Patriotic Lead. As a Syracuse University basketball fan, I insist that all of my lead cords be orange. But folks who prefer something a little more unusual might want to check out the 12/3 contractor-grade Red, White and Blue Extension Cord. It features a lighted end, a water-resistant connector, and reinforced prongs. A 50-foot cord costs $40. Coleman Cable, 800/323-9355, colemancable.com
