
Ever wonder what hair product sumo wrestlers use to get that signature, lacquered mini ponytail look? Yeah, we've wondered the same thing, and yeah, we don’t know either. But we do know that Sumotech, arguably one of the best hair styling products on the market, was inspired by the important role played by hairdressing in the ancient Japanese sumo wrestling tradition. (For the record, and for you language geeks out there, the trademark top-knot is called a chonmage.) Sumo wrestling and modern day hair product(s) – cool right? You bet your sweet buns it's cool.
Sumotech is a product manufactured by Bumble & bumble (Bb). The company, which is one of more than two dozen brands owned by Estée Lauder Companies, has an arsenal of winning hair products. Hair care experts might describe Sumotech as a mid-weight molding compound that combines the texture and effect of a wax, paste, and cream. But we just refer to it as hair paste.
Sumotech comes in a dazzling black cylindrical container that’s the perfect shape and size for traveling (and airport carry-on bag safe, for all you jet-setters). It also acts as a chic décor piece, aligning itself flawlessly next to the razor, moisturizer, cologne and GQ mag in everyMan’s bathroom. If you happen to share a bathroom with your girl, not to worry, the Sumotech container looks cool next to her beauty products – especially her pink Axe body spray can. Pink and black – it’s like vintage Chanel took over your bathroom, with a modern-day “His & Hers” twist….
OK, so you want to know how we crossed paths with this Sumotech samurai, right? Let’s rewind to 2011. One of us – no names mentioned -- was Man-cationing in Barcelona with friends, and while getting ready for a night-out-on-the-town Spanish style, it occurred that a packed item previously thought to be KMS gel was in fact shampoo. With no back-up, and not wanting to sub shampoo for hair gel, this Man between a rock and a hard place borrowed his friend’s hair product – and thus began a long-term relationship with Sumotech.
The friend referred to it as “Bumble & bumble” and there was a “Say what?” reaction to its long and quirky name. At first, it was tough to associate the B&b name with a hair product; it sounds more like a quaint New England inn; or a kid’s game; or some sort of glorified bubble gum. But using it was a complete game changer. Find out why in our next post, on the product experience.
by ManPossible