The PureConnect was named “Best Debut” in Runner’s World’s Winter 2012 Shoe Guide. These shoes offer a balance of minimalism and cushioning that is required for those intense tempo runs. They are extremley light at 7.2 oz and expect these shoes to last approx 250-300 miles . Some feedback about these shoes are that they have a high arch and they do run more narrow. so for anyone that does not have high arches are wide feet these may not be the best fit for you. Give them a shot though and try them on to see for yourself.
It’s rather rare to have a new shoe company come on the scene. The last company that made a huge imprint was Newtons. This latest company is Hoka One One and this shoe called the Hoka One One Bondi B pronounced Ho-kay Oh-nay Oh-nay which means “Time to Fly” in Maori, “Bondi” pronounced bond-eye is named after Bondi Beach. So what is the selling point? As you can see these are not minimalist shoes and actually are taller and bigger than most running shoes. The Hoka Bondi B are surprisingly light considering how big it looks weighing only 9.8 oz. The structure of these shoes allow for 50% forward rocking profile with an oversized midsole that absorbs heavy impact on hard surfaces. The jury is still out on how these feel and if they will take off. Although if they can do what Netwon did by sponsoring the likes of Crowie there’s not doubt the shoes will sell. On thing is for sure they are just has pricey as Newtons.
Newtons have defienetly come onto the triathlon scene especially with athletes like Craig Alexander and Michellie Jones being sponsored by them. No wonder with every triathlon we go to more and more athletes are showing up with these great looking kicks. This particular model the Newtons Mens Gravity Neutral Trainer is a great everyday trainer that is light (9.1 ounces) and much sturdier and longer lasting than the Newton Distance. The heal has a more solid rubber to keep the shoe from wearing down quickly. The Action/Reation Technology is also in these shoes to promote a better midfoot to forefoot running. It is a great looking shoe and performs very well. Just a word of advice is make sure you ease into these shoes and build up the miles. I’ve heard of many runners taking these out the box and putting in 15 miles to come to find out there calf and achilles become sore.
Why bother with laces in transition when Yankz Sure Lace System eliminates the need to tie your shoes in T2. This innovative lacing system is made of expandable cords with two points of adjustability to provide comfort and a perfect fit. Simple to place into your sneakers and makes putting on shoes so much easier – cinch and go!
The Zoot Ultra Kalani 2.0 is a light and comfortable shoe designed for everyday training. UltraFit upper hugs your feet for a glove-like fit while TekSheen mesh keeps the feeling soft. Cushioning and responsiveness is provided by the full length Z-bound midsole and CarbonSpan+ gives you support on high mileage days. There is also a carbon fiber plate for additional support and to put a little spring in each step. The ‘non-tongue’ tongue has a built in pull for easy entry along with a loop in the back. Weighs 10.7oz, 25mm midsole height.
Let’s welcome the updated Saucony Kinvara 3. Their latest redesign on the popular Kinvara is mostly superficial with minor tweaks. The fit, feel and ride are the same and it’s still lightweight. The upper now made of a strong, pliable, light and seamless material called FlexFilm™. The outsole got an upgrade with placements of carbon rubber for enhanced durability. Anatomically contoured memory foam heel pods inside the shoe ensure a perfect fit. ProGrid™ technology midsoles give you response and and cushion. Weighs 7.7 oz. You get quite a bit for so little shoe.
Newton’s latest, their MV2 Speed Racer, is engineered to be one of the lightest, most efficient natural running shoes ever produced and to have you moving faster. Your feet will feel more response from the ground with the low profile (0% heel to forefoot) and biomechanical sensor plate, promoting a higher paced cadence. Action/Reaction TechnologyTM in the shoe provides protection from our unnatural hard surfaces. Made of highly breathable, fast-drying mesh, it has heel-securing double eyelets, slip-proof flat laces, anti-friction/anti-bacterial sock liner and a water drainage system.
Don’t let dehydration bring you down on a training run. Be prepared with Fuelbelt’s lightweight R3O Revenge Hydration Belt. With its easy slip in and pull out 7oz water bottles that are held in place with their molded holsters, you won’t have to worry about running dry again. The containers are leakproof, ergonomic and BPA-free. An adjustable waist band with velcro closure plus custom fit sizes mean that it can be tailored to your size so it will fit comfortable. A removable pocket option allows for additional small items to be carried, such as gels, keys, cash, etc. If you have 7oz bottles from previous FuelBelt’s, no worries, those bottles will fit with this belt, too.
Stay safe and visible during your run in the Nathan Tri-Color Cross Trainer Vest. It is lightweight and made of a breathable mesh, so it won’t get in your way or feel bothered. 360-degree visibility and 500 candlepower reflectivity. Others should see you with its 1200 foot visibility and reflective three colors. One size fits all.
Suunto’s Quest Running Pack has all the equipment you need to track your training sessions. Create custom displays, training programs, settings and then upload the data to Movescount.com. It features dual time settings, alarm functions, stopwatch, interval and lap counter, heart rate monitoring, running cadence tracker, real time speed and distance tracking and nine language display options. Water resistant up to 100ft/30m and the pack includes the Suunto Quest watch, Movestick Mini, Dual Comfort Belt and Suunto Foot POD Mini.
