Nau Cleanline Jacket : For men and women
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Smartwool Microweight Crew : Three-Season Baselayer

Whether it's cool or cold and I'm heading out for a workout, my favorite baselayer is always merino wool.

Smartwool's Microweight Long-Sleeved Crew, which is available in men's and women's sizes, has become a regular in my baselayer line-up. I wear it under a windbreaker, and it's been the perfect temperature regulator for my winter activities. When it's hovering around 40 degrees, the top keeps me cool when I start warming up. When the mercury drops, the top keeps me warm throughout my aerobic pursuits.

I choose wool because of its excellent wicking and breathing properties. I choose Smartwool because I like the soft-spun material that looks and feels like a regular cotton jersey crew neck top. I also like the tapered sleeves and the flatlock seams - I get a good fit and no chafing against my skin. This top is a great stand-alone piece, too, for warmer (50s) temps.

I tested the men's crew because I'm tall and like the extra length a men's shirt provides; the women's top, which is also cut long) has the same features, with the exception of a more scoop-neck style.

Men's top is available in black, willow, legion blue, nickel strip, sizes S-XXL. Women's top available in black, wisteria, cayenne, natural white, and ice blue in XS-XL.

Bottom Line: A super lightweight baselayer that performs well in a range of temperatures.-- E.D. (Feb 08)

Price : $55 men's, $60 women's

Buy Online: 88x31 REI Logo, Backcountry ski and snowboard gear, camping

Manufacturer's Site: www.smartwool.com

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When lifting weights, always remember to protect your back by activating your abdominal muscles before performing each exercise.

Source: The Little Strength Training Book