The Material Review

Issue 020: Matchbook Renaissance, Rimowa's Repair Program, Olympic Race Walking, an Excellent Shoe Bag and Good Snacks.

Michael Williams

and

Taylor Stacey

Aug 10, 2024

Stories worth reading. Stop indexing the internet.

We’re In a Matchbook Renaissance

“As a younger generation takes up match collecting, matchbooks are taking on a new life as a design motif and an emblem of worldliness.” [WSJ]

Rimowa’s suitcases are designed to be infinitely repaired

“New legislation requires brands to create durable, repairable products. Rimowa’s network of repair centers offers a glimpse into this future.” [Fast Co]

I Reviewed Restaurants for 12 Years. They’ve Changed, and Not for the Better.

“In his last essay as a restaurant critic, Pete Wells reflects on a dining world of touch screens and reservation apps, where it’s getting hard to find the human touch.” [NYT]

Does a Speedsuit Make You Faster? Maybe. Does It Look Cool? Absolutely.

“Once an outfit strictly worn by sprinters, the single-piece speedsuit has become common among middle-distance runners. Its efficacy is beside the point.” [NYT]

Race walking endures at the Olympics, and it’s more hip than you think

“Its athletes have heard all the jokes, but don’t laugh: It’s a grueling test of endurance and technique, and Americans haven’t won an Olympic medal in the sport for 52 years.” [WaPo]