In a world where footwear often prioritizes fashion over fitness and profit over wellness, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking a return to the natural. Combining sustainability, performance, and minimalist design, this shoe is a testament to the idea that footwear should work with your body, not against it. In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Primus Lite Knit an excellent choice for those looking to reclaim their natural potential.
Sustainability Meets Mobility
The Primus Lite Knit takes the beloved Primus Lite to the next level with its flexible knit upper, which is crafted from recycled plastics. This innovative material not only reduces waste but also enhances mobility and agility, making every step feel effortlessly natural.
The Sole of the Matter
At the heart of this shoe is the 2mm Primus outsole, designed to bring you as close to the ground as possible. It provides a sensory-rich experience that connects you to the terrain beneath your feet. For added performance, the insole is constructed with algae-derived RISE foam, which not only offers comfort but also helps clean up our waterways by repurposing harmful algae.
Protection Without Compromise
Despite its minimalist design, the Primus Lite Knit doesn’t compromise on protection. The Pro5 Puncture Resistant finish, a lightweight and flexible 0.8mm layer on the sole, keeps painful objects out while allowing you to feel the ground beneath you. It’s a balance that ensures both safety and sensory feedback.
Lightweight and Agile
Weighing in at just 246g (based on a single shoe in Men’s size: EU 42 | UK 8 | US 9), the Primus Lite Knit is exceptionally lightweight. This characteristic, combined with its sensitive 2mm Primus sole and flexible knit upper, makes it an ideal choice for active lifestyles. Whether you’re engaging in weight and strength training, calisthenics, animal flow, or even light road running, this shoe provides the freedom of movement you need.
Versatile for Every Terrain
The Primus Lite Knit adapts effortlessly to various terrains and activities. With its stripped-back soles, it’s the perfect companion for barefoot living even in the city, providing a close connection to urban surfaces. For your workouts, whether it’s weightlifting or a HIIT session, this shoe offers barefoot performance that helps you unleash your natural potential.
A Design Focused on Natural Living
Vivobarefoot’s commitment to natural living is evident in every aspect of the Primus Lite Knit. The Primus Outsole, with its thin 2mm profile, minimizes the barrier between your feet and the ground. It allows natural movement while still offering ample protection for urban environments. The hexagonal tread pattern enhances multidirectional flexibility and grip, ensuring you’re ready for any terrain.
Reclaim Your Natural Potential
In a world where conventional shoes can hinder our body’s natural abilities, the Primus Lite Knit invites you to reclaim your natural potential. It’s a reminder that nature, in its simplicity and efficiency, can heal and empower us. This shoe isn’t just footwear; it’s a philosophy that puts your well-being first.
Unlock Savings with VIVOHEALTH
As an added bonus, when you purchase the Primus Lite Knit, you can take advantage of a 25% discount on a VIVOHEALTH online course. Strengthen your foot health and performance while enjoying the comfort and freedom of the Primus Lite Knit. Use code VH25PLKNIT at checkout to redeem this special offer.
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is more than just a shoe; it’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes your body’s natural abilities. With sustainability, performance, and minimalist design at its core, this shoe empowers you to move, feel, and thrive in harmony with your environment. Reclaim your natural potential with the Primus Lite Knit and take the first step toward a healthier, more connected future.
I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Ibex Springbok Short, and let me tell you, these shorts are a game-changer! Whether you’re hitting the trail or going for a run, these shorts will keep you cool and comfortable throughout your workout.
One of the standout features of these shorts is the built-in brief made from Ibex’s Merino Tencel blend. This fabric combines the natural cooling properties of Tencel, derived from sustainably grown eucalyptus, with the benefits of merino wool. The result is a lightweight and breathable material that excels in hot and humid weather, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable when the temperature rises.
The 6 7/8″ inseam of the shorts provides a great balance between coverage and freedom of movement. Whether you’re going for a long run or tackling challenging trails, these shorts won’t hold you back. The interior drawstring with an elastic waistband allows for a customizable fit, ensuring they stay securely in place during your workout.
I appreciate the attention to detail in the design of these shorts. The interior hidden pocket is a great addition for safely storing small essentials like keys or cards. Additionally, the back pocket with a zipper provides extra security for items you want to keep within reach.
One feature that some may love and others may prefer to remove is the Merino Tencel interior brief. While I personally found it comfortable and supportive, it’s easy to remove if it doesn’t suit your preference. This flexibility adds to the versatility of the shorts, making them suitable for a variety of activities.
In terms of comfort, these shorts truly shine. They are incredibly soft to the touch, and the fabric feels great against the skin. I experienced no chafing or discomfort, even during longer runs in varying temperatures and humidity levels. The material’s Merino Edge Cool finish enhances its versatility in different climates and provides a cooler feel to the touch.
Lastly, I must mention the durability of these shorts. Compared to other brands I have tried, the Ibex Springbok Short feels more robust and long-lasting. The pockets are well-sized and can accommodate items like energy gels or a small phone, without feeling bulky or hindering your movement.
I highly recommend the Ibex Springbok Short. They are incredibly comfortable, perform exceptionally well in hot and humid conditions, and offer convenient features like hidden pockets and a durable construction. Whether you’re hitting the trails or going for a run, these shorts are a fantastic choice for any active individual.
The Murph Challenge is an annual fitness event that pays tribute to Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, a United States Navy SEAL who sacrificed his life during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan in 2005.
This challenge has become a popular way for individuals around the world to honor and remember fallen heroes on Memorial Day.
The Murph Challenge consists of a grueling workout that includes a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another one-mile run—all done while wearing a weighted vest.
There are variations. GoRuck, in 2023, published their version of the Murph, which traded out the 100 pull-ups for 100 bent over rows using either 40 or 60# sandbags. Due to a shoulder injury, this is the version I completed this year.
This intense physical test pushes participants to their limits, testing their strength, endurance, and mental resilience.
This was my first year training for and completing the Murph Challenge.
Completing the Murph Challenge requires not only physical preparedness but also the right gear and equipment to enhance performance and provide necessary support.
From weighted vests to durable footwear, the products used during this challenge play a crucial role in helping participants achieve their best results.
In this product review, we will explore several items that Huck Adventures received from the brands below to test.
And we put them to the test while training and during the Murph Challenge, evaluating their functionality, comfort, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, finding the right gear can make a significant difference in your Murph Challenge experience.
GoRuck Training Weight Vest
Completing the Murph with a weighted vest is a big part of the challenge. Sure, doing the workout without weights is already grueling. But it also simulates the real-life conditions of military personnel and the gear and equipment they carry.
The GoRuck Training Weight Vest (full review here) was a consistent companion while I trained and built up my rep counts for the Murph.
Anytime, I walked the dog, I put it on.
When I hiked one of the smaller mountains in Boulder, I put it on.
Running in the GoRuck Training Weight Vest was surprising. I thought it would bounce, but it didn’t. It stayed secure, but didn’t feel tight. I could still breath deeply.
My biggest challenge wearing it was getting used to the weight on my shoulders. For longer periods of activity, my shoulders would tire from holding the weight and I would find myself unstrapping the velcro and stretching; providing some relief. Gradually that feeling went away.
For the Murph, the standard is a 20# weight vest. Mine was 40#. I wore it for both runs, but ended up shedding it halfway through the rows, pushups, and squats.
Ten Thousand Interval Short and Versatile Shirt
Throughout these past several months, Ten Thousand has been a consistent workout partner.
Everything Ten Thousand makes is amazing. The material is soft and moves with you.
When doing workouts, like the Murph, where you are doing a lot of different compound movements, I was very pleased that I didn’t chafe.
I was able to also test how odor-resistant the material was when I took the Interval Short and Versatile Shirt with me on a five-day work trip. Each morning, I went to the hotel gym and I worked up a heavy sweat. By the time I reached by fifth morning and my fifth workout, they still smelled great.
When I am not working out, I find myself wearing them. Even now as I am writing this article, I am wearing them.
For workouts where I lifted heavy for squats and deadlifts, I consistently found myself wearing the High Top Adapt. I enjoyed the extra ankle stability that the construction of the high top provided. For the Murph, these were my shoe of choice for this exact reason.
One of my favorite features of Flux Footwear’s shoes is their innovative ADAPTSOL CUSHION. It allows the shoe to adapt to the shape of the user’s foot, providing a comfortable and customized fit. The little bumps in the footbed also act as little foot massagers.
These shoes are also minimalist in design. Wide toe box. 10mm insole. 0mm heel to toe drop. It provides the perfect balance between cushion and ground feel so that when I am lifting in them or running, my feet are very happy.
Decathlon Workout Equipment
When I first started this journey, I knew I needed to make some changes with how I worked out. I needed to build up strength, so I could increase my endurance. It wasn’t enough to just do bodyweight pushups or squats with the GoRuck weighted vest.
As I was researching equipment, I realized just how darn expensive it would be to build out my home gym.
But then I came across Decathlon. Huck Adventures partnered with them to review their weight-training rack and their weight plates. I also purchased a incline weight bench and an Olympic barbell.
What makes Decathlon different is that their business model is built to lower overhead and indirect costs so they can provide their customers with high quality equipment at a lower price than their competition.
When I was researching, I compared prices between Decathlon, the big-box retailers, and leading fitness companies and Decathlon consistently was a better value.
And upon receiving the equipment, I was happy with the overall quality.
The weight-training rack was the most important piece of equipment I added to train for the Murph. Mostly because it allowed me to do pull-ups. It is able to be secured to the floor to prevent any wobbling and if I had the space, I could have trained to do kipping or butterfly pull-ups to have an easier go at it.
The rack was a great setup for bench-press and using as a squat rack to help me build up my strength and endurance for the weighted exercises in the Murph.
I have been very impressed with Decathlon as a brand and the equipment I received and bought from them. If you’re looking to build out your home gym, checkout Decathlon.
COROS VERTIX 2
The COROS VERTIX 2 was also a consistent partner while I trained.
I mean, it’s a consistent partner every day. I hardly take it off. You can read my full review here.
But the big feature I want to highlight is the Multisport mode.
With this mode, you can set up your watch for workouts like the Murph. You can assign 5 different workout modes with the Multisport mode. For the Murph, I set mine up for Run, Gym Cardio (this is the mode I tend to use for a majority of my workouts, focusing more on my heartrate range versus tracking reps and muscle group in their Strength mode), and finally Run.
It is easy to use and setup. The user interface of the watch makes it really easy to switch between workouts in Multisport.
The COROS VERTIX 2 is the best watch on the market, in my opinion. Mostly because of its battery life (on average, I charge every 28 days). But their team consistently brings updates and new features to the watch through their firmware updates. They listen to their customers and continue to improve their software and hardware.
HydroJug
Hydration is one of the most important aspects of pushing yourself physically.
My go-to water bottle for years was a simple stainless steel 32-ounce. But I would find myself filling it up multiple times throughout the day. Which, in itself, isn’t a bad thing, but I’m lazy sometimes.
HydroJug has become my favorite hydration vehicle. It’s a 73 oz. water jug. I tested their plastic version that came with a straw and sleeve to keep your water cool, but they also have a vacuum-sealed stainless steel version, as well.
It’s handle makes it easy to carry and when it’s full, you can get a few reps of bicep curls in.
The flip-top makes it easy to open and the straw has a rubber bottom that allows it to pop out for easy drinking.
Throughout the day, the HydroJug has been a consistent companion. Whether I am working or working out, the HydroJug goes with me wherever I go.
The designs they have on their website are pretty cool, as well. For testing, I received the sage color HydroJug and a black camo sleeve. It looks pretty sweet.
Murph Results
I’m not going to lie.
The Murph Challenge was hard.
I followed GoRuck’s Murph Challenge, which was a one-mile run, 100 bent-over rows, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and finished with another one-mile run.
I broke out the rows, push-ups, and squats into 20 rounds of 5, 10, and 15 respectively.
For both runs I wore my 40# GoRuck weight vest and wore it for the first 10 rounds of rows, push-ups, and squats.
My total time was 58 minutes. I’m not blaming my kids for my time, but it’s worth mentioning that I had several pint-sized interruptions. Total activity time was 47 minutes.
Halfway through the rows, pull-ups, and squats I had moments where I wondered if I would be able to finish the Murph.
When I started my final run, I knew I was committed, because I had to get home, right? But, being perfectly honest, there were moments where I walked to catch my breath.
But I finished.
A huge thank-you to the brands that partnered with Huck Adventures for the Murph Challenge.
This is going to be a new Memorial Day tradition for me. And I hope to beat my time next year.
Designed with the active individual in mind, these shorts offer a range of features that will elevate your training experience.
Since Ten Thousand sent me a pair of their Interval Short to test, I have been using them multiple times a week for an assortment of different activities. From the intense Murph Challenge to the exhilarating run, the Interval Short has got you covered.
Let’s dive into what makes these shorts stand out from the rest.
One of the standout features of the Interval Short is its no-pinch, no-bunch waistband. The elastic waistband sits comfortably on your waist, providing a secure fit without digging in or causing any distractions. This feature allows you to focus solely on your performance and not having to hitch your shorts up every few minutes.
The Interval Short’s cling-free and ultra-wicking shell is a game-changer when it comes to mobility. You can move freely and effortlessly, thanks to the fabric’s four-way stretch capability. Whether you’re squatting, lunging, or performing dynamic movements, these shorts offer maximum range of motion. Plus, the sweat-wicking and quick-drying properties keep you cool and dry, even during the most intense training sessions.
For added support and freshness, the Interval Short offers an optional medium compression liner. This liner not only provides a secure and comfortable fit but also features a permanent silver ion anti-odor treatment. Say goodbye to post-workout odors and hello to long-lasting freshness. For myself, I could wear these shorts for multiple workouts, sweating heavily throughout, and not have any issues with odor.
The Interval Short’s pockets ensures secure storage for your belongings. These pockets are strategically designed to reduce bulk without compromising storage capacity. From keys to phone, you can confidently keep your essentials within reach.
Durability is key when it comes to training gear, and the Interval Short delivers. The bonded hems not only provide a lightweight performance but also eliminate bulkiness. This construction ensures longevity, allowing the shorts to withstand rigorous training sessions and maintain their quality over time.
Moreover, the Interval Short features a leg gusset that enhances range of motion. You can push your limits without feeling restricted, making these shorts a perfect choice for athletes seeking peak performance. These shorts move with you.
Available in multiple inseam lengths (5″, 7”, and 9”) and with or without the optional liner, the Interval Short caters to individual preferences and needs. You can customize your training experience to suit your style and comfort.
The Ten Thousand Interval Short is the ultimate workout companion for every athlete. Its no-pinch, no-bunch waistband, ultra-wicking shell, four-way stretch fabric, and durable construction make it a top choice for those seeking optimal comfort and performance.
With the option of a medium compression liner and a well-designed pocket system, these shorts cater to the needs of athletes across various disciplines.
Experience zero chafing, maximum mobility, and reliable durability with the Interval Short. Elevate your training sessions today!
The Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC shoe is a true game-changer in the world of swimrun footwear.
Designed with the input of elite trail and swimrun athletes, this shoe offers unparalleled performance and comfort in both wet and dry environments.
The quick lacing system is a standout feature, allowing for hydrodynamic performance and easy on-the-go adjustments. And the lace pocket keeps your laces secure and out of the way, ensuring maximum efficiency during races.
But what really sets the Hydra ESC apart is the Bloom Performance Insole. This innovative insole is made from algae biomass, a sustainable alternative to traditional EVA foam that is damaging our oceans. Not only does this make the Hydra ESC environmentally friendly, but the closed-cell foam absorbs minimal water, reducing wet weight and increasing your speed in the water.
The Hydra ESC is also built with the Michelin ESC outsole, offering extreme traction and grip in the most challenging environments. The aggressive off-trail lug design and textured arch provide zonal grip for technical off-trail movement, while the articulated toe lugs act like claws for ascent and the essential heel lug provides critical braking for steep descents.
So how does the Hydra ESC perform in different scenarios?
To get my feet used to them, I started with some hiking in Boulder.
The wide, thin, and flexible design of the shoe allows for natural foot movement, and the Michelin ESC outsole provides excellent traction on uneven terrain. And thanks to the quick lacing system, adjusting the fit is easy and quick, even on the go.
When I took them for a long trail-run along the foothills, I enjoyed how lightweight and flexible the shoe was. The Hydra ESC provides excellent ground feel, allowing for skillful movement on technical trails. The Michelin ESC outsole once again shines, providing extreme traction and grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
While it’s winter and open water isn’t ideal this time of year, I took the Hydra ESC to an indoor pool for training.
The materials drain and dry quickly, and the closed-cell foam insole ensures minimal water absorption, reducing wet weight and increasing speed in the water. And the hydrodynamic lacing system ensures maximum efficiency during swim workouts.
The Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC is a top-of-the-line swimrun shoe, designed for elite athletes who demand the best in performance and sustainability.
And with its innovative features, unmatched grip, and comfortable design, it’s a shoe that is sure to elevate your swimrun game.
Plus, it’s vegan and animal-free, making it an ethical choice for those who prioritize sustainability in their purchases.
If you’re a serious swimrun athlete looking for a shoe that can handle anything you throw at it, the Hydra ESC is definitely worth checking out.
If you’re a serious weightlifter or CrossFit enthusiast, you know how important it is to have the right footwear.
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a shoe that promises to deliver exactly what you need for your workouts. The team at Flux sent us the High Top Adapt in Graphene for us to try out and we were impressed.
In this product review, we’ll take a close look at the features and benefits of this shoe to determine whether it’s worthy of being considered one of the best weightlifting or CrossFit shoes on the market today.
Construction
First of all, let’s talk about the construction of the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt.
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a CrossFit shoe that’s built to last, thanks in part to its graphene-infused upper.
Graphene is a nanomaterial that was discovered in 2004 at The University of Manchester, and it’s composed of just a single layer of carbon atoms. Despite its thinness, graphene is incredibly strong, with a strength that’s 200 times greater than steel.
With its remarkable strength and flexibility, graphene is being studied for use in a variety of applications, from bulletproof vests to airplanes. The Flux Footwear team has harnessed the power of this material and infused it into the upperof the Adapt High-Top, resulting in a shoe that’s incredibly durable, flexible, and provides excellent traction for even the most demanding CrossFit workouts.
When you’re doing CrossFit, you need a shoe that can keep up with your intense training regimen. The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with Graphene delivers on that front and more. Its graphene-infused upper provides unparalleled durability and traction, while its flexibility allows you to move freely during your workouts. Whether you’re doing box jumps, deadlifts, or sprints, this shoe is up to the task.
AdaptSol™ Technology
For CrossFit enthusiasts, having a shoe that can adapt to the unique shape of their foot is crucial. That’s where the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with AdaptSol™ technology comes in. This shoe is designed to not only look great, but to perform and feel incredible no matter what your foot’s shape.
The AdaptSol™ technology is all about freedom and flexibility. With a wider toe box, ultra-flexible sole, and just the right amount of stretch throughout, this shoe expands and adapts to your feet as you move through your CrossFit routine. No more feeling restricted or uncomfortable, the AdaptSol™ technology ensures that your feet have the space they need to move naturally and perform at their best.
Whether you’re doing snatches, burpees, or weightlifting, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with AdaptSol™ technology delivers the perfect balance of support and flexibility. Its wider toe box allows for better stability and balance, while the ultra-flexible sole provides a more natural feel and helps to reduce foot fatigue. And with just the right amount of stretch throughout, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, snug fit that doesn’t feel too tight or too loose.
When it comes to fit, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is true to size. The shoe is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your foot. The high-top design of the shoe provides a snug fit around your ankle, which helps to prevent any slippage during your workout.
Performance
Now, let’s talk about how the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt performs during weightlifting and CrossFit workouts. The first thing you’ll notice when you put these shoes on is the grip provided by the graphene-infused sole. This sole is designed to provide maximum traction, which is essential when you’re lifting heavy weights or doing high-intensity exercises like box jumps. The adaptability of the insole system also allows you to customize the level of cushioning and support you need for your workout.
The high-top design of the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt also provides excellent ankle support. When you’re lifting heavy weights, it’s important to have a stable base, and this shoe delivers on that front. The breathable upper of the shoe also helps to keep your feet cool and dry, which is important when you’re doing high-intensity workouts that make you sweat.
Conclusion
Overall, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a shoe that’s worthy of consideration for anyone looking for the best weightlifting or CrossFit shoes. It provides excellent grip and durability, while the AdaptSol technology provides all the cushioning you need for your workout.
The breathable upper of the shoe keeps your feet cool and comfortable during your workout, and the high-top design provides excellent ankle support. If you’re serious about your workouts and want a shoe that can keep up with you, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is definitely worth checking out.
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a top contender for the title of best weightlifting or CrossFit shoe and it has been a great companion on my own fitness journey.
This shoe has a minimalist design, with a 0mm drop and a 10mm AdaptCushion foam underfoot making it a true minimalist shoe. The wide toebox allows the toes to spread, giving the user more grip and stability when lifting weights. The sleek, modern design of this shoe makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a minimalist shoe that is both comfortable and stylish.
Features
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe features the innovative ADAPTSOL™ TECHNOLOGY, which allows the shoe to adapt to the shape of the user’s foot, providing a comfortable and customized fit. The wider toe box, ultra-flexible sole, and just the right amount of stretch throughout the shoe gives the feet the freedom they need.
The ADAPTSOL CUSHION is designed with enhanced biofeedback in mind, featuring over 100 individual massaging cushions that mimic barefoot proprioception. The cushioning is optimized for any activity, providing just the right amount of cushioning to keep the feet comfortable and protected.
The ADAPTSOL TREAD offers flexible traction, utilizing a uniquely articulated, dual-injection rubber. The tread is designed to provide supreme flexibility while still offering unmatched traction, allowing the user to move with confidence and stability, no matter the activity.
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe is designed with the user’s comfort and performance in mind. The ADAPTSOL TECHNOLOGY, ADAPTSOL CUSHION, and ADAPTSOL TREAD all work together to provide a customized and comfortable fit, flexible traction, and optimal cushioning for any activity. Whether you’re weightlifting, walking, or running, the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe will provide you with the support and performance you need.
Testing
Weightlifting in the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes was a pleasant experience. The wide toebox allowed my toes to spread, which helped me maintain a solid grip on the ground.
The 10mm insole provided a level of comfort that I didn’t expect in this shoe, allowing me to lift heavier weights without feeling discomfort. The 0mm drop and minimalist design of the shoe gave me a feeling of stability, which is important when lifting heavy weights.
Running in the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes was also a great experience. The 10mm insole provided enough cushioning to protect my feet from the impact of running, and the minimalist design allowed me to feel connected to the ground. With the minimalist design, I was able to maintain good form and reduced the risk of injury. The 0mm drop and minimalist design of the shoe allowed me to run with good form, and the shoe felt comfortable and lightweight during my runs.
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes are not just a great choice for your workouts, they are also stylish enough to wear out on the town or to business meetings. The minimalist design of the shoe, combined with its sleek and modern look, makes it a stylish addition to any outfit. Whether you’re dressed up for a meeting or just running errands, these shoes will complement your look.
The versatile design allows for seamless transitions from the gym to the office, making them a perfect choice for the stylish, on-the-go individual. With the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes, you can have the best of both worlds – style and comfort.
Overall, the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe is a versatile, minimalist shoe that is great for any activity. The 10mm foam provides a level of comfort that is unexpected in a minimalist shoe, and the wide toebox allows the toes to spread, giving the user more grip and stability when lifting weights. The minimalist design of this shoe makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a minimalist shoe that is both comfortable and stylish.
Swiftwick recently expanded its collection of national park-themed socks, adding several new designs inspired by North America’s most popular parks.
Beginning August 1, you can buy socks for your favorite destinations, including Acadia, Banff, Bryce Canyon, Death Valley, Glacier, Jasper, and Mt. Rainer National Parks.
This is added to an all-ready terrific lineup of national park-themed designs. They include Arches, Denali, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Great Smoky Mountains, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Zion.
These socks are part of Swiftwick’s VISION Six Collection and are designed in partnership with the Anderson Design Group.
The VISION is made of moisture-wicking materials and are made to function in any activity. They have a medium amount of cushion, a contoured fit, and ventilation through a thin channeled upper.
The National Park collection comes with a 6-inch cuff with the park design printed above the ankle.
Several years ago, I started testing a pair of their 2N1 running shorts and they became, overnight, my favorite running shorts.
The reason was simple: I didn’t chafe.
I was preparing for several ultramarathons and recovery from long runs was the worse when chafing was involved. But in SAXX shorts, I didn’t. They were my constant race companion. I ran a 50K, 55K, and 50 miler in them and my boys were happy!
But as great as they were for running, that’s all they were good for. They were too light for anything else. That’s why I was excited when SAXX sent me a pair of their Gainmaker 2N1 Shorts to test out.
Their Gainmaker’s come in two sizes: long (9″ inseam) and short (7″ inseam).
These shorts were great!
They are made with SAXX BallPark Pouch™. It keeps everything secure without being too tight. The liner is made from a light-compression fabric so that even around your thighs, things are secure. Even after several reps of squats they aren’t going to ride up on you.
There are two hand pockets, along with a front security zip pocket. The zip pocket feels small, but it is big enough to squeeze in a iPhone 12 Pro.
The Gainmaker 2N1 is made for all types of training. Lifting weights, rock climbing, yoga–they are very versatile. Personally, I love them for yoga because they stay in place. The compression liner doesn’t move.
They are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking so they can withstand any exercise.
I brought them down with me to Costa Rica and they were also my running shorts for my jaunts along the beach. Even after putting over 5 miles in them, they stayed in place and didn’t chafe.
The colors I tested were their Cargo Grey and Stone Blue. They are two of their lighter colors and when I did sweat in them, you saw where I sweated fairly easily. It’s fine for beach runs or home workouts, but if you are working out at a gym and a bit self-conscious about your appearance, I’d suggest going for one of their darker colors.
Overall, I am a huge fan of these shorts. I’ve been using them for all sorts of activities, including hikes and paddleboarding. The BallPark Pouch, more than anything else, is what makes these shorts stand out and a must have for your activities.
I am 5’11”, 180 pounds, a 34″ waist, and am wearing a size Medium. I am right on the edge though of being a Large. If you have an opportunity to try on before you buy, try that. Otherwise, if you’re like me, buy both sizes, and return what doesn’t fit great.
Tifosi Optics, a leading sport and lifestyle sunglasses brand, is proud to introduce Sizzle series sunglasses. Pushing the boundaries of crossover eyewear, the Sizzle is the first Tifosi sunglass to feature a shielded lens design embedded within the body of a lifestyle frame. The Sizzle is built for performance but styled for all-day aesthetics, making it the perfect summer eyewear companion.
Single-shield lens sunglasses offer superior eye coverage for runners and cyclists but their oversized appearance can make them awkward to wear in casual settings. The Sizzle offers the best of both worlds–a casual frame featuring a low-profile, shatterproof and scratch resistant polycarbonate shield for active pursuits. “We recognize that our customers take full advantage of summer weather. This could mean a bike ride in the morning followed by an afternoon barbecue,” offered Tifosi Optics CEO, Joe Earley. “The Sizzle is meant to be a lightweight, all-day eyewear companion that can provide protection for active pursuits, yet blends in when it’s time to relax with friends and family,” Earley continued.
The Sizzle’s performance oriented Grilamid TR-90 frame complements its shielded lens. This includes Tifosi Glide, a treatment applied to the Sizzle’s arms which allows the sunglass to comfortably slide onto the face and stay in place during movement.
While built with the same high-quality materials associated with a premium price tag, the Sizzle is highly affordable. Each of four frame and lens options, including the sleek looking Blackout frame and Smoke lens combination, retails for $34.95 and includes a microfiber cleaning bag.
The Sizzle series sunglasses will launch online at http://www.tifosioptics.com and with retail partners on July 6.
First Impressions
I received a pair to test from Tifosi on July 5th. Not much time for testing, but I wanted to share my first impressions.
First, the look of these are pretty sweet. They are cool and stylish and they look great.
As for the fit: on my big head, they fit somewhat narrow. The arms have a little bit of give, so I don’t feel a squeeze. But time is the biggest test for sunglasses like this.
I plan to take these out for a few long runs to see how they hold up. More to come.
In the meantime, I’m looking forward to wearing these some more.