From fruit jerky to a super deluxe sleeping pad, these are the top-selling products GearJunkie readers bought in May.
We may publish a review of a cutting-edge ski boot or break news on some new-fangled tent innovation, but at the end of the day, GearJunkie readers buy a wide array of gear. Here’s our roundup of what GearJunkie readers bought in May. The results may surprise you!
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks – Men’s & Women’s: $22
Boy, do you all like socks. The Darn Tough hiking socks were by far the most purchased item in all of May — and for good reason. Yes, there was a massive sale at Backcountry, but these socks are worth every penny even at full retail price. A lifetime warranty, super comfortable, and affordable — these socks are magic.
REI Roadtripper Duffel 60L: $50
The Patagonia Black Hole or The North Face Basecamp duffels may win the awards for beefiest or flashiest, but the Roadtripper Duffel certainly gets the job done for a fraction of the price. This duffel was certainly our most purchased all month long, and they come in neat colors! Sometimes, simple is better (and better on your wallet!).
See the REI Roadtripper DuffelGU Energy Gel: $12
GU Energy Gels come in a host of flavors for a boost of energy on the trail. At $12 for an 8-pack, it’s not a bad deal, either. Here’s to staying energized on your next adventure!
See the GU Energy GelSolely Fruit Jerky: $1.50
I noticed these in the checkout line at REI, but it seems they were equally as eye-catching online, too. The Solely Fruit Jerky is super-cheap but ultra-yummy.
See the Solely Fruit JerkyGamma Ray Polarized Classic Sunglasses: $15
The Gamma Ray won our Best Budget Sunglasses review. They come in a three-pack, and readers have been buying hundreds of these shades. The nice thing with cheap sunglasses is if they scuff up or you lose ’em, it’s not a major blow to the bank account.
Our tester wrote, “Despite the low price point, these shades stood up to the full array of punishment. They’ll live the rest of their life in camping bags or the glove compartment of my car, ready in the event that my wife or I forget our regular sunglasses.”
See the Gamma Ray SunglassesCRKT Ruger EDC Cordite Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath: $32
I personally recommended this knife in an article, and I continue to use it on camping trips and in the wilderness. It’s nice and affordable; plus, its fixed-blade design means it’s burly as can be. You’ll be hard-pressed to break this thing — ever.
See the CRKT Cordite Compact EDCREI Lifetime Membership: $20
GearJunkie readers continue to buy REI Co-op memberships, month after month. It’s a tremendous value that pays for itself after a few hundred dollars thanks to the annual dividend and exclusive member coupons.
See the REI MembershipREI Co-op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed: $169
We all recognize that a good night’s rest is important. The REI Co-op Camp Dreamer XL is certainly more bed than pad, in terms of comfort. At $169, it’s an investment, but by golly, this pad feels phenomenal! Try one out for yourself.
See the Camp Dreamer XLWork Sharp Pocket Knife Sharpener: $15
Keep your blades sharp with the Work Sharp Pocket Knife Sharpner. With included angle guides, you can sharpen your knife properly with ease, and it fits conveniently into your pocket or pack without taking up too much space.
See the Work Sharp Pocket Knife SharpenerSalomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Low Aero Hiking Shoes – Men’s & Women’s: $120
The X Ultra 3 Low Aero won our Best Hiking Shoes of 2019 test. From our review:
“These shoes check all the important boxes: breathable, grippy, and comfortable. If you’re looking for a warm-weather, summer hiking shoe, this is it. The polyester mesh panels help keep feet cool. Plus, at about 1.5 pounds for the pair, these won’t weigh you down. With the mud guards and extended toe cap, we never had any problems with rocks or sticks jabbing our feet, and the lugs proved plenty burly even for technical trails.”