danskin

Known for its dancewear, Danksin makes great fitness gear, too. Which isn't a surprise considering they sponsor the longest running women's triathlon series in the US. I recently tried the Danskin Cycling Short ($60).

The shorts are lightweight, with a five-inch inseam, and a relatively thin chamois (aka padding). Although the product description says these shorts are, "An exceptional pick for spin class, triathlon training, and long bike treks." I found the chamois too thin for a long ride but still too thick for a tri workout. I wouldn't want to swim or run in these shorts. They were, however, great for spin class. I think the back zippered pocket is a great, perfect for holding lip balm or a Gu energy packet. I found the sizing a little large. The medium shorts were big on me in all the wrong places, and viewed from side the chamois gave the appearance that I was wearing a cod piece. Not flattering at all. In terms of wicking and washability, I give these shorts a thumbs up. You can buy them directly from Danskin.

She swims. She rides. She runs. She rocks! Danskin sponsors the longest running women's triathlon series in the US, and the races are fast approaching.

If you've always wanted to do a triathlon, these sprint distance triathlons are for you. Here's the lowdown on the distances: .8K (.5 mile) swim, 19K (12 mile) bike, 5K (3.1 mile) run. Not only are these races fun and friendly, but Danskin also has a mentoring program to help newbies from the start (as in the first day of training) to finish (when you cross the finish line). I must say, doing a triathlon is one of the most empowering experiences — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Plus they have many different waves. The elite pros start first, followed by the amateur elites, and then groups separated by age. There is also a wave for cancer survivors and a buddy wave, if you want to compete with a pal in a different age group.

The first race is May 9 in Arizona, which means you need to start training now. These races are very popular and some races are already sold out, so if you're interested in trying a tri you should sign up soon. To see the race dates, just read more

You try to eat organic, but do you dress organic? Organic cotton is becoming increasingly popular among eco-minded types, since it's grown without the
large amounts of pesticides that bathe conventional cotton — about 1/3 of a pound of chemicals per one cotton t-shirt! Organic cotton is better for the environment and our health.

So since I've been happy with the Danskin clothes I've been testing out lately, I was delighted to see that the gear brand is getting into organic cotton. Perfect for yoga and Pilates, all of the Danskin Prima Organics are constructed from organic cotton with nontoxic dyes. For details on the line, read more

Mixing underwire with sports bras sounds completely incongruous to me. They just don't go together. This is, however, a new trend in supportive wear for active gals. I wanted to try one out, and Danskin was kind enough to send me its new Aerosilver Flex Sports Bra ($48) for a literal test run.

The bra certainly provides support and reminds me of a 1950s bra updated with a sporty racerback. When I wear it I feel more like I am on the set of Mad Men than running on a treadmill. The bra combines dynamic support with a titanium underwire and compression with molded soft foam cups. The effect feels nothing like the smooshed feel of a regular ol' compression sports bra; this one is actually comfortable. It is made of wicking fabric to maintain dryness and prevent the chaffing. The back of the bra is mesh for added breathability. But I think the most effective cooling element is the thin mesh vent just above the underwire, which not only allows air to flow in to cool you down but it is decorative as well. Unlike most compression bras, the Aerosilver racer back has three closure settings and you can't feel the hardware when you run.

For more details and to view the bra from the back, just read more

In this season of giving, Danskin is showing its generosity by offering customers 30 percent off full price and markdown items. With comfy collections for women and girls, and fitness equipment like weights and mats, now could be the perfect opportunity to check off some names on your holiday gift list. Your niece just started taking dance lessons? Check out the cute activewear for girls. And if you've been trying to get your best friend to take yoga classes with you, get her inspired with a new yoga top. Get the 30 percent discount on your entire purchase from now through Nov. 23 by entering FRIENDS8 at checkout. With that great discount, the X-Trainer jacket that I practically live in is just over $50!

Looking for more sales online? Take a trip over to SaleHabit.

The weather is starting cool, considerably in some parts, and that means wearing more layers — sometimes even indoors. I don't like feeling cold, but so many sweaters, jackets, and hoodies are just too bulky, so I have been looking for something form-fitting, cozy, and thin. I put on my new Danskin X-Training Jacket ($76) a couple of days ago and have yet to take it off.

It meets all my requirements and then some. It's perfect for typing in my shady house and walking the dog. The fabric is super soft: The jacket feels good on, and my husband loves hugging me when I am wearing it. Since I am wearing it all the time, that is a good thing.

For more details on the jacket, just read more

I feel pretty...Oh so pretty...I feel pretty and witty and gay...This ballet-inspired trend is definitely a pretty one. You all know I attended the Nutcracker last month and am a fan of the ballet. This trend will also spill into Spring 2007 ala Michael Kors. I'm pretty jazzed about this look; here are my picks:
Source

Danskin Women's Wrap Sweater, $25.

Karen Zambos Vintage Couture Halter Mini Dress, $150.

dELiAs Bow Necklace, $14.50

More ballet-inspired looks, read more

Attention holiday fitness shoppers! Danskin, the maker of Fitness, Dance & Yoga Apparel for women & girls is having an online holiday sale.

To redeem your 20% savings enter the coupon code MOMGIFT at checkout. This coupon requires a minimum $50 purchase and is not valid on purchases of gift certificates.

Start shopping here but hurry, savings end December 9, 2006.