The FLITE XT® TRAIL combines Merino wool and Swiftwick’s proprietary GripDry™ Fiber that is incorporated into the heel and forefoot of the sock to provide traction and grip inside the shoe. When tearing down the steep terrain of Mount Sanitas, the sock stayed in place, not sliding or bunching as my foot shifted in my shoe.
Around the ankle, Swiftwick uses their AnkleLock™ Technology with strong elastic to make sure that the sock stays in place, but also provides a sense of stability on rocky terrain.
Over the course of our testing, we wore them in a variety of conditions, including trail-running and snowshoeing. During these colder activities, we found that the Merino wool performed as expected. During these activities, we never felt like our foot was overheated or too cold.
“After the release of our original FLITE XT® socks, designed with advanced stability technology, we heard growing feedback from our hike and trail running customers on their love for the line’s performance features,” said Joanna Mariani, Chief Marketing Officer of Swiftwick.
“Using that feedback, we set out to combine the FLITE XT’s signature stability features with the natural wonders of Merino wool to provide the best-performing outdoor sock on the market. FLITE XT TRAIL was inspired by our customers and ardently crafted by our team– we’re excited to see what adventures our customers take these socks on.”
Swiftwick® FLITE XT® TRAIL
These socks are a welcome addition to our gear closets. We’re looking forward to ultra season and being able to put more miles on these.
Since that review, Ibex launched their new Woolies 2 Base Layers and sent us a pair to test in the snow.
Ibex Woolies 2 Crew
Ibex’s Woolies 2 Base Layers differ from the Woolies Tech in that they are 100% merino. They are a bit heavier, and more insulating as well at 240gsm. If you’re heading out for long hours in colder weather, the Woolies 2 is going to be your best option.
Ibex Woolies 2 Bottoms
For testing, I took them out in a variety of conditions: trail-running, snowshoeing, and back country skiing. I found that during low-impact activities (showshoeing or skiing downhill) that these were the perfect match. I wasn’t too hot or too cold. But during heavier activities (trail-running and the ski ascent) they were too much.
For skiing, I had paired up the base layers with a mid-layer, shedding the mid-layer about halfway up to regulate my body temperature. When I had taken the Woolies Tech out into the backcountry, they were light enough so that when paired with a mid-layer, I felt perfectly comfortable.
Ibex Woolies 2 Bottoms
One thing I’ll note with the Woolies 2 Bottoms was that no matter how heavy or light the activity was, I didn’t experience any chafing in the nether region.
There’s a lot to be said about why the Woolies 2 perform so well and it’s in part due to the magic of Merino wool. As mentioned in the previous review, Merino is a natural, high-performance fabric, in part because of the conditions these sheep live in. Winters can be below zero and summers as warm as 95ºF. The sheep’ coats have evolved so that the fibers react to the changes in body temperature. And this natural technology is passed along to its human wearers.
During a cold spell in Colorado, with temperatures dipping to -12ºF, I started to wear these base layers everyday. Even when I wasn’t playing outside, I wore them throughout the day for work, typically paired with a pair of jeans and flannel.
Ibex Woolies 2 Crew
And they were extremely comfortable. If you’re in the camp of “Oh no, wool is so itchy!” you have to try Merino. It doesn’t itch and is so comfy and cozy.
Given that they regulate my body temperature so well, I also found these to perfect base layers to transition from the slopes to the ski lodge in. They weren’t wet from sweat and the natural odor control Merino has kept them from being stinky.
For the test, I wore a size large in Men’s. I am 5’11” and 180 pounds and it fit really well.
For information, you can head over to ibex.com. The Woolies 2 come in Men’s and Women’s sizes.
A couple weeks ago at Outdoor Retailer, I had the opportunity to chat with California Cowboy’s product designer, which cemented them (in my mind, at least) as one of the coolest new brands in the outdoor space.
Why?
Because they have infused a sense of fun into their product design. California Cowboy is all about products that help their customers embrace their inner cowboy. I grew up in rural Missouri, and a big part of my childhood experience was spent on my grandparent’s farm playing in the fields amongst their herd of cows.
This inner cowboy style was evident in our recently reviewed El Garibaldi Robe and all the more present in another product they sent us: their Western High Sierra Shirt.
Western High Sierra Shirt
It’s winter, so whether I am outdoors hiking or taking client calls in my chilly office, I do a lot of layering. And the Western High Sierra Shirt provides a comfortable and functional outer layer to any outfit.
This shirt was designed for Après Ski or “After Ski.” That time after you hit the slopes where you’re socializing in the lodge; sharing stories and beers as you warm up.
Western High Sierra Shirt
The Western High Sierra Shirt comes with California Cowboy’s signature beverage pocket. It’s perfect to stash your beer or a spare sandwich. It’s going to be my go-to for Super Bowl weekend, allowing me to stash an extra beer or free up my hands so I can fit as many wings as possible in my food hole.
Western High Sierra Shirt
But that is only one pocket of many. There’s a smaller side pocket that is perfect to stash a wallet or business cards in; a zippered dry pocket to keep your iPhone away from the snow or sloshing beers; and an inside pocket for a pen and notebook. Not to mention the two breast pockets to stash anything else.
Western High Sierra Shirt
The shirt also comes with a handy sunglass loop, so you don’t have to worry about losing your precious pair as you’re chilling or partying. I can’t tell you how many times I have lost my sunglasses that were perched on my head, so this is a lifesaver.
So, yes, I am a big fan of this shirt. Thanks to California Cowboy for sending me one to try out. From their booth at Outdoor Retailer, they are continue to innovate their product line and I am excited for what’s to come in 2022.
The shirt I tested was a Large. It fit great, even with layers. For reference, I am 5’11” and 185 lbs.
In between days of snowfall, we had 30ºF+ days that were perfect for taking this out on the trail for some runs and bike rides.
The Showers Pass Basecamp Merino Hoodie has been a great addition to my collection of baselayers. While it was nice to wear on a cool run and bike ride, it also paired really well under a fleece on colder days on the slopes, making this one of the most versatile pieces I have in my gear closet.
This hoodie is made with all-season 230 gsm fabric that is 95% merino wool and has UPF 40 sun protection.
Sliding it on, it is light and cozy, but highly functional.
Merino Wool, by its nature, is perfect for the outdoors. It keeps you warm, but when things start to heat up, keeps your core temperature regulated so you aren’t constantly shedding layers with its moisture wicking capability.
What makes the Basecamp Merino Hoodie stand out from it’s competition is the thoughtfulness and intentionality of its product design.
Showers Pass Basecamp Merino Hoodie
It has zippered kangaroo pockets that are easily accessible in the front, but, did I mention: they are zippered. I have hoodies that don’t have zippered pockets and they aren’t good at holding much; they are just a convenient place to put my hands. But with Showers Pass’s design, I can stash anything into these pockets, zip them shut, and not have to worry about bouncing my keys, wallet or phone out of them.
Basecamp Merino Hoodie
I love the hood, as well. There’s a few hoodies in my closet with hoods that just don’t fit right. They are too small or sit to far back on my head. I love how spacious the hood is on the Basecamp Merino Hoodie. It provides adequate coverage, but because of how light the fabric is, it doesn’t weigh me down.
Basecamp Merino Hoodie
The final feature I’ll highlight is the fit in the back. Showers Pass designs their shirts and jackets so that there’s a little swoop going past your waist. This is a great feature for cycling so that your shirt doesn’t ride up.
Overall, I love the Basecamp Merino Hoodie. It’s another great product from Showers Pass. The overall fit is great. It’s one of the most comfortable hoodies and baselayers in my gear closet. I am looking forward to taking this piece out on more advetures.
The Basecamp Merino Hoodie is available online. I am 5’11” and 185 lbs and I wear a large.
A couple months ago, I went in for my annual physical and had a “I weigh how much?” moment.
Since then, I’ve been focusing even more on my health.
One of the practices I introduced was daily ice baths. I know you’re reading this to learn if this robe is dope, but indulge me for just a little bit.
Settling into my daily ice bath
Ice baths have a lot health benefits, including:
1) Increase my parasympathetic activity. When you first get in, your fight or flight instinct kicks in. Your breathing is almost hyperventilating. You have to gain control. The longer you do it, the easier and faster you can relax and gain control of your nervous system. By subjecting your body to this high stress situation, you are retraining how your body reacts to stress.
2) Weight Loss. Cold temps activate your brown fat tissues and can aid in weight loss. Over the last 3 months, combined with daily exercise and 15-18 hour fasts, I’ve lost close to 25 pounds.
3) Physical Recovery. My recovery time has shortened. I can push myself hard at the home gym or on the trail, and I don’t feel as broken for as long as I used to.
Living in Colorado, my ice baths are cold. Every morning, I spend 5-15 minutes breaking up 2-6 inches of ice before settling in for 3-5 minutes of cold exposure.
When I get out, I towel off and warm up. But I’ve got stuff to do: coffee needs to be made, kids need to get prepped for school.
The El Garibaldi Robe has a terry cloth lining that is super absorbent. Since starting to use the robe after my ice bath, I’ve been using it to towel off and I’ve noticed that the little puddles I’d leave in my wake have diminished.
It also has a lined “dry pocket” that’s large enough I can stash my iPhone 12 Pro. This is great, because I’ll take the robe outside with me and on snowy days, my phone stays dry.
California Cowboy’s El Garibaldi Robe Dry Pocket
Another feature that is signature to California Cowboy’s products is a pocket that is the perfect size for a bottle of beer. The robe came with a coozie and a bottle opener stashed in the pocket and I found that to be an amazing addition. I haven’t had the perfect scenario to test this pocket, but I look forward to taking this robe down to Costa Rica this summer.
California Cowboy’s El Garibaldi Robe “Hold My Beer” Pocket
The El Garibaldi Robe ties closed well. Usually after my ice bath, I’ll be busy helping my kids get ready for school or making myself a cup of coffee, and even with movement the robe stays closed.
As winter turns to summer, I’m looking forward to taking this robe poolside or down to Costa Rica. For the time being, it’s the perfect companion for after an ice bath.
El Garibaldi Robe
I am 5’11” and 185 pounds. I tested their El Garibaldi Robe L/XL size and I found it to be the perfect length. The arms come down around three-quarters length, but that’s what I was hoping for with the winter activities in it. If you’re looking for something for the summer, I’d suggest looking at their sizing chart to see what would work best for you.
Idstein, Germany (January 17, 2022) — The leading outdoor company Jack Wolfskin based in Idstein near Frankfurt, Germany, presents its new strategic brand direction under CEO Richard Collier with the fall / winter 2022 collection. At the heart of this direction is the new claim “We Live to Discover,“ as well as a subtle revision of the corporate identity and the renowned logo with the wolf paw. Jack Wolfskin is guided by an understanding that all people have an inherent urge to discover. Therefore, the company encourages people to follow it, connect with nature, and experience transformative outdoor moments with others. To this end, the company develops German-engineered performance apparel, footwear, and equipment with the highest standards of technology, design, and sustainability.
“Jack Wolfskin was forged around a campfire over 40 years ago. We are now taking the brand back to its roots,” says Collier. “With our products and expertise, we enable transformative moments of discovery for all. We encourage people to go out and discover their surroundings – near and far. The joy of discovery and shared moments are more important than achieving specific destinations. Jack Wolfskin is a brand for everyone following their curiosity.”
As part of the new strategic brand direction, Jack Wolfskin has also modernized its product and technology architecture. A clear focus on selected activities and catchy technology names provide customers with the best possible orientation. “This way, we intend to be a central component of selected outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, trekking, and ski touring,” Collier said.
In its product development, Jack Wolfskin is driven by its German design ethos, which is characterized by durability, reliability, and performance. The company‘s mission is to provide the best and most sustainable solutions that minimize its impact on our planet. With this in mind, the Fall/Winter 2022 collection presents unique technology innovations as well as approaches to circular products.
Sustainability is prioritized from all business operations from product development to supply chain. With the new direction, the company commits even more to action than in the past. In collaboration with researchers and opinion leaders, it champions the ecological restoration of ecosystems and builds opportunities for all to take action.
Along with the brand repositioning, Richard Collier has also introduced a clear roadmap for the global expansion of the brand: In addition to the major growth markets China, the USA, and Russia, Jack Wolfskin aims to continue to grow in Europe. The focus here is on the Netherlands, Belgium, Great Britain, Poland, and Italy. The DACH region remains an important core market. Increased importance is also being attached to digital business. By expanding its existing omnichannel model, customers are to receive the best service at all touchpoints worldwide. Jack Wolfskin will also launch a digital offensive in marketing and have a much stronger presence in digital channels, in particular social media. Targeted marketing campaigns support the repositioning of the brand.
About Jack Wolfskin Jack Wolfskin is a globally leading provider of premium German-engineered outdoor apparel, footwear, and equipment. The company was founded beside a campfire among friends deep in the Canadian wilderness in 1981 with a mission to inspire all discoverers by creating transformative outdoor experiences wherever they are. Headquartered in Idstein, Germany, Jack Wolfskin operates a North American office in Park City, Utah, and an Asian office in Shanghai, China. The company has grown to become a leading outdoor brand across Europe and Asia with more than 490 JACK WOLFSKIN stores and over 4,000 points of sale worldwide. Jack Wolfskin is rooted in sustainability and focused on designing ethical and eco-conscious products, as well as promoting fair and humane working conditions. The company has been a member of the Fair Wear Foundation since 2010, as well as a bluesign® system partner that holds the entire supply chain accountable on a sustainability basis since 2011. Jack Wolfskin also offers products with the Green Button label. The company currently employs over 1,400 people worldwide. In January 2019, Jack Wolfskin was acquired by Callaway Golf Company.
When I was at Outdoor Retailer in August, I had the opportunity to chat with the folks at Faherty. I had been getting served Instagram ads for the past couple of years and had fallen in love with the aesthetics of their brand.
Being able to chat with them solidified how darn awesome their company was.
And being able to see and touch their products in person solidified how darn awesome their clothing was.
At the top of my wishlist, is the Faherty Good Feather Long Jacquard Knit Robe. It is part of their Native Designed project where they partner with indigenous native artists on product design. This robe was designed by Doug Good Feather. He’s an artist, veteran, author, and teacher from the Standing Rock Lakota and Dakota Nation and is the founder of the Lakota Way Healing Center.
While this robe looks and feels super duper comfy and would be perfect to lounge around the house in, my ideal use is for putting on after my daily ice bath.
We’ve featured United By Blue in the past. They are still one of my favorite brands; mostly due to their mission: removing a pound of trash from our waterways with every product sold.
Their Wool Hawk Sweater is a standout in their new products for Winter.
The design is pretty darn cool.
Plus, the symbology of the hawk, definitely speaks to my journey over the past year and my quest for spiritual awareness.
COROS VERTIX GPS Adventure Watch
I’ve had the Coros Apex for almost three years. Throwing out (not literally) my Apple Watch was one of the best decisions I ever made for my fitness journey. And, while the Apex is still performing as if it’s brand new (review forthcoming), a part of me is ready to upgrade. Because ’tis the season, right?
Coros Vertix
The Coros Vertix GPS Adventure Watch is an upgrade, for sure. Longer battery life. Longer battery life with GPS going. If you’re looking for a new adventure watch and you’re looking at other large watch manufacturers, compare the specs. I don’t think you can beat Coros on battery life.
With GPS use on the Apex, I typically charge once every 14 days. Sometimes every 7 if I am putting long hours on the trail. I have a friend that has a watch brand that starts with a G and he’s charging his once every 48 hours with light use.
Why do I want to upgrade?
Well, in part for the longer battery life the Vertix will provide.
Second, because I want to continue taking my fitness to new levels, their 24/7 blood oxygen monitoring can help me reach new heights.
Finally, their Vertix in the Mountain Hunter colors (pictured above) is pretty darn sweet.
You get a mixture of protein powders, collagen, greens, BCAAs, pre-workout, and their hydration mix.
If you’re looking for a new workout partner, try their sample box. You won’t be disappointed.
United By Blue Dog Products
Okay, so this one really isn’t for me. But it’s for my pup, so it is still sort of for me.
United By Blue this Fall came out with some of the awesomest dog products: leashes, bowls, toys, harnesses. And I want them all.
United By Blue Dog Harness and Collar
At the top of my wish list is their matching leashes, harnesses and collars. The colors on these are fantastic. My pup is all white, so he needs some color in his life.
But one important piece I’ll highlight on the harness is that it is a no-pull harness. It clips in the front and will keep your dog, no matter how big or enthusiastic, from pulling.
“Oh sure,” you might say, “they’ll still pull.”
I’ve been using a cheap one (that is partially chewed and falling apart) over the past month and my puppy has never walked better. Clipped to the leash or on the back of the harness led to a lot of pulling. And he is almost 60 pounds. That is a lot of pulling.
You see, that’s why this is really a gift for me.
Vuori Ripstop Climbers and Aspen Shirt Jacket
I love Vouri.
They make some of the most comfortable activewear on earth.
When Huck Adventures first started, we featured their Ripstop Climbers in a brand feature. They are still one of my favorite pairs to wear and honestly, I really want another pair, especially their blue Ripstop Climber Pants.
I work remotely in my basement, so I am always layering up. Plus, I also spend a lot of time outside walking the dog. Having something nice and warm like this would be amazing.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Under Armour have collaborated on a new collection: Project Rock “For the Heroes.” This latest apparel collection was launched to support the Travis Manion Foundation.
The Travis Manion Foundation was named after 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007. Under Armour and Project Rock are supporting the organization by providing funds from the For The Heroes collection.
Under Armour For the Heroes Collection
This new collection features new pieces for men, women, and youth. They are branded to celebrate veterans and features distressed type, metallic golds and an eagle illustration.
Over the last month, I’ve been doing a lot of my workouts in my garage. And with it getting colder, the Hoodie and Joggers are perfect companions. I am comfortable throughout my workout, including when I am just warming up and still and little bit cold. But it’s also able to withstand a solid flop-sweat.
The material isn’t clingy as the workout gets more intense. This allows me to squat deeper and lift cleaner while the fabric moves with me.
The Vet Day graphics add an additional layer and texture to the material. On the hoodie, the large circle feels rubbery to the touch, but doesn’t sit heavy.
Under Armour Vet Day Joggers
The joggers have two side pockets and a snap pocket in the back.
Conclusion
I really appreciate what The Rock and Under Armour are doing to support this organization. You can get involved too by purchasing these products from Under Armour or visiting the website for the Travis Manion Foundation and seeing how you can get involved.
It’s that time of year again in Colorado: the leaves have fallen, the days are shorter, and the temperature is dropping. Bundling up is key for outdoor activities. And there is nothing I like to wear more than a good hoodie.
Jack Wolfskin Hydro Grid Fleece
Jack Wolfskin sent me their newest hooded sports jacket, the Hydro Grid Fleece, to try out and it quickly became my favorite hoodie.
It’s light, but warm due to the polyester material. The outer is smooth with a DWR finish to repel water. It has a soft interior for next-to-skin comfort.
The Hydro Grid Fleece is stretchy too. When I’ve taken it out on the trail for hikes and runs, I found that it moved easily with me. It wasn’t clingy and it also didn’t chafe.
While this hoodie performs great for outdoor activities, it has also become my go-to hoodie.
Jack Wolfskin Hydro Grid Fleece
Just this morning, when it was 27ºF, I threw it on to walk the dog. Actually, I threw it on last night to walk the dog as well, and in the afternoon, and wore it for a handful of work Zoom calls.
It’s a really great jacket. No joke.
Product highlights:
It has a scuba-shaped hood, fitting comfortably over my head. It isn’t lose, which makes it a great hood for running. It doesn’t blow off and I can easily pull it over my head and ears without disrupting sunglasses or headphones. Or mess up my hair.
On the sides it has two deep, zippered pockets. When I am wearing the jacket to run errands, these pockets are great to hold a mask, keys, and wallet. For outdoor activities, because how deep the pockets are, I won’t put things that bounce. For running, I’ll leave them empty, but use them to stash a beanie or gloves for when I warm up.
On the left breast, it has another zippered pocket. This is wear I stash my iPhone. It’s large enough for an iPhone 12 Pro and while it does bounce, it isn’t bothersome.
Jack Wolfskin Hydro Grid Fleece
Conclusion
Yes, I love the Hydro Grid Fleece. It’s a great hoodie and a great jacket overall. For the holidays, this is at the top of my recommended gift giving list!
I am 5’11” and just north of 190 lbs. I wear a large and it fits perfectly.
You can find the Hydro Grid Fleece at Jack Wolfskin’s website for $149.95.
KAVU clothing is designed for fun. Whether that’s at work or in the outdoors. They sell a variety of outdoor wear and amazing bags to encourage you to “spread your good-time attitude.”
KAVU Petos Shirt Jacket and Scrag Pants
Recently, KAVU sent us a few products to test.
The Scrag Pants
The origin of the Scrag Pant dates back to the late 90’s. This Fall, KAVU took this pant out of the archives and redesigned it.
KAVU Scrag Pant
It’s made with organic cotton and has an elastic stretch waist. The pant also comes with a webbing belt built in, making minor size adjustment a cinch.
The Scrag Pant is designed with a regular fit, which I found to be very comfortable on the trail. The elastic waist band also moves easily creating a comfortable fit.
For our field test, I took them on a hike up a local mountain. There were spots that I had to scramble up and I never felt that the pants were in the way of my movement.
They also look great too. I have found myself wearing them around town or at work and they feel chill, more than anything else.
It’s made from 100% cotton corduroy creating a really soft and fun look.
I’ve worn this over another t-shirt or sweatshirt and it is really comfortable. Compared to other “shackets,” the Petos is less bulky and sits on my frame in a more tapered way. In other words, I don’t feel like I look fat in it.
On colder days, the collar snaps up to protect your neck from the cold.
KAVU Petos Shirt Jacket
The shirt also includes two chest flap pockets and hand pockets on the side. The material in the hand pockets are incredibly soft and warm.
I was hiking early in the morning with the Petos Shirt Jacket and had forgotten my gloves and the hand pockets kept my fingers suitably warm.
Bottom Line
I had a blast testing out these products from KAVU. Their brand is about fun and these were fun products to wear.
But they have a lot more to choose from besides these two products, including a full line of men’s and women’s clothing, bags, and accessories.
