Made For You, June 2018
In a world of fast food and one-size-fits-all sensibilities, how often does something feel made especially for you? The “Made for You” section celebrates those items that are created with such high quality of hand workmanship and degree of customization that they become individual to you. In each issue, our editors will endeavor to bring you special things from anywhere on the globe, choosing them solely on the basis of outstanding quality. Our goal is to give you guidance on the best of everything.
Perfect Storm—Hi-Power Cycles
Typhoon Pro is the answer for off-road bikers who like to hit the trail silently, but appreciate a little help on the uphill half. This dirt bike from Hi-Power Cycles incorporates the extra oomph of an e-bike. Hand-assembled and signed by the craftsman who built it in Los Angeles, the Typhoon Pro is powered by a 6,000-watt motor (starting at $11,500), which is upgradable to a 7,000-watt level. Features include Magura MT7 quad piston hydraulic disc brakes and custom-tuned suspension. hi-powercycles.com
The Cigar Glass—Corksicle
Cocktail parties present a challenge: how do you juggle the things you ingest while still working the room? The Cigar Glass has you covered on at least two fronts. With one hand you hold your drink and cigar (which is slid into the convenient, built-in rest on the side of the double old-fashioned glass. Now, wandering around you can still press flesh. The heavy-duty glass also insulates the drink from the cigar. Now they just need to incorporate a plate for canapés. corkcicle.com
Sleek Slippers—Mount Street
If your image of slippers is the oversized, fluffy variety that no grown man would wear, think again. London’s Mount Street Shoe Company makes stylish models that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to be seen in. Founder Nigel Siwani started by personalizing the whimsical slippers with images of his ions: cigars (you can have your initials on the band), cocktails and watches. You can also get hookahs, animals or whatever you want, with custom embroidering. The Martini-glass embroidery glows in dim light. mountstreetshoecompany.com
Give It A Spin—vSpin
You’ve discovered a tannic, young Shiraz you’re just dying to introduce to friends, but just before guests arrive you discover you’ve forgotten to decant it in time to breathe for the customary four hours and remove the rough edges. Not to worry. The vSpin decanting system can do the job in 5 minutes. It combines a vortex wine aeration system with a Spiegelau crystal decanter. Not to mention, it’s cool to watch. You just pour the wine, press a button and the gentle action of the vSpin does the work. vspin.com
The Troutdoorsman—Man Crates
Still looking for the right dad or grad gift? A powerful statement that says “man” right on it? Man Crates packages masculine gifts in style (they come in a wood crate). The newest selection is The Troutdoorsman, with a lined, canvas creel, fixed blade filet knife, grill holder, recipe book and trout seasoning. Other gift themes for dudes include drinking (e.g., cocktails, whiskey and beer), eating (grilling and bacon, naturally) and sports. Some personalization available. mancrates.com
A Taste Of Japan—Bokksu
Danny Taing grew up in New Jersey, but the four years he spent in Japan instilled a deep love for the nation’s distinctive snacks. His company Bokksu delivers monthly boxes packed with a rotating menu of Japanese cookies, teas and other snacks, from butter senbei rice crackers to freeze dried strawberries. A recent order for 10,000 rice crackers from a grandfather in Kyoto took two months to produce. Some of the snack makers Bokksu works with have been making their signature delicacies for nearly 500 years. Prices range from $16 to $39 per box. bokksu.com
