out of habit, give some of these modern tech materials a try. I’m actually really glad I did. I feel like I have a pant more comfortable than my old jeans, just as durable, and made more responsibly.

Logitech Customer Service

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I’ve long been a user of the Logitech MX Master series of mice. In fact, I’ve had every generation and every variation of the line. I’ve found them to be well made, but more than anything – thoughtfully designed.

Less than a year ago, I bought the MX Master 3. I’ve used it every day and like previous purchases from Logitech, I’ve been very happy with it. However, my unit started showing weird forms of wear on the finish. Last week, it got so bad that I sent an email to Logitech customer support.

After sending them a couple of pictures and answering a few questions, I got an email saying a replacement was on the way. Perfect customer service.

In any case, if you are interested in trying an MX yourself, you can get it here.

Bunny Boots

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We just got through the biggest and coldest winter storm to ever hit Austin, Texas. We saw temps as low as 3-degrees, went days without power, and still don’t have water after my lab/office was flooded by a frozen pipe.

Inspired by this misery, I decided to research the best winter boot ever made. According to most, it’s the Bunny Boot – military issued footwear that uses air between a layer of rubber and wool to insulate your feet.

Apparently, they are reasonably comfortable, crazy warm, and last forever.

Details here.

MagSafe Folio

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Nomad recently released their folio case for MagSafe phones. Early reviews are calling it the best case on the market. Not sure I could rock a folio though…

Details.