Summertime = More Outside Time
Thanks to Columbia Sportswear for sponsoring this post! While this was a sponsored opportunity from Columbia, all content and opinions expressed here are my own.
As you guys know by now, I’m a big fan of summer in Chicago. The appreciation the city feels for the warmth always cracks me up and puts me in the best mood. We know it’s only a matter of time before it snows again, am I right?! But in addition to patios and rooftop bars, summer is also the perfect opportunity to get out in nature as much as we can. There’s a reason why city folks retreat up to Lake Geneva and Michigan during June-September!
That being said, we all don’t always have the time for a full weekend getaway… but that doesn’t mean you can’t have amazing outdoor experiences this summer. Adam and I actually stumbled upon the West Ridge Nature Preserve, which is a short drive from our new place, and it. is. gorgeous. We’re talking long winding trails, tons of trees and flowers, and even a pond for fishing! It feels like a little oasis from the city, even though you’re still only a 30 minute drive from the loop. These places exist, friends!
Adam and I love a nice long walk, whether immersed in nature or along city streets – and this outfit from Columbia Sportswear serves me well in both situations. I’ve actually been wearing this brand since I was a kid, because the quality is always so impressive. I also always appreciate when “sportswear” is cute! A sleek white layering jacket?! Comfy shorts? A pink tank with a back cutout?! Matching pink shoes?! It’s all so good!
But beyond just being cute, I love how each piece by Columbia Sportswear is thoughtfully made. For example, my windbreaker features advanced-repellency technology to protect you for those sudden summer showers. It also has hidden vents and a sweat activated cooling interior fabric, so you won’t overheat. So smart! And speaking of smart – not only are these shorts super comfortable (and not too short!), but they also have Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection.
You can actually read all about the unique technologies they’ve developed specifically to keep us cool or warm, dry, and protected on their website. I mean, they created Omni-Freeze™ ZERO to react with our sweat in order to lower the temperature of the material, so we feel cooler in the summer. How awesome is that?!
And these shoes might just look like trendy slip on sneakers, but they are also super comfortable and protective! The open mesh upper will keep you dry, even if you step in water – and the lower durometer EVA foot bed is crazy comfortable, so you can enjoy being active outside for even longer.
Have you guys been spending more time outside this summer?
What are some of your favorite outdoor activities? Do you like to stay in the city or get away? I’d love to know!
Also, Columbia is having an amazing summer sale right now, and everything I’m wearing is included! If you’re thinking about making a purchase, I’d definitely recommend joining their loyalty program! You get free shipping on every order, you can earn points and rewards, and you get exclusive members-only offers.
Shop the Post:
Columbia Women’s Titan Lite™ Windbreaker | Columbia Women’s Outerspaced™ II Tank | Columbia Women’s PFG Tidal™ Short | Columbia Women’s Dorado™ Slip PFG Shoe |
