KUSA - For the latest edition of Wargin's Workouts we were visited by Rebecca Heaton, editor of Competitor (former Rocky Mountain Sports Magazine), to talk about cool accessories for your eyes, feet and gear.
The following cool gear can be found in the November 2009 issue of Competitor (Dathan Ritzenhein is on the cover):
Cool Shades
Making its debut at the Tour de France, the limited-run Oakley Radar Antifreeze sunglasses feature an iridescent green frame that looks... well, like antifreeze fluid. The flash color is complemented by a jade iridium lens, which promotes truer color recognition during road riding conditions, particularly in bright sunlight. Available in a standard path lens and in the new XL version, with a taller nose bridge and greater upper lens coverage, these shades are ideal for time trialists and triathletes looking up the road in aerobars. $195, oakley.com
Waterproof Pack
Great for just about anything short of swimming, Aquapac's new Waterproof Backpack keeps your computer, change of clothes or lunch dry on any commute. Constructed with TPU-coated fabrics and water-tight taped seams, this 23-ounce practical minimalist pack is full of features like yellow interior pockets including a clear pocket for essentials, removable back support that doubles as a seat and a full-size waterproof internal dry pocket that separates wet and dry goods. $85, aquapac.net
Customizable Running Shoes
Somnio uses interchangeable footbeds and cushioning inserts to allow trained fitters to customize the shoe for you. In a process that requires some analysis of your individual needs, a trained fitter chooses from the three base models from neutral to structured, and then cants each shoe to dial in your specific arch and biomechanical requirements, finishing the process by placing one of three different densities of materials in the forefoot and heel, allowing you to mix and match for orthotic-like alignment. $110-125, depending on model, somniorunning.com
Programmable Headlamp
Petzl's Myo RXP is the only headlamp you'll need for all of your outdoor activities after dusk. Many lights fade and dim as battery life dwindles-the Myo RXP maintains consistent white-light output until it's time to reload batteries. Choose from 10 lighting levels to program three settings to suit your activity and length. Use a dimmer setting for lacing up your running shoes in the car, and a brighter mode for a nighttime run. A boost mode allows for quick, bright light. A strobe mode is available for emergency situations, and a diffuser lens slides over the bulb to vary the concentration of light. $100, petzl.com
High-Tech Orthotics
While most orthotics have their innards hidden, ALINE RED orthotics bare all. These high-tech foot supports feature patented technology developed over the past 20 years with the help of feedback from weekend warriors on up to world-class athletes in an array of sports. ALINE orthotics are unique in that they allow natural movement of your feet-compared to a stiffer orthotic-which in turn helps you maintain optimal lower leg alignment through a full range of motion. Translation: better performance and less chance for injury. Wear them walking, hiking, running and even cycling. $60, aline.com
Treat for the Feet
After a tough race or long workout, Crocs Prepair Slides can help your hard-working feet recover. How? They feature an innovative design that reduces peak pressure points on your feet to help regulate blood flow and relieve fatigue. According to an ergonomic lab study conducted by Crocs, the shoes reduced peak pressures by 50 percent as compared to walking barefoot. Slip on a pair and hear your feet say aaaah. $35, crocs.com
You can pick up a FREE copy of Competitor at most health clubs, coffee shops, and various restaurants in Denver and surrounding areas. www.competitor.com