For an extra edge, go high-tech
Want to really push it -- get the maximum out of your workout? Try better gear. Advanced technology and clever design are producing high-performance sport products that can help you go faster, travel farther and train better.
Roy M. Wallack
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Power pants
Under Armour compression shorts: Worn as tight as a second skin to compress muscles, these shorts are said to lower fatigue and reduce injuries. The moisture-wicking, nylon-Lycra material also removes excess heat and keeps you dry.
Price: $25. (888) 727-6687; www.underarmour.com.
Spring in your step
Spira Del Sol running shoes: The Boston Marathon banned these shoes, from Spira Footwear, for a reason: They give you a slight but noticeable “energy return,” or bounce, as you run, helping you stay fresher by doing some of the work for you. The trick is the WaveSpring, a thin, strong, shock-absorbing metal spring buried in the heel. Well-cushioned yet light at 12 ounces, this shoe is designed for those runners with normal, non-pronating feet.
Price: $90. (866) 838-8640; www.spirafootwear.com.
Aero head
Rocket Time Trial bike helmet: Every second counts when you’re in a triathlon or cycling time-trial, which is why an aerodynamic helmet is essential gear at events such as the Tour de France. With ear coverage, an elongated tail and a teardrop shape, the Rocket from Louis Garneau not only cuts through the air with minimal speed-sapping turbulence, but also is one of the rare aero helmets built tough enough to be street legal in the U.S.
Price: $180. (800) 448-1984; www.louisgarneau.com.
Stretch and roll
Crossfire 4D (for women) and Activa 4D (for men): These skates, from Rollerblade, have a wheelbase that can “grow” a full inch as you advance from recreational fitness skating to all-out speed skating. A couple of turns of an Allen bolt lets you slide the front pair of wheels forward and the rears back. Putting the skates on is speedy too: Instead of laces, you tug the TRS disc, a pull-cord that instantly tightens a string web around your foot.
Price: $229. (800) 232-7655; www.rollerblade.com.
Backyard laps
The Fastlane: No need to schlep down to the gym for a swim workout anymore. You can do the crawl anytime in the tiniest backyard pool with the Fastlane, made by Endless Pools. The device mounts to the pool edge and blasts a jet-like current of water that lets you swim in place. Top speeds reach sub-100-yard pace, making it suitable for everything from leisurely water jogging to fast-paced interval training.
Price: $6,000. (800) 880-7946; www.swimfastlane.com.