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.
Franklin & Sons Sodas and Tonics
“When I’m at home, if I’m not drinking a spirit neat (usually whiskey, tequila, or mezcal), then I’m usually just adding a bit of soda water or tonic. Don’t get me wrong, I love cocktails. But I’d rather leave that to the professionals and avoid the shaking and cleaning that comes with the drinking. Besides, there are so many high-quality mixers to choose from these days. My latest favorite comes from Franklin & Sons, a brand from the UK that originally started in 1886 and was revived in 2015. The Club Soda is an easy choice, but when I’m looking for something a little different the Brewed Ginger Beer and Sparkling Pink Grapefruit are just as good with a little whiskey or tequila as they are on their own.” Buy: $15+
– Nickolaus Hines, Features Editor
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Knickerbocker French Garden Shirt
“Like many in the menswear community, I come back to the French chore jacket as the preeminent choice for springtime outerwear. While the usual navy is perfectly fine, I am really fond of Knickerbocker’s reinterpretation with its pale blue linen-blend option. A bit lighter than its canvas cousin and cut with a relaxed fit, this is a perfect jacket to throw on when it’s juuuust a little too cold or windy to walk out in a t-shirt. Paired with chinos and a pair of Birkenstocks and, buddy, you have yourself the perfect spring uniform.” Buy: $250
– Brett Braley-Palko, Style Editor
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Ukrainian Postal Service x Banksy Stamps
“The Ukrainian postal service recently made a new stamp featuring artwork by Banksy and proceeds from the stamps will go towards humanitarian needs in the Ukraine. I picked up a bunch of them as a small way to contribute and also to add to my collection.” Learn More
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The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
“As someone eagerly awaiting the release of the much-anticipated sequel to the Breath of the Wild, I decided to try out the remake of the classic Legend of Zelda title: Link’s Awakening. The updated version sports beautiful visuals, tight gameplay, and a lot of vintage charm. It’s a classic Zelda game with puzzles, adventure, and a lot of surrealism. If you’re also looking to pass the time until Tears of the Kingdom, then give this game a try.” Buy: $53
– John A. Paradiso, Managing Editor
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