When I’m out in the wilderness (more than 50 feet from home) these rugged Talkabouts keep me in touch with my fellow adventurers (beer buddies). Drop these waterproof walkies in the swirling rapids (the shallow end of the pool) and they float. The MS350R’s weather band radio alerts me if storms are brewing (the game’s rained out), while its flashlight helps guide me through the blackest woods (find my keys in the dark). I may be like Homer Simpson in real life, but with these in my hands I feel like Bear Grylls. $100, motorola.com
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