Check out the Fourtitude video here:

More info from Rocky Mountain:

Rocky Mountain’s riders are a diverse bunch, and we take pride in that. Our Altitude platform is equally diverse, so with this Fourtitude video we set out to explore what four very different riders could bring to the Altitude 790 MSL.

Wade Simmons, Andreas Hestler, Thomas Vanderham and Geoff Gulevich all ride the 5.18 lb Altitude 790 MSL frame in the video. The Ride-9 system allows them to set their geometry and suspension rates up in a variety of ways. Wade runs it slackest; Thomas runs it in slacker & progressive (forward & down, aka “Vanderham Mode”); both Dre & Gully run the bike neutral & progressive (furthest down).

Wade wanted to showcase the kind of “steep & deep” technical riding that he enjoys on a daily basis. These natural steeps lurk on Vancouver’s North Shore, but rarely see bikes that aren’t full travel downhill rigs. We’re pretty sure the Godfather would be stylish on an old 10-speed too, but it’s always humbling to see him bring flow to the burliest lines.

Andreas “Dre” Hestler is an Olympian and has plenty of experience racing TransAlp and Enduro events, so it’s no surprise that he coaxes blistering speed out of the Altitude. For Fourtitude he took it to Squamish, where he gunned for some Personal Bests on one of the nicest trail networks around.

Thomas Vanderham likes to take each new bike to Kamloops – a landscape he knows and loves, and the Altitude was no exception. For its maiden voyage he took it out for some true trail blasting, from corner slashing to his patented whips.

Geoff Gulevich is better known for his slopestyle riding, but he was excited to bring his playful approach to the Altitude. He decided to shoot his section on a short road trip through Oregon, where he had a few tricks up his sleeve.

More Info: Visit Ride9.Bikes.com

Patagonia Torrentshell Plus Features:

• 2-way-adjustable hood with laminated visor rolls down and stows
• Microfleece-lined neck provides comfort and protects waterproof/breathable barrier
• Watertight, coated center-front zipper with internal storm flap
• Venting pit zippers with welted exterior storm flap and DWR-treated zips
• Self-fabric hook-and-loop cuff closures and adjustable drawcord hem seal out moisture
• H2No® Performance Standard shell: 2.5-layer, 2.6-oz 50-denier 100% nylon ripstop
• Weight: 337 g (11.9 oz)
• MSRP: $169.00

The Torrentshell Plus shines when paired with a Gregory Contour 60, which we’ll be covering later this season.

Patagonia Torrentshell Plus Jacket Review

Patagonia has released a three jackets in the Torrentshell series – the Torrentshell Plus, which is the subject of this review, is the middle jacket in the lineup.  It has reinforced panels in strategic locations to hold up to backpack straps, making it perfect for my needs.  The jacket is really designed for one thing: backpacking trips in the pouring rain.

The Torrentshell is built around a 2.5 layer H2No shell which places a greater emphasis on weather resistivity than breathability.  That’s not a judgement call on the jacket because it’s important to have products on each end of the spectrum (the Rab Myriad we covered earlier is not a jacket I’d choose for substantial rain).  Recognizing this, Patagonia built pit zips into the design to help control the jacket’s climate.  Patagonia chose to use unsealed zips on the pits, then bolstered them with a DWR treatment and a welted storm flap. I really like this compromise because sealed zippers can often be hard to pull – on a location as awkward as your armpits, that can be a real hassle with a backpack.  Patagonia’s solution keeps out the moisture but the zips pull easily.  It goes without saying that the sealed main zipper keeps water out of the jacket very well.

Beyond sheer waterproofing, I love this fabric’s uncompromising scuff resistance.  We put the gear that we test through serious abuse, but the Torrentshell is one of the few products that washes up to look as good as new after our testing.  The H2No laminate has that slightly rubbery feel inside and out, but I’d bet you could take a belt sander to the jacket and still stay dry in a storm.  Absolutely nothing can touch this jacket – not rocks, not twigs, and not years of use under a pack.  This really plays into Patagonia’s sustainability ethic, and I appreciate seeing a product that’s built for the long haul.

Moving into the smaller details, Patagonia hit all of the points we look for.  The jacket stows away into its own pocket, so its light 11.9 oz packs small for travel.  The hem adjustment is easy to use and doesn’t creep, and the pull tabs on all of the elastic bands are big and fat for easy pulling.  The hood adjustment does the job just fine, keeping the hood in place during high winds.  The Torrentshell has a laminated visor, and the hood almost feels like a hat when cinched up.  The hood is supposed to roll down and pack away, but I found Patagonia’s single-button closure both awkward to use and strange in appearance.  The Torrentshell also has a patch of microfleece on the neck to protect the DWR from your sweat; we were disappointed that the Torrentshell lacks a fleece chin-guard, and the collar’s comfort definitely suffers from the lack of one.  The jacket’s cut is rather generous, which underlines the utilitarian bend of the design.  Lots of room for layering, and you’ll look more outdoorsy than svelte while wearing it.

Honking big plastic pull on the main hood adjustment.

In practice, I thoroughly enjoyed the Torrentshell as a companion to some rather damp days in the Northwest.  Spokane has had a dry spring, but mother nature’s tendency of sending rain down on weekend backpacking trips held strong for this test.  The jacket sits well under a pack and its thoughtful design make adjusting the hem and cuffs a cinch.  As temps have grown warmer I’ve definitely been taking notice of the H2No layer’s lack of breathability but that simply comes with the turf for this jacket.  Patagonia chose to use sealed pockets rather than mesh; the upshot is that no water works in through the pockets, but there’s no doubting that mesh pockets would have added another breathability option.  My only other performance quibble is the pocket position – for a backpacking rain jacket, the Torrentshell’s pockets should be a solid three inches higher to accommodate backpack waistbands.

Pockets are decidedly low for practical use.

Good Patagonia Torrentshell Plus:

• No-nonsense fabric durability – this stuff keeps water out and shrugs off abuse
• Pit zips pull easily, DWR and flap keep water out
• Reinforced patches (specific to the Plus model) enhance longevity
• Hem adjustments and thoughtful design help help the jacket play nice with a backpack
• Jacket stows into its own pocket

Bad Torrentshell Plus:

• Collar is uncomfortable due to lack of chin guard
• Stowable hood design is questionable and looks awkward
• Pockets set too low for a backpacking jacket

If you read my review of the Rab Myriad, you know I’m a fan of well-designed cuff closures.

Bottom Line: Patagonia Torrentshell Plus

As usual, Patagonia makes a product that is easy to love.  I love the Torrentshell’s uncompromising durability and waterproofing, and Patagonia’s high construction quality is an inherent plus.  I wish Patagonia had seen fit to raise the pockets to accommodate backpack belts, but that’s the only major gripe.  Within the rain jacket realm, the Torrentshell Plus gets bonus points for its backpacking-specific reinforcements and easy-to-pull pit zips.  It’s a solid choice for backpackers looking for durability in a mid-priced rain jacket.

Buy now: Available from REI.com

Vasque Pendulum Features:

• Vasque’s lightest trail runner
• Built for real-world needs
• Close-to-ground natural footstrike
• EVA midsole with TPU plate
• Bonded upper
• Heel Height: 19mm
• Forefoot Height: 13mm
• Heel Drop: 6mm
• Weight: 10.6 oz (sz. 9 each) – 23.8 oz (sz. 10.5 pair, as tested)
• MSRP: $109.95

Vasque Pendulum Review

Over the years, I’ve tested a handful of Vasque’s trail running offerings. While good, most of those shoes have leaned towards the light hiker end of the spectrum. That’s not necessarily a bad thing and is honestly more true to the Vasque brand. As such, Vasque didn’t hop onto the minimalist craze, but chose to wait things out until the market swung back to a more favorable spot. That spot is where the new Pendulum rests.

Combining much of what makes the minimalist shoes desireable (light weight, minimal drop, close-to-ground) with all that makes up a more traditional shoe (support, traction, protection), the Pendulum offers the best of both worlds. Utilizing bonded construction, the mesh uppers provide excellent breathability while the support bands provide excellent foot support. Gone are the days of chunky external bands to support the foot (thank goodness).

The Immerse 360 Last is built very anatomically and features a highly-curved design. This design forces your feet into the proper position for optimal running. At first, that position felt a little forced because it’s more pronounced than other shoe designs, but in time it became natural and comfortable.

On paper, the 10.6 oz Pendulum don’t match up with other lightweight designs, but on the trail, that weight is carried well. Because of the immersive fit, the shoe becomes one with your feet. There is no lag time or foot slap inside the shoe — just a cohesive fit that feels like a natural system.

On the trail, the Pendulum’s really shine. Soft, loamy dirt is met with powerful traction and rocky, loose terrain is equally tackled with the agility of a mountain goat. I’d say that the outsole offers an excellent “do it all” level of traction. The only negative is it can have a tendency to collect mud. Uphill and downhill traction is otherwise superb.

I dig the fit for my normal-shaped feet and low arches. The Waveform S/C midsole comforms to your feet and provides an excellent platform for fast-paced running and long-distances. My mid-to-forefoot strike is met comfortably with this shoe. A slight rocker would be nice, but the Pendulum’s feel smooth and natural on the trail.

Foot protection is right where it should be to provide the proper balance between protection and trail feel. Additionally, the lacing system allows you to pinpoint the fit for your particular tastes. The forefoot offers excellent wiggle-room and accomodates wider-than-normal socks, like Injinji’s, without becoming too tight.

Good Pendulum

• Real-world minimalist shoe for the masses
• Excellent comfort out of the box
• Curved last locks the foot in place
• Mesh uppers offer breathable performance
• Bonded uppers reduce bulk

Bad Pendulum

• Last may feel too forced for some feet
• Slight hot spot behind ball of right foot on initial runs

Bottom Line: Vasque Pendulum

This year’s crop of real-world trail running shoes are impressive. I’ll put the Vasque Pendulum near the top of any trail runners I’ve tested. They are comfortable and supremely capable for fast-paced running or long training slogs.

Buy Now: Available at Backcountry.com

Outdoor Research Axiom Features:

• Movement-Mirroring Stretch
• Fully Adjustable Hood Fits Over Helmet
• Single-Seperating Front Zipper
• Internal Front-Zip Stormflap
• Zippered Napoleon Pocket
• Two Zippered Hand Pockets
• Hand Pockets Set Above Hip Belt or Harness
• Left Hand Pocket Doubles as Stuff Sack
• Articulated Elbows
• Hook/Loop Cuff Closure
• Drawcord Hem
• Avg. Weight (oz./g): 13.5 / 382 (size Large, tested)
• MSRP: $375

Rainy days and puddles are perfect for the Axiom

Outdoor Research brings a whole lot of brand chutzpah and expertise to designing technical clothing, and the Axiom really benefits from it.  All of the seams are taped and the stitching is very fine – not a single lose thread even after quite a bit of intentional abuse.  I really like the handle of this shell – the membrane has broken in to be very soft and quiet, but it doesn’t sacrifice any strength to achieve that feel.  I intentionally abraded the fabric on rocks, bark and branches (to compliment normal use) and it’s not showing any sign of snagging or potential failure.

Outdoor Research saw fit to include two mesh-lined hand pockets (the left of which doubles as a stuff sack for the jacket), a chest pocket and sealed zippers all around.  Interestingly, other reviewers have said that the pockets are too low for backpack waistbands, but I disagree with that.  I used this jacket with three separate packs and I could comfortably access the pockets on all but the one with the cushiest waistband.  The don’t look like they’re placed high (compare the pockets on the Rab Myriad) but they do just fine when you actually get out and use the jacket.  I have mixed feelings about the mesh lining on the pockets since that opens up an avenue for water to get inside the coat; the mesh design saves weight and technically adds some venting, but with a fabric like Gore Active I’d rather keep my pockets watertight.

The collar, Napoleon pocket and zips all in one shot.

For that matter, Gore-Tex Active Shell is definitely something to marvel at.  I have a hard time convincing my father, an intrepid outdoorsman of a different day, that a fabric can be really waterproof and breathable – Gore Active, along with eVent, Dry.Q, Neoshell and the field of other backless laminates have finally realized this.  You’ve heard me rave about these technologies in the Mammut Shirko and Jason with the Arc’teryx Beta FL, so I won’t beat a dead horse by going on about how awesome these fabrics are.  Suffice it to say, because the Outdoor Research Axiom being reviewed here has Gore Active (just one of a competitive field), it’s miles ahead of jackets that lack a similar fabric.  You pay through the nose but the fabric won’t disappoint you.

The fit of the Axiom is moderate, leaning toward athletic.  I would like if it had a longer drop tail for protection in foul weather, but that’s really the only thing I would change.  Otherwise, OR has been very thoughtful in designing the Axiom for a full range-of-motion.  The Axiom has articulated elbows and is stretchy enough for most activities, so it would be great for climbing.  As good as it is, the Axiom can’t touch the Rab Myriad for sheer range-of-motion, but it’s still quite good for its class.  The jacket clocks in at 13.5oz, which puts it on the chunkier end of Gore Active jackets – Gore requires all jackets using this fabric to be sub 14oz.

OR nailed all of the little features that we look for in a good hardshell – there’s a rather minimal chin guard that serves the purpose while cutting weight, a great zipper garage that doesn’t get folded up, and sealed zippers that pull, engage and disengage easily.  I have a little bit of a gripe with the Velcro cuff closures – the velcro strip on the actual sleeve isn’t long enough to tighten down the cuffs all the way, leaving you with an annoying length of fabric flapping around.  Also, the Active-Shell material breathes well enough to negate the need for pit zips and I didn’t miss them – pit zips add weight and hassle, and they’re not necessary with this fabric.

In practice, I loved the jacket’s soft handle, great breathability, excellent zippers and overall high-quality feel.  It’s great for activities that involve a lot of stretching and sweating, and it’s good that the pockets are high enough for backpack waistbands or climbing harnesses.  The collar is comfortable, but my particular jacket has a sharp corner of Gore fabric that likes to poke into my upper lip.  The helmet-compatible hood serves the purpose, but its single adjustment is kind of rudimentary when compared to other systems – in practice, the way the plastic hub is sewn to the hood proved to be difficult to adjust with just one hand.  It works, but there are definitely better designs out there.

The Axiom definitely scores points on sheer performance: the fabric shrugs off rain and sleet with the best of them.  I like to mountain bike in this type of jacket to really test out breathability, and I can say that I pushed the Gore fabric to its limits.  In the end, I’m pretty happy with how it breathes – sweat doesn’t bead up on the inside of the shell except in ridiculous conditions, and I didn’t experience the membrane wetting out too quickly like others can.  Admittedly I expected this sort of 100% performance from the Gore-Tex, but it’s still worthwhile to note that the Axiom lived up to expectations.  My only gripe with the fabric is that the outer layer OR chose shows dirt and doesn’t wash cleanly.  I ran through a grove of trees and came away liberally spattered with grime, quite a bit of which stayed with the jacket after a wash.

The Axiom got nice and dirty during testing, but some of the grime didn’t wash out of the bright fabric.

Good Axiom

• Outdoor Research has above-par build quality
• Gore Active fabric is a strong competitor in a highly competitive field
• Sealed zips all pull easily
• Jacket stows into its own pocket
• Soft handle, good range-of-motion both make for a comfortable product
• Stretches just enough to further increase comfort

Bad Axiom

• 13.5oz total weight is closer to chunky than svelte
• Velcro cuffs are poorly designed
• Drop tail should be longer for added coverage
• Hood adjustment is rudimentary

Bottom Line: Outdoor Research Axiom Jacket

The Axiom is a very fine hardshell coming from a very highly regarded company – if you put the names Gore-Tex and Outdoor Research on one product, you have a recipe for both a great product and slim wallet.  I like the jacket’s raw performance, but a few of the details (those pesky cuffs and squirrely hood adjustment) could use some attention when OR reviews the Axiom’s design.  If you can drop $375, you’ll get a top-quality hardshell that will handle anything you can throw at it.

Buy Now: Available at REI.com

Features

• 10″ inseam
• 223 g (7.9 oz)
• Fabric: 4.5-oz 96% nylon/4% spandex
• DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• 40-UPF sun protection
• Regular fit
• Flat front styling
• Vertical on-seam side pockets
• Left front thigh zipper pocket
• Dual back pockets
• Three color options
• MSRP $69

Patagonia Quandary Shorts Review

Despite the company’s corporate success, Patagonia has never lost sight of its dirtbag roots.  The brand that was created and built by rock climbers and surf rats who often spent weeks at a time between Laundromats still places a premium on apparel that’s durable and functional for a variety of uses, and comfortable enough to wear day after day for all of them.

The Quandary is a great example of this minimalist ethos.  It’s a very durable, highly versatile short that is perfect for long day hikes and slacklining – activities which comprised the majority of my testing – and won’t require a change of clothes for lounging around the campsite afterward.  Pack a single pair, and you’re good to go for a long weekend or an extended getaway.  Its styling is fashionable enough for everyday wear at home, but its construction is solidly designed with the outdoors in mind.

Fabric construction consists of a thin stretch-woven soft nylon material that feels soft against the skin, and is lightweight enough to stay comfortable in hot conditions.  It sheds light moisture easily and dries fairly quickly after immersion.  The 10-inch inseam provides adequate coverage against early morning chill or midday sunburn.

Thin mesh lining waistband and interior pockets

The thin material is highly abrasion-resistant for bouldering or rock climbing, and has a slight elasticity allows full range of motion without constriction. The waistband and interior pockets are lined with thin mesh that helps with moisture transfer and enhances comfort against the skin.  Overall comfort is a strong point with the Quandary, and you won’t think twice about wearing them day after day.

Good Quandary

• Highly comfortable fabric construction
• Strong durability for high-demand use
• Versatile function for multiple activities
• Streetwise styling for everyday use

Bad Quandary

• No inseam length options, but that’s typical for Patagonia.

Bottom Line: Patagonia Quandary Shorts

If you’re channeling your inner dirtbag in search of a one short that can handle whatever outdoor activity comes your way, the Quandary is an outstanding choice.

Shop now: Available at Patagonia.com

Wicked Audio 3D Headphones Features:

• Synthetic Cups
• Hero Volume Control
• Enhanced Bass
• High Fidelity
• Impedance 32 ohms
• Frequency: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
• MSRP: $29.99

Wicked Audio 3D Headphones Review

The 3D’s are your straightforward budget cans – you can pick them up for just $20 0n Amazon and it’s hard to argue that price.  Sound quality is pretty on-par for the price range: voice range and treble are muted and a little lackluster, though the phones do boast some solid bass to keep your cilia tingling. An inline volume control is a nice touch, and the rotary knob actually has enough range to give the user a decent amount of control.

The headphones are built to be stylish rather than comfortable, and I can definitely say they hit that niche.  The cans are visually striking and I daresay that’ll appeal to the average teenage aspiring gravity champion.  Don’t plan on wearing these headphones for more than around forty five minutes, though; the on-ear design creates painful pressure points which, unfortunately, come with the design territory.

The only real hangup to the 3D’s is the crummy build quality.  My test period was only one month and I experienced a failure on the right speaker assembly.  The leather cushion and speaker assembly plopped out of the main headband.  When I tried reseating it, it appeared that there was hardly any glue or mechanism to keep the speaker attached.

Otherwise I didn’t experience any of the failures that I’d expect for the price range, such as snapping plastics and failed soldering.  Those may very well show up beyond our monthlong test period.

Good 3D Headphones

• You can’t argue with a $20 price tag
• Stylish design, definitely appealing to younger teens
• Thumpy bass
• Inline audio adjustment is a nice addition

Bad 3D Headphones

• Poor build quality
• Mediocre treble and vocal range
• Uncomfortable for moderate periods
• Plasticky build, doesn’t inspire any confidence

Bottom Line: Wicked Audio 3D Headphones

These headphones were never designed for luxury, but they’re definitely mired within the flaws associated with cans of this price range.  They’re easy to recommend for younger listeners who will love the styling, but it’s hard to justify this purchase when they’re likely to fracture under enthusiastic use.  For my part, I’ll stick with my Audio Technica noise cancelers, but the 3D’s are the epitome of ‘different strokes for different folks.’

Buy Now:  Available at Amazon.com

Suunto Elementum Terra Features

• Altimeter
• Barometric pressure & trend
• 3D compass
• Log: last 8 ascent / descent, max. altitude
• Stainless steel case
• Sapphire crystal glass face
• Leather strap (as tested) — stainless also availabe
• MSRP: $1000

Suunto Elementum Terra Watch Review

I’ve owned a Suunto altimter watch since the first Vector came to market in the 1990′s. As their designs have progressed and become more and more techie, many outdoor enthusiasts have been searching for a timepiece that looks classy, but doesn’t leave anything to be desired when the whistle blows and weekend adventure is on tap. The Elementum Terra fits the bill perfectly.

The Elementum Terra is available in your choice of two leather straps or full stainless. I’ve had the black/red leather strap and have found it to be stylish, comfortable and extremely durable. What’s funny, is I’ve had more compliments on this watch than any other watch I’ve owned. It seems I can’t go anywhere without anyone noticing and commenting on just how awesome it looks. It’s honestly taken me by surprise on some levels since I’m not that flashy of a guy, but the watch definitely gets noticed — in a good way.

As Suunto’s premium line, the Terra leaves nothing to be desired. When I say leather strap, it’s unlike any leather watch band I’ve had previously. This thing is thick and durable and easily withstands daily wear — including extended full water submersion. It did take about a week to get the band to adapt to my wrist and become fully-comfortable, but once past that break-in period, it feels natural.

While Suunto has better dedicated watches for cycling and running, I’ve worn the Terra extensively while road biking and trail running. The large buttons are easily pushed with gloves on and when cinched down properly, it stays put even while running. All functions are straightforward — I figured them all out without a single glance at the manual. The only thing that gets me sometimes is the rotating button, which switches between date and chronograph in one direction and scans through previous logs when turned the opposite direction.

While the black reverse face is stunning, you do have to look at it at the right angles for best clarity. Additonally, the three-line display was sometimes difficult to read at-a-glance. I know that the middle (and largest) line is the time, but the leading zero on the time sometimes made me think it was the altitude. A little more time on my wrist and I’m sure that would go away.

All the functions of the watch have been spot-on. I’d daresay this is the most accurate altimeter I’ve owned. As I’ve compared my logs between Strava and the Terra, the elevation gain/loss has been almost exactly the same. Suunto could have added even more features to this watch, but I’d say they have just the right ones for most outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for classic lines and mountain functions.

Good Terra

• Upscale look and feel for a classy outdoors vibe
• Stainless steel case is rock solid
• Leather strap is more comfortable than metal
• Very accurate altimeter readings
• All functions were discovered sans manual
• Becomes even more comfortable with use
• I’ve banged it up a bit and it looks like new

Bad Terra

• Can be bulky
• Protruding buttons can catch on things
• Not the ideal running companion
• Time and date should not display the leading 0 (e.g. 2:15 instead of 02:15)

Bottom Line: Suunto Elementum Terra

The Elementum Terra is the granddaddy of outdoor watches. This premium watch has solid good looks and performance. I’d say it’s like an Audi A8 for your wrist — supreme engineering, sexy good looks and precise performance.

Buy Now: Available from Backcountry.com

Hincapie Ardennes LS Jersey Features

• Winter weight, fleece-lined BodE Thermal Heat™ stretch knit fabric provides excellent moisture wicking and unsurpassed insulation
• Soft, supple BodE Thermal Loft™ elastic knit insulates and wicks moisture away from the body
• Hincapie Gel-Grip™ back keeps the jersey in place
• Three rear pockets
• Reflective treatments for high visibility
• MSRP: $119

Hincapie Ardennes LS Jersey Review

The shoulder season presents clothing challenges. You know the drill: look at the weather on your iPhone, get out of bed and part the drapes to see how cold it looks. 45 degrees, it says. Depending on the wind, it could be comfortable or it could be a miserable 45 degrees. Then the planning begins as you filter through the proper combination of jerseys, bibs, gloves, etc. I’m not the only one who does this, right?

To be quite honest, it took me a little while to figure out just the right conditions for the Hincapie Ardennes LS. While it’s called a jersey, I’d call it a jacket. The cut isn’t as snug as I’d expect for a jersey and it’s a little thick. So, I used it as a jacket on top of a variety of jerseys — including the new Hincapie Edge jersey.

The Ardennes is full-featured with a full zip, slightly taller collar and three functional back pockets (that I put to good use). The elastic cuffs fit over the Velcro tabs on my gloves and stay put — even on the fastest of descents. While in riding position, the Ardennes feels at home. It’s cut is well-suited to riding (as I’d expect) with a drop tail and grippy back hem.

While I wish the frontside had better wind blocking materials, it does cut down a decent amount of wind and cold — especially when worn on top of a jersey. When in the lower-40′s and into the mid-30′s, it can get downright cold at speed. So, I often brought along a vest for the descents. While climbing, the slight wind penetration was actually welcomed and kept things comfortable.

I’ve found the Ardennes to be at home from about 45 to 60 degrees. The fleece-backed fabric offers excellent wicking capability and a comfortable next-to-skin feel. My sample was a size Large and as I mentioned, it worked well as more of a jacket. I think sizing down one size could yield more of a jersey feel/fit. Just decide what you’re looking for and it can be used for either purpose.

Good Ardennes LS

• Comfortable fabric next-to-skin
• Great cut for riding position
• Sleeve cuffs fit perfectly atop my gloves and stayed in place
• Zipper is easy to zip up/down
• Though the fit could be more trim, it does allow for extra layers underneath

Bad Ardennes LS

• Flatlock seams would be recommended if worn as a real jersey
• Windproof front panels would be nice

Bottom Line: Hincapie Ardennes LS Jersey

Jersey… jacket… whatever. The Ardennes LS jersey has found a home in my collection of cycling clothes as the perfect cool morning jacket. It’s very comfortable to wear, doesn’t cause overheating on the ascents while keeping enough chill at bay to maintain comfort on the descents.

Buy Now: Available on Amazon.com from Hincapie Sports

LifeProof fre Case Features:

• Waterproof to 2m for up to 30 min (meets IP-68 standard)
• Dirtproof against small sand and dirt particles
• Snowproof against melting snow in cold temperatures
• Shockproof to withstand 2m drop (meets MIL STD 810F-516)
• Enhanced speaker ports for clear audio
• Optical glass lens for clear photography
• Access to all buttons
• Weight: 1.05 oz
• MSRP: $79.99

LifeProof fre iPhone 5 Waterproof Case Review

With a week of adventures in Puerto Rico on the horizon, I started looking at waterproof cases for my iPhone 5. In a short 5 months, we had already destroyed two iPhone 5′s in my family. Needless to say, I’m not very impressed with Apple’s latest creation as compared to the older models. Shockproof? Hardly. Waterproof? Forget about it.

While I bring my iPhone along for all my adventures, the thought of being on vacation with an unprotected phone had me cringing. Enter the LifeProof fre iPhone case with its Four Proofs (Water, Snow, Dirt and Shock). On paper, it looks like the perfect protection for the less-than-adventureproof iPhone 5.

Upon arrival, I slapped the LifeProof on my phone and confidently put it to the test. Three days later, we were on a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico for some beach and rain forest adventures. The first real test was on Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra — ranked one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Though slightly reluctant at first, I warmed up to the idea that I could actually swim with my iPhone in the pocket of my trunks and take photos and videos from the surf. Super cool indeed. My wife and I took a ton of photos–all while enjoying the beautiful blue ocean waves. There is an anchor to attach a wrist strap for extra security (not included). I’d recommend going that route if hanging out in the surf is your thing. Just one rogue wave and you could be scrambling to find your iPhone in the ocean.

While the phone remained protected and capable of taking photos and video above water, I did have some issues trying to take photos underwater. Primarily, I found the touchscreen to be unresponsive when fully submerged. I thought it was taking photos or recording video, but I got skunked. When leaving the water, I had to be sure to shake the phone to get the water out that had collected in the lens ring. If the glass lens was flush with the case, this would be a non-issue.

I also found the case to be useful for my cycling and running adventures. In fact, the square edges made it much easier to prop the phone up for taking self-portraits. With a photo timer app and this case, I’ve taken the majority of the self-portraits over the past month. I’ve also dropped the phone a fair amount of times and it just keeps on ticking.

Some of the biggest gripes with the LifeProof fre case have to do with the clear screen cover. While this is an absolute necessity to maintain a waterproof design, It does get frustrating at times when you have to tap the screen much more deliberately than without. Aside from the screen requiring “super tapping skills”, the proximity sensor tended to become quite sensitive as the screen got dirty. It became so bad that I had to remove the case because I couldn’t get the phone to wake up from on-ear mode during or just after calls. Ending calls, switching between calls and multi-tasking during a phone conversation became impossible because the screen cover made the proximity sensor think I had the phone at my ear. Super frustrating.

While I do have some gripes about this case, lets be fair here. This case is not really intended to be an all-day everyday case, so I need to cut it some slack. The fre is more of a targeted-use case for those that work or play in the elements. If you value phone protection above all else, the fre will perform well and protect your iPhone from water and accidental drops — all with the sleekest profile of any waterproof case on the market.

Good LifeProof fre

• All buttons and functions remain accessible
• Confidence-inspiring protection
• Allows you to bring your iPhone to places you wouldn’t otherwise
• Shockproof protection from drops
• Not as bulky as other designs
• Can add a wrist tether for added security
• Unique case design maximizes air space for improved audio
• Meets military standards for protection

Bad LifeProof fre

• Touchscreen becomes less responsive — especially near the top
• Camera lens should be flush with case to prevent water buildup
• Mini jack port needs a rubber tether to keep from losing it
• Sound is a bit muffled
• Activated the proximity sensor with the least bit of ear goo

Bottom Line: LifeProof fre iPhone 5 Waterproof Case

I was pretty critical of this case, but looking at the market, this is the best waterproof case option there is for the iPhone 5. It does a great job of protecting the phone — almost to a fault. Some of the drawbacks are to be expected, but knowing those faults should not deter anyone from picking one up for added protection on your adventures.

Buy Now: Visit LifeProof.com

Icebreaker Blast LS Jacket Features:

• Lining: 100% merino wool
• Middle layer: 100% polyurethane membrane
• Soft shell outer surfaces: 100% polyester
• Side and back panels: 39% merino, 45% nylon, 16% elastane
• Adjustable drop-tail hem
• Dual hand zippered pockets
• Vertical zippered chest pocket
• Thin, large back ventilation panel
• Media cord pass-through slot
• Three color options
• MSRP $249

Icebreaker Blast Jacket Review

Icebreaker established itself in the performance apparel industry with its predominant use of old-school merino wool, but this spring the company is fusing natural materials with high-tech elements to create weather-resistant outerwear that is suitable for unpredictable and occasionally harsh spring or fall conditions.  The Blast jacket and vest are midweight garments intended to be used for either running or cycling.

With any Icebreaker products, you know you’re getting well-constructed gear that stands up to repeated thrashings and washings, and merino wool is famous for its odor resistance; both of those qualities are on display with the Blast.  It’s a best-case scenario: you could wash it if you want to, but there’s rarely a need to do so.  Part of my testing consisted of several consecutive runs without washing, and there wasn’t any funk – whether hanging on my body or in my closet.

Weather resistance is very strong, with outer panels that protect against wind and rain for long enough to finish your 10-miler.  Then again, if you want to stretch it to 20, you’re covered there as well, as merino wool is highly effective at maintaining insulation even when wet.  One drawback is that the three layers of protective paneling combine to feel rather thick, and they add noticeable weight to the garment.  If Icebreaker could shave a little bit of bulk and weight on future versions of the Blast, that would be a great upgrade.

Back view: weather resistant panels on top, thin stretch merino layer below

The protective panels don’t breathe remarkably well, which is partially compensated by large back and side panels made of thin breathable wool, nylon, and elastene.  These thinner fabrics have nice stretch properties as well, so the Blast jacket doesn’t impede your range of motion when running hard.  The thin layers aren’t quite enough to offset the heat retention in the weather-resistant panels, so the Blast tends to run warmer (and insulate better) than similar midweight shells.

Cut of the jacket is straight through the trunk, and the dual-color styling with understated zipper seams is fairly subtle (except perhaps for the blue color option), making the Blast a good option for post-workout casual wear, especially since it won’t retain any odor.  The straight cut continues into the neck area, which I found too constricting at full zip.  One other fit-related point: although the jacket is billed as a combination run/bike jacket, the sleeve length and waist length ride a bit too short for most folks to be leaning toward the handlebars.

Good Blast Jacket

• Outstanding odor resistance
• Excellent wind and water resistance with polyester panels
• Maintains insulation even when soaked

Bad Blast Jacket

• Narrow neck collar
• Sleeves and waistline too short for cycling

Bottom Line: Icebreaker Blast LS Jacket

Built for the harsher side of spring or fall, Icebreaker’s Blast jacket provides great insulation and water resistance in inclement conditions, but is better suited for running than cycling.

Buy Now: Available at Moosejaw.com