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.

The Year's Top Outdoor - Fitness Gifts

Gift guide for cyclists, runners, hikers and other outdoorsy folk on your list. The Year's TOP Outdoor & Fitness Gifts!

This is the time of year for giving gifts to those we love.  One of the best things to do is to select a gift that just keeps on giving!  Something that will help the person engage in a healthy lifestyle and some of the best gear is that which allows the person to play while getting fit. Here are some tips and tricks on not only picking the perfect item for the person on your list but making your gift better by personalizing it.

Using a Personal Touch

You may need to be a bit stealthy but you can always ask the person what they've been up to or what plans they may have for the holidays.  They may be planning a ski trip or a cabin stay with family.  Perhaps they like hiking or snowshoeing.  Are they a road warrior who enjoys running or cycling?  Whatever the case you can see where their passions are with a few key questions or observations.

Personalize this Lumbar Pack with Energy Bars & Gels

Gifts within Gifts

This ultralight Mountainsmith Dart TLS Lumbar Pack is perfect for the runner or day hiker on your list.

It comes with it's own water bottle but also has a nice little zippered front pouch.  Fill it with some tasty protein bars or energy gel packs before you wrap it up!

Think outside of the box or bottle on this one.  You can include powered effervescent Vitamin C or electrolyte packs that can be added to the water bottle during the run.

Purchase extra water bottles for this pack so they can keep one cold in the fridge, ready to run in the morning.  As an example, Polar Bottle makes lightweight 12 oz thermal bottles that stay cold and fit this particular lumbar pack perfectly.

Sizing Things Up

Aiden Tweed Cap

Something you may want to stay away from are items that demand you know the person's exact size.  If you do, all well and good but if you are not sure, choose items that span over a range of size differences or are size-less (one size fits most).

A stretchy knit hat may seem like a great idea but many of them can still be too tight for us ladies with lots of hair.

That's why I like this Aiden Tweed Hat from Carve Designs of CA

Trendy yet sophisticated, the Aiden comes in Small/Medium and Medium/Large but has no elastic involved to restrict the head.  You have a better chance of calling the right size with a choice like this. You can also purchase cloth labels from the sewing section or craft store that iron onto the inside of the cap to include the person's name.  How about stitching the person's initials on the garment as a monogram? Sweet huh?

Other Gift Items that Are Size-Forgiving:
A scarf
Ear Muffs
Warm Merino Wool Socks
Knit Gloves
Cardigan Sweaters 
Everybody needs these and it is something that you needn't worry about purchasing in just the right size.

Powering Up-Slimming Down

Turn on the Juice

A Power Blender like VitaMix is the ultimate health gift

Although I'm mostly featuring outdoor gifts, don't forget what goes on in the kitchen.  If you know the person on your list is in to juicing or loves smoothies, why not get them a power blender?  There are many on the market today but the one I use both juices, blends AND cooks all in the same container.  My VitaMix 5200 Power Blender is like having three machines plus a food processor all in one but I use it most to make my morning smoothies. If your health-nut happens to be a spouse, guess what?  You get to use it too!  Really it is so versatile and perfect for people on the go who want to prepare delicious whole foods in an instant.

Help Them Cut the Fat

Another kitchen item everyone would appreciate is a non-toxic, non-stick fry pan.  These are the new "green" non-stick pans that do not have any of the petroleum bi-products associated with Teflon coatings.

These can really make a difference in cutting down the amount of fat you cook with which eventually ends up on your hips.  I like Mauviel's M'stone anthracite coated non-stick cookware.

 

Mauviel M'stone "natural" non-stick cookware via GaveThat.com

Anthracite is a very hard, crystalline form of coal and when combined with anodized aluminum, conducts heat very evenly. Use it to make veggie omelets with little or no added oil or do an easy saute of vegetables and pasta for a one pan meal.  These are so easy to clean and will be a welcome addition to any health minded chef on your list.

Gear to Help Keep Them Safe

Anyone on your list like to jog or bicycle?  Just the thought of them sharing the road with motor vehicles can make you cringe but there are a lot of gifts you can choose that can help make a difference on how visible they are on the road.

Road ID Supernova LED Lights

As the days are getting shorter, the need for lights is going to be even more important.  I use these very bright Supernova LED blinkies from Road ID.  You can choose the wrist band, shoe or bicycle attachment. I've been able to thread the wrist model through the rear vents of most of my cycling helmets for extra visibility.  They work great, are very tough and water resistant.

Another great gift for safety would include having proper medical and contact information the person could wear when they head out cycling, running or walking.  Road ID has that covered too with their FIXX ID Tags and ID Bracelets that go down to sizes for children.  You can give the ones you love Road ID Gift Cards to they can personalize and order their own tags & wristbands right online.  This is the one gift that could literally save their life by including any health conditions or medications the person may be taking. There is also space for several contact numbers on the Road ID which is important to family and friends they wish to have notified first.

Supernova Light threaded in my helmet's vents.

Knowing the person's past times and interests will help you pick just the right gift but these are a few ideas that can have the most impact on the health and well being of your favorite weekend warrior.

Technical gear comes and goes but  this year why not give gifts that show both thought and concern for the person's long term wellness and safety?  Believe me, they will appreciate the thought and time you took to look out for them.

Lastly, I would include a Purificup Portable Water Filtration System. It's great for any outdoor fanatic who wants, fresh, pure water at their fingertips. Perfect for travel, backpacking, skiing, camping, cycling, etc.

So what do YOU hope to give or get this year?

 

  

Natural Disasters: Survival Tips

The barometer is reading a record 949 millibars while Superstorm Sandy was raging.  Irene was 960.

Living in the path of Hurricane Sandy (and last year, Irene), has been a serious wake-up call.  While the main foci of my blog is cross training and fitness, this recent natural disaster has given me quite a few relative talking points.

My Greenzone Folding Bike means skipping long gas lines

Rely on Your Own Power
During an extreme weather emergency, roads and sidewalks may be blocked.  You may find yourself hiking or even bicycling your way out to seek help or locate supplies.
Some people think the Red Cross will simply roll up and start serving from their truck-kitchens.  Not exactly.  If they come at all, it may be 3 days after the catastrophe so you need to be in shape to make it to the nearest safe shelter.
One 28 year old New Jersey man left a note to an Ocean county homeowner on how a wave from Sandy threw him from his home. He had to swim for it as the water around him was about 10 feet deep and very cold. Had he not been in shape to keep treading water all that time, he might not have made it.
Now while we may not face circumstances that dire, what about being able to walk or bicycle to get food, water and shelter?  Post Sandy, I'm walking and riding my bicycle (as usual) to get around as many local stores have no power.  I have to go a few miles out of my way to ones that do and since gas is under ration, using my folding bicycle makes perfect sense.    

Strengthen Your Immune System
One thing you don't need compromised is your ability to fight off colds, the flu and infections at a time when water, food and medical supplies may be a bit iffy.  Add in the fact that power outages can cause heating units to fail, your immune system had best be running at top efficiency.  Superstorm Sandy knocked out power to millions of NY & NJ residents and as of this writing, nearly half of our effected populations still are without electricity.

Solar powered hurricane lamp glowing during Sandy.  Antioxidant rich foods are key.

Immunity Boosters
Taking12.5 mgs of Terry Naturally Tri-Iodine daily is part of my immunity support protocol. I also eat antioxidant rich foods like apples, asparagus, artichokes, almonds, walnuts, dried plums, organic squash, spring greens and mushrooms along with Rainbow Light's Protein Energizers everyday.  Vitamin C is also the old standby but your body can't absorb any more than 500 mgs at a time.  It's also better to have a buffered vitamin C as it does not acidify your urine as straight ascorbic acid will.

Be Prepared: Food, Water, Warm Clothing

Augie Food's Cheddar Broccoli Soup is easy to prepare & delicious.

Meals
Planning for an emergency, you want to make sure you have ample food, water and warm clothing close at hand.  As for food, shelf stable soups like this antioxidant rich Cheddar Broccoli Soup from Augie Foods will keep unopened for 25 years!  It comes in a pouch and is lightweight while taking up much less room than cans.  You can also have some do-it-yourself MRE's on hand like Sunbutter or Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches but if possible I like to serve hot foods to warm up.

Water
You don't need to purchase bottled water.  You can fill any empty bottle with filtered water and it will keep for several weeks.  Another option is to invest in a Water BOB for your bathtub. Fill it up and dispense as needed.  Just make sure to have at least 2 gallons per person per day for drinking and washing needs.  If you are not sure about your water supply's safety, consider boiling your water for 5 minutes or invest in a Purificup Portable Water Filtration System.
If you have to relocate to a shelter or a warming center, you can bring your Purificup with you. Having safe, pure water to drink during an emergency is a very important step towards staying healthy.  Likewise hypothermia is more apt to be a problem if you are dehydrated. 

Warm Clothing
Here's where your technical clothing will make all the difference.  I usually don't ride my bicycle in 38 degree weather but Sandy made it a necessity.  We all know about layering but you have to be really careful when exerting yourself.  That's because sweat can build up and cause the wetness of perspiration to literally freeze you on the spot.  I start out with a good base layer like Smartwool next to my skin.  Their soft Merino wool shirts and socks have natural wicking action to keep you both warm AND dry.
Outer Layers should also have a certain amount of permeability. I've discovered the benefits of Gore Tex Quilted jackets with PrimaLoft® Infinity insulation.  I've been wearing my Gore Bike Wear's Path Windstopper ShellLady Jacket and have been very comfortable in below 40 degree weather, especially when I added a Carve Designs cotton scarf and CityZen Urban Cycling lid by Lazer Helmets.  Gore-Tex is water resistant and the jacket has Insulated Windstopper Shell that allows sweat to evaporate, leaving you cozy and dry underneath.

I'm blessed that we have a Solar Power Station on the estate so that when Sandy hit and knocked out the electricity, we were able to keep the lights, fridge, radio and sump pump working for 4 days.  That was the longest we've ever been without power!  No phone or Internet service was available but we had gas and hot water with lots of wood for a fire from all the fallen trees.

Keep some WetFire Tinder to start a fire in damp, stormy conditions.  Available from Camping Survival.com

When we stayed at the cabin this year in September, I learned to make firestarters out of rolled pieces of cotton jersey smeared with petroleum jelly.  These were placed under our kindling sticks and worked extremely well to start a roaring fire. Really a lot of these Camping Survival techniques are carried over from our camping and hiking trips.  They work very well in an emergency too and everyone should know how to start a fire.

Firestarting tools: Valley Hatchet, British Army Knife & Aurora Fire Starter.

We have acoustic guitars, harmonicas and played them during the storm to keep everyone calm. We had light so we played cards, Twister & Operation too but sitting by a warm fire beat everything.

We have lots of firewood for the fire now!

Right now I'm keeping an eye on the next storm while remembering things learned from weathering this one.  When the barometer starts falling, that's when you know trouble is brewing in the atmosphere.   My prayers and heart go out to all of my NY/NJ/CT neighbors who are still struggling with power outages, fallen debris, gas restrictions and all manner of deprivation.  Some have lost their homes. Over 100 people have lost their lives due to this storm.  Be safe all and God bless.

Kestrel Pocket Weather Tracker 4500 BT taking a reading for the next Nor' easter.  Adventure Medical Kits SOL Origin compact survival kit.

Gore Bike Wear: Countdown AS Lady Vest REVIEW

Transitioning into fall: Gore Bike Wear's Countdown AS Lady Vest & Oxygen Lady FZ Jersey & Power Lady Tights. Cycle Helmet: Rudy Project Sterling.

Think of fall as your second spring! Cycling, walking, running are all much more comfortable over the blazing hot summer we've had.  The trick is not to become overheated.  Highly technical pieces such as Gore Bike Wear's Countdown AS Lady Vest offer WINDSTOPPER® technology where you need it.  However, if you are like me and sweat, you'll appreciate the cooling mesh panels on both the Oxygen Lady FZ Jersey and the Countdown AS Lady Vest.  I added a set Smartwool's NEW HyFi arm and knee warmers to stretch the wearing season of the jersey and Power Lady Tights shorts +.

Cut the Chill But Don't Sweat It

Countdown AS Lady Vest with WINDSTOPPER® Active Shell

WINDSTOPPER® Active Shells are the lightest, most packable garments offering total windproofness, maximum breathability and water resistance. WINDSTOPPER® Active Shells keep you comfortable for enhanced performance during highly aerobic activities.

You can see the large mesh panel on the back of the vest.  This is right where moisture tends to build up leaving you sticky and uncomfortable. Countdown AS Lady's got you covered though.

Here are some of the main vest features:

• 2 front pockets with concealed zip
• Reflective piping on front and back
• Abrasion-resistant binding on armhole
• Shifted seams for less chafing
• Mesh insert in back for optimum ventilation
• Ergonomically shaped collar
• Reflective logo on front and back

Easy Transitions
A vest is often a bit easier to remove once the day heats up.  If you are on the road, the last thing you need is to be fighting with your cycle clothing!

The Countdown AS Lady Vest has a flattering slim fit but the armholes have piping and are not too tight allowing you to drop the vest off your shoulders as you see here.

The two invisible zippered front pockets allow you to stash your favorite cycle cap and the inner mesh lining keeps the fabric cool and ventilated against your skin.  No sticking or clinging.  Same thing can be said for the Oxygen Lady FZ Jersey I'm wearing underneath. The middle rear of the jersey has a large sculpted mesh panel, three open rear pockets and a concealed zippered pouch.  FZ stands for full zip so this jersey is easy to vent also.

Stow it Away
Most road bicycles are not cluttered with bags and panniers so having a place to stow an extra jacket is more of a problem.  No worries. The Countdown AS Lady Vest is amazingly light and packable.

Simply roll it up any way you want and stuff it into your jersey's rear open pocket.  That's it!  This vest can serve as minimum rain protection as it water resistant.  My arm warmers are by Smartwool and made of high quality Merino wool which is likewise naturally water resistant. Like the vest, they easily pack away.

These Smartwool arm & knee warmers all work well with the Gore Bike Wear pieces we have.  They give you a smooth line under your jersey and shorts while allowing you to wear your favorite tights a bit longer into the season.

Gore Bike Wear's Countdown AS Lady Vest and Signature Cycle Cap.

New Hi-Vis Cycling

Brighten your kit with some inspiration from the hi-vis colors of Olympic cyclists. PHOTO: Lazer Helmet's Helium putting in a WIN at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Getting ready for a cycling tour or what's also known as a rolling vacation?  Planning such a trip is great fun and of course we all want to look our best on the road.  In this case being seen isn't just for our egos, it can help keep us safer on the road.  Somehow we've gotten in a rut by constantly choosing black bib shorts and the like but now is the time to up your game with a little color.

Hi-Vis Lid - Lazer Helium

Lazer Helium in Flash Yellow

Starting at the top, take a cue from this year's Tour de France & 2012 London Olympics.  There are a lot of fabulous neon bright helmets in the peloton offering a bright spot in the usual line up of elite cyclists.  One study even suggested that cyclists who wore black helmets were more likely to be involved in a road accident!  While I'm not sure how scientific that is, it might make sense, especially if you are riding at night.  Based on what I've experienced, the brighter the better when riding with cars.

One of the most airy and vented helmets I own is the Lazer Helium.  It has 19 large vents and the new Roll-Sys retention fit system.  The Roll-Sys is a wheel tucked into the very top of the helmet that takes up slack in the cradle system via a thin cable. The back the helmet's cradle has a recess area for a blinkie light which fits in the the Roll-Sys knob and would be available as an aftermarket accessory.  The bright florescent yellow of the helmet combined with a flashing safety light means you will be seen.  I've simply threaded a RoadID Supernova Firefly Blinkie with wrist attachment through the vents of my Lazer Helium & Rudy Project Sterling and it works great.

Bright Cyclewear Gore Bike Wear Style

Gore Bike Wear's Phantom Lady Summer Singlet

During the cooler months, many cyclists wear bright, yellow Gore-Tex rain jackets.  I love my Gore-Tex cycle wear because they're water-proof and breathable even with the patented WindStopper fabric.  In warmer weather, you might want to try some sleeveless options in brighter day-glo colors.

That's why I was so excited to see Gore Bike Wear's 2012 Summer Line include their Phantom Lady Summer Singlet in a bright Chartreuse as shown here.  Not only is it engineered with venting and cooling technology but it also has an invisible zippered rear pocket, reflective piping in the back and logo in the front.  Touring in florescent colors has never been THIS cool. 

Terry's Tourista Tank in Hot Coral

Terry Precision Cycling Gets Glowing Reviews
This is another sweet go-to top for warm weather bicycle touring.  Terry Bicycle's Tourista Tank shown here in Hot Coral, is very comfortable to wear with V-neck styling; 3 rear open pockets; moisture-control fabrication. Relaxed fit means less cling when it's hot.
This tank covers a bit more than most so no worries about your bra straps showing out from under it.  I have this Tourista Tank in Lime Green and it has kept its bright color through nearly three seasons of washings and wear.  I recommend using Sport Wash on all technical fabrics including Gore-Tex, Lycra and Spandex pieces.

Pearl Izumi's Select Jersey in Safety Orange

Pearl Izumi Short Sleeved Jersey
Offering a bit more coverage is this short sleeved Select Jersey in Safety Orange by Pearl Izumi. I'm not really a fan of orange but the white racing panels makes this jersey both visible and appealing.
This jersey just two rear pockets and reflective accents but the slit sleeves, 12 inch invisible zipper and collar make up for it having less details than my other cycling tops.
Just as my personal preference, I'd rather wear sleeveless singlets and tanks in the summer as I do not like tan lines.  All the same I have found Pearl Izumi cycle wear to be consistently comfortable and well constructed.


Hi-Vis Touring Panniers & Saddlebags

TechWind Panniers by Angletech

These same bright florescent colors should carry over to your panniers and saddlebags. This is your bicycle luggage!  These will brighten any tour and can be taken off the bicycle when you stop for lunch or when wrapping it up at the end of the day.  
Here is a set of TechWind Aerodynamic Panniers by AngleTech  These do very well for windy rides and are angled to prevent kicking.  We matched it with this cycle chic Neon Mini Messenger Bag by Old Navy. The TechWinds have a large reflective strip, come with separate stuff sacks but matching rain covers must be purchased separately. Full length double zippers allow for easy access to gear even with a wide trunk bag up top.


Poppy Bags by Detours
Another bright idea in touring gear include these Fremonster Flap Poppy Bags from Detours. SEE THE POPPY BAGS VIDEO
These are really unique and zip fully closed to keep goods inside and off the road.  They also hold quite a bit more than the TechWinds so pack away! 

Fremonster Flap Poppy Panniers by Detours

The Fremonsters have light loops on both ends and easily latch on & off your rear rack via hanging clips. The height of these bags might make carrying a large rear trunk difficult but with a generous 650 cubic inches of space you might not miss it. Lots of inner and outer pockets and hide away rain covers that pop out just when you need them.  Eye catching print design by Herman Yu.

Using panniers and saddlebags on your bicycle tour gives you more control over your entire day.  I believe in carry in-carry out so all our food and drink containers, (CoolGear Inc., Klean Kanteens, Polar Bottles) are reusable and have built in chill packs. You choose when and where to stop and eat or drink.  You can also pack that extra Gore-Tex rain vest, arm/leg warmers or cycling jacket for when the weather changes.  If you are new to cycle touring, you might want to celebrate July - National Picnic Month, by having a Bicycle Picnic!  This will give you an idea of the gear you'll need to bring on full weekend/week cycling tour. The only difference is that your destination is close to home at a local park.

Bicycle touring at its best! The Sixer by Mountainsmith holds ALL this plus ice.

So Hi-Vis is the new black. Add some intense color to your kit this season and take those cycling tours by storm!  There are quite a few going on so be sure to check out the Wild Goose Chase Ride October 13th-14th 2012.  This ride is set in scenic Cambridge Maryland and put on by Gore Bike Wear and Terry Bicycles to help raise money for the local Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. A great ride for an even better cause.  Sign up today!

Bright Colors Riding the Wild Goose Chase

ExOfficio Storm Logic Jacket Review

ExOfficio's Storm Logic - one of the most versatile insulated jackets around.

One cold weather comfort is having THE perfect down jacket along.  The only problem is that the tiny fluffs of down often work their way through the shell leaving you less than lofty.  Even worse is that when down gets wet, its insulation ability goes with it.  I'm quite attached to my Moonstone Lucid Down for its lightness and packability (it stuffs down into a very small pouch) but it really does not hold up well in wet weather.


EXOFFICIO STORM LOGIC

I first began to see Primaloft in GoreTex jackets such as my Gore Bike Wear Countdown.  Primaloft is a synthetic down material that maintains its insulating qualities even when wet.  This makes sense in a cycling jacket because the chances of being caught out in a rainstorm are quite good.

So when I saw Primaloft as the filling in the Storm Logic, I got excited. ExOfficio is known for tricking out their jackets with extra zippered pockets and pouches for your sunglasses, keys, cell, Mp3, passport, etc.  Well, this coat did not disappoint.

Storm Logic Jacket Details

• Built-in stuff sack allows jacket to roll into adjustable travel pillow
• Microfleece-lined collar
• Lined chin flap to prevent zipper from rubbing
• Vertical front zippered security pocket
• Microfleece-lined security zip hand pockets
• Bungee cinch on bottom hem
• Internal travel pocket system
• Flattering stitch shaping
• Durable 20 Denier ripstop nylon shell
• Primaloft One insulation is warm even when wet
• Treated with Durable Water Repellant (DWR) for water and stain resistance
• Quick drying
• High warmth to weight
• Windproof
• Convertible

Travel-Worthy  
The silky softness of the Storm Logic shell can be deceiving.  This is a VERY durable jacket that repels water and stains but will become your best travel companion for the reason below:

ExOfficio's Storm Logic rolls up into its own travel pillow!

If you travel or hike or bike commute, the Storm Logic's ability to morph into a soft little pillow will thrill you.  Roll it into the perfect train or plane pillow.  Toss it into your day pack for a hike.  Throw it into your bike trunk for when the weather turns chilly.  This jacket goes everywhere and is like bringing along snugly comforter from home.  It could very well become your best travel companion.

ExOfficio's Storm Logic in Jade

Winter Layers

ExOfficio's Strom Logic - a very warm Primaloft Jacket that packs into its own travel pillow.  Ski Beanie & Zip T by Smartwool, Klonyx Snow Goggles by Rudy Project.

Now that the thermometer is dropping, we need to take extra care to stay both warm and dry on winter outings.  There is really nothing worse than being on the slopes or on your bike with the wind cutting you to ribbons.  You'll feel it later too and won't be a happy camper. 

Kestrel 4500 Pocket Weather Tracker

Before Getting Dressed...
To get a more accurate idea of the conditions you will be facing in your area, you'll need to factor in the windchill index.  This will allow you to adjust clothing and gear to the more realistic weather patterns you'll be exposed to.
  
We make sure to keep a Kestrel Weather Tracker close at hand for not only wind speed and windchill monitoring but to stay on top of incoming storms and squalls.  Put it out before you get dressed and it will give you a better indicator of how to prepare for the day.  The 4500 gives you wind speed AND direction via a very accurate digital compass.  Good to have when your cell phone signal cuts out.  Plus your Kestrel will give you the current weather conditions where you are, not the nearest weather station in the next county.

 
LAYERING 101:

Smartwool Women's Microweight Zip T in teal

It bears repeating that COTTON does not cut it in the wintertime.  This is because cotton does not have the wicking quality of wool, silk or even some synthetics.  It gets wet and stays wet which is especially dangerous as damp fabric next to skin increases your risk of hypothermia.

An example of wool as a perfect base layer is Smartwool's Microweight Zip T.  Long sleeved and made of incredibly soft, non-itchy Merino Wool.  Really it is the ONLY wool garment that I am able to wear right next to my skin.  The zip neck and flatlock seams of this light, long-sleeve base layer can be worn year-round and enhances the performance of your top layers.  I like the fit and princess seams which makes it less bulky and better for outdoor activities.  

Smartwool Merino Wool Tights & Merino Wool Skirt

MID LAYERS - TIGHTEN UP:

Likewise if just thinking of wearing wool tights makes you break out in a rash, check this out:
Smartwool's soft Merino Wool Tights make a great base layer for your legs and feet.  You can wear them under a pair of Gore Tex Paclite Pants for skiing and snowboarding but the Nordic prints and patterns are so beautiful, you may not want to hide them!  I've worn them on my bike with a wool skirt and was completely warm in 45 degree weather.

Gore Tex Paclite Pants

The best way to describe wearing wool base and mid layers is being warm and dry even with the exertion of pedaling, skiing or walking.  Wool's ability to wick away moisture is unreal and you may find that you needn't be stuck in pants all winter. You can always add extra layers but just remember to use wool or a non-cotton fabric next to your skin.  Keep your pieces light.  It is better to have two or three light base / mid layers than to have one thick bulky cover.  The pockets of warm air between multiple layers are more effectively maintained than when wearing just one heavy piece of clothing.

GORE BIKE WEAR COUNTDOWN LADY INSULATED JACKET

If you can appreciate how horribly cold it can get riding your bicycle or even walking in the winter wind you'll want to know about Gore-Tex WINDSTOPPERTM technology.

WINDSTOPPER in GBW Gloves

This jacket has a slim fit so it doesn't act like a sail on the bike, however the WINDSTOPPER feature is the deal-maker here.  That's because the jacket allows moisture to wick away and therefore keeps you warmer and dryer.  This jacket DOES BLOCK THE WIND so if you've been on a bike on a cold windy day, a lesser jacket does either one of two things:  Offers little or no insulation OR causes you to overheat and sweat.  Having wet or damp fabric next to your skin is a major factor in the onset of hypothermia.  Going out in a coat with the same thermal factors as cheesecloth doesn't work either.  Match this jacket with a pair of Gore Bike Wear Phantom SO Lady Gloves with WINDSTOPPER shown above and you will be quite ready to face a windy day out.  

Wearing the Countdown Lady Insulated Jacket, you'll feel comfortable without over heating.  The winter wind looses its bite and you can concentrate more on enjoying your ride or walk.  The two-way front zipper allows even more choice in how much to ventilate according to the weather conditions.  This jacket looks good off the bike as well so you won't feel self conscious stopping in at Starbucks for a container of coffee.

More Countdown Lady Insulated Jacket features: 

• Fleece-lined, close fit high collar
• Fleece-lined cuffs for comfortable fit
• Front zip
• Quilted jacket with PrimaLoft® Infinity insulation
• Zip-port on collar
• Zip tags for easy opening
• Zip-underflap
• Long back
• 2 front zip pockets
• Concealed zipped back pocket with integrated mobile-phone pocket
• Reflective inserts on sleeves
• Pre-shaped elbows
• Wear-resistant elastic binding on sleeve hem
• Reflective logo on front and back

EXOFFICIO RAIN LOGIC

We always recommend taking along some sort of rain cover.  That is because getting wet can quickly freeze you even when the temperatures are not that frigid.  Most heat is lost at the neck and head so it is vital to keep these areas covered with the same breathable fabrics.  Here I'm wearing a warm herringbone wool cap with a visor to help keep the sun out of my eyes.

Here I also have on my ExOfficio Rain Logic Jacket.  It is made using 2 1/2 layers of permeable fabric but also has more mechanically useful "zip pits" or zippers underneath the arms to aid in ventilation to those areas.  It has a two way front zipper so depending on where you're heating up, you can strategically cool only those areas.  I am comfortable with two light layers underneath topped with this jacket down to about 35-40 degrees.  If you are engaged in physical activity, the last thing you want to do is sweat so personally I've found it better to be a bit on the cool side when I'm working outdoors.

I especially like the flat lock sealed zippers in the Rain Logic that keep out both rain and snow.  If you're snowboarding and take a tumble, you'll understand how important sealed zippers are.  There are also pockets for your keys, cell and other small items plus the pockets are zippered.  Perhaps the best part is the hood which is easy to adjust and does not block peripheral vision.

  

More Rain Logic Jacket Details:

• Shell constructed from 2.5 layers: A low-weight face fabric (first layer) to block water, a polyurethane laminate (second layer) to block wind, and a protective inner layer (a sheen considered a half-layer), which provides a touch of slickness to slide over clothing and abrasion-resistance for durability
• Highly waterproof: Rated to 15,000 mm
• Highly breathable: Rated to 20,000 g
• Laminated Polyurethane membrane won’t wear or wash out
• Fully seam sealed
• Treated with Durable Water Repellant (DWR) for additional water and stain resistance
• Two-way mechanical stretch nylon for maximum mobility
• Adjustable drawstring hood with brim
• Hood designed to fit head, not helmet
• Microfleece-lined collar

ExOfficio's Rain Logic Jacket and Chica Cool Hoodie.

Remember to wear sunglasses or skigoggles as snow reflects 15 x times the sun's UV light, especially at higher altitudes.  A good down or Primaloft Jacket is key as temps get below freezing so we have some excellent examples of those in the left hand column.  The benefit of Primaloft over goose down is that it supposedly keeps you warm even when it gets wet.  At XX we field test every item you see featured here so check back in the season for updates.

If you layer your clothing using the RIGHT fabrics, head to toe, you'll be able to focus more on the outdoor activity and not shivering.