2009 Acura TSX

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Entry level luxury is a hotbed for car manufacturers and it’s because of men like you. Aspirational men that care about performance, aesthetics but appreciate the value of a product. From onset the Acura TSX has always been a fantastic vehicle for the money and the 2009 Acura TSX continues with the same formula.

Known by the Europeans as the Honda Accord, the Acura TSX is a blend of a 201 hp (172 lb-ft torque) 2.4 liter four cylinder engine controlled via a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual. Together they yield 31 mpg highway and 21 mpg in city (read: less cringing at the fuel pump)Slightly larger that the outgoing model the TSX rides on two-stage dampers connected to double wishbones in fore and multilink suspension in aft. A slightly finer grain of leather has been used to swaddle the seats. Also part of the standard packaging is a premium 7-speaker sound system, CD/AM/FM/XM, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, and a USB port for your mp3 player.

What this means to you: Well priced doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury. If you’re in the market for a starter luxury vehicle then you should plan to visit an Acura dealer when the TSX hits showrooms later this year.

Cost: TBD (2008 Acura TSX ~$28,000)


Rockport Brockham

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The Rockport Brockham isn’t just your basic run of the mill boot. Beyond it’s sharp looks is something you’ve come to depend on in your kicks. Comfort. A DMX Micro II heel air chamber provides a cushion of air between your feet based off the Torsion technology developed by Adidas. It’s full grain leather uppers are breathable and mold to your feet. Just as important are the looks of this modern dress boot. Finally, there’s just the right amount of detailing and refinement for this boot to go from the office to a night out without a hitch.

What this means to you: The modern boot, finally with the comfort of a sneaker.

Cost: $150 @ Zappos

Also See:
Dressier Option - Salerno Cap-Toe Boot | $158 @ Banana Republic
Alternative Option - J Shoes Wrench | $182 @ Piperlime
Rugged Option - Sorel Timberwolf Winter Boots | $100 @ REI


Hommage Styptic Matchsticks

hommage.styptic.matchsticks.jpgThese are ingenius. They’re matchsticks with an active styptic end that stops shaving nicks and cuts from bleeding. Quick.

Positioned as a way to instantly mend shaving mishaps we can think of a dozen other reasons why you might want to have this packed with your outdoor gear or even in the glove compartment of your car. Oh, and they come in a pack of five.

What this means to you: How many times did you cut yourself shaving the past week? If it’s once or more then you need these. Those little tissue swabs? Not hot.

$50 @ Maintenance For Men

Also see: We’ve covered a ton of other grooming products here. Make sure and check out our other coverage.


Callaway HX Hot Bite

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For those of you who enjoyed Callaway’s HX Hot ball the past couple of seasons know it’s benefits. Distance and accuracy. Two crucial elements in a golf ball, but when it comes to approaching the green the ball’s hardness comes out in full force - and we don’t mean this as a good thing.

This ball is hard as a rock, perhaps that’s why it can withstand this writer’s affinity for driving it directly into trees. With a hard ball comes a lack of spin.

Callaway has addressed this very problem with the new HX Hot Bite Golf Ball. It has a soft feel and stopping power on the green without losing it’s distance ability. They’ve done this through a a softer, high-resiliency core and ionomer mantle layer. A soft cover using proprietary technology from Callaway generates additional stopping power for short-game control and HEX Aerodynamics for long, stable ball flight.

What this means to you: That’s a lot of technical jargon but the only thing you should know or care about is the fact that this ball is worth a round of your time this season. Get in on it early.

Cost: $30 @ Golf Galaxy

Also See: The Callaway HX Tour 56 | Titleist Pro V1 / Pro V1x


Osprey Stratos 18

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The Osprey Stratos 18 is a daypack perfect for quick hikes, mountain bike rides or cross country skis runs. It’s also perfect just to toss some gear into and take to the gym - doing double duty as a daypack and an extension pack with it’s stretch side pockets that carry extra gear.

The 2/3 panel zip access keep your gear in check while it’s open while providing quick entry accessibility. The Aircore backpanel cavity provides hydration options with a top-exit hydration port on the left or right.

What this means to you: We’ve had our eyes on this bag since it’s been around since 2007 but after a few runs on the slopes we can attest to it’s versatility and function.

Cost: $99 @ Moosejaw


Laphroaig 10 Year Scotch Whisky

laphroaig.10.year.single.malt.scotch.jpgThere are three main ingredients that make Laphroaig 10 year: barley, water and yeast.

As Islay, a remote island in the Western Isles of Scotland (how’s that for a story) Laphroaig makes scotch and they make good scotch. With a 200 year history the community that produces this spirit knows their product and it shows in the blend of sweetness, light touch of salt and peatiness found in the palette of their scotch.

What this means to you: A fantastic starter or medium upgrade option for your bar and that weekend drink at home.

Cost: $49 Laphroaig