The product(s) review below was not endorsed by Pearl Izumi, nor were any of the other brands or businesses that are mentioned within the content of this blog. 

The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the official season of outdoor activity is in full swing. What better time to introduce and review a few products through my three part series from the Pearl Izumi Spring 2016 line.

Being a woman in the cycling industry I always take special note into the products that are available to women of all levels and disciplines of each sport. I am constantly asked by both experienced and novice athletes which products work for me and why. I’ve taken novice cyclists directly into stores to help assist them with purchasing their first line of women’s wear for their cycling style. Let’s face it, women like quality apparel and whether we want to admit it or not, we want to not only look good, but feel good while sweating it out.  
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What works for one woman doesn’t necessarily fit the needs of another. However, Pearl Izumi’s spring cycling line far exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to have others experience this season’s products. 

​When getting into cycling one of the first items that people purchase before embracing the vision of lycra on their bodies is transitioning from using regular athletic footwear to a true cycling shoe which requires someone to clip into their bike. This can be a scary transition for a couple of reasons. First, the thought of being attached to one’s bike is intimidating because of pure safety concerns. While in the beginning stages of learning how to clip in and out of a set of pedals may come easily to some, this new found technique can still bring about the uncertainty of balance and stability. This anxiety usually is accompanied by putting the cycling shoe on the ground and feeling off kilter due to the protruding clip on the base of the shoe. Pearl Izumi’s Women’s X-Alp Launch II has solved this problem without jeopardizing quality and functionality. 

​Some of the key features on the X-Alp include:

• Bi-directional Closure: delivers a semi-custom fit by gathering equally from both sides for even foot retention, with the precision of a micro-adjustable BOA reel
• Carbon fiber injected composite shank for efficient power transfer
• EVA X-Alp outsole/midsole for off the bike cushioning and comfort and on the bike power transfer
• Low cut construction for a light, fast fit and feel
• Carbon rubber lugged outsole for superior traction and durability
• SPD compatible

(Above: bullet features are from the Pearl Izumi website)
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So…what makes this shoe so amazing and why have I found myself reaching for the new Women’s X-Alp Launch II instead of my high performance mountain bike shoes that are sitting on my shelf?

Simple, they used one of my favorite words…CARBON! The carbon fiber components to this shoe are some of the best quality around. The rubber outsole of the shoe is pure genius for a quick dismount when needed. I can get off my mountain or cyclocross bike at any time without fear of losing my balance or looking for objects below me which might cause my foot to become unbalanced or unstable. In addition, the inset feature of the clip on the bottom of the shoe allows for ease of walking for short or long distances if the unfortunate scenario of flat should arise on your journey. 

​The carbon composite shank does exactly what Pearl Izumi promised and that’s efficient transfer of power. I decided to test this theory during the Barry Roubaix Gravel Grinder last month in April. While yes, it was a risky move to try a new product for such a high profile race, I was willing to take the risk because my training rides had been so spectacular leading up to the main event while wearing my new gear.
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During my race I never felt that the Women’s X-Alp Launch II was hindering my performance or ability to excel during the 36 mile gravel grinder. In fact, I PR’d in almost every segment, and completed Barry Roubaix with my fastest time to date. The best part was that after I crossed the finish line I didn’t find myself running to my cycling bag and ripping off my shoes so that I could throw on a pair of flip-flops or gym shoes. Instead, I rocked the X-Alps into the podium tent as if I were wearing a gym shoe. No awkward duck walk, no slipping and no sliding. 

​Not all of us are outdoor enthusiasts who are ready to take to the trail or gravel road on an adventure through nature. I get it! Bugs, ticks, trees, OH MY! Fortunately, I was able to take the Women’s X-Alp Launch II into a pretty well-known spin class in downtown Chicago called, FlyWheel. In short, this spin class is like no other spin class I have ever been to. High intensity workout with an element of indoor competition. Can you say, LOVE?!?!?

When I arrived at the class, I was thrilled to see the SPD pedals that would accommodate my new shoes. After 45 minutes of pure awesomeness, my class was complete and I had two people asking me about my shoes. They were blown away at how I walked from my amazing hotel, The James, in my X-Alp Launch II’s and didn’t even need to change shoes in order for me to jump on to my spin bike. The pure convenience of not having to bring another set of shoes with them was very attractive and they needed to know more. I have to admit, I found it to be pretty convenient as well!

Now, with all good things come some draw backs. The bi-directional closure is fabulous however, I do worry slightly about the tightening mechanism’s life-span and how long it will actually last before one of the wires goes, “POP” on my new favorite shoe. However, after getting on to Pearl Izumi’s website, I noticed that they have a Lifetime Limited Warranty which should cover the issue that would address my concern. This is a promising feature and service for any consumer.
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The second part of my concern came during a few of my training rides. I did notice that if it was incredibly muddy the micro-adjustable BOA reel seemed to be harder to turn if the reel wasn’t completely cleaned out. I have found myself running the shoes under water in the sink after a muddy ride to clear out any debris in order to prevent clumping and improve functionality for my next ride. 

While the above may seem like a slight concern, I will say that these are certainly not issues that would prevent me from purchasing these in the future. Since wearing my Pearl Izumi Women’s X-Alp Launch II, I have had more and more women ask about what I am wearing. The style is attractive, the colors are bright, and overall this is an amazing shoe for all levels and disciplines of riders.

​I will surely continue to rock my X-Alp’s whenever possible. After all, they make the rest of the spring line come together quite nicely. More on that in part two of this three part series.

Wheel on Women!

​Part of my advocacy for women in cycling is to highlight some pretty amazing women that I feel deserve some recognition in the industry as being great role models for women young and old. Sandy Reid of the Clark Logic Race Team is one pretty inspiring female and she kicks some major booty on and off the road. Her spin classes are known around the Kalamazoo area as being a “ball-buster” and her infectious, positive attitude makes you want to be a better person all around.
 
Sandy became a cyclist back in the ‘80s when she was told to hang up her running shoes and find something else to do. Her knees had taken a beating over the years and her body eventually said, “I’m done.” Bound and determined to not live a life as a couch potato, Sandy took to the road in a different way – on her bike.
 
“Running was my life, and I was devastated. I bought a cheap-ass bike and started to hammer out my frustration on it {bike}.”
 
This one-woman machine doesn’t always rock her talents on a bike; she swims, teaches various cardio and body sculpting classes, along with instructing weight training at a local gym. She still runs very minimally but her true talent (in my eyes) is on her bike. Her ability to hammer when she hits the saddle is beyond impressive and mind boggling. One of her biggest accomplishments as a female athlete is her ability to keep up (or ahead) of the boys.
 
“I have worked my ass off, and have learned to take rest days!”
 
Sandy might be a natural athlete, however, in every athlete’s mind there are challenges that we face on a regular basis that many of us do not share with others. Most athletes fear the clock. With Sandy, the clock keeps her motivated. Again, a prime example of what sets her apart from the pack. This is largely impart due to the inspiration that was instilled in her by her very own mother.
 
“My mom taught aero classes until she died at age 72. For me, SHE is the closest thing to a female athlete I admire.”
 
I asked Sandy what the biggest piece of advice she could give me for women and young girls who are thinking about getting on a bike. Her response - “Love it or don’t do it. That goes for anything in life…and play fair always! YeeeeeeHaaaaaw!!!!!” At Infinity Cycling, we couldn’t agree more. 

​Wheel on Women

What a weekend for racing. Michigan never ceases to amaze me with the schizophrenic nature of its weather system. I swear, if you have a race this time of year you need to pack everything from a bathing suit to a down jacket. Of course, I packed three of each.  My husband and I rented two homes at the base of the Crystal Mountain Resort for 23 people in Thompsonville, Michigan which is about a stones throw away from the start of the Peak 2 Peak race. This was our first adventure renting two homes with some of the best cyclists in Kalamazoo. We combined the forces of the Clark Logic race team and the always impressive Team Taylor peeps for a wicked good time filled with laughter, excitement, Michigan beer, too much food, and of course, racing. 

Saturday morning I awoke to a few snow flakes dancing their way down from the heavens. Although at that moment I was cursing them with every shiver up my spine, I was still happy to know I would spend most of my day in nature. With a little food in my belly and a last minute head warmer suggestion from my girl, Kelly Fisher of Team Taylor, the two of us we were off to the start with Kristy Gunderson. I was overly anxious and excited this year because it was my first time ever racing my fat bike which is a Surly Necromancer BEAST. Kristy and I were two of three ladies to enter into the Sport Women's Fat Bike category and I felt empowered and special to be a part of the inaugural event. More importantly, I was excited for Kristy to be competing in her first ever mountain bike race. 
 
What is Peak 2 Peak?

Peak 2 Peak is an awesome race that encompasses two track, gravel road riding, single track, and some wicked uphill climbing. It's the race that truly tests you at all levels of racing. From the beginning to the middle of the course there are some great single track sections that wind through the woods with an unbelievable flow. While gliding through the trail, racers can take in the beautiful colors in Northern Michigan and this year, Mother Nature did not disappoint. Tad Peacock and his crew from Endoman Promotions flawlessly marked the trail even with a last minute re-route due to unsafe conditions on the course. They blew off any leaves throughout the entire 12 mile loop that could cause racers to slip and slide along the way. At the finish line racers and spectators can enjoy a local Michigan brew and some delicious catered food by an outdoor fire pit. Spectators can take the chairlift up to the top of the mountain where I was lucky enough to have one man literally run along side of me while I moaned in agony that he remove my race jacket due to a little bit of overheating (too many layers this year...oops) all while still climbing a hill. As I yelled to the guy who now held my jacket AND credit card (double oops) to take it to the finish line, he smiled and cheered and proceeded to a race tent ahead of me. I love racing! Even the spectators are rock stars. Thank you to my mysterious spectator friend. :0)

Why is this the perfect race for every rider beginner to expert?

Beginner riders take in the same challenges as the Sport, Expert and Elite riders however, at the end of the course they are re-routed away from the huge climb and given a shorter punch of a climb which is a great way to test your skills. On the backside of the climb is a screaming downhill that takes you all the way to the finish line. 

Sport, Expert and Elite riders are given a sharp right hand turn at the re-route point for beginners and they are taken up the back side of the Crystal Mountain Resort along the chairlift line. This is an incredible uphill climb that seems to never want to end. Being a skier myself, it's great to see the mountain in the off season. My favorite part is the killer downhill section at the end that takes you through to the finish line where depending on your category, you get to do it all over again. ;0)

Ladies...this is an incredible race for us. Tad Peacock and his crew go above and beyond to make us feel like we are just as important as the guys. With a last minute add to the guys fat bike category, Tad recognized that there were some ladies out there that needed their own category as well for our fat bikes. We were all very appreciative of his kindness and eagerness to help make us feel awesome. Thanks, Tad! 

Why is Crystal Mountain so great for everyone? 

Every year we bring our daughter to Crystal Mountain for the Peak 2 Peak race. This is the place to go for spectating, bringing the kids, you name it. Crystal offers up the most trusted in-house babysitting around for little ones. For the older kiddos, we could barely pull our children away from the kids adventure camp where they carved pumpkins, climbed a rock wall, watched the race, walked to a petting zoo, and had their face painted. Peak 2 Peak offers a kids race in the afternoon as well. All of this takes place on Crystal's grounds. Once you park your car for the weekend, you will not start it again until you're ready to head home.

Final thoughts....

With another year in the books for Peak 2 Peak, I can honestly say that this one was pretty epic. Riding my fat bike was a huge challenge and one that I didn't anticipate being as difficult as it was. With that being said, I was happy with my time, thrilled with my ability to climb, and excited about my 2nd place and 15th overall finish out of 51 ladies. From the yummy potluck dinner that everyone came together on, to the incredible WIN by Michigan State (sorry, Tyson), it has become one of my favorite weekends of the year. 

Congrats to Erin Rumery on her 1st place comeback finish (post baby)...Kristy Gunderson on her 3rd place finish, Brad Zapalowski on his 2nd place finish, Rob Grainger on his 1st place finish, and Tyler Weston for his 1st place finish.  You all rocked it!

For more information on any of the above, please click on the buttons below or leave a comment if you'd like more details. 

​Wheel on Women

Written By: Meg Zapalowski - Owner/Consultant

In most sports women are truly under-represented and rarely given credit when deserved. While I'm not part of the modern day feminist movement, I am of the realization that there are some pretty bad-ass women out there that aren't always recognized for their pure talents in the sports that they compete in. So, for this category of my blog I'm not going to highlight the already recognized and famous female athletes that are known around the world. Instead,  I'm going to highlight some lovely ladies that I know who are pretty bad-ass at what they do when it comes to being excellent role models for young girls. Each blog will feature someone in a community that has achieved their fitness potential and inspired young ladies around them to be just as good as the boy next door. 

Get ready to be inspired, I know I am!

Wheel On Women