FALL 2009 CLOTHING and FOOTWEAR ALL IN STOCK AND READY TO GO
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
Jet Blue’s user friendly Terminal 5 at NYC’s insanely busy JFK airport is an oasis, in a manner of speaking--- for travelers looking to GIT OUTTA town.
And a smart locale for adventure/travel clothing brand EX OFFICIO…to have a well stocked shop.
One of the very few brick and mortar eponymous spaces outside of their Washington State home base, EX OFFICIO wisely kicks out this location with a wide assortment of what they do best.
Adventure/travel clothing with technical integrity that looks good.
We took the E train out to see the store a few weeks ago …and got the scoop from the super friendly and knowledgeable onsite manager Jake Ceriello.
As we’ve written up the Fall 2009 collection based on what we saw at Outdoor Retailer…it was nice to see it all on display in a retail environment.
Top pieces, not surprisingly, are the garments that multi-task…
Like the Trek’R shirt that’s inspired by a fighter pilot’s jumpsuit…with roll up sleeves, angled zips and plenty of outside and hidden pockets. $88
There are assorted colored lightweight and durable Men’s fleeces (jackets and vests)---and a handsome ¼ zip long sleeve Migrator™ fleece made out of recycled polyester, treated with anti-microbial Aegis™ and engineered with an active fit—that’s urban savvy too.
Waffle-weave Micro Bond fleeces- in a jacket ($130) and vest ($90) with double zips and interior drop-in pockets comes in a favorite color of ours for Fall, brown.
…though we were told “Lacquer” a reddish copper shade that permeates the collection is big too.
The best selling Amphi™ convertible pants and shorts are here.
And the Insect Shield® garments…in a convertible pants/shorts, hats, tops, socks, bandanna--- miraculously offer “sun and bug protection head to toe.” Through 70 washings too…and it’s odorless.
And it works…we still wear the original EX OFFICIO “Buzz Off” mesh long sleeve top we got at REI years ago…on hot summer hikes.
Guy options also include assorted shirts…with roll up tab sleeves, pockets galore…in good looking solids and micro plaids…that are rugged enough for the Outback and dapper enough for out to dinner. (And yes, embedded with anti-microbial properties too that repel odors and stains).
For women, the SAVVY™ Collection is all very packable, fast dry/wash in the sink --- stylish attire we could wear anywhere. Top pick is the $70 Dress-up with a flattering flare hem and diagonal-neckline and a skirt with a forgiving waist band. Pretty!
The Athena top ($50), a long sleeve tunic top that can be scrunched up…and still look perfect--- is selling well in white and wine. There’s a long sleeve and hoodie too.
We also thought the 100% seamed sealed rain jacket in a handy length, is a great where ever piece that protects against the elements.
Scarves ($40) and the Irresistable Wrap ($65) were being bought up when we were there…and the famous EX OFFICIO underwear…with the motto “17 countries, 6 weeks, one pair of underwear, okay maybe two”…comes in a sleep friendly capri.
WHAT ELSE:
A comfy and supportive shoe collection that is well made with removable inserts and soles that grip.
Recycled materials, columns made from old barn woods, African themed fitting rooms ----a lot of thought went into the architecture of the space.
INFO: EX OFFICIO