Gear review: Gifts for Dad
For The Aspen Times
Courtesy photo
I don’t know about you, but it seems like summer zips by. So since this weekend ushers in the start of June, my wife, Kimberly, and I thought we’d offer a jump on Father’s Day shopping. Here are some of my latest favorites for men.
Marmot Minimalist Pertex Rain Jacket
This rain jacket is lightweight (12 ounces) and easy to pack, yet its durability holds up to rubbing against backpacks, as well as rain and wind. Fully taped seams, water-resistant side zippers, and an outer water repellent make it basically impervious to rain, which late May is showering upon us. In addition to the jacket’s breathability, it includes armpit zips, which open to clothing to allow for venting. The adjustable drawcords on the hood and waist, along with Velcro cuffs, make it easy to become watertight when the rain really comes down. Rather than feeling really crunchy like many rain jackets, it’s soft to the touch and easy to move in. $185, marmot.com
Backcountry Slickrock Long-Sleeve Button Up Jersey
If après biking were a thing, this jersey would be THE après shirt. This classic, athletically fitting, button-up shirt is versatile to wear both on and off the track. I usually don’t like long-sleeve shirts, even in the winter, because they feel somewhat restrictive and I often get hot, but this one fits into my “exception” category; I don’t feel like I’m wearing a bulky shirt due to its extremely lightweight, breathable, and stretchy fabric, all of which wick away moisture while I’m grinding up the mountain. I’m also a sucker for super-soft fabric, and this checks the box. Three cuff snaps adjust sleeves, and a chest pocket and zippered side pocket hold keys, etc. Plus, its UPF 30+ rating provides sun protection. $99 (Comes in five colors; Starfish Plaid, which I have and love, is on sale for $44.55), backcountry.com
Backcountry Slickrock 9-inch Bike Short
We all know venting is essential while biking, and these lightweight shorts prevent sweaty build-up with excellent inner thigh and back venting, which is so subtle, no one would notice when you transition off the trail and into town. I’ve worn them on the pump track several times and love their stretch and sense of comfort. DWR treatment repels water, mud, and dog hair — all necessary for my lifestyle. With an integrated, adjustable belt and non-elastic waist, they fit trim and true to size, and the fact that the large side pockets are zippered means that pockets don’t bulge out. I also appreciate the silicone gripper dots, so the shorts don’t ride up or down. And they’re rated 50+ UPF. $89.99, backcountry.com
Path Projects Graves PX Shorts
While these are marketed as running shorts, I wear them as biking, hiking, and general lifestyle shorts. The tailored fit, with its drawstring and elastic waist, doesn’t bind and offers plenty of stretch. Path Projects’ corn-based Toray Primeflex technology translates into quick-drying breathability, softness, and reduced weight — weighing only 40% of other stretchy blends because it doesn’t use heavier, water-absorbing Spandex. It’s also antimicrobial. And, for lightweight, non-restricted-movement shorts, they pack a punch when it comes to pockets — namely, two zippered sides, a zippered back, and a small zippered pouch to hold keys. Comes in 5- and 7-inch lengths. $68, pathprojects.com
Path Projects Wadi LS Hooded Tee
Again, I’m not always a fan of long sleeves, but this is my go-to for summer adventures on the trail or on water. Ultralight, airy, and breathable, it feels like you’re not wearing anything — and it keeps me cool under the beating sun. Its knit structure provides full, UPF 30+ sun protection without employing a topical finish, which can begin wearing out after a few washes. A snap under the hoodie ensures a snug, yet comfortable, fit in windy conditions when I want to protect my scalp. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying, this is the perfect shirt for staying safe in the sun while still maintaining unencumbered freedom of movement. $98, pathprojects.com
SPC/LCT Civilian Pants
These are great casual hang-out pants; their straight-leg fit with knee darts results in a fashionable look with plenty of mobility, as opposed to more sloppy sweatpants. Organic cotton (54%) meets recycled polyester and stretch twill in these comfortable pants. An elastic drawstring results in a nice, comfortable fit. Five pockets, including one side zip, hold plenty of essentials when traveling or hiking. Note: Not pet-hair repellent. $85, spclst.com
Aspen Music Festival review: Double dose of Thomas Adès’ music creates a spectacle in music festival’s first full weekend
There was a splendid, soul-fulfilling performance of Mendelssohn’s ‘Reformation’ Symphony on the Aspen Music Festival’s opening weekend, but dramatic pieces by the celebrated British composer Thomas Adés stole the spotlight in back-to-back concerts in Klein Music Tent.
