Editor’s Picks: Suzuki Jimny, Smart Ski Goggles and LEGO Oscar
From the latest champagne bottled by Bollinger to an off-roading e-bike from Audi, this is what we want this week…
Sometimes, it’s the smallest changes that make the biggest impressions. Something low-key and restrained — like switching out sherry casks for port barrels when you’re making a whisky. Or adding a simple stripe to an already coveted car. Or wiring some subtle-yet-seriously impressive tech into a pair of ski goggles. These modest modifications; that’s what this week’s Editor’s Picks is all about.
Sure, there are bigger changes, too — a trouser brand turning its hand to shirt-making, or a gold-plated trophy rendered in LEGO — but, by and large, we’re looking for those little tweaks and twists that you hardly notice at first — but soon see the genius behind. Take a look…
Step up: North-89 ‘No.1’ Sneakers
Brown is not a normal colour for sneakers — but we’re glad that Scandinavian footwear firm North-89 stepped these kicks out. The ‘No.1’ in umber has a weatherproof upper to tackle spring showers, a rugged rubber sole for longevity and a memory foam insole for comfort. Smart stuff.
Raise a glass: The GlenDronach Port Wood Whisky
Whilst most of the barrels you’ll see rolling around The GlenDronach’s Highland distillery are Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks, sourced from Andalucia in Spain, this expression was matured for a further three years in Portuguese port casks. The result? Rich notes of cherry blossom, autumn spices and milk chocolate.
Back in the saddle: Audi RS Q e-tron Dakar Electric Mountain Bike
There’s been a burgeoning trend of carmakers peddling bicycles. Porsche, Aston Martin and BMW are all in on the freewheeling action — but Audi’s new electric mountain bike, which takes inspiration from the fearsome ‘e-tron’ competition car that recently raced the Dakar Rally, shifts things up a gear.
Button it: Mr Marvis ‘Carlos’ Shirt
The Amsterdam-based brand may be known for its shorts and trousers — but Mr Marvis looks to be a dab hand in the shirting department, too. One of seven new denim designs, the ‘Carlos’ is your new smart-casual saviour; blessed as it is with engraved buttons, a wide spread collar and organic cotton construction.
Turn it up: FiiO ‘R7’ High-Res Desktop Streaming Player
We’ve long sung the high-fidelity praises of dynamic portable audio. But, with FiiO’s new streaming player, this Walkman-beating tech has made the jump from your pocket to your desktop. With four output modes, five gain levels and eight operating modes, it’s your first-rate, first-class ticket to a slick new world of high-resolution streaming.
Pop up: Bollinger R.D. 2008 Champagne
Branded one of Bollinger’s finest ever wines by the champagne house’s Managing Director, Charles-Armand de Belenet, this latest release in the ‘R.D.’ range (it means récemment dégorgé/recently disgorged) first fizzes with citrus notes — soon followed by flavours of Mirabelle plums and vine peaches.
Zip it: &SONS ‘Rebel’ Harrington Jacket
When James Dean shrugged on his Harrington jacket in Rebel Without a Cause, the actor began an association that threaded together the versatile, workaday jacket and levels of almost unobtainable cool. Thankfully, with &SONS flannel-lined, stretch-cotton spin on the style, a degree of Dean’s charisma is within easy-zipping reach.
Snow day: Rekkie Smart Ski Goggles
They may look like the stuff of science-fiction, but these augmented reality ski goggles from the pioneering Cincinnati start-up are available now. As you carve your way down the slopes, a head-up display is projected onto the goggles’ lenses — showing speed, elevation, direction, and the location of your group members. Smart, snowy stuff.
Earn your stripes: Suzuki Jimny ‘Heritage’ Edition
The fourth generation Suzuki Jimny — which launched in 2018 — has held a special place in our hearts since we first clapped eyes on its bijou boxy grille. This latest limited edition (unfortunately only available in Australia) only ups the alluring ante, with its red and orange decals, red mudflaps and freshly designed cargo tray.
Block out: Nathan Sawaya x LEGO Oscar Statuette
Riffing on the almost century-old Academy Awards statuette — of a knight standing on a reel of film gripping a crusader’s sword — these LEGO reproductions have been highly sought-after collectibles since artist Nathan Sawaya first blocked them together in 2015. With the Oscars wrapping for another year this week, we can think of no better time to invest.
Want more of the best gear money can buy? Check out last week’s Editor’s Picks…
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