Amidst the COVID-19 crisis, us ultra runners are back out on the trails. If you're running in Southern California, you might have noticed that the bugs are extra confident this season; leaving us with a few more itchy red bumps and bites than usual. Whether we're running or setting up camp in the San Bernardino Mountains, there's no escaping the mosquitos… but there is a way to live amongst them in harmony thanks to SAWYER insect repellent products.
I recently tested the PREMIUM INSECT REPELLENT during my trail run near Lytle Creek and Bonita Falls. Every feature on the bottle is true:
- You can spray it on your clothes, gear (backpack, hydration vest) and your tent (if you're camping).
- Repels and kills mosquitoes and ticks when used as treatment for clothing and gear.
- You can't smell a thing! Once the repellent dries, it is completely odorless.
- And the best part: It lasts for 6 weeks or 6 washes!
How does it work? Unlike topical insect repellents applied to the skin, Permethrin is applied to clothing and outdoor gear material, bonding to the fabric fibers for up to 6 weeks (42 days) or 6 washings.
When a tick, mosquito, or other insect comes into contact with Permethrin, it absorbs a dose that will either repel or kill the insect. The synthetic version of pyrethrum (a natural insecticide derived from the chrysanthemum flower), Permethrin is non-toxic and registered for use by the U.S. EPA.
Just keep the bottle 6 to 8 inches away from the clothing or gear and treat each side of the garment for about 30 seconds.
If you're traveling on-the-go, I also recommend trying their:
Picaridin Insect Repellent
A good bottle to keep out in the yard if you're gardening or dining outside at night. Safe for use on the whole family, the non-greasy Picaridin offers all day protection, has a pleasant low citrus odor, and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings.
7 Day Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion Packets
With 20% active ingredient Picaridin; this long lasting topical insect repellent is effective up to 14 hours (lotion) and 12 hours (spray) against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies.
HAPPY TRAILS!
https://sawyer.com/ – You can also find at REI!
