Keep Running Wear Leggings

As I write this blog post the Philadelphia Marathon is drawing closer and closer as its website reminds us, currently there are only 25 days, 20 hours, 43 minutes, and 36 seconds. (http://www.philadelphiamarathon.com/) Maybe you are a long time runner and are pumped for yet another race or maybe this will be your first endurance race ever, regardless we have got the gear to prepare you for race day!

 Fall running to me means leggings. I LOVE leggings. If you have not tried a pair of Lole leggings than you have no idea what you are missing. See these three awesome pairs below. 

Left: Lole Lively Capri, Center: Lole Glorious Legging, Right: Lole Shock Legging

The Lole Lively Capri has changed my life and converted me into a total Lole fan! These awesome leggings are high rise making them perfect for yoga and pilates, as well as running and they have control top. The Lole Glorious Legging come all the way down to the ankle. These fun patterned leggings are extremely soft so you are excited to put them on and then you wont want to take them off. Finally, the Lole Shock Legging are fleece lined making them ideal for the dropping temperatures.

It is important to have breathable layering pieces on top so that you keep your core warm when you get your blood pumping.

Left: Patagonia R1 1/4 Zip, Right Top: Patagonia Nano Air Vest, Right Bottom: Lole Icy Vest

The Patagonia R1 is a great layering piece over a light garment or even next to skin. Here I paired the R1 with the Patagonia Nano Air Vest. The Nano Air Hoody won Outside Magazine's, The Best Gear of the Year Award in Winter 2015. You can also see here the Lole Icy Vest. Similar to the Nano Air Vest, the Icy Vest has synthetic insulation. The sides feature more breathable paneling. It's reflective stitching also makes you more visible on the road.

Now let's talk about hands. My hands are ALWAYS cold! A good pair of running gloves is key.

Left Top: Runners 1 Etip Glove, Left Bottom: Runners 3 Overmitt, Right: Runners 2 Etip Glove

The North Face Runners 1 Etip Glove is a reflective moisture wicking glove that is also smart phone compatible. The North Face Runners 2 Etip Gloves are also smart phone compatible and are the mid weight glove in the running series. They are water resistant, offer wind protection, and feature reflective hits. Finally, the Runners 3 Overmitt is fully waterproof, breathable, and features reflective hits. All three of these gloves are designed so that you can wear them together or alone depending on the conditions.

Featured Staff Favorites:

Left: The North Face Women's Reactor Hoodie, Right: Arc'teryx Delta LT 1/4 Zip

I am super excited to add The North Face Women's Reactor Hoodie to my closet as I think it is an awesome workout top. This light weight garment feels as soft as cotton but is actually synthetic and includes TNF FlashDry technology, making it highly moisture wicking. I also really like the thumb loops so that the sleeves stay in place when I layer up.

Clifford recommends for men the Arc'teryx Delta LT 1/4 Zip. He says that this is a great activewear fleece because it is extremely lightweight, he tends to be a warm person but does not get too hot when wearing this while he runs. We carry the Delta LT in several different colors.

I hope you find this post helpful as you hit the roads, trails, and treadmills in pursuit of staying active this fall. As always we hope to help you look and feel your best!

Happy Running :)

Elise 

Vests on Vests on Vests!!

The leaves are changing here on North Wayne Avenue, hot cider is being served at the Gryphon Cafe, and pumpkins have appeared on the steps of the Suburban Building, all signs that Fall has truly arrived. The rain we got over the weekend may have inspired you to snuggle inside, put on your Sorel slippers, and light a fire in the fireplace for the first time this season or maybe you layered up and headed into the rain in search of new Hunter Boots, a rain coat, or other warm clothing to better equip you for the change of temperature. No matter what your situation there is no denying that the perfect indoor to outdoor layering piece is a vest, and we have a ton of them!

Fashion Vests:

(Left) Toad & Co: Wildling Long Vest

Made out of recycled wool and polyester. We are crazy about this vest because it will make you look very trendy and you will feel like you are wrapped in a cozy blanket. 

(Right) Prana:

The top left - The Diva Vest 

Updated to have an asymmetrical zipper and this year we are carrying it in black. Bottom left - The Milly Vest 

This fantastic vest has just the right amount of shine and puff to add a pop to your outfit. 

Top right - Ava Vest

This is a synthetic filled vest with a wool polyester blend shell and sherpa lined hood. 

Patagonia Fleece:

(Top left) Better Sweater Vest 

Birch White and Black. It is definitely a customer favorite fleece. 

(Top right) Los Gatos Vest

This vest is incredibly fuzzy--you will put it on and never want to take it off. We carry this vest in Birch White, El Cap Khaki, Rustic Purple, and Smolder Blue. 

(Bottom left) Retro-X Vest 

Updated fit to be a little bit wider and a color blocked pocket making it more similar to the men's Retro-X. We love this vest in Underwater Blue and Taylor Grey.

(Bottom right) Snap-T Vest

Here you see it in Wild Desert: Prairie Gold but we also have it in Nickel with Navy Blue. This is a timeless piece in Nickel with a funky twist in the print. 

Synthetic Insulation: (the benefit of synthetic insulation is that it will stay warm even if it gets wet)

(Above Left) Patagonia: 

Left - Nano Air Vest  

The Air is a newer technology that feels much like wearing a sleeping bag. 

Right - Nano Puff Vest

The Nano Puff has a slicker face fabric that feels more similar to a down alternative. 

(Above Right) Left - The North Face: Thermoball Vest

We carry this vest in silver with a silver zipper, giving a technical piece a more fashionable vibe

Right - Arc'teryx: Atom Vest

This vest has synthetic insulation on the front and back and polyester paneling on the sides giving it a really flattering fit. 

Down Insulation: (down is going to be warmer than synthetic insulation, but is often a bit puffier)

(Above) Patagonia

 Left - Down Sweater Vest

800 fill 100% traceable down 100% recycled nylon

Top Right - Bivy Hooded Vest

600 fill 100% traceable duck down

Bottom Right - Prow Vest

600 fill 100% traceable duck down 100% recycled nylon

(Above)

Left - The North Face: Gotham Vest

550 fill, elastic waistband providing flattering fit

Right - Lole: Brooklyn Vest

500 fill, fleece lined collar, and waterproof exterior

Fall in LOVE with Cowl Necks, Navy, Cords, and Stripes.

It may not feel like it but fall is approaching! Here at Out There Outfitters we are really excited about all of our new Fall '15 lines. While all our brands offer unique and interesting pieces there are also some reoccurring trends.

Look #1. Sarah is wearing Sorel Out N About Leather Boots, Patagonia Fitted Corduroy Pants, and a Toad and Co Profundo Pullover.

Sarah in Look #1

We anticipate Sorel boots to be a hot commodity again this season so come early before they sell out. You could easily make this outfit more appropriate for the early fall temps with a few simple tweaks, such as white pants or cuffing the cords and adding some Birkenstocks. Corduroy pants are certainly seen across the board. White or cream colored cords seem to be trending but also fun colors like green and blue can be spotted too. The Vineyard Vines 5 Pocket Cords are slightly cropped, making them the perfect early fall choice with sandals or ballet flats, which later can be tucked into boots. Finally, notice Sarah's top. The cowl neck is a popular feature on tops from many brands. This top also combines the stripe trend with the cowl neck making it a favorite female staff pick.

Left: Kuhl Lea Pullover Center: The North Face Harmony Park Pullover Right: Toad and Co Stripe Out Boat Twist Tee

Look #2. Sarah is wearing a pair of the Prana Moto Leggings, Carve Bodega Popover, and Carve Pt. Reys Vest.

Left: Sarah appears in Look #2 Center Left: Prana Moto Leggings, Center Right: Carve Bodega Popover Right: Carve Pt. Reys Vest

Sarah can easily transition from work to drinks on the Ave. Her outfit is both functional as well as fashionable. We at OTO think that is a win win! Her leggings have chic lines, her cotton shirt is made slightly more dressy with a collar and v-neck, and finally her vest is not purely athletic as it has some fun silver zippers and large but not puffy baffling. Also the vest is a beautiful slate color with black and silver details making it very versatile. Vests are always a great addition to any outfit during the early fall.

Look #3. Sarah is wearing the Olukai Kapa Moe Boots, Prana Trinity Cords, the Kuhl Vega Long Sleeve Henley, and The North Face's Caroluna Jacket.

Left: Sarah in Look #3 Top Right: Olukai Kapa Moe Boots Bottom Right: The North Face Caroluna Jacket

Olukai shoes are incredibly comfortable and stylish. If you have not tried a pair on--you must! Kuhl is a brand new line here at OTO and we have been extremely pleased with the customer response. It is a brand that we believe to be of higher caliber and we are excited to see how it fairs throughout the rest of the season. Again, Sarah is wearing corduroys--this time they are the cream Prana Trinity Cord which has an excellent fit with a bit of stretch. Finally, the Caroluna Jacket is a marvelous transition piece for fall as it is a bit longer to give you more coverage as the nights grow chilly but it is not too heavy either. Also notice the Caroluna's navy color makes it a classy neutral that is a great alternative to black this season.

Left: Prana Trinity Cord Center: Patagonia Fitted Corduroy Pants Right: Vineyard Vines 5 Pocket Cords

Meet The Staff of Out There Outfitters

Matthew Sharayko

Born and raised in Harleysville, PA. Matthew aspires to be the next John Mayer. With a voice like an angel and the hair to match, he is surely on his way to having his name in lights.

Personal Style: Matthew is a vision in plaid. With winter temps still looming he can often be seen sporting his Patagonia Insulated Flannel or when it feels like spring a new Johnny-O Berner Button Down. Ask him about the Johnny-O “tweener” button.

How he can help you: Before working at OTO, Matthew worked at The North Face store at King of Prussia. In addition to being our go to TNF guy, Matthew has an excellent understanding of all things Gore-tex!

John Quinley

John was transplanted to Wayne, PA from Thailand! John traveled to the U.S. to pursue college at Eastern University but has since remained in Wayne, working at OTO as well as helping refugees in Philadelphia through the Women’s Opportunities Resource Center. He is always eager to help a customer or a friend.

Personal Style: John loves a good Patagonia T, especially the new Cotton/Poly Blended T’s. John is also ecstatic to set his toes free in some Chaco, Olukai, or Smather’s and Branson flippy floppies when he is feeling fancy!

How can he help you: John is quite the adventurer, whether that is travel abroad or in nature—he knows his stuff about what gear is best for any excursion. Ask him the difference between, DWR, H2NO, and Gore-tex.

Conor Holton

Conor is about to graduate from Cabrini College, and will be pursuing Bio Engineering in graduate school next year. When not at OTO Conor enjoys Olympic weightlifting, bouncing around at SkyZone, and man dates with his squad.

Personal Style: Conor can be recognized by his immaculately groomed hair and 5in shorts. Conor also loves all things patriotic. He recently acquired an American Flag Smather’s and Branson wallet and is digging everything red, white, and blue. AMERICA!

How can he help you:  Due to Conor’s military experience he has become our resident Luminox expert. He also is quite the Arc’teryx guru. His favorite piece is probably his Cerium LT, a lightweight down jacket.

Ann Shipley

Ann is a graduate student at Villanova University. She is studying History there with a focus on feminist studies. Ann hopes to one day teach history to young eager minds, but until then she often graces the store with a “today in history,” fact.

Personal Style: Ann often pairs a witty graphic tee with a Toad and Co sweater and skirt. She has a feminine style with a twist: Toad and Co often fits the bill for just that. With Spring’s arrival and Ann’s move towards the coast from her home in Missouri she recently found herself in need of trendy beach wear. She is enamored by Roberta Tunics, Sea Bags, and Carve Swim Suits.

How can she help you: Ann has a great eye for accessorizing. If you are looking to spice up your summer wardrobe, or find the right scarf, necklace, or hat to go with that little black dress for your next weekend away, she’s your gal!

Clifford Gilbert

Clifford is the newest member of the OTO team. He is a man of Wayne, having had several jobs around town, we feel lucky that he has made a home here at OTO. Clifford can also be found bar backing at Teresa’s Next Door on Saturday nights. When not at work Clifford takes interest in horticulture.

Personal Style: Clifford has a very laid back vibe. His long hair is often complimented by a Patagonia Trucker Hat. He is not afraid to take a risk with his style. He often sports bright colors and throw back Patagonia pieces.

How can he help you: While Cliff may be new to working at OTO, he is still knowledgeable about the brands we carry. Cliff has quite a bit of trail running experience at the Willows and can advise you the right shoes and active wear will be best for your run. Ask him about layering systems.

Liz Gibbons

Liz lives in Havertown with her husband, two sons, and dog Charlie. When Liz is not at work she enjoys spinning, she plays ice hockey, and she struggles to feed her three picky eaters. Liz spent some time living in Alaska, working at Denali National Park, after graduating from the Michigan State. Since then she has also lived in California, where she worked for Patagonia.

Personal Style: Fashion meets function. Liz is often on the go, moving from work to picking up her kids, or from the gym to a lunch date with friends, and she does this with style. She often spices up her look by layering on a vest. Her favorites are the Patagonia Better Sweater Vest as well as the Nano-Puff. These are great pieces that can be worn both inside and out.

How can she help you: Liz is our Patagonia expert, as she used to work at Patagonia headquarters, in their fabric laboratory. With Patagonia making up nearly half of our merchandise she is surely an asset to our team. She can address any of your Patagonia needs.

Sarah Steffan

Sarah moved to Wayne after graduating from Barry College in Georgia. At Barry she studied Art History and now interns at Villanova University assisting with Art Conservation. She loves playing volleyball, entertaining friends, and her dog Wally.

Personal Style: Being tall and lean, Sarah is all about the maxi! She is in love with her new Prana Skye Dress in Marigold. In it she looks like a Grecian Goddess. Also, since moving North Sarah has found her favorite layering piece to be her Nano Puff Jacket. This piece she thinks is the perfect grab and go piece on a chilly day. For when it is super cold she likes her long Arc’teryx down jacket, called the Yola.

How can she help you: Sarah played college volley ball and enjoys yoga sessions at the Upper Main Line YMCA. She can help you pick out the best active-wear for any activity. Ask her about the benefits of wool and synthetic running tops.

Elise Foerster

Elise went to Elon University, in North Carolina, and began working at OTO one summer during college. Elise is a summer camp enthusiast, having attended and worked at Camp Merrowvista in New Hampshire every summer of her life since she was old enough. (Except the summer she worked OTO) Elise also took a hiatus this fall to bike cross-country. When here, Elise assists Tory with women’s buying and is the store merchandiser.

Personal Style: The spring showers have got Elise sporting her Celeste Rain Jacket by The North Face and Hunter Rain Boots. She can often be seen wearing her Lole Lively Capri’s, which she describes as, “life changing.” Finally, Elise can rarely be found wearing open toed shoes… but when she does you can bet they are Birkenstocks!

How she can help you: If you are sending your kid to overnight camp she will make sure your child is fully outfitted for a great summer. Also while OTO is not a bike specific store, she can help you find the perfect layering pieces for your next bike tour. Ask her about pieces that can pack down small enough to fit into their own pocket!

Tory Sieglaff

Tory is one half of the power couple that makes OTO run! Tory grew up in Ithaca, New York. She loves riding horses. She even climbed the ranks of the junior show circuit, culminating in a blue ribbon at the Main Lines’ very own Devon Horse Show. During her 1st year at Cornell she made the transition to polo and went on to be the captain of the NCAA All American Women’s Polo team. Sometime after that she and her husband Zeke opened their first store, in Boca Grande.

Personal Style: Tory has got a flare for the unexpected. She likes classic pieces in bright colors or fun patterns. This makes her a big fan of Patagonia. Patagonia’s dresses have timeless silhouettes and many of their pieces are wardrobe must haves. Tory has been digging this season’s Patagonia colors, like Ginger Berry & Skipper Blue.

How she can help you: Tory does the women’s buying as well as picks out all the books, gifts, and accessories. If you are looking for a gift for any occasion she is definitely your gal. Being the buyer Tory will also be very aware of what is new and trendy for the season. Unfortunately, Tory does not always work on the floor, rather she handles the books downstairs along with her Pup Penny.

Zeke, Rosy, Sam, and Tory Sieglaff

Zeke Sieglaff

Zeke grew up here in PA. He then spent a year lost in the Colorado Rockies. Eventually, he decided to head to warmer waters so he moved to Florida where he remained for 15 years. First Zeke worked his way to the top of the Tarpon Fishing world, as a fly fishing guide in Boca Grande. He was a featured guest on several episodes of the Walker’s Cay Chronicles, a nationally televised fly fishing show on ESPN. In addition to the store in Boca Grande, Zeke and Tory also had a store in Tampa for a bit before selling both shops and moving their family back to Pennsylvania.

Personal Style: Zeke has a casual look to him. He has a pair of Quick Silver Down Under 4 Walkshorts in nearly every color. He will pair these shorts with a Patagonia T or Johnny-O Polo the softer the better! In cooler temps, Zeke loves to wear his Blundstones and the latest Better Sweater. Of course, his dog Dolly is his favorite accessory.

How can he help: Zeke is OTO’s men’s buyer so like his wife, Zeke will be an expert on what styles are new or how previous items may have been updated for this season. If you are heading on a fishing trip, Zeke is definitely your guy. Although, having been in the outdoor industry for 18+ years he could really answer any question you may have.