If you like to get outdoors as a family _ regardless of the weather _ we've got some great options for you to check out this season.
_ Dash Hoodie (Brooks Running)
We love this hoodie and are pretty sure that you will too. It's soft, feather-light, warm, and wicks moisture quickly. It's made of breathable material that's also machine washable and dryer safe. There are thumb holes on the cuffs, and a storage pocket over the left hand that's perfect for keys, cash, or whatever else you can't do without while you're running. The hood is perfect for cooler weather, so you can use it until you get too warm on your run, then toss it off. Prices vary depending on the color you order (some are on sale). Find out more at https://www.brooksrunning.com
_ Bontrager Vella Women's Long Sleeve Thermal Cycling Jersey (Trek)
Yep, that's quite a mouthful, but one that's well worth pronouncing. This half-zip, long-sleeve, collared top is soft and lightweight (yes, we do love our soft, light workout gear). And thanks to excellent ventilation and wicking, it the warmth you need with the comfort you want. If you like body-hugging, form-fitting gear, you'll find yourself wearing this top again and again. The Bontrager also has reflective elements, which adds an element of safety to your nighttime workouts. It's washing machine and dryer safe, but we prefer to hang dry since it dries very quickly. $89.99. https://www.trekbikes.com
Bontrager Vella Women's Thermal Headband (Trek)
Although Trek specializes in biking, bikes, and bike gear, they're also making a splash in apparel. Keep the hair out of your face and your ears warm with this warm (but not suffocating) headband that stays put when you hit the road. It's thin, so you can wear it under your helmet on your bike rides. Wash and wear. $16.99. Available in a variety of colors so you can match or contrast with your jersey. https://www.trekbikes.com
Shoes (SAS)
SAS, which stands for San Antonio Shoemakers, looks to bridge the gap between comfort and style. These are orthopedic shoes, but not the giant, black, clunky, ugly, awful things your grandparents may have worn. SAS's orthopedic shoes are comfortable, offer plenty of support, and are fun and funky (in a good way) as well. They make shoes for both men and women, from everyday sneakers to sandals and shoes for elegant occasions. There are lots of options and just as many colors. We wore our SAS's on two 5K's and a variety of regular, everyday activities, like hanging a swing, messing around with the kids, and so on, and they held up extremely well. Most of the ones we tested came with the company's patented SAS Comfort Outsole, SteadyTrac Midsole, and Arcfit heel stabilizer, all of which work together to provide you with firm but gentle support. There's also the Tripad comfort system, which, according to the company, "adds additional support to the three main pressure points of the foot, while SAS CoolSTEP foot bed and a leather and mesh upper make for a light design with no heat build up underfoot." Prices vary widely. https://www.sasshoes.com
