Over time, I’ve stopped chasing trends, fads and “gamechangers” and started focusing on quality goods that are the perfect combination of substance and style. The stuff that earns its place. The stuff that travels with me, shows up in my daily routine, and quietly does its job without needing to be replaced every six months.
The Foundation: Footwear
I’ve come full circle on footwear.
I spent years in Nikes, then went deep into overly cushioned shoes, and eventually realized my feet, and my body were better off with less, not more.
The Altra Solstice is my go-to training shoe. Flat, stable, and built for actual work. Lifting, circuits, garage gym sessions. It lets your foot do what it’s supposed to do.
If I’m training, this is what I’m wearing. If you prefer a little more cushion, go with the Escalante model.
What I Wear
I don’t overcomplicate workout gear. 1st Phorm has nailed it with a few staples I keep on repeat: the Tempo T-Shirt, fits right, moves well, doesn’t get in your way. The Genesis Vented Long Sleeve Raglan is perfect for early mornings, layering and gym sessions when it’s a bit chilly. The Hybrid Shorts, train, walk, live in them. This is the kind of gear you don’t think about once it’s on and I feel super confident wearing it.
The Underrated Upgrade
Underwear matters more than guys want to admit. NADS boxer briefs are the best I’ve found. Period. End of subject. They run a little small. I size up. Once you switch, you won’t go back.
Outerwear That Always Works
If I’m traveling, this is in the bag every time. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is lightweight, packs down, and handles almost any temperature swing. Planes, hikes, dinners, mornings with coffee, it just works.
Eyewear: Two Lanes
I keep this simple. For quality and longevity: Randolph Engineering aviators. Classic. Durable. They look better the longer you have them. For workouts, travel, or when I don’t want to think about it: Goodr. Inexpensive, lightweight, and you won’t care if you lose a pair. Both have their place.
Add Load, Not Impact
I don’t run much anymore. I don’t need the pounding. The Aion weight vest gives me intensity without the wear and tear. Walks, hikes, bodyweight work, turns everything up without beating you up. Simple way to get more out of what you’re already doing.
Control the Nervous System
Most guys are walking around wired all the time and don’t even realize it. The Apollo Neuro has become part of my daily routine, for downregulation, sleep, and managing stress.
It’s not flashy. It’s simple and effective. And in midlife, learning how to come down matters just as much as knowing how to push.
Recovery Tools that Work
The Power Plate Pulse Mini is small, portable, and gets the job done. Keep it nearby and you’ll actually use it.
The Hyperice Venom is one of my favorites for tight backs and shoulders. Heat plus vibration is a different level. This is the stuff that keeps you in the game.
Inside Jon’s Swim Bag
We don’t expect everyone to be a competitive masters swimmer like Jon, but if you’re training for triathlons or you’re simply knocking out some laps, he recommends the TYR Black Ops 2.0 for a perfect set of practice Goggles and the TYR men’s durafast jammers for practice. If you want to add resistance, the Speedo Nemesis contour training paddle along with their Pull Buoy are great for upper body work.
In Health,
Greg Scheinman
Founder, Midlife Male
Husband. Father. Entrepreneur. Coach.
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