“You never leave your Wingman.” Those were the mighty words virtually every man [or Top Gun enthusiast] is able to recall. A new brand has stepped up looking to be your wingman, the friend you can rely on. It’s a tall order and a brave comparison – so what gives? We’ve given these brave grooming pioneers some test time, and even taken the unprecedented step to upgrade our coveted verdict. Look for it in a Boots near you.

What is a Wingman?

Wingman is a new, novel and unique product – a brand of deodorising wipes for men. Exclusively stocked at Boots, they come in packets of either two or eight wipes, they’re armed with some pretty sound ingredients including aloe vera, peppermint oil and ginseng.

Their mission, is to be there when things get clammy, grubby and generally uncomfortable – yet you, the hero of the tale, find yourself isolated from a flailing shower. Yes gentleman, the aim is to give your underarm or face a swipe at a time of need – removing your daily gunk, day-long deodorant remains, any bacteria that causes pit related pong and excess oils from sebaceous glands on overdrive.

These are ‘wet ones’ with a manly twist. Our only minor gripe was that they do look, a little bit, like packets containing protection of a different kind – but that might be an intentional tactic. Most men do think with their manhood and these wipes are designed to keep you fresh – so you don’t have to worry about stinking in front of a love interest. It isn’t ridiculous to argue that a comparison to condoms, albeit subtle, won’t hurt the brand’s recall power with male consumers.

Many a man has experienced that slightly awkward rushed occasion when they have accumulated a sweat, or had a hectic day, but had no choice but to spray over it. Well, that busy day armpit often breaks through. With a Wingman – you can give yourself a quick squaddie wash. It contains deodorising ingredients and a hint of fragrance to boot. Either way, you’re safer in the knowledge you stand a fighting chance of still smelling splendid after a dance around at work drinks.

If you’ve played a competitive game of volleyball on the beach, only to be late for your date with a hot blonde, then surely you could do with a Wingman in your pocket? You’re told you should never leave your wingman, this time, it might actually be a good idea that your Wingman doesn’t leave you…

We’re big fans of these little products, having tested and used them. The packaging is solid and the branding well executed. They are small and lightweight so you can keep them in jacket pockets or desk drawers – unlike a massive deodorant can. If you travel a lot or have some pretty intense meeting schedules – these wipes will be a great way to freshen up without being conscious of your hygiene. This is a utility grooming product – no frills attached. Festivals, desk side support or even [pardon our crassness] sex?

You can use them on your face [not the eyes, not the eyes!] and body – so it isn’t just for men with troublesome pits. They smell good and have decent wholesome ingredients. They’ve also been safety tested by independent skin specialists and by Boots skin care team who put them through a number of stringent tests before they stocked the product.

At this price point, giving them a go looks like a no brainer.

8 pack for only £3.49 right now…

Verdict: “excellent”

From Blokely, by James York