FitSugar

Fit High Heels: Cole Haan Nike Air

FitSugar — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 04:00:00 -0800

At first glance you may think that I have lost my mind writing about heels but bear with me here.

My sister and my mom have been raving about these new heels that Oprah apparently loves. I'll admit I was skeptical, as they would love anything Miss Oprah endorses, even if it were the ugliest shoes ever. I was thinking Nike sneaker meets heel, which didn't sound so attractive to me but I did the research and can now say that these Cole Haan Nike Air shoes ($275 and up) are fabulous.

Each high heel shoe of the Cole Haan Nike Air collection utilizes Nike Zoom air bag technology to cushion the ball and heel of the foot. By lining the interior of the heels with strategically placed Nike Zoom air bags, the stress and pain caused by the weight transfer from the raised heel to the toe is counterbalanced. What does it all mean? Basically these shoes could be the most comfortable and sexy heels you ever wore, even despite the fact that the heel sizes average 3-4 inches.

The Cole Haan Nike Air collection of high heels comes in a wide variety of styles including boots, wedges, platforms, pumps, Mary Janes and sling backs. Now, I'm not saying you should run in them as you would your Nike sneaks, but it's nice to know you could if you wanted. To get a pair visit the Cole Haan site.

To see more of the cute and comfy shoes, read more

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Nike Specialized Shoe: Nike Air Native N7

FitSugar — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Nike has its name on just about every type of shoe out there, even high heels. Since it's got all shoe genres covered, it seems like Nike are now making sure everyone on this planet can wear the brand comfortably.

The latest shoe? The Nike Air Native N7. What's so different about this shoe? Well, it is supposed to be the first-of-its-kind performance shoe is built on a new and unique last - a rounded oblong block used to approximate the form of the human foot - created to address the specific fit and width requirements for the Native American foot. The main purpose of the shoe is to help promote and sustain physical activity and address health issues prevalent within the Native American community. Nike didn't stop there though; profits from the sale of the Nike Air Native N7 will support "Let Me Play" programs on Native American lands that leverage sport to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

What's more? The Nike Air Native N7 also embraces Nike’s Considered design ethos, where details in the development and design of the shoe are geared to deliver sustainable innovation and reduce waste, without compromising product performance.

Wow. That's one good shoe. No word where or when it's available but I'll keep you updated.

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Finish Line Surveillance Cam

FitSugar — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 09:15:20 -0700

Pan right. Pan left. Zoom in. Zoom out. Use the surveillance cam to go all voyeuristic on the exclusive colors of the new Nike Air Max Moto+ 5.

Available in men’s and women’s styles, this shoe is just what you need for your Spring workouts. The Air Max Moto+ 5 actually talks to your iPod nano, using the Nike+iPod Sport Kit. Available only at Finish Line. Check out more exclusives at finishline.com.

Thanks to our friends at Nike for sponsoring this post.

Best Sneakers for Long Distance Running

FitSugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

If you're upping your running mileage to tone up, to cross-train for another endurance sport, or if you're training for a marathon, then you're going to need a quality pair of sneakers. There isn't one brand or style of running shoe out there that is considered the ultimate shoe, because everyone's feet are different and so is the way in which they run. Here's some criteria you should look for in a shoe:

The sneaker should be lightweight and breathable. After continuously pounding your feet on the ground for almost an hour, you want as little weight on your feet as possible to avoid injuries to your joints and to conserve energy. Running for long periods of time will also raise your body temperature, so you want a shoe that has some type of ventilation (sweaty feet can cause blisters).
The sneaker should be made for your type of foot. Flat-footed people who overpronate when they run need extra arch support. If you have high arches and underpronate, you'll need extra cushioning. If you're not sure what type of foot you have and where you fall on the pronation scale, go to a specialty running store for expert advice.

For more great tips read more.

The sneaker should be made for the type of surface you plan to run on. If you're jogging on dirt, uneven, or wet terrain, make sure the sole of the shoe is meant for that, and the frame is sturdy.
Go for comfort, not appearance. Your feet could care less if your sneaks look cute with your new running skirt. So make sure they offer optimum cushioning and support. Finding the best fit is the point, so try on every brand and style of shoe in the store (even if they're hideous).
Don't be afraid to put down the dough. A solid pair may end up costing around $150, but it's totally worth it since you'll be spending a lot of time in them. If your feet are protected, it'll help avoid injury and improve your performance.

If you're at a loss for which ones to try out here's a list recommended by Consumer Reports: Nike Air Zoom Vomero+ ($120), Nike Air Pegasus+ 2007 ($65), Puma Complete Infinitus ($85), and Reebok Premier Hatana ($89).

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5 Treadmill Gripes - and 5 Solutions

FitSugar — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:30:22 -0800

I'll admit that I'm kind of annoyed that the colder weather has forced me to move my runs inside. I prefer jogging in the fresh air, and there are many reasons I hate the treadmill. I'm sure you can relate, so here are five easy ways to make your treadmill time more fun and enjoyable.

Gripe	Solution
It's way too boring.	Staying in one place can have its downfalls, so make it fun by listening to a book on tape, learning a language, watching a movie or TV show, perusing a magazine, or listening to a great running mix.
It's too loud.	You can't stop the noise, but you can prevent yourself from hearing it by getting a set of good noise-isolating headphones like these Ultimate Ears Metro F1.2 ($70). They'll block out all outside noise, including the annoying guy next to you trying to pick you up.

To see the rest read more.

Gripe	Solution
It's too repetitive on my body.	The great thing about treadmills is that you're in control of the speed and the incline. So mix it up to feel different effects on your body. If you don't want to futz with the buttons, many newer treadmills offer built-in interval workouts. Select a workout from the list and it'll make you feel more like you're running outside than just running on a hamster wheel.
I don't believe the readout.	When using your own treadmill or one at the gym, you get accurate readings of the time, distance, and how fast you're moving, since these are simple functions the machine can figure out by using the clock and the speed of the belt. When it comes to calories burned, if there's a place you can enter in your weight, then the calorie readout should also be fairly accurate. To be sure, you may want to get a heart rate monitor or the Nike+ Sports Kit.
There's no place for my water bottle or magazine.	If your treadmill doesn't have a rack or water bottle holder, you can buy these separately. A Cardio Caddy With Bottle Holder ($25) can keep track of your water, iPod, or remote control. You can also purchase the Up'n Over Rack ($25). It's made of clear plastic and fits over the treadmill display so you can read your book and also peek at how long you've been walking.

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Running Tip: If You Love Your Sneakers, Buy a Second Pair

FitSugar — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700

Finding the perfect pair of sneakers is no easy task. If you're like me, you have to try on a bazillion running shoes to find the pair that fits you like Cinderella's glass slipper.

So when you unearth those unbelievably made-for-you sneaks, just buy a second pair. That way you can run in the first pair, and when it's time to give them a rest, you'll have another perfect pair waiting for you. This is especially helpful if you're training for a big race. If you feel weird about having two of the exact same looking pairs, then buy the sneakers you love in two different colors, like these Nike Air Zoom Vomero+2 shoes. They'll seem new and different to your eyes, but your feet won't notice the difference.

Get in Gear: Nike + Ipod Sports Kit

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Nov 2006 13:30:00 -0800

I love it when two great brands collaborate to make one cool super product. Nike and Apple have done just that.

To find out what it is, read more

First you're going to need the following:

An iPod Nano, $199-$249
Nike ready shoes (like the AirMax 180), $110
The Nike + iPod Sport Kit, $29

Once you have all three products (and a lot less money in your bank account), they work together with special shoe sensors, that are unobtrusive and waterproof and will feed your workout information to your iPod. During the workout the Nano screen will show you time, distance, pace and calories.

Why I am not selling everything I own (just yet) to get this product:
As of yet, the Kit does not provide a way to display your heart rate, which I'm guessing is the next step. Also, I usually wear my iPod in a holder on my arm so it may be annoying to hold the Nano through my run so I could see the stats.

Why we love this product:
Nike and Apple usually make great products-- so you know you're not throwing your money down the toilet on some random brand. The kit comes with programmed workouts which are great for people who like a little direction. All in all, the whole concept is just cool and we all need a new toy every once in a while.

Buy it all here, or you can look up a location near you to try it out before buying.

Podiatric Shoe List

FitSugar — Mon, 22 Jan 2007 07:30:17 -0800

The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, an organization for advancing the understanding, prevention and management of lower extremity sports and fitness injuries, has come up with a list of the best shoes on the market out there for running.

The list was based off the following requirements: Stability, durability, availability, price point, quality control, orthotic compatibility and other specific features.

Running Shoes - Mild Pronation Control -
ASICS GT-2110 (pictured)
ASICS Gel Empire
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 6
Brooks Trance 5
Mizuno Wave Alchemy 5
Mizuno Wave Inspire 2
New Balance 767
New Balance 1221
Nike Air Structure Triax 9
Nike Air Max Moto
Nike Shox TL3
Saucony GRID Omni 5
Saucony Shadow 6000 (Classic)
Saucony Grid Hurricane 7 Running Shoes

To see the rest of the list read more

Running Shoes - Moderate Pronation Control -
Adidas Supernova Control
ASICS Gel Kayano XII
ASICS Gel-Foundation VI
ASICS Gel Evolution II
Brooks Addiction 6
Mizuno Wave Elixer
New Balance 857 ST (
Reebok Supreme Control DMX
Puma Complete Premise
Saucony: 3D Grid Regulate
Saucony: Grid Stabil MC

Running Shoes - Maximum Pronation Control -
Brooks Beast
Brooks Ariel
Mizuno Wave Renegade 3
New Balance 1010

Running Shoes -Cushioning -
ASICS Gel-Cumulus VI
ASICS Gel Landreth
Brooks Glycerin 4
Mizuno Wave Rider 9
Mizuno Wave Creation 7

Running Shoes - Trail -
Adidas Supernova Trail
Asics Gel-Eagle Trail
Brooks Gila
Montrail Diez Vista
Montrail Vitesse
Montrail Leona Divide
Montrail Hurricane Ridge XCR
Montrail Hardrock
Montrail Kinabalu
North Face Ultra GTX

Source

The Top Running Shoes Revealed

FitSugar — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Product rating powerhouse Consumer Reports has tested 205 pairs of men's and women's running shoes in an effort to find the best. Overall they found that the Nike Air Zoom Vomero+2 (pictured here) was the best running shoe for men ($120) and women ($120). Not only does it have excellent cushioning, but it also was praised for its quality fit. Unfortunately, like most running sneaks, the price tag is a little steep.

If that's a little too pricey for you right now, the Champion Wonder C9 ($28) was the most cost effective woman's running sneaker that made number 23 on the list - the shoe scored high points for being lightweight and flexible. What's more? You can buy it at Target!

To see the full list, head on over to ConsumerReports.com (subscription required).

These Boots Were Made for Running: Wafflo Boots

FitSugar — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 07:30:00 -0800

I love my leather boots, they are great. Unfortunately sometimes they are not practical for all the activity I do in any given day. So what do you do when you want to wear cool boots but don't want to kill your feet?

The Nike Women's Air Wafflo Boot ($80.00) combines the supreme traction and response of Nike's original waffle sole but are much more stylish than your average sneaker. I'm still warming up to the look of these boots, but they could be the sporty answer to (ugh) Uggs. I will admit that they could make running to the bus a whole lot easier than in my heels and if boots could get people walking around more, then you know I am all for them. Get them on Nike.com.

What do you guys think -- Cool or not?