The James × Roark: The Road Kit Packs Handy Eating Tools
It can be a problem finding the proper eating tools when you’re on the field. You have to dedicate a special place to carry those cutleries in your camping gear, which at best, can be tasking since they could take up more space than needed and at an undesired weight. Thankfully, The James Brand and adventure-lifestyle brand Roark has you covered with its new collab: James × Roark: The Road Kit.
As its name suggests, the kit comes with all the essential tools you need so you can still dine in comfort and ease in any outdoor adventure. It has the quintessential spoon and pork, a pair of chopsticks, and a reliable sharp blade from The James Brand. Dubbed as the “elevated solution to keeping your most essential camp tools at the ready,” it ensures you have everything you need for not just cooking but also food prep.
The James × Roark: The Road Kit ensures you pack light and compact too. We’re not talking plastic cutleries but the eco-friendly ones that you won’t worry about reusing for many adventures to come. The spoon, fork, and chopsticks are titanium-made so they are lightweight. Plus, the chopsticks are collapsible so they don’t take up extra space.
Meanwhile, the handy knife is a limited edition of The James Brand’s Hell-Gap fixed blade with its 3.8″ drop point blade perfect for slicing and cutting. All of these pack in a hand-numbered canvass roll made from 600D Polyester for protection. The James × Roark: The Road Kit comes at an amazing .5 kg of weight.
Images courtesy of The James Brand
Comme des Garçons x Nike Air Foamposite One A Stylish Reissue Of A Popular Silhouette
Much like with anything that makes a huge impact upon launch, people tend to crave for remakes or reissues of certain products. However, if it’s the original version they want, the only way to grab one is from auctions. Thankfully, this time sneakerheads are getting a modern interpretation of a beloved classic – the Comme des Garçons x Nike Air Foamposite One.
We can fondly recall when silhouette debuted in 1997. It was quickly associated with then Orlando Magic guard and rising NBA star Anfernee Deon “Penny” Hardaway. Aside from its tie-in with the player, the unique look of the shoes was an instant hit among basketball fans and fashion-forward folk at the time.
To date, the Air Foamposite One remains a favorite among collectors. For the Comme des Garçons x Nike collaboration, they’re doing away with the signature wavy pattern of the upper. Instead, the shell now flaunts a mesmerizing three-dimensional ripple pattern. This is more prominent on the forefoot and midfoot sections.
The leather overlays and eyestays match the tone of the Foamposite shell along with everything else except the carbon fiber plate. Breathability comes from the mesh section of the tongue which also features the “Air” badge. Just like before, the Nike branding is so subtle with a tiny Swoosh near the toe box.
Its co-brand is visible on the heel and reads “COMME des GARÇONS HOMME PLUS” and that’s about it for the upper. The next set of co-brand markings are a bit harder to spot since they are on the outsole. Comme des Garçons x Nike Air Foamposite One is available in two colorways. You can cop a pair in black or white only.
Images courtesy of Comme des Garçons/Nike
NERF LMTD Hypes Up ‘Halo Infinite’ Ahead Of Launch With The Halo Needler Blaster
On paper, the Xbox Series X is definitely the more powerful current-generation console. Even gaming industry pundits agree on the matter, but why is it losing major ground to Sony’s PS5? The answer is simple. Microsoft’s new platform lacks exclusives! Fortunately, the forthcoming release of “Halo Infinite” could turn the tide and NERF LMTD hypes us up with the Halo Needler.
We’re big fans of the shooter since it came out for the original Xbox. In fact, many agree that it was the title the pushed sales of the game system and established Microsoft as a household name among gamers. There’s no shortage of replicas based on the franchise, but most are just for display or as props for cosplay.
That all changes with the Halo Needler here. As with any NERF blaster, this fires foam darts at any target. Too bad currently technology cannot mimic the tracking capabilities of the Covenant weapon just like in the game. If Hasbro manages to develop one, we’re sure the military would be the first to have it.
Anyway, at least the toy is visually accurate with its silhouette and color scheme. Also referred to as the Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher, the Needler fires crystalline projectiles that home on in foes. NERF LMTD’s version is motorized and fires 10 rounds from the rotating drum.
The battery-operated blaster features lighting effects that simulate how it operated in-game. To sweeten the deal the Halo Needler arrives in premium packaging and even includes a display stand. The details and functions should please hardcore fans of the long-running Microsoft exclusive.
Images courtesy of Hasbro
The Nocs Design NS1100 AIR TWS Earbuds Uses Advanced Audiometry For Personalized Audio
Thanks to Apple, true wireless (TWS) earbuds are now the most popular audio products around. Argue all you like, because even if Onkyo was the first to market it, but the AirPods pushed everyone else to follow. Meanwhile, Nocs Design engineered the NS1100 AIR to address the fact that we all hear sound differently. Here’s how it works.
Think of it like the adaptive EQ feature of Apple’s AirPods. However, instead of letting artificial intelligence and computational algorithms tune the earbuds, you have full control over its settings. Nocs Design uses Audiodo Personal Sound technology via a companion app on your smartphone.
Before your first use of the NS1100 AIR, complete the calibration steps to configure the earbuds properly. Using cutting-edge audiometry, it analyzes the nuances of your hearing. Since our ears are unique in shape and sensitivity to sound, a personalized audio profile should make a remarkable difference.
After approximately 3 minutes, Nocs Design believes the TWS earbuds are ready for action. Each bud packs a 9.2-mm graphene driver to produce optimal acoustics even audiophiles won’t complain about. To make your listening experience even more immersive the NS1100 AIR touts hybrid active noise cancellation.
Meanwhile, the Airoha chip enhances the Bluetooth 5.0 dual-mode connectivity to ensure low latency and crystal-clear audio. Personal safety is crucial when you’re out in public, so one-touch transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings. Just tap the earbuds again to enable ANC.
The NS110 AIR delivers up to 9 hours of playback plus additional charges from the case for a total of 30 hours. Nocs Design even adds a special nano-coating to give it IPX4 protection against dust and moisture. Don’t be afraid to take it with you outdoors or use it during workouts at the gym
Images courtesy of Nocs Design
The MONARC Settra Duffel Backpack: Made with 50 Recycled Plastic Bottles
Whether you’re off for a weekend trip or simply heading to the gym, you need a bag that can handle the load and keep them secure on the go. You also need one that guarantees comfort. We’re talking about the Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack. This is a versatile carry-on that’s TSA-approved, and easy on the hands and shoulders. Most of all, it cares for the planet.
Guaranteed For the Long Haul
The Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack is an all-in-one travel backpack and gym-duffel made from 50 recycled plastic bottles that would only have landed in waste landfills, oceans, and waterways. The bottles are sorted and cleaned, shredded, melted into pellets, stretched into yarn, then woven to give the backpack its durable and water-resistant RPET fabric. The exterior is then reinforced with water-resistant, non-separating coated zipper coils and strong seat belt webbing for the handles.
Aside from it being sustainable, it also features a versatile design guaranteed to make your commutes a breeze. It easily converts from a duffel into a backpack and back in seconds. It comes with detachable shoulder and backpack straps that you can hook to reinforced D-rings and clips. Easily hide them afterward in the stowaway pocket neatly included on the back.
The Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack also comes with essential straps for comfort during long hauls. It has removable and adjustable sternum and waist straps that help keep the load off your back. This way, you don’t end up slouching and with back pain afterward. The backpack straps and the back itself also come with air mesh padding for additional comfort.
Optimum Storage Space For The Frequent Traveller
When it comes to packable space, the Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack offers 40L of storage space in a TSA-approved carry-on size. There are mesh pockets inside to carefully segregate items and external pockets for easy, quick grabs. It has a quick-access mesh pocket, a zippered pocket for valuables, and utility loops perfect for the outdoor enthusiast to hang a water bottle, flashlight, speaker, and more.
Speaking of storage, this carefully thought-out bag even works with packing cubes to keep things tidy and organized and to maximize interior space. Those who frequent the gym will find the removable, water/sweat-resistant ventilated shoe compartment a breeze. Then there’s the sleeve for a 17” laptop and a tech pack and camera and lens cube for the digital nomad. There are also compression packs and laundry bags for the frequent traveler. All modular packs are made with recycled plastic bottles.
The Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack offers a lot for a compact size of 24 L x 13 W x 11 H inches. It is also extremely lightweight at just 4.5 pounds. Best of all, it boasts rugged and handsome aesthetics that would stand out in any adventure.
The Magic Leap 2 AR Headset Is Ready For The HoloLens 2 When It Launches In 2022
Modern technology is already at the point wherein immersive experiences are now accessible to regular consumers. Virtual reality already enjoys a massive following thanks to entertainment applications. Augmented reality, on the other hand, tells a different story. Nonetheless, the announcement of the Magic Leap 2 reminds us that there is a market for AR headsets.
You can find the tech on almost any modern smartphone these days. However, we normally use this capability for exclusively for fun. Even the face filters on popular messaging apps support it. So far, Microsoft’s HoloLens is the platform of choice for big businesses. As for the Magic Leap 2, the manufacturer intends to market it a bit differently.
One of the biggest caveats of the HoloLens is its size. Its bulky profile comes from all the hardware Microsoft packs inside. This is where the Magic Leap 2 plans to outshine the competition. As early as now, the company claims their AR headset will be the industry’s slimmest and lightest.
If we can recall correctly, the original model bears an uncanny resemblance to Oakley’s OVERTHETOP shades. Thankfully, the second-generation design shows a more contemporary silhouette, albeit chunkier than a regular pair of glasses. Buyers can also expect upgraded optics, a better field of view, and what is supposedly an innovative dimming function.
Unlike VR headsets that are closed, the lenses are transparent so users can interact with their surroundings. Sensors track movement in 3D space much like in VR but also recognizes items and people. The Magic Leap 2 currently does not have a price and release date. So be sure to check with their website for updates.
Images courtesy of Magic Leap
Burch Barrel V2: A Robust And Verastile Over-Fire Suspended Grill, Smoker, And Fire Pit
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Gunther Werks x REC Watches 901 GW Collection: Exclusive Chronographs For Bespoke Rides
A couple of weeks ago, we had the pleasure of sharing details about Gunther Werks’ latest project. The California-based outfit plans to build 25 bespoke examples of its 993 Speedster Remastered. To our surprise, it did not take long for REC Watches to strike another collaboration with the shop. As such, let’s check out the 901 GW collection.
Basically, the accessory on your wrist contains parts sourced from the car it honors. In the case of the 901 GW collection, there are two variants up for grabs. The first is the more limited of the duo with only 188 examples dubbed the Exoskeleton. Next is the Chelsea and it touts a production run of 232 units.
Gunther Werks is providing REC Watches with carbon fiber from the 993 Remastered Carbon Exoskeleton and Chelsea Grey respectively. Likewise, you can easily identify one from the other thanks to the chromatic accents on display. The former goes for a blue trim and the latter sticks with red.
Both tout a 44-mm 6-piece case construction that predominantly uses a 316L stainless steel construction. Some sections sport a black PVD coat with a mix of brushed, sandblasted, and polished finishes. Meanwhile, the caseband and lugs are forged carbon fiber — both new and from the roof of Gunther Werks’ restomods.
Other notable design references include the engine x-brace and vented engine cover on the caseback, bezel in the shape of the headlights, a dial based on the gauges, and a black calf leather strap with Alcantara that emulates the interior upholstery. Finally, the 901 GW collection operates on a Swiss-made SELLITA SW510 B, Elaboré grade self-winding movement.
Images courtesy of REC Watches/Gunther Werks
Scotty Cameron Phantom X 9.5 Triple Black: A Murdered-Out Putter For Your Killer Game
As the heat of summer gradually mellows down, some of us who love the cooler weather for outdoor fun should soon be out in droves. Sadly, the nasty virus is still out there so we should always take precautions. Many agree that fall is a wonderful season to play golf, so hit the links with new gear in tow such as the Phantom X 9.5 Triple Black from Scotty Cameron.
Enthusiasts of the game already know what this limited-edition release is all about. For the uninitiated, what we have here is a putter. With input from touring professionals, Scotty Cameron designs and builds a premium piece of equipment for players. Although it won’t guarantee a perfect game, you’ll win by style points every time.
“The Phantom X 9.5 Triple Black is a new high-MOI mallet head shape that shares many dimensional qualities with the popular Phantom X 5.5 and Phantom X 11 models,” says the manufacturer. Given our love for murdered-out colorways, this would be our putter of choice.
The body features a 303 stainless steel construction along with a 6061 aluminum sole/flange. Every aspect of this putter just oozes with superior craftsmanship. Plus, the Tour Black finish gives off a stealthy and menacing vibe. Once again, Scotty Cameron’s signature style makes this club stand out from all angles.
Taking cues from vintage muscle cars pinstripes, the engravings add a visual flair before you take that game-winning swing. The three red dots on top is where you want the putter to hit the golf ball to sink it in. Scotty Cameron plans to ship only 4,000 examples of the Phantom X 9.5 Triple Black globally.
Images courtesy of Scotty Cameron
Prep for Rainy Days with the Weatherman Travel Umbrella
Umbrellas are one of the few pieces of gear that have been successfully perfected. Like koozies and cheap sunglasses, flimsy knockoffs are always given out at events or festivals. And while an umbrella is, in…
The post Prep for Rainy Days with the Weatherman Travel Umbrella first appeared on Cool Material.
TORRO Offers Quality Leather Goods For the Everyday Traveler
Nothing speaks of elegance in an everyday carry than those made with pure leather. It boasts of timeless beauty as leather ages gracefully. It develops its own patina over time which gives it its unique characteristic inherent to the owner. Lifestyle brand TORRO built upon this concept to handcraft various selections of premium leather accessories and functional tech.
Founded in 2013 in Newcastle Upon Tyne, in North East England, the brand creates leather pieces that exude elegant aesthetics, pristine craftsmanship, and unbeatable quality. It started with a quest for the perfect phone case that offers more than just back support. Using fragile plastic was not an option especially for the latest, expensive smartphones in the market. A premium leather case was the ideal choice, but it didn’t come cheap.
TORRO decided to take matters into their own hands and from there, they continue to provide more than thousands with reliable and durable premium leather accessories with a friendly price tag. From phone cases, they have branched out to other useful EDC including bags & wallets, a great selection of iPad cases, stylish travel accessories range, and more.
TRAVEL In Style
Speaking of travel, TORRO gives you more reason to take that much-needed vacation with its luxurious offerings of travel paraphernalia. Their travel wallets especially make it easy to organize your on-the-go essentials from your travel documents, cards, plane tickets, and more.
For the lone traveler, there’s the Solo Travel Wallet that features a full zip closure, detachable credit card holder, and elasticated pen loop. Made with premium cowhide leather, the wallet opens to reveal a passport pocket, three card slots, two medium pockets, and two large compartments for your tickets, currency, and other documents. It also has an interior zipped pocket. Best of all, it has RFID and anti-magnetic protection to prevent data theft.
For a larger load, then there’s the Torro Large Leather Travel Wallet which has five card slots, four large compartments, and the quintessential passport pocket. It even comes with a magnetically attachable headphone case and a pop-button coin pouch outside of the elasticated pen loop.
For the light traveler, there’s the Torro Leather Passport Holder that features two inner pockets with soft microfiber lining for easy document access. Instead of zippers, it uses an elasticated closure strap. TORRO also offers the AirTag Leather Keyring & Luggage Tag Set so you can keep track of your luggage, bags, and other personal belongings while on the go.
Phone Cases
TORRO wants only the best for your priced smartphones. As such, they ensure they only give you quality designs and craftsmanship. They have premium leather cases for Samsung, Apple, Google, and even those compatible with the latest MagSafe tech. Professionals will find functional value from their vast offerings of versatile cases, including their latest iPhone 13 range.
Their Flip Cases, for instance, are nostalgic. Their design is reminiscent of the classic Motorola flip phones that millennials nowadays may not even appreciate. But back in the day, you’re considered one of the elites if you have the latest model. The cases exude durability even at first glance with their neat stitches and crisp premium cowhide leather texture. They boast a slimline design to limit the bulk and for easy access to the power and volume buttons and to the charging port and camera.
The addition of a durable, shock-absorbent TPU frame protects your phone from bumps and drops. The frame is slightly raised around the edges, so the flip cover doesn’t necessarily have to lay on top of the phone’s screen. This also gives enough wiggle room for the two credit card slots added to the case. The cover securely closes via a discreet magnet secured on top.
Then there’s the Leather Wallet Case for the ultimate phone protection. Aside from the premium cowhide leather and the shock-absorbent TPU frame, it also comes with a soft microfiber lining to protect the glass back of your phone from scratches. This one also offers more storage options for credit cards, banknotes, tickets, bills, receipts, and more. A leather strap stud mechanism keeps it securely closed.
Versatile Gear For The Everyday Commuter
For those who are constantly on their phones, either for business or pleasure, then they will find the TORRO Leather Case to their liking because of its built-in viewing stand. It also has space to store three cards, notes, bills, and more. It has a microfiber lining and closes with a magnetic clasp. For a minimalist approach, TORRO also offers a leather pouch case and leather-fitted TPU bumpers.
Suffice to say, TORRO has you covered for all your on-the-go leather gear. They even have laptop sleeves and bags, reporter and messenger bags, bifold men’s wallets with RFID protection, and cardholders. Golf enthusiasts may also find the Golf Scorecard Holder and Yardage Book Cover and the Golf Accessory Set a great addition to their leather goods.
The Grovemade Task Knife Makes Great Desktop Additions
You don’t really need a pocket knife or a folder for small or quick-cutting tasks. When opening boxes or packages, you can simply reach for the cutter just like those durable ones from the Grovemade Task Knife collection.
Its blade is not as sharp as those found on pocketknives. But it does a great job at light-duty tasks. As such, it is an ideal desktop addition so you can easily reach for it when you need to open a letter, packages, or cut pieces of paper.
The blade does not need sharpening. But if there’s a call for it, then it works with any pocket knife sharpener out there. The Grovemade Task Knife even comes with attractive aesthetics that would spice up any work table. It boasts a geometric design that’s both elegant and practical in its appeal. It is machined from solid stainless steel and finished off with a black ceramic coating to make it durable and practically indestructible. It feels hefty at 2.7 ounces yet it sits comfortably in the hands for a secure grip.
This can also be a practical everyday carry and with its compact size, it can easily slip in your pockets. Its blade is merely 1.44 inches and is at an overall size of 4.75 x 0.65 x 0.25 inches. Plus, the design makes it so it can sit on the desk either sideways or laid flat.
Manufactured entirely in the Portland area, the Grovemade Task Knife comes in three colorways. Aside from the black finish, it also comes in polished raw steel and brass.
Images courtesy of Grovemade
Rapha + POC Collection: Stylish Design With Robust And Reliable Protection
Every seasoned cyclist knows that personal safety always comes first. You can be the most careful individual out there, but accidents can happen even on bicycle-only lanes. As professionals put it, never neglect the quality and performance of your cycling gear. If you’re shopping for a new helmet, check out the new Rapha + POC collection.
The British cycling lifestyle brand is collaborating with the renowned Swedish protective gear manufacturer for this limited-edition release. There are two models receiving the revamp and upgrades: Ventral Air and Omne Air. Let’s start off with the more exclusive option among the two, which is the latter.
As indicated by the Rapha + POC Ventral Air product page, the helmet can only be purchased by Rapha Cycling Club members. On the other hand, a disclaimer hints that this exclusivity could be early access before the general launch. Most of the matte sections are in a shade of dark navy with the glossy segment in pink.
The Omne Air, on the other hand, is available for all cyclists who demand robust protection. You can also grab it in Navy, Off-White, and Carbon Gray. Unlike Ventral Air, which is for performance road racing and long-distance rides, this is a great all-rounder.
Although each model under the Rapha + POC collection boasts unique features, both share some of the technology that makes them reliable. There’s the EPS liner, ventilation ports, eye-garage for eyewear storage, and more. Get the perfect fit each time you wear the helmets with the intuitive dial system. Once the straps are in, fine-tune with a twist and ride in confidence.
Images courtesy of Rapha/POC
Vans Introduces The Outdoor-Ready UltraRange EXO Hi GORE-TEX MTE-2
Folks who love to skateboard are familiar with Vans for its rugged footwear and apparel designed for their choice of recreation. The activity is now considered a sport and even debuted as an event at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. After years of supplying products for skaters, the brand is now catering to thrill-seekers of another kind with the UltraRange EXO Hi GORE-TEX MTE-2.
The name is certainly a mouthful, but it’s probably a gimmick to promote what could be its new lineup. Vans did not specifically call it one, this might be their first-ever outdoor-ready shoes to hit the market. As the manufacturer points out, “The UltraRange EXO Hi GORE-TEX MTE-2 is the continuation of this purpose-built, adventure-based mindset.”
There you have it. they’re hinting that you can do more than just skateboard in any weather with these rugged boots on. Nonetheless, we can’t help but wonder regarding their choice of materials for its construction. Everybody knows that suede does not play well with moisture, but there’s an abundance of it on the upper.
You have it on the vamp, eyestays, and overlays, which won’t last long under constant exposure to the elements. On the other hand, Vans claims the suede, textiles, and synthetics of the UltraRange EXO Hi GORE-TEX MTE-2 are water repellent. Only time will tell if they are indeed. Breathable GORE-TEX membranes ensure everything inside is dry and ventilated.
Aside from breathability, additional comfort comes from the zonal Primaloft insulation. You’ll find it on the toe, tongue, and collar to keep your feet warm. Next are the EVA foam sockliner and UltraCrush EVA midsole. Finally, the UltraRange EXO Hi GORE-TEX MTE-2 touts remarkable traction and grip from the All-Trac rubber compound of its outsole.
Images courtesy of Vans
The Hyperice X Is the Recovery Tech You Need For That Knee Pain
Forget the cords, the ice, the tub, the basin, and all other prep needed to get your joints back in tip-top shape after a game. The Hyperice X does away with all these with a simple push of a button. It provides electric contrast therapy treatment on-demand, anywhere and anytime.
This wearable tech helps you tackle inflammation and pain with programmable temperatures. It uses the power of hot and cold therapy to soothe those tired muscles or joints on your knees without the need for ice or wires to plug in the massager. Instead, it is digitally connected via the Hyperice App so you can start the therapy in seconds.
The Hyperice X is customizable or programmable according to your choice of treatment. You can go for cold therapy for as long as you want or turn up the heat to reduce aches and tension on your knees. You can use both in one setting too. It provides long-lasting, sustained relief without any change in temperature.
Thus, it is unlike traditional heating pads and icing that could go tepid in seconds. Instead, it provides hot or cold therapy in seconds. This recovery tech even works even while you’re on the go so the treatment never stops until you decide so. It comes in three comfortable straps for the ideal fit. This way you can adjust the size and hold it in place even as you move.
Meanwhile, a guiding white ring helps you place the device properly on your knee cap. Not to forget, the Hyperice X has an adaptive fit too. So you can still get back on the game with it on for long-lasting or on-the-go relief.
Images courtesy of Hyperice
The Klarus RS80GT Flashlight Boasts A Massive 10000 Lumens
Why settle for less when you can go big. We’re talking about the powerful Klarus RS80GT Flashlight that can easily light a football field with its immense brightness. It boasts a massive 10,000 lumens from three CREE XHP70.2 LED bulbs.
Tom Cruise fans may be familiar with this spotlight as he used it in one of his scenes from “The Mummy” when he came down a cave. No doubt that it certainly offered a lot of visibility in the dark. Aside from its max output of 10,000 lumens, it also shines up to a beam distance of 1870 feet or 570 meters.
The Klarus RS80GT Flashlight is an upgrade of its predecessor, the RS80 with its higher lumens and bigger capacity battery pack, and fast recharging. It runs on six 3400mAh Li-ion batteries that can support 135 hours of runtime. A DC charging table gets it to a full charge in three hours. Likewise, it recharges via a USB-C cable that makes it easy to use the batteries as a portable power bank.
This handheld torch is suitable for all kinds of outdoor adventures and for search and rescue operations. It is IPX-7 rated so it can withstand water splashed on all sides and can briefly submerge in water. It is also resistant to drops up to one meter. Plus, it uses an advanced ITS-Intelligent system that adjusts the output accordingly to the internal temperature to preserve the batteries and protect the circuit board. It also prevents external overheating so you don’t get burned.
The Klarus RS80GT Flashlight also comes with a bright 100 lumen COB table light ideal for reading, car repairs, and more. Aside from it being user-friendly, it is portable with additional shoulder straps and mountable on a tripod. It is also light enough at 1.25kg.
Images courtesy of Klarus
Bugatti Is Working With Gillette For the Chiron Pur Sport Heated Safety Razor
Aside from building some of the most powerful high-performance vehicles, Bugatti occasionally partners with other companies for cool collaborations. In its latest run, the French luxury automaker is working with a safety razor and shaving supply provider Gillette for the Chiron Pur Sport. Contrary to what you might think, this tie-in involves a grooming tool instead of a ride.
After hearing about it, we were thinking it was a limited-edition trim of the hypercar. Perhaps with a Gillette sponsorship for motorsport. Instead, we’re getting a snazzy and sleek heated safety razor with design elements lifted from its namesake. Quality-wise it should live up to the Macaron badge.
Hey, most of you could call the Chiron Pur Sport a gaudy marketing gimmick, but a lot of automotive enthusiasts will snap these up while supplies last. We’ve been featuring some of Bugatti’s ventures with the likes of Buben & Zorweg, TIDAL, IXO, and Jacob & Co.
Aside from these high-profile projects, the recent one from GilletteLabs is certainly a big surprise. The Chiron Pur Sport is a premium safety razor that embodies the very best of both brands. The handle is even crafted out of aluminum-zinc which you can find on Bugatti’s automobiles.
Moreover, the timing of its announcement is impeccable as temperatures begin to get colder as the autumn season draws closer. Groom like a pro as Gillette invokes that wonderful feeling of a barbershop shave with each use.
The heat opens up your pores much like a hot towel does as each blade gently cuts your facial hair down as close to bare skin. The Chiron Pur Sport features Bugatti’s signature Agile Blue colorway. The bundle includes a wireless charging dock, two replacement blades, and a co-branded cleaning cloth.
Images courtesy of Bugatti/Gillette
The James Brand Brings the Beauty of Rosewood + Damasteel To Its Knife Collection
The James Brand is no stranger when it comes to creating durable and beautiful sharp blades. Their new Rosewood + Damasteel Collection is no exception, with its use of Damascus steel that certainly catches the eye.
The Wayland, The Duval, the Chapter, and The Pike gets an elegant upgrade with the use of Rosewood scale Damasteel blade. The Wayland is the brand’s modern interpretation of the classic Barlow design. It features a non-locking slip joint, a 3.0-inch sheepsfoot blade made with Damasteel Rose DS93X, and a rosewood scale. It clocks in at 2.8 ounces at an overall compact folding knife size of 6.9 inches.
On the other hand, The James Brand the Chapter features a rosewood + titanium scale and ceramic bearings. It has a 2.75-inch drop point blade made with Damasteel and employs a frame lock with minimal moving parts for low maintenance. It is relatively compact and thin, with a handle at just 0.38 inches and an overall length of 6.5 inches. This knife is also lightweight at 2.65 ounces.
Meanwhile, The Pike also gets the Rosewood treatment for the scale and the Damasteel for the Wharncliffe blade, which opens via a slip joint. Unlike the Chapter which is ideal for right-handed users, this is ambidextrous. This is also smaller than the prior two, with a blade at just 2.3 inches and an overall length of 5.7 inches when fully opened and weighs 2.1 ounces.
Lastly, The James Brand The Duval is a front-flipper that features a frame lock and a 2.6-inch modified sheepsfoot blade. It has ceramic ball bearings and stainless steel hardware. It too has a rosewood scale and Damasteel blade and is the lightest among the knives in the collection at 2.0 ounces because of its titanium frame.
Images courtesy of The James Brand
Forget the Apple Glass, Xiaomi Confirms Development Of Its Smart Glasses Concept
In 2011, Google billed augmented reality as the next big thing in technology. Many others soon followed suit and launched similar platforms aimed at tech-savvy consumers. Except for Microsoft’s HoloLens, everything else ended up largely forgotten. Xiaomi believes the market is now ready for a new pair of Smart Glasses, minus the limitations of its predecessors.
The HoloLens and its subsequent version may be the best you can get at the moment, but it’s hardly portable. You need to hook it up to a PC and it is quite expensive for casual use. Rumor has it Apple is working on AR glasses as well. However, Xiaomi’s announcement comes as a big surprise and could potentially hit retailers ahead of the competition.
From a design aspect, the Smart Glasses look like an average pair of eyewear. Instead of a projector and prism combo, Xiaomi proposes the use of another type of imaging technology. To shave off unnecessary bulk and weight from the frame microLEDs become the key components here.
This allows the integrated display unit to remain legible even under direct sunlight. The Smart Glasses ditches colors for a monochrome setup to improve the peak brightness. Meanwhile, the panel is equipped with an optical waveguide system from images the human eye can see.
According to Xiaomi, the device “functions as a new smart terminal with independent operating capability.” Therefore, this implies that even without a smartphone, the wearable is capable of versatile functionalities.
There’s a 5-megapixel forward-facing camera that can take photos, videos, and translate text in real-time. The Smart Glasses boasts Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, touch controls, a quad-core ARM chipset, and batteries in a 51g package. Moreover, Xiaomi says it will run on Android, but likely with some customizations.
Images courtesy of Xiaomi