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.
SOG Cash Card Knife
“I own a ton of knives for everyday carry, but one of my new favorites is the very affordable SOG Cash Card. It’s pocket-friendly thanks to a slick clip with the SOG name cut into it, and the slim profile makes it virtually unnoticeable. I love the right-sized 2.57″ clip point blade with its insane sharpness and grippy thumb grooves. An easy liner lock secures it nicely, too. Amazon boxes cower in fear when they see it coming.” Buy: $27
Wren Inflatable Pool
“My fiancee called this purchase ‘unnecessary.’ And normally I’d agree. But with temperatures creeping up here in North Carolina, I think the Wren Inflatable Pool is a brilliant investment. It’s big enough to fit two adults or even serve as a fun outdoor beer cooler when filled with ice. In my mind, this is a great option for backyard hangs on hot summer evenings.” Buy: $75
Schon DSGN Machine Pen v2 - Anniversary Edition
“Philadelphia-based penmaker, Ian Schon, has recently celebrated the 10th year of his business, Schon DSGN – and it appears his star is still on the rise. People queue up for his pens at shows, and it’s no wonder why that might be. Take, for instance, his Machine Pen v2, an exquisitely made metal pen commemorating his decade-long career. This pen is as handsome as it is well-crafted. Available in brass, copper, and bronze, the warm tones soften the oftentimes sterility of other metal pens. As a bonus, I love that Schon considers the interchangeability of its pens, which is a wonder in the market. By being able to switch out the pen’s grip section (the part you hold when you’re writing), the pen can be converted from a ballpoint to a rollerball or fountain pen. That, my friends, is ingenuity untethered by traditional design. And it’s the reason, I think, that Schon DSGN will continue to innovate – and I’m excited for what’s next.” Buy: $150
Ralph Lauren Jersey Hooded T-Shirt
“While I’m most definitely opposed to ostentatious and unnecessary branding on my clothing, I have a crazy sun allergy that necessitates the use of protective clothing during the warmer months. I’ll be damned if Ralph Lauren/Polo by Ralph Lauren doesn’t have some of the most effective, good-looking, and attainable options on the market. This Jersey Hooded T-Shirt is the best modern option out there, so pick a couple up and hunt for some of the previous print options in the meantime.” Buy: $55
