Arriving at the summit damp from a steamy climb I really noticed the wind blow between my legs a few times. Normally not something you notice until it fails, there were a few breezy summits that made me very aware of how well the Boxer Briefs can breathe. For me that is very unusual and definitely a joy heh.Įven with another layer over the top ventilation was not an issue. To be sure I could overwhelm this system on steep climbs or in humid conditions, but much of the time I was hiking relatively dry. ![]() Using the pants on cooler or rainy days and the shorts the rest of the time I found the Boxer Briefs did a great job of moving moisture away from my body and passing it on to the tights. This was topped with either OR Equinox pants or a fabulous pair of board shorts Frau Stranger found at the local gear exchange. Given my steam engine tendencies I almost always layered the Boxer Briefs with either 3/4 length Stoic or full length Smartwool tights. The time I spent on the Long Trail certainly gave me some time to gather data on the Smartwool Boxer Briefs. Much of a garment's comfort rating comes from how it handles hot sweaty days on trail. These are the qualities I'm most interested in when it comes to base layers. Smartwool also offers a Boxer version that has a Regular Fit and women's versions in their seamless Hipster and Sport Bikini models.īreathability & Moisture: Corliss Camp on the LT The front panel provided excellent support while still venting freely. That close fit combined with Flatlock seams eliminated any chafing or irritation, even when wet. They are spot on based on the sizing chart so no need to add or subtract to get the right fit. These really are great qualities for a base layer intended for active use. It means there is little excess fabric and the material rides close to the skin in all areas. Smartwool describes the Boxer Briefs as "Slim Fit" but I'm living proof that doesn't mean you have to be slim to wear them. Let's get into these briefs.I mean talking about them. After a grueling season on trail, including a month-long thru hike of Vermont's Long Trail, I have to admit I liked them even more than I expected heh. Made with a Merino/nylon blend, 150g weight material in a Slim Fit style, they looked and felt great from the start. When the chance came up to test their Merino Boxer Brief I had high expectations. We especially like its low-profile zip pockets and soft poly-spandex lining.I have had great experience in the past with Smartwool products having enjoyed their socks and insulating layers. ![]() The two-inch brim and microfleece earflaps on this wind- and water-resistant hat block snow and keep ears warm.īuy Now (Courtesy Brooks) Brooks Women’s Threshold Pants ($90)Ī functional choice for cold days, the midweight Threshold should be in every runner’s closet. Touchscreen compatibility on these fleece gloves allows you to swipe a smartphone or watch without exposing your digits to the chill.īuy Now (Courtesy Sunday Afternoons) Sunday Afternoon Elements II Cap ($32) Rear red lights make you visible to cars.īuy Now (Courtesy The North Face) The North Face Runners 2 Etip Gloves ($30) Its two bottles compress when empty, and two front pockets mean layers and food are at hand and close to the body for less bouncing and jostling.īuy Now (Courtesy Black Diamond) Black Diamond Sprinter Rechargeable Headlamp ($80)Īt 200 lumens, the Sprinter lights up trails on evening jogs, while the battery pack helps it stay balanced on your head. Hands down our favorite vest for long runs in any conditions. ![]() Add them to your kit if you’re tired of blowing through expensive running socks.īuy Now (Courtesy Salomon) Salomon S-Lab Sense Ultra 5 Hydration Vest ($140) These Elites are comfy-no bulky toe seam-and come with a lifetime guarantee. (We didn’t.)īuy Now (Courtesy Feetures) Feetures Elite Light Cushion Socks ($18) It’s so versatile, you might not take it off all winter. The 100 percent merino VT wicks moisture, never smells, and works as either a midlayer under a vest or a base layer under a jacket. Lack of wires made it easy to wear a single earbud while keeping the other side free to pick up oncoming snowplows.īuy Now (Courtesy Ibex) Ibex VT Hoodie ($135) The nylon prevents bunching, and wool offers insulation and breathability for lung-busting jaunts in the cold.īuy Now (Courtesy JLab) JLab Audio Epic Air Earbuds ($150)įlexible silicone hooks and anatomically shaped gel tips held the Epic Air snugly in place. Merino wool and stretchy nylon make Smartwool’s Seamless ideal for layering under tights or pants. The Wasatch-with its waterproof membrane, taped zippers that shed light snow, and ventilated armpits that breathe when you’re slogging uphill-hits the sweet spot.īuy Now (Courtesy Smartwool) Smartwool PhD Seamless Boxer Briefs ($48) (Courtesy Altra) Altra Wasatch Jacket ($199)įor snowy runs, a lightweight shell is essential. Don't let the cold shut down your training.
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