
####Apolis Transit Issue Travel Candle

One of our favorite parts of the wildernessand one of the hardest parts to captureis the smell: pine needles, fresh moss, and the earthy scent of the undergrowth. This hand-poured candle pairs a hint of fig with the woodsy aroma of cypress, all in a portable jar.


####Izola Balsam Pillow

If you're looking for a scent that's a little more subtle, this pillow is right up your alley. Balsam fir needles provide an understated aroma, while a classic woodsman's motto lends your couch some lumberjack cred.


####Kikkerland Magnetic Bear Bottle Opener
More humane than a wall-mounted grizzly head, and far more useful, this tool strikes a perfect balance between character and convenience. Stick it on your fridge (or any metal surface) to ensure that no beer stays unopened for long.


####Profound Aesthetic Genuine Raw Leather Journal: Pocket Size

Some things are so damn beautiful you should own them purely on principle. This handcrafted notebook looks like a million bucks, smells like a million bison hidesoh, and there's paper inside you can write on, if you're into that sort of thing.


####W&P Enamelware Camp Mug Set

Made from porcelain fused onto heavy-gauge steel, this is one set of mugs that won't break in the sink. Keep them on your countertop for your morning cup of joe, then toss them in your mess kit when you venture into the wilderness.

If you can't build a house out of pine logs with your grandfather's double-edged axe...consider this the next best thing.

If you can't build a house out of pine logs with your grandfather's double-edged axe...consider this the next best thing. From rustic decor to everyday gear, here are five items no forester's home should be without.

5 Pieces of Campware That Will Turn Your Home into a Backwoods Cabin

A durable canvas tote: Pick one thats big enough for your gear, but light enough to sling over your shoulder. (Since you'll also need to carry a cooler, camp chair, or beach umbrella.)

An expandable blanket: Your towel should primarily be used to dry you off, not to shield you from the warm sand. So, instead of struggling to carry a bulky throw, slip a lightweight nylon version in your bag or pocket. This water-resistant style seats two, and folds up into a compact pouch when not in use. (You can also get a mini version of the same blanket, if you're flying solo.)

Classic sunglasses: Shield your eyes from harmful UV raysand look pretty fresh in the process. When the sun goes down, slide your shades into a retro case to keep the lenses from getting scratched.

Some fun and games: Turn off your phones notifications and challenge a friend to a game with this vintage-inspired paddle ball set. You could channel your inner Federeror at least work up the appetite for a burger.

Sweatproof sunscreen: Don't be a lobster. Keep your skin safe with this fast-absorbing SPF 45its lightweight oil-free formula wont run, drip, or irritate your skin.

Subtle body spray: After a day in the sand and surf, freshen up with this light, woodsy scent. Made with naturally deodorizing extracts, its refreshing, not overwhelming.

Protective lip balm: Even if youre a tough guy, your lips are still sensitive to the elements. Protect them from sun, wind, and salt water with this nourishing SPF 15 balm. Its infused with soothing Vitamin E oil to promote healing.

Accessories case: Since most totes lack pockets, opt for a waterproof zipper pouch to keep your valuables safe, dry, and easily accessible.

Insulated water bottle: When spending most of the day out in the sun, drinking water is more important than ever. This lightweight yet durable stainless steel bottle will keep your beverage cool.

Sand and surf in your future? Here's what to bring to the beach (if you mean business).

A day at the shore is prime chill-out time, so dont stress about what to bring to the beach. With a few essentials in your bag, youll be ready to get some rays and catch a wave or two. Follow this handy list to help you pack the perfect beach bag and make the most of each fleeting, sun-soaked day.

1. Do your due diligence.

Check the laws around fire pits in your city: Some may mandate that the pit be a certain distance from the property line, while others require a permitwhich usually just entails simple paperwork. Also keep in mind that your homeowners insurance policy may ask you to disclose that you have a fire pit. Now for the fun stuff

2. Gather your supplies.  

To build a fire pit, youll need:  

 30-60 bricks, depending on the desired height of your pit: ~$0.50 each 

 1 bag of sand or gravel: ~$5 each 

 Landscape block adhesive: ~$6 (optional) 

 Slate or field stone pavers for a decorative border: Prices vary (optional)

Editors Tip: Before heading to Lowes or Home Depot, scour your property and garage for any leftover materials from the construction of your house.

3. Find a spot.

Use common sense. Your fire pit should be a safe distance from your house and any flammable or combustible materials. And before you settle on a location, look up: There should be a clearing to the sky without any tree branches obscuring it. If your yard is small and tree-full, consider cutting some branches.

4. Break ground.

Dig a circular hole, approximately 3 ft. in diameter and 10 in. deep. Cover the bottom with a thin layer of sand or gravel until the dirt is fully covered.

5. Lay your bricks.   

First, place a layer of bricks vertically along the perimeter of the hole. Then lay three to six subsequent rows of bricks, horizontally, until they reach the desired height. For added stability, you can glue the bricks togetherbut our experts say its not necessary, as long as you occasionally check the pits structural integrity.

6. Optional: Surround the fire pit with found stones or pavers. 

In addition to a nice decorative touch, this adds a protective buffer to keep marshmallow-roasting folks from getting too close.

7. Collect kindling and firewood, strike a match, and let er rip. 

Hopefully you learned how to construct and light a fire at summer camp. A base of dry twigs and brush is ideal for ignition, and a few dry logs should keep your fire blazing for hours.

Planning a backyard party with a tight budget? Follow this advice on how to build a fire pit on the cheap.

Boy Scouts may have taught you to make fire with nothing but a couple of twigsbut if its ambience youre after, wed recommend something a bit more permanent. Follow these simple tips on how to build a fire pit in your own backyard without breaking the bank (or the law).

How to Build a Fire Pit in Your Backyard for $50 or Less

Starting at mile zero of the O.G. Open Road (Route 1), it would be criminal not to take in a sunset before you go. So raise a few Hemingway-toasting mojitos (and sleep them off) before heading up the Keys. As youre crossing the Keys on the Overseas Highway, make sure to look north at mile 73 for a series of concrete supports sticking out of the water next to Veterans Keythese serve as memorial to the 400+ WWI veterans and civilian workers killed in a 1935 hurricane as they built the first highway bridge here.

643 miles, 10 hours

From Miami, head north up I-95 across the Florida-Georgia Line. (Yes, youre required by law to queue up their song Cruise when you cross the border.) If you need a little wilderness adventure, stop off in St. Marys, GA and catch the ferry to Cumberland Island National Seashorea pristine barrier island wilderness with wild horses, alligators, 17 straight miles of undeveloped white beach, and only 300 visitors allowed per day on an island longer than Manhattan. Not in the mood for nature? Savannah has one of the best artand barscenes on the East Coast.

480 miles, 7 hours

With a road trip this long, you need a mission to keep morale high, so pick a pleasure: Battlefields? National Parks? Music icons? We're going with some of the world's best BBQ joints. There may be none better than Big Bob Gibson in Decatur, AL, which truck-driver-turned-barbeque-guru Ray "Dr. BBQ" Lampe says he would drive 500 miles out of his way to visit. Don't miss their trademark chicken in Alabama white sauce; its the best fowl youll ever eat.

642 miles, 10.25 hours

Time your itinerary right, and you can make Memphis in time for a lunch of the best ribs youve ever had at A&R Bar-B-Que on Bellevue Boulevard. Then you could find yourself a nice blues club to rest for a bitor head straight for Kansas City for a triumphant BBQ Triple Crown dinner (and inevitable meat sweats) at the legendary Arthur Bryants.  Cap your evening with some jazz at The American Jazz Museums Blue Room.

742 miles, 11 hours

Head north up I-29 through Omaha and Sioux Falls, just so you can experience the least dull trek (that is, across South Dakota) while traveling the very flat plains. This leg is good practice for your forthcoming trek across Canada and Alaska. Reward yourself at the end of the day with a visit to Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse monuments in the stunning Black Hills, then indulge in a delicious steak at Deadwood Grilleand maybe a little gambling while you're in town.

442 miles, 7.5 hours

Following your National Park tour of South Dakota, youll do the same in the U.S.s least populous state, first hitting Devils Tower. The igneous rock monolith is a climbers dream, but is also deemed sacred by numerous American Indian tribes. Dont stay too long, as youll want to save plenty of daylight for Yellowstone. Your trip is incomplete without witnessing the Old Faithful geyser, and keep your eyes peeled for grizzly bears, bison, and elk along the road.

429 miles, 6.5 hours 

The natural beauty along this trip is just beginning. Youll now drive northwest through Big Sky country in Montana, right up the chimney of Idaho to Coeur DAlene. The city and lake here are your playground: Stretch your legs on a hike, practice your swing on one of its many golf courses, or take a boat out for some fishing. With so much sightseeing in the past few days, this is your chance to take a vacation from your vacation and really find respite.

331 miles, 6 hours, plus Customs 

You may have missed the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and this leg of the journey is your atonement. Wind the forested roads into Banff National Park for another day of hiking (or rafting and hot springs), making Lake Louise your target for the day. Youll be short of air, given that the lake is nested among the mountains at an elevation of 5,033 feet. Plus, the mere sight of it will render you totally breathless.

409 miles, 8 hours   

Make sure youve got some space on your phone for photosand plenty of patience for frequent pull-oversbecause this stretch of road up the Trans-Canada Highway is some of the most stunning driving North America has to offer. More than half of it is within the boundaries of Canadas Banff and Jasper National Parks, offering rugged peaks, thick evergreen forests, and sparkling clear rivers. Its pretty much impossible to find a bad camping spot.

530 miles, 8 hours  

Head north up Route 93 to Dawson Creek, BC. Theres no Van Der Beek to be seen, but you will find the start of the rugged and historic Alaska Highway. Although almost all of it is in Canada, the Alaska Highway (or Alcan) was built by and for the U.S. military in WWII, to help defend against Japanese invasion and to supply a series of airstrips that would send planes to Russia for combat against Germany. A modern marvel of pragmatic engineering, its almost 2,000 miles were completed in just eight months through some of the most challenging and remote (and, at the time, unmapped) terrain on the planet. Theres not much in the way of amenities along the way, so be sure to load up on grub and gas when you can, and plan to spend the night in Fort Nelson.

590 miles, 12.5 hours  

This long stretch of the Alaska Highway officially qualifies as the middle of nowhereand you dont want to miss a mile of it. If nothing else, make sure to stop at Muncho Lake at mile 454 to see the impeccable turquoise water. Further up the way, Laird River Hot Springs Provincial Park (mile 496) has multiple natural hot springs to soak your tired back, and almost jungle-like foliage that seems completely out of place. Next, check out Watson Lake on the Yukon border (mile 635), where a soldier started a tradition in 1942. He placed a signpost pointing home, and today there is a surreal forest of more than 60,000 signs. And in Whitehorse, dont miss Gold Rush history and the largest wooly mammoth ever found in North America.

588 miles, 11.5 hours, plus Customs  

After running along the edge of Kluane National Park (part of the single largest expanse of protected wilderness area in the world), youll finally be back in the U.S. of A. Across the border in Alaska, the town of Tok is worth a stop or a turn if you want to take a side trip down to Denali or Anchorage. Although Delta Junction is technically the historic end of the Alaska Highway, the road continues into Fairbanks, where you can find all the amenities of homeso skip them and get the best breakfast in town at the Cookie Jar.

254 miles, 6.5 hours  

By the time you reach Fairbanks, you should stock up on extra gas cans, a couple spare tires, a CB radioheck, you might just want to trade in your Prius for a beat-up old pickup. The rugged, mostly dirt-and-gravel Dalton Highway runs north from here: A "Haul Road" for barreling trucks that only opened to the public in 1996, it has claimed its share of weaker vehicles. Take it slow and rest up at the only real spot with amenities along the way, Coldfoot, the northernmost truck stop in North America (founded by a former Iditarod champ, no less, who originally sold hamburgers out of a dilapidated school bus).

246 miles, 7.5 hours  

Although the worlds greatest road trip (like all good things) must come to an end, youre certainly ending on a high note, driving north across some of the most starkly beautiful landscape America has to offer. As you top Atigun Pass and head down the long North Slope, youll have Gates of the Arctic National Park towering on your left and Arctic National Wildlife Refuge on your right. Before you know it, youll be in Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay with no more road to explore. (As a reward for your long journey, you should book an Arctic Ocean tour.) Then, take off your shoes, put your pedal-tired feet in the icy water, and ask yourself, Now where do I go? How much is a plane ticket home?

Take advantage of the lowest gas prices in five years and kick asphalt from Florida's South Beach to Alaska's North Shore.

Driving directly across the country is for unimaginative wimps. True adventurers go as far as humanly possible and "do America" from corner to cornerAlaska included, requiring a very (very very) long leg through Canada. If you're feeling the pull of the open road, heres how you take advantage of the lowest gas prices in five years and kick asphalt from Florida's South Beach to Alaska's North Shore.

The Great North American Road Trip You Should Take Before You Die

1. Clean the surface of the bite with warm, soapy water.

2. Heat a metal spoon under very hot tap water for about minute.

3. Hold the back of the spoon tightly against the bite for about two minutes.

That's it. Though the bump may linger, relief should be instant.

That dreaded itching is actually caused by a protein that prevents clotting, thus allowing skeeters to, well, suck your blood. The application of heat will kill this protein; just make sure the spoon is hot enough to do the trick without burning your skin.

Sweet, sweet relief is as close as your kitchen. 

Bug bites are summers most dreaded downside, and those red welts itch like nobodys business. But you neednt repent for spending a balmy evening outdoorsin fact, instant relief is probably already within arms reach. Next time you're prey for a thirsty insect, give this simple mosquito bite remedy a try.

Mosquito Bite Remedy: This Ridiculously Simple Trick Will Cure Itching

Theres more to sun damage than a few days of discomfort; a burn puts you at risk for skin problems later in life, and the skin on your scalp is no less prone than anywhere else, even if youve got a full head of hair.

The effects on your hair are less dire, but notable: Both UVA and UVB rays can damage the cuticle structure, leaving strands fried, splitting, and subject to breakage. If your hair is dry, color-treated, or previously damaged from overprocessing, it will be more vulnerable to UV rays.

Start with a protective hair serum to shield hair from the sun. Sachajuans UV-filtering formula pulls double-duty as a styling aid: Simply work a quarter-sized amount into damp or dry hair. Waterproof or not, we still recommend reapplying after a dunk in the ocean.

For your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before venturing outside. Choose a lightweight, oil-free formula; it will absorb into your skin quickly for coverage thats complete but not greasy. Heres the part people forget: Apply to any exposed areas of the scalp, and remember to reapply every two hours (whether you swim or not).

If youre feeling the burn, use an after-sun treatment like Davines S Hair and Body Wash. It contains anti-inflammatory ingredients to gently cleanse and soothe sensitive skin and condition sun-drenched strands, aiding in their repair. Coconut oil and aloe vera have also proven particularly therapeutic on sunburned skin.

Finish up with a restorative conditioner like Sachajuans Hair After the Sun, which is specially formulated for UV exposure. Not only will a deeply hydrating formula calm frizz and quench parched strands; it will also make the cuticle less susceptible to future damage. Just work a nickel-sized amount into your hair until fully absorbed.

Most importantly, avoid the sun while you nurse a burnand once you're ready to get back out there, proceed with caution.

You already know that you need to [shield your skin](/guide/article/what-does-broad-spectrum-mean-spf-uva-uvb-rays-sunscreen-serum) every day with a broad-spectrum SPF, but one area is often neglected when heading out for some fun in the sun. Here's how to keep your hair and scalp safe from the rayswithout hiding out under the nearest umbrella.

How To: Prevent Sun Damage to Your Hair and Scalp

Beards are associated with winter warmth, but not for the reason you think. See, while your scruff may keep you toasty by acting as a windshield, it doesn't do much in the way of insulation. That means it won't retain heat during the scorching height of summer. In fact, some beardsmen even claim that their whiskers keep them cooldissipating heat as the hairs grow damp from sweatbut we can't confirm or deny either way.

Your beard may not act as a woolen scarf, but it can cause irritation when your skin is hot and damp, so it's all the more important to keep it properly cleaned. Scrub it down every morning with a specialized cleanser, like Billy Jealousy Beard Wash: This will remove any grime or debris that might accumulate in your beard, causing inflammation and itchiness.

This may sound a bit like overkill, but a healthy beard starts with a healthy body. Summer is the season of dehydration, which can cause your hairs to grow brittle, and even more prone to breakage. Ensuring that you drink enough water is the easiest way to condition it.

A warm, woodsy oil may be perfect for winter, but if you're rubbing something into your face on a scorching summer morning, you might as well make it refreshing. Try swapping out your beard oil for a lighter, citrus alternative, like Mr. Natty Bring Me Sunshine Frank's Beard Elixir.

If irritation persists despite your best efforts, it might be time to compromise and give your whiskers a trima final length of 1-2 inches should be plenty. This will give your skin more access to airflow, and make it easier to clean, while allowing you to quickly regrow once the season starts to change.

Here's how to keep your scruff in check as the temperature starts to rise.

As the cool weather continues its recession, your beard doesn't have to go with it. Here's how to keep your scruff in check as the temperatures start to rise.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, the 69-year-old driver experienced "gradual, asymptomatic thickening and wrinkling of the skin" due to the fact that "Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays transmit through window glass, penetrating the epidermis and upper layers of dermis."

Basically, this is hard evidence that you should always be protecting your skin with SPF, and treating it with anti-aging moisturizers and creams.

Worry not, concerned reader. We've got you covered:

Here's a primer on SPF, as well as the difference between UVA and UVB rays.

Moisturizers have numerous functions, and it's important to pick one that suits your specific need.

You might consider applying night cream to boost cellular regeneration while you sleep.

There are plenty of ways to proactively prevent signs of aging, though you should never underestimate the various agents that can help in the fight.

Lastly, be sure you know how to apply moisturizer properly; it should be slow and graceful, just like your aging process.

This truck driver spent 28 years with only one side of his face exposed to the sun. Consider him your cautionary tale.

While we always preach the importance of a good [skincare routine](/guide/video/skincare-basics-your-guide-to-great-skin), the occasional PSA never hurts. This truck driver spent 28 years with only one side of his face exposed to the sun, and the damage is visible. Consider it your cautionary tale.

This Is What Sun Exposure Does to Your Skin

UVA Rays: Solar rays that cause skin cancer and wrinkles. The majority of solar rays that enter the atmosphere are UVA.

UVB Rays: Solar rays that primarily cause burning, but sometimes cancer.

Broad-Spectrum: Protects you from both types of rays (UVA and UVB). Some sunscreens only protect against UVB rays.

Sun-Protection Factor (SPF) Ratings: Think of this as a magnification scale. If your skin would normally burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure, SPF 15 theoretically gives you 15 times longer (150 minutes) until this happens. That is, if you apply it liberally.  According to the New York Times, a proper coat is three tablespoons of lotion every two hours, while most people only apply a quarter to half that amount. Also, know that effectiveness above SPF 30 increases by only 1 or 2 percent, so the 97 percent coverage provided by SPF 30 (blocking 97% of rays) can only increase nominally as the SPF rating increases.

SPF ratings only refer to UVB rays; sunscreen must provide broad-spectrum or UVA/UVB coverage if it also blocks UVA rays.

Its imperative that any sun protection gives you broad-spectrum coverage. Apply it liberally every two hours, or whenever you get out of the water.

Better yet, use a product with healing factors as well as preventive ones.  Many moisturizers and serumslike Supergoop! Anti-Aging City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30have broad-spectrum SPF coverage, while also correcting fine lines and soothing sunburnt skin. These lightweight products are perfect for outdoor errands or commutes, when a thick, greasy sunscreen feels excessive, but coverage is still a priority.

So you understand the importance of sunscreen, but do you know what type of coverage you're getting? 

You may understand the importance of sunscreen, but proper UV protection demands more than a simple slather. *Do you actually know how SPF numbers work? Or the difference between UVA and UVB rays? What exactly does broad-spectrum coverage provide?*  Heres a glossary of everything under the sun: It could help save your skin (both literally and figuratively).

Sunscreen Glossary: Everything They Never Told You About SPF and UV Rays

A Weekend Duffel: A weekender offers the perfect blend of space and portability. Choose one in canvas and leather for a timeless (yet durable) finish.

1-2 Versatile Outfits (Rolled): Select clothes that are equally suited to the city or the country, and opt for quick-dry fabrics if there's a chance you'll be roughing it. This rolling technique will ensure that you don't waste any space.

Extra Socks: The golden rule of the WWII soldier still applies today. We recommend SmartWool socks to ensure you stay warm and dry.

A Travel Towel: Between sudden storms and lakeside swims, a towel will always be handy. Look for one thats light, absorbent, and easy to dry.

A Water Bottle: It's hard to overstate the importance of hydration. This stainless steel bottle from Mizu takes things one step further, with insulated walls that help cold and hot beverages maintain their ideal temperature.

A Collapsible Cup: Trust uswhen a moss-encrusted mountain man offers a swig of moonshine, you dont want to drink from the bottle.

A Miniature Dopp Kit: If your trips don't demand a full-size dopp, a pouch stocked with samples makes a far more compact alternative. Heres what you need to pack it.

High-SPF Sunblock: You never know when the sun is going to show its searing face. This lightweight formula from Supergoop combines SPF 50 with a soothing dose of moisture.

All-Purpose Cleanser: This all-natural trail soap was designed to clean just about anything, from your hands and your hair to dishes, skivvies, or camp tools.

A Pocket Knife: Youd be amazed at the number of common scenarios that call for a sturdy blade. And no, a bandit attack isnt one of them.

Screen Cleaner: From smartphone screens to rental car windows, this two-in-one spritzer and microfiber keeps essential surfaces clean.

Sunglasses: Because looking cool (and protecting your eyes) should always be a priority.

Smartphone Camera Lenses: Having an on-call camera is a little bit excessive, but these slide-on lenses from olloclip will turn any standard smartphone into a passable substitute.

A Compass: Orienteering may seem like a long-forgotten skill, but the ability to find yourself on a map will never go out of style.

A Game Kit: Even the toughest wilderness trek will involve a little down time. This game kit from Bush Smarts will keep you and your friends entertained when outlets are out of reach.

An All-Weather Notebook: We never leave the house without a sturdy notebook, and this waterproof number from Rite in the Rain is as durable as they come.

A Good Read: Our travel companion of choice is Whitmans Leaves of Grass, but read whatever you'd like. Just avoid first editions and anything involving Fabio.

For some useful advice on stowing your haul, watch our video on 6 Packing Hacks Every Man Should Have in His Arsenal.

From a day on the mountain to a weekend in Rio, adventure calls when you least expect it. Here's a packing list for an unforgettable, adventurous escape.

From a day on the mountain to a weekend in Rio, adventure calls when you least expect it. If you want to avoid the stress of a last-minute fiasco, prepping a simple go-bag is a good place to start. Here's a handy packing list to ensure that you're ready for anything. 

Packing List: The Perfect Adventure Go Bag

Before getting ready for a night out, Adam fits in a cold-weather run (mostly to validate sleeping in late).

He gets home feeling accomplished for having braved the elements. It's time to clean up for the evening.

But, first things first (after drinking lots of water, of course).

That utility tool is the Izola pocket knifeit's stainless steel and also has a bottle/can opener, plus corkscrew and screwdriver.

Adam savors the brew like a king: There's nothing better than a shower beer.

Notice the Barebands watch on his wrist: It's waterproof, and makes the perfect fitness accessory for timing his run.

To clean his hair, he uses Davines MOMO Shampoo, which is sulfate- and paraben-free, and specially formulated to keep hair hydrated and healthy.

After cleansing his face in the shower, Adam incorporates two more steps into his skincare routine:

First, a serum. He uses DTRT's Bright Idea Serum, which brightens complexion by sinking deep into all three layers of the skin.

He follows that with an all-purpose moisturizer. In this case, Lab Series' Daily Moisture Defense Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 15, which hydrates skin while protecting it from harmful, year-round UV rays.

His hair is always unruly, so he polishes his look with Dear Clark Finishing Salve. It can be applied to wet hair for added body, or put in dry hair for separation and hold.

Lastly, Adam adds some subtle but bold wrist flair with a Bison Made Double-Wrap Leather Bracelet. It can be cut to the perfect size, and it looks increasingly cooler as the leather ages.

And just like that, he's groomed for a night out.

These are just some of the many items we're featuring in March's boxes. For a chance to win everything you see here, tell us in the comments below: What's one risk you're going to take this month that will improve your life (whether it's big or small)?

Not a subscriber? You can join now to receive a March box.

Take a look at some of the products and brands we're featuring in this month's boxes. 

This month, our theme is "Boldly Go," so we're taking risks, being adventurous, and trying innovative products. Watch as Birchbox Man editor Adam incorporates some of our featured items into his weekend routine. These are just a few of the goods that subscribers might receive in March boxes.

For a stoic guard against stains and water marks, give your dining room upholstery two good coats of Thompson Fabric Seal Spray. Water, soda, and condiments will bead and slide off the surfacethough we don't recommend this procedure for suede.

You can preserve letters or documents by waxing them with a candle, or applying a coat of alum (find both tutorials here). If you need a weatherproof notebook, take a cue from the U.S. military: Grunts have carried Rite in the Rain Memo Books for years.

To waterproof natural fabric like cotton, denim, or canvas, give it a thorough rubdown with a bar of Otter Wax. The wax won't leave any residue, but will stiffen and darken the fabric to give it a rugged appearance: We recommend denim shirts, work jackets, and old canvas weekenders.

While leather can never be fully weatherproof, there are several treatments that will help it survive some contact. Condition it with mink oil every month or two, and give it a coat of spray protectant if you expect inclement weather (Note: The spray should be reapplied every 8-10 uses). If you don't mind a darker finish, natural beeswax conditioner is even more effective.

To weatherproof a pair of brogues, or a pair of wingtip dress boots, spring for a leather preservative. To weatherproof your work boots for next to nothing, apply a layer of wax from the hardware store while the leather is warm and dry.

Numerous cases claim to be waterproof, but we recommend investing in a wetness guardlike those made by Watershotespecially if you plan on any underwater photography. For something less intense (and far more subtle), Liquipel will give your phone an invisible, waterproof coating with a 1-year guarantee.

Like any other possession, raincoats are subject to wear, and your average coat will need a yearly treatment to maintain its waterproof coating. Luckily, the process is easy to learn and won't require many supplies: This article in Popular Mechanic lays it out step by step.

The internet has long been abuzz over NeverWet, a silicone nano-coating that can waterproof (really, truly waterproof) just about anything. The coating only lasts for a limited time, but its power is a wonder to behold: Syrup slides off cotton shoes like rain off a glass window. Buy it in the form of a versatile spray and see how it comes in handy.

Whether it's for comfort or for outright survival, keeping your gear and belongings dry remains a top priority. 

Whether it's for comfort or for outright survival, keeping your gear and belongings dry remains a top priority. Heres an official waterproofing primer for...well, pretty much everything.

In the winter months, humidity levels drop significantly. This is why your skin dries out in cold weather. Less moisture in the air can lead to chapped lips, cracked hands, and dry flaky skin. Of course, staying on your moisturizing game this time of year is crucial, but its also essential to keep exfoliation in your winter skincare routine.

Between the cold air outside and dry indoor heating, your skin cells dehydrate and die out faster in winter. Youll want to buff away these dead cells so new cells can come in healthier and without obstruction. Twice a week should suffice.

Exfoliators improve the effectiveness of moisturizers.

Because youll be using extra lotion in the winter, youll want to maximize its power. Do this by exfoliating regularly: The dead cells block moisture from the layers of live skin cells that actually need it.

When temperatures drop, your skincare routine should rise to the challenge.

Why and How to Exfoliate Your Skin in the Winter

Were not harboring any delusions here: A shoe is either built to be waterproof or its notand you definitely shouldnt be sporting leather or suede during a full-blown snowstorm. But its still smart to treat those everyday shoes with wax or a waterproofing compound, which will shield them in the event of spontaneous flurries.

You can also upgrade the soles of your boots and sneakers for the slippery season. An easily affixed traction device will give them extra stability on snow and ice.

Winter precipitation is far from a one shoe fits all situation. If hunkering down indoors isnt an option, make sure youre properly suited up for the conditions.

Watery slush and melting snow: As far as your shoes are concerned, stepping in a slush puddle is akin to going fly-fishing. We recommend a tall, heavy-duty rubber boot with a pair of liners and thick socks. You wont miss the insulation of heavier snow boots when the temperature is above freezing.

Light, powdery snow: Insulation is the main concern here, particularly since powdery snow falls in colder temperatures. Opt for a snow boot with sealed seams and a rubber outsole. A fleece or shearling lining will add extra warmth and prevent flakes from creeping in.

Heavy, compacted snow and ice: Its all about the sole. A pair with robust (yet lightweight) outsoles and a deep, high-grip lug pattern is your best betthink of it as snow tires for your feet.

This is the single most important step in ensuring your footwears survival, season over season. When you get inside, dry your shoes immediately with a highly absorbent towel. If theyre soaked through, fill them with crumpled newspaper and let them dry at room temperature. (Dont place footwear near a heat source; it can weaken the adhesives and make materials brittle and prone to cracking.)

Once your kicks are good and dry, scrub away dirt, grime, and salt stains with a shoe brush and cleaning solution.

Finally, use your head when storing shoes in the off-season: A dry, ventilated, and temperature-stable environment will leave them in top shape when winter rolls around again.

This article is part of the Birchbox Man 31-Day Challenge for January 2015. Click to see all daily challenges and to learn how you can win sweet stuff all month.

Hell hath no fury like a slush puddle of indeterminate depth. 

Youve got a thick beanie, a trusty thermos, and a snowplow on speed dial. But how are your shoes holding up? Protecting your seasonal footwear is a delicate art during these treacherous months. Read on for our three-pronged approach.

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