Layered Clothing Keeps You Comfortable

Sun., May 28, 1995

Michael Hodgson Special To Outdoors

Part two of two

Product: Pearl iZUMi Aerobic Layering System

Description: Multisport top and bottom and windproof vest manufactured of a proprietary fiber that pulls moisture away from the skin. Ultrasensor Tights are stretch material with elastic waistband and drawstring, gripper elastic at the ankles and a key pocket at the waist. The Ultrasensor Multisport top has a stand-up collar with zipper and draft flap and mesh underarm and side panels. The Windstopper Base Layer Vest features a mesh fabric with Gore-Tex’s windproof Windstopper fabric sewn to the front and shoulders.

Pro: Staying dry is no problem with this system as it wicks moisture from the skin superbly. The T-neck style top and the mesh side and underarm panels of the Multisport top ensure comfort throughout a wide temperature range. Clothing can be machine washed and dried. The Windstopper fabric stops wind and helps prevent chilling due to evaporation. The tights are extremely comfortable and remain very dry, even during hard use when the perspiration level is at a maximum.

Con: The stitching! On both my Multisport Top and the Base Layer Vest, the stitching along key seams came unraveled in short order - across the shoulder on the vest and around both wrists on the top.

Comments: Why do I need all this fancy stuff just to go running, blading or biking? Fair question. Like the introduction of Gore-Tex years ago, all this fabric and fiber mumbo jumbo has its skeptics, but they are fast falling by the wayside. You don’t have to opt for the aerobic function/fashion statement, but why on earth would you not want to? It works and it works leagues better than anything that has come before. With an appropriate layering system of advanced materials, weather is no longer a discomfort or nuisance - it’s just a pleasurable change of pace. With the addition of the Equinox Jacket, reviewed last week, the go-active layering system offered by Pearl iZUMi will keep you smiling and active outdoors, even if the weather turns a bit chilly and wet.

Suggested retail: Ultrasensor Tight - $70; Ultrasensor Multisport Top - $50; Windstopper Base Layer Vest - $50.

Company: Dash America Inc., 2300 Central Ave., Suite G, Boulder, CO 80301; (303) 938-1700.

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