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.
This month we’ve tested some truly exceptional products including perhaps our new favorite headphones and an impressive portable monitor. Between the EDC gear and travel accessories, it’s clear that February’s Black Book had our team ready to tackle whatever journey lies ahead. Read on to see our top recommendations from the month of February.
Nike Utility Power 2.0
[PARTNER] I've been testing out bags for a Cool Material piece and was immediately drawn to Nike's versatile duffel bag which makes the switch from durable work bag to heavy duty gym bag in seconds. Store all of your essentials in separate compartments with this stylish and expansive duffel. —JP
Buy: $65
Blluemade Naval Pullover
I picked up this boxy-fit popover top in a supersoft, olive-oil-colored corduroy because I love Blluemade’s story—this husband-and-wife-run NYC atelier is a true mom-and-pop shop—and because the fit is perfectly on-trend for 2025. I didn’t expect my wife to start stealing it for client meetings and nights out. That’s how I know it’s a keeper. —Cooper Fleishman
Buy: $391
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
The Px7 S2e headphones from Bowers & Wilkins are among the best headphones we've tested. The noise-cancelling is virtually flawless, they feel comfortable even after wearing for hours on end, and they look fantastic. A longer battery life and the ability to connect to multiple devices at the same time make them a game changer. —JP
Buy: $399
Luca Faloni Siena Shirt Cotton Piqué Shirt
Luca Faloni’s cotton piqué shirt is a masterclass in effortless style and our new go-to for casual yet refined menswear. Crafted in Northern Italy from diamond-textured Italian cotton, it’s lightweight, durable, and garment-dyed for a perfectly lived-in look. Finished with a classic cutaway collar, Australian mother-of-pearl buttons, and a relaxed fit, it’s the ideal balance of refinement and comfort. —JP
Buy: $195
Glasvin The Pint Glass
The Pint Glass from Glasvin is perhaps the most mind-blowing piece of glassware I've ever owned. Despite feeling incredibly lightweight and thin, they boast a supremely durable design. Best of all? They're dishwasher safe. —JP
Buy: $117
WhistlePig Snout-To-Tail Bourbon
WhistlePig's rye whiskey is world famous -- and for good reason. The Vermont-based distillery crafts some of our favorite whiskey on the market. So I was personally thrilled to learn they were developing a bourbon to add to their impressive spirits lineup. And Snout-to-Tail does not disappoint. It's everything I want -- an approachable yet dynamic flavor profile and a reasonable price point. This might just be my new go-to bourbon. —JP
Buy: $90
Duex Plus DS Portable Monitor
The Duex Plus DS is a game-changer for anyone looking to boost their productivity or entertainment experience on the move, all while maintaining a compact and hassle-free setup whether you’re working at your local coffee shop or watching Netflix on your next road trip. —CP
Buy: $170
Grovemade Key Ring
Grovemade makes some of my favorite desk accessories and pieces of EDC gear. And the newly launched Key Ring is an instant classic in my book. The minimalist design is gorgeous and functional, doubling not only as a key ring but also as a bottle opener. This key ring goes everywhere with me now. —JP
Buy: $60
Hestan Titanium Stainless Steel Saucier Pan
Hestan's stainless steel cookware is perhaps the most luxury addition I've made to my kitchen since we moved in. The Italian-made NanoBond pan is easy to clean and, more importantly, easy to use. —JP
Buy: $350
Path Projects The Sentinel Tight
Path Projects has finally debuted their cargo tights which are perfect for long runs in the colder months. I can fit my phone, keys, gel packs, and even a small water bottle in the pockets. Plus, the tights are durable, warm, and extremely comfortable. —JP
Buy: $118
Yardsale The Day Bag
Yardsale's brand new tote bag was designed for use on the mountain but honestly it's great for just about anything. The Day Bag is a versatile, waterproof tote with magnetic pockets, an internal divider, and a cinch close so your EDC, tech, and work gear can stay tidy and dry even on the most miserable of commutes. —JP
Buy: $111
Troubadour Flip Wallet
I've been using the same wallet for years so it would take a lot to make my change things out. So you can imagine my surprise with the impressive Flip Wallet. The slim construction still offers plenty of room for all my essential cards and makes tapping cards for contactless payments a breeze. —JP
Buy: $75
