Two items today for a first look. The CEP Mid Cut Merino Socks and the Montane Gecko Ultra V+ Trail Vest.
CEP Mid Cut Merino Socks
CEP recently sent us a pair of their Hiking Light Merino socks which while not strictly running specific they are fit for purpose and would probably make a very comfortable long distance sock choice. If you are looking for a comfortable padded sock they would be worth a look.
- Deep sensory stimulation stabilizes your joints for greater accuracy in uneven terrain
- The activating compression, close fit and unique blend of materials help prevent blisters
- Anatomically positioned padded zones reliably cushion every step and stay right where they’re needed most
- ÂŁ22.95
The tight fit helps prevent blisters and the medication-grade compression should help you keep moving. The merino content will wick away moisture further aiding to your comfort.
You can find out about the full CEP range at their website here.
Montane Gecko Ultra V+ Trail Vest
New from Montane is their Gecko Ultra V+ trail vest, designed to carry additional items without restricting your breathing.
Featuring:
- Pull-on style vest, Ultra close active fit
- RAPTOR Air 4-way stretch breathable fabric, POLYGIENE® permanent odour control
- ÂĽ length closure zip, Elasticated hem with silicone grippers
- 2x 360ml Montane SoftFlasks™ included
- Multiple easy-access pockets for essential food, hydration and kit
- ÂŁ100
The Gecko Ultra V+ trail vest is an extremely well made and lightweight garment. Without the supplied soft flasks the vest is around the 100g mark.
The vest is very stretchy and does away with full length zippers or clips, it’s fully elasticated so you put it on over your head and it fits anatomically. There is a small YKK zipper and popper at the front by the hem to make it even easier to put on and this is well covered internally for maximum comfort. This zip is only at the bottom of the garment reducing any points of constriction. The majority of the front of the vest is stretchy fabric allowing unrestricted movement and breathing. Ample silicone grip around the rear and side prevent the vest riding up.
The shoulder straps are wide and comfortable. Two small pouches across the shoulder blade can fit several gels.
Below the chest two stretchy pockets house the supplied soft flasks snuggly in place. Around the hem/waist area two smaller elasticated pockets add further storage, one of these has a webbed loop that you could attach a key.
At the sides/rear there are two larger pouches that can accommodate more gels or items such as a Buff or gloves etc.
The vest is extremely comfortable to wear, lightweight and has enough storage for plenty of nutrition and some additional items of kit. The vest is such a practical and well made garment with decent extra strengthening features at potential break points that its price can be overlooked. If you’re looking for a trail vest there are not many we can find that are not fully zippered or have some kind of clip fastening that can cause restrictions on movement. With that in mind it should be on your wish list.
You can find out more here.
