Every month, the Cool Material team tests, tries, and lives with all sorts of new (or new-to-us) goods. Black Book is where we showcase the ones we most recommend right now.
As the weather starts to cool down, we turn our attention to fall-appropriate gear like layerable jackets, cozy rugs, and travel gear. Our editorial team has been road testing our new favorite running shoes from Nike. Plus, we found some autumnal dinnerware perfect for holiday gatherings as well as our a discreet cannabis mixer. We’re also highlighting a stylish collaboration from Percival, a sophisticated cologne from Ranger Station, and Grovemade’s redesigned task knife.
Nike Pegasus 41 Premium
[PARTNER] I’ve been wearing these road running sneakers at my weekly run club and they have been fantastic. They offer just the right balance of cushion and support with a comfortable, breathable upper mesh. I also really love the drawstring laces so I don’t have to worry about my shoes coming untied during a run. —John
Buy: $150
Heath Ceramics Currey Dinnerware Set
I'm getting ready for fall/holiday gatherings by revamping my dinnerware. Heath has been a favorite brand of mine and I'm always excited to see what they come out with. If you are in S.F., be sure to add their shop to your itinerary. —Adam
Buy: $117
Bleu de Chauffe Musette
I’m always on the hunt for the perfect everyday bag. Tote bag? Too casual, and they always fell off my shoulder. Briefcase? Too formal. I want a crossbody bag with an upmarket vibe that says, “I work from home, but I still have a life.” The French company Bleu de Chauffe sent me their Business Musette, and it’s already a go-to. It’s an elevated messenger, made of weather-resistant organic-cotton canvas, with a felted laptop sleeve and superb organization inside. It’s got lots of details I appreciate, like leather handles, and a dated signature from the artisan who made it. —Cooper
Buy: $362
Wims Pocket Tonic
Cannabis beverages have exploded in popularity and while there are dozens of options to choose from, I think my new favorite is Wims. Wims has developed these beautifully designed, single-serve drink mixers packed with 4MG of THC and 4MG of CBD. Simply snap the packet open, squeeze it into your drink of choice, and enjoy. You can make your own weed beverage on the go–it’s genius. So far, my favorite has been mixing the Lemon Basil with Topo Chico but honestly you can customize your beverage options as much as you like. —John
Buy: $32
Percival x Ilaria Broken Stripe Knitted Polo
Percival’s collaboration with the stylist Ilaria Urbaniti yielded a covetable collection of anything-but-basic menswear. My pick is the knitted polo. Percival’s superpower is crafting pieces that put a spring in your step, drawing compliments by the metric ton, and their polos in particular are second to none. —Cooper
Buy: $225
L’AVANT Collective High Performing Hand Soap
The fresh-linen-scented soap from L’AVANT Collective is my go-to hand wash in the kitchen. It's clean, smells great, and lasts a while. Plus, it pairs great with any of their other products as well. —Adam
Buy: $36
Finisterre Men's Orsik Fleece Jacket
Most days, I don’t want to put any thought into layering. I want a piece that’s easy to throw on when my puppy is barking and I need to run out the door. I had to retire my daily go-to—a worn-with-love Todd Snyder Adirondack fleece—and hunted around for a replacement before falling in love with Finisterre’s Orsik jacket in a chocolate brown. It cuts chill like no other fleece I tried, its inner lining adds durability, and—most importantly—my wife has complimented it not once but twice. Sounds like a keeper. —Cooper
Buy: $214
Ranger Station Speak Easy Cologne
Ranger Station has quickly become my favorite fragrance brand. Their colognes are subtle enough not to overwhelm those around you while still offering a lovely, sophisticated scent. I’ve been wearing their Speak Easy fragrance lately which feels elegant enough for date night and casual enough for daily wear. —John
Buy: $112
Maison de Sabre Leather MagSafe Wallet
I upgraded to the iPhone 16 Pro and was kinda bummed to find that Apple discontinued its line of leather accessories, like cases and wallets. I appreciate the push for more sustainable materials, but the replacement goods feel like what nails on a chalkboard sound like. I wanted a slim cardholder that magnetizes to my iPhone, so I splurged on Maison de Sabre’s leather wallet in a sophisticated orange color called Manhattan Sandstone. —Cooper
Buy: $75
Nordic Knots Loops Green Rug
My friends who have the best taste all know and recommend Nordic Knots. My architect friend has this rug below, and I’m so jealous of it. The Remodelista editors also recommend a checkerboard style, found here. —Cooper
Buy: $1095
Grovemade Task Knife
Grovemade's line of desk accessories have become an essential part of my workspace. From their wrist rests to their note taking kit, my office is decked out in Grovemade gear. The brand recently released an updated version of their task knife which is a great alternative to pocket knives for simple things like opening packages. Plus, the sleek design and hefty feel make it a beautiful accessory on my desk. —John
Buy: $70
