Fuzz Factor

 

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FIRESIDE, COUNTRYSIDE, OR STREET SIDE, IT’S INTO THE WOODS WE GO. THESE FUZZY FLEECY LAYERS WILL KEEP YOU WARM AND TOASTY WITH CHIC CABIN STYLE.

 
ROW 1: LOUIS VUITTON ICONOCLASTS MARC NEWSON FLEECE PACK $5900. From the Louis Vuitton Iconoclasts series comes this Marc Newson backpack. As one of the 6 artists selected to design a signature piece, Newson has created a sculptural backpack, distinctive for its integration of soft shearling custom made for the winter months ahead. GORDINI WOOLY GLOVE $30. Warm cozy fleece combined with suede and Megaloft® insulation makes this one warm winter glove. Other features include box finger construction, toggle closure, palm and thumb reinforcement. Full wrap construction creates a glove within a glove. ETOILE ISABEL MARANT TEXAS KNITTED PONCHO $820. Made from a chunky, patterned blend of soft wool and cotton with a touch of alpaca, this Western-inspired poncho has a high collar, decorative fringe trims and open sides for chic extra layer of warmth.

ROW 2: IMPOSTER FAUX FUR TRAPPER HAT $220. Trap the heat with this fab faux fur trapper hat! Ear flaps can be tied up top for an alternate look too. BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA SHEARLING $140. Now you can wear sandals all winter long with these cozy shearling lined Birkenstocks.

ROW 3: WOOLRICH WHITECAP BOOT $49.95. Come in from the cold with these cozy fleece lounge boots. PATAGONIA RETRO-X FLEECE JACKET $229. An all-time favorite, this retro fleece jacket is warm and windproof with that classic Patagonia style. GIESSWEIN GEROLDING SLIPPERS $136. These ultra plush lambswool slippers feel deliciously sumptuous. Anatomically-correct footbed and strong arch support provide extra comfort and support.

 

Happy & Merry!

 

 

MAY YOUR 2015 BE SPORTY & FUN!

23 Dec 1954, Florida, USA — Original caption: This Santa Claus helper has left Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and his sleigh up north and has taken to water skiing at Cypress Gardens, Florida. He found no “rain” down south but did meet a little “dear” who joined him in this “Merry Christmas” from the sunny south. Image by © Bettmann/CORBIS

 

Shreddin’ Cobain

 

 

In August of 1993, Nirvana was in New York to perform at the legendary Roseland Ballroom to promote the release of In Utero, the third and final studio album by the band. Jesse Frohman was hired to photograph Nirvana by London’s The Observer Sunday magazine while they were in town. This would turn out to be the last formal shoot for which Cobain was photographed before he committed suicide on April 5th, 1994.

Marking the 20th anniversary of his death, Thames & Hudson has published Kurt Cobain: The Last Session by Jesse Frohman. It is a beautifully designed art book filled with a rich edit of images of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana from the shoot that day. The book, which includes many previously unpublished images, is an insider’s look at Nirvana and Frohman’s now famous shoot. The image shown above is the color cover image for which there is also a black & white variation.

Also commemorating the anniversary is this new Kurt Cobain snowboard produced by Endeavor Snowboards, that features one of the most iconic photographs of Kurt Cobain ever taken from that shoot. Frohman was approached by Endeavor to create a special limited edition “artist collaboration” board, which had obvious appeal and timed perfectly with the release of the book.

Says Max Jenke, Creative Director of Endeavor, “I first saw Jesse’s photo at the Morrison Hotel Gallery, which has an insane collection of music photographs. These ones of Kurt are absolutely legendary though and I always wanted one! When we started discussing the early release program of boards, we wanted to add an amazing graphic story to the new tech we were releasing (The Channel by Burton). Music has always influenced our graphics, whether it was album covers, music videos, or the songs themselves. Nirvana was a band all of us listened to growing up and it happened to be the 20th anniversary of Kurt Cobain’s death this year, so it all came together.”

I recently sat down with Jesse, an old friend of mine, to find out more about the shoot, the book, and the board. I first saw the snowboard on the Instagram feed of the uber hip and chic Paris boutique, Colette, where Jesse told me two boards were made available for a book signing at the store. Even though I’ve known Jesse for a long time, we had never talked about photographing Nirvana that day.
 
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Holiday Sparkle

 

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 PUT A LITTLE SHIMMER AND SHINE IN YOUR SPORT GEAR AND APPAREL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH BIKES, BAGS, BOOTS, PARKAS, SNEAKERS AND MORE THAT WILL HAVE YOU SPARKLING INTO THE NEW YEAR. 

LEFT COLUMN: VFILES SPORT PLUS SIDELINE PUFFER now $347. This full length synthetic fill parka will keep you shining in warmth all winter long! SCHWINN FRITZ FIFTY LIMITED EDITION STING-RAY BICYCLE now $399.99. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic bike, this limited edition Schwinn Sting-Ray has all the authentic details that made the original Sting-Ray famous. The chrome frame, banana seat with rear suspension, custom chrome springer fork, Fat Slik 20″ rear tire and smaller 16″ front tire make it a collectible masterpiece.  THE NORTH FACE BOREALIS BACKPACK $89. It’s the classic North Face all done up in holiday shine. It features a padded laptop sleeve, protective tablet sleeve, and large secondary zip pocket with more built-in organizational sleeves.

CENTER COLUMN: RUDY PROJECT HYPERMASK PERFORMANCE SUNGLASSES now $112.49. These ultralight and aerodynamic performance sunglasses provide a wide peripheral view, cutting-edge RP optics, and patented Quick Change lens technology. Adjustable nosepiece and soft rubber temple tips guarantee comfort, stability and fit, with excellent air circulation to prevent fogging. NIKE VICTORY GYM CLUB METALLIC DUFFEL BAG $110. Made with durable, water-resistant fabric, this shiny gym duffle will safely transport your workout gear and anything else you need on the go. Specialized shoe and wet/dry compartments provide versatile, convenient storage. ALEXANDER WANG LAMINATED HOODED ANORAK $325. This hooded anorak is laminated with a slick silver finish for tear-resistant, weather-repellent, statement-making shine.

RIGHT COLUMN: MOON BOOT WE PUDDLE JUMPER MID $89.95. Go lunar landing style with these shiny silver Moon Boots! Lined with cozy fleece, these space-age inspired snow boots will keep your feet dry and toasty all season long. KORAL ACTIVEWEAR LUSTROUS LEGGING $92. Put the party in your workout with these sexy shimmery leggings! MONSTER DIAMOND TEARS HEADPHONES $299.99. These flashy over-ear headphones make a big fashion statement, while being sturdily built and offering superior sound quality too. GOLDEN GOOSE FRANCY HIGH TOP SNEAKERS $565. These distressed silver denim high tops have playground style combined with cool holiday shimmer.

 

Twin Poses

 
THE CHINTWINS IN DANCER POSE
PHOTOGRAPHS BY NIGEL BARKER

 

Twin sisters, Kimberly Hise and Cristen Barker, or Kimmy and Crissy, are known on Instagram as the ChinTwins. Former fashion models, these two beauties stay lean and serene with their formidable yoga practice and have been sharing a move a day with their now over 20,000 followers since last summer.

Born and raised in Alabama, Kimmy still resides in her home state, while Crissy lives in NYC. Juxtaposed in their rural and urban settings, they have become Country Yogi City Yogi, demonstrating the identical pose on Instagram everyday. The twins show that the physical and spiritual benefits of these moves transcend their location — and their locations are everywhere and anywhere! From country roads to city streets, boat docks to roof tops, farmers markets to supermarkets, the ChinTwins are mirror images in their contrasting locales.
 

Hand stand downward dogHAND STAND, DOWNWARD FACING DOG

 

PadangusthasanaSTANDING HAND TO FOOT

 
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The Art of Sportography

 

 

The GIFT OF SPORT continues with these 4 new sport themed art books, celebrating the athletes, culture and lifestyle of surfing, baseball, cycling and snowboarding. Chosen for their gorgeous photography and layout, authoritative and insider point of view, these are our favorite gift books for this holiday season.

JOHN SEVERSON’S SURF

(above)

Born in 1933, John Severson revolutionized pop culture’s vision of surfing and surf culture through a prolific artistic output that spanned decades and disciplines. John Severson’s SURF explores his odyssey through painting, photography, film and publishing. Severson began his career as a painter, and later took up photography, capturing scenes of Hawaiian and Californian surf culture. In 1958, he expanded his repertoire and created a series of popular surf movies, such as “Surf Safari”, “Surf Fever”, “Big Wednesday” and “Pacific Vibrations”. The posters he designed for them remain collector favorites today. Severson’s graphic skills translated easily to Surfer magazine, which he founded in 1960. The magazine was the first to celebrate and revolutionize the art and sport of surfing, establishing it as a powerful pop culture phenomenon. John Severson’s SURF documents the birth of surf culture and serves as a testament to the indelible influence of Severson on its mainstream popularity.

 

holiday-book-jeter

JETER UNFILTERED

Relive and peek inside his unforgettable final season with the only authorized full-color book commemorating Derek Jeter’s iconic baseball career with the New York Yankees. Featuring archival images and original photos of the 2014 season from renowned photographer Christopher Anderson, Jeter Unfiltered is a powerful collection of never-before-published images. Fans will have unprecedented access to “The Captain,” as the famously private baseball legend takes us behind the scenes—inside his home, the stadium, the gym, at his Turn 2 Foundation events, fortieth birthday party, and more—as he looks back with candor and gratitude on his baseball career.

 

holiday-book-bike

1001 BICYCLES TO DREAM OF RIDING

The latest volume in the hugely popular 1001 series surveys the world’s most popular mode of transport, the bicycle. Lavishly illustrated, comprehensive, and authoritative, 1001 Bicycles to Dream of Riding celebrates the designs and individual stories behind the world’s most influential and high-profile models from every discipline, including mountain and road biking as well as BMX and track racing. A visually stunning compendium, this book allows readers to trace the fascinating evolution of the bicycle from its early incarnations in wood to the latest racing machines made of titanium and carbon fiber. Never before have so many bicycles been profiled within a single illustrated volume, and it is the perfect book for cycling enthusiasts and bike experts alike. Read More

 

Mile High Run Club

 

 
ROW 1: RUNNING SWAG AT MILE HIGH RUN CLUB; THE INTERVAL CLOCK; FOUNDER, DEBORAH WARNER; ROW 2: WOODWAY TREADMILLS IN THE STUDIO; THE PORTHOLE VIEW INTO CLASS; ROW 3: LENTICULAR RUNNING RESTROOM SIGN; EXERCISES OFF TREADMILL IN THE “DASH 28” CLASS; KETTLEBELLS
 
Recently opened in Manhattan’s Noho district is the Mile High Run Club, which hopes to do for treadmills, what spinning did for indoor bicycles. With 30 treadmills available, the classes combine running with music in a boutique fitness studio environment, and cater to both runners and all around fitness enthusiasts alike.

Founded by running coach and fitness trainer, Debora Warner, an Equinox alumni who developed a niche there training endurance athletes, Mile High Run Club offers two different types of treadmill workouts. “Dash 28” incorporates weights and strength training in a 45-minute workout for runners of all levels. It features 28 minutes of speed and incline intervals, in additon to kettlebell training and other exercises. The moves are designed to provide core and strength training for runners, in addition to injury prevention, and offer a great total body workout for all. Depending on your speed, 2-3 miles are run each class.

“The Distance” is a 60-minute advanced performance improving class with double the running and double the distance. It features continuous intervals, tempos, and hills, and is coached by elite runners.

Woodway treadmills are the machines of choice at Mile High Run Club, distinctive for their patented slatted wood belt technology that Warner says mimics the feeling outdoor running best. She believes they absorb impact better and likes the precise fine tuning on speed and incline.

So if you’re looking to improve your running or incorporate something new into your fitness regimen, Mile High Run Club is a great new addition to the Manhattan fitness scene. Classes are $34, in line with most a la carte fitness studios in the city. Mile High Run Club is located at 28 East 4th St.

 

Eddie Would Go

 

Photograph By Dan Merkel

The holding period has begun for the 30th annual “Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau”, a one-day big wave invitational surfing event requiring waves of at least 20 feet — wave face height over 30 feet– in order to be contested. The event, which has only been held 8 times in its history, was founded in recognition of the great Hawaiian surfer Eddie Aikau.

During the 1970’s, Eddie Aikau was considered one of the best big wave riders in the world. He was the first official lifeguard at Waimea Bay on Oahu’s North Shore, and became recognized for pulling people out of waves that no one else would dare to. His life took on mythic proportions after his untimely death during the “Hokule’a” in 1978. During the 2500 mile traditional Hawaiian canoe voyage, retracing the ancient route of the Polynesian migration between the Hawaiian and Tahitian islands, the canoe developed a leak and capsized in stormy weather. Aikau set out on his surfboard, paddling towards Lanai in an attempt to get help. The crew was later rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard, but despite great search efforts, Eddie was never seen again.

The “Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau” event was established in 1984 and was won by his brother Clyde Aikau in its first year. The popular phrase “Eddie Would Go” originated during that first contest. The waves were huge and conditions extremely dangerous. While the contest organizers were discussing whether to put it on, competitor Mark Foo looked out and said “Eddie would go.” The phrase stuck and spread around the Hawaiian Islands and rest of the world.

I have always loved the image above by Dan Merkel, which has become one of the most iconic images of Eddie Aikau. The minimal blue and yellow tonalities highlight the purity and beauty of the sport and let the soul of this lengendary waterman shine.

 

The Gift of Running

 

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THE GIFT OF SPORT CONTINUES WITH GREAT IDEAS FOR THAT RUNNER IN YOUR LIFE

(OR ALL-AROUND SPORTY SOMEONE)!

 

LEFT COLUMN: NIKE SHIELD FLASH MAX WOMEN’S RUNNING JACKET $495. This running jacket combines reflectivity and powerful weather protection to help keep you visible and dry on your run. The allover dot print produces 360 degrees of high reflectivity for enhanced visibility in low light. Laminated vents on the hood and back increase airflow while resisting wind and water with ultra-durable Storm-FIT fabric. SOLEUS ULTRA SOLE RUNNING WATCH $75. So fun it’s design, you’ll want to keep wearing this colorful sport watch even after your run. It features a 100 hr Chronograph, a 15 second backlight, and a hydration alarm that reminds you to fill up on fluids. GORDINI STASH LITE TOUCH GLOVES $35. Made with flexible ripstop nylon, these neon sport gloves are waterproof and windproof. They feature a rubber grip palm, breathable silk insulation, a spandex cuff with stash pocket, and are touch screen capable.

CENTER COLUMN: SMITH PIVLOCK ARENA SUNGLASSES $159. Driven by the needs of elite level athletes, the Pivlock Arena has an ergonomic face fit to perform in the most extreme conditions. Lightweight performance is further enhanced with two-position adjustable nosepiece, slide-on temple ends, and a vast array of performance mirrored lens tints. BEATS BY DRE POWERBEATS2 WIRELESS EARBUDS $199.95. Inspired by LeBron James, the new redesigned Powerbeats2 Wireless earphones will take your workout to the next level with its sweat and water resistant design, 30ft Bluetooth connection, rechargeable battery, 6-hour nonstop playback, and Beats signature sound. FEETURES ELITE RUNNING SOCKS $14.99. Ultra Light with a No Show Tab, these technical running socks deliver targeted compression on the arch where it’s needed most. Anatomical design enhances fit, delivering maximum comfort and protection from blisters. MIZUNO WAVE UNIVERSE 5 $124.99. The lightest shoe on the market, weighing in at less than 3 ounces, this race shoe or minimal trainer will have you running fast! U4IC midsole provides resiliency and a smooth ride at a fraction of the weight of traditional midsoles and the G3 sole features superior lightweight traction.

RIGHT COLUMN: THE NORTH FACE WOMEN’S BETTER THAN NAKED™ SINGLET $45. This ultralight, race-ready tank is constructed with stitchless seams in critical areas for reduced chafing. Engineered jacquard mesh with body mapped ventilation improves breathability down the spine and FlashDry™ fibers speed drying during long, sweaty runs. SMARTWOOL NTS MID 250 REVERSIBLE CUFFED BEANIE $30. For all your outdoor sports, this beanie is an all season essential and the reversible pattern lets you wear it twice as much. An adjustable ear band determines more or less heat and clean seams provide a no-bulk fit.

WANT MORE SPORTY GIFT IDEAS? CHECK OUT THESE FEATURES!

THE SOS GIFT GUIDE GOES OUTDOORS

THE CYCLISTS GIFT GUIDE

TIS’ THE SKI SEASON: THE SNOWY GIFT GUIDE

 

The 6 Things I Hate About Yoga

 
BUT HALLE BECKER IS NOT ONE OF THEM

Photographs by Jay Sullivan

I probably shouldn’t admit this, as the editor of a website about sports and fitness, but I don’t like yoga. I really don’t like it at all. I don’t like the music, how long the classes last, the seriousness of the teachers and the lack of personal space. But I do yoga like other people do workouts they don’t enjoy, because I know it’s good for me. I try to go with some disciplined regularity, once a week if I can bear it, because with all the running and spinning I do, I know how critical it is to balance out the intensity of those workouts with something stretchy. Whereas those workouts fly by as I dance my way through a SoulCycle class and endorphine out during a run, I find myself counting the minutes in yoga.

Now don’t get me wrong, I think yoga is an incredible workout, depending on the style. I think the toned yoga body, with its strong shoulders, high glutes and athletic quads, is one of the best you can have. I find myself awestruck as I look around the studio at regular people like me doing handstands and balancing on their arms with their legs tied in pretzel positions that I could never imagine getting into.

I joined Pure Yoga in NYC a few months ago assuming if I was paying monthly for classes I would force myself to go. That has kind of worked; I have a six class per month membership but only go about two to three times a month, so it has become very expensive, too.

So imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon a Hot Power Yoga class taught by Halle Becker, aka “Halle Homegirl,” that I daresay I enjoy. I must confess she had an advantage going in: Halle is also an instructor at SoulCycle, of which I am a devotee, and a family favorite teacher. I was greeted with hugs and high fives upon arriving at my first class, and received shout outs for my down dogs. Who has ever heard of shout outs in yoga??
 
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The SOS Gift Guide Goes Outdoors

 

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Our Gift Of Sport guide keeps giving this holiday season with great ideas for that nature loving, trail seeking, mountain climbing, snow shredding, cabin chilling, canoe paddling and all around outdoor junkie.

ROW 1: PENFIELD ROCKWOOD DOWN JACKET $300. This cozy 70’s style down jacket is constructed with classic ripstop nylon, suede shoulder yokes and a soft shearling collar for extra warmth. SPECIALIZED FATBOY MOUNTAIN BIKE $2100. Roll through any terrain and conditions including snow this winter, with this extra fat tire mountain bike. It’s built for fun on the trails!

ROW 2: BURTON THROWBACK SNOWBOARD $119.95. Kicking it back to 1981 with the Burton Backhill, the original snowboard manufactured by Burton Snowboards is now available again. SHINOLA RUNWELL SPORT WATCH $625. Detroit-built and hand assembled, The Runwell Sport features a sapphire crystal, Super-LumiNova printed dial details, Argonite 715 high-accuracy quartz movement, and a solid stainless steel case with screw down crown and a date indicator. MAVEN CUSTON BINOCULARS $500-$1000. Build your own custom binoculars by choosing shape, finish, lens ring colors, magnification and more. TOMMY HILFIGER FURRY TRAPPER HAT $79. This furry trapper style hat will keep you warm, toasty and looking cute with its cable knit and warm fleece lining.

ROW 3: JULBO LIMITED EDITION VERMONT MYTHIC SUNGLASSES $260. Now in a chic white limited edition, these classic glacier glasses feature the traditional round lens mountaineering frame, leather nose piece and leather side shields that provide serious high-altitude eye protection and look great at any elevation.

ROW 4: POLER ONE AND TWO MAN TENTS $180 & 250. This floral patterned tent easily assembles into a spacious outdoor domain with 3000mm waterproof coating to ensure a dry night. An eye shaped window allows for star gazing. SHAW AND TENNEY CANOE CHAIR $399. Designed to provide an extra seat in a canoe, this elegant little chair can be used anywhere and is of heirloom quality furniture construction made to stand the test of time. Read More

 

Black Friday Is Black

 

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Today is Black Friday. No really it is, because in honor of our national shopping holiday, we are featuring the most fab sport gear and apparel that is black. Unfortunately it is not on sale, but with such badass stealth style, you may not be able to resist these selections, even at full price.

CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: RIZOMA METROPOLITAN BIKE $4700. From internationally renowned motorcycle company Rizoma comes this head turning carbon fiber and billet aluminum bicycle. Revolutionary in its design and aesthetic, it is as light as it is gorgeous, and can be ridden single speed or fixed gear. ARC’TERYX ATOM LT HOODY $229. Ideal as a stand-alone piece in fair weather, or as a layering piece in cold conditions, this jacket is designed as an active use insulation layer, providing vital core warmth with liberal mobility and breathability. ADIDAS MIKA LUMI SNOWBOARD BOOTS $200. These black snowboard boots have a sophisticated street style but are built to take on any slope. They are made from full grain leather with a women’s-specific fit, and feature a molded tongue, dual zone speed lacing system and soft EVA outsole.

SUGOI RSE SUBZERO GLOVE $70. For all you diehard winter cyclists, this windproof thermal glove offers the protection you need for extreme weather rides. They feature a Thinsulate liner, pre-curved ergonomic fit, and full finger design for easy braking and shifting. FABER NORTH HIKER SNOWSHOES $92.95. These light and sturdy snowshoes are designed for a variety of terrain and conditions, and with their easy access, secure fit binding system, they are made for fun in the snow. NIKE AIR ZOOM PEGASUS FLASH $115. One of the most popular running shoes in Nike history, this Pegasus is the quickest and most responsive yet, and feature reflective visibility and weather protection for the dark winter months. VOLKL V-WERKS KATANA $1099. One of the most technologically advanced skis, Volkl’s V-Werks has now added a big mountain ski to the collection. Constructed with a wood core and carbon exterior, the performance of this lightweight ski is enhanced by its thin profile and full rocker for big beautiful all mountain turns that float though powder and carve up the groomers.

CENTER: OAKLEY CANOPY SNOW $180. The expanded lens volume and low-profile frame design of the Canopy provides a wide-open view with maximized peripheral and downward vision. The razor-sharp optics filters out 100% of all UV, and the dual vented lens architecture combined with F3 anti-fog coating, keeps sight lines clear. RIP CURL SEARCH GPS SURF WATCH $400. For you serious surfers, now you can track your surf, register your top speed and distance, and rack up your wave count in each session. Sync your data to the Rip Curl SearchGPS App or website to re-live your surf with location maps, image sharing and graphic charts which showcase each session. ELIZABETH ROBERTS QUILTED VEST $295. A great layering piece, this thin fitted vest skims the body with a subtle quilting pattern, nipped-in waist and belt detailing at the back. It features a proprietary SMARTSHIELD™ pocket technology and is made with imported Schoeller performance fabric, which is water, oil, and stain repellent.  

 

The SOS Gift Guides: For The Cyclist

 

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The week by week, sport by sport,  STYLE OF SPORT Holiday Gift Guides continue this week with great ideas for that cyclist in your life. Whether they ride for transportation, fitness, fun, or just like cool stuff, we’ve got the gear every rider will be asking for this holiday season.

ROW 1: SIDI WIRE CYCLING SHOES $499. Top of the line, the new Wire is the choice of WorldTour athletes and pros everywhere. The Tecno 3 closure system provides even pressure across the entire foot for ultimate comfort and pedaling efficiency. Micro-ratcheting buckles allow easy one-click adjustment in either direction, for simple fine-tuning on the go. BUDNITZ NO.1 DISASSEMBLED PRINT $100. From one of our favorite bike companies, Budnitz, makers of some of the most uniquely beautiful bikes, comes this high-quality Giclée archival print of their No.1 Titanium bicycle disassembled.

ROW 2: RAPHA MERINO BRETON $170 From the sophisticated cyclist’s favorite brand Rapha, comes their Merino interpretation of the iconic Breton sweater. BROOKS VICTORIA SADDLE HANDBAG 160€. Originally conceived as a stylish saddle cover with incorporated saddle bag, the Victoria is also a whimsical handbag in the iconic saddle shape. CRANK BROTHERS STERLING SG PUMP $44.99. This sleek alloy mini pump is big on function as well as style. It features a high pressure air switch and gauge, and is compatible with both schrader and presta valves. MOVADO PARLEE CHRONOGRAPH $7500. Inspired by their ultra racing bikes, this 46mm automatic chronograph watch incorporates 250 layers of unidirectional carbon fiber, the super-lightweight bike frame material refined by Parlee Cycles. The edition is limited to 250 individually numbered pieces with a choice of 4 dial accent colors: blue, white, green or orange.

ROW 3: LAZER STREET DLX URBAN LUXURY HELMET $59. Heads will turn in this wood finished bike helmet! It features leather straps and metal strap dividers to complete the unique look, along with 16 vents will keep you cool while riding with such style. GIRO XEN GLOVES $40. Lightweight but durable this all-day mountain bike glove is engineered for fit, comfort and protection, and features touchscreen technology in the fingertips. Crash pads wrap around the palm onto the lateral edge of the hand for added cushioning in the event of a fall. SONY POV ACTION CAM $349. While we all know the GoPro, this palm size Sony POV camcorder is a cool competitor, and boasts a host of features inside its tough waterproof exterior. For cycling or any action sport, SteadyShot™ image stabilization conquers bumps and blur, and up to 5 cameras can be controlled with Live-View Remote via your phone. With 5 video modes including 1080/60p and 2x slow motion, it also captures amazing high quality 11.9MP still images in photo mode. Read More

 

The Apres-Snow Boot

 

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Temps are dropping and it’s time to get warmed up for the months to come with a new winter snowboot. Our favorites for the season are plush but rugged, warm but stylish, and ready to take on the elements. With that fab apres-ski style of sheepskin and rustic suedes, shearling trim and interiors, wrap around and criss-cross lace-ups, your feet will be looking good and feeling toasty all winter long.

ROW 1: TORY BURCH BOUGHTON SHEARLING LINED SUEDE BOOTS $295; PRADA LINEA ROSSA FURRY FOLD-OVER ANKLE BOOT $790; EMU DALEY LO HANDCRAFTED TOGGLE SHEEPSKIN BOOT $179; ROW 2: SOREL TIVOLI II WATERPROOF SUEDE BOOT $120; HI-TEC ST.MORTIZ WATERPROOF INSULATED SNOWBOOT $120; TECNICA MOONBOOT BUTTER $149; ROW 3: THE NORTH FACE SISQUE NORDIC INSPIRED SNOWBOOT $150; UGG ORELLEN INSULATED SHEEPSKIN SNOWBOOT $189; ECCO SPORT TRACE ZIP WOOL BOOT $200

 

Tis’ The Ski Season: The Snow Gift Guide

 

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Winter has come early with a dip from that crazy Poler Vortex. For those who love winter sports, it’s never too early and if you’re wondering what to get that skier, snowboarder and snow lover in your life for the holidays, here are a few of our favorite things. These bright and colorful jackets, sweaters, boots, googles, skis and more are made for fun in the snow and are guaranteed to put a smile on the face of your snowy someone come holiday time! This is part 1 of our Style of Sport Gift Guides with lots more sports to come!

LEFT COLUMN: PERFECT MOMENT SUPER DAY JACKET $490. This 700 fill water resistant down jacket has all the warmth you need and the style you want for those coldest days on the slopes. SWEATY BETTY AMAZING KNITTED HEADBAND $65. This fleece lined jacquard knit headband has an ergonomic design to keep ears snug and warm on the slopes and off. BOGNER ZIP SHIRT ALINE $339. It’s high altitude style with this zip pullover featuring a fun heli-skiing print. Made from Techno Jersey, it offers moisture wicking properties, as well as protection from the cold and UV rays. HESTRA HENRIK PRO MODEL MITT $180. This top of the line cowhide mitten has a quilted, retro style pattern on outside with super warm thermolite insulation on the inside.

MIDDLE COLUMN: POC FORNIX COMMUNICATION $240. The award-winning Fornix helmet is now offered with Beats by Dr. Dre headphones built into the neckroll. With the remote control, compatible with most smart phones, it’s easy to take calls, switch tunes and adjust volume right with the touch of your thumb. SCOTT “THE SKI” $699. It’s back! First introduced in the late 70’s and the hot freestyle ski into the 80’s, “The Ski” has been redesigned as an all terrain performer with 3D Sidecut and a Pro-Tip Rocker profile.

RIGHT COLUMN: MOONBOOT VINYL $120. Another 70’s ski style classic, The Moonboot is now available in a wild array of retro style and colors, and shown here is an eye-popping acid green vinyl. SPY OPTICS BRAVO $184.95. The Bravo is a midsize low profile goggle featuring Lock Steady™ technology, Spy’s signature super fast and fingerprint free lens change system. Anti-scratch and anti-fog, a free mirrored bonus lens is included. AIMO RICHLY CARDIGAN $690. This perfect apres-ski cardigan is hand-loomed from a luxurious blend of wool and angora, and features a fun retro style mountain graphic. FIMBULVETR SNOWSHOES $350. From Norway comes the ultimate reinvention of the snowshoe. Stronger, lighter, more durable and ergonomic, these snowshoes will have everyone wishing for a snow day!

LOOKING FOR MORE SPORTY GIFT IDEAS? CLICK HERE

 

Military Style

 
MARILYN MONROE USO TOUR KOREA 1954

 
In celebration of its 55th anniversary, American outerwear brand, Alpha Industries, has launched a capsule collection featuring the iconic styles that have defined this military brand’s heritage. A look back at this company seems fitting on this Veterans Day.

Founded in 1959 by Samuel Gelber, who had a lease on factory space and skilled workers ready to go, Alpha Industries was subcontracted by the U.S Department of Defense to manufacture the MA-1 flight jacket. The MA-1 had a 100% wool knit collar, discarding the mouton fur collar of its predecessor, the B-15, as it interfered with the parachute harness worn by aviators. An Indian Orange lining was later added so that if a plane crashed, the pilot could reverse the jacket to the orange side to signal rescue personnel. The N-3B parka soon followed, and was the first jacket for which Alpha was awarded a contract to manufacture by the U.S. Department of Defense. Commonly known as the snorkel coat, it is distinctive for its funnel shaped fur trimmed hood.

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 B-15 55TH ANNIVERSARY FLIGHT JACKET; WOMENS MA-1 FLIGHT JACKET

In its 55 years, Alpha Industries has evolved from exclusively supplying the U.S. Department of Defense with outerwear products, to becoming the most recognized military-inspired fashion lifestyle brand. While this capsule collection features mainly mens products, most of the iconic styles are also available for women including, the classic MA-1 Flight Jacket.

 

Cap Off The Chill

 

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With temperatures dropping, a toasty little beenie will warm things right up. It’s said we lose half our body heat through our head, so put a lid on it with one of these bright and colorful knit caps. In town, on the slopes, at the lodge, or by the fire, these cheerful hats will have you smiling through the cold.

ROW 1: HELLY HANSEN SKAGEN STRIPE WOOL BLEND BEANIE $30; THE NORTH FACE SKI TUKE $40; PAUL SMITH RIB-KNIT POM POM HAT $125; ROW 2: MONCLER BASKETWEAVE KNIT BEANIE $170; EUGENIA KIM MAGRITTE ALPACA BEENIE $215; BURTON DREAMCATCHER BEANIE $34.95; ROW 3: WOMMELSDORFF FEI CASHMERE BEANIE $320; DAKINE COLLEEN BEANIE $20; POLO KNIT BEANIE $48; ROW 4: PATAGONIA POWDER TOWN BEANIE $39ADIDAS XLT BALLIE HAT $26MARMOT DENICE FLEECE LINED HAT $30

 

Alexander Wang x H&M

 

 
Crashing the H&M site as we speak is the much anticipated Alexander Wang collection for H&M! This collection for both men and women of leggings, jackets, sweatshirts, parkas, crop tops, sport bras, socks and even swim goggles and boxing gloves is as sporty as high fashion gets. Words like “breathable” are being used in the same descriptive sentence as “jacquard knit”! So Sprint, don’t jog, to H&M now, because these fab pieces won’t be there long!

 

The 26.2 Miles of the NYC Marathon

 

CLAUDIA ON THE QUEENSBORO BRIDGE AT MILE 15

 

Photograph by one of New York City’s Finest Police Officers, who also art directed the shot!

Ever wonder what it’s like to run the NYC Marathon? With a bum hip but a strong heart, I decided to forget about time this year and just have some fun along the way. Snapping instagrams at every mile, here is a peek at the 5 boroughs, from start to finish, through one runners eyes! Click images below for enlarged view.

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ROW 1: Left: It was cold and blustery at the start with wind gusts up to 30 MPH! I could only imagine what it was going to feel like on the bridge. Center: You learn to love those Porta Potties and frankly they were the warmest spot at the start! Right: After 3 marathons, finally I’m on the upper level of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The wind is crazy but it’s gorgeous up here!

ROW 2: Left: Festive and colorful garb hitting Mile 1. Only 25 more to go! Center: Mile 3, Brooklyn. The beginning of the long stretch of 4th Ave which takes you to mile 8. Right: A marathon selfie at mile 5!

ROW 3: Left: Piles of discarded Poland Spring and Gatorade cups at the Mile 6 watering station. Center: Just one of the funny, motivating and RANDOM signs at mile 7 made by the enthusiastic crowds who line the streets to cheer us on. Right: Finally a new street! Making a right on to Lafayette at Mile 8.

ROW 4: Left: Mile 13. Halfway there on the Pulaski Bridge that takes us from Brooklyn into Queens. Time for a new borough! Center: Heading up the Queensboro Bridge. Manhattan here I come! Right: Phone died after Mile 15, but here I am at Mile 23 with my family and friends. 3 miles to go! The highlights in between are the roar of the crowd as you run up First Ave and finally hitting mile 20 in the Bronx. The finish line is in your grasp now.

ROW 5: Left: My SoulCycle running mates and sub 4 hour marathoners, Melissa Iorio and Sheila Barrett, at the finish. Center: The walking wounded and the long trudge home. It’s nearly impossible to get back to the East Side of Manhattan. The streets are closed, there is not a taxi in sight, and Uber is charging “Surge” rates which I refuse to pay no matter how tired I am! Right: Home sweet home! Well, my friends The Greenbergs, who luckily live on the West Side, for a insanely delicious post marathon dinner! I have now walked another mile since I crossed the finish line. ~CL

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Ode to Orange

 

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We love an excuse to celebrate our favorite color… ORANGE! Stand out in the crowd this Halloween in these jumping jack-o-lantern colored kicks, ski helmets, sweatshirts, gloves, watches, loafers, sunglasses, backpacks and parkas. It’s all fun and games with this sporty collection orange gear and apparel!

ROW 1: PHARRELL WILLIAMS X ADIDAS $150. On sale today it’s the Pharrell x Adidas Originals Stan Smith ‘Tennis’ Pack.” This eye popping orange crush on the original features a felt-like tennis ball exterior. ELECTRIC MASHMAN SKI HELMET $170. Go moto style on the slopes with this pearly tangerine and white striped ski helmet.

ROW 2: NIKE RPM BACKPACK $100. This tough and colorful backpack is made to hold it all, from a laptop to a skateboard, and all essentials in between. HERMES IRVING DRIVING MOCASSINS $920. It’s Hermes perfection with the 2 “Clous Pyramides” hardware on a driving shoe. ATHLETA FUSE SWEATSHIRT $100. A modern take on the classic gray crewneck sweatshirt features structured FUSE fabric with pops of orange color blocks.

ROW 3: AUTHIER NEW FIT JACKET $1325. Founded in Switzerland in 1910, this chic Italian sport brand is coveted by ski enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike and most recognized for it’s distinctive oversized metal zippers. This fab orange down jacket is available at J.Crew. SLATER ZORN RIBBED TIPPED SCARF $185. Made from 100% super fine New Zealand Merino wool, this sporty scarf is also available in a host of other great color combos. OAKLEY POLARIZED RADAR PATH $260. In the heat of training and competition, the frame geometry of the Radar Path creates a unobstructed vision and a cooling flow of air, while Pure Plutonite lenses filter out 100% of all UV rays. ARC’TERYX VENTA LT GLOVE $60. These lightweight, windproof and breathable gloves feature light insulation and are perfect for aerobic activities in cooler conditions.

ROW 3: NIXON MINI BLASTER $100. Big sound booms from this colorful little wireless speaker. Water, shock and sand resistant, the Mini is Bluetooth enabled for fun on the go!  SHINOLA “THE RUNWELL” $2950. Inspired by the enduring French Porteur bicycles, The Runwell delivers a classic blend of urban chic and practicality. With its American made lugged steel frame and fork, high-end Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal hub, and disc brakes, The Runwell smoothly handles city streets with ease and style.

 

Grete Waitz “A Game”

 
1983 GRETE WAITZ CROSSING THE FINISH LINE OF THE NYC MARATHON. (AP PHOTO/FILE)

 
This Sunday marks the 45th running of the NYC Marathon. Grete Waitz is one of the most accomplished marathoners of all time and arguably the best woman to ever run this race. Her first victory in 1978 was her first marathon, and she won it with a world-record time of 2:32:30. She would ultimately win the NYC Marathon a record nine times.

In 2005, Grete was diagnosed with cancer yet continued to run during her treatment for both mental and physical solace. She would go on to co-found ACTIV Against Cancer in 2007 with the goal of funding research to prove that physical activity can aid in prevention and recovery of cancer. Two years later, she partnered with Adidas, her lifelong sponsor, to form ACTIV, a line of running shoes and apparel, that donates a portion of each sale back to her foundation.

SS15_Aktiv_APP_1x1ADIDAS AKTIV COLLECTION

 
Adidas is celebrating its five year anniversary as an AKTIV Against Cancer partner with a special collection of shoes and apparel, and is donating 100 percent of its in-booth AKTIV apparel sales at the NYC Marathon Health & Fitness Expo to the foundation. The Adidas AKTIV collection features performance apparel and running shoes, including the Grete 30 Boost, which marks 30 years since the launch of Waitz’s adidas Originals running shoe and also honors the 30th anniversary of her silver medal at the 1984 Olympics.

To further funds for cancer research, Adidas and AKTIV Against Cancer are asking runners, fans and visitors at the Javits Center Expo to show their “A Game.” For every tweet, Instagram or Facebook post that includes #mystepmatters with an image of a hand symbol in the shape of an “A,” adidas will donate $1 to AKTIV.

The NYC Marathon Health & Fitness Expo is open to the public at the Jacob Javits Center this thurs-sat. Since 2009, adidas has donated more than $3.3 million to AKTIV Against Cancer through apparel sales.

 

The Perfect Parka

 

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It’s the must have coat of the season. The fur trimmed parka is everywhere from outdoor and designer brands alike. Warm and rugged, with the added chic and functional flair of a fur trimmed collar and hood, these jackets are made to take on the cold with style. Available in bomber and longer cuts, in great fall colors like military greens, earthy browns, vibrant oranges and even city blacks, check out our favorites for the season!

ROW 1: BURTON SNOWBOARD BARGE JACKET $219.95. Mountain ready but street smart, this long quilted parka is water-repellent and warm, featuring full length breathable insulation and faux fur trim at the hood. High hand warmer pockets, water-resistant zippers, brushed tricot lining are added bonuses along with an internal media pocket and headphone cable port. CANADA GOOSE CHILLIWACK BOMBER $595. Developed as a nod to post-war bush pilots in Canada’s north, the Chilliwack Bomber provides the durability, warmth and mobility these pilots needed working on Arctic runways. The Chilliwack is one of hot brand Canada Goose’s most popular jackets and is available in host of colors for both men and women. FJALLRAVEN SAREK WINTER JACKET $425. This lightly insulated jacket has that classic long cut trekking style for rural or urban excursions. It features tough G-1000 coating for reliable protection against water, wind, and snow and is torso lined with a high-loft mesh for breathable warmth.

ROW 2: MONCLER ARRIOUS FUR TRIMMED PARKA $2065. This season, Moncler takes on the classic parka with the Arrious. Made with lightweight khaki-green twill, it features a quilted down lining, detachable racoon-fur hood trim, and chic pleated back. ALPHA INDUSTRIES N-3B W PARKA $180. The original snorkel jacket, the N-3B was first produced in the early 1950’s for USAF air crews assigned to transport troops in extremely cold climates. Now available for women too, the N-3B features a water resistant nylon shell with a warm poly-filled orange lining, full-length storm flap and adjustable fur lined hood. JOE FRESH LIMITED EDITION EXPEDITION PARKA $349. Joe Fresh has created a special collection of premium, down filled parkas this season ready to take winter on. Water-resistant with a detachable interior faux fur lining and hood, this parka provides protection from the elements with a whole lot of style.

ROW 3: WOOLRICH WHITE COLLECTION PATROL DOWN SHORT PARKA $395. The White Collection is a more modern interpretation of this iconic American brand. This arctic parka is fully insulated with premium warmth-trapping goose down and features a two-way concealed zipper and storm flap to keep the cold out. The shell is waterproof and breathable, and the hood features a Woolrich Mill wool lining and adjustable drawcord with a removable real coyote fur ruff. SAM CABIN PARKA $695. Tough enough for the woods, but with chic city style, this fab parka is just one of many we love from SAM! Crafted from a fine Egyptian cotton twill, it is wax coated with a triple layer wind and water repellent, and features a raccoon trimmed hood, buffalo plaid lining, 3M thinsulate padding, and adjustable drawstring waist and hem. RALPH LAUREN RLX HOODED DOWN PARKA $695. This super-warm hunter orange parka features an oversized hood with detachable faux-fur trim, cinch drawcord waist, and mockneck with a soft interior fleece lining. Details also include multiple oversized fleece-lined zip and snap-flap pockets for functional style.

 

Air Guitar

 
DANNY DAVIS ON THE NEW BURTON EASY LIVIN X MARTIN GUITAR SNOWBOARD

 
Burton Snowboards, Martin Guitar and Burton Pro Snowboarder Danny Davis are jamming together this snowboard season on the collaborative 2015 Easy Livin Snowboard. Top half-pipe competitor Davis, who competed in Sochi in 2014 as a member of the US Olympic Snowboarding team, following a gold medal win in the Superpipe at the X-Games, is as passionate about music as he is snowboarding. As an avid guitar player and also an ambassador for Martin Guitar, Davis gets to ride his guitar, not just play it, and now we do too.
 

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To create the iconic design of the Easy Livin snowboard, Davis first created a custom guitar with the master craftsmen at Martin. Established in 1833, C.F Martin & Co. has been one of the world’s leading acoustic instrument makers for over 175 years, producing hand-made instruments and strings for musicians around the world. Once the guitar was built, Burton’s design team replicated it for the base graphic of the Easy Livin snowboard, showcasing the Martin fretboard, legendary headstock, strings and body. The top of the board features a guitar-shaped wood inlay that replicates the wood on the back of Davis’s Martin, complete with two Mother Of Pearl foil inlays, inspired by those on his guitar. Read More

 

Rub Yourself

 

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In between massage appointments, on the road, or as part of your daily fitness regimen, every athlete and active person needs at least one self massage tool in their training tool box. Designed for warming muscles up pre-workout and relieving muscle tension and soreness post-workout, there are a wide array from which to choose, ranging from a very inexpensive ball to a foam roller to a fancier motorized sports massager. A foam roller or stick is great on big muscle groups, while a ball can work in between muscles and is ideal for trigger point release. Available in all sorts of fun colors, most are easily packable which make them ideal for travel too.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BABYBELLE BODYBUFFER $295. Marketed as a cellulite reducer, this pretty little massager packs a lot of power in it’s oscillating motion! Using the babyBelle Bodybuffer before a workout is a great way to kick-start circulation and warm up muscles. After training, it enhances blood flow to the muscles, flushes out lactic acid, and relieves soreness. It is also available in a larger two handed size for a more vigorous, deep-tissue massage.

GRID 2.0 $64.99. A foam roller is an absolute must and probably the most versatile of all the self massage tools. The longer 26″ GRID 2.0 and smaller 13″ GRID, are our favorites for their multi-dimensional surface, that roll through the nooks and crannies of tight muscles, knots and kinks.  The GRID provides a more realistic massage experience: low and flat feels like the forearm or palm
; high and firm feels like the finger tips. The GRID is also available on a stick, GRID STK. Read More

 

Favorite Carry-All

 

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Tote, Messenger, and Backpack, there are so many great sporty bags to choose from this fall! Rugged but chic, our favorites are inspired by classic heritage designs, constructed with durable canvas and full grain leather, and pumped up with a pop of color for extra fun and style. For the gym, work, or a weekend getaway, we’ve got the ideal carry-all for all your daily extras, perfect for both guys and girls.

ROW 1: HERSCHEL STRAND DUFFLE PLUS $69.99. Fully padded and fleece lined, with a 15″ laptop and iPad Sleeve, this small duffle also features a mesh organizer with a phone sized pocket. JACK SPADE DIPPED INDUSTRIAL CANVAS SQUARE MESSENGER BAG $198. This orange rubber bottomed canvas messenger bag features an exterior slip pocket, interior organizing pockets and iPad sleeve. JUNYA WATANABE SEIL MARSCHALL LEATHER-TRIMMED QUILTED BACKPACK $625. A collaboration between Japanese designer Junya Watanabe and German heritage brand Seil Marschall, this backpack is as stylish as it is practical.

ROW 2: CHESTER WALLACE DRIVER $210. Natural canvas with a waxed grey canvas bottom, this super durable and stylish carry all features two large pockets inside and three outside, with bridle leather handles riveted for strength. DULUTH LAPTOP SCOUT PACK $140. Now with a padded laptop sleeve, this simple canvas backpack features roller buckle closures, cotton web shoulder straps, grab handle and interior zippered pocket. Available in a host of different colors too. L.L.BEAN EVERYDAY LIGHTWEIGHT TOTE $24.95. Made from durable, lightweight nylon, this camo tote is big enough to haul as much as you can carry and packs down to nothing. Makes a great weekend bag too!

ROW 3: FJALLRAVEN KANKEN BACKPACK $75-120. Originally designed in 1978 for Swedish school children, the Kånken has become a Swedish classic and a bestseller with kids and adults around the world. It is constructed with a durable moisture repellent fabric, and available in vast color palette and variety of different sizes. PORTER-YOSHIDA & CO. BEAT LEATHER-TRIMMED CANVAS TOTE BAG $345. With expert hand-construction and acute attention to detail, this minimalist red cotton-canvas tote is trimmed with flexible, rip-resistant elk leather and features a zipped exterior pouch and waterproof pocket to organize and stow your essentials.  PENFIELD® FOR J.CREW SWEETWATER BACKPACK $80. In this collaboration with heritage brand Penfield, J.Crew took their everyday backpack, added a resurrected vintage label and released it in exclusive colors for a new take on a classic bag. Read More

 

Running for a Cause

 
 THE AUTHOR, MILE 12-ISH NYC MARATHON 2011

 
In 2011, I ran the NYC Marathon for UNICEF and raised $27,973. Over 150 friends and colleagues made donations ranging from $10-$1,000, which all added up to a pretty big total for one runner. Because of this amount, I was invited to a breakfast hosted by New York Road Runners the morning after the race, the theme of which was charity running programs for the NYC Marathon. It was there I was amazed to learn that the NYC Marathon had raised about $28 million dollars that year by thousands of marathoners like myself running for a cause.

The 2014 NYC Marathon is on November 2, and, according to Michael Rodgers, VP of Development and Philanthropy at New York Road Runners, it is on track to raise to raise between $25-30 million dollars for charity. About 7,000 runners are running for charity and there are almost 300 official charity partners. For runners, pledging to raise money for a cause is a way to get a coveted spot in the NYC Marathon, which this year had 134,000 entries for between 47,000-50,000 spots. For charities, the NYRR Official Charity Partner Program creates a fantastic opportunity to raise funds and awareness to support their missions and services.

Participating charities essentially buy a spot in the race for $450 to $995. The gold, silver and bronze levels that correspond to these amounts entitle the charities and runners to perks like race day transportation and tents in the starting area. The minimum amount a runner must raise may vary, but NYRR generally requires between $2500-3500 depending of the level of the charity. Read More

 

Sporty Camo-Kaze!

 

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Fall Camo style has gone multi-sport crazy and is all over everything from bikes to helmets, goggles to sunglasses, sleeping bags to leggings and more. Designed to blend in, it’s hard not to stand out in this ultra cool sporty gear and apparel. Check out this mega collection of our fall favorites!

LEFT COLUMN: BURTON RAMPANT MENS SNOWBOARD BOOT $199.95. This lightweight performance boot boasts breathable warmth, a precise fit, and improved cushioning for a broken-in feel right out of the box. Thinsulate™ insulation retains warmth even when wet to keep you out on the hill styling’ no matter the conditions. NLST CAMOUFLAGE HAND-KNIT SWEATER $1395. This cozy cashmere wool blend sweater features a rolled turtle neck, ribbed hem and cuffs, and an oversized fit. POLER STUFF NAPSACK $130. Sleeping bag meets parka! Hike it, cinch it, and wear it like a puffy then crawl inside when it’s time to rest. BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA $109.95. Work the Birkenstock all year round with this fall camo sandal. Pair with chunky socks for extra layer of warmth.

CENTER COLUMN: ALTERNATIVE APPAREL CAMO LEGGINGS $50. Working out or cruising around, these stretch jersey leggings have great all day camo style. CONVERSE CHUCK TAYLOR ALL-STAR HIGH TOPS $90. The classic 70’s All Star high top has been transformed with this cool camouflage print. SCOTT OFF-GRID GOGGLE $119. Designed for maximum field of vision with an increased lens and frame size, the Off-Grid also features a patent pending custom fit system for the nose and face. OptiView Spherical Double Lens, ACS Air Flow Control System and NoFogTreatment provide undistorted clear vision in all weather conditions. CIPOLLINI RB1K $10,000+Built for speed and competition, this sexy carbon fiber sculpture is work of art camouflaged as a bicycle. The namesake of the famed champion cyclist, Mario Cipollini, known for his flamboyant style, Cipollini bicycles are all Italian from start to finish.  ITALIA INDEPENDENT I-SPORT $147. Keeping it Italian, these acid camo large aviators are made for those looking for a technical sunglass with big fashion style. Made of Superflex®, the frames are thin and lightweight but strong, and can tolerate bending up to 180°.

RIGHT COLUMN: GIRO PNEUMO BIKE HELMET now $75. Lightweight, tough, and well ventilated, the camo skinned Pneumo is perfect for road, trail, or city. It features a Micro Dial fit adjustment and top of the line safety technology with a molded polycarbonate shell designed to absorb impact and resistant abrasion in case of a spill. GRID FOAM ROLLER $39.99. Our favorite foam roller, the GRID, features a 3-dimensional surface that allows tissue to aerate while you roll through tight muscles, knots and kinks, promoting the flow of blood and oxygen for muscle repair. The hard hollow core is wrapped in EVA foam, making it firmer than traditional foam rollers. THE NORTH FACE OH-SNAP VEST $180. Perfect for crisp fall days or winter layering, this new 550-fill insulated hooded vest has a contemporary fit and urban style with a stretch hem, hood and asymmetrical front zip. The sleek taffeta exterior of this camo vest is finished with subtle metallic sheen for a luxe touch.

 

Pharrell x Adidas: The Next Installment

 
 PHARRELL X ADIDAS ORIGINALS STAN SMITH TENNIS PACK

 
Scheduled to hit stores tomorrow is the second installment of the Adidas and Pharrell Williams collaboration, “Pharrell x Adidas Originals Stan Smith ‘Tennis’ Pack.” Produced in 3 color ways, eye popping neon orange and green, in addition to a more chill cream, the shoe features a felt like exterior like that of a tennis ball.

The Pharrell x Adidas Originals Stan Smith Tennis Pack are set to drop October 11 at adidas.com/originals, as well as select Adidas Originals retailers in limited quantities. We’re guessing they won’t last long, so get them while you can!

 

Power to the Pink!

 

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and an impressive number of sport and lifestyle brands have partnered with different BCA organizations and events to raise awareness and funds. Sport gear and apparel created specifically to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Fund is now available on the BCRF website. In addition, brands and retailers like Ralph Lauren, Sports Authority, NFLSpeedo, Dicks Sporting Goods and Under Armour, among others are promoting their pink collections that benefit the BCRF and other non-profit programs by donating a portion of the proceeds of sales to fund breast cancer research, education, and prevention.

Show your support and shop pink this October! Check out some of our pink sporty favorites, from sneakers to sunglasses to watches, bikes, Bosu balls, and more, as well as the organizations dedicated to raising Breast Cancer Awareness.

ROW 1: ADIDAS Activ Pink Ribbon Running Tank $45. Run for the cause in this fitted pink and black color blocked tank. TREK Silque SL $3149. The all-new women’s specific Silque is named for its smooth ride, delivered with power and speed on its light OCLV carbon frame. Take it for a ride October 11-12th, when Trek Bicycle retailers around the United States host the 9th annual Trek Breast Cancer Awareness Ride, featuring 10 and 25 mile family-friendly group rides. The event donates all proceeds directly to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

ROW 2: NIXON The Newton Digital $125. Nixon is partnered with B4BC (Boarding for Breast Cancer)which promotes breast cancer education and prevention among youth and the action sports community at large. It was founded in 1996 in honor of young snowboarder named Monica Steward, who was diagnosed late with breast cancer at the age of 26 and died two years laterRALPH LAUREN Pink Pony Pima Cotton Polo $9825% of the purchase price benefits the Pink Pony Fund of the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation to support programs for screening, early diagnosis, treatment and research. BALL, BOUNCE & SPORT Bosu $119.99. The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Balance Trainer is an amazing training tool that adds an extra challenge to any exercise like lunges, squats and crunches. Flipped over it can be used as a balance board to increase agility and core strength. A portion of its sales goes to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. Read More

 

The Pink Pony Rides Again

 

 

Tomorrow evening is the second annual Ralph Lauren Pink Pony charity ride at SoulCycle. It is an event organized by my fellow SoulCycle devotee and great friend Glynis Karp, Senior Vice President of Global Merchandising at Ralph Lauren Childrenswear, who started the event last year with Tricia Laird, Vice President of Brand Management at Ralph Lauren. This ride is not open to the public, but is for employees only who donate between $50-$150 for a bike in the class in support of their company’s own cause.

We are often asked to write about different charity rides and sporting events, and with so many great ones for very worthy causes it is hard to cover them all. This year, however, we have been particularly impressed with the Pink Pony initiative #PinkPonyPromise and wanted to give it some special attention. From October 1–31, 2014, for every photo posted to Instagram, Twitter and RalphLauren.com/PinkPonyPromise with the hashtag #PinkPonyPromise, the Pink Pony Fund of The Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation will donate $10 to cancer-related causes. Plus, tag up to five friends and the Pink Pony Fund will donate an additional $1 for each tag (up to a $1 million total donation).

The Ralph Lauren Pink Pony fund is one of the leading charitable organizations in the fight against breast cancer. Their mission is to reduce disparities in cancer care in medically underserved communities and ensure that treatment is available at an earlier, more curable stage. In the US, 25% of the purchase price of Pink Pony products benefits the Pink Pony Fund of the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation to support programs for screening, early diagnosis, treatment, research and patient navigation. Internationally, a network of local charities benefits from the sales of Pink Pony products.

We hope you will take advantage to do some extra good this month and by supporting Breast Cancer Awareness any way you can. As for myself…

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Pret-A-Sporter: Spring 2015

 

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1. VARSITY STYLE
LACOSTE ~ PHILIPP PLEIN
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER ~ PREEN

The Spring 2015 collections have finally wrapped, and it is now time for our semi-annual round-up of the sportiest looks from the fashion runways of New York, London, Milan and Paris. Designers took their inspiration once again from the worlds of sport and fitness, pumping it up with an extra dose of heart pumping flex appeal. We now present the best of Spring 2015 “Pret-A-Sporter”! Read More

 

Snacking in the Raw

 

 

As I have reported in previous posts, we are big snackers at Style of Sport and always on the lookout for a tasty treat. We recently discovered Go Raw Spirulina Super Chips and Pumpkin Super Chips, a slightly sweet and savory raw chip that has proven to be very addictive around the office. Having heard about the benefits of a raw food diet, we decided to find out more and check out some other raw chips on the market.

The fundamental principle behind a raw food diet is that plant foods in their most natural state, uncooked and unprocessed, are the most wholesome for the body. Staples of the raw food diet include seeds, sprouts, seaweed, whole grains, beans, dried fruits and nuts. Many swear by this way of eating, crediting a raw food diet with weight loss, lowered cholesterol, improved digestion, better immunity, and increased energy, but it is challenging way to live, and not the most fun. When it comes to snacks however, raw chips and crackers are a great healthy alternative to the other baked and fried products on the market.

Raw foods are loaded with enzymes to help the body properly digest and assimilate foods for optimal nutritional value. Raw chips are not cooked, but dehydrated, preserving the nutrients in the ingredients. Organic vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds pack these chips with protein, fiber, omegas, vitamins and minerals. Plus they are naturally low carb and gluten free. Read More

 

Slackin? Get Trackin!

 

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9 FITNESS BANDS TO GET YOU GOING

Spotted on the wrist of many these days, are these colorful rubber bracelets cheerfully flashing numbers and lights. Wearable tech is the talk of the health, fitness and now fashion industry, and there are a plethora of new fitness bands and activity trackers from which to choose. The Fitbit Flex, Jawbone Up and Nike Fuelband have been joined by the Polar Loop, Samsung Gear Fit and Garmin Vivofit, among others. Slim and trim, these little bracelets track your every move, monitor your sleep, count your calories, and coach your workouts, keeping a watchful eye on your fitness 24/7. Highly functional with great sporty style, here are 9 of the top fitness bands designed to keep you on track all day and all night.

ROW 1: JAYBIRD REIGN $199.99. Coming in October 26 is a new entry into the fit band category, the Jaybird Reign, which has been getting rave reviews. Syncing with an app that monitors all your activities and rest patterns, the primary goal of the Reign is to get you in the “Go Zone”, the perfect balance of both. Too little activity is monitored as is too much, with reminders to pick it up when you’re slacking or chill out if necessary. The Reign is waterproof, can be worn swimming, and also synced with an ankle strap included to track your cycling workouts.

POLAR LOOP $109.95. The Polar Loop monitors a vast assortment of activities and sports, and displays such information as heart rate, calories, steps, and distance. Calculations are based on your individual data of weight, height, age, and gender, as well as activity intensity. The Loop is waterproof and can measure activity when swimming. With 24/7 tracking, the Loop automatically monitors your sleep time when you lie down and body movements slow.

JAWBONE UP24 $149.99. The colorful rubber Jawbone UP24 uses a precision motion sensor and powerful algorithms to track and quantify your steps, distance, calories, activity and sleep. It syncs wirelessly with your computer using Bluetooth Smart to provide real-time feedback, while the home screen serves as your daily dashboard to check overall progress. The UP app measures calories burned based on age, gender, height and weight, and can use either a picture or detailed nutrition label for its calculations. The duration and effort level of a variety of different workout types are monitored, so estimated caloric burn can be calculated for non-step-based activities as well. Read More

 

Vroom-Vroom

 

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It’s Penelope Pitstop meets Speed Racer this fall with all the motocross inspired fashions zooming around town. From fashion designers to authentic motorcycle brands, the bright and colorful graphics of the road and track are a fun and sporty look both on the bike and off. Check out this collection of the hottest moto helmets, jackets, bags, gloves, leggings, and even the iconic Vespa, to get your motor running!

LEFT COLUMN: NUTCASE MOTO HELMET $150. New from one of our favorite bike helmet brands is the Nutcase Moto Helmet. Complete with their signature cool style and graphics, this open face DOT/ECE-certified helmet features a sturdy chinstrap, ratcheting buckle and face shield. SCHOTT NYC PERFECTO JACKET $700. This iconic motorcycle jacket is the original classic, now in an irresistible bright red! Made with buttery soft lambskin with a satin lining, it’s designed for comfort along with its hot style. Check out the designer version as well from SAINT LAURENT $3915. FOX RACING POP LEGGING $34.50. Get a little moto style at the gym or just cruising around with these animated leggings from famed motocross and mountain bike brand Fox.

CENTER COLUMN: VESPA 946 $9946. The ultimate in motor scooters is the Vespa, the chic and iconic Italian classic. The 946 boasts the best milage in the fleet at 117 per gallon and with its 150cc engine is guaranteed to zip you around town in style. DRAGON ALLIANCE KIT SUNGLASSES $140. A wrap around sunglass is the essential moto accessory on and off the bike. The large fit and full frame of the Kit protects the eyes and blocks out 100% of UV rays with its glare-eliminating lenses. Top-of-the-line dual lens coatings repel water, dirt, and oils to keep your vision crisp and clear. ALPINESTARS RACER BRAAP GLOVES $34.95. The eye-popping graphics of this moto racing glove are paired with an evolutionary chassis construction and innovative features for improved grip, durability and a customized fit. MIU MIU BIKER NAPPA DOUBLE POCKET SATCHEL $2190. No bikes required for this moto styled Miu Miu handbag.

RIGHT COLUMN: MARC BY MARC JACOBS. The colors and graphics of motocross were clearly the inspiration behind Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2014 RTW line. Check out all the rad looks that came zooming down the runway! TZUJI BOY BOMBER $465. “Go Speed Racer, Go” with this Japanese inspired bomber jacket from Tzuji, the clothing label founded by legendary NYC nightlife personality, DJ, and fashion icon Larry Tee.

 

A River Runs Through It

 

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: YVON CHOUINARD; FENCE ALONG THE FALL RIVER; INSIDE CHOUINARD’S FLY BOX; CHOUINARD AND YOUNG FRIEND FISHING; VIEW OF THE TETONS FROM GOAT MOUNTAIN RANCH, ASHTON, IDAHO

 

A few weeks ago, I was invited by Patagonia on a trip to Idaho for a couple of days to learn how to flyfish. I jumped at the opportunity, having wanted to try the sport ever since seeing Brad Pitt in “A River Runs Through It”, and guessing a major swag bag was in store. I was told the founder of the company, Yvon Chouinard, who was writing a book called “Simple Fly Fishing”, would be there, and that we would be learning a new technique of flyfishing called Tenkara. What I didn’t know was that “YC”, as he is called, would be hanging out with us the entire time and be our teacher.

Yvon Chouinard is a legend in the outdoor industry and sport world. He is an accomplished rock climber, surfer, kayaker, falconer, and fly fisherman, and his contributions to those sports are recognized worldwide — as is his dedication to environmentalism. Patagonia is considered one of, if not the, most successful outdoor brands. Their integration and promotion of environmentalism is a founding tenet of the company and of particular focus at present. Read More

 

Palm Angels

 

 
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Just published by Rizzoli is a new art book titled Palm Angels, featuring beautiful large-format photographs of skateboarders in Venice Beach and Manhattan Beach, California. Photographed by Francesco Ragazzi, the Italian art director of Moncler, Palm Angels celebrates the life and style of skateboard culture.

Palm Angels includes an introduction by Pharrell Williams (known in the skate community as “Skateboard P”), who has collaborated with Moncler on various limited edition fashions and accessories. Pharell has been instrumental in popularizing the skate look and propelled it to fashion capitals like Paris, New York, and Tokyo.

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Less about tricks, it is the dramatic movements of these skaters that is the focal point of these stunning images. Says Ragazzi, “it was a picture I took one summer that made me go back to Los Angeles over and over again. It was a vision in my mind. Blond hair floating in the air, rays of light that capture bodies fighting over gravity. For some religions this is the portrayal of the Angels. For me, it was a beginning.” Read More

 

The Quilted Jacket

 

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The quilted barn or field jacket is a sporty fall classic. Lightweight but warm, perfect for town or the country, check out six of our favorites for this season. 

 
ROW 1: L.L.BEAN QUILTED RIDING JACKET $139. This equestrian style jacket is a longtime L.L.Bean favorite, and has been updated with a longer, more flattering fit. The soft twill shell is water and stain-resistant, and with its lightweight insulation, this jacket will keep you warm right into winter. Stylish details include distinctive corduroy trim and plaid lining. More colors available. BELSTAFF AYNSLEY JACKET $625. Brimming with rugged elegance and practical appeal, the Aynsley jacket is made from innovative water repellent taffeta. It features a trim silhouette and chic details like the throat latch and the dropped pocket design that give the jacket a stamp of authenticity and understated cool. BARBOUR FLYWEIGHT CAVALRY JACKET $199Inspired by the classic cavalry jacket, this quilted jacket features an elasticated back waist and scooped hem, for a flattering and comfortable fit. Lightweight insulation is perfect for the warmer fall months, while the warm funnel neck, sturdy two-way zip and stud fastenings work to protect against the elements as the weather turns colder. More colors available.

ROW 2: J.CREW QUILTED PUFFER JACKET $168. The perfect “it’s chilly but not quite freezing yet” layer, this versatile quilted field jacket features a boxy fit that hits at the hip. Styling details include a standing collar and hidden zip with shiny snap closures. More colors available. BURBERRY BRIT QUILTED MATTE SHELL JACKET $595. Give your outdoor style a splash of color with this bright red quilted jacket. Lined in signature checked cotton-blend for an extra layer of warmth, this streamlined and lightweight design is the ideal jacket wherever fall may find you. Also available in black. ARIAT BRISTOL JACKET $119.95. From equestrian brand, Ariat, comes this english countryside inspired jacket featuring classic quilted poly twill, a mock collar and full 2-way zip front. The detachable belt and snap front detail add stylish appeal, while the wind and water resistant fabric technologies provide warmth and comfort.

 

The Central Park Horse Show

 

 

The inaugural Central Park Horse Show (Sept. 18-21) has begun in New York City. Instead of the ice that usually covers Wollman Rink, aka Trump Rink, there is dirt, and it has been transformed into a show ring where a world class Grand Prix event was contested last night. On a lovely September evening in NYC, this was a spectacular setting for a horseshow, both bucolic and metropolitan, set in the south end of the park with Manhattan skyscrapers as the backdrop. To complete the scene, the winner of the $210,000 Central Park Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, was none other than New York City native and home town favorite Georgina Bloomberg, daughter of the former mayor, Michael Bloomberg.

After the event a very happy Georgina joked how she wished organizers good luck putting on a horse show in Central Park, but said it would never happen when approached about participating. With Donald Trump supporting the idea however, conceived at Mar-A-Lago, his Palm Beach estate, while attending a horse show, organizers had the driving force they needed to make the Central Park Horse Show a reality. At the press conference after the Grand Prix last night, “The Donald” proclaimed the event a “huge” success in classic Trump style. He promised it would be held again next year and would hopefully be an annual marquis event in NYC.

The Central Park Horse Show continues this evening with the $50,000 NYC vs The World Speed Class competition. Other dressage and jumping events are also being held this weekend, as well as a Polo match on Sunday. Tickets are available at Central Park Horse Show.

 

Interbike 2014: Best in Show

 

 

We are just back from INTERBIKE, the big annual bike show in Las Vegas, where almost every bike, gear, apparel and accessories company shows off all their cool new products for the year to come. We saw a lot of bright and shiny new toys that all you cyclists on the roads, mountains, and streets are going to want to play with. Here is a look at our favorites, both for style and performance — some that are available now in 2014 models and a few you still have to wait for until 2015.

ABOVE ROW 1: LAZER Z1. Bright and graphic is this tri-tone, top of the line high performance helmet from Lazer, their lightest ever with a more comfortable fit, better ventilation, an additional aeroshell and improved side impact protection. HANG TEN 3-SPEED CRUISER. California surf and lifestyle brand Hang Ten has entered into the bike market, appropriately with the beach cruiser. Available in both mens and womens models, from 1 to 3 speeds, these stylish bikes are made for your endless summer. PEARL IZUMI TRI FLY IV CARBON & P.R.O LEADER II. The hot colors and graphics on these triathlon and road cycling shoes from Pearl Izumi are matched only by their performance on the bike. Both are extremely lightweight, efficient in power transfer, and feature an adaptive fit system. The P.R.O. Leader II has their thinnest and most technical upper to date, and offers the precision fit of the Boa retention system.

ROW 2: SPECIALIZED FAT BOY. One of the biggest trends in mountain biking and on cruisers as well is the fat tire, and we mean fat! Twice the thickness in some cases as traditional tires, and twice the fun, these fatties are made to plow through sand, snow, or anywhere else you want to ride them, no matter the terrain or conditions. LAZER MAGNETO M1-M1S. To pair with the helmet shown above are the Magneto sunglasses that connect via magnets on the helmet tabs and feature the Magdoc system to store them on your helmet when not in use. No traditional temples, means no pressure points, making them comfortable even during long rides.

ROW 3: THE FALCO V TRIATHLON/TT BIKE. Super stealth and state of the art, this head-turning carbon fiber triathlon/time trial bike is built for one thing only… speed! Created in a facility shared with a military R&D that designs jet fighters, its aerodynamic design is inspired by F22 and F15 jets. MIO LINK HEART RATE WRISTBAND. This stylish heart rate monitor from MioLInk is chest strap free, with color coded lights to monitor EKG-accurate heart rate data. It connects to many favorite fitness apps, and syncs with GPS watches & bike computers via Bluetooth.
 
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ROW1: WILLIER CENTO 1AIR. For performance, efficiency, comfort and aerodynamics, Willier bicycles are consistently top rated, and the fifth generation Cento1AIR represents the culmination of years of testing. Noted for their front ends, the integrated head tube and fork designs equate to excellent steerability for confident cornering and descending. DEMARCHI AUTHENTIC JERSEYS. Atala 1949, Bottechia 1951, Cinelli 1970, these authentic limited edition cycling jerseys are made from 100% merino wool and will have you riding like the greatest cyclists in history.

ROW 2: BOLLE 6TH SENSE SUNGLASSESAt racing speeds, visual clarity and a stable fit are critical. These ergonomically-shaped frames with removable side panels adjust perfectly to the racing position by extending your field of vision and offering more protection towards the top of the face. Great colors are available as well. SEASUCKER BIKE RACK. SeaSucker bike racks use incredibly strong vacuum mounts that allow you to temporarily but securely mount your bike to the roof or trunk of your car without the hassle of permanently attaching any hardware. Read More

 

The Fifth Avenue Mile: 1981 Record Still Unbroken

 

On Saturday the 34th Fifth Avenue Mile was run. In addition to the Marathon, this is the other marquis fall running event in New York City. Since the inaugural race in 1981, no man has run it faster than the 3:47:52 record set that day. How can it be with all the advances in the sport, that this record remains unbroken to this day?

August of 1981 was a big month for the mile, which was the premiere track event at that time. The world record changed hands 3 times and the field was stacked for the inaugural Fifth Avenue Mile. Among the top competitors were Sydnee Maree, then the new American record holder with a time 3:48:83; John Walker, the former world record holder; and Eamonn Coghlan, the world record holder in the indoor mile. Among the 13 runners in the race, 5 had broken 3:50, but these men were used to running in circles on a track.

This was a straight shot down, and I mean down, Fifth Avenue. Except for a quarter mile uphill stretch, the course is basically all downhill. When the starting gun went off, there was no pacing except for a straight all out sprint to the finish, and at the end it was Sydnee Maree with the win and the world record.

And with the 2014 results in… the record still stands!

 

The Woodsy Weekend

 

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Whether staying in town or heading to the country, you can dress with style for the great outdoors wherever fall weekends may find you. From designer and outdoor brands alike, such as Isabel Marant, L.L.Bean, Band Of Outsiders, Hunter + Rag & Bone, and Fjallraven, classic pieces like the lumber jacket, hiking boot, down vest, anorak and Fair Isle sweater are rugged but chic, especially when tweaked with a bit of urban panache. These are a few of our fall favorites!

ROW 1: PATAGONIA PRARIE DAWN JACKET $179. This classically rugged work-wear jacket is made with 8-oz organic cotton canvas and features a cozy fleece-lined hood, drop-in/side-entry hand warmer pockets, and an adjustable drawcord waist. HUNTER + RAG & BONE TALL BOOTS $279. Hunter Boots partnered with fashion-favorite, Rag & Bone, on an exclusive collection of their timeless rain boot that celebrates the British heritage of both brands. ISABEL MARANT ETOILE PLAID LUMBER JACKET $416. The classic plaid lumber jacket has been given a little French style as interpreted by designer Isabel Marant.

ROW 2: JOIE NORFOLK LACE-UP ANKLE BOOTS $415. A modern take on the outdoor classic, this retro-inspired hiking-style boot features the classic lug sole, luminous gold tone hardware, contrast laces and buttery-soft leather. BAND OF OUTSIDERS “FAIR ISLE HORSES” COTTON BLEND SWEATER $475. Another fall classic, Band of Outsiders reinterprets the Fair Isle sweater with an equestrian motif. POLER STUFF THE ROAMERS PACK $80. Done in favorite fall colors and prints, this fun camo & orange rucksack is a perfect for everyday trekking around. It features three external pockets, a padded internal laptop sleeve and custom metal Poler buckles.

ROW 3: L.L.BEAN WAXED COTTON DOWN VEST $129. Highly waterproof, wind resistant and rugged, this waxed cotton quilted down vest will keep you warm in the bleakest conditions, and is shaped for a flattering fit with a diagonal-stitch pattern. BUSH SMARTS HIKING SOCKS $28. These playful merino wool socks are tough and well cushioned throughout the sole, and feature a mid-arch support compression band. A fun Jackalope print on just one foot is a reminder to alternate socks to make them last longer. FJALLRAVEN LUHKKA CAPE $350. This knee-length lined hooded cape is water resistant and warm, great on its own for fall or as an extra shell layer in winter.

 

Candy On The Run

 

 

Fall training is in full effect with runners, cyclists and triathletes logging in major mileage to prepare for their big events. This editor is gearing up for the NYC Marathon herself! Any distance athlete knows that equally as critical as fitness in these races is nutrition, and long runs and rides require not just hydration but fuel — i.e. sugar — to complete.

Halloween may still be a few weeks off, but walk into any sporting goods store and you will see aisles filled with sporty candy. Once the only option was something called GU, similar in taste and consistency to melted icing, but for those who prefer a chew to goo, there are now Chomps, Bites, Bloks and Beans to fuel us on the road. They are packed with easily digested carbs for energy; sodium and potassium for electrolyte balance; and some are naturally caffeinated with green tea extract for those looking for an extra boost. Here are a few of our favorite sweet and sporty treats, which happen to make tasty snacks too.

CLIF SHOT BLOKS. These soft gummy candies provide quick bites of energy and electrolytes in easy-to-chew 33 calorie/8g carbohydrate cubes. Available in an assortment of fruity favors like Cran-Razz, Margarita, and Mountain Berry, some have caffeine, and one extra sodium, so you can customize your nutrient intake. Shot Bloks are made with organic brown rice syrup, a minimally refined carbohydrate with naturally occurring sodium, potassium and magnesium.

HONEY STINGER ORGANIC ENERGY CHEWS. Sweetened with organic honey and tapioca syrup, Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews provide a natural and sustainable source of energy with the combined carbohydrate sources of glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose. Pink Lemonade, Pomegranate Passion Fruit, and a caffeinated Lime-Ade are just a few of the flavors. Each pack contains 160 calories and 39g carbs.

JELLY BELLY SPORT BEANS. From the maker of your favorite jelly beans, Jelly Belly, come Sport Beans. Sweetened with Tapioca and fruit juices, each little bean is packed with carbs for fuel, electrolytes to help maintain fluid balance, and vitamins B & C to optimize energy release and protect cells against oxidative damage. Each convenient resealable pack has 100 calories and 25g of carbs.

GU CHOMPSGU Chomps deliver the premium ingredients and performance benefits we all know well from their GU. A blend of complex and simple carbohydrates, in addition to amino acids, provide both energy and recovery after workouts. In addition, added Vitamin C + E and antioxidants combat tissue breakdown. One packet of Chomps contains 2 servings for 1 ½ to 2 hours of fuel, and each serving of 4 Chomps has 90 calories and 23g of carbs.

 

Athleta: Crush Of Adrenaline

 

 

Fashion Week has begun in New York, and fitness brand Athleta made its “runway” debut this past wednesday with the performance, “Crush of Adrenaline.” Showcasing a fusion of fitness and fashion that appears to be a new direction for the brand, the show featured non-stop high energy dance and fitness moves choreographed by Luam Keflezgy, who has worked with such performers as Rihanna, Kanye West, Beyonce and Britney Spears. The “models”, clearly athletes and dancers, displayed impressive athleticism, coordination and power while showing pieces from the upcoming Winter and Spring collections in action. Gone were the earth toned, teal and rose palette one might associate with Athleta, replaced by pumped-up colors, shiny silvers, bold graphics, and contrasting stripes, but also chic creams, grays and cashmeres.

Storming though the door that Lululemon opened and capitalizing on the phenomenal growth in the athletic apparel market, brands like Athleta, Under Armour and Nike are seizing the opportunity to capture their share of the women’s market. Fitness apparel has become the new “sportswear”, now even outselling jeans. Says Nancy Green, President of Athleta at Gap, Inc, “We’re at a time where there is a major trend happening and fitness is having a huge influence on women’s fashion. Women are wearing performance pieces in their everyday outfitting. We see this as a huge opportunity for Athleta, and are excited to showcase the incredible versatility of Athleta’s performance and lifestyle products during our fashion week event.”

We are excited as well to work some of these pieces into fitness rotation both in and out of the gym, and look forward to seeing what other sporty looks come down the runway this week!

 

Stick It

 
GRID STK

 
Two must have tools in the athlete’s training arsenal are the foam roller and the muscle stick, both used to relieve muscle tightness and trigger point pain. Trigger Point makes one of the top foam rollers on the market, The GRID®, and has just combined these two recovery devices into one with the GRID® STK. Available in two densities, regular and extra-firm, the GRID® STK, puts its foam roller on a stick for a handy and effective self massage tool.

Self-myofascial or trigger point release helps the body to regain unhindered and pain free movement with the goal being to enhance performance. Stretching alone is not always enough to release muscle tightness as muscle knots may remain regardless. Foam rolling helps break up these muscle knots, enabling the whole muscle to return to normal movement.

The GRID® is highly effective and popular for its patented three dimensional surface channels that gets into the nooks and crannies of the muscle body. The GRID® STK now offers the benefits of this tool in a convenient hand held style, perfect for on-the-go relief wherever and whenever you need it.

 

Back on Campus

 

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Young collegians are heading back to campus and for us graduates the look for fall feels very reminiscent of school days. It’s game time, and fashion brands like Moschino, DKNY, and Band of Outsiders have taken their inspiration from the football stadiums and playing fields with chic and sporty varsity jackets, letterman sweaters, duffle coats, striped team scarves and gloves to keep you warmed up and filled with good cheer on those crisp fall days ahead.

LEFT COLUMN: DKNY STRIPED COTTON JERSEY DRESS $160; BURBERRY BRIT HOODED WOOL DUFFLE $995; Y-3 FUTURE SPORT SHOPPER $235: CENTER COLUMN: MOSCHINO LEATHER-PANELED WOOL-BLEND BOMBER JACKET $2895; JOSEPH SUEDE-TRIMMED WOOL TRACK PANTS $475; BAND OF OUTSIDERS MERINO WOOL-BLEND CARDIGAN $525; VANS BOAST GLOVES $14; RIGHT COLUMN: SLATER ZORN VARSITY STRIPED CASHMERE SCARF $195; ADIDAS ORIGINALS GAZELLE $60; DION LEE STRIPED RIBBED-KNIT SWEATER $380; MIU MIU HOODED QUILTED SHELL VEST $1295

 

The Girls of the Grand Prix

 
LEFT TO RIGHT: SYDNEY SHULMAN, LILLIE KEENAN, BRIANNE GOUTAL, VICTORIA COLVIN IN THE GRAND PRIX RING AT THE HAMPTON CLASSIC. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEBBY HYMOWITZ

 
One of the premier events and grand finale of the Hamptons summer social scene, The Hampton Classic horse show, is taking place this week. The pinnacle of the show is the Grand Prix, a spectacular display of athleticism, bravado and showmanship that is not to be missed. Scheduled for Sunday, it is an event defined by speed and precision, and features massive jumps with heights up to 1.6 meters (5’3″) and spreads up to 2.0 metres (6’7″). The fastest time with the least amount of faults wins, and it requires perfect teamwork between the rider and the horse.

With a $250,000 purse, The Hampton Classic Grand Prix offers some of the richest prize money in the sport. It is part of the Taylor Harris Triple Crown Challenge which awards a $200,000 bonus to the horse-and-rider combination that manages to win the $100,000 Grand Prix of Devon, the $250,000 Grand Prix at the Hampton Classic, and the $250,000 Grand Prix at the National Horse Show.

The event is unique for many reasons, not the least of which is that men and women compete against each other in the same event. And second only to the competition is the style. From helmets to jackets to shirts, pants, and boots, the top riders are sponsored from head to toe. While many of the brands like Charles Ancona, Pikeur, Tucci, Samsheild, Parlanti, Grand Prix and Essex are known only to the cognoscenti, the look is nothing but chic.
 
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CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: BRIANNE GOUTAL WARMING UP, AS SYDNEY SHULMAN AND ANOTHER RIDER WATCH; LILLIE KEENAN WHO IS PARTNERED WITH HERMES AT THEIR SPONSORED JUMP; TUCCI BOOTS; CHARLES ANCONA CUSTOM SHOW JACKETS, SPONSORS OF SYD SHULMAN AND BRIANNE GOUTAL; TORI, BRIANNE, SYD & LILLIE KEENAN.

 

While many people come to The Hampton Classic to see and be seen, they sometimes forget the reason they are there is the athletic competition among intensely focused and highly trained athletes (and their horses). Photographer Debby Hymowitz and I had a chance to meet up earlier this week with four of the top female competitors in the Grand Prix: Sydney Shulman, Lillie Keenan, Brianne Goutal, and Victoria Colvin, ranging from ages 16 to 25. I asked them about their thoughts on the star-studded social scene at The Classic, and whether they enjoy competing with so much happening outside of the ring.

“In America there is a lack of spectatorship from outside the sport and the Hampton Classic is one of the few horse shows that is successful in bringing in a crowd. Whether that’s for social purposes or for sport, it’s still amazing to have them there,” says Brianne Goutal. “We do have to change the way we interact, however. We have to please the public and compete for the crowd. The horses might have different reactions and you’re dealing with stress you might not be used to. In general, though, I love the crowds and it’s great for the sport!” Read More

 

Six of One

 
BLIZ TRACKER

 

Half dozen of another. No matter how you count it, the innovative Bliz Tracker sunglasses can be converted from sunglass to a shield, come with two sets of lenses and an extra jawbone or lower frame, for six different style and functionality options.

We first spotted Bliz eyewear in the Winter Olympics on many of the cross country skiers. A Swedish brand, Bliz developed a large following in Scandinavia for their performance sunglasses and goggles specifically designed for Nordic skiing competition. The lenses are made from unbreakable polycarbonate and feature 100% UV protection. Both the nosepiece and temples are rubber and fully adjustable for a great fit and comfort.

Whether running or cycling, wearing a helmet or visor, we love these sunglasses for their flexibility, performance and style. In addition, the glasses come with an optional strap which can be used for extra security to hold glasses in place under more strenuous activity. The Bliz Tracker retails for $119.

 

Gimme a V… Files

 

 

LEFT COLUMN: ASHISH FU VARSITY COAT; HOTEL PIGALLE HAT; RUSSELL ATHLETIC ARCHIVE RA EAGLE LOGO SHIRT; VFILES SPORT PLUS MOTO L/S JERSEY; CENTER COLUMN: VFILES STOREFRONT; VFILES T-SHIRTS; VFILES WHATEVER SLIDES; SALOMON SPEED CROSS 3 CS; RIGHT COLUMN: MOSCHINO QUILTED JACKET & SKIRT; ASHISH USA TOP; ASSK REAL TREE LONG BOMBER JACKET

 
Located on the corner of Mercer & Grand in Manhattan’s Soho, is VFiles, a curated shop, cyber fashion community and new trend-setting mecca for the coolest of the cool. Similar to Supreme on Lafayette and Opening Ceremony around the corner, VFiles has a unique point of view reflected in every item sold in the store, which ranges from high end fashion to technical sport pieces. I was particularly impressed to see a selection of Salomon trail running shoes there, one of the most advanced on the market, chosen for their striking design. I asked friend and founder, Julie Anne Quay about the mix.

“There are three global languages, fashion, sport and music. We try to speak to those audiences. So you have fashion, which is Moschino. You have sport, which is Salomon. You have music which is represented by a lot of young designers that are also hip hop artists and DJs. Ashish is a brand heavily worn by Katy Perry. Rihanna wears a ton of VFiles Sport Plus and Melitta Baumeister.”

VFiles has its own sport line VFiles Sport Plus, but like the Salomon shoe, this customer is wearing these pieces not for performance but for style. Says Julie Anne, “The Salomon shoe looks amazing, but it also does what it’s supposed to do. That is what makes it a great piece of merchandise. The influencers, that top 1% who are setting trends, are looking for form, function AND design.”

Julie Anne is an athlete herself and SoulCycle instructor as well, but has made her career in the upper echelons of the fashion industry and appreciates the style of both. “Clothes speak to you. Like right now I don’t know why, but I really want that Moschino Sponge Bob Coat.” I hear what she’s saying because I really want that Assk Real Tree Long Bomber shown above. It’s all in the mix of sport and style.

VFiles is located at 12 Mercer street and online at VFiles.com 

-CL

 

Back To The Future

 
ADIDAS ORIGINALS MICROPACER OG

 
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Adidas has just released the Micropacer OG, once the most technologically advanced sneaker on the market. Originally introduced in 1984 to coincide with the Los Angeles Olympics, the Adidas Originals Micropacer was the first shoe to feature a built in pedometer that showed steps and distance, paired with an LCD screen integrated onto its exposed tongue. The Adidas Originals Micropacer quickly became an icon thanks to its unique combination streamlined design and technical gadgetry.

This new re-issue of the once futuristic shoe has been produced in its original silver color way accented with blue stripes and red detailing on the sole. Long before the advent of the fitness tracker, the Adidas Originals Micropacer was the only way to monitor your every move and continues to do it with style.

 

Fall Fitness Preview

 

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After a bright and colorful summer, fitness gear and apparel has turned to black and white for fall, making a bold and graphic statement at the gym, on the bike, on the road and trails. These are our picks for the seasons chicest!

ROW 1: HURLEY DRI-FIT MOTO WOMENS JACKET $80. This slim little moto jacket is a hot look for gym transit or any other destination. It features Nike Dri-FIT for sweat management and styling details like an assymetric zip and contrast panels on the shoulder and sleeves. CAMELBACK EDDY GLASS WATER BOTTLE $25. Made from naturally BPA-Free and lead-free glass, the Eddy water bottle delivers fresh and clean hydration. It features a patented flip-top valve technology and is wrapped in a stylish silicone sleeve for added protection. SWEATY BETTY ACCELERATION CYCLE TOP $120. This fitted cycle jersey has been updated for fall with a bold geometric print. It features flat reflective seams, plus zip and double mesh pockets, and silicone grippers at the hem.

ROW 2: OAKLEY FLAK JACKET $150. While the Flak Jacket can be customized, we love this graphic black and white model. A performance standard in sport sunglasses, the Flak Jacket is designed for optimal clarity, fit, peripheral vision, glare and sun protection. PUMA FERRARI WINNING BALLET FLATS $75. This is the perfect flat to take you to and from your sporty destinations and all stops in between. The upper features leather mesh and a breathable sockliner for optimum fit and comfort, with a rubber outsole for grip.

ROW 3: OSPREY REV 12 BACKPACK $110. This backpack is designed for high-intensity activity, but makes a great gym bag as well, with multiple storage pockets and sleeves for all your essentials. A dual zippered, dedicated water compartment provides on-the-go hydration. NIKE LEGEND 2.0 TIGER TIGHT $75. Reveal your animal instincts while training in these graphic tiger striped, sweat wicking, stretch tights. ATHLETA POWERHOUSE TANK $49. This sporty slub tank, with its stunning strap design, has great comfort and style from the gym to the street.

ROW 4: UNDER ARMOUR HEATGEAR® ALPHA PRINTED SPORTS BRA $24.99. This compression fit, mid-impact sports bra features super-smooth, double-layer HeatGear® fabric and provides a second-skin feel for superior comfort and support. OAKLEY PRINTED DEDICATION SHORT $47. This 3″ short short offers athletes a supportive fit with graphic style. Sweat-wicking fabric stretches four-ways for comfort and enhanced range of motion, while reflective elements deliver increased visibility.

 

Boots In The “Wild”

 

 

Now in theatre is “Wild”, starring Reese Witherspoon, based on the bestselling memoir by Cheryl Strayed. The book tells the story of the author who hiked 1,100-miles along the Pacific Crest Trail, as a way to overcome her mother’s death, crumbling marriage and a life out of control.

For those who read the book, the cover will be memorable for the image of the single worn-in red laced hiking boot. These boots play a large role in Strayed’s journey and were recreated for the movie by Danner, a Made-In-America heritage brand based in Portland, Oregon. Danner is releasing the Mountain Light Cascade which Witherspoon wears throughout the film at REI and other select stores in October, and also makes a great line of other classically styled retro hiking boots.

For a preview of the movie, click on the image below.

wild_witherspoon

 

Big Wheel for Big Kids

 
HIGH ROLLER

 

Many of you will remember the Big Wheel, the coveted colorful chopper style bike of the 70’s, and the thunderous roar those plastic wheels made speeding down the pavement. For those nostalgic for the toys of their youth, there is now the High Roller, an adult size Big Wheel.

Designed by a former aerospace engineer, this grown-up model features a heavy duty steel frame and fork built to support over 275 lbs, a 26 inch front wheel and custom freewheel hub for high speed coasting, and extra wide rubber front tire for superior traction. The rear wheels, however, are still plastic for those iconic sound effects and famous power slides! The High Roller adjustable seat accommodates riders from 5’2″ to 6’6″ and is generously padded with 4″ of foam.

For those who loved the Big Wheel as kid, the High Roller is guaranteed to put that same smile on your face!

bigwheel_smallBIG WHEEL

 

 

Pumped Up Kicks

 
MARC BY MARC JACOBS $428

Designer labels like Marc Jacobs, Dior and Chanel have gotten very sporty for fall, strutting super stylized sneakers down the runways. But we are equally enamored with the radical designs sport brands like Mizuno, Adidas, Puma, Nike and Salomon have in their line-ups, and these are trainers you can actually train in! So if you are looking to make a fashion statement walking down the street, running down the road, or blazing through the trails, here are 8 trainers guaranteed to get attention.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DIOR FUSION $1100MIZUNO WAVE PROPHECY 3 $209PUMA FUTURE XT $95NEWTON RUNNING ENERGY NR II $110; ADIDAS X RAF SIMONS BOUNCE $470; SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 3 $125; NIKE AIRMAX 2014 $180; ADIDAS SPRINGBLADE $180

 

 

Sailormade

 

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With summer now in full effect, we set sail into August with nautical themed tops, jewelry, dresses, bags, towels and other accessories designed for water lovers both on land and sea. 

ROW 1: JULBO WAVE $120-190. From kite surfing to paddling to sailing, the Wave is designed for those who play hard in the water. A removable protective frame skirt eliminates spray in the eyes, polarized lenses provide maximum protection against glare, and the frames float should they go overboard. Photochromatic lens option is available too. L.L.BEAN GORTEX CRUSHER HAT $39.95. On rainy days, this wide brimmed, lightweight, waterproof hat will keep you dry, and rolls up to stash easily when the sun comes out to play. Soft brushed lining with CoolMax sweatband wicks moisture for extra comfort.

ROW 2: J.CREW ANCHOR TANK DRESS $62.50. Anchors aweigh in this easy summer dress perfect for the beach or chilling at home. HELLY HANSEN W LATITUDE 90 CANVAS $80. These sneaker style canvas deck shoes are a classic from Helly Hansen, known for their technical sailing line. Fun zig-zag stitch adds nautical detailing to this no-slip shoe. KIEL JAMES PATRICK PAINTED OAR BRACELETS $68. Inspired by the simple and classic design of the painted wooden rowing oars used in the Head of the Charles Regatta, these refined bronze bracelets are inlaid with a fantastic assortment of different colorful wood designs.  SAINT JAMES GALATHEE $90. No top is more synonymous with summer then the french sailor shirt. It is a timeless classic, never out of style, and Saint James has been making them since the 1950’s.

ROW 3: TIDE & POOL NOUVELLE VAGUE TOWEL $90. A wavy riff on the traditional striped cabana towel, this plush oversized beach towel is made in Brazil and has that Copacabana feel. With its double sided printing, you get two designs on one towel. NIXON THE LOWDOWN TI $175. Track swells, tides and other crucial ocean info for over 200 beaches until 2020, along with more time telling functionality with this candy colored, 80’s flavored watch. HERSCHEL MARKET TOTE $69.99.  Constructed using materials and details inspired by classic competitive sailing, this beach and city tote features a reinforced bottom and molded rubber magnetic strap closure.

ROW 4: J.CREW TEXTURED STRIPE SHORT $69.50. These sailor inspired striped shorts feature a subtle pleat detail and angled pockets for a chic maritime look anyplace and anytime. SOLUDOS ORIGINAL BARCA SAILOR STRIPE $43. The flat espadrille is a summer must have, and we love this Soludos sailor stripe classic.

 

Graston Technique

 

 
Medieval torture device or therapeutic healing method? The Graston technique feels like a bit of both. Six stainless steel tools, in different shapes, sizes and bevels, were originally designed by David Graston for athletes as to treat acute and chronic soft tissue injuries. Designed to break up scar tissue and facial restrictions, these tools are utilized by chiropractors, osteopaths, and physical therapists to stimulate the healing process. While I can attest the method is extremely effective, the scraping of a metal tool across inflamed muscles hurts like hell.

According to Dr.Peter Duggan, D.C., CSCS of Duke Chiropractic, our go-to resource for all sports injuries, “The tools pick up tissue differently than my hands. They are especially effective in treating sports injuries such as plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, Achilles, rotator cuff, calf and hamstring injuries.”

The curvilinear edges of the Graston instruments, combined with their concave/convex shapes, mold the to various contours of the body and catch on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. The instruments are then used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body. The pain one experiences is actually a small grade inflammation that is created which starts healing process.

For all us athletes, weekend warriors, or recreational sport and fitness enthusiasts who don’t want to be sidelined by nagging injuries, the Graston technique is a legitimate example of no pain no gain.

 

Dover Street Market

 
ROW 1: COMMES DES GARCONS AT DSM; COMMES DES GARCONS WALLETS; VANS PEANUT PACK; ROW 2: STORE EXTERIOR; SUPREME AT DSM; COMMES DES GARCONS T-SHIRTS; STAIRCASE; RAF SIMONS FOR ADIDAS STAN SMITH; NIKE LAB DSM

 
Located in an unfashionable neighborhood in Manhattan, is one of the most fashionable new stores in New York City. Part art installation, part retail destination, Dover Street Market is the creation of Rei Kawakubo of Commes Des Garçons, and is one of the hippest stores to have hit the New York City shopping scene in years. Contained in a nondescript building on Lexington Avenue & 30th street, are seven floors of curated clothing, accessories and exclusive collections, presented through the Kawakubo lens, from a range of designers such as Prada, Alaia, and Saint Laurent, in addition of course to Commes Des Garcons.

What we love most, however, is the incredible selection of limited and special edition sneakers and sportswear, representing the collaborations between sport and fashion brands like Riccardo Tisci x Nike, Puma x Ronnie Feig, Raf Simons for Adidas Stan Smith and Sacai for Vans. In addition, there are entire sport boutiques within the store, such as skate/streetwear brand Supreme and a Nike Lab outpost.

All the new fall merchandise is now in store at Dover Street Market. Whether shopping or just in the neighborhood looking for a spot to grab a bite, the Rose Bakery, located on the first floor, offers a delectable menu of healthy breakfast and lunch treats. Other DSM stores are located in London, Ginza, and Beijing is opening soon.

 

Tipping the Cap

 

New Yorkers know what a die-hard sports fan Spike Lee is, a regular and very vocal fixture at Knicks and Yankees games. To honor his support of the Yankees, New Era has just launched “1996 World Series Spike Lee Collection“, which pays tribute to the key moment in the brand’s 90 year history.

In 1996, the famed film director, Spike Lee, approached New Era and asked if a one of a kind red NY Yankees cap could be produced. This was unusual at the time, as New Era only produced caps in official team colors. With an agreement from Yankees owner, the late George Steinbrenner, Spike Lee’s request was granted, and after wearing his unique cap to the 1996 World Series game, the requests flooded in!

To commemorate this milestone, New Era and Spike Lee have created a five-piece capsule collection. Each cap features an embroidered side patch from the 1996 World Series. A red and navy version is available in genuine leather and in 100% wool. Additionally, a white option is available in leather only. All caps come in a special New Era Series box complete with a commemorative booklet.

 

Cool Cycle Style

 

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On the road, in the mountains, in the spin studio or on the street, the look in cycling gear and accessories this summer is bright but with a sophisticated palette. Color blocked and graphic, grays and blacks accentuated with warm oranges and reds, these high performance bike helmets, shoes, gloves and other accessories are made for hot weather riding with the cool style perfect for any season.

ROW 1: SMITH FOREFRONT $220. This ventilated low profile mountain bike helmet looks great with its tricolor design, and fully integrates with your sunglasses, goggles, or helmet cam. Available in a wide array of colors with an adjustable and removable visor. GIRO PROLIGHT SLX II $350. High performance with a minimalist design, this ultra-light two toned shoe, features titanium hardware and is one of the best looking cycling shoes we’ve seen.

ROW 2: RAPHA WOMENS SOUPLESSE JERSEY $205. Elegantly designed for all-day riding in hot conditions, this lightweight jersey is extremely breathable, and wicks moisture superbly. Chic styling elements include a rear contrast stripe and polka dot tab and collar lining. GIRO ASPECT $175. Streamlined and cool, this new helmet from Giro offers chic urban style with tough protection, secure fit, and uniquely engineered ventilation. PEARL IZUMI PRO LEADER II. Graphic and bold, the new lightweight PRO Leader features Adaptive Fit, designed to conform to your foot shape, combined with the Boa retention system for precision and superior power transfer. GIANT CONTROL MINI ROAD+ PUMP $35. On your bike or in your bag, a mini pump always comes in handy. We love this matte silver pump for its durable aluminum body and clean simple design.

ROW 3: JULBO GROOVY $100. The women-specific Groovy from Julbo is made for performance with its wide peripheral vision and photochromic Zebra lens that automatically adapts to changing light conditions. MAVIC ESPOIR GLOVE $29.95. Simple design with supreme comfort, EVA foam and gel cushioning combine to dampen road vibrations, while the Clarino synthetic leather palm provides excellent breathability and handlebar grip.

 

The Anti-Gravity Treadmill

 
 SUSPENDED ANIMATION: ALTERG ANTI-GRAVITY TREADMILL

 
State-of-the-art rehab tools and equipment are often found so effective they make their way into the gym for general population training. The latest piece of equipment to do so is the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill, which I had the opportunity to check out last week at Body Space Fitness in NYC. Originally designed by Nasa, AlterG treadmills can unweight up to 80% of a person’s body, allowing for stable support, unencumbered movement, and continued training through injury. These treadmills are used by professional athletes such as LeBron James, Derek Jeter, Kobe Byant and Kara Goucher, and can be found in the training rooms of many NFL, MLB, and NBA teams, in addition to collegiate sports programs and Olympic Training Centers.

As Body Space Fitness owner, Kelvin Gary, told me, “running is a contact sport”, and for those with joint and mobility issues, the AlterG allows them the benefits of running without the impact to the body. Wearing neoprene shorts with a skirt that is zippered into the inflatable chamber, the treadmills use Differential Air Pressure that literally lifts you while you run. Kelvin integrates intervals on the AlterG into training sessions with his clients, and they also book time on their own on the treadmill as part of their regular cardio training regimen.

Training for the NYC Marathon myself right now, I am happily still healthy. With a few more months of training to go and bigger mileage ahead, the AlterG would be an ideal way to keep running should overuse injuries arise. I am hoping, however, not to have to put it to the test. One way or the other, see you at the starting line November 2nd!

-CL

 

What’s SUP?

 
 PHOTOGRAPH BY EMBRY RUCKER

 

While many of us have been out there Stand Up Paddlesurfing for a while now, the sport has really started booming and is fast becoming one of the most popular watersports. There is so much to love about the sport, called SUP for short. It can be done on any body of water — ocean, bay, lakes and rivers; it’s fairly easy to learn; and is a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors while getting an amazing core focused workout.

There are many newcomers eager to give Stand Up Paddlesurfing a try, as well as more experienced paddlers looking to improve their skills. In either category the most important consideration is the equipment and there is a plethora of beautifully designed boards on the market from which to choose. Novice paddlers should opt for a wider and flatter board, which offers more stability, while more experienced paddlers can go with a narrower board for better maneuverability.

 

SUPs: Roxy, Starboard, Laird, Surftech, Rogue, Naish

ALL WATER BOARDS

 

ROXY SUP ( 10’6 x 32″). Fun entry leval board that’s lightweight and durable made with Surftech Tuflite construction; STARBOARD CRUISER ( 12’6 x 30″). From one of the biggest SUP manufacturers comes this long and fast cruiser designed for the open water. Rail shape and nose lift is perfect for catching your first waves too. SURFTECH/LAIRD (available in 10, 11 and 12′ lengths). Wide nose provides stability for beginners, while narrow pintail allows responsive turning for more experienced paddlers. ROGUE RASTA (available in 10’6, 11’6, 12’6 lengths). Designed for smooth paddling in flat water, as well as performance in the surf. NAISH NALU SERIES. From one of the most recognized names in surf, the Nalu series comes in a wide variety of lengths and widths designed for all levels of paddlers.

 

These days SUPs are available in 2 main catagories –All Water boards and Racing/Touring boards, although within each category are boards designed for various types of paddling. The All Water boards have a traditional surfboard shape, with a nose designed to skim the surface of the water. The Race/Touring boards have a pointed nose or bow, with a kayak-like “displacement” hull, designed to cut through the water for long distance paddling and speed.  These boards are generally longer, usually 12’6″ or 14′, as more surface area makes for more efficient paddling. The tail is usually flat as they are primarily designed to go straight. As these boards tends to be narrower, the straight tail adds more stability.

SUPs: Bark, Laird, Surftech, Riviera, 404

RACE / TOURING BOARDS

 

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Sporty Beach Reads

 

 

Chilling post surf or between ocean dips, we all love a great book to keep us company while soaking up the summer sunshine. With your perfect towel, beach bag, bikini, board shorts, sunglasses, hat and tasty refreshment, the only thing left to complete that perfect STYLE OF SPORT day at the beach is the perfect read. There are many ways to go…. fiction or non-fiction….e-reader or good old-fashioned paper… new bestseller or literary classic… but if you want to keep it sporty, here are some of our favorite beach-tested reads:

UNBROKEN by Laura Hillenbrand (2010). Read the book before the Angelina Jolie directed movie comes out! This is the unforgettable story of Louie Zamperini, a teen-age hooligan who went on to become one of America’s greatest runners and compete at the 1936 Olympics as a teenager. Zamperini later joined the Army Air Corps, survived a plane crash and 47 days adrift at sea in a tiny raft, and then endured years in a notorious Japanese prisoner of war camp. Hillenbrand, who wrote Seabiscuit as well, also describes the hardships Zamperini faced when he returned to civilian life. Sadly Zamperini passed away just last week at age 97.

WILD: FROM LOST TO FOUND ON THE PACIFIC TRAIL by Cheryl Strayed (2013). This is the first person account of Cheryl Strayed, who at age 22 thought she had lost everything. In the wake of her mother’s death and crumbling marriage, with nothing to lose she made the most impulsive decision of her life. With no experience or training, driven only by blind will, she would hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State — and she would do it alone. Told with suspense and style, sparkling with warmth and humor, Wild powerfully captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman forging ahead against all odds on a journey that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her. Coming this holiday season is the movie starring Reese Witherspoon.

THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA by Ernest Hemingway (1952). Okay, we’ve all read this one (or maybe not), but we all should probably read it again. It’s the only work of fiction on our list, but it somehow fits. Here’s the first line: “He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eighty-four days now without taking a fish.” Lest we forget, this book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953 and was cited by the Nobel Committee as a major contribution to Hemingway receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. Read More

 

The Perfect White Sneaker

 

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For summer, the white sneaker is an essential and there are none more perfect than these 8 timeless classics. From Keds to Vans to Adidas to Tretorns, these sneakers have been the summer staple of generations, with a chic simple look that never goes out of style. You wore them as a kid, you’re wearing them now, so are your kids and we bet theirs will too!

CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: CONVERSE CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STAR $50SUPERGA COTU CLASSIC $65; TRETORN NYLITE CANVAS $65ADIDAS STAN SMITH $75;  KEDS CHAMPION CANVAS SLIP-ON $45CONVERSE JACK PURCELL $60VANS CLASSIC SLIP-ON $45ADIDAS ROD LAVER $65

 

 

The Bod Squad

 

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The summer hottest temperatures are in the water this July. Super sexy surf and swimwear for all your favorite water sports is making a statement, with sleek body defining shapes, colors and graphics designed to reveal your fab physique beneath. Cropped rash guards, mini wetsuits, booty shorts and zip neoprene swimsuits are built to perform while turning heads. Surf is definitely up!

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ROW 1: LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ “THE JASMINE” NEOPRENE BIKINI $355. Release your inner Bond Girl with this super sculpting neoprene zip bikini. ROXY SHOREBREAK CROP TOP $92. This revealing zip up long sleeve crop top is actually a 1mm neoprene wetsuit and features UPF 50+ protection. ADIDAS CLASSIC ELASTIC HIPSTER SWIM BOTTOMS now $31.00. Comfortably cut with full backside coverage, these cute swim bottoms look great with any swim or surf top. SWEATY BETTY DOLPHIN SWIMSUIT $100. This graphic colorblock one-piece swimsuit is quick-drying and durable, with great support for a streamlined swim.

ROW 2: HURLEY GOOD SPORT CROP TOP $59. Cropped coverage with sleek mesh cap-sleeves, this little neoprene zip-front rashguard is made for the hottest of surfers. Pair with HURLEY SURFSIDE STRAP SIDE BIKINI BOTTOM $33 for the complete look. TAVIK SWIMWEAR ANIA ZIP SWIMSUIT $139.95. Inspired by classic surf and dive wear, this sexy swimsuit combines stretch nylon with lightweight neoprene side panels and zips down the front from the neck to the waist. SPEEDO SPORTY TOP WITH RINGS $44. With matte and shine colorblocking, this bright swim and sport top is constructed to have 5-10 times more durability than ordinary spandex fabrics. Pair with SPEEDO SHIRRED BOYSHORT $44 for all your water training.

ROW 3: NEON WETSUITS “SOWENA” $140. Based out of Cornwall, England, Neon makes sexy little graphic wetsuits ready for any water adventure. ROXY MOD LOVE ZIP-UP VEST $46. From the Roxy Pop Surf collection comes this graphic floral swim vest that adds a mod look to your surf style. Pair with NIKE BRUSH STRIPE SWIM BOTTOM $44 for any water sport. ADIDAS BEACH HALTER BIKINI TOP $28. The matching top to the bikini bottom in Row 1, goes together perfectly here with the VOLCOM REALITY BITES BIKINI BOTTOM $29.50.

 

Field Guide

 

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Inspired by the great outdoors yet perfect for an urban adventure, this is your field guide to that ruggedly stylish gear designed to enhance all that Mother Nature has to offer. Should your summer travels take you to one of America’s National Parks, a city abroad, or provide the opportunity for local exploration, here are the accessories to accompany you on your journey, plus a few souvenirs to bring the adventure back home.

LEFT COLUMN: FIELD NOTES “Expedition” Waterproof Memo Books $9.95. Rugged are these little adventure ready notebooks! Field-tested and explorer-approved, within this arctic orange cover are 48 pages of Yupo Synthetic paper — a waterproof and tear-proof material designed to stand up to the toughest conditions, yet beautifully designed for everyday use. Check out Field Notes for lots more great styles and colors! TIMEX Weekender Slip-Thru $45. We love a Timex and this field style watch, with its simple clear face, nylon wrap band and Indiglo Night Light is a classic. KAUFMANN-MERCANTILE EDC Brass Compass $32.95. Yes, we all have GPS on our iPhones, but you never know when this waterproof brass compass might come in handy. At 1″ in diameter it can be easily stashed in your pocket, glovebox, or on a keychain.

CENTER COLUMN: PARKS PROJECTS National Parks Olympic Raglan $36. Parks Projects is a company dedicated to the preservation of our National Parks. Their mission is to inspire people to get outside, visit parks, and support park preservation through their products. They have created a series of vintage styled tees, baseball jerseys and tanks featuring a variety of our National Parks including Acadia, Everglades, Grand Teton and Olympic shown above, among others.  EASTLAND SHOES Seneca Camp Moc Chucca Boot $100. Ideal for the woods or everyday rambling, this classic hand sewn moccasin features a fully lined, cushioned footbed and a shock absorbing, flexible natural rubber outsole. Eastland has been making these boots since 1955 and they are a timeless favorite. MUIR WAY National Parks Maps $39 (unframed).  These graphic prints have been inspired by the National Parks maps, and use a clean design and a mix of colors to reinterpret the topography into beautifully stylized reproductions. Any design can be customized to the palette of your choice and a portion of every sale from their site is donated to the Sierra Club Foundation. MAGLITE Mini Maglite Camo $33.75. A pocket flashlight is always a useful accessory. This rugged little camo Maglite is water and shock resistant, and packs a high intensity adjustable light beam, along with a candle mode feature for hands free light.

RIGHT COLUMN: LEICA Ultravid Colorline 10 x 25 Binoculars $999. Available in an array of fun colors, these top of the line compact Leica binoculars are the perfect accompaniment to all your outdoor adventures. Bird watching or people watching, they offer superior viewing brilliance and sharpness, with optimal reduction of light reflection. BEST MADE Waxed Anorak $375. This lightweight rain jacket is made in the USA from 6.25 oz waxed cotton and features a three piece hood for maximum protection in inclement conditions. Double mesh ventilation eyelets insure breathability and a layer of moleskin offers comfort against the face. We love the bright orange, but it is available in more subdued earth tones as well. ISOLA INCENSE Balsam Fir $15. Bring the scents of the forest home with this classic Balsam Fir incense. Each box contains 32 cones and a wood burner. FILSON Camera Field Bag $320. This all-weather oil-finish field bag from Filson features ample interior space, with multiple pockets and dividers for the camera buff, yet doubles as a perfect everyday bag.

 

Run Service

 

 

For runners looking to get on the road while on the road, Westin hotels across the country are now offering RunWESTIN, their signature outdoor running program. A designated RunWESTIN running concierge leads scenic runs from the hotel, touring landmarks throughout the city. Guests can also run on their own following 3-mile and 5-mile routes provided at each hotel. It’s a great way to stay in shape and do some sightseeing while traveling.

As an additional feature, the brand has partnered with New Balance in an exclusive gear-lending program. For those opting not to pack their running gear, the New Balance gear-lending program allows guests to borrow running shoes with disposable insoles, as well as a variety of men’s and women’s New Balance running apparel, for just $5 per stay.

You can now cross the “I forgot my running gear” excuse off the list of reasons not to work out while traveling.

 

Wild Wild West

 

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To celebrate our nations birthday this 4th of July, we are paying homage to the spirit of the American West and those cowboys and cowgirls whose style of sport is just as cool a look for urban dwellers too. We combed western shops, trading posts, and a few fashion establishments as well, looking for the most authentic Western wear with added some city style. Welcome to the wild wild west!

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LEFT COLUMN: FRINGED SUEDE JACKET BY KATE MOSS FOR TOPSHOP $450. The classic suede fringe jacket gets a fashion blessing and a styling update by Kate Moss for Topshop. WRANGLER JEANS COWBOY CUT SLIM FIT $34.97. There is no jean more western and a symbol of American style than a Wrangler (well, Levis too). Still a staple of cowboys and cowgirls everywhere, this slim fit, high waisted jean has great urban style too. NOCONA WOMEN’S TURQUOISE & CRYSTAL BELT $75. This classic western belt with its silver engraved buckle is gussied up with turquoise and crystals. NATHALIE COWHIDE HANDBAG $550. From Nathalie’s in Santa Fe, comes this ruggedly chic bag. Chocolate and white cowhide on the front, faux black gator on the back, it features white whipstitch detail for extra flair.

CENTER COLUMN: LUCCHESE VINTAGE CLASSICS COWGIRL BOOTS $729. The ultimate in cowboy boot style and craftsmanship is Lucchese. Each pair is made by hand by master bookmakers and recognized for their unprecedented fit and comfort. TIN HAUL OMBRE WESTERN SHIRT $44.99. This plaid western shirt has all the classic styling details, featuring a snap front and pockets, curved back yoke, and contrast inside trim. Chick here for more great western shirts. MINNETONKA CANVAS MOC $42.95. Playing cowboys & indians here, these Minnetonka Moccasins never go out of style. We love this new canvas edition, perfect for the summer months.

RIGHT COLUMN: SUNBODY STAMPEDE COWBOY HAT $50. Handmade from Guatemalen and Mexican palm leaves, these hats keep their cool and style in the toughest conditions. Pre-formed or shape yourself, there are a host of models to choose from, perfect for wherever you may roam. LEVIS AUTHENTIC DENIM VEST $44.95. This little ombre denim vest is ready to rock with a hip extra layer of western style. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN LEATHER & SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL SKULL BRACELET $280. This leather wrap bracelet is braided and interspersed with gold-tone beads and a Swarovski crystal-adorned skull.

 Special thanks to Maggie Mann

 

Summerland: Will Adler

 

 

Opening July 1 at the Danziger Gallery is the perfect show for summer featuring the works of Will Adler. The 30 year old west coast photographer is known for his distinctive take on the surf world and has garnered a cult following in surfing and photography circles. Adler’s laid back, light infused images capture the spirit and atmosphere of surfing as much as the action of the sport.

The show has been curated by Will’s uncle, Tom Adler, art director and publisher known for his seminal books on early surf photography. His graphic artworks have also been exhibited at Danziger Gallery and we featured him earlier this year as well (California Surfing & Climbing in the Fifties).

Will Adler is showing pictures from Hawaii, California, and Montauk, shot for himself and magazines such as Juxtapoz, Neon, Surfer, WAX, and The New Yorker. His commercial clients have included Quiksilver, Patagonia, Nike, and Hixsept.
 

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The E-Bike Got Cool

 

 

For most of us NYC dwellers, the electric or e-bike conjures up the image of take-out food being delivered on a banged-up bicycle with a big ugly battery attached. As bicycle commuting has become more popular however, so has the market for e-bikes and there is a new breed of sleek, hip and sexy models available. Some may think it’s cheating to have an electronic assist while pedaling, but this extra boost of power is optional and comes in the form of pedal-assist, where the motor kicks in depending on how hard you’re pedaling, or a throttle-only mode, where you opt to let the motor do all the work. This motorized burst of energy is there for you on long commutes or when arriving sweaty at your destination is not your preferred look. Check out these 7 bikes and our picks for the coolest e-rides around!

A2B ALVA + $3400

Shown above, the futuristic looking Alva+ features both pedal assist and throttle power on demand. With its stylish frame, disc brakes, and suspension fork for added comfort, the Alva+ is guaranteed to turn heads as you zoom by. The 500w battery provides up to 40 miles of power assist, a top speed of 24 mph, and recharges in 3-4 hours.

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MARTONE CYCLING CO. MARTON-E BIKE $2900

The chic monochromatic Marton-E bike fuses sustainability and convenience with fashion and design. The bike can be ridden manually on the traditional Shimano 3 gear system, or through a hybrid combination of pedaling and battery operated power that provides speeds up to 16mph. The battery, which sits where a water bottle would go, gives up to four hours of consecutive use, is fully removable, and easily stowed in a backpack or purse.  The Marton-E is offered in both womens and mens models, in signature red and black as well, and weighs only 45 pounds, less than most on the market.

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PRODECOTECH TITANIO 29er $4999

Yes, it’s a mountain bike, but we had to include this titanium beauty. Built with premium materials and technology, and weighing in at a feathery 31.8 pounds, the Titanio 29er provides pedal assistance with a high-end torque sensor. It delivers a fast two-hour charge, 18-25 miles of riding, and is loaded with premium high-end components such as Avid Elixir XO Hydraulic Disc Brakes, a RockShox SID AIR PushLoc Fork, and Continental Race King 29 x 2.0 tires.

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Superga X Versus

 
SUPERGA X VERSUS

 

We have seen a lot of fab designer sneaker collaborations lately, like Pharrell for Adidas and Ricardo Tisci for Nike, but the new Superga x Versus Versace mash-up might be our favorite thus far. The two supreme Italian brands of Superga and Versus Versace have come together to produce a collection of what promises to be some of this summer’s hottest kicks. First up is the classic Superga 2750 which has been infused with eye-popping colors and kaleidoscopic patterns taken from the Versus fall collection. The Superga 2750 Versus Cotu Classic is now available online at Versus Versace and is set to launch worldwide on June 29th.

 

The Perfect Summer Tote

 

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FROM SANDY SHORES TO CITY STREETS, THESE 12 BEACH TOTES HAVE THE CHIC AND PLAYFUL STYLE PERFECT FOR ANY LOCATION.

ROW 1: JACK SPADE DIPPED COAL BAG $198. Constructed from heavyweight 24-ounce canvas, this utilitarian carry-all is dipped in colorful rubber latex for added durability and style. HERMES ESCALE GM BEACH BAG $1125. The ultimate in luxe beach style is this canvas Hermes tote. Shown here in dip dyed azure, it is also available in vermillion and taupe. RESAIL ORIGINAL RECYCLED SAIL TOTE $159. This sail tote bag is made from durable ripstop 100% recycled sail cloth. Produced in limited runs, each one is totally unique. 

ROW 2: T. ANTHONY BOATING TOTE $295. This roomy canvas and leather tote has plenty of space for all of your beach and everyday essentials. Also available in black and red. LISA PERRY CIRCLE SQUARE BEACH TOTE $195. Lined in white leather, Lisa Perry’s bright and graphic beach tote features a large square on one side and big circle on the other. Available in other great color combos too. LULU GUINNESS BLACK EYELASH PRINT LUISA TOTE $95. This fun nylon tote is one in a series of illustrated and decorative carry-alls.

ROW 3: BEST MADE CO. 100LB COAL BAG $78. Originally designed in 1920 to haul coal and dirt, this virtually indestructible tote features a double thick-boxed bottom made of super-heavy #6 duck canvas and has a double thick 1” web handle for an extra fortified grip. It is emblazoned with “Everything Here is Wonderful”. WILL LEATHER GOODS CLASSIC CARRY ALL $75. Pack it and go, this canvas tote will hold all your extras and comes in a variety of great colors too. TORY BURCH BEACH ZIP TOTE $195. Made of durable cotton canvas, and punctuated with Tory’s graphic signature logo, this oversized tote has a casually chic style that’s perfect for beach days, getaways or any day.

ROW 4: THE GAP COATED CANVAS TOTE $69.95. Lots of room and great colors, this cotton tote will carry all your gear with cool casual style. MARC BY MARC JACOBS STRIPED SUMMER TOTE $228. Classically styled in blue and white, detailed with chic drawstring sides and a striped outer pouch, this is a perfect carryall for all your summer essentials. NEW LOOK PALM TREE PRINTED BEACH BAG $24.75. Great price, fun style, this photo printed tote is a playful summer accessory in any locale.

 

World Cup Leggings

 
NIKE TIGHT OF THE MOMENT X FEDERATION: ENGLAND (LEFT), USA (RIGHT)

 

Coinciding with the kick-off match of the World Cup, the latest in the Nike Tight of the Moment series celebrates the style of soccer. The Nike Tight of the Moment x Federation Collection features four tights inspired by the Brasilian, American, English and French national team uniforms. Made for performance as much as style, the patterns are printed on Nike Pro compression tights. The designs are based on a body map created by the Nike Sport Research Lab that shows muscle heating and cooling zones, and highlights the body in motion. Each of the tights in the collection has a matching Nike Free 1.0 Cross Bionic training shoe.

For all you crazy leggings fans, this special limited edition is now sale today at Nike.com, and is not to be missed!

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FRANCE (LEFT) & BRAZIL (RIGHT)

 

 

World Cup Fever

 

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Every four years the world comes together to watch the best soccer players on the planet compete in the most popular sporting event there is, the World Cup. The eagerly anticipated 2014 Fifa World Cup begins this Thursday, June 12, in Rio, Brazil, and as always you can expect the crowds to go wild! It is the time to support your country and display your national pride, and what better way than with a commemorative hat, sweatshirt, or jersey blazoned with your home team’s colors, flag or name. Check out a few of our favorite souvenirs and soccer classics to celebrate this years World Cup.

ROW 1: ADIDAS BRAZUCA BALL $160. Adidas has a rich legacy at the World Cup, having provided the official match ball for every tournament since 1970. The “Brazuca” is the Official Match Ball of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and its name comes from an informal slang that defines the Brazilian way of life. This year’s ball features a unique symmetry of six identical boomerang shaped panels designed to improve grip, stability, aerodynamics, and control. The vibrant colors of the ball reflect those of the Brazilian flag, as well as the FIFA World Cup. ADIDAS SAMBA $70. First introduced in 1950, the Samba is a legendary training shoe and lifestyle favorite, with over 35 million pairs sold worldwide. This men’s black and gold version, features the original fold-over tongue with modern metallic details.

ROW 2: YOOX SOCCER COUTURE SPECIAL EDITON SWEATSHIRT $154. Fashion e-tailer Yoox.com, in collaboration with Sepp magazine, has created an exclusive collection of 10 unisex sweatshirts by 10 designers from 10 different countries. Each features a custom print inspired by their native country and are designed for soccer and fashion fans alike. Shown above is the Team USA sweatshirt by Opening Ceremony. HAVAIANAS TEAMS FLIP-FLOPS $26. From host nation Brazil, Havaianas has created a collection of 15 different flip-flops for the top contending countries. Festive designs feature each nation’s colors and logos, and a flag embellishment on the strap. 2014 WORLD CUP ADIDAS SLOUCH ADJUSTABLE HAT $21.95. These adjustable 100% cotton baseball caps feature an embroidered country name on front and World Cup 2014 logo on the back. ITALIA INDEPENDENT TRIBUTE TO JUVENTUS 2014 $197. The second in the series of sunglasses dedicated to the Italian champion soccer team Juventus, this model features a rounded double-bridged frame. The black and white stripes are inspired by the first jersey of the Club, and like all in the series, the frames are inscribed on one side with “Campioni d’Italia 2014 “, and on the other “Non c’è 2 senza 3” (no 2 without 3), celebrating the three consecutive championships of the Club. Read More

 

Homespun

 
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: 1.PELOTON STUDIO IN CHELSEA. “WE WANTED IT TO FEEL LIKE HOME”; 2.MARION ROAMAN; 3.BIKE TABLET WITH TOUCH SCREEN TO SELECT CLASSES; 4.JACK’S STIR BREW COFFEE BAR AT PELOTON; 5.THE PRODUCTION ROOM

 
A few weeks ago I took a spinning class at a new indoor cycling studio, Peloton, in Manhattan’s Chelsea district. The room was filled with riders and the instructor was cheering us all on. “Great job, Jackie!”, Marion Roaman, yelled out. But Jackie wasn’t in the room. She was live streaming the class, as were a few other riders at home. Marion could see Jackie and her output as she was riding via a monitor on her instructors bike.

Peloton is a new concept in spinning and fitness, not so much for the workout itself, but the way it is delivered. The studio itself is sort of like a sound stage, and a high tech one at that. All classes are filmed and “produced” with multiple cameras and edited in a production facility downstairs. Classes can be taken streaming live or on-demand on specially designed Peloton spinning bikes. As Marion recently told me, we are a “tech company with a focus on fitness.”

What Peloton is really selling are their bikes, which feature a large integrated tablet-like monitor on which to watch and take class. They currently have more retail facilities than studios. Their focus is on expanding participation at home and offering boutique style spin classes, a la Soul Cycle or Flywheel, to people who don’t have the access, time or inclination to go to a studio or gym. A Peloton bike costs $1,995, plus $39 per month to access on-demand and live classes. Peloton bikes are currently on backorder so it appears like they have found a new niche in the fitness industry. Read More

 

Whey, Hemp, Soy & More: The Scoop on Protein Powder

 

 

When recently ordering a protein shake at my favorite local juice bar, Juice Generation, I was offered the choice of soy, hemp or whey protein powder. Not really having any clue about the difference, I ordered whey and then consulted with my contributing fitness and nutrition editor, David Kirsch, to get the scoop on the pros and cons of each.

David Kirsch is the founder and owner of Madison Square Club, a state-of-the-art fitness training and nutritional counseling center in NYC. He is one of the most highly regarded trainers in the fitness industry, sought after by some of the biggest names in the entertainment and fashion worlds — Liv Tyler, Kerry Washington, Julia Roberts, Heidi Klum and Kate Upton, just to name a few. David has his own line extensive line of nutritional products, and vast knowledge of what the body needs to get in shape, look great and function at its best. Below is David’s guide, created just for STYLE OF SPORT, on everything you need to know about protein powder in 750 words or less!

PROTEIN POWDER SUPPLEMENTS – WHICH ONE IS BEST? By David Kirsch

Ideally, the path to optimal health is through consuming a balanced diet of nutrient rich foods in all of the food categories – carbohydrate, protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy and some healthy fat. Eating up to 5 small meals a day every three or so hours is the way to do it. Having said that, the reality is few of us have the time to eat that way. Add to that one’s busy, active lifestyle, the stress of work and life, and one can see why supplements factor in to many people’s diets. This article is going to focus on protein supplements. There are so many choices out there. Which is best and how should they be used? Read More

 

The Tennis Matches

 

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With the French Open behind us, and Wimbledon on the horizon, the tennis season is in full swing. It’s game, set, mix and match for Summer 2014! Bright, graphic, striped and color blocked, tennis separates from Nike, Fila, Adidas and more make for great mixed doubles both on and off the court.

ROW 1 TOPS: POLO RALPH LAUREN WOMENS ELITE TENNIS TANK $98. This bright racerback tank is crafted from a moisture wicking, stretch fabric blend and features a built-in neon sports bra for that sporty layered look. NIKE POWER WOMEN’S TENNIS TANK TOP $40. Made with Dri-FIT stretch fabric and an integrated back mesh panel, this sleek graphic top is designed to keep you cool with stealth style. ELEVEN OVER RULED STRIPE TENNIS TANK $64. This fun striped tank top from Venus William’s EleVen line features a double strap design for extra style and comfort. The racerback keeps the look sporty and built-in bra provides on court support.

ROW 2 SKIRTS: BOAST RACING STRIPE ACTIVE COURT SKIRT $84. This cool throwback tennis skirt, with its racing stripe detail on the sides, is a summer classic. It is lightweight, comfortable and features built-in shorts. NIKE PREMIER MARIA WOMEN’S TENNIS SKIRT $66. From Maria Sharapova’s Nike collection, this tennis skirt has built-in compression shorts for a supportive fit, laser-cut perforations at sides for enhanced breathability, and sweat-wicking stretch fabric for added comfort. LUCKY IN LOVE COLOR BLOCK PLEATED TENNIS SKIRT $58. This flirty little tennis skirt, with its mini-pleats and color blocking, also features built-in shorts with ball storage. The wide waistband flatters and provides a secure and comfortable fit.

ROW 3 TOPS: FILA LACY PARALLAX RACERBACK TANK $60. Sporty and sexy, this racerback tank features a low cut square neck with contrast piping for style and comfort, an all mesh back panel for total breathability, and built-in bra for support. ADIDAS SUMMER RESPONSE TANK $38. This colorblock top features wide tank straps with contrast piping and a mesh racerback with keyhole cutout for cool style with extra comfort. LIJA BREATHE TOP $60. This tee is designed to perform and flatter with ruched stretch fabric that moves as you do on the court.

ROW 4 SKIRTS: ADIDAS ALL PREMIUM TENNIS SKORT $60. This tennis skort provides high performance technology and style. Climalite fabric provides superior moisture management. Pleat design and stripe detail add extra flair and built-in shorts have pockets for ball storage.  FILA ADVANTAGE LONG SKIRT $50. Available in multiple color combos, the clean and simple style of this tennis skirt makes it a classic. Ultra-soft jersey and Coolmax fabric provide long-lasting comfort, while contrast trim adds flair and finish. LIJA PIPED TENNIS SKORT $80. This stretchy form fitting skirt features quick drying and moisture wicking technology that keeps you cool with style throughout your match.

 

Yoga Means Business

 

WARRIOR 2 

Work stress tightens the psoas muscles, leading to poor posture, back and pelvic pain. Warrior poses release the psoas to alleviate physical pain as well as the anxiety that causes it.

 

A new startup, Yoga Means Business, has taken the practice of yoga out of the studio and into the office.  Co-founded by two entrepreneurial yoginis, Chiyoko Osborne and Jen Kluczkowski (left and right in front above), Yoga Means Business brings their signature 30-Minute Method to you, with no yoga mats or change of clothes required. Using just office chairs, desks and walls, the 30-minute session consists of basic yoga postures and stretches, breathing exercises and meditation, and offers the physical and emotional benefits of yoga in a corporate setting.

Yoga allows the mind and body to tap into higher levels of focus, creativity and clarity. “Our unique YMB 30-Minute Method is specifically tailored to help busy, stressed employees reboot seamlessly during their workday,” says Jen Kluczkowski, YMB co-founder and lead facilitator. “This unique yoga method is designed to make participants better at their jobs by offering a way to unplug, recharge and return to work refocused–all in under 30 minutes.”
 

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ROTATED HALF MOON

Sitting all day and staring at the computer, our chest caves inward, shoulders collapse and neck tilts down, which physically blocks our communication centers in the body. This posture releases tension in these areas and improves communication.

 

“The most powerful purpose of yoga has always been to better focus your own mind—and nowhere is that more useful than in business,” said co-founder Chiyoko Osborne, who understands the stresses of today’s work environment having held posts at Calvin Klein, Alexander Wang and McCann Erickson. “What is new is the rapidly spreading realization that these Eastern practices can drive Western business success. Leaders of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies, hot tech startups and giants like Google, Intel, General Mills and Goldman Sachs, have been incorporating mindfulness practices for their executive teams and staff for years.”

Coincidentally Team YMB and Style of Sport share offices at The Grind, along with a community of other happening start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures, and we asked them for a few moves to share with our readers. We wrangled a some fellow Grind members for Chiyoko and Jen to guide through the moves. Above and below are 7 key postures they recommend to counter balance the physical and emotional stresses work life takes on us all.
 
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Your Favorite White Jeans

 

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Continuing with our Summer Essentials theme, we present another staple of the season: The White Jean. Now why, you may ask, is this a Style of “Sport” feature? The answer is because they look a heck of a lot better when you are in shape! Fit bodies, however, come in different shapes and sizes and what looks good on me, might not be the right style for you. We asked our Facebook friends for their favorites and from skinny to boyfriend fit, now present your top picks for the hot white jeans of Summer 2014!

ROW 1: J.BRAND Mid-Rise Cropped Capri $172. Ok, me first… Great for athletic builds, the slimming capri shape and cropped leg make these white jeans one of this editor’s personal favorites. PAIGE Verdugo $179. These skinny white stretch-denim jeans are closely cut for a long and lean silhouette, and “ideal for those with a flatter rear”, says fashion editor and former Self Magazine colleague, McLain Bennett. 7 FOR ALL MANKIND Josephina $169. “White jeans should not be tight. A boyfriend fit is the way to go”, suggests very-in-shape SoulCycle spinner, Susan Thomson. These crisp white jeans from 7 For All Mankind have the perfect relaxed yet flattering fit. CURRENT/ ELLIOT The Stiletto $168. The Stiletto is a chic fitted jean, cropped above the ankle, and a favorite of Laurie Miller O’Connell, owner of Perch Vail in Vail Colorado, who curates her store with the perfect selection of year round apres-ski AND sea!

ROW 2: AG The Stilt $164. This crisp white, cigarette leg skinny jean has a streamlined silhouette that looks polished dressed up or down. Raves SOS friend Heather Berman Yablon, “They are so soft and sit low on the waist. I love the back pockets and great white white color!” RAG & BONE Dre $187. This Slim Fit Boyfriend Jean was a popular favorite of a number of SOS readers including Marion Berrian Roaman, Co-Founder and General Manager of Peloton, the hot new indoor cycling studio and bicycle company. These white jeans feature a straight-leg style with a relaxed fit and are infused with stretch for extra wearability. RALPH LAUREN DENIM & SUPPLY Carmen Skinny Jean $79.50. This cotton-blend jean is designed with a fitted silhouette. “They are skinny with the perfect amount of stretch”, says good buddy, Glynis Karp, SVP Global Merchandising at Ralph Lauren Childrenswear. She owns 5 pairs, and of course, is wearing them today. J.CREW Stretch Toothpick $115. Fitted through the hip and legs, with a superskinny, ankle-length cut, these are another Style of Sport favorite for their lean and sexy fit. They are made of premium stretch cotton from Cone Denim®, one of the oldest denim mills in the world. Not that she has one, but financier Alexandra Lebenthal says, “They don’t make my butt look big… very important when it comes to white jeans!”

 

Millinery Helmets

 
SAWAKO FURUNO IN TRIBECA, NYC

 
Sawako Furuno designs bicycle helmets as chic and sophisticated as any hatmaker would create. Born in Japan, she studied as an architect, and later received her masters at Oxford. Oxford is cycling city. As a student, Sawako was a lodger at the home of an elegant 80 year old woman, who happened to own the most beautiful bicycle Sawako would use to travel around town. It was there that her appreciation for cycling and its culture began.

Sawako moved to London to pursue a career in architecture and continued cycling as her mode of transportation. After a couple of close calls, she realized it was time to start wearing a helmet. Finding only road biking and racing styles available — the right idea but the wrong look — she decided to make her own. Producing 150 to start, she was soon spotted by Daily Candy in London and orders began pouring in. While she enjoyed architecture, she was passionate about these helmets and a side project would soon become her career. Furuno eventually gave up architecture to focus her creative energy full time on producing a line of posh helmets for the urban cyclist.

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SAWAKO FURUNO BICYCLE HELMETS

 
Sawako recently moved to New York where I had the opportunity to meet her last week for a coffee at one of our favorite cafes, Smile, in the Shinola store in Tribeca. She rode to our rendezvous on a beautiful purple Bobbin Bicycle, perfectly put together in the outfit above, and of course topped with her own Leopard Leatherette helmet. A few of her other designs are above. From tartans to animal prints to florals, these helmets have such flair, you might choose to wear them whether cycling or not.

Sawako Furuno helmets are available online at Sawako Furuno, Adeline Adeline and Papillionaire Bicycles

 

Beach Day

 

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SUMMER… it’s finally here! This weekend marks the unofficial start of 3 months of sun filled, water chilled beach days to come. It looks to be a bright and sunny season and we’re not just talking about the weather! From the yellow classic cruiser bike, to the flowery beach tote, to the black and white striped sunglasses, this summer’s beach essentials are colorful, graphic, and made for fun!

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ROW 1: THE BEACH CRUISER: Schwinn Starlet $470. The beach cruiser is a summertime favorite and the classic Schwinn only gets better with age. The “Starlet” is a stylish gal with its yellow frame, pink detailing and spring seat, and a cup holder for bit of extra cool while riding. THE RASHGUARD: Dakine Womens Classic Tropic $55. The surfers rashguard has become as much a fashion piece as a protective layer and this flowery number offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Quick drying and silky smooth, this rashguard has comfort and style both in and out of the water.

ROW 2: THE BEACH TOTE: Herschel Market Tote XL Paradise $60.Half floral, half camo, this multi-patterned beach tote features a reinforced bottom, stow pockets, and the room you need to transport all your summer essentials in style. THE CHRONOGRAPH: Vestal ZR2. The chronograph is a summer staple on land and sea. This classic sea blue timekeeper is made from surgical grade stainless steel, water resistant to 100 meters, and is ready for all your water sports. THE BEACH SHORT: Lemlem Lilly striped cotton-blend gauze shorts $170. Easy on and off with an elasticized waist, these little blue and white stripe cover-up shorts are made for a quick change and mad dash to and from the beach.

ROW 3: THE WAYFARER: Italia Independent Tribute to Juventus $197. World Cup fever has begun and this classic seaside sunglass takes its inspiration from the black and white striped jersey the Italian Juventus team. The frames are inscribed on one side with “Campioni d’Italia 2014 “ and on the other, “Non c’è 2 senza 3” (There is no 2 without 3), celebrating the consecutive victories of the Club in the past three seasons. THE BEACH TOWEL: Jonathan Adler Mykonos Beach Towel $98. Plush and luxe, this chic beach towel with its bright and graphic Chinese motif has ample real estate perfect for toweling off, laying out, and catching the eyes of passer-bys.

ROW 4: THE FLIP-FLOP: Havaianas Slim Cool $28. Made in Brazil, there is no rubber thong more comfortable than Havaianas and vibrant Brazilian urban art adorns the signature textured footbed this flip-flop. A slim matte strap with a contrast logo finishes the colorful look with pop. THE BEACH TOY: Sunnylife Pacific Beach Paddles $25. Hailing from Down Under, this Made in Australia paddleball set features the signature Sunnylife brand design aesthetic. Bright colors, clean lines and geometric graphics decorate these paddles for extra hit of fun in the sun. THE WATER SHOE: Sperry Top-Sider H2O Escape Bungee Sneaker $90. This ultra-lightweight and flexible water shoe is designed for all your favorite water sport activities from paddling to kayaking to hiking the rocky shores. Adaptive Wave-Siping™ disperses water underfoot to enhance stability and reduce slippage. Internal water channels and a perforated footbed provide drainage and help feet dry more quickly. An adjustable bungee provides a secure, easy on and off fit.

 

 

Surph-o-morph

 

 

Recently exhibited at Milan Design Week 2014 were the three surfboards of the Surph-o-morph project: Orca, Delfino, and Squalo. The translation is Whale, Dolphin, and Shark and the design of each is based on the marine mammal for which they are named — from the nose down to the tail fins. Surph-o-morph represents the collaboration between Italian industrial designer Giulio Iacchetti and Francesco A. Fiorentio of Surfer’s Den Daily Surfboards.

The boards are currently in production on request at a cost 1500 euros each. Yes, these works of art are made to be surfed, but one might want to be cautious given their likeness to these large ocean fish, as real sharks already mistake surfboards for prey. As design objects, however, they are beautifully crafted and quite the statement piece in and out of the water.
 
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Windrunners

 
VERUSHKA IN VOGUE 1965; NIKE TECH WINDJAMMER JACKET 2014

 

We have had our eye on the new bright and graphic Nike Tech Windrunner Jacket, and by chance stumbled upon this image of Verushka from Vogue, photographed by Henry Clarke in 1965. Whether purely coincidental or direct inspiration, the resemblance of the windbreaker to the dress is uncanny. The pink, lavender and green color blocking with black taped seams, look as fab on this mod dress as they do on this modern running jacket, and the blue of the Mediterranean sky is echoed in the jacket’s hood.

The Nike Tech Windrunner Jacket is in fact one of the first pieces of apparel Nike created in 1978 when the company was known only for its footwear. This updated version is a statement piece designed to protect against the elements. It features moisture wicking Dri-Fit fabric, an adjustable scuba hood, raglan sleeves, a stretch hem, and cuffs with thumbholes for high performance style.

 

The SOS Quick Summer Shape-Up

 
BODY SPACE FITNESS AND OWNER KELVIN GARY

 

Located on West 14th st. in Manhattan is Body Space Fitness, a mini-training camp for the urban athlete. The gym is laid out like a football field with 65 ft. of astro turf, and filled with NFL style training equipment and other sports conditioning apparatus. Weight sleds, power ropes, TRX suspension trainers, agility ladders, kettle bells and more are all used as part of the functional training that is at the core of owner and coach, Kelvin Gary’s fitness philosophy. Functional training is designed to simulate everyday movements performed at home, work or sports with multi-muscle, full body exercises that build strength, speed, endurance, flexibility, and help prevent injury.  Says Kelvin, “I believe in training the body to work and workout the way it was designed. Resistance training should be performed with as much lower and upper body integration as possible.”

With June just a couple of weeks away, we asked Kelvin to design a quick “Body Baring Workout” to get you ready for the hot months of short shorts, swimsuits, little dresses and tank tops to come. It’s a 3-part workout, 15 moves in total, broken down into phases of 5 moves each. We debuted phase 1 four weeks ago, followed by phase 2, and now have phase 3 for you below, which introduces a band into the workout. Each phase should be performed once a week for a 3 x per week workout, 2-3 sets of each exercise, 10-12 reps of each, performed circuit style or consecutively.

For optimum results, Kelvin recommends combining these moves with cardio, which can be done in 1 short 15 minute interval training session or 30 minutes of continuous movement. For those of you opting for intervals, start with a 2 minute warm-up, followed by 1 minute on, 1 minute off. This can be walk-run, run-sprint, flat-hill or other variations of your preferred cardio. Read More

 

Time For Adventure

 

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THE BIG SUMMER SPORTWATCH

From the mountaintops to the race tracks to the deep seas, this summer’s watch takes its inspiration from the world of sport and puts the fun in fun-ctionality. With all the features required for your sportiest adventures, be they just a day at the beach or walk in the park, these watches have BIG style to match. And while built for a guy, they make the perfect sporty accessory for women too!

ROW 1: CHOPARD MILLE MIGLIA GT XL $8960. Chopard’s emblematic sportswatch is named after the world famous classic car rally, the Millie Miglia. Its natural rubber strap echoes the 1960s Dunlop Racing tire-tread motif and the 44mm steel case houses a self-winding chronograph certified by the COSC. TISSOT T-RACE $650. A popular choice of Tissot motorsport ambassadors, this sporty timepiece boasts a dramatic design with race inspired elements. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal shields three chronograph dials and features Swiss quartz ETA movement. CITIZEN PROMASTER ALTICHRON $850. Made of lightweight titanium, the Promaster Altichron features an electronic compass and altimeter that can measure a range of 1000 to 32,000 feet. This watch is built for adventure-seeker with the style of the urban dweller.

ROW 2: TECHNOMARINE BLACK REEF $890. Inspired by one of the world’s most popular diving destinations, the Black Reef collection is built for divers in pursuit of adventure and fun. With a 500m water resistance, the luminous three-hand dial is easy to read underwater and the bezel is simple to grip and turn while wearing diving gloves. ROLEX EXPLORER II $8100. When it was launched in 1971, the Explorer II set new standards for chronometric precision, and is the recognized guide, tool and companion of sophisticated explorers worldwide. CASIO AMW380-4AV $120. From the ever popular diver-inspired analog chronograph series this fun orange watch is 100m water resistant and features a bi-directional rotating bezel functional for any watersport activity. With its bold color and style, this sportwatch makes a big statement on land too.

ROW 3: ELECTRIC DW01 PU $375. The DW01 takes its inspiration from the classic dive watch and reinterprets it with modern aquatic style. 300m water resistant, the watch features a 6 hand Japanese quartz chronograph and is housed in a 44.5mm surgical stainless steel case. TAG HEUER AQUARACER 500M CHRONOGRAPH $5500. This Limited Edition Calibre 72 Countdown Chronograph was designed in partnership Oracle Team USA during the 34th annual America’s Cup. It features the official Team USA emblem displayed at 6 and the iconic Defender boat motif stamped on the case back. OMEGA SPEEDMASTER “DARK SIDE OF THE MOON”. The Speedmaster chronograph from Omega was created in 1957 and in 1969 claimed its place in history as the first watch worn on the moon. The Apollo 8 astronauts were the first to see the “Dark Side of the Moon”. This watch represents is a sleek new addition to the iconic collection and features a black zirconium oxide ceramic dial with striking 18K white gold hands.

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Pocket Change

 
KAUFMANN MERCANTILE EDC BIKE KIT

 
For those appreciative of utilitarian chic, Kaufmann Mercantile is one of those stores like Best Made and Terrain, that manufactures, curates and sells the most perfectly simple things. Games, toys, tools and other everyday basics, beautifully crafted with nostalgic appeal, are their specialty, and add to that list the EDC Bike Kit.

Every day carry (or EDC) refers to the Kaufmann Mercantile collection of pocket-friendly necessities, and the kit includes the five indispensable tools every cyclist needs: two hex keys for on-the-road bike adjustments, a pair of mini pry bars for unexpected tire changes, and a glow-in-the-dark compass, along with a quick release keychain attachment. Handcrafted and Made in the USA with corrosion proof brass and industrial steel, these tools are the perfect pocket companion for the sophisticated rider whether they encounter a mishap or not.

 

Soft Landings

 

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6 TRAINERS THAT GO THE DISTANCE

For those putting in the miles training for 10ks, triathlons, half marathons and more (NYC Marathon for this SOS Editor!), a cushioned running shoe with good stability and durability is essential. This season’s crop have all that, plus a whole lot of style, and now are lighter than ever as well. Check out these 6 picks for the top trainers that go the distance!

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BROOKS GHOST 6 $110. Winner of the Runners World Editors choice award 3 years in a row for its balance of cushioning, comfort and durability, the Ghost 6 is its lightest model to date. With full ground contact and segmentation of the sole, the shoe rolls with ease from heel-strike to toe-off, providing a soft and flexible ride. The unique offset lace loop keeps the tongue in place for a snug and comfortable fit.

SAUCONY KINVARA 5 $100. Another Runners World award winner, the fifth edition of the ever popular Kinvara, now weighs in at 7.7 ounces. Made with PowerGrid, this lightweight, ultra-premium cushioning foam maximizes rebound and flexibility for a smoother ride. The 4mm heel-to-toe offset allows for a more natural gait, giving the foot greater range of motion, and providing a more powerful running stride.

NEW BALANCE 890V4 $110. This lightweight trainer has been recognized for its responsive REVlite cushioning, but now offers more flexibility as well. The new sole configuration, with its deep grooves and rubber pods, give the forefoot more pliability, while the ABZORB® crash pad cradles the heel both medially and laterally for added stability.

NEWTON ENERGY NR $119. For those heel strikers who have wanted to experience the unique technology and ride found in Newton Running shoes, the EnergyNR facilitates the transition from a traditional running shoe to a more natural design. This is the second Newton model to incorporate their newer 5-lug sole design, which mirrors the structure of ball of the foot. With a more neutral heel drop than other Newton models, it offers more cushioning in the heel as well. Lightweight and bouncy, this is a fun and responsive shoe to work into the rotation.

NIKE FLYKNIT LUNAR2 $150. The Nike Flyknit Lunar2 delivers the ideal blend of support, comfort and style. The soft and responsive Lunarlon cushioning, combined with the ultralight and strong Flyknit upper, delivers a plush ride with a supportive fit. The one-piece Flyknit layer is a formfitting and virtually seamless upper. It is woven more openly in areas that need greater flexibility and tighter in areas that demand more support.

ADIDAS ENERGY BOOST 2 $160. BOOST™ foam is proven to provide one of the highest energy returns of any cushioning material in the running industry. It is temperature-resistant to keep the spring in your step regardless of weather conditions. Light and fast, these shoes offer a soft and bouncy responsiveness combined with a seamless, sock-like fit that stretches and flexes as you run for added comfort and support.

 

The Not-So-Basic Gray Sweatshirt

 

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The classic gray sweatshirt, long a staple of high school and college gymnasiums everywhere, has become a fashion favorite. From vintage reissues from Todd Snyder + Champion, to chain embellished from Saint Laurent, to flower appliquéd from Alexander McQueen, to silk backed from Jason Wu… the gray sweatshirt is no longer for the gym only, but a must have chic and sporty layer for spring. Here are 12 of our favorites!

ROW 1: ZOE KARSSEN STARS ALL OVER PRINTED JERSEY SWEATSHIRT $125; SAINT LAURENT CHAIN EMBELLISHED COTTON JERSEY SWEATSHIRT $890; MM6 MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA LEATHER-TRIMMED COTTON JERSEY TOP $375; ROW 2: LULU & CO POLKA DOT COTTON $125; ABERCROMBIE & FITCH JORDAN CROPPED SWEATSHIRT NOW $29; J.CREW WEEKEND SWEATSHIRT $39.99; ROW 3: TODD SNYDER + CHAMPION GREY HEATHER POCKET SWEATSHIRT $130; ALTERNATIVE APPAREL DASH FLEECE SWEATSHIRT $48; MCQ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN EMBROIDERED COTTON-JERSEY SWEATSHIRT $325; ROW 4: JASON WU SILK & WOOL SWEATSHIRT $995; MAISON KITSUNÉ FOX-PRINT COTTON SWEATSHIRT $225; MAJE FLASH DAVID BOWIE PRINT COTTON JERSEY SWEATSHIRT $248

 

100 Years of Wrigley Field

 
CHICAGO WHALES AT PITCHER HIPPO VAUGN AT WEEGHMAN PARK IN 1914.
THE PARK WAS RENAMED WRIGLEY FIELD IN 1927.

 

Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs, is celebrating its 100th birthday this season.  To commemorate the storied past of this historical ballpark, the 2014 season will honor 100 years of Wrigley Field with 10 decade-themed homestands, where the players will don a uniform from each era. April 23, marks the first outing in retro uniforms and the team will suit up in 1914 Chicago Federals pinstripes. The team was originally named the Chicago Whales and played in the Federal League in 1914 and 1915, a short-lived “third Major League”. They were known simply as the “Chicago Federals” to distinguish them from the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox.

 

ChicagoWhales
1914 CHICAGO WHALES, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CHICAGO FEDERALS

 

The team was founded by Charles Weeghman, and the original name of Wrigley Field was Weeghman Park. The Whales came in second in the Federal League rankings in 1914 and won the league championship in 1915, but the Federal League was disbanded following that season in a deal with the National and American Leagues. Weeghman Park was renamed Wrigley Field by the gum magnates in 1927. The Whales are notable as its original occupants and Wrigley Field is the only Federal League stadium still in use. To find out more about about the season long celebration, and see all 10 uniforms the Cubs will wear this season, check out WRIGLEY FIELD 100.

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The Rucksack

 

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The traditionally rugged canvas rucksack first became popular with hikers in the Swiss Alps in the 1930’s. It has made its way down the mountain and become the perfect hands-free carry all to transport laptops, gym clothes, a sweater, jacket, book or any other extra items one might want handy during the day. Both utilitarian and stylish, the modern version of the classic rucksack is constructed from a combination of durable canvas and bright nylons, still distinguished by its elegant leather straps, buckles, and other useful stash-and-go details. So whether trekking though the great outdoors or cruising city streets, here are our picks for the 9 perfect sacks to pack.

ROW 1: JANSPORT ADOBE $75. Inspired by the classic rucksack design and showcasing the original JanSport woven label from 1967, this rugged nylon pack features such modern necessities as a 15″ padded laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and padded shoulder straps, along with a double hook flap front, multiple exterior zip pouch and side snap-button pockets. L.L.BEAN WAXED COTTON CONTINENTAL RUCKSACK $149. Inspired by their own heritage and first introduced in 1930, this leather and weather-repellent waxed canvas rucksack has the vintage feel of the original along with modern comfort features. Synthetic shearling shoulder straps wick moisture away from skin and cushion heavy loads. ARCHIVAL COTTON DUCK RUCKSACK $230. A modern interpretation of the traditional, this pack is distinguished by its slim profile and simple design, and constructed from sturdy, water-resistant #8 cotton duck.

ROW 2: BROOKS PICKWICK DAY PACK $250. From noted english cycling brand Brooks, the Pickwick is versatile canvas roll-top backpack whose elegant design compliments the refined style of the urban rider. Available in 5 colors, and made from water-resistant treated European canvas, the Pickwick features a handy bottom zip pocket, perfect for storing a small U-lock, and a second pocket on rear of the bag. HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO. LITTLE AMERICA $85. With its mountaineer-inspired design and roomy storage options, this canary yellow rucksack is a stylish partner on rugged hikes or city treks. It features ventilated air mesh back padding and contoured shoulder straps; a fully lined and padded fleece 15″ laptop sleeve; main compartment cinch top closure and magnetic strap closures; and a front pocket with hidden zipper and key clip. DAKINE PULSE 18L $85. This camo pack with its neon orange rucksack buckles features a fleece lined padded tablet sleeve, U-lock and water bottle pocket, and a host of other handy compartments.

ROW 3: POLER ROLLTOP KHAKI $70. This stylish take on the classic roll top features room for a laptop, change of clothes, and even lunch, with an added front zip pocket for extra essentials. Multiple compression straps keep everything snug and enhance the design, while allowing for additional external transport options.  MASTER-PIECE OVER SUEDE-TRIMMED NYLON BACKPACK $315. Japanese design meets classic American style in this fun interpretation of the classic rucksack. Sturdy and practical, this green nylon pack features a top handle, brown suede trims, and multiple zip side pockets, front and top pockets, along with adjustable padded straps and padded back. BURTON SNOWBOARDS CANYON PACK $64.95. Heritage style with organizational convenience, this versatile pack offers internal, external, and laptop pockets, and mixes street style with mountain functionality. Made from bright and rugged ripstop nylon, and combined with genuine leather bottom and details, this pack is guaranteed hip and sturdy, as all Burton bags are backed by a lifetime warranty.

 

Running The Gamut: Minimal to Maximal

 
VIBRAM FIVE FINGERS

HOW DID WE GO FROM THIS?

 

HKA116-CITBK320

HOKA CONQUEST

TO THIS?

 

A few years ago a revolution occurred and the majority of recreational runners were informed they were running incorrectly. Because we were wearing traditional cushioned running shoes with an elevated heel, we were not using our feet the way they were anatomically designed to move. We should be running barefoot or in the most minimal footwear, using the ball of our foot as a shock absorber, not all that soft and sqooshy Nike Air. We were told that all of us heel strikers were headed for disaster and that forefoot running was the only way to prevent injuries. Well fast forward a few years and lots of injuries later, here we are on the opposite end of the spectrum, in the era of maximal running.

Whether it’s the promise of the perfect golf drive with a bigger club, quicker times in the pool with a full body swimsuit, or a more powerful swing with an oversized tennis racquet, all athletes, both recreational and professional, are looking for that edge to make them better, faster, stronger. The sports industry loves a trend they can market and sell. Call it “performance enhancing gear” — the equipment equivalent of steroids that’s not cheating.

When Christopher McDougall’s book Born to Run was published a few years ago, that celebrated the indigenous Mexican tribesmen who could run ultra-long distances without shoes and seemingly without injury, the response was sign me up! The book launched a craze to run barefoot or in the most minimal shoe possible, and a footwear vertical was born. Vibram FiveFingers led the way, and New Balance, Saucony and Brooks soon followed with minimalist designs, eager to capture the urban version of the superathletes in McDougall’s book. But in order NOT to get injured running in this minimalist footwear, you had to be a forefoot runner or change your style… not so easy if you’d spent your running life as a heel striker. Everyone also forgot that most us ran on pavement, not the more forgiving dirt trails of Mexico. Read More

 

The Surfers Cove

 

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A bit bohemian, a bit retro is look for surf this summer, whether catching waves or just catching some rays. Graphic wetsuits with 50′s style, a modern take on the classic wayfarer, crop top rashguards with scenic prints, leather beaded sandals, jewelry and more… it’s hot summer mash-up of patterns, colors and textures. So grab your board or just your towel, because the surf is up wherever summer finds you.

LEFT COLUMN: TORY BURCH BAJA BIKINI $190; ROXY SUNSET REMIX SHORT SLEEVE CROP TOP RASHGUARD $40.00; BILLABONG TRIBAL PRINT FRENCH TERRY SHORTIE SHORTS $39.95; REEF GYPSY LOVE SANDALS $38; CENTER COLUMN: MONCLER X PHARRELL LUNETTES $510; CYNTHIA ROWLEY WETSUIT $210; CHAN LUU TURQUOISE MIX WRAP BRACELET $195; MAAJI ROCK PAPER SCISSORS RASHGUARD $94.95; RIGHT COLUMN:AVIATOR NATION “PRAY FOR SURF” SIGNATURE HOODIE $165; ROBERT AUGUST 9’6 “WHAT I RIDE” LONGBOARD $840 

 

 

Nike + R.T Air Force 1

 
NIKE + R.T. AF1 COLLECTION

 

Now available at Nike.com, Net-A-Porter and Mr.Porter, is the much anticipated collaboration between Ricardo Tisci and Nike. While we have seen many sport and fashion mash-ups, the Nike + R.T Air Force 1 collection may be the most visually striking to date. Tisci, the Creative Director of Givenchy, has had a long term love affair with the Nike Air Force 1. A competitive basketball player growing up, he has reinterpreted the sneaker’s iconic design with vibrant colors and dynamic graphics. Four silhouettes are now on sale which include the Nike Air Force 1 Low, Air Force 1 Mid, Air Force 1 Hi and the most dramatic and fashion forward of the four, the gladiator style Nike Air Force 1 Boot. This white collection promises to sell out fast, but stay tuned for the black variations soon to come.

 

Fly Fishing Demystified

 

 

Now available in Patagonia retail stores and online is a new book entitled Simple Fly Fishing: Techniques for Tenkara and Rod & Reel, authored by the founder and owner of the company, Yvon Chouinard, in collaboration with Craig Mathews and Mauro Mazzo. It is part of a campaign being launched by the company designed to demystify fly fishing and make the sport more accessible. The book is the centerpiece of the Patagonia Simple Fly Fishing kit, which contains a tenkara-style fly fishing rod, box of flies, line and leader, and quick set up guide.

The tenkara fly rod contained in the kit has no reel and comes from a centuries-old Japanese fly fishing technique. “This is for the young person who has wanted to learn, but is intimidated by the complexity, elitism and expense of fly fishing,” notes Yvon Chouinard. “This is for the woman and her daughter who are put off by the image of the testosterone-fueled, good-old-boy bass and trout fisherman who turned the ‘contemplative pastime’ into a competitive combat sport. And for the long-time angler who has everything and wants to replace all that stuff with skill, knowledge and simplicity.”

The philosophy behind the campaign comes from Chouinard’s belief that the way towards mastery of any endeavor is to work towards simplicity, and to replace complex technology with knowledge. Patagonia’s Simple Fly Fishing kit aims to achieve just that. Chouinard has found this incredibly simple technique to be highly effective at catching even the most difficult, highly selective fish. Read More

 

Spring Training

 

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Continuing with Spring Training and our countdown to summer, it’s all about motivation. There is no better way than some fun new gear and apparel to get you going. Who wouldn’t want to swim in a sleek new suit, bike on a hot set of wheels or run in cushy new pair of kicks! Outside or in, here are a few of our favorite items to get you feeling sporty and looking fit as we get closer to the body baring months ahead!

ROW 1: TECHNOGYM WELLNESS BALL $225. We have never seen a Physio Ball quite so chic as this Italian model from TechnoGym. Featuring a zip-off matte black honeycomb cover and carrying case, the ball doubles as a chair that engages and works the core muscles while sitting as well. The ball comes with a training guide of exercises accessed through your smart phone. POC BLADE LARSSON EDITION $250. Designed primarily for road biking, these mod looking sport frames are lightweight, durable and flexible. The lens tints are optimized with enhanced contrast to spot irregularities, holes and gravel on the road. Anti-fog and repellent treatments help keep dirt, grime and water off the lenses, while rubber inserts and an adjustable nose piece keep frames in place.

ROW 2: SPEEDO ENDURANCE LIGHT LASER CUT $66. Lightweight and quick drying, this chlorine resistant swimsuit stays bright and resists sagging and snagging. Its sleek silhouette is enhanced by thin straps, a low cut back and laser cut sides, for extra resistance while training. XFINITY FITNESS BAND $30. Voted Gear of the Year in 2013 by Runners World magazine, this multi-purpose training tool is designed for both strengthening and stretching. Made of a pliable silicone-rubber, the “Change Your Grip, Change Your Resistance” design means you only need one band. The six loops allow multiple hand and foot options and an endless variety of exercises. The Xfinity Fitness Band comes packaged with six 20-minute fitness workouts on two DVDs and includes a 30-day meal guide. Y-3 FS MESH BACKPACK $300. Rugged yet urban, this luxe and sporty backpack features a large main compartment perfect for all your gym gear. A padded laptop sleeve, zip pockets for smaller items, mesh and bungee elastics hold all your other daily essentials too. Read More

 

White Beans

 

 

Just in time for spring,  L.L.Bean has released a Special Edition of their classic Bean boots in chic white on white. For the first time in their history, L.L.Bean has broken from their traditional palette of earthy browns, tans and blacks into more fashion inspired colors, that also include a red edition.

While there are many duck boots on the market, the L.L.Bean Boot is the original, first created in 1912. Recognized for the attention to detail and “Made in Maine” craftsmanship, the boots combine the waterproof protection of rubber-bottom boots with the comfort of full-grain leather. The chain-tread bottom provides traction and durability. A shearling lined edition is coming later this month.

So while we may be done with the snow, April showers are no doubt ahead, but we can brighten those rainy days with a new pair of old favorites. Click to shop the L.L.Bean Boot Special Edition. 

 

Home Run Style

 

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“Opening day” is March 31 and the official start of the 2014 Major League Baseball season. It signifies the beginning of another season of America’s Pastime and reminds us that the warm days of summer are just around the corner. Baseball fan or not, you gotta love a sun soaked afternoon at the ball park, the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd, cold beers and hot dogs. And we’ve got the hot gear and styles to take you to the game or anyplace else you may want to play ball. Baseball hats and jerseys; team sweaters, sweatshirts and boardshorts; bats, balls and mitts… check out all the home run swag for great 2014 season!

ROW 1: J.CREW MERINO MESH SLEEVE BASEBALL SWEATER $79.50. Inspired by the classic baseball tee, this soft merino sweater, with its open-knit raglan sleeves and curved hem, is perfect warm up on any game day. LEATHER HEAD LEMON BALL BASEBALL $38. Toss around a LEMON BALL baseball, inspired by the original lemon peel style baseballs from the early 19th Century. NEW ERA “MLB COOPERSTOWN” 59FIFTY CAP $34.99. Root for the home team with these New Era 59Fifty Cooperstown throwback hats. Available in multiple variations for all your favorite teams, we love the cheerful light blue Philadelphia Phillies cap shown above. Read More

 

Snack Time: The Best of the Bar

 

 

Late afternoons I often find myself a bit peckish. As an NYC woman on the go, I am always on the quest for a healthy snack bar, one that is easy to find when I’m hungry.  My first grab is usually the KIND BAR, which due to some major distribution, is available at most markets, delis and drugstores.  I happen to love dried fruit and nut clusters, and that is essentially what these are in a pre-packaged bar. They have 200 calories you can easily burn, 1 serving of protein to keep you full (7g) and are relatively low in carbs (17g). There are lots of tasty flavors to choose from, and right in line with the dietary obsession of the moment, are all Gluten free!

The best snack bars have a good balance of protein, carbs, fat and fiber to satisfy your hunger and keep the blood sugar stable. I look for bars with all natural ingredients and whole foods, ones that are low in sugar, have around 200 calories, 7-10 grams of protein and 16-24 grams of carbs. I am not as concerned about fat, 10-12 grams is fine, as long as its coming from things like nuts and the bars are high fiber. Read More

 

Intense Flattery

 

As warmer days approach, feet start to take a beating in our favorite little flats. To the rescue from Smartwool, known for their top quality merino sport socks and technical apparel are these Womens Secret Sleuth Socks, perfect for ballet flats, loafers, and low-cut sneakers. Even in the brightest colors, these socks stay hidden and provide a comfortable moisture wicking layer between you and your shoes. Rubberized patches on the inside of the heel keep the sock in place, so no matter how low you go, there is no annoying slippage of the sock into the shoe.  Available in 8 different colors, these stealth socks will keep your feet from feeling the heat this summer.

 

Pharrell on Wheels

 

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From his Vivienne Westwood hat at the Grammys, to Lanvin tuxedo shorts at the Oscars, to top of the charts hit, “Happy”, Pharrell Williams‘ influence in fashion and music is omnipresent. Yet unbeknownst to many is Brooklyn Machine Works, the NYC based bicycle company he co-founded last summer with BMX pro and rising star, Nigel Sylvester. The company manufactures BMX bikes, and in typical Pharrell mode, recently collaborated with the ultra luxe Paris based furniture design duo, Domeau & Pérès, to create a limited edition fixed gear bicycle.

Domeau & Pérès are recognized for their craftsmanship, and true to their style, the bicycle is couture hand stitched and covered entirely in water buffalo leather. As much artwork as mode of transportation, this made to order bike is priced at $16,500. It is currently available in a limited edition of 13 exclusively at Atelier Courbet in Manhattan’s Soho. Only one is being produced per color, so if yellow is your flavor, and price is not an object, best put the pedal to the metal now.

 

Support in Motion

 

 

A few weeks ago we did a feature on compression apparel (Bright & Tight) and the benefits of this kind of supportive activewear on athletic performance. A few months prior to that, we reported on Kinesiology Tape (It’s A Wrap), as a popular new trend in post-treatment physical therapy for both professional and recreational athletes. We recently received a pair of athletic tights and shorts to test from a company called Opedix, which seemingly combine the benefits of both these concepts into one piece of clothing.

The KNEE-Tec tights and CORE-Tec shorts from Opedix feature scientifically designed tensioning systems within a compression base layer designed to enhance the kinetic functioning of the body. The theory is like kinetic taping, the tights and shorts support muscles in motion while helping maintain proper alignment of the joints. Kinetics are essentially the study of movement and how the joints and musculature of the body interact for optimal functionality.

Developed out in Vail, Colorado, Opedix is founded by a former business executive turned ski instructor, Kim Gustafson, in conjunction with the Steadman Clinic, the renowned orthopedic surgery center based in Vail. While undergoing treatment there for an ongoing knee injury and degenerative arthritis, it seemed his only option to continue skiing was a cumbersome knee brace. He began to explore the concept of a more comfortable form of knee support, integrated into a pair of tights, and partnered with a group of biomechanical experts at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, a branch of the Steadman Clinic. Coincidentally, they had been investigating a similar idea.

The result was the KNEE-Tec tights, clinically tested and proven effective in supporting the musculature around the knee joint, and increasing function, strength and stability. The company followed up with the CORE-Tec shorts, designed to support the core, hips and low back. Both models use compression as a stabilizing force for increased muscle endurance. The tights are breathable, moisture wicking, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial.

So the question you all are asking is “Do they really work?” Can we answer scientifically? No. But I have now run in the shorts multiple times and have felt strong on every outing. Coincidence… maybe? You be the judge.

 

Hot In The Shades

 

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Big, Bold and Bright… there is no missing this season’s hottest shades! Sport brands like Oakley, Dragon and VonZipper, and fashion brands like Mykita, Carrera and Italia Independent have all pumped up the volume with colorful aviators, shields, and wraps all designed for extra fun in the sun. All styles are unisex too!

LEFT COLUMN: ITALIA INDEPENDENT I-ACE METAL $217. Slim shady are these thin metal frame aviators with rubber matte varnish and fumè lens. They are available in a host of colors and in a round frame as well. VON ZIPPER BIONACLE $95. These big bright shields will have you glowing under wraps in host a high octane colors. MYKITA OLIMPIA $580. From the award winning MYLON series, these ultra-stylized aviators blur the line between sport and fashion. They are extremely light, durable and feature scratch-resistant Zeiss lenses for 100% UVA and UVB protection. CARRERA CHAMPION RUBBER $129. This celebration of the iconic Carrera Champion combines the classic aviator frame with matte rubber temples in a variety of bright colors.

RIGHT COLUMN: DRAGON REMIX $150. These oversized shields are designed to block out the sun with megastyle and 100% UV protection. POC SPORTS DID $170. Golden Eyes! The DID offers superior optical performance and protection, for both casual and active use, with a slim lightweight frame and anti-scratch, anti-reflective NXT lenses. OAKLEY SPECIAL EDITION HERITAGE EYESHADE $200. Celebrating their 30th anniversary, Oakley has brought back this vintage performance classic as part of their Heritage™ Collection. ZEAL OPTICS FLEETWOOD $169. The 100% cotton frames are Italian made, biodegradable and digital Rx +3.00 to -5.50 ready with polarized lenses.

 

Sayulita Scrapbook 2014

 

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CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: VILLA AMOR; SURFBOARD RENTALS; SOS EDITOR CLAUDIA LEBENTHAL AND SOULCYCLE’S STACEY GRIFFITH; MORNING VIEW FROM VILLA AMOR; POST-RACE CHILLIN’; BUOYS GOING OUT TO MARK THE RACE COURSE; STACEY GRIFFITH POST BOOGIE BOARD SESSION; “DINING ROOM” AT VILLA AMOR; CLAUDIA WITH HER SIC 14FT SUP!

 
Team Style of Sport is just back from Sayulita, Mexico, and the 5th Annual Punta Sayulita Classic stand up paddlesurf contest. SoulCycle Master Instructor and Style of Sport Contributing Editor, Stacey Griffith, and I made the trek down to the Pacific Coast of Mexico for the second year in row, having had such a fun sporty spa retreat last trip.

Nestled in a cove on the Riviera Nayarit, about 40 minutes north of Puerta Vallarta, Sayulita has got to be the most perfect little surf town. With its small and gentle waves at one end of the beach, and pumping point break at the other end, Punta Sayulita is considered one of the premiere Stand-Up Paddle Surfing (SUP) destinations for beginners and pros alike. The town is filled with one-of-a-kind surf and clothing shops, each with an irresistible selection of swimsuits, board shorts, t-shirts, jewelry, bags, and other great accessories. It’s a high-low mix of bohemian style, trending chicer this year Punta Sayulita Beach Club and residential project getting closer to completion, and a crop of new shops opening up in its wake. Read More

 

Self Healthy Kitchen

 

 

SELF magazine recently launched “SELF Healthy Kitchen”, a line of frozen foods designed to make eating a nutritious meal as easy as just popping it in the microwave. The magazine partnered with Chef Calvin Harris to create a selection of all-natural entrees, minimally processed, and with no artificial ingredients. Whereas nutrition bars or shakes might have been the predictable nutritional product to launch, Editor-in-Chief Lucy Danziger recognized that the challenge to eat healthy came at mealtimes, especially dinner, when her readers wanted something fast, easy and satisfying.

We were recently invited to a tasting and sampled 4 different entrees: Steak with Portobello Mushrooms, Three Cheese Lasagna, Grilled Drunken Chicken and Southwest Style Vegetable Enchiladas. Made with such superfood ingredients as artichokes, avocado, broccoli, brown rice, kale, quinoa, I have to say all were pretty tasty! With a 90-minute spin class on tap for later that day, what I liked in particular was not feeling too full or heavy after the richer entrees.

Chef Calvin Harris is a classically French trained chef and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. As a child he witnessed the devastating effects of diabetes in his family, and as an adult saw what unhealthy eating was doing to his own life. He made it his mission to create the foods people loved, prepared in a healthy way. His first venture was a licensing partnership with NBC Universal/Reveille for the co-branded “The Biggest Loser/Simply Sensible” food line. It received an endorsement by the American Heart Association and quickly became one of the top sellers in refrigerated food category.

SELF Healthy Kitchen is not yet available in Manhattan yet (soon we hope!), but can be found in Stop & Shop, Ralphs, Dillons and other major groceries stores across the country. With all entrees less than 350 calories, looks like popular favorites such as Lean Cuisine and Weight Watcher Smart Ones might have a little competition in the frozen food aisle.

Photograph by Con Poulos for SELF

 

Pret-A-Sporter: Fall 2014

 

 

S14OPEN4

FALL COLLECTIONS 2014

JEREMY SCOTT ~ MARC BY MARC JACOBS
PREEN ~ PACO RABANNE

 
With the Fall 2014 Collections finally wrapped, it is time for our semi-annual “Pret-A-Sporter” round-up of the sportiest looks from the runways of New York, London, Milan and Paris. From “Apres-Chic” to “Hot Legs” to “Varsity Glam” it looks like a very souped-up sporty season to come… Read More

 

Chia Charged

 
MANGO CHIA PODS

 

Last summer, we ran a story titled Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia, about the hot new superfood chia, whose benefits were widely touted in the best-selling book, Born To Run, as one of the top fuel sources for endurance athletes. Utilized by the Tarahumara Indians, a tribe of ultra-runners in the Copper Canyons of Mexico, the chia seed is also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Because of their extreme absorbancy, chia seeds provide sustained energy and help prevent dehydration. They expand up to ten times their original size when soaked in water, forming a gel-like substance that slows the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar and fuels the body longer.

Last fall, at the New York City Marathon Expo, we found a number of new Chia products geared towards runners, most notably Chia Pod from the Australian company, The Chia Co. Enticingly packaged in a clear container, with a handy orange spoon tucked into the lid, Chia Pod consists of 3 ingredients — fruit, coconut milk, and chia seeds. What you see is what you taste. There is no added sugar, so while the banana flavor is sweet, the blueberry is quite tart. Somewhat strange at first, Chia Pods grow on you, with a texture worthy of note. Somewhat gelatinous, the seeds soak up the moisture of the coconut milk and remain as tiny chewable bubbles. They are most definitely a taste sensation.

Chia Pods are quickly gaining in popularity for both athletes and the health conscious. The Chia Co. recently partnered with eleven-time world champion surfer, Kelly Slater, to promote the benefits of chia on a global level, as well as the larger correlation between a healthy diet and wellbeing. Chia Pods are now sold in grocery and natural food stores (we just spotted them at Fresh Direct!), are available in four flavors, and are dairy free and vegan. Each Chia Pod has roughly 150 calories and provides 100% of the recommended daily intake of Omega 3 and 25% of your fiber. They are great as a power breakfast, quick lunch, pre-workout snack or savory desert, and made to eat and run!

 

The Pep Squad

 

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The look for spring 2014 is filled with team spirit, with designers like Marc Jacobs, Miuccia Prada, and Charlotte Olympia taking their inspiration from the cheerleading squads and the players for whom they cheer. From the football stadium to the soccer field to the basketball court and sidelines, classic letterman jackets, number jerseys, varsity sweaters, pleated skirts and tube socks have made their way onto the runway and street. So go team… it’s time to get your game on!

LEFT COLUMN: CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA TEAM SPIRIT VARSITY SUEDE WEDGE SANDAL $1295. Ra-Ra-Reminiscent of a varsity letter jacket, this Charlotte Olympia wedge turns collegiate nostalgia into fancy footwear. DKNY CROPPED PRINTED MESH TOP $95. Exclusive to Net-A-Porter, this DKNY cropped mesh top takes its inspiration from the football field and its hot midriff bearing players. MARC BY MARC JACOBS FLAME CREPE SLEEVELESS DRESS $498. This cheer-ful sleeveless silk dress is a pep squad classic — missing only the pom-poms! Check out this fun matching Washed Satin Jacket and Jumpsuit too!

CENTER COLUMN: Right on trend for the season is this soccer inspired look from PRADA SPRING 2014. World Cup Rio here we come! RIGHT COLUMN: RAG & BONE RAQUEL BOILED WOOL VARSITY JACKET $495. This varsity jacket is an American sportswear classic updated for this season with a clean and modern style. J.CREW COLLECTION FEATHERWEIGHT CASHMERE LONG-SLEEVE TEE IN VARSITY STRIPE $228. This cashmere sweater, with its varsity stripes, harkens back to collegiate days minus the course load. BALMAIN PLEATED DENIM MINI SKIRT $2280. From the resort collection (just a few left) is this cheerleader style denim pleated skirt. It’s fitted through the waist with a flattering style that flares out to three-dimensional pleats. ADIDAS ORIGINALS SUPERSTAR $75. This basketball classic, with its colorful three stripes, is the perfect sneaker to compliment all of the looks above and is now available in plethora of fun team colors!

CLICK ABOVE TO BE TAKEN TO SHOPPING DESTINATIONS!

 

 

Sporty Spring Sandals

 

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CLICK ABOVE TO BE TAKEN TO SHOPPING DESTINATIONS

Although many of us are still stuck in our snowboots, spring holidays and warmer days are just around the corner. The chic sandal for spring 2014 is very sporty, taking its inspiration from such classic outdoor brands and styles as Teva, Birkenstock, Body Glove, pool slides and watershoes. Bright and colorful, cool and comfortable, from sport and fashion brands alike, check out our top 10 picks for the hot sporty sandals for spring.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Birko Flor in silver $89.95; NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD Metallic Leather-Trimmed Raffia Sandals $820; TEVA Original Universal $40; LANVIN Holographic Woven Leather Sandals $990; PRADA Suede Asymmetric Flat Sport Sandal $710; GIVENCHY Swiss Floral-Print Flat Sandal $795; ADIDAS Adilette Slides $25 (can also be customized at Mi Adidas); KENZO Color-block Leather and Neoprene Sandals $250; KEEN Whisper Water Sandals $90; MARNI Metallic Leather Sandals $690

 

Crazy Sexy Cool

 
THE NIKE TIGHT OF THE MOMENT – MIDNIGHT CRAFTWORK

 
Nike’s collaboration with Japanese artist Yuko Kanatani continues with the second in a series of three limited editions titled “Nike Tight of the Moment”. Nike designers enlisted the highly sought-after Yuko Kanatani to create illustrations based on a body map provided by the Nike Sport Research Lab. The map uses athlete-informed data to show the location of muscle heating and cooling zones. Through experimentation with patterns, colors, and inspirations unique to the artist, the Nike Tight of the Moment highlights the intersection of athletic performance and artistic design, and celebrates the body in motion.

The NTM-Midnight Craftwork shown above comes in two Nike Pro styles, the Nike Pro Tight and Nike Pro Sports Bra. The print is also featured on the Nike Studio Wrap Pack and the Nike Roshe Run. All are now available at select retailers and on Nike.com.

Such artistry in fitness apparel is not limited to Nike alone, however, and in fact many fitness brands and their consumers have taken to expressing themselves with such bold prints and patterns. Below you will find a playful selection of spring offerings guaranteed to put the wild and crazy into any workout!

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ROW 1: ADIDAS AKTIV LONG SLEEVE HOODED TEE $45THE FIRST OF THE SERIES “NIKE TIGHT OF THE MOMENT” CALLED “MAGICAL KALEIDOSCOPE” $130 (no longer available); PRANA QUINN TOP $55; ROW 2: LOLE PADMA CAPRI $70; SWEATY BETTY ATHLETE WORKOUT TANK $55; ONZIE LONG LEGGING $65; ROW 3: ADIDAS ALLOVER PRINT THREE-QUARTER TIGHTS $55; PRISMSPORT IKAT CAPRI $78; NIKE ALLOVER PRINT WOMEN’S LEGGINGS $75

 

CLICK ABOVE TO BE TAKEN TO SHOPPING DESTINATIONS!

 

 

All You Need is…VANS!

 

 

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Fab Four’s arrival in America, Vans is releasing Beatles x Vans 2014 “Yellow Submarine” collection. The collection includes the Classic Slip-On, Authentic, Era and Sk8-Hi styles, and features stylized portraits, trippy scenics, and groovy graphics inspired by the Beatles groundbreaking animated film, “Yellow Submarine”.

The Classic Slip-Ons picture marine life swimming in a lavender sea; the Era shows John, Paul, Ringo and George together in a yellow garden; the Authentic is covered with  “All You Need Is Love” graphics; and the Sk8-Hi has large portraits of each Beatle on the ankles. The collection will be available in select stores and online March 1.

Read More

 

Sochi Style: The Looks We Loved

 

 

SKI JUMPING:
FEARLESS COLORS SOARING THROUGH THE AIR
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: SPELA ROGELJ OF SLOVENIA; ELENA RUNGGALDIER OF ITALY; DANIELA IRASCHKO STOLZ OF AUSTRIA; SARA TAKANASHI OF JAPAN

 

AS THE WINTER OLYMPICS DRAW TO A CLOSE, WE SAY FAREWELL TO SOCHI WITH A RETROSPECTIVE OF THE LOOKS WE LOVED! 

 

sochi figureskate

FIGURE SKATING:
CHIC AND PLAYFUL PARTY DRESSES ON ICE
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: YULIA LIPNITSKAYA OF RUSSIA; YUNA KIM OF SOUTH KOREA; GRACIE GOLD OF THE USA; YUNA KIM

 

sochi downhill

SKIING:
WILD AND CRAZY PATTERNS AT FULL TILT
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: MARIA HOEFL-RIESCH OF GERMANY; MACARENA SIMARI BIRKNER OF ARGENTINA; DOMINIQUE GISIN OF SWITZERLAND; ILKA STUHEC OF SLOVENIA; TINA WEIRATHER OF LIECHTENSTEIN; JULIA MANCUSO OF THE USA

 

sochi speedskating

SPEEDSKATING:
ON TRACK WITH SOPHISTICATED COLOR BLOCKING AND GRAPHICS
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: NATALIA CZERWONKA OF POLAND; YEKATERINA AYDOVA OF KAZAKHSTAN; JORIEN TER MORS OF THE NETHERLANDS; SEUNG JU PARK OF SOUTH KOREA

 

 AND CHECK OUT THE BEST OF THE SKELETON HERE ON HOT HEADS

 

 

Sweaty Saturday

 
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EXCEED PHYSICAL CULTURE; BROOKLYN BODYBURN; PUNCH FITNESS; BARI

 

“Sweat for a Cause” this Saturday February 22 at the second annual “SWEATY SATURDAY”, featuring New York City’s hottest workouts. On a day devoted entirely to health and fitness, boutique workout studios like Flywheel, Barry’s Bootcamp, The Fhitting Room, Tracy Anderson Method, Physique 57, Pure Yoga, Exhale, SLT and many more will all come together for a single cause, Partnership for Healthier America, an organization devoted to eradicating childhood obesity. This day-long event will transform the city’s fitness landscape into one big workout party with studios offering special classes, amazing music, and lots of good freebies.

So go workout, have fun, get free stuff, do some good for yourself and somebody else… sounds like a pretty good way to spend a Saturday to us! For more information go to: http://sweatysaturday.com

 

XOXO

 

 

RED, HEART COVERED, SPORTY AND SEXY…

WE’RE FEELING THE LOVE THIS VALENTINES DAY!

 

LEFT COLUMN: LINDA FARROW REVO HEART SUNGLASSES $350. Sunglasses maven Linda Farrow first set up in the ’70s, becoming a pioneer for eyewear innovation, luxury and design. The “Heart” sunglasses are luxe cult classics. AIGLE MALOUINE $119. Established in France in 1853, Aigle boots are recognized for their quality, design and craftsmanship. The Malouine is the classic seaside, thin sole, rubber boot. AVIATOR NATION HEART HOODIE $115. This vintage California style zip-up hoodie is appliquéd with a rainbow heart at front and back. Matching sweatpants are also available. PLAY BY COMME DES GARÇONS CHUCK TAYLOR LOW TOP $100. These canvas low top sneakers feature a layered rubber cap toe and contrast heart face detail at side.

CENTER COLUMN: STELLA MCCARTNEY STRIPED HEART PRINT TANK $435. This red striped cotton tank features a ribbed crew neck, front foliage print, and contrast heart prints back. KEITH HARING RED RUNNING HEART CANDLE $65. Sweetly scented with notes of candy apple, cinnamon, caramel and vanilla, this candle comes in a Keith Haring-inspired glass container with an image of a running heart. MILLY LOVE BRACELET $45. Available in gold and silver plated metal, this bracelet says it all. In store only at Milly Madison.  MARTONE CYCLING HELMET $115. Equestrian styled, this bright and shiny red brimmed helmet will have you cycling chic through city streets.

RIGHT COLUMN: CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA LOVE ME HEART APPLIQUE PUMP $1450. Suede and leather red and fuchsia hearts form the upper of this playful Charlotte Olympia peep toe pump and feature her signature beveled island platform. FREE CITY “IDOVEYOU” SHERPA HAT $58. We dove this hat, available in five chipper color combinations. L’AGENT BY AGENT PROVACATEUR BRIEFS $46 & BRA SET $92. You never know what hides beneath that sporty facade, like these sweet and sexy matching red lace stretch-tulle briefs and bra with an appliquéd heart.

CLICK ABOVE TO BE TAKEN TO SHOPPING DESTINATIONS!

 

Bamboo For Performance

 

 

How many of us have wondered about the strange odor emanating from our bodies during an intense workout that we can’t imagine having produced ourselves! Polypropylene and other polyester based performance fabrics are derived from petroleum, and while great for breathability and wicking, they are also noted for their aroma when soaking up the sweat.

We recently received samples of the new line of athletic wear called tasc Performance, which is fabricated from bamboo fibers. Soft, stretchy and lightweight, after a couple of sweaty spin classes we can attest this line is truly odor free as well. Their Bamboo Performance Technology ™ combines fibers derived from bamboo with a patent-pending fabric finishing process that enhances the performance characteristics which naturally exist in bamboo. The bamboo fibers are ring spun with organic cotton or merino wool fibers to produce a soft, smooth and durable performance fabric ideal for running, yoga, spinning, winter sports or any other active endeavor of choice… and with no unwanted accompanying scents!

 

Nordic See & Ski

 

CROSS COUNTRY SKI GLASSES

One of the coolest parts of watching the Olympics is seeing all the sport specific style, gear and accessories one is only exposed to every four years. The nordic skiing competition has been in full swing, and we took notice of the eyewear the athletes have been wearing in the cross country events like the biathlon and skiathlon. Yes, there are the traditional sport sunshields, but there are also these hybrid goggle-sunglasses, offering the protection of a goggle with the smaller frame of a sunglass. They are secured in place by an adjustable strap that can also be traded for traditional temples, and the lenses flip up into a visor with a push of the finger. This is a feature utilized in particular by biathletes, who stop and target shoot in the middle of their race, although we think this would be very convenient for everyday use as well!

FROM TOP: BLIZ PROFLIP. Bliz Active lenses are made of unbreakable Polycarbonate with 100% UV protection. Polycarbonate is up to 10 times more impact-resistant than plastic or glass lenses and offers the highest degree of protection. They are also thinner and lighter than regular plastic lenses, ideal for rimless sports eyewear designs.

JULBO “THE SNIPER”. Little bit of a scary name, but The Sniper is designed for cross-country skiing. It comes with a choice of Zebra photochromic lens, combining excellent reactivity to light conditions and outstanding optical quality. Optimum ventilation and ergonomic design reduces air currents to protect the wearer from condensation when going up hills and cold when coming down.

CASCO NORDIC SPIRIT. Originally developed for pro racers, the Nordic Spirit is perfect for the recreational skier as well. From the beginner’s model with PC lenses to the professional version with Vautron-Technology, the custom fit and maximum comfort of this Nordic shield is guaranteed during highest sports activity.

 

Hot Heads

 
ROW 1: JOHN FAIRBAIRN/USA; ANJA HUBER/GERMANY; SARAH REID/CANADA; ROW 2: KATIE UHLAENDER/USA; SEAN GREENWOOD/IRELAND; TOMASS DUKURS/LATVIA; ROW 3: RAPHAEL MAIER/AUSTRIA; MARINA GILARDONI/SWITZERLAND; NOELLE PIKUS/USA

 
In the head first sport of skeleton, the helmet is the critical piece of safety equipment, but at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics the helmets are as much about style as protection. With their faces just inches from the ice, these olympians can’t be missed bombing down the track at speeds of up to 85mph, their heads adorned in extreme regalia. “Stealth Bomber”, “Brainiac”, “Dawn of the Dead”, “Hot Rod” and “The Eagle Has Landed” are a few of the fitting names we have come up with for these helmets. So look for these athletes to be competing for both speed and style when the skeleton is contested next week.

 

Compression Gear: Bright & Tight!

 

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CLICK TO SHOP ABOVE

LEFT COLUMN: 2XU WOMEN’S VENTED LONG SLEEVE COMPRESSION TOP $99.95CW-X STABILYX 3/4 TIGHTS $89.99; UNISEX PERFORMANCE RUN SLEEVES $44.95; CENTER COLUMN: NIKE WOMENS PRO II COMPRESSION FIT SHORTS $25; SKINS A200 COMPRESSION TANK TOP $89.99; 2XU ELITE COMPRESSION TIGHTS $139.95; RIGHT COLUMN: CEP PROGRESSIVE+ RUN SOCKS 2.0 $60NIKE PRO COMBAT HYPERWARM COMPRESSION LITE MENS TIGHTS $50; UNDER ARMOUR WOMEN’S FLY-BY COMPRESSION CAPRI $49.99

What’s all the fuss over compression gear? It’s one of the fastest growing categories in apparel, and the sleeves, socks, tights and tops are becoming ubiquitous in the gym, at the track, and on the road. “The calf sleeves and socks sell themselves because there is a fashion component to them,” said Jerry Macari, owner of retailer/running club Urban Athletics in New York. “They look kind of cool and everybody has them so I have to get them.”

With a structure that is engineered to apply strong pressure to specific parts of the body, compression athletic apparel is derived from the medical field, where for years it has been used to improve circulation in patients with low blood pressure, treat vascular irregularities and prevent leg and ankle swelling. Dr. Peter J. Duggan DC CSCS, partner at Duke Chiropractic in New York, says he prescribes compression gear for everyone from serious athletes to weekend warriors.

But does it enhance athletic performance? The idea is that during and after exercise, compression increases circulation which reduces inflammation and promotes recovery. It also reduces vibrations so there is less fatigue. Manufacturers will claim many benefits—Under Armour, which essentially created the compression sports apparel market, tells you that “ultra-light, second-skin fit delivers a locked-in feel that keeps your muscles fresh & your recovery time fast”—but the science isn’t as conclusive. The results generally support the idea that compression gear does little to enhance actual performance—it won’t make you any faster or stronger—but it can have a moderate effect on recovery of maximal strength and power, reductions in muscle swelling and muscle pain, blood lactate removal, and increases in body temperature. Read More

 

Portfolio: Brian Bielmann

 

SHOOTING DOWN TO KE-IKI BEACH FROM PIPELINE, WHERE THE WAVES HIT THE ROCKS AND EXPLODE

 
2.Love went Mad

“THE WALL” AT PIPELINE: SAYS BIELMANN, “THIS ANGLE SHOWS HOW BIG AND SCARY IT REALLY IS. WATCH TOO MANY SETS AND YOU TALK YOURSELF OUT OF GOING OUT.”

 
underwater

HAVING PENETRATED THE WAVE, BIELMANN MADE EYE CONTACT WITH THIS SURFER RIGHT BEFORE HE GOT SUCKED BACK OVER THE FALLS.

 

BRIAN BIELMANN is an internationally renowned surf photographer with a body of work lauded worldwide. His passion for both surfing and photography have kept him on the forefront of the genre for over 35 years. Brian got his start after a wipeout on a reef kept him out of the water for month. It was then that he picked up a camera and realized he could make a living doing what he loved by photographing it. He describes himself as a photographer first, surfer second, and his pictures capture the lifestyle in which he has been immersed, living on the North Shore of Oahu — home of such breaks as Pipeline, Waimea and Sunset Beach. As he said at a recent TEDx Talk in Honolulu, “I love it, I live it, I photograph it.”

I had the pleasure of working with Brian 15 years ago on a shoot in Brazil for Conde Nast Sports for Women. We were there to photograph the top women bodyboarders and while waiting for waves Brian kept us all laughing and entertained. We have stayed in contact and chatted last week about his career and pictures. With all the snow sports about to take over our lives for the next two weeks as the Winter Olympics are contested, I thought it might be nice to go to the beach for a moment, especially given what an arctic winter it has been.

CL: Brian, you are considered one of the best surf photographers. What is it about your pictures that sets you apart?

BB: I want the shot that nobody is taking. The fish eye is really popular right now, but I am shooting with a longer lens which is rare. Don’t get me wrong, the fish eye is cool. It sees the inside and ceiling of the wave, but it looks the same whether it’s 3 foot or 8 foot. It doesn’t do the wave justice. With a longer lens, say in the 70-200m range, you see the thickness of the lip of the wave and the roof. It gives you a view of the whole house as opposed to just the living room. Read More

 

Olympic Style

 

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DRESS LIKE AN OLYMPIAN!

After much anticipation, the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games are just a few days away, with the opening ceremonies this Friday, February 6. Olympic fever is running high and what better way to support Team USA than dressing just like them! Much of the official gear and apparel the athletes will be wearing is available in spectator editions, and many sport brands have released special red, white, blue, and star-spangled pieces for those excited to support the home team during their own outdoor athletic pursuits! A portion of the proceeds from many of these items go to support the athletes. So click above to shop and bring home your own gold with these limited edition sweaters, jackets, vests, helmets, goggles, sunglasses and more, guaranteed to keep the Olympic flame burning long after the games are over.

LEFT COLUMN: NIKE AEROLOFT 800 SUMMIT JACKET $450. A replica of what the Team USA Olympic athletes will be wearing on the podium in Sochi, this 800-fill Aeroloft insulated jacket provides hi-tech warmth and style. Available in silver and gold, titanium nano-coating reflects UV to retain body heat, while laser cut ventilation provides breathability. See the entire Nike Sochi Collection. PERFECT MOMENT AURORA JACKET $350. Although Perfect Moment is a French company, we share the red, white and blue! This weatherproof softshell jacket is designed for active use, both on and off the mountain. It is made with technical Schoeller Energear™, a revolutionary new fabric that retains heat by reflecting the body’s Far Infrared Rays (FIRs) back to the wearer. The theory is FIRs, like the suns rays, provide not just heat but energy that affects performance and overall wellbeing. Not bad for a patriotic little warm-up jacket! RALPH LAUREN TEAM USA CEREMONY ALEIGH BOOT $395. Designed exclusively for the 2014 U.S. Olympic Team, the limited-edition classic Aleigh boot will make its debut in the opening ceremonies and is available for us here at home too.

CENTER COLUMN: JULBO EXPLORER $125-190. Julbo’s top-of-the-line mountaineering sunglass, the Explorer, is designed to perform in high altitude environments, where eyes are susceptible to damage from the sun and snow reflections. Explorer is available with either polarized, photochromic, or anti-fog lenses and come with removable eye protecting side shells. They are shown here in white, with red and blue accents, for added Olympic style. UVEX P1US CHROME SOCHI EDITION SKI HELMET $275. Uvex helmets will be seen on over 500 athletes in Sochi and from The Race Collection comes this style infused blue chrome ski helmet. Designed with the safety standards required of Olympic level competition, the P1US is also 16% lighter than traditional helmets, as well as being 100% recyclable. THE NORTH FACE INTERNATIONAL NUPTSE VEST $160. The North Face is an official sponsor of US Freeskiing and is the US Freeskiing official competition uniform supplier. Amply insulated with 700-fill goose down, this North Face classic, the Nuptse vest, is extremely warm, lightweight, and compressible for travel. This Limited Edition is available in the official colors of a variety of countries, and is shown here in the striped French edition. Read More

 

W.O.W! Working Out With Stacy London

 
SELFIE WITH STACY LONDON, CENTRAL PARK, DEC. 31, 2013

 

On December 31st, the last and very chilly day of 2013, my friend Stacy London and I went for a power walk in New York City’s Central Park. I had asked her to join me for the inaugural installment of Style Of Sport’s “WOW” (Working Out With) series, a conversation in motion, with people you know, to talk about health, fitness, nutrition, wellness, and the body issues that challenge us all.

For those of you who don’t know Stacy London, she was the tough-love-with-a-smile style guru and co-host of TLC’s “What Not to Wear” for its 10 season run (the show’s last episode aired in October 2013). She helped transform fashion disasters into their most stylish selves, while doling out some bigger picture life advice along the way.

While Stacy is at ease motivating others, when it comes to her fitness regime she has faced some hurdles, due primarily to a number of physical issues. As she revealed in her book, The Truth About Style, Stacy suffered with severe psoriasis as a child. She has now developed Psoriatic Arthritis, a type of arthritic pain and inflammation that can occur in those with psoriasis. She only recently received this diagnosis, however, despite suffering from unexplained pain and chronic fatigue for the last couple of years. Interestingly, when I asked her if there any topics she wanted to discuss in particular, she said “the importance of moving… both literally and figuratively”.

So on the last day of January, the big month of fitness resolutions, I thought it would be fitting to share our conversation and provide some inspiration to achieve those goals in the  year ahead. Read More

 

Fashion’s Fantasy Football

 

 

In celebration of Super Bowl XLVIII and in support of the National Football League Foundation, the CFDA and Bloomingdale’s have teamed up on a special collaboration of 48 bespoke football helmets, created by an all-star team of designers. The helmets are being auctioned online, with 100% of the net proceeds benefiting the NFL Foundation, dedicated to promoting and improving the safety of the game. The NFL has been under much scrutiny as of late with numerous retired players coming forward revealing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to repetitive head injuries. CTE causes neurobehavioral problems like memory loss, depression, suicidal thoughts and dementia. The NFL Foundation recently gave a $1.5 million grant to launch Heads Up Football, in an effort to promote better and safer game.

This fabulous collection of haute helmets are currently on display in the windows of Bloomingdales 59th street flagship store in Manhattan. Participating designers include Alejandro Ingelmo, Betsey Johnson, Billy Reid, Cynthia Rowley, Catherine Malandrino, Cynthia Rowley, Diane von Furstenberg, Donna Karan and Narciso Rodriguez, just to name a few.

Fashion and football fans can visit Bloomingdales.com/superbowlhelmets to access the NFL Auction and bid on these one-of-a-kind Super Bowl XLVIII helmets. The auction ends February 4, so don’t miss this opportunity to own one of these couture sport headpieces and support the cause!

 

The Legend Returns

 
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: STAN SMITH ON COURT AT WIMBLEDON 1972; THE NEW ADIDAS STAN SMITH; NEW COLOR TABS; STAN SMITH VULC IN RUNNING WHITE; ADIDAS CONSORTIUM STAN SMITH WITH REPTILE EMBOSSING; STAN SMITH VULC IN BLACK 

 

Out of production since 2012, Adidas announced last week the return of the iconic Stan Smith tennis shoe and a whole new collection. A timeless classic and fashion favorite, the shoe was first launched in 1973 and named after 1970’s American tennis star, Stan Smith. Born in 1946, Smith is a two-time Grand Slam singles champion (US Open 1971, Wimbledon 1972) and was ranked No. 1 in the world in 1972. The Stan Smith was the first leather tennis shoe ever produced and considered very high tech at the time.

Besides the classic fairway green, the Stan Smith is now available in an array of new vibrant colored heel tabs, in addition to a suede skate shoe edition, the Stan Smith Vulc. Adidas has also announced their boutique Consortium line will offer four special editions of the shoe featuring premium leather treatments — cracked leather, reptile, ostrich and pebbled phoenix leather –in the original white and green Stan Smith color scheme, to be released on January 25.

To promote the relaunch, Adidas has created a video entitled ‘The Return of Stan Smith’, which features Smith himself, and celebrities including ‘Arrested Development’ actor Will Arnett, and brand ambassadors such as Andy Murray.

 

 

“It’s Your Level Now”

 

 

A few years ago while skiing in Crested Butte, Colorado I found myself alone on a trail that I seriously wondered how I was going get down. The extreme terrain at Crested Butte is “ski at your own risk”, and while I had skied there many times before, it was always with a guide or local skier familiar with the mountain and snow conditions.  It was a lucky encounter with a local ski bum and his wise words that got me down that run. “It’s Your Level Now”. Those words have become my mantra. I wrote about the experience in the February 2014 issue of Fitness magazine, which you can read here…

There are two types of expert skier: those who ski on the trails and those who ski off them. You could argue whether the latter are the more skilled, but there’s no doubt that they are the more extreme. When I was growing up in New York City, family vacations to the resorts in New England consisted of sticking to the mountain trails. Venturing “off piste,” or skiing backcountry, which is so popular now, was not something that ever occurred to us to do.

I’ve since become one of those skiers who ride the back side of the mountain, where the double black diamond trails are often unmarked and it’s “proceed at your own risk.” I graduated from tackling the tamer mountains in the East to skiing in the Rockies, picking up skills and savvy from resident pros along the way. My safety net is that I always go with a guide or locals who know the mountain, the conditions, where to ski, and where not to. Or at least it was until recently.

I was vacationing a couple of winters ago in Crested Butte, Colorado, with family who still prefer to ski the groomed intermediate slopes. I figured I had skied the back bowls here enough to be able to find a manageable path down by myself. So I grabbed onto the no-frills T-bar that takes you there — if this rickety “lift” doesn’t intimidate you, there are signs next to it that read “Extreme Terrain, No Easy Route Down.” As the manicured trails faded away behind me, I knew there was no turning back. At the top, I skied over to one of the ridges that access numerous trails and bowls, all ungroomed and varying in difficulty. I passed one trail after another, thinking, No…too steep, No…too rocky, No…too little snow cover, until I got to the end and realized I was out of options. I had to ski the only trail left. So down I went, thinking, This isn’t so bad, when the already-sketchy snow turned into big rocks and a cliff. Read More

 

Opposites Attract

 

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Blacks and whites, darks and lights, the trend right now in sporty gear and apparel is graphic and bold. Stripes, accents and color blocks of opposite colors give chic and elegant style to everyday sportswear. From down jackets to track spikes to even loungewear at home, here are 10 of our January favorites!

LEFT COLUMN: CANADA GOOSE CHILLIWACK BOMBER $595. A seriously warm coat with seriously major style, this bomber down jacket is crafted to withstand the harshest conditions and temperatures as low as -20°C. It is shown above in chic white with black lining, cuffs and closures, and an extra warm coyote-trimmed tunnel hood. NIKE ZOOM RIVAL D8 TRACK SPIKE $65. Don’t you wish you ran competitive track just to wear these these statement black, white and gray striped spikes? For those of you who do, we know you must be fast! ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY WEEKENDER BACKPACK $130. Featuring contrasting black mesh all-around side pockets, elastic bungee strap and buckle to keep items secure, this tall off-white backpack has chic city style with sporty functionality.

CENTER COLUMN: ART PRODUCTION FUND + YOKO ONO WATER BOTTLE $28. Created in collaboration with Yoko Ono, stay hydrated with this stainless steel water bottle stamped with the artist’s signature “Imagine Peace” slogan in different languages. KIKI DE MONTPARNASSE SATIN TRIMMED JERSEY CAMISOLE $260 & PAJAMA SHORTS $195. Sexy is this sporty lounge and sleepwear from Kiki de Montparnasse. White semi-sheer ribbed cotton-blend jersey is contrasted by a black racer back and buttons fastening up the front. NIXON WATCHES “THE NEWTON” $125. Designed with elegant simplicity, with it’s rotating disc display, this watch tells you all the time you need to know. Shown above in black with white dot “hands”, it is also available in reverse, and in a selection of other colors as well.  NIKE SPORT HEADBANDS $10. Black, white, and striped, these thin graphic headbands come in a pack of 6.

RIGHT COLUMN: T BY ALEXANDER WANG BROAD STRIPE SWEATER $310. Cotton and merino wool blend, this ribbed graphic bold striped crew neck is the perfect all season sweater. MAVIC PLASMA HELMET $179.95. This high performance cycling helmet features an Ergo Fit Retention System, 20 sleekly constructed cooling Clima-vents, along with Alutex reinforcement, for pro-level fit, comfort and strength. ELIZABETH ROBERTS EPIC JACKET $695. The silhouette-skimming cut, pleated racing stripe sleeves, and graphic contrasting colors give elegant style to this sporty jacket. Made from Schoeller fabric, it is water, wind and stain repellent, and features hidden seam and forearm pockets, along with patented SmartShield protective pocket technology for mobile devices.

 

Miracle On The Hudson: A Friend’s Story

 

 

You can never know what the experiences are of the person sitting next to you. I met Michelle Evans on a spinning bike. We both take Stacey Griffith’s classes at SoulCycle multiple times a week and through our shared passion for this physical activity and our instructor, we’ve become friends.

One day last summer, Michelle and I went to get a juice after class. While standing online, Michelle surprisingly told me she had been on US Air Flight 1549, the plane that famously crash landed in the Hudson River after a flock of geese hit the engines. I was stunned. I had no idea that someone I saw almost every day had survived of one of the most famous plane crashes in history–an incident everybody had seen on the news or read about in the paper, and one that none of us ever could imagine going through.

Michelle was the first person off the plane. She was seated in the exit row, seat 10A, right next to the door. Michelle was terrified of flying and always chose that seat if it was available. How many times have we chosen a seat in the exit row for the legroom, but ever imagined we would actually be the one to open the door?

Today marks the five-year anniversary of the crash of flight 1549. I asked Michelle if she would share her experience with those of us who know her so well from Soul Cycle, and with the Style of Sport community. Michelle kindly agreed. I asked Stacey Griffith to join our conversation as she is someone who has become an important part of the positive experience Michelle has taken away from this life-changing event.

The images below are pages from the book Miracle on the Hudson which Michelle gave to Stacey for her birthday. She annotated it with Post-It notes of her personal experience from that day.

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“THURS JAN 15 2009. SNOW IN THE AM. I WAS ALREADY VERY NERVOUS SINCE I HATE FLYING. I HEARD THE SNOW WOULD END MID-DAY SO I CHANGED MY FLIGHT TO THE 3:30 PM (NOT SUCH A GREAT IDEA). I WAS LIVING IN CHARLOTTE, NC AT THE TIME AND CAME TO NYC FOR 1 DAY TO HAVE MY FINAL WEDDING DRESS FITTING. I WAS VERY ILL AND ALMOST CANCELLED THE TRIP. BUT I WAS GETTING MARRIED ON FEB.15, 2009 IN MAUI, HAWAII”

 

ME: I don’t really even remember everything that happened and actually the book gives the best recounting. It had snowed that morning but it was clear when we left. If you remember last week when the weather was 11 degrees — that’s how cold it was that day. When I think back I still wonder, how the hell did I go into the water? My memory of everything is warm. Read More

 

Paddle As Accessory

 
RIVIERA VANTAGE ART AND BRANCH SERIES SUP PADDLES

 

When you have bright and colorful Stand Up Paddleboards, swimsuits, board shorts and rash guards, why settle for a boring black SUP paddle? For all you fun loving paddlesurfers comes the Vantage Art Series and Vantage Branch Series SUP paddles from Riviera Paddlesurf.

Available in 11 different styles, 5 in exotic wood and 6 in the graphic series, this top of the line carbon fiber paddle is not just for looks only. Ultra light and stiff, it provides a powerful boost of acceleration to each stroke and the all carbon construction gives the paddle superior strength and durability.

So make a fashion statement out there on the water as you paddle by the pack — in plaid, camo, zebra and more –with the hot new must SUP accessory.

 

Body Hydration

 

THE BEST WINTER MOISTURIZERS

There is no doubt that Mother Nature is showing us what she’s made of this winter, dishing out frigid temperatures across the country. Our poor skin has been taking a beating in the cold, and it’s time to go on the offensive with nourishing body moisturizers that hydrate and protect against the elements. From boutique beauty to drug store brands, here are our favorite fresh and naturally scented body lotions to keep skin moist, soft and smooth, regardless of the weather outside.

LEFT COLUMN: FRESH SUGAR LYCHEE BODY LOTION. This sweet lychee-scented lotion is enriched with shea butter and mango seed oil to nourish the skin; vitamins C and E and lychee extract to protect the skin; and brown sugar, a natural humectant, to soften the skin. THE BODY SHOP MANGO BODY BUTTER. This super-rich and creamy body butter is a feast for dry skin. It contains Community Fair Trade cocoa butter and has a scrumptious mango scent. L’OCCITANE SHEA BUTTER BODY LOTION. Moisturize, nourish and protect dry skin in a trove of nature’s treasures, including 15% Shea Butter (derived directly from the African Shea tree), natural honey, and apricot oil. Subtle essences of jasmine and ylang-ylang enhance the senses.

CENTER COLUMN: C.O.BIGELOW LEMON BODY CREAM. A favorite in the apothecary since 1870, this time-honored formula is proven intensive moisture care for very dry skin. Nourishing lemon extracts, super charged with Vitamin C; ultra-moisturizing Shea Butter; and replenishing Kukui Nut Oil, rich in essential fatty acids, are blended together to create this lemony rich body cream. BLISS LEMON AND SAGE BODY CREAM. Another delectable lemon body lotion and customer favorite, this paraben-free moisturizer bathes the skin in deliciously fragrant super hydration. EGYPTIAN MAGIC SKIN CREAM. A beauty insider and celebrity favorite, Egyptian Magic is an all-natural skin cream said to be derived from a formula found in ancient Egyptian tombs. It is made from six of nature’s most powerful moisturizing and healing ingredients. Olive oil penetrates skin, leaving it soft and supple, while beeswax creates a protective barrier to help retain moisture. Honey and royal jelly rejuvenate skin and support collagen production. Bee pollen absorbs free radicals and propolis extract promotes healing.

RIGHT COLUMN: NIVEA ESSENTIALLY ENRICHED BODY LOTION. This drugstore favorite is a moisture rich formula of natural sea minerals and almond oil that intensively hydrate and nourish dry skin. AQUAPHOR HEALING OINTMENT. Dermatologist recommended, Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a multi-purpose, no-frills, fragrance-free total body moisturizer that protects and soothes extremely dry skin, chapped lips, cracked hands and feet, and many other winter skin maladies. KEIHL’S CREME DE CORP. This customer favorite, rich, non-greasy, and hydrating body moisturizer is enriched with antioxidants and emollients such as Beta-Carotene, Cocoa Butter, Sesame Oil, and Kiehl’s signature ingredient, Squalane, a botanical lipid that helps restore skin’s natural moisture balance.

FOR MORE WINTER SKIN HYDRATION, CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE LIP BALMS

 

Low In Pro, Goggles To Go

 

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The new face of ski and snowboard goggles is slim and trim, with rimless, low profile and barely there frames. Most feature quick and easy lens switch systems that can be swapped as fast as the light changes… some without even removing your gloves. This generation of goggles offers wide and unobstructed peripheral vision with clear views left, right, up and down, designed to stay that way with unrivaled anti-fogging and scratch resistant protection. From stealth back to neon orange to shimmery metallics, all these goggles are available in a multitude of color combinations to match any skier or snowboarders slope style. The season is only just getting started. Check out our 8 hot picks for the snowy days ahead!

ROW 1: OAKLEY CANOPY SNOW $200. The expanded lenses and low-profile frame of the Oakley Canopy maximizes peripheral and downward vision. The O-Flow Arch technology gives support across nasal zone to optimize breathability, and for extra comfort, the face foam is a triple layer with moisture-wicking fleece. Plutonite lens material filters out 100% of all UV, with the addition of F3 anti-fog coating for optimal vision and protection. Shown in stealth black above, the Canopy is available in an endless array of color combinations. DRAGON ALLIANCE NFXS $160. A slightly smaller frame than the patented NFX, the frameless design of the NFXs allows for maximum peripheral vision. It features a super quick lens changing system, triple layer face foam, and Dragon’s exclusive Super Anti-Fog coating. Also available in a wide array of lens options and strap combinations.

ROW 2: SCOTT LCG $185. With its patented quick changing lens system, the Scott LCG offers lens interchangeability so easy it is not even necessary to remove gloves to swap lenses. Its thin ergonomic molded lens case is barely noticeable in jacket pocket. SCOTT Fit System Technology allows adjustments of the lower face flange with a 4mm range of motion in 4 directions that allows the wearer to create a custom goggle seal and face fit. SMITH I/OX $175. Equipped with an extra large spherical lens for extreme peripheral vision, the I/OX features a patented Vaporator Lens Technology with 5X Anti-Fog technology; Quick Release Lens System for easy interchangeability; and 3-Layer DriWix Face Foam for comfort. Read More

 

Roll It, Stick It, Buff It

 

 

There are four muscle massaging tools that the athlete and avid exerciser must have to improve endurance and performance. Ranging from high to low, the cheapest of options will cost you less than $5. So if you’re going to keep going, you better have at least one.

THE STICK. The Stick is a rolling pin device composed of a semirigid core around which 8-10 (depending on the size) one-inch spindles freely spin. Made popular by world-class distance runners, this simple tool is fantastic for relieving trigger point pain, increasing flexibility and accelerating recovery time. The Stick comes in a 20″ and 17″ size, which is perfect for travel. I don’t leave home without it!

BELLECORE BODYBUFFER. Hold on tight because this oscillating massager packs a lot of power and provides a vigorous, deep-tissue massage and exfoliation experience. Using a HoneyBelle or smaller BabyBelle bodybuffer before a workout is a great way to kick-start circulation, heat and loosen up muscles. After training, the BodyBuffer massage action enhances blood flow to the muscles, flushes out lactic acid and toxins, and relieves soreness. This is a serious piece of machinery!

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Spin Art

 

 
For those design aficionados and fitness enthusiasts who have envisioned a piece of exercise equipment that rethought the traditional and brought a new refined aesthetic to the indoor bicycle, Ciclotte has arrived. Ciclotte was created to integrate into the modern interior as a showpiece, and hold its own in a space furnished with a such design objects as a Toio floor lamp, Bertola chair or Saarinen table, as shown above, while still offering its owner an exceptional ride.

Designed by Luca Schieppati, a young designer from Milan, and produced in Italy, Ciclotte breaks the rules of traditional gym equipment that has focused only on the functional aspects. The uniquely distinctive large wheel was inspired by the bicycles of the late 1800’s and has been reinterpreted into a carbon fiber and steel design that offers a smooth and efficient riding experience. There are 12 speeds of magnetic resistance enhanced by such details as oversized circular pedals, ergonomic and multi-position prong-like handlebars and racing saddle, and accessories like an iPad holder.

Ciclotte is produced in a sophisticated palette in both carbon fiber and steel models. As expected, this piece of luxe fitness equipment does not come cheap. Prices range in the $10,000 to $12,000 range, not that surprising when considering the furniture and art whose company it keeps. Ciclotte is available online at www.ciclotte.com and also here in NYC at VoceDi, where I had the fun of taking it for a little test spin and imagining a life where I owned not just the bike but the whole house that went with it.

Photograph by Ezio Manciucca

 
 

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