Hi-Tech Running Products

Harmony Lace Sneaker for Women

Features

• Premium, durable nubuck and mesh upper
• Ghillie and eyelet lacing system
• Bespoke Italian designed webbing
• Moisture wicking lining
• Anti-odor, anti-microbial Ortholite® sockliner
• Contoured CMEVA midsole
• Durable Vibram® rubber outsole

Alder Springs Softshell for Men

Features

• 90% polyester 10% spandex with DWR
• Breathable and lightweight fabric
• Two zippered hand warmer and one zippered chest pocket
• Durable reverse coil zippers
• Single hand drawcord adjustable hem
• Center back averages 28.5" length

The products above are both new for Sprin 2012 and excellent additions to our Becoming a Runner Series because they each deal with elements of nature that a runner can't always forsee. The sneaker pictured above is made of durable material which allows it to stand up to varying terrain such as trails,slippery surfaces, and rocky grounds. When running you can't predict every storm, so this sturdy shoe just makes it easier to take whatever nature throws your way. It is heavier than other shoes I've tried, but also feels sturdier. It also has a moisture wicking lining helping to prevent your feet from overheating in extreme temperatures. The softshell for men, offers an extra layer of lightweight fabric to provide extra warmth and protection from the elements while allowing you to breath. I also love the extra pocket to carry ID/money/ipod etc; it's a great feature!

Runnur

 Let me tell you about a products I recently learned about. The Runnur is a mini back pack that is the perfect size to carry everything you need to get through your day. If your pockets aren't big enough and a fanny back just isn't your style, we have a small back pack in a sleek design that is perfect for men and women. The design is a balance of style and function, allowing freedom of movement, while carrying everything you need.

While it's not marketed to be a "running" accessory I found that it worked fairly well for a brisk walk/jog. I ordered  size small which I thought would fit well, but my only criticism is that it didn't fit snugly to my body like I had hoped. I think a few less inches would have been perfect, or perhaps making it adjustable would be helpful.

I loved how I had compartments for everything AND a reflective strip for safety. As you can see from the photo I was able to carry my phone, sunglasses and water bottle on the visible size, and on the back I had my ID cards, money and snacks. I also liked that it had a clip at the bottom if you needed to carry a bag or in my case, walk the dog!

These are the ways I decided to use the bag, which may be a deviation from it's intended purpose, but I still found it very very helpful!

Asics

In honor of May being national runner's month, we decided to test out and compare different types of walking, running, trail walking and training shoes, starting with Asics.

The first shoe we tested out was the Women's GEL-DS Racer 9 Running Shoe. This is described as being a lightweight racing shoe that will allow you to run quickly in comfort while providing stability for those who tent to over-pronate as well as the neutral runner. The ASICS® Gel DS Racer 9 is a responsive racing flat that will provide exceptional support during any race or conditioning.  This is definitely a minimalist style shoe. It's lightweight, allows the air to flow through the material so your feet can breath. After running/walking over 30 miles in this shoe the back of my heels had some pretty nasty blisters, as well as the inner part of my heel. I expected some wearing in, but after wearing these shoes to run 10 times I was still getting blisters so this was my only complaint about these shoes. I loved the color and design and how light the shoes were, but couldn't get past the blister issue. These would be great shoes for runners who prefer a minimalist type running shoe.

The second shoe we tested was Gel-Fortitude 5. This shoe is described as a maximum support shoe designed for large-framed runners with a neutral gate, as well as orthotics wearers for enhance stability. This shoe definitely provides maximum support, but it's also heavier than the Gel-DS Racer shoe. Being a runner with slight overpronation I found these to offer the perfect amount of support and stability without any uncomfortable rubbing or irritation.

The guys tried out two types of Asics: Gel Fortitude & GT 2170. The 2170 is advertised as being cushioned and nuetral so perfect for training new runners, while the Gel Fortitude is great for stabilityand support for mild overpronation.

They ran/walked approximately 15 miles in each sneaker. The GT 2170 was extremely comfortable, lightweight and breathable, however after running for a long distance, the skin around the ankle became irritated, which is never fun.

The Gel Fortitude was also extremely comfortable after a lot of standing and were found to be very supportive, which is how they were advertised.

Overall, Asics are great shoes if you want to give running a shot!

SKECHERS Running Sneakers

Women's Ace Athletic Sneakers

Score points on style, comfort and sporty versatility in the SKECHERS Ace shoe. Lightweight perforated synthetic and mesh fabric upper in a lace up running and training athletic sneaker with stitching and overlay accents. I was a skeptic about this sneaker as it didn't look very supportive to my eye, but when I slipped my feet into them I felt instant comfort and cushioning. With the cushioned insole it adds extra shock absorption when my feet hit the pavement, which I need. It was very lightweight and so easy to walk and run in. I would say I walked/ran about 15-20 miles in these shoes without any rubbing, blisters or irritation which is a big plus, when other shoes I've tried caused irritation instantly. I also love the bold color combinations available, so these are stylish, comfortable and reasonably priced in my opinion. Everyone's foot reacts different to each shoe, so these are just my opinions, but try a pair yourself and see what you think!

Construction:

• Smooth microperforated synthetic upper
• Lightweight mesh fabric upper for cooling effect
• Lace up running and training sporty athletic sneaker design
• Stitching accents
• Stabilizing side and heel overlay details
• Side S logo detail
• Lace up front
• Padded collar and tongue
• Soft fabric shoe lining
• Cushioned comfort insole
• Lightweight shock absorbing midsole
• Contrast colored dual density heel panel in midsole for stability
• FlexSole design for added comfort
• Flexible rubber high traction outsole
• Weight: 7 to 12 oz. per shoe depending on size

My Thoughts:

Running and Sun Protection

I think one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of running is sun protection. People think about what they put on their feet, what to put in their bodies or water bottles, but neglect to think about their skin. Thankfully there is a company called Coolibar, that makes SPF protection clothing to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

The clothing pictured here, Men's Short sleeve Fitness Shirt and Women's Weekend ZnO pullover both offer an SPF of 50+ which is phenomenal. Especially for distance or marathon runners it's important to remember how much time you will be spending in the sun and to come prepared with clothing like this and SPF lotion for exposed skin (and scalp)! One other item to note is sun protection. It's best to also invest in a great pair of sunglasses to keep your eyes protected as well. If you really want to run and plan to work up to long distance, these are some things to consider and invest in, as I feel they'll keep you safer and your skin and eyes healthier in the long run!

These items, and more, can be purchased at www.coolibar.com