running shoes |

On: The Cloudracer

posted by gumptiongear June 19, 2012 0 comments

A cloud is made of billows upon billows that look like clouds. As you come closer to a cloud you don’t get something smooth, but irregularities at a smaller scale – Benoit Mandelbrot

Not to be outdone by nature’s transformation of water vapor into billowing clouds of majesty, On has built a line of running shoes that includes an innovative “active sole” that echoes mother nature’s creativity and her no-nonsense utilitarian design.

With the addition of the Cloudracer, On is aiming to rain on the parade of racing shoes everywhere.
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Gear Reviews Go Tri

Newton’s Distance Neutral Lightweight Trainer

posted by gumptiongear March 23, 2012 0 comments

Whether running your first 10k in South Carolina or blazing through the final miles of the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii, one thing is certain: training and racing in the “right” shoes can mean the difference between crossing the finish line with a new PR and watching the race from the sidelines.

With slimmer, sleeker, more minimalist shoes appearing on the market every year, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. However, through their lineup of technologically innovative and visually distinctive natural running shoes, standing out won’t be a problem for Newton Running. Based in Colorado and worn by triathletes and running enthusiasts around the world, Newton is determined to put science in motion, and make you a more efficient runner in the process.
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Gear Reviews Go Run Go Tri

The Altra Adam: Time to set your feet free

posted by gumptiongear March 13, 2012 0 comments

“The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.” – Leonardo da Vinci

The human foot is incredibly complex in its structures and function, yet in and of itself it is truly a masterpiece of engineering, a miraculous design. A network of strategically placed tendons, muscles, bones and nerves work together in harmony providing the body with support, balance, and mobility. Despite this masterful craftsmanship, we are all guilty of owning shoes that put our foot (and body) in an unnatural position. Those types of shoes treat our feet like a caged animal, inhibiting their natural movement and agility.

It’s time to set your feet free. Time for the Adam™ from Altra Footwear.

Gear Reviews Go Run Go Tri

First Look: New Balance Minimus Road (aka the MR10)

posted by gumptiongear January 20, 2012 0 comments

The last few years have seen a huge growth in the number of people moving away from more traditional running shoes and transitioning to more minimalist designs. Minimalists shoes offer flatter profiles, far less cushioning on the whole, and a design that encourage a mid-foot strike and enhanced ground feel, minimalist shoes arguable foster a more efficient running form. It’s a movement that has gained widespread acceptance in the past year prompting multitudes of runners to consider making the transition.

With a heritage of design and innovation spanning over 100 years, New Balance has established itself as a player in the minimalist market crafting an extensive lineup of minimalist shoes for both the road and trail. This award-winning, closer-to-barefoot line of footwear features the New Balance MR10. A minimal road running shoe that combines barefoot running benefits with traditional trainer protection. Continue Reading

Gear Reviews Go Run

Hoka One One Bondi B: Cushioned Bliss

posted by Gumption Scott January 5, 2012 0 comments

Currently in the running community there is a growing schism between the traditionalists and the minimalists – the haves (cushioning) and the have-nots (without cushioning). One camp shouts the wonders of minimalism while the other touts the more traditional. Who are we to believe?

What if I told you that one company is pioneering a new philosophy in running by trying to merge some of the positive attributes of both camps, forging a completely different kind of shoe. With the goal of designing shoes for optimal performance, comfort, and efficiency Hoka One One has incorporated key performance traits found in well-cushioned footwear while also paying heed to recent footwear advances that aid in natural foot motion and efficient running mechanics. Would you believe it?

Gear Reviews Go Run

Trusting the Women’s (Altra) Intuition

posted by Gumption Scott December 14, 2011 0 comments

Remember when you used to run on intuition? Think back—this was long before any well-meaning coach, spouse or local running store guru started tweaking your form this way or that. It predated the exercises and drills and gadgets and your closet full of this season’s must-have running shoes. You just ran and it was good. Consider the Altra Intuition your passport back to that simpler time.

Gear Reviews Go Outdoors Go Run

Altra Instinct: Run with Childlike Bliss Again

posted by gumptiongear December 10, 2011 0 comments

Remember what it felt like to run as a child? That feeling of freedom as your short quick strides carried you across the open grassy fields.

Back then we never thought about the length of our stride or how our feet contacted the ground. We just ran… fast and free. Thankfully today’s modern minimalist running movement offers us all the chance to go back to those moments of childlike bliss.

Gear Reviews Go Run

First Look: Hoka One One Bondi B Running Shoe

posted by gumptiongear September 21, 2011 0 comments

“I think being different, going against the grain of society, is the greatest thing in the world.” – Elijah Woods

As individuals, we were never designed to fit neatly into a one-size-fits-all box. In an attempt to conform to that which is deemed “popular” we relinquish our individuality in an attempt to accommodate the wishes of others.

Gear Reviews Go Run

Long Term Durability Review: Scott® MK3 Running Shoe

posted by gumptiongear September 6, 2011 0 comments

Just a few years ago, if someone would have said that Scott®, best known for making high performance bikes and appeal, would make an award winning performance running shoe, few if any would have likely believed it. Yet the

Scott® MK3 is just that shoe.While shopping for shoes at the local running store in January 2011, the salesperson – knowing my feet and running preferences – suggested I test the MK3s.

While the trend has been towards minimalist or barefoot running shoes, they may not be right for everybody. Whether because of physical limitations or personal preference, some runners may need more support and cushion than those shoes can provide.A minimalist shoe, the Scott® MK3 is not. The MK3 2011 is a stability performance running shoe made for those who prefer and require more structure and cushion in a running shoe.

Weighing in at 11.0 ounces, the shoe is packed with performance-enhancing goodness. Scott® engineered the MK3 shoe with a low profile, and a carbon midfoot structure providing an optimal arch which helps guide the foot efficiently, transferring energy from front to rear.

Excellent shock absorption is created by the heel gel and forefoot rubberized EVA insert. The stable and flexible midsole is ideal for a broad range of running styles and foot types.

Their Ergologic Fit technology provides support and control where needed and provides flexibility and adjustability in the anatomically correct places. Scott incorporated a full carbon rubber outsole that intended to accelerate the shoe through increased energy return and increased durability.

The MK3s have been exceeding my own personal expectations since I pulled them off the storeroom shelf. Now, having blazed over 400 miles of both on and off-road running in the MK3, these shoes have proven to be as durable as they are comfortable. These shoes have marshaled me through trails, 5ks, 10ks, half marathons and a few triathlons, and truth be told, they show no sign of letting up anytime soon.

Bottom Line:

When you spend big money on a running shoe you expect it to perform, but you also hope that it will last longer than that whole parachute pants fad. The Scott MK3 delivers exceptionally well on both fronts.

Light as a racing shoe, but as stable, cushioned and comfortable as a training shoe. If you’re a runner who, whether through preference or necessity, needs a fast and steady stability shoe, then the Scott® MK3 will provide you with the energy and performance you desire.