The biggest problem with eyewear in cross-country skiing is that on long uphills, they fog up. CASCO first solved this problem with their Nordic Eyewear model; you know, those funny looking, flip-up shields that you see on all of the Norwegian skiers and biathletes. Now CASCO has figured out how to integrate super anti-fog properties into eyewear that looks, well, normal. The name 3-in-1 comes from the fact that these new glasses can be used in three different ways. Alone, they look great and have great anti-fog properties. Add the strap for a more secure fit. Add the included face foam-clip and defeat fog for good. The frames are available in black or silver. Both versions include two sets of lenses. The dark lenses work well in sunny conditions, while the orange lenses improve visual acuity in flat-light conditions. On sale for $75 through Chi-Town Sports, www.morsnow.com.
CASCO produces the most technically advanced eyewear for cross-country ski racing. The innovative flip-up design keeps the shield away from the face and prevents fog from forming on humid days or long lung-taxing uphills. Rain, snow, and sleet are also kept at bay by the plastic barrier, removing the need for those goofy looking traditional umbrella shields. Yeah, CASCO Nordic eyewear looks goofy, too, but at least you’ll be able to see where you’re going when your competitors are staring through fog or losing extra seconds fiddling with their sunglasses. Joe Gollinger of Chi-Town Sports imports the CASCO Nordic eyewear. Now offered for $110. Includes multiple shields. Perfect for biathlon.
Patagonia clothing has long been the choice for people tackling nature’s elements, from climbers and mountaineers to paddlers and hikers. They recognize that the company’s commitment to design, durability, and environmental stewardship leads to superior, longer-lasting garments. Although the Capilene base layer line has been well-used by cross-country skiers and other winter silent sport enthusiasts in the past, Patagonia has now come out with a number of different outer layer garments that will keep you warm and dry this winter. I’ve been testing these items since last winter and have been very pleased. Let me share with you some of my impressions of the new outer garments and socks. For more information, check out www.patagonia.com.
CASCO Nordic eyewear has been tried and adopted by many athletes on the World Cups of biathlon and cross-country skiing. The reason is obvious. Engineered to keep the lens shield away from the face, fog rarely develops. In case it does, the hinge mechanism allows you to flip the shield up, but keeps it still securely attached to the head. For shooting, this same process saves valuable time and worry about the glasses falling off or fogging up. CASCO is now distributed by Chi-Town Sports. Contact Joe Gollinger at (630) 922-5855 or
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. The Nordic eyewear is available at a special holiday price for $99.95. CASCO also sells regular eyewear for $50. Website: www.cascoeyewear.com.
Before I left the U.S., I obtained three new suppliers. I'd like to thank Honey Stinger, which makes energy bars containing natural honey, Rudy Project, which makes high performance eyewear, and Exel poles.
California-based Patagonia will now be providing me with its high-quality technical clothing and apparel. What struck me about Patagonia was its dedication to constantly improving its products, but also its commitment to the environment. One percent of company profits are donated to initiatives protecting our planet. With global warming consistently eroding the length of the ski season every year, this issue affects winter athletes like me directly. I will be evaluating and providing feedback about their products. Already, I am impressed by the new base layer line Patagonia has developed. It pairs Capilene, their breathable and warm synthetic fabric, with body-mapped stitching, which customizes insulation based upon the specific needs of different areas of the body. It’s called Variable Knit Capilene. Try it. It’s the most advanced clothing line available for winter endurance sport. Check out Patagonia's complete online catalog: www.patagonia.com.
