mizuno

Running

What's Your Running Shoe Style: Barefoot or More Supportive?

2011 may have been the year of barefoot running, but 2013 is already chalking up to be the year of the sole.

2011 may have been the year of barefoot running, but 2013 is already chalking up to be the year of the sole. Last month, Mizuno released its new Wave EVO collection, which includes options like the Evo Cursoris ($120), a lightweight yet stabilizing shoe that offers more cushioning to encourage a midfoot strike. And today, Adidas unveiled the new Energy Boost ($150; available for preorder), which incorporates its new bouncy foam technology into the midsole in order to provide more cushioning without weighing feet down. Stability shoes like the Brooks Pure Project Cadence 2 ($120) also offer similar lightweight support.

What do you think of this slight shift away from shoes like Vibram Five Fingers, which encourage you to run naturally, to minimalist yet supportive shoes that aim to help modify your running style? Do you love the new less-minimal models, or are you a fan of barefoot styles?

Running

Gear Review: Mizuno Breath Thermo Tights and Crew Top

San Francisco may not have arctic weather, but running in the Winter still calls for a few layers, or at least gear strategically designed to keep frosty temps at bay.

San Francisco may not have arctic weather, but running in the Winter still calls for a few layers, or at least gear strategically designed to keep frosty temps at bay. Enter the newest offering from running company Mizuno: its Breath Thermo line of zip-up jackets, tops, and tights designed with snowy weather in mind.

Thin and lightweight, both the Mizuno Breath Thermo Layered Running Tights ($75) and the Mizuno Breath Thermo Running Crew ($60) have a secret — they're made of material that both absorbs sweat and converts it to warmth using the company's Breath Thermo technology, so you stay dry and warm at the same time.

Once the evening temps hit the 50s, I took these out for a spin. I loved the tights the instant I pulled them on; they felt cozy and soft without feeling constricting, and they have well-thought-out details, like zippered calves for easy on, easy off, a small back zippered pocket for cash and ID, and an inside pocket for a key. Also, the strategic stitching and seam design give the tights a flattering fit as well — an important aspect to consider when you're running around town in leggings!

Find out what I thought about the Breath Thermo crew top after the break.

mizuno

Gear Review: Mizuno Meridian Running Shorts

I love a good pair of cute track shorts to liven up my runner's wardrobe, so when we received a few pieces from Mizuno's new Inspired running collection I was especially happy to test out the stylish pink-trimmed Meridian Running Shorts ($40).

I love a good pair of cute track shorts to liven up my runner's wardrobe, so when we received a few pieces from Mizuno's new Inspired running collection I was especially happy to test out the stylish pink-trimmed Meridian Running Shorts ($40).

After a few treadmill runs and a cool-weather 12K race, I am not just a fan of how they look, but also how they feel. Weighing about 9 oz., the shorts were so lightweight and soft that they were a pleasure to run in, and the moisture-wicking material kept me comfortable (and quickly dried after running through a sprinkle of rain).

Read the rest of my review of the Meridian Running Shorts after the break!

celebrity fitness

Nicole Richie's Hi-Low Gym Look: Mizuno and Balenciaga

Nicole Richie always keeps things stylish, even when hitting the Tracy Anderson Method studio for a workout.

Nicole Richie always keeps things stylish, even when hitting the Tracy Anderson Method studio for a workout. Mixing the high with the low, Nicole picks fitness staples from Nike and Mizuno but finishes the look off with her signature Balenciaga bag and oversized sunglasses.

Shop Nicole's look for yourself:

Mizuno Wave Rider 14 Running Shoe ($100), Nike Pro Combat Core Tight ($35), Lovely Bird Tee ($17), Balenciaga Giant City Tote ($1,795), Pressed Juicery (prices vary)

Fitness

Run Lightly: Minimalist Shoes For Spring

Barefoot running seems to be more than a passing trend; it seems everywhere I look, runners are wearing the Vibram 5 Finger gloves for your feet shoes.
ClimaCool Chill by Adidas

Barefoot running seems to be more than a passing trend; it seems everywhere I look, runners are wearing the Vibram 5 Finger gloves for your feet shoes. Many popular fitness shoe brands, following Nike's lead with it's line of Free running shoes, are responding to this craze by creating lightweight minimalist sneakers. These running shoes protect your feet without over cushioning them. Here are five sneakers that bridge the gap between heavily fortified running shoes and no shoes at all.

Poll

Which Brand Of Sneakers Do You Prefer?

Some women are pretty particular about the brand of sneaker they wear.

Some women are pretty particular about the brand of sneaker they wear. Whether you choose because of the style, fit, comfort, activity level, or price, nothing beats a great pairs of kicks.

So, what's your favorite brand? Do you love Brooks because they have sneakers with great arch support? Or maybe you have really narrow feet, so New Balance sneaks fit you snug as a bug.

Perhaps you love Reebok because they have sneakers with extra cushioning in the heel. Or are you a Nike fan, loving that you can design your own shoe?

I'd love to know which brand you love and why, so tell me below.