Gear Closet: TheraGun G2Pro Review

As a runner who puts in quite a few miles each week, and mixes in both road and mountain biking on a regular basis, it is safe to say that my legs sometimes take a beating. It is not uncommon for me to walk around with sore muscles on an almost constant basis. In fact, it has gotten to the point that I almost don't notice anymore and have just learned to deal with it in day-to-day life. But, a new tool has shown me that there are ways to help manage this pain and even prevent injury and soreness in the process.

The TheraGun G2Pro is a device that somewhat resembles an electric drill, but with hard rubber balls – called "AmpBits" – on the end. When turned on, the AmpBits rhythmically move up and down like a small, yet powerful, jackhammer. And when they're placed against your muscles and joints, they provide a deep tissue treatment that can help relieve soreness, fatigue, and chronic pain.

Physical therapists have used similar tools as the TheraGun in the past, but they often have proven ineffective simply because they are so painful to use. But, this device uses a unique form of both frequency and amplitude to trick your brain into shutting off its pain receptors, allowing you to use the TheraGun for far longer than you normally would be able to tolerate. The result is that you can give yourself a deep tissue message just about anywhere and at anytime.

When I received a test unit to review, I have to admit I was somewhat skeptical. The TheraGun has garnered quite a following with NFL, NBA, and Major League Soccer players, but I wasn't sure exactly what it could do for me. After using it for a month however, I've come to appreciate what it brings to the table and how it can help outdoor endurance athletes too.

The TheraGun G2Pro can be used in three ways: to warm-up, to stay loose, and to recover after a workout. The product works great as part of a pre-exercise stretching routine, using it for 30 seconds or so on each of the muscles you're going to be focusing on. This helps to get the blood flowing in those areas, which are often stiff and sore from previous workouts. For me, that usually means running a mile or two before I really start to find my groove, but with the G2Pro, I felt like I was already well on my way to being warmed up before I ever headed out the door.

Using the device mid-workout allows some athletes to keep the blood flowing to their muscles and joints, preventing them from tightening up. For instance, an NFL quarterback could use it on his shoulder during halftime to help keep the arm loose and ready to go for the second half. This wasn't as much of a concern for me, as I wasn't going to stop running or cycling to use the TheraGun, but it makes sense for athletes who find themselves in these types of situations.

Finally, you can use the G2Pro after your workout and shower, during your cool-down phase, to help your muscles relieve tension and tightness. The user can spend 15 minutes or so using the AmpBits on their legs and arms for instance and it ultimately should help them to not only feel better, but avoid longterm soreness and even prevent injuries.

I can honestly say that the device worked as advertised. The soreness in my legs was greatly diminished and I felt much better prior to my workout the next day as well. During my test phase with the TheraGun I also avoided picking up any nagging injuries and didn't aggravate any existing ones either.

Using the device is easy and intuitive. You simply pick it up, select the right sized AmpBit, turn it on, and apply to your sore muscles or joints. That's really all there is to it. How long you use it is entirely up to you and is based on what you're doing. As a post-workout massage, I found that it delivered a powerful impact to my sore muscles that was at times painful, but in a "hurts so good" kind of way. And afterwards, the relief was quick and evident. Best of all, the next day when I headed out for my next run or ride, my legs felt fresher.

The G2Pro is a high quality device, but it is also fairly pricey too. At $599, it is more expensive than what most people can afford. But serious athletes will find it it well worth the value. Not only do you get the tool itself, but it comes with four different size and shaped AmpBits, two rechargeable battery packs, and a charger. Those batteries are each good for about 40-45 minutes of use, which should be about 2-3 full sessions of post-workout therapy.

The TheraGun and all of its accessories fit nicely into a high-quality carrying case that looks extremely professional, which is of course the point. This is a device that physical therapists, personal trainers, and other sports medicine professionals will want to have at their disposal. It can and will deliver real benefits for their clients, and can make a huge difference in managing pain on a daily basis.

The TheraGun G2Pro is available online in a variety of outlets, although Amazon is the one that I found had it most readily available.

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Gear Closet: Night Trek 270 Tactical Shoe Lights Review

As a frequent runner, I look forward to putting in some miles on an almost daily basis, rain or shine; hot or cold. But, if there is one thing I don't like, its heading out for a run after dark, mostly because I worry a bit about whether or not I'm visible enough for passing cars to see. I've had so many close calls over the years, that I do a pretty good job of staying aware of my surroundings and avoiding serious mishaps. Still, even while wearing a headlamp and reflective clothing, I've nearly been hit more times than I can count. But over the past couple of months I've been testing a pair of Night Trek 270 Tactical Shoe Lights, and I can honestly say they've helped significantly.

The Night Trek 270 are a pair of bright lights that attach to your shoes or boots, not only helping you to stay more visible, but allowing you to see more of your surroundings too. They have three different settings – high, low, and flash – and they even have red sidelights that can help them pop out of the darkness just a little more.

The lights feature a clip that slides under and over your shoelaces to secure them in place. Once there, they shouldn't move around much, projecting as much as 150 lumens of light in a 270º pattern in front of you as you walk and run. I say the shouldn't move around too much, but in my testing I found that they work better on some shoes as opposed to others. For instance, I tried them on three different pairs of running shoes and on two of them they stayed firmly in place and never came off. On the third pair however, they would occasionally come loose and fly from the shoe while I ran.

On one occasion I had to backtrack for nearly a mile to retrieve it, which is testament to how lightweight these lights actually are. I didn't even notice that it had dropped of my shoe for quite some time, which made retrieving it a bit of a pain, but it was easy to spot laying upside down on a sidewalk with the light still blasting away.


When attached to hiking boots, I had no issues with the lights, as I wasn't moving at as fast of a pace, and the thicker laces seemed to hold the light well. In fact, hunters, campers, and hikers will probably appreciate the Night Treks just as much as runners, even though they'll be using them for a different purpose.

Battery life is advertised as 3-5 hours depending on the brightness setting, but I was easily able to get 6-7 hours of life from them on the lowest setting before needing a recharge. I run for more than an hour most evenings and could go a full week without having to juice up the lights again. Cold conditions did eat into that battery life however, as it does with most electronic devices.

It is difficult to say just how much more visible you are when wearing these lights on your running shoes. But, from anecdotal evidence, I can honestly say that I have had fewer close calls since I started using the Night Trek 270s then when I was running in the dark before adding them to my gear closet, using just a headlamp alone. There were times when I wondered if my headlamp was even on, as cars seemed to not notice me at all. But with these lights in place on my shoes, that changed noticeably, as I saw passing vehicles slow down; unsure of what was approaching them. I suspect the movement of the lights on my feet played a role in that process too.

The Night Trek 270 sells for $74.95, which means they aren't an inexpensive investment. In fact, there are a lot of different options for runners that can increase visibility at night that don't cost this much. But, most of those devices are cheaply built and aren't particularly bright. These shine through the night like a beacon and are very well made, resisting accidental drops, kicks, and even moisture without a problem.

They're also made to last a very long time, which means you probably won't be replacing them every year like you would with something less expensive. Just be sure they're attached properly to your shoes. At $75/pair, you definitely won't want to lose them.

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Video: This Ultrarunner Escapes PTSD Out on the Trail

There are a lot of different motivations for why people run. Some of us use it as a way to stay fit, others find it relaxing and therapeutic. Some use it as an escape from other areas of their life. Such is the case for Lithuanian trail runner Gediminas Grinius, uses running as away to calm himself from the post-traumatic stress disorder he feels after serving in as part of the military in Iraq. He witnessed some harrowing events there, and now he runs to help deal with the trauma of that war. His story is both inspirational and touching. Check it out below.

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Video: The Mirnivator - The True Story of a Not-So-Typical Trail Runner

Meet Mirna Valerio a dedicated  runner who will break all of your stereotypes of what a runner should be. In this video, brought to us by REI, we meet Mirna and learn about what motives her to get out an run. But she doesn't just go for casual jogs around the neighborhood. She is an endurance athlete who competes in long distance events, pushing herself to her own physical and mental limits. What makes her different than the other ultra-runners out there? She just so happens to have a body type that isn't typical for runners, and for that she often catches a lot of flack. In fact, the video opens with a stunningly rude and demeaning email she received from someone calling her out as a fraud. But that is just the kind of fuel that gets her going. If you watch one video today, make it this one.

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Outside Picks the Most Innovative Gear of 2017 (So Far!)

The outdoor industry often moves at a rapid pace, introducing new gear that is better, lighter, safer, and more environmentally friendly than what we've used in the past. In fact, over the past few years, it seems like we've seen some true breakthroughs that have made a big difference in how our gear is made and how well it performs. With that in mind, Outside magazine has taken a look at what they see as the most innovative gear of 2017, with some truly interesting products making the cut.

You'll find a little of everything on this list, ranging from gear for skiers and cyclists to runners and surfers too. Some of the gear that earns a spot on Outside's "most innovative" run down include Columbia's OutDry Ex Eco Jacket, which is almost entirely of recycled materials, and Altra's Torin IQ running shoes, which has embedded sensors to track all kinds of data about our running styles. There is even a smartwatch from Samsung on the list, as well as a versatile backpack from The North Face.

Were I picking my most innovative gear of the year, I would probably add a few more gadgets to the list. For instance, recently I've been testing the Gnarbox, which is a mobile editing station for photos and video, that was built for the backcountry. It's a pretty handy device for those of us who live on the road quite a lot. I've also been impressed with some of the high-tech lanterns that have come out of the outdoor industry as well, many of which not only provide light for the campsite, but do a host of other things too.

To check out the rest of Outside's most innovative list, click here.

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Gear Closet: Endeavor Exceed Run Short 2.0 and Edge Hoody

If you're in the market for some excellent new exercise gear to keep you comfortable during your workouts, take a look at what Endeavor Athletic has to offer. I was recently introduced to the brand and have had the chance to check out a couple of their pieces and have come away thoroughly impressed. Here's what I've been testing, along with some thoughts on each item.

Endeavor Exceed Run Short 2.0

I'm a runner. I run almost everyday. On the road and on the trail, running is my favorite form of exercise and it is a good stress reliever after a long day. That's why it is important to me to stay comfortable during my workouts, and that starts with a good pair of running shorts. For me, those shorts need to fit snugly, but not in a way that constricts movement. They also need to provide some level of moisture management, as I can get pretty sweaty when running hard. It doesn't hurt if those same shorts can be versatile enough to be used in other activities too. 

That's exactly what I got out of Endeavor's Exceed Run Short 2.0. I've spent more than month testing these shorts in a variety of conditions ranging from mild and comfortable to hot and steamy, and they have performed well in all cases. I've even run with them in the rain and they performed well in those conditions too. This gives me a lot of confidence in knowing that when I set out on a run, the shorts that I'm wearing will work well, even if the weather shifts somewhere along the way. 

The Exceed Run Short come with two zippered pockets that are surprisingly large and deep. This makes them a nice option for securely stowing a smartphone, keys, a few energy gels, or other small items. Endeavor has even managed to sneak in a couple of reflective logos to help the shorts stand out in low light conditions, along with a small interior pocket as well.

But what I like most about these shorts is just how comfortable they are to wear. Made from lightweight, flexible nylon, the Exceed Run Short moves well with the body, thanks in part to their anatomical cut that. A built-in brief provides extra support during the run, but better yet hasn't caused any type of chafing as of yet. Laser perforated ventilation holes provide an extra measure of breathability, while a drawstring waistband allows runners to adjust the size to fit their individual needs. 

If you're looking for a comfortable pair of shorts for your outdoor workout routine, the Exceed is an excellent option. These shorts are durable, comfortable, and built with runners specifically in mind. That said however, they'll serve you well in a variety of other activities too, including an intense CrossFit class, stand volleyball at the beach, or just kicking around in the backyard. (Price: $75)

Endeavor Edge Hoody

When it comes to versatility, its difficult to top the Endeavor Edge Hoody. I've found it to be a great option to have in your closet on cold weather runs, but it can also be pulled on after a workout to keep you warm in cooler conditions too. The hoody features a nice, athletic cut that makes it a good choice to wear during your outdoor workouts, trips to the gym, or even just running errands around town. 

When designing the Edge Hoody, the team at Endeavor managed to work in plenty of nice features. For instance, it comes with a mesh back and underarm vents to help regulate temperature and it features two large hand pockets as well. The hoody also comes with a media pocket, complete with headphone management system, and thumb loops to pull the sleeves down over your hands for added warmth. 

Additional features include reflective logos, a mesh-lined hood, and an integrated polygiene odor control system that keeps the jacket feeling and smelling fresh, even after numerous workouts. The hoody is also made from durable knit fabrics that have survived countless runs – not to mention washes – without losing any of its luster. The Edge still looks as good now as it did when it was first shipped to me awhile back. 

I'll admit, I'm a sucker for a comfortable hoody that performs well. I have a couple of them in my closet that I happen to love, one of which has accompanied me on some far flung adventures to remote corners of the globe. The Edge is good enough to take its place alongside those other jackets that I enjoy so much. It is comfortable, good looking, and allows you to move without impairing motion, despite the fact that it feels snug when you're wearing it. All of this make is a great choice for  outdoor athletes who need a versatile piece of clothing for cold weather workouts. (Price: $120)

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Video: Kilian Jornet Runs Alaska's Mt. Marathon

This video takes us to Seward, Alaska to witness one of the most unique races on the planet. Seward is home to Mt. Marathon, which is described as "one of the oldest, fastest, hardest, toughest… and shortest mountain races in the world." The race is held each July 4, and last year world-class runners Kilian Jornet and Emelie Forsberg were on hand to take place in the event, bringing their own unique skills along with them. You'll get a first hand look at Seward, the race, and these great athletes below. It is something to behold.

On a side note, I was in Seward last year on the day of the race. To say it was an electric atmosphere would be an understatement. I enjoyed reliving it through this clip. I hope you like it oo.

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Outside Presents the 2016 Summer Gear Buyers Guide

Just in case you still need some help selecting the best gear for your summer outdoor adventures, Outside magazine has released its 2016 Summer Buyers Guide, outlining 369 items that will keep you safe, comfortable, and happy while pursuing your favorite activities.

The Buyer's Guide is broken down into multiple categories, including Float, Hike, Bike, Run, Fitness, and Travel. Each of those listings is further divided into subcategories that include lists of great gear that is applicable to the activity. For instance, under hiking you'll find the best tents for 2016, as well as the best hiking shoes. Meanwhile, under the bike category you'll discover the best mountain bikes and accessories for a summer ride.

Naturally, with this many items to explore, it can take you quite a long time to sift through all of the options. But, if you're in the market for a new sleeping bag, kayak, camera, or other equipment, the experts at Outside can help you find exactly what you're looking for. There are some really great products to check out here, each of which has been curated by testers who have put these items through their paces over the past few months.

Check out the full list of items on the Outside Online website by clicking here.

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Gear Closet: Skins DNAmic Compression Shirt

With as much running and cycling as I do, I've become a convert to the benefits of compression. Not only do I feel like it helps me to perform better out on the road, but recover faster after my workouts as well. These benefits come from the fact that compression gear helps to stimulate the flow of blood to our muscles, while reducing lactic acids as well, bringing some excellent benefits along with it.

One of my favorite companies that provides compression gear for my workout is SKINS. In colder weather I frequently wear a pair of their tights, and during the warmer month I break out the SKINS shorts. Later, I'll even don a pair of recovery tights to help get my legs ready for the next workout the following day. Recently, I had a chance to check out the new DNAmic Compression Shirt as well, and true to form it delivers positive benefits too.

Like SKINS compression tights and shorts, this short sleeve shirt is designed to help stimulate the flow of oxygen to our muscles, helping to improve performance in the process. In particular, this shirt is meant to aid the muscles in our shoulders, chest, and core, providing more power and faster recovery post workout.


It is tough to quantify the "more power" part of that equation, but I can definitely attest to its ability to help speed recovery. After a workout with this shirt, I still felt the effects of a workout, with tired muscles and lots of lactic acid build-up. But the impact of those workouts diminishes much more quickly, and I feel less sore when I start my next exercise session as well.

One of the other benefits of wearing compression gear is that it prevents the muscles in your body from vibrating and moving around too much while moving. That helps to keep the wear and tear on those muscles to a minimum, which is a large part of where the post-workout soreness comes from. But since this shirt fits like, well, a second skin, there isn't much room for your muscles to move about much, which is part of the reason why it is so effective. But it can take a bit to get use to the fit of the shirt, which is tight, but not uncomfortably so.

The DNAmic shirt brings some other nice benefits to the table as well. For instance, it is made of fabrics that wick moisture away quickly and easily, keeping you dry and cool in the process. That can play a big role in staying comfortable while exercising too. On top of that, the shirt offers 50+ UPF protection from the sun too, which definitely comes in handy on those outdoor workouts.

If you're not already a convert to the compression movement, what are you waiting for? You'll find a lot of nice benefits from wearing this type of gear, both on your legs and upper body. This shirt is a also a great place to start, as it can be worn on its own or under other equipment and still get maximum performance. And at a pice of $89.99, it is also a reasonably priced product for how high quality it is. Yes, you'll find some options that cost less, but in my experience that apparel isn't nearly as durable or effective as the products that come from SKINS.

Find out more at SKINS.net.

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Gear Closet: 180s Foundation LED Gloves

With winter now firmly set in, the cold temperatures and short days sometimes make it a little more challenging to get outside and maintain our normal workout routines. But if staying warm and visible are your goals, than an innovative pair of gloves from 180s is about to take away all of your excuses. The new Foundation LED gloves cleverly integrate a bright light right into the design, providing comfort and convenience in one great package.

Made from comfortable and durable  QuantumHeat fabrics, the Foundation gloves provide a snug, yet non-restrictive, fit that feels great on your hand.  They are also a surprisingly warm considering how thin and lightweight they are. If I were simply judging them based how they perform as gloves, I would give the Foundation LED's high marks for protecting my hands from the elements, while still allowing me to accomplish basic tasks that require manual dexterity. It is refreshing to have a pair of gloves that allow you to tie your shoes while out on the run, without having to remove them from your hands.

As with most of the gloves from 180s, the Foundation LED's also feature ALLTouch technology. This allows the wearer to interact with his or her touch screen devices – such as a smartphone or mp3 player – while still wearing the gloves. This is another handy feature to have when the temperatures turn cold, and you don't want to take the gloves off just to select a new music track or respond to a text while running. The snug fit of the gloves also helps to ensure accurate use of the touch screen as well.

The feature that really sets these gloves apart from the competition however is the integrated LED lights that provide quite a bit of illumination without adding undue bulk. Each glove has a small lightbulb stitched into place just above the forefinger, with an on-off button situated on the wrist. When turned on, the two lights give the person wearing them a set of headlights that not only make them more visible in the dark, but also allows them to illuminate their way while running, walking, or taking part in any other outdoor activities.


I am very impressed with how much light the tiny LED's in these gloves manage to put off. During the day, or in a well lit room, they don't seem all that impressive, but out on the road in the dark, they are very effective. So much so that I wore them to my weekly running group one evening, and had several members comment on them and inquire as to where they could get a pair. It was immediately apparent to my companions that this was a very useful piece of gear that could make an evening run much safer.

It is clear that 180s has put a lot of thought into the design of these products, and that they had outdoor athletes in mind when they created them. The Foundation LED gloves will impress you with their integrated lights of course, but the fit and feel of the gloves will be what keeps you wearing them. The fact that you can interact with your tech gadgets without having to take them off is simply the icing on the cake.

If you're looking for a great pair of gloves to wear on your outdoor workouts, I can't recommend these gloves highly enough. They are warm, comfortable, and dare I say even stylish. The addition of the integrated LED lights is perfect for those evening runs, helping to keep you safe out on the road. 180s has priced the Foundation LED's at $55, which is a price I find to be fair considering the level of performance they provide. At the moment, they also happen to be onside for just $22, which is an incredible bargain. Take advantage of this bargain while you can.

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Gear Closet: Armpocket Flash Smartphone Armband for Runners

Still looking for a last minute gift for the runner in your life? Than you may want to consider the new Flash armband from Armpocket, a protective case designed for larger smartphones that comes with a couple of nice extra features that are sure to be appreciated both by you, and the person who uses the armband.

As a daily runner, I like to listen to music and podcasts throughout my workouts. That means taking my smartphone or mp3 player with me when I hit the road. The problem is, I recently purchased a new iPhone 6, which is much larger than its predecessors. Finding an armband case for the phone has been a bit of a struggle, as there aren't many designed specifically for Apple's new devices. I know that there will soon be plenty of options to choose from as more companies release new options, but at the moment there are few good choices for the iPhone 6 or it's even bigger sibling, the 6 Plus.

The Armpocket Flash was built with larger smartphones in mind however, and it has absolutely no problems accommodating the new iPhone, even if it wasn't made specifically for that device. In fact, there is so much room inside that it actually doesn't fit my iPhone quite as snugly as I'd like. For the most part, this isn't a big issue, but  trying to use the phone through the touch-sensitive protective covering can sometimes be an exercise in futility. Since the touch screen window doesn't fit tightly agains the phone, it doesn't register taps and swipes as cleanly as I'd like. On more than one occasion, I've actually had to take the phone out of the case to get it to do what I wanted. That defeats the purpose of using a case in the first place, and was a source of frustration while testing this product. My advice is to set up your music and fitness apps ahead of time, and slide your phone back into the case before you get moving.


That one annoyance aside, I actually found that I really like the Flash. It is obviously a very large armband, but considering the size of popular smartphones these days, it has to be. Despite its size however, the Flash fits very comfortably on my arm, and stays locked in place even on more vigorous runs. While you will be well aware of the large armband you're wearing, it really doesn't impact your workout in any way.

As you would expect from a product like this one, it features a nice audio access port for headphones which can accommodate nearly any device that you put inside. The armband is also made out of sweat and water resistant materials that ensure your device stays well protected from moisture at all times as well. Interior compartments allow you to carry a key, ID, and other small items with you when you hit the trail, and the memory foam cushioning molds the case to your arm quite nicely.

Of course, a lot of these features are just what you'd expect out of a good armband built for frequent runners. But the Flash has another feature that helps to set it apart from the competition, while also providing a bit of extra safety if you find yourself out after dark. Armpocket has integrated a set of red LED lights into the side of the case which aid in visibility out on the road. These lights have three modes that allow them to stay on constantly, or blink at two different speeds. Blinking red lights on a dark street will certainly catch the attention of drivers, helping to make them more aware that you are passing by, something that I'm sure we can all appreciate.

The addition of the LED lights to the Flash means that this product is not machine washable. If you get as sweaty as I do when running in the warmer months, that could be a potential problem. Immersing the armband in water will probably kill the circuits that operate the light, so you'll have to be careful when cleaning this product by hand.

The Armpocket Flash feels incredibly solid and durable in your hand, and it seems like a product that will last for a long time. I've been using it for several weeks, and it it still looks like it came right out of the package. It also does a great job of protecting its expensive cargo too, as my iPhone 6 has always come out of the case clean and dry, without an ounce of moisture seeping into the interior.

With a price tag of $49.95, the Flash is competitively priced with similar product, while also incorporating the LED lighting system. This makes it a very good product for the avid runner who will appreciate everything the case brings to the table. If you're in the market for an armband running case designed for larger smartphone, this is a very good option. While I wish that it fit my iPhone 6 a bit more snugly, I truly appreciate the extra storage and the LED lights that provide extra visibility on evening runs. I think the runner on your holiday shopping list will agree.

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Video: Extreme Mountain Running in Italy

The Red Bull K3 is an incredibly tough mountain running race that was held in Italy recently. It challenges participants to cover a mere 3000 meters in as fast a time as possible. But those 3000 meters happen to run up the side of a mountain, at an almost vertical angle. The video below will give you an example of what that event is like, and it will probably make your legs hurt just watching it. This makes my daily runs, on hilly terrain no less, look like a walk in the park. English subtitles are available from the closed captioning option of YouTube. Enjoy!

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Adventure Tech: Suunto Introduces Ambit 3, Connected Family of Devices

If you're a technology and gadget nerd like me, you probably already realize that 2014 is shaping up to be the launching of the age of wearable technology. Samsung, Motorola, and other tech companies have already embraced the Android Wear platform, and the world waits with baited breath to see what Apple's iWatch will bring to the table this fall. In response to this burgeoning demand for more connected devices, the traditional manufacturers of fitness watches have also started to up their game, with Garmin, Magellan, TomTom, and others bringing new options to consumers. A few days back, Suunto took the wraps off of their new products, the Ambit 3, giving us a glimpse of what it will deliver to outdoor athletes, including new levels of connectivity with smartphones and other devices.

Building on the highly successful Ambit series, the new Ambit 3 will bring all of the features of previous models, as well as a host of new capabilities. The watch will have integrated GPS of course, to help track speed, distance, altitude, and other data from our workouts and outdoor adventures. The easy-to-use interface of the Ambit OS makes it a breeze to use all of the features, and performance of the Ambit 1 and 2 are amongst the best in the business. The durable and comfortable watches are equally useful on a long run, bike ride, hike, or climb, and that level of versatility is one of the things that I really like with my Ambit, which I use on an almost daily basis.

The Ambit 3 will come in two models, the "Sport" and the "Peak." The former of these products is designed specifically with athletes in mind, and will put an emphasis on running, cycling, and swimming functionality, as well as easy integration with the Suunto heart rate monitor. It will also track progress of workouts, including recovery time, and integrate with the iPhone or iPad for sharing and analyzing that data as well. The "Peak" version of the Ambit 3 is built for mountaineers and outdoor adventurers, and brings such functionality as navigation, a compass, altimeter, and barometer. The device is capable of up to 50 hours of battery life in GPS mode, which is very good for device of this type.


The biggest upgrade that Suunto is touting about their new watches are their ability to connect to a smartphone. The new Movescount app will send text messages and other notifications directly to the Ambit 3, so you can read updates while you're working out, without ever having to stop. Beyond that though, the data that is collected while you run or ride, will be sent to your iPhone, where it can be quickly and easily be shared on social media. The Movescount app will also take that data, and create a movie of your workout or adventure, using 3D maps to chart progress and share your route. The app can also take photos with embedded data that includes GPS location, altitude, speed, and so on. Those photos can also be shared with the workout profile on Movescount.com, Suunto's online Ambit community.

As a demonstration of some of these new capabilities, ultra-runner and mountaineer Kilian Jornet wore the Ambit 3 on his recent speed record on Denali. The watch recorded his speed and movements closely, and the Movescount app created a video of the adventure. That video can be found below. This should give you a bit of an idea of what the new devices are capable of.

The Ambit 3 is scheduled for release in September of this year. I hope to get a look at it at the upcoming Outdoor Retailer gear show, and I'm hoping to get my hands on a review unit as well. If so, I'll share my impressions here. Pricing has not been announced, but I would expect it to be about the same as the Ambit 2 watch that it is replacing as Suunto's flagship model.

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Video: Red Bull 400 Kulm - 400 Meters of Pure Agony

If you're looking for a new workout routine to add to your exercise program, than look no further than the video below. It was shot during the Red Bull 400 Kulm, a race up the side of a ski slope in Europe that is a mere 400 meters in length, but as you'll see, those 400 meters are about as challenging as anything a trail runner can imagine. And when they reached the top of the hill, they still had to climb the ski jump to reach the finish line. My legs and lungs are burning just watching this. Ouch!

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Adventure Tech: Adidas Enters GPS Fitness Watch Market

Add Adidas to the growing list of sports apparel companies that are entering the GPS fitness watch market. Yesterday the new device was unveiled at a technology conference in San Francisco where the watch's specs showed that it will be packing some serious technology when it hits store shelves on November 1.

As you would probably expect, the watch will have integrated GPS for tracking speed, movement, change in altitude, etc. It also has a built-in heart rate monitor and can create a custom workout program based on performance, displaying prompts on its large, bright and colorful touch screen to indicate what is expected of the person wearing it. It also sports onboard storage for carrying a workout playlist of music and Bluetooth connectivity allows you to pair it with wireless headphones to listen to your tunes while on a run. The device will also be able to provide audio cues to the wearer over those same headphones, serving up information on their performance as they go. The Bluetooth functionality will not allow the watch to connect with a smartphone however and all fitness apps will be baked into the device itself.

The new sports watch, which apparently doesn't have a name yet, also has on board WiFi, allowing it to share your workout data with Adidas' miCoach fitness cloud. As you would expect, it is also water resistant and built to withstand plenty of punishment that comes along with regular exercise.

Battery life is said to vary by activity and features that are turned on. With GPS activated and streaming music it'll last approximately 8 hours, but in "watch mode" it'll last about a week. That's about standard for a watch like this one however and not all that surprising.

As mentioned, the watch is due out November 1 and will carry a price tag of $399. I'm looking forward to hearing more about this entry into the fitness watch line-up. It seems we're going to see a lot of these devices over the next few years and it'll be interesting to watch them evolve.

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Gear Closet: Jabra Sport Wireless+ Earbuds

If you're like me, you enjoy listening to music, audio books or podcasts while working out. Nearly every time I hit the road for a long run I have my iPod strapped to my arm and a pair of earbuds in my ears to help keep me entertained and distracted as I pile up the miles. Over the years, I've learned that the right music can really set the tempo on faster runs and that interesting audio programs can help grind out the distances on a the longer ones. A good pair of earphones can make all the difference as well, which is why I have recently been testing the new Sport Wireless+ headset from Jabra, a device that connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or iPod and allows you to listen to your favorite tunes completely wirelessly.

Paring the Sport Wireless+ earbuds with your device is incredibly easy. You simply switch the headphones on and then select the Bluetooth set-up options from your gadget. After selecting the earbuds from the listed options, the two devices will communicate with one another and within a matter of seconds you'll be able to send music or any other audio source to the earbuds wirelessly from up to 30 feet away. Onboard controls will also let you quickly adjust volume, pause and start your music, pick-up phone calls, interact with Siri and so on. All of those controls are located on the right earbud, which makes theme easy to reach and adjust without having to look at them.

Getting a good fit is always important when using earbuds and thankfully Jabra has provided plenty of options for finding a comfortable configuration. The Sport Wireless+ ships with seven sets of soft, silicon tips in various shapes and sizes, allowing the user to find exactly the right combination for their needs. It took me a couple of runs to figure out which were the mot comfortable for me but once I did, the earbuds felt great and stayed locked in no matter how far I was running.


In terms of sound quality, these earbuds are solid and sound good, but you can definitely tell that the audio source is being provided wirelessly. When using traditional wired earbuds my music and podcasts definitely come through more cleanly and crisply, although once I'm running I didn't really notice it all that much. The Sport Wireless+ are plenty loud and can provide solid isolation from outside noise, but on occasion they'll break up and momentarily loose their connection, something that doesn't happen with a pair of regular earbuds unless there is a short in the wiring somewhere.

Personally, I found the Sport Wireless+ earbuds quite comfortable to wear and after just a run or two, I found myself really liking the fact that I didn't have an annoying cable running to my iPod. It was refreshing to move without restrictions and while that thin cable that comes with traditional earbuds may not seem like much, when it isn't their you'll discover how substantial it actually is.

For the most part, these headphones work great, are comfortable to wear and provide solid, if somewhat unremarkable sound. But if I have one knock against them, it is their battery life. Jabra rates them for about 4 hours of use and during my testing I'd say that is fairly accurate, if a bit on the high end. That means that after just a longer run or two it is time to recharge the headset or you'll end up like me and have them run out of juice mid-workout. The battery life is so low in fact that most of us wouldn't get through a marathon on a single charge, let alone an ultra-run of any sort. And if you forget to recharge them every couple of days, you're stuck going back to the wired earbuds. I would have liked to have seen far better battery life but I know that compromises needed to be made in order to squeeze all of the technology into such a small package. The Sport Wireless+ also use the Bluetooth 3.0 feature set, which is mature and robust, but doesn't sip power the way newer Bluetooth 4.0 devices do.

The recharge time on these earbuds is only about 2.5 hours, which isn't all that long in the grand scheme of things. But I now have to make sure my iPod is charged, my GPS watch has enough battery life and my earbuds as well. That's an awful lot of gadget to keep energized for my workouts.

Jabra did build the Sport Wireless+ earbuds with outdoor athletes in mind. They feel solid and durable for day to day use and they are designed to resist rain, dust and being dropped. They certainly don't feel flimsy in your hand and I think you'll appreciate just how durable they are.

If you're looking for a solid pair of wireless headphones and you can deal with the short battery life, than I think you'll find that these are an excellent option. They are comfortable to wear, even on extended runs, and the fact that you can ditch the audio cable is very liberating. Jabra prices the Sport Wireless+ headphones at $99, which is not far out of the price range of some of the top end traditional wired models. Better yet, these earbuds can be found online at a substantially reduced price, which makes them a great bargain and easy to recommend.

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Adventure Tech: Magellan Introduces Smart Running Watch

Over the past couple of years there have been some significant advances in terms of sophisticated watches for use while running, cycling or doing just about any other outdoor exercise. Suunto and Garmin in particular have gone head-to-head in an effort to expand this market. Consciously absent from that competition was Magellan, a company that is known for building excellent GPS navigation devices but hadn't jumped into watches just yet. That all changed yesterday with the announcement of their latest product the Echo. A watch that pairs with your smartphone and gives you full control of fitness apps directly from your wrist.

The Echo uses Bluetooth technology to connect the watch with your iPhone or Android device to unlock all kinds of potential. The link lets your smartphone handle most of the heavy lifting and while streaming data about your pace, heart rate, distance and so on directly to the screen of the watch. You can also control the apps from the Echo, including full control over your music as well. If your favorite fitness app provides notifications they will appear on the watch as well, keeping you full informed at all times about the state of your workout. Your performance can then been analyzed and shared over social media too, if you're into bragging about your killer times to your friends.

Echo uses an open API designed by Wahoo Fitness for use with apps. That means that it should be easy for many of the top running or cycling apps to integrate support for the watch, but before they can be used with one another, those apps will need to be updated. Magellan says it is working closely with some of the top apps for iPhone and Android to get them ready for the launch of the Echo, which is expected to come in the 4th quarter of this year. The new watch will be officially unveiled next week at Outdoor Retailer and I hope to get a better look at it when I'm there.

Magellan is taking an interesting approach with the Echo. While the other companies creating similar products have tried to cram as much technology into the watch as possible, Magellan has instead decided to pair the watch with a smartphone and let that device do all of the heavy lifting. Since mobile phones already have integrated GPS and a host of other technology, there is no need for it to be on the watch itself. That should make this a much more lightweight and energy efficient product. In fact, while Suunto and Garmin's watches feature built-in rechargeable batteries, the Echo uses an easily replaceable watch battery that you can buy in any drug store. Using Bluetooth 4.0 technology, this watch should sip power slowly and last quite a long time on a single battery.

We'll have to wait to see how well Echo performs. If it receives good app support, it should be quite an interesting product. I don't personally run with my smartphone, but this might give me an incentive to change that. Looking forward to learning more at OR.

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Gear Closet: Yurbuds Ironman Focus Sport Earphones

I'm not exactly sure how it happened, but slowly over th years I've become a runner. Sure, I ride both my road and mountain bike regularly, but more often than not I'm lacing up a pair of running shoes and hitting the road or trail. Multiple times a week I'm running anywhere from 8 to 10 miles and occasionally even more. Some days the only way I can get through those miles is to don my iPod, put in the headphones and just grind it out. Thankfully I have a solid library of great music and numerous podcasts to keep me entertained for hours on end.

While I generally put a lot of thought into which shoes I put on my feet, what kind of clothes I wear and even the socks that are best for long distance runs, one of the things that I have seldom thought about is the headphones I use while running. Generally I look for something inexpensive, comfortable for extended use and resistant to the sweat that inevitably comes along with a long run in Texas. Recently, after burning through yet another pair of cheap earbuds, I thought I'd try something different, so I splurged a little – not a lot – to try a pair of Yurbuds, which have reportedly been designed by athletes, for athletes.

Because I go through a set of earbuds about every 6 - 12 months, I've often been reluctant to spend much money on a more expensive pair. Fortunately, Yurbuds produces the Focus Ironman series and sells them for just $29.95, which is not a lot more than I was paying for the previous models I was using from a competitor. With that in mind, I set my expectations accordingly and went home to give them a try.

To say that the Yurbuds are a revelation would be a massive understatement. Not only was I immediately blown away by how much louder and clearer they were than the other earbuds I had been using, but they also produce far better sound across the entire spectrum. I was amazed at how much better my iPod sounded and I didn't even have to crank up the volume to hear my music or podcasts over passing traffic.

Despite that much higher volume and clearer sound, the Focus earbuds still keep me safe while out on a run thanks to their ability to pass ambient, outside sound through. This makes it easy to not only hear things around you but also hear voices. I appreciated that they perform so well yet don't dangerously isolate me from the outside world when working out.

On top of providing great audio performance, the Focus earbuds are also quite comfortable. They utilize Yurbud's Twistlock technology that allows you to slide them into your ear and give them a slight twist to hold them in place. Once they are there, they don't move at all and you can pretty much don't have to worry about them for the length of your run. The moldable and padded earloops are soft enough that you can actually forget you have them in, which hasn't always been the case with other models that I've used. While using some lesser models from competitors I sometimes couldn't wait to get them off my ears when I finished my run. The Yurbuds are so good however, that they are the first "sports" earbuds that I've used that I would actually consider wearing when I'm not working out.

I've only been using the Focus earbuds for a couple of weeks now, so it is too early for me to weigh in on their longterm durability. My hope is that they will last much longer than the six months or so that I got out of the previous earphones I used while running. I can say that the certainly feel light years better than the models I've used in the past. They feel like they can hold-up to a lot of punishment and they are certainly well shielded against sweat and rain.

Yurbuds seems to have thought of everything with these headphones and considering how well the $30 pair performs, it makes me wonder just how good their higher end models are. They must be exceptional indeed, because the Focus models offer exceptional performance in a small, lightweight and comfortable package. They even come with an high quality cloth carrying case that comes in handy when you want to toss them into a gym bag or gear case for race day.

If you're like me and enjoy listening to your tunes while running, you owe it to yourself to try a pair of Yurbuds the next time you need to replace your earphones. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at just how great they really are and how much they can make your workouts an even more pleasant experience.

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Video: Breaking Up With Your Slow Running Partner

We've all been there. We love the person we're with, but they simply can't keep up with us when we're running. What to do? Cut the dead weight of course! Something that is painfully (read: hilariously) depicted in the video below, which is actually a promo for a new line of running shoes that are coming our way courtesy of Pearl Izumi. The new shoes are allegedly incredibly light weight, yet still super-comfortable, allowing you to run faster and more efficiently then ever before.

You'll have to run pretty fast if you treat your significant other like some runners in the video.

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1st Annual SHivering Icy Trail Run Is Grassroots Racing At Its Finest

While writing this blog I often cover some of the biggest and craziest adventure races, ultramarathons and other athletic competitions. Those events are amazing to watch and fun to follow, but lets face it, most of us will never get the opportunity to compete in those events for a variety of reason. Thats why I also love discovering some of the great local, grassroots events that are sprinkled around the country, offering outdoor athletes an opportunity to have some fun without traveling far from home.

My friends Robin Rongey and Chuck Vohsen of Rock Racing put on just such an event a few weeks back and it looks like it was a lot of fun. The race was called the SHivering Icy Trail Run (SHITR for short) and it was a 13.1-mile (21 km) half-marathon that ran along the Lost Valley Trail in Weldon Spring, Missouri. Now, if you know anything about the weather in Missouri in January, you know that it is anything but predictable, which was part of the appeal for holding this race at that time of the year. But cold winter conditions weren't enough of a challenge, so Robin and Chuck decided the race would be run at night too.

45 competitors showed up for the event and holding to its true grassroots nature, they all signed in on a large poster board. The day was cool and damp, although there wasn't any snow on the ground, so conditions on the trail may not have been as demanding as they could have been. True to form however, the Missouri weather decided the runners couldn't be to comfortable and just before the start of the race it began to rain. By the time the first competitors were crossing the finish line an hour and forty-five minutes later, the rain had turned to sleet and the temperature had dropped to 33ºF/.5ºC. One racer even competed in shorts and a sleeveless shirt, while still taking third place! Brrr!

You can read the full race report here and the biggest thing you'll probably take away from it is just how much fun everyone had. That includes the race directors who came up with the idea to hold a half-marathon trail run in January. But the SHITR (gotta love that acronym!) is a great example of a really fun local race that has some nice extreme elements to it without forcing you to travel to some far flung environment to compete. I'll bet if you look hard enough, you can find similar events not far from where you live as well.

Great event Robin and Chuck. I'll bet the second annual SHITR will be even more successful!

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