Lock Laces

I can't remember the last time I tied my shoes.

All my running shoes have bungees, mostly because it makes getting in or out, much easier, especially in transition zones.

My latest testers are from Lock Laces. They feature a large pinch-lock and the usual stretchy bungees.

The cords are bound at the ends, so threading them through the shoe eyelets is a breeze.

Their website features a step-by-step installation photo gallery, so setting up a pair of shoes only takes a few minutes.

Bungee laces can ease tight spots on the top of the foot and they create even pressure throughout.

Aside from athletes the bungees are practical for kids, seniors, or those with physical limitations.

PRICE $11.00 CDN

Contera Adjusta-Pro radio chest harness

When I joined the ski patrol I was offered the use of a standard radio harness supplied by the patrol at the ski hill. But even before my first shift, I knew a community piece of equipment wasn't going to cut it. I like gear and owning my own harness is just logical. My supplies in the harness, and the same kit all the time is really important when a skier is injured and I need to know where my tape, my shears, or my gloves are.

All the above fits in the roomy pocket. I also keep a red beacon for patroling at night that wraps on a pole to mark a scene. A pen and notepad, and my 10 code cheat sheet also fit in there. A permanant marker for marking lift tickets or restocking tags goes in the pen slot beside the pocket.

On the front of the pocket is a four stage LED light with one red, and one white bulb. It has two points of adjustability and can be used to illuminate the trail or read a map. A really great additional feature is that it slides out of it's sleeve so it can go where ever you want it.

The radio pocket is easily adjustable to accomodate just about any size of radio, even the FRS.

There are a pair of elastic antenna holsters to keep it out of the way and in a vertical position.

Although the selection of radio harnesses isn't huge, the Adjusta-Pro is really the top of the heap with adjustability, simplicity and usefullness. The light puts this harness over the top.

PRICE $55 CDN

Sugoi Piston 200 Tights

It was evident to me when I saw the stock image of the Sugoi Piston 200 tights that they were a garment I really needed. Two things really jumped out at me just from the photo.

1. They would fit. Period. So many tights are long in the rise and end up doubled over to compensate for their length in the crotch. The result is a horrible fit and frustration. The rise measures 20 cm. but fits better than that number indicates.

2. Compression is my new best friend and the Piston Series was offered from my trusted garment friends at Sugoi. I've worn the socks with great success and how could I go wrong with lower body full cover. My instincts were right and these are my must have gear. I've been spreading the word since I first pulled them on. They've been on during a workout, afterwards, on a long plane ride, an equally long bus ride, to bed and for two solid telemarking days. The results were astounding, as my quads, ham-strings, and glutes really benefited from the squeeze.

They are really finely crafted too with flatlock seams, light weight, durability and compression strength.

The claims of compression ring true for me and have helped my with recovery. The company line adds improved muscle stability, and increased movement efficiency.

They feature the usual stuff too, like an interior key pocket and 3M Scotchlite reflective dots.

PRICE $90 CDN.