FitSugar

Kena Kai Bandanas

FitSugar — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 02:30:00 -0800

Hair (especially when it's drenched with sweat) can really get in the way of a good workout. Cotton bandanas just don't cut it for me and while I love wearing hats, I am not always in the mood.

Seeing a need for a bandana that is functional and cute, Kena Kai created Microfiber Bandanas ($17.99, for one 24"x 24" bandana) that are at least 5X more absorbent than cotton bandanas, are naturally more anti-bacterial than cotton and they're actually cute!

The Ultra Absorbent version is a slightly thicker bandana that will absorb up to a cup of water. The Ultra Fine bandana has a look and feel closer to a silk scarf, but a bit stiffer. The Ultra Fine is a perfect bandana for use under a helmet when biking or snowboarding. I think it would also be a great accessory to bring along for a long hike on a warm, sunny day. As an added bonus, those of you with newly dyed hair will agree, lots of outdoor activities can really fade the color so protecting those lovely locks of yours is a good idea. Buy them online directly from KenaKai.com.

Gym Bag Essential: Aquis Microfiber Towel

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:00:00 -0800

I recently purchased my own microfiber towel to carry around with me at the gym to wipe my body. I am in love with my new little towel because it's way softer than the ones provided at the gym, and I know where it's been.

This Aquis Adventure Small Microfiber Towel ($8.69) is lightweight and compact; making it ideal to stuff in your gym bag. Since it's microfiber, it also dries quickly between uses, avoiding any potential mildew smells. Buy it here.

Review: Run Don't Walk Pants

FitSugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 14:45:00 -0700

Are you looking for some pre- or postgym pants that you can pull on over your workout gear? I'm always looking for a flattering yet comfy fit and that's what I found in these Run Don't Walk Pants ($110) made by Cloudveil.

I know that may seem like a lot of moolah, but you've got to feel this amazing material. It's super-soft, light-weight microfiber that's smooth on the outside and lightly brushed velour on the inside. They are perfect for slipping on over my workout gear to head to the gym and I also wear them after my workout (since I'd rather not head to the grocery store in tight spandex shorts). Since this fabric wicks moisture and dries super fast, I've also worn them while strength training or doing yoga. My favorite part is that the material is thick enough to keep its shape, so they never look really baggy. Plus I've washed them at least 10 times and they still look like when I first got them (making them worth the price). Might I add that I wear them all the time while lounging at home? I live in the chocolate ones, but they also come in black and kiwi. If you're interested in checking them out (and I suggest you do) you can order them here.

Get Your Butt in Gear: Brooks Nightlife Vest

FitSugar — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 13:30:00 -0800

As the weather gets colder and the hours of daylight diminish, it's important to keep warm and visible while working out. This can also make layering tricky, which is why I love vests.

This Brooks Nightlife Vest ($80) provides core warmth and heightens visibility through its fabric color and reflective highlights. The polyester microfiber fabric is water resistant, wind resistant, and breathable. Plus unlike many Winter vests, this one is semifitted to decrease bulkiness, and enhance performance. Buy it here.

Get Your Butt in Gear: Nike Cold Weather Pants

FitSugar — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 03:30:00 -0800

If cold weather doesn't stop you from exercising outdoors, then you're going to need some pants that both insulate to keep you warm, and wick away moisture to keep you dry. Check out the Cold Weather Pants from Nike ($65).

They're made with dri-FIT fabric, which is high-performance microfiber polyester. This material pulls sweat off your body and into the fabric's surface, where it evaporates leaving skin dry and keeping you warm. The backs of the legs have terry cloth inserts so you'll be able to move freely (I hate when the material bunches up behind my knees). These pants will help you stay warm and comfy.

Not only can you use them for exercising in the cool weather, but you can also layer them underneath snow pants if you ski, ride or snowshoe. They come in Black, Anthracite (gray), and Sable Green. Order them from Nike.com.

Cellulite Reducing Shorts: Cool or Not Cool?

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 07:30:00 -0700

Apparently these biker-chic shorts massage cellulite away with a patented 'wave' knit. They also claim to boost blood circulation via built-in compression. Plus they shape, slim and energize the lower body, tone and detoxify skin, and blast bacteria buildup using silver-ion-infused microfibers. Yowzers, can they cook me dinner too? As always, I am skeptical since many medical professionals have said that cellulite is something we just have to live with. Plus if these little shorts really eliminated cellulite, I think they would be priced at a little over $44.95. But I am a skeptic, I know. Want a pair, just in case they really do work, then buy them from Bliss.com.

So, what do you think?

Yogitoes Skidless Yoga Mat Towel

FitSugar — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 02:00:00 -0800

When taking a Pilates or Yoga class, some people are just seriously prone to sweating, adding new dimensions to the term "sweating buckets."

Sweating is a good thing since it helps to cool your body and to release toxins.
But if you are sweating a lot, it can be really dangerous. You may end up slipping into positions that exceed your personal edge. It won't feel good when you accidentally slip all the way into a full split, when you were only intending on a gentle stretch for your hamstrings.

Rugs are an option, but I find their texture to be a little too rough. Plus due to their thickness, they never dry fast enough and end up a bit smelly. So they need to be washed frequently, and from my experience the odor never really goes away.

I recommend placing a thin towel over the top of your mat underneath your hands to prevent slipping. Or better yet, get a towel that covers your entire mat.

This one from Yogitoes is made of highly absorbent microfiber with comfortable nubs that provide traction and grip so you feel secure in your postures.

They're a great idea because they're easy to clean and dry. Unfortunately, they don't come cheap. You'll pay $64 to soak up your sweat and prevent slippage.

What do you think? Is this something you'd ever use? Let's talk about it in FitSugar's group, Yoga Stretch and Tell.

Get Your Butt in Gear: YoginiStyle YogaSmart Pants

FitSugar — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 04:00:00 -0800

Nothing is less flattering than your lacy thong making a guest appearance mid downward dog during your yoga class.

A great new yoga clothing brand, YoginiStyle, realized this was a problem and solved it by attaching panties inside the pants to create, YogaSmart pants ($60.00). These low-rise fitted pants have panties attached in five different locations around the waistband to keep panties in position while you are in your favorite yoga positions. They still look like cute yoga pants, but the ease of movement with the panties and the elimination of any embarrassment will help you relax even more in your next class!

YogaSmart pants are made of 90% cotton and 10% spandex. They are low rise and boot cut. You even get your choice of panties, thong or brief, which are attached inside. The panties and thongs are made of a breathable, comfortable microfiber fabric that will make you feel like you're not even wearing any underwear, even though you are.

The pants are available in Black or Charcoal Gray. In Petite, Regular and Tall lengths. Buy them directly from YoginiStyle.com.