The Material Review

Issue 046: The Argentine Polo Belt, More JanSport, Nashville's Tailor to the Stars, Spotlight On "Made in Maine" and Q&A with Rob Howard of Kindred Motorworks.

Stories worth reading. Stop indexing the internet.

How the Argentine Polo Belt Became Fall’s Must-Have Accessory

“The humble but colorful extra is beloved by gauchos and royals alike.” [Robb Report]

The Invention That Changed School Forever

“Kids used to just carry books.” [The Atlantic]

The ‘Super Bowl of Pickleball’ Looks to Grow the Sport

A world championship in Texas is flush with cash and star players as the Professional Pickleball Association tries to turn amateur interest into long-term fandom. [NYT]

Meet Manuel Cuevas, Nashville’s 91-Year-Old Tailor to the Stars

“Manuel Cuevas may be the most interesting man in Nashville—and he’s never written a note of music.” [GQ]

The Legendary Weavers of Black Mountain College

“As a new book shows, the school’s teachings continue to influence creative practices.” [Hyperallergic]

A shortlist of things we’ve got our eye on.

Snow Peak Thermal Boa Fleece

Marjolein Delhaas Basic Planner

Pilgrim Supply Martin Jacquard Check Knit

American Trench Blazer

FoxFibre Colorganic Socks

Maine Made

Rancourt & Co. Dunnage Ranger Moc

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, Zip-Top with Pocket

Flowfold Recycled Sailcloth Traveler - Trifold Wallet

Maine Fly Co. Fish River Fly Rod

Stern Lines Lobster Rope Mat

Kindred Motorworks Founder and CEO Rob Howard is a lifelong car enthusiast who spent 20 years in his garage mastering the complex art of vintage vehicle restoration before launching his company. With a deep understanding and appreciation of the well-built, we were grateful to speak with him about a few things he has his eye on, his favorite place to drive and the brands that he trusts.

What’s a memorable recent purchase you’ve made?

I recently bought a 1969 C10 Chevy stepside pickup truck. But man, that vehicle is a real pain in the ass so i can’t choose that. So I’ll go with my recent pickleball paddle upgrade, the Vatic PRISM Flash.  Yes it’s embarrassing that I play pickleball regularly and it’s probably ill advised to advertise such, but I dominated Jud and Todd with that paddle yesterday at the College of Marin courts. I’m sure they were in awe. 

What is something you’ve had your eye on?

My daughter is on the High School mountain biking team and I’m one of the volunteer coaches. It’s so great to get out riding consistently with the kids but for some reason the kids are increasingly kicking my ass up Mount Tamalpais. It’s certainly not the 54 years or the few extra pounds. I’m coming to the conclusion that it’s gotta be the bike. Trading out my 5 year Yeti for a super light Transition Spur should solve the issue. Right?  

ID your carry-on bag?

I went on a hut to hut trip in British Columbia a few years ago. Leading up to the trip was the inevitable shopping spree for over priced gear at risk of being used just once. Winter hiking gloves and waterproof gators come to mind. But one item from that trip has passed the test of time. My EVOC Trail Builder backpack. It’s now my go-to carry on bag. It’s bright red and I’m constantly finding Claritin tablets and airplane snacks in the various pouches. It has straps and ties that are completely confounding and unnecessary. And yet, it’s just barely practical enough and it’s become one of those rare personal possessions with outsized importance to me. It can also secure a 3 foot wood saw in a pinch. 

What's your favorite place to drive? (Could be a road, a national park or a country.)

The long way home. When I’m in the next town over, I can take the highway and be home right quick or I can take the winding narrow road over Corte Madera Ridge. On those curves I’ll inevitably see turkey, deer and intrepid road bikers along the way. I take it every time.  

What brands (if any) have your unequivocal trust? 

Pixar (consistent joy), REI (the business model), Marine Layer (curated cool) and Emily Blunt (great every time).