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Winter Gear Sale
30% Off most* winter apparel itmes
*Does not include new arrivals
See coupon at the end of newsletter to save even more! |
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Ever Wonder What Happens to the Blood You Donate?
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Sometimes you meet people who
touch your soul and inspire you to do/live/love/help/be more. Colleen Kelly Alexander is one of those people.
Colleen and her husband came into the store last summer to thank us for supporting the Red Cross's marathon team. Initially, I thought that she worked for the Red Cross, but I soon learned her connection to the organization went much deeper. Her story is nothing short of miraculous - a testament to her iron will and indomitable spirit.
On October 8, 2011, Colleen was cycling home from work when she was hit by a 30-ton freight truck that failed to stop at an intersection on Boston Post Rd. The front and back tires of the truck crushed her pelvis and legs, imprinting permanent tattoos of their tread on her abdomen. It ripped open her body and shredded her muscles. Colleen died twice that day and needed 78 pints of blood to keep her heart pumping. She spent five weeks in a medically induced coma and has endured over 20 surgeries and will need at least seven more to help put her battered body back together again.
But it has not stopped her from being an athlete and a source of inspiration to all those who meet her. Less than two years after that horrific accident, Colleen conquered the Timberman Half Ironman and countless races in between. This past weekend she successfully finished the Gasprilla Distance Classic - four races ranging from 5k to half marathon - in two days. A total of 30.4 miles -an amazing feat for any runner let alone one whose body is still recovering.
Colleen's goal is to complete the Ironman Championships in Kona, Hawaii. With her amazing attitude, courage and fight to defy all odds and the thousands of people she's touched cheering her on, I have no doubt that she will do just that.
In the meantime, Colleen travels the country sharing her story, empowering others and raising awareness for bicycling safety and the Red Cross. Always giving back, Colleen donates each medal she earns to one of the heroes who helped save her life and care for her: "I'm slow, I limp and I'm in pain. But I have two legs and a beating heat, and so I run. This is the best way I know how to let the heroes who fought to save me know what they did matters."
In honor of Colleen's remarkable achievements and her "pay it forward" generosity, we will be hosting a Red Cross blood drive this Sunday, March 2, from 10am-3pm.
Our blood drive comes at a critical time as the rough winter has caused large shortage of blood donations. With your help, we can make a small dent in the shortage and give the gift of life to someone's loved one. Be a hero. It will be less painful than your last run and will produce the same endorphins as when you cross the finish line of your goal race.
To sign-up, email Allison at [email protected].
In addition to the blood drive, we are honored that Colleen is going to share her story, passion, courage and infectious energy with us at 11:30am. Representatives from the CT chapter of Achilles International will also be in attendance (see below to learn how the Fleet Feet Community is supporting this wonderful non-profit organization that assists disabled runners).
If life has put an obstacle or challenge in your way or you want to find a renewed purpose for living fit, plan to join us. You will leave inspired to join Colleen and do great things.
Be Fit!
Steph
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Achilles International Partnership & Party!
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I am very excited to announce a special partnership with the CT chapter of Achilles International - an incredible non-profit that supports disabled athletes and pairs them with able-bodied athletes so they can compete in running races and triathlons.
Like Achilles International, we here at Fleet Feet Sports believe that athletes of all abilities should have the opportunity to experience the joy and empowerment that living fit and being part of the running community provides. We invite you to join us as we support our local Achilles International Chapter to recruit athletes (able-bodied and disabled) and funds to support 20 athlete teams at the Amica Iron Horse Half Marathon/10k/5k in June and 50 teams at the Hartford Marathon races.
Our Recruitment Party kicks off on Wednesday, Feb 26 at 6pm with a meet-and-mingle with athletes and members of Achilles International CT. During this time, you can learn more about the organization and the process to become a guide. There will be an optional 3-mile run/walk at 6;30pm, followed by a presentation
at 7pm by Brett Sloan (Achilles Athlete) and Chris Love (Achilles Guide) as they share their inspirational stories with us.
Thanks to our friends at Thomas Hooker Brewery, there will be Chocolate Truffle Stout for all those of age to partake!
Additionally, everyone who donates $25+ to Achilles International this evening will receive a FREE long sleeve t-shirt courtesy of Fleet Feet Sports (donate $50+ and receive a hooded sweatshirt). Both the shirt and hoodie feature the following quote from Achilles International founder, Dick Traub: "There's nothing more fun than doing something that is impossible."
For more information about Achilles International's Connecticut chapter, see the Achilles CT website.
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Stacy's Sports Medicine Corner
The Power of a Trail Run (Even in the Snow!)
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We are at the point in the winter season when running on the roads or sidewalks has become dangerous in some areas. Icy patches combined with narrow shoulders and high banks of snow on the corners that obstruct the vision of drivers can cause many runners to head inside to the treadmill. With more snow in the forecast and a few more weeks of winter left, we might as well embrace the snow and hit the trails for some winter running!
No matter what time of year, running on trails has a lot of physical and mental benefits. Road runners can mix up their routine to help prevent injury, get stronger, and improve their running. Being out on the trails is fun, peaceful and while you should take some precautions before hitting the trails, it is often safer than running amongst the cars, especially in the winter!
The benefits of trail running became very obvious to me when I read the book "Running with the Kenyans," which I have discussed in a previous Sports Medicine Corner article. The Kenyans, while they run almost everywhere, will actually walk the portions of the road that they must take to reach the trails. They don't even bother running on the road because they don't like the way it feels compared to trails!
Click here to discover the benefits of running on trails.
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Injured? Email me
to reserve a free consultation with orthopedist
Dr. Scott Bissell of CT Orthopedics Associates
on Wed, March 6 from 6-7pm.
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Stacy Provencher is a certified Athletic Trainer and Fleet Feet's Sports Medicine Director. She conducts free in-store injury assessments and helps fit customers with medical issues and injuries. To contact Stacy, call 860-233-8077 or email her at [email protected].
Learn about common injuries and treatments in Stacy's Sports Medicine section on our web site.
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Judd's Shoe Review: Adidas Boost 2
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A year ago, I did a special guest review of the shoe I went to Portland, OR to learn about. I am excited to say my anniversary has arrived, and the Energy Boost 2 is finally coming out tomorrow!
If you didn't already know about this running revolution, Boost is a new material that Adidas invented last year with the debut of this namesake shoe. It is a material that has massive energy storage and releasing properties, in a non-EVA foam material. What does that mean? TONS of energy return thanks to an ultra- durable material that never loses bounce, doesn't get affected by temperature, and has no limit on shelf life! So what's new with the Energy Boost 2?
Honestly, the original Energy Boost was so well-designed and meticulously engineered that there was not much improving that could be done to the shoe, so it's mostly minor tweaks, which is good news for the many of you that are already Boost fans. The TechFit upper is a little looser and less stretchy, which is good news for those with higher volume or wider feet. The midfoot cradle is slightly studier to help keep your foot secure and "locked" into the shoe without irritating the top of your foot.
The other notable change is the sizing. Where many Adidas shoes have fit fairly long compared to competing models, the Energy Boost fit a little short due to the snugTechfit upper. Adidas re-proportioned the Boost 2 making the length more true to size.
Finally, keeping true to its tradition of fun colors, the Energy Boost 2 debuts with sweet shades of pink and blue. And there is more of that to come with future color releases later in the year!
NOTE: Due to the unique production process for these shoes, there are limited supplies available. So don't wait too long if you want a pair!
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Casey's Favs
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Spring has sprung! Well, so far just in the apparel industry while we "enjoy" several more weeks of winter. In any event it's never too early to be thinking about updating your spring running
clothes, finding the perfect outfit for your spring race or even refreshing your current gym wardrobe. Why not try something new?
Icebreaker Apparel is made from merino wool that comes off the back of one of the world's toughest animals, merino sheep who live in New Zealand's high country. Their fleece is incredibly soft yet strong enough to hold up against the most extreme weather. Their high tech coat of extremely fine wool is both light and breathable in summer and highly insulating in winter. And because Icebreaker's merino is a free-range fiber, it doesn't itch like traditional wool, isn't clammy like synthetics, and won't stink like wet cotton and petroleum-based synthetic fabrics. Our Spring collection of Icebreaker has great pieces for men and women including undergarments (boxers for guys, bikinis, hipsters and sport bras for the ladies), sleeveless and short sleeve shirts and shorts. Just for the ladies is the Swift Skirt - super fun and flirty. Moving Comfort: Also, just arrived is a beautiful collection from Moving Comfort who believes that when you look and feel your best, you perform better. For the last 30 years they have participated in every aspect of research, design and production in order to naturally understand and design clothes for a woman's body, whatever that body was meant to do. Their care and unwillingness to compromise is what makes their products high quality and reliable. Standout pieces from the spring collection include: Sprint Tech Capri: reflective seams, cooling mesh inserts and security pockets in a new modern, sleek silhouette Sprint Wind Vest: wind and water resistant layering vest will completely protect you from the elements and acts as a great transition piece from season to season Flex Hoodie: seamless and super soft. This flattering hoodie keeps you comfy and dry while working out or cool and stylish while you're grabbing coffee Fun Accessories: headbands (3 styles, many colors), ponytail holders that do double-duty as bracelets and an infinity scarf - the perfect accessory to toss on after your yoga or spin class.
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Spring Training - Begins in March
WalkFit, 5k, 10k & Half Marathon
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Winter will soon be over. It's time to commit to living fit! Grab a friend or make new ones when you join in one of our spring training programs. We have options for the walker, as well as beginner through experienced runner - with distances ranging from 5k to half marathon.
Each program features a proven training plan that is safe and effective, organized weekly runs, tech t-shirt, weekly newsletter, in-store discounts and a team of coaches who will inspire, teach and help you conquer your goal and learn to live healthier. We have a lot of fun along the way and hope you will be a part of it!
WalkFit: Take the first steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Perfect for those who have no desire to run, but still want to be active and healthy. This 10-week program is led by Coach Dotti, a breast cancer survivor whose upbeat personality and friendliness will make the miles fly. In fact, by the end of the program, you will be able to walk a 5k! Information Meeting: Tuesday, March 18 @ 7pm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No Boundaries Beginners 5k: No Boundaries is a nationally recognized training program designed to help you run your first 5K (there is also an "advanced option" for those who can already run a 5k but want to improve). The 10-week program will guide you safely and effectively into becoming a runner, while teaching you valuable tips on healthy living for life. We utilize run/walk intervals to slowly and safely ramp the time you spend running and the distance covered each practice and will teach you the keys to Good Form Running to help you run more efficiently (and enjoyable) as well as reduce the chance for injury. Need more inspiration? Check out this video. Information Meeting: Tuesday, March 11 @ 7pm --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Your Fastest 5k: Ready for a new challenge? Want to take your 5k training to the next level? Join us in striving to hit your 5k PB (Personal Best!) This 10-week program is great for any runner who has a few 5k's under their belt and are ready to take it to the next level. Also great for those who have completed farther distances and feel the need for speed! This program is recommended for runners of paces from 6-11:00 minutes per mile. Coached workouts will consist of form drills, speed intervals and hill repeats on Saturday's and you will be encouraged to participate in our Wednesday Fun Run. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No Boundaries II: 10k: If you have successfully run a 5k in the last 6 months and are ready for your next challenge, join our No Boundaries II training program that will train you to complete the Iron Horse 10k. This 10-week program is designed for our No Boundaries graduates and anyone who can currently run/walk 2-3 miles comfortably. We will help you over the "4-mile barrier" and into distances that require two hands to count. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Half Marathon: Are you contemplating the next level in your running journey? Our Half-Marathon training program is perfect for runners who have completed a few 5ks or 10ks and are ready to up the ante and conquer 13.1 miles! This training program is targeted for those who want to run the Amica Iron Half Marathon, though your coaches can help tailor your training plan if you have another spring half in mind. To participate in this program, you should be able to run 6 miles at a 11:00 mile pace or better by the first practice. |
Smashed Chickpea Salad with Lemon
By Aubrey Schulz |
Chickpeas are a great food to have on hand in a well-stocked pantry. With minimal prep, a healthy salad can be whipped up full of flavor and fiber. One cup of chickpeas provides half (12.5 g) of your daily recommended fiber and a good dose of protein (14.5 g). A portion of the fiber in chickpeas is insoluble fiber, which boosts the health of your colon. Chickpeas also offer a unique supply of antioxidants, a better regulation of blood sugar and linked to improved cardiovascular health. Chickpeas pair well with various types of cuisines, especially Mediterranean and Middle Eastern.
Combine a can of it with a tomato, feta, oregano and olive oil for a Greek inspired dish. The recipe below is inspired by Middle Eastern flavors and would be good stuffed in a pita or served alongside lamb meatballs.
Smashed Chickpea Salad with Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 Tbsp capers
- � tsp ground sumac
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Cayenne pepper, pinch
- Sea salt
- Olive oil
Directions
- Mix everything, but the olive oil in a medium sized bowl.
- Lightly mash the chickpea mixture with the back of a fork, creating a mixture similar to a coarse chop.
- Dress the chickpeas with olive oil and stir to combine.
Adapted from: The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook
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Aubrey Schulz is a certified nutrition and triathlon coach with Get Out N Play . She works with clients to help them reach their nutritional and athletic goals, both in the kitchen and out on the road. This summer she is teaming up with Lake Terramuggus Triathlon Race Director Bill Honeck for a destination marathon
training program. The group training program begins in July and culminates with an October marathon in Bar Harbor ME. |
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STORE HOURS:
Mon-Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-5
Beginning in March,
we will be open until
7pm on Fridays!
Phone: 860-233-8077
www.fleetfeethartford.com
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EVENT CALENDAR
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
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Wed, Feb 26 @ 6-7:30pm
Recruitment/Kick-Off Party
for Achilles Intl
Meet & Greet: 6pm
Optional Run: 6:30pm
Speakers: 7pm
Wed, Feb 26 @ 6pm
FREE Foam Rolling Clinic
w/Stacy
Wed, Feb 26 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities Welcome!
Sat, March 1 @ 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assements
by Select Physical Therapy
No Appointment Necessary
Sun, March 2 @ 10am-3pm
Red Cross Blood Drive
Email Allison to
RSVP to donate
Sun, March 2 @ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
Bring a Towel, Mat & $15
Wed, March 5 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Sun, March 9 @ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
Bring a Towel, Mat & $15
Tues, March 11 @ 7-8pm
No Boundaries "Couch to 5k" Training Program
Info Meeting
Tues, March 18 @ 7pm
WalkFit Program
Info Meeting
March 1-April 15
Outdoor Track Gear-Up
Discounts & Gifts for
student-athletes
See below for details
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FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, March 1 - 9:30-11am
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Injured? Don't know whether you can run/play sports or if you should really see a doctor? Come to our FREE Injury Assessment Clinic staffed by certified Athletic Trainers & Physical Therapists from Select Physical Therapy.
These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday. No RSVP necessary.
Can't make the clinic or need an assessment sooner? Email or call the Select PT FREE Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633)
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Featured Race:
Bolton Road Race
Sun, March 9 @1pm
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The highlight of the 5 mile race is "The Hill" at the 4.5 mile mark that will test your will, your heart and your quads!
This event is known as a race for runners and is a great pre-Boston workout. Even better, Race Director Dani Kennedy has been baking from-scratch cookies to make the finish that much sweeter (in addition to hot dogs, bagels and fruit)!
Both the 5k and 5M races start and finish at Bolton High School (72 Brandy Street, Bolton) which provides ample parking, indoor rest rooms and a warm place to change. The roads will be closed and the views spectacular (see pic at right). Since both courses are loops, every foot of elevation gain means there is a downhill to match!
There will be mile markers and food/water at the finish. Prizes are 3 deep in 8 age groups for the 5M race, with the first Bolton resident finisher getting their name engraved on a huge trophy that is displayed at the town library.
Race registration is $25 ($30 on race day). Register online or via this mail-in form.
Click the logo above to visit the race web site - or check out their Facebook Page to learn about stealth training runs and get an update on the cookie baking extravaganza!
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Into the Wild Running Camp @ Winding Trails
(for HS XC Runners)
Aug 18-22
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We are excited to be a part of a new running camp for high school XC athletes. The "Into the Wild Running Camp" will take place at Winding Trails in Farmington from August 18-22 and promises to be a great week thanks to an incredible facility (woods, wetlands, lakes and ponds) and a high caliber staff that includes Olympians, world record holders, professional runners, state champion coaches, Bikram yoga instructors and the running experts at Fleet Feet Sports.
This is a camp designed to help distance runners "learn by doing". Athletes should expect to gain insight into themselves, their future in our sport, and leave camp knowing how to accomplish their cross country goals. All runners will enjoy daily catered lunches from amazing local restaurants and a solid breakfast to start each day. Space is extremely limited to the first 50 athletes. If you are interested in this 1-of-a-kind experience, click here to register ASAP to ensure your enrollment.
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Outdoor Track
"Gear-Up" Savings
March 1-April 15
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High School Track officially begins on March 17 with the first meets scheduled for early April.
Fleet Feet Sports wants to be your go-to store for your trainers, spikes and gear. From March 1 through April 15, all middle and high school tracksters will receive 10% off their shoes, special discounts on apparel and accessories to keep athletes safe and injury-free.
Also, the first 150 kids to purchase their shoes during this time will get a cool limited-edition t-shirt for FREE!
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Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) | |
Join Duncan & a great group of Fleet Feet Friends for a casual fun run each Wedensday night at 6:30pm. We go between 3-5 miles (a route for all abilities). All paces, including walkers, are welcome to join us.
It's a great way to meet new friends and running partners.
Meet at the store. Runners are required to wear reflective gear and lights when it's dark (we have gear for you to borrow) so everyone is seen and safe!
Note: Fun Runs are canceled during snow and thunder storms and when roads/sidewalks are too icy and dangerous. Check our Facebook page on Wednesday's for status of run.
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Thursday Track Workouts
6:30pm at SJU
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Our First Track Workout is on Thursday, March 6!
Do you feel the need for speed? Or maybe your workout needs a little spice?
Join us each Thursday at 6:30pm beginning on March 6 at the University of Saint Joseph Track off of Asyulm Rd in West Hartford for a fun track workout that caters to both beginners and more experienced runners.
Don't be intimidated by the name. These workouts are designed for runners of ALL abilities. We regularly have 50-70 people whose paces range from 5-12 min/mile. The goal is to help you get stronger and faster...while having fun and meeting some great fellow runners.
Please park in the upper parking lot (NOT the O'Connell Gym lot or we risk losing our permit to use the track).
Can't make it to the workout? Email Coach Brian to receive his Weekly Workout email so you can still get your speed-fix in!
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Yoga for Runners
Sunday's @ 5:30pm
($15/class)
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Walk The Line
When I teach and coach, I often channel my inner Johnny Cash and tell those I work with to Walk the Line. This is how I urge you to approach running, yoga, recovery, and life as a whole.
While running we need to learn to get as close to our line as we possibly can. We need to push ourselves as hard as we can without crashing. Experience and solid training will teach us those limits.
During yoga class, we also walk the line. Most of our runner/yogis are tired, recovering, injured, seeking to be stronger, or all of the above. We will intensely focus on what we need from our class. This could mean increased flexibility or more efficient mobility.
How you approach each pose and class as a whole is unique to each person, and specific to each class. We pay attention to our needs and get as close as we can to meeting them. As for recovery . . . walking the line means letting our bodies rest as much as is needed. If we don't rest, we can't get stronger. But, we can't rest too long or we become stagnant. Again, get as close to that line as you possibly can.
This a great way to approach life as well. Walk the Line. Live life to the maximum. And you won't know you've gone too far until you've gone too far. It's ok. When we know better we do better. And if you are too far away from your line you just might have to step it up a bit. It's all in the journey. Walk the Line!
A yoga class for competitive people that can't easily touch their toes- THAT'S US! Come check our class out- Sundays at Fleet Feet 5.30p!
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Meghan's Web Site
Twitter: @MegColFanning
Facebook
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Corporate Lunch & Learns
Schedule Yours Today
(Free!) | |
Did you know that the experts at Fleet Feet Sports offer free presentations and workshops that are perfect for corporate wellness Lunch-and-Learn series?
Choose from a variety of topics including Injuries & Proper Footwear Selection, Core Health, Minimal Running, Intro to Triathlons and an on-site Fit Clinic. We can also assist with starting a Running and/or Walking Program to help you and your co-workers live fit!
For more information and to schedule a lecture, check out the Community Section of our web site. |
We're on Facebook! | |
Become a "fan" of Fleet Feet Sports Hartford and be the first to know about new events, participate in interesting discussions and view great photos of our Fleet Feet Peeps in action.
Check out our page by clicking here. |
Return Policy | |
We believe in the PERFECT FIT - it's part of our Fitlosophy. If you are not 100% satisfied with the fit of your shoes, socks, sports bra, insoles, etc, we invite you to bring the item back within 30 days of purchase. Even if you wore the item outside.
Give us an opportunity to find a better solution for you. We want to help you get the proper tools to live fit! |
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Show us this coupon (either on paper or on your phone) and save 30% on your first winter sale item, 40% on your second item and 50% on your third item!
You get to choose which discount applies to each item (we're nice like that!). Winter sale items are specially marked with a sticker and include jackets, base-layers, mid-layers, pants, tights, hats, gloves, mittens & gaiters!
One coupon per household. Offer not valid on previous purchases, special orders or in combination with other discounts or coupons. ALL SALES FINAL!
| Offer Expires: Sunday, March 2, 2014
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