Briefcases have been largely replaced by polished backpacks, like this sleek and thoughtfully designed Troubadour Apex 3.0. Made of 90 percent recycled materials, it’s equally comfortable and convenient to tote to a meeting, the office, or through the airport. It boasts a super-strong bonded neoprene handle on top and a secret “stash” zippered pocket on one of the ergonomic shoulder straps, the perfect spot for a passport, phone, or anything else of similar size that needs to be accessed quickly while wearing the backpack.
The Apex 3.0 also has special zippered and cushioned section for a 17-inch laptop, plus more pockets inside. The back panel is breathable to make rushing to the gate no sweat.
In classic neutral colors, this vegan leather backpack/laptop bag makes a smart gift for basically any professional on the go, student, or new graduate on the go.
I recently discovered the Weatherman Travel Umbrella, and I’m impressed. I’m not the only one. This small-yet-might bumbershoot has a large and loyal following, which a scan of the Amazon reviews makes apparent. It’s compact and light, easily tucking into a tote bag or a carry-on. It’s also an ideal umbrella to leave in the car for those showers that come out of nowhere. Considering how easily portable it is, it’s surprisingly wind-resistant, beating back winds of up to 45 mph, and sturdy. It comes with a lifetime warranty, but something tells me those rarely get used. A high-quality umbrella is a can’t-miss gift for virtually anyone. And to those who might say that’s a “boring” present, I say … have you seen the 15 colors? So fun! The neon yellow and neon orange bring extra visibility, which in my opinion makes them the likeliest picks for dog owners, who are out walking in the dark every night. Moms with kids who play soccer, lacrosse, football, or baseball spend many a game cheering in the rain because, well, that’s what moms do. For her, perhaps the hot pink? (Oh, they do have black if your giftee is more the Wall Street type.) It can also make a super-nice stocking stuffer, as well as a white elephant or grab bag gift.
For the guy who is always well put together, it’s hard to go wrong with a fresh, clean fragrance – and John Varvatos XX Artisan Teal is just about ideal in that category. This citrusy, airy eau de toilette doesn’t even remotely overpower, so it’s safe for offices. It has a light lemon-peppery top note, with a salty-woody basenote. It smells like summer, basically. It’s technically a men’s fragrance, but in my opinion it’s the kind that wives and girlfriends will borrow. The bottle presentation is what clinches it as gift worthy, with the woven-rope casing over the Caribbean-colored glass. Does he have a summer birthday, or is the beach or lake his happy place? Then you may want to grab this now, while it’s on sale.
A way to make working out fun has been the holy grail of folks trying to get in shape for … ever. It seems like it should be a fairly simple concept, right? But if that person you love has stopped going to the gym because “it’s just so boring,” then here’s a new idea for a gift. The Stealth Game Cycle has riders playing interactive games while they pedal. Five games come with the Stealth Fitness app: Trail Rider, Cycle Chase, Alpine Adventure, and Wakeboarding & Dash Trac. Upper body strength is boosted too, because the handlebar system acts as a game controller. Regular stationary bikes aren’t known for being all that exciting, but those features on the Stealth Cycle completely change the picture. Even antsy teen athletes report that time flies on it. Oh, and the seat is gel-infused so it’s extra comfortable. This is quite possibly the perfect gift for a fitness enthusiast (or an aspiring one).
