Chicago weather is fickle as seasons change. It gets warm, and then cold, and then warm, and then cold… I took advantage of a return to cold last week to try out Performance Tights and the Elite Half Zip from c2. c2 was created by Jane Hayes, a New Englander who wanted clothes that kept her warm outdoors all winter doing what she loved – biking and hiking. c2 gear is “designed to keep you warm and performing at your personal peak, even when the mercury drops.”
c2’s mission is clear. They want to make small batches of high quality gear in the US. They want us to go outside despite the elements and they are open to feedback and put customers first. That all sounds great to me!
They sent me the Performance Tights and Elite Half Zip to test out. They say, “Rainy (or any wet weather) is no match for the performance tight. Polartec technology wicks away moisture so that drizzle won’t dampen your spirits or give you a chill. The soft, stretchy fabric looks good on men and women (we swear). ” As for the half zip, they say, “This is the perfect base layer for when you know you are going to be out All.Day.Long. Designed to keep you warm and dry, the lightweight top is made of super soft Power Wool® (aka all the wicking benefits without the bulk). The half zip lets you regulate the temp on days when you go all-out—or the sun decides to warm you up.”
I tried out the tights and half zip on a short, windy run to and from Pilates and then again on a chilly morning 6 miler. I got both pieces in a size Small and they fit perfectly. The tights are a soft, sweat pant feeling fabric on the outside and have a fleecy inside. I was concerned they may not be flattering when I first took them out of the package, but I like how they look. The pants are very warm. The “feels like” temp on Friday was in the 20s and the tights were perfect. I imagine they would be great on a much colder run day, for winter biking and under ski pants! I wore a short sleeve under the half zip and I was very comfortable. It is light but very warm. This is a great shirt for Chicago “spring.” The cut is flattering and I would wear this one post gym, too! The materials wash well and both pieces kept their shape and bright color. The only “issue” I had is that there are no pockets. I am spoiled and love a small pocket for money or a key.
The season for c2 is coming to a close, but I will remind you about these awesome pieces in the fall. Winter outdoor enthusiasts will want these on your holiday list! I may get the tights for The Husband and his dad for cold weather skiing. These pieces are made in the USA in small batches. They are not inexpensive, but they are made to last. The tights are $99 and the half zip is $79. The do have some bundles on sale right now. Get the Extreme bundle for $199 ($386 retail value). The Extreme tights are made for even colder weather. Bikers in Chicago, rejoice!
You can shop for c2 (and get some great end of the season deals). You can also follow c2 on Twitter and Facebook.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the c2 products for free as coordinated by Outdoor PR in consideration for review publication. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions are my own.