The year 2020 was unlike any other in recent memory. As many of us spent more time at home, priorities shifted toward health, comfort, and practical gear. People who had been cooped up under stay-at-home orders quickly sought ways to explore and improve their surroundings once restrictions eased. That surge in interest drove outdoor gear, home improvement products, and versatile lifestyle items to new levels of popularity.
Home projects and remodels surged as well, creating long waits at hardware stores and making it harder to find available contractors. Yet amid the frenzy, a handful of standout products rose above the rest and earned a spot on our list of favorites for the year. The items below reflect durability, thoughtful design, everyday usefulness, and the kind of quality that made life better in a challenging year.
Luno Air Mattress
Car camping got a major comfort upgrade with the Luno air mattress. Engineered to fit more than 1,800 vehicle models, the Luno avoids the awkward, oversized mattress fit that used to plague SUV campers. Choose the model matched to your vehicle and enjoy a level, supportive sleeping surface that makes nights on the road far more comfortable.
Prana Stretch Zion Short
The Prana Stretch Zion Shorts revived our appreciation for cargo-style technical wear. They combine a tailored look with plenty of comfortable stretch, UPF 50+ sun protection, and rugged construction suited for hiking or cycling. These shorts work just as well for everyday wear as they do for outdoor adventures.
Keen Portland Work Boot
Keen’s Portland work boot blends comfort, performance, and style. This waterproof boot uses innovative bellows across the forefoot for added flexibility and durability in high-wear areas. The result is a more comfortable, long-lasting work boot that still looks good on and off the job.
Filson Small Tin Cloth-Field Duffle Bag
Filson’s small Tin Cloth field duffle is a versatile companion for travel and daily use. Built with water-repellent, wear-resistant fabric and thoughtful construction, it pairs well with wheeled carry-ons while standing up to the rigors of cross-country travel and everyday commutes.
Vasque Clarion 88′ GTX
The Vasque Clarion 88 GTX captures a classic hiking aesthetic while adding modern performance. With Gore-Tex waterproofing and a Vibram outsole, this boot keeps the timeless look many love while delivering reliable protection and traction for the trail.
Glerups Indoor Slippers
As more time was spent at home, cozy footwear became essential. Glerups wool slippers proved to be an excellent choice: lightweight, breathable, and warm thanks to their 100% wool construction. The calfskin sole offers surprising durability for indoor use, and a rubber sole option is available for those who need outdoor capability.
Bullfrog STIL 7 Hot Tub
Installing a hot tub became a timely upgrade for many households. The Bullfrog STIL 7 stands out with an open seating plan, modern design, and interchangeable jets that allow for a customized soak. Its clean aesthetics fit a wide range of outdoor spaces without the bulk of traditional molded tubs.
Ride1Up Roadster Electric Bicycle
Electric bicycles deliver a uniquely joyful riding experience, and the Ride1Up Roadster is a great example. It maintains the look of a sleek single-speed bike while hiding a battery and pedal-assist system that helps riders cruise up to 24 mph. Its combination of style and practical range makes it a favorite for commuting and leisure rides.
Roofnest Sparrow Rooftop Tent
Rooftop tents continued to surge in popularity, and the Roofnest Sparrow stood out as a premium, easy-to-use hard-shell option. Ideal for couples or small families, the Sparrow is simple to deploy, stylish, and provides a comfortable, elevated sleeping platform for camping and overlanding.
QuikLid Bucket Scoop
A surprisingly handy tool for home and yard projects, the QuikLid bucket scoop transforms any five-gallon bucket into a convenient dustpan. It snaps on easily, allows hands-free sweeping of debris, and even scoops water—making cleanup faster and more efficient.
Step 22 Tool Roll
Tool rolls remain one of the best ways to organize and transport tools without them clanging together. The Step 22 tool roll is tailored for overlanders and tradespeople alike, offering an efficient, compact solution that keeps tools secure and accessible in a vehicle or workshop.
Benchmade Bugout Knife
For everyday carry, the Benchmade Bugout remains a top pick. It strikes an ideal balance of weight, feel, and performance. The CPM-S30V steel blade resists corrosion and handles a wide range of tasks, and the drop-point serrated configuration in a black finish is a practical, durable option.
Greenworks 300 Watt Power Inverter
Greenworks’ 300-watt power inverter pairs well with their 60V battery platform, turning cordless power tools into multi-use power sources. Lightweight and portable, this inverter charges phones, laptops, and lights on the road or at the jobsite—making it a handy accessory for remote work and outdoor trips.
Greenworks 60V Lawn Mower
Cordless lawn equipment continues to impress for ease of use and reduced emissions. The Greenworks 60V lawn mower, with redesigned handles and a dual-battery switch, delivered consistent, reliable performance throughout the season without the hassle of gas engines or exhaust fumes.
Bose Portable Home Speaker
For simple, dependable home audio, the Bose Portable Home Speaker stands out. It pairs easily over Bluetooth, works with voice assistants, and offers strong battery life and clear, balanced sound—making it a convenient portable option for indoor and outdoor listening.
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
The Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 combines a powerful LED lantern with a capable power bank. Rechargeable by USB, solar panels, or a hand crank, it is designed for off-grid reliability and makes an excellent light and charging source for camping and emergency preparedness.
Louisiana Grills Black Label 800 Smoker
The Louisiana Grills Black Label 800 packs premium features into a robust pellet smoker. Heavy-gauge steel, a precision digital controller, and excellent searing capability make it a top contender for serious backyard smoking and grilling enthusiasts seeking consistent results.
Flybar Maverick Pogo Stick
To help kids stay active and have fun, the Flybar Maverick pogo stick is a simple, durable choice. Built to withstand enthusiastic play, it’s a go-to option that can keep kids entertained and moving for years.
Front Runner Wolf Pack
Front Runner Wolf Packs are designed for overland and adventure travel. Lightweight yet robust, they feature metal latches and a well-considered design that stands up to rough use. While not marketed as fully waterproof, they proved highly water-resistant in real-world testing and are ideal for roof-rack transport and organized storage.
Yeti Camino Carryall 35
A longtime favorite, the Yeti Camino Carryall 35 remains a durable go-anywhere tote. It has weathered beaches, parks, and everyday errands with minimal wear, earning its reputation as a nearly indestructible carrier for gear and supplies.
Milwaukee Packout System
Milwaukee’s Packout modular storage system continues to lead the market for jobsite organization. With rolling tool storage, stackable crates, dollys, wall mounts, and accessories like radios and lights, Packout creates a comprehensive, durable system that adapts to a wide range of professional and DIY needs.