When it comes to choosing gear, I ascribe to the philosophy of Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, “Purchase less stuff, own a few things that are very high quality that last a long time, and that are multifunctional.” Don’t get me wrong, I love gear. But most of all, I love quality gear that allows me to travel light and do as much as I can with as little as … [Read more...]
Gear Review: TO Race Vest and AK Mountain Vest
Ultimate Direction released updates to all its Signature Series running packs this year with some exciting new changes, including front-side trekking pole holders. I gear tested two of the models, the lower-capacity TO Race Vest 3.0 and the higher capacity AK Mountain Vest 3.0. Fresh off some trail running in the Rockies, here’s my assessment of how they stack up. TO Race Vest … [Read more...]
Gear Review: Rudy Project Synform Sunglasses
Sunglasses that fold up into the palm of your hand?! When I saw these new Rudy Project Synform sunglasses, I was immediately intrigued with the foldable design. My mind entertained thoughts of easy stowage in a pack while running or traveling. But how convenient would the sunglasses be in actual practice? And how well would they perform in their main job as eye protection … [Read more...]
Gear Review: Water Bottles and Filters for Running Adventures
As noted in my previous review articles on Ultimate Direction and Salomon running packs, there are a variety of water bottles that come with these packs—small or large, soft or hard—as well as different sizes and types of hydration bladders. Just because a particular water bottle or hydration bladder comes with the pack you buy doesn’t mean you have to stick with that option. … [Read more...]
Gear Review: Salomon Running Packs
Today runners have more choices than ever when it comes to choosing running packs for long, self-supported runs. In the previous article in this series, I reviewed several Ultimate Direction running packs. Here, I continue my review with a focus on Salomon running packs. I’ve put these packs through some serious testing, from run commutes to long trail runs. Here’s my take on … [Read more...]
Gear Review: Ultimate Direction Running Packs
Whether you’re training, racing or run commuting, the ability to comfortably carry water, food, a jacket or other gear can be indispensable. Fortunately there are numerous quality running packs on the market today that provide a variety of options and carrying capacities whatever your needs. In this series of articles, I review several models from two of the leading running … [Read more...]
Gear Review: Garmin Fēnix 3
Over the past six months, Garmin has substantially updated two of its marquee GPS training devices. In a previous article, I reviewed the new Forerunner 920XT—the next generation of the Forerunner 910XT. Here, I review the newly released Fēnix 3. In effect, the Fēnix 3 is like a 920XT on steroids. Fundamentally different than the previous Fēnix models, the Fēnix 3 … [Read more...]
Running for Adventure
This Salomon Running TV Special features mountain runner Ricky Gates as he travels "on the road" to explore the trails. Gates epitomizes the concept of the adventure workout while living a life of adventure. Enjoy the full 18-minute version of the documentary. And then go out and run! … [Read more...]
Long Run Hydration Strategies, Part 2
A Review of Hydration Systems for When You Must Carry Water In the first article of this two-part series, I provided a few strategies for organizing your long run so that you can get the aid you need without having to carry it with you. However, often the easiest solution for staying hydrated/fueled during long runs is to simply carry what you need. Whereas in the past the … [Read more...]
Long Run Hydration Strategies
The Logistics of a Long Run When Aid is Mandatory Thanks to bike jerseys with pockets and bikes with water bottle cages, staying hydrated and fueled during long bike rides tends to be a fairly straightforward task. In contrast, figuring out how to stay hydrated and fueled during long runs always seems to be a challenge. Below are the pros and cons of a few long run hydration … [Read more...]
