Monthly Archive for February, 2010

Looking For Winter Gloves? Forget Icebreaker

Published on February 16, 2010 in Clothing and Companies. 2 Comments Tags: , , , , .

I am a huge fan of technical clothing and my closet is littered with Patagonia, Marmot, Outdoor Research, and of course Icebreaker. In fact, I am such a fan that a third of my clothes can’t even be worn for 10 months of the year because I pretty much live in paradise, weather wise.

I recently volunteered for the inaugural Santa Barbara Marathon and I was at my post before 5 AM and it was freezing. I brought out my new pair of Icebreaker wool gloves which I bought earlier in the year in anticipation for winter. My job was just to direct traffic, and sometimes runner. By the end of the four hour shift, there were numerous holes and tears all over the gloves. Four hours! I sent a detailed email to the company and there was not a single reply. Luckily, their baselayers are great but if you are looking for gloves, look elsewhere.

Blundstone Footwear

Published on February 15, 2010 in Clothing, Companies and Footwear. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , .

When I see elastic sided boots, I generally think of Australia and I rarely think of value but that’s exactly what Blundstone Footwear represents. They have been family owned and operated in the land down under since 1870.  Their flagship model is undoubtedly the 500 in stout brown; it’s the model you think of when you hear the name Blundstone. Unlike boots with a traditional lace up system, the 500 series are easy to get in and out of thanks to the elastic side band and the two pull tabs, one on front and one on back. The comfort footbed is removable and replaceable with a thinner one to accommodate thicker socks or a more custom fit. The sole is slip resistant and chemical resistant. For such a durable boot, it’s surprisingly lightweight. I have been really happy rockin’ the 558′s here on the West Coast where we’ve been getting some heavy rain in short spurts. And for those looking for something a little more rugged and workwear worthy, they have you covered as well with an entirely different line. The price and quality cannot be beat and I am surprised it took me this long to learn about Blundstone but I am glad I did.