Hotel Talisa lights up their trees for the holiday season

Thanksgiving weekend and the first few days of December 2018 blessed our mountains with snow.  Now, the holiday season brings more joy and cheer to Colorado.  Resorts are ready to greet guests with wintery events.  Most seem like they could have come straight out of a Hallmark movie.  Mountain towns offer holiday ice skating, fine dining, fireworks and torchlight parades.  Guests can celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year at numerous ski areas.  These activities appeal to long-time skiers and snowboarders, first-time participants and even non-skiers.  Anyone seeking a fun, holiday greeting card-like winter destination will enjoy the traditions.

Below we provide a sprinkling of Colorado ski area events and programs for the 2018-19 holiday season.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

Arapahoe Basin offers a variety of family-friendly holiday activities.  Santa and an elf visit the resort on Monday, Dec. 24.  Santa will bring candy and holiday cheer.  The Summit County Choral Society will be caroling in the base area from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

A-Basin also hosts New Year’s Eve in the Mountains, a special lift-served Moonlight Dinner at Black Mountain Lodge.  This event will offer guests the opportunity to ring in 2019 with a gourmet dinner by Chef Steven Vlass including lobster, filet mignon and other delicious offerings. A-Basin will celebrate New Year’s Eve with New York at 10 p.m. with live music, a glass of champagne, party favors and a balloon drop.

Aspen Snowmass

Those wishing to head further west than A-Basin may try Aspen-Snowmass.  Aspen Snowmass celebrates Chanukah with events throughout the holiday through December 10.  The annual Tree Lighting at the Little Nell will take place on Sunday December 9.  This event features a city-wide countdown, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, carolers and photos with Santa Claus. On Saturday, Dec. 15, the festivities will continue with the Snowmass Base Village Grand Opening Celebration.  Elk Camp at Snowmass hosts Ullr Nights, a nighttime winter wonderland event including tubing, snowbiking, snowshoe tours, live music, a bonfire, s’mores and the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster.

Vail

Menorah lighting at the Four Seasons

Like Aspen, Vail also offers holiday events for those of various faiths.  The Chabad in Vail hosts a Riverwalk Menorah Lighting in Edwards on December 5, as well as an apres-ski menorah lighting and party at the Four Seasons on Sunday, December 9.  The town’s community menorah  will be lit throughout the holiday.  The menorah is located at the Covered Bridge in Vail.

Vail also hosts a variety of holiday events including an annual tree lighting ceremony and lantern walk. On New Year’s Eve, a torchlight ski down and fireworks ring in the New Year Vail style with the Torchlight Parade, followed by fireworks at Golden Peak. Watch as ski instructors and Vail locals form a train as they ski down Golden Peak with glowing sticks followed by a fireworks display. Holiday events are free and open to the public.

Breckenridge

The town of Breckenridge also offers holiday events for everyone.  On December 8, Breckenridge’s annual transformation into a sparkling holiday scene begins.  The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas occurs that day.  Watch out for hundreds of jolly look-alikes running down the street, and watch as Santa uses his magic to light up the town for the season.

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Initial reaction

OOfos in the fall

The OOFOS OOMG boots arrived in their own cute little carrying bag.  With a lightweight black fabric and bright green lining, the boots look like fun to wear.  Always the cynic, I doubted the manufacturer’s claims about the boots assisting with muscle recovery.

Where were the OOmg boots tested?

I eagerly wore these during our first frosty days in Denver, Colorado and on the snowy and cold streets in Vail village.

Technical Specifications

Oofos is known for comfortable, posture-supporting shoes including clogs and flip flops.  The manufacturer makes a lot of claims about the shock-absorbing qualities and comfort of these boots:

• OOFOS patented footbed design to “enhance the recovery process.”
• Reduces stress on feet, knees and back
• Made of durable water repellent treated fabric
• Lightweight:  Roll the quilted upper down or pull it up
• Easily packable

What else we love:  every purchase on OOFOS.com contributes to researching a cure for breast cancer.

How did it perform?

Oofos, me, and Mr. Chilly in Denver

As usual, snowgrrl tested the boots to see if the technical specifications added to increased comfort and wearability.  The manufacturer warns purchasers that the boots may run smaller than normal, and to order a size up if in doubt.  Unfortunately, I did not see this and ordered my normal size (10).  My toes were right at the end of the boot.  The next size up would probably be a better fit.

I give the OOmg boots a high grade for comfort and shock absorption!  Walking around Vail village in the boots after skiing, I felt like the sole put a bounce in my step.  Instead of dragging my tired legs and feet around (after an amazing powder day, I may add), I felt like I could walk for miles in the OOmg boots.  Similarly, when I walked for a few miles around Denver in the boots, I did not feel fatigued at all.  The conclusion is that the OOfos technology really does work.

Room for Improvement?

The manufacturer should make the sizing of these boots more consistent with normal American/European sizing.  In addition, I would feel more comfortable if the boots had a Vibram or other grippy sole.  I did not feel confident approaching icy streets in these.

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Keystone Resort prides itself on more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, including three peaks, five bowls, a cat-skiing adventure, and night skiing.  A day of ski lessons with an expert Keystone instructor therefore seemed like a great way to get to know the mountain better, and improve my skills.  Mostly, I aimed to tackle steep slopes with more confidence.  Mentally/logically, I know that I’ve been skiing long enough to conquer most of the mountain.  But, sometimes I get nervous when I peer down a slope.  My palms get sweaty, and I start imagining the worst-case scenario.  So my main goal during ski lesson day was to get over such fears.

Our day of Keystone ski lessons started off without a hitch.  The ski school assigned instructor Trent Norman to us.  Trent is a former ski racer turned instructor, photographer, and consultant.  I love the fact that he is a true Colorado native!  Trent seemed well matched to me and my friend.

With Keystone Ski & Ride School instructor Trent Norman

We both ski between a level 6-7 according to the resort’s Ski & Ride School.  Since it was a semi-private ski lesson and we were ready before 9:00 a.m., we didn’t need to wait for any other students.  Right away, we realized one of the advantages of ski lessons with an instructor: we hopped right to the front of the gondola line in the separate ski school entrance.

Morning Ski Lesson: Drills

We started the morning of ski lessons with a combination of skiing and commentary from Trent on some easy runs.  We skied two runs with several stops on each.  During the stops, Trent indicated what we were doing right and wrong.  Since I am a visual learner, Trent made sure to demonstrate examples of what he was talking about so it would make sense to me.  Then, we spent some time doing drills.  We practiced a  fun “tray table” drill during which we held our poles horizontal across our arms and pretended like they were trays full of hot chocolate spiked with kahlua.  I noticed that my friend visibly improved his arm/pole position after doing that drill.

Next, we did a “broken wing” drill which was super challenging.  Trent had us bend down and touch the top of our ski boot with the downhill hand while reaching the other arm up.  If it sounds awkward, it was!  It illustrated his comments about the importance of positioning during skiing and the physics of the sport.  But, it was hard and awkward and I worked up an appetite, so it was soon time for lunch.

Afternoon Ski Lesson: Practice

Following lunch in the lodge, we hit the slopes again to put it all together.  We enjoyed several hours of skiing and instruction during the bluebird afternoon.  When my energy waned, Trent recommended that we start heading back.  He mentioned that accidents usually happen when people are tired, so we didn’t want to risk it.   We finished off the day of ski lessons reviewing what we had learned about pole position, using our edges, and being centered on our skis.  As a type-A goal setter, of course I want to do another day of ski lessons so I can check off all of the skills that make a level 7 skier.

Parting, such sweet sorrow. . .

Overall, I was happy that we had the opportunity to spend time with Trent.  I felt that my friend and I both benefited greatly from his pointers.   I would definitely recommend a private ski lesson or guide to anyone who thrives on personal attention, or even who just wants to skip ahead of the long lines during the busy holiday season (and who can afford it).

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Ethics in Apparel

Snowgrrl is always happy to hear about kindness in the industry.  Meeting with the folks behind Ecoths and Aventura clothing recently highlighted how some companies take ethics in the apparel industry quite seriously.  The brother and sister companies stand out in their approach to providing quality clothing and helping others.  Aventura sources at least 50% of its garments using fair trade practices.  The company commits not only to fair trade, but also partners with an agency for abused women.  In 2017, Aventura partnered with Uncommon Threads.  The “boutique” style clothing program serves survivors of domestic violence and other women in need.  It provides new clothes and styling to these women.  For a $10 donation (waived if the woman cannot afford it), Uncommon Threads offers these women up to four complete outfits.  On a quarterly basis, Aventura donates new clothing to this unique shop, helping women look and feel confident.

Ecoths

Ecoths sweaters are great for cozy nights at home!

Aventura‘s brother company, Ecoths, also takes an unusual approach to incorporating ethics into apparel sales.  When Ecōths launched in 2014, it created the 3 Campaign, a philanthropic program to fight hunger in America.  For every Ecōths garment purchased, at least three meals are provided to someone in need through regional food banks. Ecōths combines unique styling details, sustainable fabrics and approach to being a brand with a true soul.  Ecōths focuses on the “triple bottom line”:  People, Planet and Product.

Having worn the Aventura Anya wrap cardigan, I can attest that it is indeed cozy and unique. The fringe trim sets it apart from a regular cardigan.

Additionally, a friend tried the Ecōths Maddox and Barrick sweaters. I loved the stylish details and the softness of the sweaters. I think he should wear them every day!

In short, we love Aventura and Ecōths’ focus on the “triple bottom line” – and the clothes are pretty great, too!

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With the New Year comes the opportunity to wipe the slate clean and consider 2019 resolutions.  I offer, for your consideration, nine ski resolutions you should think about adopting.  I plan to check off at least a few of these!

1. I will lose weight.  Gear weight, that is.  With all of the advances in technology, there is no reason to stomp around in heavy, outdated gear.   From ski boots to super lightweight jackets, significant changes in manufacturing and textiles have impacted the apparel and equipment we use on the slopes.
2. I will keep (my gear) in shape.  I will tune my skis a few times a season, get the bindings checked, clean and repair the rest of my gear as needed.
3.  I will save more and spend less.  I always get my pass at the beginning of the season.  If you have gear and live near or will visit a ski resort, you will ski at least four time a year.   Calculations and price vary depending on the time of year and resort, but it is almost always worthwhile to invest in a season pass.  Other ways to save money on the slopes include packing a PBJ instead of buying an expensive lunch on the hill.  You could also consider joining a ski club or group that has discounted group tickets.
4. I will get organized.  I made this handy list which I now check off before each ski day.   My gear will remain in the same place in my closet so I don’t run around looking for things five minutes before departure.  Recently, I couldn’t find my poles and ended up using collapsible hiking poles for a ski day.  Do not attempt that yourself.  The poles collapsed (big surprise) and were useless.
5. I will wear appropriate gear.  For every skier, regardless of ability, this includes a helmet. Wearing a helmet can protect your noggin when you inevitably tumble down the mountain.  No one wants a traumatic brain injury!  Regardless of how confident you’re feeling, there’s always someone who is out of control.  Which brings me to my next ski resolution:
6.  I will ski in control.  Learning how to regulate speed is the key ski slope safety, enjoyment and improvement.  Feel like straightlining?  Fine (unless you’re in a “slow zone” with signs prohibiting it).  But watch out for that skier or snowboarder who comes out of nowhere and please be able to stop if you need to.  Likewise, unless you are truly a double black diamond skier, please don’t waste ski patrol’s resources attempting to jump off of a cliff to impress your friends. . . but . . .
7. I will push myself.  No need to cruise the blues all day long.  The only way to improve is to try something new, right?  Asking your expert-level friend to critique your form on a few runs or taking a lesson can both result in improved skills.  Or, once you’re warmed up, just try a steeper slope, some moguls, or a new part of the mountain.  Either way, time goes by, so why not try?  I resolve to improve my skiing ability in 2019.
8. I will explore new places.  Personally, I am lucky enough to have an Epic Pass, which now includes Telluride, Whistler B.C., as well as several resorts across Europe.  I just happen to have a friend living and skiing in Switzerland.  So in 2019, I resolve to check out at least one new ski resort.
9. I will be kinder.  To the planet and to others.  I will strive to buy apparel and gear that is made thoughtfully.  I will find a new home for my old gear.  I will let that guy in a big rush who practically tramples me, or those first-time skiers so excited to begin their day, cut ahead of me in the lift line.
10. I will focus on form.  Even when I’m with friends that are faster than me, I’ll try to maintain good form.  Turns, edging, pole position and posture all make for better form.

The post Ski Resolutions appeared first on Snowgrrl.

Testing the Korkers in Breckenridge, Colorado

We were happy to review both a men’s Korkers Polar Vortex boots and a women’s version called Snowmageddon.  Dr. Dan wrote the majority of this review, with some comments from me as well.  Dan tested the boots in snowy and icy conditions in Breckenridge, Colorado.  I tested the boots on a snowy day in Denver, Colorado.  We both agree that these boots are awesome.  These boots perform well for anyone needing boots for tough winter conditions.  The women’s version even has a cute faux fur trim at the top, and they are warm and cozy for both genders.

Tamara testing Korkers Snowmageddon boots in Denver

Anyone that lives and works in a cold and snowy climate knows the value of a great pair of boots.  Survival in any harsh winter climate depends on surefooted stability in slick conditions.  If you live in an area where snow and cold sticks around for months, you understand the struggle associated with lacing up tying and untying those boots every time you come in the house.  No one wants to drag snow, slush or road grime inside the house. It’s great to be able to get a pair of high cuffed boots on and off in seconds. Thus, I was eager to try Korkers Polar Vortex 600g Winter boots with the BOA M2 lacing system. No more time spent tying and untying up a tall cuff. No more dangling untied or broken laces.  No more deciding if you have the time to re-lace your dirty boots when you need to head inside for a pitstop.

BOA lacing

Close-up of boots with BOA lacing system

First of all, we can’t say enough about the value of the BOA lacing system.  Over the last few years I have come to depend on the BOA lacing on my footwear designed for cycling, fly fishing, & snowboarding.  The system has performed flawlessly. The quick on / off along with the problem free dialed in fit provided by BOA has made it hard to imagine purchasing a pair of sport specific footwear with traditional lacing. In addition, Korkers has been my go to brand of wading boots for the last several seasons.  It’s great to see this technology transferred to winter boots. The rugged reliability and innovative interchangeable tread system keeps Korkers at the top my fishing gear list.

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to test out a pair of winter boots that integrated the best features I have come to depend on in my sport footwear. A good pair of winter boots needs to be warm, waterproof, sturdy, and stable.

Warmth 

Cozy women’s Korkers

Korkers Polar Vortex 600 boots boast 600g of 3m Thinsulate insulation.  This insulation worked!  My toes stayed warm in outdoor temps down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit when vigorously shoveling snow, snow shoeing, or walking the dog at a relaxed pace.  Based on my comfort at 15 degrees I have no doubt they would be appropriate to Zero degrees Fahrenheit. The boots have labeling that says -40 degrees. I hope that I never have to test them out when it is this cold and have my doubts about this extreme comfort rating. A version of these boots is also available with 1200g of 3m Thinsulate insulation for less active pursuits such as ice fishing or snowmobiling.

Waterproofness

Korkers advertises the Polar Vortex boots as having “100% waterproof construction including a waterproof/ breathable bootie, waterproof leather, webbing, and stitching to keep the foot bone dry.”  When working in wet and slushy conditions I had no problems with water penetration. The breathability of the liner seemed effective as my feet didn’t feel damp and steamy when I pulled off the boots.  Some waterproof boots trap in sweat and moisture leading to cold damp feet. This was not an issue with the Korkers.

Sturdiness

After several weeks of using the boots they appear to be holding up well.  Time will tell if this pattern of reliability continues. Based on my past experience with Korkers wading boots I would expect several seasons of reliable performance.  The BOA closure system has provided flawless performance for many years on my cycling and wading boots. I have no doubt this will carry over to winter and work boots.

Stability

The most unique feature of Korkers boots is the OmniTrax interchangeable sole system.  OmniTrax interchangeable soles let you choose traction; switch between a rubber lug for snowy winter weather and a rubber lug with carbide studs when extra stability is needed in icy conditions.  When I first tried Korkers wading boots I was skeptical about the reliability of an interchangeable sole. I was concerned with a sole peeling off in a slick or muddy riverbed. After countless river trips I have never experienced any issues with OmniTrax.   It’s great to have a winter boot that allows you to easily adapt the boot sole to meet your traction needs. The Polar Vortex boots come standard with 2 soles (rubber lug & rubber lugged with carbide studs). Korkers has 8 different winter boot soles available for purchase on their website.  The variety of soles should meet most anyone’s needs. I found Rubber Lug fine for most days, but the carbide studs were a great addition when conditions got extra slick. It takes less than a minute to securely change out soles.

Fit & Comfort

Not only did the interchangeable soles provide an interesting feature, but sizing was consistent with other boots and shoes.  The heel cup did feel a bit large for my average foot shape, but the boa system kept my foot stable and secure.  The 11” cuff height was comfortable and kept snow and muck on the outside where it belongs.

In summary, overall the Korker Polar Vortex 600’s performed flawlessly and we would recommend them for anyone needing a pair of reliable winter boots with some unique features not found on other brands.

Full disclosure:  Korkers sent snowgrrl the boots at no charge, but all opinions are truthful.  We are under no obligation to give a positive review. If they didn’t perform as advertised we would tell you.  They have some great features and are worth the money!

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Item Reviewed:  Sweet Protection Switcher Helmet 

Reviewed by “QUICK CHICK” , Tracie Max Sachs

Helmet testing on a sunny ski day

Tracie is a 5 time World Cup Champion in Speed Skiing. She is the American Women’s record holder, and 4th fastest woman in the history of skiing. She is currently a ski instructor at the Swiss Ski School of Verbier.

Initial Reaction:

Oh how sweet it is! I loved testing this helmet.  It was lightweight, easy to adjust and very comfortable.  I could hear well, and felt safe and comfortable while skiing everywhere from the baby slopes to my ski exam conditions off piste.  I even fell head over heels in the powder and it stayed in place well, had no impact issues and felt entirely at one with the helmet.  Overall, I found this a trusty piece of gear that I would recommend to others.

Helmet technical specifications:

1. 3D shaped vented lining, moisture wicking, removable, washable

   Side view of the helmet and vents.

2. Wide Split divider, adjustable
3. Fidlock magnetic hook buckle
4. Fully box constructed ear pads, molded hearing ports
5. Audio ready system
6. Occigrip turn dial fit system

Test Conditions:

Testing the helmet while “on duty”

To test the Sweet Protection helmet for my review, I truly gave full-on test of every type of condition you could possibly imagine from warm, super sunny hot spring-like conditions, to freezing rain, to sleet and snow, to frigid bitter alpine conditions.  I tested the helmet in the Swiss Alps during the month of December 2018 and beginning of January 2019.  I wore it during private lessons I gave at the Swiss Ski School of Verbier as well as skiing on my own, and during a Swiss Snowsports upper level certification class I was taking to improve my own skiing.

Pros:

Light weight (comfortable)

Magnetic clasp (easy to attach)

Easy to open vents (can go from hot to cool quickly)

Adjustable size (easy to fit)

Washable liner (keep it clean)

40% off crash replacement – If you have a bad crash the company will give you 40% off on your new helmet. That’s a great deal in the interest of saving lives. (you only have one head

Cons:

When vents are open at a little bit of speed, there is a whistling sound that is quite loud inside the helmet.

Top view of Sweet Protection helmet with vents

In the rain, the ear flaps got very wet and were cold.

The chin strap kept getting loose so I had to check it fairly frequently.

Recommendations:

This helmet is available from the manufacturer for slightly less than US $200.00.  I feel this is a fair price for the average skier.  It’s a very good helmet and will be comfortable for most skiers.  The model I tried was a women’s size s/m.  I personally favor hard cover ear panels, but I was surprised how comfortable this helmet was and easy to fit for my narrow framed face.  I truly enjoyed it and highly recommend it for general ski conditions in all weather.  The versatility it provides with being able to quickly open the vents if it gets hot, really makes it an asset to your winter gear.

Ski hard, be safe, have fun!

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Testing Conditions

Colin and Mr. Chilly checking out the Dæhlie Men’s Pro pants

The Dæhlie items proved a solid choice for a quick jaunt to the foothills.   We hiked around Elk Meadows open space on a sunny but windy Sunday morning.  Amidst a bit of snow and high wind, the material and construction stood up to the elements.  The design afforded some versatility and convenience.  Colin thought the pants were a great product for a casual hike but really the type of pant you’d want for a full day in the mountains or during a competition.  I stayed toasty warm in the women’s Airnet base layers beneath another long sleeve top and a windproof jacket and pants.

Technical Specifications

•  100% wool, a natural fiber that seldom needs washing
• Breathable and odor resistant.
• Merino wool construction brings warmth and insulation during of low activity and wicks moisture to keep you comfortable when you crank it up a notch.
• Elasticated panels for comfort
• Slim fit for layering.

The post DÆHLIE hits the hills appeared first on Snowgrrl.

Last week, I had the opportunity to explore a Breckenridge adventure with a private guide.  Ben Pleimann, who works not only as an instructor and private mountain guide, but also trains other instructors, guided and instructed me during a memorable day on the slopes.  Hiring (or in this case, getting matched compliments of Vail resorts) a private guide gives you the most flexibility for your day.  You don’t need to worry about rushing to meet up at the ski school at a particular time; you dictate the time, place, and content of your adventure.  Some people like hiring a guide or instructor because they need tips on technique.  Others use a guide simply to cut lift lines.  For those that can afford it, this can come in handy during peak times like Christmas week or the upcoming President’s Day weekend.

Expectations

I wasn’t really sure what a day with a “Breck Guide” would entail, so I had low expectations at the outset.  I thought maybe the guide would take me around to the different peaks or places I hadn’t been on the mountain.  Little did I know that the guides are also certified instructors, so my Breckenridge adventure could be not only a day of exploration, but also learning.  My only agenda item was getting the elusive “7-10 split pin” from EpicMix (earned by taking one lift only on peaks 7,8,9 and 10 in order).

Preparation and Introduction

The day before my guided experience, the folks at Vail Resorts checked with me to see where I was coming from and when/where I wanted to meet.  I told them where my accommodations were, and we came up with a convenient time and place.  Ben and I met at the appointed time and place and I explained how I used to be obsessed with the EpicMix app.  During the year or two of my obsession, I made several attempts at earning the 7-10 Split pin.  A friend even mapped out specifically which runs and lifts to take in which order.  Sadly, we  did not achieve the pin despite that day’s planning, because one of the lifts didn’t read my pass.

Morning Goals

Before embarking on our grand Breckenridge adventure, Ben took me down a few easy runs to get a sense of my skiing and how I could improve.  I was impressed that Ben did his homework:  he had read my article about my Keystone lesson day and made some notes about drills and things we could do.  We knocked out the 7-10 Split pin by about 10:30, then focused more on form and improvements.  Ben suggested that by the end of the day, I would be able to ski down a double black diamond.  I was skeptical and a little freaked out at the thought.  However, as a goal-oriented person, I appreciated the “stretch goal.”

Quesadillas at Pioneer Crossing

Lunch Break

We took a break at Breck’s new Pioneer Crossing at the top of Peak 7.  I loved the quesadilla bar, where they make your quesadillas to order!  Pioneer Crossing offers several other “stations” as well as some grab-and-go options like pre-made sandwiches and salads.  We re-fueled and plotted out the afternoon.

Checking out the quesadilla bar at Pioneer Crossing

Stretch Goals

I realized that in the afternoon I was learning more than skills for improved skiing.  Skiing with a guide also helped me learn the mountain itself, gaining confidence as I did.  Ben truly showed me the ins and outs the mountain.  We took some cool and uncrowded runs with powdery snow, and encountered the ominous Horseshoe Bowl.

Getting psyched to do my first double black diamond!

By the end of the day, I made it down a double-black diamond.  It wasn’t super pretty at first, but I did it!  Ben was even nice enough to ski me back “home” at the end of the day.  This involved going down to a tricky, hard-to-find path back to my condo.  I am grateful for my awesome Breckenridge adventure with Ben.  I would highly recommend the guided experience.  A guided Breckenridge adventure will benefit anyone who wants to make the most of a day on the mountain while improving technical skiing ability.

The post Breckenridge adventure appeared first on Snowgrrl.

Demo Days at Copper Mountain.

Keeping up with snowgrrl is not always easy.  I have a full time job as an IP lawyer, albeit with my own practice, and so many other demands on my time.  I know that the more frequently we post content, the more page views we get.  The more page views we get, the higher the website will be ranked in search engines.  And the higher the website is ranked, the more brands and destinations want to collaborate. Nonetheless, it has been challenging to post over the last several weeks.

SnowShow and More

Almost a month ago now, the SnowShow hit Denver, followed by demo days at Copper Mountain.  For those not familiar, the Outdoor Retailer/SnowShow is a chance for folks in the industry to convene and connect over the latest gear, materials, sourcing, and technology.  It’s also a great opportunity to see your friends in the industry, with sponsored parties, meals and happy hours at every turn.  I enjoyed the SnowShow and checking out the new gear.  Since I’m not as interested in hard gear as apparel and accessories, I didn’t participate in the demo at Copper this year, but I walked around the village to visit sponsors’ booths and get a feel for the new items.  Then, I immediately headed to Breckenridge.  I skied with an awesome guide one day, then a friend came up to join me.  Well, that friend was on the tail end of an upper respiratory infection, and guess what?  A few days later, I found myself coughing and sneezing too.  Usually, I am very healthy.  But, I am STILL getting over this stupid cold!  I caught his bug.  Alas, I confess I have neglected the blog.  I have mostly been working, drinking soup, and sleeping.

Show Highlights

Shoes of the Snow Show: Teva, Lamo, Giesswein, Pak’Ems

So, my summary of the show and favorite items seen there is quite belated.  Please forgive me!  I enjoyed seeing my friends at NILS, celebrating their 40th anniversary this year with some throwback designs – one piece ski suits, anyone?!  The fashion show featured sparkly sleek duds from S’no Queen and others.  Lamo and Giesswein displayed comfy and cute shoes.   I am an over-the-top super organized person (Marie Kondo, watch out!) so Ogio‘s customizable, compartmentalized luggage appealed to me.  Showers Pass’ magnetic closure mittens sparked my interest and I tried them out on the slopes the following week.  I checked out some heated gloves from Mobile Warming.  Teva’s new line, commemorating the Grand Canyon, stood out in its colorful glory.  I was also curious to check out United by Blue‘s sustainably made line, and to learn about Purist‘s idea of making water battles celebrating the “pure” taste of water while giving back to surrounding communities.

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Editor’s note:  Tracie Max Sachs reports from the Swiss Alps on her telemark lessons in two parts.  This installment focuses on preparation and learning about telemark skiing.

For several years, I considered taking up télémark skiing. We’ve all seen the cool hipsters of the ski world with their heels free and knees bent, wondering how they can look so graceful and weird at the same time. I finally gave it a try when a fellow ski instructor offered a lesson.

Why Telemark

Not only was I curious about telemark skiing, but it also seemed like a great way to use different muscles.  As a ski instructor myself, I figured I was in fairly decent shape. I did have an MRI on my aching knee a few weeks ago, which revealed damaged cartilage, an enlarged Baker’s cyst and arthritis. Despite the general pain, which I pretty much have constantly when I ski right now, I decided to give it a try. My ski instructor, Sean “Rowdy” Yates encouraged me, and promised this sport of deep knee bends and putting weight on the inside edge wouldn’t hurt my knees. To my surprise he was right.

Getting Started

A big question for most people is “where do I start?” Next, “how do I find equipment for telemark“? Here in Verbier, Switzerland, there is only one ski shop that has télémark gear for rent.  Fortunately, I actually already had my gear.  I snagged it on my local Facebook swapshop last season in trade for a big hunk of yummy Swiss cheese and some dog treats.  In my heart, I knew eventually I’d get to use the equipment.  I suggest browsing your Facebook marketplace or Craigslist for good deals.  This may actually be cheaper than renting equipment.

The essentials for telemark skiing are:

1. Skis:  any skis will work, my teacher was using slalom world cup race skis with tele bindings.
2. Telemark boots. You can NOT use other boots for telemarking. Telemark boots are made to bend like your foot does at the ball of your foot when you step forward.  No other boots do this. SkiMo (Ski mountaineering gear) boots are not suitable for telemarking since they don’t bend in the front.
3. Bindings – special bindings to go with your special boots.
4. Poles
5. Helmet
6. Normal ski clothes.  I didn’t get that hot, it wasn’t very warm when I tried it.  I recommend ski pants that are a bit roomy so you feel comfortable bending.

Lessons

The next step is to arrange for a lesson with an experienced instructor. I was fortunate enough that the Ecole Suisse de Ski was offering lessons to instructors who need to have a second discipline for their Swiss Snowsports degrees.  My instructor, Rowdy has his Brevet Federale, or national certification.  Do NOT go out with a friend who will shove you down a black run and say “just bend your knee when you turn, you’ll be fine.”  We’ve all heard the stories of how someone’s best friend took them to the top of the mountain and went down a black run the first time they ever skied.  News Flash: that person isn’t your friend and never was.

Once you have your equipment set and your instructor ready to go, hit the slopes.   Next time, I will tell you all about my day telemark skiing with Rowdy.

The post 10,000 Lunges to Paradise: The Art of Télémark Skiing (part 1). appeared first on Snowgrrl.

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United by Blue Cleanup Day

Anyone who knows me, knows that I take my responsibility to the planet seriously.  Some may consider me a bit judgmental of those who don’t share that particular view.  I once hiked with a guy who left a Starbucks cup at a trail head.  He assumed that the park ranger would eventually find it and pick it up.  That was a big black mark against him in my book.  Yes, I’m the girl who picks up trash along the Cherry Creek trail when I take my dog for long walks there.

United By Blue – Commitment to Cleanup

Just like I pick up trash sometimes on the trail, so do the employees and volunteers organized by United By Blue.  I was thrilled to discover that a company out there shares my “make the world better” philosophy.  United By Blue pledges to remove one pound of trash means per items sold.  This means that the company periodically gathers their team and like-minded volunteers to pick up plastic bottles, tires, appliances, and even abandoned trucks, from rivers, streams, creeks, and beaches.

Taking plastic out of our waterways at a United by Blue cleanup

The plastic problem that United By Blue aims to help curb threatens both human and animal health on our planet.  Earlier this year, 60 Minutes reported on the massive amount of discarded plastic piling up around the world and pooling in the ocean.  Over eight million tons of plastic enter our waterways each year. Plastic bottles alone make up 1.5 million tons of plastic waste annually.

In line with their social consciousness, United By Blue is also a Certified B-Corp., In addition to their pledge to remove one pound of trash for every product sold, the company holds suppliers to specific environmental standards, offers employees paid time off for community service, and over uses office supplies primarily made from recycled content.

Wearing the Bison Utility Jacket on a chilly spring Denver day.

Let’s Not Forget the Clothes…

Oh!  And the clothes.  Let’s not forget the clothes.  As you can imagine, the company thoughtfully sources materials like organic cotton, bison, and recycled polyester.  I had the opportunity to try the Bison Utility Jacket and Trails not Rules sweatshirt.  Shoulder season has begun, and it is the perfect time to try out these transitional items.  The Bison Utility jacket combines the ranching industry’s often discarded material with heavyweight canvas for a sturdy, functional piece.  It felt a little stiff the first time I wore it, but the bison felt on the yoke kept me warm on a windy day.  The jacket softened up a little the second time I wore it.  I believe it will continue to get softer and more comfortable over time.  The jacket’s many pockets (chest, hip slide pockets, and interior chest pocket with zipper closure) provide ample room to store essentials.

Following trails, not rules, at the Hotel Talisa in Vail, Colorado.

The Trails Not Rules sweatshirt, on the other hand, was soft and comfortable from the get-go.  Made of an organic cotton/recycled poly blend, the top broadcasts the most important life rule to follow!  I have worn this sweatshirt around Denver and Vail, and everywhere I go, people compliment me and ask me where I got it.

United By Blue is truly a company with a mission, and the items they sent go in the permanent section of this snowgrrl’s closet.

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Editor’s note:  Editor’s note:  Tracie Max Sachs reports from the Swiss Alps on her telemark lessons in two parts.  This installment focuses on practicing telemark skiing and reactions from onlookers.

Ready Set . . .

Once you have gathered your equipment and courage, it’s time to hit the slopes.  Télémark instructor Sean “Rowdy” Yates suggested we go for the intermediate runs, which are serviced by a chairlift.  It was better than the beginner area. The intermediate slopes, offered more variation in terrain and a break for your legs while sitting on the chairlift on the way up. My knee didn’t hurt, but after 2 hours, my thighs were screaming. There is nothing like a good thigh burn when you try a new sport.

Burning thighs notwithstanding, Rowdy began from the very basics.  He explained the equipment, and how the bindings work. My bindings didn’t have breaks, only a safety strap, so he quickly reminded me to never lay my skis down on their bases before they were attached to my boots. It’s amazing what beginner errors can be made very quickly that can cause a lot of damage. A runaway ski is no laughing matter. Once I had my skis secured to my boots, we did several exercises to find the base position. This felt very strange at first, the boots were bouncy, and I felt like I was going to flip over forward.

With some reassurance, I gained confidence and off we went! It was a strange sensation to be the student when I’m so often explaining the basics of the turn to my clients. Generally it’s the same principle only you bend your inside ski back until there is a small triangular window visible between your knees from the side view. If you are too far forward or back, you quickly feel a loss of balance. It’s not a forgiving sport in that way. Eventually I linked my turns together and felt I made quick progress of the sport.

Is telemark timeless?

I’ll spare you the rest of the boring details of what a great student I am. Is this a sport of the future or the past? Well, only time will tell. After some research, I found an article from February of 2017 (45.6) issue of POWDER Magazine titled Telemark Skiing Is Dead, by Hans Ludwig. Sadly, there may be some credence to the article. As I was télémarking with Rowdy, I notice we did draw quite a bit of attention.

People passing by screaming “free the heel”, and “there’s something wrong with your binding”. It was fun and we interacted with people and Rowdy even picked up a lesson for the next day, which is great. However, the lack of access to the equipment, despite there being many qualified instructors here, may have it’s downside. I don’t think télémark will make a huge comeback in the 2020’s. It’s a niche sport that is fun for experienced skiers looking for a new way to enjoy the mountain. I fully appreciated my day of lunges and will certainly continue and hope to help the sport stay alive. Télémark is a true art form and it is beautiful to watch those who are so proficient at it. I highly suggest giving it a try.

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Ah, Colorado weather!  One minute sunshine, the next wind and snow.  With such unpredictability, weatherproof apparel is a must.  On windy day with alternating sunshine and snow, I tried out the new GORE® Wear, developed for cross country (XC) skiing.  The collection includes dozen of other multifunctional windproof products, ranging from baselayers, socks and headbands to insulating pants.  I tried the Windstopper pants and a cute multi functional blue and black zip-up jacket.

Technical Specifications

The products comprising the collection have been engineered with the newest GORE® WINDSTOPPER® technologies.  Features include the following:

– Durable outer fabric treatment provides water repellency

– Stretch materials and an aerodynamic design for comfort

– Windproof membrane provides protection of the body’s warmth

– Compliance with Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and bluesign standards, so you know they’re safe to wear and environmentally sound.

Testing Conditions

The Gore Windstopper products were tested several times.  The most extensive testing came on a day hike in the foothills on a typical sunny/snowy/windy day.  I wanted to get some fresh air despite the wind.  I figured that a windy day would provide perfect conditions to see if the windproof material really works.

My Take on the Windproof items

Not chilly in the Gore… Mr. Chilly didn’t mind the cold either!

I wore a wool base layer beneath the Windstopper windproof jacket, and the pants by themselves.  Though the temperature never got above 45 degrees, I felt warm and protected.  The wind whipped my face despite my diligent moisturizing sunscreen application.   However, my face was the only part of my body that felt chilly and exposed.  The Windstopper gear did its trick.   I took advantage of the zippered pockets that the jacket features.  My keys and phone were safely tucked away there.  I also appreciated the articulated knees and zippers at the bottom of the pants, which allowed me to put them on over my socks and boots.

Room for Improvement

The jacket definitely kept the windy chill away, but it was not particularly cozy.  I am partial to cozy items and fuzzy lining.  This jacket was not lined, so it would not feel soft if you wore it without a layer beneath.  The pants were great, but I wish they came in various inseams.  The pants only have about a 32″ inseam at most, so on me they looked like I accidentally shrunk them in the wash.  Both the jacket and pants fit a little smaller than normal.  I’m usually a medium.  The medium jacket fit well, but I had to size up in the pants.  Overall, I thought these were durable and functional windproof pieces which will come in handy on windy days!

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Here’s a question:  do you like cushioned shoes or do you prefer the barefoot feel?  For most of my life, I’ve worn shoes with padded soles.  Cushioning seemed especially important back when I ran half marathons.  During the second one, I fractured my ankle, and have since relied on shoes with some stability for running.

Checking out the Kanna hi textile shoes

Barefoot Lifestyle Shoes

Some believe that the natural/barefoot feel is healthier for your feet than heavily structured shoes.  There’s even a new documentary out touting these claims… I leave it to you to research the issue further.  I received two pairs of Vivobarefoot shoes recently, and for the last month or so have been transitioning away from shoes that squish my toes up and wearing the Vivobarefoot barefoot lifestyle shoes more often.

Technical Specifications

I’ve been wearing the Kanna Hi Textile and the Bloom barefoot lifestyle shoes.  They boast the following features:

• Thin, wide and flexible soles

  Shoes made from algae

• Lightweight and adaptable
• Vegan materials (the Bloom shoe is even made from algae, making it the first sustainable alternative to EVA)
• Breathable
• The Kanna shoes offer sealed seams and thermal insulation

Testing Conditions

I’ve worn both pairs of barefoot lifestyle shoes as part of my everyday life:  walking the dog, relaxing with friends, running errands around town.

Results

First of all, I am really impressed with the thoughtfulness that went into the Vivobarefoot shoes.  I really like the Kanna Hi Textile in particular.  I think it’s a cool looking shoe that is super comfy to wear.  Friends give me both positive and negative remarks about the barefoot lifestyle shoes.  Some agree that they are cool looking; others just think they’re odd.  But I don’t care!  My feet have gotten used to the freeing larger toe box and simple sole.  So much so, in fact, that traditional leather shoes with a smaller toe box feel constricting.  The Bloom shoes are great for hanging out by the pool or in other wet environments.  However, I would not recommend them for an everyday shoe.  My feet tend to get a little sweaty from the plasticy material (natural though it may be).  In addition, walking around Cherry Creek North gets very dusty with the construction going on.  The dust seeps through the holes in the shoes and onto my feet, so I need to wash them thoroughly upon removal.

If you’ve tried barefoot lifestyle shoes, I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback.

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I recently had the opportunity to check out a few pieces from the Ogio Alpha Convoy line.  Ogio built this collection of durable backpacks, luggage, and add-on pieces to withstand the test of time with sustainable fabric and durable construction. In this post, I’ll discuss the Alpha Convoy 525 backpack, and in the future, I’ll detail my experience with the small carry-on suitcase.

Alpha Convoy 525 backpack

First, I tried the  Alpha Convoy 525 backpack, while traveling and also while hiking in Boulder.  I tested this out with both soft and the hard attachable pouches. It feels like Ogio made the Alpha Convoy line for organization freaks like me!  Everything comes in modular pieces. I love this because I’m a Virgo – I find it much easier to travel when I am super organized!  The backpack has plenty of pockets, zippers, and compartments where you can stash different things.  On my trip, my boarding pass fit neatly in the small outer pocket, and my cell phone in the hard clip-on pouch.  The backpack also features a big interior pocket, two smaller interior pockets, and a padded, separated flap where you can store your laptop.  The straps, body, trim, webbing, and zipper pulls feature reflectivity for maximum visibility day or night.

Backpack details

The backpack felt comfortable when I had it loaded with various things.  An incident with my designated dog sitter occurred the night before an early flight. So, I ended up bringing him with me unexpectedly.  Fortunately, he fit perfectly in the main compartment of the backpack.  He looked comfortable and happy.  The adjustable shoulder straps with the chest strap felt comfortable to me, despite the extra ten pound canine load I was carrying.  The backpack also has two side water bottle pockets, a luggage pass-through, loads of internal organization including a key clip which came in very handy, a large zippered top stash pocket, and a padded comfort top handle.

Work or Play

The Ogio Alpha Convoy 525 backpack has a dedicated 15” laptop pocket. This allows for quick access while bag is in the overhead compartment. Outside the bag, 2 rows of Internal OGIO MOD webbing allow you to customize storage with a Convoy compatible MOD Hard Case or Soft Pouch. I used both; I found the hard case useful for sunglasses that I don’t want to get crushed, and the soft pouch for my dog’s food and collapsible water bowl.

In addition to all of the compartments, I also love the eco-friendly fabric called Cordura-Eco (recycled polyester) which makes up the bags.  The manufacturer specifically engineered these yarns to meet the fabric performance and durability specifications Ogio demands. This fits well with Snowgrrl’s “kindness” focus. Not only do you get super organized with all of the compartments in these bags, you also have a light impact on the environment while traveling light!

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Commitment vs freedom. . . a battle individuals grapple with everywhere, including on the ski slopes! Particularly this winter, when appealing prepaid lift pass products abound, commitment can pay off. Vail Resorts continues to offer various iterations of the Epic Pass. Meanwhile, Alterra Resorts launched the Ikon Pass last ski season. Both the Epic and Ikon passes, as well as other resort value passes, are most affordable well in advance of the ski season. Brave individuals willing to commit to next season’s pass get the most favorable pricing as soon as the current season ends!

Now, author and ski industry insider Chris Diamond’s second book, Ski Inc. 2020 dissects the incredible resort consolidation of the past three years. Skiing has typically been viewed as a “rich man’s sport.” Wealthy last-minute types still sidle up to the ticket counter and drop upwards of $100 for a single day of skiing. However, Chris views the current season passes developed by resorts as a trend that “rescues” skiing from remaining an elite pastime. He notes that skier visits reached a record breaking 59.1 million in 2018-2019 and predicts 60 million skier visits annually.

In this deeply researched book, award-winning author and former Steamboat president Chris Diamond analyzes the roots of the renaissance, how it played out, and why resorts are stronger today than ever. Ski Inc. 2020 offers a detailed read for anyone who wants to know what it all means to skiers and to the resort industry—from the major destinations down to the smallest day areas.

Is Vail threatened by Ikon?

How much of a concern are Ikon pass sales to Vail resorts? Not much, apparently, and they do not seem to be affecting Vail’s bottom line. Rather than specifically acknowledge the enemy by name, Rob Katz, Chief Executive Officer, recently discussed Vail’s season pass sales as of the end of September, 2019. He indicated that pass sales for the 19/20 North American ski season increased approximately 14% in units and 15% in sales dollars compared to the prior year, including Military Pass sales in both periods.

Commenting on the Company’s season pass sales for the current ski season, Katz said, “pass sales growth was modestly ahead of expectations through this point in the season, with strong results in our destination markets. In particular, we have seen very strong growth in our Northeast markets, which are benefiting from the first full year of pass sales with unlimited access at Stowe, Okemo and Mount Sunapee included on the Epic and Epic Local pass products.” He acknowledged more modest sales growth within Colorado.

Future Trends

Ski Inc. 2020 explores the dynamics between Alterra and Vail resorts, and discusses trends like vertical integration in the ski industry. A ski resort company once existed to transport individuals up mountains to provide access to trails. Now, they also provide numerous options for food, lessons, goggles, skis, poles, lodging, and almost every other aspect of a ski vacation. The author further analyzes the marketing tactics each resort company or conglomerate uses, including the aspirational “adventure lifestyle” touted by POWDR, the “indie” flavors of resorts like Taos and Alta, or the exclusivity of the Yellowstone Club. The book also summarizes the major challenges facing the ski industry in years to come: climate change, participation, and ski towns losing their identity. Anyone looking for an in-depth, extremely well researched ride through the changing dynamics of the ski industry and sport should pick up this book!

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Review of Pakems Women’s Cortina – Brickell

Reviewed by “QUICK CHICK” , Tracie Max Sachs

Tracie, a 5 time World Cup Champion in Speed Skiing, reviewed packable boots by Pakems. She is the American Women’s record holder, and 4th fastest woman in the history of skiing. She is currently a ski instructor at the Swiss Ski School of Verbier.

Description of packable boots from the manufacturer:

The manufacturer touts these boots as “light as a feather and can be packed down to fit in any suitcase or backpack.” Lightweight EVA outsole with rubber pods offers great traction. Faux-fur lining and a reflexive foam foot bed for warmth and comfort. A built-in storage pocket protects essentials, allowing you to secure cash, credit cards, keys, and cell phones.

Initial reaction:

I wanted to see if the boots meet the manufacturer’s claims. Out of the package, I thought the Pakems packable boots were adorable. I liked the materials, found the quality good, and the style fun.  The colors in the Cortina Brickell go perfectly with a pair of jeans or any color leggings. I loved the soft faux fur lining and thought it was cute that they can be worn full height or even folded down to show off the fur. They came with a nylon storage bag for easy packing, which I thought was a novel idea.

The nylon bag and pockets are great additions for the packable boots. I love pockets, and the zippered pocket is awesome for when you don’t want to carry your essentials in a purse. These packable boots are definitely lightweight.  Because they are so light, these would be perfect as camp shoes on an expedition like climbing Kilimanjaro for after climbing when you are hanging around in the tent and around camp. They weigh your bags on expeditions like that and every ounce counts. I would take these in a heartbeat. Caution: these packable boots would NOT be appropriate for hiking.

Test Conditions:

I wore the packable boots indoors, outdoors, in the rain, sun, snow, pretty much everywhere. I found the best use for them was really around the house, lounging around and for a quick walk with the dog. Because they offer little support, they are not replacements for hiking boots. Nonetheless, these packable boots make a great addition to your après ski, après hiking gear. I found them warm, fun to wear, and they really didn’t slip at all in the rain. I didn’t wear them too much on snow, but I think they would be ok for light snow, not ice.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Packable
• Comfortable
• Easy on and off
• Great color
• Cute style
• Pocket good for cash and ID

Cons:

• Size only comes in half size, website recommends down sizing. I’m a size 7.5, so I down sized, but I wish I up sized. After a long day of skiing, I prefer to have a little extra room than to have my après shoes be tight. I can get in the 7, but an 8 would’ve been more comfortable, especially if you have thicker socks.
• The pocket is cool, but it is not for contemporary sized phones. The largest I could get to fit was my old iPhone 5SE.

Recommendations:

I would highly recommend these boots for anyone who travels. I would also recommend them not only for the sporty woman, but for anyone who needs a pair of comfy boots for around the house, daily chores, picking up the kids, and playing with your furry friends. They are perfect for any après aside the slopes and by a fire place, or by your tent and the fire pit. At $49.00, the price is right and these boots can be an essential accent to any gear for any sport or daily activity. I would size up though, not down. All other shoes I have are size 7.5 and I find the size 7 to be a bit snug. They are a much cuter and sporty alternative to the popular sheepskin booties that have been around for a while. I actually got quite a few compliments on them when wearing them around my ski town. I give them a “thumbs up”.

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Raise your hand if you like to be cooped up… yeah, me neither. Since Denver has had more snow than usual in the past few weeks, and the city has failed to clear the sidewalks, one must either don heavy gear to exercise outside, or be cooped up inside a gym. Or, you could risk your safety by running on ice in regular running shoes. While some gyms certainly have a sense of camaraderie, I prefer to get my exercise in the fresh air. And I don’t always have time to drive miles and miles to get outside of the city.

Fortunately, I remembered that I had some Korkers Ice Runners stashed away in my closet. Since my ski plans didn’t work out for today, I decided to give running on ice a shot. I pulled the Ice Runners out of my closet and fitted them onto my Adidas Parley sneaks to try them out.

Description:

The Korkers Ice Runners are lightweight “performance ice cleats” that fit on top of your normal sneakers or running shoes. For traction, the bottoms are dotted with 22 ultra durable push-through replaceable carbide spikes.

The Ice Runners tout a BOA-FIT: Just like the closure on the heavier Polar Vortex and Snowmageddon boots, the BOA closure on these Ice Runners allows the wearer to dial in the perfect fit and adjust as needed. The BOA® L6 fit system wraps from all angles for a close fit and works best on low-to-mid volume running shoes. The BOA® components have a lifetime guarantee, and the cleat system is backed by Korkers Rock Solid Guarantee.

Initial Reaction:

The Ice Runners looked a lot easier to wear and use than my last experience with ice traction devices. A year or two ago, another company sent me some scary looking stainless steel ice cleats with sharp metal spikes. The chains got tangled up and one of the spikes pierced my finger, so I quickly gave up on those. The Korkers version, on the other hand, looked friendly and easy to put on. The main body is made of molded rubber materials, and tied together with strands of the BOA cables. The spikes appear only on the bottom of the product, and they’re not at all scary looking. I had no problem slipping these on top of my sneakers and tightening them up with the BOA cables.

Running on ice – Test Conditions:

I ran for about 2 miles on the icy streets of Cherry Creek North wearing my sneaks with the Ice Runners on top. I got some strange looks from drivers, whose cars were slipping and sliding on the un-cleared streets (get snow tires, people!). I took my first few hesitant steps, not sure if I would slip and fall on the ice. I felt the cleats on the bottom of my shoes, but I still wasn’t completely confident running with them. So, I ran slower than I normally would (not that I’m a super fast runner even in the best conditions). After a few minutes, I got more confident and upped my speed. Though cars slid on the road, I did not falter in my run.

Recommendation:

I loved getting some exercise out in the fresh cool air. After running on ice with these contraptions for about 25 minutes, I began to trust that I would not slip. It will take more getting used to for me to feel completely comfortable, but I definitely would recommend the Korkers Ice Runners to like-minded exercisers who are tired and bored on a treadmill and don’t feel like strapping on snowshoes, heavy boots, or escaping the city to do other winter sports.

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