Today In Gear: Your Quick-Hit Guide to Product News

Today in Gear is our daily roundup of the latest product announcements, drops and news from Gear Patrol Studios. Please direct pitches, tips and questions to [email protected].

With all the AI news lately there’s been renewed worry that the technology is coming for all of our jobs. But according to a new study from the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT, AI is likely not going to replace as many jobs as we feared (phew). In many cases, it’s too expensive to do so, and the shift of AI into the workforce will likely be gradual.

Today we’re taking a look at stylish puffy pants, a fresh boot collab and a small-but-mighty crossbody bag. This is Today in Gear.

Photo by Chrome Industries

A Rugged Crossbody Bag

The new Mini Tensile Sling bag ($45) from Chrome Industries is tiny, but mighty. It has a two-liter capacity and is made of lightweight, durable ripstop and webbing for reinforcement. The water-resistant materials and PU-coated zippers mean you can throw this bag on no matter where you’re headed. 

Photo by Huckberry

A New Scout Boot 

We never get tired of a good leather boot. The Huckberry x Easymoc Scout Boot ($360) is handcrafted in Maine — each leather boot is made one at a time. An Ortholite footbed makes walking a dream and the Vibram sole provides cushion. These are boots that you can feel good about, and they’re available in two colors: Honey and Toast. 

Photo by Backcountry

Puff Pants Forever

Puffy pants, but make it fashion. There are days so cold that you wish you could just throw on a big pair of puff pants. The thing is, they are not exactly flattering or presentable (hello, diaper butt). Backcountry has solved that problem with the fashion-forward Oakbury Synthetic Quilted Pant ($60). The cropped pants feature a straight leg cut for style, and recycled Primaloft insulation for heat.

Photo by B&H

Easy Recording

The new DJI Mic 2 ($249) is a game changer: It can connect directly to your smartphone via Bluetooth. The wireless microphone can run for 18 hours on a single charge, and the ability to pair it with a phone eliminates the need for a receiver. Plus, the mic has AI noise reduction, a bigger touchscreen and better internal recording quality.  

Photo by Reigning Champ

A Reigning Champ x Golden Bear Collab

Athleticwear brand Reigning Champ collaborated with Golden Bear and released a line of too-cool-for-school Varsity Jackets. The Lobos Varsity Jacket ($700) is available in black or navy and features a classic fit and understated styling. If you’re trying to be a little extra (or redeem yourself for never earning a letterman’s jacket in high school), the Prince Wool Varsity Jacket ($800) will help you accomplish that dream. With the two-toned body and sleeves and stripe detailing, you will certainly look the part.