Thursday, November 29, 2007

The North Face Ultra Trail Tour Du Mont Blanc




As I was lazy around, I can't help but started thinking about the first time I set foot on a 100km run and of course remembering the ever inspiring book written by Dean Karnazes.

Of course, this wondering spin off to bigger spectrum and Ultra Running events pops out and I can't help but thinking about the Ultra Trail Tour Du Mout Blanc. 100 miles cross the range of Mont Blanc crossing France, Italy, switzerland and back to France. This is one of the events that I have always dreamt of doing. Well, I know I definitely will.

Running side by side Dean...hehehe.... Dean Dean, wait for me! Sign on my The North Face T-shirt!

The North Face Arnuva 50 Boa and Gulper

It's been some time that I have not written anything about my favourite activity. Gear Testing and of course review. This is the part I am probably excited about.

Gear Test 1:
Features





I finally got the pair of The North Arnuva 50 Boa. Well, here is the specification: -

* Built for the athlete who runs trails, dirt paths, even road, and offering the cutting-edge Boa® lacing system for a rapidly-adjustable, secure fit.
* UPPER Boa® multi-adjust lacing system
* Abrasion-resistant bomber synthetic nubuck with highly breathable and protective sandwich mesh upper
* TPU injection saddle for optimal lateral and medial stability and support
* Northotic" ergonomically designed footbed with Poron® forefoot and heel inserts and AgION" antimicrobial footbed covering
* BOTTOM Ultra lightweight compression molded EVA midsole combined with X-2™ polymer dampening compounds provides high impact cushioning and long lasting support
* Rear foot compression cage provides mechanical assist to midsole components and neutral guidance for mild pronators proprietary The North Face® outsole with Tenacious Grip" rubber compound provides excellent traction both on-and off-road as well as stab

Personal Verdict:

I took this pair of Endurance Running shoes for a ride on both the road and offroad from Ulu Pandan Road through the Bukit Timah Mountain Bike Trail to Bukit Panjang and back home and I must say, it works well for me. I haven't put it on on regular runs but with my first run in it, I must say it works well for me. The Boa System stay well-kept and no mechanical dysfunction for me. And traction control, beside a little slippery on moss ground and wet surface, they work in excellence in terms of performance. Total distance, 15km of mixed terrain.






Gear Test 2:


The Gulper was having a bit of the leaking issue in the beginning. But its fine now and I must say that it fits really well in terms of the design and of course, the ventilation is paramount to performance and in humid country like Singapore, breathability is critical and The Gulper answers to the call. Here is the specification: -



Features


* Midsize hydration pack suited for a half-day epic adventure.
* E-VAP™ back panel
* E-VAP™ and airmesh shoulder harness
* Sternum strap with Safe-T whistle
* Removable waistbelt
* 70 oz Nalgene® reservoir with quick connect hose
* Articulated magnetic bite valve
* Large main compartment
* Internal organizer
* Side mesh pockets with elastic pump holder
* Zip front stash pocket
* X-bungee Light loop
* Reflective hit

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Slacking and Busyness

I Know, I Know! I have been really slacking in writing blogs for the last 2 months or so. The best excuse I can give is really, I have been super duper busy. Business, plus new work commitment. Yup, you hear me! New work commitment. I have just join The North Face family as the Brand Executive for Singapore.



So been really busy coz when you mention The North Face Singapore Team, it will be me and my boss. That's it! Gosh, I love to have a big team. But, reality told me that profit comes, workforce will increase.

So for now, just like The North Face philosophy says, "Never Stop Exploring" ways to work efficiently...hehehe....

Well, at least I manage to complete the Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore while working hard.

Till next available time! Ciao!