Joe Bloss

Associate writer, testing | CNN Underscored

I tried the new Ninja FlexFlame. The 5-in-1 outdoor grill turned me into a pitmaster | CNN Underscored

The Ninja FlexFlame — the brand’s first propane grill — is a shortcut to the backyard of my dreams. When I finally have a home of my own, stepping out onto the patio will reveal an arsenal of outdoor cooking appliances. There’s a grill for burgers and hot dogs in one corner; a smoker, where all-day cooks produce heavenly ribs, in another. Don’t forget the griddle, where I’ll flip pancakes in the morning, then chop cheesesteaks at night. Oh, and every Friday, my pizza oven produces artisanal pies...

The best backpack coolers for icy drinks on the move in 2025, tried and tested | CNN Underscored

The best backpack cooler will always be a useful piece of outdoor gear because most situations that call for a chilled beverage require the movement of cans, ice and more from point A to point B. Even if you’ve invested in a reliable and spacious cooler, the worst part of using it is lugging it around. I don’t care if that thing has sturdy handles or smooth wheels — it’s heavy.

Best sandals for men: Tested and reviewed | CNN Underscored

Whether you’re a sneakerhead like me or a Crocs devotee, finding a pair of the best sandals for men can be a revelation when the weather heats up. They let your feet breathe while still wrapping them in support. And even if there might be haters out there, I think they can actually look pretty fly. Rocking a pair of sandals in the summer has given me confidence and helped me evolve my style.



The word “sandal” can mean many different things in men’s fashion, so I narrowed t...

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