The Material Review
Issue 013: Throwback Jerseys, Spray-On Shoes, The Rise of Communal Dining, More Investment-Worthy Items and an Istanbul Travel Guide.
IN THE LOOP
Stories worth reading. Stop indexing the entire internet.
Negro Leagues Throwbacks Let Fans Wear a ‘Piece of History’
“By striving for authenticity, brands like Ebbets Field Flannels have created jerseys, hats and shirts that are equal parts fashion statement and history lesson.” [NYT]
The store kitting out Kenyan champions-in-the-making
“Distance provides Iten’s thriving running community with trainers, clothes and inspiration” [HTSI]
The Patron Saint of Canoeing
“The amiable adventurer Bill Mason was like a cross between David Attenborough and Bob Ross” [Air Mail]
Is This the Craziest Sneaker You Have Ever Seen?
On and Hellen Obiri are taking the running-shoe game to a whole new level. Yes, spray-on shoes are happening. [NYT]
Restoration Done Right at Detroit’s Michigan Central Station
“The newly restored building is a Roman-inspired testament to the Motor City’s endurance and a catalyst for its rebirth.” [WSJ]
Who Wants To Sit At A Communal Table?
“A lot more Americans than you might think.” [The Atlantic]
ACTION ITEMS
A shortlist of things we’ve got our eye on.
Buck Mason x J. Press Oxford Shirt
Nike Field General ‘82
Square Trade Goods Candle
11.11 Laptop Sleeve
The Observer Collection Papa Passport Wallet
INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS
Items from our wishlist that skew towards the aspirational.
Inis Meáin Buttoned Polo
Orslow 101 Dad’s Fit Denim
Ghiaia Marina Leather Shoe
blluemade Noguchi Shirt
Ghurka Holdall
TRUST US SCREENSHOT TRAVEL GUIDE
Istanbul
Stay: Mandarin Oriental
Lunch: Kiyi Restaurant
Shop: A la Turca
Fun: Istanbul Modern
Relax: Cağaloğlu Hammam
Dinner: Neolokal
Drinks: Flekk
CLASSIFIEDS
Welcome to our weekly “Classifieds” section of the newsletter. The idea is to find an easy way to promote things happening in our ecosystem. Think of this space to promote your eBay shop, event, newsletter, app, book, tool or your personal brand (if you must). Drop us a line at if you’re interested in buying an item in an upcoming issue. Price: $200 for four ads. Maximum 280 character per ad.
🎟️ Los Feliz Flea (at Vintage Land)
Every Saturday and Sunday. 11am-5pm. 1030 Alpine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Free Admission and Free Parking.
🎟️ Topanga Vintage Market
Sunday, July 28th. 7am-2pm. Pierce College. Victory Blvd at Mason Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91306
$5 entry, kids 12 and under free, veterans are Forever Free. Free Parking.
About 15 years ago a friend an I went in and wandered around Detroit's Central Station for about an hour, back when it was completely abandoned. We found all kinds of interesting ephemera which had been left there when it shut down, and just marveled at what a beautiful building it still was. It's great to see that it is being restored.
I was lucky enough to be at the opening concert as well as on a private tour just after it reopened. A friend of mine is one of the main architects who worked on the project. As someone who has been in there off and on through the years and seen it at its worst it’s just an absolute stunning Restoration that is worth a trip to Detroit alone (let alone all the other amazing things to see in our city).