November 2015 brand editorial:
Press Contact: Kate Gaeir kate@akimbopr.com | 206.334.0863
Total seen monthly circulation: + 22,721,689 Total seen circulation year to date: + 331,926,697
Snow
Backpacker - I/O Goggle Asian Fit - 365,860 Blister Gear Review - Helmets, Goggles - 25,000 Departures - Vantage Helmet - 1,260,942 Forbes.com - Woolrich Collab - 2,265,310 Gear Junkie - Transit Goggle - 212,412 Grungy Gentlemen - Supreme Collab - 199,126 Health Magazine - I/O Goggle - 1,372,036 Hemispheres - Vantage Helmet - 644,154 Huffington Post - Various - 3,038,735 HypeBeast - Supreme Collab - 3,500,000 Men’s Journal - Pivot Helmet - 762,053 Mountain Magazine - Vantage with MIPS - 125,000 Mt. Baker Experience - I/OS Goggle - 40,000 OnTheSnow.com - Various - 750,000 Outside Bozeman - I/O 7 Goggle - 20,000 OutsideOnline.com - Vantage Helmet - 764,922 PowderMag.com - I/O 7 Goggle - 199,717 Revolt in Style - Woolrich Collab - 100,000 Robb Report - Woolrich Collab - 648,900 Skiing Magazine - I/O, Pivot - 50,000
Bike / Performance
Cyclocross Magazine - Overtake - 20,000 Decline - Squad MTB Goggle - 40,000 Dirt Rag - Squad MTB Goggle - 25,000 FeedTheHabit.com - Overtake - 39,000 ForbesLife.com - Pivlock Overdrive - 80,446 FoxNews.com - Overtake - 2,794,836 Grungy Gentlemen - Forefront, Pivlock Arena Max - 199,126 Lyra Mag - Various Bike Gear - 14,846 Mountain Bike Action - Squad MTB Goggle - 66,239 PinkBike - Squad MTB Goggle - 1,720,954 Tech 50+ - Forefront, Pivlock Arena - 2,388
Sunglasses
Gear Patrol - Dockside - 1,180,378 Mood of Living - Rebel - 21,174 Pretty Damn Fast - Various - 10,000 The Fiberglass Manifesto - Guide’s Choice - 75,477 Transworld Snowboarding - Mt. Shasta - 87,658
ABOUT SMITH: Originating from Sun Valley, Idaho, SMITH was founded in 1965 with the invention of the first snow goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. With 50 years of innovation and design experience, SMITH is widely known today as an industry leader that pioneers advanced eyewear and helmets that incorporate dynamic technologies, optimized performance and clean styling to fuel fun beyond walls. SMITH seeks to power thrilling experiences in snow, surf, bike, fish and peak performance outdoor adventures with a comprehensive collection that exudes modern style and vibrant personality. To SMITH, the experience is everything. Smith is part of Safilo Group.
WINTER E!UYER's EUIDE
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HELMETS
Sv
rrrr // Va.rurn
ee
Svtrn // M-a.ze
Sv
g in a size Medium, the Maze is the lightest snow-certified helmet
The Vantage is light, has a super
Weighing 350
ventilation of any helmet we've ever used.
on the market. lt has a very low profile (nobody likes the bobble-head look), and
comfortable lining, good goggle compatibiliry and the best, most effective and most adjustable
rrrr // Ar-ru
eE
Super light and affordable, the Allure is the women's version of the men's Maze.
just enough vents to provide some needed airflow on warm spring days. lf you're into
light and sleek and dont
prioritize
ventilation, the Maze is great. Also check out the Pret Cynic, which is also very light and low profile, but vents a little better than the Maze.
$22tr (USD)
$ 1 OO (USD)
$r oo (usD)
Svlrrr // Ptvar
Peer // EvNlc
S\^/EET PRoTEGTI(]N // IGNITER MIPsi
lf you like the clean look of the
The Cynic is only 75 g heavier than the very
With a reputation for dependable, high-end gear, Sweet Protection has been a well-known
ventilation and an updated style, the Pivots
light Smith Maze, and you aren't going to notice those 75 grams. lf an affordable,
low-profile Maze, but want something with some added
your helmet The biggest caveat is that it comes with an elastic ar.rto-adjustment that initially feh good and very snug, br.rt after several hours of
lightweight, very low profile helmet is what you're looking for but you want something that vents pretty well too, check it out.
wearing the helmet it began to feel too tight for our reviewer. tf you wear your goggles under your helmet however, you can removethe auto
feel that Sweet is known for, with venting that is only bested by the Smith Vantage in our group. As a top-of-the line, fully featured helmet with added MIPS safety technology, you won't go wrong with the lgnit|r..
adjust and the issue is gone. We recommend trying dris one on before you buy.
$r
2o (usD)
brand to kayakers for a long time. And this season. Sweet is bringing their wintersports line (previously only available in Europe) to the US. This helmet has the same quality
$l
oo (usD)
$239 (USiDl ($r99 w/trur
MrPS)
BLrsrER BUYER's ciurDE 1 5a
CtlEELES
ANoN // Wz $240
is a
big chunk of changefor a pair of goggles,
butdT e M2 is worth
it Rareearth magnets secure
*re goggles' lens to
d-reir frame, making the M2's interchangeable lens qlstem dre quickest and
easiestto useof anygoggle ondle maketAnon's
optics are also toqnotch (we're big fans of their lowJight Blue Lagoon lens) and you'll ga a nice molded storage case widr your pair. The M2 is our hvorite goggle, hands down. But if you're not into fre M2's largerfitand full-frame styling, you'll find a
lotto
like
aboutthe Smith l/O7.
Svrrx // l/87 The Smith l/O was the first goggle to feature an interchangeable lens system, and the l/ 07 is the most recent, updated version of the original. The l/O7s lens change system isn't as idiot-proof as the Anon M2's, but it's a bit more user-friendly than the l/O's; you'll still be
swapping lenses in less than a minute. Furthermore, Smith's lens selection is outstanding. So if you're not a fan of the look or the higher price tag of the Anon M2, then the Smith l/O7 is an excellent alternative.
$zotr (usD)
9239 (UEiD)
lr AtloN // WM I The WM1 is effectively the women's version of the M2, and just like the M2, we think the WM1 is absolutely dialed. lt has a larger fit than the Smith l/OS, and in terms of ease-of use, the WM1 is as good as it gets among
55vrrn // a/BS The Anon
MWl is an outstanding women's
goggle, but its fit is definitely on the larger side. So if you have a smallerface or just prefer the look of the l/OS, we highly recommend it.
women-specific goggles.
$228 (USD'
1
sEl BLrsrER BUYER's
c;uroE
$r
so (uso)
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NEW!
INSIDE NOVEMBER 2015
Hemisphe heres N OV OVEM MB BER 2 201 20 2015 01 0 15
T H R E E P E R F E C T D AY S C O L O R A D O R O C K I E S • T H E H E M I Q & A W I T H S A R A H S I LV E R M A N
THREE PERFECT DAYS COLORADO ROCKIES HEMI SKI SPECIAL 2015 HITTING THE SLOPES IN AMERICA’S SKI PARADISE
PLUS
THE HEMI Q&A SARAH SILVERMAN ON HER SERIOUS SIDE YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN ROSANNE CASH VISITS HER DAD’S CHILDHOOD HOUSE SPEED RACER NASCAR STAR JEFF GORDON CROSSES THE FINISH LINE
001_HEMI1115_COVER.indd 1
12/10/2015 08:21
hemi culture
20 HEMI
SKI 15
FOR TRENDSETTERS Electric Mashman This motorcycle-style, full-coverage helmet may be retro in design, but its modern chrome coating will put you ahead of the fashion curve. $170
FOR DAREDEVILS Smith Vantage Designed to maximize air flow and coverage, this helmet features several patented systems that keep the wearer safe and comfortable. $220
FOR MINIMALISTS Scott Seeker Making its debut this winter, this sleek, ultralight lid promises not to bog skiers down. $180
FOR SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS POC Receptor+ Developed for the ultimate sportsman, this is the only helmet certified for use in skiing, skateboarding, biking and water sports. $220
FOR TECHIES PROP STYLING BY GO FUKASAWA
POC Fornix Communication Techies, rejoice! This unassuming helmet offers built-in Beats by Dre headphones plus smartphone compatibilty. $250
goods
Head Cases Lightweight, high-tech and safer than ever, these stylish lids are a ski season must PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUNICHI ITO
48
048_HEMI1115_GOODS.indd 48
NOVEMBER 2015 • HEMISPHERESMAGAZINE.COM
07/10/2015 10:54
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Wi nt e r 2 0 1 5 - 16
Southwest Montana’s Outdoor Journal
Winter Wonderland Spanish Peaks Ski Tour | Cabineering in the National Forest | Exploring Elephanthead Mtn.
alpine journal I/O—SMITH Seven winters ago, I bought a pair of Smith goggles because they had a slight scratch on the lens and were therefore discounted. Dirtbag move, I know, but now, the better part of a decade later, I am finally saying goodbye to those goggles, only because I’m replacing them with a newer version of the same model. The I/O goggle from Smith is the most reliable piece of equipment I’ve owned, no bullshit. When other riders are bitching about fogged-up lenses, I’m grinning ear to ear. I don’t know how Smith does it, and frankly I don’t care—all I know is that I can see, no matter the conditions, and that means more turns and more fun. The I/O also comes with low-light and bright-light lenses, which swap out easily, even with gloves on. This is key for winter days in the mountains, when the forecaster failed to mention the piercing sunlight that would occupy most of the “partly-cloudy” day. $180; smithoptics.com. — D A VID TUC K E R
58
|
OUTSIDE BOZEMAN winter 2015-16
Refugitive—PATAGONIA If you’ve spent any time in Montana’s mountains, you know how unpredictable the conditions can be. Built to endure those conditions, Patagonia’s Refugitive hardshell is my new go-to jacket for all seasons. The Refugitive is lightweight, super-packable, and the ultimate wind-and-wet-weather protection. Constructed from three-layer Gore-Tex fabric with Gore’s C-Knit backer technology, it offers plenty of stretch and breathability, allowing for total freedom of movement while scrambling up steep boulders. It’s fully featured with watertight pit-zips, pockets throughout—including an internal mesh pocket perfect for skins or goggles—helmet-compatible hood, and RECCO reflector for safety. The Refugitive is true to size with an attractive fit. This versatile jacket is ideal for anyone who wants to stay protected from the elements while having fun in the outdoors. $500; patagonia.com. — M E LI SS A DO AR
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Want one helmet for your road and cyclocross racing, but don't want to look like a you're lining up for a time trial,
the Giro Synthe aims to please with a look that doesn't differ much from a road helmet in styling and ventilation, but promises wind-cheating benefits of aero helmets like the Specialized Evade and Giro's own Air Attack. Giro claims free speed benefits due to the Synthe's wind-cheating design, and yet the helmet doesn't look or heat up like other aero
helmets or shells. Giro boasts impressive test data with the Synthe, showing that it's cooler than its more-vented Aeon, and much cooler than the Air Attack, and faster than that model except in the heads down position. But we're cyclocrossers and gravel
riders, and it's important to note that the speed gains and ventilation tests are typically at 25mph. That's far beyond the average speed most of us see in real-world cyclocross racing, and thus we'd still grab an Aeon if we wanted the coolest Giro helmet for cyclocross.
The Roc Loc Air system, not aerodynamic design, is what you'll first notice when you insert your melon into the Synthe. There's very few points of contact with the outer EPS foam shell, making for a comfortable, wellventilated ride, even though it doesn't wow in number of vents at just 19.
Like most of these helmets featured here, Giro opts for in-mold construction. An EPS foam liner helps keep the helmet light and absorb impact, but aerodynamics and fit are what separate this helmet, not cutti ng-edge sa{ety features. SPECS: Weight,
272cU) //
trlSRP:
$25O
ll
Sizes:
S/M/L/XL
//
0ptions: MIPS model
Although the 0vertake and the mountain bike-oriented Forefront have only been on the heads of cytlists for a few years, the green honeycomb design
at the core of the Smith Optic models, which the company calls Koroyd, has already become instantly recognizable from a distance. The 0vertake, with its large vents secured by a Koroyd underbelly, is geared towards racers who both find their heads overheating with models oriented towards aerodynamics and want one of the lightest helmets of those we tested.
SPECS:
Weight: MSRP:
2879 (L)
$250 (standard)
$310 (MrPS)
Sizes;
S/M/L
oDtions: M I PS,
Slandard
At the heart of both the safety and ventilation of the Overtake is that same Aerocore construction featuring Koroyd. Smith Optics, unlike many of the helmet brands listed here, doesn't use traditional EPS foam, and the company has revealed in tests that its Koroyd, which is a series of polymer cores, absorbs 30% more energy than traditional foam. Most recently, Smith Optics added MIPS-equipped technology into its latest models, which is designed to prevent multi-directional impacts.
The solid mesh panels that guard the side vents from wind are great at catching mud, and hard to clean. The Roc Loc Air system is a little fragile, so protect it well while packing and traveling should you want an intact helmet on race day.
just released ($270)
The Koroyd will never
quite look the same after your first muddy ride or race. The little holes will capture a bunch of mud and grit, and will make your helmet f irst in line at the power washer.
The retention of the Overtake is based around the company's VaporFit adjustable system, and adjustability is determined by a dial in the rear-center of the helmet. Although the dial is far more sluggish than other retention systems, such as a B0A, the VaporFit is easy to identify while riding if you need a mid-race adjustment. The model sat slightly high on our head, although as it hardly tips the scales at such a low weight, we hardly noticed it was there.
lf you're drawn to the potential brain-protecting benefits of MIPS, but don't want your helmet to be a conversation starter or attention grabber, the Savant should be on your short list. lt looks like a normal road helmet, but the $110 helmet packs in MIPS with Giro's excellent Roc Loc 5 fit and 25 vents, without packing on the grams, at a reasonable 327 grams for Large. A great value, and a staff favorite.
lf other Giro helmets fit
Giro maintains that
all its helmets are designed to "reduce as much energy as possible" but the MIPS technology, which the company has invested in, will reduce rotational forces. That's a good thing, since we've never seen a crash where someone torpedoed the ground or an obstacle with the top of his head, which means there's almost always a rotational aspect to any crash. SPECS: Weignt'
327eU //
Safety:MIPS, ln-mold construction
//
cYcr0cR(lss
you well, the Savant MIPS will be no exception, and its four sizes should guarantee nearly every head will be protected. The Rock Loc 5 cradles your head and doesn't interfere with longer glasses like some other brands' cages, and adjustable tilt adds a new angle to your fit
va l ue.
options.
$110
//
sizes:S/M/UXL
MAGAZTilE
-
rssuE 30
MSRP:
You may not be buying the most aero or lightest helmet, but you should be able to sleep better knowing that you have MIPS as head insurance. lsn't that why we wear helmets? A killer
//
0ptions: Non-MlPS,
at $90
87
NOV/DEC 2015 $8.99-USA $9.99-CAN
products & apparel
THE JERSEY The TLD women’s Skyline Speeda jersey is specifically cut for the figure of a woman. Providing optimal breathability and a Lycra neck for easy removal without stretching out the collar. This jersey is available in speed purple or black colors, keeping things simple to let the rider focus on the task at hand: shredding the mountain. Price: $50; Contact: troyleedesigns.com THE SHORT These TLD women’s Skyline
Speeda shorts are loud and obnoxious, which is why we love them. Not only do they look fast, but they are great for photo shoots as they are sure to not blend into the surroundings. Price: $75; Contact: troyleedesigns.com
THE PADS Made from AeroMesh, the IXS
Flow kneepad not only breathes insanely well but it also wicks away sweat and is anti bacterial. So even though your sweaty ass may stink, these pads will not. Light weight and comfortable these kneepads are great for all-around trail riding and enduro racing. Price: $69.95; Contact: ixs-sportsdivision.com
THE HYDRATION Fanny packs are back, or something. With style and function the Camel Back Palos 4lr fanny pack sits comfortably around your waist huggin’ that line like it was 1992. This pack was designed for the outdoor athlete, complete with hydration and enough space to hold essential tools, spare tube and nutrition. Price: $75; Contact: camelbak.com THE GOGGLES Foggy goggles can be a
constant bother, and are usually caused by not enough airflow in colder, wet conditions. Moto goggles have been getting the job done, but on some of those slower trails they are just not enough. Some MTB goggles also suffer from poor periferal vision. Smith Optics answered the cries for help with their new Squad MTB-specific goggle. Creating a goggle with more air flow and increased side-to-side and up-and-down visibility. Gone are the days where you have to remove your goggles every time you climb or struggle to see everything on the trail. Price: $80; Contact: smithoptics.com
132
#188
Win a $3,500 Fuji Year-End Sweepstakes, page 43
Singletrack & Kayaks A Pedal and Paddle Adventure
dirtragmag.com
SWITCHBACKS, SPIDERS AND KFC The Trails of North Thailand
EDITOR’S CHOICE Our Favorite Bikes and Gear
page 20
rackin' till 2.8.16
Issue 188 $5.99
It's hard to eat big tacos, so I'm leaving
Riding with no Hands
Adam Newman, Contributing Editor
Trek 920 - $1,990 Here at Dirt Rag we take product evaluations seriously, and when we put our name behind an editor’s choice it has to mean something. The bikes that earn this distinction require more saddle time than just an afternoon of riding. For this reason I almost didn’t name a bike as my Editor’s Choice this year. The bikes that I rode for long-term evaluations were all fun and reliable, but none bonded with me in a way that made me want to elope with them to Whistler and never return. I’m also the editor of our sister magazine, Bicycle Times, where we cover touring, commuting, gravel, that sort of thing. I put a ton of miles on the Trek 920, and I came away really impressed with its versatility and fun factor. Sure, it has drop bars, but underneath its touring-bike appearance is a host of mountain-bike technology. Is it a mountain bike? Not really. But I’m guessing your riding often
D i r t R a g E D I T O R ' s C h o i ce 2 0 1 5
took you beyond singletrack trails this year, and when mine did I hopped aboard the Trek 920. trekbikes.com
VP VX Adventure Race pedals - $130 Aside from some early misadventures, I’ve ridden Time clipless ped-
The Fashion Police can chuckle and sneer all they want about riding
als for what seems like an eternity. Sure, SPDs are great and they’ve
with goggles and a half-shell, but the joke’s on them because while
been around forever, but once you commit to a pedal system and pick
they think I might look like a dork, I’m looking down the trail with an
up a few pairs, it sure is hard to switch.
uninterrupted field of view and without dust or dirt in my eyes.
I signed on to review these SPD-cleat-compatible trail pedals from
Designed specifically for mountain biking, the new Squad MTB
VP and switched over some cleats. With both the stock VP cleats and
goggles feature a great lens with tons of ventilation in the brow.
some old Shimano ones they have a positive engagement and a crisp,
Because of the ample padding and the fact that they sit farther away
quality feeling when unclipping. I’ve moved them from bike to bike for
from your eyes, they never get sweat on the lenses either, a huge pet
the most part of the year, and they’ve never loosened, squeaked or
peeve of mine with normal sunglasses.
complained one bit. The large platform is just the ticket for a secure
The Squad goggles ship with an Ignitor Mirror lens that’s perfect
feeling underfoot, as more of your shoe is in contact with the pedal.
for cutting down the glare while still boosting contrast in dark woods.
I may not be ready to toss all my Time pedals in the recycling bin,
70
Smith Squad MTB goggles - $60
I’ve worn them in bright sunlight and in the rain without a problem.
but the VP VX Adventure Race pedals are good enough to find a
The goggles also include an extra clear lens. The best part of these,
permanent spot on one of my bikes and a pair of SPD cleats on my
and the reason they get my pick, is they sell for just $60—about half of
favorite shoes. vp-usa.com
what you’d pay for a pair of high-quality sunglasses. smithoptics.com
Dirt Rag #188 11.15.15
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FIELD TEST
MBA FIELD TEST RATINGS
LEATT AIRFLEX KNEE GUARDS For riders who need protection but hate using it
Leatt’s new Airflex knee and elbow protection are the epitome of minimalist design for those who ride aggressive enough terrain to warrant protection but who don’t want to look like Stormtroopers on the trail. Leatt is the kind of company that shuns the status quo when it comes to protection. Leatt was the first to build neck braces and succeed at making them part of the bike park rider’s standard uniform. Tech features: The 3DF Airflex guard uses Leatt’s Armorgel technology, which is a “non-Newtonian gel that locks up the molecules and becomes hard on impact.” The pad is designed to absorb both high- and lowspeed impacts yet be flexible and comfortable. The ultra-slim design still meets all CE certifications. The pads retail for $100, and our test pair weighed a svelte 208 grams compared to 500 grams for the similar hard-shell option from Leatt. Field test results: These pads are as minimalist as they come. In fact, they feel
Perfection Delivers above-
average value and more like knee warmperformance ers than true pads. They are lightweight, Recommended well-ventilated, stay in for intended application place remarkably well, and are so comfortShows potential able that you’ll forget but has you’re wearing them. drawbacks The Armorgel works very well, dispersing Save your hardsome of the energy earned bucks on impact. We know this from experience. We accidentally tested it on a couple of occasions. It’s also remarkably good for protecting against road rash. (If you’re a downhill rider, Leatt makes sturdier protective gear with the same Armorgel technology.) The Airflex delivers exactly what it promises: minimalist protection. It’s not the cheapest knee pad we’ve used, nor is it the most protective. It is, however, the most comfortable, and that’s something we simply can’t ignore. ❏
★★★★✩
SMITH SQUAD GOGGLE Rims? We don’t need no stinkin’ rims
Field test results: Right out of the box these goggles seem like the perfect match for any rider looking to go “full enduro” on the trail by rocking a half-shell helmet with goggles. The low profile suits this style of riding quite well; the goggle was compatible with all of our enduro-style lids. On the trail the impressive ventilation takes care of fogging and heat problems. The goggle even refuses to fog on wet days, something we can’t say about many of its peers. The Carbonic-X lens boasts a more rigid structure than many less-expensive goggles. The optics and scratch resistance are on par with any other high-end goggle you’d like to put it up against. The holy grail for any goggle is that the rider forgets he or she is wearing it. The Squad accomplishes this with excellent construction, impressive ventilation and optics that are second to none. The price isn’t even that high. For gravity or enduro riders, the Squad goggle is a great choice. ❏
The Smith Squad semi-rimless goggle was conceived after extensive experience dealing with fogging problems with snow goggles. Semi-rimless technology, with impressive ventilation top and bottom, has now made it into the dirt segment and is available as an option for riders looking for the protection of a goggle without the bulk, heat and fogging issues. Tech features: The Squad is a relatively small and lightweight goggle that features a semi-rimless design to keep weight down, make lens changes easy and keep air flowing. The Squad goggle is available in several different colors and lens combinations and features a molded Carbonic-X lens to offer a wider range of view and improved protection. Our pair of Squad goggles tipped the scales at a scant 105 grams, and retail for $60.
64
www.mbaction.com
★★★★★
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