Nothing manages moisture, regulates temperature or repels odor better than wool. So, why does it have to itch? That’s what we thought, until we tried SmartWool—the softest fabric you’ll ever wear.
Temperature Regulation
Wool fibers have tiny pockets of air that provide a buffering layer of natural climate control. This natural buffering capacity helps the body maintain a stable core temperature.
Breathability
Synthetics don’t wick sweat until it turns into a liquid, while wool moves sweat off the skin immediately in its vapor state, keeping you drier and more comfortable over a longer period of time.
Odor-Free
Wool is antimicrobial—in other words, because wool is great at wicking, absorbing and evaporating moisture, odor-causing bacteria can’t find a home here.
Naturally Renewable
Harvesting wool uses significantly less energy than it takes to manufacture fossil fuel dependent, man-made synthetics. Wool is also recyclable and biodegradable.
Why SmartWool?
SmartWool is the most comfortable fiber you can put against your skin. A natural fiber…that manages moisture, regulates body temperature and stays odor free.
No Shrink
Our 4-Degree Banded Fit System leverages technology used in today’s athletic footwear to raise fit, feel and performance to unheralded levels. It’s almost Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon-type stuff—beyond the realms of physics and clothing science.
No Itch
It’s a combination of the smart technology we apply and the fine micron (fiber diameter) that gives SmartWool its light and airy feel. No itch-causing (high micron) fibers make the cut.
Durability
We’ve added more durability to our running, cycling, skiing, snowboarding and outdoor socks by replacing the nylon with a new, densely spun wool yarn—more SmartWool next to your skin!
4 Season Functionality
We’re not talking your grandpa’s rag wool socks here. We’ve got luxuriously soft, ultra-thin pieces for under suits, socks for running or road tripping, tops for working out or staying in.
Health Benefits
Along with regulating body temperature, fighting off bacteria and moving sweat off your skin while it’s still a vapor, natural, renewable SmartWool is also healthy for the environment!
Body Temperature
Lower heat retention in SmartWool means your core temperature stays lower so lactate build-up does not occur as readily. This result gives you the ability to work harder for longer.
Natural Fibers
Sweat needs to be removed from the skin’s surface to retain a dry and healthy environment. SmartWool removes sweat from the skin’s surface before it condenses into a liquid.
Wool “Allergies”
SmartWool’s long merino wool fibers don’t stick out to give you that prickle effect. Wool is hypoallergenic. A wool allergy is rare and, when existent, is caused by lanolin, a coating on the fiber.
Naturally Flame Retardant
Wool has a natural UV protection and is difficult to ignite. In fact, wool never melts, so it can’t stick to the skin like many synthetics do when they burn—ouch!
Wool Care
Wool is an expensive material that can be worn year-round. Furnishings around the house, such as rugs, can be made from wool. To ensure your product looks good for years, check the care tag.
Caring for SmartWool
SmartWool socks and long underwear can be machine washed and dried. Our knit sweaters can be gently machine washed and set flat to dry. All SmartWool boiled wool should be dry-cleaned.
Tips for Hand Washing
Use a mild detergent in lukewarm water; don’t use hot water. Rinse with cool water and gently squeeze to remove soap and excess water. When washing and rinsing, do no wring the garment.
Tips for Machine Washing
Set your washing machine on its gentle cycle with cool or lukewarm water. Use a mild detergent, without bleach. If using powdered soap, completely dissolve it before adding.
Tips for Drying
SmartWool socks and long underwear can be machine dried. Turn them inside out to avoid pilling. After washing our knit sweaters, lay them flat to dry. Our boiled wool should be dry-cleaned.
Did You Know?
SmartWool stays busy establishing better business practices that focus on environmental sustainability, economic sustainability, improvement in animal welfare and social change.
Feeling Good = Doing Good
The SmartWool Advocacy Program was born out of the desire to give back to communities in which we live, work and play. 10% of SmartWool online sales go directly to this program.
We Love Our Sheep
SmartWool has established long-term partnerships with those New Zealand Merino growers that have adopted best management practices and seek to continually improve animal welfare.
Our Wool is Top Notch!
SmartWool and its New Zealand partners have developed Zque, the world’s first traceable Merino fiber value chain. This program ensures environmental, social and economic sustainability.
What are your plans for the 4th of July? Ready to enjoy a day of grilling out, playing on the beach, hitting the water and get up on those waterskis? If you’re celebrating in any of these ways, take note. Below is a gear checklist and a little eye candy. Shep’s has everything on the list. (The only other stop you’ll have to make? Grocery store for hot dogs!)
If you’re spending any time outside, you’ll definitely need these things:
Sunscreens (Banana scented….. 🙂 )
Sunglasses (Oakley, Native, Chili’s)
Bug Spray
CamelBak bottle
Packing a Picnic?
Toys; foam guns, hacky sacks, paddle ball
Frisbees & Discs
Sun Dress & Accessories (PrAna & Patagonia have looks you’ll love.)
Button Ups & Shorts (Guys- same thing for you!)
Flip Flops (Ever worn Teva’s? Now’s the time.)
Bag from Sherpani
Going Boating?
Tube (One rider or four? That’ll help you choose the tube!)
Wakeboard/Waterski/Kneeboard/Wake Surf/Wakeskate (Hyperlite & H.O. take the cake)
Ropes
Vest (Nylon or Neoprene available for the family)
Towel
Swim Suit (Kids, men’s & women’s suits in stock)
Hitting the Beach?
Swim Suit (Choose your cut & your pattern from Patagonia or PrAna!)
Sun Hat
Sunglasses (patterned, sporty, and everything in-between.)
Towel
Sunscreen & Aloe (Did we mention how great SunBum smells??)
Love to Hike?
Backpacks (from The North Face, Burton, Dakine)
Salomon Trail Shoes
Smartwool Socks (they’re a necessity.)
CamelBak bottles
Bug Spray (yes, more!)
Headlamp
This is just a summary. You’ll find accessories and extras that will help make your summer outings the very best they can be. Stop in at Shep’s and let our experts set you up with the gear you need.
Warm temps and standing water mean insects are hatching at your favorite parks, campsites and back yards. Great. You know that protection from insect-born illnesses is smart and itchy bites are not just annoying but risk infection. So what’s an outdoor lover like you to do? Read what our friends at the CDC recommend (below) and stop in for products that get the job done. Shepherd & Schaller stocks professional grade repellents. Which one is for you?
Q. Why should I use insect repellent?
A. Insect repellents can help reduce exposure to mosquito bites that may carry viruses such as West Nile virus that can cause serious illness and even death. Using insect repellent allows you to continue to play and work outdoors with a reduced risk of mosquito bites.
Q. When should I use mosquito repellent? A. Apply repellent when you are going to be outdoors. Even if you don’t notice mosquitoes there is a good chance that they are around. Many of the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus bite between dusk and dawn. If you are outdoors around these times of the day, it is especially important to apply repellent. In many parts of the country, there are mosquitoes that also bite during the day, and some of these mosquitoes have also been found to carry West Nile virus.
Q. How often should repellent be reapplied? A. In general you should re-apply repellent if you are being bitten by mosquitoes. Always follow the directions on the product you are using. Sweating, perspiration or getting wet may mean that you need to re-apply repellent more frequently.
Repellents containing a higher concentration (higher percentage) of active ingredient typically provide longer-lasting protection.
Q. How does mosquito repellent work?
A. Female mosquitoes bite people and animals because they need the protein found in blood to help develop their eggs. Mosquitoes are attracted to people by skin odors and carbon dioxide from breath. The active ingredients in repellents make the person unattractive for feeding. Repellents do not kill mosquitoes. Repellents are effective only at short distances from the treated surface, so you may still see mosquitoes flying nearby.
Active Ingredients (Types of Insect Repellent)
Q. Which mosquito repellents work best?
A. CDC recommends using products that have been shown to work in scientific trials and that contain active ingredients which have been registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use as insect repellents on skin or clothing. When EPA registers a repellent, they evaluate the product for efficacy and potential effects on human beings and the environment. EPA registration means that EPA does not expect a product, when used according to the instructions on the label, to cause unreasonable adverse effects to human health or the environment.
In 2000, the World Health Organization proclaimed that, due to its safety and effectiveness, Picaridin was their recommended product for repelling Malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
Of the active ingredients registered with the EPA, CDC believes that two have demonstrated a higher degree of efficacy in the peer-reviewed, scientific literature . Products containing these active ingredients typically provide longer-lasting protection than others:
Oil of lemon eucalyptus [active ingredient: p-menthane 3,8-diol (PMD)], a plant- based repellent, is also registered with EPA. In two recent scientific publications, when oil of lemon eucalyptus was tested against mosquitoes found in the US it provided protection similar to repellents with low concentrations of DEET.
Plant based repellents are skin-friendly and perform well.
Q. How does the percentage of active ingredient in a product relate to the amount of protection it gives?
A. Typically, the more active ingredient a product contains the longer it provides protection from mosquito bites. The concentration of different active ingredients cannot be directly compared (that is, 10% concentration of one product doesn’t mean it works exactly the same as 10% concentration of another product.)
DEET is an effective active ingredient found in many repellent products and in a variety of formulations. Based on a 2002 study (Fradin and Day, 2002.)
• A product containing 23.8% DEET provided an average of 5 hours of protection from mosquito bites.
• A product containing 20% DEET provided almost 4 hours of protection
• A product with 6.65% DEET provided almost 2 hours of protection
• Products with 4.75% DEET were both able to provide roughly 1 and a half hour of protection.
Deet Repellent wipes are easy to keep on hand for surprise mosquito attacks
These examples represent results from only one study and are only included to provide a general idea of how such products may work. Actual protection will vary widely based on conditions such as temperature, perspiration, and water exposure.
Choose a repellent that provides protection for the amount of time that you will be outdoors. A product with a higher percentage of active ingredient is a good choice if you will be outdoors for several hours while a product with a lower concentration can be used if time outdoors will be limited. Simply re-apply repellent (following label instructions) if you are outdoors for a longer time than expected and start to be bitten by mosquitoes.
Q. Why does CDC recommend certain types of insect repellent?
A. CDC recommends products containing active ingredients which have been registered with US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use as insect repellents on skin or clothing.
All of the EPA-registered active ingredients have demonstrated repellency however some provide more longerlasting protection than others. Additional research reviewed by CDC suggests that repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) or picaridin (KBR 3023) typically provide longer-lasting protection than the other products and oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol) provides longer lasting protection than other plant-based repellents. Permethrin is another long-lasting repellent that is intended for application to clothing and gear, but not directly to skin. In general, the more active ingredient (higher concentration) a repellent contains, the longer time it protects against mosquito bites.
People who are concerned about using repellents may wish to consult their health care provider for advice. The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) can also provide information through a toll-free number, 1-800-858-7378 or npic.orst.edu
Permethrin based repellents are applied to clothing, shoes and gear (not skin) and last up to two weeks. Because it bonds with fabric, it survives repeated washings. Professionals who work outdoors rely on these products.
Q. How can you know which active ingredient a product contains?
A. Check the product label if you have questions-–repellents must specify their active ingredients. In some cases you will note the chemical name in addition to/instead of the “common” name:
• DEET is N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide
• Picaridin is KBR 3023, sometimes known as “Bayrepel” outside the US
• The active ingredient in oil of lemon eucalyptus is p-menthane 3,8-diol (PMD)
Q. What is permethrin?
A. Certain products which contain permethrin are recommended for use on clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear, and are registered with EPA for this use. Permethrin is highly effective as an insecticide and as a repellent. Permethrin-treated clothing repels and kills ticks, mosquitoes, and other arthropods and retains this effect after repeated laundering. The permethrin insecticide should be reapplied following the label instructions. Some commercial products are available pretreated with permethrin.
Protect yourself from Lymes disease and the horror of finding one of these guys attached to your skin by treating your clothing, shoes and gear (not skin) with Permethrin based repellents.
Q. Where can I find these repellents?
A. Shepherd & Schaller Sporting Goods has Deet, Permethrin and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus repellents in stock in Downtown Wausau, Wisconsin and online at www.shepssports.com.
Q. What are some general considerations to remember when using insect repellents?
A. Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label.
• Use enough repellent to cover exposed skin or clothing. Don’t apply repellent to skin that is under clothing. Heavy application is not necessary to achieve protection.
• Do not apply repellent to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
• After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water. (This may vary depending on the product. Check the label.)
• Do not spray aerosol or pump products in enclosed areas.
• Do not spray aerosol or pump products directly to your face. Spray your hands and then rub them carefully over the face, avoiding eyes and mouth.
Q. What are some reactions to be aware of when using insect repellents?
A. Use of repellents products may cause skin reactions in rare cases. Most products also note that eye irritation can occur if product gets in the eye. If you suspect a reaction to a product, discontinue use, wash the treated skin, and call a poison control center. If product gets in the eyes flush with water and consult health care provider or poison control center. If you go to a doctor, take the product with you.
There is a national number to reach a Poison Control Center near you: 1-800-222-1222.
Children
Q. Can insect repellents be used on children?
A. Repellent products must state any age restriction. If there is none, EPA has not required a restriction on the use of the product.
According to the label, oil of lemon eucalyptus products should NOT be used on CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS.
In addition to EPA’s decisions about use of products on children, many consumers also look to the opinion of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The AAP does have an opinion on the use of DEET in children (see below). AAP has not yet issued specific recommendations or opinion concerning the use of picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus for children. CDC will post a link to such information from the Academy when/if it becomes available.
Since it is the most widely available repellent, many people ask about the use of products containing DEET on children. No definitive studies exist in the scientific literature about what concentration of DEET is safe for children. No serious illness has been linked to the use of DEET in children when used according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Environmental Health has updated their recommendation for use of DEET products on children in 2003, citing: “Insect repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, also known as N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) with a concentration of 10% appear to be as safe as products with a concentration of 30% when used according to the directions on the product labels.” AAP recommends that repellents with DEET should not be used on infants less than 2 months old. Parents should choose the type and concentration of repellent to be used by taking into account the amount of time that a child will be outdoors, exposure to mosquitoes, and the risk of mosquito-transmitted disease in the area.
If you are concerned about using repellent products on children you may wish to consult a health care provider for advice or contact the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) through their toll-free number, 1-800-858-7378 or npic.orst.edu
Q. What guidelines are available for using a repellent on children?
A. Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent:
• When using repellent on a child, apply it to your own hands and then rub them on your child. Avoid children’s eyes and mouth and use it sparingly around their ears.
• Do not apply repellent to children’s hands. (Children may tend to put their hands in their mouths.)
• Do not allow young children to apply insect repellent to themselves; have an adult do it for them.
• Keep repellents out of reach of children.
• Do not apply repellent under clothing. If repellent is applied to clothing, wash treated clothing before wearing again. (May vary by product, check label for specific instructions.)
Q. How else can I protect children from mosquito bites?
A. Using repellents on the skin is not the only way to avoid mosquito bites. Children (and adults) can wear clothing with long pants and long sleeves while outdoors. DEET or other repellents such as permethrin can also be applied to clothing (but is not registered for use on skin), as mosquitoes may bite through thin fabric. Mosquito netting can be used over infant carriers. Finally, it may be possible to reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area by getting rid of containers with standing water that provide breeding places for mosquitoes.
Q. Can insect repellents be used by pregnant or nursing women?
A. Other than the routine precautions noted earlier, EPA does not recommend any additional precautions for using registered repellents on pregnant or lactating women. Consult your health care provider if you have questions.
Insect Repellents containing DEET and Sunscreen
Q. Can I use an insect repellent and a product containing sunscreen at the same time? What are the recomendations for combination sunscreen/insect repellent products ?
A. Yes. People can, and should, use both a sunscreen and an insect repellent when they are outdoors. Follow the instructions on the package for proper application of each product. In general, the recommendation is to apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent.
It is recommended NOT to use a single product that combines insect repellent containing DEET and sunscreen, because the instructions for use of insect repellents and use of sunscreen are different. In most situations, insect repellent does not need to be reapplied as frequently as sunscreen. While no recommendations are available at this time regarding products that combine other active ingredients and sunscreen, it is important to always follow the label on whatever product you are using.
To protect from sun exposure and insect bites, you can also wear long sleeves and long pants. You can also apply insect repellent to your clothing, rather than directly to your skin.
More Information
Q. Where can I get more information about repellents?
A. For more information about using repellents, please consult the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Web site or consult the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), which is cooperatively sponsored by Oregon State University and the U.S. EPA. NPIC can be reached at: npic.orst.eduor 1-800-858-7378.
Are you an athlete who likes to push your body to its limits? Spend a lot of time outdoors, working hard, or on summer adventures? Check out this blog post taken from CamelBak about the importance of hydrating – something most of us could do better. There are some startling facts below!
We stock Nalgene & CamelBak water bottles as well as CamelBak’s hydration packs. Take this part of your health seriously and get the gear & water you need before you head out on adventures this summer.
Hydrating for Sport Performance
Water is the most abundant (and overlooked) element in the body. In fact, experts rank water second only to oxygen as essential for life and say most of us aren’t getting enough water. Whether you’re just starting out with an exercise plan or you’re a highly trained athlete, we’ve got some quick tips to help you understand the importance of hydration on your performance.
The importance of pre-hydration before your workout or event:
The American College of Sports Medicine recommends drinking 14-20 ounces of fluid 2 hours before exercise to make sure you’re adequately hydrated.
Athletes who are dehydrated when they start competing don’t perform as well. Why? Starting your workout dehydrated reduces the amount of fluid circulating in your bloodstream and bathing your body’s cells. Less circulating fluid makes your heart work harder during exercise, drives up your heat production, and limits your body’s ability to cool itself. Increased body temperature also affects your mental performance.
According to the ACSM, being dehydrated by more than 2% of body weight can significantly affect performance.
Drinking water regulates your body temperature. That means you’ll feel more energetic when exercising. Water also helps fuel your muscles.
Why you need to stay hydrated during exercise:
In a dehydrated state, your muscles fatigue and may develop cramps.
Hydration keeps your heart rate lower, longer.
Both aerobic and endurance activities are affected, performance worsens in a hot environment and as dehydration increases.
Hydration keeps you from overheating. As you exercise, your muscles generate heat. The body dissipates this heat through sweat, and as the sweat evaporates, it cools the tissues beneath. Since sweat is made up of about 95% water, you need water in order to sweat normally.
Water acts as a lubricant for muscles and joints and it helps cushion joints to keep muscles working properly.
Approximately 70-75% of muscle is made up of water, so maintaining the right water balance is necessary for peak muscle performance.
Athlete studies show a 1% loss in body fluid will slow you down 2%.
Don’t stop there! Be sure to stay hydrated after, too!
Proper hydration has been shown to relieve back and joint pain for as many as 80% of sufferers.
Wake up! Dehydration is the #1 cause for afternoon fatigue.
By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
Hydrated skin looks younger: Your skin is the first place to lose water.
Water delivers the nutrients your body needs – never run on empty.
At Shep’s, we’re not just about winter! Come spring, we flip the store and offer you the greatest summer outdoor equipment, performance & trending apparel and accessories to get you set for the fun months ahead. Whether you like to wake surf or sunbathe, kayak or disc golf, we’ve got you covered.
Customers come in and rave about the sportswear we have for men and women. Here are some highlights of things we know you won’t want to miss.
PrAna – apparel, yoga mats, purses & accessories – styles for the yoga mat and styles for the streets (think denim, skirts, lace trimmed tops, and more!) Men, we didn’t forget about you. Soft, quick drying tees & shorts, lightweight jackets & plaid tops will have you looking good for your summer outings too. (We do have yoga specific pieces for men who participate!)
Kavu – apparel for men and women who appreciate laid back style, organic fabrics and fun fashion.
Teva Footwear – men and women have been asking for it, so we brought it in. You’ll find their classic Mush II flip flops (everyone needs a pair… or two), women’s Owowahu flips, as well as supportive sandals for summer adventures, and lightweight multi-sport shoes that are great for water activities!
Salomon Footwear – we’ve heard nothing but positive feedback about our new trail running collection from Salomon shoes – brights colors and solid sole construction bring our friends back for more. These door-to-trail shoes can be worn casually or on your spring hikes & runs. Stop in and check out their technical features and try a pair on for yourself.
Patagonia Sportswear – women, we have pieces to make you melt, as well as rainwear to keep you dry & ready wherever this summer takes you. Looking for a new go-to casual dress for hitting the farmers market, or something a little classier for a wedding in July? Maybe some skinny denim to pair with a cute tank? Stop in – we think you’ll find it here. Men will find fresh new takes on summer weight tops, plaids, tee’s, board shorts, bright rainwear, and more!
KuhlSportswear – They never fail with their classic, lovable styles. If you’ve liked it before, you’ll like it now. Sporty and fashionable looks are on our walls from Kuhl. (Never forget their bottoms – it’s what they’re known for. We have shorts in multiple lengths, convertible pants, and their classic pants.) No more sacrificing comfort for looks – they do both.
Swimwear – it’s here, and it’s not just for swimming laps! We have a variety of cuts for women; from sporty racerback, classic bikini, or tankini tops, with bottoms in shapes that will work for you. Patagonia and PrAna have patterns & colors you ladies will love. Men will be comfortable in stretch board shorts from Patagonia, too!
Dakine Handbags – classic styles, quilted fronts, artist collections, laptop bags, and more! Find the right purse for you in our variety of shapes & styles. Complete your outfit or be ready for your summer trip with the best accessories for looks and function.
Buff Headbands – If you’ve worn em you’ve loved em. The original multifunction headwear can be worn in 16 different ways. Not just for winter – our lightweight UV protective bands are perfect for summer sports & activities. Worn as bike helmet liners, sweat bands, or hair bands, these Buffs will help you perform to your max.
And this is just a sample! As always, our summer store is stocked with:
Bikes, helmets & accessories Kayaks, paddles & vests Wakeboard & waterskis, wake surfs, knee boards, tubes, vests, ropes & gloves Tennis racquets, shoes, bags, accessories & apparel Tents, sleeping bags, hiking packs, camping accessories & food Disc Golf discs, baskets, bags, and frisbees Sun protection lotions and sprays for every activity Water bottles & hydration packs Summer games & toys, sunglasses, jewelry and gadgets … and there’s always something extra. 🙂
