The Latest

I haven't been posting a lot lately, if you've noticed. Every few days I start formulating something in my head and then I get lazy and feel like its not enough to warrant a full post. So, here is a mixed bag of updates and things going on:

1. I've officially "graduated" from physical therapy

After six weeks of PT, I had my discharge session this morning and passed my final evaluation with flying colors. As I should have assumed, my problem was much bigger than just a simple IT Band issue. My body was literally off balanced and out of whack. I'm surprised I was even walking around okay. I've learned a lot in the past six weeks to help me move forward and stay in check. And, as much as I like my therapist, I really hope I don't find myself back there anytime soon.

2. Nike is sending my sister to Japan

At the beginning of this year my sister applied to join Running for Relief, a program sponsored by Nike and Tomodachi to aid with earthquake and tsunami recovery in Japan. A few weeks ago she was offered one of the 12 spots for Americans! She left today and will be spending the next 5 days helping with recovery, learning about Japanese culture, and running in the Nike Nagoya Women's Marathon (she is running the half). I'm going to make her write a guest post when she comes back.

Picture she sent me of all her swag. If you run with Nike, you have to look the part!

3. I updated my running shoe collection

A few weeks ago I realized that my Kinvara 3's were going to expire soon. As my go-to shoe I planned to replace them, but I usually rotate at least two pairs of shoes at a time so I set my sights on other shoes to fill the void.

I've been wanting to try the Newton Distance for awhile, having heard good things about them. At $155 a pop they are pricey, but I will shell out money for the right pair of shoes. Unfortunately, after visiting four different running stores, I couldn't track down a single pair, and I'm reluctant to order them online without trying them on (even if I can send them back).

For now, I'm giving up on the Newtons. Instead I re-ordered the Kinvaras as planned and also tracked down a first generation pair of Brooks PureFlow. I've gone through 3 pairs of PureFlows before this. They are a great shoe if you are looking for a minimalist profile with some cushion. They did come out with a new version in January, but I'm not entirely convinced by the updates. For one, my usual size 9 felt super big when I tried them on in the store and they did not have an 8.5 for comparison. Secondly, I think they the lacing update makes them look like clown shoes. And lastly, there is not a single appealing color (no, I don't like pink and yes, I'm vain and picky about show color). Overall, not a fan. It worked out okay for me though, because I was able to get the first generation Flows on sale for $30 less.

Who says you have to upgrade?

4. I finally feel like a "real runner" again

Last week I ran 41 miles including a 15 mile long run on Sunday. 40 miles is about my bare minimum for feeling like a real runner. *Please note that this is a personal judgment of my personal running. If you run 5 miles a week and call yourself a real runner then that's fine by me.

During my long run on Sunday I added in two massive hills in my neighborhood that used to be part of my weekly routine, but that I've since avoided in recovery. I fell in love with the hills in my neighborhood last summer. It felt good to be back, but boy did they hurt! The ups and the downs really killed me and I will spend the rest of this week keeping things flat so I don't overdo it.

They just never ever ever look as tough on camera

5. Real running means a real drain on my bank account

I'm thrilled to be running again and feel back to normal. The one good thing about being injured, however, is that it tends to seal up my bank account really tight. I don't buy any running clothes or shoes and I don't really sign up for races when I can't even run a mile. But now that I'm back my paychecks are already being spent in my head weeks before I get them. This race and that race and these shoes and those shoes (see number 3 above). Not to mention that spring is around the corner and so suddenly everything at Lululemon is cute again and I must have it now.

Size 6, ahem, when you get a chance

6. I'm getting stoaked for spring race season

I have my first race of the season next weekend: The Rock 'n' Roll USA Half Marathon. I originally signed up for the full, but there's no point in re-injuring myself. I'm well prepared for the half (for distance, not speed necessarily) and I'll tackle a full after a few more months. Patience is key.

The warmer temperatures are also making my giddy for Ragnar Cape Cod in May. I already started scoping out other recaps and looking for pictures or running along the beach. I cannot wait!

July 2012 in Review

Let me jump right in to proudly declare that I finally (finally!) hit 200 miles for the month! Woooooo!

And chose to celebrate by wearing the most obnoxiously mismatched outfit I could find

Mileage Recap

A year ago - July 2011: 151.95
January: 181.21
February: 86.84
March: 6
April: 89.59
May: 128.43
June: 137.72
July: 200.1

I have nearly hit 200 mi/month two times before, but I would inevitably injure myself (once for 10 days, once for 6+ weeks. Eek!). I'm committed to being healthy this time around so if I feel any aches or pains then it's break time. I'm pretty siked that I made it to 200 in only my first month of JFK training. Three more months of build to go!

Cross Training Recap

331.72 miles road cyling
1000 m swam
8 Pilates classes
3 Boxing classes
1 Xtend Barre class

What went well

This month I fell in love with the long run all over again. I had my first signifant distance runs (18 and 20) since February. For some reason I can't stand mid-distance runs of anything 10-16 miles. They make me want to hurl. But anything under or over that and I'm happy as a clam. Strange, no?

This month is the first training month I've ever done without an actual training plan. While the calendar-obsessed organization freak in me is still mourning, the rest of me is really agreeing with this decision. I throw ideas about weekly mileage together on Sunday night and if it works out, it works out. if it doesn't, it doesn't. Low stress.

I have been loving pilates. Like love, love. I'm thinking of getting certified as a mat instructor late this fall or early next spring. I got back to boxing as well and, despite a few split knuckles, my body is loving it.

What didn't go well

In general this month has been exhausting. Understandably so. I've been working out quite a bit and have hardly had a complete rest day. Going forward I'm going to try and remedy this. I might drive into work one day so I don't even have to get on my bike. Whatever the solution is, rest days are essential and can't be skipped!

And, yet another month when I didn't make it to the pool enough. I get lazy during my lunch hour and don't feel like moving. Try, try again next month.

August 2012 Goals

I have no races in August (at least not at the moment) so it's really going to be all about the continue build in training. Some more specific goals include:

- Get to the pool once a week
- Continue foam rolling every night
- Move into month 2 of JFK training with caution and take breaks when I need to
- Clean up my diet by removing most of the processed foods and refined sugars

Vacation is Over

The worst part of vacation is the end of vacation. After two weeks off of work, including the wedding, the honeymoon, and a few extra days doing some stuff around the house, it's back to the daily grind today. Le sigh...

I spent my last few days after we got back from Costa Rica doing a delightful amount of "whatever the hell I feel like doing because it's vacation." It would have been even merrier had the temperature not been scorching in the 100s.

Thank you Philadelphia fruit trucks, for making 100 degree weather all the more bearable

Despite the heat I still made it downtown to pick up some new kicks (as if that could ever keep me from purchasing new running shoes). I had 75 or so more miles left on my Kinvara 2s, but they got kind of torn up on the volcanos in Costa Rica. I took it as a sign to upgrade to the 3s, which I have been salivating for since they came out in the spring anyway.

First run = A-MAZING. Love.

And again, despite the heat, I spent the weekend frolicking in these beauties outside. No treadmills for this girl.

Watermelon is a must after hot sweaty runs

So, to the point of this post, yes, vacation is over, but what comes next could be just as good. Today I officially start JFK 50 training, which will also have wrapped into it Tough Mudder and Baltimore Marathon training. I don't have a plan drafted and I don't really plan to make one at the moment. The goal is to build mileage over the next two months of the summer. I finally made it back up to 46 mpw the week of my wedding. It felt fantastic. Up and onwards I say! And, as before, I'll keep up with the cycling to work and the pilates and probably one Xtend Barre or boxing class per week. Time to get cut!

Are you starting to train for your fall races yet? Got a plan?

Mizuno Mezamashii Run Project

Before I head out for my Costa Rican honeymoon tomorrow, I thought I'd leave you all will some cool info I received about Mizuno's new project: The Mezamashii Run Project.

The project is all about helping to create a more eye-opening ("mezamashii"), brilliant run. This hits home for me, since I actually find running to be quite a spiritual experience.

I have always wanted to try out a pair of Mizunos, but unfortunately they haven't made it into my closet yet. I'm hoping the expand their minimalist line in the future. For now I've got my eyes on the Wave Universe 4 and at under 4 ounces I think they'd fit in just find with my other shoes friends.

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The best part about the Mezamashii Run Project is that they are giving away tons and tons of free Mizuno shoes! All you have to do is visit their website and apply for an invite. You can catch up on all of the latest info here.

Do you run in Mizunos? What pair do you recommend I try?

Spring: It's Coming

First of all, thank you for all of your kind and encouraging comments about my injury. Obviously I'm not the first person to ever be sidelined from running. It sucks, but I'm done complaining about it for now, at least on this blog. No one wants to read some whiny girl complain about how she can't run and her life is over. I'll keep my sulking relagated to the non-blogging world (sorry Mike).

So, since I can't really talk about my running, I'm exploring other things to talk about, such as the impending spring season!

By now this kind of "winter weather" should seem totally expected

There are so many lovely things about spring like:

Parks in bloom

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Farmer's Markets

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Froyo

Oh, there will be so much froyo

Outdoor Bike Rides

Who are those crazy people who still do this in the winter? Not me!

New Shoe Debuts



In pretty new colors. Saucony Kinvara 3 hits stores May 1.
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Running Crops

Yes, Lulu I will take one ten please

Awesome Spring Races

Broad Street sold out in 5 hours this year! Luckily Mike, myself, and almost every one of my friends were able to snag one of the 30,000 spots!
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What are you looking forward to most this spring?

Shoe-minations: Brooks Pure Grit

At the beginning of this month I received a long awaited special delivery: my new Brooks Pure Grit!

I had been interested in trying these shoes since I purchased the Pure Flows back in November. I was immediately in love with the Flows, and after trying theGrits on in store they seemed to have a similar construction.

Two major features of the Flows and Grits that I love:

1. A wide toe box for my monstrously wide feet
2. Decent cushioning while maintaining a minimalist profile

When I'm running in my Flows I feel like I'm floating on air and I had hoped the Grits would offer the same feeling for trail running.

I now have a little over 40 miles on the Grits and have taken them on some decent trails, including this past weekend's 50k.

As you can see, it was a muddy, muddy mess. Mess aside though, the shoes held up remarkably well. Much of the water drained out of my shoes almost as quickly as it seeped in. I did almost lose them a couple of times in the mud, but I think that was more of the mud's fault. I didn't get any blisters or chafing. Because of the generous cushioning, the bottoms of my feet didn't ache when I ran over rocks. This was a welcome experience after running over rocks in my Minimus Trails, which had the oposite effect.

I was a little concerned that I wouldn't be able to restore them after the race, but 10 minutes in the tub and they were good as new.

I did notice while cleaning them that there is already a tear in the right shoes near the laces. Considering the trails I was on weren't the most technical, I am a little disappointed that they have torn already, but I did trip over a sharp rock at one point, so perhaps that was the culprit.

Overall I am surpremely happy with these shoes. The only real downside to them, and to all of the Pure Project line, is that they are only good for 250-300 miles instead of the usual 350-400. I didn't realize that when I purchased the Flows, but now that I know I am starting to see that they are losing their cushioning at a little over 250 miles. The only reason this lower mileage is a negative thing is because it's my bank account that will suffer as I have to buy new ones more often.



 Still, for me, they're worth every penny!!

What trail shoes do you run in? Have you tried the Pure Project line?

New Month, New Things

New things like:

AWESOME NEW BROOKS PURE GRIT!!!!!!!

Review coming as soon as I take these babies for a decent trail run. Aren't they pretty?

And what goes perfect with a new pair of trail shoes? Why a trail race of course!

Registration opened yesterday for my 50-miler. You know, the one I've already been training for for over 8 weeks?

It. Is. Happening.

The Runner's Gift Guide

If there's one thing I love as much as running it's shopping! I've always been a big shopper and when I started running in 2010 it didn't take long for me to discover the wonderful world of running clothes, shoes, gear, gadgets, and more. So, needless to say, I think I have a pretty good idea about how to shop for a runner and there's a lot more to it then just a pair of sneakers!

Geared up and ready to run this past summer!

With that in mind I thought I'd showcase some gift ideas for those of you gifting to a runner or for those of you new to running looking to add to your running stash. Whether you're shopping for a beginner or an experienced marathoner there is something for them on this list!

$10 or less

Fuel: If your runner is doing any training runs or races longer than 1-1.5 hours then fueling up is a good idea. Individual servings run a few dollars and are sold by many different brands. You can choose from Jelly Belly Sport Beans to CLIF Shot Bloks to GU Energy Gels to Nuun dissolvable tablets and more. Any fitness or running store should have some in stock. They can usually be found near the checkout.



Foot Care: Surely runner's beat up their whole bodies doing what they're doing (my entire body hurt after I ran the marathon including my arms, abs, etc.), but their feet certainly take the biggest beating. I personally use Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Lotion with Aloe to keep my feet in good shape, but there are many other brands that carry similar creams and some that even have ones specific for feet. If you want spend more than $10, luxury foot care items can be found at places like Sephora. The brand Bliss carries some really nice products including their Softening Socks + Foot Patrol Set. Another nice, but again more expensive, option for this category would be a foot spa bath.

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Bodyglide: Oh Bodyglide. How I love thee so. If you've ever experienced any sort of chafing, whether you're doing a sport or just walking around in an uncomfortable piece of clothing, then Bodyglide will definitely come in handy! They have a men's and women's specific version and they come in stocking stuffer size. They last quite awhile too. I've had mine for quite some time.

$25 or less

Digital Sport Watch: If your runner has been running for awhile chances are they probably already have a timekeeping, if not a GPS-keeping, device. But, if your runner is relatively new to the sport or maybe you're buying for someone who wants to take up running, then getting them a digital sport watch may be a good idea. Many different brands make simple sport watches so there are a lot of colors, styles, and features to choose from. Even though I use a GPS watch now, I'd say I still run about half of my mileage with my simpler sport watch just to track my time.


Winter Accessories (gloves, hat, ear warmers, arm warmers): It's that time of year to bundle up! Having a good pair of running gloves and a hat or ear warmer designed specifically for sweat-producing activities is definitely necessary for any outdoor winter runners. Almost all major sporting good brands make these items so there is a lot to choose from with respect to style, color, price, etc. Some of my favorites include Lululemon Running Gloves, The North Face Ear Gear, and Nike Arm Warmers.

Hat or Visor: Some runners may prefer to run without anything on their head, but for me personally, if it's raining out or if it's a particularly sunny day (especially in the warmer months and locales), I need a visor or hat on my head to keep the rain/sun/sweat out of my eyes. Getting a hat or visor that is made of a sweat wicking material is particularly important here. I really like Lululemon's Speedy Run Hat and Nike's Dri-Fit Classic Hat.

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Hydration Bottles & Handhelds: Hydration is super important for runners so supplying your runner with a handheld water bottle is a worthwhile gift idea (especially if you live somewhere where you experience 100 degree days like the East Coast did this summer). At first it may sound uncomfortable to hold a water bottle while running, but many brands who specialize in this type of equipment have designed all sorts of ways to limit this discomfort by changing the shape, adding a strap, etc. Trust me, you really forget you're even holding it after a while. Major brands for this include Nathan and Amphipod.

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Nathan Shoe Pocket: This thing is a real gem. For those times when your runner may not have a pocket or zippered pouch in their clothing, the Nathan Shoe Pocket comes in handy. It attaches right to your shoe laces and the pocket is nice and deep so you don't have to worry about your keys popping out during your run.

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Running Socks: If you've never bought a pair of real running socks (that is, socks specifically designed for running) then you may be wondering why they aren't listed under the "$10 and less" category. The answer is that running socks are pretty pricey, often costing around $12-15 a pair. The good news though, is that they are totally worth it! Running-specific socks are padded in targeted areas (heel, toe pads, etc) and vented in other areas to allow your feet to breathe. Check out any major running goods brand.

Running Literature: This is an especially good gift idea for a new runner. When I first started running I super excited to discover Runner's World Magazine (and I still geek out about it every month when it arrives). If a magazine subscription isn't something that you want to give, then try a running-themed book. I have a short list of ones I've read on my Favorite Things page. I assure you that there are many more besides those though!

SPIBelt: The SPIbelt is no doubt one of the best running gear items that I own. It's expandable enough to hold your phone, keys, credit card, music, even your camera. It also comes in lots of fun colors if you're into that sort of thing.


Mike obviously took this picture to showcase the SPIbelt. Obviously.



$50 or less

Apple ipod Shuffle: Maybe I'm crazy, but I remember the first generation shuffle being at least $100 and only holding about 500 MB. Years later, it has 4 times as much space, is half the size, and can now be yours for a cool $49. As someone who occasionally runs with music, I was really excited to get my near weightless shuffle for on-the-go. If your runner already has a music player, consider buying them an arm band holder for it so it's more comfortable when they're running.

Hydration Waist Packs: While I love my handheld water bottle, there are times when I just want to go hands-free. Having a waist pack is a good substitute. I especially like the Nathan Triangle Waistpack and any of the FuelBelt products.

$100 or less

Running Shoes: Getting someone running shoes as a gift can be tricky. Between all of the different brands, heel to toe drops, and fits (from neutral to stability) it can be a difficult thing to shop for. If, however, you know exactly what type of shoe your runner wears, the size, and perhaps their favorite color then it can be a decent gift idea. Remember to get a gif receipt just in case!

Compression Sleeves & Socks: I'm a HUGE fan of compression wear for the lower extremities. They can be worn before, during, or after your run and help keep the blood flowing. Zensah compression sleeves are on the cheaper end ($40) and come in a variety of colors. For a more expensive option I love CEP compression socks ($60), which also come in a bunch of different shades (blue and red to debut in January!)

Whether a race or a long training run, you will often find me with compression socks or sleeves. I <3 them so much.


$100+

GPS watch: A digital sport watch is really nice to get the basics, but a GPS watch can offer a lot more. The feature I love the most is the fact that you can see your pace as your running, which is really helpful if you're training or racing and looking to meet a certain time. They have a lot of addition features outside of that (many of which I probably haven't even figured out yet). Garmin makes some really nice models, including mine, the Forerunner 305. Regardless of which brand you buy, the most important thing to do when considering a GPS watch purchase is to read lots of reviews. I researched them for about a week or so before making a decision about which one I wanted.

Hydration Backpack: For those runners doing really long runs or trail races, a hydration backpack, such as the ones made by Camelbak or The North Face are a good idea. Even though they carry a good amount of water I barely notice mine when I'm wearing it.

Digital Camera: It's always nice being able to document all of the cool places you go when you run (especially if you run and blog!). During the summer I purchased the Olympus Stylus Tough 6020 camera to take with me on-the-go. It doesn't have the best picture resolution, but it's waterproof (up to 16 feet), freeze proof, and drop proof (up to 5 feet), which makes it the perfect camera to take on the run. As always, do your research. There's bound to be other camera out there like it!

Of Varying Prices

Race Registration: If your runner is into racing, then consider purchasing a race registration for them. After all, those race fees really start to add up if you do more than a few each year! Of course, don't purchase any registrations unless you know your runner is available and willing to travel (if required) to the race.


Tech Clothing: I didn't mention clothing in any of the above pricing categories because frankly they can be all over the place. The most important thing to consider when purchasing clothing for a runner is to make sure it can breathe! Tech clothing is made specifically for sweating (and stinking). If your runner lives someplace seasonal, consider purchasing for the current weather. If it's winter, think long sleeves, pants, and jackets. If it's summer, think short sleeves and shorts. That way they can get use out of it right away. And, as always, get a gift receipt just in case the sizing is off!

Fellow runners - Got any other gift ideas?

*HAPPY SHOPPING!*

Shoe-minations: Free 3.0, Kinvara 2, Pure Connect & Flow

On Saturday I finally allowed myself, after more than two months, to try on some new running shoes. As you may know, I retired my dear Saucony Kinvaras a few weeks ago. Since then I have been biding my time, waiting to allow myself a juicy new running buddy.

Up first: Nike Free 3.0 v3

HT: 4 mm?, Source

I really wanted to like this shoe. I've been wanting to try it out for awhile because I really like the look. Unfortunately I took it off almost immediately. I was expecting the bottoms to feel light and springy, but instead they felt really hard, like concrete without actually being on concrete. On top of that, I found it kind of difficult to get my foot into the shoe as the tongue didn't really open up enough. Nix the Nikes!

Next: Kinvara 2


HT: 4 mm, Source

The Kinvara 2 felt even better than its predecessor. I definitely would have jumped on it had I not fallen in love with the Pure Flow. At least now I know my size so I can order any delicious color online whenever I have some extra moolah laying around!

Next: Brooks Pure Connect


HT: 4mm, Source

 When I first heard about Brooks new Pure Project line coming out this fall, THIS was the shoe I was looking forward to. Though all four models have the 4mm drop, the Connect is by far the lightest and most minimalist of the bunch in all of it's aspects. Unfortunately, not long after it premiered I starting hearing some not so good things about it. Mainly that it had an extremely narrow toe box. Narrow enough that even Runblogger returned them right away without being able to offer more of a review. They were just that uncomfortable.

All of that in my head, I decided to give them a try anyway, even though I was already leaning towards something with more cushioning like the Pure Flow. Two seconds on my feet and wouldn't you know it: narrow toe box! Like Runblogger, I can't even say anything about the other qualities of the shoe because they were so uncomfortable I had to remove them right away. All the best to those of you who can fit into them comfortably!

Lastly: Brooks Pure Flow


HT: 4 mm, Source

If you looked at yesterday's post you know that these are the shoes I walked out of the store with. They had a good amount of cushioning, but still maintained a minimalist profile, which I prefer. Ever since my shin splints I've been leaning more towards cushioned shoes. My legs just feel better in them. Of course, the high comfort level of these shoes leads me to ask why Brooks decided to make a wide toe box with these and an extremely narrow one with the Connects. It doesn't make sense!

As for a post-run review, the Flows were not difficult to break in at all. After 20 miles I was left with no more blisters than I would usually incure doing that distance. I guess only time will really tell if the cushioning holds up or falls flat, but I have a good feeling about them!

Welcome to your new home Flows!

The Do Nots

Do Not #1:

"Do not do a big long run less than three weeks before a marathon" DID IT

I ran my first 20-miler on September 4th and my second on October 2nd. My original training plan called for three 20s two 22s, but October shin splints kind of ruined that plan. So, I was left with two choices: forgo one last long run and hope that the endurance I had built up to at the beginning of October would hold through November 20th OR run one last big one to check my endurance and risk body exhaustion during race day.

I chose door number two and ran 20 miles this morning with race day only 14 days out. I know it might not have been the best decision, but I'm glad I did it. I found the second half of my run very difficult and I would have hated to feel like that during the actual race. I'll have to be really careful over the next two weeks to make sure I'm running nice and easy, but I trust my body to recover in time for race day.

Check out the Flows!

Do Not #2:

"Do not break in new shoes with a long run" DID IT

I was just too excited about my new babies to leave them home this morning. Full review to come tomorrow, but I'll just say that running in Brooks Pure Flow feels like dancing on a marshmallow cloud. As soon as I tried them on I knew we were meant to be together and I knew that I would have no problems taking them for 20 miles as our first outing. Post-run I've still got nothing but pure love for these guys and other than some to-be-expected distance related blisters, my feet are doing just fine. 

Ode to a Good Pair of Shoes

Tonight I say goodbye to a dear pair of shoes, my Saucony Kinvaras:

le sigh...

Dear Kinvaras, 

We've been through so much together. You were my first pair of minimalist shoes. We sweat it together during my first 20 mile run. You helped me set a new half marathon PR. I wish we could be together forever, but unfortunately, at about 400 miles, you are have come to the end of your life. You will be missed. 

Love, Kristin xoxo

The question now is: what will I replace it with?! I'm debating between the Kinvara 2, which I'm sure I'd love no doubt, and the Nike 3.0 v3:

Oooo so purty

Of course, I don't need to replace it with anything. In fact I may hang back a couple of weeks before purchasing anything new. I've still got a few pairs to work on, as discussed in my minimalist shoe post. The thing about the Kinvaras is that they had become my go-to running shoe out of my five pairs. Fortunately, in the last month I've come to lean on my NB 1400s.

I didn't have a review on them when I wrote my shoe post because I had just bought them, but after almost 100 miles I can tell you that they totally lived up to expectations! I will most likely wear them for the Philly Marathon in 5 weeks. They did get me through 28 of my 34.5 miles at Ragnar last week, so I know they can take a beating!

Oh, and just in case you were wondering how I keep track of all my "shoe miles," this Google Doc comes in handy:

FYI: "PR" stands for my Puerto Rico trip in May

Hmm, looks like I need to give my Green Silence some more love. It's been awhile!

Do you have a "go-to" pair of running shoes? Do you rotate? How do you keep track of your "shoe miles?"

Kristin the Minimalist

If there is one thing that my running obsession has been bad for it has been my bank account and my closet space. No matter what activity I fall into, it seems I never fail to find more things to buy in order to support it. That being said, I think it's about time I wrote a post about running shoes. After all, running is all about using your feet and thank goodness we live in an age when there are so many options for what we could wear on them!

If you've ever visited My Things page, you may have noticed that I rotate shoes during my training. This is not something that all runners do, nor is something all runners need to do. The reasons many runners do rotate shoes, however, are:

1. prolonged life of shoes by allowing them to dry out/decompress between uses

2. different types of shoes for different types of runs (ie. speed work vs. trail runs)

3. reduced risk of injury

4. prevents your foot from "molding" to one type of shoe (keeps your feet on it's toes!)

5. allows you to indulge in shopping for more shoes!

Okay I admit, reason number 5 has a lot to do with my multiple pairs of shoes, but all the other reasons are just as valid for me as well!

Now to get to the meat of this post: minimalist shoes!

What is a minimalist shoe you ask? Minimalist shoes are flexible, lightweight shoes that encourage a midfoot strike and keep you close to the ground. They help simulate running barefoot and, at least in my experience, they usually have a heel-to-toe drop of less than 12mm. Heel-to-toe drop is the difference between the height of the heel and the height of the toe. The higher the heel-to-toe drop, the higher up on your heels you will be. 12mm is considered a normal heel-to-toe drop with what is considered a standard amount of cushioning under the heel. The less cushioning, the less height difference between the heel and toe, and hence the more minimalist the shoe.

And what about this midfoot strike I mentioned? A major point of philosophy behind minimalist and barefoot running is that landing on your midfoot rather than your heel not only prevents injury, but is also more natural for us as human beings. After all, none of us emerged from the womb wearing platform shoes and our ancestors certainly didn't chase down dinner across the African landscape in the Nike Pegasus. We are born barefoot. As children we run around in our homes and on our lawns barefoot. When you run barefoot it is natural for you to land on your midfoot rather than your heel. Landing on your heel causes your body parts to stack themselves up unnaturally when you land, which can cause many injuries and put more strain on things like your knees.

Since many of us grew up in shoes with more cushioning however, heel-striking may be normal for many of us. Hence, transitioning to a minimalist shoes can be tricky and sometimes even unsuccessful. I made the transition relatively quickly after I started running, so it was easy for me. For someone who has been running for 5 years in mainstream shoes, however, they might find the change more challenging. I'm not here to tell you that you should aim to transition. All I can tell you is my experience. If it's not right for you, then it's not right for you. End of story.

If you are interested in minimalist and barefoot running I would recommend that your read Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. Like many thousands of others, I decided to make the switch to minimalism after reading this book. Not only is it well-written and an interesting story on it's own, but it goes into a lot of depth (much more than I could ever!) about the whys and hows of minimalism. In addition I would recommend visiting Runblogger, which is a blog that I came across while looking for advice on what minimalist shoes to buy. This guy really knows his stuff and his reviews are extremely in-depth. It's my go-to blog for running shoe reviews and a big help when I'm trying to make decisions about what to include next in my rotation.

A Closer Look at My Closet

Saucony ProGrid Kinvara:

HT (heel-to-toe drop): 4mm
Weight: 6.7 oz

The Kinvara was my first minimalist shoe. Prior to this I had been running in Brooks Ghost 3 (also a great shoe, though not minimalist), which were my first real running shoes ever. I bought the Kinvaras when I had about 350 miles on the Brooks, so I still had enough mileage left on them to do the transition. I started running 1 mile at a time in the Kinvaras and alternating between the two shoes. What I noticed immediately after my first mile test run in the Kinvaras is that the back of my calves were sore, but not in any place they had been sore before. They felt sensitive at the back of the calf right above the ankle. I didn't even know I could work that muscle! Within two weeks I made a full transition to the Kinvaras and never looked back! I have about 275 miles on them right now, and have been considering running my first marathon in these. I will be due for a new pair by then though, which is when I will make the upgrade to the Kinvara 2 (which comes in a lot of fun colors!).

Brooks Green Silence:

HT: 8mm
Weight: 6.9 oz

After having such a great experience with my Brooks Ghost 3 I was really eager to buy something from that company again, though at that point it had to be minimalist. I chose the Green Silence for a number of reasons. Not only was it getting rave reviews in the running community for being well-built and durable, but it is also an extremely eco-friendly shoe, made from 75% post-consumer recycled materials and a biodegradeable midsole among other things. GREEN Silence indeed! I haven't run in these as much lately, as I've looked to shoes with an even lower HT, though I did complete my first half marathon in them back in May.

His and Hers Green Silence

Saucony Hattori:

HT: 0mm
Weight: 3.8 oz

I admit that a few years back when I first saw the Vibram FiveFingers I thought they looked nutty and that anyone who wore them looked evern nuttier. That said, you can't have a discussion about minimalist running without mentioning them. They are the ultimate barefoot shoe, with a 0mm HT, or zero drop. When I got into minimalism I decided I should see what all the fuss is about. Unfortunately though, my stubborn Morton's toe prevented a proper fit, and I gave up after 20 minutes of trying to force them on my feet. Maybe I will feel inspired one day to try again. As well, there are a number of videos and articles online about stretching the Vibrams out to fit a Morton's toe.

Though feeling defeated I did not give up my quest for a zero drop shoe! Fortunately around the same time I was looking at Vibrams the Saucony Hattori came out. These shoes are sometimes referred to as the One Finger shoe (vs. Vibram FiveFingers...get it?). Like the Vibram it is zero drop and extremely light. It is the lightest running shoe in my closet. I primarily use my Hattori's for speed work as they feel practically weightless, though I've taken them on a few easy runs as well. I only have about 60 miles on them (since speed work is only a few miles a week), but so far they are holding up great. I don't wear socks with them and they easily slip on my foot. They remind me of those water shoes I used to wear as a kid when we went swimming (why did we have to do that again?).

New Balance Minimus Trail:

HT: 4mm
Weight: 5.5 oz

Since I plan to get into trail running and ultras in the near future I wanted to add a trail shoe to my line up. I heard great things about the New Balance Minimus line and decided to give it a go. This shoe can also be worn sockless like the Hattori (though because of a stubborn heel blister I have yet to go barefoot in them). They are just as good on the road as on the trail, so even though almost all of my running right now is road running I can still rotate the Minimus Trail in. This shoe is super flexible and is very roomy in the toes which my wide feet require. I set a PR in these shoes a few weeks ago and I couldn't be happier with them! And yes, that is a Vibram sole (to satisfy my Vibram craving). I look forward to the zero drop Minimus Trail that New Balance is launching next spring.

New Balance 1400:

HT: 8mm
Weight: 5.7 oz

These are the newest addition to my closet. I just took them on their first run last night and they were AMAZING! I felt like I was flying! They feel extremely light weight. It's almost like they're not even there! They are racing flats so they are meant for speed. If all goes well I plan to wear them at least to the two 5ks I am running in September, if not the half. And if nothing else, they look damn good!

A successful first outing for me and my 1400s!

As I add/replace shoes in my line up I will continue to update, though it will probably just be one shoe at a time instead of bombarding you with five all at once!

Happy running, friends!