Hudson Sutler | Biscayne Weekender Duffel

Hudson Sutler gave you a duffel to test out recently.  It was the Biscayne Weekender, a bag so thoughtfully made for beaching it that they named it after one of Floridaʻs historic bays.  You decided to give it to a friend to test it out thoroughly.  Heʻs a champion sailor in your neck of the woods, and he likes to read on remote beaches. His report follows:

Dear Things Is Cool –

Must begin with a big MAHALO for entrusting me with a review of one of your finds.  As far a deluxe sailbag is concerned, this gem exceeded expectations.  In fact, itʻs ideal for what I need on the boat.  I can fill it with all my gear – pads and gloves, shoes and foulies, rum and cola - and thereʻs still pockets inside and out for sunscreen, keys, phone, wallet and more.  Moreover, the tackle on this beast is as-advertised and perfect for ocean-going: stainless rings and nylon zipper operate smoothly and durably.  No catches, no snags.  The fabric – triple-weight - is rugged yet pliant.  No break-in period.  Ready upon delivery.

After putting the Weekender through its paces on a Saturday practice sail with my discerning crew (who approved heartily, by the way) I took it on another test – the beach hike.  Its classic and charming gingham liner and matching navy shoulder strap practically insisted on a faraway picnic.  I must admit then came what seemed, initially, to be the only curious part of the product.  Those acres of delicious, super-thick canvas add a little weight, and conspired to feel like the reason our hour trek to and from an empty beach became a little tough.  But while I was walking through the ironwoods and gazing at the seven-foot swell on the way home, I realized perhaps it was my fault for being seduced by the deceiving, double-portioned dimensions that effortlessly ate up the travel books, two queen-sized terry beach sheets, water and sundries that I jammed in there.  Yeah… that was it.  The Weekender is coyly huge, and ravenously hungry.  Finally, back at the car, I realized I was in love - the glorious sky-blue weave: nothing sticks to it.  Sand and pokies just brush right off. 

So… thanks again; you wonʻt be getting this twofer back.  Please tell the Hudson Sutler folks itʻs perfect for work and play, and pass along my

Warmest Aloha,

AR

Amazing Beards #21

 Frederick Douglass.

 Jerry Garcia.

Charles Darwin.

Poler at Huckberry

Huckberry currently has a sale on some bags and apparel from Portland brand Poler. Purchase the daypack below for $35.

Nigel Cabourn | Thomas Crean Sleeping Bag Jacket

Maybe it's because you just screened Liam Neeson's existential arctic wolf chase, The Grey, but this limited edition coat from British outfitter Nigel Cabourn is howling your name. Timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of Captain Robert F. Scott's final, fateful Antarctic expedition, the Sleeping Bag Jacket is inspired by the sheepskin sleeping bags that the 1912 expedition party made themselves. Nigel Cabourn worked closely with the Scott Polar Research Institute in Cambridge, spending six years researching the expedition and focusing on the clothing and gear the explorers used. The jacket is crafted in Scotland by Aero Leathers. The book is included.

And for good measure, this delightful interview with Mr. Cabourn, in which he describes his mission as a designer.

The "Internet" Sweatshirt

Matt Pisane was kind enough to send over a look at his latest design, a witty comment on education in the 21st century. The "Internet" Sweatshirt is available at The Fourth Floor Print Shop.

a1000x | "Respect Art" Scholarship Tee

Teen entrepreneur Jack Uesugi is launching a scholarship program for student artists through his company a1000x, and in partnership with TeeSpring. The first T-shirt design features a version of the a1000x motto: "Respect Art: Go Forth and Make Some." All profits from the shirts go toward supporting future artists. The goal is to get at least 200 pledges in 10 days or the shirts will not print. You'll only be charged if the campaign succeeds. Plus, your pledge gets you a 20% discount code for use at a1000x.com. 

Owner/Operator F/W 2012

Designed by two lifelong snowboarders and crafted entirely in the USA (more specifically, the Garment District of New York City), Owner/Operator's high-performance outerwear combines retro-inspired styling with cutting edge materials.  This season's range includes waterproof/breathable parkas and snow pants, packable anoraks, and lined trucker flannels.

Dylan Rieder

One of your favorite skateboarders doing one of your favorite tricks. You thank Gravis for the slow motion artsiness. 

Stone Island A/W 2012 Camo

Stone Island's current collection features a stellar line of camo outerwear. In what environments it's supposed to conceal doesn't matter. What matters is the opposite effect: you stand out on the street.

Jack Robie at Huckberry

For the next three days, Jack Robie shirting is on sale over at Huckberry. That's right, American-made shirting with a fit that's slim but comfortable can be yours for under $100. Three of the highlights are below: a lavender chambray and some checked spread collar options.

Outlier | Nyco Slims

Outlier just dropped yet another amazingly well designed and constructed pant with a fit that's spot on. The Nyco Slims are Outlier's take on the classic, trim-fitting American chino. They're made from a 9-oz. Nyco fabric, which is an American-made, military surplus blend of 50% cotton/50% nylon. It's gone into rugged military gear for decades. Tougher than raw denim, these trousers will stand up to some pretty rugged wear.

Bruce Irons in Mexico

Hard-charging Bruce Irons surfing in Mexico with no restraint.