Gear & Beer: Pearl Izumi E:Motion Road M3 V2, Scarpa Oxygen GTX, Crop Brewery Idletyme
Pearl Izumi E:Motion Road M3 V2
After a snowy season in the northeast, paved roads and rec paths are the first surfaces to dry out as plants begin to bud and foot traffic flourishes. Pearl Izumi’s most cushioning midsole alleviates the pounding road runners experience when hitting the pavement.
Forget about abrupt, slappy transitions often felt in stability shoes, the Road M3 V2 offers a luxurious ride with super soft heel strike and a smooth transition through the toe thanks to Pearl’s E:Motion technology. The technology has existed for three years but has been fine tuned this season. Marshmellowy cushioning in the heel absorbs impact, while the midsole guides the forefoot through the step with cushioning, stability, and pronation control. The seamless mesh upper is supportive through the forefoot and very breathable – a nice feature as warm weather fast approaches – and a rubber toe bumper adds a bit of protection and durability to the front of the toe box.
Forget about abrupt, slappy transitions often felt in stability shoes, the Road M3 V2 offers a luxurious ride with super soft heel strike and a smooth transition through the toe thanks to Pearl’s E:Motion technology. The technology has existed for three years but has been fine tuned this season. Marshmellowy cushioning in the heel absorbs impact, while the midsole guides the forefoot through the step with cushioning, stability, and pronation control. The seamless mesh upper is supportive through the forefoot and very breathable – a nice feature as warm weather fast approaches – and a rubber toe bumper adds a bit of protection and durability to the front of the toe box.The new Road M3 V2 provides mid level stability in both men’s and women’s sizes with an average weight of only 11.9 ounces and 10.3 ounces for the pair, respectfully. This sneaker packs a big punch in a light package. Ladies will want to size up by half a shoe size as they run on the smaller side. Both men’s and women’s models come in two color ways and are available at many local retailers across Vermont including Skirack, Outdoor Gear Exchange, Fleet Feet, Lenny’s, Pearl, Mountain Goat, Sam’s, and Onion River Sports. If you can’t find them, ask. It’s worth the effort to get a pair of these on your feet before you hit the street. $135
Scarpa Oxygen GTX
If hitting the trail is more your style, you won’t be disappointed with the Oxygen GTX by Scarpa. The Oxygen is a new mid-weight hiker featuring SockFit technology, which incorporates the tongue and softshell inner into a single low profile layer that 
wraps your foot in, you guessed it, a sock-like feel. Pair the close and comfortable inner fit with the grippy Vibram sole and waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex outter and you’ll keep them on all season long.
wraps your foot in, you guessed it, a sock-like feel. Pair the close and comfortable inner fit with the grippy Vibram sole and waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex outter and you’ll keep them on all season long.This year Gore-Tex introduced mesh vent panels all around the foot, including underfoot, to encourage air circulation to help keep tootsies dry during the warmer months while offering its trusted waterproof protection on the upper. Not only is this low rise shoe agile enough for quick jaunts up the local trail, it’s also stable and supportive for longer hikes and a unique alternative to lighter backing footwear. No need to peel off soggy boots and socks at the end of the day, keep the Oxygen on when you hit the town for post adventure food and drinks. $189
Crop Brewery Idletyme
A camp once stood on the picturesque footprint where Crop Restaurant and Brewery now resides in Stowe, Vermont. Crop’s brewmaster, Will Gilson, pays homage to the site’s recreational heritage while recognizing the current popularity of hop forward IPAs with Idletyme, which is named after the camp.
Idletyme is a double IPA designed to be enjoyed by all. It is unfiltered with a subtly hazy, golden hue and leaves a lace-like lattice on the glass once the head recedes. Idletyme is aroma forward with abundant flowery notes and a flavor profile to match, stemming from a blend of Simcoe and other hops, but without the prominent, lasting bitterness typical of this style. Malt and hop favors are well balanced and a smooth finish lends the Idletyme to easy drinking.Enjoy Idletyme inside the restaurant or brew pub or head outside to the patio and Tree House Bar. Pair a pint with live music on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer after working up a thirst (and a hunger) on the adjacent rec path. If you’d prefer to enjoy this 8% ABV beer at your own camp, pick up a 22 ounce bottle from the Mountain Road location or ask for it at other area retailers.
