Don we now warm apparel
People in other parts of the country laugh when we say it can get cold in Southern California, but we know it’s true. It can even be nippy during the day. And if you’ve worked up a sweat running, cycling, skating or even dog-walking, it can leave you chilled after just a few minutes. That’s why the cold-stopping clothing accessories reviewed below are so practical. They weigh next to nothing, stuff into a fanny pack and provide a valuable layer against the cold that you can use all year long for night rides, early morning runs or during the occasional Arctic blast.
-- Roy M. Wallack
No sweat
REI mesh MTS tank: Sleeveless stretch-polyester mesh base layer.
Likes: Keeps your core warm when worn under bike or running shirts, without impeding athletic performance (due to armpit cutouts). Comfortable mesh material stretches and wicks moisture well and dries quickly, so you won’t get soaked. Longer back panel stays tucked into bike shorts. Can be worn alone in warm weather.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $12.93 (men’s); $20 (women’s). (800) 426-4840; www.rei.com/product/746653.
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Knee warmers
Zensah knee sleeve: Polyester barrier that stops direct contact between cold air and bare skin.
Likes: Simple product that protects and warms the knee. Especially valuable at the beginning of the workout, when the joint’s natural lubricant production hasn’t yet kicked in. Inexpensive as knee warmers. You don’t have to ride in sweaty full-length tights, and you can easily kick them down to your ankles when you warm up.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $19.99. (877) 614-5076; zensah.com.
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Toasty mitts
Brooks Vapor Dry 2 glove: Full-finger polyester-spandex glove for runners.
Likes: Keeps hands from going numb during early morning marathon starts. Soft, comfortable fabric (93% polyester and 7% spandex) wicks moisture well. Rubber grip surface on thumb, index and forefinger for holding water bottle. Terry-cloth material on back of thumb good for wiping off facial sweat. Convenient magnets embedded in cuff hold pair together in storage. Works for cycling and other sports too.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $28. (800) 2-BROOKS; brooksrunning.com.
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Wind blocker
Pearl Izumi Optik vest: Full-zippered, ultra-lightweight wind vest that wads up to the size of an ice cube.
Likes: Effective and packable. Blocks much of the cold of winter winds and long downhills. At a crazy-light 3.12 ounces, you can squeeze it into the palm of your hand. Good looks, with elastic waist and stretch side panels. Includes interior mesh stuff pocket for compact storage, full-zip front and reflective logos front and back.
Dislikes: Not water resistant (for that, go for the slightly heavier Zephrr vest, $64.99).
Price: $69.99. (800) 328-8488; www.pearlizumi.com.
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