You Missed These!? A Look Again on A few of Primer’s Finest Articles of 2023

+ A few of our favorites.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I’ve been reflecting on the journey that 2023 has been for Primer. It marked our 15th year since starting in 2008, and we’ve surpassed our highest traffic day ever five times this year. It’s a year that fills me with pride for what we’ve shared and achieved.

At Primer, we’re not just a magazine; our contributors have tirelessly pursued the goal of tackling real questions, problems, and frustrations regular guys deal with often ignored by a media landscape dominated by sensationalism and the shine of fleeting trends. Primer has remained steadfast in our commitment to focusing on helpful ideas and value.

As we turn our attention to the blank canvas of 2024, I’m excited to share some of the exciting plans we have in store for you. But before we begin again, let’s take a moment to revisit the articles that resonated most with readers, and perhaps uncover some of our favorites that may have missed the first time around.

Thank you for being a part of the Primer community. We couldn’t have done it without your enduring support, and I look forward to the exciting year ahead.

To a thoughtful and happy new year,

Consider this when you’re stuck staring into your closet.

A laid-back outfit can be intentional, striking that perfect chord between comfort and effort.

Transforming your lifestyle isn’t about radical changes, but daily habits. This article by long-time contributor Brad Borland, a certified fitness expert, explains the power of small, consistent adjustments for achieving lasting fitness and nutrition goals, offering practical advice for building better habits, whether it’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or sticking to a workout program.

Overcome life’s unexpected challenges with the OODA Loop, a proven method developed for fighter pilots that helps you make quick, smart decisions in the face of chaos and uncertainty. 

Lighten up your winter wardrobe with this effortlessly stylish outfit curated by style contributor Daniel Baraka, featuring a cozy camel overcoat, a warm roll neck sweater, and versatile raw hem jeans. This ensemble’s timeless appeal and neutral tones make it perfect for various occasions, promising comfort and sophistication throughout the cold season.

For some reason, guys always think this combo is a no-no. We’ll show you how to do it right.

Our guide demystifies the myriad shapes and grinds that define these essential tools, from the precise cuts of a Tanto blade to the robust versatility of a Drop Point.

Fresh art to fill your walls.

Surprisingly, a style of footwear I once overlooked has filled an essential void.

Unlock a life of purpose and progress with practical strategies: discover how a simple routine of weekly and monthly reviews can transform wasted efforts into meaningful success.

Redefine your approach to challenges, from snow shoveling to hard conversations, with practical tips that blend psychology and real-world savvy.

How I learned to love and style my sparse, patchy beard.

Wouldn’t it be more practical for a bar to just have one type of glass for all of the cocktails they serve? It would…but here’s why they don’t

Starting with the importance of color and featuring versatile elements like a bomber jacket, sweater polo, and more, ensuring you’re effortlessly well-dressed for any laid-back yet sophisticated occasion.

From the sweet and nutty notes of wheated bourbon to the smoky and medicinal tang of Islay Scotch gain a deeper appreciation for your next dram.

A straight-forward framework for anyone to build a personal style that feels authentic.

Some of the things that are holding us back the most are the things we’re holding onto the tightest.

And it may not mean what it sounds like.

You’ll be surprised how smooth everything will become.

If you want to be happy, learn from happy people.

Easily the biggest “secret hack” to improving your style, learn essential tips on finding the right tailor, understanding alteration terms, and ensuring a perfect fit for your clothes without breaking the bank.

Feeling frustrated in your battle to manage your kid’s screen time? Try this.

All beef, no bull–read this before cooking your next steak.

Learning to parent with openness and flexibility.

+ How it applies to everyday life.

Layered up as we sail on to summer.

Travel smarter.

Harness the power of awareness and accountability.

The trench coat not only boasts a military and luxury heritage but is also designed to be incredibly practical, making it the perfect addition to any man’s spring wardrobe, no PI license required.

Where muscle meets mind.

Experience a reimagined approach to business casual that blends traditional elements with modern versatility.

18 ways to wear the most versatile piece in your wardrobe.

Loved by famous guys for years, and coveted by me from a distance for just as long, I finally purchased it. But now that the novelty has faded, was it worth it?

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” – Albert Einstein

How to persist through anything.

With fast fashion brands promising little beyond the latest trends, Flint and Tinder’s 10 Year Hoodie and its bold warranty beg the question: can superior materials and workmanship justify the higher price?

Unlock the secrets to effortlessly blending style and comfort with a blazer—no tie required.

How to actually “do the work” to create better connections.

And a few “false flags” to watch out for.

Break through your networking anxiety.

Buy once, cry once.

In the gym, we find more than physical fitness; we train for the resilience to stand tall against life’s darkest and most challenging moments.

Finding great casual style in my favorite film.

The only thing worse than hearing a terrible diagnosis is “all your tests look normal.”