An Cosantóir

gadgets 35 | GADGETS Merino wool has a number of benefits over synthetic garments: Its moisture management means you stay dry even when working up a sweat. It also provides warmth in cool weather and coolness in warm conditions. It’s a natural fibre, rather than synthetics, which can be made from plastic and can be in flammable. In gadgets this month, we take a look at a number of products from Icebreaker, a New Zealand company that has, in a few years, made a major impact on the adventure clothing world. They have done so not by inventing a new high-tech fabric or technology but by utilising a material that has existed from time immemorial - wool. Icebreaker products are made of pure New Zealand Merino wool, which despite its softness and comfort is highly durable and well suited to extreme conditions; the pro- verbial wolf in sheep’s clothing. It’s odourless and anti- bacterial, which means it doesn’t smell and rarely needs to be washed. It has a high degree of com- fort due to being static free and smooth next to the skin. It’s for a sustainable source. What starts out on the sheep’s back ends up on your back. It is 100% recyclable and biodegradable. Icebreaker Bodyfit The core of the Icebreaker range, Bodyfit is available in three weights; 150g, 200g and 260g, and are designed as go-anywhere, all-purpose base layers. The Oasis 200 Crew (€64.95) and Leggings (€64.95) featured here are lightweight base layers that are favourites with mem- bers of the Defence Forces. This month we have two sets of Bodyfit (top and leggings) to give away, kindly sponsored by The Great Outdoors C JUNE Icebreaker GT Run The brand new Run range combines Merino wool with 3% Lycra to create a more contoured fit. It includes panels with perforated fabrics to create increased airflow and uses reflective logos, and is ideally suited to trail- or road-running. Fea- tured here are the Ace Tank (€49.95) and Distance Shorts (€49.95). OMPETITION Store. To be in with a chance to win this excellent piece of kit, answer the following questions which all relate to this month’s magazine. 3. Icebreakers’ Merino wool is sourced primarily from which country? 1. Where is the CASA aircraft made? 2. What does MRE stand for? Competition closing date is July 8th. Send all entries with your name and address: June Competition An Cosantóir DFHQ, Block 5, Ceannt Bks, DFTC, Curragh Camp, Co Kildare Or email to: subs@military.ie Icebreaker GT Icebreaker GT is aimed at more performance orien- tated activities. A snugger fit and contoured, pre-shaped seams create a great-fitting range that can be used for any activity but really shines in high-tempo, active sports such as skiing, MTB and climbing. Featured here are the Sprint Crew LS (€79.95) THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE

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