Smith Optics Outlier Sunglasses Review

When it comes to sunglasses, I am fussier than a fashion model with OCD:

  • Do I like the colour? Do they fit correctly on my abnormally shaped ears?
  • Are the lenses dark enough to hide my eyes, while also not impairing my vision in the shade?  
  • Will they make my nose appear the same size as Pinocchio’s?
  • Will my street cred rise a considerable amount, finally bringing me to the definition of looking “cool”?

Smith Outlier XL Polarised Chromapop Sunglasses

Therefore I was more than a little sceptical when Tallington Lakes Pro Shop asked me to review these “Smith Outlier XL Polarised ChromaPop” sunglasses. Now, as a boat driver and wakeboard instructor, having polarised sunglasses is an absolute must for me.  If the lenses fail to block the sunlight glare from the water, then I’m basically driving blind and nobody wants that…especially the poor beginner clinging to the handle for dear life behind the boat.

If you, like me, had no idea what the word “ChromaPop” meant and simply thought it was added in order to enhance the “coolness” effect of the sunglasses, then it turns out we were very wrong. Back in 2013 Smith declared:

“ChromaPop Lenses are the most advanced polarised lenses in the world… By blocking colour wave intersections as they pass through the lens, ChromaPop is able to eliminate colour confusion… ChromaPop optimises colour and increases clarity, enabling you to see the outside world with an unparalleled level of vibrancy.”

In other words, they cut through sunlight glare like a hot knife through butter whilst simultaneously spreading the jam on the bread all in one swoop…sweet.

smith optics outlier xl sunglasses
ChromaPop optimises colour and increases clarity, enabling you to see the outside world with an unparalleled level of vibrancy.

Little did I realise how truly magical that jam sandwich would be. I decided to test them around sunset when the glare from the water is at its finest, often resulting in severe wrinkles from squinting so hard, you age by at least ten years.

I was honestly blown away at how the glare from the water turned almost non-existent. I felt I was watching my life behind a new HD TV monitor and Johnny Nash ‘I can see clearly now’ began playing in my ears. 

Not only did the world now look bright and cheerful, when I glanced in my rear view mirror at myself – I wasn’t bombarded with negative thoughts regarding fitting size, shape or colour. I was pleasantly surprised with the way these glasses looked whilst sitting comfortably on the bridge of my nose. I reluctantly removed them, allowing others to test the glasses, and it was clear to see they had the same immediate reaction I did.  Noting the fact our head and faces were all different sizes, yet the glasses always fit perfectly just like Cinderella’s slipper.

If you’re a snow skier/boarder, fishing enthusiast, avid mountaineer or a fussy boat driver like me – these ‘Outliers’ are certainly high contenders in the sunglasses market and will not disappoint.

…Oh and yes, these glasses will definitely raise your street cred!  

Thanks Adam (Boat Driver)

Check out our selection of Smith Optics sunglasses; in store or online!

 

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmailby feather

Roxy Performance Women’s Wetsuit Review

We have a lot of fun water activities here at Tallington Lakes, including wakeboarding and SUPing, and generally speaking – UK weather isn’t exactly the warmest, so I’m pretty grateful that Roxy has hooked me up with a Performance 3/2mm Chest Zip Full Wetsuit!

I’ve worn this wetsuit on multiple occasions and it’s fantastic. I mean, it’s a little long for me, but that’s expected considering I’m only 5ft1… But apart from that, I really have no complaints! We often go out for staff wakeboard sessions in the evening and I try my best to go out for a play during my spare time as well, and I can honestly say I haven’t been cold since starting to wear this Roxy Wetsuit. The 3/2mm thickness is ideal for braving the colder waters, but might be a bit thick for me in the warmer summer months. Not only does it feel good on, it looks it. The cut and colours of this wetsuit are actually rather flattering and make me feel like a badass – not a Christmas ham, like I would normally feel in a wettie.

wakeboarding tallington lakes
We often go out for staff wakeboard sessions in the evening and I can honestly say I haven’t been cold since starting to wear this Roxy Wetsuit.

Roxy Wetsuits

Roxy continues to pioneer the world of women’s wetsuits; their designs are flattering and stylish without sacrificing any of the much needed technology giving you all the performance you want and need from a wetsuit. Initially the chest zip was a tad intimidating, but now I’m used to it, I think it’s better than a normal back zip, plus its free floating zipper technology is coated, with off-set teeth, to minimise water entry. Partner this up with Roxys seam technology, which features GBS stitching, Hydrolock Seam Seal and Redsealseam Technology you’ve got yourself a wetsuit with seams that reduce water entry and leaks using the thinnest, lightest and most flexible seal available.

The F’N lite neoprene is made from limestone derivatives, and is packed with more air cells to increase warmth and decrease weight. In fact, F’N lite neoprene is 16% lighter than Hyperstretch 3.0 neoprene! The Termal Smoothie chest panel is a maximum stretch mesh with an open air structure to act as a wind and water repellent and give you intense heat insulation to keep you warm, even when the water is not. Finally, the Far Infrared Heat Technology thermal lining is Roxy’s warmest and fastest drying lining to date and it’s placed in critical areas to retain body heat meaning you can stay warmer, for longer!

roxy wetsuit obrien wakeboard
The cut and colours of this wetsuit are actually rather flattering and make me feel like a badass – not a Christmas ham, like I would normally feel in a wettie.

Roxy pride themselves on being a brand that represents a new wave of fashion conscious and sport focused woman, and I certainly am a proud owner of the Roxy Performance 3/2mm Chest Zip Full Wetsuit. Not only do I feel confident wearing it, it’s super comfortable and keeps me warm meaning I can play for longer getting the most out of my time in and on the water!

We’ve got the Performance Chest Zip Full Wetsuit in a thicker 4/3mm here at Tallington Lakes Pro Shop, as well as a range of other Roxy wetsuits to meet your needs!

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmailby feather

Women’s Hoodies Fleeces Review

Ladies if you are thinking of a hoody or fleece, for when it gets a bit nippy this summer, why not have a look at a few Charlie has been trying on – it might help !

Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T Fleece

The Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T fleece is ideal in a variety of ways. Firstly this fleece provides a thermal heat with it being 100% recycled polyester which creates a snugly feeling throughout the day, especially if the day is quite chilly! The fleece is also excellent for comfort, thanks to a soft short fur layer lining the inside and high neck. The large all in one pocket not only keeps your hands warm   but can hold objects securely. There is also a small pocket on the chest of the fleece and branded badge.

Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T Fleece

From personal experience trying on this fleece I found it had a slim fit but not tight on the arms. I tried a size up than usual which I found more comfortable because of the larger fit; especially wearing a shirt underneath.

Picture Organic Clothing Nesla Hoody

The women’s Picture Nesla is another groovy styled hoody. This has a large ‘Picture Organic Clothing’ print in the centre surrounded by a summer pattern; which stands out from the navy blue colour. The hoody has  pink and white striped band around the bottom, which can be tightened. A large front pouch pocket which is ideal for keeping everyday items, or your hands warm. Extremely comfortable thanks to the 70% organic cotton.  Thick hood which was well wrapped around the neck with a unique twist.

Picture Organic Clothing Nesla Hoody

This had a slim fit and it fit me perfectly in the correct size ; so no need to go an extra size up for a comfier fit. 

Roxy Cruiser Night’s Hoody

The Roxy Cruiser Night’s hoody is a popular fashion item. This is ideal for wearing in the summer season as a form of casual wear for evenings or daytime due to the thin lining made of 60% cotton which is perfect for the summer weather and chilly evenings. The inner layer has a soft layer of fur which maintains a bearable amount of heat. This also features a simple but potent design which gives off a summer feel and represents the Roxy brand on the centre of the hoody. A front pouch which I found was ideal for keeping everyday items in or useful for just heating up my hands.

Roxy Cruiser Night’s Hoody

Volcom In A Dayz Hoody

 The Volcom In A Dayz hoody is a simple but trendsetting product however, different in a variety of ways compared to the previous hoodies. This has a zip which is perfect for matching with a shirt beneath which may contrast of the heather grey colour. I found this is easy to match with any day outfits as well as being a comfortable and thermal ideal for breezy weather, featuring two pockets ideal for warmth with the thick lining.

Volcom In A Dayz Hoody

The sizing was perfect as this wasn’t too tight or too baggy but had a stretched fit which was cosy to lounge in.

Why not check out the rest of our women’s hoodies from these and other brands!

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmailby feather

Stand Up Paddleboarding – the must try sport for 2017

Stand Up Paddleboarding (or SUP as it’s commonly known) has quickly grown to become one of the most popular watersports on Earth. SUP has set the world alight because a whole host of different reasons. It’s incredibly inclusive – if you’re fit enough to walk up a flight of stairs you’re fit enough to paddleboard, it’s very easy to get standing and paddling away and it is fantastic exercise. SUP is not only a fantastic cardiovascular workout but it also gives more than 11 of your core muscle groups a serious workout. Not forgetting SUP Yoga! On top of all that SUP is the best way to explore new and existing areas, see wildlife and most importantly, have fun.

Stand Up Paddle Board

All you need to SUP is a board, a paddle and a leash (to keep you attached to your board in case you fall off). We recommend Red Paddle Co inflatable boards. Red Paddle Co boards are the best on the market and are incredibly stiff, durable and have the same performance as a hardboard. The liberating thing about an inflatable stand-up paddleboard is how portable it is – it can go practically everywhere with you. You don’t need a van or a roof rack to take it on a road trip, or even a large space to store it at home. Red Paddle Co inflatable boards can be rolled up to fit into their own compact bags and can be worn as a backpack or rolled along on wheels. They also come with a pump, paddle and leash as standard.

So, start SUPing this summer and get ready for every waterway to become an avenue for adventure, for escape, and for discovering areas of natural beauty that you’ve never even dreamt of. Learn that it’s possible to keep fit while having fun and sharing quality time with family and friends.

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmailby feather