Trail Running
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Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket Review
I've been itching to test out some Patagonia trail run gear. This past winter Patagonia gave me the opportunity to test the Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket, their lightweight, minimalist running and cycling jacket.
Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket Features
- Extremely breathable 3-layer GORE-TEX® Active fabric is durably waterproof and windproof
- Self-fabric stand-up collar is lined with lightweight mesh for comfort
- Upper arm zippers can be unzipped to facilitate air flow through the jacket toward the back venting system
- Comfortable articulated sleeve with fold-over cuff converts to mitt for wet/cold weather protection
- Small waterproof pocket at center back holds essentials
- Low-profile drawcord at hem
- Reflective logos at left chest and center-back neck
- Deluge® DWR (durable water repellent) finish
- Fit: Athletic with articulated sleeves
- MSRP: $279
Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket Review
Off the hanger you can tell that the Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket is packed with Patagonia quality and style. It features an athletic cut and fit, smooth seams and stitching, and is lightweight. The Light Flyer is made with 3-layer GORE-TEX Active and weighs in at a scant 9.1 ounces. It offers full weather protection, laughing in the face of the storm. It sheds rain, wind, and snow with ease. It features an athletic cut for optimal movement while running. Articulated sleeves help with comfort while running or riding the bike. The cuffs are cut long over the hands for some extra protection and also feature a fold-over mitt for even more protection. The Light Flyer also features a drop-tail, giving you extra protection when riding in wet conditions. In terms of fit, I am 6 feet tall, weight 180 pounds, and have a positive ape index (arms are long). I typically wear a size large for the body but need an extra-large for sleeve length. The Light Flyer in large fit my perfectly. Snug enough to not be annoying when moving with just enough extra to not restrict movement, even with a midweight layer on. The sleeves were plenty long but I did find the fold-over cuffs to be very snug. For someone without long arms they likely would be fine. GORE-TEX Active, as you can guess, is GORE's most breathable technology. It did perform pretty well from a ventilation standpoint. To help with ventilation the Light Flyer features two long, vertical back vents that are always "on" and zippered vents in the upper arms. The back vents are a nice touch but I was let down with the arm vents. First, the zippers were extremely stiff. I wasn't able to unzip them one handed, even after months of use. Next when running they almost always folded shut. It's due to the natural curve of the fabric over my arm but they almost always stayed closed. The only times they stayed open was when there was wind, either from the wind or when riding. The Light Flyer features a single pocket on the small of the back. Good placement for running, bad placement for biking if you ride with a pack. I found that the zipper would get pressed into the small of my back which was very uncomfortable. The pocket is small, literally big enough for an iPhone 4 (the iPhone 5 or a Samsung Galaxy S II wouldn't fit) OR a single key and a gel. With the pocket being so small the utility of it was very low. As a daily bike commuter, I always love to see reflective detailing. The logos on the front and back of the jacket are reflective. It's not a lot, but it certainly doesn't hurt to have that extra visibility in low light. Overall I have been impressed with the Light Flyer. Sure there are some smaller features that could be better but overall the jacket is fantastic. The Good- Athletic
- High performing
- Great weather protection
- Single pocket is too small to be useful
- Arm vents are hard to unzip and don't stay open
Bottom Line:
For top performance and full weather protection for running and riding, pick up the Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket. Buy Now: Pick up the Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket [gallery]... Read more...
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Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp Review
I've been slowly getting turned to Princeton Tec headlamps. The Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp is one more light that is winning my favor. I've had the chance to test the Remix this summer thanks to Princeton Tec.
Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp Review Features
- Type: Headlamp
- Illumination type: one MaxBright LED, three 5mm LEDs
- Light output: 100 lumens
- Run time (High): 28 hours
- Run time (Low): 200 hours
- Light modes: High/low
- Batteries: 3 - AAA (Included)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 2x2-1/2x1-1/2"
- Weight: 2.4 oz.
- Material: composite with elastic nylon headband
- Ideal uses: climbing, camping, hiking, running, fishing, work
- Made in United States of America
- Price: $39.95
Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp Review Review
The Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp is a powerful light in a little package. The MaxBright LED can reach up to 73m on high (so they say, I didn't get out the tape measure). It's bright enough that when running you don't have to worry about out running the light and I was able to spotlight considerable distances. On a Mt Hood attempt earlier this summer it was definitely bright enough to scout ahead. The dim, early morning light. The three 5mm LEDs are perfect for task work. They provide just enough light when setting up the tent, cooking a late meal, or reading the tent. We are seeing more and more combo lights and there's a good reason. You can get white, red, or green LEDs. With two setting modes for both sets of LEDs you can find the level of light you need while conserving batteries. On high the MaxBright LED will last 28 hours. The 5mm LEDs will last 200 hours on low. The lamp is powered with three AAA batteries. Ordinarily I'd give negative feedback for not being rechargeable, but for a versatile light like this I think it makes sense. Just use rechargeable AAAs. The headband is wide and comfy, even after a few hours of use on the trail. The pivot for the head is solid. Once set it won't bounce out of place. The head is close to being too heavy for the band though. I did experience some bouncing while running but it was manageable. The Good- Versatile
- Bright
- Price
- A little heavy for running
Bottom Line:
The Princeton Tec Remix is a versatile, powerful little light. Buy Now: Pick up the Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp Read more...
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Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt Review
The Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt isn't your typical wool running shirt. Paired with a small amount of LYCRA you get a shirt that is comfortable, moves with you, and remains relatively stink free. Icebreaker sent me SS Quest Crewe to test this summer and here's what I thought.
Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt Features
- Fabric: 96% Merino wool, 4% LYCRA®
- Quick Drying GT150
- Sweat away with quick-drying odor resistance
- Media player cord loophole
- Eyelet panels Increase venting
- Back pocket stashes keys, gels
- Price: $79.95
Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt Review
By now I'm sure we all know the benefits of Merino wool over synthetic fabrics. The Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt is made of 96% Merino and 4% LYCRA. The combination provides a comfortable fit and feel on the skin and the shirt has more stretch, which is great for activities that require more dynamic upper-body movement. From long runs to Crossfit inspired workout, the SS Quest Crewe was able to keep up and move with me. One downside to the LYCRA is it does hold body odor. With only 4% of the shirt being LYCRA it's not a huge issue, but the shirt does hold onto it more than a 100% Merino shirt. To put it into context: I wore the SS Quest Crewe shirt for my daily, noontime workouts in 90+ degree heat for five days in a row without washing. By the end of the week the shirt was starting to smell some but it wasn't overpowering. The GT150 fabric is lightweight and quick drying, perfect for hot weather activities. The underarms feature an eyelet type meshy fabric to help with venting. Icebreaker included a small zipper pocket on the back of the shirt. Great idea, but with the loose nature of the shirt anything heavier than a gel or two was too much. Even at a light run the contents would bounce and tug and it was highly annoying. The inside of the pocket includes a headphone cord port so you can keep the cord contained under the shirt (great feature). The fit is more on the loose side than the tight side. At 6' and 180 lbs, the large fits me loosely. Meaning that it fits me the way a large shirt should, it's not body hugging. The SS Quest Crewe has good styling. The different colored stitching provides a nice visual break over a solid colored shirt. The Good- Merino wool benefits plus a little LYCRA stretch
- Quick drying
- Comfortable
- I couldn't really find anything bad with this one!
Bottom Line:
The Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt is a fantastic, active shirt. I wear it all the time now. Buy Now: Pick up the Icebreaker SS Quest Crewe Shirt [gallery]... Read more...
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Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes Review
The Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes are the most lightweight shoe in Patagonia's running line this year. While they aren't a "true" minimalist shoe, they are a great lightweight runner that doesn't compromise on performance or comfort. Patagonia sent me a pair to test this spring and here are my thoughts.
Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes Features
- Upper Material: [outer shell] air mesh, synthetic leather
- Lining: polyester
- Sole: multi-density sticky rubber
- Midsole: Air Cushion
- Footbed: anatomical EVA
- Heel / Forefoot Height: 9 mm / 5 mm
- Lacing: standard
- Weight: (size 9) [each] 9.2 oz
- Price: $110.00
Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes Review
Let's quickly get the minimalist thing out of the way. The Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes are lightweight (9.2 oz is pretty good) but for you purists out there you likely won't be happy. They do feature 4 mm in drop and do have a cushioned midsole. What does make them minimalist is their weight but also the amount of cushion provided. It does begin to force one to be even more selective on their running path. The Fore Runner would make a good transition shoe for someone looking to start the path to minimalist running. Performance in the Fore Runner was strong. The lugged sole provided sufficient traction for dry, compact, wet, and light sandy trails. I didn't notice much slippage on the ups or the downs. Between the sole and midsole my feet were protected from all but the biggest and sharpest of rocks. The air mesh upper is very airy (no pun intended). This is great for fair weather runs, hot runs, and even mild, dry days. If you want to run in inclement weather or on extremely wet trails, your feet are going to get soaked. My feet sweat a ton and the mesh kept me comfortable on warmer runs. One downside to the mesh is it does stretch and flex. I had to cinch the lacing down extra tight to reduce the stretching factor for the downs. I do need to play around with the lacing configuration to see if I can reduce the stretch even more. Overall, Patagonia is making strong strides in the trail running market and the Fore Runner is an excellent shoe. I've run in them for couple of months now and so far the quality has remained strong. I haven't noticed any fraying in the mesh, stitching, or anything else coming apart. The Good- Fairly lightweight
- Airy and comfortable
- Long-lasting quality
- Good mix between traditional shoes and minimalist shoes
- Mesh stretches require extra tight lacing to keep your feet from toe-jamming on the downs
Bottom Line:
For a lightweight, non-minimalist (zero drop) shoe the Patagonia Fore Runner is an excellent choice. Buy Now: Pick up the Patagonia Fore Runner Trail Running Shoes [gallery]... Read more...
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Julbo Dust Sunglasses Review
As a bike commuter, trail runner, mountain biker, and general outdoors person I've been through a lot of different pairs of sunglasses. I've had a hard time finding one pair that suited all the different conditions I played in. My favorite pair to date was a pair of glasses with interchangeable lenses. I got sick of switching lenses. I needed one pair that could literally do it all. Enter the Julbo Dust Sunglasses. Julbo sent me a pair to test and review and here are my thoughts.
Julbo Dust Sunglasses Features
- Frame: nylon
- Lens: Zebra Antifog Photochromic (polycarbonate)
- Frame Measurements: (lens width) 66 mm, (bridge) 17 mm, (temple) 120 mm
- Nose Pads: yes
- Temple Pads: yes
- Protective case: yes
- Recommended Use: running, hiking, biking
- Manufacturer Warranty: lifetime
- Price: $160
Julbo Dust Sunglasses Review
The feature that sets the Julbo Dust Sunglasses apart from other sunglasses is the Zebra Antifog Photochromic lens. It is a lens that can literally span most all conditions. For those not familiar with photochromic lenses, they change based on the amount of light, i.e. they get darker as the sun gets brighter. With the Dust riding in low-light (not night) conditions it allows enough light to pass through so you can see. When it gets bright the lenses get nice and dark. Pair that with a reflective coating and even on the brightest days here in Central OR I haven't gotten eye fatigue. I haven't ever had to squint while wearing the Dust. The one thing that is missing in my opinion is the Zebra lens isn't polarized. If Julbo could include that I'd be 100% happy. Yes, I want my cake and I want to eat it too. The Dust does come with a removable lens option that includes a polarized lens, a low-to-medium light lens, and a clear lens. Next on my list of "extremely important" features are the "rubber" nose piece and temple pieces. They kept the glasses in place, even on my sweatiest rides and runs. Nothing like cranking through some downhill singletrack and have to push your glasses up. It wasn't an issue at all with the Dust. The frame is very comfortable and somewhat flexible. A couple of color options are available. My preference was the very "Euro" blue. The Dust is fairly lightweight, meaning that I put them on and I didn't notice them. I'm not a weight weenie so I don't know if it truly is "lightweight" compared to other frames out there. On the quality spectrum, the Dust is high. Julbo has been around for while and their background in glacier glasses have set the ground nicely for high quality products. The Good- Photochromic lens is highly versatile
- Non-sweat-slippage rubber on the nose piece and temple pieces
- Comfortable
- Photochromic lens isn't polarized
Bottom Line:
The Julbo Dust has become my go-to all around sunglasses for bike commuting, running, and other two-wheeled pursuits. Buy Now: Pick up the Julbo Dust Sunglasses [gallery order="DESC"]... Read more...
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The Water Bottle that isn’t a Bottle – Vapur Element Water Bottle Review
The Vapur Element Water Bottle truly is an "anti-bottle". It's a bottle without being a bottle. It's sleek, compact, and great to use. It takes away your excuses for not carrying a bottle with you. Vapur gave me a bottle to test and here's what I thought.
Vapur Element Water Bottle Features
- Sizes: .7L & 1L
- SuperCap - Tough Seal. Easy Open
- Durable 3-ply construction
- Antimicrobial lining
- Dishwasher safe
- BPA Free
- Made in the USA
- Price: $11.99 (.7L) & $13.99 (1L)
Vapur Element Water Bottle Review
The most striking feature of the Vapur Element Water Bottle is how it folds down. This is the "anti-bottle" element (no pun intended). I think the biggest complaint people have with carrying a typical bottle is they are too bulky and a pain to carry. The Element folds down super small. It's small enough to easily fit into a jacket pocket, daypack, or in a purse. It weighs next to nothing when empty. The biggest excuse is no longer valid. My first thought when I first saw the Element was "that's going to be a pain to clean". I didn't realize that the cap unscrews and the inside is easily scrubbed with a bottle brush. It is dishwasher safe too if you want to go that route. My second concern was the cap accidentally being opened. The cap fits tightly and in most cases shouldn't come open. If you throw it in your pack with a bunch of other stuff you'll be tempting the fates. Just be smart. Vapur threw on a plastic carabiner to help with portability. Clip it to the outside of your pack, climbing harness, or if you want to be super cool, your belt loops. I'm not a fan of clipping it when it's full, but when it's empty it's a good option. The biner folds down around the lid when not in use. My next concern was with leakage. With 3-ply construction the Element is durable. You'd really have to work hard to randomly puncture it. It can also withstand freezing. Lastly, and it threw me for a loop, I actually had people tell me how cool the bottle was. It is cool but to receive compliments was unexpected. Just don't buy the bottle thinking it will make people like you or notice you. That's what the convertible is for. The Good- Compact
- Versatile
- Different
- Nothing
Bottom Line:
You no longer have any excuses to not carry a reusable water (anti)bottle. Buy Now: Pick up the Vapur Element Water Bottle[gallery]... Read more...
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Stoic Wraith Shell Review
For the times when you need a jacket but don't have room, or don't want the extra weight, or just when you want to have a back up look no further than the Stoic Wraith Shell.
Stoic Wraith Shell Features
- Material: Nylon
- Water-resistant
- Hood (non-removable)
- Fit: Athletic
- Weight: 2.5 oz
- Pockets: 1 front zip
- Price: $70
Stoic Wraith Shell Review
The Stoic Wraith Shell is the shell that's almost not there. Coming in at a mere 2.5 ounces it literally is almost not there. It is the perfect "emergency" or back up jacket to have. It packs down super small, small enough to easily fit in your pocket. When it's in your pocket you hardly notice that it's there. It is the ideal jacket to cut the wind or shed a light rain. While it's not fully waterproof it is DWR coated and will offer protection from light precipitation. I was skeptical on how well it'd breathe. I thought for sure that it would be a sweat lodge. To test breathability I wore it on a warmer day paired with a baselayer, a long-sleeve merino layer, and then the Wraith. I was pleasantly surprised to see that when I was running the Wraith did a good job of breathing. Then came the real test. Once I was nice and warm I removed the long-sleeve layer to see if the Wraith would stick to my arms and be uncomfortable. Once again whenever I was on the move the Wraith was breathing and moving moisture. Once I'd stop, though, all bets were off. The full time hood is nice and just big enough to cover your head. It is full-time and needs to get tucked inside so it doesn't flow in the wind like a tiny parachute. One thing to note that I didn't think of is because the jacket is nylon it will pick up your funk. I haven't washed mine yet so I don't know how it will do in the washer. Washing in Nikwax Tech Wash or something similar should do the trick. The Good- Super lightweight
- Packable
- Breathable
- Picks up and holds odors
Bottom Line:
The Wraith is a great back up shell, great for trail running, great to go in the pack. Buy Now: Pick up the Stoic Wraith Shell[gallery]... Read more...
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Merrell Embark Glove GORE-Tex Barefoot Running Shoes Review
Need a good all-weather minimalist running shoe? Want waterproof protection? Want good performance? Look no further than the Merrell Embark Glove Gore-Tex Barefoot Running Shoe
Merrell Embark Glove Gore-Tex Barefoot Running Shoe Features
UPPER / LINING- Synthetic leather and mesh upper
- GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort footwear lining protects feet and keeps them dry
- Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing System provides a precise, glove-like fit
- Microfiber footbed treated with Aegis® antimicrobial solution resists odor
- 4 mm compression molded EVA midsole cushions
- 1 mm forefoot shock absorption plate maintains forefoot flexibility and protects the foot by distributing pressure
- 0mm ball to heel drop keeps you connected to your terrain
- Vibram® Trail glove Sole/Rubber Compound TC-1
Merrell Embark Glove Gore-Tex Barefoot Running ShoeReview
The Merrell Embark Glove Gore-Tex Barefoot Running Shoe is the cold/all weather shoe in Merrell's Barefoot line. It comes fully lined with Gore-tex making it waterproof and warm. At the base the Embark is very similar to the Merrell Trail Glove and the Merrell Sonic Glove (click links for reviews. Same last, same overall look and feel, same running performance. The running performance is high, same as the other models. Running in them just feels good. The sole is similar to the Trail Glove and Sonic Glove. Four mm thick, zero drop, and good tread pattern. The Gore-tex keeps your feet fully dry on wet or snowy runs. Just don't step in deep puddles. One thing of note on the Gore-tex, it really holds in heat (i.e. doesn't breathe as well as a non-lined shoe) which for me means it is a cold-weather only shoe. The heat retention is a great benefit on frigid days. For all the similarities to the other models that I love I did find some drawbacks that I wasn't super stoked on. Some are big and some are minor. First the Embark has more volume than the Trail and Sonic Gloves. It's not a lot but it's noticeable. As a result I had to cinch down the laces to the max to get the fit I wanted. Maybe the additional volume is to accommodate thicker socks for cold weather running? I'm not sure on this one. The foot opening is stiffer than other models too. This wouldn't be an issue except the back side is turned in just enough that it rubs on my Achilles. Maybe it's just my pair but it hasn't "self-corrected" with use. I either have to tape my Achilles or get blisters every time I wear them. This is close to a deal breaker for me. They felt better on today's run so maybe they need more time. See my picture to the right to see how much the back is angled in. You can also tell on the "Tex" that the side curves in as well. This also rubs but hasn't caused blisters. This could just be my pair. Last thing, it's minor, but the shoelaces are twice as long as they need to be. I have to tie seven knots so the laces don't drag on the ground. I know it's just the shoelaces but it's a pain. The Good- Strong performing shoe, just like the others I've tested from the Merrell Barefoot line
- GORE-Tex keeps your feet dry and warm
- Extra Volume was almost too much
- Back ribbing is stiff and rubs the Achilles
- Shoes laces are too long
Bottom Line:
The Embark is a good all-weather show. Just try it on to make sure you won't get any rubbing on the Achilles. Buy Now: Pick up the Merrell Embark Glove Gore-Tex Barefoot Running Shoe[gallery]... Read more...
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Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt Review
Baselayers are essential to a good ride or run. So why not get one that works, is comfortable, and is technical? You'll get just that with the Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt. Sugoi gave me the chance this past winter to test out the Carbon zip and here's what I thought about it.
Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt Features
- Fabric: FinoCarbon
- Fit: Slim
- Flat seams
- 10" zipper
- Articulated for free movement
- Price: $55
Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt Review
I thought the Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt was just going to be another typical baselayer but I was pleasantly surprised. The first thing I noticed pulling it out the packaging was how soft the fabric felt. Putting it on, it's very comfortable. Scoff if you'd like at the "softness" comment but if I'm going to be moving, sweating, and pushing myself, I don't want my shirt to be uncomfortable. The fit is great. It is definitely slim and hugs your body. It's great for performance. I am 6 feet and 180 lbs and the large fits me nicely. I have long arms and the sleeves were long enough for me. One thing I think is missing though is thumb loops. I'm a fan of the thumb loops, especially on colder days. The Carbon Zip did a good job with moisture management. On my sweatiest days it kept up. The FinoCarbon fabric is infused with carbon to help control odor. It is awesome at controlling smells! I could pull multiple uses between washings without making myself wretch each time I pulled it over my head. All in all the Carbon Zip is a great baselayer. I've used it mostly running but have used it biking as well. It works as a good mid-layer on the bike as the fit isn't quite long enough to cover your back on the bike. The Good- Great Performance
- Great Fit
- Not Smelly
- Would liked to have seem thumb loops
Bottom Line:
Get a baselayer that works. The Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt is awesome. It's comfortable, has high performance, and isn't as smelly as other synthetic layers. Buy Now: Pick up the Sugoi Carbon Zip Long-Sleeve Shirt[gallery]... Read more...
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Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket Review
Looking for a good all-around softshell jacket? The Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket will fit the bill. From running, to urban cycling, skiing, and hanging out the Moab brings solid performance.
Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket Features
- Fabric: 87 % polyester, 13 % elastane, 100% polyester backing, DWR finish
- Windproof rating: 20 CFM
- Merrell Aeroblock™ provides high wind-resistance and breathability
- Merrell Conductor thermal fleece inside provides versatile heat retention in varying conditions
- Bonded, lightweight Merrell Conductor fleece backing
- Drawcord adjustable hem
- Zip-secure hand pockets / chest pocket
- No shoulder seam construction for greater water resistance and improved comfort under a backpack strap
- Center back length: 30 in (size large)
- Price: $128.95
Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket Review
The Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket is a versatile softshell. The Aeroblock fabric provides good protection from the elements but actually breathes fairly decently too. It truly keeps pace with you as you begin to heat up. Of course in the most stenuous of exertions you'll get too warm but you should just take your jacket off anyway. During moderate exertion I didn't sweat out of the jacket. The DWR finish provides some rain protection but it won't keep pace in anything more than a light rain. The Moab is definitely at home in cold, dry, or snowy conditions. I typically won't run in jackets but with the Moab on cold days I could run in it without getting too warm.
The fit is good. I'm 6' tall, 180 lbs and the large fit me nicely. It does fit a little loose so you have some room for mid-layers.
The chest pocket and hand warmer pockets are fleece insulated but the inside of the pocket is the smooth side of the fleece. All pockets feature weatherproof zippers which are nice addition. I would have liked to see more substantial zipper pulls though. The thin pulls are a little awkward when wearing winter gloves.
The clean design and lines of the jacket keep it simple and you can pull off wearing the Moab out to dinner after a day on the hill without looking like you're wearing a ski jacket.
One thing that I would to have love to see with the Moab is a hooded option. On a versatile jacket a hood would cap the deal for me.
The Good
- Versatile
- Breathable
- Price
The Bad
- Zipper pulls are thin for pulling with gloves
- No hood option
Bottom Line:
The Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket is a versatile jacket and a great price point.
Buy Now: Pick up the Merrell Moab Softshell Jacket[gallery]
... Read more...
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Columbia Midweight Baselayers Review
Make your baselayers work a little bit harder. The Columbia Midweight Baselayers work harder for you with the addition of their Omni-Heat lining.
Columbia Midweight Baselayer Top Features
- Fabric: 86% polyester/14% elastane
- Omni-Heat thermal reflective
- Omni-Wick advanced evaporation
- Form fit
- Antimicrobial
- 4-way comfort stretch
- Ergonomic seaming
- Thumb holes
- Price: $59.95
Columbia Midweight Baselayer Bottom Features
- Fabric: 86% polyester/14% elastane
- Omni-Heat thermal reflective
- Omni-Wick advanced evaporation
- Form fit
- Antimicrobial
- 4-way comfort stretch
- Ergonomic seaming
- Gusset detail
- Price: $54.95
Columbia Midweight Baselayers Review
The Columbia Midweight Baselayers are a good all around baselayer for multi-season activities. In the fall and spring they work as stand alone layering pieces for cool weather exploits. I've found the top to be sufficient by itself for trail runs down into the 30s. In the winter they pair well as part of a layering system. The Omni-Heat reflective lining helps keep in additional warmth. As Columbia says "keeping you up to 20% warmer". When I first looked at the lining as I pulled the pieces out of the package I was skeptical. I thought it was going to feel like tin foil rubbing on my skin. I couldn't have been more wrong. The Omni-Heat lining is smooth and soft on the skin. I didn't notice it at all and it's surprisingly comfortable. The 4-way comfort stretch fabric helps with mobility and keeps you from feeling restricted when you're moving. The antimicrobial properties work wonders and you can even get away with wearing the pieces multiple times between washings. You know how typically with synthetic layers as you pull on your shirt for the second time you get repulsed by the stench? This isn't the case with the Columbia Midweight baselayer. The antimicrobial properties keep the smell at bay. The fit is definitely athletic. I'm 6 feet tall and 180 lbs and the large top and bottom fit me perfectly. One thing I will say on the fit is the arms are cut a little high so fits tight through the armpits. On the bottoms, do yourselves a favor gents and get the pair with the fly. I don't get why they'd make them without. The Good- Warm & versatile
- Stretchy
- Antimicrobial
- Top fit a little tight through the armpits
- No fly on certain bottom models
Bottom Line:
Looking for a solid baselayer to span multiple seasons? Get the Columbia Midweight Baselayers. Buy Now: Columbia Midweight Baselayers [gallery]... Read more...
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Merrell Sonic Glove Review
I've been sold on minimalist running shoes for about a year now. The Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe is a nice addition to your running shoe arsenal.
Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe Features
UPPER/LINING- Microfiber footbed treated with Aegis® antimicrobial solution resists odor
- Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing System provides a precise, glovelike fit
- 4 mm compression molded EVA midsole cushions
- 1 mm forefoot shock absorbtion plate maintains forefoot flexibility and protects the foot by distributing pressure
- 0mm ball to heel drop keeps you connected to your terrain
- Vegan friendly footwear
- Vibram® Trail Glove Sole/Rubber Compound TC-1
- Men’s Weight: 6.5 ozs (1/2 pair)
- Price: $125
Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe Review
The Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe is very similar to the Trail Glove shoes. You can read my review of the Trail Glove here. The Sonic Glove and the Trail Glove are very similar. The Sonic Glove shoes are relatively lightweight, the Omni-Fit lacing allows for a precise fit, and soles are very similar. The soles give great performance on dry trails but do slip around a little on muddy trails and in the snow. The biggest differences between the Sonic Glove and the Trail Glove are: upper, lacing, and breatheability. The upper is a softshell material. It provides greater protection over the mesh of the Trail Glove from the elements. While not totally waterproof, it does shed some water. It's also great for dusty trails. It really helps keep the dust out of the shoe. One potential drawback that I've found is the breatheability isn't quite as good as mesh. On hot days, this could be an issue. But for cooler weather I've liked it. The lacing changed up a little too. The biggest difference is there are four "loop" eyelets vs five on the Trail Glove. I haven't noticed any performance differences between 4 vs 5. I still get a great fit when tying my shoes. I don't have to cinch them quite as tight since the softshell doesn't stretch as much as the mesh. Sizing still runs about the same, a little big. If you're between sizes, you could likely go a half size down and be fine. I think Merrell hit a home run with the Trail Glove and Sonic Glove is no exception. Very similar shoe but will fit a different set of needs. The Good- Softshell upper gives protection from elements and makes the shoe a little warmer than mesh models
- Same great sole
- If you run where it's hot or you don't like hot feet, the softshell upper might not work for you
- Sole is still a little slippery in the mud
Bottom Line:
The Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe is a great minimalist shoe. Good for running in variable weather. Buy Now: Pick up the Merrell Sonic Glove Running Shoe [gallery orderby="title"]... Read more...
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Lowa S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes Review
Looking to take on any trail? The LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes will take on just about anything you can throw at them.
LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes Features
- UPPER: Synthetic/microfiber
- MIDSOLE: Bi-density EVA with Monowrap® stability
- LINING: Waterproof GORE-TEX®
- OUTSOLE: LOWA Spine proprietary sole technology that works with the natural rolling movement of a runner's stride
- FOOTBED: Ortholite
- Price: $159.95
LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes Review
The LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes are inspired by the LOWA hiking boot line but with a focus on "fast". I did find, though, that the S-Cruise is more of a hiking shoe than a trail running shoe. The last, footbed, and shank are more conducive to hiking than running. For hiking I found it performed very well. For running I didn't like as much. For short distances they were all right. Anything longer than a couple of miles and I was wishing I was wearing a different trail running shoe. Taking that frame of mind, the S-Cruise GTX is a good hiking shoe. The aggressive tread and stiff shank provide a stable platform. Lateral stability is high. The GORE-Tex keeps your feet dry when it's wet out. It even helps keep your feet a little warmer when it's cold. On hot days though, the GORE-Tex doesn't breathe as well as a shoes without it (that's a given, it makes sense). The S-Cruise has a great fit. They run "true to size" and conform nicely to your foot. They were comfortable to wear for long periods of time. I didn't ever run into issues with rubbing or hot spots on my feet. The Ortholite footbed hugs the bottom of your foot providing good arch support. The S-Cruise is a well-made shoe. Construction is sturdy and I haven't seen any signs of excessive wear in my time testing it. The Good- Good Stability
- Good Constuction
- Great Fit
- More of a hiking shoe than a trail running shoe (bad only if you are looking for trail run shoe)
Bottom Line:
The LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoe is a good shoe for all around trail tackling with more of an emphasis on hiking. Buy Now: Pick up some LOWA S-Cruise GTX Trail Running Shoes [gallery]... Read more...
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Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoes Review
I've been a fan of Montrail for a number of years. I've been a little let down to not see a minimalist shoe in their line up yet. The Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoe is a step closer to a true minimalist shoe.
Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoe Features
- External TPU shank and Trail Shield plate for flexible underfoot protection
- Gryptonite sticky rubber outsole for optimal traction on a variety of trail surfaces
- Micro three-point lug design for extreme lightweight multidirectional traction
- Compression-molded EVA midsole for shock-absorbing cushion
- Low profile midsole for flexibility and a fast responsive feel on the trail
- Horizontal and vertical flex grooves provide forefoot flexibility
- Breathable mesh upper with synthetic support
- Perforated outsole reduces weight
- Ride height: 20 mm heel, 10 mm forefoot
- Fit notes: Secure fit
- Weight: 8.8 oz
- Price: $110
Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoe Review
The Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoe is an all around good shoe. While it's not truly a "minimalist" shoe, Montrail did cut down on the padding, giving a better feel underfoot. The padding is still enough to absorb most of the irregularities in the trail. You might start to feel it on the rockiest of trails but for the most part you should be good to go. The mesh upper lends itself to helping your feet stay cool on hot days. I didn't notice excessive stretching or movement that you usually get with a lot of mesh shoes. Fit was true to size and secure. I was able to cinch the shoes down enough to keep my foot stable, even on variable trails. Tread is aggressive enough to give good traction on dirt, rocks, and mud. If you run a mix of trails and road the Rogue Racer would be a good shoe. I've spent time on both trails and roads in these shoes and they cross over nicely. Additionally, the lower padding and flexibility of the shoe allow for a forefoot strike that isn't awkward.Bottom Line:
Great all around, low padding shoe. Buy Now: Pick up the Montrail Rogue Racer Trail Running Shoe [gallery]... Read more...
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CamelBak Ultra LR Vest – Gear Review
The CamelBak Ultra LR vest is an incredibly lightweight vest that holds a 2.0 liter reservoir pouch for hydration. The pouch is easy to fill thanks to the wide mouth with a screw on cap, and since the pouch holds the water around your waist it feels very comfortable to wear with the weight on your hips instead of in a ball on your back, even when it’s completely full. Since this vest is largely made of mesh it is lightweight and breathable. It also has two zippered hip pockets, two breast pockets and a larger pocket in back that’s large enough to stash a shedded layer --- which I often had to do during the hot hikes I used it on throughout the desert and mountains of Utah last summer. I was a little concerned at first that this vest may not fit me properly because I’m only 5’2” on a good day and have a smaller frame. Otherwise ideal vests and packs haven’t worked because they are just too big on me. But the Ultra LR comes in multiple sizes for different torsos, and once I cinched everything up on the smallest one it fit a little gal like me perfectly. Because of its glove-like fit (two sternum straps and hex-style shoulder padding, thank you!), this vest is the ideal hydration pack for fast day hikes, trail running and ultrathons. Planning to do the North/South route of the Olympic National Park in a single day? This is your pack. Although it’s a small detail, I like that this vest has a 1.5” strip of reflective tape in the back, near the zipper to access the bladder. It also has reflective tape on the front. This vest is going to be the perfect companion when I run my legs of the Wasatch Back this summer. It holds just enough for long distances without being bulky, the mesh keeps it so lightweight and breathable, and if you’re running in the dark you’ve got some reflective tape. This vest would be perfect for marathons, Ragnars, or just about any type of distance sport or race. CamelBak really has thought of every detail for this vest. Some of the items in my “gear closet” come and go, but this one definitely has a permanent home! SHOP: Click here for more CamelBak gear....
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New Balance Minimus Trail Running Shoe Review
What's barefoot without actually being barefoot? The New Balance Minimus MT10 Trail Running Shoes. The right nomenclature is "minimalist" and the Minimus is New Balance's answer to the growing minimalist running movement. New Balance gave me the opportunity this summer to test a pair of the Minimus MT10 shoes.
New Balance Minimus MT10 Trail Running Shoes Features
- Deconstructed ACTEVA midsole provides great flexibility and a featherweight cushion
- Minimal Vibram outsole for lightweight traction and durability
- Synthetic/Mesh upper provides lightweight comfort and support
- Odor Resistant
- 4 mm drop (9 mm heel/5 mm forefoot)
- D width
- Price: $99.95
New Balance Minimus MT10 Trail Running Shoes Review
Overall, the New Balance Minimus MT10 Trail Running Shoes impressed me. It's a fairly lightweight shoe that is well constructed, fits nicely, performs well, and looks good (come on admit it, you want your running shoes to look good). Performance: The Minimus MT10 is a good performing shoe. The most notable feature I thought, was the 4mm drop. For those who are unfamiliar with drop, it is the height different between the forefoot and heel (in this case the forefoot is 5mm thick and the heel is 9mm thick). The reason this was so pronounced for me is I've running in a zero drop shoe for the entire year so far. If you are coming from a typical shoe you might not notice this as much. There are a few benefits of a 4mm drop shoe over a zero drop. First, if you are making the transition from regular shoes to minimalist, this will help. It's not as dramatic as going to zero and the transition will be a little less dramatic (and painful, depending on if you push it too much in the beginning). Second, I found the 4mm drop effective in having an almost flat foot strike. With a zero drop there was a more pronounced forefoot strike to heel movement. With the 4mm I almost always have a near flat strike. This can be more comfortable. Some proponents will argue that a zero drop shoe is more 'pure' but I think you need to try both. One feature that New Balance included that I really like is the wide rubber strap that spans the toe box. This helps provide stability and structure to all the mesh in the shoe. With a lot of mesh shoes I've experienced a lot of side to side play which isn't good on the trails and can lead to instability and blisters. The toe strap, as I've come to call it, helps keep your foot stable and minimizes the side to side sliding. Lastly the soles. I have both positive and negative comments about the soles. Starting with the positive, the Miminal Vibram outsole is fairly sticky and provides good traction on rocks/hard surfaces. It is a little softer which helps with the traction and is nice if you have to run on paved surfaces. Now for the negative: if you run on very rocky or gravelly trails, you can feel even the smallest rocks. The dot pattern is nice, however, the gaps between the dots are soft and if you happen to land on a rock or other hard/pointy surface you definitely feel it. Most of the trails I am running on are either rocky (think big rocks) or gravelly. After a few miles the bottoms of my feet get very sore. This is an issue with a lot of minimalist shoes, however, I noticed it more with the Minimus MT10. Now, if you spend most of your time running buff trails, you have no worries. If you split your time between roads and trails, it's less of a worry. It would be nice to have something a little more stiff to help minimize the soreness. One of the photos to the right gives a close up of the soles. You can see the tread wear along with the gaps in the dot pattern. Fit: I have what I'd call a typical sized foot. I wear an 11 in trail running shoes as it gives me a little bit of room and the Minimus MT10 fit true to size. Width wise, the fit is also good. It is narrow enough that you can dial in the fit with the lacing without having to cinch it all the way down, yet wide enough that your foot won't feel scrunched. Construction: after 40 years of so of making shoes, you'd expect just that. Out of the box the stitching, glue, materials all looked good on basic inspection. After a couple months of testing construction has held up and I haven't noticed any loose threads or flaps. Two of the photos on the right show the shoes after a couple months of use. My final, very minor comment is this: The Minimus MT10 comes in an awesome orange color which is always worth extra points in my book. The Good- Well made, high performing shoe
- Toe strap minimizes side-to-side play
- 4mm helps ease into minimalist running & provides a more flat footed strike
- Orange!
- Sole is soft & gaps in sole provide a lot of soreness when running rocky/gravelling trails
- 4mm drop (depends on your stance) if you want a more 'pure' minimalist experience
Bottom Line:
The New Balance Minimus MT10 is a great shoe for both new entrants into the minimalist running scene and veterans. It performs well, is built to last, and is a great shoe to run in. Just be weary of rocky trails. Buy Now: Pick up some New Balance Minimus MT10 Trail Running Shoes[gallery]... Read more...
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Sugoi Firewall LT & GT Gloves Review
Sugoi gave me the opportunity to review their Firewall LT Gloves and their Firewall GT Gloves.
Sugoi Firewall LT Glove Review
The Sugoi Firewall LT Gloves are a running/aerobic glove meant for cool weather. The outer is wind resistant and slightly water resistant. While it's made for running, the wind resistance made for warm hands while bike commuting. The inners are a nice brushed fleece which is comfortable. Reflective accents on the index finger and pinky side of the back of the glove help give a little additional visibility in low-light conditions. The thumb features the a "super absorbing" nose wipe which is easy on the cold nose. A velcro closure helps keep the glove on. The drawbacks on this glove for me are sizing and the inter-finger fabric. First and not really important, the fabric used to wrap in between the fingers is sparkly and makes me feel a little bit like Michael Jackson (no bueno). On a more serious note, the sizing seems a little small. I do have big hands with long fingers so take this with a little bit of a grain of salt. The overall length is a little short but not too bad. The fingers aren't cut deep enough. In between the fingers ends up about 1/2-3/4 of an inch short. The width of the glove was a little tight...it's on the verge of being too tight. Overall, this glove provided good hand protection and warmth on cold weather runs. Just be sure to check the fit and keep in mind they run a little small.Sugoi Firewall GT Glove Review
The Sugoi Firewall GT Gloves is the cold weather version of the Firewall LT. The GT has many of the same features as the LT: reflective accents, nose wipe, velcro closure, soft fleece inner, wind resistance. The difference come with more insulation (slightly more), padding in the palm, a nice pull tab, and leather palms. This glove is truly at home at the bike and on the run. The padded palms help with comfort on the bike, sticky logos on the palm help give additional grip for the bike. Fit is a little better than the LT. The width is a little wider but is still a touch on the tight side. The fingers still aren't long enough, about 1/2 in too shallow for me. I did use the gloves in 20 degree temps on the bike and my hands were plenty warm. Aside from the fit, these gloves performed very well and I'll be using them again next winter.Bottom Line:
I think both of these gloves are on their way out or are being updated so now's a good time to pick some up. Buy Now: Pick up the Sugoi Firewall LT GLoves Buy Now: Pick up the Sugoi Firewall GT GLoves[gallery]... Read more...
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Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch Shoes
Merrell has always been in the business of making great shoes. Recently, they've delved into the world of apparel as well, but that doesn't mean they've left behind their first love, footwear. They've continued to crank out quality footwear, including the new Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch Shoes.
Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch Specs
- Breathable mesh lining treated with Aegis® antimicrobial solution keeps the stink at bay
- Merrell QForm® Comfort midsole provides women's specific stride-sequenced cushioning
- Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- 4.5mm sole lug depth
- Vibram® Chameleon Arc 2 Sole / TC5+ Rubber
- MSRP: $110
Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch Review
The Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch (whew... That's a mouthful! Think I'm just going to call them the Chameleons for now) function great as a crossover shoe from hiking to trail running. Though intended as a light hiker, you can blast off for a few miles of running along the trail and feel comfortable knowing that the Chameleons will provide you enough support, breathability and flexibility to get the job done. I've also taken them on a few "hike and bike" epics, and I enjoyed the lugged sole for use on my platform pedals on the mountain bike. A great feature of the Chameleons is the Q-form mid sole. This provides a different type of cushioning in the midsole of the shoe, based on the idea that a woman's strides is different than a man's, therefore necessitating a different cushion pattern. Rather than me trying to explain it and floundering, here's Megan from Merrell giving you the QForm run down.- [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YVRP5mlY-w[/youtube]
The Good
- "Toothy" 4.5mm lug sole provides lots of traction.
- Transition easily from running to hiking in these shoes and don't worry about not having enough support or about them being too heavy. Perhaps this ease of transition is where the Chameleon name came from?
- Not stinky yet!
- Comfortable right out of the box- no break in time required for me! The QForm midsole really does provide a cushioned stride pattern, keeping your feet happy throughout your whole hike.
The Bad
- The elastic lacing system takes some finessing. Because it is elastic, it's really easy to over or under tighten. After you've got it maneuvered within the eyelets, it's not too bad, but it does require some initial patience and occasional readjusting.
- Because of the give in the elastic, varied terrain becomes a challenge. To tighten them up enough to stay on, you're essentially cutting off circulation to your feet. However, loosen them, and they become like a pair of hiking Danskos, where your heel slips out or the side of your foot moves around as your on varied terrain.
Bottom line
The Chameleons are great for light hiking or light running. Highly varied terrain (steep, scree-filled or mild scrambling) is out due to the elastic lacing and how much your foot moves. Use these guys for the lighter hiking days when you know you've got consistent terrain and you're stoked. Check 'em out: Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Ventilator Stretch Shoes... Read more...
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Top 3 Women’s Rain Jackets
April showers bring May flowers and it’s raining jackets here at Gear.com. Like a good pair of snow boots a good rain jacket is another staple every woman should have. Rain jackets have come a long way and there are various styles and colors to pick from. First things first, figure out what you’ll be doing the majority of the time wearing the jacket (i.e. shopping, traveling, trekking, etc). Once you have it narrowed down you'll be able to find a style which works best for you. If you’re an around town type of gal then I recommend the trench style. However, if you’re planning on trekking through the rain forest then maybe a classic style is up your alley. I'm practical and go for the classic style. Just because classic is very functional doesn't mean you can’t be fashionable by playing up the color. Check out my Top 3 picks and stay dry this Spring. 3. Women’s Precip Jacket by Marmot The Precip Jacket is affordable, stylish, and packs down into the pocket. Who doesn't want a jacket that packs down to nothing?! Take this classic jacket from everyday life to the backcountry. Pit zips are a must if you plan on trekking or hiking and the Precip wont disappoint. Since it’s available in sixteen colors no need to worry about your BFF sporting the same color! Sport either a two tone or solid color this season, I’m diggin the ultra violet/light violet and everglade. MSRP: $99 Jacket Features
- PreCip® Dry Touch Technology, Waterproof/Breathable - Waterproof / Breathable
- 100% Seam Taped - For Full Waterproofness
- Full Visibility Roll-Up Hood with Integral Collar
- PitZips™ - Underarm Zip That Extends Into the Body for Aggressive Venting
- Pack Pockets™ - Slanted Chests Pockets That Can Be Accessed While Wearing a Pack
- Double Storm Flap Over Zipper with Snap/Velcro® Closure
- Elastic Draw Cord Hem - For Adjustability in Serious Weather
- DriClime® Lined Chin Guard - Moisture Wicking Fabric Protects Your Face From the Zipper
- Angel-Wing Movement™ - Allows Full Range of Motion in Arms so Jacket Doesn't Ride Up
- Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
- Adjustable, removable hood
- Center front two-way zip
- Two flap-closure chest pockets
- Two hand pockets
- Removable waist belt
- Internal media pocket
- Zip sleeve gussets
- 2.5-layer nylon ripstop shell with a waterproof/breathable H2No® barrier and Deluge® DWR (durable water repellent) finish
- 2-way-adjustable hood with laminated visor rolls down and stows
- Microfleece-lined neck for comfort and enhanced protection of waterproof/breathable barrier
- Center-front zipper has exterior and interior storm flaps to keep water out; pit zips with storm flaps and Deluge DWR-treated zippers
- Self-fabric hook-and-loop cuff closures
- Pockets: two handwarmers, one internal mesh drop-in
- Drawcord hem; packs into zippered self-storage pocket
- 2.5-layer, 2.6-oz 50-denier 100% nylon ripstop, with a waterproof/breathable H2No® barrier and a Deluge® DWR (durable water repellent) finish. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program
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Merrell Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes Review
"Free my feet!" is becoming my new running mantra with the Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes. "Free Your Feet!" is the official new call coming from Merrell Shoes. Merrell has recently launched a new barefoot running line of shoes. I was plenty stoked when they sent me a pair of the Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes to get in a month of testing before they were released.
Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes Features
UPPER/LINING- Microfiber and breathable air mesh upper
- Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing system secured with welded TPU provides a precise, glove-like fit
- Fused rubber toe bumper provides ultimate durability
- Synthetic leather rear foot sling provides stability
- Flexible plate in the forefoot protects the foot from stone bruises
- Non-removable microfiber footbed treated with Aegis® antimicrobial solution resists odor
- 4mm compression molded EVA midsole cushions
- 1mm forefoot shock absorption plate maintains forefoot flexibility and protects the foot by distributing pressure
- 0mm ball to heel drop keeps you connected to your terrain
- Vibram® Trail Glove Sole/ Rubber Compound TC-1
- Men’s Weight: 6.2 ozs / 175.8 gm (1/2 pair)
- Price: $110
Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes Review
Out of the box I was impressed with the Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes. They are light in weight, great style, well constructed, and ready for running. As soon as I put them on I knew things were going to be different. The uppers are super airy mesh. I've always worn socks while running, always. My feet sweat a ton and I have to wear socks or else the funk gets unbearable. The mesh allows for high ventilation and breathability. Granted it's winter time and that will play a factor but it's been super warm here as a late in Central Oregon and I've been out in 60 degree sunny days and haven't had any issues with too much sweat. On that same token, I've worn these shoes out on 30 degree days (perhaps a bit colder too) with no socks and my feet have not been too cold. Moving along with this topic, the footbed does really resist odor. I've put about 6 weeks of running on my shoes and they don't smell at all. The Omni-Fit™ lacing system is good and it does allow for a precise fit. What I have come across is between the mesh and the placement of the laces I have to cinch them down almost as tight as they go to get a secure fit. If you have a very low volume foot, keep this in mind. Enough of that, let's talk about the sole. The specs say it all...4mm of midsole provides a little cushion (not much at all) and 1mm shock plate does about the same. What you end up with is essentially one step away from actually running in your bare feet. I've run on the road in my bare feet before but I'm a trail runner. I haven't mustered the cojones to hit the trails in my bare feet. With the Men's Trail Glove it's as close as you can get. The sole provides just enough protection that your feet aren't getting chewed up but there is enough sensitivity that you can still feel the trail and textures of it. I've found that I have to steer clear of anything larger than a pebble or else I feel it, a lot. But hey, you should be missing most all of that stuff anyway. In most all situations the Vibram sole is good. For dry trails it gives you enough traction to run without slippage. The toe section features an aggressive, toothy tread to help give additional traction. Where I found the sole to come up lacking in the mud and muck. Even in just a light mud I was losing traction and slipping around. In heavier muds it was pretty bad. I'd like to see a more aggressive tread pattern on upcoming models. One thing I would add is a GORE-Tex option would be nice. From what I hear that option will be coming soon, which makes me glad. On fit, the Trail Glove runs almost true to size. I normally wear a size 11 in running shoes (sized just a little long to prevent toe-bump). When I put the size 11 Trail Glove on they seem just a little bigger than a 11 usually fits me (maybe 1/4 size if that). While running though, the fit is fine. I haven't noticed any differences from my regular shoes in terms of sizing. Overall as running shoes, these shoes are great. As I said in the intro I am embracing the mantra to free my feet. I almost fully converted. At this point all but my longest runs are in the Trail Gloves. In the coming weeks that will change as well. Well done Merrell, well done. On a non-running related note: I've worn these shoes for other workouts as well and they perform nicely. If you are going to make the switch for running, make the switch for the rest of your workouts as well. And then go ahead and the make the switch for your everyday. Merrell has a fantastic site called the Barefoot Connection that gives tips on barefoot running, how to get started, and a few other things. In the near future they'll have a barefoot app and more things to choose from. Check out the rest of the Merrell Barefoot line. The Good- More natural running experience with the protection your feet need for the trail
- Good fit
- Solid construction
- Tread needs to be more aggressive for the mud
- I have to cinch the laces almost all the way up to get the secure fit I want
Bottom Line:
Do your feet and body a favor and make the switch to barefoot with the Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes. You won't be disappointed. I've freed my feet. Buy Now: Pick up the Merrell Men's Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes [gallery]... Read more...
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Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes Review
I've never owned a pair of Merrell shoes. I've never even tried on a pair of Merrell shoes. When given the opportunity to test a pair of Merrell trail running shoes I jumped on the chance. Merrell sent me a pair of the Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes to test and review. Over the past few weeks I put them to the test on everything from quick trips to the store to runs out on the trails. I have to admit, I haven't been disappointed.
Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes Features
- Nature-Tex recycled strobel board provides underfoot protection
- iR3 rubber/iR3 sticky rubber outsole for traction, lateral traction, and grip
- Gait-Phase midsole/heel cushioning for shock-absorption and stability
- Breathable Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry
- Mesh upper for breathable comfort
- T-cup slip-resistant heel and tongue construction
- Gender-specific semicurved anatomical last
- Outlast heat management sock liner
- OrthoLite antimicrobial sock insert
- DWR treatment provides durable water resistance
- Price: $120
Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes Review
The Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes is the waterproof version in the their CTR Running Shoe line. Out of the box I was impressed with their light weight, aggressive tread, and overall design. For my first run I took the shoes straight from the box, laced them up, and hit the trail for a four mile trail run. First feeling once they were on was good. I had cinched them down to a point that felt tight, flexed my feet, walked around, and everything felt good. The first run was a cool drizzly day after a night of rain. Trail conditions varied from gravel to damp sand to puddles to muck to solid rock. The CTR GORE-TEX shoes feature a fairly aggressive tread. I ran through every section of muck that I could (you know the type, glossy on top looking like a pool of pudding) to see if I lost traction at all. The CTR GORE-TEX held their own. I didn't slip once. Steep downhills were no match for the aggressive tread either. I was able to pick up the pace a little without worry of sliding around. When I laced up I cinched the shoes on fairly tight. I thought I would have to stop partway in to loosen them. The shoes/laces did stretch some. I didn't have to loosen at all which became a problem on the downhill. My big were toes rammed like the SWAT team breaking down a door with every step. I took this learning to change up the lacing configuration to something a little more aggressive and didn't experience any problems on my runs afterward. The GORE-TEX fabric held up to it's name and reputation. On the one rainy day I stomped every puddle I could (some up over the toe-box) and no water came through. I loved how waterproof the shoes are, but my main gripe with GORE-TEX running shoes on any runs warmer than about 40-45 degrees I feel like I have mini-sweat-lodges on each of my feet. I usually only wear GORE-TEX shoes in the winter or on rainy runs. If you are only a fair-weather runner or live a climate where rain or water on the trail isn't an issue, go with the Merrell Cruise CTR sans GORE-TEX. The shoes do feature a thick heel pad and midsole. As a runner I am finding myself moving more towards the barefoot ethos both physiologically and philosophically. I did find the midsole to be too thick and too soft. This is great for the average runner and it was nice on the rockier trails, it helped to absorb the impact on the heavier footfalls. If you find yourself moving towards barefoot running, I'd recommend going with something else. The Good- Aggressive Tread
- Lighter weight
- Soft
- Waterproof
- Fabric & laces stretch, must use aggressive lacing configuration
- GORE-TEX makes hot feet on warm days
- Too much padding if you are moving towards barefoot running
Bottom Line:
If you want a solid trail running shoe with waterproof protection, go with the Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoe. Buy Now: Pick up the Merrell CTR Cruise GORE-TEX Running Shoes ... Read more...
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Wigwam Trail Trax Pro Review
Of all the gear in the world to review, nothing -- nothing, I tell you -- is more difficult than socks. I mean really, how much can you say about socks? I hear tales of gear glory all the time, like, “Thank goodness my backpack has an integrated bottle opener -- all that beer would have gone to waste,” but I can’t think of a single time socks were the obvious hero. I suppose there was one time when I forgot to bring coffee-making paraphernalia on a two week trip and ended up with a designated coffee sock for filtering grounds, but really, cowboy coffee would have sufficed. Of course the opposite is also true. It turns out that, if you have nothing much to say about socks, it means they work as advertised. That doesn’t mean I have literally nothing to say, though. Far from it. In fact, I have brought to bear my full scientific thinking powers to bring a sock-reviewing method to the madness.
Wigwam Trail Trax Pro Features
- 49% Wool Dri-release, 35% Nylon, 14% Merino Wool, 2% Spandex
- Cushiony sole
- Foot hugging fit
- FreshGuard eliminates odors
- Seamless toe closure
- Dri-release dries super fast
Wigwam Trail Trax Pro Review
The Trail Trax Pro may be made primarily with runners in mind, but I found it to be a terrific all-around outdoor sock. Do I think about these socks when doing my thing?Not even slightly, and that’s a great thing. I should be worried about river levels, marauding hillbillies and truck clearance, not my socks! Are my feet uncomfortable in shoes that were previously comfortable?
The thought hasn’t even crossed my mind. The cushiony sole is more than adequate for my wimpy feet, and they wick moisture with aplomb. Add FreshGuard to the mix and wear them multiple days in a row without climbing partners noticing. Did the socks’ qualities change after a few wash cycles?
I’m not sure, but my impression is that the Trail Trax Pro shrunk slightly over a couple wash cycles. This may have something to do with the wool content. If they did shrink, the difference is slight. How long did the socks last under heavy use?
This is hard to answer, since it sort of depends on how many pairs of socks are in my rotation. For me, a non-backpacker-occasional-runner with something in the neighborhood of twelve pairs of socks I wear regularly, I had better damned well see at least a year out of my socks before the elastic weakens and I start to see my foot through them. Something in the neighborhood of two+ years is average. Three+ years is awesome. (If you only have five pairs of socks, adjust your perspective appropriately.) Unfortunately, I haven’t had these socks long enough to say how well they held up over time. I’ll revisit this review every six months or so to update. Bookmark it now! How do these socks look?
This is perhaps the least important attribute of a sock, but still, the Trail Trax Pro can have a little of that I’m-wearing-suit-socks-with-my-sneakers effect, if you’re not careful which color you buy. I have the taupe/brown heather version... <pregnant pause...> I have absolutely no idea what that means, but it’s a color combo I like. It looks outdoorsy.
Bottom Line:
The Wigwam Trail Trax Pro is fantastic compromise between light and feature rich. This is a terrific all-around outdoor sock. Buy Now: Slip into a pair of Wigwam Trail Trax Pro socks. ... Read more...
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Wigwam Ironman Flash Pro Review
Of all the gear in the world to review, nothing -- nothing, I tell you -- is more difficult than socks. I mean really, how much can you say about socks? I hear tales of gear glory all the time, like, “If it weren’t for that tire patch kit, I’d be vulture food,” but I can’t think of a single time socks were the obvious hero. I suppose there was one time when I forgot to bring coffee-making paraphernalia on a two week trip and ended up with a designated coffee sock for filtering grounds, but really, cowboy coffee would have sufficed. Of course the opposite is also true. It turns out that, if you have nothing much to say about socks, it means they work as advertised. That doesn’t mean I have literally nothing to say, though. Far from it. In fact, I have brought to bear my full scientific thinking powers to bring a sock-reviewing method to the madness.
Wigwam Ironman Flash Pro Features
- 83% Stretch Nylon, 16% Acrylic, 1% Spandex
- Heel tab prevents sock from slipping (Note: This is the weirdest feature. I’m not sure it actually does very much. I don’t think the socks would slip without it, but it does effect the looks of the Flash Pro -- see below for more.)
- Cushiony sole
- Foot hugging fit
- Breathable mesh instep
- Seamless toe closure
Wigwam Ironman Flash Pro Review
The Ironman Flash Pro may be made primarily with runners in mind, but I found it to be a terrific all-around outdoor sock. Do I think about these socks when doing my thing?Not even slightly, and that’s a great thing. I should be worried about wet rock, copperheads and accidentally inhaling dried vulture poop, not my socks! Are my feet uncomfortable in shoes that were previously comfortable?
The thought hasn’t even crossed my mind. The cushiony sole is more than adequate for my wimpy feet, and they wick moisture with aplomb. Did the socks’ qualities change after a few wash cycles?
No change whatsoever! After roughly six washings, these socks look and feel the exact same as when they were brand new. How long did the socks last under heavy use?
This is hard to answer, since it sort of depends on how many pairs of socks are in my rotation. For me, a non-backpacker-occasional-runner with something in the neighborhood of twelve pairs of socks I wear regularly, I had better damned well see at least a year out of my socks before the elastic weakens and I start to see my foot through them. Something in the neighborhood of two+ years is average. Three+ years is awesome. (If you only have five pairs of socks, adjust your perspective appropriately.) Unfortunately, I haven’t had these socks long enough to say how well they held up over time. I’ll revisit this review every six months or so to update. Bookmark it now! How do these socks look?
This is perhaps the least important attribute of a sock, but still... I have the orange/black version, which is flashy, but I definitely like it more than any of the other four available colors. The heel tab, which is there to prevent the sock from slipping, makes the sock look like a Peter-Pan bootie. That’s a strange thought, huh? I know, but it’s the first thing that crosses my mind when I pull them out of my sock drawer. However, once they’re on, I don’t even notice it, and have even come to like it.
Bottom Line:
The Wigwam Ironman Flash Pro is fantastic compromise between light and feature rich. It looks a little funny, but is rapidly becoming one of my all-time favorite socks. Buy Now: Slip into a pair of Wigwam Ironman Flash Pro socks. ... Read more...
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Patagonia Tsali Trail Running Shoe Review
When the Patagonia Tsali's were launched at Outdoor Retailer, I was immediately impressed by the sharp looks and the X-Dynamic lacing system. Yes, the lacing system caught my attention because it was such a simple and intuitive solution to the need to more evenly cinch the upper laces for a snug fit. Patagonia's X-Dynamic system consists of two looped webbings that lock the uppermost laces into place against the top of your foot. Check out the photo below to see it in detail. This system not only provides a secure fit, but it also keeps the tongue in place for proper cushioning and protection. On the trail, the Tsali's cinch down comfortably in foot-cradling comfort. The mesh uppers are reinforced in key areas to provide breathability and support where needed. On the breathability side, I think they could be a little better, but some of that may have to do with the dark color of the sample shoes. In the hot sun, they get a little roasty toasty. Patagonia built these with a breathable air mesh upper that is treated with a lightweight DWR which provides a respectable amount of water protection. In my submersion tests, the shoes were good for about 5 seconds before water started seeping through. Most trail shoes last 1 second or less, so that extra DWR is better than nothing should you wander into storms or wet terrain. The outsoles are flat with a slight anatomical curve. While most shoes have distinct forefoot and heel areas, the Tsali's are instead made from a single piece of rubber featuring varying treads for both uphill and downhill traction. Midsoles provided the right level of cushioning and support in this neutral runner. I slipped in a pair of Spenco Earthbound insoles for the duration of my tests with fabulous results. The fit continued to be superb with just the right amount of additional support for my flat feet. In talking with the manager of my local running sore (Runner's Corner), he mentioned that flat outsoles are a much better overall construction for a natural stride and feel. On the road, I agree, but on the trail, I always seem to step on rocks or roots just under my arch (where most shoes have less outsole), causing my foot to roll. These are not the first trail runners I've experienced this with, so maybe I need to be more cautious in my foot placement while wearing this type of shoe. The Good
- Lightweight
- X-Dynamic lacing system locks down the foot for a comfortable feel
- Great traction both up and down
- Excellent cushioning
- DWR treatment provides additional weather protection
- While some may say the flat outsoles are better, but I seem to be less stable on the trail
- Can run a little hot
- Could use a tad more forefoot protection
- Run about a half size small
Bottom Line: Patagonia Tsali Trail Running Shoes
The Tsali is very light yet supportive and comfortable. Not many 10 oz trail running shoes can boast the type of overall performance that the Tsali's provide. Foot-snugging comfort with only a few minor downsides... I can definitely recommend these if you're looking for a great overall trail shoe. Buy Now: Search for Patagonia Tsali Trail Running Shoes... Read more...
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Outdoor Retailer: Patagonia Jackets and Activewear
Leading the charge in sustainability, Patagonia’s product line is now 90% recyclable through their Common Threads program. Kudos to Patagonia for that achievement. A new piece is the Ultralight Down Shirt ($250) that tips the scales at a mere 5.6 oz using ultralight ripstop nylon while being packed with 800-fill down for warmth. It’s packable and comfortable. The new Men’s Torrentshell Pullover ($119) is made for climbers who prefer a minimalist design so nothing gets caught up in harnesses or packs. This pullover is economical and streamlined for demanding climbers and mountaineers. Another great introduction is the new Air Flow running shirts. Available in both short-sleeve ($59) and sleeveless ($55), the Air Flow fabric features a subtle weave for extreme moisture wicking and performance. More Info: Visit Patagonia.com...
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Outdoor Retailer: Tecnica Inferno Max and Sprint Trail Runing Shoes
More known for their ski boots, Tecnica is attacking the trail running market with a handful of well-constructed and designed trail running shoes. Utilizing the TRS system (Tecnica Rolling System) for improved rolling stride and with a slew of other innovations (asymmetrical overlap, performance platform, bathtub construction and more), Tecnica really means business… err, trails. The bright orange Inferno Max ($150) is built like a capable training shoe with the ability to smoke the trails on race-day if you choose to lace ‘em up on your next race. Not ultralight, but the wide platform and rocker design is built to make you more efficient and comfortable for miles. Weight looks like 12.2 oz each on these. With a more traditional contact patch width and a burrito wrap upper, the Inferno Sprint ($160) packs a serious punch in a low-profile race-ready shoe. A look inside yields all the goodies you’d expect with the addition of a carbon plate for lightweight protection and quickness. These will tip the scales at 10.4 oz each, so not the lightest race shoe, but still respectably-light. More Info: Visit TecnicaUSA.com...
Read more...
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Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro Review
Of all the gear in the world to review, nothing -- nothing, I tell you -- is more difficult than socks. I mean really, how much can you say about socks? I hear tales of gear glory all the time, like, “That $10 snake bite kit saved my dog’s bacon after he tangled with that gila monster,” but I can’t think of a single time socks were the obvious hero. I suppose there was one time when I forgot to bring coffee-making paraphernalia on a two week trip and ended up with a designated coffee sock for filtering grounds, but really, cowboy coffee would have sufficed. Of course the opposite is also true. It turns out that, if you have nothing much to say about socks, it means they work as advertised. That doesn’t mean I have literally nothing to say, though. Far from it. In fact, I have brought to bear my full scientific thinking powers to bring a sock-reviewing method to the madness.
Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro Features
- 42% Stretch Nylon, 33% Dri-release, 21% Acrylic, 4% Spandex
- Dri-release dries super fast
- Lightweight sole
- Foot hugging fit
- FreshGuard eliminates odors
- Breathable mesh air vents
- Seamless toe closure
Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro Review
Made primarily with runners in mind, the Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro is feature-rich big brother of the Ironman Triathlete Pro. Do I think about these socks when doing my thing?Not even slightly, and that’s a great thing. I should be worried about my rickety elbows, my newly repaired lumbar spine and wether or not my dog is getting enough water, not my socks! Are my feet uncomfortable in shoes that were previously comfortable?
The thought hasn’t even crossed my mind. Still, a little bit more cushioning wouldn’t hurt. Did the socks’ qualities change after a few wash cycles?
No change whatsoever! After roughly six washings, these socks look and feel the exact same as when they were brand new. How long did the socks last under heavy use?
This is hard to answer, since it sort of depends on how many pairs of socks are in my rotation. For me, a non-backpacker-occasional-runner with something in the neighborhood of twelve pairs of socks I wear regularly, I had better damned well see at least a year out of my socks before the elastic weakens and I start to see my foot through them. Something in the neighborhood of two+ years is average. Three+ years is awesome. (If you only have five pairs of socks, adjust your perspective appropriately.) Unfortunately, I haven’t had these socks long enough to say how well they held up over time. I’ll revisit this review every six months or so to update. Bookmark it now! How do these socks look?
This is perhaps the least important attribute of a sock, but still, my Wigwam Ironman Spark Pros are not too shabby in the looks department. I have the black version, which is a little bit geeky, but there’s some color in there, too, and a lot of gray to mitigate the I’m-wearing-suit-socks-with-my-sneakers effect. It comes in three other color styles, too, and a couple of them look nice and outdoorsy.
Bottom Line:
The Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro is fantastic compromise between light and feature rich. It wicks moisture like you'd expect from a sock with the word "Ironman" in its name, and has just enough cushion for trail pushin’. Buy Now: Slip into a pair of Wigwam Ironman Spark Pro socks. ... Read more...
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GoLite Unisex HydroClutch
When I run I drink a lot. I don't like to feel thirsty. It's a total mental game for me. If I think I feel thirsty then it starts to affect my resolve. Things start to seem harder than they are. All I can think about is how much I want a drink. Reading that you'd think I was crossing the Sahara with no water. It sounds dramatic but that's just the way it works for me. Hydration packs are great for longer runs but it was the 30-90 minute runs that I struggled with. I tried not drinking but that didn't work for me. I tried carrying a bike bottle and that was annoying. Just the act of holding the bottle was annoying, especially when the going got tough. I tried other bottle holders but they were awkward, hot, or uncomfortable. Enter the GoLite Unisex Hydroclutch. Light, airy fabric, comfortable around the hand, cinches down tight so the bottle just hangs in your hand, no grasping required.
GoLite Unisex Hydroclutch Features
- Nylon-Spandex Stretch Woven
- High-Void Polyester Mesh
- Quick-Drying air mesh sides for excellent airflow
- 21 oz BPA-free squeeze bottle (included)
- Zippered stretch mesh pocket holds keys, gel & credit card
- Snag-resistant Velcro® adjusts to fit different sized hands & gloves
- Reflective stripe for visibility
- Weight: 4 oz
- Price: $15
GoLite Unisex HydroClutch Review
The GoLite Unisex HydroClutch was my hydration saving grace on short runs. The 21 oz bottle carries just enough water for me for 30-90 minutes on mild days. On hot days it varies between 30-60 minutes and if there's not shade at all, 30 minutes. Like I said, I drink a lot when I run. The mesh is lightweight and breathable. I didn't get sweaty hand as bad as I did with other bottle holders. One side of the holder is the cinch strap and the other side is the zippered pocket. The pocket is my favorite feature. Just big enough to fit a car key, credit card, and still have room for a gel or two (depending on how big your gels are). The cinch strap is backed with velcro to keep it from loosening and from excessive flapping. Imagine two hours of bouncing strap on your hand, that'd drive you nuts. For those of you who like to run on the road, the cinch strap is lined with a reflective strip to give you some additional visibility in headlights when it's dark. The big downfall of the Hydroclutch (which is the downfall of all handheld bottles) is the longer your run, the warmer your bottle is going to get. It's a fact, you're holding your water in your 98.6 degree F hand, it's going to get warm. I tried piling in the ice one time, but then my hand froze and by the end of this particular longer hot run, my water was warm anyway. You might be able to negate this with an insulated bottle. I haven't checked to see if there are any in a 21 oz size that would fit into the holster. In terms of durability it's pretty good. I've used mine for a couple of seasons and it's held up well. The elastic on the bottom is fairly tight and can be hard to stretch over the bottle. Also it likes to slip down a little and as a result the bottle isn't held as securely. Then when switching hands the bottom of the bottle can slip out. The stretching has caused a little bit of separation between the elastic and the mesh on the bottom. The Good- It's comfortable
- Straps to your hand so you don't have to grasp
- Carries just enough water for short runs
- Zippered pocket is awesome for the keys and a gel
- Water eventually gets warm
- Some stitching is pulling apart on the bottom
- Because the elastic is so tight, it pulls off the bottom of the bottle little and when switching hands the bottom can come out
Bottom Line:
Don't run thirsty again. Shell out the 15 clams and get the HydroClutch. For running it's some of the best $15 I've spent. Buy Now: Pick up the GoLite Unisex HydroClutch... Read more...
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Camelbak Podium ChillJacket Insulated Bottle Review
I was a little skeptical when I picked up the Camelbak Podium ChillJacket Insulated Bottle. It's seems too simple, why haven't companies been doing this since the beginning? Camelbak made the promises and then they delivered.
Camelbak ChillJacket Bottle Features
- Insulation to keep drinks colder longer
- JetValve: i.e. No spill lid
- Hydroguard coating to inhibit the growth of bacteria
- Price $12
Camelbak Podium ChillJacket Insulated Bottle Review
The ChillJacket looks almost like any other bike bottle. To not sound like a cheesy, feel-good person, it's what's on the inside that counts. The bottle is wrapped with double-walls filled with insulation, providing the insulation to keep your drinks colder longer. The tags on the bottle claim 2x as long, the Camelbak website says "hours". I didn't get out the thermometer or the stopwatch, but the difference is significant. Kept my water cold all day while playing at the river. Camelbak also coated the inside of the bottle with HydroGuard. It's a coating to inhibit the growth of bacteria. This doesn't provide an excuse for keeping a funky bottle, you still have to wash it often. The JetValve (no-spill lid) is awesome. Just twist the nozzle one way and the water flows smoothly. Turn it the other way and nothing will come out. I gave it the highly scientific and precise "tip upside down and squeeze hard" test and not a drop came out. This would be killer on MTB rides where it always seems your sugary, electrolyte drink always seems to seep a little making a sticky mess. I am skeptical about how well the bottle will stay in a bike bottle cage. The indentation on the bottle doesn't seem significant enough to keep it in place. I plan on testing it out as soon as my bikes arrive from across the country. I am also skeptical about the JetValve use one handed. If the valve was open would it really keep everything in on a bouncy cross-country ride? It'd be fairly difficult to hold onto the bottle and open with one hand while riding. I'll probably just keep it open the whole time. The Good- My drink isn't warm after sitting in the sun for 5 minutes, or even 30 minutes, or even an hour
- No spill lid keeps everything inside
- Did I mention keeping your drink cold?
- Might not sit in a bike cage very well
- One hand opening while riding would be hard
Bottom Line on the Camelbak Podium ChillJacket Insulated Bottle
I can't wait to be able to drink cold drinks in the middle of the sweltering summer rides. I'm definitely picking up a few more of these bottles. Buy Now: Pick up the Camelbak Podium ChillJacket Insulated Bottle and keep your drinks cold.... Read more...
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Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro Review
Of all the gear in the world to review, nothing -- nothing, I tell you -- is more difficult than socks. I mean really, how much can you say about socks? I hear tales of gear glory all the time, like, “That little cam held my 40-foot air-bike ride with only two lobes engaged,” but I can’t think of a single time socks were the obvious hero. I suppose there was one time when I forgot to bring coffee-making paraphernalia on a two week trip and ended up with a designated coffee sock for filtering grounds, but really, cowboy coffee would have sufficed. Of course the opposite is also true. It turns out that, if you have nothing much to say about socks, it means they work as advertised. That doesn’t mean I have literally nothing to say, though. Far from it. In fact, I have brought to bear my full scientific thinking powers to bring a sock-reviewing method to the madness.
Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro Features
- 30% Olefin, 30% Acrylic, 20% Stretch Nylon, 15% Spandex
- Lightweight design
- Vitually seamless toe closure
Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro Review
Made primarily with runners in mind, the Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro is a light, stripped-down, no-frills sock. Do I think about these socks when doing my thing?I do actually think about them a little bit, and not just because I'm reviewing them. They have zero cushioning, and since I'm used to at least a little cushioning, I sort of notice it. Are my feet uncomfortable in shoes that were previously comfortable?
A resounding “no.” Although as mentioned, I prefer more cushion in my socks. I may use these more as a base layer in cold weather, instead of a stand-alone sock for running or crag approaching. Did the socks’ qualities change after a few wash cycles?
No change whatsoever! After roughly six washings, these socks look and feel the exact same as when they were brand new. How long did the socks last under heavy use?
This is hard to answer, since it sort of depends on how many pairs of socks are in my rotation. For me, a non-backpacker-occasional-runner with something in the neighborhood of twelve pairs of socks I wear regularly, I had better damned well see at least a year out of my socks before the elastic weakens and I start to see my foot through them. Something in the neighborhood of two+ years is average. Three+ years is awesome. (If you only have five pairs of socks, adjust your perspective appropriately.) Unfortunately, I haven’t had these socks long enough to say how well they held up over time. I’ll revisit this review every six months or so to update. Bookmark it now! How do these socks look?
This is perhaps the least important attribute of a sock, but still, my Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pros are straight black, which doesn’t do much for a playa’s image, if you catch my drift. Who but a nerd or a suit wears black socks?! They also come in all white. You can’t see me, but I’m rolling my eyes right now.
Bottom Line:
The Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro is a no-frills basic performance sock. It wicks moisture like you'd expect from a sock with the word "Ironman" in its name, but it looks a little goofy in its plainness. Also, if you need cushion in your socks, check out a few other Wigwam models first. Buy Now: Slip into a pair of Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro socks. ... Read more...
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Wigwam Merino/Silk Scout Socks Review
Of all the gear in the world to review, nothing -- nothing, I tell you -- is more difficult than socks. I mean really, how much can you say about socks? I hear tales of gear glory all the time, like, “It snowed so hard that yetis stayed indoors, but we were high and dry in that tent... for all 12 days of it,” however, I can’t think of a single time socks were the obvious hero. I suppose there was one time when I forgot to bring coffee-making paraphernalia on a two week trip and ended up with a designated coffee sock for filtering grounds, but really, cowboy coffee would have sufficed. Of course the opposite is also true. It turns out that, if you have nothing much to say about socks, it means they work as advertised. That doesn’t mean I have literally nothing to say, though. Far from it. In fact, I have brought to bear my full scientific thinking powers to bring a sock-reviewing method to the madness.
Wigwam Merino/Silk Scout Features
- 45% Coolmax, 25% Merino Wool, 22% Nylon, 6% Silk, 2% Spandex
- Cushiony sole
- Foot hugging fit
- Breathable mesh air vents
- Virtually seamless toe closure
Wigwam Merino/Silk Scout Review
Be still my beating dorsalis pedis pulse! The Merino/Silk Scout may be my favorite Wigwam sock of all time. If there’s a combo as dreamy Coolmax, Merino wool and silk, I haven’t yet touched it with my feet. Do I think about these socks when doing my thing? I actually do think about these socks a little bit, which means they either suck or they’re exceptional. In this case, I assure you it’s the latter. Are my feet uncomfortable in shoes that were previously comfortable? The thought hasn’t even crossed my mind. The cushiony sole is more than adequate for my wimpy feet, and they wick moisture with aplomb. Add FreshGuard to the mix and wear them multiple days in a row without your climbing partners noticing. Did the socks’ qualities change after a few wash cycles? I’m not sure, but my impression is that the Merino/Silk Scout shrunk slightly over a couple wash cycles. This may have something to do with the wool content. If they did shrink, the difference is slight. How long did the socks last under heavy use? This is hard to answer, since it sort of depends on how many pairs of socks are in my rotation. For me, a non-backpacker-occasional-runner with something in the neighborhood of twelve pairs of socks I wear regularly, I had better damned well see at least a year out of my socks before the elastic weakens and I start to see my foot through them. Something in the neighborhood of two+ years is average. Three+ years is awesome. (If you only have five pairs of socks, adjust your perspective appropriately.) Unfortunately, I haven’t had these socks long enough to say how well they held up over time. I’ll revisit this review every six months or so to update. Bookmark it now! How do these socks look? This is perhaps the least important attribute of a sock, but still, the Merino/Silk Scout can have a little of that I’m-wearing-suit-socks-with-my-sneakers effect, if you’re not careful which color you buy. I have the charcoal version, which walks the line a little bit, but comes down, I think, in the non-nerdy category. Beware black.Bottom Line:
The Wigwam Merino/Silk Scout is, in my opinion, the perfect combination of materials and features. With vents and foot hugging ribs in all the right places, a thick, cushiony sole and just a touch of silk -- oh, baby -- this is the sock for me. Buy Now: Slip into a pair of Wigwam Merino/Silk Scout socks.... Read more...
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Moving Comfort Sprint Short
I'm pretty picky when it comes to running shorts. I will be the first to admit that I've owned one pair for the past several years, and pretty much had no interest in wearing anything but those worn, hot pink, thrift store running shorts. If you're a runner, you understand the special bond you develop with your shorts. There's always that one special pair that fits better than the rest, sits just right on your waist, and is downright comfortable. So, when I finally ripped my beloved pink shorts in the washing machine, my world was rocked. However, right about that same time Moving Comfort asked me to test out their Sprint Short, so thankfully I had something else to fill the void that my pink shorts left behind. The Moving Comfort Sprint Short is a lightweight, low rise, semi-fitted running short with some great features. I've used mine for both short runs around Pete's Hill, a favorite dog romping/people running location up here in Bozeman, MT, and also for longer trail runs up further into the mountains of Montana.
Moving Comfort Spring Short- The Specs
- Material- Hybrid between a stretch recycled polyester and a mesh strip sewn down each side.
- Pockets Galore! The Sprint Shorts come with an exterior pocket on each side, plus an interior hide-a-key pocket.
- Drawstring waist- in addition to the elastic waistband, the Sprint Short comes with a drawstring waist to make sure they stay put.
- Reflective trim- great for the dawn and dusk runs.
- Does come with a "brief liner," my only dislike. However, I don't like those in any shorts, so that's not anything I'd hold against the Sprint Shorts.
Moving Comfort Spring Short- Fit Information
- True to size for waist measurements.
- Slightly fitted design means these shorts are a bit tighter around the thighs than I'm used to. They still fit, but be aware that they're not super loose like your standard nylon running short.
- 3 inch inseam
Buy Now!
Moving Comfort Sprint Shorts... Read more...
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GoLite Women’s BL-2 Long-sleeve Baselayer Top Review
Base layers come in all shapes and sizes. GoLite always seems to hit the market with good-looking and functional apparel. I've been using the GoLite BL-2 long-sleeve top this Spring and am really liking it. Features of the BL-2
- Dual fast-wicking Minerale™ fabrics
- Anti-chafe flatlock construction
- Ultra-soft hand feel for next-to-skin comfort
- Lightest fabric in high sweat zones speeds dry time
- Colors: Black, White (tested), Cabernet, White Cypress
- Weight: 5 oz
- MSRP: $50
GoLite Women's BL-2 Review
When the BL-2 arrived, I was quickly taken to it's uniquely-feminine styling. The little features like the cut and stitched collar (with orange stitching) and the contoured fit really makes this otherwise-basic top stand out. I've been using the BL-2 primarily for running in the cool morning temperatures here in Utah. While it's beginning to warm during the day, the mornings can still be crisp one day and warmer the next (varying between 35 and 50 degrees). The combination of the BL-2 and the GoLite Dakota Wind Vest (review coming soon) is the perfect match for these variations. Since it is so breathable, I never feel like I'm over-heating, but the wind protection of the vest combined with the thermal properties of the BL-2 keep me comfortable. I prefer to carry my cell phone (Motorola Moto) with me when running and have been placing it in the rear pocket. The size of the pocket is nice, but with a heavier item, like my phone, it does tend to bounce around a bit. Not all tops have zippered back pockets, so I'll take what I can get, but that's the only major improvement I'd suggest. The Good- Soft next to skin
- Has just enough stretch for freedom of movement
- Unique neckline bunching
- Sleeve length is perfect
- It stays put and doesn't ride up your hips
- Zippered back pocket provides ample storage
- Feels true to size (Women's Medium Tested)
- Breathes and insulates well
- White color is a little see-thru
- Pocket may be too big for bulkier items (like a cell phone)
Bottom Line: GoLite BL-2 Base Layer Top Review
This shirt feels extremely-comfortable to wear while running. Moisture management and all-around comfort is maintained--even when pushed hard. Combine this with an ultralight vest for added wind protection and you have a solid combo for running. Buy Now: Search for GoLite Base Layers... Read more...
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Atlas Run: Running Snowshoes Review
With the Atlas Run snowshoes, I've been able to extend trail running deeper into Winter's grasp. It's been fun adding snowshoe running to my myriad of Winter-time exercise options. While I prefer running on hardpacked trails with trail running shoes, the Atlas Run snowshoes allow you to run efficiently on softer trails. Admittedly, I'm no snowshoeing expert, so this is really a review from a newbie just getting the hang of snowshoe running. The Run snowshoes are very light-feeling with an effective binding system. Without any fuss, I was able to slip my Montrail Mountain Masochist GTX trail runners into the bindings. The Z-shaped forefoot strap was easy to cinch with a single pull of the strap. Excess strap tucked neatly into the provided O-ring loop on the bottom strap. Pulling the rubber heel attachment snugly in place is also super-easy. The result of the running-specific binding is a secure and natural-feeling stride for running. My feet always felt secure and comfortable throughout my runs. I felt the Atlas Run snowshoes provided just the right size for running with a slightly shorter stride than usual. When I stretched out my stride to a more typical running stride, the back of the snowshoe would whack my ankles--quickly reminding me to shorten up. Once I found the ideal stride, I felt supported and comfortable on hardpacked and semi-packed trails. When venturing into the untracked trails (10-12" new snow), these shoes met their match as the surface area just isn't enough to keep you on top. At a walking stride, trudging through untracked snow wasn't so bad, but if that's your intention for these shoes, I'd look elsewhere as these are made for running on mostly-packed trails. Once you find the right type of snowpack, you can really get a killer running workout with these snowshoes. I ran on mostly-packed trails with a few inches of new snow and they performed just dandy. Should you be breaking trail, you won't be doing much running in these. The Good
- Extremely-light and efficient
- Binding system is optimized for running
- Bindings are comfortable and easy-to-cinch
- One of the few running-specific snowshoes on the market
- Running-specific design makes them a less ideal for hiking
- Need to find the right trail conditions to actually run in these
- A lot of snow will fly around behind as you run, so zip all pockets, etc.
Bottom Line: Atlas Run Snowshoes
Running-specific snowshoes are a rare breed, but the Atlas Run snowshoes are fun and efficient if you can find the right type of trail conditions in your area. Buy Now: Search for Atlas Snowshoes... Read more...
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North Face Refraxion Jacket Review
It's Spring and that means cool mornings and variable, but warming weather--perfect for the new North Face Refraxion Jacket. This athletic jacket will shed wind and inclement weather while maintaining excellent breathability for mountain biking, trail running, snowshoeing or other aerobic activity. The fit of the Refraxion Jacket is listed as "peformance" fit, but the body of the jacket is still a tad baggy, I think. It leaves extra room for a vest underneath, but when worn alone, it could be trimmed down just a tad. The sleeves, however are just the right fit--not too slim and not too baggy. I really appreciate the overall feel of this jacket and its ability to breathe under pressure. It sheds moisture very well (thanks to the DWR treatment) and keeps the chilly winds at bay. Single-pull drawcords at the hips quickly cinch the jacket at the waist for improved fit and weather protection on the go. I ran with the Refraxion Jacket on cold, snowy days as well as windy days and found it to perform very well. The stretch side panels add to the overall comfort of the design and in a pinch, the simple Roll-N-Tie system really came in handy as I tied the jacket around my waist. The Good
- Comfortable, capable running jacket
- Sheds wind and water very well
- Can even work in the snow with a fleece vest underneath
- Collar is the perfect diameter and height
- Stretch panels add to the comfort
- Zips into itself
- Simple Roll-N-Tie system does come in handy
- Body fit could be a little more streamlined
- Stretchy underarm panels do tend to hold body odor
Bottom Line: The North Face Refraxion Jacket
Definitely a solid performer for running or other athletic pursuits when you want good wind protection and protection from inclement weather. Buy Now: The North Face Mens' Refraxion Jacket - Women's... Read more...
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Scott T2 Pro Triathlon Shoes
I've been checking out the new T2 triathlon shoes from Scott recently, who has been upping their game on a regular basis lately. The shoe appears to have a revolutionary new heel cup that clips and unclips to speed transitions -- for the triathlete focused on shaving wasted seconds from their time. On top of that, Scott says that the shoe has a sole profile designed specifically for triathlete runners, and favored by heroes like the famed pro athlete Normann Stadler. I'll reserve judgment until I can get myself into a pair and bring you a proper review. But here's what Scott says about the T2 line (which includes the Scott T2 Pro and the Scott T2C):
"Designed specifically to be the fastest triathlon running shoe. Ergologic Ride ™ midsole allows faster running by reducing energy loss and by increasing the transition speed from midstance to toe-off. Quick Entry System™ allows for the fastest transitions with perfect fit and prerace adjustment. See the whole story of this sophisticated Scott footwear project, including IRONMAN Superstar Normann Stadler."BUY NOW: Click here to search for Scott gear.... Read more...
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La Sportiva Crossover GTX Trail Runners – Coming Fall 2010
A stop in with my friends at La Sportiva while at Outdoor Retailer yielded a sighting of a really cool new Winter trail runner, the Crossover GTX. Built on the awesome Crosslite platform, the new Crossover GTX is well, Gore-Tex and comes with a built-in 4-way stretch upper gaiter. While this short gaiter may not replace full-size gaiters for all conditions, it will do a great job for most winter trails. It's hard to beat the traction and capability of the Crosslite (read my review), but adding Gore and a small gaiter makes these trail runners truly unique for Winter training. Available Fall 2010, the Crossover GTX will retail for $150. Buy Now: Search for La Sportiva Trail Running Shoes...
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Moving Comfort Endurance Skort
I like to run. Lots. I usually run about 50 miles a week, more if I have time to squeeze in longer runs between school and work. I have one ancient pair of fraying hot pink running shorts that I run in, every day. Snow, rain, sun... Doesn't matter. I've always hit the trails in my awful hot pink shorts. So when Moving Comfort approached me and asked me to test their Endurance Skort, a running skirt, I was a little hesitant, for a few different reasons. First, how could I possibly leave my hot pink shorts behind? They've seen me through hundreds of runs. I felt like I was betraying my best friend... Second, it's a skirt! Why would I run in a skirt? This was my first question for Moving Comfort- if my shorts function just fine, why in the world would I need to run in a skirt? After getting the run down (no pun intended, haha!), I decided to give them a try. Moving Comfort claims that running in a skort is more comfortable than running in shorts. Running shorts ride up, wedge themselves in unsightly places, and if you've got a pair with that built in mesh liner, you know you've spent part of your run digging that thing out of the same aforementioned unsightly place. The principle behind the skort is that there's a thin, spandex short underneath the skirt, functioning as a liner that doesn't work its way upwards as you run. Then, the skort on top serves two purposes: 1. To cover up those thin spandex shorts and 2. To look stylish while doing it.
Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: Features
- Boy Shorts: I suppose you could look at it as the "business" end of the skort: they wick away moisture, provide compression, and come with a "crotch gussett" (read- built-in underwear in the shorts). Since they're made of a very thin material, you don't have excess material rubbing anywhere while you run.
- Wrap Around Skirt: The "party" end of the the skort. This layer covers the compression shorts and provides that little bit of style the Endurance Skort is known for. The skirt has a slit in the front and darts in the back to really allow it to move with you.
- Internal key pocket
- Non-rolling elastic waistband with a drawstring, so you can really adjust the skort to fit you.
Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: The Numbers
- Comes in sizes XS-2X. I'm normally a size small in shorts, and this was consistent with Moving Comfort's products: I wear a size small skort. True to size!
- Boy short inseam = 3 inches.
- Skirt inseam = 13.5 inches
- Cost = $42.00
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Cycling-to-skiing cross over jerseys – am I missing the point?
I've got some central pieces of clothing that keep surfacing - no matter the season, no matter the sport. One of those is a Pearl Izumi Optik Jacket which I use for biking, running, and even backcountry ski touring. But what I don't see is why so many companies make so many niche-focused pieces for each of those individual sports, when they all seem to require similar performance. Lightweight, compact, breathable, warm. So...why isn't someone making something billed as a cycling-to-skiing crossover mid layer? Sure, a bike jersey or jacket might require a shorter cut in front than a ski jacket. Same with climbing (I learned that the hard way when I bought a Mountain Hardwear climbing jacket for skiing, and the front always rode up above my belt buckle). But I think having a form-skimming thermal cycling jacket that's a little long in the front is a small price to pay to make it worthy of skiing cross over. So this year I'm looking for a great versatile base-to-mid layer for ski touring, trail running, and even a bit of cold weather cycling. I want it to be bright-colored for when I'm in avalanche country. And I keep coming back to cold-weather cycling jerseys and jackets as my best options. Check out the Forza Thermal Jacket, or the Capo Atlas Thermal Jacket, or even this cycling jacket by Castelli. Maybe I'm just uninformed, but for now I'm thinking that cycling gear is the first place to look for versatile base and mid layer items. So that's where I'll keep searching. And to all you clothing manufacturers out there -- if you have some mid-layer jackets and such that are designed to be crossover items for multiple sports, let me know! Sorry if I'm just missing them....
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Merrell Fury Shorts Review
Compared to my GoLite running shorts, these are like basketball shorts, but in reality, they are the perfect length for all-around use. No need to feel uncomfortable hanging out post-run while wearing these because their casual cut hides the excellent function of these shorts. Built with 100% microfiber with just enough stretch to keep things comfortable and to ease freedom of movement. On top of that, the full mesh side panel that goes up each side and along the bottom of the waistband increases both flexibility and breathability. At pace, you can feel the air movement--perfect for hot days on the trail. I used these exclusively for trail running and found them to work very well for that purpose. I appreciate that these shorts are full-featured with usable front pockets and a rear pocket. While they aren't the most lightweight shorts (minimalists will scoff), they are highly-functional and versatile. The inner liner is one of the more supportive I've worn. In concert with the Ex Officio Give-n-go Boxers, these shorts fit well and the liner added just the right amount of support in the man area. Just a couple of minor gripes on these shorts. The fabric now has a handful of snags from trail-intruding scrub oak branches and other trailside brush--nothing major, but they could be a little more snag-resistant. For me, the drawstring waistband is useless since the drawstring just keeps pulling back into the waistband. Luckily, the size large shorts fit my 33 in. waist perfectly, so it was really not a big deal. Good Fury
- The perfect length... not too short... not too long
- Excellent side vents to keep things cool
- Usable pockets all around
- Supportive inner liner
- String in waistband always pulls back into the waistband
- Fabric could be a bit more snag-resistant
The Bottom Line: Merrell Fury Running Shorts
With just the right length and plenty of ventilation, the Merrell Fury shorts are a great mix of road and trail performance for everyday runners. Purists will scoff at the lack of upper thigh exposure, but everyone else will appreciate the fit and style of these shorts. Buy Now: Search for Merrell Shorts... Read more...
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CamelBak Delaney Plus Bottle Belt
As the weather cools back down in Salt Lake City, I've been trying to get out and run more. When it's in the mid nineties, I am less inclined to go on a 3 hour run, and the dog is not psyched at all about running in that kind of heat. However, now that it's cooler, I've had the chance to get out a few times a week for some longer runs, and used my CamelBak Delaney Plus Bottle Belt each time. Not going to lie, when the CamelBak Rep first showed me the belt at the Outdoor Retailer Show, I was a bit skeptical. In my mind, it was a glorified fanny pack. I felt like I needed leg warmers, a scrunchie and an oversized sweatshirt to wear it with. However, CamelBak really does seem to know what they're doing when it comes to hydration, so I figured I would give it a shot. After a few short runs and several longer ones, I'm sold. The Delaney Plus is perfect for those runs when you need water and a small snack but nothing else. The belt is so well designed that you forget it's there until you need to pound that Gu and chase it with some H20.
Sweet Features of the Delaney Plus
- 2 pockets allow for enough space for a hat, gloves, and a few Clif Bars and your keys. one thing to beware of- one of the pockets is mesh, so don't toss anything that is super sensitive to water in that one. I went out last week for a run in the snow, and came back with a soaked cell phone. Whoops.
- Breathable mesh backing allows for maximum ventilation against your skin as you run.
- Dual strap adjustment lets you truly customize the fit, and buckles sit in unobtrusive places near your hips.
- Elastic bungee on outside of bottle holder allows you to cinch the bottle down, and you can also toss a lightweight jacket into the cords if you chose to shed a layer when you're crankin' out that uphill section.
- Comes with a squeezable CamelBak Podium Bottle
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Moving Comfort Alexis Sports Bra
At the Outdoor Retailer Show this past summer, I met with some great ladies at Moving Comfort, a women's specific clothing brand most known for their great Sports Bras. They've designed their lines around cup size, so you size yourself the same way you'd size a regular bra- both by cup size and by chest size. They've also spent a lot of time developing high impact sport bras for those lucky ladies on the larger side- instead of just making the C/D bra a bigger version of the A/B bra, they've actually designed the larger cup size differently, with more support in crucial locations. To preface my review, I feel like I should give you a bit of information about me, size wise and activity wise. Let's just say that when I sat down to meet with Moving Comfort, they looked at me, and then proceeded to ask who as actually going to be testing and reviewing the product, as their bras were intended for women with "a fuller chest" than me. After I informed them that I was, in fact, the one who would be trying out their product, they steered me in the direction of one of their most versatile sports bras for those on the "smaller" side- the Alexis. I am an avid trail runner, cyclist and mountain biker, so these were the activities the ladies kept in mind when choosing the Alexis for me- high impact. While I only tried the Alexis due to size limitations, Moving Comfort has several great lines of products like their Fiona Bra, which is a Sports Bra specific for high impact activities for those of you in the C-DD range, or the Dori Bra, a hook and eye closure racer back bra aimed at the B/C range. Be sure to give those a shot if you're looking for great support in the larger cup size ranges. For now though, here's my impression of the Alexis Bra.
Alexis Sports Bra- The Good
- "Smoosh" free design- The Alexis comes with padded cups integrated into the bra, and an overall shape to it. This provides support in a similar way to a normal bra, as opposed to just smashing the girls closer to your body and hoping they don't move.
- Skinny straps- Nothing digging into your shoulders as you move.
- Back mesh panel- allows for great ventilation
- Moving comfort products are the #1 selling apparel product (pants, jackets, shorts, you name it) in running stores nation wide. They're onto something for that high impact support category!
Alexis Sports Bra- The Bad
- Even in the smaller size, the padded cups really were overkill for someone of A/B cup size. Definitely made for a "smoosh" free experience, as Moving Comfort advertises, but I felt that compared to my usual preference of a seamless, padding free bra, I was hauling around a lot of extra material for a lot of support that I didn't really need.
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North Face Trail Runners – New Styles & Logo for 2010
Facing stiff competition in the trail running market, The North Face is stepping up their product offering and styling for their Spring 2010 trail running lineup. One notable change throughout is the new swooshy waterfall logo treatment on the side of every shoe. Gone is the subtle red square in favor of a swooshy thing--not sure how I feel about that, but the brand experts must have weighed in and spoken. Refinements and/or new trail running shoes in the Spring line include the following: North Face Singletrack North Face Fire Road II North Face Devil's Thumb GTX North Face Sentinel Boa I don't have much detail on these shoes, but what do you think about the new styling? Good, bad, indifferent? Buy Now: Search for North Face Trail Running Shoes...
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New Balance 875 Trail Running Shoes Review
It has been nice to slip back into a pair of New Balance shoes. It's been several years, but my feet haven't forgotten how well The Big N's feel. I've now had the 875's on-trail for several weeks and about 50 miles of mixed trail and pavement (80/20 split), so it's time to spill the beans. The 875's have been super-comfortable for my feet from the outset. I simply slipped a pair of standard Sole footbeds inside and never looked back. A full day of walking the halls of Outdoor Retailer followed by miles of demanding trails in American Fork Canyon has shown the versatility of the 875's in the all-around competition. Construction of the 875's is solid with huge vents on either side of the forefoot, which act like wind-tunnels expelling midsummer moisture. My feet are always hot, but these shoes run comfortably at high temperatures. My sock of choice has and typically always is the Lorpen Ultralight, but I also wore a pair Bridgedale X-Hale Speed Demon socks during the course of the review. Both socks worked well, but I always prefer the minimalistic design of the Lorpen's. On rugged and rough trails, the Rock Stop forefoot protection in combination with Abzorb cushioning is superb. Honestly, this is the best trail running chassis I've worn this year. I feel like I've got enough protection to run all day in the rocky terrain so common to Utah without fear of bruising. My favorite feature of these shoes is the Lockdown Liner. Just as the name suggests... it locks down your foot for a precise and predictable feel on all terrain. This is definitely a unique system that puts the fit over the top. Traction throughout the stride is solid and confidence-inspiring-except for extreme toe-off where the minimal toe treads lose traction on occasion. The Good
- Fit is true-to-size (Men's 10)
- Excellent breathability
- Comfort right out of the box
- Smooth on/off road
- Top-notch trail protection with Rockstop plates
- Ribbed laces eliminate need for double-knots
- Huge side vents keep feet cool
- Abzorb cushioning offers just the right comfort
- Not for wet weather or stream crossing
- Toe-off treads could provide more traction
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Saucony Guide TR-2 – Quick Review
I got to scope the Saucony Guide TR-2 at Outdoor Retailer and have been wearing them for a couple weeks. So far I have been liking the 'walking on clouds' feel and the loud Godzilla green design. Everyone I have talked to about Saucony always rave about their comfort and quality. Now it's my turn to give them a test drive. Guide TR-2 Breakdown The Guide TR-2 is unique by catering to on and off road conditions. Unless you live in a cabin and can hit the trail at the drop of a hat, you may want to consider a hybrid like the Guide. I think this shoe would be great for recreational runners who want to keep up their running skills on the road and trail. The Guide TR-2 offers ProGrid technology which is meant to absorb impact and to give your feet a smooth transition. A Dual Density EVA is going to increase response and more importantly durability. That way your not having to buy as many shoes saving you green. From other shoes I have been wearing this summer I can already tell the Guide TR-2 is a bit bulkier but with that comes a lot of stability and comfort. The padding on the tongue is quite generous as is the sides of the shoe. The toe box has more room than other trail runners I have noticed. The tread is multi-directional which is meant to decrease slippage on rocks. So instead of having to wear knee pads, the Guide TR-2 has you covered. Hopefully. I look forward to trying out this gaiter compatible antimicrobial trail runner hybrid over the coming weeks. Stay tuned for my final review. In the mean time, check out Saucony shoes and apparel....
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New Balance 876 and 100 Trail Running Shoes
At Outdoor Retailer, I stopped in at the New Balance booth to get a rundown of the latest trail runners. As one of the staples of the trail running market, New Balance will offer two updated styles: The 876 (replacing the current 875) comes out in Jan/Feb 2010 and the race flat 100 comes out in Oct 2009.
New Balance 876 Trail Running Shoe
The New Balance 876 features an all-new design from top-to-bottom featuring a debris-free tongue design, Absorb cushioning, N-lock heel and an entirely new, lower-profile tread pattern. As you can see in the 2nd picture, the tread pattern has been drastically changed for the better (top is new 876 and bottom is current 875). Tipping the scales around 20 oz./pair, the new 876 looks to be a solid everyday trainer for warm weather. MSRP will be $99.95.New Balance 100 Racing Flat
The New Balance 100 is a race flat with a few really cool innovations. While it's not as low-profile as some race flats, it appears to provide just enough cushioning and support for longer races (hence the 100 name for 100-mile endurance races). It does feature a Rockstop Plate and is built to wear with or without socks--all in a svelte 7.7 oz (each) package. MSRP will be $74.95. Buy Now: Search for New Balance... Read more...
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Oboz Ignition Trail Running Shoe – Gear Review
I have been trying out the Oboz Ignition trail runner along with the END Stumptown 10 and 8.5 these past couple months. My opinion about trail running is if your going to go, get far and get dirty. Trail running provides the chance to get away from the mundane neighborhood loop. There are a lot of choices out there for trail runners and hopefully I can relay some knowledge to keep your feet happy on the trail. About Oboz Footwear Pronounced "Oh!-Boze", this Bozeman company uses the saying 'True to the Trail' as a motivation to provide solid footwear for your outdoor demise. Their philosophy is make time for getting outdoors despite the whirling time suckers that consume us and strive to minimize our carbon footprint. I'm looking forward to calling up their number to compliment them on their shoes and listen to their recent bike ride story. Nice to see a company run by people who can relate to their audience. FYI - Oboz has commited to planting a tree for every pair sold. The Oboz Fit After using the Ignition for a couple 4 mile runs I couldn't describe how the shoe formed around my foot. Later I found the technology is called the Radial Fit System which fits perfect to how it feels. Some shoes I have worn in the past do a good job wrenching a gripping fit around the arch but can cause soreness after a while. The Oboz have a good stable fit without cutting blood to the toes. The rocker in the Ignition is a bit more aggressive than I have seen in other runners. The rocker made it nice for uphill jaunts keeping my toes higher than I am use to. The heel cup is also more snug and stable than other shoes I have tried. I telemark in the winter so believe me when I say, "I hate heel lift". The TPU cup and plate work together to protect your feet from rocks while maintaining stability. The toe box is fairly wide which I appreciated to give my toes room. I did notice a bit of a hot spot on the outside of my pinky toe after a run, but I never noticed it again. Ignition Material The leathery upper is key for those wet muddy days. I also think the leather helps preserve the toe bend area. I have had shoes wear out very quickly because that area was just made with mesh. I can tell Oboz paid close attention to detail for common complaints with trail shoes. The Z-Grip rubber has a lot of bang without the bulk. Compared to the END trail runners, the Oboz sole is definitely a lot heavier but with that comes more stability than the END line. It is up to the runner really, if your ankles can compensate for the stability than END is a good choice. Personally it was a toss up because running in the Oboz really doesn't require extra thought on how stride or place your feet. The Z-Grip is grippier than a rubber glove in the ER. All-around Use Who doesn't show of their new trail runner at dinner? The no tongue design isn't ideal for everyday use. I don't normally care for the slip-on style footwear, but once it's on, you're set for a stellar run. The benefit of this shoe is you can leave it on after a run so really you could probably shower and sleep with them until snow falls. The Ignition was also comfortable for a backpacking trip I recently did, once again that sole is plenty stable. Bottom Line The 27oz. Ignition may seem a lot heavier than an END shoe but don't let weight be your boss. The breathability works well in wet conditions and would be a great stable addition to your trail runner quiver. BUY NOW: Get the Best Price on Oboz Footwear ...
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10 Things I Never Go Outside Without
This past weekend, I headed down to Moab for my last multi-sport weekend before it gets way too hot down there. I grabbed my climbing gear and my road bike and headed south with the intention of some cragging on Potash Road and a ride through Canyonlands National Park. After a sweet day of biking, my partner in adventure suggested something a bit more exciting than the Potash crag- Ancient Arts, a well-known tower in the Fisher Towers area outside Moab. Looking at my gear, I was never so happy to see my “Oh S#!t” kit packed inside my duffel. This little orange stuff sack and its contents come with me EVERYWHERE, including on multipitch climbs. Knowing that I had my little kit with me, I transitioned my day from a day at the crag to my first day of desert tower climbing. I thought I’d offer you some insight into what I bring with me any time I go outside, and why I chose the products I do. Much like the Boy Scouts “10 essentials,” this kit is what I consider my essentials any time I go outside. Do I use every part every time? Nope. Have I been SUPER psyched to have it with me on a few specific occasions? Absolutely. For all the products that our vendors carry, I’ve included a link to a more detailed review. Be sure to give it a click and check out specifics for each product. 1. Granite Gear Air Bag: Keeps all the below items with me! Lightest stuff sack I've been able to find that is still durable. 2. Purell Hand Sanitizer Wipes: Like carrying hand sanitizer with you, but with the added bonus of it being in wipe form, and no danger of it exploding all over your stuff if you change altitudes. Sanitize your hands and wipe off grime at the same time. 3. Coppertone Kids SPF 30 Stick Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen (anyone else remember that sweet song!?). To avoid getting it all over your hands before a climb, I'd use a stick form, and my fav is Coppertone Kids. It's waterproof and lasts for 6 hours. 4. Adventure Medical HeatSheet Emergency Bivvy: Super compact, and keeps you warm in a pinch. 5. Leatherman Juice Xe6 Multitool: 18 tools in one, including 1 straight knife, 1 serrated knife, screwdrivers and pliers. Great for unlocking frozen 'biners, severing cord, chopping up dinner or opening the post-climb celebratory beverage. 6. Mini Bic Lighter: Never know when you’re going to need to set something on fire! 7. Honey Stinger Energy Gel or Clif ShotBloks: Delicious! Quick energy when you really need it. Be sure to avoid that bonk! 8. 1 Luna Bar: Something with a bit more substance to snack on. 9. Charmin To Go Toilet Paper: No internal cardboard roll, just TP rolled on itself in a great tiny plastic container to keep the sand out. Great for emergency poos, nose blowings or wiping off your bloodied hands from the gnarley desert chimney you just sent. 10. Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets: If you ever end up somewhere and you’re out of water, yet have access to some source of liquid (snow, river, ice), iodine will keep you hydrated and bacteria free! (ok, there are 11 things. No one ever accused me of being good at math!) 11. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp: I never, ever, ever, ever leave without a headlamp. Even when you’re leaving at 6am. You never know what’s going to go down that is out of your control, and adding darkness to an already deteriorating situation makes it that much worse. Depending on the environment and weather forecast, I sometimes also take my Marmot Ion Windshirt, which compresses small enough to fit into my original granite gear stuff sack along with all of my other crucial materials. So, at full retail, the emergency kit I've put together costs about $80 dollars if you don't include the Leatherman (the most expensive item on my list, by far). If you're good with watching for deals, you can easily put the whole thing together for under $50, and then add the Leatherman the next time it goes on sale! The whole thing weighs about 2lbs (Leatherman also weighing the most). This way, I've got the essentials I feel I need, instead of some formulaic kit! Not too shabby for a homemade essentials kit, huh?...
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Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts Review
Lightweight and comfortable with an elastic waistband to keep things simple, the Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts have been excellent as trail running shorts. Granted, the 9" inseam is a little long for a dedicated running short, but with the stretchy softshell rear material, the extra length doesn't mean restricted movement. Even during warm-weather runs, the Journey Trail Shorts have been cool and comfortable. They are unlined, which I prefer. I used them in combination with the Ex Officio Give-n-Go boxer briefs and found them to be extremely comfortable. The two front hand pockets are deep enough to stash a wallet, Blackberry and keys with room to spare. There is also a smaller stash pocket for a single key or small MP3 player (iPod Nano fits perfectly). The simple drawstring can provide an extra measure of adjustability should you choose to cinch them down a little. I found the size medium to fit me perfectly (5'11" - 175 lbs. - 33 waist) and the length was comfortable for extended use around town without showing too much thigh (everyone but my wife appreciates that, I'm sure). The material dries quickly and these shorts are versatile enough for river trips, trail running, lounging or swimming--lots of flexibility with these. In spite of them being lightweight and comfortable, I'd like to see a few mesh vents here and there and some sort of pattern on the front. With the plain front design, they just look boring, but the lack of seams eliminated chaffing, so I suppose it's a trade-off. The Good
- Lightweight fabric is comfortable and dries quickly
- Stretchy rear fabric adds to freedom of movement
- Versatile enough for all outdoor or even casual pursuits
- Deep front mesh pockets
- Could use a mesh vent or two
- Front looks a little bland
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Marmot Ion Windshirt
The weather is a tricky thing, especially on these spring days here in Salt Lake City. One minute, it's beautiful and you're 3 pitches up Pentapitch, loving live and stoked to drop down and climb Sasquatch before you head out. Next minute, you're being pummeled by wind, freezing, and if you've got a Marmot Ion Windshirt, you're psyched! The Marmot Ion Windshirt is the lightest functional piece of clothing I own! At 4 oz (Ws size Small), you're not going to get wind and water protection any lighter. With minimalist features, this windshirt is a great piece to toss in a stuff sack and hang off your harness for multi-pitch routes, or to leave in the bottom of a pack for days at the crag. It's so light, you'll forget it's there until the storm clouds begin rolling in, or when the wind picks up just enough to make that belay uncomfortably chilly. Reach into your pack, grab your Ion, and let the fun continue. Also great for trail running!
Key Features of the Marmot Ion Windshirt
- Wind resistant and water resistant. The Ion comes with a DWR coating, so while it's not waterproof, it's certainly water resistant.
- That same DWR coating does limit breathability a bit. I actually liked my jacket a bit more after some of the DWR coating had worn off- it offered a bit more breathability, and was still wind resistant.
- Integrated hood
- 1 chest zip pocket, in case you need to stash a Gu Shot or a Cliff Bar. Other than that, no pockets, no frills. Just stripped down, minimalist wind and water protection.
- Packs down to the size of a tennis ball!
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Sea To Summit Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner Review
The Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner is smooth and sleek. The soft synthetic is a moisture managing fabric designed to get the sweat off you to keep your body theromregulated. It is an awesome plus that using Adaptor Coolmax Travel sleeping bag liner legthens the life of your sleeping bag. If you are unfamiliar with Coolmax, the fabric is awesome. It feels silky and soft, and I have never met anyone who didn’t like the feel. The Sea to Summit Adaptor is rather thin, and designed intensionally so. There is loads of versatility in this liner. If you are crashing on a friends couch, or staying in a sketchy hostel and do not want direct contact with the sheets, or to actually line the interior of your sleeping bag. The Adaptor Travel Liner is not a blanket for warm, but can add a few degrees to your sleeping bag comfort rating. It is a technical liner for moisture control, and that is where bags and any soft good loose heat first. It also takes the beating of repeated washings, so you don’t have to put your bag through it. While the liner has four season adaptability, I would recommend a thicker liner for winter conditions. I had this liner in use full time and I did not care for it in the really cold months. When I would wear wool base layers the Coolmax would get stick to my baselayers and would wake up all wrapped up. I have found the Adaptor Coolmax Travel liner truly shines in the hot and sweaty climates. Regions like the tropics where it humid is nearly impossible to sleep dry, that is challenge where the Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner rocks it. I would throw this liner in between my sheets or on the hammock in Costa Rica and it was a lifesaver. Features of the Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner:
- Lightweight (9 oz)
- Quick drying, moisture regulating fabric
- Comes with its own stuff sack
- Preserves your sleeping bag, making the beating of funk and washing
- One color: blue
- Same cut as a mummy sleeping bag
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La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe
As promised when I wrote my quick review of the La Sportiva Women's Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes, I have put several miles on them and can now provide you with a more extensive review! To get the basic specs and review of the general info about the shoe, check back in on my quick review. First, lets talk about when this shoe excels. After running these in a variety of conditions for a variety of lengths, the Wildcat seems to have one area of expertise- short runs with relatively level ground. If you're heading out for a 45 minute run up the foothills on your lunch break at work, up a well beaten path, these shoes are awesome. So lightweight that you can barely feel them on your feet, they're idea for short runs where you're looking to move fast and save weight. They're my first choice shoe for my lunch break runs, or late evening jogs up on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Now, let's talk about when this shoe would not be my first shoe of choice. While the rubber and traction provided by the sole are grippy, the shoe itself does not offer enough support for more varied terrain. If you're stepping on or over rocks larger than a grapefruit, the Wildcat's lightweight mesh doesn't seem to provide quite what your feet will need to have a great run. The same holds true for long runs (in my case, anything over an hour and a half). I reach for a more supportive shoe when I'm out for my longer days. Thought I'm sacrificing the lightweight advantage that the Wildcat's provide, my choice is more support. After running in the shoes for a while, the soles are still holding up great. Mud, dirt, trail and a bit of pavement, these shoes have seen a lot in the past few months. Since I've had them, I've logged about 100 hours in them, and they're still holding up great. Overall, I have only 1 gripe with the shoe: No pull tab on the back for easy on and off. I'm constantly crushing my fingers or the back of the shoe in an attempt to get them on. The integrated tongue makes it a bit more snug of a fit, and with that added snugness, getting them on without a pull tab is a bit of a chore. Bottom line: La Sportiva has made a great lightweight trail running (oh, excuse me, mountain running) shoe that excels for shorter runs on well established trails. They stay in my truck as my lunch break running partner! Buy Now! La Sportiva Women's Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe...
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END Stumptown 10oz Trail Running shoes
I love to run. I'm no Karl Meltzer but trail running cleanses my soul. No need to rough it with uncomfortable kicks. After using a Vasque and Teva trail runners I was about to give up my dirty hobby. I stumbled across END footwear and have been sporting the 10oz Stumptown for a month now. Hang on to your socks folks.
Who is END?
END stands for Environmentally Neutral Design which they accomplish by using recycled materials for their shoes, shoe boxes, and even their trade show booths. Check the attached video to see how they re-use materials to make their shoes sustainable. Out of Portland, Oregon, END has a strong passion not only for the environment but also for a tough pair of shoes. When I first put on the Stumptown it felt like a jacket for my foot. The thin walled material is easy to slip on and it doesn't matter if you have a wide or narrow foot. The Seamsmart nylon material compensates for either one. The heel is a bit thicker then most shoes I have tried helping absorb shock.Is it even a shoe?
No clunkiness. No resistance. No kidding. When I wear the 10oz Stumptown I'm not wearing shoes. The only way I can describe them is a burly sock. My feet usually get overheated when I run, but not with END shoes. On colder days it almost feels like my feet get wet, but it's just the sweat cooling off my feet. The absolute mind boggler is the material keeps your feet clean and dry. I was told I could run through mud and not have problems. Absolutely correct. Mud, snow, and water sheds off the waterproof material with no problems.END Fit
The toe box is smaller than my Oboz Igniitions but with the material being as flexible as it is I didn't have any issues. I would also size down a half size, I normally wear a 10.5 but the 10's fit perfect. To achieve a minimalist design the rear doesn't cradle your heel like other shoes. It does feel a little small as if your heel grew a half inch. It takes a little adjustment but it feels really secure after a while. The 10oz has a bit more material reinforcement on the sides of the foot where the 8.5oz is a true minimalist shoe. I can't wait to try on the 12oz, from trying the 10oz and the 8.5oz I think the 12oz would make a good light backpacker.Parting Thoughts
I wonder if I could send my old shoes to END to make me a pair of new Stumptowns? They are doing their part, I should do mine. The comfort and quality had me at 'hello' and the price tag of $75 is hard to compete with. Lace em' up: The END 10oz Stumptown trail running shoe.... Read more...
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Asolo Outrider and Prolix XCR Trail Running Shoes
Ahh... the shoulder season between Winter and Spring. It's a time when the trails aren't quite dry enough for mountain biking, so trail running fills the void between backcountry ski tours and singletrack adventures. This year, I've got a handful of excellent trail running shoes and lightweight hikers to flog in the Wasatch Mountains. Asolo has long been building high-quality hiking and mountaineering boots, but in addition, they have a solid trail running shoe lineup that consists of eight models. Some models include Gore-tex liners and other don't. They all share a common Propulsion outsole and tread pattern, but differ in the support and breathability of the uppers. From Asolo's Web site, here's a little more info on the Propulsion technology (see image at right):
The Propulsion sole is made of thermoset Eva rubber for maximum lightness. A central element located between the sole and the heel gives extra stability to the structure, in order to offer torsional rigidity. The sole protection is granted by a second element in thermoplastic polyurethane, positioned between the heel and the outsole. This element can be also seen from the outside. The main features of the rubber outsole are the innovative Aso brake and Aso Propel systems which guarantee maximum support going down and up respectively. The radial design and the strategic positioning of the various elements maximizes grip on all types of terrain.From the Asolo lineup, I've got two models in-hand and will be performing detailed reviews to be posted on FeedTheHabit.com.
Asolo Outrider Trail Running Shoes
Built with lots of mesh and welded outer support skeleton, the Outriders offer ample breathability and excellent overall support. The medium-profile outsole tread is widely-spaced to shed dirt but designed for both traction and braking. The lacing system offers uniform pulling for easy adjustments. The Propulsion system offers excellent cushioning and protection. The Outrider is available in three colors with an MSRP of $90.Asolo Prolix XCR Trail Running Shoes
Also built on the Propulsion lowers, the Prolix XCR is built for wet adventures with extra lateral support just for good measure. The outer wing system wraps the forefoot for maximum support while keeping your foot on lock-down. If you need waterproof trail runners, the Prolix XCR with 3-layer Gore-tex look like great options. The Prolix XCR is available in three colors with an MSRP of $125. Buy Now: Search for Asolo Trail Running Shoes
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GoMotion Lighting Systems- Quick Review
Not to beat a dead horse, but grad school really does suck away a lot of my time. Due to this, a lot of my current recreating occurs in the wee hours of the morning (i.e 4:30am dawn patrol skiing) or late hours of the night (10pm trail runs). Because of my current schedule, I was psyched to meet with GoMotion at the Outdoor Retailer show, a company specializing in lighting packs and belts for trail runners, hikers, and skiers. GoMotion's tag line of "Extend the Day," caught my eye immediately. Clearly, this is what I need to do! Started by Jonathan Craig and Bob Hunnewell, a pair of Boston-based runners who were tired of post-work runs being lit by bouncing headlamps and reflective vests, GoMotion products are aimed at safely and effectively lighting your path. GoMotion boasts products such as the SportRunner Lite Belt, a waist belt with an integrated lamp to light your way without having to follow a bouncing headlamp path as you are running. They also make small packs, both with integrated lighting systems across the sternum strap in front and a flashing safety light in back. Look for a more extensive review of the TrailRunner LiteVest in a few months after I've had more time to run with it. A 1 liter hydration compatible pack with space for a snack and the integrated lighting sternum strap, the TrailRunner LiteVest looks like it might be my solution for late night runs. Check out the whole GoMotion Product Line...
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La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes
While I was at the OR show, I also had a really neat meeting with La Sportiva, learning about all the new products they will be releasing within the next 6 months or so. Out now, and of great interest to me as an avid trail runner (or, as La Sportiva would call me, a "Mountain Runner,") is the Women's Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe. The Wildcats look like a great cushioned trail runner. An entire mesh upper will offer great breathability and an integrated tongue will keep the rocks and crud out of your feet as you're cruising up rocky trails. The soles of these shoes look like they're in it for the long haul; aggressive enough to give you the traction you need yet burly enough to last you more than 3 runs before you've worn them down to nothing. I just picked these guys up last week, so I've yet to have the opportunity to really give them a beating, but here's the basic specs for now. Look for an update in a few months when I've had the chance to put some mileage on them. Also, be sure to check out Jason's impressions of the Men's Wildcat. La Sportiva Women's Wildcat Shoes
- Sizes: 36-43 with half sizes available.
- Width: Medium
- Colors: Grey/Mint and Grey/Plum
- Price: $100
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La Sportiva Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes
Trail runners to the rest of us, but La Sportiva has coined the phrase "Mountain Running" for their trail running shoes. The all-new La Sportiva Wildcat trail runners are built for long training runs with excellent breathability, stability and traction in mind. The entire upper is built from a combination of a mesh outer and a soft wicking liner with strategically-placed materials along the lower edges to improve water and abrasion resistance. With a built-in scree-guard tongue and a reinforced heel cup, these shoes mean business. Traction is second-to-none with the Impact Brake System and Frixion sole. I've been surprised thus far with how well these grip in all conditions thus far. One interesting thing about these shoes is they feel a little ramped, which seems to facilitate a natural rolling motion--I like it. I've only had these shoes for a day, so long-term thoughts will be posted later. Here are the specs on the La Sportiva Wildcat:
- Breathable mesh uppers
- Impact Braking System
- Frixion outsole
- TPU stabilizing heel
- Wildcat GTX (Gore-tex) available Fall 09
- Colors: Grey/Green or Grey/Yellow
- Weight: 12.1 oz each
- Price: $100
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New Runners from Avia: Avi-Bolt II and Avi Stoltz
Looks like Avia is continuing to push the limits of their running shoe lineup with a couple of new treads. Both the Avi-Bolt II racing flats and Avi Stoltz trail runners are new for 2009 and were built under the direction of the three-time XTERRA World Champion, Conrad Stoltz. With direction from "the man" combined with the valuable feedback from the entire Avia XTERRA team, these two new shoes should hit the mark. Here's a little more info on each shoe.
About the 2009 Avia Avi Stoltz
The launch of the new AVI-STOLTZ is the first-ever XTERRA specific racing shoe in the AVIA collection. The non-traditional trail running shoe can handle all the rigors of off-road racing, is triathlon friendly and race ready. The AVI-STOLTZ features ESS-ROCKSTEADY PLATE technology which provides flexibility while preventing injury from uneven surfaces, an aggressive outsole and traction design for efficient sand running, and superior stability, cushioning and shock absorption. The one-of-a-kind shoe also boasts a gusseted tongue and breathable air mesh upper with protective monofilament top layer to keep the grit out while stretch tabs expedite foot entry.About the 2009 Avia Avi-Bolt II
This high-performance racing flat, also co-developed by Stoltz, comes equipped with a lightweight air mesh upper and compression molded lightweight EVA midsole. AVIA’s CANTILEVER technology in the heel works to soften impact, stabilize the heel and provide increased energy return. Additionally, DURA-RYD in the heel strike area provides superior cushioning while DURA-STRYK high-abrasion carbon rubber increases outsole durability. The AVI-GRIP quick entry system helps expedite foot entry while a speed lacing design allows for faster transitions. Both the AVI-STOLTZ and AVI-BOLT II will be available for men and women beginning April 2009 with a retail price of $110 and $100 respectively. More Info: Visit Avia.com... Read more...
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Salomon XA Pro 3D ULTRA Trail Running Shoes – Gear Review
The Salomon XA Pro 3D ULTRA Trail Running shoe is my new favorite everyday shoe. That doesn't mean it doesn't have serious trail running chops --- its lacing system, its light weight and its stellar fit all ensure that. But I think that the sole isn't as viciously grippy as a trail runner should be, and I think it sacrifices cushion for lighter weight. If they could fix those two things, I'd be stoked. Let's start with the positives: - It is very cool looking -- sleek black, with a few gray and white highlights. Not dorky at all -- that's why it's my favorite new hanging out shoe. This Salomon shoe is also available in black + yellow, and in a GTX version (Gore-Tex). - The fit is perfect for my average arch, average instep, average heel cup. Also -- lots of trail runners I have been testing lately have a toe box that is waaaay too boxy. The Salomon XA Pro 3D trail running shoe has a low toe box (not so much space above the toe). I usually wear a size 10 in most non-athletic shoes, and 9.5 in athletic shoes (except for Nike, which I have to wear size 10 because of how narrow Nike tends to run). These Salomons are a size 9, and I can wear them comfortably with thin Pearl Izumi ankle socks -- the fit hugs well, without hot spots. But if I were to want to wear cushioned socks with these shoes, I would get the Salomons in a 9.5 just like my other athletic shoes. - However, even with the fitted toe box it still has a good, sturdy rubber toe cap to save your big toe nail from getting crushed when you stub it full-speed into a rock or a root. - Salomon's asymmetrical Quicklace system takes a minute to figure out, but once you do you will love it. It has a solid (not stretchy) lace that pulls through several hard plastic loops (for smooth pulling) and secures tightly like a Boa system does, but without the bulk or over-engineering. See attached pics... - The tongue of the Salomon X3 Pro 3D ULTRA shoe has a small pocket to hide the Quicklace bracket, so that you do NOT have any laces flopping around while you run. I LOVE this sleek lacing design. - The Salomon X3 Pro 3D ULTRA is light weight. Couple that with a sleek design and secure fit (not sloppy) and I've found my favorite everyday shoe. A couple of drawbacks: - The heel cushioning seems marginal -- just EVA. I wish there were some sort of gel or air or something, as long as it doesn't lose it's secure fit or become bouncy. - The sole is not very grippy. If you do a lot of trail running, then you'll want something with real teeth on the sole, like the Vasque Celerator which has one of the best outsoles of any trail runner I've tried. BUY NOW: Click here to buy the Salomon XA Pro 3D ULTRA Trail Running Shoe. ...
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The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Hiking Shoes
I tried something new! I branched out from my usual Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX XCR trail runners, and bought a pair of The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Hiking Shoes to test along side my tried and true Salomons. With grippy vibram soles and an antimicrobial footbed, I figured this trail runner/hiker would fit my needs (read- I want dry and stink-free feet!).
Hedgehog Stats- Get the Skinny
- Gusseted tongue keeps rock and snow from sneaking in as you're runnin them into the ground!
- Hedgehog is sturdy enough to use as a regular hiking shoe as well as a trail runner. Great versatility.
- Vibram soles are great and tred is perfect for variable terrain. Soles on these hikers definitely surpass those on the Salomon in terms of grip and ability to handle terrain changes.
Hedgehog Stats- Sizing Info
- The North Face shoes seem to run a bit wide. After running in mine for a few days, I had to go back to my Salomons. The toe box would be perfect for someone with a wide foot at the front and a slightly narrower heel. My foot is narrow all over, and they just weren't going to fly for me. Wide foot runners- enjoy! I'm jealous!
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Teko EcoMerino Wool Socks
Socks. We wear them every day of the year (well, except when it's Chaco season) but so many of us settle for any old sock as long as it's without holes in the toes. C'mon, treat yourself right! The 'no holes in the toes' standard of measurement is weak at best. Time to step up. I guess I'm not alone in my sentiment for socks that are above the norm as a number of new sock companies have sprung up within the past couple of years. One of them on my radar was Teko and in my effort to try a number of different socks I finally landed a pair of the Teko EcoMerino Wool socks in the low hiker/trail runner style. With a Trade Mark line of "best socks on the planet" it's hard not to scoff at the bravado but I think upon further inspection, this statement is more descriptive of the process and not just the performance. Here are some things you should know about Teko:
- Teko strives to make the highest performing product with the lowest ecological impact
- They use only low-impact environmentally friendly dies
- The package material is 100% recyclable paperboard material.
- 100% of the electricity use to make the socks is American Wind electrical power.
- They are title sponsors for Leave No Trace and other solid non-profits
Teko EcoMerino Wool Socks Review
I've probably got roughly 10 different sock brands in my sock drawer and I can unequivocally say that my pair of Teko socks are by far my favorite for trail running, hiking and all around use. I like how the middle of the sock from the arch up over the top fits snug thanks to a Lycra arch band as well as some air vents on the arch which keep my feet surprisingly cool despite warm summer trail runs. The heel and the toe box are reinforced for durability. After a little over a year of constant use, it was with some remorse that this past week I managed to get a hole in the toe box while out hiking. I must admit that it's pretty common for me to wear through socks as my toe nails seem to slice socks like butter. Most of my cycling socks only last a half a season at best. Despite a one year guarantee from Teko that I could likely take advantage of, I think I got my money worth and will gladly pick up another pair. The comfort of putting these on is well worth every dime spent! BUY: Pick up a pair of Teko EcoMerino Wool Socks for hiking or trail running and surprise your feet. Coming Soon: Look for a Teko Ski Sock review this winter as I plan on giving them a try to see how they measure up to my Lorpen's and Bridgedales.... Read more...
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Montrail Enduro Soles Custom Moldable Insoles
In the past I've done everything from Dr. Scholls, Superfeet, Surefoot Custom Thotics, cork and more. All in the name of comfort while trail running and hiking. So it was that when a friend suggested I give the new Montrail Enduro Soles a try I figured why not? Two things not really related to the performance of the soles themselves but worthy of mentioning is first, at $35 they won't break the bank to pick up a pair and second, the packaging is 100% recyclable plastic. (#1 PET) I've always wondered if the "Do It Yourself" product is really worth the risk but I think with these ones Montrail took the guessing and the margin of error out of the equation. The simple instructions are as follows:
- Warm the insoles in a conventional oven at 225 degrees for 2 minutes
- Remove insoles and immediately put them into your shoes and then put your shoes onto your feet. Stand with your full weight for 2 minutes.
- Walk around to improve the impression in the toe area.
- Voila! You're ready to run!
Performance of the Montrail Enduro Soles
So they're easy to mold, but how do they perform? After trimming the end of my soles to fit better in my Salomon XA Pro 3D Trail Runners, I was good to go. I have somewhat high arches and these insoles were spot on as far as the support I needed. They took up a bit more volume than the stock insoles (no big surprise there) but not too much to cause discomfort. When running I didn't feel like the arches collapsed but provided me with great form and comfort. I also tested them while on a two day hike in the same shoes and after covering around 12 miles over rugged ridge lines and many areas that were without trails I was sold on how comfortable they were and how my feed didn't feel fatigued. Another plus is the ample heel cushion as seen in the image above and to the right. This extra padding with the soles in my Montrail Vitesse which are known for a thick EVA cushion made for an invincible combo.Bottom Line on the Montrail Enduro Soles
- Easy instructions and easy Do It Yourself
- Great price for the quality
- Ample heel cushion with great arch support
- Lightweight and minimal volume
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Mountain Hardwear Transition Tights
Last week I had a whole week off from school, so a friend and I headed back to CO to climb a few fourteeners, a tradition 2 years in the running now. Again, as I was packing, the first thing I made sure to grab was my pair of Mountain Hardwear Transition Tights. The Transition Tights are constructed of featherweight windstopper material, which make them ideal for light and fast pushes in windy conditions. The stretch panels on the inner thighs and lower back allow the tights some give, making it very easy to bike, ski, run or scramble across ridgelines on Mt. Massive (my personal favorite use).
Mountain Hardwear Transition Tights
- No pockets design keeps tights lightweight and sleek
- Combo of softshell material and stretch panels makes for easy maneuverability
- DWR finish helps to shed snow and light rain
- Reflective patches on sides of pants make them a great city running pant
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2009 Vasque Celerator and Blur Trail Runners
I love the Brown Santa (he can do lots for me). That guy brings cheer year 'round with his brown box truck full of goodies for little girls and boys. Yesterday, he dropped off a couple of new trail runners from Vasque. The all-new Vasque Celerator and the next-generation Vasque Blur are great all-around trail shoes. I tested the old Blur extensively and found them very capable and stable for everyday trail abuse. I'm looking forward to these new treads as well as the Oboz Ignition trail runners that the Brown Santa dropped off today. To round out the list, I should have a pair of End Stumptown 12's, Avia Avi-Trail and a pair of Salomon XT Wings.
Quick Thoughts on the Vasque Celerator
Getting right to it, I took the new Celerator (MSRP $105 - Spring 09) shoes out for a 5 mile run today on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail here in Draper, UT. I'm liking them already. Nice and supportive, yet my knees are happy as can be. Breathability was superb and overall comfort was pretty good. We'll see what the next few weeks of pounding brings. I'm liking the changes to the new Blur shoes and the Celerators seem promising. Stay tuned. Celerator and Blur shoes are pictured at right. Buy Now: Search GEAR.com for Vasque Trail Running Shoes... Read more...
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Sports Science – Fabric That Works
I remember a few years ago when I first got my hands on a shirt by manufacturer Sports Science
. My instant thought was "Where's the science, this is cotton". Closer inspection and a little reading had me thinking otherwise as the product tag read, simply, "it's not cotton.".
How is that a fabric can wick like a synthetic yet feel soft like cotton? Sounds a lot like wool to me, which Sports Science is utilizing in some of it's Polywool tops, including a few built for skiers and the Raglan Long-sleeve T-Shirt (on sale as of this posting).
When I spoke with the folks at Sports Science they said that they use a special type of weave pattern to mix threads of cotton throughout the polyester. That's the science part - getting the weave right so that the cotton is evenly distributed.
How it works
Since polyester is hydrophobic and will release water if it comes in contact with it you have the ability to let go and in the case of fitness to "dry" with the polyester. Typically to get a poly fabric that will wick moisture you have to chemically treat it. Cotton on the other hand is very hydrophilic and will naturally wick moisture but won't release it as well. This is why outdoor athletes abhor cotton - it won't dry out during use. So when both materials are blended you get the best of both worlds. It's done in a 85% (poly) 15% (cotton) blend. I've used this top for running and found it to work very well. A friend of mine uses hers during workouts and has found it to be her favorite work out shirt. However, when used for extended periods of time as a base layer (I cut the sleeves off one shirt and use it as a base layer under my cycling jersey) rather than a solo layer I've found that it won't dry as well. Good Science- It actually does feel soft like cotton
- No snags like typical poly performance tops
- Keeps it's size and shape well after multiple washings
- Affordable - much more than it's wool or synthetic competition
- Won't hold smell like a poly shirt
- Doesn't dry super well during extended performance as a base layer
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Salomon Women’s XA Pro 3D XCR Shoe
I am a shoe person. Not like most women, who hoard stilettos, flats and wedges. I am an outdoor shoe person. My closet is littered with mountaineering boots, climbing shoes, chacos and the like. Hands down, my favorite pair of shoes are my Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D XCRs. Having owned not one, but 4 pairs of these shoes, I can honestly say I will never run in anything else! The lightweight GoreTex XCR material is breathable yet waterproof, the ideal combo for a shoe on the go. Having taken these shoes trail running in the Wasatch, hiking in the Tetons and climbing in Boulder Canyon, I can vouch that they make great all around shoes, not just a trail runner. From spring trail running to fall hiking, these shoes keep my feet nice and dry.
Basic Specs of the Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D XCR Shoe
- Rubber reinforced toe keeps your tootsies safe when running through varied terrain
- Speed lacing makes for easy on and off, and provides great adjustability!
- Contragrip outsole provides great traction on any surface!
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Mountain Hardwear Transition Jacket
As a first year graduate student in a clinical speech therapy program and a part time rock and ice climbing instructor, free time is not something I seem to get a lot of. However, on those rare weekends that I do have to myself, I love to pack as much adventure into a short period of time as possible. Recently, my climbing partner and I have developed a reputation as car-to-car maniacs, ascending large peaks in under 24 hours, with minimal gear and maximum speed. Among the peaks in the past year have been Mt. Rainier, Mt. Hood (both in the same 3 day period!) and The Grand Teton all in this light and fast alpine style. An absolutely crucial part of these trips for both my climbing partner and myself is our Mountain Hardwear Transition Jackets. Lightweight yet bomber, these jackets provide the essential wind protection we need without being as bulky as a regular softshell layer. A breathable windstopper softshell with stretch side panels, the MH Transition Jacket does it all. From Mt. Rainier, to cross country skiing, to on campus bike commuting in cooler temperatures, this jacket is the best breathable wind resistance I own. Another plus for late night trail runs and biking- the Transition Jacket has several small reflector swatches on the jacket and an mp3 zip pocket in the back of the jacket.
Mountain Hardwear Transition Jacket
- At 10 oz, this lightweight, slim cut jacket provides maximum usage and minimal bulk.
- Thumb hooks in sleeves ensure that jacket stays anchored down on arms, but are retractable when not necessary.
- Small, fitted hood fits great under climbing and biking helmets.
- No frills, simplistic design for front of jacket keeps zipper pulls and pockets out of the way as you are haulin' in the backcountry.
BUY NOW!: Check out the Mountain Hardwear Transition Jacket
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Fuel Belt Hydration Packs
There have been a lot of attempts at providing better and better hydration options in recent years. But most of them have to do with refining the tried-and-true CamelBak style hydration pack. There's a problem with this though, and that is that having a pack on your back in the middle of a race is suffocating. Sure, it's probably fine for an early morning trail run. But in a race? Your back would be soaked before the first mile. So if you want to stay hydrated during an endurance race, the only other option has been a fanny pack from MountainSmith or something that has slots for 2 bike-style water bottles. Those have their place, but in a competition you'll be bouncing the hips on every step! And you'll always be re-tightening the belt strap after every 10 steps. Enter Fuel Belt --- the real runner's best option to stay hydrated during an endurance race. There are other similar approaches, such as the ones by Ultimate Direction and Amphipod, but the Fuel Belt is an excellent option for the serious runner. First of all, the model of Fuel Belt I tried out is cut very trim ---- no extra straps hanging off. It is made of high-durability elastic, reinforced with welded neoprene. This makes it a snug fit (which is good -- because the less bounce the better). But beware --- this means if you are usually a 32- or 33-inch waist jean like me, you'll have a snug fit in the Medium. The Medium fits 30-33 pretty well, but not much larger than that. Go for the Large if you are 34-inches+. Another thing that reduces flapping straps is the closure --- which is simply a large & wide swath of VERY strong velcro. No snap buckle to pinch your middle over the top of a plastic buckle. The velcro is very comfortable, very secure, very lightweight and foolproof. The model of Fuel Belt I used had two 8 oz. squirt bottles in the kidney area of the belt, and a single zip pouch (for either keys, blister kit, or a few envelopes of energy gel). This is a great setup, since the bottles don't bounce on your frontside (there is a model with four 8 oz. bottles, including 2 in the front, for ultra-long endurance runs). Also, having a little spot for the keys saves you the swing-and-slap of having them in a front pocket of your shorts. The design of the bottle itself is one of the key successes of the Fuel Belt, in my opinion. By flattening the dimensions of the bottle it makes it more ergonomic, and feels more like just part of your body --- rather than an attachment. The other cool thing? I've found that those little 8 oz squeeze bottles are perfect for sliding into a laptop bag or even a ski jacket pocket. I love gear like this that can do double-duty for regular daily use, as well as performance utility for race or high-action situations. These little 8 oz. hydration bottles are great little flasks for energy drinks when you don't want to wear a pack -- though I wish there were a more secure closure for the nozzle for those kinds of uses. As I ran with the Fuel Belt I really enjoyed having hydration right at hand without the sweat of a backpack or the bounce of a fanny pack. Ideal for a race. The only trouble I had was with replacing the bottles into the kidney area of the Fuel Belt. Since the elastic straps are quite secure around the bottle, it's a little tough to fit the bottle back in while running at standard pace --- I had to reduce my cadence a bit for a moment to get it slipped back in. Once or twice I had to reach back with both hands and use one hand to hold the elastics open while slipping the bottle back in with the other. However --- whatever seconds you lose by lowering your cadence to replace the bottle will likely be regained tenfold by keeping yourself properly hydrated to keep attacking late into the race. All told, the Fuel Belt is a great hydration option for runners. But that's not all -- Fuel Belt has also made some bottles and fuel gel boxes for cyclists and other pursuits as well (see my photos at right). Check them out at FuelBelt.com. BUY NOW: Click here to check out deals on other hydration packs....
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Nike Air Structure Triax Trail Running Shoe
I've been running my old shoes way past their breaking point. They were Adidas, so they didn't have air --- which to me has always been a downfall. I like the everyday wearability of pure EVA or foam-like midsole shoes, like Adidas makes (oh sure -- they may call it Adiprene or something special, but it's really just tricked-out foam or a variation on EVA). However -- the problem with EVA or foam-ish midsole shoes is that they lose their absorption much more quickly than any other kind of midsole. EVA not so much as some cheaper foam-ish materials, but still much more quickly than an air bladder. So I've decided that I only really want to do foam/EVA midsoles if they also have an air bladder in them. Or, I could do an EVA-only midsole if I'm in a racing shoe that I want to be super-light for just a few uses until it is tossed. You may say, what's lighter than air? Well, foam or EVA is because with air you have to have a heavy plastic bladder to contain the air. Okay, then why is it that you want Nike air instead of an EVA or foam-only midsole? Because have you ever been running in an Adidas shoe for a few times & then noticed all the compression wrinkles in the midsole? That's because all the air bubbles in the foam-like material are being popped --- so pretty soon the midsole is all wrinkled and it loses all its absorption. Then your joints are just pounding the ground. I learned this the hard way. In college I ran on non-air shoes for a while and ended up with a misalignment of the patella (kneecap). It was very painful, and when I went to the orthopedist (also a runner) he asked how much I ran. I said about 50 miles per week. Then he pointed to my shoes and said, "Not in those wrinkly things I hope?!" I confirmed, and he told me there are three main things you have to balance when deciding on picking up some good running shoes for everyday use:
1) Not having air under your heel will allow your heel to drop down into the midsole a bit and give it more of a stable cup to sit in, however.. 2) That comes at a cost of more wear and tear on your joints -- so he recommended sacrificing some heel cup stability to have enduring cushioning (as long as it doesn't pop, an air bladder has just as much cushion 30 days later as when it was purchased -- whereas a foam- or EVA-style midsole will have lost a ton of absorption through wrinkling). 3) The third consideration is fit -- and though Adidas seem to have a wider forefoot which I like, it's not worth risking joint injury.Nike running shoes seem to come a bit narrower than other running shoes, and as such I usually have to purchase them a half-size larger than my skate shoes or other brands of running shoes. With some dress shoes and casual shoes I go with a 9.5 for a snug fit, but I can't do that in Nike. In Nike shoes I almost always get a 10 and it fits just as closely to the foot as a 9.5 in other shoes. It's also slightly narrower than something like an Adidas running shoe. For durability, I suppose the best combination would be a polyurethane midsole with an air bladder. But I have seen some old Nike's with polyurethane midsoles and they are way too heavy in my opinion. So I think the best is a combination foam or EVA midsole with an air bladder under at least the heel (if not the ball of the foot too). And that's the combination that the Nike Air Structure Triax has. There are also two key features of the Air Structure that I really would like to point out:
1) It has very sturdy support (harder material) under the inside portion of the heel -- so it's great for most runners, including those who tend to pronate. But beware if you supinate -- these things will pitch you out onto the outside of your heel even more. 2) Since it is not a pure road running shoe, but rather is a trail running shoe, the Nike Air Structure Triax comes with a Gore-Tex liner -- which is heavier and much less breathable than the lightweight mesh-style uppers of road running shoes such as the Nike Air Pegasus. This is great in wet or cold situations -- such as you often find when trail running. And it is also a more durable upper than more ventilated road running shoes. But I wish it came with a fabric such as eVent which is still waterproof but has much better breathability than Gore-Tex.I noticed the ventilation of the Nike Air Structure Triax to be in stark contrast to the exceptional breathability of the Vasque Aether Tech Softshell trail running shoe. Also, I preferred the BOA-style lacing of the Vasque shoe to the traditional laces of the Air Structure. But I really liked the waffle-style sole of the Air Structure, which has good grip but wide channels to clear the mud readily. All in all, the shoe is a great option for trail running if your foot can fit a Nike. If you are a particularly wide foot, you may want to look elsewhere. And because of the limited breathability, I wouldn't recommend this shoe as your summer road running shoe by any stretch. This is better as an Autumn or early-Spring trail runner. BUY NOW: Click here for the women's Nike Air Structure Triax 11. BUY NOW: Click here to check out lots of other deals on some of the best running shoes on GEAR.com. BUY NOW: Click here to see tons of clearance deals on athletic shoes at Overstock.com.... Read more...
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Pearl Izumi Zephrr Vest Review
A while back I picked up the Pearl Izumi Zephrr Vest as my previous vest was far too large, feeling like a sail whipping in the wind when I wore it on a biking descent. I probed around the marketplace finding vests that were well north of $100 and others that were rice paper thin. I finally honed in on the Zephrr because it was light weight, would stuff into a rear jersey pocket yet still had enough to it, not to mention that it didn't break the bank.
Review of the Pearl Izumi Zephrr Vest
Basically a vest needs to fit snug and keep the wind/rain out. The Zephrr does just that. I had to swap sizing as the XL fit nice when dressed in street clothing but once I was wearing my bike jersey the XL was too big and I sized down to the Large. After riding a few times with it in my jersey pocket and then throwing it on while riding, I'm sold on the quality of zipper that it employs. Just big enough to get it on while on the fly yet small enough to eliminate extra bulk. The 2007 model had a small chest pocket which in theory is nice but while on the bike I found I didn't even use it or realized that it's opening was too small to access anything while riding. On the 2008 model I didn't even miss it. A small hit of very thin micro fleece fabric around the collar is nice for cool rides and I didn't find that it was too much to cause overheating. Speaking of overheating, and although it's sold as a cool weather vest, the mesh in the back on the 2007 model is more centralized and generous than the mesh on the 2008 model which is down each side. I'm guessing here, but I suspect the fabric in the middle of the back on the 2008 model is to increase rain resistance but it doesn't help with breathability. While still a fan of the 2008 model, if you can find a 2007 model I'd consider it as well when you're in the hunt for a cycling vest that is well rounded. The one gripe I do have with this vest is that the rear stowe pocket has too small of an opening. Try reaching in and grabbing a gel and then pulling it out and you'll feel like you've got your hand stuck in the cookie jar. Now try doing that at 30mph on a downhill and you're likely going over the bars. They need to widen the opening by about an inch or make the fabric stretch with a 1-2% spandex addition and this vest will be tops!Features of the Zephrr Vest include
- Reflective logo and piping for increased visibility
- Microfleece inner collar for comfort
- Packs up easily
- Velcro closure on rear pocket
- Mesh back panels for increased breathability while riding or trail running
or check out a few options from the GEAR.com catalog
Get a Deal: If you're looking for a deal check out the bright yellow 2007 Zephrr Vest on sale at BackcountryOutlet.com
as well as the 2007 Zephrr in Moonlight color
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Mountain Hardware Wicked T – Gear Review
The Mountain Hardware Wicked T is light enough that it could be renamed the Ghost T. The fabric is one of the lightest I've ever seen in a synthetic wicking performance T. The body of the shirt is made with Koolknit which is 100% polyester circular knit and as I said very lightweight and breathable. The fabric dries quickly given that is has a wicking finish. What does all this really mean? That it's one sweet T. But, it does seem to snag super easy and the fit is a bit larger than usual. I wear an XL tee shirt and happened to get this in an XL and it's over all length is that of a L but it's flowy and big enough that it could pass as a XXL. It also has a pretty loose neck which makes me feel a bit Metro when wearing it.
Quick Review of the Wicked T
I've used this shirt a few times for specific uses. The first chance I had was to use it as a running top on a particularly hot day. For this purpose the shirt is a dream. I could barely tell it was on and even though the fit isn't the best (I'd suggest sizing down from your regular size if you want a good trim fit) it also pulled moisture away from me during the 7 mile run. I also had a chance to use this shirt rock climbing and backpacking. For climbing it's just too flowy for the size I have. It got in the way of my harness and rope. Better to get the size dialed in. For backpacking it worked well for the same reasons that it did while trail running but the one thing I immediately noticed was that it snagged really easily and ended up with 3 pulled fabric snags after a few hours of use. The backpack was not friendly to the Wicked T. All in all, I'd still recommend this performance tee for most outdoor and even fitness uses. This years colors are plentiful and worth checking out. Be sure to get the sizing dialed and you're in business!Features of the Mountain Hardware Wicked T
- Anti-microbial finish.
- UPF 35 sun protection
- Very lightweight and breathable
- Wicking finish
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Arc’teryx Accelero Pullover Jacket – New Gear
Looking for a lightweight pullover to take the chill off those early-morning trail runs or trail rides? Yeah, you could bust out your 3-layer GoreTex shell and call it good, but that's kind of like showing up at a BMX track with a Honda CR250 motocross bike. Yeah, you could do it, but it's not quite the right tool for the job. There's no doubt that Arc'teryx is one of the premiere clothing and gear companies for skiers, climbers, mountaineers and backpackers. Their gear is bomber and they aren't afraid to challenge the status quo in design and materials. Take the Arc'teryx Sidewinder Jacket, for example, the ergonomic zipper location is not only easier to zip up/down, it keeps that pesky hard plastic or metal zipper away from the the soft, fleshy material on my chin that most people call skin. Well, in cold weather, the chin can take a beating with standard zippers. The Sidewinder eliminates that. Along those same lines is the super-flexible Arc'teryx Accelero Jacket. It's super simple and lightweight, but it also has a few key features making it much better than the Grateful Dead hoodie you like so much. I know... it's hard to ditch the hoodie, but trust me, it will be worth it. Here are a few highlights:
- Dry Web Fabric: Breathable stretch polyester double-weave with bamboo charcoal next to the skin
- Laminated side pocket with headphone port
- Non-locking 3/4 length zipper
- Reflective logo and piping
- Stretch-woven cuffs
- MSRP: $98.95
Quick Review of the Arc'teryx Accelero Jacket
I've been able to use this jacket on a few cool-weather trail runs and I really like it. It's comfortable against the skin and breathes extremely well. Because it breathes so well, it's not 100% windproof, but will block out the wind in all but gale-force winds. The fabric has just the right amount of stretch with nylon cuffs instead of elastic to reduce the bulk and add to the overall comfort. I think I could have gone with a size medium, but the large still fits nicely without being too baggy. A couple of reflective trim pieces will keep you noticed in the early-morning hours. A great, lightweight and packable shell that can be stuffed just about anywhere and pulled out in a pinch. The Accelero Jacket is perfect for trail running or mountain biking where breathability is key. I've also used it backcountry skiing--it's great for the uphill slog when there's just a tad bit of a nip in the air. The only negative I've noticed thus far is that every time I pull it off, the zipper tends to grab my nose. I've since learned how to take it off without ripping the end of my schnoz. Good Accelero- Extremely soft to the skin
- Dual-fabric sleeve cuffs are comfy
- Material blocks wind while remaining super-breathable
- Non-locking zipper makes for quick ventilation adjustments
- I got it too large... Should have gone with Medium (5'11" - 175 lbs)
- Small key pocket has minimal value
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Arnette Sunglasses Full House – Gear Review
Are you a classic new schooler? Yearning for the good ol' days where an over-tweaked huntony grab could land you a shot in Freeze Magazine? Do you still idolize Josh Loubek and his Hart F17's? Then you're my kinda guy. You should be rockin' Arnette Sunglasses' Full House model, because it's a classic too. The Arnette Full House is a pair of no-frills sunglasses that has remained relatively unchanged since the 1900's. I got my first pair in '98. And they are like the Raichle Flexon ski boot -- if these specimens of sweet eyewear gear fit on your head, you love them. So what is that head shape? A little narrower ear-to-ear then front-to-back. Basically, a football. Okay, that's an exaggeration -- it's not like Dory in Finding Nemo. But if you have a smaller-than-average nose, then all the better. Because if you, like me, have a small nose bridge then you'll be stoked to find sunglasses that don't have a big gap over your nose that lets the wind whistle through your eyeballs. You'll never want anything different. Sure, they look a little bit like a throwback to the 90's. But they fit, don't they? And people with parrot-fish heads can't be picky. They don't have any tacky material on the nose or temples, which is a shame because it makes them slip down the nose a bit when you get active & sweaty. But these are more street than anything else -- they are too heavy for biking or trail running. But they have a more pronounced ear curve than other modern sunglasses, so they still hold on the ears. Which is a complaint I have with some sunglasses nowadays -- the earpieces are too straight, meaning that they often slip down the nose -- even with tacky material on the nose piece. So check them out and if you are a flounder-head with a small nose like me, they'll become your go-to pair of sunglasses for everyday use. But for more active endeavors, pick something that is lighter weight and has tacky material on the nose & temples. Click here to check out all sunglasses on Backcountry.com.
Click here for killer deals on designer street sunglasses from Overstock.com
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Outdoor Research Mens Avido Jacket – New Gear
Springtime weather can be unpredictable and it's always smart to carry around an extra lightweight shell just in case. Or, on early-morning trail runs or bike rides, it's downright chilly--making a lightweight and breathable shell mandatory. Outdoor Research has been stepping up their outerwear line over the past few years and the all-new Mens Avido Jacket is a great example of a functional and versatile, lightweight shell. Perfect for cool springtime or autumn weather or unpredictable summer days while scaling windswept ridgelines, the Avido Jacket provides just the right amount of stretch and ventilation to keep you comfortable under all conditions. Style looks to be clean and simple with two front handwarmer pockets and a rear pocket to stash extra goodies. Nothing fancy... just the basics, but the basics done right. The Outdoor Research Avido wind jacket is a solid piece of outdoor gear for mountain bikers, trail runners, peak baggers or city chillers.
Features of the Outdoor Research Avido Jacket:
- Weight: 8.3 oz
- Material: Breathable stretch ripstop
- Coating: DWR to keep you dry
- Vents: Mesh vents under arms and behind shoulders
- MSRP: $79.00
Buy Now: Outdoor Research Mens Avido Jacket
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New Trail Shoes: Vasque Aether Tech Softshell – Coming Summer 08
At Outdoor Retailer in January, I was shown some prototype trail running shoes from Vasque. The new kicks were the Vasque Aether Tech Softshell shoes. The standard Aether Tech shoes were released earlier this year, but the softshell versions will be out late in the summer--just in time for cool-weather trail running. Not only are these shoes built for cool/cold-weather trail running, but I've also been told they are great for beach running since they don't have any mesh. No mesh = no sand inbetween your toes. Another great feature of the Aether Tech Softshell shoe is the built-in Boa Lacing System, which is mounted on the top of the foot as opposed to on the back of the shoe--like most Boa trail shoes. I just got my hands on a pair of prototypes and will be providing a review in the coming months. For now, here's few cool features of the new Vasque Aether Tech Softshell trail shoes.
Cool features of the Vasque Aether Tech Softshell Shoes:
- Super-lightweight design
- Softshell fabric throughout to block wind and sand
- Boa lacing system with a dial on the top of the foot as opposed to the rear
- $120 MSRP
Buy Now: Aether Tech Mesh at Backcountry.com (SS coming Summer 08)
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The North Face Momentum Hiking Shoes – Gear Review
My first foray into the realm of The North Face shoes were the Momentum hiking shoes. At a glance, these shoes look great and seem to have all the features anyone could want in a lightweight hiker/kicking around the house shoe. I liked the looks and felt like they would be a good buy for the money at $75 retail. I popped into my local store to try some one before placing the order through Backcountry.com. The size 9.5 seemed like the trick. A quick shopping experience on Backcountry.com and my North Face Momentum hiking shoes were on their way. I happened to be in Minnesota on a family trip at the time and they arrived just in time for some trekking around Mt. Rushmore and in the Seattle-area.
Overall Construction
The Momentum shoes have a proprietary ultraTAC sole that does a good job gripping terra firma on all the hikes and urban assaults I've taken them. The uppers are a combination of bomber vented nylon and synthetic materials. Eyelets are a hard nylon and the laces are of the thin nylon variety which pulls things tight from top to bottom very quickly and easily. They are a nice looking shoe and are built to handle general lightweight day hiking, approach situations and urban assaults.The Bottom Line
To put it bluntly, these are some of the worst-fitting shoes I've ever owned. Like I said before, I tried on the 9.5's and thought they would do the trick because they had the best overall fit in the volume area. The only problem was that my toes were just barely touching the front of the shoes. So, I had to make sure that my toenails were cut nice and short, otherwise, I might have experience some toenail separation. Thanks to Backcountry.com's no hassle return policy, I was able to swap them out for some size 10's. Well, I've now got a shoe that is the right length, but is huge everywhere else. The forefoot area absolutely can not be cinched down enough to cradle my foot properly. Even though the laces and nylon eyelets are nice and smooth, it does nothing to help cinch down the forefoot area. With every step I take, the ball of my foot pulls away from the insole and by the end of the day, the balls of my feet ache. Yeah, I could potentially cinch the laces down far enough, but if I do, it puts way too much pressure on the top of my foot for all-day comfort. Maybe I just need to cinch them down and hope that my feet get used to it. What Don't I Like:- Weird in between fit for my typical size 10 feet
- Laces don't cinch down the forefoot at all
- Laces get caught on the triangular-shaped tongue thingy at the top of the tongue
- Too much space in the forefoot area
- The laces do pull evenly (though not enough in the forefoot) with one quick pull
- The soles are grippy
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Smith Sunglasses District II – Gear Review
You know, I will admit that I can be faulted for spraying about Smith Optics too much. I once had some Arnette goggles and sunglasses, but that phase passed and for 8 years I've been back to my old favorites, Smith Optics. My latest shades of choice are the Smith District II slider series sunglasses. I have a small nose, so for me the problem with most sunglasses is that they are built for someone with a Steve Carrell nose. A cheese wedge nose. As a result, most sunglasses either slide off the end of my nose or they let the wind whistle through the extra space above the bridge of my nose and directly into my eyes. The Smith District II definitely doesn't do either. It sits right on the bridge and the nose pads aren't spread so far apart that they dig into my tear ducts like other shades. I also like the square shape of the frames -- it isn't so Spiderman-ish, so you can wear them even when you are just hanging out and they don't look out of place...like you should be cycling up the Ventoux right then with Tyler Hamilton. However just in case you get called in to sub for Tyler on the Tour de France, the Smith District II is lightweight and has tacky rubber on the nose pads and the ear pieces so it doesn't slip when you get sweaty. The arms of the District II also don't give me "temple-press" like other sunglasses --- that soreness on the side of your head from arms that are either too narrow or have non-smooth ear-pieces that create hotspots on the side of your scalp and ears. The District II blocks UV rays, of course, which is good because it is believed that exposure to UV rays is one of the top causes of macular degeneration (blindness or impaired vision) as you age. So keep your District II's glued to your head and you'll be able to actually watch your grandkids play someday. The other thing I like are the three shades of lenses you get with the Smith District II, just as with all Smith Slider Series sunglasses. You get a set of dark brown lenses, orange (for the early morning rides), and yellow (for when it's super-cloudy or when you just want to fry your retinas). Want a little history of Smith Optics Slider sunglasses, including the District? Check out this vid (which also mentions the Smith Interlock sunglasses system, to be reviewed at a future date): [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5_MmMygTec[/youtube] The one complaint I have is that after a year or so of using them (read: abusing them), some of the shading or coating around the rims of the lenses appears to crack when you're swapping them out. Not the actual lenses themselves -- which have retained their integrity -- just the coating on the lenses. Buy Now: Search for Smith Sunglasses...
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Sock Guy Lion of Flanders Cycling Socks – Gear Review
Are you a Flahute? Most of us will only aspire. If you have no idea what I'm referring to and what it has to do with cycling socks, it's time for a little lesson in cycling history with a bit of lore.
Lion Of Flanders, A History
The Lion of Flanders is the Flemish coat of arms symbol, adopted in the 12th century. Since then it has come to represent a few different individuals but in the world of cycling it represents one man above all - Johan Museeuw, who was likely the greatest one-day cycling racer of all time. Graham Jones wrote:Known as the Lion of Flanders, Museeuw holds the record for wins in World Cup classics, eleven in all. Three times he won the Tour of Flanders and three times the Paris-Roubaix. In the Tour of Flanders alone he has stepped onto the podium no less than eight times. In addition to mastering the five monuments, Johan also became World Road Race Champion in 1996 and has, during his illustrious 14 years as a professional, also claimed the yellow jersey for a while in the Tour de France.You see, in Belgium, cycling is a way of life, something that kids do for fun as youngsters. Those that survive and conquer the miserable weather, the insidious cobble stone stretches and the masses of other cyclists vying for the pinnacle of the podium are fortunate enough to be called Flahute by their countrymen. And in a country where cycling is supreme, well that's as high an honor as one might aspire to have bestowed upon himself. So what does this have to do with a pair of cycling socks? A lot.
The Details
Aside from a solid history associated with wearing an emblem of cycling history when you slip on the Lion of Flanders cycling sock from Sock Guy, you'll know that you've found your foot's paradise. Their mantra of "Spreading the Luv all over your feet" is not just marketing spray. Built with their "Stretch-to-fit" sizing design that allows them to sell it in just two sizes, much like the popular flex-fit baseball hats - Small/Med and Large/XL. But despite your size in that range you'll be surprised when the heel cup fits every time. Another feature I like is the double cuff (featured on all Sock Guy socks) that will help fit any foot, ankle or kankle if you've got one of those too. The composition of this sock is:- 75% Ultra-wicking Micro Denier Acrylic
- 15% Nylon
- 10% Spandex
Bottom Line
Socks are where it all starts for me and when it comes to cycling and even a bit of trail running Sock Guy has cornered the market in my eyes. Add to that this model sporting the Lion of Flanders and you're ready for a blistering pace on your next 100 or perhaps 10 mile ride.BUY NOW: Pick up a pair of Sock Guy Lion of Flanders Cycling Socks at PricePoint.com
For more history on the Lion of Flanders by Graham Jones read Flahute and "The Lion of Flanders" on CyclingRevealed.com Check out Cycling Gear at Overstock.com... Read more...
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Garmin Forerunner 305 – New Product
For years, watch manufacturers have tinkered with tracking speed and distance using GPS technology. The problem is that GPS technology hasn't experienced quite the shrinkage that other devices have, like MP3 players. The biggest challenge with making smaller GPS devices is the lack of a strong antenna. On top of that, a watch face isn't exactly a large screen for all the cool GPS data that those circling satellites are sending back down to Planet Earth. The latest and greatest GPS watch from Garmin is the Forerunner 305. Billed as the most wearable and functional GPS watch, the Foreruner 305 also features a wireless heart rate monitor to track all aspects of your training on your local trails, or your performance at Ironman Hawaii. The nice thing about the Garmin Forerunner 305 is its relatively sleek design. Other GPS watch designs, like the Timex Bodylink, which has a separate GPS armband, heart rate monitor and data storage device, make you feel like a true tech nerd as you head out with multiple devices strapped all over your body. You end up feeling kind of like the guy you see walking around with two cell phone holsters and a pager on his belt--why? I have sold hundreds of Timex Bodylink watches on www.feedthehabit.com, but I haven't sold a single Bodylink there in over two years. The main problem is that although the Bodylink offers a wearable watch design, the thought of strapping all those darn devices all over your body every time you want to go out for a run, hike or bike just turns people off. The novelty wears off pretty quickly if the product isn't functional. So, the writing is on the wall for the Timex Bodylink system and that opens the door for a stellar, all-in-one device like the Forerunner 305. Being the market-leader in GPS technology, Garmin should naturally lead the way in GPS watches. Though I have not used the Forerunner 305 yet, I see it as a huge step forward as compared with similar devices on the market.
What I like about the Garmin Forerunner 305
- Relatively small watch design
- Garmin brand name
- At most, you'll have two devices: the watch and a heart rate strap
- Check out Garmin.com for more info
Buy Now: The Garmin Forerunner 305 is available at Backcountry.com
Or, search for GPS units. Overstock.com: Search for GPS Devices ... Read more...
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Salomon XA Pro 3D Trail Running Shoe – Gear Review
You don't know what you've got till it's gone
Three years ago I bought my first pair of Salomon shoes thinking that I liked they way the looked and wanted to try out a shoe with the quick lacing system. Well, I was impressed but I don't think I quite knew what a fit this shoe was for me until last year when I bought another brand of shoes to try something different. I bought a comparable shoe with what was supposed to have a more ridged sole and a traditional lacing system. I then realized how much I missed the comfort, fit, breath-ability, and quick durable lacing system. So, this year I decided to go back to Salomon and try out their Salomon XA Pro 3D Trail Running Shoe. This shoe is even better than my last pair of the same shoe.How I use the shoe
I like to have a decent pair of every day shoes that I can take to the trails for a run and wear as my every day shoe. I am 6'2” and 195 lbs., and these shoes hold up very well.Features I like
- The toe piece has been redesigned to protect you from jagged rocks on the trail with an over the top toe-guard. I don't know about you but I seem to stub my toe at least once on every trail run.
- The look design on the heal is stitched in in such a way that makes it very easy to grab. Again, I use these as my everyday shoe and getting them on and off fast is a plus for me.
- The lacing system now is stitched in a little farther down the foot giving an even better fit up front.
- The breathable sandwich mesh makes this a very comfortable shoe for just about every weather condition and activities
- The sole is surprisingly well built and comfortable for how light the shoe is. There is plenty of support and shock-absorption.
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Lorpen Multisport Coolmax Shorty Socks – Gear Review
I guess I'll admit it... I'm picky about my socks. When I go skiing, not just any old sock will do. I prefer the Smartwool super thin variety. When I go trail running or jogging or even when I "dress up" for church, I prefer the Lorpen Multisport Coolmax Shorty Socks. I know... I'm a complete gear nerd when I think the Lorpen's are dress socks. Well, with long enough pants, nobody (including my wife) will ever know. Until 2006, I hadn't even heard of Lorpen. When fellow Gear.com junkie, Kendall Card, pointed them out on Backcountry.com. I was on the prowl for a new pair of socks and he said they were money. So, I plunked down for several pairs and have been hooked ever since. The thickness of the Lorpen Multisport Coolmax Shorty Socks is perfect for hot summer weather in the mountain West. Because my feet sweat like crazy, I can appreciate the thin design and Coolmax material more than many. Though these socks are thin, they have cross-stitched fabric sections to ensure a tight fit and proper support in the right areas. I've had these socks now for 6 months and they show no real signs of wear. I pretty much wear them every day and lament when I don't have a clean pair around. They are perfect for warm weather running or light hiking.
What I like about the Lorpen Coolmax Shorty Socks:
- Thin and lightweight for those with hot feet like me
- Just enough overall support
- Coolmax keeps your feet cool and dry