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Mobile Syrup

The ultimate Apple Watch accessory gift guide [2023 Edition]

The Apple Watch is, by far, Apple’s most personal device.

It’s hard to underplay how impactful the smartwatch can be to a person’s life. For some, the Apple Watch is a productivity tool that keeps them connected. For others, it’s a fitness tracker encouraging them to live healthier lives. Regardless, the Apple Watch can have a significant impact on your life.

Previously, I wrote about every Apple Watch strap available in the Apple Store. And now, here are 14 accessories and two services every Apple Watch user needs to check out.

Twelve South ActionSleeve

The ActionSleeve is another unique accessory created by the team at Twelve South. Not all workouts accommodate items on your wrist, and some of us may just not like the feel. However, many of us may be used to having an iPhone strapped to an arm. The Twelve South ActionSleeve brings that same concept to your Apple Watch, moving your fitness tracker from your wrist to your bicep.

The Twelve South ActionSleeve is available on Amazon for $64.76 for the 41mm Apple Watch and $50.05 for the 45mm Apple Watch.

Satechi USB-C Magnetic Charging Dock

Want a compact way to charge your Apple Watch via your MacBook or iPad? Look no further than the Satechi USB-C Magnetic charging dock. This small Apple Watch charger is made of space grey-coloured aluminum and is MFi certified by Apple. Because of its compactness, this is a great travel or workbag accessory to charge your Apple Watch.

You can order the Satechi USB-C Magnetic charging dock from Amazon for $59.99

Wooden Watch Band Organizer

This next accessory is simple but stylish. Every time I walk into an Apple Store, I think of how nice it would be to have a tray for my Apple Watch bands. While this tray isn’t identical to the sleek-looking ones at the Apple Store, it does hold six bands and is quite affordable. The wooden band tray is made of bamboo and accommodates any size of Apple Watch strap.

You can order the Wooden Watch Band Organizer from Amazon in either a light wood for $32.99 or a dark wood for $39.99

Elago Apple Watch Stand

Cool fact, your Apple Watch actually has a cute nightstand mode! This nightstand mode shows the time and the Apple Watch’s battery percentage in green text when connected to a charger. Elago made this feature fun by creating some Apple and Nintendo-inspired Apple Watch stands.

There are four stands to choose from, some coming in various colours. Your options include an Apple II, iMac G3, Gameboy, and an original iPod. Once received, place your Apple Watch charging puck in the stand, and now your Apple Watch has a fun new home when charging!

Not sure if nightstand mode is enabled on your Apple Watch? Launch the Watch app > tap general > scroll down to Nightstand Mode and make sure it’s toggled on (green). These stands fit all Apple Watches except for the Apple Watch Ultra.

You can order Elago’s Apple II, iMac, Gameboy, or iPod Apple Watch stands on Amazon for $16.99 to $20.99, depending on the version and colour.

AirPods Pro

It’s safe to say that any pair of AirPods is an excellent pair of AirPods. However, the AirPods Pro (2nd-Gen) stand out as a fantastic pair of earbuds. Initially, the first-generation AirPods Pro did not sit in my ears comfortably, so I stuck with regular AirPods through to the third generation. Yet, I was sold when the second-generation AirPods Pro was released with extra small ear tips.

AirPods Pro features six hours of battery life, active noise cancellation, adaptive transparency, spatial audio, and are sweat and water-resistant. The included charging case provides an additional 24 hours of battery life, MagSafe charging, a U1 chip, speaker for Find My, and a spot for a lanyard loop! All these features make AirPods Pro a stellar companion for your Apple Watch to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while exercising.

AirPods Pro is available to purchase from Apple for $329, and you can request a custom engraved charging case for no extra charge when ordering from Apple’s website

Powerbeats Pro

For people who find AirPods don’t sit right in their ears, there’s Powerbeats Pro. On countless occasions, my mother has told me how much she enjoys her Powerbeats Pro. While the buds don’t offer feature parity with AirPods Pro, they’re still great earbuds. 

The Powerbeats Pro are water resistant, feature “Hey Siri” support, and have physical buttons to pause/play music and adjust the volume. Powerbeats Pro features nine hours of battery life on a single charge, with the provided charging case granting another 24 hours. Perhaps the most attractive feature of Powerbeats Pro is their around-ear hooks to help keep the buds in your ears during an intense workout. 

Powerbeats Pro comes in ‘Black,’ ‘Navy,’ and ‘Ivory’ for $329.95 from Apple and offers complimentary engraving when ordering online

Otterbox All Day Case

We’re all used to putting a case on our iPhones to protect them. While the Apple Watch is meant to be a fashion piece in many situations, in others, such as on an adventurous hike, it may be at risk of being damaged. Luckily, North America’s number-one-selling smartphone case manufacturer has you covered. 

Otterbox sells their All Day case for Apple Watch in blue, purple, pink, brown, green and black. Some colours are available in both 41mm and 45mm, while others may only be available in a single size. Otterbox is well known for its protective cases, and its All Day case for Apple Watch easily snaps on and off depending on your needs for any given day. 

You can order the All Day case for Apple Watch on Amazon for $31.99 in Black for either 41mm or 45mm. Other colours range from $26.30 to $32.75 and can be found here.

Screen Protectors

Continuing on the protective side of things, screen protectors are another common accessory many of us purchase to protect our iPhones from scratches and cracks. Apple Watches are no different. Many may not realize that the stainless steel Apple Watch models and the Apple Watch Ultra feature stronger crystal sapphire glass. In contrast, regular aluminum Apple Watches feature ion-x glass, which is far more susceptible to scratches. 

Having primarily owned stainless steel watches and now an Apple Watch Ultra, I feel those owners can get away without a screen protector on their watch. However, aluminum watch owners should consider buying one to protect from those ugly scratches. There are many options to choose from, but UniqueMe sells six packs for both 41mm and 45mm Apple Watches. 

You can order the UniqueMe screen protectors for $13.99 on Amazon

Travel Storage Bag

Like any good traveller, you strive only to pack the essentials to avoid that frustrating baggage fee airlines charge. Yet, you still want to bring along several watch straps to match your outfit on any given day. Well, an Apple Watch strap travel storage bag is perfect for you. 

Several options are available in different shapes, sizes, and materials. However, I opted for the Baluue canvas storage bag. The Baluue canvas storage bag comes in three colours; grey, blue, and beige. It holds five watch straps and rolls up into a small travel convenient size. 

You can order the Baluue canvas storage bag on Amazon for $15.29 in blue, $16.09 in grey, or $16.79 in beige

USB-C Apple Watch Charger + 20W Power Adapter

Suppose you’re an Apple Watch Series 7 or above owner and need to charge your Apple Watch quickly. Good news: Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8 (and Apple Watch Ultra) support fast charging! What is fast charging, you might ask? It’s where your Apple Watch charges from 0 to 80 percent in 45 minutes. 

Fast charging is convenient for those long days travelling, nights sleep tracking, or intense workout days. You need an Apple USB-C to Apple Watch charger and a 20W power adapter for fast charging. 

Apple sells its USB-C to Apple Watch charger for $39 and its 20W power brick for $25.

Apple Watch Adapter Connector

This accessory is small and inexpensive but a fantastic choice for those who may have a favourite watch strap from a traditional watch and want to wear it with their Apple Watch. These Apple Watch strap adapters from Iitee replace the links on your classic watch band with Apple Watch clasps. It’s that simple. Every kit comes with two connectors and a tool. Adapters are available for both the smaller 41mm Watch Face, and the larger 45/49mm Watch Faces.  

The Iitee Apple Watch adapter connector is available to order on Amazon for $13.99 in either space black or stainless steel.

Twelve South ActionBand

Another neat accessory from Twelve South is its ActionBand, a more comfortable way to wear your Apple Watch during a workout. Made of soft fabric, the ActionBand stays firm on your wrist while absorbing sweat and keeping your hands dry. The ActionBand is designed for all Apple Watches, 40mm and above, except for the Apple Watch Ultra. 

Order the Twelve South ActionBand from Amazon for $52.94 for 40mm and $48.65 for 45mm

Belkin Boost Up 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

I’ve written about the Belkin Boost Up 3-in-1 wireless charger a few times here on MobileSyrup, and that’s because the product is just so handy in my life. There are two versions; a tree-style stand and a flat mat. They’re both the same price and come in black or white. Deciding between the two depends on your style preference and whether you like your iPhone vertical or horizontal while charging. 

These 3-in-1 charging stations are Apple-certified and can fast charge both Apple Watches (series 7 and above) and iPhones (iPhone 12 and above) via MagSafe. Additionally, there’s a third spot for wireless charging AirPods! 

You can purchase both the Boost Up pad and the Boost Up tree from Apple for $179.95

AURA Strap 2

The AURA Strap 2 is a smart strap designed for Apple Watch. What does a smart strap do, you ask? Well, the AURA Strap 2 connects to your Apple Watch like any other band, except it uses low-energy Bluetooth and metal electrodes to share your body composition and hydration with your Apple Watch.

Body composition is the fat, bone, water and muscle percentages in human bodies. The AURA Strap 2 features six months of battery life. When the battery dies, simply replace the CR1632 coin-cell battery with a new one. Data collected by the AURA Strap 2 syncs with Apple Health. The AURA Strap 2 is water-resistant and comes in four colours; black, red, white, and blue.

The AURA Strap 2 can be ordered directly from AURA for $200 CAD ($149 USD) plus shipping

AppleCare+

Whether you’re clumsy or not, accidents happen, and when those accidents lead to a damaged Apple Watch, it can suck. AppleCare+ is Apple’s protection plan to provide an extended manufacturer’s warranty and some accidental cover to your Apple Watch. I actually wrote a whole run-down on AppleCare+ last year.

Briefly, AppleCare+ for Apple Watch includes an extended manufacturer’s warranty for accessories and defects, express replacement for repairs, and $89 deductibles for physical damage replacement. Typically AppleCare+ is purchased along with your watch. However, you have 60 days to buy it from Apple after purchasing your watch from any retailer. AppleCare+ is $129 for Apple Watch Ultra and $99 for all other models. 

You can learn more about AppleCare+ for Apple Watch on Apple’s website

Apple Fitness+

Apple Fitness+ debuted in late 2020 and has massively impacted my fitness journey. Apple Fitness+ offers a series of workouts, including strength, core, treadmill, yoga, kickboxing, and much more. Workouts range from 5 minutes to 45 minutes. For people who aren’t huge fans of the gym, Apple Fitness+ makes for an excellent way to get high-quality, guided workouts right at home. 

Apple Fitness+ used to require an Apple Watch until iOS 16.1 brought the functionality to iPhone users. Nevertheless, Apple Fitness+ is the best fitness training service for an Apple Watch user. Your workout metrics appear on the screen, including your calories burned during the current workout and your activity rings.

You can learn more about Apple Fitness+ on Apple’s website.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though we may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

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Cottage Life

10 gift ideas for the boating enthusiast

Our editorial team independently selects these products. If you choose to buy any, we may earn a commission that helps fund our content. Learn more.

If you’re looking for a gift for the angler or boat enthusiast in your life, we’ve got some ideas. From floating keychains to a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, there’s something for every boat lover to enjoy during the boating season. Here are 10 great gifts to consider.

YETI Tundra 35 hard-sided cooler

This portable YETI cooler is perfect for cottagers who love to entertain on the boat. It’s big enough that it can hold 21 cans and comes with one dry goods basket.

Buy from SAIL
$375

Costa Blackfin 580P Polarized Sunglasses

Adequate eye protection is a must when out on the boat. These polarized sunglasses will help protect the eyes from the elements like sun and water and hey, they’re cool looking too. The nylon frames are durably built and there’s a special lining to prevent slippage.

Buy from Bass Pro Shops
$193

L.L.Bean Kennebec Multi-Reel Case

Help the angler in your life stay organized with this compact adjustable multi-reel case. The thick padding protects up to 10 valuable reels and the extra pockets are great for storing leaders, tippets, and tools. With padded interior compartments, a hard-sided exterior, and vent to release moisture, this case will prolong the lifespan of fishing equipment for many years.

Buy from L.L.Bean
$119
$80

Sperry Boat Shoes

The iconic Sperry boat shoe is a classic choice for a reason. The signature wave siping on the rubber outsole gives it that ideal wet/dry traction you need in and around the boat. They’re comfortable, a little sporty, and have a hand-sewn moccasin construction.

Buy from Sperry
$99.95

Garmin inReach Mini 2

Stay connected to friends and family on any boating adventure with this compact satellite communicator. It has two-way communication and interactive SOS capabilities with special routing navigation that takes you back to where you came from. You can also share your location with anyone using the MapShare feature.

Buy from SportChek
$529.99
$459.98

Waterproof Bluetooth speaker

Certified with an IPX7 waterproof rating, this speaker is perfect for all water-related activities. It’s designed to work even when submerged in water up to three feet deep for 30 minutes. That’s one resilient Bluetooth speaker.

Buy from Amazon
$69.99
$47.99

Patagonia Baggies Brimmer Hat

This highly breathable full-brim hat is made for sunny days on the water. If it happens to take a dip in the water, no biggie—it floats. The semi-rigid brim has a dark underbill to reduce glare and protect the eyes. The vented crown has an internal mesh lining for a cooling airflow. The toggle adjustable chin strap will keep the hat securely in place even in windy weather.

Buy from Altitude Sports
$69

Firefly Pro Waterbug SOLAS Personal Rescue Strobe

Stay safe on the water with this personal rescue strobe. It has three activation functions for alert signaling and a white coloured LED that can be seen at greater distances at over three miles. It will also flash continuously for 56 hours to visually alert search and rescue of your location.

Buy from West Marine
$69.99

Waterproof phone case

Keep cell phones dry on the boat with this floating waterproof phone pouch. It comes with a detachable lanyard and special cushioning to protect the phone in case it drops on a hard surface. If the pouch falls into the water, it can stay dry in one meter of water for up to 60 minutes. The phone’s side buttons can also be accessed while in the pouch.

Buy from Amazon
$47.52
$29.99

Floating keychain

Dropping keys into the lake can happen, but it doesn’t have to be a big deal if you’ve got a floating keychain. These floating boat keychains are brightly coloured and easy to spot. They’re more practical than traditional keychains when there’s water involved and they make for great gifts.

Buy from Amazon
$14.99

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Mobile Syrup

MobileSyrup’s top Android accessories gift guide [2022 Edition]

The holidays are drawing near, and many of us are scrambling to find those perfect gifts. Luckily, MobileSyrup is here with another annual gift guide for great Android accessories. 2022 saw the release of some very top-notch Android phones. With them, a new lineup of phenomenal devices is used to support the device, and the user is available.

We’ve ventured into every corner of the internet to find the best Android accessories, perfect for gifting. Whether you’re looking for a more extravagant gift for under the tree, a stocking stuffer, or otherwise, we have you covered.

From chargers to mobile game controllers, headphones, and more, here is your Android accessory gift guide for 2022.

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+

The  Galaxy SmartTag+ is Samsung’s compact tracking device that can be attached to everyday items. We’ve all misplaced something, whether it’s a wallet, a set of keys, etc. The Galaxy SmartTag+ can be attached and located by using Bluetooth LE on a smartphone. Ultra-wideband technology helps users pinpoint the location of misplaced objects.

Even if an item is out of range, users can use the SmartThings Find Network on their Galaxy phone to pinpoint where they’ve lost their item. Galaxy SmartTag+ is compatible with most contemporary Galaxy phones, including the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 Plus, Galaxy S21 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Fold 4.

Buy Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ for $49.99

Razer Kishi V2 Mobile Gaming Controller for Android

With cloud gaming technology really taking off, there’s no better time to gift a mobile gaming controller. The Razer Kishi V2 gives a console-like experience when controlling your favourite games on an Android device. This mobile controller pairs well when using services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, etc.

The Razer Kishi V2 mimics the control layout of the Xbox Wireless controller with an asymmetrical thumbstick layout. Face buttons and a D-pad are present. Additionally, the controller supports triggers and shoulder bumpers. The controller also offers full integration with the Razer Nexus App, which consolidates all compatible games.

Buy Razer Kishi V2 Mobile Gaming Controller for Android for $129.99

Pixel Buds Pro – Charcoal

This year, Google launched its Pixel Buds Pro earbuds. The premium audio buds from the Pixel maker have gained a lot of critical approval. The Pixel Buds Pro integrates Active Noise Cancellation technology with its Silent Seal. This ensures a tighter yet comfortable fit in the user’s ear, drowning out the organic sounds of everyday life. Plus, a transparency mode can be activated if the wearer wants to hear their surroundings.

Pixel Buds Pro also supports custom 11mm speaker drivers, Volume EQ, and offers up to 11 hours of audio playback on a single charge. Though, up to 31 hours can be gained thanks to the charging case. The earbuds also feature respond-to-text commands, hands-free control of music, and more.

Buy Pixel Buds Pro for $259.99

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Overhead Headphones

We can’t forget about over-the-ear headphones. A pair that stand out are the Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones. Built with integrated noise-cancelling support, Sony utilizes Dual Noise Sensor technology to suppress distracting noises surrounding the user.

Sony Music Studios Tokyo helped co-develop the headphones’ Edge-AI, which upscales compressed digital files in real-time. In addition, Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones support speak-to-chat functionality, stopping music automatically when speaking. This enables users to continue wearing the headphones without impacting a conversation. Sony also promises up to 30 hours of playback on a charge. 10 minutes of quick charging can equate to five hours of playback.

Buy Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Overhead Headphones for $427.32

Belkin Quick Charge Wireless Charging Stand

Belkin’s Quick Charge Wireless Charging Stand is a compact charging stand, offering up to 15W of power. The charger is compatible with any Qi-certified device. This means the Belkin charger works with Samsung Galaxy phones, Pixel devices, and many more. Additionally, smartwatches can also make use of the charger.

On the front of the charger is a small LED light that indicates the device’s charging status. It can charge a phone no matter the orientation, whether it’s placed vertically or horizontally. It’s also compact enough that it can be placed on a desk, side table, or shelf.

Buy Belkin Quick Charge Wireless Charging Stand for $37.57

Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker

Pivoting from headsets to speakers, Anker’s Soundcore is a great gifting option. It’s fairly compact, making it a great travel companion. It’s able to provide deep bass levels with clarity and low distortion. This is thanks to two high-sensitivity drivers. The speaker can withstand drops and has a waterproof rating of IPX5.

Pairing via Bluetooth 5.0, users can connect their Android device to the speaker and play their favourite tracks. Anker ensures that connectivity is maintained in up to 66ft distances. Plus, the Soundcore speaker offers up to 24 hours of audio playback on a single charge.

Buy Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker for $49.99

Power-7 Adaptive Fast Charging Wall Charger Block

For those that prefer a hardwired charging experience, Power-7 has an efficient set of wall charging units. This pack comes with two USB-C cables and fast-charging wall blocks. The charging cables are compatible with any USB-C device, including Samsung Galaxy S22 series, S21, and models since the S8. Pixel devices are also supported alongside LG, Moto, and other brands.

Power-7 claims that devices can charge from zero percent to 60 in only 40 minutes. The USB-C cords are designed with an aluminum housing and nylon braided design. This typically helps avoid faster wear and tear of silicon cables and other products experience. Finally, the chargers ensure protection from over-current, over-voltage, over-heat and short-circuit issues.

Buy Power-7 Adaptive Fast Charging Wall Charger Block for $24.99

Gikwbc Power Bank 38800mAh LCD Display Portable Charger

Of course, we can’t forget about the on-the-go charging solutions. The Gikwbc Power Bank is very slick and compact. It supports charging with four USB output ports and Dual USB-C inputs. Once again, this charger is comparable with Galaxy phones, Pixel, LG, and other Android devices.

What notably stands out is the inclusion of the small LED screen. This helps the user track the charging status of their device. It’s a rather novel addition that sets it apart from other portable chargers on the market. Gikwbc also provides a three-year warranty for the power bank.

Buy Gikwbc Power Bank 38800mAh LCD Display Portable Charger for $43.95

USB Type-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable

A perfect accessory for a stocking stuffer is a USB-C cable. There’s always a use for one, and it’s a cost-effective gift to give. The Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-A 2.0 cable is compatible with a large array of Android phones and devices. It has a power output of up to 15W. Plus, transfer speeds clock in at 480Mbps.

Buy USB Type-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable for $12.18

Zhiyun Smooth 5 Gimbal Stabilizer Tripod

For content creators, photo nuts, or travellers, this stabilizer tripod can be a perfect gift. This stabilizing rig can help improve videos captured using its anti-shake structure. The tripod offers a three-axis stabilizer and can support even larger phones at high and low angles.

The tripod utilizes an easy-to-use adjustment wheel to adjust the parameter value in both selfie and standard shooting modes. Thanks to its onboard buttons, users can swap modes, use its fill light controls, and access the joystick for more controls while filming and taking photos. The tripod offers up to 25 hours of battery life and only requires two hours to charge.

Buy Zhiyun Smooth 5 Gimbal Stabilizer Tripod for $209.00

PopSockets: PopGrip with Swappable Top

It’s not an Android accessory gift guide without a nod to the PopSocket. We’ve all seen them and likely know their benefits. For the uninitiated, PopSockets have become a go-to for those that want a one-handed smartphone experience. Users simply apply the PopSocket to the back of their phone using the adhesive socket and reposition as needed.

PopSockets enable users to hold larger phones with one hand without straining their wrists as much. PopSockets can also prop a phone up like a stand when watching videos. When not in use, users can press down on the PopSocket to have it flat against the phone and/or its case.

Buy PopSockets: PopGrip with Swappable Top for $14.99

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

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Mobile Syrup

MobileSyrup’s Holiday Gift Guide [2022 Edition]

With December already halfway over, the peak holiday season is almost upon us. In two weeks’ time, everyone will be off work, spending time with their friends, family and loved ones. Although a generally happy and carefree time, procrastinating about buying gifts, or just finding gifts for people that are difficult to shop for can make the carefree season full of anxiety and stress.

Luckily for you, MobileSyrup has put together an editorial gift guide to show off some of our top gift ideas for this year, be it for gamers, responsible adults that love to clean or movie lovers.

Browse below for links to smart vacuums, smart displays, electric scooters, and other fun tech accessories that would make for solid gifts this holiday season.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships and publishes sponsored posts. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links.

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Cottage Life

Essential gifts for the foodie in your life

Our editorial team independently selects these products. If you choose to buy any, we may earn a commission that helps fund our content. Learn more.

Do you know someone who loves to cook (or eat)? We’ve found the best gift ideas for the foodies in your life. Whether you want to help upgrade someone’s kitchen or give a new culinary experience, there are so many ways to experience everything food has to offer.

Kilne Everything Pan

Everyone can always use a non-stick pan, especially when it touts a non-toxic label. This one by Kilne is superior—it has an 11-inch diameter, a 2.75 quart capacity (big enough for dinner for 2-3 people), is oven and dishwasher-safe. The non-stick coating is the best we’ve ever tried—you don’t even have to put down any butter for your egg.

Buy from Kilne
$140

Our Place Oven Pan

You may know of Our Place for the Always Pan (it replaces nine pieces of kitchen equipment), and now the addition of the Oven Pan to the line-up means you can downsize even more. The pan works as a griddle on the stovetop, replaces your sheet pan, cookie sheet, and roasting pan, and eliminates the need for single-use parchment paper. Think of all the slow Sunday morning pancakes and bacon that can be cooked on this thing!

Buy from Our Place
$170

Kanel Winter Salt Collection

There’s no easier way to make a meal more bougie than with a sprinkle of specialty salt. This gift set contains garlic salt (add to your chicken or fish), black truffle salt (for your popcorn or risotto), Quebec maple smoked salt (think roasted veg), and cold-smoked sea salt (as a finisher for any pasta dish). A little goes a long way—and there’s always room for a few more spices at the cottage.

Buy from Kanel
$39

Chocolat de Kat 9 pc Chocolate Box

We’ve never seen food more beautiful than these hand-painted bon bons from Chocolat de Kat. Build your own box of white, milk, or dark chocolate shells filled with melt-in-your-mouth ganache, gelée, caramel, or praline centres. This gift box is best for the person who loves chocolate or adventure—as the flavours are some of the most unique we’ve seen. We highly suggest the Cookie Butter Crunch, Mulled Wine, and Yuzu Hot Toddy.

Buy from Chocolat de Kat
$27

Ooni Fyra 12 Wood Pellet Pizza Oven

Do you know someone who loves to make pizza at the cottage but doesn’t have the best setup? This portable pizza oven is the answer. It runs on hardwood pellets, heats up to 950°F in just 15 minutes, and cooks stone-baked pies in as little as 60 seconds.

Buy from Ooni
$449

Zwilling Fresh & Save Vacuum Sealing Starter Set

We know the extent people go to to reduce food waste at the cottage (we’re looking at you, waking tacos), so why not help someone out with this vacuum-sealing system designed to keep food fresh for up to five times longer than your typical Tupperware. The starter set comes with the mini-vacuum, a storage container, and two medium and two large reuable zip bags.

Buy from Amazon
$124.99

Canada's Best New Cookbook

Celebrate the Canadian culinary scene with this compilation of recipes from some of the country’s best chefs. This cookbook features 30 recipes from past Top 10 winners of enRoute magazine’s Canada’s Best New Restaurants list. Each recipe is meant to be easy enough for a beginner cook looking to explore Canada through food.

Buy from Indigo
$35
$25

TruLocal Monthly Meat Delivery

TruLocal is one of the many locally-sourced meat box subscriptions making waves in Canada. First, you choose the size of box you want to get (or give), and then you get to pack it full of grass-fed beef, non-GMO chicken, and/or wild-caught salmon, and so much more. (You can also purchase individual, pre-selected holiday gift boxes.) The best part? TruLocal makes sure each customer knows exactly where each cut of meat comes from, and the farmers and fishers who made it all possible.

Buy from TruLocal
$99

Nibbl. Ultimate Board

Want to help a host out? Bring them the Ultimate Board from Nibbl. It features five cheeses (both hard and soft), crackers, spreads, and a cheeseboard. All the person who receives it has to do is dig in!

Buy from Nibbl.
$115

Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50

We’re all trying to do our part to help the environment, and that means limiting food waste. The new movement towards countertop composters means anyone can start reducing and reusing their scraps. The FoodCycler by Vitamix is compact, uses a carbon filter to eliminate odours, and works quietly.

Buy from Vitamix
$499.95
$449.95

Mildred's Pancake Essentials kit

Looking for a gift for a brunch lover? This pancake kit from Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, Toronto’s ultimate place for pancakes, has everything you need for a fluffy stack this holiday season. The kit includes an easy-to-use mix, maple syrup, and blueberry compote.

Buy from Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
$39.95

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Cottage Life

Workshop expert-approved gifts for cottage DIYers

Courtesy Metabo, DeWalt, 3M

Our editorial team independently selects these products. If you choose to buy any, we may earn a commission that helps fund our content. Learn more.

We asked the Cottage Life workshop experts: what goodies are on your holiday wish list this year?

*As seen in the Winter 2022 issue of Cottage Life.

Courtesy Bosch

Oscillating multi-tool

Able to cut wood, metal, and drywall in tight spots with weird angles, oscillating multi-tools are handier than a pocket in a Kenora dinner jacket.—David Zimmer

Buy from Rona
$244

Courtesy 3M

Bluetooth-enabled earmuffs

I want 3M’s Bluetooth-enabled earmuffs, with 24dB noise reduction rating and high-fidelity speakers. Sanding is boring, but with these, I could listen to podcasts or a playlist.—Fiona McGlynn

Buy from Amazon
$69.99

Courtesy Metabo

Cordless Framing Nailer

Cordless nail guns are a major upgrade from their pneumatic predecessors—no more fighting with a compressor or an air hose! The Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer is a good all-around pick, but many tool brands offer cordless options.—F.M.

Buy from Rona
$399

Courtesy DeWalt

20V Max adhesive gun

I hate caulking—I can never get the smooth bead I hope for with a hand-cranked gun. A cordless caulking gun, like DeWalt’s 20V Max adhesive gun, could improve my results and make me happy.—Wayne Lennox

Buy from Amazon
$369.35

Courtesy MetMo

MetMo Grip

MetMo Grip is a British-made adjustable wrench that copies an innovative design not manufactured since 1930. Stainless steel, mesmerizing mechanism, super cool.—Steve Maxwell

Buy from Amazon
$84.89
$46.90

Courtesy Mark’s

Bifocal safety glasses

Instead of switching constantly between safety and reading glasses, bifocal safety glasses with an integral magnifying lower lens are a game-changer! The flow is back in my woodworking now.—Sean Ledoux

Buy from Mark’s
$17.99

Courtesy Lee Valley

Crook knife

A traditional tool in many cultures, crook knives are great for hollowing concave shapes, sculpting organic forms, and texturing surfaces in wood. I have a pine stump that I’m carving into an address marker; I want to try a crook knife instead of spoon gouges.—S.L.

Buy from Lee Valley
$36.70

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Mobile Syrup

MobileSyrup’s Black Friday Shopping Guide [2022 Edition]

Black Friday is just around the corner, and to help you out with your pre-holiday season shopping needs, MobileSyrup has put together an editorial shopping guide to highlight some of the best tech deals available in the Canadian market right now.

It’s worth noting that this guide is being published almost three weeks prior to Black Friday (November 25th). Naturally, not all Canadian retailers have come out with their Black Friday deals. The products you see mentioned below are from retailers that are already offering Black Friday pricing on some of their products. Further, the pricing mentioned in the guide is expected to be the same during Black Friday week.

Also worth noting is that this guide will be updated with hot new sales from different retailers as they go live, so keep an eye out!

This year’s list includes discounts on smartphones, smart lights, TVs, audio offerings and more.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links.

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Mobile Syrup

MobileSyrup’s back-to-school Gift Guide [2022 Edition]

With August almost coming to a close, back-to-school season is upon us, with most Canadian students resuming classes in September. Regardless of what level of education you’re studying, and whether it is still remote or in-person, MobileSyrup has packed a list full of great gear and supplies to help students get back to studying and making the most of their life.

Browse below for links to laptops, keyboards and other fun tech accessories to spice up an at-home or in-class workspace.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships and publishes sponsored posts. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links.

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Cottage Life

Father’s Day gifts every cottage dad will love

Arotes decorus, parasitoid wasp macro on blue background

Our editorial team independently selects these products. If you choose to buy any, we may earn a commission that helps fund our content. Learn more.

This Father’s Day, spoil Dad with functional gifts he can put to use all year round. We’re taking the guesswork out of finding the perfect gift for Dad by sharing the top must-haves that span across all categories. From clothing to outdoor essentials to stylish footwear—and everything in between—we’ve got you covered with the latest in functional tools, apparel, and accessories Dad will love.

Looking for more? Check out these local cottage-country shopslocal cottage-country shops you can support this Father’s Day and this Dad-approved gift guide.

Adidas Men’s Running Response Shoes

Active Dads will love the Adidas Response Shoes because they provide the ultimate in comfort and support, no matter what activity they’re doing. The Bounce midsole offers flexibility, allowing Dad to gain a natural, responsive stride. Bonus: These shoes are designed using recycled materials, and the upper features are made with a minimum 50 per cent recycled content. A stylish and eco-conscious gift? Count us in.

Buy from Adidas
$120

Kline Ultimate Knife Set

For the Dad who loves to cook, the Kline Ultimate Knife Set is a must-have addition to any kitchen. Kline’s newest knife sets include the 6-Piece Knife Set and the Steak Knife Set, which have been bundled together just in time for father’s Day. Plus, in celebration of the day, Kline is hosting a sale from June 3 to June 19 featuring all Kilne knife sets at 10 per cent off. You’ll also receive a free cutting board (a $45 value) with the purchase of a knife set.

Buy from Kilne
$350
$315

YETI Rambler® 887 ml Travel Mug

This is the ideal gift for Dads who are always on the go. This travel mug features an elevated handle, a cup-holder compatible design, and more than enough space to hold Dad’s favourite beverage. Plus, it includes a leak-resistant lid that’s dishwasher safe.

Buy from YETI
$52

Hunter Men's BLOOM™ Slides

Fashion-focused Dads will love these slides because they’re perfect for rocking on the dock, at the beach, and on the boat. The Men’s BLOOM™ Slide is designed using the Hunter’s lightweight blown EVA and a revolutionary new material produced from algae (sourced by cleaning up natural waterways). Carefully moulded and contoured to feel light and comfortable, now there’s no need to choose between style and sustainability when it comes to cottage footwear.

Buy from Hunter
$55

Jack Black The Supreme Shave Set

This all-in-one TSA-approved shaving set allows Dad to cleanse, shave, moisturize, and protect no matter what cottage or cabin he’s headed to. Not only does it have everything needed to achieve the perfect shave, but it’s also thoughtfully designed for travel purposes—which means it’s easy to pack for a last-minute weekend at the lake. This set features facial cleanser, face moisturizer with SPF 20, and beard conditioner shave gel. It’s also dermatologist tested.

Buy from Shopper’s Drug Mart
$36

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

If Dad loves listening to music, podcasts, or shows when he’s at the lake, then he’ll love these noise-cancelling headphones from Bose. Featuring high-fidelity audio with adjustable EQ, Dad has the opportunity to tune the sound to his liking. They’re also designed with protein-leather cushions, which provides a comfortable listening experience. These are a functional must-have Dad will definitely appreciate!

Buy from Amazon
$399.99

Dyson Outsize+ vacuum

For anyone who loves to keep their home clean and mess-free, Dyson vacuums are a must-add to cart this Father’s Day. The brand’s Outsize+ model is cordless, has laser illumination, and features a seven-cell nickel-cobalt-aluminum battery with fade-free power to clean all the nooks and crannies at the cottage. Key technologies also include powerful Dyson suction and an advanced whole-machine filtration system that can trap 99.99 per cent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This helps to ensure a deep clean all-around.

Buy from Dyson
$1249.99

Windriver Men's Downpour Waterproof Hyper-Dri 3 Rain Jacket

If Dad loves spending time outside, add this jacket to his outerwear collection. Created with functional details to keep you dry and comfortable, it includes the brand’s innovative HYPER-DRI® HD3 waterproof and breathable technology. It’s also equipped with a hood (and visor!), and cinch cords at the hood and hem, ensuring the rain stays out.

Buy from Mark’s
$59.99

Roots One Terry Zip Polo

Dad will love keeping cozy at the cottage with this everyday essential. Crafted to be versatile in functionality and sustainable in design, this style features ultra-soft French Terry in 80 per cent organic cotton and 20 per cent recycled polyester, making it the ultimate cottage-friendly fit.

Buy from Roots
$108

Bass Pro Shop Coleman Roadtrip Grill Combo

Have you ever heard of road trip grilling gear? With Bass Pro Shop’s Coleman Roadtrip Grill Combo, Dad can grill and chill thanks to this portable design and travel-friendly cooler. Perfect for any outdoor adventure at the lake (think: camping), Dad will love how convenient this set is. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 grill features InstaStart™ push-button ignition making cooking simple and easy.

Buy from Bass Pro Shops
$289.99

MEC Mica Joggers

These joggers from MEC are a wardrobe staple for the Dad who loves spending time out and about. Equipped with an elastic waist, they are designed to provide maximum ease of movement. From rocks to rivers to trails, these are an ultra-durable essential Dad can confidently wear on any adventure.

Buy from MEC
$56.95

Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker

We’re all about stepping up the coffee game at the cottage, and Dad will love using the Keurig K-Elite coffee maker every day because it delivers a delicious hot cup of joe every time. It features elements such as a Strong Brew setting (for a bolder cup of coffee) and an Iced setting—this means that Dad can use it year-round. Highlights also include multiple brew sizes, as well as the machine’s stylish metal details.

Buy from Keurig
$166.99

Lexon Tykho 3 FM Radio & Bluetooth Speaker

Give Dad a gift he really wants—a portable, all-in-one FM Radio and Bluetooth Speaker he can enjoy listening to on the dock or on the boat. The durable, splash-proof rubber finish makes it a must-have for outdoor get-togethers by the beach, and it features a fun, nostalgic design. Not only will Dad get up to 20 hours of continued playtime, but the device is easy to charge via USB.

Buy from Indigo
$79.99

EUREKA Tetragon NX 5-Person Tent

This tent is a staycation essential for the nature-loving Dad in your life. The Tetragon NX offers fairly spacious accommodations and a durable frame that’s easy to build. It also has integrated design features that allow you to stay dry and comfortable, no matter the conditions.

Buy from SAIL
$249.99

Stalwart® Wall Mounted Tool Holder

Help Dad stay organized by upgrading his space with the ideal tool holder for the garage or shed. Designed to save space and keep your items in place, it easily mounts on a wall to hold rakes, brooms, and more. Dad will definitely get a ton of use out of this functional home or cottage must-have.

Buy from Bed, Bath, and Beyond
$30.99

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Mobile Syrup

MobileSyrup’s Holiday Gift Guide for those working remotely [2021 Edition]

We’re reaching the end of 2021 and yes, many of us are still working remotely. By now, many of us have acclimated to a work-from-home lifestyle but there are still items that can be brought into the fold to make lives easier.

Whether it be a gadget to stay organized or keep us energized, the home office of those closest to you can be improved by one of our favourite selections this year. Here’s our gift guide for those working remotely.

Thunderbolt 3.0 USB Network Hub

Someone working from home can never have enough ports in their life. Whether it’s for connecting additional devices, hard drives, or an additional monitor, more is always better. This is especially true for MacBook Pro and MacBook Air users.

Thunderbolt 3.0 USB Network Hub enables a MacBook owner to gain access to a USB-C port, an HDMI, an SD card slot, a TF Card slot, and two USB 3.0 ports. The hub is also compact enough to store away when not in use.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $34

Ember Smart Tempurature Control Mug

We’ve all been there. You get a freshly brewed coffee or tea and head into a Zoom call only to not have a moment to take a sip. Once out, you discover your drink is now cold. The Ember Smart Temperature Control Mug enables users to control the temperature of their drinks for up to 1.5 hours.

Using the Ember app on iOS and Android, users can set their desired temperature between 50 to 62.5 Celsius. The Ember mug will do the rest. So after that meeting that could have been an email, that next sip will still be warm.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $179

Insignia Blue Light Filtering Glasses

Between laptops, monitors, smartphones, eye fatigue is a real thing and is a nuisance during the workday. Even while taking advantage of Dark Mode displays, eye fatigue can set in. That’s why having a pair of blue light filtering glasses can come in handy.

The non-prescription Insignia glasses are perfect to wear when working or staring at a screen for prolonged periods of time. They come with a microfibre cloth and carrying case to store them in when not in use.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $19

Kensington StudioCaddy Qi Wireless Charging Stand

Desk organization is incredibly important when working from home. Additionally, having all devices charged and ready for use is just as intregal to the remote work lifestyle. The Kensington StudioCaddy Qi Wireless Charging Stand can be a wonderful gift for those using Apple devices.

This compact caddy is both a storage option for an iPad and MacBook but is also a charging bay for the aforementioned devices plus an iPhone and AirPods. Any Qi-enabled iPhone and AirPod can be wirelessly charged on the front of the caddy. The Kensington StudioCaddy also provides a USB-A and USB-C port to charge a MacBook and iPad all at the same time.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $256

Uplite 32-inch Standing Desk Riser

Transitioning to a standing desk can be a rather expensive commitment. Although there are many benefits of using a standing desk, there’s a lot to consider prior to making that purchase. A great gift for anyone tangentially thinking about getting a standing desk is the Uplite desk riser.

This riser supports up to 33lbs so multiple monitors can be placed on the top. It is 32-inches wide, which of course plays a part in the overall setup. What makes the riser a great addition to a remote lifestyle is its easy-to-use setup. The height can be adjusted between 4.2-inches and 19.7-inches high and features a removable keyboard tray.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $149

Google Home Mini

A smart home device can do wonders for those working remotely. This miniaturized version of Google’s smart home hub is a great addition to an in-home office. The Google Home Mini shares most features as the standard Google Home but in a smaller device.

Users can set reminders for calendar events such as meetings or due dates. The Google Home Mini can also answer questions, provide weather updates, tell a joke after a long workday, and complete other voice commands. The use of a Google Home Mini is exceptionally intuitive, allowing the device to become a core device in the office.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $34

Seagate One Touch 4TB USB Hard Drive

Storage options can be very valuable to anyone working from home. Having enough hard drive space to back up projects, files, and media can be a lifesaver. Seagate has an affordable option, providing users with 4TB of space.

This portable external hard drive is very useful for those switching between two machines. Whether it’s between a desktop and laptop, the Seagate One Touch can make transferring files less of a hassle.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $119

Razer Iskur Gaming Chair

Having a comfortable, ergonomic chair to work in on a daily basis can be so important. When it comes to comfort, design, and style, most lean towards a gaming chair as many companies have these components down to a science. A big name in the space is, of course, Razer.

The Iskur gaming chair is specially designed with high-density foam cushions to help align the spine throughout the day. On top of that, users will find many of the standard gaming chair features including a tilt mechanism, lift, and comfortable 4D armrests.

Buy from Best Buy Canada for $799

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.