Recent Entries
May 17, 2012 Press releases
With this being National Bike Month, where we celebrate by doing things like riding our bicycles to work, even if we happen to have a car in the garage, I found this press release both relevant and thought-provoking. While many may view the bicycle as a toy, piece of sporting equipment, or the transport of choice only for students and those of low income, (yes, we know better, don’t we?) they are sometimes the only affordable and viable means of transport in third-world nations. So we at IndustryOutsider wholeheartedly back this generous program.
- Brian
NEW YORK – SPORTIQUE, the popular maker of active body and skin care products, is celebrating its seventh year of success by kicking off a fund-raising effort to benefit World Bicycle Relief, the well-regarded organization dedicated to providing access to independence and livelihood through the use of bicycles in underdeveloped countries, announced SPORTIQUE U.S. Director Jan Pivoda.
From May 1 through July 30, 2012, purchasers of of SPORTIQUE Century Riding & Chamois cream (SKU-28) or SPORTIQUE Warming Up Massage Oil (SKU-060), will receive a 25 percent discount off the retail price ($20 for the cream, $10 for the oil). More importantly, every dollar from the sales of these two products will be donated to World Bicycle Relief. Yes, every dollar.
SPORTIQUE’s alliance with World Bicycle Relief was an easy decision, Pivoda said, based on the organizations history and effectiveness.
“We like to think of SPORTIQUE as a conscientious, socially driven, and responsible organization – with a sense of responsibility to give something back,” explained Pivoda. “World Bicycle Relief is an effective, transparent, and well-performing organization, one that believes in the textbook example of teaching people how to farm and fish to sustain their existence rather than merely leaving them with handouts.”
Participating in the program is easy. Simply visit www.sportique.net and purchase directly, one or more tubes of SPORTIQUE Century Riding & Chamois Cream or SPORTIQUE Warming Up Massage Oil using the special coupon code of WBR582012. You can also send order to orders@tifosisales.com , using the same code And, yes the coupon code is transferable.
Additionally, you can email jan@sportique.net or sandy@tifosisales.com and get an extra 25 percent discount off your next purchase of SPORTIQUE products for you and your team, valid for the next few months.
SPORTIQUE Century Riding & Chamois Cream prevents damaging friction irritations during sports activities, such as cycling. Made from a balanced blend of botanicals, it helps skin repair itself after damage, but more importantly prevents long term friction irritations before they start. Can be used under dry and wet scuba gear, surfing and kayak suits, and biking shorts. Even works great when applied under socks before hiking or skiing.
SPORTIQUE Warming Up Massage Oil is a special formulation that produces long lasting warmth and stimulating effect on muscles. Application will help accelerate local blood circulation. Perfect for massages before, during or after physical performance to counteract fatigue and help physical recovery.
For more information on World Bicycle Relief and its innovative social responsible approach, visit www.worldbicyclerelief.org. You can donate directly at the site, as well.
ABOUT SPORTIQUE
SPORTIQUE products are created for and by physically active people. Formulated especially for the demands of any sport, our products are as pure as competition itself. Bodies in motion want to stay in motion and SPORTIQUE echoes that demand. SPORTIQUE products are formulated with natural ingredients, free of petroleum or synthetic ingredients, which can be potential carcinogens or toxic to your body. We use safe botanicals and naturally moisturizing oils and nut butters. SPORTIQUE products are rigorously evaluated and have been awarded certificates of compliance with the strict European Union’s hypoallergenic, microbiological and effectiveness laws and regulations. The remedies we rely on have been used for hundreds of years by our ancestors who turned to nature to ease, soften and soothe their skin.
May 16, 2012 Press releases
Limited-edition CLIF Bar Inspired by Cycling Trips in Italy Thanks Fans for 20 Years of Adventure
EMERYVILLE, Calif., May 15, 2012 – In celebration of the company’s 20th anniversary, Clif Bar & Company Founder and Co-CEO Gary Erickson created GARY’s PANFORTE, a limited-edition CLIF® Bar full of fruits, nuts and spices that was inspired by his early cycling adventures over Northern Italy’s Passo di Gàvia. (Watch Erickson tell the story behind GARY’s PANFORTE at www.clifbar.com/adventures).
CLIF Bar, the original energy bar made with organic ingredients, was also born on a bike – in 1990 during a 175-mile ride in Northern California on which Erickson had “the epiphany” that he could make a better tasting energy bar. Two years later the first CLIF Bars hit the market and Clif Bar & Company was off and running.
Now, 20 years later, Erickson wanted to create GARY’s PANFORTE, embodying the flavors of a traditional Italian Panforte, which is full of fruits, nuts, spices and citrus notes, and has been a staple in Italy for hundreds of years. The bar delights taste buds with a flavorful blend of 23 ingredients, including many new to CLIF Bar but typical in Italian Panforte, including crunchy hazelnuts and pistachios, sweet figs and pears, citrus peel and hints of cinnamon, ginger and coriander.
“GARY’s PANFORTE is our way of acknowledging the people who have celebrated 20 years of adventures with us,” Erickson said. “I never could have imagined that an idea on a bike ride with a friend 20 years ago would take us on such an incredible journey. I am appreciative every single day of what we have created and want to thank all the people who have helped us along the way.”
Made with organic ingredients, GARY’s PANFORTE is nutritious, delicious and convenient – good for you and for the planet. It’s a good source of protein and fiber, which help the body digest carbohydrates slowly to deliver sustained energy. GARY’s PANFORTE will debut on store shelves nationwide beginning in June and remain available while supplies last (SRP: $1.39).
To add even more spice to its 20th anniversary, Clif Bar & Company also announced the “Share Your Epiphany” contest to celebrate the fans who have contributed so much to the company’s success. All fans are invited to share their own epiphanies, big and small, that have changed their lives for the better. Five grand prize winners will have $5,000 donated to a nonprofit of their choice by Clif Bar. In addition, all “Share Your Epiphany” contestants will be entered in a random drawing to become one of 20 winners of a month’s supply of CLIF Bars. “Share Your Epiphany” runs May 15 – June 11, 2012. Entries can be made online at www.clifbar.com/shareyourepiphany.
CLIF Bar is the market’s best-selling energy bar in grocery and natural food stores, according to The Nielsen Company and SPINS.
About Clif Bar & Company
Clif Bar & Company is a leading maker of nutritious, organic foods and drinks, including CLIF® BAR energy bar, LUNA®, The Whole Nutrition Bar for Women®; and CLIF Kid®, Nourishing Kids in Motion®. Focused on sports nutrition and healthy snacks, the employee and family-owned company is committed to sustaining its business, brands, people, community and the planet. For more information on Clif Bar & Company, please visit www.clifbar.com, check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/clifbar and follow us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/clifbar.
May 15, 2012 Fat tires, Reviews, The skinny
Since May is National Bike Month, and May 14th through the 18th is bike to work week, it seems like the perfect opportunity to spotlight some cycling gear. Our buddy Rob over at JerseyBin must have read our minds, because he sent us some of his handy waterproof cases for us to review. And he made sure to include a couple extra, so we can do another giveaway.
So what is a JerseyBin? It’s a heavy duty (10 gauge) clear vinyl pouch, that’s designed to carry your phone or personal items like cash, car keys, and ATM/credit card while you’re out playing hard. The 2012 models are created using new dies that “double seal” the seams, for extra durability. And because the vinyl is highly polished, you can see your phone’s screen clearly through it, plus it works with touch screens. We tested it on an average size Android phone (below) and I was able to tap out a name from my contact list, then speak a message into the texting app, which it translated correctly. Through the vinyl. Next, we put our test phone (an old, dead phone) in the JerseyBin, slid it shut, and dropped it into a sink full of water. No bubbles to indicate a breach, even when fully submerged. Mountain bikers and sweaty roadies, take note. The JerseyBin was designed to fit the back pocket of your cycling jersey, but it can be be used for any outdoors activity where you need your phone handy, and don’t want to expose it to the elements. Other reviews have indicated that it holds up well over the long term, unlike that plastic bag that most of us have tried at least once, with limited success.
Naturally, you can also use the JerseyBin to hold other valuables. To accommodate different needs, they are offered in four sizes: The Mini Bin is 5.75″ x 4″, the Mid Bin is slightly longer at 6″ x 4″, the Trim Bin is longer, but narrower at 7″ x 3.75″, and the Big Bin is an all around roomy 7″ x 4.75″. Pricing is extremely reasonable for the amount of protection offered, with all of them falling between $6.25 and $6.50. One really nice feature is that JerseyBin offers customization on orders as small as 100 units. So if you own a shop, are part of a club, or are sponsoring an event, they’re an attractive alternative to water bottles or t-shirts. (Check their website for some of the clubs as well as high profile brands that have ordered custom JerseyBins)
Each JerseyBin comes with simple directions for opening, closing, and storing contents. There are also some suggestions on how to restore the shape, should that be necessary. And it boasts one of our favorite qualities – it’s made in America. They have quite a few international distributors too, but production is done in the US. Finally, they offer a pretty good guarantee – you can return yours within seven days for a refund, including return postage, and there’s a 30 day warranty against manufacturing defects. Check the website for full terms as well as pricing. JerseyBin.com
- Brian
So how about we give a couple away? One to an IndustryOutsider.com reader, and one to a TwoSpoke.com member. Rules are simple enough – IndustryOutsider readers, post a comment telling what you’ll put in it, and what activity you’ll use it for. TwoSpoke members, pledge to ride to work this week. If you can’t commute, at least get a ride in before sundown on Friday. Contest ends on or about midnight, May 18th, and is open to residents of the continental US. Good luck!
(TwoSpoke contest thread)
May 14, 2012 Fat tires, Press releases, The skinny
SENSO’S NEW HEROES: DESTINED FOR GREAT THINGS
Bad Nauheim, May 4th, 2012 – Velo Saddles, world leading designer and manufacturer of bicycle saddles and accessories, is moving forward in 2012 with their new rider and product relevant New Heroes Campaign for their performance saddle brand, Senso. A logical next- step in Velo’s ongoing commitment to young and dynamic cycling teams the world over, Velo is now actively supporting the athletes themselves to develop and achieve their full championship potential. These exceptionally talented, budding young riders are Senso’s new torch holders.
Velo’s New Heroes: young, courageous, striving for Gold
Choosing the most promising young prodigies in the freestyle, BMX, cross and road racing disciplines under Velo sponsorship, the saddle manufacturer has selected talent from amateur teams throughout the USA and Europe. Barely out of their teens, the athletes have been chosen not only for their exceptional skill and victories, but also their unprecedented drive and pursuit of excellence – they are true ambassadors for Velo’s commitment to the sport, and the New Heroes Campaign Velo’s applause for youth as they “go for Gold“.
Destined for Great Things
Enthusiastic to help young athletes achieve their goals and maximize their potential, Senso’s New Heroes Campaign has been called to life to meet the ever-growing need for cyclists determined to make their way to the very top of the sport. “Velo is proud to sponsor these budding young talents in their development, guiding and supporting them as they pit their talents against the other bests of the sport to attain real greatness,” explains Ann Chen, Director of Global Sales for Velo. “While major race winners and established champions enjoy pampering from manufactures lining up to cater to them, Velo has made their commitment to cycling’s young emerging stars.”
Saddles to Win
The perpetually crucial task of every saddle manufacturer is meeting the stringent demands of high achieving cyclists and their requirements for state-of-the-art equipment. Velo’s intense work with this new generation of cyclists is rewarded with rock hard expertise in this chaallenging cycling segment. With alpha-level drive, these athletes are profiting from each other in their New Age cycling disciplines, led by Maris Strombergs, the first Olympia Gold Winner of his kind and eldest team member, who is contributing his unprecedented international track experience. For Velo, the New Heroes Campaign is a further personalization in the brand positioning of their top competition saddle: right out in front where the real cycling action is.
Model heroes for today’s youth and youthful
Senso’s young athletes mirror the quest of today’s youth for an individual, free – and free riding – lifestyle. Taking the hard road to non-traditional, breathtaking victories, they are role models for their peer group – claiming affinity and loyalty as they meet today’s demand for integrity, self-respect and fair play: The New Heroes are figureheads for a demanding generation seeking new expression for traditional values.
Multi-level fan activity via diverse fan-friendly media
Web 2.0 savvy themselves, Velo is riding on the powerful wave of Social Media and other modern communication vehicles to interface with the athletes’ own pages, websites and blogs on Facebook, Twitter, etc., giving fans access to in-depth reports, videos and information regarding the athletes’ activities. The Velo World and New Heroes web pages are a “second home” page for Velo’s sponsored athletes within the Velo Internet framework: www.velosaddles.com.
The New Heroes Line-up:
Kevin Aiello, 21 years old, KHS Junior Development Team, USA; Discipline: BMX
Gesa Brüchmann, 21 years old, Stevens 1A Cross Team, Germany; Discipline: Cyclocross
Thomas Genon, 18 years old, UMF Team, Belgium; Disciplines: Dirt, Slope and BMX
Tanja Hendrysiak, 23 years old, UMF Team, Germany; Disciplines: 4X, BMX Race and DH
David Herman, 23 years old, Free Agent Team, USA; Discipline: BMX
Clemens Kaudela, 21 years old, UMF Team, Austria; Disciplines: Dirt and Slope
Dominik Raab, 26 years old, UMF Team, Austria; Disciplines: Street and Everything; BMX
Maris Strombergs, 25 years old, from Latvia, Free Agent Team, USA; Discipline: BMX
About Velo
Velo Enterprise, founded in 1979 by Stella Yu, is driven by the vision to create perfect saddles for all types of demanding cyclists. Today, Velo is one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of quality saddles, grips and handlebar tapes. Last year, Velo manufactured more than 15 million saddles in its four factories in Taiwan and China.
Velo’s mission is to support all cycling enthusiasts who value a healthy and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Recognizing that comfortable cycling often comes down to the saddle, Velo is determined to create products which suit the personal preference of every rider. Being especially committed to a sustainable environment, all products are manufactured with environmentally certified materials and processes.
May 13, 2012 Random acts of typing
To all the moms out there – enjoy your day!
We’re all taking the day off to be with our wives and/or mothers, but we’ll be back bright and early with some new articles starting Monday morning.
May 11, 2012 Press releases
Boulder, CO, USA – May, 2012 – VeloPress is pleased to announce the release of the North American edition of Slaying the Badger from award-winning author Richard Moore. This highly acclaimed book is now available in the U.S. and Canada in bookstores, bike shops, and online. For a preview and sample first chapter, please visitwww.slayingthebadger.com.
It’s the 1986 Tour de France and the battle lines are drawn. America’s hope, Greg LeMond, fights to dethrone “the Badger,” French hero Bernard Hinault. Former world champion LeMond is gunning for his first Tour victory. Hinault is clawing his way toward a record-breaking sixth. LeMond, mercurial and raw, struggles for recognition. Hinault, fiercely combative and relentlessly aggressive, wants to go out on top. On his side, LeMond has two team allies. But Hinault has five.
And there’s one other problem: They’re on the same team.
LeMond and Hinault’s explosive rivalry burned the rule book, shredded friendships, shattered careers, and destroyed convention. It also led to the greatest Tour de France ever raced, an epic, chaotic, confounding, and ultimately exhilarating war of pure adrenaline, cold-blooded calculation, and extraordinary athleticism.
Heroism, treachery, spectacle, controversy, betrayal: In detail and emotion, award-winning author Richard Moore traces each storyline to its source through innumerable interviews-not only with LeMond and Hinault in their own homes but also with teammates, rivals, race directors, journalists, sponsors, and promoters. Told from these many perspectives, the alliances, tirades, and broken promises divulged in Slaying the Badger build to the stunning climax of the 1986 Tour de France. Slaying the Badger is an incomparably detailed and highly revealing tale of cycling’s most extraordinary rivalry.
“Slaying the Badger is a gripping narrative of this psychological and physical three-week war.” – Wall Street Journal
“Slaying the Badger offers intriguing insight into one of professional cycling’s greatest rivalries…Where Slaying the Badger succeeds is in making such a well-known story so readable.” – Bike Radar
“Richard Moore’s excellent new book Slaying the Badger reexamines the mythology of this great race, attempting to shed new light on the motivations of these two great riders and what really happened on the roads of France in the summer of ’86. What helps set Moore’s book apart is the array of characters he brings to the story…A thrilling read.” – Red Kite Prayer
“[Moore assembles] a stellar cast of interviewees, about twenty in all…The stars are, inevitably, Hinault and LeMond themselves, both with their own memories of what did and did not happen. But they’re almost outshone by three of the supporting cast…For those three interviews alone, Slaying The Badger is worth reading.” – Podium Cafe
Slaying the Badger: Greg LeMond, Bernard Hinault, and the Greatest Tour de France
Richard Moore
Paperback with color photosection.
6″ x 9″, 304 pp., $18.95, 978-1-934030-87-5
Richard Moore is a freelance journalist and author. His first book, In Search of Robert Millar, won Best Biography at the 2008 British Sports Book Awards. His second book, Heroes, Villains & Velodromes, was nominated for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year. He writes on cycling and sport and is a regular contributor to the Guardian, Sky Sports, and The Scotsman. Moore is a former bike racer who represented Scotland at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. Learn more at www.richardmoore.co.
May 10, 2012 Random acts of typing
With only a few days left before Mother’s Day, we’ve got some more suggestions for the mom that enjoys the outdoors. Instead of a pedicure, do mom a bigger favor, and treat her feet to a pair of Skecher’s GO Walk fitness shoes ($59 MSRP). These crazy light (3.5oz for a size 6.5 shoe) are flexible, and offer a roomy toe box for comfort. But they’re not just for fitness walking. Anyone that spends all day on their feet will appreciate the impact absorption of the Resalyte™ Midsole, and the smooth, anti-microbial liner makes going without socks a breeze. As expected, Mrs. Outsider will be reviewing a pair shortly. Skechers.com
We recently covered several of the hemp-based accessories from Hempy’s. What could be better than a stylish, hat, bag, or backpack made from this durable, eco-friendly, renewable resource? They also offer some great skin care products. It’s all made in the USA, and very reasonably priced.
Mountain Khakis, which is outfitting the hosts and crew of Outside® Televsion’s OUTSIDE TODAY show, has some great offerings for mom too. Their $62.95 Lake Lodge Twill shorts are designed by women, for women, with a blend of cotton and Lycra® that allows for comfortable movement, while remaining flattering. Back shaping darts and contoured waistband. 2 angled handpockets lay flat against waist. Lay-flat rear patch pockets with welt opening. 2 ¼” belt loops. Relaxed fit, contemporary rise (2 fingers below the belly button). Pair them with the $89.95 Granite Creek Long Sleeve for stylish sun protection that’s quick-drying. MK’s own peached Taslan® is soft to the skin, yet durable. The oversized collar isn’t just for looks – flip it up for panache or added sun and wind protection. DWR and UVA-UVB-resistant, it has roll-up sleeves with a button catch, and two chest pockets with button closure for security.
Is mom’s idea of hiking, a trek across the city? Is that city in another country? Wherever she happens to be enjoying her walk, she can maintain an understated sense of fashion while keeping her valuables close and safe with one of the many options from PacSafe. Their comprehensive line of travel gear for women includes purses, handbags, shoulder bags, backpacks, hobo bags, camera/phone cases and more. Each one is designed to offer maximum security for cash, credit cards, passports, plane tickets and electronics. With features like stainless steel cables running through the straps, to steel mesh between the fabric layers, plus a host of clever buckles, latches, and zippers, they’ll easily thwart the common thief.
Finally, help mom relax with some yoga wear from Omala. Another eco-friendly clothing line, you’ll find flattering pants and capris made from bamboo fiber, perfect for yoga or pilates. Tops are a mix of recycled poly and bamboo, which provides functional comfort. Spring colors are extra cheery, so in addition to classic black, include purple paisley, orchid pink, jewel blue, charcoal, navy, and espresso. You’ll also find camis and bras, feminine tank tops, props for yoga, and even some home accessories that can help create a revitalizing atmosphere.
We’ve tried to hit on a few of our favorites, but if all else fails, some flowers and a gift card from REI will probably do the trick.
May 9, 2012 Random acts of typing
Want to get stronger and faster on your bike? Listen to Al.
- Brian
I’ve been putting myself back together after some nasty back business since November, and something has finally hit me: if I worked on the muscles that cycling breaks instead the ones I use in the saddle, I’d have been a hell of a lot better off.
Instead of improving my thoracic spine mobility, I tried to strengthen lats that weren’t being supported by my spinal erectors. I had so many muscles that had been shut down from riding that my chiropractor is still in shock that I don’t have debilitating nerve pain daily. Based on what an MRI said about the condition of my lumbar spine, I am too.
What most likely saved me were kb swings and get ups because these exercises hit the “broken” muscles and kept me upright without pain. For a while. Until a sneeze almost made me pass out from lumbar spine pain.
Long story short, what has saved me and gotten me back on the bike training again are “anti-cycling” exercises. The program consists of body weight work for joint mobility head to toe and getting my total body neuromuscular coordination back that the repetitive stress of cycling crushed into oblivion.
You know, throughout this process, the more I learned, the more I’m now convinced that “cycling specific workouts” aren’t the way to go in the weight room, and “anti-cycling” routines are. Why make people stronger in patterns of motion they are most likely dysfunctional in? Doesn’t make sense, does it?
As a result of this journey of self discovery, we’ve switched up the way we train people at our place. Other than having things done in a bent over position (rowing and reverse fly motions), and single leg squats in a warm up, we don’t have people do things that mimic cycling all that much. And they are getting a lot faster in the saddle as a result.
I get that cycling requires single leg neuromuscular power to push a pedal down and pull it up, and that it makes sense to train that. Enter Bulgarian Split Squats. Bowler squats also work to address not only single balance/strength, but mobility as well. Other than, we don’t get too nuts.
If you think about, the actual movement skill demands of cycling (pushing a foot down in a seated position) aren’t that high so do you really need people to be able to make movements other than that? I’d rather train someone to optimize the way they move out of the saddle because that will serve them much better each time they clip in. If you do it when you’re awake, do it when you exercise!
We are more focused on training ranges of motion that essentially undo what’s being done on the bike:
Spinal flexion
Loss of hip mobility
Tightening of the chest/shoulders
Loss of thoracic spine mobility
You will get a lot more improvement in your performance on two wheels doing this. We do this with:
Turkish Get Ups
Farmers Walks (the overhead version focusing on lat activation is brutal!)
Trap bar hip hinge deads
KB swings/windmills
Overhead everything to open up the shoulders.
Bulgarian splits are about as cycling specific as we get for the lower body.
We’re also getting more mileage out of overhead presses with kb/db’s, loaded glute bridges and thoracic spine mobility than we did tons of single legs squats, step ups, etc and more traditional cycling prescribed work. RKC style power planks are also helping. Long story, for :20 you put as much force into a plank as possible. Brutal.
Standing anti-rotation holds have also been worked into the mix quite a bit. Think plank in a standing position with resistance from the side with a cable pulley or rubber tubing. Once you align the spinal column into a neutral position, this exercise will wallop you.
We also have people do quite a bit of prone cobra holds to hit the spinal electors that hold us in place as we ride. This is in addition to hitting lats quite bit because we are seeing those muscles not working as well. Especially trying to get them to activate without pec/upper trap activation.
Our philosophy is constantly evolving, and I’m pretty excited about what we will learn next!
Al Painter, BA, NASM-PES, CES
President & Founder
May 8, 2012 Reviews
The second part of the bottle review featuring the CamelBak Podium, the Clean Bottle, and the Specialized Purist is going to concentrate on each bottle’s resistance to growing mold. There are two main reasons why I jumped at the opportunity to test this. 1) One of my favorite brands of powdered drink supplement and recovery drink could, in my opinion, grow mold on Teflon. 2) I’m horrible about tossing an empty bottle in my gear bag and forgetting about it for extended periods. Mold loves dark, warm places. Mold loves my gear bag.
The CamelBak is the only one of the three bottles without a specific claim addressing its resistance to mold. The Clean Bottle product label claims “No More Moldy Bottles!” and Specialized says that the “Purist shields your bottle from odors, stains, and mold.” In order to test these claims, I mixed Accelerade and water into each bottle. All bottles had been hand washed and allowed to dry before the Accelerade/water mixture was added. I then emptied the bottles using the valves rather than opening the lid, and placed them on a shelf in a closet. The bottles were kept in the dark with the exception of the removal each day for inspection and photographs.
After they were emptied, the bottles had foam clinging to the edges with a few spots of powder blobs, for lack of a better term. The Clean Bottle seemed to have the least amount of these blobs, though the Specialized and CamelBak only had 2 or 3 spots themselves. After one full day, the foam that was clinging to the bottles had collected in pools at the bottom of the bottles and left some particle residue on the sides and lid. The Clean Bottle had the least amount of residue on the sides, while the Specialized seemed to have the most.
In general, there were no real changes in either mold growth or odor until Day 3. Surprisingly, the first mold growth was seen on the walls of the Specialized bottle. The Podium and Clean Bottle did not have any visible mold growth at this time. The CamelBak Podium still smelled like Accelerade at Day 3. I knew it wasn’t good, but my hop-bomb-loving-beer-snob-self liked the aroma in the Clean Bottle. It honestly smelled like a big ol’ West Coast IPA with definite citrus aroma. The aroma in the Specialized was beautiful and reminded me of an IPA fermented with Belgian ale yeast giving mango, passionfruit, apple and banana notes.
By Day 4 the pleasant aromas were gone. The CamelBak was the least offensive with just a slight twinge. The Clean Bottle smelled like soured milk, and the Specialized had a very strong, pungent aroma with an underlying cotton candy sweetness. All bottles had at least some mold growth by Day 4. The CamelBak had one decent size spot of mold growing inside the bottle and a few very small spots on the outer threads of the bottle where the lid screws onto. The Clean Bottle had a spot on the lid and a very small spot on its threads as well. There was also a quite small spot of mold growing inside the bottle. The Purist was looking quite disgusting by this point, with the spots seen the previous day expanding and new spots appearing, all inside the bottle.
When Day 5 rolled around, the Specialized and CamelBak were just plain gross. There was extensive mold inside and on the outside threads of both. Another disappointing discovery of the Specialized was that mold was growing in one of the most overlooked and hardest to clean places of the bottle, inside the rubber valve tip. No other bottle had “hidden” mold on the inside of the valves. The Clean Bottle was, in fact, the cleanest on Day 5. The small spot inside the bottle had only grown slightly. The aromas of the three had not changed much since Day 4.
The experiment was ended at Day 5. The clean-up of the Clean Bottle was significantly easier than the other two. This was not only due to the fact that the bottom of the bottle can be removed for easier access, but also because the little mold that had grown came off with just soap, water, and a little shaking. Both the CamelBak and Specialized required a brush and scrubbing to get all the mold traces off. The Specialized required the most work, especially to assure that the valve was clean and mold-free.
After washing, all bottles seemed to be free of lingering aromas and there were no off-flavors in the taste.
Since a picture is worth a thousand words, and since the 267,000 word-equivalent photos I took as part of this review would be way too much to post here, I made a “video” from the pictures showing the mold growth for each bottle. It’s embedded below, or you can click here to see the larger version.
The Clean Bottle was the clear winner here. The CamelBak took second. The Specialized placed last in the mold resistance test both because it grew mold the quickest of the three and because of the mold growing on the valve. Check back next week for a summary of the review.
- Alex
Latest Entry
With only a few days left before Mother’s Day, we’ve got some more suggestions for the mom that enjoys the outdoors. Instead of a pedicure, do mom a bigger favor, and treat her feet to a pair of Skecher’s GO Walk fitness shoes ($59 MSRP). These crazy light (3.5oz for a size 6.5 shoe) are flexible, and offer a roomy toe box for comfort. But they’re not just for fitness walking. Anyone that spends all day on their feet will appreciate the impact absorption of the Resalyte™ Midsole, and the smooth, anti-microbial liner makes going without socks a breeze. As expected, Mrs. Outsider will be reviewing a pair shortly. 
Mountain Khakis,
Is mom’s idea of hiking, a trek across the city? Is that city in another country? Wherever she happens to be enjoying her walk, she can maintain an understated sense of fashion while keeping her valuables close and safe with one of the many options from 
Finally, help mom relax with some yoga wear from 
