X-Treme X-Training: Activewear Vests: ExOfficio Storm Logic & GBW Countdown AS Lady

Cool spring mornings call for a cozy vest to get you moving. PHOTO: ExOfficio's Storm Logic Vest in Jade, Muse Scarf in Mint by Pistil

Wow, it's still cooler than normal for this time of year in the northeast! Going forward into spring, I've found a few transitional pieces that have helped me make the temperature change. These are actually three season items everyone should have.

ExOfficio's Storm Logic Vest

Storm Logic Vest goes from winter to spring!

This is my favorite insulated vest for a lot of reasons. First off are the cozy lined pockets that zip. Often times I have my camera on board and it's just great not having to worry about it flying out during a run or hike.

Hidden Assets
The coolness of this cozy vest doesn't stop there though. Inside, you also have lined open pouches for your sunglasses, tickets and boarding pass. Zippered pockets for your cell, passport and keys (with clip).

Travel Pillow
Another feature is how it can roll up into a little travel pillow. There is a pocket in the rear of the vest so you can tuck it into itself. Sort of like Origami! The outer shell material is made of a silky feeling polyester and is water repellent.

GORE BIKE WEAR Cycling Vest

GBW Countdown AS Lady Vest & Terry's Victoria Thermal Jersey

As the weather gets warmer and I'm doing more aerobic activities, I find that an insulated vest like the Storm Logic to be a little too hot. That's where a cycling vest like this Gore Bike Wear -Countdown AS Lady Vest comes in. While it may not have padding and insulation, it does have Windstopper Active Shell that makes it ultralight to wear and keeps the cool air from chilling your core. This is especially helpful when you're bucking headwinds that can slice right through your clothing.

The Countdown Lady has invisible zippered pockets that I really like. The lining is mesh and continues through to the back. This allows warmth and coverage in the front but open airy venting in the back. This is where sweat tends to build up when running or cycling. Built for road work, it has reflective piping but the white also offers added visibility. It gives me just a little extra warmth when popped over my long sleeved thermal jerseys like the Victoria by Terry shown above.

Once I warm up, the Countdown Lady is packable enough to fit in one of my rear jersey pockets for the walk or ride. Water resistant, it will keep those April showers from chilling you down. So really there is no reason NOT to take this vest along for your morning walk, run or bicycle ride. Follow me as I train for the Rapha Women's 100 this summer with tips, meal plans and cross training techniques to get in shape!