Go chill out, but stay warm too
Head out for cold-weather sports and other activities with these new products, all of which have been tested by the writer.
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Something up your sleeve
Say you’re on the slopes and your cellphone rings. No need to dig into your pocket for the phone. If it is Bluetooth-enabled, you can make or receive calls using the control panel on the left sleeve of the Burton Audex Jacket. The panel also can be used to remotely control an iPod, switching among songs, and to switch between iPod and cellphone. The jacket is embedded with a Motorola Bluetooth wireless mobile phone link and hidden wired connections for a compatible iPod. Stereo speakers are built into the hood, and a microphone is embedded near the collar. There’s even a mini caller ID screen built into the control module, which has large buttons that can be operated while wearing gloves. The module, speakers and microphone are removed for laundering. The jacket comes in men’s and women’s styles, with goose down or polyester insulation.
Burton Audex Jacket is $600 from Paragon Sports; (800) 961-3030, www.paragonsports.com.
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Ah, to be kneaded
Vigorous winter sports can leave feet and calves aching. Now you can call on your own robo-masseuse for relief. The new iSqueeze from OSIM is a big, sturdy, electric lower-leg massager with four pairs of kneading disks and an integrated vibration board hidden behind padded leg rests. Flip a switch and the disks slowly squeeze and release lower calves, ankles and feet simultaneously while the vibration mechanism stimulates the arches and heels of the feet. The device has three kneading programs and three vibration modes, which can be used independently or together. The iSqueeze did a surprisingly professional job on my sore legs and feet, but be advised, this machine is programmed for deep massaging. If that’s your preference, the iSqueeze is ideal. Those who want a very light touch won’t find much mercy here.
OSIM iSqueeze (501601) is $399 from Brookstone; (800) 351-7222, www.brookstone.com.
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For snow-stompers
Snowshoeing is gaining popularity as an aerobic activity. Colorado-based Redfeather Snowshoes has come up with a particularly well-designed snowshoe for hiking or easier walking. The Hike series has a lightweight aluminum frame with stainless-steel crampons, molded polyurethane plastic bindings and a nylon mesh base. The rounded-tail design aids flotation and balance in deep snow, and the all-terrain bindings accommodate a variety of footwear and are easy to put on and take off quickly. The new Hike Snowshoe Kit includes a pair of snowshoes, a pair of two-section, lightweight aluminum telescoping poles and a carry bag. Available in 22- to 36-inch lengths, depending on the user’s weight.
Hike Snowshoe Kit is $129 from Redfeather; (800) 525-0081, www.redfeather.com.
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High-tech long johns
Ex Officio’s new Skivvy long underwear can be washed, air-dried and worn again in less than four hours -- a definite plus when your lodgings don’t come with laundry machines. The lightweight, breathable nylon/spandex blend stretches comfortably without bagging, and the fabric effectively wicks moisture away from the skin so the wet stays on the outside rather than making you clammy. The underwear is treated with an antibacterial finish to minimize odor. Available in pants and crew neck tops in men’s and women’s sizes. The tops have a thumb slot in the extended sleeves to keep the sleeves from riding up. The pants have an elastic waist. The men’s pants have a fly.
Skivvy pants are $36-$38; top, $38-$40, from Ex Officio; (800) 644-7303, www.exofficio.com.
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A tent-safe heater
Cold-weather campers rejoice. There will be less shivering in those sleeping bags, thanks to Coleman’s new ProCat catalytic heater. Fueled by a standard disposable 16.4-ounce propane cylinder (not included), the ProCat’s catalytic technology provides a flameless heat that is approved for use outdoors and in sheltered areas, such as tents, work sheds and garages. (Propane heaters usually are not considered safe in enclosed areas.) The device also can be used as a temporary home heater in power outages. The ProCat features a built-in fan powered by two D-cell batteries (not included) to blow heated air, maximizing efficiency. The ProCat measures a portable (although not backpackable) 15 by 10 inches and is 9 inches deep.
ProCat catalytic heater is $81 from Coleman; (800) 835-3278, www.coleman.com.
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