12 Days of Xmas Reviews: The First 4 Days

Happy Holidays Surfers! As the day of giving and receiving approaches, and those who are near and dear to us whisper loving words of encouragement directing us to stuff they want to receive as holiday presents … we offer some assistance in finding gift-giving items other than a brand new surfboard for the waterman or waterwoman in your life!.

We are in the midst of our Xmas reviews, and a huge amount of requests have come in to iJS for information regarding the recommendations we may have as presents. Here is a recap of the first four items we reviewed and recommended to readers:

1) Vibram Five Fingers Outdoor Athletic Footwear: (original article appears here) We loved this product for its unique approach to returning to the barefoot pleasures of walking, running, hiking, surfing, and paddling. The shoes provides you a barefoot experience like no other, adjusting quickly to the ground without feeling sharp rocks, wet grass, or hot asphalt. The straps are a bit fussy and a nag to get used to, but all in all, though, this shoe will transform your entire sense of your body when walking and running in an amazing positive way. We absolutely loved these shoes!

2) Yoga for Surfers II DVD: (original article appears here) We are a mix of yoga practitioners and couch potatos here at iJS … but all in all, the staffers have tried a total of 34 Yoga and surf-related exercise DVDs, and hands down, YFS II ranks high (for some the highest) on the list of effective and easily followed home work out regimens. Ranging from 20 minutes to a full hour and a half regimen, your favorite surfer-loved-one (especially you!) will benefit!

3) Yoga Paws Mini Mats: (original article appears here) Yoga Paws are basically fitted gloves for the palms of your hand, and the balls of your feet … although the company proudly advertises them as mini mats, they are far from being mats at all. Made from a polyester and nylon blend for the glove and foot sock, and yoga-mat material for cushioning and slip resistance, the paws hold their promise in portability. Fitting in a mesh bag about the size of a mouse pad, they fit nicely and flatly in almost any travel bag or purse.

4) Inno BoardLocker SurfBoard Rack: (original article appears here) The Inno Boardlocker’s unique “crane system” keeps the two surfboard straps floating in perfect position while you are loading your boards … always within reach. This reduces the need for another person to toss you ropes or straps, or the need to walk around the car to secure straps from the other side. PLUS, the ratcheting mechanism used to secure the boards down ensured perfect tension and even pressure across your surfboards.