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.
BEMLP Gel Ink Pen Pack
“I needed some new pens for the home office and discovered these on Amazon. 5,000+ reviews, 4.5 stars, less than a dollar each, and they were at my front door within 24 hours. The ink flows really nice and smooth, has a great line weight, and the ink dries quickly, so no build-up or messes. Might just be my favorite new pen.” Buy: $11
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Ibex Mammoth Full Zip Hoodie
“I really hated hoodies… until about a week ago. They’re usually a bit juvenile and generally too bulky for my liking. But I needed something I could wear while skiing and then transition to the lodge without skipping a beat. I wanted a hood to help warm me up quickly by trapping heat where it escapes quickly. Also I didn’t want to look like a 51-year-old trying to look 30. Ibex just rocked my world with what could very well be the most luxurious, most grown-up hoodie on earth. The Mammoth Full Zip Hoodie is made from 100% Aussie-sourced Merino Wool at just the right medium thickness. Details like near-perfect ribbing at the cuffs and hems, smooth reverse coil zippers, thumb loops (not holes) for layering, and a properly shaped hood make this the best hoodie I have ever worn.” Buy: $260
– Amos Kwon, Auto/Watches Editor
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Arc’teryx Quarter Zip Neck Shirt
“All aboard the hype train! Much like household staples Patagonia and North Face before it, Arc’teryx has become the latest outdoors brand to be welcomed into the open arms of the streetwear community (and they certainly did it in a big way). As a runner, I’m very familiar with quarter zips this time of year. But I’ve never actually owned one that is as practical as it is fashionable. Needless to say, I’m very excited to see what Arc’teryx brings to 2022. Is it enough to convince me to take up mountain climbing? Let’s revisit that in 2023.” Buy: $95
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Artemis Design Co. Loafers
“Most formal men’s shoes are devastatingly simple. So, when someone pairs a colorful loafer with a smart suit it’s hard not to take notice. Artemis Design Co. crafts loafers and slippers made from vintage Turkish rugs resulting in a stunning one-of-a-kind pair of shoes. Complex patterns and bright colors pop and work great with a simple pair of navy slacks or even tan corduroys. They might not be a fit for the dead of winter but come springtime I’ll be busting out these cozy, eye-catching shoes.” Buy: $268
– John A. Paradiso, Managing Editor
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Mophie 3-in-1 Apple Travel Charger
“We’re all slowly easing back into a world of travel that used to be the norm in years past, and that means we need a convenient way to charge all our devices on the go. If you’re on the Apple device train, there’s no better option than the Mophie 3-in-1 Apple Travel Charger that will charge your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch with a single cable and a quick unfolding mat. All you have to do is drop each device in its designated charging space and wait a little while to stay completely connected in every way.” Buy: $150
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