Winter Cross Training: Staying Warm and Dry

Layering 101 & Taking Along Something Hot to Drink! 

Winter is perhaps one of my favorite seasons for getting outdoors. My Dad taught us to love the snow and cold weather. He was always taking us sled riding...at night. I tell you my brother invented snowboarding by standing up on his Flexible Flyer on his down hill runs! We wore wool sweaters gloves and hats but none of the technical base layers we have available now. How ever did we survive?

Get Those Layers Right
Wool or Silk or even synthetic base layers beat cotton for winter layering. Why? Well, for one thing once cotton gets wet, it STAYS wet causing you to chill down. That's why denim jeans are not recommended for wear in the wintertime. Same thing. It gets wet, stays wet and then freezes... on you. You'll even do better wearing synthetics than cotton.

Women's Super.Natural Base layers shown here in Caviar

Super.Natural Wool Blend Base layers
These offer the best of both wool and easy care polyester. Made of 48% Merino Wool, 48% polyester and 4% Lycra for shaping and stretch, these are very thin and do not add bulk of restrict your movements under your clothes. Wool naturally wicks moisture and resists odor. The wide waist banded pants are also quite comfortable to wear under hard shell ski and snowboarding pants or bibs. See the entire line at SuperNatural.com

Waistband detail on Super.Natural base layer pants

Mid and Top Layers
A lot depends on the outdoor temperature and your level of activity when choosing your mid-top layers. As I prefer to operate more on the cool side, my base layer is all I would wear under my top layer jersey or thermal cycling jersey like this one below from Giordana with Bib Tights.

Giordana's Silverline Longsleeved Jersey & Bib Tights

Another option is to pick something like SmartWool Midlayers
which offer a bit more "heft" to the fabric. These are made of 100% Merino Wool and are very soft against the skin. I also like their designs with a zippered neck which help regulate your body temperature and keep you from overheating. So your base layer goes on first and then if it's really cold, a mid layer like this before putting on your coat.

Smartwool Women's NTS Mid 250 Zip T

Top Layers: Your Jacket, Vest or Coat
Once again there are so many ways you can go with this depending on the amount of physical activity you have planned for the day. When hiking, I prefer a vest and gloves which are usually fine enough for 35-40 degrees and above. The vest keeps my core warm without restricting movement in my arms. Gloves and wool socks help keep my extremities warm.

ExOfficio's Storm Logic Vest

I'm also liking the Novara Baker Bike Jacket because the sleeves have a stretch panel in them making it easy to bend at the elbows. It is actually a REI label jacket but really works well on a bike commute or walk in 35-40 degree weather. Read my full review on this jacket HERE. Visit REI.com online for the Baker Bike Jacket.

Novara Baker Bike Jacket

Skiing, Snowboarding Snowshoeing Top Layers
If you plan to be out in the snowy elements then you would do well wearing a goose down ski jacket. The second choice would be something like this Jenny ski jacket from Lole. It has a hood which is really important as about 90% of body heat escapes from the head and neck area.

Lole's Ski Jacket & Knit Cap

Wet, Rainy Weather
Some days we are up against the cold AND the wet. If this is you, you'll need to make sure you have a good, thermal waterproof jacket. The Portland Jacket from ShowersPass is amazing for a cold drizzly ride. Has a soft, brushed insulated interior with lots of pockets and zip pits to avoid overheating. Completely waterproof too. This jacket would work well with Giordana's FRC Thermal Bib Tights.

ShowersPass Portland Bicycle Jacket

Warm from the Inside
Our winter expeditions are never quite complete without taking along an insulated container of hot chocolate. It makes a big difference especially when you find yourself getting chilled. It is a very quick way to alleviate frosty feelings. I pack my Kleen Kanteen with hot soup, coffee, cocoa, whatever!

I have a larger Stanley Thermos that holds enough chunky hot stew for two people! Both travel along with us to the slopes and snowy fields.

A thermos of hot soup to keep you warm!

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

The Joys of Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing can be done on both groomed and un-groomed trails. PHOTO: Tubbs of Vermont Traditional Bear Paw Snowshoes- Ahnu Monte Vista Insulated Hiking Boots and Gore-Tex Paclite hardshell pants.

After the Nor'easter named Nemo blasted through the northeast leaving a bit of fresh powder, I just HAD to get out and take a run in it.  That's what I really like about snowshoeing.  It is simple and can be done anywhere regardless if the trail has been groomed or not. Heck, you don't even need a trail!  I really like taking to the open meadows but have used my snowshoes in the woods as well.  They allow you to float over the surface of the snow without sinking down up to your knees.

Rudy Project Klonyx Ski Goggles. Rabbit Fur Bomber Hat by Dorfman-Pacific

You can see that my hardshell pants have very little snow on them, even around the cuffs.  Snowshoes keep you up and above deep snow and will keep you dryer, longer.

Open meadows or wooded areas both accommodate snowshoeing very well.

What to Wear with Snowshoes
Most snowshoes have crampons that act to grip into the snow with each step.  Your heel and toe box stay secure via the straps and buckles that can be adjusted to fit the boots you are wearing at the time.

I used to go snowshoeing in my Merrell sheepskin boots with Vibram soles but this season switched to more streamlined Ahnu Monte Vista Hiking Boots. Even though it is a much thinner boot, the Ahnu is well insulated so my feet stayed warm and dry the whole day out.  I simply adjusted the straps and took off.  I've used heavier sheepskin boots and the thinner, insulated ones that are built more like running shoes.  I prefer the latter because a thinner boot gives me more flexibility and stay in the snowshoes better than the bulkier ones.

Ahnu Monte Vista Hiking Boots work well with my snowshoes

To make sure my feet stayed extra warm and dry, I water-proofed these boots earlier in the season.  I also make sure to dry them thoroughly after a day out even if on the surface they don't appear to be very wet. See The Joy of Warm Feet for all the tips and tricks.

Navigating Technical Trails

Kahtoola MicroSpikes Mini Crampons

Some people snowshoe as if they are Nordic or cross country skiing, using ski poles to balance.  This is a good idea especially when you are just starting out or there are a few sloping hills.  If you intend to scale very steep areas, you may need to portage your snowshoes and put on a pair of mini crampons like Kahtoola MicroSpikes. They will allow you to grip in between rocks and icy, sloping under-brush with ease.

Layering for Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a very aerobic activity so you'll need to keep that in mind when you dress in the morning.  I usually wear a very light Merino Wool Baselayer like Bluey Austrailia's Outdoor 160 and a synthetic mid-layer like ExOfficio's Chica Cool Hoody. 

My Tubbs Snowshoes Belt with Bottle Opener on the reverse side!

I like an ultra light goose down jacket to top everything off and have started using Smartwool Merino Wool Neck Gaiters instead of long scarves. They are a little snug but are a lot less troublesome, especially if you are carrying a day pack.

I like merino wool socks which wick moisture and keep my feet dry and cozy, even when I'm out for hours.  Waterproof snowboarding pants like my Gore-Tex Paclites have articulated knees and sealed zippers that run the entire length of the leg.  I just put them over a pair of wool leggings and I'm good.

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 Fall Cycle Gear: Smartwool HyFi Warmers

Fall Cycling: Smartwool Merino Wool Arm Warmers. Bicycle: Terry Symmetry

Fall scenery from my INOU Bicycle Camera by CatEye

Fall is just around the corner and before you know it, you'll be transitioning into warmer cycle wear.  You know how it goes. You're a bit chilly in the morning but once you get going, you're warmed up enough to want to shed a few layers.

You can actually stretch your cycling wardrobe by simply adding arm and leg warmers to your kit.  This really works well especially early in the season when it's not that cold yet. The temperature and you will most likely warm up by mid-day so you'll be looking to take off your warmers. 
 

Hot for Fall 2012 - Smartwool HyFi Arm, Knee & Leg Warmers

Ditch the Itch
If just the idea of wearing wool next to your skin makes you itch, Smartwool is for YOU!  I'm very sensitive and Smartwool baselayers and socks are the only Merino wool products I've found that can be worn right next to my skin.

Pro Style

Smartwool Knee Warmers & Giordana Bib Shorts

This season, Smartwool has come out with these new HyFi pro-styled wool arm, leg and knee warmers. They remind me of the elegant black pieces worn by cycling teams like Giordana in Italy and perform like the best technical materials out there. The Smartwool logo is in reflective white and they have a slightly tapered fit. Flatlock seams means no imprints and silicone strips at the top keep them from slipping. No digging or binding, these warmers stay in place without restricting movement or circulation.


Wool Wicks 
What you'll find is wool is unbeatable for its high wicking ability so that means you stay much more comfortable during your ride. As you heat up, perspiration and moisture evaporate through the micro-pores of the wool knit.  Wool itself is a polymer and has the unique ability to remain warm even when soaking wet.  These warmers will also work well for running, hiking and other outdoor athletic activities.

Leg Warmers
Smartwool's HyFi Leg Warmers are also very smartly designed as they have flat lock seams and articulated knees for ease of movement. Like the arm and knee warmers they have a silicone strip at the top to keep them in place.  What I really like about the leg warmers is the cool ankle zippers and reflective accents for added nighttime visibility.  Keep in mind that warm muscles perform more efficiently so if your legs are talking to you, try telling them to "shut up" with a set of quality warmers!

Roll Them Up
I think the best part about these wool warmers is that they are made of a very compact knit. The fabric is non-bulky so once you are beyond the chill, you can simply take them off.  They are thin enough to roll up and put in the rear pocket of your jersey or bicycle bag.  Don't let the thinness fool you though.  These are toasty warm but allow air to flow through, reducing excess heat and perspiration.

The HyFi's are machine washable (I use Sport Wash) but for best results it is recommended that you launder them inside out and flat/line dry.  These new Smartwool HyFi Arm, Leg & Knee Warmers are available August 2012 in black - sizes Small through X-Large.  These are SO chic & comfy, they will compliment nearly any cycling kit or running outfit.

Smartwool HyFi Arm & Knee Warmers with Safety Smartwear's Milan San Remo Kit