2XU  
Thermal Long Sleeve Compression Top

2XU makes some of the best highest quality compression apparel in the world.  The Thermal Long Sleeve Compression Top is a great addition to the compression socks and tights that dominate the market. If you have used any 2XU apparel this is just another necessary piece you should add to your collection. Athletes are beginning to understand that compression is not just for your legs. In the case of this comfortable piece, warmth, breathability and great fit make this a perfect gift for cool weather training or as a base layer for winter sports. Reglan sleeve construction for unrestricted movement and a graduated fit provide increased circulation to reduce soreness and enhance blood flow; allowing for blood lactates to be flushed from overworked muscles. Thanks to flatlock seam construction, the piece feels like a second skin and felt the same on the 20th wearing as it did out of the package.  We also highly recommend the Thermal Compression Tights; with the same materials and innovative construction, they make a great companion to the Thermal Top.  The Thermal Long Sleeve Compression Top comes in black, in a full range of men's and women's sizing.

Retail $129.95
www.2XU.com

Brooks
Essential Run Vest II

In my opinion, every triathletes wardrobe should contain at least one running vest and a list of layering pieces would not be complete without one. It's no surprise that a Brooks product has made it on our Christmas Wish List as well this year, as they are consistently producing quality training  pieces and are a great gift idea for any athlete on your list. The semi-fitted Essential Run Vest II has taken all runner's needs into consideration. Wind-proof and water resistant, the vest has a full front zip, inner storm guard and zipper garage at the neck with soft fabric lining the high neck for maximum comfort. The back vent adds breathability when your base layer gets a bit toasty and the adjustable draw-string at the waist also provides for adequate temperature control. Reflective strips add to visibility, and one of my favorite details is the moisture-proof media pocket, to keep my phone or ipod pumping out the ear candy. The vest was extremely comfortable to run in and makes a great mid-layer piece. The Essential Run Vest II comes in multiple colors in men's and women's full sizing, and last year's Essential Run Vest is even currently on sale. Brooks also offers a 'Nightlife' version in men's and women's with bright, visible colors for athletes who prefer to work out in the early morning or night time.

Retail $70.00
www.brooksrunning.com

Icebreaker
Carve Long Sleeve Zip

Marino wool is the ideal fabric when considering layering in the winter. Soft and non-itchy, it's warm but allows breathing to prevent sweat from building. It's also naturally antimicrobial, renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. It's no surprise the purchase of old-school wool cycling jerseys has jumped in the last few years, as people realize that even the best synthetic materials are still playing catch-up. Icebreaker specializes in turning high-quality wool into technical performance layers, and the Carve Long Sleeve Zip provides the evidence. Designed for high intensity winter sports, the Carve has internal sleeve cuffs, thumb holes, side pockets and a chest pocket with a hole for your MP3 cord. My favorite thing by far, is the offset zip to prevent zip stacking. While it took a minute to get used to, not having three zippers at my throat when layering makes it a really nice feature. The Carve has an athletic cut and is offered in four colors with a full range of men's and women's sizing. Also recommend from Icebreaker, is the Express Long Sleeve Half Zip; a mid-weight technical base layer with flatlock stitching that feels amazing against the skin! Icebreaker offers other great long sleeve wool baselayers starting at $60 for the lightweight version. Once you try these well made, high performance layers, you'll see they're worth every penny.

Retail $220.00
www.icebreaker.com

BAFFIN
Soft Shell Hood Jacket

For extreme conditions, there are few companies that have the knowledge and experience to produce the kind of products that BAFFIN creates. That's exactly why, when we went looking for a versatile, piece that would work for athletes in extreme weather, but still allow for movement and temperature control, we went straight to BAFFIN. Having tested their products on multiple polar expeditions, we knew their promises weren't just advertising. The Soft Shell Hood Jacket has become a staple piece for my winter sporting. I've used it for everything from icy morning runs, to snowshoeing, to going sledding with my kids. On the inside, there's a warm fleece interior on the back and easy slide fabric on the front, so base layers don't end up creeping toward the neck as you move. Multiple large pockets keep winter gloves and nutrition easily accessible and a zipper garage at the neck prevents rubbing or chaffing. Armpit two-way zippers and elastic closures on the waist and hood, help with core temperature control and closures on wrists are adjustable for big bulky gloves, or thin running gloves. The zippers are sealed to keep out wind and moisture, but one of my favorite details are the large grippy ends to all the zippers; they're easy to grip with gloves. My husband is a mountaineer and ice climber, and I have become quite accustomed to very expensive, high-end jackets filling our closet with fewer details than BAFFIN puts into this soft shell. For athletes looking for a soft shell to wear in extreme conditions, this is a fantastic product at an incredible price. The Soft Shell Hood Jacket comes in black, in men's sizing only, but can easily be worn by women.

Retail $149.99
www.baffin.com

Cobb Cycling
V-Flow Max

John Cobb knows aerodynamics. He also knows that if the rider isn't comfortable, highly aerodynamic equipment won't matter. With the V-Flow Max, Cobb Cycling has given BOTH equal consideration. Slightly more aggressive than the V-Flow Plus, the Max continues the tradition of the lowered nose section and deep cut relief trough to, "relieve pressure in the prostate/perinea area for men and the soft tissue area for women." Having had problems finding a 'rider friendly' saddle in the past, our tester reported an immediate, phenomenal  improvement in comfort after the first ride with the Max. The narrow rear section is plenty wide and our tester found the new high-density foam that Cobb developed to be the perfect level of firmness for long rides. Because a well engineered saddle is a large part of the rider comfort equation, proper installation is vital. For this reason, Cobb Cycling includes with every saddle, a took kit and a thorough installation DVD to walk you through the process. If you're still having problems, customer service is available to answer all your burning questions. The Max is a unisex saddle and comes in black or white.

Retail $179.99
www.cobbcycling.com

HEAD Swimming
Venom Mirrored

These hydrodynamic, low-profile design race goggles were created with optimum speed and comfort in mind. HEAD Swimming set up our entire women's triathlon team with a few different styles of goggles and the Venom was, by far, the favorite for race day. They provide an excellent cushioned, leak-proof seal without feeling like they're sucking out your eyes, like some other brands. With years of experience providing Europe's fastest athletes with supreme swimming products, HEAD entered last year into the US swim market in limited release. It's loads of trial and error combined with Olympic caliber feedback that make the Venom a superior goggle. They feature high-quality polycarbonate lenses, with UV-protection and anti-fog treatment as well as a double silicone head strap. Also check out the Stealth Mirrored, a particular favorite of athlete George Bovell, who's been dominating the Word Cup events this year all over Europe. The Venom Mirrored comes in three colors and includes various sized nose-pieces for optimal fit.  

Retail $14.99
www.head.com/swimming

Skora
BASE

Skora was founded on the principle that the best technology is the human body. Their focus is to assist body function, "as naturally and efficiently as possible". They seek to create shoes that allow your body to do the job it was meant for. Designed as a multi-purpose running shoe, the BASE is a great option for triathletes looking for a minimalist shoe that will be as fast in transition as it is on the road. The adjustable X-strap system and elastic heel strap make the shoe feel like a custom fit that easily molded to our testers feet. An Ortholite sockliner provides a chafe-free run even in bare feet. In fact, after a few runs, our tester preferred to wear this shoe sockless. With a weight of 7 oz., zero drop ride and a 9 mm. stack height, it's a solid choice for the seasoned minimalist runner right out of the box. Newbies will find the BASE a solid choice as well, as long as they stick to the 'Real Running Reminders' offered by Skora for a pain-free transition into the minimalist world. Your feet will thank you for the extra effort! The BASE comes in various colors with men's and women's (pictured) full and half sizing.

Retail $110.00

www.skorarunning.com

Skirt Sports
Ice Queen Ultra Jacket

The Ice Queen Ultra Jacket by Skirt Sports is my new favorite thing! Because of the slim fit and sleek style, I can wear this wind/water-resistant jacket with anything; it looks great with dressy or casual wear. It features a four-way stretch breathable soft-shell jersey fabric, with a feminine mock turtle collar and full-length reflective zipper. While the Ice Queen Ultra only comes in black, Skirt Sports offers a hood-less option, the Ice Queen, in 'red kiss' as well; both styles are available in a full size range. The zip off hood, cuff wrist warmers and thumb-holes come in very handy on the extra wet and cold days, and the adjustable underarm vents are great when it warms back up. The added bonus of well-placed pockets and a music port make this the perfect jacket for work or play. While it's a bit heavy for fall running conditions, I predict when the temps. drop into the teens, this will be my first choice. Nice work Skirt Sports!

Retail $160.00
www.skirtsports.com

Pearl Izumi
P.R.O. Softshell WxB 3x1 Glove

Pearl Izumi's warmest glove ever delivers with three gloves in one. "The versatility really is the strength of these gloves," our tester commented, "...and they're PACKED with features that are useful for more than cycling." When other gloves ignore extra details on the liner, the P.R.O. Softshell WxB 3x1 liner features a synthetic leather reinforcement in high use areas as well as a soft cloth nose wipe on the thumb. This means when Pearl says you can use them as a light cycling or running glove, you really can. The outer glove is an anatomically fit, waterproof, Primaloft insulated shell that has been specifically designed for harsh conditions without all the bulk that would reduce dexterity. Natural carbon leather reinforcement in high use areas, reflective elements, nose wipe on the back of both thumbs and inner fleece lining make the external glove highly usable with or without the liner. The gloves come in unisex sizing, but there is a women specific version, P.R.O. Barrier WxB Glove, available without a liner. Our tester used them cycling as well as snowshoeing and running and found them effective in all three situations. They are a formidable ally against the nastiest weather.

Retail $130.00
www.pearlizumi.com

New Balance
GPS Runner

At the front of the pack of budget GPS watches, New Balance has created an ideal GPS for those looking for more information, without needing online memberships to review massive amounts of detailed stats. For those looking for speed and distance, pace, multiple training modes, calorie count and a good memory (30 runs) this watch is the right kind of simple. Settings allow you to customize your screen to fit your preferred stats while running and the uni-sex unit isn't overly bulky for women. Set up is easy with the auto clock and multiple time zones. The watch also comes with a charging cable and easy to read, step-by-step instruction booklet. There are five daily alarms, a feature that came in extra handy for our tester who gets so busy, he forgets to eat. Of comparable watches in it's class, the GPS Runner has larger display numbers that made it easiest of all the watches we tested to read while running. Chronograph charge will last 100 hours and charge times will vary when using the GPS; pretty standard for GPS watches. Simply put, it's a great watch at a great price.

Retail $109.99
www.newbalance.com

Brooks
Epiphany Support Tank II

I know it's totally girly, but the truth is, indoor training becomes less miserable with comfortable, cute workout clothes. Made with moisture wicking materials and a seamless interior bra band, the Epiphany Support II Tank is a great choice to lighten your triathlete's gloomy winter mood. The double strap racer back with well placed ventilation mesh was a big hit with our tester for long trainer rides as well as cross-fit classes. She especially liked the little extra length on the bottom when doing over-head lifting. The tank comes in a full size range and seven colors, (three of which are currently on sale). Sizing is right on, but if you are a woman who needs much more support than any shelf bra can provide, you might want to check out a few extra supportive styles from Brooks. Our tester found the Epiphany Support Tank II to be a well crafted, high quality piece with well made seams and fabric that sits comfortably against the skin. Not a big surprise from a well established brand like Brooks.

Retail $54.00
www.brooksrunning.com

Yaktrax
RUN

For the athlete who refuses to be forced into indoor training by bad weather, the Yaktrax RUN provides a great anatomical fit for your favorite running shoes. You've probably seen the WALK version on your neighbor's boots as he's taking out the trash, but this version has been redesigned with the runner in mind. Ice and snow traction are thanks to the combination of removable carbide steel spikes and 1.4 mm steel coils. The high strength natural rubber ensures that they stretch easily over your shoes and the reflective strap allows for a snug, secure fit with no shifting while running. With such a great fit, our testers all reported that they were able to run naturally through ice and snow with confidence. "It was awesome!" said one tester, "I didn't have to jump around gingerly like I normally would, I could just run normally without being afraid of slipping." The traction is so good, we highly recommend you take the company's advice and remember to take them off before walking on your hardwood floors. Yaktrax RUN comes in unisex sizing.  

Retail $40.00
www.yaktrax.com

2XU
Compression Arm Sleeves

Using PWX POWER for enhanced compression and seamless design, 2XU crams as many features into their Compression Arm Sleeves as possible. A graduated fit and 360° stretch promote increased circulation, to reduce soreness and lactating blood when your muscles are all tapped out. The sleeves are targeted to your biceps, triceps and forearms and offer UPF 50+ sun protection. Moisture wicking, antibacterial fabric keeps them from getting too ripe in the gym bag under your desk, after your lunch workout. Our first tester liked them so much, he refused to pass them along to the next without a promise that they will be given back. He commented, "I've used 2XU compression socks for a while now and loved them, but I didn't realize the difference the arm sleeves make when training; I'm sold!" Sleeves come in men's (pictured) and women's specific sizing in black or white. In short, faster recovery means you get stronger, faster.

Retail $44.95
www.2xu.com

CamelBak
All Clear™ UV Microbiological Water Purifier

With all the research and effort athletes put into good nutrition, it's no surprise that people have begun to look at their water source as well. I can't even count the number of times I've stopped at a grocery store so my teammate could grab purified water on our way to a race. What used to be perceived as pure paranoia, we now know is just good common sense. The CamelBak All Clear™ UV Microbiological Water Purifier turns any clear water source into clean potable drinking water in 60 seconds, saving the need to haul jugs of purified water on long trips. CamelBak also sells a filter, compatible with the All Clear™, to strain out larger particles prior to purification, allowing for use in many situations. The 750 ml. bottle comes with a carrying case for the USB rechargeable lid and charging cable as well as a spare lid for after purification. With one charge, the bottle will treat 80 cycles or 16 gallons and the LCD screen makes the bottle user friendly. I have used this multiple times daily, since CamelBak sent the bottle and I'm hooked.

Retail $99.00
www.camelbak.com

Women's Infinity 1/2 Zip

- Semi-fitted, athletic cut
- Hidden zipper pocket on left arm
- 360° of 3M reflectivity
- Inner storm guard
- Articulated sleeves with thumb holes
- Half front zip with high collar, zipper protector at neck to prevent rubbing
- Vapor-Dry Plus fabric
- Women's sizes XS-XL, comes in six colors
- Great as a mid-layer, but not quite heavy enough to use as a thin jacket if running outdoors
- Retail $75.00

Men's Silver Bullet Wind Pant

- Protection against water, wind and biting cold (used them in the rain and they were fantastic!) Wind breaker front was amazing.
- Semi- fitted to allow for air to be warmed against skin
- Length was right at the ankle (I'm 6'3") and the waist hit right on as well
- 360° of 3M reflectivity
- Aluminum membrane for added warmth
- Tapered to ankle, 9" ankle zippers off set to prevent rubbing
- Articulating knees provide freedom of movement
- Great product for the sub-zero, hard core athlete; or a really wimpy one that doesn't like to be cold.
- Zippered side pockets
- Men's sizes SM-XXL, one color
- Retail $120  (a bargain for the quality)

No Chill Hoodie

- A great mid-layer or light jacket
- Features extended sleeves that come over the top of the hand with thumb holes for increased warmth and comfort
- Velour interior is extra soft and warm
- Zip stash pocket on sleeve and zip hand warmer pocket on side
- Extra length at waist
- Full center zip with attached hood to reduce wind chill
- Athletic fit
- Finished seams to prevent chaffing
- Comes in sizes SM-XL and due to popularity, only one color left!
- Retail $85

No Chill Beanie

- Same No Chill fabric
- Pony tail hole allows more snug fit to keep ears warm
- Comes in two colors, one size
- Retail $16

Chill Out Bra

- Combination of support features for maximum stabilization without being too binding
- Brushed interior front lining for warmth and moisture wicking; great winter training bra
- Medium to high impact
- ThermaCool fabric designed to keep skin cool and dry under layers of gear
- Non- chaffing seams
- Wider, contoured straps don't dig into shoulders
- Racer back, compression style
- Comes in two colors, cup sizes A-D
- Retail $44

BOLLÉ

This company has a long history of providing high quality eye protection goggles, sunglasses, etc. The Vortex is a great cycling/running specific sun-glass. These are very comfortable and great wind coverage with excellent vents to help defog the lens. The fit is just right and they sit securely running or cycling. My favorite feature is the modulator lens. The tint changes with bright sunlight. How many times have you gone out for a run or ride and had an overcast day that turned quickly into a very sunny day?  I have and with these there is no problem. I enjoyed these during longer distance races where early morning is overcast and as soon as the sun comes over the mountain you need more tint. These were voted gear of the year by outside magazine. 

Retail $199.99 www.bolle.com

Yurbuds

Earphones.  We all have them, we all use them and to a certain extent need them to push us that extra minute or mile.  How many times have you been in the middle of a workout and one particular earphone just happens to keep falling out no matter how much you put it back in when you have been using the same earphones for countless hours.  

Even if you have not yet had that problem (which, in time, you will), you need to try Yurbuds®.  These are special earphones that are designed with the diameter of the athlete’s ear in mind.  Meaning that there are various sizes for each earphone based on the individual.  

Yurbuds® will not fall out of your ear no matter if your arm accidentally pulls the cord while running and if you dump some water on your head as the rubber is designed to fit tight around your ears.  Yurbuds® Twist Lock into place for a secure fit that never falls out even under the most intense workout conditions.  With Yurbuds® you won’t ever need to worry about your earphones ever giving you problems ever again.  I promise.

Brooks PureFlow

Lightweight (7.5 oz.) with a 4mm drop and built for the long road run, these shoes have taken my feet for a joy ride. I've run in them with and without socks and had no rubbing or chaffing problems. I run in race flats so often, I've forgotten the pure happiness of a cushy ride.

True to the Brooks brand, the new Pure Project has remained strong in their commitment to provide a great quality shoe for runners. The split toe isn't a new concept in shoes, but one of my favorite additions to the other nifty features. Having seen the range of colors they will be releasing in the near future, I find it harder and harder to resist the urge to build a collection.

One of my favorite things about Brooks is their "". If you are not completely satisfied with your new Brooks within the first 30 days, Brooks will replace or exchange your product! With a promise like that, what do you have to lose?

Retail $90.00 www.brooksrunning.com

Skirt Sports

I'm madly in love with my Lotta Breeze Capri running skirt and who better to understand what I need than Skirt Sports? Founded by Nicole De Boom, triathlete extraordinaire, she jumped into the spotlight once again when she won Ironman Wisconsin in 2004 wearing the world's first-ever women's running skirt. Since Nicole started the company, they have expanded with apparel to fit every season for active women, regardless of their size and shape. Focus on fit and feel have kept them at the top of more than one Christmas wish list!

Retail $75.00  www.skirtsports.com

TMAT PRO

This transition mat is a nice way to see your space without having to pack a heavy towel in your transition bag. They come in several great colors and have a very nice look and feel. This is a great way to mark your space and lay your gear out.  With a built in Velcro strap it rolls up and stows away very easily.

h2o Audio

Superb sound and a secure fit made this our favorite waterproof audio system pick for Christmas this year. The waterproof MP3 Player offers freedom from the endless boredom that winter pool training can provide, but nothing is more annoying than having to grab a wall to adjust your equipment again and again. We tried a number of different players and this was far and above our favorite and definitely worth a mention! Easy to use and adjust and they offer all kinds of accessories to fit your needs. I recommend adding the Pro Fit Kit to find the perfect fit for your own ears.

Retail $99.99 www.h2oaudio.com

Sanuk

Recovery footwear. Do you like standing on a yoga mat? We do. Sanuk took the same material and built it into a very comfortable sandal.  These are called the 'Beer Cozy' Sanuks. This is the flip flop that feels so good to throw on post event. This is great footwear that gives feet a soft bed to rest and rejuvenate. We loved the huge variety of styles and Sanuk did a fantastic job of carrying the comfort through their entire line. Great company and a versatile, kick-back style shoe. 

ENVE Rims

Everyone knows, if you want to make your bike faster, put the money in the wheels. I had the chance to try these carbon wheels that are made in Ogden, Utah and had the opportunity to watch how they make them in the factory. The thorough process is really incredible with amazing precise attention to detail. I raced with them twice and they just roll SO smooth. You can feel the difference immediately. If you are looking for big wow factor your athlete may shed tears if you give this gift. With so many options available, make sure you ask customer service for advice if needed. No one wants to make this kind of an investment and find out they should have upgraded.

The 65 Clincher (rim only) retails for $875.00 per wheel.   www.enve.com

Energizer Wii Induction Charger

How many times have you been going out the door for a ride or run or ready to sit down and enjoy a quiet moment with the most recent articles on triedge.net and suddenly you are interrupted by your posterity to change the batteries on the Wii controller? Well this is the product that can be given to the family and everyone benefits. No more taking the protective cover off the controller and opening the battery case. They charge by sitting on a magnetic charging pad. The children can put it on the charging pad with no help. It is very easy and no wires.