The 40th MercedesCup will take place from June 9-17, 2018, on the grounds of Stuttgart TC Weissenhof. Spectators can look forward to a high-calibre lineup of participants headed by the record Grand Slam winner and Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador Roger Federer. The winner will be presented with a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 7.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 184 g/km).

Mercedes-Benz and tennis – a link with a long tradition. For the 40th time the Stuttgart-based brand is the main and title sponsor of the MercedesCup. Numerous internationally known players have confirmed their participation. Partly because for the fourth time the matches will be played on grass and are therefore an important part of the preparations for the legendary Wimbledon.

One of the best tennis players of all time, the Swiss Roger Federer, is also returning to the grass courts of the MercedesCup. Now aged 36, he is aiming for his first victory in the north of Stuttgart in his third year of participation. “I always look forward to the grass court season. I really enjoy playing in Stuttgart. The club’s facilities are intimate and warm and the spectators are always fantastic. As a Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador, the tournament is extra fun as Mercedes-Benz is such an integral part of the week,” says the eight-times Wimbledon champion as he looks forward to playing at Stuttgart Weissenhof.

Roger Federer is regarded as a hot candidate for victory, not least in view of his wins in Melbourne and Rotterdam at the beginning of the year. In addition to prize money totalling 729,340 euros, the winner of the tournament will receive a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC Coupé this year. Alongside Federer, top stars such as Lucas Pouille and Hyeon Chung, as well as the top German players Mischa Zverev, Philipp Kohlschreiber and Jan-Lennard Struff will be seeking victory in the MercedesCup.

However, the focus in Stuttgart will not only be on the players: off the courts, Mercedes‑Benz will offer those attending the MercedesCup the opportunity to experience the brand. For example, they will be able to book free test drives on the Mercedes‑Benz stand – from the A-Class to AMG and smart.

There’s nothing more essential to proper nutrition than staying hydrated, and thanks to a shifting trend away from sugary drinks, bottled water is set to overtake soda as the most consumed beverage in the U.S. But as great as drinking bottled water is for you, the same can’t be said for the environment, with bottled water creating a litany of waste that ends up in landfills. The solution? Use your own bottles, and make your own bottled water.

And while on the surface this seems like a simple solution, finding the perfect bottle is significantly harder than you might imagine. Plastic bottles, aluminum bottles, glass bottles, and so on.

The search for the perfect bottle is a quest I’ve been on for quite some time, because I have to have a bottle with me at all times. For me, the simple truth is that if water’s not readily available, I won’t go out of my way to drink it, usually because I’m too busy and simply forget. While I could turn to vending machines and grab a bottle of water, I can’t stand the taste of the plastic bottles or the chemicals many plastic bottles contain.

The bkr Bottle – THE BEAUTY ESSENTIAL THAT WILL CHANGE THE WAY YOU HYDRATE FOREVER.

Up until recently my go-to bottles of choice were the conventional large plastic sports bottles, but the biggest problem is that over time they all seemed to absorb flavors from the dishwasher or different drinks I used them for. Then a few months ago I was introduced to a bottle brand that completely eliminated the negatives I experienced with plastic bottles, which in-turn has drastically increased my daily H2O intake. The brand, bkr (pronounced “beaker”), is a sleek and stylish water bottle that combines perfectly molded crystal clear soda-lime glass with soft and beautifully colored silicone for easy holding. The silicone helps create the most grippable, tactile bottle I’ve ever held, but the bottle’s glass construction ensures no flavors are absorbed and no strange tastes or chemicals will ever leach into your water,

The bkr bottle was created a few years ago by two fashion forward, intelligent friends, Kate Cutler and Tal Winter. Sick of drinking from cheap disposable bottles, they created a bottle that they would want to drink from, something beautiful, something you wanted to carry with you, something that would ensure that you were never dehydrated again. And from that the bkr bottle was born. Now available in three sizes, the smallest bkr is a 250 ml bottle that can easily slip into your handbag for hands free carrying, the medium size is 500 ml (my choice for everyday carrying), and the 1 liter bkr is perfect for the gym when you need a little extra fluid to get you through your workout without needing to refill.

While you may not be familiar with the name bkr, there is no question you’ve seen it in pictures, whether being carried by the top fitness trainers in the country, your favorite celebrity or heading down the catwalk. The bkr bottle has become the “must have” health beauty essential for those whose jobs it is to be beautiful, and it has the functionality to match.

No matter what your lifestyle, whether you’re drinking water for its beauty benefits or for your health, I’ve yet to find a bottle that’s better to drink form than the bkr Bottle. For a look at the latest collections available, visit their website at www.mybkr.com. Don’t wait, their collections are often limited editions and sell out quickly.

The bkr Bottle – THE BEAUTY ESSENTIAL THAT WILL CHANGE THE WAY YOU HYDRATE FOREVER.

It’s no secret that we here at eMercedesBenz love winter and taking part in as many outdoor winter activities as we can, but as the father of a two year old (with another one on the way), I’ve come to learn that outside options for my son are somewhat limited.  But as anyone that’s met my son knows, attempting to contain him to the indoors isn’t really an option.  He has more energy than anyone I’ve ever met, and he constantly needs to either be playing or be in motion.  He hates television; he’ll barely sit still long enough to read a 10-page book; but he loves to go on hikes in his pack; he loves being towed behind a bike; and he loves anything else that lets him see the world in motion.  Because of this infatuation with activity, I knew I had to have an outlet that would allow me to take my son out in the winter months.  At first, it seemed like a daunting task to take my son out in the freezing temps and heavy snow of the Midwest, but the truth is, it’s actually quite easy, provided you have the right plan of attack.  For me, this meant figuring out how to involve my son in the activities I do on an almost daily basis outside – hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing – and as it turns out, the answer was quite simple, and it existed in the form of the Chariot CX 2 X-Country Child Carrier.  How great is it you ask?  Read on to find out.

Chariot CX 2 X-Country Child Carrier

The Chariot CX 2 X-Country Child Carrier is, in a nutshell, the most versatile, well-built child carrier on the planet.  I’m already sounding overly complimentary, I know, but the truth is, there’s simply nothing else like it.  In describing the Chariot CX 2 X-Country, it’s best to to look at it as a modular transportation system for kids.  It quite simply does everything, acting as a normal stroller, a jogging stroller, a hiking stroller that you can tow behind you, a bike trailer, and in in the cold months, a winter carrier, all thanks to its modular CTS conversion system.  But before I delve into its versatility, let’s first look at the Chariot CX 2 X-Country’s core element: its chassis.

Unlike most child carriers that feature an open design, the Chariot CX 2 X-Country features a unique enclosed cockpit that can convert from completely enclosed to completely open, depending on the weather.  Think of it as a roadster for your kids.  You can drive it with the top up in the winter, but when the weather is nice, you put the top down and enjoy the warm summer air.  The Chariot is pretty much the same.  In the winter, there’s an integrated 2-in-1 weather cover and zip-down PU front window that covers the child compartment, offering quick and easy access to your kids while providing complete snow and wind proofing.  When the weather gets warmer, you have the option of rolling the front window up and letting your child enjoy the fresh air; however, there’s still a durable mesh shield in place to keep out the sun, bugs and debris (say, for instance, if you’re towing the Chariot behind your bike).  And lastly, you also have the option to roll up the mesh protection, offering complete open air enjoyment that’s perfect for warm weather walks and jogs, with a sunshade that still offers protection from UV rays.

From a construction standpoint, the entire Chariot CX 2 X-Country is built absolutely superbly.  It features a variety of fabrics including Touch-Tek reinforcement fabric, integrated premium Oxford nylon fabric, extra photo-luminescent Energlo fabric and 3M Scotchlite reflective material.  I’m not an expert on fabric selection, but I can tell you that after extensive use in a variety of demanding conditions, it’s held up beautifully, and it still looks and functions like new.  In dark conditions, the reflective materials clearly serve their purpose, as many areas of the Chariot seemingly glow in the dark.  In addition to the fabric, the CX 2 X-Country features several other features that bear mentioning as well.  The chassis itself features an external, mid-frame design thats both incredibly light and incredibly functional.  Despite its ability to hold two, the entire Chariot weighs in at a mere 30 lbs., and thanks to two quick release locks in the rear, it boasts the ability  to fold into a remarkably small surface area without any other disassembly.  Another key advantage of the external frame design is the Chariot’s cockpit.  Inside, because there’s no frame, children note a supremely spacious and open area that’s perfect for longer days on the road.  Protecting your child, Chariot has implemented a unique 5-point padded harness system, and a removable padded seat and fleece-lined interior offer a fantastic level of comfort for your little ones.  And what may be the best feature for new parents, Chariot has also developed a variety of interior appointments for new babies, including a baby bivy, an infant sling and a baby supporter, allowing you to take your child out in the Chariot from as young as a month onward (in a slower capacity, of course).

Chariot CX 2 X-Country Child Carrier

As fantastic as the Chariot CX 2 X-Country’s chassis is, it’s greatness is equally matched by the ingenuity of its CTS modular system.  The concept is really quit simple – the CX 2 X-Country features a total of 4 attachment points (two in the front; two in the rear), and depending on what activity you’re about to undertake, you can attach different components via these points.  So, for instance, if you’re about to go for a run, you simply attach the two 20-inch wheels in the rear along with the single-wheel running attachment up front.  If you want to convert the Chariot into an everyday stroller, you simply swap the front running wheel with two individual stroller wheels.  And if you want to take the Chariot out in the snow, you remove the front and back wheels, attach the two Rossignol skis in the rear attachment points, and you insert the aluminum tow bars into the front two attachment points.  In total, you can choose from five conversion kits:  the strolling kit, the jogging kit, the bicycle trailer kit, the hiking kit, and the cross-country skiing kit.  Best of all, conversion to any new kit takes literally 30 seconds once you’ve done it before, and require no tools.  You simply use the quick release buttons, and the rear axles and/or front attachments slide directly off.  You can’t get any simpler.

How great is the Chariot CX 2 X-Country?  I said it at the beginning of the article and I’ll say it again:  it’s simply the most versatile, well-built child carrier on the planet.  I’ve had my son in one since he was six months old, and he absolutely adores it.  I’ve trained for a triathlon with him; I’ve ridden 100-miles with him; and I’ve gone on 20+ mile runs with him.  No other child carrier can come close to this versatility and comfort for my son.  Thanks to the ski attachment, I can finally take him out in the winter as well, which he loves equally as much.  I’ve taken him cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking, and the Chariot has performed equally as flawlessly.  It simply glides through the snow, and as you can see from the photos, I just had it out in a fresh 12-inches of powder.  The design works brilliantly in the winter, because the clearance between the skis and the bottom of the chassis allows the snow to pass through.  I had my son in the carrier for about an hour in 15-degree temps, and I could barely pull him out of the carrier when I was done, as he was having such a good time.  If that’s not a testament to the greatness of the Chariot, I don’t know what is.

Chariot CX 2 X-Country Child Carrier

If you’re a parent and want to be active, you can’t get better than Chariot CX 2 X-Country.  It’s the best at what it does, which is allow you to get outside with your children and take them places you never could have taken them otherwise.  It’s one of those things that once you have it, you don’t know how you ever lived without it.  Pricing for the Chariot CX 2 X-Country is set at about $950, and the various attachments are sold individually, allowing you to select the functionality for the specific activities you’re interested in.  Also, it’s important to note that to note that everything I said pertaining to the Chariot CX 2 X-Country applies to the Chariot CX 1 X-Country as well – the only difference is the CX 1 is for one passenger, whereas the CX 2 is for two.  The features of both are identical, so if you only have one child, the CX 1 X-Country is equally as great.

If you’d like to learn more about the Chariot CX X-Country and its full list of features and attachments, you can head over to the official Chariot Carrier website for the full details.  If, on the other hand, you’re ready to take the plunge and buy your own, you can do so directly at REI.com, where they sell both the Chariot CX 1 X-Country and Chariot CX 2 X-Country.

Unless you’ve been living in a cave the past couple weeks, you know the 2012 London Olympics are in full swing, and personally, I can’t get enough of them.  I don’t care what the event is, I’ll watch pretty much any event in the Olympics, simply because I love watching people compete against one another.

What amazes me most about the Olympics is how minute the difference is that separates the winners.  It’s not uncommon for victory to come down to a few hundredths of a second in many of the events.  When you compete, speed matters, down to the most minute amount.

And while I’m not an Olympian, I do compete in a variety of a cycling races on an amateur level, with my favorites being road cycling and triathlons.  As such, I’m always looking for ways to better my time, and one of the latest ways I’ve found to do so is with some new gear from one of my favorite cycling gear makers:  Louis Garneau.

I recently picked up their VORTTICE aero helmet, Carbon Pro Team shoes and Quartz helmet, and all have surpassed my expectations in terms of both their comfort and performance.  Here’s a look at all three, and why if you’re in the market to shave some time off your rides, how each will help you do so.

Louis Garneau VORTTICE Aero Helmet side view

Louis Garneau VORTTICE Aero Helmet ($250)Let’s face it:  for novice riders, an aero helmet isn’t an everyday purchase.  They note a distinctly alien-like in appearance, they weigh more than traditional helmets, and unless you’re in aero position, it’s unlikely you’ll see any benefit from one.

But once you make the switch to a tri-bike, an aero helmet needs to be at the top of your must buy list.  Tri-bikes are built to be as aerodynamically efficient as possible, and aero helmets are built to maximize your aerodynamic efficiency when you’re in a tucked position.  They’re simply made for each other.

I’ve tried a few aero helmets prior to Garneau’s VORTTICE, and for me, they suffered from a couple major flaws:  they were uncomfortable, and they were relatively strict in terms of the position you had to be in to gain the maximum aerodynamic advantage.  For me, the Louis Garneau VORTTICE solves both of these key flaws.

Louis Garneau VORTTICE Aero Helmet front and side view

First of all, lets talk comfort.  At the front of the VORTTICE you’ll note a singular opening strategically placed at the point of the helmet receiving the highest amount of pressure during your ride.  While some helmets attempt to deflect this air around the helmet, Louis Garneau decided to vent it through the helmet.  Air enters the VORTTICE through the vent, is then diverted through channels inside, and it exits out the rear.  Not only does it minimize air resistance in the front of the helmet, it also produces exceptional ventilation while riding – eliminating the overheating issues I’ve experienced with other aero helmets.  I’ve ridden with the VORTTICE on 100 degree days, and it’s handled the heat beautifully.

Another thing I love about the VORTTICE is its fit.  When you’re in the Tour de France, you get an aero helmet fit specifically to you.  Normal cyclists don’t get that luxury, so finding an aero helmet with the perfect fit is far more challenging.  With the VORTTICE, you can get an exceptional fit across a variety of head shapes and sizes, thanks to Louis Garneau’s Spiderlock SL system.  A series of webbing gives you a comfortable, secure fit that’s easily adjustable, and because the Spiderlock does such a great job keeping the helmet in place, it allowed Garneau to keep the ear sections a little wider.  For me, that was a major plus of the VORTTICE, as almost all of the other helmets I used were too snug around my ears.

The second key element to the Louis Garneau VORTTICE is its aerodynamic efficiency (or more specifically, it’s broad range of aerodynamic efficiency).  Typical aero helmets are optimized for aerodynamic efficiency in ideal conditions, meaning when the wind is coming at you and you’re in a perfect aero tuck.  That’s why most aero helmets note a full teardrop shape that extends all the way to your back.

The VORTTICE, on the other hand, sports a tear drop shape that’s cut off in the back, which serves two key purposes:  it reduces drag when you’re in a crosswind, and it reduces drag when you’re in a tuck and you put your head down (both of which, if you haven’t already guessed, are quite common).  Because surface area is reduced, wind resistance is reduced, thus making you faster.

When you’re in ideal conditions and a picture perfect tuck, the VORTTICE is equally as exceptional.  Up front, graduated dimples reminiscent of a golf ball help keep air flow close to the helmet.  This air is then diverted to a series of channels in the middle of the helmet, which create a vortex like effect as they divert air back.  Providing additional efficiency, an integrated (and removable) lens is included, which extends down to cover roughly half your face.

While I haven’t taken it in a wind tunnel, I will say the VORTTICE feels incredibly fast.  For me, the biggest areas I notice a benefit in is either in crosswinds or when my head’s down, but these are both common enough that the VORTTICE has become my go-to aero helmet.  Add in the extra comfort and beautiful fit, and Garneau’s VORTTICE is the perfect compliment to my triathlon/time trial arsenal.

Here’s more details of the VORTTICE aero helmet as noted directly from Louis Ganeau:

• Weight: 15.9 oz/450 g
• Certifications: CPSC-ASTM-CE-AS 2063
• Vents: 2
• In-Mold Construction: Industrial process binding the  front liner and outer shell for increased durability.
• Spiderlock SL: Lighweight rack-and-pinion system, micro-adjustable using only one hand, offering extreme comfort and stability.
• Steplock Divider: Cam locking device to quickly adjust strap position.
• Sealed Pro Ice Padding: Washable sealed adjustment padding for enhanced durability. Provides cool effect when wet. Ergonomic design for optimum comfort.
• Vorttice Lens Included: Designed to minimize fogging.  It features UV 400 resistance.

You can learn more about the Louis Garneau VORTTICE helmet at the official Louis Garneau website.

Louis Garneau Carbon Pro Team Shoes ($330)

I’m a huge fan of Louis Garneau’s cycling shoes, so when I saw they came out with new Carbon Pro Team Shoes, I had to have them.  I’m sort of like a girl in that respect – when I see a cool new technology packed pair of cycling shoes, I have to have them.  And Garneau’s latest offering hasn’t disappointed.

Most importantly, there’s the incredible outsole.  The Carbon Pro Teams are built on Garneau’s Carbon X-Lite outsole, their stiffest, lightest outsole to date.  Not only is it super light, it’s super thin, meaning your foot is closer to the pedal for maximum power.  Mated to the outsole, the Pro Teams feature insoles utilizing Ice-Fil moisture technology.  The fibers in the insole work by converting your foot’s perspiration into a refrigerant, thus keeping your feet cooler and dryer as you ride.  Of course, you can alway swap the Ice-Fil insole for a traditional cold weather insole as well.

Louis Garneau Carbon Pro Team Cycling Shoes front and side view

Fit wise, the Carbon Pro Team shoe utilizes what’s called HRS-300 technology in the heel area.  Getting geeky for a second, it’s an internal polymer system that secures the foot in place, optimizes fit, and reduces loss of power through slippage.  In the real world, it means your foots stays glued in place –  no slippage, which equals no power loss.

Up front, two velcro straps and one ratchet strap offer a secure fit, and they do so without placing strain on your foot’s pressure points.  These straps (in tandem with the HRS-300 technology) make Louis Garneau’s Carbon Pro Team shoes, the stiffest, most secure and most comfortable cycling shoes I’ve worn, bar none.

Here’s more details of the Louis Garneau Carbon Pro Team shoes:

• ELITE FIT
• Carbon HM X-Lite outsole
• New HRS-300 system featuring built-in rigid nylon with a 0.6-mm membrane
• PU Lycra inside heel cup
• Breathable Dry-type microfiber and nylon cycling mesh upper
• Fully adjustable micro-rachet
• Ice Fil Ergo Air Cool Stuff blue double density EVA and Hot Stuff red insoles
• Visual display of cleat position compatible with DURA-ACE, TIME, LOOK and SPEED PLAY cleats with shims (F-4, R-4)
• Shoe bag included
• Offset straps
• Ergo Air insole interchangeable
• Lightweight
• Approximate weight (size 41/1 shoe): 258 g/9.20 oz

To learn more about the Louis Garneau Carbon Pro Team cycling shoe, head over to the official Louis Garneau website.

Louis Garneau Quartz Helmet

For traditional road racing or just everyday rides, my go-to helmet is the Louis Garneau Quartz Helmet.  To be honest, I even use it when I’m mountain biking.  It’s simply the most comfortable, coolest helmet I’ve had the pleasure of wearing.

Louis Garneau Quartz Helmet front and side view

So how did Louis Garneau make the Quartz so comfortable?  By adding huge ventilation channels (with 33 a total of 33 vents) to provide ultimate cooling and weight reduction.  Of course, too many vents typically means reduced rigidity; however, thanks to Garneau’s monocoque structural base (MSB) technology, this isn’t the case with the Quartz helmet.  The base of the helmet is reinforced around the perimeter for superb protection, while additional composite reinforcements help spread the shock of impacts while still noting an exceptionally light weight.

Providing a superb fit, the Quartz helmet utilizes Garneau’s Spiderlock SL system.  As is the case with the VORTTICE aero helmet, the Quartz fit system easily adjustable and comfortable irregardless of your head shape, while angle adjustments and ergonomic foam padding make the Quartz the most comfortable helmet I’ve worn.

Here are the full details of the Louis Garneau Quartz helmet:

• Weight: 8.8 oz/250 g
• Certifications: CPSC-ASTM-CEN-AS 2063
• Vents: 33
• Super MSB Technology: Ring-shaped protection at the base of the helmet reinforces the perimeter for enhanced protection.
• In-Mold Construction: Industrial process binding the front liner and outer shelle for increased durability.
• Evacuation channels: Moisture channels provide better airflow and moisture wicking.
• Ringlock: Frame ring that ensures helmet’s integrity on impact.
• Spiderlock SL: Lightweight rack-and-pinion system, micro-adjustable using only one hand, offering extremet comfort and stability.
• Steplock Divider: Cam locking device to quickly adjust strap position.
• Sealed Airdry padding: Washable sealed adjustment padding for enhanced durability, ergonomic design for optimum comfort.
• V-Pro System: Receptacle molded into the helmet in order to put on and off the visor as often as you wish. Plastic plugs are included to fill the holes when not used.
• Quartz Visor: Specifically designed for the Quartz, this visor perfectly adapts to the helmet design. Can be installed with the included V-Pro system.

To learn more about the Louis Garneau Quartz helmet, head over to the official Louis Garneau website.

From a physical fitness standpoint, few things (if any) offer as many health benefits crammed into a single package as running.  Running burns calories, increases endurance, lowers blood pressure, strengthens the heart… and the list goes on.

Needless to say, I’m a huge fan of running.  When I was younger I ran about 3 miles a day, 4-5 days a week.  Now that I’m a little older and my body needs a little more work to stay fit, I’ve actually upped my distance to the 5 mile mark.  My wife, being the fantastic motivator she is, has also pushed me to compete in numerous half marathons and a few marathons with her.  So when it comes to running, I would consider myself to be fairly well versed.

But as great as running is, the benefits do come at a price.  Running is a relatively high impact exercise, and if you’re not careful, it can cause significant wear-and-tear on your body.

It’s a lesson I learned when I hit my 30’s.

When I was younger, I didn’t even think about running.  I woke up, threw on whatever running shoes or cross trainers I had laying around, and went for a run.  But as I got older, my body started giving me signs it was unhappy.  Knee pain, in particular, started plaguing me, until eventually it got to the point I had to take days off to let my knees recover.  I realized that I needed to start assessing my runs, and figure out exactly what was leading to the uncomfort I was experiencing in my knees.

At the suggestion of my wife, I went to a local shoe store that offered a free running analysis, and found that I over pronate slightly when I step (in other words, I strike more on the outside of my foot).  Worse, however, was that my current running shoes were compounding the problem, as they favored those with under pronation (which placed even more strain on my outer leg).

The salesman recommended I switch to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12.  I did, and the chronic knee pain I had been experiencing on my runs disappeared virtually overnight.  I was so impressed with the analysis and the Brooks that I convinced my wife to have an analysis of her gait performed as well.  She did, and subsequently picked up a pair of Brooks Ghost 5.  You’ll here from her shortly, but in a nutshell, she says they’re the most comfortable running shoes she’s ever worn.

Here’s a look at both the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12 and Brooks Ghost 5, why we love them, and why if you’re serious about running, Brooks needs to be at the top of your list.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12 ($110, men’s and women’s)

The 12 in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12 name isn’t just a random number, it’s the twelfth revision of Brooks’ popular Adrenaline series.  Brooks has been creating the Adrenaline series for quite a while, and it’s clear when you’re wearing the Adrenaline GTS 12’s they know exactly what they’re doing.  Simply put, the Adrenaline GTS 12’s are incredibly, incredibly comfortable.

How do they do it?  It all begins in the sole.

Turn the Adrenaline GTS 12’s over, and the first thing you’ll notice in the heel area is what Brooks calls the caterpillar crash pad.  It’s a segmented rubber pad that provides tremendous cushioning for heel strikers, but because it’s segmented, it still manages to offer a smooth transition into the midfoot.

Another vital piece of comfort that’s built into the sole is what Brooks calls DNA, located both in the heel and the forefoot.  Getting geeky for a second, DNA is engineered from what’s called a non-Newtonian liquid, a special substance capable of transforming itself depending on what you need it to do.  At slow speeds, like when you’re walking, DNA takes a break and provides maximum cushioning.  But as your pace quickens, DNA goes to work and intelligently starts dispersing the pressure, resulting in a still comfortable but firmer sole.  You need cushioning, but you need support as well.

And speaking of support, the Adrenaline GTS 12 offers plenty.  One of the key ways it does so is with what Brooks calls a Progressive Diagonal roll bar, located in the midsole.  According to Brooks, their tri-density PDRB midsoles are biomechanically engineered to allow for progressive pronation control and to create smoother transitions from the midstance phase into the propulsion phase.  I don’t know how it works, but after learning of my over pronation and subsequently logging 100+ miles on my GTS 12’s, I can tell it works.  Knee pain and shin pain are completely gone, and I’m feeling a comfort level when running I’ve never felt before.  They’re just awesome.

Up top, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12’s note a super flexible, supremely breathable mesh upper that looks great.  While not ideal in wet conditions, they’re fantastic for everything else thanks to their excellent cooling and moisture management properties.

From a fit standpoint, the core of the upper’s design is a lacing system with four stretch points.  The idea is that regardless of your foot shape, the GTS 12’s can adapt to your foot and lock it in closer to the midsole.  Another element of the Adrenaline’s that I love is that in the heel area, Brooks has added a split collar lining that significantly reduces friction (and in turn, reduces the chance of heel blisters).  For me, all of this adds up to a fit that borders on perfection.  They’re supportive, perfectly snug, and have ample room in the toe box.

Do I love my Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12’s?  Absolutely.  Do I recommend them to everyone?  No, because as I came to learn, you need to pick a shoe based on your specific gait.  But for anyone that suffers from moderate pronation, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12’s are absolutely fantastic.  They’ve completely eliminated all the unnecessary pain I’d been enduring by running with the wrong shoes, and I haven’t looked back since.

For those of you that either are neutral footed, have more pronation or under pronate, fret not.  Brooks has a fantastic tool (which you can try here) that analyzes your gait from the comfort of your own computer.  Take the test, and you’ll see precisely what shoes they recommend.  Best of all, they have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, so if they get it wrong, you can trade them in for a different pair.

To learn more about the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12, head over to the official Brooks website for more details and ordering info.  And if you’re unsure of sizing, be sure to check out the “What’s My Size” tool on the Adrenaline GTS 12’s product page, which is an incredibly accurate way to get the perfect size without trying on the shoes first.

Brooks Ghost 5 ($110, men’s and women’s)

Whereas I’m a proud owner of the Adrenaline GTS 12’s, my wife owns the Brooks Ghost 5 – an ideal fit for neutral gaits.  Rather than attempt to review the shoe for her, I’ll let her take it from here.

I’ve tried countless pairs of running shoes from all different brands, and pretty much all of them end in blisters.  It’s so bad I’ve actually accepted the fact that blisters are a requirement of running.  Or so I thought.  After witnessing my husband’s new love of running thanks to his Brooks, mixed with some gentle prodding on his part, he convinced me to try the running test as well.   They told me I was a neutral gait, but that the blisters I was experiencing were due to my wider than normal feet (which, by the way, isn’t exactly something women like to hear).

They recommended the Brooks Ghost 5 in a wide fit.  Like my husband, it was my first pair of Brooks, so I wasn’t sure of what to expect.  But after my first run in them, I officially became a Brooks convert.  For the first time in recent memory I’ve been able to run blister free.  I really can’t say I how happy I am with them and how much better my feet feel.

Some of the things I love about the Brooks Ghost 5:  number one, the comfort.  For me, they offer the perfect level of comfort, especially during my longer runs.  The caterpillar crash pad extends through the length of the shoe, so there’s a really nice level of cushioning and flexibility throughout my stride.  There’s also Brooks DNA incorporated into the sole, which provides me more cushioning at slower speeds but gets firmer as my speed increases.

Another thing I love about the Ghost 5’s is the fit.  They’re snug and supportive, but there’s plenty of room in the toebox for my feet, which is something that’s very difficult for me to find in a shoe.

Lastly, I love the look of the Ghost 5’s.  I personally like the purple because of the bright colors, and was surprised at how much detail has been incorporated into the design.  They look great – so great, in fact, that a few of my friends purchased pairs of their own, one of them for running and two of them for the style.

The Brooks Ghost 5 is really a great shoe if you’re a neutral runner, and if you’re prone to blisters, there’s a really good chance it will alleviate any problems you’re currently experiencing.  I’m finally pain free when running, and because of this, I’m a Brooks convert.  I recommend them to everyone I know, and I recommend them to you.

To learn more about the Brooks Ghost 5, head over to the official Brooks website for more details and ordering info.  And to ensure the right size without ever leaving your computer, be sure to check out the “What’s My Size” tool on the Ghost 5’s product page.

When it comes to gift giving, whether for Christmas or any other holidays/special occasions, I have one very basic rule:  never give away disposable items.  In other words, if you’re debating whether to buy one exceptionally made product vs. multiple lesser made ones, always opt for the exceptionally made one.  Nine times out of 10, not only will the exceptionally made product last longer than all of the cheap products combined, it will also perform significantly better throughout its lifespan.

While it’s a truth that applies to a wide range of products, in my personal experience, there’s no clearer testament to opting for quality over quantity than Nalgene bottles.  As someone that loves sports, I’ve managed to amass a somewhat large collection of cheap drinking bottles in my lifetime, and I’ve hated them all.  They’re made with incredibly cheap plastic, they contain chemicals you shouldn’t be drinking, and they have a tendency to make your drinks taste, shall we say, unpleasant – a truth that gets worse the longer your drink stays in the bottle.  Then there’s the ones that leak, the ones that crack… you get the idea.

After years of using bottles that all ended up in the garbage, I eventually bit the bullet and sought out a quality bottle, settling on a bottle from Nalgene.  It was their 32 Ounce Wide Mouth, a straightforward bottle that appeared as though it solved everything I hated about my cheap bottles.  It was solidly constructed, it looked leakproof, it was BPA free, and it came with a lifetime guarantee (in the event it did break).  In total, I think I paid about $8 for it.  It was a purchase that changed my views of water bottles forever.

Two years later, I’m still using the same bottle, and it performs exactly as it did on day one.  It’s 100% leakproof; there’s absolutely no taste that leeches into your drink, irregardless of how long your drink stays in the bottle; and it’s incredibly tough.  It’s a purchase that forever changed my views of drinking bottles, as I’ve since gotten rid of every other water bottle I own, and replaced them with Nalgene bottles exclusively.

I use them for pretty much everything.  Playing sports, being outdoors, in the car, on my desk while I work – hydration is a key element of your everyday health, and I have a Nalgene bottle with me all day to ensure I drink enough.  The same is true for the rest of my family.  After going through the struggle to find the perfect leak proof cups for my kids, I’ve since replaced all their cups with Nalgene Grip ‘N Gulp bottles.  Whereas I was able to find leakproof bottles that were BPA free, the Nalgene Grip ‘N Gulp are the only ones that don’t add an unpleasant taste to the the drinks inside.  It may not be BPA, but I don’t want any taste or substances leeching into my kids’ drinks, and with the Nalgene, there’s absolutely none.

With Christmas right around the corner, I though I’d share with you some of my (and other eMercedesBenz staffers) favorite picks in the Nalgene lineup, all of which make great stocking stuffers for pretty much anyone you know.  All of these bottles are the ones we use each and every day, and as you’ll see, we have somewhat of a Nalgene addiction, with almost the entire Nalgene lineup represented by someone on our staff.

Here’s a rundown of the Nalgene bottles we love, and why.

Nalgene Wide Mouth in 16 oz., 32 oz., or 48 oz. ($9, $10.20, $10.20)

My personal favorite, and it’s Nalgene’s number one seller.  Available in 16, 32 or 48 ounce sizes, the Wide Mouth is the first Nalgene I purchased, and I’m still using it.   It’s leakproof, it’s BPA free, and it’s guaranteed for life.  As for why it’s my favorite, there’s a couple reasons.  One, I love the loop for the handle.  It may seem inconsequential, but it makes carrying the Wide Mouth a breeze.  If you’re out hiking or playing sports, you easily fill up four bottles, and carry them all with one finger, thanks to the loops.  Plus, you never have to worry about losing the cap.

Another thing I love is the wide mouth design itself.  It easily accommodates ice, water filters fit perfectly, and if you’re really adventurous and need to fill your water up from a stream, the wide design allows you to do so.  It’s just a super rugged, well-designed bottle that’s Nalgene’s best all-around bottle.

Other features include:

• Our Everyday line is made of Eastman Tritan™ copolyester, and is BPA Free
• Graduations help keep track of fluid intake, marked with milliliters and ounces for easy measurement
• Most backpacks have a side pocket designed around the size of the Nalgene Wide Mouth
• Dishwasher safe (top rack only) – just make sure the cap does not touch the heating element
• High impact resistance, resistant to staining, won’t retain odors
• Withstands sub-freezing to boiling temperatures
• Opening accommodates most water filters
• Made in USA

You can learn more about the Nalgene Wide Mouth bottles or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene On-The-Go OTG ($10.20)

The Nalgene OTG is a great option to take with you on the go, especially in the car and on your bike.  It’s convenient size fits in most car cup holders and it fits in bike cages.  In addition, the top features a unique flip top design, allowing you to access your drink with one hand.  The one caveat is that the top’s one handed operation means it’s not 100% leakproof.  So while it’s great for everyday use, you don’t want to store it upside down in your backpack.

Construction wise, the Nalgene OTG is built from BPA free Eastman Tritan copolyester, making it indestructible, taste and odor free.  Here’s a full list of the OTG’s features:

• Holds 24 ounces
• Weighs 121 grams
• Sports a sleek, slender profile
• Allows for easy one handed operation
• Opens and closes with easy flip-top lid
• Let’s you enjoy the flavors of your beverage, not your bottle
• This bottle is made from Eastman Tritan copolyester that is manufactured without Bisphenol A (BPA)
• This bottle has a recycling code of #7, which means other. It does not contain BPA

You can learn more about the Nalgene OTG bottles or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene On-The-Fly OTF ($12.99)

The newest bottle from Nalgene, the On-The-Fly offers a new spring loaded top, and pairs it with the same sleek bottle design introduced on the OTG series.  It still fits into most car cup holders and bike cages, but the top is 100% leakproof, no matter how rough things get.  You press a button, and the spring loaded top pops open, easily done with one hand.  It’s a fantastic everyday bottle that you can take with you pretty much anywhere, but the added leakproof ability means you won’t have to worry when you throw it in your pack or forget to keep it upright.

Like the Nalgene OTG, features of the OTF include:

• 24 ounces capacity
• 121 gram weight
• Sports a sleek, slender profile
• Allows for easy one handed operation
• Opens and closes with easy press button lid
• Let’s you enjoy the flavors of your beverage, not your bottle
• This bottle is made from Eastman Tritan copolyester that is manufactured without Bisphenol A (BPA)
• This bottle has a recycling code of #7, which means other. It does not contain BPA

You can learn more about the Nalgene OTF bottles or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene MultiDrink ($14.99)

If you’re the type that prefers drinking from a straw instead of full time gulping, the Nalgene MultiDrink is the perfect choice.  As its name implies, the MultiDrink features two individual ways to enjoy your drinks.  Firstly, a pivoting straw with leak proof lock lets you slowly enjoy your drinks, and in the event you want to get your drink quicker, you can also use the MultiDrinks 28mm loop-top.  And if you purchase the MultiDrink and fall in love with its unique top, the cap fits all of Nalgene’s 63mm cap designs, meaning you can use it on your existing Nalgene bottle collection.

As with the OTG and OTF Nalgene bottles, the MultiDrink fits well in most car cupholders, and like the Wide Mouth, the looped top makes carrying the MultiDrink a breeze.  More features include:

• Made from a super BPA free durable co-polyester
• Leakproof 63mm Cap
• Straw locks into its own “garage” to stay clean
• Small 28mm cap opens for solving hearty thirsts
• Dishwasher Safe

You can learn more about the Nalgene MultiDrink bottle or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene Grip ‘n Gulp ($9.25)

For the kids, you won’t find a better bottle than the Nalgene Grip ‘n Gulp.  For starters, it’s spill proof.  As in, it doesn’t leak, at all.  Secondly, it’s ergonomic design makes it easy for your kids to hold the bottle.  Thirdly, the rubber top is incredibly durable, and it makes it comfortable for your kids to drink.  And for parents, the loop on the lid means you can clip it to a stroller, diaper bag or backpack.

Constrution wise, the Grip ‘n Gulp has the same great features found in the rest of the Nalgene lineup.  A Tritan copolyester construction is not only BPA free, it completely eliminates any plastic taste in  your kids drinks.  It resists odor, it resists stains, and it resists residue forming on the inside of the bottles.  It’s also top rack dishwasher safe, meaning cleaning it’s as simple as you can get.  Other features of the Grip ‘n Gulp include:

• Side indents are easy for tiny hands to grasp
• Rubberized lid and smooth plastic mouthpiece make drinking comfortable
• Superior threading on cup and lid is engineered to prevent spills
• Cup, lid, and removable sipper valve are all top rack dishwasher safe
• Lid loop can be clipped to backpack, diaper bag, or stroller
• Twelve-ounce cup is compatible with OTG, ATB, and wide-mouth closures
• This bottle is manufactured from Eastman Tritan TM copolyester that is manufactured without BPA
• The recycling code on this product is #7, that means other.

You can learn more about the Nalgene Grip ‘n Gulp bottles or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene ATB in 22 oz., 32 oz. ($7.58, $8.10)

If you’re looking for a more conventionial bottle for biking or you love playing the mud, the Nalgene ATB is the perfect choice.  A patented hinged cap closure keeps the bottle protected, meaning no matter how dirty things get on the outside, your bottle’s drinking spout always stays clean when it’s time to take a drink.  The 22 0z. size fits perfectly in bike cages and cup holders, and the wide mouth screw top makes it easy to add ice, and the neck configuration works with most major water purifiers and filters.

Other features of the Nalgene ATB include:

• BPA-free low density Polyethylene (LDPE) construction
• Flexible, with excellent impact resistance
• Microwaveable (un-assemble lid from container)
• Dishwasher safe away from heating element
• Max. temperature: 80°C/176°F
• Min. temperature: -100°C/-148°F

You can learn more about the Nalgene ATB bottles or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Nalgene Oasis ($8.99)

If you’re feeling nostalgic, the Nalgene Oasis brings a modern Nalgene design to the classic metal canteen.  Built from BPA free Eastman Tritan copolyester, the Oasis is not only impact resistant, it also resists stains and odors incredibly well, and it doesn’t add or retain any tastes.  Best of all, it retains the same classic shape you’ve come to know and love from a classic canteen.  It’s guaranteed leakproof, it notes an easy to drink from 38mm narrow mouth, and it holds 32 oz. to quench the most demanding of thirsts.  Lastly, it’s dishwasher safe.

Here’s the full list of great features found on the Nalgene Oasis:

• Thirty-two ounces of Hydration in an easy to hold configuration
• 38mm Narrow Mouth closure, just like our Narrow Mouth bottles
• Guaranteed Leakproof.
• Dishwasher safe, but make sure the closure does not touch the heating elemement
• Made from BPA free Eastman Tritan, an extremely impact-resistant material that does not retain tastes, odors or stains
• Bottle is 8 ½” high by 4 7/8” x 3 1/8”
• Lightweight at 130g

You can learn more about the Nalgene Oasis bottle or buy your own at the official Nalgene website.

Imagine, if you will, a perfect running trail that you have all to yourself, the sound of your footsteps echoing in perfect unison to the beat of your favorite tunes.  But with temperatures jumping to 90+ degrees across the country this past week, it’s a fantasy that involves a certain level of discomfort, due to the unavoidable perspiration soaked t-shirt and shorts.  Thankfully, North Face has a solution, and it involves running naked.  Well, sort of.

Instead of running naked, North Face has what they call the Better Than Naked Running Collection, a super lightweight, ultra breathable collection aimed at making you forget you’re wearing anything.  Several members of our staff picked up both men’s and women’s pieces from the collection, and with the recent surge in temps, we got a chance to test the North Face Better Than Naked running collection’s prowess in the wild.  Here’s what we thought of each.

The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Short ($50-$55)

For any runner (and men in particular), finding the perfect running short is a vital component in maximizing your comfort during a long on the road/trail.  From a coolness standpoint, you need a short that’s lightweight, breathable, and helps keep the temps down when things get hot; and from a comfort standpoint, having a short that offers support while running, without chaffing, is also a necessity.  The North Face Better Than Naked Short excels in both areas, as it’s constructed from super-lightweight, breathable materials that still offers support (in the men’s short) to keep your valuables exactly where you want them.  Another great feature is the lack of an inseam, meaning chaffing is non-existent.

On the road, they perform brilliantly.  In blistering 90-degree heat, they perform as exactly as advertised, keeping you as cool as possible; offering the ideal level of support and compression (in the men’s short); and eliminating chaffing entirely.  To be honest, running in just the short without a shirt, the areas covered by the short were actually cooler – a testament to their Better Than Naked namesake.

Some of the other features offered by The North Face Better Than Naked short include:

• Multi-pocket storage system at center back including zip
• Reflective logos
• DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Continuous seamless short liner wraps up to top of waistband
• No inseam for increased comfort and to reduce potential chafing

Overall, if you’re looking for the perfect summer running short that’s cool, super comfortable and still supportive, you can’t go wrong with the Better Than Naked short.  You can learn more about The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Short or pick up a pair for yourself at The North Face website.

The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Crew ($50-$55)

Matching beautifully the form and function of the Better Than Naked short, The North Face also offers the Better Than Naked crew, a fantastic short-sleeve option for running in high heat.  As with the Better Than Naked short, the crew is constructed from super-lightweight, super-breathable fabrics; while bonded stitchless seams have been utilized to eliminate chaffing potential.

It’s a construction that performs beautifully in high temperatures, as the Better Than Naked Crew does a fantastic job wicking away moisture and helping keep the temperature down.  In testing the crew, we opted to run both with the crew and shirtless to compare body temps, and the time with the crew was without question the cooler option.  Its ability to block the sun’s rays while minimizing moisture means you get the best of both worlds – sun protection and optimal cooling – while its stitchless seams and stretch side panels ensure the crew doesn’t sacrifice comfort.

Other features of The North Face Better Than Naked Crew include:

• Minimal two-panel construction
• Overlap bonded stitchless seams
• Reflective logos
• Flight Series® collection

You can learn more about The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Crew or pick up your own at The North Face website.

The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Jacket ($129)

The last piece of The North Face Better Than Naked collection we love is the Better Than Naked jacket, the perfect option for early morning runs or when the weather gets a little unfriendly.  Following the tradition of the other Better Than Naked pieces, the jacket uses super-lightweight, breathable and weather-resistant materials; while an integrated cooling system ensures that while the outside elements stay out, you stay cool on the inside.  Helping achieve superb temperature regulation, vented mesh panels on the sides and neck keep air flowing, and a nylon ripstop body keeps your core warm without affecting your running movements.

For anyone living in climates that vary on a semi-regular basis, the Better Than Naked Jacket is the perfect compliment to the short and crew.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been out on a run that starts out beautifully and suddenly the weather changes course, and the Better Than Naked jacket is the ideal solution to combat such weather shifts.  It’s not hot, but it’s enough to keep out unwanted moisture and wind.  And because its so breathable, you can put it on after you’ve already warmed up, and the cooling system does a fantastic job making sure you don’t overheat.  Likewise, on early morning runs where it’s a little cool, you can start out in the jacket, and switch to only the crew once you get warmed up.  It’s the perfect compliment to an already great warm weather running collection.

Other features of The North Face Better Than Naked jacket include:

• DWR (durable water repellent) coated tribrid construction
• Strategically bonded stitchless seams
• Laminated pocket
• Reflective logos
• Flight Series® collection

You can learn more about The North Face Men’s and Women’s Better Than Naked Jacket or pick up your own at The North Face website.

As an avid runner, I’m always looking for new ways to improve my time spent outdoors, especially in terms of maximizing my fitness level.  I’m running to get in shape, so my goal is to find the best way to get the most out of each stride I take.  How exactly to do that is a question that will likely be asked from now until eternity, but one of the latest evolutions in the world of running is the concept of minimalism, with the fundamental question being how to best connect to the surface you’re running on.

It’s an idea that stems from analyzing the foot itself.  The foot is an incredibly complex creature, comprised of 52 bones, 66 joints, 40 muscles, and hundreds of sensory receptors, tendons, and ligaments.  Walk barefoot, and it’s immediately evident how complex the foot is, as your foot continuously sends signals to your brain informing it of slight variations in the terrain while simultaneously making micro adjustments to maximize your balance.  The problem is, running shoes ignore this complexity, hiding the ability of your foot to feel the surface it’s on.  Your balance is lessened, muscles that ordinarily would be working aren’t, and your foot strength doesn’t reach its full potential.

While you could run barefoot, making the transition after a life of wearing shoes would be a difficult one, to say the least.  That’s where Vibram FiveFingers come into play.  In 2006, Vibram came up with the idea of creating a shoe that brings you as close to possible as running barefoot, allowing the complexity of the foot to be utilized, but still offering protection from elements that otherwise could lead to injury.  It’s an idea that’s been met with tremendous success, and after numerous evolutions in the Vibram FiveFingers lineup, I finally took the plunge, purchasing a pair of Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS shoes for myself.  And while they do take some time getting used to, I have to say, I’m officially a convert of the minimal style of running.

Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS Overview

In looking at the Vibram FiveFingers Lineup, the Komodosport LS is the Vibram’s newest addition to the fitness line.  They feature a stitch-free, seamless 2mm footbed designed to reduce friction while running, while the bottom is made up of the Vibram TC1 performance rubber outsole to provide both grip and foot protection.  Comparing the traditional Komodosport to the Komodosport LS, the strongest selling point of the Komodosport LS is the addition of Vibram’s speed lacing system – a system that helps accommodate wider feet and higher insteps – as opposed to the original Komodosport’s velcro strap.

Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS Fit

Describing the fit of the Komodosport LS is comparable to the fit of a thin glove on your hand.  The fit itself is exceptionally tailored, while the most notable attribute of Vibram FiveFingers are that they have individual toe pockets for each of your toes.  Why does it matter?  Just as gloves with individual finger pockets allow full function of your hands (as opposed to mittens that keep all your four fingers in a single area), Vibram FiveFingers allow full function of your feet, letting your toes move independently over terrain just as they would if you were barefoot.  Coming from traditional running shoes, it’s a tight fit at first, but give them a little time, and they quite literally become an extension of your foot.  Out of the box, they’re the most comfortable running shoes I’ve ever worn.

Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS Performance

As with any product, you never know if a company’s marketing pitch is going to deliver or if it’s just going to be hype, and Vibram’s pitch to give up traditional running shoes is a bold one.  But I have to say, having used the Komodosport LS for the past couple months, Vibram’s pitch lives up to the hype.  It’s a drastically different way to run, but it’s an awesome one.

Comfort wise, the Komodosport LS are incredibly comfortable, straight out of the box.  From day one, I’ve had no blister issues, and no issues of any kind, for that matter.  The inside is soft, and the shoes as a whole do a great job with moisture control.  From a flexibility standpoint, the Komodosport LS are incredibly unrestrictive, allowing your foot to flex and move better than any shoes I’ve ever worn.  And in terms of surface feel, the Vibram TC1 outsoles do a great providing traction and protection while still transmitting exceptionally well whatever it is you’re running on.  In doing so, your foot can make the micro corrections it needs to maximize your balance, but your foot is still being protected the entire time.  It’s really the perfect medium between running barefoot and running with shoes.

Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS Conclusion

Ultimately, despite the existence of almost too many different running shoes to count, I’m a believer that less is more.  Vibram FiveFingers take the idea that the incredible complexity already present in your foot should be highlighted, not hidden, and they’ve created a way to bring the remarkable functionality of your foot into the running process.  And it works.  Running is not only more comfortable, you feel better while doing it.  You have better balance, you feel more connected to the road, and I’ve found that even my running form has improved.  Try them, and you’ll never look back.

Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS are available in both men’s and women’s varieties in a total of six colors (three men’s and three women’s), with an MSRP of $110.  To learn more about the Vibram FiveFingers Komodosport LS or to order a pair, head over to the official Vibram FiveFingers website.

Mercedes-Benz USA has announced that its Mercedes-AMG performance brand is returning for a second season as title sponsor of the Miami Beach Polo World Cup from April 21st to April 24th, 2011, and plans to showcase the all-new 2012 CLS63 AMG to Southern Florida car enthusiasts.

The AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, the official branded event property, is the world’s largest polo tournament to take place on a beach and this year’s event benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami and the National Foundation for Missing and Exploited Children. In its seventh consecutive season, the separate men’s and women’s polo events take place on Miami Beach between 20th and 22nd streets behind The Setai Hotel.

In addition to supporting the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, Mercedes-AMG is the proud sponsor of the AMG men’s and women’s polo teams that feature notable and top players from around the world including John Walsh, the well-known presenter of America’s Most Wanted and spokesman for the National Foundation for Missing and Exploited Children, as well as number one female player, Sunny Hale.

Alongside the well-trained thoroughbred horses at the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, Mercedes-AMG is displaying a stable of its own high performance vehicles including the SLS AMG supersports car and the all-new 2012 CLS63 AMG equipped with the newly developed AMG V8 biturbo engine, featuring a peak output of up to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft. of torque. Guests can see this newest Mercedes-AMG 4-door coupe in-person at the tournament
before it reaches Mercedes-Benz dealerships in early June.

“The game of Polo shares a natural affinity with AMG, both rich in heritage and prestige, requiring skill, power and performance to succeed,” said Greg Clark, Manager Exclusive Vehicles, Mercedes-Benz USA. “The AMG brand has been deeply involved with polo tournaments from around the world and we are thrilled to continue this tradition in the U.S. with the title sponsorship of the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup.”

Just as the polo pony is carefully selected and trained for quick bursts of speed, stamina, agility and maneuverability, AMG engines are built on the overall principle of “one man, one engine,” to deliver the epitome of peak performance and craftsmanship. Every single AMG engine is handcrafted from start to finish by a single Master Engine Builder at Mercedes-AMG GmbH in Affalterbach, Germany.

Event Schedule

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

7:00pm-9:00pm:
South Beach Women’s Polo Cup III Women’s Welcome & Cocktail Hour

9:00pm-12:00am:
South Beach Women’s Polo Cup III kick-off party

Thursday, April 21, 2011

10:30am:
Doors open, National Anthem, South Beach Women’s Polo Cup III

11:00am-5:00pm:
South Beach Women’s Polo Cup III Match Play

5:00pm-5:30pm:
South Beach Women’s Polo Cup III Award Ceremony

7:00pm-9:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Press Conference & Cocktail Hour

9:00pm-12:00am:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Kick Off party, AMG Miami Beach Polo Tent

Friday, April 22, 2011

12:30pm:
Doors open, Horse Parade, National Anthem 1:00pm-5:00pm: Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Match Play

6:00-8:30pm:
Sunset Cruise (By Invitation Only)

7:00pm-10:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Cocktail & Hors d’oeuvres

10:00pm-?:
Players Night/After Hours

Saturday, April 23, 2011

1:00pm-5:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Match Play & La Martina & Hublot Fashion Show

7:00pm-9:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Cocktails & Hors d’ouevres

9:00pm:
Concert, Miami Beach Polo Tent

10:00pm-?:
Players Night/After Hours

Sunday, April 24, 2011

1:00pm:
Doors open, National Anthem 2:00pm-5:00pm: Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Final Play- Offs

5:00pm-6:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Cup Finals

6:00pm-6:30pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Award Ceremony

6:30pm-7:30pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Farewell Party in the Miami Beach Polo Tent

7:30pm-10:00pm:
Miami Beach Polo World Cup VII Closing Party

10:00pm-?
Players Night/After Hours

Beginning this year, Mercedes-Benz will become patron of The Open Championship, a tournament with roots dating back to 1860. As a result of this move, Mercedes-Benz is now represented at three of the four major golf tournaments as the exclusive automotive partner.  The announcement was made by Mercedes-Benz at the Dubai Desert Classic, a golf tournament on the European Tour at which the brand with the star is represented as a partner.

“Our global golf strategy is based on the Mercedes-Benz principle of “The best or nothing”. The Open Championship complements this strategy, and therefore Mercedes-Benz, perfectly”, explained Anders Sundt Jensen, Vice President Brand Communications, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We want to make use of this major golf tournament in particular for our various marketing activities as well as customer care measures. In addition, we will also link the MercedesTrophy, a worldwide premium amateur series, with The Open Championship, for example the programme “Drive to the Major”, a global competition to win the opportunity to qualify to play at the Monday Foursome.”

Mike Tate, a Director of The R&A: “We are delighted to welcome Mercedes-Benz as a Patron of The Open Championship. It has established itself as a great supporter of golf worldwide. Mercedes-Benz are renowned for their commitment to quality and their brand is recognised the world over, all of which complements perfectly the prevailing characteristics of The Open.”

“We’re delighted that Mercedes-Benz is the ‘Official Car of The Open Championship’. The company will provide the exclusive chauffeur service at the major championship and together with The R&A will also provide communications support for the entire tournament”, said Wilfried Steffen, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK. “For our brand, this association is not only an excellent platform but also a great honour. With our commitment to this event, we very much look forward to being able to promote the close ties between the sport of golf and Mercedes-Benz.”

Mercedes-Benz has been involved in the professional sport of golf since the 1980’s. From 1990, it also took over as title sponsor of the Mercedes German Masters, the first professional golf tournament in Germany featuring international participation. In addition, the premium brand from Stuttgart was also title sponsor of the Mercedes-Benz Championship in Cologne from 2007 to 2009 and Hawaii from 1999 to 2009.

Since 2008, Mercedes-Benz has been the exclusive automobile partner of another of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, The Masters in Augusta. Thanks to the connection which has existed with the PGA of America since 2010, the brand with the star is also represented at the PGA Championship and the Senior PGA Championship, as well as the 2012 Ryder Cup. This year Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to golf will increase with the addition of the partnership with The Open Championship. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz also supports a variety of both professional and amateur tournaments around the world at national level.

In amateur golf, Mercedes-Benz is represented with the MercedesTrophy, the company’s own global premium tournament series for amateurs, which in 2011 is taking place for the 22nd time. More than 58,000 players, in more than 43 countries, tee off each year in the MercedesTrophy. The aim of the participants is to reach the MercedesTrophy World Final at the end of September, at which the best individual players and the best team are honoured in Stuttgart, the “birthplace of the motor car”, and at the same time receive an exclusive insight into the world of Mercedes-Benz.

Snowboarding and skiing are like children to me:  I love them both, to the point that I truly can’t pick one over the other.  Every winter when the first snow hits, it’s like attempting to decide whether I should go my daughter’s dance recital or son’s basketball game, each of which happen to be taking place at exactly the same time.  But usually, by the end of each winter, I’ve managed to equally split my time between both activities, neglecting neither and leaving me all the more happy for it.

If you caught my previous article, you know that I’m somewhere in the upper intermediate to lower level advanced range on my snowboard, and in the realm of skiing, I would classify myself similarly at an upper intermediate class as well.  Like snowboarding, I spend the majority of my time on groomed runs, but I do enjoy a few yearly trips out west to indulge in some powder as well.  As such, I decided to splurge this year on a new pair of all-mountain skis to match my new all-mountain snowboard (remember, skiing and snowboarding are like my children; therefore, I can’t upgrade one without the other), and after another intense round of research and numerous demo runs, I eventually settled on the supremely great Rossignol Avenger 82 Carbon all-mountain skis.

Rossignol bills the Avenger 82 Carbons as the ideal one-ski quiver for carving and skiing powder, and having used them for the past few months, I have to say:  they’ve completely lived up to their hype.  They’re simply awesome on both groomed runs and powder, and they’re simply superb at instilling in you a heightened sense of confidence on virtually any terrain.  In terms of what makes the Rossi Avenger 82 Carbons so great, you have to first look at their construction.  Quite simply, they’re the perfect blend of classic ski construction melded with modern features and all-mountain dimensions.  At their core, Avenger 82 Carbons feature a wooden construction with vertical sidewalls.  The wood core plays an integral role in giving the skis a spritely feel while keeping the weight down, and the vertical sidewalls are key to giving the Avenger Carbons superglue like grip on the hardpack.  From there, Rossignol wrapped the wood core with two layers of carbon and added their proprietary Vibration Absorbing System (VAS), increasing the ski’s rigidity while still offering superb dampening properties and eliminating chatter.

Another key to the greatness of the Avenger 82 Carbons are their shape – they feature a new all-mountain tip design built for better floatation in the soft snow and crud along with a rounded tip profile that extends the ski’s sidecut beyond the snow contact point, resulting in significantly improved turn initiation.  In the rear, the Avenger’s square shape loads the tail for more powerful turn exits.  Helping transfer power from your boot to the skis, Avenger 82 Carbons come with Rossignol’s Axium 120 integrated bindings along with their Twin Pulsion Integral² ski/binding system and Dual Action III toe piece.  Without getting overly technical, the result is a binding/ski combination that allows the ski to flex naturally while absorbing vibration and shocks, but also one that efficiently directs power directly from the skier to ski with significantly reduced energy loss.

If you’re thinking there’s a ton of technology that’s gone into the Rossignol Avenger 82 Carbon, you’d be right, but the real question is how the Avenger 82 Carbons perform in the real world.  I don’t want to sound overly complimentary, but the truth is, these things rock.  It’s as simple as that.  I’ve used them extensively over the past 3 months, and they absolutely tear up anything you can throw at them.  Carving steep groomed runs is a blast, navigating powder is a joy thanks to their 82-mm width, and they hold their edge incredibly well on the hardpack.  They’re super stable, well-balanced and confidence-inspiring on pretty much any type of terrain you can throw at them.  And as advertised, thanks to their unique tip, they do a great job in the soft snow and crud.  As for speed, I’m a relatively light skier, and the tail does a great job loading up power and accelerating into the next turn.

Looking back at my purchase, would I buy the Rossignol Avenger 82 Carbon skis again?  Absolutely.  They’re just a fantastic all-around ski, and not only have I had a blast using them, they’ve really made me an all-around better skier.  They’re everything they’re advertised as, and then some.  I love ’em.

To learn more about the Rossignol Avenger 82 Carbon ski ($799) or to grab a pair of your own, you can head over to the official Rossignol website for the full details.

Here in the Midwest (and much of the country for that matter), winter is in full force, with current temps hovering right around a balmy 10 degrees.  But despite the frigid temps, I’m still a happy man, as the cold weather means I’ve finally been able to get some serious time in on one of my favorite winter pastimes:  snowboarding.  And while you’re not going to see me hitting the Winter Dew Tour anytime soon, I have been snowboarding for a little over a decade, placing me somewhere in the advanced intermediate range (if I had to choose a skill level, that is).  This year, as I’ve found myself spending more time on the slopes, I decided it was time to treat myself to a new ride, and after much research, debate and deliberation, I finally settled on the new 2011 Ride Society UL.  After riding it for the past couple months, I have to tell you: this thing absolutely kicks ass.

In seeking out the perfect board, I already had a pretty clear idea of what I wanted, it was just a case of finding it.  First and foremost, I wanted an all-mountain board that would be at home on a variety of terrains, with an emphasis on groomed runs and park use (namely, kickers and pipe).  In terms of key attributes, it had to be lightweight, responsive, snappy, and tough – pretty much everything you’d expect from a great all-around freestyle board.  Ultimately, after talking to a variety of other riders, reading a bunch of reviews and doing some demo tests, the board that most impressed me was the Ride Society UL.

At it’s heart, the Society UL features a cambered twin design along with Ride’s trademark Thin Con construction and UL core.  If you’re unfamiliar with Thin Con, it means that the tips and tails are tapered, the swing weight is reduced, tip flex is enhanced and the sidewall runs past the effective edge, whereas the UL core UL features tip-to-tail full thickness silencer stringers placed strategically within the wood core for high strength and less weight.  If it sounds overly technical, it is – Ride’s put a tremendous amount of technology in the Society UL, and Thin Con construction is just the start.  From there, Ride added Slimewalls 85A (which are exclusive to the company), a UL base and UL steel.  Unlike conventional sidewalls, the urethane in Slimewalls is virtually indestructible, not only protecting the board, but also absorbing impacts and eating up bumps and vibrations in the snow as you’re riding.  As for the UL base and UL steel, they’re both new for 2011, and they’re both incredibly light and incredibly strong additions to the board.

As if the Society’s UL construction wasn’t already light enough, to help further decrease the weight, the board’s top deck features Hempbrain technology, thus eliminating the traditional plastic top.  Instead, an ultra-thin layer of hemp that’s both lighter and more durable than traditional top decks is in place, with the added environmental benefits that hemp is both easily renewable and requires little processing to use.  To make the board both super responsive and super snappy, Ride has added what they call Carbon Array 5 stringers and Pop Rods 3.0.  The first element – Carbon Array 5 – are 5 widespread carbon stringers placed at the binding zone that gather input from any stance width and all pressure angles and subsequently channel rider input to the opposing contact points for maximum board control.  As for the Pop Rods 3.0, they’re a series of carbon and urethane rods strategically placed in both the tip and the tail, adding a significant amount of pop to the board without increasing the board’s stiffness (the Society UL is the only Ride board featuring Pop Rods 3.0).

Believe it or not, these are only some of the tech specs of the Ride Society UL – there’s plenty I’ve left out.  But the reason I wanted to detail the technical aspects of the Society UL is to give you a sampling of the immense amount of engineering that’s gone into it.  It’s an incredibly technical creature, and when you’re riding it, you realize exactly how fantastic the tech is.  It’s an absolute blast to ride doing so many different things.  As noted earlier, I wanted a board that excelled at groomed runs and park use, and the Society UL does exactly that.  Ripping up groomed runs is, in no simpler terms, awesome.  The board is super aggressive, it carves superbly and it holds its edge extremely well.  Hitting the pipe and kickers, the Society UL comes into its own.  It’s stable, perfectly balanced and incredibly controllable in the air, easily ranking above any of the other boards I’ve ridden.  The Ride Society UL can spin all day, and it loves doing so.  Lastly, the Sociey UL has the absolutely perfect level of pop.  There’s no question Ride’s tech features work as described, as the ollie power of the Society UL is ridiculous, but most impressively, Ride has managed to offer an insane level of pop without an overly stiff board.

Is the Ride Society UL the best snowboard you can get?  It depends on what you’re looking for, but if you want a super responsive, super lightweight all-mountain board that can handle a wide variety of conditions, you won’t find any better than the Society UL.  It’s tough, aggressive, responsive, playful when you want it to be, and it boasts a game-changing level of pop.  For all-mountain use, especially on groomed  runs and park use, it’s the perfect board.

To learn more about the Ride Society UL ($599) and to pick up your own, head over to the official Ride Snowboards website for the full details or buy now from Amazon.com
.

Depending on where you live, winter weather is in full force, with snow blanketing much of the northern U.S.  If you find yourself in one of the aforementioned states, you owe it to yourself to have one kick-ass sled on hand to take advantage of all mother nature has to throw at you.  And while there’s certainly no shortage of sleds on the market, I’ve yet to find one that can compete with the sheer awesomeness that is the Hammerhead Pro XLD.

In looking for a sled, you’re really only looking for two key attributes:  speed and handling ability.  Some sleds are fast, but there’s no way to control them, whereas some sleds are maneuverable, but they’re slow.  The Hammerhead Pro XL offers the best of both worlds, boasting incredible speed and impressive handling ability.

Making the magic happen, the Hammerhead Pro XLD is built on a super lightweight powder coated 6063 aluminum frame paired with stainless steel leaf spring steering.  Mated to the frame, the rear features a set of Pro Carving wide rear skis, while up front a second pair of polycarbonate front skis help keep the Hammerhead pointed in the right direction.  Other features include ski clips, soft rubber hand grips and a carry strap.  Total weight of the Hammerhead Pro XLD is a mere 10.2 pounds, and it’s capable of carrying up to 200 pounds down the snow-covered descent of your choosing.

On the slopes, the Hammerhead Pro XLD is a beast, accelerating to speeds so fast you feel like you’re competing in an Olympic skeleton event.  Honestly, the speeds are so fast you need a helmet should you get a little overzealous in your sledding endeavors.  Steering on the Hammerhead is both responsive and easy to do, thanks to the 60-degree arc offered by the stainless-steel leaf system up front, and bumps are absorbed exceptionally well by virtue of the pivoting, active hinge design of the skis.  Helping keep you planted firmly on the sled during your high-speed runs, the Hammerhead Pro XLD features a fantastic AirTastic seat – an extremely durable material commonly used in sports car seats that’s also great at helping dampen shock.  All of this adds up to a blisteringly fast sled that handles superbly and manages bumps incredibly well.

Is the Hammerhead Pro XLD sledding perfection?  You better believe it.  Priced at $350, the Hammerhead is the most fun you’re going to have on a sled this winter, hands down.  You can check out the full details of the Hammerhead Pro XLD sled at the official Hammerhead website or buy now from Amazon.com
.

On Tuesday, June 1, Nico Rosberg visited the German national football team who are preparing for the 2010 FIFA World Cup at their training camp in Eppan, South Tyrol.

A keen football player and supporter, Nico met the team’s manager Joachim Löw and had a kick-about on the training pitch with captain Philipp Lahm, Lukas Podolski and Peer Mertesacker. He also met Wolfgang Hochfellner, the man who drives the team around in their Mercedes-Benz coach. The side panels of the team bus advertise the German team’s 4. Stern für Deutschland (Fourth Star for Germany) campaign.

The partnership between the DFB (German Football Association) and Mercedes-Benz began in 1972 and the World Cup campaign organised by Mercedes-Benz offers all fans of the national team two ways of showing their support: firstly by wearing the official badge and secondly by registering on the campaign website at www.der-vierte-stern-fuer-deutschland.de

Mercedes-Benz today announced a multi platform global marketing partnership with the 16-time Grand Slam Champion and world’s number one tennis player, Roger Federer.  The multi year deal will cover the use of his image, personal appearances and product placement in a partnership that makes Roger Federer the latest Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador.

The agreement coincides with the start of the Mercedes-Benz sponsorship of the US Tennis Open Championship, beginning in August. Since the beginning of 2008, Federer has served as an ambassador for Mercedes-Benz China.  Mercedes-Benz has used tennis as a marketing platform for more than 15 years and this partnership looks to extend the brands visibility throughout the sport.

“I am delighted that we are adding Roger Federer to the Mercedes-Benz family of sports and celebrity ambassadors on a global level. When it comes to tennis, he is without doubt one of the greatest of all time and he truly has become a global icon..,” said Stephen Cannon, Vice President Marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA.”  We are looking forward to working with Roger on a number of initiatives. Much like our own brand, Roger has an impressive and unrivalled history but the best is still yet to come,” he added.

The 2010 German Volleyball Federation event is the highest-ranking tournament series – as a rule, whomever was at the Beach event in recent years, comes back. The event is not only for diehard volleyball fans as the event is highly addictive for anyone watching. In addition to the main event, the smart beach tour offers nine national events between mid May and Late August that are not to missed. The highlight of the tour is the Germans at the smart beach volleyball championships on Timmendorfer Beach between August 27-29, 2010.

The prelude to the popular beach-tournament series is the Frankfurt event between May 14-16. It already draws in the the second biggest crowd of the best beach volleyball players of northern Germany in the north of the country.

Then it goes on tour in Hamburg (Port City), Münster (Hindenburgplatz) Fehmarn (South Beach), Bonn (Cathedral Square), Leipzig (Augustus Square) and St. Peter Ording until the final tournament at the Timmendorfer beach. Hamburg and Münster celebrate the tournament series as both cities are well-known volleyball strongholds.

The German Volleyball Association tournament series events will run from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon. The qualifying rounds begins Friday at noon. Up to 10 men’s and women’s teams compete in the evening for one of the coveted four main draw spots. Tthe finals start Saturday morning with the culmination of the exciting finals on Sunday afternoon.

Since 2006, smart has been the title sponsor of the Beach Volleyball Series. Each year, about 300,000 fans attend the smart beach tour tournaments. In addition, smart is the presenting partner of the Beach Volleyball European Championship, from August 11-15 which takes place in Berlin. The European Championship is peak season of the European beach volleyball, in which Europe’s 24 best women’s and men’s teams compete for a prize of 200,000 euros.

The world champion and European champion, from 2009, Julius Brink and Jonas Reckermann, as well as the German champions from 2009, Katrin Holtwick and Ilka Semmler, are also supported by smart and fan favorite for the German title.

Mercedes-Benz will be part of the proceedings when the best golfers in the world tee off at the legendary Masters tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club from April 5-11, 2010. Once again, the company will be providing vehicles for players and selected guests as the event’s international automobile partner. The Augusta National Golf Club will also provide an appropriate setting in which to showcase the SLS AMG to Mercedes-Benz’s customers and anyone with an interest in exclusive vehicles. Under the motto “The legends of Augusta” the super sports car will also be the focus of Mercedes-Benz’s communicative measures at the golf tournament in conjunction with two-times Masters winner and Mercedes Benz brand representative Bernhard Langer, and Franz Beckenbauer, football legend and another Mercedes-Benz brand representative.

“The partnership with the Masters has a special place in Mercedes-Benz’s involvement with sports,” says Dr Joachim Schmidt, head of sales and marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “The Mercedes-Benz brand and the Masters tournament are both success stories with long-standing traditions. We are thus delighted to be able to present our products, with the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG as the absolute highlight, against the backdrop of this unique tournament. The SLS AMG, which has already attained legendary status in Mercedes-Benz’s more recent history, and the two sporting legends Bernhard Langer and Franz Beckenbauer form the central focus of an international communications campaign which underscores Mercedes-Benz’s involvement with the world of golf in the setting of the Masters tournament.

International media coverage of Mercedes-Benz’s involvement

Accompanied by photographers and a camera team, the two sports personalities met up ahead of the Masters and chatted away on a tour of the clubhouse of the Augusta National Golf Club, a walk around the world famous golf course and a trip in the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

Mercedes-Benz is using the impressive footage of this notable meeting in print, TV and online media, ensuring global communication and international media coverage of its involvement in the Masters.

A film showing how the two legends, Bernhard Langer and Franz Beckenbauer, met up is available for viewing ahead of the tournament of the world’s best golfers in Augusta, on Mercedes-Benz TV (www.mercedes-benz.tv/masters). There is also a “making of” film documenting the meeting between Bernhard Langer and Franz Beckenbauer and the production of the TV spot.

At the invitation of Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz is also offering selected customers a unique opportunity to join the spectators at the tournament. The sporting highlights will be accompanied by an attractive programme of supporting events. One highlight here will be an exclusive meet & greet event at which two-times Masters champion Bernhard Langer will be on hand to answer questions from the Mercedes-Benz guests.

Mercedes-Benz USA announces its new title sponsorship of the Miami Beach Polo World Cup for the AMG brand. The AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, the official branded event property, is the world’s largest polo tournament to take place on a beach. In its sixth consecutive season, the separate men’s and women’s polo events take place on Miami Beach between 20th and 22nd streets behind The Setai Hotel from April 22nd to April 25th.

The new title sponsorship builds on AMG’s global polo presence and enables the brand to engage with current and prospective AMG owners in a unique environment in South Florida, one of the top U.S. markets for AMG vehicles. AMG is title sponsor of both the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup and the AMG South Beach Women’s Polo Cup.

“Quite possibly the world’s oldest team sport, polo shares many attributes with AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division that develops and manufactures new, exclusive Mercedes-AMG vehicles with its own unique team approach. The natural connection between AMG and polo has brought the AMG brand to polo tournaments in St. Moritz, Switzerland, a frozen lake in the Alps, the Island of Sylt, Germany and to the largest polo tournament in the world in Palermo, Argentina,” said Greg Clark, Manager Exclusive Vehicles, Mercedes-Benz USA. “We are excited to expand this tradition with our new title sponsorship of the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup.”

In addition to supporting the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, Mercedes-AMG is the proud sponsor of the AMG men’s and women’s polo teams which compete in this year’s tournament. The AMG men’s team is led by Michael Liss and teammates Nacho Figueras and Pelon Escopite.

The AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup event also serves as a backdrop for the SLS AMG preview, where guests can see the newest Mercedes-AMG supercar in-person before it reaches Mercedes-Benz dealerships in early May. The 2011 SLS AMG is one of the most eagerly anticipated vehicles of the 21st century and is the first designed entirely by AMG. The limited
production vehicle features gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-liter, front-mid V8 engine with a maximum power of 563 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.

The SLS AMG engine is built on the overall AMG principle of “one man, one engine,” where every single engine is handcrafted from start to finish by a single Master Mechanic at AMG’s headquarters in Alfalterbach, Germany. Along with the breathtaking doors, the SLS’s wide grille complete with a large Mercedes star and the wing-like crossbar draw inspiration from the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The sculptured front with its low, v-shaped front skirt and lateral indentations gives the SLS a powerful stance on the road. The SLS AMG serves as the safety car for the 2010 Formula One season.

Alongside the thoroughbred horses at the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup, Mercedes-AMG is displaying a stable of its own high performance vehicles, including the 2010 E63, C63 and SL63 AMG. Event attendees interested in experiencing the power and performance of an AMG vehicle can test drive an E63, C63 and SL63 at the AMG Drive Tour tent located in the parking
area adjacent to The Setai Hotel and one of the event entrances.

About Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes-AMG is the high-performance subsidiary of the Mercedes-Benz Car Group and is headquartered in Affalterbach, Germany. AMG engineers lend the benefit of more than 40 years racing experience to the development of new Mercedes-AMG vehicles. Transmissions, brakes, aerodynamics, exhaust systems and, most importantly, the hand-crafted engine built and signed by one of only fifty AMG Master Mechanics reflect AMG’s holistic approach to performance.

By blending AMG genes with Mercedes DNA, AMG has delivered thrilling performance and exclusive refinement to discerning customers since the brand’s introduction to the U.S. in 1995. Since then, U.S. sales of AMG vehicles have grown to account for as much as 40% of worldwide Mercedes-AMG sales. While all Mercedes-Benz authorized dealers offer AMG products, 26
dealerships across the U.S. have attained ‘AMG Performance Center’ status where more personalized expert service for these high-performance vehicles is offered. www.mercedes-amg.com

AMG offers the track-based AMG Driving Academy program both in the United States and European markets. Under the guidance of top professional instructors, the AMG Driving Academy offers driving enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the excitement of motorsports and the track capabilities of AMG vehicles. www.amgacademy.com

Mercedes-Benz USA announced today that they have become an official patron of the PGA of America – a collaboration that will last through 2013. Under the venture, MBUSA will serve as The Official Vehicle of The PGA of America, the Official Patron and Official Vehicle of the PGA Championship and Senior PGA Championship, and a Proud Supporter of the 2010 and 2012 Ryder Cup.

According to Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA: “The PGA of America continues to make golf accessible to a wider audience and we see an opportunity to support and benefit from the game’s future growth. The three-pointed star has a long-standing history with golf and this new partnership strengthens our existing ties with the game while also extending our presence within one of the world’s largest sports organizations.”

In addition to the aforementioned titles, part of Mercedes-Benz USA’s duties include providing vehicles at the PGA Championships, Senior PGA Championship and the 2012 Ryder Cup. Furthermore, the company will be involved in a number of additional sponsorship activities, including being a Presenting Sponsor of the PGA Professional National Championship and Senior PGA Professional National Championship; the PGA Play Golf America Days Fan Experience at the Senior PGA Championship, PGA Championship and 2012 Ryder Cup; and the Loyalty Lots at the Senior PGA Championships, PGA Championships and the 2012 Ryder Cup.

For more info detailing Mercedes-Benz USA’s partnership with the PGA of America, you can find the full details in the official press release below.