lululemon athletica - Candlelight Tank

lululemon athletica - Candlelight Tank

Next Up: A Fall (re)Treat.

As the weather cools and temperatures invite us outdoors, I continue my search for outdoor seating and a refreshing beverage.  If you find yourself on one of these patios, please save a seat for me!

Don't be sheepish in your search for a good fleece.

There used to be only one or two companies out there who made fleece.  What they made was densely knit, hard wearing, and very very warm.  It was the kind of fleece that lasts a lifetime.  Okay, maybe not a life time, but a very long time.  Now there is fleece everywhere, and I don't mean it's just among the outdoor gear companies.  Every retailer out there has some sort of fleece jacket or pullover ranging in price from the "stocking stuffer" category to the "wow, my car payment is less than that" category.

So how do we begin to decipher what's what and who's who?

My first words of advice on fleece: If you want fleece that will be used outdoors to keep you warm and dry, then buy fleece from a company that makes gear to keep you warm and dry.  In other words, don't buy fleece for your rugged adventures at Old Navy.  If you do, you should expect to be disappointed in its performance.
Secondly, the evolution of fleece has been constant.  Now there exists heavy dense fleece, lightweight fleece, fleece with zippers, fleece that blocks wind, fleece with stretch ... there's a whole flock of fleece out there.

So for warmth in a good hearty fleece (hearty like a good stew), go for EMS.  Their dense knit fleece is fantastic.  The stuff is so warm, it seems like it must be two fleece in one.  It will keep you warm, and though it's not windproof, its density will shed a bit of breeze.  This can be used as an outer layer, or an inner layer in the same way you would wear a heavy wool sweater, only this fleece won't smell like a sheep.

If it's wind block you crave, there are many options.  Over the years, I've found Mountain Hardwear to offer some of the softest wind block fleece out there.  You would never know there is a wind blocking membrane in this stuff.  It feels as soft and supple as the best stuff out there.  You won't hear a crinkle or crackle.  Not to be out of character, their fleece is a bit pricey, but I've seen good durability, and softness that lasts through years of wear.

For something a bit lighter, try Patagonia.  You may be thinking, as I used to, that Patagonia once made some of the thickest warmest fleece on the market.  You would be right, but times have changed.  These days Patagonia's best fleece products are not the thick, sweater like pullovers of yesteryear.  These days, they have all sorts of fleece, too many I might venture.  They offer some great options in the Regulator series.  The R1 is similar to the expedition weight Capeline, but through some magic, doesn't stink.  It's feels great against the skin, and offers a touch of stretch.  Beware, like many of their items, this fleece is very pricey for a light layering piece.  My advice: wait for the sale.

Next Up: The Fleecing of America

Here a fleece, there a fleece, everywhere there's fleece and more fleece.
So which ones will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable; and which ones will leave you feeling like a sheared sheep in February?
Let me herd you in the right direction ...

Five Finger on ten toes

So what's all the hype about Five Fingers?  I've started seeing them at the gym, on the trails, and even strolling around town on a Sunday afternoon.  

The makers say they are like going barefoot.  But I thought my mother told me never to go barefoot?   

Going barefoot is nothing new.  Not only has man been running around barefoot for centuries, but he's been doing so rather quickly.  Tribal runners around the world have long since been running barefoot.  We've even seen a few Olympic athletes run this way during competition.  But is this the way all of us should hit the pavement?

Research tells us a few things.
Running without shoes can strengthen the foot, ankle, and leg.
It is thought by many that the excessive cushioning provided by some shoe technology weakens the foot and leg muscles.  For a some time, we have had Birkenstock and other shoes that encourage the natural gripping and work of the foot.

Among those who do run barefoot, the foot strikes in the mid or forefoot.  The cushion of our running shoes, shaped like a wedge, forces a change in the way we strike the ground.  Without the wedge, the mid or forefoot naturally make contact before the heel.  The arch is strengthened by this motion.  And when the forefoot or midfoot strike first, the likelihood of injury is far less as is the impact to the joints.

Even more interesting to me was the fact that running with a forefoot strike actually uses about 5% less energy than running with a heel strike.  That's like never paying the tax on your purchases again, or having your energy bill reduced by $5,000 over a lifetime.  When we run barefoot, we also consume (or need) less oxygen.  Simply put, we are more efficient.

It would seem that all signs are nudging us to run barefoot, or close to it.  So why was the ultra cushioned running shoe created in the first place?  We have become accustomed to shoes, namely to keep our feet protected.  Protection developed into correction, but now it seems we are correcting the very problems we tried to avoid by cushioning our feet.  Did we simply let this get out of hand?
Reversing this process can take time and practice.  So if and when you decide to try running barefoot (or with Five Fingers-- gravel and glass don't feel good during your morning run), do so carefully and gradually.  If you had never run before, you wouldn't take off for a marathon, right?  Ease into your Five Fingers.  Your foot, body, and mind will need some time to adjust-- be patient and your feet will keep you going the distance.

Next Up: Five Fingers or Ten?

So it it all hype, or is there some science behind the Five Fingers shoes?  I mean, is it really worth paying that much to nearly go barefoot?  Join me as I examine where the rubber meets the road.

The Long and Short of It

Who wears short shorts?  Do we wear short shorts?  I don't know about you, but I'm not one to bear my legs, even in the summer time.  Don't get my wrong, I will wear shorts, but daisy dukes ... no way.  Save those for late night beach party (if you're 15!).

For the rest of us, there are fun, comfortable, and even fashionable options.  Let's start with the ladies, because as we all know, she comes first; he comes next.

For the most versatile outdoor shorts, there are many places to turn.  EMS is always a good place to start.  They manage to combine practicality and a bit of style for a very reasonable price.  Their goods will go the distance, so be prepared to wear these shorts for a long while.  The Session Shorts offer a great longer length short if you're planning to get wet.  The fit is comfortable, yet lean.  You'll have just enough room to breath in these without looking like you're wearing your husband's trunks.

If it's dry land you crave, head to Lole and Title Nine.  With an athletic cut, Lole offers comfortable and durable shorts with a touch of flair to keep them fashionable.  If you head out for an afternoon sail in these, you can be sure they will have you looking your best while you sip a Dark and Stormy at the bar even after you've been sitting in water. Pursuit 2 Bermuda

Title Nine offers the Beach Girl Bermuda which provides coverage by length, and comfort to boot.  These shorts offer protection from the sun, while being light weight enough to keep you cool.  Beware, and opt for a size larger than normal.  They do run very lean in the legs.

Have some shorts of your own that fit your needs to a T on and off the golf course?  Tell me know about them!

Next Up: Don't Fall Short

What are the best shorts to keep you cool and comfortable this summer?
First, let's take a good long look at some of the best ways to keep your cool as the mercury rises.

It's In the Bag (by Request)

Some of the latest trends in purses would have us all looking like hobos. Others give us a bag that seems big enough to qualify as checked luggage.
How do you find a bag that's practical and fun?  A bag that doesn't look like a Member's Only travel wallet from the 80's-- you know the one's I mean.  I had one too.

It's okay to go big.
You can use a big purse as a practical accessory and not carry-on luggage.  The key: Plenty of pockets and dividers inside to keep you organized and avoid carrying around extra baggage.  The danger of a big purse is that it will become a black hole-- somewhere that you dump all your worldly belongings.  We both know you don't need every receipt from the past four months, white out, hair brush, sun block, book, juice box, socks-- how did those get in there anyway?  So simplify.  If your bag has plenty of pockets and compartments, the things you really need will all have a place.  That means there won't be a place for the items you don't need to tote around.  So decide what items you really need, and then put them in their place.  This will keep them accessible and easy to find, and you won't be rummaging for your car keys in the darkness.
Target has offered some surprisingly good options.  I have found a couple great bags in Target, for equally great prices.  Oversized, fun, fashionable, and loaded with pockets, dividers, and the ever handy key chain clip!  Because these bags are faux leather or cloth, stick with fun and funky colors.  Don't try to make them look like something they're not.  Target Satchel
Another big option: Franklin Covey.
Marketed for the business woman, their bags are intended to carry an array of contents.  They have room for all the items you would keep in your purse, while being mindful of the files, planners, or disks you may need for your meeting.  With Franklin Covey behind these bags, you can't avoid staying organized. The styles have been updated, and are far more fun than an old briefcase.  Totes are of course pricier than Target, but with such attention to detail and quality material, the durability of these bags is worth the extra purse.  Franklin-Covey Totes

Next Up: By Reqest

I'm diverging from the gear gab to bring you some tips on how and where to find a good purse.  That's right ladies, this one's for you.
Looking for something durable and fun that won't leave you looking like a hobo at the dinner table?  Try these ...

Rain Gear to Help You Shed Water Like a Duck.

Summer showers always seem to catch us off-guard. While it may be hot outside, no one wants to be soaking wet, especially because you're sweating like a sumo wrestler under your rain gear.

So how do you keep the rain at bay without breaking a sweat?

Let common sense be your guide here. If a fabric feels dry and non-sticky to the touch, odds are it will continue to feel that way against your skin. But how do you know if the fabric is breathable or not? Once again, let common sense be your guide. Water shedding fabrics that appear to have a looser weave, usually are more breathable. Obviously you don't need something designed to stave off blizzards and hypothermia in the summer heat.

Marmot has made several lightweight jackets that market themselves as ideal for warm weather. I say beware. Owning one of these jackets, I have to say I never wear it in the summer. In an effort to provide a lightweight shell, Marmot created something that when worn in summer feels something like wearing a garbage bag. The inside is sticky, the fabric is remarkably non-breathable, and the seams tend to leak.

So who is making something worth putting in your closet?

As much as I prefer to go with the smaller companies that have yet to reach the masses, I will say that North Face does a nice job of providing good quality for a reasonable price.  The Resolve Jacket offers a simple waterproof jacket for around $80.  My favorite feature: The mesh lining.  It keeps the inside of the jacket from sticking to your skin and provides ventilation.  The result is a cool and lightweight feel while you stay dry.

L.L. Bean has been around for a long time.  Aside from providing what I believe to be the best customer service out there, they provide an array of durable and long lasting products.  The Stowaway Jacket with Gore Tex is just another one of their terrific products.  Offered in a variety of colors for men and women, this jacket hits the mark.  Adjustable cuffs that are not too tight or rough on the wrists, a soft flexible feel, and good breathability are all part of what makes this jacket great.  At $159 the price is a bit higher than what North Face offers, but as anyone who has purchased from L.L. Bean knows, this jacket will probably be around longer than its owner.

Last but not least I mention Columbia.  While Columbia has not provided the most technical gear over the years, they have begun to change this.  They have always provided a durable product at a great price.  Over the past few years, they have begun using lighter weight fabrics, adding more technical features, and still keeping the price of their gear lower than most.  The Arcadia Rain Jacket is a good example of the technical transition Columbia has made.  This jacket is lightweight, breathable, and has adjustments and added features in all the right places-- like the soft fabric where the zipper touches your chin.  At $72 how can you say no?

Next Up: ?

Don't get your panties in a wad!

It's happened to all of us at one time or another. Maybe you have a tough workout, and sweat so much that you look like you took a shower (even though you don't smell like it!); or maybe you've been hiking all day, and it's warm enough that your pack has saturated your backside in sweat; or perhaps you got wet when you weren't really planning to ... April showers bring May flowers?

Whatever the case may be, you're out there and there's no going back. But that's no problem, you're wearing nylon pants, a super wicking shirt, and your boots shed water like an alligator's back. Oh wait ... wet cotton underwear-- no fun. Suddenly you know what it's like to wear a wet diaper.

So as I sat on the rail of a sailboat this weekend, and waves splashed across my body, I thought to myself, "I sure am glad I don't own any cotton underwear." Then I started to wonder why I was wearing mostly cotton pants, and remembered the big pile of laundry at home. In spite of wet pants, my hindquarters were remarkably dry and comfortable.

I've found some great underwear to keep you dry, but as with many other products, they key remains the same-- avoid cotton. Now, this can be a little tricky, especially for the ladies. For us, some cotton is usually good, especially over an extended period of time. Not to worry, there are perfectly good synthetic and natural remedies out there.

Patagonia makes my favorite undies in a variety of shapes and colors. I was disappointed to discover that they no longer offer a thong as of this year, which after most activities ends up describing most underwear anyway. Never the less, the brief stays in place as well as any I've found by offering good coverage in the seat. The briefs are lightweight, dry fast, and stay comfortable even when wet because they pull moisture away from the skin. They feel great against the skin, and have a close but not-too-snug fit. These are a worthwhile investment for overnight trips and adventures on the high seas. Patagonia Active Brief

If it's a thong you're seeking, then EMS is the place to go. While they have only offered one style, like most of their products-- it does the job, and doesn't leave you asking for more. The price is more reasonable than Patagonia, and the feel is very similar. The fit is a bit more snug, though not tight. I find these are great when weight and space are at a premium, or for your afternoon run on the trails. EMS Techwick E-String

Icebreaker offers options for men and women in wool. For those who don't like synthetics, but want something that will dry fast and remain comfortable, here's another option for you. I've found the waistbands lie flat against the body; however, there appear to be too many seams in some of the women's styles. I welcome your input on these! Icebreaker

Men ... not to be forgotten here. Let's return to Patagonia where you will find a number of great options. Where Patagonia failed our ladies, they have come through for the men. I believe the best boxers can be found in this one place. If spending $30 on one pair of briefs seems irreconcilable, then buy just one. Before you know it, you'll have a drawer full of them. The active classic boxers are a great place to start. With a loose fit and flat waistband, they are comfortable anywhere. Take note on these: the waistband is made of a tight elastic that doesn't have much give, so make sure you order the correct size. While the boxer brief is not as loose in the legs, it does have a gentler fit with a less binding waistband. Opt for the active boxer brief if you want a more relaxed fit. Patagonia Men's boxers

One last thought ... when all else fails, there are always department store options. As with many of the items I recommend, there is always a more affordable and readily available option when you simply can't spend $30 for one pair of undies. Here in Virginia, I've had great success at Dillard's. Their in house brand offers a nylon and spandex brief, thong, and hipster all with a cotton crotch. These have lasted very well, and offer a great fit. While they are less technical than the other products I have mentioned, they still do a good job. Check out your local department store for something similar!

Next Up: A Delicate Matter

You have the right shoes, socks, shorts, and wicking shirt-- you're ready to head out there! But what about your unmentionables? Underneath it all you're sweating into a pair of cotton underwear, and you feel miserable. Here's how to stay cool to your very core.

Help Ward Off Sun Damage with the Right Sun Block

George Hamilton might have a Golden Globe in his hand, but what he's missing is some great sun block.

Let's face it, skin cancer is no fun, and unlike most other cancers, 90% of skin cancer is preventable. That's because about 90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. But how many people really have skin cancer you ask? Well, it accounts for 50% of all cancers-- that's over 700,000 people with skin cancer in the United States alone.

The skin is the largest organ of the body. It covers our internal organs and protects them from injury; serves as a barrier between germs, such as bacteria, and internal organs; and prevents the loss of too much water and other fluids. The skin regulates body temperature and helps the body get rid of excess water and salts. Keeping the skin healthy is key to keeping the entire body healthy.

Still think a tan is worth risking the health of your entire body? And let's not forget that prolonged exposure and the damage that comes from it can leave you looking years older that you really are. Do you want people thinking your 50 when you're really 40?

As I step down from the soap box, let me tell you about some good sunblock and where you can find it. With the help of these great blocks, you can keep your outdoor fun going all summer long.

There are two important ingredients to look for in sunblock: titanium oxide and zinc oxide. These are the components the protect the skin, reflect light, and decrease oxidation of the skin. What does all this mean? Less damage to your biggest and most visible organ, which helps it protect all the your other organs.

Vanicream makes a 30SPF and 60SPF. I use the 60 on my face and 30 on my body because of the cost. (The 30SPF is a few dollars less.) The cream is not greasy, and applies very evenly. Vanicream is formulated for sensitive skin, and has yet to irritate even my ultra sensitive epidermis. The cream is a little more expensive than dime store brands, but well worth it. It's tough to find this stuff on shelves, but tubes can be ordered online at: Drugstore.com and free shipping is available.

Neutrogena has a newer line of sunblocks called Ultra Sheer Dry Touch available in 55, 70, and 80 SPF. Why choose 80SPF you ask? Will you really get the full benefit of an 80SPF? Not likely, because you will reapply the block before the 80 factor kicks in on your dermis. With all levels of SPF being the same cost, what harm can it do. There may be a bit more benefit there, so why not use it. In any case, this block is very light on the skin, and just as Neutrogena suggests, it feels dry to the touch. The smell is even pleasant. This line can be found at any local drug store, or stores like Target for $9-$10 a tube. Coupons can sometimes be found in your Sunday paper or other Neutrogena products.

Total Block offers some high SPF level blocks. These are great for folks who are very concerned with skin cancer either because they have been treated for it, or because of genetic predisposition to it. While I highly recommend this block because of its quality and effectiveness, I will also steer you clear of it if you don't think it's necessary for your skin because of its cost. 2oz tubes run in the ball park of $20 each, which can really put a dent in your wallet. These can be purchased at your local dermatologist office, or online with Drugstore.com or Skin Care Rx to name a couple.

Next Up: Sunrise to Sunset

This time of year a daily SPF won't cut it. Day long adventures on the water or trail demand more coverage. So what's the best stuff out there? Stay tuned, and I'll tell you ...

Hats Off to You!

A good hat should do many things. None the least of which is stay on your head. It's even better this time of year if it keeps the sun off your face and out of your eyes. But staying "cool" can be harder than you think. I used to despise chin straps on hats, but somewhere along the way I realized they are one of the best features on a hat, and help make it versatile and handy in a variety of conditions. You will notice I tip my hat to those with one below.

Let's explore some good hats for the sunny and warm days ahead. Hats that will help us stay cool and shaded while we enjoy our favorite activities.

Let's jump right into it, but not head first-- I don't have a helmet.

Columbia offers one of my all time favorite chapeaux. The Omni Shade offers a wide brim, mesh in the cap, and a chin strap-- all the makings for a great hat, and it doesn't mind getting wet. The brim is soft, yet stiff enough to stay down in windy endeavors. The mesh will let you keep your cool, and let's not forget the chin strap ... it can be pulled up to the brim if you feel a little down and under, or cinched up so you don't blow your lid, and it's a great way to hang your hat if you decide to take it off for the sunset.

Fellas, this one's for you. Ladies, I wish we could share this one, but the hats are simply too big and well, manly for our heads. Have you heard of the Shady Brady? Willie Nelson and Steve McQueen have. John Brady is a surf-lover who started making leather goods so he could eat-- even surfers need food. Soon he made leather hats, and then he turned to straw as the cost of leather suddenly doubled. The rest is history. Wonderfully breathable, versatile, and sturdy, the Brady hats offer stylish shade. Keep them away from salt water, and they can last a lifetime. The stiff band in the hat keeps it where it belongs without compromising breathability. Bravo. The Aussi and the Bon Jovi are favorites.

If you're headed for harsh weather, OR will keep you covered with the Seattle Sombrero. This Gore-Tex hat is breathable and waterproof. The brim is foam, and will stay stiff even in a downpour. Better still, the cap of the hat is adjustable, so if you need to buckle down, it'll stay snug on your head; or loosen up for lighter coverage. This hat can be warm, but is surprisingly cool when left a bit looser. The velcro on the brim is a great feature.

Columbia Omni Shade

Shady Brady Hat Company

OR Seattle Sombrero

Next Up: Stay in the Shade, and You'll Have it Made

Find the right hat to keep you cool, calm, and collected as the mercury rises.

Afraid to Stick Your Toes in the Water?

You don't have to be afraid, so go ahead and ditch those gym shorts you've been wearing over your swim suit. Really, they didn't look cool in high school, and they definitely don't look any better now.

Finding a comfortable swim suit that will keep you covered, stay in place, and won't look like something your grandmother wore can be tough, but with a little guidance, you'll be swimming in your success.

We want a bathing suit that will help us do more than increase our risk of cancer: functionality, comfort, support, and something that looks fun and fashionable at the same time. We want to be able to jump in a pool and swim laps, but not have to wear a lap suit to do it. We can (un)cover those another time. We want a suit that will let me play frisbee on the beach, jump in the waves, wipe out on the wake board with confidence, and lounge on a chair without revealing too much of me.

J.Crew is a great place to start. Their swim wear is not highly technical, but they offer a wide variety of styles and textures. You can choose a print, or mix and match colors. Bigger on top than the bottom (not my problem to say the least)? You can also mix and match sizes. Their suits will go from pool side to lap lane and on to the lounge chair without a fuss. Fabrics dry relatively fast, though their liner tends to collect sand, making them better suited for pool or lake side use. My favorite detail: the halter top style has a hook in back so it stays put and lays flat-- that means no uncomfortable knot in your back.

If you're looking for something a bit sportier, but still very stylish, head toward Lole. They offer a sturdy suit with fun feminine detail. Suits fit more snugly than J.Crew styles, but are very comfortable. Bottoms offer good coverage, while tops offer support and adjustability. Swim suits stay comfortable all day, even after repeated trips in and out of the water. My favorite Lole detail: tops offer a thin removable pad in their tops which is great for smoothing out the fit or offering more modesty on a cool day.

Looking for something a little more elegant and less surfer girl? Tommy Bahama offers beautiful swim wear with a flattering fit. The suits fit flawlessly on any figure. Styles vary to offer less or more coverage. Yes, even your grandmother could find one to flatter her style and figure. These suits are well adapted for life in the pool or on the beach. They handle sand and chlorine well. Even after three wipeouts on the wake board everything was still in place. My favorite detail about these: gorgeous tropical prints that offer tradition with a flair. Give them a call, and you'll find another bonus-- even if you can't make it to the islands, they have stores and restaurants across the country.

J. Crew swim

Lole swim

Tommy Bahama swim

Next Up: Don't Go Off the Deep End

Does your swim wear leave you all covered up? Things falling out of place? Worried the wrong move might reveal more than your tan line? Never fear, it doesn't have to be that way.

Don't get mugged: Keep your java where it belongs.

If you've ever used a travel mug, this has probably happened to you: You're driving along, on your way to a relaxing weekend of sailing or perhaps a weekend at the beach. Sitting in your captains chair, you sip your nice hot coffee until ... Ouch! Ahh! $&%#! Not only is your lap scalding hot, but you are too.

If you manage to escape the burn, you've probably succumbed to the drip or the tip. If the lid doesn't fall of completely, it may have a bad seal-- This would explain why all your clothes are khaki. And then there are the mugs that don't leak or spill, but are ready to tip over at the first opportunity.

I have noticed, It seems harder and harder to find a good mug. I have a great one. I mean, really great. If you offered me $100 for it, I wouldn't even consider. Sadly, this mug is no longer available. In fact, nothing like it is available. Why stop making such a great product? What were you thinking EMS?

There is a great quantity of travel mugs on the market, just very few of quality. So how can you avoid wearing khaki for the rest of your life or suffering caffeine withdrawls in the morning? Here are a few ideas to help perk up your day.

EMS, the maker of many wonderful things, has a pretty good mug. It's nothing like my fantasy mug, but it won't leak, and keeps your coffee pretty hot. I'm not crazy about the lid design, but at $12, it's a good mug to have handy, especially as a spare for friends, or a quick trip across town. Liquid Solutions

Contigo makes some mugs that seal wonderfully. I've not heard one complaint about leaks, drips, or spills, but I have heard numerous complaints about the funk. The lids don't clean very well because of their design, and will tend to accumulate the mugs contents. Funk is great on the dance floor, but I prefer to keep it out of my coffee. Contigo Travel Mugs

Still searching for a solution to your mug malfunction? Look no further: the Bodum stainless steel vacuum travel mug. It's clean and simple. No handle, just a sleek 16oz mug to tote your java wherever you go. Bodum offers spill-free sipping, and it's a breeze to clean. With eight colors to choose from, how can you go wrong? (pssst, I'm partial to the green.) Gasping at the $25 price tag? It's cheaper than stain remover and new pants. Bodum Travel Mug

Next Up: I've been mugged!

Are you tired of a mug that doesn't keep your coffee hot until you hit the trails? Or maybe, like me, you just want one that will actually fit in your cup holder. I mean, my rubber floor mats are great, but I really don't need to clean them every day.

Sock Me

You've all been there. You're walking along and it starts to happen. You pull and tug. You might even take off your shoe hoping an adjustment will help. But the more you pull, the worse it gets.

Once your socks start to slip down into your shoe, there's no going back. You might as well throw in the towel, and your socks too.

So how can you stop this? You can't. But a good sock can help you avoid it all together.

Let me first say, that while it seems outrageous to most of us to spend $12-17 on one pair of socks, it can be well worth it. Let me also say, that there are less expensive alternatives that won't leave you tugging at your frustration.

Let's start with the best of the best. Smart Wool. Need I say more? The fit-- fantastic; the cushion-- with so many options, you can't go wrong; durability-- I'll let you know when I wear out mine; style-- yeah, they look cool too.

But what's behind the sock? Smart Wool uses high quality merino wool and blends it with nylon and elastic. The nylon adds durability and wicking, and the elastic helps the socks retain their shape. The end result is sock perfection. With so many different weaves and weights available, you can't go wrong. My favorites are the Adrenaline and the PhD in micro mini height.

Another favorite of mine is Wigwam. Again, they offer a broad spectrum of styles. You can find socks ranging from 100% cotton to 100% synthetic material. All of them fit well, and the various blends will suit you in any condition. I opt for the cotton blend at the gym and save the synthetic variety for long walks on the trails. These are a great alternative to wool, and consequently the cost is a bit easier on the wallet. My favorites here: Whirlwind low and the Rebel no-show.

The third player: Thorlo. You won't find yourself tugging on these; however, their feel and comfort is not top on my list. I always find my feet wet after a workout or long walk in them, which has led to a blister more than once. They have been working to improve their materials and create better blends, so it may be time to give them a second chance.

Aside from these brand names, are there good ankle socks out there? I've found a very few. Addidas makes a decent low cut sock, but beware, they make several and not all of them are good. Haynes makes some ankle socks, but they can start ... to ... slip ...

My advice? Spend the extra money up front, and you won't regret it. Your socks will last at least twice as long as those other brands (probably 3-4 times as long), and you can be sure no one will pass you on the trails while you're playing tug-of-war with your socks.

Next Up: Sock it to me

Feel your socks slipping away? Get a grip! A guide to the best ankle socks on the market.

The Trouble With Capeline

We all know the big trouble with Capeline. Don't pretend you don't know what I mean-- It stinks.
I recall an afternoon swim in a snow-fed river after a long hike. It felt so good to cool off and be clean again. I started to put on my capeline zip-top that I'd worn the previous morning until temperatures warmed. As I did this, I stopped dead in my tracks. Whoa! Was there a dead animal in my shirt?! I mean to tell you, that top smelled like a half-dead homeless man in August. I know I've never smelled that bad, so why did my shirt? I did what anyone would do, and plunged my shirt into the river. I rubbed, scrubbed, and dunked, but when the shirt came out, the stench remained-- only slightly diffused by cold water and wishful thinking.

In the past, I'd worn Capeline as a mid-layer, usually with a cotton or 50/50 shirt underneath it for extra warmth and comfort. This worked very well to keep me warm and comfortable all day as long as I wasn't getting really sweaty. But with space at a premium and no laundry opportunity in sight for two weeks, I bagged the natural fibers for lighter weight synthetic ones that would insulate even if a rain storm blew over. I knew I could "wash" them at camp in the evening if I had the opportunity, and they'd be dry by the time we packed up camp in the morning.

The value in these polyester fabrics is that with minimal weight and bulk, they offer good insulation even when wet. The core of the fabric does not absorb water and allows the fabric to "wick", keeping you warm, dry, and lightweight even when you sweat buckets. The other upside of the wicking is that when you do sweat buckets and then get cooler, you won't be cold and wet from your own sweat.

So back to the river ... Suddenly I was faced with a crisis about which I'd only heard rumors. What was I going to do for the next two weeks? If I left the stuff behind, not only would I be cold, but Capeline wasn't exactly cheap either.
Today, there are many more alternatives.

While Patagonia has done a lot to improve the smell that arises from Capeline when it comes into contact with body heat and sweat, the result is still far from good. Other companies like Marmot have added silver to their fabric to help fend off the stench. This has helped some. But how long the silver will remain in the fabric after multiple washings is a big question.

Wool offers durability and insulation even when wet. The downside is it's weight and bulk. While it doesn't smell worse than you ever will, it is "fluffier" and takes up more space in a pack or suitcase. When wet, wool will continue to insulate; however, it doesn't possess any wicking properties. High performance wool also tends to be a bit pricey. IceBreaker makes a great product-- fashionable and technical.

Silk is another great alternative. It's lightweight, incredibly soft and comfortable on the skin, and insulates when wet. It will even wick, but not as well as it's polyester counterpart. The major downside? Cost.

Duofold makes some wool and cotton blend items. They are not highly technical, but they keep you warm, and wear very well after years of washing. Prices are very reasonable.

Morgan Mills made good old fashioned long underwear, but rather than using 100% cotton, they used a 50cotton 50 poly blend. The result was comfort, wicking, and a very low cost. I purchased three of their tops on sale for under $15! Unfortunately as far as I can tell, this company no longer exists.

After berating Patagonia, I will tell you about their newer line called the R1, which is polyester with a touch of Lycra; however, it doesn't seem to smell like it's Capeline cousin. I've worn it against my skin, and no one has mistaken me for a dead animal. The addition of spandex allows the fabric to move with you, which makes it less constricting than Capeline too. Unfortunately, it does pack far more bulk and feels more like a tight outer layer.

The great compromise: featherweight silk underneath merino wool. Pricey yes, but you won't need many of these. The natural fibers will provide lasting comfort and durability, and can be worn multiple times before you or your friends start to wonder when you last showered.

Ice Breaker

WinterSilks

Duofold

Patagonia R1

Next Up: The Trouble With Capeline

Paradox: A great "shoe" by Chaco.

Aside from being the name of a sailboat my skipper once owned, it's a great shoe. And with spring just around the corner, sailing season will be back in action (all my Frostbite races have been cancelled since Christmas because of ice). What does that mean? Well, a lot of things, but-- it means it's time to pull the gear out of the closet and brush off the dust and sea salt of last fall.

Which brings me back to the Paradox.

I dare say Chaco has never made a bad shoe.

Located in Paonia, Colorado, Chaco started in a 2,000 square foot building. They built a strong following, which even today is rooted in growth almost solely by word of mouth.

Last year, after my old sailing shoes dry rotted, and realizing that Crocs just wouldn't do on the race course, I began searching for a new sailing shoe. Immediately I ruled out the old tennis shoe-like options and vied for something more comfortable and fun. I wasn't ready to wear the same shoes as a 70 year old skipper, but I wasn't to keen on the idea of, well ... KEEN. They were so trendy, everyone seems to have them, and frankly I wanted a little more versatility and protection. Not to mention, they were no match for my skinny long foot.

With sea salt and sunshine, many fabrics fail over a season. Cotton dry rots, leather stays wet, nylon can stay wet too, and worst of all ... chafe. Shoe laces can catch on so many things while your jumping around on a boat, and that will almost always spell disaster. So I thought about the companies I know, or that have a good reputation, and I searched. I soon came to Chaco.

While Chaco has long since been a maker of sandals, they do make closed toe shoes too. I'd never tried them, and wondered if like KEEN, they would be too wide for my foot. What I found was a great alternative. The Paradox offered the support of a shoe, a sporty design, and great breathability. Yes, they dry out amazingly fast considering how sturdy and supportive they are. In spite of their top being made solely of webbing, they do not chafe. They are lose enough to breathe, but offer the adjustability made famous by Chaco. The rubber toe offers great protection, and the sole is surprisingly grippy and still non-marking. They look great, and perhaps best of all if you do get them wet, especially regularly, they will not stink! That's right-- gone are the days of the Teva funk or the topsider stench. They just don't get that horrid smell that makes you think, "I should just throw these away and start anew next year".

I've found these shoes to be incredibly versatile. They're a great alternative to a flop because they do offer much more support and comfort, yet they're still breathable and slip on and off so easily. I've worn them with socks on and off the boat. They're a great summer shoe-- no matter what your use for them.

Check them out: Chaco Paradox

My First Blog

Starting a blog must be crazy, I mean, who reads this stuff, right? Is everyone blogging, or no one? I don't know. I'm a maiden venturing into the world of blog.

To my friends who suggested this, wish me luck!

When you call me and ask, "should I go with the Smartwool socks or try the REI brand?" Smartwool, duh. Who do you think I am, Outdoor Magazine? I can dream, right ... but for now I will just blog.