Catfishhost Nev Schulman is an avid runner with several New York City Marathons under his belt. But a nasty bike accident on Aug. 5 left his neck broken and his dreams of running the race for a seventh time in question. That hasn’t stopped him from making a miraculous recovery.
Schulman will be running this year’s marathon on Nov. 3, less than three months after breaking his neck. He won’t be doing it alone, though; he’s registered as a blind runner guide for his friend, elite para-triathlete Francesco Magisano, through the Achilles International Foundation.
The TV host recounted his road to recovery and his preparation for this year’s race in a new interview with People.
“About two weeks after the accident, he texted me, ‘How are you feeling?’ I said, ‘I’m feeling terrible, and you should probably look for a new guide,'” Schulman remembered. “He said, ‘Nev, I’m not going to find a new guide. Take your time, get better. And I don’t care how fast or slow we go, I really want you to be my guide.’ And honestly, this was a very inspiring part of my recovery.”
Magisano’s attitude pushed him to try to get running again as quickly as possible. “I’m in a brace. I’m laying in bed. I am devastated for a million reasons. And for the first time I’m thinking, ‘Okay, wait a second. Maybe there’s a chance if he’s counting on me,'” he said.
Schulman shocked his doctors and nurses when he started walking around the ICU just three days after the accident. “I knew how lucky I was and it gave me a lot of hope,” he said. Still, as he spent weeks at home resting up, he could feel his hours of training going down the drain.
“I kept thinking, ‘All that hard work I did is sort of fading away,'” he said. “But I also understood that I should just be patient and know that this little bit of time that I’m taking to let my body heal is far more important than anything else.”
“I need to move my body for my own mental health,” he added. “Running, as I discovered in my 30s, is the best medicine for my happiness. So that was such a huge relief for me and really gave me a big surge of energy and optimism.”
With just eight weeks before the race, Schulman and Magisano were able to get into shape for the big day.
“My body really bounced back,” he said. “The first few runs were obviously tough, I was going at a much slower pace than I would normally go and working much harder than I would normally work. But once got some momentum going, by the third or fourth run I really felt strong again. I’m not 100 percent, but I feel great, honestly.”
Schulman and Magisano hit the streets for the NYC Marathon on Nov. 3.
While it may be a common misconception that lightning doesn’t strike the same place twice, apparently the same myth can be ruled out when it comes to shark attacks. Case in point, a Florida surfer was recently bitten by a shark on the same beach he was bitten more than a decade ago.
Cole Taschman, who runs the fishing company Cole Tashy Charters, was surfing at Bathtub Beach in Martin County, FL when he suddenly noticed a “beast” of a shark behind him. He later recalled to the local NBC affiliate WPTV 5 News that he believed it to be a tiger or bull shark. And then the shark chomped down on his feet.
“I looked behind me and he was he kind of was just like, on the back of me,” Taschman explained of the shark, which he estimated to have been seven to eight feet long. “I just looked and I saw last-second him kind of going under and then he just kind of moved towards the side. I could kind of see his silhouette.”
Thankfully, Taschman was able to catch a wave and swim to shore, where his friends and girlfriend were waiting. With the help of a local food truck operator, they were able to use surfboard leashes at a tourniquet for his legs and rush him to the hospital. They felt it was faster to drive for help than call 911 and wait for an ambulance.
“I actually blacked out. I almost passed out from shock or losing enough blood,” he continued. “So [my girlfriend] is in the back slapping me, and [my friend] is driving like a madman trying to get me to the hospital. He’s dumping water on my head. They kept me awake, so thank god.” All told, he required two surgeries to repair three severed tendons, as well as 93 stitches.
But the most bizarre detail about the story is that Taschman was bitten by a shark on the same beach back in 2013. However, his injuries this time around were much more severe.
“There’s no comparison,” he added. “It’s like comparing an Olympic athlete to a high school athlete like, you know, the amount of trauma. It’s so hectic how much worse this one was.”
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While gear outfitters like REI and Huckberry may first come to mind when shopping for everyday carry essentials, Amazon is the place to look for high-quality but affordable pocket knives. Lately, the marketplace has been filled with incredible discounts on models from Gerber, Victorinox, Smith & Wesson, and more, but there’s one special knife from Kershaw that might be the best-looking of the bunch, and it just had its price cut in half.
The Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife is on sale for $50—a 50% discount on its normal price of $100. This slim, compact folding blade is a sure bet for both quality and style: Hundreds are sold on Amazon every month, and it has earned over 1,000 five-star ratings from shoppers who call it “sturdy and stylish” and note that it “feels good in the hand.” This knife is on sale in Kershaw’s BlackWash color—one of the brand’s most intricate-looking finishes—and right now, Amazon has the best price available.
Kershaw Leek BlackWash Pocket Knife, $50 (was $100) on Amazon
This Kershaw knife is made in the US and features a 3-inch, drop-point plain-edge blade. The blade is crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, which gives it superior edge retention and also makes it easy to resharpen. It wears a black oxide coating for sleek looks and added scratch resistance. The blade is paired with a tough stainless steel handle that’s also coated in BlackWash, and the handle features a reversible pocket clip, so you can carry the knife on either side, tip up or tip down. The Leek is equipped with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe design, so you can safely open the blade with one hand, and the frame lock and tip lock keep the blade secure and in place whether it’s opened or closed. Like any good pocket knife, it’s also super portable: It measures just 4 inches long when closed, and weighs a paltry 3 ounces.
Amazon reviewers have heaped praise on the Leek in BlackWash, highlighting its sturdy build and excellent functionality. “For a daily carry, nothing compares to this little Kershaw,” one shopper said. “It’s simply the best pocket knife I’ve ever handled.”
“It is a thin, no-BS efficient cutting tool,” said another shopper, who added that it’s “easy as hell to sharpen and effective at cutting.”
A quality blade like the Kershaw Leek will last for years to come, and at half off, it’s an especially worthy investment. But don’t wait around on this one: These knives are selling fast, and a deep discount like this likely won’t last much longer.
Ask the strongest man in the world what the best leg workout is to build strength and stability, and they’d probably say you need barbell back squats and deadlifts. But ask someone like Ben Patrick, Knees Over Toes Guy, and he’d point to the split squat. While back squats can help develop brute strength, there’s something to be said about a functional workout that focuses on longevity and quality of movement. In light of that, we’re focusing on the benefits of lunge exercises, and highlighting the difference between the split squat vs lunge and Bulgarian split squat vs lunge—riffs on a foundational movement.
For athletes just starting out, split squats can help build basic strength, coordination, and balance before advancing to more intense variations like reverse lunges and walking lunges, which are more demanding and dynamic, requiring a greater degree of balance and coordination. From here, you can further advance to Bulgarian split squats. This step-by-step approach builds stronger legs and creates a solid foundation for more advanced, goal-specific training.
Below we’ll show you how to perform each with perfect form, and the unique benefits. By the end, you’ll know the difference between split squat vs lunge and Bulgarian split squat vs lunge; how to incorporate these leg-day staples into your workouts; and learn advanced lunge variations.
Split Squat vs Lunge
The split squat and lunge might look similar—both use a split stance, working one leg at a time while emphasizing glutes, quads, hamstrings, and even some core stability. However, key differences affect how they load your muscles, joint stability, and overall workout outcome.
Split squats keep your feet stationary while lunges introduce a forward or backward step, which adds dynamic movement that requires more balance and control. When comparing the split squat vs lunge, the split squat focuses on isolated strength and stability, while lunges deliver a functional approach to lower-body training.
As noted, a lunge is more dynamic. You’ll typically step forward (or backward) with each rep, adding movement through the lower body while training stability and control as you balance through each step. Lunges are versatile, with variations like walking lunges, reverse lunges, or side lunges, each offering unique benefits and muscle emphasis.
Choosing between these exercises often depends on your fitness goals. Want to isolate muscles with control? Split squats are your friend. Looking to train for power and better coordination? Lunges can offer that dynamic edge. Read on to learn how to do a lunge and master split squat form.
Split Squat
Split Squat
Beth Bischoff
How to Do It
Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your left foot behind you so you’re in a staggered stance, to start
Bend both knees to drop into a lunge; they should make 90-degree angles.
Drive through your feet to stand.
That’s 1 rep.
Pro Tip
Keep your feet pointed forward and focus on moving straight up and down.
Lunge
Walking Lunge
Beth Bischoff
The lunge exercise adds dynamic movement, giving you a great option to train balance and coordination alongside strength.
How to Do It
Start by standing tall with your feet hip-width apart and arms relaxed at your sides.
Step forward with one leg, bending both knees to lower your back knee toward the ground.
Aim for a 90-degree angle in both knees, keeping your front knee in line with your ankle.
Keep your torso upright throughout, engaging your core to avoid leaning forward.
Push through your front heel to rise and return your stepping leg to the starting position.
That’s 1 rep.
Alternate legs with each step for a forward lunge or step back for a reverse lunge.
Pro Tip
Try walking lunges for a full lower-body workout or reverse lunges to focus more on stability with reduced knee stress and hip-focused strength.
Bulgarian Split Squat vs Lunge
If you want an even more intense activation of your glutes, quads, and hamstrings, elevate your back foot to perform a Bulgarian split squat. This version not only works said muscles to a greater degree but also has an added stability challenge.
Bulgarian Split Squat
Bulgarian split squat muscles worked: quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, core.
James Michelfelder
How to Do It
To start, position yourself with one foot forward and the other foot behind in a staggered stance.
Engage your core to keep your torso upright, ensuring stability.
Lower yourself by bending both knees and dropping the back knee straight toward the floor to a 90-degree angle.
Keep your weight focused on the front heel, engaging your quads and glutes.
Pause briefly at the bottom, then push through the front heel to return to the start.
Split squats are a fantastic tool for building leg and glute strength, especially when you want a controlled, stationary movement.
Isolated Leg Strength
Since split squats are stationary, they emphasize strength in a fixed position, allowing you to target the quads and glutes without as much need for coordination or balance as with a lunge.
Enhanced Muscle Activation
Variations like the Bulgarian split squat significantly activate the glutes, hamstrings, and quads, especially with the elevated foot, adding resistance. It’s an excellent go-to for hypertrophy.
Less Strain on the Knees
With controlled movement and focus on form, split squats are easier on the knees than lunges, making them safer for people with knee sensitivities.
Improved Mobility and Flexibility
The deep stretch on your back leg’s hip flexor promotes hip mobility, making split squats a great choice to enhance flexibility in your lower body.
Lunge exercises are one of the best moves for building functional strength. It engages the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and core while training balance and coordination. Variations like reverse lunges allow for reduced forward knee strain, making them ideal for those with knee sensitivities, while walking lunges give a full-body conditioning boost.
Lunges are more dynamic than the split squat because they not only require balance but coordination with the muscle groups in your legs, glutes, and core.
Increased Functional Strength
Lunges mimic everyday movements, like walking up stairs or getting up from a seated position, making them a highly functional exercise that improves daily strength.
Coordination and Balance
The forward or reverse movement of lunges engages stabilizer muscles and the core, training you to control your balance and coordination with each step.
Variety of Modifications
With options like walking, reverse, or side lunges, you can adjust this move to target different muscles or fit various workout goals. Reverse lunges are particularly beneficial for those with knee concerns, as they reduce forward knee stress.
Cardio Conditioning
Lunges in a series or circuit can increase your heart rate, serving as a cardio component while strengthening your lower body.
Improved Power
Training lunges with the intent of driving through the concentric phase (contracting your muscles as you rise) with speed will enhance lower body power.
Split squats and lunges both offer unique benefits, but which you choose should align with your specific goals. Split squats (especially Bulgarian split squats) are invaluable for isolated strength and control. On the other hand, lunges are excellent for dynamic balance and functional strength. Integrating both exercises into your routine is your best bet if you want a leg workout targeting stability, mobility, and power.
Split Squat Variations
Whether you want to grow your legs, improve balance, or get a full lower-body workout, split squats can take your training to the next level. Once you advance, try these advanced split squat variations.
ATG Split Squat
ATG Split Squat
Forrest Conner
How to Do It
To start, place your left foot on a wedge atop a weight plate and step your right foot far back into an exaggerated split-squat position, heel lifted.
Keep your chest tall and back straight as you bend your left knee to lower into a deep split squat.
That’s 1 rep.
Perform all reps on one side, then switch.
Swiss Ball Split Squat
Swiss Ball Split Squat
Justin Steele
How to Do It
Hold a light (15- to 20-pound) kettlebell beneath the chin.
Start in a split-squat position, left foot back and top of foot on stability ball, right foot forward, a slight bend in right knee.
Keeping chest high, drop left knee toward ground, then reverse for one rep.
Do all reps with the right foot on the ball, then switch sides.
Actor Matthew Lillard has reflected on the one movie he thought would put him on the A-list, but in fact turned his career “irrelevant.”
The film he was referring to was, perhaps unsurprisingly, the 2004 sequel Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. Lillard was impeccably cast as Shaggy in the live-action reboot of the popular Hanna-Barbera cartoon. The 2002 original overcame disastrous reviews to gross $275 million worldwide, or $481.9 million adjusted for inflation. A sequel was all but guaranteed, for which Lillard earned his biggest payday to date. In his mind, he had made it.
“I thought I’d be No. 1 on the call sheet for the next 10 years of movies,” Lillard explained in a recent interview with Business Insider. “And the reality was the exact opposite happened.”
Monsters Unleashed grossed a comparatively paltry $181 million worldwide against a reported budget of $80 million, not including press and marketing costs. It was such a disaster that Warner Bros. axed plans for a third installment. The disappointing returns brought Lillard’s career to a swift and unexpected halt.
“I was caught up in the success of what I was doing, I was caught up in the parts I was getting, I was caught up in this drive to be quote-unquote famous,” Lillard admitted. “I was going to do Dancing with the Stars. And I was like, if I do Dancing with the Stars, I’ll never win an Academy Award. If I do Dancing with the Stars, I’ll be famous and not a great actor, and I really just wanted to be a great actor.”
Lillard wasn’t exactly on fire before Scooby-Doo, but he had enough successful, teen-centric credits such as Scream (1996) and She’s All That (1999) to be on a path to leading man opportunities. Unfortunately, after Monsters Unleashed, his career lay dormant for the better part of a decade. Instead, he voiced Shaggy in a series of animated Scooby-Doo installments and took frequent guest roles on network shows and in low-budget movies.
“I’ve gone through good patches and bad patches. I’ve been irrelevant and thought I was never going to work again,” Lillard admitted.
His next major theatrical release would not be until 2011 with a key role in Alexander Payne’s Oscar-winning dramedy The Descendents. Lillard earned rave reviews for playing the man who had an affair with the lead character’s comatose wife (George Clooney). The role resurrected Lillard’s career and bequeathed him with acting opportunities for which he wouldn’t have been considered in the Scooby-Doo days.
He went on to appear in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks revival and as the bad guy in the massively successful Five Nights at Freddy’s film adaptation. Lillard is currently shooting the sequel, due out next year.
The actor said that his career prospects changed only when his outlook on the business changed and he stopped focusing solely on recognition and salary. “I said, ‘I just want to be an actor. I just want to be in movies. I want to reset my expectations,'” he resolved.
Well, that’s awkward. Rarely one to be upstaged when it comes to Halloween, Heidi Klum revealed her annual costume this year to be the titular character from the 1982 film, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial. And while it was undoubtedly quite impressive, unfortunately, the timing wasn’t. Klum’s costume hit the internet a full day after Janelle Monae revealed her own E.T. transformation.
On Thursday night, Klum hosted her 23rd annual Halloween Party at Hard Rock Hotel New York: The Venue on Music Row. The model was joined at the gala by her husband, Tom Kaulitz, who arrived in a matching E.T. outfit. Klum is renowned for her elaborate and meticulous Halloween costumes, but her take on the beloved alien immortalized in Steven Spielberg’s classic was extraordinary, even for her.
The costume was affixed with a glowing fingertip and a separate headpiece with moveable eyes and mouth, which was operated remotely by one of Klum’s entourage. Because the outfit was so intricate—Klum began getting ready for the evening event at 11 a.m.—the 51-year-old decided to wear and adult diaper to prevent any pesky costume changes.
“Maybe I never need to use the diaper, but at least that way I don’t have to think about it,” Klum told The New York Times. She was drawn to the costume not only due to her nostalgia for the movie, but the message that extraterrestrials bring with them. “They have no genitals,” Klum said of the film’s alien representation. “I like the whole idea of, like, we’re all the same.”
Klum reportedly hatched the costume idea shortly after her last Halloween party, but it’s unclear if she knew before this week that Monáe was planning a version of the same outfit. The Hidden Figures star debuted her take on E.T. on The Jennifer Hudson Show on Oct. 30.
Janelle Monáe and Heidi Klum both dressed up as E.T. for Halloween this year. pic.twitter.com/4uHw8GzQgF
“Janelle Monae revealing her E.T. costume a day before this,” someone wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Ooh, Heidi must’ve been fuming.” Another asked: “Does Janelle Monáe know about this?”
Evildoers beware, because Livvy Dunne is here to save the day with her Halloween costume this year. On Thursday, the fifth-year LSU gymnast revealed her DC Comics-inspired Wonder Woman outfit, complete with some pretty serious guns.
Dunne posted photos of her costume from the backseat of a luxury vehicle, presumably on her way to a Halloween party. She accessorized Wonder Woman’s classic red bustier with blue and white star-print briefs, a gold crown, and gold arm cuffs; while flexing for the camera with her impressive biceps.
“I compel you to tell me the truth, and nothing but the truth,” she captioned the three photos, referencing the superhero’s special truth-telling lasso.
The 22-year-old also posted a video of her costume to TikTok, where she boasts eight million followers, lip-syncing to a Juicy J rap verse from the Katy Perry song “Dark Horse.”
Missing from her social media posts was Dunne’s boyfriend of one year, Paul Skenes, rookie pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates. When asked by a fan where “batskenes,” was, she responded, “in his bat cave,” suggesting that there was no trouble in paradise.
However, the reason for his absence could be that Skenes is just not as big a fan of social media as his famous girlfriend. Speaking with People in a recent interview, Dunne admitted that her beau doesn’t even have social media on his phone.
“I feel like we’re like yin and yang,” she told the publication. “I love doing social media and I enjoy being in the spotlight. He doesn’t like social media at all. We’re just very opposite and I feel like it really works.”
In other words, it seems as though we’ll have to hold our breath for a killer couple’s costume.
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This story was created by Men’s Journal in partnership with Coin of Harmony.
The internet is filled with products marketed to make your life easier, safer, and healthier — whether it’s a new skincare device built to reduce wrinkles or a kitchen accessory that you hope will help you up your intake of vegetables. If you’ve ever purchased something like this, there’s a very good chance you’ve used it once or twice, and it now languishes away in your cabinets.
The Coin of Harmony, however, might be different. Developed with the goal of purifying water, the compact coin (it fits in most water bottles) is made of silver and copper and is incredibly easy to use. If you didn’t know already, both silver and copper have antimicrobial properties that, when released into water, can help attack bacteria and viruses. That’s why both materials have historically been used as a way to very simply keep water clean and safe to drink.
Coin of Harmony Water Purifying Coin, $40 at ShopHQ
Take pioneers on the American frontier, for example. They were known to place silver or copper coins in their water barrels to ensure the contents remained drinkable. Utensils eventually became made of silver as opposed to dangerous lead. NASA has even researched silver as an antimicrobial agent, and those findings then informed ways the technology can be used commercially (in pools, hospitals, in-home water filters, etc). Now, there’s the Coin of Harmony.
Here’s how it works. All you have to do is place a singular coin in any water container (like that water bottle that sits by your desk every day, the water vessel in your refrigerator, or your hiking backpack that could use a good cleaning), fill it up, and give it a few shakes. After that, the water is said to have gone through an effortless, natural purification process. The coin can then be left in the bottle for the following refills.
Coin of Harmony Water Purifying Coin (1:00)
Though Coin of Harmony couldn’t be easier to use, the company does warn that it has the potential to be swallowed, so it’s best to keep it out of reach of smaller children or anyone else who may be at risk. It also shares that while the coin is built to last for years, repeated use may result in the Coin of Harmony turning a bit darker on the copper side (the patina process) and slightly foggy (or tarnish) on the silver side.
If you’re interested in testing out the Coin of Harmony for yourself, you can snag one on ShopHQ. Our readers can also use the discount code HARMONY5 for $5 off their purchase.
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
This article was produced in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore
Golf gifts are our favorite presents to buy come holiday time. Why? The gear is specialized. While generalized gifts for her, gifts for Mom, and gifts for Dad cover a whole spectrum of hobbies and interests, golf gifts for men and golf gifts for women are blissfully specific (read: practically fool-proof).
Golfers are pretty easy to buy for since most of them are gear junkies, according to Ben Helmrath, PGA TOUR Superstore’s vice president of Hard Goods.
“Every golfer needs gloves, a hat, and balls,” Helmrath says. They may seem basic, but balls get lost or scuffed, gloves wear out after a few rounds, and everyone loves a dope new lid. You can deftly add a little something to make the gift special. “Personalization adds a more thoughtful touch to gifts,” he says. “It creates a fun opportunity to put a message, logo, or symbol for a loved one or friend.”
Of course there are universally loved golf gifts, too, like new clubs to fight the common slice and a golf bag with a built-in cooler to keep water, beer, or non-alcoholic drinks chilled.
Everyone from casual players to fanatics are universal in their love for new golf gifts and we’ve yet to meet the player who has everything. So, whether you’re gifting the club champion or someone who embraces the game as more of a chance to hang with friends, here are 40 great golf gifts sure to please this holiday season.
Best Golf Gifts for Everyone on Your List
The top golf gifts include clubs, tech, and equipment to improve everyone’s game.
PING G430 Max Driver
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When in doubt, go for golf gifts that make an impact on performance. “Every golf junkie wants a new driver, no question,” Helmrath says. But because of the price point, some players elect to hold off on buying one for themselves. This season, treat your player to PING G430 Max Driver. It’s one of the most popular drivers with players of all stripes, thanks to better than 10K MOI, which refers to the club’s forgiveness. In the case of 10K MOI, 10,000 g-cm² is defined as the moment of inertia—in essence, the club’s resistance to twisting. Mishits fly farther and straighter than they would from a club without this technology.
Cobra Aerojet Driver
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Cobra AeroJet Max uses perimeter weighting with bias toward the heel to help players hit the ball straighter off the tee. Sharper edges, a raised skirt, and symmetrical shaping all help golfers swing faster. And, as a bonus, the designers enhanced club head aerodynamics to yield three extra yards, on average. Golf is known as a game of inches, so even a few yards is a welcome advantage.
Callaway Opus Chrome Wedge w/ Steel Shaft
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If a wedge’s grooves are gone, it’s time for a new set. Those grooves provide spin and control; when they’re worn out, the precision and consistency fall-off is dramatic. Callaway Opus Chrome Wedge w/ Steel Shaft uses a new design that puts more grooves on the face, smaller offset grooves in between the traditional ones for spin on open-face shots, and a new aggressive face blast finishing, so partial shots grab hard. It’s spin for the win!
LAB Golf DF3 Putter
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It’s an old golf cliche, “You drive for show and putt for dough,” but it’s true. And that makes a putter the most important club in the bag. “The putter is a fun gift because players don’t often change them out,” Helmrath says. It’s a gift that will stay with your duffer for a long time. Plus, “they’re beautiful works of art, and [brands] keep coming out with new technology.” Lie Angle Balance, or LAB putters, is a small company based in Creswell, OR, and currently one of the hottest names in golf. LAB Golf DF3 Putter is hand-balanced so the club face stays square through the arc of the stroke and at impact, helping your duffer put a better roll on the ball.
Scotty Cameron Super Select Newport 2
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Putters are a bit like wands in the Harry Potter universe. Sometimes the wand chooses the wizard. In the instance of Scotty Cameron, the classic blade-style putters have worked their magic for some of the best players of all time. While there’s no phoenix feather or unicorn hair inside, Super Select Newport 2 is carved from 303 stainless steel, and features an I-beam neck, adjustable tungsten sole weights, and a twice-milled solid face for better roll. In layman’s terms, your player can make their ball disappear in fewer strokes.
Vokey Design SM9 Wedges
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Titleist Vokey SM9 Wedges now come in more than 25 loft, bounce, and grind combinations so players can dial in performance based on their game and typical conditions. Crafted with wedge designer and revered short game advisor Bob Vokey’s three keys to great wedge play, these maximize spin, provide added distance and trajectory control, and offer shot versatility. For added personalization, the brand also offers hand stamping and engraving with numerous options of paint fill colors to match personal style. If you’re seeking custom golf gifts, look no further.
PING Hoofer 2023 Stand Bag
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A good golf bag is essential for the walking golfer. But many players won’t shell out for a new one. “A lot of people think, ‘Oh, this bag is fine. I’ve had it for years and it hasn’t broken or ripped,’ ” Helmrath says. But it’s a category that’s gotten better over time: greater functionality, higher-quality materials, better designs. At 5.5 pounds, PING Hoofer 2023 Stand Bag is lightweight, features 16 pockets for gear, and comfortable padded straps to lighten your player’s load during the round.
Callaway Chrome Soft
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Golfers can never have enough balls. Even if they don’t lose them, a ball should be swapped out after nine holes—or as soon as it’s scuffed—for optimum performance. Callaway Chrome Soft balls marry a hyper-fast, soft core that yields faster ball speeds with an aerodynamically refined dimple pattern for high ball flight and low spin. The ball also features the brand’s triple track alignment aid printed around the surface to help players get their putts started on the correct line.
Titleist ProV1 Golf Balls
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Every golfer needs a reload. Fill their bag with a dozen (or two) ProV1s. The 2023 version uses a firmer outer layer wrapped around a soft inner core for added distance. The new recipe also enhances performance with flatter ball flight and less spin off the tee. That should help your duffer find more fairways and spend less time combing the rough for the ball you gave them. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for affordable golf gifts.
Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Laser Rangefinder
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“Anybody who takes golf seriously, from the most avid to somebody brand new, needs to know the distance they’re shooting to,” Helmrath says. “And a rangefinder is the way to do that.” Not only does it give golfers target distances, it provides that info so quickly it picks up the pace of play. Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Laser Rangefinder uses math to adjust the distances for elevation changes and includes a switch to turn that calculus off during tournaments. It’s water-resistant in case it rains and offers players a 6x magnification viewfinder. It’s accurate within inches of the target and vibrates when it locks onto the pin. There’s also a strong magnet that can hold onto the side rails of a golf cart.
Titleist Players Golf Glove
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Gloves wear out and players should always have a spare or two in their bag. We love Titleist Players Golf Glove. It’s made from thin Ethiopian cabretta leather for a snug, unencumbered fit that flexes with the hand. Moreover, the stitching is precisely placed for maximum connection to the club.
PGA TOUR Superstore Lessons
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PGA TOUR Superstore Lessons couldn’t be a better holiday gift for the golfer in your life. Everyone can benefit from an evaluation from a PGA-certified instructor. Choose among private lessons for one-on-one instruction, structured group programs, or a monthly clinic depending on skill level and preference. Read all about the benefits of a golf masterclass from PGA TOUR Superstore’s performance director to see why this is a gift that keeps on giving (and giving).
Arccos Starter Bundle
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Today’s professionals use data to harness strengths and target problem spots in their game. Why shouldn’t your golfer? Arccos Starter Bundle comprises the Arccos Link (GEN 2) wearable shot tracker, as well as 14 Arccos Smart Sensors (GEN 3+), which sync with the award-winning Arccos Caddie app. The sensors screw into the top of each club grip to track every shot during rounds. The numbers are then distilled into shots-gained metrics that allow your golfer to better understand the state of their game. Arccos also offers a digital caddie subscription that gives advice during the round using the player’s history—plus every shot anyone has ever made using the app—to chart the best path to success. As far as high-tech golf gifts go, this is your best bet.
Clinch Birdie Brew Buddy Can Chiller
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There’s nothing worse than a scorching-hot day rendering on-course beverages lukewarm after two holes. A collaboration with MiiR, Clinch Birdie Brew Buddy keeps beverages cold, adult or otherwise (no judgement), with double-wall vacuum insulation. Simply untwist the rubber gasket, drop in any 12-oz can, then screw the gasket back on. A powder-coat finish makes it easy to grip and keeps their glove from getting wet. This is also a golf gift to feel good about giving: Every MiiR product sold helps fund nonprofit organizations that empower communities and invest in the health of the planet.
Golf Pride CPX Grips
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Grips, like the tires on your car, need to be replaced every so often. Hands transfer heat, dirt, and oils, degrading the effectiveness of grips over time. A set’s lifespan is roughly 40 rounds or range sessions (aka most players need a new set annually). Golf Pride CPX Grips feature a diamond-quilted pattern in soft, subtly tacky rubber to keep hands comfortable, and grip pressure and performance consistent. This is a great stocking stuffer for golfers—not to mention it’s incredibly affordable.
Titleist Tour Double Canopy Umbrella
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Not all golf gifts are sexy. Go the utilitarian route with a rock-solid umbrella. It’s essential when the weather turns unexpectedly. I like Titleist Tour Double Canopy Umbrella for its tent-like coverage. It not only shields players from precipitation with 68 inches of coverage, but a UV protective coating also protects against overexposure of sun on hot days. The foam handle stays put in a cart’s umbrella holder, plus reinforced struts and ribs keep its integrity in blustery conditions.
WearSPF Course Essentials
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Sun protection is an important precaution for any outdoor activity, especially one that lasts four or more hours. WearSPF is a sunscreen brand founded by PGA superstar Justin Thomas after his doctor discovered early-stage melanoma on his leg. To protect your player from the dangers of UV rays, hook them up with WearSPF Course Essentials—a three-pack of products to shield their face, body, and lips. The Lip Balm is minty and cooling, offering UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection. The pocket-size, water-resistant Sport Stick boasts broad-spectrum SPF 50 and is the easiest way to re-apply to the face every 80 minutes without mucking up hands. And, the broad-spectrum SPF 50 Sports Spray is stellar at protecting the arms and back of neck. Nourishing ingredients like aloe leaf juice and avocado oil keep skin feeling hydrated, not sticky.
Golf Gifts for Men
Choosing the right golf gifts for men requires a bit more familiarity with their sense of style, as well as what size they wear in apparel and shoes.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Low G Golf Shoe
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Want to give your player a bit of swagger on the course? Nike Air Jordan 1 Low G Golf Shoe puts a dose of confidence in their stride. Just like the basketball kicks, this golf version uses encapsulated air in the heel to soften every step. But as golf is a game played on grass, the sole uses an integrated traction pattern to add grip during every swing. With six colorways to choose from, finding a pair to match their unique sense of style is a sure shot.
FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe
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For players who want a little more of a technical golf shoe, consider FootJoy Quantum Golf Shoe. They’re lightweight, breathable, and incredibly cushioned. On the inside there’s an OrthoLite impressions FitBed that molds to the foot, so your player won’t be limping by day’s end. The soles use multi-dimensional traction targets to stay planted to the turf as your player rotates through the ball.
Adidas ZG23 Vent Golf Shoes
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For players who prefer traditional traction, Adidas ZG23 Vent Golf Shoes grab the ground with hard plastic spikes. Incredibly lightweight, the midsole is springy and supple. The breathable mesh upper is woven with at least 50 percent recycled plastic so not only do they keep feet fresher, but the oceans as well.
ECCO Biom C4 Shoes
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For players who prefer soft spikes, ECCO makes some of the best around. Thanks to GORE-TEX technology and performance leather, ECCO Biom C4 Shoes are 100 percent waterproof while an exhaust grid in the sole vents air and moisture. Well-cushioned to keep your player’s feet comfortable, the shoes interact with the turf using three different traction patterns to boost stability and rotation through the swing. The brand now offers this model with a BOA closure rather than laces for more consistent support and easy adjustments (they just have to turn a dial).
Adidas Ultimate 365 Textured Quarter Zip
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Layering is the key to late-season golf. But according to Helmrath, not just any sweater will do. Players need one that’s not just comfortable but stretches and flexes. “You want it to be something your person can easily swing in and not feel hindered.”Adidas Ultimate 365 Textured Quarter Zip is just the golf gift to keep them warm on the links. It ticks all the boxes for a golf layer: Lightweight, soft, flexible, and machine-washable. The contrasting panels on the cuffs and hem are a nice touch, too.
Puma Boulder Quarter Zip
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Puma Boulder Quarter Zip is a handsome addition to any golfer’s wardrobe, thanks to the textured double-knit jacquard fabrication. The piece will keep your player nice and toasty during a chilly round, plus it’s sophisticated and versatile enough to wear in the wider world beyond the golf course.
Radmor Douglas Stadium Pique Polo
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One of the easiest golf gifts for men is a stalwart in the uniform. Golfers can never have enough polos, but most players already have a wardrobe full of solids. Consider gifting one with a pattern or a bit of panache, like Radmor Douglas Stadium Pique Polo. The contrasting color and shoulders will set your duffer apart on the course, even if their game can’t.
Ashworth Long Sleeve Innovation Interlock Polo
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Don’t call it a comeback. After Adidas pared down its golf business, Ashworth was left a bit neglected. But the brand has returned and it’s time to give it a second look. This long-sleeve polo is an iconic return to form of the original Ashworth Fred Couples polo. It’ll make a handsome addition to any player’s rotation.
Greyson Koko Hoodie
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There was a time when wearing a hoodie on the course would yield a rebuke from the marshall and perhaps an invitation to the pro shop for a compulsory change. Today, dress codes are less rigid and athleisure is everywhere. Greyson Koko Hoodie is woven from a blend of premium cashmere and wool that’s both soft and warm, perfect for a late autumn 18. This is the rare instance of golf gifts for men that go beyond the green.
Kentwool Monochrome Classic Ankle Socks
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Kentwool Monochrome Classic Ankle Socks are our favorite golf socks. They have a low profile, so players can wear them with shorts or pants—plus they’re soft, comfortable, and breathe beautifully. Woven in the U.S. from merino wool, Kentwool socks stand the test of time. I’ve had a couple pairs last me years. Consider this a stocking stuffer among your golf gifts for men.
Puma Arnold Palmer Thirst Quencher Adjustable Cap
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Golf gifts for men don’t have to be so serious. Arnold Palmer Thirst Quencher Adjustable Cap is a cheeky tribute to the late golf legend with an embroidered image of his iconic beverage. We’d bet the bar tab he would have loved the design, however he would not have approved wearing it into the 19th hole. Remind your golfer to remove their lid when they walk inside.
Scully and Scully Old Course Needlepoint Belt
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Scully and Scully makes a number of fun, hand-stitched needlepoint belts that can play to your golfer’s other hobbies whether it be hunting, fishing or whiskey (that counts as a hobby, right?). But the Old Course Needlepoint Belt—a tableaux of the Old Course at St. Andrews backed in full-grain leather with a brass buckle—is one of the best golf gifts for men that all golfers will admire.
Clinch Tactile Golf Glove
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Clinch Tactile Golf Glove has become my go-to. Rather than traditional leather, Clinch uses a proprietary CrushGroove fabric with poly-spandex. That makes it both highly breathable and flexible; the glove moves with the hand as it grips the club. Also, unlike ones made from cabretta leather, these gloves are machine-washable and touchscreen-compatible.
RLX Long Sleeve Fleece Bear Crewneck Sweatshirt
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The RLX Long Sleeve Fleece Bear Crewneck Sweatshirt from Ralph Lauren’s golf apparel line will keep your player nice and warm during cooler rounds. The iconic Ralph Lauren teddy bear injects an instant air of preppy style.
Golf Gifts for Women
The same rules apply when buying golf gifts for women as it does to men. These are great presents if you have a close relationship with the golfer and are comfortable shopping for uniform essentials. The best golf gifts for women include everything from a cashmere sweater for brisk rounds to specialized shoes that can elevate her game.
Smith and Quinn Peggy Long Sleeve Sweatshirt Pullover
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Retro is always cool. Smith and Quinn Peggy Long Sleeve Sweatshirt Pullover‘s stripe design evokes a late ‘60s vibe. Constructed in a mid-weight French terry cloth, it’s a timeless throwback perfect for an autumn round or anywhere else your player might need an extra layer.
G/FORE DBL Knit Stretch Trouser
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G/FORE DBL Knit Stretch Trouser is all business…the business of making birdies. These high-waisted trousers are highly stylish and incredibly versatile with a tapered leg. The fabric has four-way stretch, is water-repellent, and even boasts UV protection, making it perfect for the course. The silhouette is sophisticated enough that she can stroll straight into work after an early-morning nine and her boss won’t be none the wiser.
Le Lis Women’s GOLF V-Neck
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Le Lis Women’s GOLF V-Neck is a perfect staple for your player’s wardrobe. The modern fit and long sleeves pair well with nearly any pant or skirt. The V-neck design and stretch construction makes it easy to put on if the temperature dips or take off when your golfer’s game catches fire.
Lacoste Sport Ultra-Dry Golf Skirt
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Classic and versatile, Lacoste’s Sport Ultra-Dry Golf Skirt is an excellent addition to your golfer’s kit. Available in white, green, and navy, the elastic waistband and fabric are made to stretch and move with the player. Best of all, it’s got pockets. If pant sizing stresses you out, this is an easier piece of apparel to determine fit as far as golf gifts for women go.
Tory Burch Ruffle Tory Golf Sneaker
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Tory Burch Ruffle Tory Golf Sneaker lends retro flair to the traditional golf shoe. Inspired by ‘70s track shoes, these are lightweight and soft, crafted from tumbled leather with suede accents. The studded rubber sole provides plenty of traction while a ruffle detail brings the panache.
PXG RP Signature Polo Dress
With a ribbed jacquard collar and sleeves, PXG RP Signature Polo Dress exudes quintessential country club style. Boasting a contemporary sports fabric and a back scorecard pocket, it’s a piece ready for the links. There’s even a detachable biker short built in for extra support and modesty during the round. This is one of my favorite golf gifts for women if they like to stick to traditional styling on the green.
lululemon Women’s Power Stride Tab Socks
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Socks are a cliche holiday gift, but everyone needs some. lululemon’s Power Stride Tab Socks have anatomical left and right toe designs and 3D-knit, stretchy fabric to better wrap the foot for activities like golf.
Tory Burch Printed Performance Pleated Dress
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The aesthetic of the 70s made a comeback in the 90s (trust me, I was there). Today, the 90s are performing their encore, which means the 70s have boomeranged once again…something only Lenny Kravitz could have predicted. Tory Burch Printed Performance Pleated Dress is retro-inspired but made the modern way with four-way stretch baked into the moisture wicking, machine-washable fabric.
RLX Rib-Knit Cashmere Half-Zip Sweater
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Ralph Lauren has been the first and last name of preppy chic for decades, but the brand knows how to make clothes that perform as well. RLX Rib-Knit Cashmere Half-Zip Sweater is a perfect layer for cooler rounds. It’s tailored in a slightly relaxed fit so it’s easier to take on and off as the weather shifts. If you want golf gifts for women that transcend sport, this is a luxe option.
Royal Albatros Golf Glove
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Golf gifts for women that speak to a player’s personality is always a good move. For those who prefer a leather glove, Royal Albatros uses 100 percent precision-cut cabretta leather sealed with an adjustable velcro strap. There are plenty of vibrant colors to select.
FootJoy MyJoys Premiere Series Issette
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Only the coolest kids wear kilties! FootJoy MyJoys Premiere Series Issette golf shoes are one of our favorite golf gifts for women. They’re made of full-grain leather and are 100 percent waterproof. The outsole uses hard plastic spikes combined with rubber traction elements to maximize traction while maintaining comfort. FootJoy also offers customization, so you can dial in the perfect pair for your player’s on-course vibe. You can shop a variety of designs. I love the pop of color seen in these white and navy shoes with the fuchsia kiltie (it’s removable) and fuchsia/navy houndstooth detail on the heel. That said, you can custom design your own creation.
Radmor Michele Block Stretch Pique
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The color-block sleeves, rib knit, contrasting collar, and tailored fit of Radmor Michele Block Stretch Pique polo elevates the ordinary golf uniform. But it’s still built for the game. There’s a tiny bit of elastane woven into the fabric so it stretches. The underarm is cut to enable an extended range of motion, too.
What to Look for in the Best Golf Gifts
Clubs make great gifts, but they can be difficult to get right. “The better you know your golfer and the more you know about their game, then you start getting into a club like a driver, wedge, or putter,” Helmrath says. If you aren’t confident in picking out sticks, tech, apparel and shoes work and there are racks and racks of options.
Why You Should Trust Me
I’m gear-obsessed. I’ve been reviewing golf equipment for Men’s Journal for nearly 10 years, regularly frequenting some of the top golf courses in the U.S. to test golf clubs, golf shoes, and golf tech. Like most, I’m still searching for my first hole-in-one, and these items are helping me on that quest.
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While fall may be an excellent time to get outdoors, sometimes the weather isn’t optimal, and that means working out inside. Luckily, Amazon’s recent discounts make this easier than ever, with tons of great fitness deals on everything from Asics running shoes to Bluetooth earbuds and even full-sized rowing machines. But the one deal we’re most excited about is this walking treadmill that enables you to stay fit while working simultaneously—and it’s currently $180 off.
DeerRun’s Walking Pad Treadmill is now on sale for only $110 thanks to an on-page coupon that offers an additional $10 savings, making it 62% off its regular price of $290. This compact treadmill has earned well over 300 five-star ratings from shoppers who have noted that “it was ready to go right out of the box.” Over 700 have been purchased in the last month, and it currently sits as one of Amazon’s top 10 bestselling treadmills on the entire site.
DeerRun 2024 Walking Pad, $110 (was $290) on Amazon
The ultimate under-desk treadmill, this walking pad ensures you get in your daily steps, even while on the job or when inclement weather decides to rear its ugly head. Unlike tiny models from other competitors, this one is amply big enough with a spacious 20-inch width and a weight capacity of 300 pounds. It’s also very light, weighing in at just 41 pounds, which makes moving it around a breeze. Its non-slip running belt provides comfort, knowing your feet will remain under you, while the shock-absorbing pads help provide a smooth and comfortable stride. It’s portable and space-saving, and can even be controlled from an app, so you can easily track your progress.
Tons of shoppers highly recommend this walking pad. “I plugged it in and turned it on and used the remote control to get it started. It’s very quiet and smooth,” a shopper said. They also noted its durability: “I am heavier, and this walking pad was easily able to handle the weight. It’s not too heavy and easy to roll away when not in use.”
Another shopper who loved it also commended its durability. “It’s a good size, and it is sturdy,” they said. “It’s easily movable for storage, and I love that it comes with a remote.”
With a discount pushing $200 off for a high-performing piece of exercise equipment, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal than DeerRun’s Walking Pad Treadmill. Don’t wait to get yours, though, because the discount could disappear at any point.
