By Jayne Cannon
Forget the tie and aftershave. Today’s dad deserves tools that make life easier and more fun.
TECHNO POP
POWER PLAY
Dad will be all-powerful with this father of All Portable Chargers. The RAVPower 27,000-milliamp-hour Universal Power Bank weighs less than 2 pounds and can charge an iPhone 6s up to 11 times. Multiple ports allow simultaneous charging of several devices, while the built-in AC outlet is a convenient way to charge a laptop. $170.
888-280-4331; amazon.com
CONTROLLING INTEREST
The Harmony Companion remote system from Logitech is the best way to unclutter the table beside Dad’s favorite chair. A single remote and included wireless hub allows one-touch control of eight smart devices including music, streaming video, games, Blu-Ray, cable, lights and more. The Harmony app turns his smartphone into a remote, too. $150.
646-454-3200; logitech.com
FORGETFUL FATHER
With so much Dad stuff to do, life can get a bit harried. It’s easy to misplace a wallet or laptop. Just attach the credit-card sized Tile Slim Bluetooth tracker to an object and use your phone to find it. Can’t find the phone? Tile Slim works in reverse too. $24.
888-280-4331; amazon.com
TAKE IT OUTSIDE
GO, DAD, GO
The Garmin Vivoactive HR smart watch is a multi-tasking wrist machine. It’s a GPS, heart monitor, fitness coach and activity tracker for running, walking and swimming. It even serves as a personal cheerleader when you hit your goals. And, oh yeah — it tells time, too. $240.
913-397-8200; garmin.com
FISH STORY
Anxious anglers will never miss a nibble with the Poletap 7-foot Spinning SmartRod with Built-In Bite Alert. When a fish bites, an alarm sounds or a light flashes; for quiet, night fishing, use the light-only setting. The SmartRod works with any reel. The bad news: You still have to clean the fish. $39.
800-966-6546; walmart.com
COURSE CORRECTION
Most golfers mentally replay their last round, seeking ways to improve. Game Golf Live, a Bluetooth-enabled device that clips to a belt, tracks and records the game in real time, allowing for in-depth analysis. The device saves every game so you can watch progress over time. $149.
888-245-3433;
gamegolf.com
Jayne Cannon is a freelance writer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a contributor to South Carolina Living, the statewide electric co-op magazine of the Palmetto State. Product inclusion on this page does not imply endorsement; product availability and prices are subject to change.
