WildSkins Arm Warmers with a Wild Side

WildSkins Arm Warmers in Hey Hawaii add a splash of color to your darker kits.

The New York City Marathon kicks off TODAY!
Fall is here and while I do have a few long sleeved cycling jerseys, I'm not quite ready to put up the short sleeved ones yet. To extend the wear and visibility of your short sleeved cycling jerseys and running tops, consider WildSkins. Take a look at some of the stylish arm warmers worn by runners in the NYC Marathon today and you can be just as cool or actually warm!

Why WildSkins?
I consider WildSkins to be the Dior of Arm Warmers due to their beautiful design, fit and function. Each WildSkins pair has a little pocket on the wrist to store a little cash or a note for your run or ride. They effectively knock off the wind and offer solar protection as well.

Look to the left by the WildSkins logo and you'll see the hidden sleeve pocket! Spandex fabric stretches every which way.

Rev Up Your Kit
As the days are getting darker and more dreary, having arm warmers like these can give your spirits a super lift. Not only that, bright, bold colors like these help make you more visible to drivers too. If you have a dark or black top, why not add a burst of color with these crazy things? 

Be Visible
I took these Hey Hawaii Design Arm Warmers out for a test drive the over the weekend. Not only did they LOOK fantastic, people actually saw me and did not cut me off. This was despite the fact that I had no flashing headlight as it was left home on the charger.

Fashion Points
As some of you may know, I'm also a contributing editor for Lucky Magazine's Community section. I love fashion and design so I see no reason to stop when it comes to my fitness gear. It may sound a bit shallow to say but it's true that if you are dressed beautifully on your bicycle, people tend to give you more space and respect on the road. Here are some styles I've put together with some of my favorite cycling and running kits from Rudy Project, Gore Bike Wear and Bluey Australia who makes the softest Merino wool outdoor wear around.

WildSkins Orange Burst has beautiful yellow - metallic details in a swirling pattern with Rudy Project's Team Jersey. Perfect for an autumn ride!

 

WildSkins in Indie Gold. These are so beautiful and completely set off the red flatlock stitching this Outdoor 160 Merino Wool top by Bluey Australia.

 

WildSkins Hey Hawaii is paired with this Gore Bike Wear Women's Oxygen Kit featuring their amazing WindStopper fabric.

Lots of Uses
I think you get the idea! Mix or match, break up a black kit with a roaring cascade of color and metallic hues. These are also just practical to have in your backpack for hiking when the temperatures drop. Use them for mountain biking to keep your arms from getting thrashed by foliage. Runners will love how these can be peeled off once you warm up. Early morning walkers too. So many uses! Ultra lightweight and packable, there's no reason not to carry a pair or two. Visit WildSkins online to see more styles & colors.

NEW for 2014! Sketchers Nite-Owl Go-Run-Ride2 Athletic Shoes that Glow in the Dark
In addition to our all things bright and beautiful theme for fall, check out these new multi - sport athletic shoes from Sketchers. They absorb light during the day to release glow in the dark visibility for your night run, walk or bicycle ride. Full review coming up!

 

Arm Warmers c/o WildSkins Co.

Bike to Work Day

Bike to Work or anywhere else! PHOTO: Crossover Helmet by Nutcase, GLC's Guilden Carry All, Craghopper's Gabriela Dress, Pistil's Straw Hat and OKeefe Scarf, Naya Maeve Sandals.

BIKE MONTH, NYC CITIBIKE-BIKE SHARE LAUNCH: While May is officially Bike Month, this is Bike to Work Week, (May 13th - 17th) with Bike to Work DAY coming on May 17th. More Americans are feeling the pinch of higher gas prices this year which makes getting around by bicycle even more attractive. NYC's plan to launch their city-wide Bike Share Program seems on track and scheduled to fully roll out on May 27th. This is really exciting because it gives people a chance to try getting around by bicycle before perhaps investing in one. Depending on where you live, keeping a bicycle in your apartment just might not be feasible.

So here are a few outfit & accessories ideas to help you along on your own bicycle or if you're using the CitiBike Program to get around.  Keep in mind that no matter which you choose, there is some amount of walking involved in every commute so it's important to make sure your shoes are comfy even off the bicycle.

Bicycle Helmets

Nutcase Crossover fits neatly inside the Guilden Carry-All

As a teen, I road around the city without a bicycle helmet for years. Now I am seldom seen without some sort of head-protection. Helmets have gotten a lot cooler these days and while I'm especially fond of my road bike helmets, they don't quite go with the urban vibe of bicycle commuting. I like the Crossover by Nutcase shown in the lead photo in Fire Engine Red. It's fully vented and has a comfortable chin strap cover with magnetic clasp. 
Once you arrive at your destination, take it with you by stowing it in the Guilden Carry All by Give Love Cycle. It will fit in this bag with room to spare and no one will be the wiser to your arrival by bicycle!

GLC's Guilden Carry-All attaches to your rear rack. Fits the new CitiBike Baskets too!

Bicycle Baskets
I've always been of the opinion that messenger bags are for well, bike messengers! That's because they are notorious for shifting during your ride. If your commute requires you carry in more equipment or supplies, consider a basket. I've found market & shopping trips to be a lot easier with a rear wire basket.  That way you can place all of your gear in a removable basket.  Since it's in the rear, no worries about squirrely steering up front. This Basil Cosa rear basket clamps securely onto my rear rack and the fold-in handles lock down in place. This is my farmer's market basket as it holds a LOT of produce!

Cosa Rear Basket by Basil NL

Bicycle Panniers
Another option for urban commuting and the downtown ride would be to use bicycle panniers that hang from your bicycle rack.  These are usually easy to put on and take off.  You can choose a variety of colors like these bright orange ones from Detours (Fremonster Flap in Poppy) which will give you extra visibility in traffic or go with something more subtle. 

Detours Fremoster Flap Panniers-totes clip on and off quickly.

Bicycle Clothing

Craghopper's NosiLife Gabriela Dress

Of course we want to ride with something that's going to be comfortable! The CitiBike has a nice step through so us ladies can wear skirts and dresses to work if we wish. Just keep in mind that being on a bicycle means being exposed to the elements. Sun, wind, insects are all just waiting for you on your ride. 

That's why I was so pleased to discover Craghopper's NosiLife Collection, specifically their Gabriella Dress which offers a UPF of 45 and mosquito repellent properties. You can dress the Gabriela up or down but it is an office ready piece that you can ride in comfortably due to the stretch jersey fabric.

Padded Shorts
You might want to add something like Pedal Panties, (Bicycle Lingerie) or a Terry Mesh Liner underneath for a little extra padding but the CitiBike seats are known to be quite cushy and wide.


Bicycle Shoes
Yes, they make pumps with SPD plates built into them! You really don't need that for a simple bike commute though. I like the Naya Maeve Leather Sandals because they are very comfortable and look great once you arrive at your destination.  The soles have a rubbery grip that keeps you from slipping.  These really are comfortable despite the heel height and you'll find them to be perfect as they require very little break-in time.

Naya Maeve Leather Sandals in Oxford Brown

Prepare for a Rainy Day
The weather can change in a second, especially during summer months. Your bike commute gear should include some type of rain wear that will cover you on the bicycle. This is where a bicycle with fenders is going to be your very best friend! That or a rear rack with a center shelf like my Blackburn. As for a raincoat, I like ExOfficio's Rain Logic Trench Coat.  Downtown chic styling but super lightweight.  Roll it up and pack it into its hood when you don't need it.  Has a bit of stretch and zip pits, it is completely waterproof and covers your whole outfit. One of the best raincoats I own.

ExOfficio's Rain Logic Trench rolls into its own hood!

Bags for Your Bike Commute

Put some SPRING in your commute with these Freemonster Flap Poppy Panniers from Detours

How about shaking off some of that "blah" from winter? Living in the New York City-Metro area means enduring pretty dismal winters and cold temperatures.  If you've had to shelve your bicycle due to inclement weather, how about greeting spring with a celebration?

A set of new bicycle panniers can lift your spirits and do wonders for your bicycle ride or commute. Along with picking out some fresh transitional pieces as shown in the Fashions for Bicycling & Walking Video, your bicycle can also make a statement. Not only that, bright high viz colors are a good idea for those of us who routinely ride in traffic. Be stylish but be seen!  Here are a few bright ideas you might want to try on your bicycle this spring.

Detours Freemonster Flap Panniers

They will definitely see you coming with these day-glow orange panniers (with artist poppies no less), but the details will reveal this bag was designed by someone who actually bike-commutes.
The Freemonster Flap Panniers have a soft construction with a magnetic clasp.  I especially like the roominess of these. The interior has a mesh pouch and a protective pocket for your iPad. What I really like is how the built in rain covers magically appear out of a bottom zippered compartment.  Genius!  These easily clip off your rack and transform into a serious shopping/tote bag, replete with carry strap. They are somewhat tapered at the bottom so I haven't had a problem with kicking during my ride. I think the best part is the smiles people give you when you're riding around town with these.

Add the shoulder strap and your tote is ready.

Basil Elements Fashion Shoulder Bag 

Basil's Elements Fashion Shoulder Bag's hidden rack clips.

The Netherlands is perhaps the best testing ground you're going to find for bicycle commuter products. They take their rides seriously and the equipment is very sturdy for daily use.  I like the idea of hanging clasps that while secure, allow me to easily lift the pannier off to take into the store or office.

Hanging Clips
This sort of clip on the rack and ride situation is fantastic for bicycle commuters who wish to remain incognito about their transportation choices.


The Elements Fashion Shoulder Bag IS a completely appointed handbag. Yet it's rack riding capacity's secret is safe with you thanks to a zippered compartment that hides the hardware. The hanging feature of both the Detours and Basil Bags makes them my top choices for bicycle commutes in suburban and especially urban areas.

Basil NL Elements Fashion Shoulder Bag with hanging rack clips!

Front Bags  
Some of us like to carry our things up front in a basket or bag.  In New York City, I often see other women with their handbag in a huge front wire basket.  I can't help but think, "Man that's a LOT of weight up front!"  With so much pressure over your front wheel, steering can get a bit squirrely.  You can have your cake and eat it too with these new front bags that double as shoulder bags.

Basil Forrest Front Bag

I like this bag because it is so well made and easy to detach thanks to Basil's revolutionary clasp system. It is actually built like a vinyl covered basket, (you can see the frame inside) but is lighter than most standard wire baskets.

However, unlike a metal basket, you don't have to worry about this one rusting out or exposing your cargo to the elements. The Forrest Front Bag is completely water-proof with a removable clear shield on top for your route map. The top secures with two snaps and there is a little zippered pouch inside to separate your keys, money and cell. It comes with a strap the clips on quickly.  Max weight for this front bag is 5 kgs or about 11 lbs.


Detours Sodo Front Bag

The Sodo Front Bag is very well constructed and you have to love the distinguished herring bone pattern. This bag has a secure iPhone / iPod cover which can also be used to hold maps.  It has a quick release plaque up front and a carry strap to take it with you off the bicycle.

The fabric and styling on this front bag makes it look more like a shoulder bag off the bicycle. In fact I think it would be perfect for students traveling to high school or commuting on a college campus.  Lots of room, well appointed and easy to snap on and off the bicycle. This is really what you want! Nothing is worse than standing there struggling with your panniers or front bag when you need to be somewhere...quick.  I've ridden with these all of these bags and found them to be tight, secure and simple to remove.  Any one of them will be a welcome addition to your next bicycle commute or ride.

Detour's Sodo Front Bag doubling as a shoulder bag.

   
 

Save Gas: Bike Commuting Basics

A necessary comfort on any bike commute.  A hot container of coffee in a Portland Design Works Bar-ista cup holder.

Have you had enough yet?  As of this post gas is about $3.65 a gallon in the Tri-State area and quickly headed to $5.  "These are the times that try men's souls."  You got that right, PAINE.  What's your motivation?  Spring is in the air and Bike to School Week is coming up in April with its parent Bike to Work Month in May.  Get a few essentials and be on the road blasting past those over-priced gas stations in style.

BIKE COMMUTING 101

NYC Bike Path - Downtown Chelsea

Well, first you'll need a bicycle. You don't need anything fancy or with a lot of gears at first because just to start out, you'll only be doing local errands.  That's right.  You've got to roll before you can fly and short errands by bike is by far the best way to get your tires wet. Besides most Americans still make trips under 4 miles in their cars. 

CYCLE CLOTHING
Notice the people riding here on the NYC Bike Path.  They have pretty ordinary bikes, some with fenders which help with puddle splashes but they are wearing regular clothes folks.  
If you are wearing pants, you might want to cinch up the right leg so it stays out of your chain BUT if you've got a chain guard on that thing...pfffft.  You're not doing a century (100 mile ride) so don't worry about investing in a cycling kit like Lance.  However when you're ready, Terry Bicycles makes some very chic urban cycling clothes for women riders that work well both on and off the bike. In the meantime think "stretch fabric" for the clothes you choose to ride in.

HANDLEBAR & SEAT BAGS

The Pouch by Linus Bikes 
 
If you're a minimalist, you can get away with attaching a little bag like this to your handlebars or even your seat rails.  Leather straps secure it in place and brass snaps keep your stuff from bouncing out.

These were most often seen on those beautiful Brooks leather saddles which adorn classic fixed gear bikes.  You can certainly go that route but a bag like this can hold a medical kit, a patch or bike tools in case you break down.  Yes, that does happen.

Here is The Pouch attached to the saddle rails of my little Green Zone Folding Bike of the NYC Bike Path Film fame.

In NYC slinging a handbag over your handlebars can earn you a quick ticket (ok maybe not a Hermès).  Still, it's uncomfortable and distracting to try to ride with things like your iPod, keys and whatnot in your pockets.  A little seat bag frees you from all that and can be removed from the bike. Placed on the handlebars or seat rails, it's one accessory every commuter bike should have. 



MESSENGER BAGS

C.F. Martin & Co. Laptop Messenger Bag

Many people already own some version of a messenger bag (primarily as a fashion statement) because they are quite versatile and well...cool.  You don't have to be a messenger to use one but it helps. These things are notorious for sliding off and shifting unexpectedly.

This messenger bag by C.F. Martin & Co. however, has a few tricks going for it such as retractable shoulder straps converting into a much more stable backpack.  This bag also has plenty of room for your laptop, papers and has a water bottle sleeve.  Lots of handy compartments to organize your desk on the go plus a comfortable shoulder strap.

BICYCLE TRUNK BAGS

The D2R & Highway 1 Blend Coffee Dry Bag both by Detours

If you have a bicycle with a rear rack, you're already way ahead of the game.  That's because you can strap a trunk, panniers or even a basket to that rascal to haul way more than a pouch or messenger bag.  

The handy bottle holder on the D2R

Remember, you're goal is only doing short, local errands.  I'm talking about 8 miles round trip or less.  The post office, the library, the bank, the local convenience store.  You won't need large bags for those trips but you will need something to hold a few energy bars, an extra shirt and how about this, a container of hot coffee!

Taking a Detour... on my bike commute.  Detours D2R Trunk Bag

Speaking from experience (25 years +), a trunk bag is going to become your best biking buddy.  Having too much weight on the front handlebars as with large metal baskets can make steering more difficult and also cause a lot of drag up front.  The solution is to stow more weight in the rear (not yours).

Detours D2R Trunk Bag is the best made trunk bag I've seen in a long time.  The no-fuss clips securely attach to just about any rear rack, (I have a Blackburn) and it comes with a comfortable shoulder strap for off the bike use. If your bike doesn't have a water bottle holder or cage, the D2R has one that will easily accommodate a 20oz Polar Bottle or a 16oz Klean Kanteen.  The D2R has reflective accents all around and a light loop for a rear blinkie, both important items for night rides.  This Detours Trunk Bag also has two side zip pockets and an expandable main compartment.  Along with my TechWind panniers, it is very aerodynamic.  The D2R also has a removable rain cover.  I keep it in the side pocket with the shoulder strap so it's ready to go. 

Be Safe 
You'll need lights both front and rear to ride at night and ALWAYS wear a lid such as Lazer Helmet's NEW Hi-Viz Helium in Flashing Fluro Yellow.  Also be sure to have your name, emergency numbers and medical directives  taped inside your helmet or order Road ID's cool The FIXX dog tags.  These also come in wrist bands and hold a lot of helpful information to speak for you if you can't.
  
Commuting and doing short trips by bicycle is one the best things you can do for your health, your community and the environment. Now with gas prices reaching an all time high, you can finally do something for your wallet too.

The Sixer Travel Cooler by Mountainsmith Review

The Sixer fully loaded!

Now that we are getting some warmer weather, (heck, the whole winter has been pretty mild), one tends to think of venturing out for a cycling tour or backpacking adventure.  Keeping your food and drinks fresh and cool is going to be more of a challenge as spring approaches.  As the days lengthen and warm up, that sandwich you packed this morning may actually be a "bit off" by the time you stop for lunch. 

So in the interest of good eating and keeping it fresh we took a look at Mountainsmith's new packable cooler, The Sixer.  Believe me, there is a LOT to look at in this bag.  This insulated cooler is built with all of the rugged features you'd expect of mountain backpacking gear but is incredibly light weighing only .80 oz. 

The Sixer holds a six pack of Samuel Adams AND my StayFit Lunch 2 Go with room to spare.  Everything stayed cool for several hours.

What surprised me though is that The Sixer fit a full six pack of 12oz glass bottles PLUS my StayFit E-Z Freeze Lunch 2 Go container.  There was plenty of room for ice, a gel pack and energy bar as well.  Here are The Sixer's Features:

• D-ring attachment points for optional shoulder strap
• Reinforced haul handle
• Clear label sleeve
• Zippered lid
• Front elastic rigging to hold a shirt, towel, etc.
• Mountainsmith Bottle opener is included that works!

The shoulder strap included with the bag is very comfortable for carrying but this bag is also designed to work with Mountainsmith's color coordinated Travel Storage Series.  Without the six pack of bottles, The Sixer fit inside my AngleTech panniers which are quite narrow.  However for larger camping/touring saddlebags the cooler will most likely fit fully loaded.

One thing you don't want while mountain biking or backpacking is for your food to go bad in the sun's heat. You may not be able to taste it but food spoilage is a very serious situation.  It can put an abrupt end to an otherwise great day out.  Keep it cool out there with proper food storage accessories like these.  The Sixer is available at Walmart & online at Amazon for between $16-$20.  See more Mountainsmith gear their website.