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 we head into the end of the year, the cold weather forces us to embrace the cozy season and spend time indoors. That means our editorial team has been testing out decadent whiskeys perfect for a nightcap on a cold evening, as well as a fresh set of soft, comfy sheets. We’re also highlighting a travel-ready duffel bag from Nike, an ingenious carbonated-water maker, and a tandem shower system.
Nike Utility Power 2.0 Duffel Bag
[PARTNER] My wife will be the first to tell you that I'm a serial over-packer on vacation. I always use as much space as I'm afforded. And that's why I'm loving this extremely sizable duffel bag from Nike. It was built as a gym bag but it's perfect for travel—there are separate compartments for dirty clothes, shoes, or electronics and ample room for all the clothes I'll never wear on our trips. If you want a replacement for your old, beat-up weekender, get this bag.
Buy: $75
Percival Anderson Tetris Jacket
We’re calling it: This is the fleece of the fall-winter season. The pattern caught my eye and dropped my jaw and I ordered it on the spot. Percival founder Christopher Gove put a ton of thought into perfecting their new fleece jackets and getting each detail right—down to the tension of the side cinches.
Buy: $385
Buffy Supima Cotton Sheet Set
When it comes to bedding, I've never been particularly fussy. So it took trying out some truly luxe sheets to realize that I've been doing it all wrong. The Supima Cotton Sheet set from Buffy is a game-changer. They're soft and breezy in just the right way.
Buy: $156
WhistlePig the Boss Hog XI: The Juggernaut
WhistlePig has done it again with its latest Boss Hog release. The much-hyped annual whiskey release from the incredible Vermont-based distillery returns after making a trip to Rajasthan, India. The 11th edition of the Boss Hog is the world’s first thandai-barrel-aged rye whiskey. The result is a complex yet pleasant blend of spices like nutmeg, fennel, saffron, and cardamom. It's truly a special whiskey and worth trying a dram if you can.
Buy: $600
Aerflo Aer₁ System
This is one of those products that I’m surprised hasn't existed until now. Aerflo has crafted a personalized carbonated water maker, complete with mini CO2 cartridges so you can create your own fizzy water on the go. It’s a genius device and incredibly easy to use. Plus, Aerflo makes it a painless process to return and recycle your empty cartridges. If you love seltzer as much as I do, get this bottle.
Buy: $99
Percival Frequency Mock Neck Sweatshirt
A relaxed-fit layering piece that’s perfect for WFH or a night out (sport it under a statement jacket, or the fleece we mentioned above). The mockneck style is perfect—it adds a touch of sophistication without making you look like you’re wearing a Steve Jobs halloween costume.
Buy: $180
Adidas Originals Samba OG Metallic Leather Sneakers
Sambas turned 75 this year and they’re hotter than ever, but I’ve been waiting for the right style to avoid the meme effect. Spotted at Mr Porter, this metallic-leather colorway turns heads and catches compliments like a pro goalie.
Buy: $100
Vena Lights Out Extra Strength Sleep Gummies
I’ve tried the pharma route, I’ve tried melatonin, I’ve tried it all—but CBD is the only thing that reliably puts me to sleep. Vena’s Lights Out gummies are 25% off with a subscription.
Buy: $70
Alex Crane Kite Jacket in Bone
Alex Crane dared to imagine an actually cozy chore coat. The Kite, made of 100% merino wool, is a triumphant result. It pairs beautifully with the sustainability-minded brand’s elevated flannel button-downs.
Buy: $285
2025 Medium Ardium Planner
Where has the year gone? I'm already buying planners for 2025! I had never really been a planner guy but the Ardium Planner, which uses a Korean organization system, has been super helpful for feeling productive and on top of my tasks.
Buy: $44
Lasso Motel Whiskey Cognac Cask Finished Whiskey
Lasso Motel is a new whiskey company but their branding evokes classic Americana in the best way. Plus, the liquid happens to be pretty exceptional. I've been sipping on the Cognac cask-finished whiskey most evenings now and have absolutely loved it.
Buy: $75
Boona Tandem Shower
Boona's Tandem Shower is billed as a way for couples to enjoy some steamy time together but honestly it's just a great upgrade on the standard shower experience. Having two shower heads makes getting clean a breeze and the installation was super easy.
Buy: $289
