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Category Archives: Gear Review

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

November 22, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment
Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

It has been a minute since I ran in Newton. For those who don’t know, the Newton Gravity was one of my first running shoe ever. In fact, I almost run exclusively in Newtons until working at the running store 6 years ago. I ran the in Newton Gravity 1 and Newton Gravity 2. I believe I ran in a pair of the Newton Gravity 3, but that was the extent of it. In total, I ran in 17 pairs of Newton Gravity (I distinctly remember counting one day).

I found this gem from the early days of blogging: I learned: a: I ran in a lot of Newtons. b: my photography has gotten better. (or maybe c. phone camera quality is better)

Back in their heyday…

Anyway, when I started working at the running store in 2014, I began running in different brands. I haven’t come back to Newton until this year. For those who don’t know, Newtons have a unique sole with “lugs.” They take some time to work into and you will have issues if you start running all of your mileage in them immediately.

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

Newton Gravity 8 Quick Facts:

Heel to Toe Drop: 3 mm

Weight: 9.1 ounces

What are the Newton Gravity Lugs?

All models of Newtons hae lugs in the forefoot.  The lugs allow your body to be at a more flat heel to toe differential. If you are looking for a lower heel to toe drop, the Newton Gravity 8 has a 3 mm with the lugs.

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

Newton Gravity 8 Fit:

First, it would be unfair to compare the Newton Gravity 8 to the original Newton Gravity. Like most brands, the upper is much more breathable and engineered mesh uses no seam on the foot to fit your foot better. For the Newton Gravity 8, Newton introduces Adaptive Fit, engineered mesh.

The seamless upper molds to your foot for a secure ride. Newton wants the Gravity to feel “amazingly” soft, breathable and snug experience. I do appreciate the Newton Gravity 8 is wider than previous models and molds to the contours of my foot well. I typically wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and the 10.5 fits well.

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

Newton Gravity 8 Ride:

Like any Newton Running Shoe, the Newton Gravities take time to get work into. Since the Newton Gravity has a 3 mm heel to toe drop, which puts more stress on your calves. If you have already been running in lowering heel to toe drops and minimal shoes, it should take less time to get used too. What is different when the Newton Gravity, is even though it has a minimal heel to toe drop, it has full foot cushioning. The trampoline-like cushioning system causes the foot to bounce back and lose less energy.

Most people’s first impression is they feel “weird” or “different.” It’s different than the traditional foam-core running shoe. You feel the lugs under your feet and you feel them walking around. Even though I’ve run in Newton Gravities, it still felt weird to come back to them 5 years later. Weird in a good way.  Take your time getting used to them. I started running 1 mile in them (then switching into another shoe) for the rest of my run to make sure my body felt good.

When you first start running in the Newton Gravity 8, you’ll notice the lugs.

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

What do the lugs do?

The lugs help promote a midfoot strike and propel you forward. All Newton Running shoes use proprietary “Action/Reaction Technology.”  The movement of the lugs generates the Action/Reaction Technology. It creates a responsive ride that provides less energy loss than most traditional running shoes.  Similar to an adidas running shoe but that quality and durability is much higher in Newton.

Now that I’m used to them, I’e run anywhere between 1-10 miles in the Newton Gravity 8. I like how cushioned they are while still being responsive.

One issue that has always been a problem is Newtons can collect debris.  I’ve gotten many rocks stuck between the lugs. I recommend sticking to the roads where the technology of the lugs can be used and less debris gets stuck between the lugs.

Newton Gravity 8 Shoe Review

Newton Gravity 8 Conclusion:

I like the Newton Gravity 8 and it’s fun to run in a shoe that was so familiar to me for so many years. I will continue to run in them and use them more for daily runs. I think they fit best there. Finally, it’s essential to mention the Newton Gravity 8 is $175. Newton has claimed you can get more mileage out of the shoes.

When I ran consistently in the Newton Gravity, I found I could get between 500-600 miles; when many shoes, I could only get 300-400. Every foot is different and when your body doesn’t feel good, it might be the shoes. Do I think the price of the Newton Gravity 8 is worth it? I do think if you get the full amount of mileage in them, you aren’t paying much more.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, Hoka Bondi 6, Newton Gravity 8

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro, 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Questions for you:

Have you tried Newtons before? Have you tried the Newton Gravity 8?

What was the first shoe you ran in? 

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PonyFlo Hat Review

November 20, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , , , Leave a comment
PonyFlo Hat Review

PonyFlo Hat Review

One thing I’m trying to incorporate more into the blog is reviews of running and fitness things that aren’t shoes.  For the longest time, I was a visor only person. A regular ballcap would give me hat hair for a week and honestly, after losing my hat at Shamrock 2016, I was over hats.

Ponyflo contacted me a few weeks ago to try their hats. Before looking, I thought, Nah. Then after reading more about them and noticing the design, I thought it might be what I’ve been looking for along.  While Ponyflo sent me a hat to try, I’m not obligated nor being paid to write a review.

So What is a PonyFlo Hat?

Typical ballcaps and hats have a fixed hole in the back. If you have long hair, it makes it impossible to pull your hair through. You either lose hair or the hat doesn’t come off.

Ponyflo hats have a unique design that allows the entire hat to open in the back.  This means if your hair is long or thick, you can adjust to let your hair to “flow” through easily.  When you take the hat off, you don’t lose hair. Ponyflo hats use a tangle-free adjustable Velcro opening in the back.

While PonyFlo Hats Make their Active Design, They also make lounging around “game day” hats, beanies, and what caught my eye first: Cat mom!

Are PonyFlo Hats Good for Running?

I was worried by how PonyFlo Hats would stay put when running. I’ve used the Classic Active Hat a few times on pouring rain and windy runs and it’s stayed put the entire time. I haven’t had issues with it falling off, coming undone, or just being uncomfortable. Like a visor, I forget it’s there.

If you are like me, with long or thicker hair and looking for a hat: PonyFlo Hats are a good fit for running and working out.  Finally, it’s the first baseball hat designed by a woman for women.

 

Finally, Ponyflo Hats was nice enough to give a discount code for all readers. Using Fueledbylolz will get you 25% of your purchase.

You Can See Gear Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Questions for you:

Do you have issues with hats and running? Do you wear a hat while running? 

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

November 15, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is a newly updated shoe from Diadora. For many, Diadora is an unfamiliar brand. If you played soccer, you’d know Diadora is an Italian company that once specialized in both soccer and lifestyle shoes. A few years ago, Diadora moved into running shoes and done a great job. The plush cushioning in their models has been well received.  Plus, many of their models are “only” updated every 18 months to 2 years. Finally, the United States Headquarters is in Philadelphia, which I can appreciate.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Quick Facts:

Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm

Weight: 10.2 oz

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Fit:

The brand, Diadora, is a wider last shoe altogether. If your feet are wider, it might be a good brand to look into. Many of their models are roomy enough to go down a half size. I don’t because it’s not enough space for me, but many people do. The  Diadora Mythos Elite TRX has a contoured footbed that cradles and guides the foot in a neutral path.

Typically in running shoes, I wear a size 10-11 wide. In the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, I find a size 10 to be most appropriate.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Ride:

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX uses a new concept in running technology. It gives you support when you need it and not when you don’t need it. The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX simulates the presence of a traditional medial side dual-density system and achieves the same end result by the subtraction of the section on the lateral side.

For instance, say one of your feet pronates and the other does not, the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX will give support to the foot that needs it but will remain neutral for those who don’t. Similar to the once-beloved Nike Lunarglide. Come to think of it; if you were ever a Nike Lunarglide fan, the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is a shoe to look into.

Blushield technology allows neutral runners to stay neutral, but those were needing stability to get that as well. Theoretically, anyone can run in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX. Do I quite believe “anyone can run in the shoe,” no, but it will provide support if you need it and not if you don’t.

I’ve run in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX for several different runs, including workouts, long runs, and easy runs. With the amount of cushion in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, I prefer the shoe for easy runs.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Conclusion:

I like the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX and it’s a great trainer for easy runs or recovery runs. The extra cushion during training feels great during recovery runs. If you are looking for a new brand to try, Diadora is a great option. Plus, they sponsor a couple of local races, including the New Jersey Marathon and Philly 10k.  The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is exclusively available in run specialty. If you are local, I know RunningCo. of Haddonfield, Philly Runner, North Wales Running Company, and Runners High all carry the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, Hoka Bondi 6,  Brooks Ghost 12

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro, 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Questions for you:

Hae you tried Diadora?

What is your favorite recovery day trainer?

 

Asics Nimbus 22

November 8, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , ,
Asics Nimbus 22

Asics Nimbus 22 Shoe Review:

Well…it’s been a long long time since I’ve run consistently in any Asics shoe. The Asics Nimbus 22 is the first shoe in several years that has worked for me from Asics. I used to run a lot of mileage in the Asics Nimbus but Asics got too narrow for my feet and they no longer felt comfortable.  The Asics Nimbus 21 made significant improvement over previous versions, but the Asics Gel Nimbus 22 is even better.

The Asics Nimbus 22 is a high cushion, neutral shoe. The Asics Nimbus been around 22 running shoe generations and is known for the gel and soft cushioning, shock absorption, and gel technology. It’s been a staple of neutral runners for years.

asics gel nimbus 22 shoe review

Asics Nimbus 22 Fit:

The updated Asics Nimbus 22 finally has a more roomy toebox. It’s not a wide shoe by any means, but it runs more true to size. For several years of the Asics Nimbus, the shoe fit almost a size and width short. So most people not only went up a half size-full size, they also went wider to get an appropriate fit.

The Asics Nimbus 22 update now uses a monofilament engineered mesh upper. The jacquard mesh provides excellent moisture management and a high level of breathability.

Plus it provides a more roomy toebox and breathability of the shoe.  The mesh upper is more durable and just fits better.  The heel counter fits better for the Asics Gel Nimbus 22 as well.

asics gel nimbus 22 shoe review

Asics Nimbus 22 Ride:

The Asics Nimbus 22 has always been well known for the premium cushion. It has plenty of cushion to protect the body. The updated version of the Asics Nimbus 22 uses a thicker version of Asics softest and most resilient midsole foam. Plus now, the Asics Nimbus 22 has wrap around gel cushioning in the heel and better-shaped gel inserts in the forefront.

The new wrap-around gel allows your Asics Nimbus 22 to protect your feet no matter how the foot strikes. Whether you are a forefront runner or heel striker, you are going to get the cushion you need. The transition from heel to toe is a lot more seamless as well and it feels less clunky.

How does the Asics Nimbus 22 feel less clunky? The Asics Nimbus 22 now uses Flytefoam Lyte Propel foam.  What is Flytefoam Propel Technology? While it’s also a mouthful, Flytefoam Propel foam is lighter, with a soft and energetic return. The Asics Nimbus 22 now has 2 mm more of this foam.

With the updated Asics Nimbus 22, it’s less rigid. The gel in the Asics Nimbus, made the shoe firmer and less flexible. The deep flex grooves allow the Asics Nimbus to be more flexible and move with your foot.

asics gel nimbus 22 shoe review

Asics Nimbus 22 Conclusion: 
I’ve run just over 100 miles in the updated Asics Nimbus 22 and for me, it fits nicely into an easy run or recovery run day. I like the Asics Nimbus 22, and this is the best update they’ve had in several years.

me asics gel nimbus 22 shoe review

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Bondi 6,  Brooks Ghost 12

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro, 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Questions for you:

Have you run in the Asics Nimbus 22?

What is a staple running shoe you use?

What Makes Maurten Energy Gel and Drink Mixes Different?

November 6, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , 5 Comments
What Makes Maurten Energy Gel and Drink Mixes Different?

Maurten Energy Gel and Maurten Drink Mix Review

One of the most common fueling questions I get is: “What makes Maurten Energy Gel and Maurten Drink Mix Different”? Is it better? Why do so many professional runners use it?  While my preferred gel is Maurten, I have had success with most gels.

One thing to keep in mind is every person is different. What works or some doesn’t work for everyone. Nutrition and fueling is a personal part of running and most of it is done with trial and error.  I’ve written about fueling before in the newsletter, but like shoes, there are many different types of fuels for many different types of people and stomachs. 🙂

What makes Maurten Energy Gel and Drink Mixes Different?

So Back to Maurten:

Previous research showed the human body could absorb up to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. Now, research shows that we can use up to 80 grams.  Having too much sugar is what leads to stomach issues.

Unlike many fuels on the market, Maurten has no added flavor. It’s slightly sweetened but you won’t taste chocolate, cherry, or watermelon. Maurten Energy also uses natural ingredients so no extra color or preservatives.  I have noticed the Maurten with caffeine tastes like just caffeine. (It does have a taste, almost alkaline, bitter, and slightly soapy).

So What Makes Maurten Energy Gels (Gel 100) Different?

To understand what makes a Maurten Energy Gel different, we must understand traditional gels and energy sources.

Traditional “gels” are usually water and carbohydrates mixed together to make a thick syrup (and “goo”). To make them “gel-like,” there are preservatives, and to get a flavor, they add artificially flavors and preservatives.

Maurten Energy gel

The Maurten Gel 100 uses hydrogel.

What is a “hydrogel”?

A hydrogel is a biopolymer matrix and made with a blend of fructose and glucose.  The hydrogel technology is a biopolymer, which means it’s water-based with small pores. The hydrogel acts like a sponge. This biopolymer matrix allows the body to absorb and keep 100 grams of carbohydrates per hour (i.e., The Maurten Gel 100).

The hydrogel in the Maurten Gel 100, enables a smooth transportation of carbohydrates through the stomach to the intestine. This means if you often get an upset stomach, the Maurten Gel 100s are a bit smoother on the stomach.

Plus, the hydrogel allows you to use gel and also has an electrolyte liquid. Doing so, with most traditional gels, results in an upset stomach or cramps. (I’ve used with on-course electrolyte aid and never had an issue).

What about the Maurten Drink Mix?

The Maurten Drink Mixes come in 2 varieties:

  • The Drink Mix 160
  • The Drink Mix 320

Each of the drink mixes is mixed with 500 ml of water.  When combined with water, the Maurten Sports Drink instantly converts to hydrogel in the acidity of the stomach. The hydrogel then enables a smooth transportation of the drink through the stomach to the intestine. The intestine is where the water, salt, and carbohydrates are absorbed.

To make it easy, the Maurten Drink mixes refer to how many calories each contain. The Maurten Drink Mix 160 has the standard amount of carbohydrates we thought the body was able to absorb. The Drink Mix 320 contains twice the energy and nearly 14% of carbohydrates. That is nearly twice the amount of carbohydrates we thought the body could once absorb.

To get the most amount of carbohydrates, you want to take the Maurten Drink Mix 320.

Maurten Energy gel

So Why Use the Maurten Drink Mix vs. Maurten Gel:

First, gels are easier to carry. Most of us don’t have the luxury of elite bottles at races. We must bring our own fuel. Gels allow you to consume energy without running with bottles.

What makes Maurten Energy Gel and Drink Mixes Different?

Is Maurten Energy Gel or Drink Mix Right for Me?

The only way to know is to try yourself. Reading product reviews (yes, even here won’t tell you until you try).

If you’ve tried Maurten Energy Gels or Drink Mixes, let me know!

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport.

Questions for you:

Do you like Maurten Energy Gel? Which is your favorite?

 

 

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