Every week there are dozens of new and exciting pieces of gear. But are they actually worth buying? Trust the team at Cool Material to help you find the latest and greatest releases in a recurring column: What We’re Buying.
Persol 714 Steve McQueen Sunglasses
“There’s something about these sunglasses that are just so perfect, I’m finding excuses to get out of the house as an excuse to wear them. ‘Oh, honey, do you need anything from the grocery store? I think I’m going to get ice cream.’ ‘The car sure needs to be washed again this weekend!’
While Steve McQueen is definitely a style icon, the construction and detailing of these frames are all in Persol’s genius. They’re compact but have a weight to them that makes for a pleasant wearing experience. I opted for the darker amber lens and it makes for a great option when riding my bike, even on the sunniest days. But probably the biggest selling point for me was that these frames are foldable. While I don’t really fold them and go like Mr. McQueen presumably might, it’s a neat little party trick to show off. And, let’s face it, that’s half the fun of owning clothes, isn’t it?” Buy: $507
Proof Rover Pant
“Over the past month I’ve put these pants to work traveling to four countries in a wide range of temperatures, and in that time they’ve been through things that would put a slight tear in a pair of budget pants. These are durable enough to stand up to everything I’ve thrown at them, and the Dune color hides any small spills or stains while staying on the lighter side of the spectrum. The Rover Pant was a little tight on my calves at first even for a slim fit, but they stretch in the right spots with wear and the gusseted crotch helps to keep anything from feeling stuffy. If you want something that can deal with both an everyday desk job and whatever weekend warrior adventure you’re into, these pants will stand up to just about anything you can.” Buy: $118
Herschel Supply Co. Classic Rain Jacket
“After enduring the deluge–some might have called it a sh*tshow–that was the Chicago Bears home opener at Soldier Field, it was very clear that I needed to slip and slide into a proper rain jacket before the next home game. Enter Herschel with their stylish bags and packs, wallets, sneakers, accessories, and, yes, even rain jackets. The Herschel Supply Co. Classic Rain Jacket is built for damn near anything with welded seams and a waterproof stretch fabric, along with a three-piece hood, mesh vent, and the option for one of five different color options–which means there’s one that will perfectly match anything you’re wearing underneath.” Buy: $80
Todd Snyder 5" Seersucker Weekend Short
“While summer is quickly coming to an end, the weather here in North Carolina is still unseasonably warm and I was short on shorts. I turned to Todd Snyder, one our of favorite designers here at Cool Material, and really loved these Weekend Shorts. The drawstring keeps things casual and comfortable while the design is still stylish enough to wear on a night out. They’re pricey but the feel is excellent and I know I’ll be wearing them very regularly in the final days of summer.” Buy: $99
Silipint Silicone Original Pint Glass
“During our seemingly interminable home improvement project, we stored away all of our glassware. Silipint’s Silicone Original Pint Glass came to the rescue with its attractive and indestructible 16 oz. silicone beverage goodness. Not only is the new Moon Beam colorway soothing and fun, but the grippy, shatterproof, and easy-cleaning properties make it great at home and on the road. We had the optional silicone lids that make being overserved way less messy. Screw conventional plastic and glass when you have these.” Buy: $13
Flint and Tinder 365 Pants
“Do you suffer from Khakiphobia? You’re not alone. Khakiphobia is when you are convinced that you only look good in jeans. I’ve suffered from this condition for twenty years but I’ve found the cure – the 365 Flint and Tinder pants. These pants are like a three-tool baseball player – cut like a jean, feel like a chino, and have the stretch of a performance pant. They are perfect for work and play and you really can wear them every damn day. With these pants, the wardrobe combinations are endless. Get rid of that jean affliction today and put the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants at the top of your lineup.” Buy: $98