The Best Bet
If Dad has always yearned to kayak but resisted out of storage concerns, here’s the solution. Feathercraft’s folding kayak, meant for touring (as opposed to white water), is fifteen feet long when assembled (which takes about twenty minutes, after a bit of practice), but when folded will fit in a duffel-style backpack. It can be checked as standard airline baggage, fits easily into the trunk of a car, and weighs only 35 pounds, thanks to an aluminum frame and urethane-welded skin. Pair it with a Lendal paddle—the interchangeable blades on this version make them easy to replace when damaged or broken (kayak, $2,363; paddle, $415, at NY Kayak Co.; 212-924-1327).
The Sharpest Focus
Swarovski’s all-around glass expertise means its binocular lenses are second to none; the latest EL Class model weighs just 21.5 ounces ($1,500 to $1,600 at B&H Photo Video; 212-444-6615).
The All-Purpose Summer Sport Jacket
Descente’s Wunderview jacket was designed for cyclists, but its light weight, waterproofing, and side vents (to prevent sweating) make it perfect for all summer sports ($24.99 at NYC Velo; 212-253-7771).
A Tennis Sweater That’s Not Stuffy
Ermenegildo Zegna’s cashmere zip-ups are a sleek, colorful update of the traditional pullover ($810; 212-421-4488).
A Monitor Made for Lounging
With a double-hinged arm that allows the screen to bend backward and rotate 90 degrees, LG’s slim new monitor is viewable from almost any angle (seventeen inches, $469.99; nineteen inches, $599.99, at Best Buy; 212-673-4067 or 212-366-1373).
Bring Home Baseball History
At Sotheby’s June 10 sports-memorabilia auction, Babe Ruth’s 1919 sale contract (estimated at $500,000) will be supplemented by more affordable objects, like this restored seat from the old Polo Grounds (estimated at $2,500 to $3,500; 212-606-7000).