Life In The Saddle

Who doesn't like nice socks?! There is nothing quite like pulling on a pair of soft packet-fresh socks, whether for cycling, running, or general everyday wear. How long does that new sock feeling last though? Darn Tough Socks suggest it could last a lifetime... Handmade in Vermont, USA, Darn Tough Socks are guaranteed for life. That means if you are not happy with the fit, comfort, or durability of your Darn Tough Socks, you can return them for a free replacement. That is some accolade. The Darn Tough collection includes a sock for every eventuality; from running to skiing, and hunting to office wear. I have tested out their Vertex No-Show Ultralight Tab Running Socks, their Breakaway Micro Crew Ultra-light Cycling Socks, and their Warlock Crew Light Lifestyle Socks. All have been very comfortable, very durable, and a great fit. They are just socks. But socks make a massive difference to foot comfort, and these are comfortable socks that last. >> View the range at d...

Spring break - it's something that I've decided is a good idea in my training schedule. It entails leaving the bike alone for a week; then kitting up in some great run kit from CEP Sports, and pounding the trails on foot, rather than shredding them on my bike. My kit choice for a week of trail running comes from CEP Sports - a brand that I've previously featured a fair bit on the blog (see past reviews ). These products are some of the new season releases from the brand, and feature some great kit innovations. CEP Sports Performance Run Tights These are probably the most comfortable running tights that I've worn to date. The no-stitch seams on the CEP Compression Performance Run Tights mean that there is no chafing, no areas of restriction, and a lighter overall garment weight. These feel super flexible, and super fast (even if I'm not). They also have some really neat features: like an easy-access mesh pocket on the side that is perfect for gels or a key...

Everybody likes good socks. Stance make some great ones; whether it's for running or casual wear. The Stance Camo Fusion Wire socks are a lightweight pair of running socks; providing minimal cushioning, but maximum comfort. I'm a big fan of the design pattern, and Stance have added some neat little details like the reflective logo for increased visibility. The Stance Fusion Wire socks feature a breathable mesh to help your feet to air; but reinforced toes and heels to help keep the socks durable. These feel supportive, comfortable, and they seem to be lasting well. Check out the great range from Stance at Stance.com (Link)  

Winter means cross-training, and that means trail running. In this post, I've picked out a few of my kit highlights for this season... CEP Wingtech Compression Tee I admit, the phrase "sensorimotoric stimulation" had me lost. The principle behind the Wingtech tee from CEP Sports is quite simple though: the special cut and 'Smart Wingtech Stripes' send subliminal reminders to your brain, to help you maintain a better posture. Everybody knows that good posture is important. Did you know that it also promotes muscle development though; further leading to better future posture. Effectively, this shirt promises to improve the way you run, and in doing so reduce the risk of injury, and optimise performance. Does it work? Well, it certainly feels supportive.  The Wingtech Stripes have a notable effect on pulling your shoulders back, and pulling your core tighter. The result is that running in the CEP Wingtech tee gives you a noticeably more upright posture. ...

Trail running is becoming more of a regular feature in my training regime. Once a week, I am going to attempt to run the 18 kilometres into work, and 18 kilometres home. I tried it one way a few weeks ago, and it went well; except that I arrived at work feeling distinctly parched, and to find the water supply in the office had been shut off for a few hours. I started looking for a better solution than running with a water bottle, and came across the neat little TrailMix Plus Hydration Belt from Nathan Sports. Nathan Sports produce a wide range of bottles, hydration belt, flasks, and running packs; to keep you supplied with fluid on your runs, and also to help you carry valuables and food. The TrailMix Plus Insulated 2 Hydration Belt is their neat little belt for trail running adventures; with enough capacity for vital fluids, valuables and a few snacks or gels. The pack has a wide elasticated belt, which fastens at the front using a strong quick release clip. There is plenty of a...

Last month, I wrote a blog on the ' Five Benefits of Cross-Training ', and talked about how I have recently started building in some trail running into my training routine. With that change, has come the opportunity to test a whole new spectrum of kit; from shoes to shorts, and even underwear! Cyclists soon learn that 'going commando' is by far your best option with bib shorts. The chafing from those seams doesn't bear thinking about. What about running though? As a relative newbie, I wasn't sure, and experimented a bit both ways. Neither seemed completely 'right'. Then, the folks at Runderwear came up with a solution... The briefs and boxers from the company provide a great option: seamless underwear. The security and warmth of underwear, but without the discomfort. I have tested both the briefs and the boxers, and found them both incredibly comfortable. The seamless technology means there is no uncomfortable rubbing. The fabric is far more ...