Forecast = rain. Merino wool = dry and cozy.

Let me start by saying that keeping warm is a high priority for me, especially during the winter months. Curling up by a roaring fire is my idea of pure bliss. So you can imagine how much I like the idea of running in the rain: www.notverymuch.com.

Don’t get me wrong, I am full of gratitude for rain; it nourishes the earth, smells divine and creates a unique and dramatic ambience; an ambience I most enjoy whilst peering through a window with a cup of tea in hand. This being said, I decided to try out our new Run: Balance Pullover to see if it could help get me outside, despite the cold, rainy weather.

what I loved about it:

• it’s surprisingly soft with a zero itch factor.
• it has great breathability
• the natural fabric has a rich and refined quality, giving it a sophisticated look
• it stays warm even in the wettest conditions - magical!

Alexis in the Run: Balance Pullover, moments before she ditched her umbrella and went for a run!

after wearing it more than once

Now that I have worn it a few times, I can honestly say that it didn’t itch at all. Without the bulk of a sweatshirt , the 100% merino wool pullover kept me perfectly heated on chilly mornings. I can’t wait to try this on the mountain, where dryness and warmth are so important. Hello après ski hangouts!

If you are like me and are cautious to try new fabrics, I dare you to try this on – it’s as cozy as a hug and as cool as James Dean. It might even make that 5:30 a.m. run downright jump-out-of-bed-worthy! Okay, that was an exaggeration. But at least you’ll be warm…and ultimately, that’s all that counts.

Look for the the Run: Balance Pullover in your local lululemon, and online very soon!

Dear Light Up Cycling Line,

I heart you big time. Here are the top 6 reasons why (that’s right, I couldn’t stop at 5):

reflective taping

1. It may be obvious, but the reflective taping on the back is awesome. On my white jersey, you can’t even see the taping until light hits it. The shorts have it right down the back, which is exactly where you need it the most for maximum visibility. This is such a great safety feature, especially in the summer, when it’s too hot to do a long ride in the middle of the day. You still need to feel like you’re wearing next to nothing in the warm evenings, but you have the reflectivity you need.

circle mesh

2. The Circle Mesh Back on the Jersey. The ENTIRE back (and a bit of the front) is circle mesh. It’s anti-stink, moisture wicking, and basically air-conditions the whole shirt. This is pretty rad because it makes this the most lightweight jersey I own, which also makes it my favourite.

back pockets

3. The Back Pockets. This jersey has two deep pockets in the back that fit EVERYTHING. I’m talking pump, spare tubes, sandwich (PB&J), gels, phone for emergencies, and there’s still room for more. The secret is the super stretchy circle mesh which can accommodate almost anything you’d want to put in there. The shorts have a secure back pocket, which is perfect for my ID and anything that I need to keep safe.

power luxtreme

4. Power Luxtreme. The shorts, and the front of the jersey are made of inherently wicking, lightweight power luxtreme. This is so key for hot summer days, as it keeps me drier than other materials, and feels amazing against my skin.

angled sleeves

5. Angled Sleeves. These are perhaps the sexiest sleeves I’ve seen on a bike jersey. They are shorter and angled, so that when I’m leaned forward on my road bike, I avoid the dreaded Farmer’s tan. Trivial, I know, but come on, it’s like the icing on the technical features cake.

Britt in the Light Up Jersey, avoiding Farmer's tan!

padding (aka the 'chamois')

6. The Chamois. It is so hard to find a cycling short with a chamois (pronounced "sham-ee") that doesn’t look like a diaper. This one is perfect because it’s discreet, but still makes my training rides super comfortable! Now I can chill post ride at my fave coffee shop or local pub and not feel self conscious.

Here are three different women with three different body types, all of whom love the All Out Tank. Between the three of us, we have used this tank for yoga, bootcamp, running, and dance, so don't worry about where to wear it, we found a lot of places where this tank performs well.

pear body type

Having a smaller chest (A-, B+ cup on a good day) and waist, and an athletic badonk, this personally is one of my favourite tops.  This tank frames my figure, and adds a bit of oomph upstairs.  I also love how this top hugs my waist without suffocating it, and then bells out a bit at the bottom so to not cut me off at my hips.  My hips are smoothly elongated into my torso, and your eyes are not distracted by two different halves of my body. I am 5'7" and am wearing a size 8 in the All Out Tank, and this is my normal size in tops.

petite body type

My friend Heather is 5'6" and a size 6 in both tops and bottoms, her figure is petite and fairly straight. The All Out Tank works really well for her in yoga. This tank enhances what she has, and she loves it for this very reason.

athletic body type

Last but not least, Anna is 5'9", she wears a 6 in tops and between a 6-8 in bottoms, and has an athletic and slender body type. Anna is almost a happy medium from my body type to Heather's. The All Out Tank is Anna's favourite for Barry's Bootcamp and yoga.

details

I love the bust and neckline of this top. I think it fits many different chests in different ways, but I find it to be very flattering.

The All Out Tank fits very similarly to the older Athletic Deep V tank, with the updated feature of a more relaxed bust-line that you can adjust to your comfort.

If you are looking for a flattering tank, that can perform in many different activities, the All Out Tank might be what you're looking for. To that I have too add, if you have a larger bust like a D and above, then I would try something like the Inner Strength Tank, Run: Sunrise Tank, or even a Cool Racerback.

Happy sweating and Namaste.

Pear Body Type Fit Guru, Whitney (me) is 5'7" and is wearing:

• An All Out Tank in Senorita Pink in a size 8 (stayed true to size and the colour is not available online)
• Groove Pants in Black in a size 6 (stayed true to size)

Petite Body Type Fit Guru, Heather is 5'6" and is wearing:

• An All Out Tank in Lagoon in a size 6 (stayed true to size)
• Groove Pants in Black in a size 6 (stayed true to size)

Athletic Body Type Fit Guru, Anna is 5'9" and is wearing:

• An All Out Tank in Lagoon in a size 6 (stayed true to size)
• Groove Pants in Black in a size 6 (stayed true to size)

Why we made the All Out Tank:

• Adjust your bust with this all sport tank
• Made with luon on bust for max support and a luon light on the body for breathability
• Bra constructed on the outside for customized fit and no abrasion on the inside
• Mesh bra construction with built in pockets for removable cups
• Mesh back allows for max breathability in those high sweat areas

Exhibit A: My brother Dustin, 27 years old, nicest guy on the planet (literally).

• Stats: 6'3", between a size L and XL
• Recently dropped 60 pounds from eating healthier, running and swimming regularly.
• Current goal: Looking to tone up, and considering a summer stroll with a lady hooked on his (growing) biceps.

choose your gear and pay attention to details

A lot of guys don't realize how important their gear is to their training. You want gear that is seamless, moisture wicking, and basically won't get in the way of your workout. Being the good sister that I am, I traded Dustin his ratty gym clothes for the Run: Cross Country Tech and the Wave Shorts and here's why:

Dustin likes to run in board shorts because they are comfortable, and he can go for a swim after he sweats. (i.e. he does not need to take a shower in his eyes). Fair enough. Enter the Wave Shorts.

• Made from quick wicking stretch surf fabric = more range of movement, shorts will dry quick enough to run home without irritation
• No sew technology = no chafing
• Secure side zippers with drainage = no water weight, just a house key, so swim fast!

Dustin prefers running on cool mornings, but hates the process of over heating once his body is moving. Solution: Dustin swapped his baggy cotton t-shirt for the Run: Cross Country Tech.

• Made from luxtreme fabric = quick wicking, helps regulate body temperature
• Flat seams = no chaffng
• Thumbholes = Keeps your sleeves in place, and keeps your hands warmer on chilly days.

choose your tunes and stretch

Now that you have your gear, take care of your body with a stretch. It will help your muscles reach peak performance, and it will also help with injury prevention. (Just a tip brother, girls will want to be active this summer, and not wheel you around if it can be avoided, so take care of yourself).

Get some beats that kick your butt. Dustin prefers a mix of Guns N Roses, and Jay-Z ("99 Problems" is his personal favourite for running). Just make it loud, so you’re not tempted to slow down. Three months until shirtless BBQs and beach combing, so tuck your iPod into the side pocket and get moving.

choose your workout

With a loaded iPod and summer dreams in your side pocket, hit the pavement and make the beach your gym today.

Park benches are not for interval bursts and not breaks. Adding some push-ups into your run adds a burst of energy, and hits all major muscle groups. (Great plank-like form Dust).

After you make it to the beach (running 2.5 miles with random push-ups), it’s time for a nice dip.

Kick off your shoes, stretch out your run, and brave the thought of taking your shirt off for the first time this season in public…

Move over Hasselhoff, Dustin's on your beat now.

The Wave Shorts will probably dry before you can put on your shoes. So there’s no excuse not to shake out your hair, put your shirt back on and run another 2.5 miles home.

Way to go dude, you're one step closer to your summer goal.

What are your goals for summer?

playing in pilates

Meet Heather.

Heather is an educator at our downtown San Diego Showroom. She is a dancer, former USC song girl, a sweat enthusiast, and a San Diego Charger girl hopeful!

Getting ready for tryouts and enjoying spring, she loves the Principle Jacket for warm-ups, to and from pilates, and of course random tricep dips.

Meet Emily.

Emily is a pilates instructor and an ambassador for our downtown San Diego Showroom.

Emily and Heather are good friends, and Em has vowed to help Heather tone up for the Charger tryouts. Also a former dancer and rolling with Heather, it goes without saying that Emily herself has a bit of spice, and a definite sashay in her step.

Emily tends to get cold during lessons. Being spring in San Diego she's retired her Remix Hoodie for daytime, and has recruited the Principle Jacket as a light option to keep her warm. The jacket is made of our signature luon fabric, which means Emily can sweat and move with Heather confidently knowing it will wick right up.

Emily is free to move with Heather, but still feel and show that she's in charge. Make her sweat Em!

After torturing Heather for an hour, they somehow resolve to remain friends and take a few minutes to relax, and discuss Heather's next step in becoming a Charger Girl.

playing with details

A great feature of the Principle jacket is its flexible, moldable collar, which is ribbed for texture and structure.

There are dozens of ways to wear this collar. Here are three of the favourites: 1. Unzip it and open it up for a little colour and to welcome a breeze. 2. Zip it almost to the top to keep your neck and chest warm.  3. Zip it halfway and fold it over to let your shoulders and neck breathe.

The back of the jacket definitely adds a bit of sass to your day. Tyra Banks would probably see you from behind, shake her finger and mumble, "girl is fieerrrcce."

There is also a long zipper around your wrists that can be opened and closed to accommodate your changing body temperature.

playing with wear

Heather is 5'6", a size 6 and is wearing:

• The Principle Jacket in Black/Senorita Pink
• Paired with a Modern Racer Tunic in Senorita Pink
• And her favourite Gather and Crow Crops in Black

She is also wearing Converse shoes (not available through lululemon)

Emily is 5'8", a size 4 and is wearing:

• The Principle Jacket in Coal/White
• Paired with a Modern Racer Tunic in Black
• And Wunder Groove Crops in Black/Splatter Stripe

She is also wearing Toms shoes (not available through lululemon)

Anna is 5'9", a size 8 and is wearing:

• The Principle Jacket in Coal/White
• Paired with a Power Y Tank in Chirp
• And finally Wunder Under Crops in black

How you will play with the Principle Jacket?

I am in love with the RUN Swiftly Racerback, paired with a Flow Y.  (Cold days you'll find me in a RUN Swiftly Tech LS).

Super lightweight, wicks my sweat and literally puts a bounce in my step, but not my bust. (I am an A- B+ cup on a good day, so I do not need a ton of support).  But I can still bend over or drop it like it's hot without falling out.

I cannot run with sunglasses on. Don't get me wrong: big sunnies are one of my first loves, but they do not function well on my runs. (We all know I've tried).

So thank you lululemon design gods for the amazing Flight Running Bonnet. Lightweight hat that is comfortable and protects my eyes? Yup, it was love at first flight.

Pony tail rests comfortably without snagging my locks, and a secure zipper pocket protects my cash. The sides and pocket are lined with Circle Mesh an,d my hot head can breathe.

Now let's talk about downstairs. The RUN Empower Crops are the best things that have happened to my legs since self tanner.

My legs and butt are simply in love with stretch power luxtreme. Holds my badonk in place, supports my hamstrings, and wicks my sweat really quickly!

My waistline is smaller than my hips and bum. So the drawstring holds everything up, and the waistband holds everything in.

P.S. Who doesn't love hidden secure pockets?

Best lesson learned as a runner, you have to spoil your tootsies with good socks! Seamless, built-in arch support and moisture-wicking, the Featherlight Socks are my favorite.

I made the mistake of running my first half marathon with big bulky socks that did not moisture wick, and had big fat seams on the toes. By mile 10 my feet were killing me, and I ran with a hitch in my giddy-up the last 3 miles. I could barely walk at the end of the race, and my toes had 2 big new blisters.

You may not see me winning any races anytime soon. But I will always finish, I will always be comfortable and I will always be confident with my lululemon running gear. It's like my favorite coach used to say "If you look good you feel good, if you feel good, you do good." Agreed.

Fit Guru Whitney Stats: 5'6", wearing a size 8 in everything, and 2 half marathons complete!
Gear Worn:

• RUN Swiftly Racerback in antidote (colour available in store only)
• RUN Empower Crop II in black/bold blue
• Flow Y Bra IV in bold blue (colour available in store only)
• Flight Running Bonnet in grey
• Featherlight Sock in yellow

Every morning, I went to the gym and some tops would wink at me as they passed me in the cardio room. Nothing serious, just some eye candy. I tried to meet some tops in the fitting rooms, but they were either too much drama or offered too little support. I almost gave up the search until one day my friend introduced me to her friend, lululemon. She suggested I give it a chance at the downtown store, no strings attached. Just take a look.

The lighting was good and the music pumping. I saw from across the room a stunning tank on the back wall. Sure it looked nice on the hanger, but would it pass my three tests? I took the tank to the back for some one on one time. Would I be able to fit into it? Move in it? Sweat in it? A woman knows within the first thirty seconds of meeting a top if she’s going to go home with it or not that night.

The Power Y Tank was its name and it passed the first test – it fit great! I danced around awkwardly in my fitting room and I could move in it – check! Two for two, but I was still weary in committing to the brand. Was it truly moisture wicking, four-way stretch, and flat seamed?

I gave the Power Y a chance and brought it home. I wore it to the gym, and it got better each time. No chaffing, no bunching, no crazy sweat patches, and I’m a crazy sweat-er! Wash after wash, it still met or exceeded my expectations. I tried rockclimbing, yoga, and spinning – check! Coffee dates, groceries, even the movies – still worked! We even double dated a few times: under a sweater with pants, over a bra with shorts – the Power Y kept its cool.

I could tell the designers took their time to create this cut and I could see the amount of thought put into the fabric composition. I knew there was something different about this garment – it was here to stay.

Flash forward to 2009, and I have more Power Y tanks than boyfriends (thank God!). Like any good relationship, ours has matured and changed, but its core focus remained the same – moderate support, built-in bra, great neckline, and longer in the torso. My six-year relationship with this style has only gotten better and I can’t wait to see where we go next.

Below: Elim fit, err, colour tests the newest Power Ys to arrive in our store.

A couple, who sweats together, stays HEALTHY together!

I would like to introduce to you Liz and her fiancé. Liz is an educator at the GEC and recently enrolled her fiancé to attend beach yoga with her. Weather and schedule permitting, he ended up attending two more times and did a circuit training class with her. Liz then shared with me that they do try to hit the gym and go for runs together. She says they both are competitive and it adds a different aspect to their time together. Their story inspired me. Why not love working out WITH the one you love?

What he liked about his Metal Vent Tech SS:

- He was sweating hard during their Circuit Training class but he didn't feel the moisture. Why? The fabric is treated to wick sweat.

- As the class progressed, he noticed that he was still relatively cool. Good to know that the added detail of integrated mesh venting was doing it's job.

- With Rob from Endorphin Junkies putting him through squats and lunges, there were no itchy seams to distract his from his task at hand. Men: you don't know what flat seams can do for you until you try!

SWEAT ONCE A DAY!!

Why We Made This:

- Performance top with integrated mesh venting for high breathability and heat management
- Anti-stink Silverescent™ using X-Static, the silver fibre
- Seamless body construction and flat seamed for chafe resistant wearing experiences
- Preshrunk for sizing confidence
- Wicking

Look for your own Metal Vent Tech in your lululemon store or online at:

http://shop.lululemon.com/Metal_Vent_Tech_SS/pd/np/720/p/1035.html

Above: MelEesa, our Men's Designer, test drives some of our luxtreme items in the park near our office.

If you've ever gone shopping for athletic wear, you have likely come face to face with the words "technical fabric". Have you ever wondered what this means and how it can enhance your workouts?

The term "technical fabric" refers to high-performance fabrics created and marketed specifically for sportswear. These fabrics are designed to pull moisture from your skin during periods of heavy sweating, spreading it evenly throughout the fabric so that sweat evaporates quicker and ultimately, you dry faster after your workouts than in a cotton t-shirt.

Luxtreme is a lightweight, smooth-feeling technical fabric that we use in our run line. Luxtreme is what we call an "inherently wicking" fabric, which means that the wicking property is part of the yarn itself and that your shirt will be wicking away your sweat for the life of the garment. Bottom line is that you will be calm, cool and collected before, during and after your workout.

I converted to wearing technical fabrics for all of my active living about a decade ago. So when I was given the task of test-running one of our luxtreme tops for work I decided to pass it on to my colleague Jacquie, who has always worn cotton t-shirts and tanks for her daily run. On a typical day she runs for about 40 minutes -- long enough to build up a good sweat!

If you have worn or worked out in any lululemon garments using Luxtreme I would love to hear your feedback below!

I look forward to sharing more information with you on our various fabrics and how they can make your workouts more fun. In the meantime, if you want a quick read on Luxtreme and our other technical fabrics check out the link below:

http://www.lululemon.com/education/info/care

View some of our Luxtreme products:

• Run: Dash Crop
• Speed Up Tank
• Run: Ambition Tight
• All Sport Bra
• Run: Hustle Crop

We often get asked here at lululemon whether or not we have a maternity line. The truth is, many of our products are already perfect for growing with your body before, throughout, and after your pregnancy. The reason? Four-way stretch and flattering cuts designed to show off your curves.

Here's a few expecting moms we grabbed from the Vancouver Store Support Centre office for an impromptu photoshoot at the park for a little more on what they've been wearing and loving during their pregnancy:

Bree Stanlake
Position at lululemon: Director of Ecommerce
Tell us about your nine-month uniform: What I'm wearing today at six months pregnant is no different than what I would've worn before being pregnant. My lululemon clothes take me from circuit class to the office to home and will stretch with me throughout my pregnancy. I’ve been living in my Wonder Unders and Groove Pants, and layering with Pima cotton tees and tanks.

Above: Bree is relaxing on the grass in a Deep V Tank and Groove Crops.

Rishi Tiwana
Role at lululemon: Sourcing Analyst
Tell us about your nine-month uniform: lululemon is perfect to wear during my pregnancy because it is comfortable, functional, and fashionable all at the same time. I wear my lululemon clothes to work out, run errands on the weekends, and to the office. I love that the luon is so comfortable and stretches with my growing belly. My favorite pieces of clothing to wear during my pregnancy are the Movement Tank, Groove Down Pant, and to keep me cozy, the Savasana Wrap.

Above: Rishi is catching some sun in the  Remix Hoodie Lux and Groove Down Crops. 

Christy Davidson
Role at lululemon: Accessories Designer
Tell us about your nine-month uniform: All I am wearing these days is lululemon. All I can say is 4 way stretch – it is so comfortable! My favorite pieces are my Wonder Unders and Cool racer back tanks, I love to layer with them! I know I will continue to live in my lululemon clothes once I am a momma, it just makes me feel good!

Above: Christy sits pretty in a Bon Bon Cool Racerback and Wonder Unders.