The SOS Covid Report: Power Up The Vax

 

 
Back in May we did a follow up piece with Dr. Richard Firshein on our guide to the three Covid vaccines (read here). At that time, the FDA and CDC had just recommended resuming the Johnson & Johnson vaccine after a pause due to rare cases of blood clotting that occurred – in one case resulting in death. Despite vaccinations being on the decline at that time, there was a feeling of optimism as cities were reopening. It felt like things were getting back to normal just in time for summer.

Then came the Delta variant and the surge in cases among the unvaccinated. With breakthrough cases, booster shoots, and new kinds of treatments the latest topics of discussion, we wanted to check back in with Dr. Firshein for an assessment on the state of Covid and the pandemic’s evolution. Dr. Firshein is one of the leading authorities and practitioners of integrative medicine and our go-to expert for the latest medical news and information.

STYLE OF SPORT: When we last spoke, it seemed like we might be getting out of the woods with this pandemic. I’m hearing that again now. But I remember you saying about how insidious this virus is, and how it loves people who are unvaccinated because that’s where it mutates. While Covid has become the pandemic of the unvaccinated, they keep it a threat to us all. Read More

 

Covid Vaccine Update: What You Need to Know Now

 

 

About two months ago, just after the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine was cleared for emergency use by the FDA, we turned to Dr. Richard Firshein for a side-by-side breakdown and comparison of the three vaccines currently available in the US, including Moderna and Pfizer (read here). Dr. Firshein is one of the leading authorities and practitioners of integrative medicine, and our go-to expert for the most cutting-edge medical news and information.

At that time, there were high hopes for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. It required just one dose and could be stored at temperatures similar to any other vaccine. Unlike Pfizer and Moderna, which require two doses and subzero refrigeration, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine would be far easier to distribute and get into people’s arms… the primary goal of all three.

Fast forward six weeks to April 13th when both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended a pause in the Johnson & Johnson vaccinations after rare blood clotting occurred in six recipients causing serious illnesses, and in one case death. All six were women between the ages of 18 and 48, and all developed the illnesses within one to three weeks of vaccination.

10 days later following a thorough safety review, the FDA and CDC recommended resuming the Johnson & Johnson vaccinations, citing that the vaccine’s benefits outweighed its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years and older. Out of the roughly 7 million people in the United States who had received Johnson & Johnson shots at that time, the chance of these serious and life-threatening side effects was about one in a million. Read More

 

Your SOS Guide to the 3 Covid-19 Vaccinations

 

 
Johnson & Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine was just cleared for emergency use by the FDA, bringing the total to three vaccines, alongside Moderna and Pfizer BioNTech, that are now available in the US. Though the numbers might appear as if it is less effective, this Johnson & Johnson vaccine might be the one that many of us have been waiting for. Thus far we have not been given a choice between the two available vaccines and it is unclear whether that will continue to be the case with three in the mix. Dr. Anthony Fauci and the CDC all agree the best vaccine is the one available to you.

We turned to Dr. Richard Firshein of the Firshein Medical Center to guide us through the three vaccines. Dr. Firshein is one of the leading authorities and practitioners of integrative medicine, and our go-to expert for the most cutting edge medical news and information.

What are the basic differences between the three vaccines?

The three vaccines really fall into two categories: Pfizer and Moderna in one category, and Johnson & Johnson in the other. There are basic differences between the two categories. Pfizer and Moderna require 2 doses and subzero refrigeration for storage, while Johnson & Johnson requires just 1 dose and can be stored at temperatures similar to any other vaccine. Those two differences in themselves make the Johnson & Johnson vaccine far easier to distribute and get into people’s arms… the primary goal of all three. Read More

 

The Outdoor Life: The SOS Give & Get Guides!

 

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For the outdoor lover in the urban dweller… gloves, fleeces, slippers, and more rugged sport gear and accessories that’s at home in any locale.

 
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: VUARNET AIR 2011 LARGE $320. Crafted from recycled materials, eco-responsibility, bold design and high performance are the hallmarks of these statement sunglasses. Photochromic Orange Flash lenses shown here feature 100% UV Protection and adjust to changing light conditions on the slopes, sea, and trails, enhancing vision with intensified color and contrast. 

TOPO DESIGNS SHERPA JACKET $169. This ever-popular fleece jacket is a can’t miss gift for any outdoor lover, with plenty of functional style for the city too. A reversible 2-in-1 piece, it features sherpa fleece on one side, and 2-way stretch nylon with a DWR finish on the other. Front zippered patch and hand pockets are detailed with colorful contrast pulls. Available for men and women.

POLER X FREEWATERS MOD SHOW $100. These comfy puff slippers are made for all your outdoor adventures. Featuring a climate control zipper/footwarmer pocket, lightly insulated upper, and Freewaters signature outsole, take on the elements from the campsite to the street in the fun and rugged Poler Mod. Read More

 

Sleek & Shiny: The SOS Give & Get Guides!

 

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From a smart bike lock to a sterling silver dumbell cocktail mixer… for the more refined sports and fitness enthusiast, these gifts are still playful and fun.

 
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: VIPER BY TITLE BOXING STRIKE GLOVES $59.99. Tough engineered matte leather and carbon fiber accents on the outside combine with molded foam padding and a shock-absorbing impact-resistant core on the inside for a bag glove that can handle the punches of the most elite fighters throw.

ONIVA PORATABLE PICNIC TABLE $145. Tucked away in a sleek silver suitcase is this aluminum picnic table, with built in seating for 4! Weighing in at 23 lbs, bring it along and pop it open whenever and wherever you want to dine al fresco.

BARBOUR BY ALEXACHUNG PIPPA BRUSHED TWILL JACKET $‌295. Designer Alexa Chung’s collection for Barbour brings a contemporary edge to this classic outerwear style. Made from brushed twill, this waterproof anorak features stylishly functional accents like a large front kangaroo pocket and drawstring hood that laces up the front. Read More

 

Fun & Games: The SOS Give & Get Guides!

 

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From a folding eBike to a home putting green… for the chill and laid back, these are the sporty gifts to fit their vibe.

 
CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT: J. COLE DREAMVILLE T-SHIRT $28. Screenprinted on heavyweight cotton and finished with a banded crew neck, this Dreamville t-shirt takes its graphic inspiration from baseball teams like the Dodgers and Cardinals.

SOAR RUNNING ALL WEATHER SOCK $29. These soft, insulating running socks feature a water-resistant treatment to guard against saturation in wet and wintry conditions, with the style and comfort everyday wear.

BOAST 6 PANEL CAP $40. No, it’s a Japanese Maple leaf. This classic cotton twill baseball hat comes in a variety of colors combinations featuring the Boast logo leaf embroidered on the front and Boast lettering on the back.

BROMPTON ELECTRIC FOLDING BIKE $3499. Brompton Electric maintains the iconic style and quality craftsmanship of the Brompton folding bike, turbocharged with electric assistance. Tucked into the front wheel is an electric motor, with its battery seamlessly integrated into a compact bag which clips on and off the front of the bike. It’s made for portability, simple and easy to fold and unfold. Read More

 

Snow Glow: The SOS Give & Get Guides!

 

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There’s a frost in the air, first snows are falling, and yes… ski resorts will be opening soon! Hit the slopes in these eye-popping styles that will have heads turning on and off the mountain. And for the perfect gift for that special skier or snowboarder, look no further.

 
ROW 1: THE NORTH FACE TEAM KIT JACKET $325. The 90’s are back in high flying colors with The North Face Team Kit collection. This jacket is made with breathable DryVent™ 3L fabric to keep the elements out, and offers rider-friendly touches like a media port pocket and helmet-compatible hood.

VUARNET SKI GOGGLES $225. When light conditions change, swap lenses with ease and change up your whole look too. These Vuarnet ski goggles feature magnetic lenses and offer a wider field of vision with a curvature designed for the utmost comfort. Available in 5 color versions, they are the perfect blend of style and protection.

ROW 2: CANADA GOOSE NORTHERN GLOVE LINERS $125. Worn as a liner or on their own, these down-filled quilted gloves offer cozy warmth in an innovative design. Touchscreen-enabled finger pads keep warmth in and fleece cuffs keep chilly drafts out. Read More

 

Gotta Get A Gaiter

 

 

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When a face mask meets a scarf, you’ve got yourself a gaiter. This protective, warm, and breathable layer is ideal for training as temperatures get colder. Those options in merino wool are great for everyday warmth too!

 

AIRBAND GAITER $14.99 (above)

Available in a fun assortment of prints and patterns, the Airband gaiter features a unique design that includes a built-in breathable membrane and protects from 99% particulates. Over the ear loops and adjustable nose wire secure gaiter on face and keep it in place.

 

UA SPORTMASK FLEECE GAITER $40

Made with high-performance UA materials, this sport specific gaiter has the airflow, warmth, and fit you need for running or training in the cold. Soft, brushed fleece outer shell has 4-way stretch for warmth and comfort. Fabric is soft and smooth with UA Iso-Chill fabric on interior lining and anti-microbial treatment to help keep mask cool and fresh. Structured design sits up off the face and lips for added comfort and breathability. Read More

 
 

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