Baikal Ice Marathon in Siberia: Only for the bravest

 

If you're a very serious marathoner, read this. Otherwise, move along. March 1 is the date for Baikal Ice Marathon 2015.

That's Baikal as in Lake Baikal, the world's deepest freshwater lake. It's also the largest freshwater lake by volume and

is in Siberia. Because it's in south Siberia, race-day temps are likely to range from a "mild" 5 above zero to minus 25.

Hard to believe, but hundreds of runners turn out for this each year, and they have a choice of running the frozen lake in

a full marathon (26.2 miles), a half or a paltry 9 miles. 56th Parallel, which specializes in tours to some extreme locales,

offers a package for interested marathoners and has other Lake Baikal winter outings for less ambitious but still hardy

folks. Info: tinyurl.com/k368j59

Rent your ski clothes

Rentals of ski or snowboard gear have been around for ages, but what if you're an infrequent skier who lives in a warm-weather place and doesn't have cold-weather clothing? That's where GetOutfitted comes in. The new company offers rentals of ski and snowboard apparel that can be shipped straight to your ski destination, then sent back from there when you go home. You can pick a package, which includes jacket, pants, gloves and goggles, or order a la carte. Premium packages, which are as low as $135 for a three-day rental for adults, include brands such as Patagonia, Marmot, Burton and Fera. Standard packages, as low as $90 for three days, have the same gear from brands like Obermeyer, Dakine and Outdoor Research. GetOutfitted also will call you to discuss colors, jacket styles, etc. You can arrange five-or 10-day rentals too. Kids' sizes are offered, and shipping both ways is included. Info: 888-618-0305, getoutfitted.com

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