Jun 16, 2017

Come on Pretty Mama: XX2i Bahamas1 Review | BibRavePro

Disclaimer: I received the XX2i Bahamas1 sunglasses to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador, tell them I sent you), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Just like my last review on the blog, this post is about another of my favorite brands: XX2i. XX2i started with fantastic sport glasses, many of which I've reviewed with you here on the blog. Recently, they've expanded their offerings into casual lines of sunglasses. They brought their fantastic lens and knowledge to make great glasses for on the go. The latest pair I've been given the opportunity to put to the test are the Bahamas1.
Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take ya
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

What do these frames offer?

The Bahamas1 is one of their "fashion-forward" line. The frame is a more rectangular shape. They come standard with polarized lenses with 100% UVA and UVB Protection. They also are made with their "8K optical technology" cutting glare and providing great clarity. The frames are lightweight but durable, something XX2i is good at. They come with their standard harder case which I usually keep in my bag or car as well as microfiber cleaning cloth case, which is usually in my pocket for cleaning and quick storing.


I took a little leap for me in selecting the matte white / black with polar grey lenses. I say a "little leap" because a two toned frame like this is a little different for me, the kind I always like the look of but never think I can "pull off". But, I decided to expand my options.

How are the glasses?

The frames are great. Light, durable, sleek. I was worried looking at them they might not be quite wide enough for my head, but they fit comfortably. XX2i knows how to make lenses. Great in the bright sun or even when it's just a little bright. They have great clarity and the polarized lens are fantastic. Overall, the feel good, work great, and look quite stylish.


I had the opportunity to put these glasses through their paces in the Virginia sun and with another trip to Florida. They worked great. I had bright sunny days, days where it was bright but grey, and everything in between. I took them on walks around the neighborhood, around Walt Disney World, and in the car. Every time and every way, the lenses worked great. I even wore them during my 12 hour drive from Florida to Virginia, and they stayed comfortable throughout the drive.

Special Sale

For a limited time, you can save 50% off your purchase at XX2i with limited discount code: xx2irocks. I love that they offer this code up through BibRave, because it is such a fantastic deal. That's HUGE savings at just the right time to get yourself set for the summer. Don't forget, that comes with the tank protector case (perfect for a less gentle person or parent with a destructo kid), a soft carrying bag (that is microfiber and therefore doubles as a lens cleaner), free U.S. shipping, the 365 money back guarantee, as well as the no questions asked lifetime warranty. Protect your eyes in the summer sun! ðŸŒž

The Takeaway

The last pair of casual glasses from XX2i I reviewed, the Brazil1, became my go to every day pair. Now that I have these, it's not such a clear cut decision. While those are my more classic style of glasses I like, these are a little more modern, but have the same great lenses. It really comes down to what mood I'm in now. They're comfortable, they stand out, and most importantly, they protect my eyes. Having worn glasses since I was a kid, I'm always looking to do whatever I can to protect my eyes. Protect your eyes... but there's no reason you can't look good while you're doing it. As a Goofy Movie teaches you: Stand Out!

#bibchat

This week's #bibchat will of course feature XX2i. Stop by on Tuesday, June 20th at 9pm EST to join in the good times that is bibchat. Interact with the XX2i team, with other BibRavePros, and all the other like minded runners that participate each week. You can plan on a giveaway of these great glasses, as always, so there's always that added bonus.

What's your go to sunglasses on the go?


Jun 2, 2017

BUFF your Arms: UV Arm Sleeves Review | BibRavePro

Disclaimer: I received the BUFF UV Arm Sleeves sunglasses to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

It's no secret I love BUFF products. I'm a huge fan of their headwear for both hot and cold. Especially now, all summer long you'll find me in my UV Half BUFF UV Multifunctional Headband. When the chance to test a brand new type of product came up, I jumped at the opportunity. I'm super excited to share my experience with the BUFF UV Arm Sleeves.

What are the arm sleeves?

Arm sleeves are what they say: sleeves for your arms. These particular sleeves have a lot of great component to them, in true BUFF multi-use style. First, they have strategically placed reflective elements to help you be seen in low-light conditions. Second, they have UPF 40+ sun protection. Third, the slightly smaller elastic upper keeps the sleeves in place no matter the movements. Lastly, are the materials. It's a highly breathable polyester that is moisture wicking with a four-way stretch. This makes it great as a thin layer to keep the chill off but also wick the moisture in the heat. It's also antimicrobial, to help control odors.

Are the comfortable?

The sleeves are great. The material is quite comfortable. It's lightweight, smooth, and fits well. I'm on the bigger side of the sizing, but the tops weren't too tight. These are the first arm sleeves I've had that stayed in place no matter what. I usually have the problem they either slip down or the tops roll down during my run. These had just the right amount of snugness to stay in place but not feel uncomfortable. They fit the arms and keep their shape well.

Are they hot?

Sleeves are common for wearing when you want to keep the chill off but don't want long sleeves. The sleeves performed well there, as expected on chilly morning runs. The nice thing about these sleeves is that they're for more than just the cool weather. The sun protection is something I personally love. Being a redhead, I burn easily. Wearing sunscreen for my runs is a must for me, but also a pain. If I can have an area covered that is one less place for sunscreen, count me in. In my warmer temperatures, I didn't feel these too hot. Yes, it's warmer than nothing, but not overly hot. It also probably helped that my particular ones are white, a good choice for the sun. I didn't try it in too high of temperatures as I had hoped, but we got a cooler spell for this time of year. You should check back for an update as we get into the summer. My plan for when it is hotter to load them up with some ice. Sure, it will be a wet mess, but a cooler wet mess.

The Takeaway

These sleeves are great. I've owned several other pairs from other companies and none have compared to these. They're the most comfortable and best fitting I've had. They fit well, even on my larger and less conventional (for a runner) body. They were good on chilly mornings but also as the temperatures warmed up. They even kept this ginger from getting any sunburn (no small feat).

#bibchat

This week's #bibchat will feature BUFF and the UV Arm Sleeves. Stop by on Tuesday, June 6th at 9pm EST to join in the good times that is bibchat. Interact with the BUFF team, with other BibRavePros, and all the other like minded runners that participate each week. You can plan on a giveaway with bibchat, as always, so there's always that added bonus.

Do you use arm sleeves? How do you protect from the sun?