Welcome to another episode of Hilary Topper on Air, where we bring you the latest insights, tips, and stories from the world of endurance sports and beyond. I'm your host, Hilary Topper, and today, we're diving into a topic that can make or break your cycling experience—bike fitting. Whether you're a...
My Second Manhattan Bike Ride: Trials and Tribulations
Recently, I took the plunge and bought a small one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan. Settling into my new place in Sutton Place, I decided I needed a way to get around the city, get some exercise, and enjoy the sights. Naturally, I thought buying a bicycle was a fantastic idea. I...
North Fork Ride: Training Ride for the Empire State Ride
I’ve been preparing for the Empire State Ride for a couple of months now, and if I’m being honest, this ride is way outside my comfort zone. The Empire State Ride is a seven-day cycling event from Staten Island to Niagara Falls, all to raise money for cancer research at...
Impulse Hydration Pack from Pingora Review
As endurance athletes, we know that gear can make or break a training session. Whether I’m pounding the pavement for a long run or clipping in for a distance ride, I am always on the hunt for equipment that keeps up with me. Recently, I came across a new piece...
The Big Apple Triathlon in New York City
I still remember the exact feeling of standing on the edge, looking down at the Hudson River in 2015. My heart hammered against my ribs. Doubts swirled in my head. But I took the leap anyway. Back then, the NYC Tri was organized by Lifetime Fitness. It was a massive,...
Why Are Snake & Pig Goggles So Good?
Every triathlete knows the feeling. You’re in the open water, fighting for position, and your goggles start to leak. Or worse, they fog up, turning your clear line of sight into a murky blur. Or, even worse, they give you a pounding headache after 20 minutes of use. Snake and...
TYR Maverick V1 Running Shoe Review
When a brand known for its dominance in one sport ventures into another, it really piques my interest. That’s exactly what happened when TYR, a name synonymous with swimming, launched its running line in 2022. Thankfully, I was one of the first to snag myself a pair, and believe it...
My First Training Ride in Manhattan Gearing Up for My 569-Mile Bike Ride
I recently bought an apartment in Manhattan, though I still live in Merrick. If you know me, you know how much I love New York City. It’s where I went to college and grad school, learned to be independent, and found my first real job in public relations. The city...
The Silo Crew Drop One Bag: Now Stronger and Better Than Ever
I’ve always been a little picky about gear bags. It’s hard to find one that balances durability, function, and style without being too bulky or cumbersome. But the Silo Crew Drop One Bag completely exceeded my expectations. And now, with recent updates to the zippers and fabric, these bags are stronger...
My Experience with Courier Socks
When it comes to performance socks, Courier has redefined comfort and functionality for athletes and enthusiasts alike. As someone who enjoys both running and cycling, I was thrilled to try out their HiFi and LoFi socks, and they did not disappoint. The HiFi Socks: Lightweight and Dynamic The HiFi socks...