Klean Kanteen Reflect Series

image from global enfant

I am quite satisfied with my Klean Kanteens, with their attractive metal bodies and responsible Chinese manufacturing. But I held off from getting them until I found them on sale at the REI outlet for $9 each. List price was just too much. And now, the company has come up with an upscale, plastic-free, paint-free bottle with a unibody bamboo and stainless steel cap. Taking a huge cue from Apple, I see. As reported in their FAQ, customers have previously complained about the stainless steel caps being squeaky. I wonder if the issue has been resolved with this new line. The press photos are really lovely, yet does anyone see the absurdity of shelling out $33 for a water vessel? It's difficult not to be distracted by the shiny mirror finish... it's so pretty....

Handmade? No

Made in: China

$32.95

Hitachino Nest Glasses

images from lostinthebeeraisle and truebeer

With what is quite possibly the best beer packaging ever, this is the official Hitachino Nest glass. We happily snagged a pair at the neighborhood Belmont Station bar and beer store. Funny thing, I picked up one of these brews while I was in Japan Summer 2006, when I turned 21. I hadn't yet developed a taste for beer, so the libation was less than refreshing, but I remained enthralled by the clean, playful design of the bottle.

Made in: Naka, Japan

Handmade? No

$5.99