When the weather starts to heat up, that’s as a clear sign as ever for a change in the things you use every day. In terms of clothing, definitely, but also in terms of your everyday carry and your go-to beverage. Every month, the Cool Material team tests, tries, and lives with all sorts of new (or new to us) goods. The Black Book is where we showcase the ones we most recommend right now.
This month, we’re loving a light jacket that you can take anywhere, beach-ready shoes, earplugs that will enhance your summer concert trips, and more.
AKHG Roadless 10" Shorts
[PARTNER] Enjoy summer travel with our favorite Roadless™ Shorts, perfect for hot weather. Made from rugged and flexible fabric, they handle tough trails and provide excellent airflow (read as: you'll be Summer-ready in minutes). With UPF 50 sun protection, water-shedding, and anti-odor treatments, these shorts will keep you comfortable and ready for any adventure.
Buy: $59.63
CURVD Everyday Earplugs
Earplugs are one of those things that you don't realize you need until you truly need them. These comfortable (even for extended periods of time) Everyday Earplugs from CURVD soften the noise just the right amount where you can more easily focus in a loud environment or hear the concert just fine without having ringing ears for hours afterward (plus they stay in without having to readjust every half hour thanks to the silicon shaping). Yet they're not so silencing that you lose the ability to hear important noises around you. They've become our go-to work helper when traveling. Plus they look just as sleek as fancy headphones.
Buy: $19.95
Nike Killshot 2 Leather Shoes
[PARTNER] Combining textured leathers with a modern touch, it's a fresh take on timeless low-profile sneakers. From soft suedes to smooth leathers, it strikes the perfect balance between retro charm and contemporary flair. And with its rubber gum sole, it adds a subtle finishing touch to any outfit.
Buy: $90
Madison Creek Outfitters Blowing Rock Cotton Jacket
There's always a time and place for the right light jacket. This option from Madison Creek Outfitters can easily transition from sleeves up, open to the breeze, to layered and zipped when the weather gets a little chillier at night or the plane's air conditioning is just a little too high. The cut has an elevated tailored look that feels one part safari, one part weekend warrior. Utility and aesthetics blend with snap and zipper pockets aplenty without the look of cargo pants.
Buy: $295
Beardbrand Utility Wash
[PARTNER] An all-in-one cleanser formulated with gentle, coconut-derived cleansers. This wash is not only suitable for beard, hair, and face but also designed to tackle the less visible areas with ease. The fragrance offerings from Beardbrand are equally as impressive. Bold Fortune boasts notes of leather, whiskey, saffron, oud, and tobacco, while Old Money features oak, amber, leather, lime, and ylang-ylang. These unique scents cater to diverse tastes, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Buy: $39
Malibu Sandals Latigo
When we first saw these sandals, our first thought was that they fit a certain beachy style, even if it wasn't ours. Then we tried them out as our go-to travel shoes for a trip to Jamaica and boy were we wrong. They're bouncy, secure, and breathable whether you're just taking them on a short trip to the beach bar or walking miles through town in hot humid air. Breathability is a key component of any proper summer shoe. Plus, they actually look great paired with some light-wash jeans or linen pants.
Buy: $160
H by Hine Cognac
Warmer days call for light drinks that still carry some weight. Cognac does that better than just about anything else. Hine, which carriers the royal seal as a Cognac supplier by appointment from Queen Elizabeth II, makes the perfect everyday bottle with H by Hine VSOP. Make it into a spritz, mix it up in a refreshing cocktail, or pour it over some ice and you've got a smooth sipper perfect for backyard get togethers or a nice evening stroll. Cognac doesn't have to be fussy and white glove to be delicious, and this bottle will quickly become a favorite for how versatile it is for brown spirits lovers and casual cocktail drinkers alike.
Buy: $51.99
