u/Maxim_Lavishness

I’m getting back into cycling after a minor crash damaged my old Giro Isode, and now I’m taking helmet shopping way more seriously. I mostly ride on roads and bike paths, so I’m looking at the Giro Agilis MIPS, Bell XR Spherical, Specialized Align II, and maybe a POC model if I find a good deal. My budget is around $80–$200, but I’m not convinced the $250+ helmets are actually safer, or if the extra money mostly goes toward weight, airflow, and looks. How much attention should I pay to Virginia Tech ratings, and do you think MIPS is worth prioritizing over a better fit?

I’m getting back into weekend hikes, usually 5–10 miles on dry trails, and my regular cotton socks are starting to betray me. Hot feet, sweaty heels, and one annoying blister that shows up every time. I’m looking at Darn Tough Light Hiker, Smartwool Hike Light Cushion, Injinji liners, and maybe a cheaper merino blend around $15–$25 per pair. I don’t need expedition-thick socks, just something comfortable that works with mid-height hiking boots without making them feel too tight. Do you prefer Darn Tough or Smartwool for this kind of hiking, and are toe liners actually worth using?

I’m looking for a pressure washer mainly for washing my car, cleaning a small patio, and getting years of dirt off the driveway. Nothing commercial-grade, but I don’t want another cheap unit that starts leaking after a few uses. My budget is around $150–$300, and I’ve been comparing the Sun Joe SPX3000, Westinghouse ePX3500, Craftsman CMEPW2100, and Greenworks Pro models. The Craftsman seems like a good middle ground, while the Greenworks looks more powerful—but I’m not sure how much that matters for normal home use. Which one would you actually buy, and are there any electric models I should avoid?