Gear Review: Dakine Women’s 2010 Cross X mtb gloves

August 8, 2010

When I think of Dakine, I think gloves. The company’s got a well-deserved hold of the winter market.

I recently got a hold of their Women’s Cross X mountain bike gloves.

And I put them to the ultimate test immediately, at Whistler Mountain Bike Park—for two days of wickedly intense riding in a women’s downhill and freeride mountain bike camp.

I’ve been riding in them many times since.

Check out how they stack up:

Aesthetically, they’re badass. They’ve got a moto feel going on with thick padding across the knuckles and the back of the hand. Graphically, it’s carved up by stitching, giving the gloves a robo look.

That padding is the reason they’ve become my downhill gloves. I take them out when we’re going to go fast and down scary ‘ish. The extra protection is going to save the hand against trees or rocks, or if you roll the disastrous OTB.

Turn the gloves over and an extra-thick chunk of padding is located at the base of the palm. This sensitive area of the hand rubs constantly against the grips. Adding that comfy cushion makes these gloves ideal for long rides, saving the hand from fatigue or soreness.

The wrists on these gloves are covered with Neoprene, which protects against sudden impacts, but remains soft and comfy on the skin.

These gloves are for intense all-mountain, freeride and xc riding, so Dakine’s used synthetic suede material for the palms, adding a double layer at the base of the fingers where your hand creates the greatest friction with the grips. It’s a comfort- and durability-thing.

Laced on to the two cockpit fingertips are silicone strips for grippier control on the brake levers.

Both of the thumbs are covered with soft terry cloth for snotty noses or wiping away sweat. It’s those little luxuries that are appreciated far out on the trail.

These gloves are a bit on the warmer/heavier side due to all the protection they’re packin’. They do have a nylon-mesh back, but the holes don’t fully punctuate the glove. They’re less likely to rip on a fall, but you compromise breathability.

As performance-driven as they are, the Cross Xs are pretty comfy; though you’re definitely aware that you’ve got them on. They’re not as low-profile as all-mountain gloves that incorporate “next-to-skin” elasticity. But when you’re about to graze a tree or wreck, you’re not too worried about low-profile or ultimate comfort.

The one caveat to these gloves is that the lining between the fingers and stretching over the fingertips, is really thin—probably to keep the gloves as comfy, cool and low-profile as possible. But it also results in less durability. After three months, I’m starting to see wear in the fingertips.

Overall, the Cross Xs have great protection and comfort elements for super gnarly and long rides. They are a bit on the warmer side. And depending on how gnarly you are, these gloves may, or may not, make it through your entire season. But at less than $30 a pair, your hands will be stoked (and badass) for that season.

Me, being very un-badass; except for my hands. Well…my matching outfit is pretty badass, isn’t it?

Gloves provided by Dakine.

Leave a Comment » | Gear, Gear reviews, bikes | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Central Washington trips

August 8, 2010

It must be summer because I’ve been spending some time on the dry side of the state. I don’t get over there much; not much incentive during the other seasons. But summer seems to send you in all directions of the NW, picking up little memories here and there from this and that, usually spur-of-the-moment trips or invitations to join others’.

So that’s how I found myself at a resort on the other side of the Cascades recently. Resorts really aren’t something I “do.” But Diamondback had their annual week-long sales meeting (read: rally party) here and I came on out over the weekend to keep Billy company while he was off duty in between attendee groups.

I admit, it’s hard for me to stop and smell the lazy R&R. I’ve got too much tingle in my toes to let them simply dangle in the 4-foot pool while the sun bakes my ghostly complexion, feeling the hours turn over one after another—all while knowing that there are trails to be hiked in those hills right over there. But that’s what Central Washington is for–slowing down. Relaxing. Breathing in warm pine-filled air—warm air in general. Letting the sun infuse little bits of vitamin D into your pores. Letting the body and soul regroup, uninterrupted by the chaotic mind. Not saying anything. Letting the squinty-eyed smile say it all.

We did do a few things: rally-partied one night at a local bar, where we all let loose like one only does in hodunk dives where the drinks are shitty-but-stiff and the dance floor is the center of the room. Back at the resort, we ate way too much over-fancy, under-tasty hotel cuisine. And… we went to the driving range. I found out that I am absolutely unskilled driving a golf ball hundreds of meters into the air—or into the air at all. Golf has never interested me, but I’m also not saying that those questionably-dressed folks who have mastered it shouldn’t be given credit for their skill… I retired quickly, content to focus on the surroundings more than my swing.

Billy and I did manage to hike down to the river in early evening. It’s the day’s bookends when one should be by the water, for the sake of its beauty. It’s like an ever-so-slowly evolving picture by Nature that you emerge into, stepping lightly so as not to disturb its delicate elements.

Still, the water was moving quickly, carrying away secrets, swirling them in miniature swim holes, then sending them off downstream. Billy and I had none to offer, other than the fact that yes, Central Washington holds the kind of peace that sort of goes along without you in the rivers and woods, and if you want to experience it, you’ve got to shush up, slow down and step lightly.

We rode the Rat Pack trail, a dry-side single track, that would be ideal after one day’s rain. But it was thrilling none the less. Not technical, but plenty of surprises to keep you on your guard—sudden steep sections, sharps turns and off camber faces. I rode a 2011 Diamondback Scapegoat and felt like I was more on a Pegasus than an contraption of mechanical parts. Billy then put on a show at the lake. It’s what he does. And it’s always a pleasure to watch.

Weekend after, I was among friends on the Columbia in Wenatchee. I’ve been here a lot—every summer since moving to Washington. Why not? This is my friend’s backyard and when you’re here, you’re family. This time we were celebrating the engagement of my best bud and her fiance. Here’s to love on summer days, the river lapping it upon the shore, and us floating in it.

The beer forest was a popular hangout because, well, that’s where the good stuff was—three kegs. That’s a lotta love. It’s hard to get everyone together anymore, but what a place to make it actually happen.  There was boating, bocce, volleyball, but mostly, those catch-up questions: “How’s the job?, etc.” It’s bringing everyone up to speed while letting the booze sink into the bloodstream. And then, all loosened up and somehow feeling at least five years less mature, we start remembering why we’re all friends in the first place.

And then this happened.  A big boastful thunderstorm came through, checking out the party and sending us inside to continue shooting-the-shit and drinking. Nobody cared about the weather, because it was beautiful and it was still warm. Eventually it cleared up, exposing a sky vast with stars, nearly akin to the Arizona sky—nearly… Those who were camping in the yard surely found it romantic.And then you have mornings like this in Central Washington that greet you at 6:30 in the morning after a night of wild drinking and dancing and you can’t even be mad that you’ve been stirred from slumber so early. Because the scene is stunning and there’s not a toxic care that makes it this far out from the city. The water’s edge is beckoning, the sun is warming the grass for your toes and it’s just another idyllic day in Central Washington—where time moves slowly, the trips are usually spontaneous and those little memories are just as cherished.

harmonious

Leave a Comment » | adventurous, bikes | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Absinthe Films’ NowHere teaser

July 22, 2010

Insane. Powerful. Spiritual? I imagine all this a cacophony cooled into a rhythmic hymn: a beautiful epic. I imagine it all happening in a snow globe. Because surely it’s not real. It’s an experiment in immortality. It’s echoes of thoughts; haunting ideas. It’s not even shredding. It’s imagination flickering through winter.

And this is only a taste. I don’t know if I’ve ever been so captivated by a teaser.

Seattle premier is Sept. 9 at the Egyptian. Be there.

Leave a Comment » | adventurous, art, snow | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Shi Shi beach: a Washington summer surf trip

July 19, 2010

Given that it’s summer, I should have at least one story about a trip to the beach, right? In So. Cal that’s what defined summer for us—trips to the yellow sand, the scorching sun, Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, tents from the surf contests. In the NW, “the beach” has become “the coast.” A stretch more mystic, more elegant; really, more welcoming to my kind. I’ve haven’t been yet this summer. But here’s a story about one such trip. It was to be published last summer, before the magazine of intent dissolved, like so many others.

Surfing in the Northwest rejects the stereotypes of sun-kissed bodies sailing down big bountiful waves. But in quiet substitute are experiences in nature only begotten where the forest meets the shore, and where there’s a small community of pale bodies hardened by the cold and souls softened by the mist. Nowhere is this more evident than Shi Shi Beach, the northernmost accessible beach in the Olympic National Park on Washington’s peninsula.

Here an especially good summer day might mean head-high swells. But on average, the waves tend to be more fickle than those at the easily accessible Westport or Seaside. Violent winter weather makes this area a summer destination, says Frank Crippin, owner of North by Northwest Surf Co., located in Port Angeles since 1995.

Though Shi Shi is a pilgrimage for Northwest surfers, the chilly breaks are just one element of the overall ambiance. On the Makah Indian Reservation, Shi Shi rests at the end of a 3.3-mile muddy path through several types of forests. Large prehistoric-looking leaves are tucked beneath the tree canopy. Beyond old trunks, fog sits atop the new-growth pines. All is sun-dappled if the day is right.

Descending down the last stretch of path from the forest and out onto Shi Shi’s shore, is like stepping into the mystic. It’s the land of dinosaurs, with fern-covered cliffs cascading down to the sand and ancient rocks delicately designed by wind and water. Giant sea stacks and arches to the north and in the Point of Arches to the south, wade into surf like creatures on a western trek.


At the end of July, 3-to-4-foot swells were found to be breaking about a quarter mile down the beach from the end of the trail. The kelp in the water made for less than smooth rides and no other surfers were present. Only five other small parties had set up camp in the nooks at the foot of the cliff on the long ribbon of beach.

A silvery dusk and golden sunset, again if the day is right, is the reward for overnighters. Though planning for rain regardless of the forecast is a definite.

We were lucky enough to share the evening with a sea otter lazily rolling over in the evening ocean. Several ladies who’d hiked up from Ozette to the south, told us they’d spotted a whale. Nature smiles on the patient.

Getting to Shi Shi from Seattle begins with the Edmonds/Kingston ferry, a nice 20-minute transition from the big-city life to the coastal towns on the peninsula. From there you’ll continue north on Hwy 104, then on Hwy 101 toward Port Angeles. P.A. the best place to stop for supplies and visit North by Northwest Surf Co. for any rentals you might need. (Chippen recommends a 5/4/3 wetsuit with a hood if you only buy one for Washington surfing, “Because it’s better to be too hot than too cold,” he says.) Then it’s 60 plus miles on Hwy 112 along a flower-lined coastal drive to the Makah Reservation.

Permits are required to park at Shi Shi and can purchased for $10 from any of the mini marts just as you enter the reservation. They are good for the rest of the calendar year. Overnight campers are advised to leave their cars for $10 a night on designated private property a short way up from the start of the Shi Shi trail to save from drunken vandalism. Posted signs guide first-timers through these tasks.

Washington and Oregon have a rich history in hardy surfing along savage coastlines. But a surfing trip to Shi Shi offers the feeling that you’re at the beginning of it all.

Leave a Comment » | adventurous, surf | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Whistler’s way

July 12, 2010

My camping spot for the night.

Made my way up the Whistler way recently. Wound up the Sea-to-Sky and into the enchantment that abounds in that elemental beauty. I went solo—something border patrol gave me the scrutinizing eye for. When I told them I was sleeping in my car for the weekend, thought I was done for. Thank god I had a story: Attending a women’s mountain bike camp, sir. Hence the bike on top of the car, the sleeping bag and that little can of pepper spray… Actually that was the truth. I was fortunate enough to score a story assignment for Freehub mag that found me attending The Dirt Series– a traveling women’s mtb skills camp. They’ve  got the teaching thing dialed in the ten years they’ve been at it. (And I’m not one much for hotels if not needed, thus the car-camping.) The mtb camp was thrilling and I came away with a bag full of technique for riding a squishy bike. But that’s all you get for now. You’ll have to wait for the story dropping in the next issue.

There were 65 of us in all, waiting for the camp to kick off

Whistler though, wow. The mountain seems big with snow on it. Take away that soft blanket of smooth contours and a rolling flank, and the mountain’s intricate terrain is all the more detailed. It’s bristled and millions of trails are chiselled out, manifesting themselves all over the hillside, skinny and fast. As seems to be the Canadian way, blue squares are really black diamonds elsewhere. We of course rode B-Line and Crank It Up, among many other trails. They’re fun and fast, not too technical, but as gnarly as you make them with their swoopy berms and flowy jumps. Especially Crank It Up (and its lower Heart of Darkness). What can I say about the popular trail that hasn’t been spurted out about in eager storytelling to the bros at home? As you sail through the line, rising with each steep lip, you feel like little wings are growing out of your back, lifting you higher and higher, before falling back to earth with a bit of smash that shoots you forward to the next dip and lip. The trick is harnessing the speed and controlling for solid landings so the pony doesn’t get away from you.

Trickling in from the gondola for our morning skills clinics

We were blessed with bluebird the first day–making more glorious the deep valley that fades into the distant beyond, the towering peaks still snow-patched amid blue pine, and (did I mention?) the black bears, who lounge contently in summer’s surreal placidity up there. We saw two cubs (!) scampering through the alpine slopes in bloom. And deer resting under the chairlift. Creatures habituated to man’s presence. They know we’re just here to ride. It’s a peaceful co-existence, but it just makes Whistler all the more awe-inspiring. You almost let out that huff of a laugh. Or it’s more of a giggle that escapes the soul of the hardcore shredder.

The second day brought heavy mist in the morning. Then the weather became a symphony of sun, rain, wind, big white clouds, spitting gray ones, and then sun again, all orchestrated above and around us. We dashed and darted amid it, energized by the rays, cooled by the drops.

Driving back down the Sea-to-Sky; it’s hard to watch the road with scenery like this

Whistler is good for the soul. The drive up there is a peaceful ascent into pure beauty, the way Nature intended it. The atmosphere and scenery captures you once you’re there and lets the entire body and mind open up and breathe. It’s adrenaline-induced riding along challenging trails, and it’s invigorating. In the winter Whistler is a bit of a god’s playground with its layered powdered peaks that make the horizon a line of jagged points. But I’d say the area’s no less jaw-dropping in the summer when the colors are more vibrant, the passion to shred is just as alive and the spirits of man and nature co-mingle as they should in a mountainscape that breeds the savage as well as the tender.

1 Comment | Writing, adventurous, bikes | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

9191 teaser: The Gigi movie by Volcom

July 1, 2010

borrowed from Volcom; credit: Vernon Deck

Art. Chaos. Calm. Beauty. Would you expect anything less from the man and the brand?

Teaser here.

borrowed from Volcom; credit: Scott Sullivan

Leave a Comment » | art, snow | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Gear Review: Outdoor Research 2010 Swift Tee

June 24, 2010

Your “go-to” pieces of gear in any genre—jackets, socks, shorts, tops—hold a special place in that pile on the floor. You know you can grab them in a hurry when the call comes to head for the hills, not worrying about whether they’ll be right for the various weather conditions you’ll pass through. You know they will be, and that reassurance that feels good.

Outdoor Research’s Swift Tee is my go-to mountain biking jersey. Designed simply as an “active top” for hiking, climbing, backpacking, it’s got all the right engineering for rigorous riding in both hot and chilly temps. It’s made from OR’s TransAction fabric, which is highly moisture wicking and breathable—meaning neither sweat nor rain will cling to your skin. With that versatility, it accommodates the body’s fluctuating temps and you’ll keep cool and dry amid the changing weather.

The Swift Tee is uber light weight at only 3.7 oz. But my absolute favorite part is that it’s incredibly soft to the skin’s touch. It feels so good to wear that I’m comfy all day.

Plus, it has UPF 30+ (UVA and UBV protection)—for those of you outside the NW..

Making things better for everyone is its “anti-microbial finish.” Translation: “a substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms.” Meaning you can wear this jersey for days without getting stinky.

Does it pass that test? Yes. I got my Swift Tee a month ago and have worn it mountain biking some seven or eight times in rain, sun, humidity and lots and lots of mud, both from crashing and splatter. I’ve sweated in it and subsequently cooled down in it. I have not washed it once. The only thing I can smell—even in the pits—is bug spray.

Because it’s not classified as an “mtb jersey,” you won’t find zippered pockets anywhere. It’s simple, keeping it light.

Aesthetically, it’s pretty plain jane, although the darker contours do enhance the curves of a women’s figure. I find the cut of the V-neck to be just right—not too daring, not choking. An OR insignia at the bottom is reflective, but is too small to serve much purpose.

For such a versatile and comfortable active top, the Swift tee is only $35. If you’re not looking for something with all the bells and whistles, the Swift Tee is a great everyday mtb jersey.

Provided for testing

1 Comment | Gear, Gear reviews, bikes | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Race Face offices and operations: gear for Him and Her

June 19, 2010

Entryway display

The video ad on Pinkbike was just a few seconds long but it hooked me every time: A rider shredding a trail at Whistler just before Crankworx—slashing a berm, hucking, schralping down a steep rock face, clattering over rocks and roots, before jumping out of the trees and down onto the course, where a 15 foot stunt drop is landed with ease. She removes her fullface and smiles. Yes, she: Race Face international team rider Beth Parsons. Beth is just one of the inspiring riders on Race Face’s women-packed teams.

The bike component and clothing company has long been known for their innovative men’s gear and quality parts. But two years ago, Race Face launched their For Her line of soft goods, designed specifically for women shredders—with R&D done by women and testing by…women.

When Billy and I visited the offices in Vancouver during our “Four Mountains” trip, we found that Race Face isn’t just making off-shoots of men’s gear for the ladies; the line isn’t simply smaller sizes or side-thoughts. Wendy Tewnion, who heads up the research, design and marketing for Race Face’s soft goods, gave us the scoop on how Race Face is placing great emphasis on developing a gear line that encourages the advancement of women’s riding.

Pieces of the 2010 For Her line

Sprung from Rocky Mountain Bikes, Race Face became a boutique component company in 1992, starting with bar ends and stems. Clothing was brought into the mix years ago with the acquisition of Roach apparel. And in 2009, the For Her line made its debut. The DIY collection—all-mountain shorts, gloves and armor (featured above)—recognizes that independent attitude that Race Face has acknowledged with its name. The feedback from women riders has been wonderfully positive, though Wendy says, the line’s nuances are constantly being tweaked for perfection.

Now in the works, too, is an entire women’s DH kit, with shorts, tops and armor. They’ll be designed burlier to withstand the rougher conditions. Also, word’s already gotten out that for the ladies, Race Face is bringing back open-back knee pads—a direct result of listening to riders’ wants.

Wendy scrutinizes over fabrics for their technology and comfort, she says, selecting the best she can find from manufacturers overseas. She designs the styles with a conscious fashion-forward mantra, for which she’s constantly scanning outside industries, such as snowboarding, for inspiration. “I can’t get on the train without being aware of so many outfits around me,” she says. That’s obvious when you sneak-peak the DH shorts pictured below. If they perform as well and with the same comfort as the DIY short I’ve been testing, I’d say her efforts are paying off.

Sneak peak of the DH short

You can’t help but be stoked on the colors. Race Face digs colors—bright colors. This translates to their components, too. Sad to say, but that’s rather innovative for this industry. Maybe the trend will catch on. “Mild and wild,” Wendy says—the colorways will have both. I prefer the latter.

Lil warehouse

While there, we got the chance to peep Race Face’s warehouse and tour their manufacturing facilities—all within the same discreet building. Though many of their components are now outsourced, a few pieces (stems, cranks, chain rings) are still made right in-house some several floors below the offices. Ian Archibald, Race Face’s Canadian manufacturing manager, showed us around.

Unfortunately, but understandably, most of it is secret HQ imagery, so no pictures. But I’ll try to briefly describe.

Still chugging and clanking away is the original stem-cutter from nearly two decades ago. Ian says Race Face stays nimble in its manufacturing, reacting to what people are buying, by keeping flexible with machines and multi-disciplined employees. The only step in the manufacturing process outsourced is anodyzation. Once anodized, the components return and graphics are lasered on with a computer-controlled detailing machine in a quiet room.

And then, you hear about stress tests, but they always seem to happen in some R&D lab or are just simply conceptual. Race Face has its own torture chamber. We watched components undergo what will become weeks of constant agitation pressure more frequent and forceful than a human can express. Ian says, beyond complying with the international legal regulations, Race Face tests products to their own standards that are even stricter in terms of strength and safety. Don’t fear the carbon, he says. If you can break it, you have other issues.

To close up the tour, we glanced inside the engineers’ office. Bryn Johnson is Race Face’s lead engineer. The room was quiet when we passed by, but there was evidence of great ideas in the works and good things to come to the industry.

Thanks again to Wendy, Julian and Ian for showing us the digs.

Those not deemed worthy. Who says?

Laser machine and control computer

Where each little component starts

http://www.raceface.com/apparel/for-her/

Leave a Comment » | Gear, Gear reviews, bikes, interviews | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Pedal-Driven: a bike-umentary and Freehub Magazine story

June 5, 2010

Howell at the Moon Productions is a little commercial and documentary film operation out of Wenatchee, Wash. About a year ago, they took interest in an issue of importance to the outdoor community in the tiny town of Leavenworth, Wash, not far away. If you haven’t been, Leavenworth is a little piece of sunshine in a big open valley with beautiful green peaks and solid dry soil—prime conditions for getting one’s schralp on on two wheels. Unfortunately, Leavenworth remains a hot bed of tension reminiscent of the age-old conflict between renegade mountain bikers digging illegal trails and the land-management authority, who tears them out and enforces jail time on any diggers caught in the act. Howell at the Moon decided to use their cameras to explore this issue and find out whether any solutions existed that could offer a common ground to these two highly passionate factions of folks. Both, ironically, are protecting a right to public land-use.

Through their discovery, Howell at the Moon finds solutions and success stories strewn throughout the NW, and their doc leaves viewers hopeful and encouraged for the future of the sport.

I did a story for Freehub Magazine on the film project, only dipping in and out of the actual issue myself, and rather letting those guys tell the story, because it is theirs and because the film isn’t out yet. Check out the story here and then check out the documentary—which has intriguing on-camera interviews with myriad folks, and lots o’ bike porn. It’s slated for release this July and is called Pedal-Driven: a bike-umentary.

Teaser here.

Leave a Comment » | random | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Four Mountains in Four Days: Tokul, North Fork, North Shore, Galbraith

June 3, 2010

Clean bikes and showered bodies

When everyone else is crouched along course sidelines and crowded at finish lines, the mountain trails in these parts lie quiet for the taking. The long weekend—which we extended into the week—provided three options: the Super D race in Hood River (with Billy riding); the Fluid Ride Cup in Whistler (with everyone else we know), or multiple days of pure uninterrupted shredding in the mountains scattered around the NW. We chose to ride. With the stillness so luring in those hills, how could we not? Thoughts of picking perfect lines through rocks, roots and drops made the mind salivate.

So the idea quickly emerged: four mountains in four days. Car camping. Camp fires. Booze. Roadtrip chats. Cheap. Fun. Freedom. The trip unfolded like perfectly-uplanned schemes do.

Somewhere outside Bellingham

We rode: Tokul on Saturday, shuttled the North Fork on Sunday, rode the North Shore in B.C. on Monday—we had to stop by Race Face in Vancouver to pick up gear for testing, anyway—and were back at Galbraith on Tuesday. At each mountain, we pedaled out just after a storm had passed through, or cruised back in right as one set in. Soaked with late-spring rain, the trails were greasy, sloppy and slick. Fortunately we’d packed trash bags and lots of towels.

Billy gets started off the hip

Some of this was new terrain to us. The North Fork—which we rode with Andy, Ted and Nelson— is steep-technical and twisty. Constant drops that make you descend all that much quicker. Open in parts and nice berms that sweep you up and place you oh, so nicely in fast single track that sends you down, down, down through tight trees and hairy turns. Swamps were everywhere and the skinnies made you want to tip-toe across for fear of sliding off in the slickness. With the shuttle truck, rides weren’t interrupted with long push-ups, so we rode until we collapsed.

Billy tables at North Fork
Somewhere along Hwy 9

Sleeping spot for the night in Sumas, Wash.

North Shore trees

The North Shore is a different experience. It’s NW in climate, but technical to a new level. Or an old one, as we were on Mt. Fromme where you ride the beginning of it all. Where you huck to flat, and where flow isn’t a term the trail builders incorporated back in the day. Here, sharp-rock-paved trails traverse, roll and sharply descend forever. Ancient roots are the size of mountains. It’s all constant technical; consistent brain chatter. In the rain, it’s even gnarlier. But it’s beautiful. It’s misty like the pictures portray. And it’s savage. Quiet, empty and waiting for you to test your skill. Everything’s high-consequence, but then too, high-reward.

Lions Gate Bridge

Our times before and after rides were filled with urban exploration and inhibited chatter. After The Shore, with legs aching, we rested in the evening still of a wave-lapped park shore, watching the sun set over the fringe of North Vancouver. We couldn’t have picked a better place to park our car-turned-backpack-turned-mobile-home over night. Near the Lions Gate Bridge, Billy found the ideal park to make our simple bike trip more rounded, more—peaceful adventure.

Race Face manufacturing house

Tuesday morning, we crawled out of the Subaru, which had dew dappling the inside as well as out, and made our way down to Race Face to check out the digs, tour their manufacturing house and pick up gear that we’ll be putting to the test with ultimate scrutiny. (More on that to come.) Behind the scenes there, we met the great individuals who make up a dedicated—and thus, innovative—company.  They’ve put heavy emphasis and R&D into their two-year-old women’s line and I’m excited to see how it performs. Thanks to Wendy, Julian, and Ian for making us feel at home.

New trail head feature at Galbraith

We finished up this wee shred trip back at Galby late Tuesday afternoon—after getting searched by customs for the firewood we were toting back. With creaking bikes, caked in mud and arguing muscles, we pushed up and cruised down, checking out a newly cut trail.

Muddy bikes ready for home

It’s always good to start the season off with trip. It’s gets the soul stoked and the legs ready to ride more mountains in more days.

1 Comment | Gear, Gear reviews, adventurous, bikes | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park Grand Opening

May 24, 2010

Never mind Whistler Mountain Bike Park’s opening day, the local mountain bike community had something more personal to rejoice over this past weekend—the grand opening of the Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park. And a celebration it was. After more than 6,000 volunteer hours put into creating the ultimate local freeride and cross-country playground, it was time for a beer, a rally and some riding. Vendor tents punctuated with vibrancy the wooded ambiance in this secluded and quiet neck of forest in the 120-acre Duthie Hill park on the Issaquah Plateau. Reps worked the day dialing in demo bikes. Komo 4 News was on hand to get the scoop. And by way of a hearty raffle, some lucky folks went home stoked with some new gear. I think everyone was a little surprised by the massive turnout of friends and family. This day has definitely been anticipated; Duthie hasn’t been a secret. But it’s been steady work over the past year (planning started six years ago) and I think everyone was ready to high-five to a project well done.

Morning showers greeted early birds and turned the entire day into a greasy, mud-splattered festival. Nothing could have been more a celebration of dirt. The clearing served as home-base and from all directions riders entered upon the scene from the network of trails laced around the park. Every level of rider is catered to here, from groms trying to get their first feet of air off the little jumps and drops, to the elite huckers schralping down the DWB and Dirt Corps, Big Tree and High Life slopestyle lines. Duthie’s also got skinnies, bermy xc singletrack and elaborate woodwork. And this is just Phase 1.

It’s teetering on cliché to note that many of these craftsmen builders were once constructing illegal trails and stunts in the surrounding mountains, but that’s the truth of the heart of Duthie. The consensus is that everyone’s stoked to finally have a their own sanctioned piece of the earth to sculpt—stuff that won’t get torn down and trails that aren’t steaming with horse poop.

So keep your pedals on the pulse and look forward to Phase 2. We’re hearing something about more freeride, more xc, dirt jumps, maybe?

Diamondback demo bikes ready for unharnessing

Sea Otter, Interbike, Crankworx….DUTHIE HILL

Evil bikes showed up; Billy Lewis says, what’s up

Mike Brown Brand manager for Diamondback gives the world the inside story

Diamondback and Gravity rider Billy Lewis and Diamondback marketing man Jon Kennedy came out to play

Local filmer/photographer Walter Yi was in attendance

Beauty

Two new kiosks make things legit

Woodwork, goodwork

Shred

Yours truly

Leave a Comment » | Gear, bikes | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

Gear Review: Outdoor Research Helium Jacket

May 13, 2010

About a month ago I garnered the 2010 women’s Helium Jacket (a shell) from Outdoor Research. I was desperate to find a waterproof shell that I could take on spring mountain bike rides. The weather is incredibly schizo this time of year, so having a waterproof, lightweight shell is must in your gear arsenal. A high-performance shell provides the freedom to ride regardless of the forecast.

This was my first experience with Outdoor Research gear and a perfect piece to start off with. I have to admit, I fell. in. love. Here’s a review:

About Me: I’m 5’5″, 115lbs. I asked for a size Small, which OR’s sizing chart recommends for a 34 bust and 26 waist. Turns out their sizing chart is accurate. Also, I’m always cold!

Conditions: I rode in this jacket on days that ranged from 45 to 50 degrees. On days that threatened rain; that had constant heavy mist; and that downpoured.

The Helium Jacket is impressive on the tech side. It’s also chic and stylish. Its waterproofness held up even in pouring rain. It’s comfort and ultra light weight (5.8 oz, 163 grams) make it ideal for long, demanding rides (or hikes, climbs). Strategically-placed seams encourage great flexibility in bending and stretching, perfect for when you’re hunched over on the bike and getting your schralp on. The elasticity at the wrists and waist keep it from getting all bunched up and weird.

I personally love the aesthetics. The design gives it more of a jacket-looking feel, as opposed to a lot of the ugly poncho-looking shells out there. Subtle cross-stitch design on the exterior gives it a nice creative outerwear look that revivals street-wear pieces.

The hood is one of the best assets of this jacket. It’s roomy, yet wraps about you for great shielding protection. It has a slightly stiffened visor to keep the rain from dripping down your face. The chin comes up extra high so that you can tuck your nose into it. Basically, there’s an astronaut feeling going on–except that you can hardly feel it’s there.

And when you don’t want it, the jacket folds into itself in a 5×4 inch pouch by way of a pocket on the interior, which comes with a loop to attach to clips.

Things to keep in mind: If you’re riding in this jacket in anything over 45 degrees and pushing up mountain trails, you’ll want to wear as little as possible underneath as it warms up pretty quickly. I was almost hot in 45-degree weather with just this jacket and a short-sleeved jersey on. Because it’s waterproof, you’re not going to have the breathability you’re used to with, say, pitzips, obviously. But for a shell it keeps your body temp at a bearable warmth.

My one complaint with the jacket is that there are no side pockets. I am always trying to force my hands into the sides of this jacket to no avail. I’m not a fan of chest pockets like this jacket has because putting anything other than credit cards in it will look funny, and, on girls, lopsided.

That said, the waterproofness, light weight, smart engineering and attractive aesthetics of the jacket outweigh little annoyances like those. Did I mention it’s super comfortable?

Tech:

5.8 oz. / 163 grams

2.5-layer 20D Pertex® Shield DS ripstop fabric: This laminate 1.) is excitingly waterproof 2.) incredibly light 3.) pretty breathable for a shell.

Fully-taped seams: A necessary in the Northwest. Don’t settle for anything less. They keep water and wind from getting through those vulnerable areas.

Single-pull hood adjustment: Unless you have an itty-bitty helmet, this hood will not fit over your lid. But the bungy on the back of the hood allows you to adjust it to your head size so that sans-helmet, it’s not flopping down in your face.

Ultralight, water-resistant zippers: Your zippers are your lock-tights to keeping water and wind out. These perform highly and have an added bonus: At the top of the main zipper is an extra flap of fabric to guard your chin when zipping up in a hurry.

Zippered napoleon pocket: I actually don’t care for these. I think filled with anything other than credit cards/IDs they look funny, especially on girls, who will be lopsided. I prefer pockets at the sides for the hands.

Stuff-pocket inside with hook/loop closure: This is the pocket into which the jacket stuffs—and does so very easily. I couldn’t believe how quickly my bombshell disappeared into this tiny pouch that measures out to 5×4 inches. It also has a strong loop to attach to carabiners, etc.

Elastic cuffs: They hang on to you, while you hang on to the handlebars.

Single drawcord hem adjustment: The drawstring around the waist is perfect for locking in that heat and locking out moisture. Of course with the drawstring pulled tight, it will creep up on you while hunched over on your bike, so in that case you’ll probably want to consider a longer under shirt.

The Helium Jacket comes in both men’s and women’s. OR provided this jacket for my testing. As always I say whether it’s worth the price. This jacket retails for $140—expensive, but if you’re going to splurge on a piece of gear, make it one that allows you to be adventurous regardless of the weather patterns. I find myself now living in this piece —on or off my bike.

+ Ultralight, waterproof/breathable

1 Comment | Gear, Gear reviews, adventurous, bikes | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Adrienne

« Previous Entries