Snow Dome: NEW Giro Women's Discord Snow Sports Helmet

Hot for snow sports this season: Giro's Discord

NEW for Winter 2015 - With more snow in the forecast, I'm glad my new Giro Discord Snow Sports Helmet arrived!
Even if you are doing something as "safe" as cross country skiing, having a helmet like this is important in case you take an unexpected fall. I have to admit to sledding and riding my Sled Dogs mini skis without a helmet...for years! Come to think of it, as a child I never wore a BICYCLE helmet either but you won't catch me on my bike without one now.

Track or cross country skiing

With snow sports, especially when heading downhill, you've got some serious speed with not a whole lot of braking control. It's not worth the risk of a possible head injury although thank God, I've never gotten more than just a few body bruises. All the same each year people are admitted into the emergency room due to concussions from skiing and snowboarding so yes....wear your helmet.

Lole Sidonie Ski Bibs

NEW 2015 Giro Discord Snow Sports Helmet
This season's hottest snow lid around is Giro's Discord.  This NEW design has soft shell construction and is ultra padded, so it is very comfortable to wear. Has thermostat control, stack vents, vertical tuning and what I really like, a super padded strap with cozy ear covers.  Even with a gloved hand (I wear snowboarding gloves for extra dexterity) the stack vents are easy to adjust on the fly. Perfect for all snow sports as shown here in Matte Dark Shadow. Check it out at Giro.com

Side view of the stack vents and ear covers of the Discord

One of my favorite cycling helmets is the Giro Amare as I really like the design and construction. The Discord is not extremely heavy in spite of the ample cushioning. Shown here in a MEDIUM it comes in EIGHT gorgeous winter colors.

The Discord claims to be compatible with most styles of goggles. I wear Scott and Rudy Project Snow Goggles both of which have a pretty wide band with a bit of grip. The Discord itself if pretty compact with a matte finish and my goggles easily stayed in place during my run. No fogging either!

Discord Helmet + Rudy Project Goggles

My first run with the Discord was for some cross country skiing where the trails were un-groomed with a light layer of snow over packed ice. Very treacherous going but my head and ears were comfy warm. I did wear a helmet lining beanie underneath but I really didn't need it as after about 30 minutes I was perspiring. As you can see below, the inside of the Discord is very insulated with ample padding.

Padding inside

Here are the details from the Giro Website:

Discord Details

Reign Supreme: An all new offering in our innovative Soft Shell category, the Discord helmet expands your options for freestyle freedom and expression in natural terrain. Built for progressive freestyle and backcountry riders where day-to-day impacts are inevitable.

The Discord design combines our patent pending, impact absorbing dual density Vinyl Nitrile (VN) liner with a proprietary, flexible and comfortable helmet for both high and low energy impacts.

The Discord's low profile design features Thermostat Control adjustable venting, Auto Loc 2 fit system as well as removable ear pads and seamless compatibility with all Giro EXV goggles for a dialed fit and fog-free function in any condition.

Additional Colors, Sizes and purchase details are available here:

Giro Discord Helmet Mens Unisex Ski Snowboard Protection New 2015 (Matte Black)

On the fly vertical tuning

New Skiwear Arrivals - Lole's Sidonie Bib

Skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. Lole Sidonie Bib

Winter 2015 is shaping up to be the season of bibs! Why are they trending so hot on the slopes this year? Well, perhaps because they are more technical and streamlined than ever. Nothing like what Fire Fighters wear! No, get that image out of your mind. The New 2015 Skiwear Collection from Lole will rock your world.

Lole Sidonie Bib
Here is the Description from the Lole Website:

Redefine snow slop chic in our modern update on the insulated bib. Get an edge on the slopes with its performance fit, breathable and waterproof four-way stretch fabric and powerful snow-stopping features. The supple Ski Softshell waist, slim legs with snow gaiters, and fully sealed seams keep the warmth in and the snow out. Articulated knees move with you and kick patches stand up to a day of endless powder runs. 

Lole Sidonie Bib

• Insulated bib 
• Softshell waist with center-front zipper to seal out snow 
• Adjustable, removable elastic suspenders 
• Two hand pockets with YKK® AquaGuard® zippers 
• Two zippered pockets with flaps on back 
• One zippered patch pocket with flap on leg 
• Mesh vents on inner legs 
• Slim leg with zipper opening 
• Gusset at leg hem 
• Abrasion-resistant kick patches 
• Snow gaiters 
• Fully seam sealed 
• Inseam 32 in./ 81.5 cm 



Sidonie Ski Bib Details
These bibs have a softshell feel with a hardshell attitude towards the elements. It sheds wind, snow and moisture like a duck and has some very tricked out details to keep you warm AND dry. Mesh Vents on the inner legs help prevent moisture and heat build up during heavy outdoor activity.

Mesh Vents on Inner Legs-perfect for keeping it cool.

Fully Seam Sealed Zippered Pockets
I really like like the two hand pockets up front. They have AquaGuard zippers so when you take a forward spill, the pockets and whatever is in them will stay nice and dry. 

AquaGuard Zippered Hand Pockets

Slim Legs with Zippered Openings
I like my ski and athletic bibs to have zippered legs as this is essential feature that makes getting them on an off much easier. The Sidonie also have built in gaiters which adjust to keep out wind and snow.

Generous Leg Zippers & Abrasion Resistant Kick Patches

Rear View - Two Zippered Pockets with Flaps on Back
I really like the abundance of seam sealed zippered pockets on the Sidonie Bibs. A great place to stash tissues, SPF Lip Balm and some cash.

Rear View on the Bibs

The Wrap
I really like the slimmer fit of the Sidonie Ski Bibs.  I had merino wool base layer tights underneath when I went out as it was snowing today. I really didn't need the base layer as these insulated bibs were plenty warm on their own even in 19 degree weather. The stretch at the waist is genius and the center zipper is very comfortable. 

The suspenders are also SO very comfortable and easy to adjust on the fly. Really perfect for all winter-snow sports.  Pop on your favorite ski jacket and hit the slopes in the Sidonie Bib which come in Black (as shown), White and Yellow. See them and the full 2015  Lole Winter Skiwear Collection at Lole.com 

UPDATE: I wore the Sidonie Bib for a snowshoe run after the Blizzard of 2015 or Snowstorm Juno. They were great! I was able to get my knees up and run without feeling overly restricted. Even bending over to loosen my snowshoe bindings wasn't a problem. Very flexible plus the built in leg gaiters kept the snow out even when I was in a full sprint. Better still I didn't feel the cold nor did my thighs get chilled.

Skiing and Snowshoeing terrain on my New Jersey estate.

Ski bibs c/o LoleWomen.com

Snow Day: Nordic Skiing Adventure

Alpine Skiing with my Sled Dogs "mini skis".

Winter 2014 This winter we are getting hammered with a truckload of snow in the Northeast! So it only goes to reason that when someone gives you lemons, make lemonade. Making the best of being snowbound and under a state of emergency means being a bit inventive. Thankfully, I am able to go right out my back door to snowshoe and do some cross country skiing right on my own land. I try to mix it up with various snow activities because each works different muscles. The ORIGINAL Nordic Track!

Getting Dressed
Cross country or Cross Country or Nordic Skiing requires sustained action over a long period of time which can work up a sweat so I lightly layer with:

My fave Wool Ski Beanie - ExOfficio

Smartwool NTS Lightweight Merino Wool Baselayer T & Ski Socks

Danskin Ice Skating Tights
Goose Down Ski Jacket (Moonstone)
GoreTex Paclite Snowboarding Pants

Wooly & Warm
Wool is really the way to go next to skin for winter outdoor activities. Layering with wool at the base traps warm air while allowing moisture to wick away from the skin. I use my synthetic ice skating tights because they are super thin and comfy under my hard shell GoreTex snowboarding pants.

Hot Food & Drink
Yes, you can take it with you and keep it hot too! Some hot soup, stew or cocoa can go a long way to helping warm you up from the inside. When we ski the backcountry, I take my sled which makes for a perfect seat for putting on footwear and storing backpacks. We often leave it within sight or at the trail head while we transverse an open field. When we return, our hot soup is waiting!

Stanley 20oz Thermal Food Jar and Spork from CampSaver.com

Navigating Ungroomed Trails
What I like about Nordic Skiing is that you don't necessarily have to run on groomed trails.You can traverse fresh powder if it's not too deep but even so, it's much more of a workout. This is also why I like using my Sled Dogs Snow Skates which are in effect mini skis. The skis are attached to the boot itself and are short enough to navigate uneven terrain. Just be sure to wax your skis and use the appropriate ski poles with hand loops for your height.

Sled Dogs, Smith Ski Poles and Scott Snowboarding Gloves on my sled.

After Skiing
You are burning a lot of calories out there (between 400-800/hr) so when you get back, it's time to refuel.
I like NeoCell's Chocolate Collagen Whey shake mix for a quick boost of protein. This muscle recovery formula gives you a whopping 30 grams of whey protein plus additional nutrients and antioxidants for muscles and joints. Even though skiing is considered low impact, you'll want to reward your ligaments after working them this hard.

Gear Care
After use, I always try to brush off any excess snow from my skis, boots and snowshoes. I put them on a towel in the same room as the fireplace and let them dry completely. I also have a Dry Guy Boot and Glove dryer which allows the quick drying of hats, gloves and boots. I also use Sno-Seal on my leather boots to keep moisture out.

 
The Joys of Cross Country Skiing
What I really like about cross country skiing as opposed to Alpine or downhill is that you can go at a slower pace. This allows you to notice things in nature while still getting a great workout. Take today for example. I saw a flock of low flying geese in v-formation heading north. The snow was also falling from the tree limbs which sparkles like crazy in the sunlight! What gym can give you a panoramic view like that? With more snow on the way, rather than get grumpy, why not embrace it with some calorie burning cross training activities like Nordic skiing?

Lole Women's Jenny Ski Jacket & Hat.  Smith Ski Poles

Skiing + Hiking Expeditions

 Combine skiing and hiking for a super X-Training experience! 

Skiing the slopes!

Get in some skiing while hiking the back country! Yes, it can be done. The best way to enjoy your ski or snowshoeing trip is to take a detour from the usual groomed trails.  We've included some basic gear to help you be safe, comfortable and able to face down emergencies one might encounter during your explorations in the snow.

Keep it Light

We use only one small back pack per person.  Rudy Project's Back Pack and Hydration Packs.  The Hydration Pack is a backpack with a built in removable hydration system.  This means one person can leave their water bottle back at camp.  Hydration packs also allow you to drink while on the move which is very important for cross country skiers or snowshoe excursions.  Both back packs are very light, comfortable and come with multiple zippered pouches and pockets.

Watch Your Step

If you are snowshoeing, most of them have built in crampons to allow you to grip the snow and ice.  All the same you should still keep a pair of crampons with you in case you have to portage through an area which is too steep or narrow for snowshoes.  Kahtoola MICROspikes performed extremely well on the hard, iced over snow we encountered in the mountains.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Adventure Medical Kit .3

Even medical kits are light and easy to pack these days thanks to Adventure Medical Kits.  Our little Medical Kit .3 kit holds enough supplies for one person: 2 bandages with butterfly closure, 1 roll tape 1/2 inch x 10 yards, 2 knuckle bandages, 4 fabric bandages and dressing gauze.  2 Triple Antibiotic Ointments, single use, 3 antiseptic wipes.  Medication: Ibuprofen, antihistamine plus 11 moleskin, 2 alcohol swab, safety pins and tweezers. This kit is ultralight and waterproof so it goes with us on all outdoor excursions!

Smartwool socks and baselayers are our favorites!

Weekend Ski Trip - Packed in 10!

You just got a call to join your friends skiing this weekend.  Don't panic.  Have you got 10 minutes?  Here's our "get up and go" packing list of clothing & gear essentials for a super-fun weekend on the slopes!    You won't have much of a good time if yo're not warm and dry so baselayer must haves include: Exofficio's super - wicking Chica Cool Hoody, Craft's Microclimate Layer 1 Tee, and Smartwool's Midweight Turtleneck.  

Exofficio's Chica Cool Hoody

Outerwear packables include a pair of warm UGG Boots (Bailey 3 Buttons), Kahtoola MICROspikes Crampons, Moonstone's Lucid Down Jacket and Hardshell Banshee Snowboarding Pants with matching black Snow Beanie (fits smoothly under your ski helmet).

Top if all off with Rudy's Project's Technically Cool Klonyx Snow Goggles and you are SO ready for a great weekend on the mountain!

Don't forget your toiletries, a portable humidifier and guitar for those cozy lodge evenings!