What is your MVP of gear? For me it’s my 1992 Pear Izumi micro fleece top…

What is your MVP of gear?

For me it’s my 1992 Pear Izumi micro fleece top. I bought this through a Colorado Cyclist catalog (pre commercial internet) back in 1992 shortly after I bought my Specialized StumpJumper.

This piece kicks ass. It has literally been abused, covered in muck/dirt, soaked in sweat, and mistreated since the day I bought it. It washed and dries just great- keeps on performing like a GOAT.

For a few years after I got married it was lost, but I recovered it from the depths of a box in my attic between some useless knick-nacks. Happily found I immediately put it back into rotation for cycling, kayaking, and skiing. Simply put, Pearl Azumi gear is fucking incredible, well thought out, and built incredibly tough. When I hunt for new gear– Pearl Izumi not only fills my wardrobe, but is at the top of my shopping list.

This underlayer has kept me warm for over 3 decades and refuses to quit! It has been skiing with me in France, Switzerland, Italy, and USA East and west coast. Just this weekend I wore it at Killington skiing with my wife and 3 high school aged kids.

This piece of gear simply will not give up. I may request to be buried in it. The adventures I have had in it bring joy and happiness to my life- and it ain’t done working yet!

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by hagemeyp