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Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

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## Honorable Mentions

During the winter season, the WIRED team consistently evaluates ski clothing. Here are some products we admire.

### Hestra Fall Line 3-Finger Gloves for $190:

I’ve been a fan of Hestra gloves for some time, taken by their sophisticated stitching and considerate design. This year, I tested a pair, and the Fall Line gloves met my expectations. They are available in six sizes to guarantee an ideal fit. The cowhide is supple, with a bit of break-in occurring after just five days. The wrist strap prevents you from losing your glove while checking your phone. They offer warmth without excessive sweating, and the lining can be removed for cleaning. —Martin Cizmar

### Crab Grab Snuggler Mitts for $89:

These mittens resemble tiny sleeping bags for your fingers, filled with Primaloft insulation and cozy sherpa fleece lining for added warmth. A 15K membrane delivers outstanding waterproof protection. Sturdy and suitable for all seasons, these mitts are a fantastic selection for under $100.

### Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic Long Sleeve for $98:

Even outside the mountains, this shirt is remarkably comfortable. Constructed from 190-gsm, 100% merino wool, it provides warmth with a relaxed fit. On the slopes, it effectively wicks moisture, keeping me at ease. When layered with a shell and the Patagonia R1 Thermal Hoodie, it ensures warmth even under severe conditions.

### Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket and Bib:

Seniq, a women’s brand debuting in 2024, brings a Gen Z aesthetic with playful color blocking. The Powder Puff Down Jacket features a dry-touch finish, YKK AquaGuard zippers, and a PFC-free DWR coating for water resistance. Additional perks include an asymmetrical front zipper, side pockets, and a spacious removable hood for versatility. The silky shell bibs have a flattering silhouette, multiple pockets, and a 20,000-mm waterproof rating. —Kristin Canning

### Mammut Sender In Hooded Jacket for $259:

This puffy hoodie functions as a superb mid-layer, featuring insulation made from recycled rope remnants and a wind-resistant PFC-free DWR coating. It’s lightweight, warm, and adaptable for snowboarding, hiking, and camping, though it isn’t the most packable option.

### Helly Hansen Evolved Air Half Zip for $112:

This fleece pullover showcases a waffle pattern for heat retention and moisture wicking. Its lightweight construction and high zippered collar with an adjustable hem make it a functional mid-layer for warmth without adding bulk. —Kristin Canning

### Helly Hansen Lifa Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew for $115 and Pants for $115:

These base layers achieve the perfect thickness balance. They blend merino wool and LIFA fibers for improved moisture-wicking capabilities. They’re soft, lightweight, warm, and odor-resistant, featuring attractive designs and temperature regulation capabilities. —Kristin Canning

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We offer a comprehensive guide on [how to layer](https://www.wired.com/story/outdoor-layering-basics/), but here are some key items.

**Base layer:** Crucial for warmth and moisture wicking. Merino wool is optimal but pricey; synthetics are advancing and cotton should be avoided at all costs.

**Mid layer:** A fleece or puffer retains warmth while releasing moisture. Primaloft Gold performs well whether wet or dry, while down provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.

**Jacket:** A waterproof shell is generally sufficient, providing protection from snow and wind. Look for Gore-Tex (without PFAS) with taped seams and ample pockets.

**Socks:** A mix of merino wool and synthetic fibers offers warmth and durability. Steer clear of cotton and avoid wearing two pairs of socks.

**Gloves:** Waterproof options are preferable; leather gloves can serve as a commendable alternative. Mittens offer more warmth but less dexterity.

For further details, refer to our [Best Ski Gloves and Mittens](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-ski-gloves-and-mittens/) guide.

**Waterproofing and breathability ratings:** A hydrostatic head rating (HH) gauges waterproof capabilities. Breathability is measured by grams of vapor passing through the fabric per square meter daily.

—

**How We Tested**

I have assessed winter sports gear for more than 15 years, collaborating with experts and enthusiasts from the WIRED team. We conducted field evaluations in various conditions across locations like the French Alps, Vermont, Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon to ensure comprehensive assessments.

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

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Top 6 Tote Bags Comparison

Honorable Mentions

Tory Burch Perry Tote for $395: The Perry Tote is an upscale handbag that functions as an elegant work tote. Crafted from Italian pebbled leather, it features a secure laptop compartment with a zipper and three slip pockets.

Nordstrom Le Pliage for $165: The Le Pliage tote is a timeless, adaptable bag designed to hold travel necessities. Its structure draws inspiration from origami, allowing it to be folded for convenient storage.

Cozy Earth Waxed Canvas Tote for $68: This tote blends minimalist aesthetics with robust construction. The straightforward design features both external and internal pockets, making it ideal for various activities such as shopping or beach outings.

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Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

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If you’re tired of the audio from your TV speakers yet don’t want a complete subwoofer arrangement, there’s a solid choice available. The Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is currently discounted by $50 on Amazon, making it a fantastic entry point if you’re seeking a soundbar with options for future enhancements.

Although it has fewer channels compared to some leading choices and lacks side-firing drivers for surround sound, it still produces remarkable audio. With a width of 44 inches and 2.25-inch drivers, it provides clarity and nuanced sound, particularly with its strong bass. Our reviewer, Ryan Waniata, commended its sound quality.

The soundbar comes with built-in controls for essential features like adjusting the volume, but you can also utilize a mobile app for more precise adjustments. In addition to standard functions, it boasts a three-band equalizer and advanced settings for additional speakers. With eARC for TV connectivity, you may find you don’t need the remote or app frequently.

A key aspect of the Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is its ability to expand. The Klipsch Flexus Surr 100 bookshelf speakers and Klipsch Flexus Sub 100 connect wirelessly to the Core 200, providing versatility in speaker arrangement. If you prefer a specific subwoofer, there’s an RCA jack to link it, adding to the variety in this price category.

If you’re poised to enhance your sound system for movie evenings, you can claim a $50 discount on the Flexus Core 200. Alternatively, browse through our best soundbars guide for additional choices.

Comprehending At-Home STI Assessments: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Suggestions (2026)

Comprehending At-Home STI Assessments: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Suggestions (2026)

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If the thought of going to a doctor’s office induces anxiety or discomfort, you might opt to gather your own samples rather than having them collected by healthcare professionals. Home STD tests can be more convenient based on your location and means of transportation, and they may be an out-of-pocket expense, which could align better with your insurance coverage. Regrettably, STIs are often stigmatized, yet there should be no embarrassment in taking charge of your sexual health. Home tests might provide a discreet choice if you’re worried about others’ perceptions.

**Cons of At-Home STI Tests**

At-home STI tests can be expensive. While some may be eligible for FSA and HSA or potentially covered by insurance, free testing offered by local health departments or organizations like Planned Parenthood might be more affordable than at-home testing. Errors in sample collection can result in false negatives, necessitating in-person doctor appointments for treatment despite positive outcomes. Verify that the lab is properly regulated and that the test is from a trustworthy provider. Adhere to kit instructions meticulously and take precautions against contamination, keeping in mind factors like improper storage or recent usage of products that could affect results, according to Dr. Gary Schoolnik, Chief Medical Officer at Visby Medical.

Your health status and timing can also influence test reliability. Elements such as menstruation or recent antibiotic intake might impair sample quality; a healthcare professional can modify testing procedures as needed. In urgent situations—like evident symptoms, being immunocompromised, pregnancy, or known STI exposure—seek professional medical assistance rather than relying on home testing. Roos cautions against depending solely on home kits since inaccurate results may lead you to overlook symptoms. For confidentiality, an ordinary doctor’s visit might be more suitable than having STD test kits at home. If a positive result is probable, receiving the information from a healthcare provider may be more advantageous than discovering it independently. Weigh these factors before opting for home testing.

Sony’s WH-CH720N Headphones Offer Great Value at Their Regular Price, but Currently, They Are a Bargain.

Sony’s WH-CH720N Headphones Offer Great Value at Their Regular Price, but Currently, They Are a Bargain.

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We have assessed a variety of noise-canceling headphones, and although the Sony WH-CH720N has a somewhat peculiar name, they stand out as the best budget-friendly choice we’ve encountered. They typically offer great value at the regular $178 MSRP, but at the moment, they can be found for $95 on Amazon and $100 at Best Buy.

These headphones are well-made and aesthetically pleasing, boasting impressive active noise cancellation and strong audio quality. They do not fold and come without a case; however, a separate case can be purchased if desired.

They are lightweight and adjust to the surroundings for the best sound experience. If you are in search of economical over-ear wireless headphones featuring active noise cancellation, these are a fantastic option. With a battery life of 35 hours, purchasing them for under $100 is a straightforward choice for those who are budget-aware. We have never encountered this price before.

Although we are not close to events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, this is one of several headphone offers we have recently found. Explore other articles if you are interested in wireless gaming earbuds or open-style earbuds.

4 Best Smart Scales of 2026: Evaluated and Assessed

4 Best Smart Scales of 2026: Evaluated and Assessed

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Extra Intelligent Scales

**[Renpho MorphoScan at $150](https://renpho.com/products/morphoscan-scale):** The Renpho MorphoScan full-body scanner bears a strong resemblance to the Runstar FG2015 with nearly the same display and handlebars. Both scales use the same application for data gathering, even permitting concurrent usage. Nonetheless, this scale is not our top choice due to its $15 higher cost. Anticipate some price rivalry soon.

**[Arboleaf Body Fat Scale CS20W at $40](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJBT9XGK):** This economical Bluetooth scale may not be aesthetically pleasing, featuring large silver electrodes and a sizable display. While weight readings are clear, the other six metrics are less easy to interpret, all displayed simultaneously. The Arboleaf app is more intuitive and offers five additional metrics with detailed explanations. While it is worth the cost, the $40/year upsell for an “intelligent interpretation report” is unnecessary.

**[Hume Health Body Pod for $183](https://humehealth.com/pages/hume-body-pod):** The Body Pod from Hume Health is heavily promoted and touted as the Next Big Thing in body management. Even though the app is attractive, the hardware feels fragile, lacks Wi-Fi, and some functions are accessible only through a $100/year Hume Plus subscription. Comparable results can be achieved with more affordable alternatives.

**[Garmin Index S2 at $191](https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Wireless-Connectivity-Measure-010-02294-02/dp/B08KC5V33R?th=1):** After five years, the Index S2 still stands as Garmin’s flagship model. Its notable characteristic is a beautiful color display that assists users in tracking six body metrics for up to 16 participants with each weigh-in. It features weight trend charts and can show the weather. With direct Wi-Fi connectivity and Garmin’s cloud storage, there’s no need for a phone to track progress. However, the Garmin Connect app is complex, with a steep learning curve if users want to adjust scale settings. Although visually appealing, the color display ultimately contributes little to the overall offering.

**[Omron BCM-500 at $92](https://www.amazon.com/Omron-Composition-Monitor-Bluetooth-Connectivity/dp/B07WHMBH8K):** Sporting a large LCD, multiple buttons, and big silver electrodes, the Omron BCM-500 is distinguished by its brutalist style. It fits well in bathrooms decorated with concrete and wrought iron, syncing with Omron’s HeartAdvisor app. It presents six body metrics directly, cycling through each during weigh-ins for up to four users. While interpreting each data point can be challenging due to the non-backlit LCD, the app delivers easier-to-understand front-page graphs for weight, muscle, and body fat. However, the app is slow to synchronize, and the scale is quite expensive for its lack of Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids (2025): Evaluated and Analyzed

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids (2025): Evaluated and Analyzed

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Our Leading Choices

Additional Products Assessed

These alternatives demonstrated some degree of effectiveness, although not as consistently as our leading choices. Others may find them beneficial, as individual responses to the active components in non-prescription sleep aids vary.

Rebalance Dream Sleep Mints (Melatonin-Free; 31-Pack) priced at $46: These five-time-melting mints without melatonin encompass natural soothing ingredients such as L-theanine, L-tryptophan, GABA, and a slow-releasing Reishi mushroom extract. Up to three lozenges can be consumed each night, and I needed all three to feel relaxed. I appreciate the concept of a mint that melts gradually, though I am also testing the melatonin variant for comparison.

Container with blue labeling next to round tablets on the countertop

Image Credit: Molly Higgins

Olly Sleep Gummy for $17: Olly’s popular gummy supplements are trending on social platforms and tend to sell out quickly. The blackberry-mint-flavored treats include 3 mg of melatonin, L-theanine, and various botanicals like chamomile. Although melatonin is generally deemed safe during pregnancy, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. While my initial experience helped me fall asleep swiftly, the results were inconsistent, leading to a desire to raise my dosage repeatedly.

Kona Sea Salt Deep Ocean Magnesium Water Drops priced at $12: Kona’s offerings feature magnesium sourced from the deep ocean waters of Hawai’i, promoting sleep and muscle relaxation. From the range of products, I discovered the water drops to be the most effective. Only a drop per ounce of water is sufficient. While its advantages include the regulation of sleep patterns, it did not provide consistently robust results compared to others.

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Factor Meal Delivery Promotion: Complimentary $200 Withings Body-Scan Scale

Factor Meal Delivery Promotion: Complimentary $200 Withings Body-Scan Scale

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I admit to having an aversion to scales—the type that measures weight. My first reaction upon receiving a complimentary body-scanning scale with a Factor meal kit subscription was “Oh dear!”

I expected unpleasant or awkward news, possibly verifying things I was already aware of. However, I was incorrect on both fronts.

Factor, a meal service by HelloFresh, is recognized for delivering fresh, never-frozen prepared meals that are perfect for microwave cooking. I discovered from my review of Factor last year that air-frying them, ideally with a Ninja Crispi, enhances their flavor.

Factor is especially good for low-carb, protein-dense diets favored by those looking to shed pounds or gain muscle. Therefore, they provide a scale to monitor muscle increase, fat reduction, or both, promoting ongoing use of their service for fitness or wellness aspirations.

At present, Factor is providing a discount for the first week. Regular meals range from $14 to $15 each, accompanied by an $11 shipping fee per box—less expensive than most restaurant deliveries but pricier than homemade meals.

Subscribers who enroll before the end of March will receive a complimentary Withings Body Comp scale with their third meal box. This scale, valued at over $200, assesses fat, muscle, and bone composition, as well as stress and blood vessel elasticity. It’s regarded as WIRED’s premier smart scale, comparable to a fitness tracker for your feet.

To take advantage of this offer, use the code CONWITHINGS on Factor’s website or through the promotional link.

The scale that comes with the subscription is the advanced Body Comp scale from Withings, a pioneer in fitness tracking. It uses bioelectrical impedance analysis to gauge weight, body fat percentage, lean muscle, visceral fat, bone and water mass, heart rate, and arterial stiffness.

Collecting this data only requires standing on the scale for a few moments. The scale identifies you based on weight according to your profile description, cycling through metrics before delivering a cheerful weather update.

Your electrodermal activity, measured by skin response through foot sweat gland stimulation, indicates either stress or excitement. The Withings scale also assesses arterial age or stiffness based on blood velocity during heartbeats, supported by some scientific research.

Many doctors caution against treating body composition metrics as absolute. Others contend that previous “gold standard” measurements were not entirely accurate. This remains a topic of debate. Personally, I consider smart-scale readings as a means for tracking progress and pinpointing potential health concerns that may require medical attention.

Naturally, I was anxious. So much bad news all at once! I thought.