press sample Archives

Melanzana Alternatives

Paulina DaoJanuary 5, 2023320.8K views

If you know of Melanzana, you know how difficult it is to get your hands on one of their coveted Micro Grid Hoodies. It’s a versatile piece that’s great for climbing, backpacking, skiing, lounging, and more. Their products are only available at their headquarters in Leadville, by appointment. With resale prices of Melanzana hoodies going for over twice of their retail cost, it’s not economical to buy secondhand. If you’ve always wanted to pick up a Melly (it’s what the cool kids say), here’s a list of Melanzana alternatives to tide you over, because nobody should be without this ultra cozy, technical fleece.

Athleta Gets Sustainable

Paulina DaoNovember 21, 20181772 views

Sponsored by Athleta

Athleta is a brand I’ve always admired. They reached out to me to play with their new sustainable line. I was only happy to oblige.

This year, Athleta received its B Corporation Certification, creating a legal commitment to people and the planet. By 2020, 80% of Athleta’s materials will be made with sustainable fibers.

With outerwear, Athleta is keeping 460,000 bottles out of landfills this year alone. Sustainably managed forests provide the fabric for ever so soft tops. Bottoms are created from recycled materials.

Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody

Paulina DaoMarch 5, 201801.4K views

In 2015, Outdoor Research introduced the Uberlayer Hoody to its line up of puffies. To this day, it’s still one of the pieces that I reach for the most. Last spring, the Ascendant Hoody popped onto the line-up, as the Uberlayer’s lightweight little sister.

How does it compare?

Taste Test: Cusa Tea

Paulina DaoOctober 6, 20170775 views

As temps drop and the nights grow longer, it’s rough crawling out of my snuggly sleeping bag. Luckily, Cusa Tea is there to make the transition into the brisk morning just a bit easier with ready to drink tea in just three seconds, plus boiling water time.

Eat This: Country Archer Jerky & Frontier Bars

Paulina DaoJune 23, 20170610 views

Country Archer reached out to me earlier this year with some snacks to fuel my adventures. Obviously, I’m never one to turn down food because lemme tell ya, I get real hangry. They seemed like a good alternative to Epic or Tanka bars which I find to be a wee bit pricy, especially when I buy them from the climbing gym.