Giftgivers in your life need some inspiration? Looking to treat yourself perhaps? Here are a few of my suggestions!
Winter Woolies Cami/Undershirt
I have this on my Christmas list. Soft fleecy fabric, not bulky. Sounds like the best bottom layer ever!
Winter Woolies Fleece-Lined Leggings
I love these tights. Very stretchy, not shiny, medium thickness and not too bulky. Not windproof, but still much warmer than regular tights. Nice enough to wear with a casual dress and boots on a cold day. Alternatively, there are sportier, wind-resistant versions like these from The Running Room. And here’s one more option from Uniqlo.
Winter Woolies Quarter-Zip Fleece-Lined Top
Love this animal print! I’m waiting for a free-shipping offer, then will likely treat myself to this top.
Body Glide
A must for any serious Nordic walker or hiker. Apply to your heels to help prevent blisters. A must for long workouts, walking in hot climates (where your feet swell), and holidays with several consecutive days of walking/hiking. You won’t know how effective it is until you forget it one day! Get this at any running or outdoors shop, including Mountain Equipment Coop (MEC) and The Running Room..
MEC Sport Sunglasses
Available at any sport store, these ones from Mountain Equipment Coop have rubbery anti-slip material on the nose bridge and ends of the arms so they don’t move when your face gets sweaty. Lenses wrap around to keep out snow, dust and sun. Swap-out lenses are handy: clear for days with flying snow or dust, amber ones help reduce glare, etc.
Victoria’s Secret Sports Bra
Victoria’s Secret has long been known for its great sports bras, but do your research to find the best brand, style and fit for you. Be sure it’s super-easy to get on and off. I like to jump around a bit in the store dressing room to test the jiggle factor.
Lululemon Socks
Be sure the quality of your socks matches the quality of your shoes! Avoid any cotton in socks (and any other workout wear). Cotton absorbs moisture making you more vulnerable to cold soggy feet and blisters. Cotton tops, once sweaty, droop, sag and lose their shape.
MEC Jacket/Vest
The Mountain Equipment Coop Boundary Light Down jacket (I have an older version) is lightweight and perfect for layering. As the temperature goes down, simply add more thin layers underneath. When it’s really cold, add a down vest on top. Columbia and Uniqlo also make nice versions.
MEC Prana Winter Hellena Fleece-Lined Pants
This fantastic style of pants is basically long johns and pants in one comfortable and non-bulky unit. (It’s not really fleece…more of a brushed lining.) I find that these particular pants look nice enough to wear even when not exercising. Other options available from Uniqlo, Columbia and Mark’s. And here’s a pair from Northbound Gear, a new brand to me, that looks worth checking out. I always look for stretch fabric, comfort and a non-bulky style. (Getting-dressed tip: Put the pants on first, then put on your socks.)
Columbia Fleece Top
This style of top makes an ideal top layer. Wear on its own in the spring and fall; in colder weather add one or two thin layers underneath and/or a down jacket or vest over top. (I find amazing clothing and shoe bargains at the Columbia outlet stores.)
Traction Devices for Your Shoes
You’re more likely to stay on your feet in winter conditions if you have traction aids on your shoes or boots. I like this style from The Running Room: small flat cleats that work on both snow and bare sidewalks. Test them at the store: they shouldn’t feel slippery while walking on tile; they should be easy to get on and off your shoes; and they should be light enough that you forget you’re wearing them.
Hat with Light
This hat/headlamp combo from Walmart has a built-in rechargeable LED light with 72 lumens of power. Ideal for late night or early morning exercising, dog walking, and for camping too. I’m hoping there will be one in my stocking this year. Look for the brightest light possible. This battery-operated one from Amazon may also be a good choice.
Outbound Battery Heated Mittens
I love these toasty warm mittens. A bit bulky, but who cares when your hands are so cozy in the mitt version of the electric blanket! This brand may be difficult to find now, but look for other options on the market.
Signature Brigadeiro Chocolate Bar
If you need something extra beautiful and extra decadent in the sweets department, try this painterly chocolate bar from Mary’s Brigadeiro in Toronto’s east end (they also ship). Particularly perfect for an artist friend. And who wouldn’t want the Furoshiki Gift Wrap + Tin with 12 Brigadeiros? Fun to watch them working in their open kitchen at the shop.
A Primer on Nordic Walking
What a great idea! Help a friend up their Nordic walking game with a copy of my book, The Urban Poling Ultimate Guide to Nordic Walking (soft cover or digital version). In it I share a wealth of tips, concepts, exercises, and problem-solving strategies!
