LIVE A LITTLE is a style and lifestyle journal for the adventurous man—written from the pen of a longtime menswear journalist.
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GEAR IS ESSENTIAL to the Live a Little ethos. That’s because we know well-made gear can greatly improve our lives on any given day, whether that's working in our personal study or fresh off the plane in a new country.
It’s true function comes first in the world of gear. (What guy doesn’t love being prepared?) But we also love gear because it makes us feel cool. It makes us feel like we’re Jimmy Chin or Peter Blake; or James Bond or an Artemis II astronaut.
Which leads me to today’s story on the best gear I’ve found in 2026…so far.
At the end of each year, I publish my “Gear of the Year” recaps. You can read my 2024 edition here and my 2025 edition here.
Last summer, I published my first mid-year report on the best gadgets, tech, and gear. I had a lot of fun writing that story, and it helped me organize my favorite products ahead of the holiday season. It was also well received by you all.
Read more: 34 Small Ways to Maximize Your Life
This story follows a similar pattern. It’s a master list on all the gear I’ve been enjoying halfway through 2026. Of course there will be new discoveries in the months ahead. As well as more product categories to explore. All that being said, I think it captures a solid picture of what the gear landscape is looking like in 2026.
But enough about what I think. I’m curious to hear your thoughts. Let me know your favorites down in the comments.
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