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Category Archives: Gear Review

New Balance 1500v5 Shoe Review

October 11, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

New Balance 1500v5 Shoe Review

New Balance 1500v5 Quick Facts:
Heel to Toe Drop: 6 mm

New Balance 1500v5 shoe review

While I have not run in previous versions of the New Balance 1500, I can tell you the upper has been redesigned while the sole remains the same. Unlike many neutral flats, the New Balance 1500v5 is a rare shoe with support but also lightweight. It could be used for a 5k as well as the marathon. In fact, I originally decided to try the New Balance 1500v5 in hopes I might like it for the New York City Marathon. I do like it, but I haven’t determined if it will be my marathon shoe.  I think I need more shoe.

New Balance 1500v5 Fit:

The New Balance 1500v5 fit is simple and sleek. Unlike the New Balance Fuelcell 5280, the New Balance 1500v5 uses a thin synthetic mesh upper called “Fantom Fit.”Since the New Balance 1500v5  is meant to be a “fast” racing shoe, it does fit more snug. I would find somewhere to try them on before blinding getting a pair. With the minimal seams, I haven’t had any issues with blisters or rubbing.

It fits well to my foot. In running shoes, I wear anywhere between a women’s size 10-11 wide. I find a women’s size 10.5 to fit well in the New Balance 1500v5.

New Balance 1500v5 shoe review

New Balance 1500v5 Ride:

The New Balance 1500v5  uses a midsole with REVlite foam.

Anyway, what is “REVlite foam”?

REVlite foam is a different foam than New Balance fresh foam and Fuelcell. Since New Balance is such a large brand, they can get away with having multiple different foams.  The Revlite midsole makes the New Balance 1500v5 light but firm. It’s a fast ride and reliable support throughout the entire run.

The New Balance 1500 series is known for the support too. Unlike the New Balance 1400, the New Balance 1500v5 has denser foam towards the medial side to give support. If you pronate but are still looking for a lighter and more supportive marathon shoe, it’s going to be a good choice.

The traction on the New Balance 1500v5 is one of the better flats I’ve seen. If it’s rainy or inclement weather, your feet are going to grab the ground and not feel like you’re sliding around, which is essential because the Boston Marathon isn’t always wonderful weather.

When running, the New Balance 1500v5 feels firm. Since the New Balance 1500, has a 6 mm drop, you’ll feel the ground. Personally, I like the ability to feel the ground, but know I still have cushion. I’ve run several workouts as well as a few races and like the ability to feel the ground when running.

New Balance 1500v5 shoe review

New Balance 1500 v5 Conclusion:

The New Balance 1500v5 is a great racing flat and shoe. New Balance does claim the 1500 can be used up to the marathon. If I were in my running prime, I might try them out, but right now, I’m undecided. I have done track work, long runs, and races but I’m not 100% sure if my body would “love” running a marathon in them. For me, I think they are best suited as a workout and up to a half marathon distance.

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 tried the New Balance 1500v5?

What is your favorite racing shoe? 

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On Cloudstratus Shoe Review

October 4, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment
On Cloudstratus Shoe Review

On Cloudstratus Shoe Review

The On Cloudstratus is a brand new, highly cushioned shoe from On. On is a Swiss company which has recently become popular in the US. The Swiss-engineered brand has been the fastest-growing brand since 2016.

I’ve run in a few shoes, including: 

on cloudstratus shoe review

on cloudstratus shoe review

So what makes the On Cloudstratus different?

The On Cloudstratus has more cushion as well as an additional layer of the unique clouds. It has a much wider base than many other On models (I argue the On Cloudswift is just as wide. Plus a unique “star lacing system.” Just don’t ask me to replace that for you.

on cloudstratus shoe review

On Cloudstratus Quick Facts:

Weight: 9.5 oz

Drop: 8 mm

On Cloudstratus Fit :

Right off the bat, you can see the On Cloudstratus unique “star shaped lacing system.” On claims this allows runners to get the best fit and new ways to customize the fit even more. With the star shaped lacing system, you can remove pressure points off the widest part of the foot.  This is especially important if you have a wide forefoot or bunions.

on cloudstratus shoe review

Sliding the On Cloudstratus on, my foot fits comfortably. A few models of On running shoes are typically too narrow, but the On Cloudstratus fits well.

another unique component of the On Cloudstratus is the second set of eyelets that can make the fit even wider.

on cloudstratus shoe review

Anyway, enough about the Cloudstratus shoelaces and star lacing system.

The On Cloudstratus’s upper has a lot of structure. It keeps your foot in place and maintains Cloudstratus’s shape. The stiff heel keeps you from sliding.

In running shoes, I wear anywhere between a women’s size 10-11 full. I find the size 10.5 in the Cloudstratus fits well.

On Cloudstratus Ride:

The Cloudstratus has a ride, different than any other On model. It has a wider base which gives the shoe unique stability. Even though there is no traditional posting, the wide base gives the On Cloudstratus a stable ride.

Like the On Cloudswift, the Cloudstratus clouds are created from Helion foam. Helion Foam is newer cushioning from On that makes it firm but also stable. Unique to the Cloudstratus is the dual layer of Cloudtec cushion pods. The dual cloudtec system allow more cushioning.

Similar to the other On running shoes, the Cloudstratus uses a Speedboard. The designers from On, insert the plastic Springboard between the midsole and upper. This makes the shoe much stiffer than other models of On but also gives the On Cloudstratus extra snap.

When running in the On Cloudstratus, I like the additional cushion and my feet feel protected. For me, it fits best as a daily run shoe.

on cloudstratus shoe review

On Cloudstratus Conclusion:

The On Cloudstratus is a high cushioned great shoe from On. I think they were missing this model in their lineup. It’s light, while still giving cushion. Plus if you have a wider foot but want to give On running shoes a try, the On Cloudstratus might give you that option.

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 tried On running shoes?

Running Books

October 2, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , 6 Comments
Running Books

This post is long overdue as many people have requested me to write are running books I’m reading or have read.  There are hundreds of running books out there and no one can ever read them all.

running books

Of course, we have to start with “Born to Run” by Christopher McDougall.  Born to Run is the running book every runner has asked another runner if they have read. It’s a great book and I highly recommend starting there. Plus Christopher McDougall has a new book coming out soon called: Running with Sherman: The Donkey with the Heart of a Hero.

Right now, I’m currently reading North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail by Scott Jurek. As an avid hiker and someone who enjoys hiking the Appalachian Trail, this has been on my running book “to do list” for a while.

Whether you are just beginning your running journey, long-distance ultra runner, professional runner, training for the Boston Marathon, or looking for a training book to stay injury-free, there are plenty of running books out there.

Here a few Running Books I’ve Read and Enjoyed:

There are obviously many more running books and I appreciate any suggestions.

Broken Open: Mountains, Demons, Treadmills And a Search for Nirvana by David Clark

C is for Chafing by Mark Remy

Finding Ultra by Rich Roll

Inside a Marathon by Scott Fable

Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory by Deena Kastor

Life Is a Marathon: A Memoir of Love and Endurance by Matt Fitzgerald

Marathon Man: My 26.2-Mile Journey from Unknown Grad Student to the Top of the Running World

My Life on the Run by Bart Yasso

My Year of Running Dangerously by Tom Foreman

North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail by Scott Jurek

Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein

Running: A Love Story: 10 Years, 5 Marathons, and 1 Life-Changing Sport by Jen Miller (Jen is local to South Jersey!)

Run the Mile You’re In: Finding God in Every Step by Ryan Hall

Run to Overcome by Meb Keflezighi

Running with the Buffaloes: A Season Inside With Mark Wetmore, Adam Goucher, And The University Of Colorado Men’s Cross Country Team by Chris Lear

The Passion Paradox: A Guide to Going All In, Finding Success, and Discovering the Benefits of an Unbalanced Life by Brad Stulburg

The Runners Rule Book by Mark Remy

Running Books that are Related to Training and Training Plans:

80/20 Running: Run Stronger and Race Faster By Training Slower by Matt Fitzgerald (I *personally* think one of the best running books I’ve read).

Brain Training for Runners: A Revolutionary New Training System to Improve Endurance, Speed, Health and Results by Matt Fitzgerald

How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle by Matt Fitzgerald

Run Faster: How to be your own best coach by Matt Fitzgerald

Train Like a Mother: How to get across any finish line – and not lose your family, job or sanity by Sarah Bowen Shea and Dimity McDowell

Running Books Related to Nutrition:

The Athlete’s Fix: A Program for Finding Your Best Foods for Performance and Health by Pip Taylor

Run Fast. East Slow. by Shalane Flanagan and Elyse Kopecky

The Runner’s World Vegetarian Cookbook by Heather Mayer Irvine

If reading running books isn’t your thing, many are also available on audible and in audiobook format. In a previous post, I rounded up several running podcasts I enjoy listening too as well.

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. 

Question for you: What are some of your favorite running books? 

 

Aftershokz Aeropex Headphone Review

September 25, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , 3 Comments
Aftershokz Aeropex Headphone Review

As many people know, I use Aftershokz Air headphones will running. I appreciate that they go over the ear, and you can hear your surroundings as well as listen to music or podcasts. They are completely wireless, and after using Aftershokz Air for about two years, I haven’t had an issue.

Recently Aftershokz has made a few new changes to their headphones. This includes removing the “Trekz” from the name Aftershokz “trekz.” Instead of being called the “trekz air” or “trekz titanium,” they are called Aftershokz Air, Aeropex, and Titanium. This might not mean a lot, but it keeps people from confusing brands and thinking “trekz” and “aftershokz” are different…which we’ve had multiple times in running specialty.

Aftershokz Aeropex Review

Anyway, I was excited when Aftershokz contacted me to try one of their newest headphones: The Aftershokz Aeropex. The Aeropex is lighter with longer battery life than previous models.

I haven’t quite reviewed them in order, but close. To preface, I’ve never had an issue with “regular headphones.” You know, the ones with janky wires, but when I began using Aftershokz a couple of years ago, I discovered what I was missing. Bluetooth? No wires? Comfortable fit? Plus Aftershokz uses bone conduction technology which allows you to hear things around you.

Aftershokz Aeropex Review

What is Bone Conduction Technology?

Aftershokz uses open ear bone conduction technology, which delivers music through your cheekbones. All Aftershokz Headphones sit over the ear, which makes them safer. You can hear your surroundings and also your music.

So How Does Bone Conduction Technology Work?

They are designed to allow you to hear your surroundings. Bone conduction technology delivers music through your cheekbones. This means while using Aftershokz Aeropex, your ears remain completely open to hear ambient sounds.

Aftershokz models aren’t noise-canceling headphones, but that is the point. There isn’t any sound leakage from the Aftershokz Aeropex, so your neighbors or running buddies won’t hear what you’re listening too.

Aftershokz Aeropex uses 30-degree angled transducers that reduce vibration and enhance sound quality. This means the quality of sound is better than previous models, but you will still hear your surroundings.  Plus you can get a higher volume while still hearing your surroundings.

What makes Aftershokz Aeropex Different?

The open-air design of the Aftershokz Aeropex makes them a great choice for running outside. Even at high volume, you’re able to hear traffic and your surroundings. Even when the Aftershokz Aeropex is at the highest setting, you can hear surroundings.

Do Aftershokz Aeropex Move Around?

No, I’ve never had an issue with the Aftershokz Aeropex falling off or moving while on a run. I’ve never had an issue with any Aftershokz model moving around and I’ve logged no less than 500 hours in all models total.

Aftershokz Aeropex Features:

  • IP67 Waterproof Rating: This means the Aftershokz Aeropex has water resistance to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. You can’t go swim laps in them (like the Xtrainerz), but you should be fine in inclement weather.
  • The Aftershokz Aeropex has battery life for up to 8 hours. Plus the charging cable allows them to charge quickly (fully charged in 2 hours). Plus the Aftershokz Aeropex will alert you when there is moisture on the wires.
  • Bluetooth and easily connected to your phone.
  • Open Air Bone Conduction: Ability to hear your surroundings
  • The OpenFit™ design of Aftershokz Aeropex is comfortable during long-term wear.
  • The Aftershokz Aeropex are the lightest bone conduction headphone on the market, weighing less than 1 ounce (26g). The Aftershokz Aeropex is 30% lighter than previous models.
  • Bluetooth v5.0 stays connected for up to 33 ft.

The Cons of Aftershokz Aeropex:

  • Not noise canceling: If you are looking for noise-canceling, Aftershokz Aeropex won’t do that. That’s not the point.

Is Aftershokz Aeropex Right for You?

If you are running, especially outdoors, I recommend getting a headphone that you can hear your surroundings. You never know what’s around you. Many races only allow Aftershokz so you can hear your surroundings and instructions from race course volunteers.

You can find Aftershokz Aeropex here or hopefully at your local run specialty store.

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. There are often giveaways as well as discount codes.

Questions for you:

Have you tried Aftershokz Aeropex? Have you tried any Aftershokz models? 

What is your favorite headphone? 

Nike Zoom Fly 3 Shoe Review

September 13, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , ,
Nike Zoom Fly 3 Shoe Review

The Nike Zoom Fly has been a staple since the Nike Fast Shoes like the Vaporfly and Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo came out. Of the three Nike Shoes, the Nike Zoom Fly 3 is the “most affordable.” After enjoying the original Nike Zoom Fly, I wasn’t sure if I would ever get around to doing a Nike Zoom Fly 3 Review.

I choose to get the “Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise” which is a different color of the Nike Zoom Fly 3.

I skipped running in the second generation of the Nike Zoom Fly but was in the minority of people who liked and appreciated the original Zoom Fly.

Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise Shoe Review

The Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise Fit:

The most significant change to the Nike Zoom Fly comes in the upper. If you’ve run in previous versions of the Nike Zoom Fly, you’ll notice the new VaporWeave Upper (like the Nike Pegasus Turbo 2)

What is Vaporweave?

VaporWeave is the engineered mesh upper material which is made of plastics, specifically TPU and TPE. (TPE is also used in Yoga mats…neat!) Compared to the previous Flyknit upper material, Vaporweave is much more breathable, lightweight, and doesn’t absorb as much rain or moisture. If you run in a torrential downpour, your feet are less likely to be soggy. The lacing system makes you feel secure in place, and your feet aren’t sliding around.

Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise Shoe Review

The Nike Fly 3 Rise Ride:

The original Nike Zoom Fly was a staple workout shoe for me in 2017 and a good portion of 2018. I did a lot of workouts in the Zoom Fly.

The midsole of the Nike Zoom Fly 3 has gone through a few changes with the update. Nike has added more React foam with a higher stack height. What do more React Foam and higher stack height mean?  The Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise is now slightly heavier but also has a low heel to toe drop (from 10 mm to 8 mm).

Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise Shoe Review

The difference between the Nike Pegasus Turbo 2 and the Zoom Fly 3 is the lack of carbon plate in the Pegasus Turbo. The full-length Carbon Fiber plate is still there in the Zoom Fly 3 Rise. Together with the Nike React foam, the Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise feels faster and more responsive. My favorite addition to the Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise is the rubber traction. You are far less likely to slide around than previous versions.

Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise Shoe Review

It’s a great workout shoe, racing shoe, or even a full marathon racing shoe. I could see myself doing any of the three. I’ve run a few hard runs in the Zoom Fly 3 Rise and enjoyed the ride.

Nike Fly 3 Rise Conclusions:

Of the Nike Vaporfly (Next%), Nike Pegasus Turbo 2, and the Nike Zoom Fly 3, the Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise is the cheapest and most durable. It’s designed to either race or train hard. If you are looking for a faster workout shoe, the Nike Zoom Fly 3 Rise is a great option. From the durability to the fit, it is definitely an improvement over the previous versions.

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:  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:

What is your go-to fast shoe?

What is your favorite running shoe? 

 

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