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Gear & Gadgets

Warm and wired for winter fun

By JUDI DASH
Published January 22, 2006

	Burton Audex Jacket is from Paragon Sports.
	Hike Snowshoe Kit is from Redfeather.
	OSIM iSqueeze is from Brookstone.

Head out for cold-weather sports and other vacation activities with the following neat new products. All items have been tested by the author and may be available in stores.

OH, SAY CAN YOU HEAR: You're up on the slopes and your cell phone rings. No need to take off the gloves to dig into your pocket for the phone. If your phone is Bluetooth-enabled, you can make or receive calls using the control panel on the left sleeve of the Burton Audex Jacket.

The panel also can be used to remote-control an iPod, switching among songs, and to switch between iPod and cell phone operations. The jacket is imbedded with a Motorola Bluetooth wireless mobile phone link and hidden wired connections for a compatible iPod. Stereo speakers are built into the hood, and a microphone is embedded near the collar.

There's even a mini caller-ID screen built into the control module. The module has large buttons for operation while wearing gloves. The module, speakers and microphone can be removed for machine-washing the jacket. Comes in men's and women's styles, with goose down or polyester insulation.

Burton Audex Jacket is $600 from Paragon Sports; for more information call toll-free 1-800-961-3030; www.paragonsports.com

AH, TO BE KNEADED: Vigorous winter sports can leave feet and calves aching. Now you can call on your own robo-masseuse for relief.

The iSqueeze from ASIM is a big, sturdy, electric lower-leg massager, with four pairs of kneading discs and an integrated vibration board hidden behind padded leg rests. Flip a switch, and the discs slowly squeeze and release calves, ankles and feet simultaneously, while the vibration mechanism stimulates the arches and heels of the feet.

The device has three kneading programs and three vibration modes, which can be used independently or in synch. The iSqueeze did a surprisingly professional job on my sore legs and feet, but be advised: This machine is programmed for deep massaging. Those who want a light touch won't find much mercy here.

OSIM iSqueeze 501601 is $399 from Brookstone; for more information call toll-free 1-800-351-7222; www.brookstone.com

LET IT SNOW: Snowshoeing is gaining popularity as a great aerobic activity. Colorado-based Redfeather Snowshoes has come up with a particularly well-designed snowshoe geared for recreational hiking and casual walking.

The Hike Series has a lightweight aluminum frame with stainless steel crampons, molded polyurethane plastic bindings and a nylon mesh base. The rounded tail design aids balance in deep snow. The all-terrain bindings accommodate a wide variety of footwear and are easy to put on and take off quickly. The new Hike Snowshoe Kit includes a pair of snowshoes, a pair of two-section lightweight aluminum telescoping poles, and a carry bag.

Available in 22- to 36-inch lengths, depending on users' weight.

Hike Snowshoe Kit is $129 from Redfeather; for more information call 1-800-525-0081; www.redfeather.com

SOME LIKE IT HOT: Cold-weather campers rejoice: There will be less shivering in those sleeping bags thanks to Coleman's new ProCat catalytic heater.

Fueled by a standard disposable 16.4-ounce propane cylinder (not included), the ProCat's technology provides a flameless heat that is approved for use both outdoors and in sheltered areas, such as tents, work sheds and garages. (Usually, propane heaters are not considered safe in enclosed areas.)

The device also can be used as a temporary home heater in emergencies such as power outages. The ProCat features a built-in fan powered by two D-cell batteries (not included) to blow warm air from the heater, maximizing efficiency. Measuring a portable (although not back-packable) 15 by 10 by 9 inches, the ProCat has a push-button electronic ignition starter.

ProCat Catalytic Heater is $81 from Coleman; for more information call 1-800-835-3278; www.coleman.com

WASH 'N' WEAR LONGJOHNS: Ex Officio's new Skivvy long underwear can be washed, air-dryed, and worn again in less than four hours - a definite plus when your lodgings don't come with laundry machines.

The lightweight, breathable nylon/Spandex blend stretches comfortably without bagging, and the fabric effectively wicks moisture away from the skin so the moisture stays on the outside rather than making you clammy. The underwear is treated with an antibacterial finish to minimize odor.

Available in pants and crewneck tops in men's and women's sizes. The tops even have a thumb slot in the extended sleeves to keep the sleeves from riding up while layering. The pants have an elastic waist. The men's pants have a fly.

Skivvy pant is $36 to $38; top, $38 to $40, from Ex Officio; for more information call toll-free 1-800-644-7303; www.exofficio.com

- Freelance writer Judi Dash lives in Beachwood, Ohio.

[Last modified January 20, 2006, 09:54:04]