Gear Closet: Sports Science Graphic T-Shirt

Over the past few years there have been some wonderful advances in the area of fabrics used in the clothing wear while on our active endeavors. Now days we have thinner and lighter gear to keep us warm in cold weather and more breathable, wicking fabrics to keep us cool when its warm. If you're like me, you've probably come to appreciate the technology that has gone into that clothing, particularly when you're on a long run, bike ride, or hike in a variety of weather conditions.

Founded in 2005, Sports Science is a company that has put those high tech fabrics to good use. The company has built itself a reputation for creating activewear for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Their products are lightweight, attractive, excellent at wicking moisture and treated with FreshGuard to help keep them from acquiring unwanted odors. In short, they incorporate just about everything you could want out of your outdoor apparel, while still looking like something you wouldn't mind wearing both on the trail or around town.

Recently the company sent me one of the t-shirts in their "Outdoor People" line for testing and I was immediately struck by the fact that it looked like just about any other shirt you'd find in just about any store. The graphic on the shirt was unique and original with a bit of whimsy incorporated into the design. I tried to ignore the fact that they had chosen to send me a print that is titled "Old Goat," even though it is probably very fitting.

My initial impressions aside, I soon started to wear the shirt on a regular basis and found that it was quickly becoming one of the favorite articles of clothing in my rotation. Not only was it unique in styling it was also very comfortable to wear and the super-soft fabrics were great for what ever you have on your schedule. I've worn the shirt on cool, rainy days when I just lounged around the house and on day-hikes on a warm and dusty trail and each time it has been kept me very comfortable.

Wearing one of these Sports Science shirts is like wearing a technical piece of gear without the overly shining fabrics and tight fitting cut. This shirt provided all the performance you would expect out of that type of gear in a package that doesn't look like it is something out of a cheap science fiction movie. I love the cut and fit of the Old Goat t-shirt and I love the way it keeps me comfortably dry even more.

The t-shirt that I tested is just one item in the Sports Science line. They have also have long sleeve tech and wool shirts, a variety of graphics, and so much more. Check out their entire catalog here.

Hill running

Ultrarunners Set To Run The Planet

Two ultrarunners, one a legend in the sport, the other a neophyte, are set to launch an ambitious new television show entitled Run the Planet, which will send them to a variety of locations across the globe, where they will take part in a series of long distance running challenges.

Starting February 25th, New Zealander Lisa Tamati and Australian Chris Ord, will start the first of those challenges by attempting to run 126km (78.2 miles) between Hermannsburg and Alice Springs, in Australia. Along the way, they'll cross that country's famous Red Centre, where temperatures will routinely approach 40ºC/104ºF.

Lisa and Chris' run will follow a famous route that was taken back in 1922, when an indigenous stockman named Hezekiel Malbunka covered the same distance in order to save the life of a missionary by the name of Carl Strehlow. At the time, Strehlow was in desperate need of medical attention, and someone needed to go to the telegraph station to request assistance. It was agreed that Malbunka could get there faster on foot than by horse, and he did so – in just a day and a half. Once he had completed his mission, the runner then turned around, and ran back to where he started, besting his old time by completing it in just a day. Fortunately, Tamati and Ord won't have to make the return trip.

Their new show, Run the Planet, will put Tamati at center stage. As an ultrarunner, she has already completed some impressive runs, including traverses of most of the major deserts of the world. It is estimated that Lisa's runs have covered enough distance to send her around the globe four times. Her partner, Ord, on the other hand, is new to the sport of ultrarunning, and over the episodes of the series, you'll see him learn from Tamati, while building his own skills and level of endurance. In any given episode, the duo will be attempting runs of anywhere from 80km (49.7 miles) to 350km (217.4 miles), across a wide variety of terrain and under a host of conditions.

Exactly when the new show will begin airing is still up in the air, but my friends in Australia and New Zealand should definitely keep their eyes peeled. No word on whether or not it'll cross the ocean to North America yet, but I'd certainly tune in.

Gear Closet: Hydrapak E-Lite Runners Vest

Awhile back, I wrote a review of the new Marathoner hydration vest from Camelbak, which should be hitting stores about now. I found it to be a good option for long distance runners who want to stay hydrated while on the go. Fast forward a few months, and I've now had the opportunity to test out a similar vest from Hydrapak, and while the two products are competitors, I thin they'll appeal to a different audience.

Over the past few weeks, I've been putting the Hydrapak Elite Vest to the test, both on road and trail runs, and I've come to really appreciate what this lightweight, minimalist pack brings to the table. The vest weighs in at a mere 9.9 ounces, and is pretty much stripped down to the bare essentials. It sports a 1 liter water bladder, half that of the Camelbak, and two small zip pockets, which stretch to hold more than you would think at first glance. The Elite Vest also has four holster style pockets for keeping your gels, nutritional bars, and other food items close at hand.

Made from very soft, moisture wicking fabrics, I found the Elite to be very comfortable to wear, particularly over longer distances. In fact, for my tastes, Hydrapak's offering was more comfortable to me than Camelbak's, which is a bit larger, although by no means bulky. Adjusting the fit on the Elite is a quick, and simple affair, and once properly adjusted, it locked into place nicely, something I appreciate greatly when on an extended run.

When Hydrapak says that this is a minimalist pack, they truly mean it. If you are a runner that needs to carry more than a liter of water, or carries a jacket, headlamp, or other items with you, you'll probably appreciate the expanded options available on the Marathoner more. But if you prefer to move fast and light, and don't require much in the way of extra gear, the Elite is a great option, so long as you are aware of the limitations ahead of time. Personally, I felt that the smaller vest was a better option in the warmer weather of Texas, where the larger pack can lead to overheating.

Despite its minimalist design, the Elite Vest is a very high quality product. After numerous runs, mine looks like it is is still brand new, and feels like it will be a great training companion for a long time to come. With a price tag of just $54.99, it also is an inexpensive option for runners on a budget, although there is nothing "budget" about this product.

The Hydrapak Elite Vest gets a big thumbs up here.

10 Great Adventure Races For 2012 From Nat Geo Adventure

Endurance athletes and adventure racers who are still considering where they'd like to compete this year will love the latest top ten list from National Geographic Adventure. This time they give us Ten Great Races in Amazing Places for 2012.

First up on their list is the Patagonian Expedition Race, which actually gets underway next week. As the name implies, this competition takes place in the wilds of Patagonia. Over the past few years, this race has held down the first spot on the adventure racing calendar and it has earned a reputation as one of the most challenging, physically demanding, events of the year. The remote location, highly unpredictable weather, and grueling route are just a few of the hurdles for the coed teams to overcome.

Other races that earn a nod on the Nat Geo list include the Race2Adventure, to be held in Guatamala in March. This competition features daily stage runs for prizes, but also mixes in some other adventurous activities, such as rafting or cliff diving after the competitions end for the day. Colorado's Iron Horse Bicycle Classic earns its place with the other races for its unique competition. Riders in the event actually race a train into Silverton. The ride is just one part of a full weekend of activities that take place in May.

Whether you're an endurance runner, triathlete, adventure racers, or just a weekend warrior looking to have some fun, you'll find some kind of competition that will appeal to you on this list. So start planning now, get into shape, and be ready to take on any one of these great events.

Running Across Death Valley To Inspire Others

On March 24th of this year, runner Ryan Mills will set out to run the length of Death Valley National Park. The course he has chosen wanders north-to-south and will cover 184 miles of total distance. He hopes to finish in just eight days, and along the way, inspire others to lead a more healthy, active lifestyle.

With that goal in mind, Ryan hopes to create a documentary of his expedition, which will follow his desert adventure. To help fund that film, he has set up a Kickstarter page where he is seeking funding for the project. He hopes to raise as much as $6000, which will go directly to paying for the logistics of the journey, including renting Jeeps, purchasing GPS equipment, and other items to keep him and his support crew safe while out in the field. As of this writing, Ryan has already been pledged $1286 towards that goal.

Our friend Ray Zahab ran across Death Valley back in August of last year, and found it to be quite a challenge. At that time of year, the temperature can be extremely hot, but it is the difficult terrain that can really make this a daunting task. In March, the average daily temp is about 80ºF/26ºC, so it shouldn't be as tough for Ryan in that department, but the rugged terrain will be no less difficult to negotiate.

Lets hope the team gets the funding they need so we can all follow along in March.

Gear Box: Nike Livestrong Hypercool Running Shirt

Over the past 15 years, Lance Armstrong's Livestrong organization has raised millions of dollar to help fund research on how to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. Much of that money was brought in by sales of the extremely popular yellow armbands that are so closely associated with the Livestrong brand, but the organization also happens to have a line of active, athletic gear that they've produced in conjunction with Nike. Proceeds from the sale of that line of gear go directly to Livestrong, and over the years I've purchased a few items that remain amongst my favorite running clothes.

With the 15th anniversary of the founding of Livestrong just passed, Nike is preparing an update to their line of gear in time for a spring release. I recently got my hands on an early sample of one of the new Livestrong Hypercool running shirts, which incorporate Nike's Dri-Fit fabrics to help wick moisture and keep you dry and cool over the length of your run. As you would expect, the stylish – all black – shirt features the distinctive Livestrong shade of yellow, which is a tribute to Armstrong's seven Tour de France titles, during which we all became so accustomed to seeing him in the Yellow Jersey. The back of the shirt has a large mesh panel – also in yellow – which brings an added measure of breathability to the wearer, not to mention enhanced visibility while running in low light conditions. 

Living in Texas, where the weather never really gets all that cold, I've had ample opportunity to put this shirt through its paces recently. After just a few short runs, it quickly became apparent that the Hypercool was going to earn a spot in my workout rotation. I appreciated the fact that the stretchy, spandex-enhanced, fabric allowed me to move with out restrictions and didn't cling to my body, even when I started to work up a sweat. Having used Dry-Fit shirts before, I knew what to expect in terms of breathability and wicking, but even I was surprised at how well this shirt performed in conditions ranging from cool to warm and dry to humid to raining.

The Livestrong Hypercool shirt will run about $40 when it is released later this spring, and probably the best thing I can say about it is that I'll definitely be adding a few more to my closet. It is one of the best running shirts I've worn, and you can never be too comfortable while on the streets or trail.

Gear Box: Tech4o Accelerator Pro Plus Watch

Every new year brings a host of new resolutions. For many, that includes getting into better shape and generally living a more healthier life. If you've made that one of your goals for 2012, then you're going to want to take a look at the new Accelerator Pro Plus watch from Tech4o, as it just might be the best training partner you've ever had.

As you would expect from any good training watch, the Accelerator Pro Plus offers countdown timers, a 50 lap chronograph, alarms, and more. It is waterproof down to 100 meters and it even tells time – in two timezones no less! But Tech4o managed to pack in some other great features that you don't find on a lot of other time pieces of this type, especially in this price range.

Using its built in accelerometer, the watch can accurately measure your pace and distance, which is fantastic for tracking performance over time. It also keeps track of total exercise and moving times, calories burned, personal best speeds and distances covered, and much more. And when paired with the included heart rate monitor, which fastens comfortably around your chest, it can measure your pulse throughout your workout and provides critical data regarding performance and recovery. The Accelerator Pro Plus even allows you to customize your personal profile to provide visual and audible alerts throughout your run, which can help you stay on pace and alert you when your heart rate moves into the red zone.

All of that data can be extremely helpful for runners looking to increase their speed and distances over time or simply increase their overall fitness. But the Accelerator Pro Plus as another trick up its sleeve in the form of PC-Link, which allows the watch and heart rate monitor to wirelessly upload the data to your computer. The PC-Link software, which is rather basic, yet still quite functional, stores your running logs and allows you to chart your progress over time. It also displays heart rate charts, tracking your minimum and maximum pulse and giving you an average heart rate for your individual runs. It is an excellent addition to the package, which can be a very useful tool for beginner and experienced runners alike. Sadly though, the software is only available for Windows PC's (Win 98/XP/ME/Vista/Win7), keeping Mac users from fully tapping the watch's abilities.

I was impressed with how easy this watch is to use. Similar time pieces can be a bit cryptic in their interfaces, but after just a couple of runs,  I found that I was using the Accelerator Pro without thinking twice. That's a major plus for runners who just want to hit the trail and not have to fiddle with their technology while focused on their run. I also found this watch very comfortable to wear, even when not working out. The face isn't overly large and it isn't heavy either. Considering I pretty much wear a watch of sometime at all times, I appreciate both of those features.

Now for the best part of all. Tech4o managed to bring this fully-functional training watch to the market at a price that is difficult to argue with. The MSRP on the Accelerator Pro Plus is just $129.99, including the heart rate monitor and wireless PC-Pod for connecting to your laptop. That's a great deal, and I've paid similar prices in the past for watches with the half the functionality.

If you're looking for a great new training tool, then look no further. The Accelerator Pro Plus will give you everything you need in one great, affordable package. Now's the perfect time to grab one as well and start using it to realize all those New Year's Resolutions you've made.

Summer Issue of Trail Run Magazine Now Available

The Summer Edition of the fabulous Trail Run Magazine is now available for your downloading and reading pleasure. Summer Edition you ask? Why yes, it is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, and this great e-zine focuses on the trail running scene in Australia and New Zealand, although it has plenty to offer trail runners everywhere.

Readers will find all kinds of interesting content in the latest issue, including excellent gear suggestions and reviews, profiles of great trail options, and an awesome interview with legendary mountain runner Sjors Corporaal, who seemingly burst onto the New Zealand running scene, and has dominated some of the tougher races there. The mag also takes a look at some of the toughest races down under and the latest trends in trail running shoes, including the popular barefoot craze.

As usual, the Trail Run is filled with great photos to accompany the excellent articles, and it can now be purchased in a high quality "mook" format. A mook falls somewhere between a magazine and a book, for those who prefer reading offline.

If you like the look and content in Trail Run, than stay tuned for more big things from the team who is delivering this great magazine. I've heard through the grapevine they would like to turn their attention to our other favorite outdoor sports, like climbing and paddling as well. If Trail Run is any indication of what their other projects will be like, I'm excited to see what they bring to the table.

Gear For Winter Running

Last week we received some tips on gear for winter cycling courtesy of Gizmodo and today we have a similar list, this time for runners, from our friends over at Wend. If you're like me, and you absolutely hate to run indoors, than this nifty little gear guide will come in handy for getting ready for the long cold months ahead.

Personally, I like the Wend gear guide better than the Gizmodo one because if focuses on the most important aspect of cold weather activities, namely staying warm. At the heart of that is excellent clothing that breathes well, is warm enough to withstand the cold temps, but doesn't leave you sweating your butt off. It is a fine line to walk, but most cold weather runners learn what works and wasn't doesn't and adjust their apparel accordingly.

Amongst the gear that Wend recommends is the Salomon XT Wings 2 trail running shoes, which they like for keeping your feet warm and dry, even in the snow. They also give a nod to the Montane Lite Speed Jacket, which is wind and water proof, and designed for cold weather exercise. The gang at Wend also likes running tights from Pearl Izumi for keeping you warm on the road or trail too.

There are more items on the list which will either help to keep you warm in the weeks ahead or would make a very welcome gift for the runner on your list. Everything from gloves to stocking caps and gaiters are listed, making it a snap to prep for the winter.

More of Outside's Favorite Blogs

Last week I shared links to Outside Magazine's picks for their favorite Gear, Bike, Environmental, and Adventure blogs, the latter of which I was fortunate enough to earn a spot on. Since then, the editors at Outside Online have also posted their top picks for their favorite climbing, running, and fitness blogs as well.

Making the list of the top climbing blogs on the Internet were sites such as Climberism and PlanetMountain, both of which I enjoy reading regularly. But Outside's top pick in this category is one that I whole heartedly agree with, as Climbing Narc is always a great read to keep up with what is happening in the climbing scene.

The top 10 running blogs is filled with plenty of great options as well, and if you're not already a runner, reading these sites will probably motivate you to start. I've always been partial to iRunFar and enjoy reading Peak Performance as well, as both offer plenty of inspiration for my own running. The top blog on this list is Science of Sport, which is a new one to add to my daily web activities.

Finally, we have the top 10 fitness blogs, which includes Runblogger, which is curiously listed here and not under the running blogs, and Sweat Science, which is always a good read when you're looking for the latest news and analysis on fitness trends. The New York Times Well Blog tops the list in this category thanks to its excellent writing, breadth of topics, and practical advice.

Between all of these lists, you should find at least a few new bookmarks to add to your browser of choice. There really are some excellent blogs listed amongst the 70 websites that Outside has recommended across all of these lists. They'll definitely keep you informed on what ever topic they focus on.

British Ultrarunner Sets New EBC to Kathmandu Speed Record

British ultrarunner Lizzie Hawker has set a new speed record from Everest to Kathmandu, by running from Base Camp to the capitol of Nepal in just under three days. Hawker started the run last week and finished the 320km (199 mile) route on Friday.

Officially, Hawker's time was recorded as 2 days, 23 hours, 25 minutes, which shaved a bit of time off her previous record, which was set back in 2007, when she made the same run in 3 days, 2 hours, 39 minutes. Her latest time includes an unexpected stop over in the village of Bupsa, where Hawker spent 8 hours waiting out the rain. At that point she thought her chances of breaking the record were slim, but she managed to get back on the trail and make up the time.

Perhaps even more impressive, Lizzie, who is amongst the top ultrarunners in the world, completed the run without sleep and while suffering from what is described as a chest infection, which she contracted while on the Everest Sky Race. My guess is that she had a bad case of the Khumub Cough, which I can tell you from my own experience is quite nasty. I don't envy her on that run.

Considering the trek from EBC to Lukla takes about four days by itself, this is super-impressive. Most of us then board a plane and fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla, but Lizzie kept on running, finishing up the whole journey in under three days. Amazing.

Thanks to Outside Online for the tip on this one!

Trail Run Magazine Issue #2 Available Online

Way back in July I posted a story about a new online e-zine called Trail Run Magazine that was being put together by some friends of mine in Australia. At the time, I thought the content was fantastic and that the magazine was off to a great start, and judging from some comments that I heard, a number of you thought so as well. Now, the second issue of the magazine is out, and delivers even more great content.

Granted, Trail Run has a definite slant towards running in Oz and New Zealand, but that said, there are plenty of good articles for trail runners and adventurers everywhere. For example, the second issue has shoe reviews, as well as gear previews, that will be popular with runners of all types. The magazine's athlete profiles are also interesting to read, and their regular columns for improving performance and shaking off injuries are welcome as well. I particularly took note of the article on ankle injuries, as I've been suffering with one for a month now, and it has severely hampered my running.

Trail Run Magazine continues the high quality that was set down with the first issue, and I continue to be impressed with how beautiful it looks. The images are fantastic and the writing is top notch as well. It is clear that this is a labor of love by people who live and breathe trail running and have a passion for sharing with their readers. Give it a glance and I think you'll find that you enjoy it as much as I do.

Gear Box: New Balance 360 Degree Running Jacket

With the summer now long over, and cooler weather settling in, runners are digging deep into their closet to pull out their warmer gear. A recent cool front has brought some much needed, and appreciated, fall weather to my neighborhood, which has made longer runs much more bearable and served as a perfect testing ground for a new running jacket from New Balance.

The 360 Degree Jacket was designed to remove any excuses for not going for a run due to inclement weather. It is both wind and water resistant, helping to keep you warm and dry while on the move, but it is also lightweight and breathable, which goes a long way to extending your comfort even further. New Balance has conveniently included heat vents along the front and back of the jacket as well and an internal mp3 pocket was greatly appreciated, as I rarely hit the road without my iPod.

With its semi-fitted cut, the 360 Degree Jacket fits nicely without impeding movement, two things that always look for in my active wear. Drawcords along the waist allow you to adjust the fit further and an inner lining, that stretches down the sleeves, provide a nice buffering layer between your body and the outer layer of the jacket when you start to sweat. Zippered pockets help to keep important items, such as keys or a wallet, safe, and one of those pockets even includes a ribbon to record your emergency contact information, heaven forbid you should ever need it.

Put to the test in the real world, I found this jacket to be comfortable and performed well in a variety of weather conditions, just as advertised. I was a bit on the warm side however, even in the semi-cool weather that I tested it in. To be fair, I do tend to heat up easily when working out, and if your core temperature doesn't run as high, or you live in a place where there truly is cool weather, you'll be more than happy with the performance of the 360 Degree.

If performance in bad weather were the only thing this jacket had to offer, you'd still think it was a fantastic addition to your running wardrobe, but it turns out it has another trick up its sleeve. When designing the 360 Degree Jacket, New Balance incorporated a new version of the Scotchlite fabrics from 3M. Scotchlite was created to be highly reflective and this latest version is thin, lightweight, and designed for performance gear. It also happens to make that gear HIGHLY visible in low light conditions. In fact, the New Balance 360 Degree Jacket gets its name from the fact that the wearer can be seen from all angles, even while running in the dark.

The addition of the Scotchlite really does make a massive difference in visibility, extending the distance that you can be seen my several hundred meters. This feature of the jacket is also greatly appreciated in the fall, as not only are the days becoming cooler, but they're getting shorter as well. I won't speak for you, but before too long, I know I'll be running in the dark every night.

Taken as a complete package, this is one fantastic jacket for runners. It'll keep you warm and dry, without overheating, and provides great visibility in low light situations. If you're a dedicated runner, I think you'll appreciate all the little touches that went into making the 360 Degree Jacket. New Balance's legacy in the running world is well on display here. (MSRP: $89.99)

100-Year Old Man Completes Marathon, What's Your Excuse?

This past weekend, 100-year old Fauja Singh completed the Toronto Marathon and ran into the record books in the process. Singh, who didn't take up running until he was 89, is the oldest person to officially complete a marathon, which is 26.2 mile (42.1 km) in length.

Singh wasn't exactly setting any speed records, but then again, that's not what this story is all about. It took him about 8 hours, 25 minutes to cover the course, which brought him in dead last, but accomplished his goal of finishing in under nine hours. Event organizers were picking up barricades and banners even as he approached the finish line.

This was Singh's 8th marathon and he doesn't seem ready to quit yet. He hopes to be a part of the Olympic torch relay for the 2012 London Games next year as well.

Pretty inspiring stuff. I hope I'm still running when I hit a century old. Fauja shoots a lot of holes in the excuse that "I'm too old" to start running/exercising. You're never too old to get outside and hit the road.

Gear Box: Camelbak Marathoner Hydration Vest

It has been a very long, very hot summer in Texas. Today will actually be our 90th day of the year in which temperatures will top 100ºF/39ºC. While that record heat hasn't deterred me from my regularly scheduled runs, it has reminded me of the importance of staying hydrated while out in the sun and recently I've been using a new hydration vest from Camelbak to do just that. Yep! You read that right. Not a hydration pack, but a hydration vest.

The new Marathoner was designed from the ground up to be the perfect hydration solution for runners. It is lightweight, weighing in at just 12.7 ounces, made from breathable fabrics, and allows runners to carry plenty of water. The included hydration bladder stores up to 2 liters of water and two harness pockets on the front can support 24 ounce bottles. Those same pockets can also carry snacks or other items you want to keep close at hand while on the go. A second storage pocket is located on the back and is great for carrying keys or other small items.

The Marathoner's unique design is a lot more like a vest than a traditional hydration pack and when I first started using it, I was worried about how it would feel while on a longer run. Fortunately, it as easy to adjust the fit and after a mile or so, I barely remembered that I had it on. I was happy to find that once I had the narrow belts pulled tight, the vest stayed snugly in place, moving with me as I went about my run, even after I built up quite a sweat.

Another concern of mine was how much warmer I'd feel while using the vest in the summer heat, but once again, I was relieved to find that my fears were unfounded. What little fabric there is on the Marathoner is very thin and an air channel along the back helped to keep me as ventilated as possible, even when he mercury climbed into the triple digits. Wearing the vest was warmer than simply going shirtless of course, but it wasn't a dramatic difference and the quick access to water while on the move, more than made up for any slight discomfort. I also learned to add ice cubes to not only help keep the liquid cooler on longer runs, but it also helped to reduce the overall temperature of the vest as well.

Perfect for long distance training or trail runs, I predict the Marathoner will become a favorite piece of gear for runners upon its release. The bad news is, it won't be available until February, but with an MSRP of just $100, I think any runner will want to add it to their gear closet. It makes staying hydrated incredibly easy and that will not only help you run further, it'll help performance as well. Keep an eye out for this one. I highly recommend it.

An Teallach with Peter

Running home for tea

New horizons

Nice run