Today in Gear: The Product News You Need to Know

As any Gear Patrol reader will tell you, there’s nothing quite like a hyped-up whiskey release. Whether Scotch or Bourbon, domestic or shipped in from abroad, it’s become very clear to this humble writer that our readers definitely have a penchant for sipping on the best the market has to offer. One of the most beloved brands in the space, Buffalo Trace, has revealed the 2021 edition of its high-profile Antique Collection — only this time, it’s missing a key member. For more on one of the most desired whiskey drops of the year (on top of updates in the tech, watches and style spaces), read on down below. As always, this is Today in Gear.

Google Maps goes “Lite” with biker-friendly mode primed for two-wheeled travel.

Google

Whether you’re a bike messenger or simply going on a guided ride, in an effort to streamline its product for those on two wheels, Google Maps has added a “Lite Navigation” feature. Designed to promote more sustainable modes of transportation, key details include at-a-glance ETA and elevation updates, and turn-by-turn directions (without the need to keep your screen on).

Canon’s VR-friendly fisheye lens delivers double vision… but in a good way.

Canon

Canon’s all-new RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye wide lens should make VR shooting easier than ever. It’s designed with a double-lens construction, can handle all the way up to 8K resolution and delivers stereoscopic 3D 180-degree VR that can be viewed on gear like the Oculus Quest 2. While the lens is ideal for the Canon EOS R5, it’s a sign that VR lenses might become even more accessible in the DSLR space.

Rumpl adds merino wool options in its pursuit to build a better blanket.

Rumpl

Rumpl built its name on creating toasty blankets built responsibly out of the same material as your trusted puffer jacket. With the Merino SoftWool blanket, Rumpl adds its first blanket made from 100 percent natural fibers — a combination of Australian merino wool and organic cotton. The final result isn’t just a well-crafted knit, it’s a blanket you’ll use year-round (and in every room of your house).

The rally-style bracelet isn’t the only thing catching our eye on this “Director’s Cut” NOMOS watch.

Markus Bachmann

Designer Werner Aisslinger has tuned up the NOMOS Autobahn for his “Director’s Cut” edition. Backed by NOMOS’ DUW 6101 automatic movement, the face is brightened up by a semi-circle of Super LumiNova blocks (in yellow, orange or black — depending on the colorway). From the rally-style watch band to the large date ring (which shows three days at once), this is a watch worth stopping for.

George T. Stagg is noticeably absent in Buffalo Trace’s 2021 Antique Collection.

Buffalo Trace

The release of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection is a big deal. Known as BTAC among enthusiasts, the line features some of the brand’s most prized bottles. This year, however, George T. Stagg is missing from the lineup — reportedly due to quality issues with the barrels. That said, 2021’s Antique Collection is still no slouch, featuring a tight cast of four signature whiskeys that are unlikely to disappoint. Read up on our analysis of 2021’s Antique Collection crop down below.

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