About the author  ⁄ Rod McInnes

Man Up with the Men’s Double Propulsion 60 Jacket

The Smartwool Double Propulsion 60 Jacket impressed me from the start. The look of part jacket / part sweater felt like I was wearing something innovative, new and stylish all at the same time. My impression grew as I wore the technical Smartwool Jacket day in and day out. However, what struck me from the start was the comfort and style. Remarkably light, I was surprised how I never had the issue of feeling too warm. To give the temperature gauge a test run I put the Merino wool and SmartLoft wool insulation through my everyday paces. From work meetings, to post workout attire and every step in between, the Smartwool Double Propulsion 60 Jacket joined me on all my adventures from warm day hikes, cold treks, ski days, hockey practice, events and parties to even just strolls in the Vancouver rain. It’s been hard to find a good zip up technical jacket that I could wear all day without feeling bulky, too warm or uncomfortable.  The Merino wool back panels ensures breathability without overheating which... ...

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Vancouver Staycation: Stanley Park Horse Drawn Tours

The horse drawn wagon tour around Stanley Park is a fantastic way to experience the sights, sounds and smells of Vancouver’s famed landmark park. On the ride along the old stone seawall, there are iconic views of the Vancouver skyline and waterfront. The colourful boats sit on their reflections in Coal Harbour providing gorgeous photo opportunities for both locals and tourists alike. Along the tour route there are colourful aboriginal totems to view as well as monuments and statues. The ride turns north to Burrard Inlet where there are superb views of the rugged Northshore mountains. On the far shore, one can view luxury residential areas like West Vancouver and the massive span of Lions Gate Bridge. This peaceful, green, alternative, natural way to travel congers up memories of days gone by when this was the main mode of travel. As the horses clip-clop along the asphalt road you are hypnotized. The ride traverses along and through old growth forests where you can smell nature in the raw. The lush... ...

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Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Thermostatic Jacket

From the City to the Ice Cave The Mountain Hardwear Thermostatic Jacket is an all-season winner. Thermal Q-Elite Insulation is designed for cool, damp weather the West Coast throws our way. At first glance the Thermostatic Jacket is eye-catching. I went with red and was on my way. With the look of the currently popular puffy insulated jacket but the low profile of a climbing jacket, I wanted to see if it would stand up to the test of not only the outdoors but everyday life. I love the great outdoors but my body temperature gauge tends to err on the side of overheating. When I exercise it can be a constant battle of the jacket on, jacket off. It wasn’t long however, before I felt just how well the Thermal-Q Elite 60 g/m2 insulation kept my body temperature consistent. Wind and water-resistant, the Mountain Hardwear Thermostatic Jacket is the only one I need for my lifestyle. As I go from home to the hockey arena, from the trails to... ...

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