It is finally starting to look like the snows are melting for good and spring has finally sprung. And that means it’s only going to get warmer through the summer. Unfortunately, we’re also still in the middle of a pandemic, which means we’re going to have to curb our outdoor adventures a touch (you know the drill: social distancing, small groups, etc.). That doesn’t mean you have to stay locked up in your home while the sun shines and the flowers bloom — just that you might have to get creative as to how you get outdoors.
Now, it might seem asinine to suggest that one should go outside to play video games. After all, that is something you could very easily do inside your own house. However, if you’re big on gaming and you also happen to want to get some fresh air and sunlight, it’s actually pretty easy to manage just that in your own backyard or even at a campsite. In fact, you can find all the gear you need and more through Amazon, which is exactly what this month’s Scoured guide is focused on. So pull up a chair, hit the power button on your console of choice, and get ready to play anytime, anywhere with this outdoor-focused collection of gaming gear.
8bitdo Pro 2 Wireless Gaming Controller
While 8bitdo made a name for themselves by creating high-tech gaming controllers with (often Nintendo-inspired) retro styling, they’re definitely not above hopping aboard the next-gen train — as evidenced by their Pro 2 Wireless Gaming Controller, the brand’s most advanced controller ever. This Bluetooth device has a modifiable vibration, a 6-axis motion sensor, adjustable hair triggers, a hefty 1000mAh battery, and compatibility with a number of devices — including Windows, iOS, Nintendo Switch, and more.
The North Face Thermoball Slippers
Designed specifically for outdoor comfort, The North Face has taken their cold-weather expertise and applied it, interestingly, to this pair of puffer jacket-inspired slippers. The Thermoball insulation and water-resistant nylon exterior will keep your toes warm in any conditions, but the rugged rubber outsole ensures you’ll keep your feet planted on any terrain. Better still, the exterior and rubber are made up of 100% and 40% recycled material, respectively.
RTIC Soft Cooler 20
If you’re going to be hanging out around the campfire, it makes sense to bring along some snacks and/or drinks. And you can store up to 20 cans (plus ice) inside the ultra-insulated RTIC Soft Cooler 20. It’s also completely leakproof, will keep your ice frozen for days at a time, and even boasts antimicrobial properties to fend off mildew. And it manages all of that at a much lower price point than its brand-name competition. Don’t sleep on RTIC.
Outerknown Hightide Pullover Hoodie
A classic style and lounge staple that should be in everyone’s wardrobe, the classic pullover hoodie is about as timeless as it comes. But the Outerknown Hightide takes that to the next level with a construction composed of 54% organic cotton (for top-notch comfort) and 46% recycled polyester (for enhanced durability). This is the kind of hoodie you’ll put on and never want to take off again.
Reigning Champ Primeflex Coach’s Jogger
Of course, a hoodie needs some bottoms to go with them — and you could do far worse than the Reigning Champ Primeflex Coach’s Joggers you see here. Crafted from 100% jersey material, these jogger pants offer all the coverage and comfort you could want alongside some durability and enough warmth to stave off the chills without making you feel stuffy. Better still, they have built-in four-way stretch and they’re water repellent for some added outdoor versatility.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
Just because you’re outside, that doesn’t mean you can turn off your inside voice — not unless you want to upset your neighbors. But you can keep things a touch quieter while still keeping in contact with your in-game teammates courtesy of Razer’s BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless Gaming Headset. With support for THX 7.1 Surround Sound, this headset will immerse you in the game(s) of your choice with its hi-fi titanium drivers, comfortable gel-infused pads, and removable microphone.
Helinox Savanna Camp Chair
Unless you plan to plant your butt in the dirt, you’re going to need a place to sit while you enjoy the outdoors — be that in your own backyard or out at a campsite. For either endeavor, allow us to introduce you to the Helinox Savanna Camp Chair with its 320-pound capacity, comfortable high back, ultralight and collapsible aluminum frame, and extreme packability. Snag this chair and see what you’ve been missing all this time.
Weber 14-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker
Between rounds, there’s a decent chance that you’ll have worked up a bit of hunger. And since you’re in your backyard, what better than something delicious and smoked? If that sounds right up your alley, then you’ll be interested in the Weber 14-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker, which is easily assembled and small enough that you could truck it with you down to the beach, park, or wherever else. All you need to bring besides this smoker is charcoal, meat and/or vegetables, and maybe some friends to help you eat it all.
Rumpl The Down Blanket
Even if the day is a bit chilly or the sun starts to dip, you can still stay comfy and cozy with the Rumpl Down Blanket you see here. It’s lightweight, packable, and filled with responsibly-sourced goose down — meaning you can bring it anywhere and keep warm without feeling too bad about your environmental impact. It’s also machine washable and dryer safe, so you can just put it right into the wash with the rest of your clothes when it needs a cleaning. And that’s not half bad for a camping blanket.
Anker Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini Projector
Since you’re going to be spending time outside, it’s probably unrealistic to haul a television along with you. Instead, you can stash the much more manageable Anker Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini Projector — which can cast a 100″ 720p image onto any flat surface, be that the side of your house or a sheet hung between two trees. Better still, it comes equipped with Android TV 9.0, meaning you don’t have to bring a secondary device to access all your favorite streaming services.
Scoured: The Best Gear On Amazon - March 2021
If a backyard getaway isn’t quite far out enough for you, then perhaps the collection of NASA-flavored gear from last month’s guide to the best gear on Amazon might be more up your alley.
