FitSugar

I am Keen on Keens: Wasatch Crest Trail Runner

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 02:30:00 -0700

I have never been on the Wasatch Trail in Utah that is that namesake of these shoes so I cannot tell you from first hand experience how inspirational it is. What I can tell you is the Wasatch Crest by Keen is a great shoe.

Designed for long distance trail running the shoe is super supportive through the mid foot, making it easier to not roll too much from side to side - great shoes if you are prone to pronation. The soles feel thick and the shoe is engineered to protect and support all the parts of the foot that are often over taxed by running. Plus the inside of the shoe is lined with excellent wicking material and the soles are designed to grip wet surfaces.

My inaugural run in these shoes was an urban run, not a lovely trail run - we take what we can get. My route might not have tree roots but there is plenty of uneven terrain - like hopping off curbs to avoid smokers or making quick pivots around slow sightseeing tourists. So I would say my test run was pretty thorough and the shoes were great. The balls of my feet felt especially cushioned as I ran through the city. I was a little nervous running in shoes I hadn't worn at all, meaning no break-in time. In the end I was blister free and my feet felt quite happy. My trailrunners are bright orange and I could see folks on the street eying them, the make of a statement for sure. I love orange so it is a statement I can stand behind (or run on).

The shoe weighs 12 oz., which puts it on the heavy side, but makes the shoe quite durable. They are also available in aquamarine blue and sage green

Buy them online from REI for $95.

See you on the trail.

Get Your Butt in Gear: Springboost Shoes

FitSugar — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Walk much? Who doesn't, but are your shoes allowing you to do it properly?

Springboost B-WALK Shoe ($140.00) is a walking sneaker that automatically corrects your posture, just merely by wearing them while walking. B-Walk, is designed for the weekend warrior looking for a waterproof shoe with good grip. The outsole of the shoe has also been studied to provide increased rolling action, lengthening the stride and providing the feel of a light, dynamic walk. This is all done using Springboost's special Dorsiflexion Technology. Anyone who walks for fitness will appreciate the health benefits gained from walking in dorsiflexion (with your foot slightly flexed) such as relieved lower back pressure, straightening of the back, increased blood circulation in the legs and activation of more muscle fibers in the legs and buttocks. The shoes are sold with two sets of interchangeable insoles. One enables users to get used to dorsiflexion with an insole at 0 degrees dorsiflexion, and the other allows wearers to get more out of their walk with a 2 degree dorsiflexion insole.

They are a lot like Earth Shoes in that they promote good walking. They are similar in appearance to MBTs (though MBTs are made on a rocker rather than a decline), but they are a lot less expensive. Buy them from TheTannery.com.

Get in Gear: Axiom 2 Shoes

FitSugar — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 03:00:00 -0800

To some people, a sneaker is a sneaker. When you put in as much time at the gym and on the sidewalks as I do, a sneaker is so much more.

I am loving the new Axiom 2 shoe ($90.00) from Brooks Running because it is a lightweight yet ultra supportive trainer that works with people who may (or do) have pronation tendencies. Its Diagonal Rollbar -- a wedge-shaped piece of high density foam that is positioned on the medial (arch) side of the midsole to reduce the rate and speed of pronation -- makes the shoe flexible enough to allow for natural movement while still being supportive. More basically, these shoes are great for anyone training, whether it is on the treadmill or on the pavement. Get yourself a pair directly from BrooksRunning.com.

On Our Radar: Nike 2010 Running Collection

FitSugar — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:00:01 -0700

The fitness world may not have a fashion week, but this weekend I previewed some of Nike's 2010 Spring running line, shoes and jackets, at the Nike Running Summit here in San Francisco. At the event, held the day before the 6th annual Nike Women's Marathon, designers explained their two inspiration behind their latest sneakers and running gear: runners and lightweight.

The first concept is fairly self explanatory - they design their gear to complement the motion of running and what runners need. Secondly, they pared everything down to shave off weight leaving the running feeling free and unencumbered.

To learn more about the shoes coming out early next year, keep reading.

You Asked: Numb Toes When Running Outside?

FitSugar — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:00:00 -0800

Dear Fit,
For a few weeks now, since the temperatures have plummeted recently where I live, I've been experiencing numb toes while running. Not only does it feel weird, but I'm worried that not feeling my feet will cause me to fall. Any suggestions about how to prevent this form happening?
-Numb Norah

It may make you feel better to know that numb toes are not uncommon. I'm sure fellow FitSugar readers can relate. To find out how to deal with this annoying problem read more.

Numb toes can be caused by a number of circumstances, so go through this list to see what might be causing yours.

Your socks are too thick. Cold weather definitely calls for warmer socks. If you're sporting thicker socks than you were in the Summer, but you're wearing the same sneaks, then your shoes may be too tight now. You may want to spring for a new pair of Fall/Winter shoes that are a half size bigger. Be sure to bring your thicker socks to the store when trying on new sneakers.
Your sneakers are tied too tight. Try loosening your laces slightly. This will allow more movement in your toes.
Your sneakers don't fit well. If you've recently bought a new pair that you're breaking in, or your pair is too old, numb toes could be the result. Look for styles that have wide-toe boxes.
Your feet are cold. If your sneakers are covered in that meshy material, they're letting in wind. So get yourself a pair of windproof sneakers that are made of solid leather.
Your body is cold. If your core is freezing, then blood will move away from your extremities to ensure that your main organs stay warm so they can function properly. This means that blood won't be circulating to your feet or hands, so be sure to dress warmly. Wear layers so if you get hot, you can easily shed them. You can also try overexaggerating your movements. Lift your knees as high as you can with each step to build warmth and get the blood flowing to your tootsies.
You have a physical injury. If you've broken or sprained any part of your foot or leg, then your blood may not be circulating or your nerves may not be functioning properly. So get checked by a doctor to see how they can help.

I sure do hope these suggestions help because I have found it my feet aren't happy, I'm not happy.

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Too Snowy to Run Outside? Run in Snowshoes

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:00:00 -0800

Now that it's March most of us want to start thinking about Spring and warmer temps, but many of us are still covered in snow. If you're looking at a few more weeks of wintry weather, and the trails you want to run on are too powdery for sneakers with Yaktrak, then you might want to check out a pair of racing snowshoes. This pair made by Redfeather (on sale for $220), can be worn with your comfy running shoes or lightweight hiking boots. The titanium crampons underneath help you grip through snow and ice, and the lightweight aluminum frame helps you to stay on top of the snowy surface without sinking down. Racing snowshoes are narrower than regular snowshoes, so they allow you to keep your natural running stride.

If Spring feels miles away and you can't bare to be chained to a treadmill, running snowshoes will allow you to safely keep up your pace and endurance while enjoying the fresh air and challenging terrain outside. If you've never even considered running in snow, you may want to give it a try. Walking in the snow for 30 minutes burns 300 calories, but running in it for the same amount of time burns at least 500.

If I Won a $1,000 Nike Gift Card . . .

FitSugar — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 03:30:00 -0800

Nike may have started out as a sneaker company, but they also make gear that is flattering and fun to wear. This is why we are excited to be offering a $1000 gift card from Nike along with other great prizes in our Get Fit for 2009 giveaway. If I had $1000 to spend on Nike gear, I would definitely invest in a pair of Zoom Sister One+ training shoes. These shoes are so light on your feet, they make strength training feel like a dance.

My other major splurge would be the Monika Club Bag ($160); full of pockets for organizing all your gym gear, the bag even comes with a "dirty clothes" bag to help keep your sweaty duds separate.

My shopping spree wouldn't end there. To see what else I would choose read more.

The Nike Spring collection is full of color, hot pink and cobalt blue, and long shirts. Yay! No more worrying about showing off more of your backside than you intended. Nike uses their special blend of Dri-Fit fabric, which wicks away sweat without feeling synthetic, in some colorful striped long tanks ($30) - perfect for any workout out. Sticking with the "long" theme, Nike has created a fitted zip hoodie that will cover your bum too.

I would round out my $1000 with some hot pink training shorts for the girlish tomboy look as well as a hot pink Dri-Fit top to keep me cool when I am running hot.

If you won a $1000 Nike gift card, what would you get?

View 7 Photos ›

5 Things: Breaking in New Sneaks

FitSugar — Mon, 05 May 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Spring always inspires me to buy new fitness gear, so if you're like me, you probably picked up a new pair of sneakers. Here are some things to keep in mind when breaking them in.

Buy a new pair before your old ones start to fall apart. That way if you start to feel pain or a blister coming on, you can switch back to the pair you know and love. Continue alternating between your old and new sneakers until you gradually make the switch over to your new ones.

Start off with some lower impact activities to give your sneakers a chance to stretch out and mold to your feet. Don't just slip them on and continue with your regular running routine. Walk in them for while and then start running short distances. Gradually work your way up to longer runs.
Break in your new sneaks on the terrain you normally work out on. That means if you only run on a treadmill, break them in on a treadmill.
Always wear the same kinds of socks you'll be running in while breaking them in.
Be patient and keep in mind that it may take a month of workouts to get your sneakers to shape to your feet.

Fit Tip: On the inside of your sneaks, in permanent marker, write down the date you started wearing your new sneaks, so you'll know when it's time to buy some new ones.

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You Asked: My First Winter Running Outdoors

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 05:30:00 -0800

Dear Fit,
I've been running consistently, at least three times a week for a couple years now. I live where the Winters are cold and snowy, and last year I moved all my workouts and runs into a gym, but I really didn't love it. I decided that this year, I wouldn't let the cold stop me from continuing my outdoor runs. Can you give me some advice for dealing with the cold, snow, and ice?
- Not Afraid of the Cold Carla

First of all, good for you for staying motivated to run outside, even when Winter is in full force. I'm sure many readers can relate to feeling disgruntled about ending their runs outside. To hear some tips on how to deal with the cold conditions read more.

Wearing wicking clothes is a must, and be sure your gear blocks the wind. Avoid overdressing because you'll end up sweating, which will make you freeze.
Prevent frostbite by wearing gloves and slightly thicker socks. You'll also want to wear one of those face and neck masks to protect your cheeks and nose. You may look a little weird, but people already think you're crazy for running in the Winter, so who cares, right?
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's reflection on the snow.
If you prefer running in a few inches of snow (or don't have the option not to), spring for a pair of sporty waterproof boots, or racing snowshoes. Wear a pair of gaitors to keep your lower legs dry.
If you want to wear your sneakers, and there's only an inch of snow on the ground, you can attach a pair of YakTrax to the soles of your shoes to add traction. Get a set of the Yaktrax Pro ($30), since these are made for running.
After your run, get out of your wet clothes immediately. Staying in them can put you at risk for hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature).
Another important thing to keep in mind is that sometimes the conditions won't allow for a Winter run. If the temps drop in the single digits or below zero, or the ground is covered in ice or black ice, remember that it's OK to choose the treadmill. You don't want to risk injuring or overexerting yourself.

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Running Barefoot

FitSugar — Fri, 25 May 2007 04:00:00 -0700

I love when the weather gets warmer and I can finally wear flip flops and let the wind blow through my toes. Feeing the cool grass beneath my feet is what spring is all about.

Other people have taken it to the next level and run barefoot. Some athletes train and compete shoeless, like South African runner Zola Budd, a former Olympic track and field competitor.

So why do they do it? To prove they can withstand pain? To show how tough they are? Have they lost their sneakers?

Some barefoot runners like the way the ground feels on the soles of their feet, like the grounding sensation that allows you to balance in a yoga pose. Plus shoes can be constricting, and when your feet are bare, you can really spread your toes out and grip the ground.

When you run barefoot, your muscles are in control instead of your shoe, so some feel it makes their feet stronger, which improves their performance. Shoes also add weight to your feet, so running barefoot could improve your speed.

Some barefoot runners say they have fewer injuries when running shoe-less. Sneakers can cause blisters, calluses, and toe numbness, so some runners do it because it's more comfortable.

Want to know some other reasons why people run barefoot? Then read more

Also, when you wear sneakers, you are depriving yourself of a very important aspect of running - feedback. The ability to know you are landing too hard, or on the wrong spot of your foot, is essential in learning to run gently, smoothly, efficiently, and without the risk of injury. Wearing sneakers makes your foot blind to those sensations.

Another great thing about running without sneaks is a greater sense of awareness. You pay more attention to your surroundings, especially to the ground below. You've got to be super focused so you don't step on a piece of glass or small pebble. You also become more aware of your form - being accurate with each stride and careful not to drag your toes.

Well, it's something to think about. Have any of you ever tried barefoot running? I'd love to hear about your experiences.

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