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travel / gear / cool tools
| Cool Tools |
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By Shawna Wagman
Automatic for the people
Trek Lime Bike ($699.99)
Step away from the computer and hop
off the treadmill. It’s time to feel the wind on your face. Trek Lime
was created to lure lapsed cyclists back on two wheels with a ride
that’s simple, comfortable and, most of all, retro-cool. It has a threespeed
internal shifter that works like an automatic transmission,
so there’s nothing to do with your hands but steer (even braking
is done with your feet). Fun features include flip-flop-friendly pedals
and a cushy seat that lifts to stash your stuff. Optional colour
kits allow for customization. Available in men’s and women’s models,
as well as a low-frame Lime Easy Step.
www.trekbikes.com/lime
Juice without the jiggle
Nathan Muse Women’s Hydration Waistpak ($55)
When it comes to carrying
fluids with comfort and grace, not all runners are created equal. This pack’s
ergonomic design and horizontal bounce-free holster make it a girl’s best friend.
An elasticized waist belt designed for female hips and an insulated holster that
flexes to the contours of her body are what keep the 0.65-litre squeezable hydration
bottle securely in place. Other features include two zippered pockets for
small essentials and a moisture-wicking mesh backing.
www.nathansports.com
Toast your toes
Montrail Molokini Thermo-Moldable Flip-
Flop ($59.99)
It’s not every day that a pair of
flip-flops comes with baking instructions.
But pop this pair in the oven at 225°F (107°C)
for three minutes, step into them, allowing
your soles to make an impression along the
thick contoured footbed, and find yourself
basking in the pleasures of a customized fit.
Soft neoprene straps and super-sturdy traction
conspire to make these sandals comfy
for the long haul. They may not be the cutest
thongs on the beach, but for those who suffer
from arch pain and foot fatigue, support
will trump style.
www.montrail.com
Full-metal shirt dress
Victorinox Swiss Army Marah Shirt Dress ($398)
It’s not surprising that the
makers of the world-famous pocket knife would design timeless clothing for
women that is inspired by the same multi-functional ethos and sleek styling.
But this curve-flattering sleeveless shirt dress has at least one unexpected element:
it’s made of seven percent stainless steel. The innovative mesh-lined
fabric is ideal for travellers (and won’t set off airport metal detectors). Not only
is it rugged, wrinkle-friendly and water-repellent, but it keeps its soft-structured
shape in fine form for any fashion emergency.
www.swissarmy.com
May the spork
be with you
Light My Fire Outdoor Meal Kit ($24.99)
The
age-old mess kit gets a funky makeover
thanks to the Scandinavian knack for
combining style, functionality and vibrant
colours. The nesting kit contains everything
needed to nosh on the go: a triangular
waterproof box that tucks easily into
luggage corners, two plates, a spill-free cup
with lid and a combined colander and cutting
board — all made of polypropylene,
sometimes called a low-emission plastic. As
for the near-indestructible “spork,” a spoonfork-
knife combo, you may never want to
leave home without it.
lightmyfireusa.com
Luck of the straw
Tilley Raffia Hat ($95)
Toss or crush this
lovely lightweight hat in your bag, and enjoy
the security of travelling with certified
ultraviolet protection rated UPF 50+. Made
from natural Madagascar raffia, it boasts a
7.5-centimetre brim that can be worn up or
down for two different looks. And leave it to
Tilley to think of adding a secret compartment
in which to stash valuables and an
ingenious removable, washable sweatband.
Each hat comes with a hat box and an
insurance policy against loss (a 50-percent
discount on a new one).
www.tilley.com
Swell, no smell
Lolë Ready Sweater ($85), Silhouette Tank
($55) and Nile Shorts ($75)
Sure, you need
to look good, but what if your clothes could
also keep you cool, comfortable and protected
from the elements? According to
Lolė, a fabric called Nano Carbon will do
just that and keep you smelling good too.
The activated carbon from bamboo that is
used to create these stylish, stretchy quickdrying
shorts is odour’s worst enemy. The
sun’s harmful rays are no match either; it’s
UPF 50+. The tank (with handy removable
bra cups) and cozy matching cropped zip
sweater are lightweight and designed to
wick away moisture. MP3 players and other
essentials will find plenty of strategically
placed pockets.
www.lolewomen.com
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