Runlikeh3ll! A Runner's Blog For The Rest Of Us. » Shoes

My First Barefoot Running Shoes Review – Evo Mesh VIVOBAREFOOT

John — Tue, 10 May 2011 18:08:42 +0000

I’ve been running with the Nike Free Run+ shoes since August of 2010. They were my first pair of minimal running shoes (besides the Vibram FiveFingers), and while I’ve really enjoyed running in them, I wanted to try something new. I would say that 25% of my runs are done without any shoes on, but I’ve hurt my feet a few times running this way. I wanted to find something as minimal as possible that still provided some level of protection.

I did some reading and learned that there are shoes that are even more “minimal” than the Free Run+. Enter Evo Mesh (by VIVOBAREFOOT).

These shoes are very minimal – they only weigh 7 ounces. They’re not the best looking sneakers I’ve ever seen – in fact, they’re kinda ugly – but that’s not really what I was looking for here. As I said before, I wanted some shoes that would bring me as close to barefoot as possible without risking damage to my feet. Based on the reviews I read, Evo Mesh were the shoes I was looking for.

The last time I ran barefoot, I had the genius idea of trying to run a 7 minute mile, and I shredded my toes up pretty good. Because of this, I hadn’t run barefoot in probably about a month, so my calves were not prepared for the run that they were about to embark on.

I started off with a very light jog to allow my feet to get used to the new shoes. The first thing I noticed was that these shoes really did seem more minimal than the Free Run+. I could feel more of the ground below me. It almost felt like I was running in socks, except the bottoms of my feet felt protected from sharp objects. Running in these shoes is as close to running barefoot as it gets… Without actually running barefoot. You land on your toes and barely tap your heel at all.

Anyway, I jogged for about an eighth of a mile, then I got impatient and started running. After about a mile, my calves were on fire. As I said, I hadn’t run barefoot for at least a month, and the Nike Free Run+ runs don’t work my calves the way barefoot running does. Clearly these Evo Mesh shoes are closer to barefoot running than the Nikes are.

It may have been the awesome music I was running to, but I noticed myself running faster than usual, with no desire to pace myself or slow down.

But at around 1.75 miles, I had to slow down. Calves! I walked for about half a mile as I headed back towards my house, and then I took off running again, even though it hurt. I don’t mind a “good hurt” – as long as it’s just my calves screaming at me because I’m working them harder than they’re used to, and it’s not pain from an injury, I don’t mind it.

I finished my 2.76 mile run in 23 minutes and 10 seconds.

I think that I run much slower barefoot because I’m always worried I’m going to stub my toe or step on something sharp. With the Evo Mesh, that fear was alleviated.

This run was last Wednesday (May 4th), and I haven’t run since. It wasn’t until Sunday that my calves stopped burning, and I can still feel the soreness today, but I knew to expect that, and I also know that the next time I run in these (hopefully tonight) I won’t be sore for nearly as long – I just need to get my body used to it.

Anyway, I’m clearly not well versed in reviewing shoes, but hopefully I’ve given you at least a rough idea of what these shoes are like. If you’re looking for barefoot shoes that come very close to running without shoes on, I’d highly recommend these.

As far as my online shopping experience with planetshoes.com goes – fast shipping, good customer support. I’ve only ever ordered shoes online from Zappos and Planet Shoes, and I’ve had good experiences with both, so definitely consider them when placing your next order.

My First Barefoot Running Shoes Review – Evo Mesh VIVOBAREFOOT is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Finally Tracking My Runs Again

John — Tue, 03 May 2011 18:35:50 +0000

As you may or may not have noticed, for quite a while, I had no activity on my “Recent Runs” (in the right sidebar, under “NIKE+ STATS”).

This was for 2 reasons. I was running less frequently, and a lot of my runs were done barefoot. The Nike+ (which is essentially a pedometer) relies on a transmitter that rests inside the base of the sneaker. If my Nike+ enabled sneakers are sitting in my closet while I’m out running, there’s no run data to report.

I was running less frequently because I got burnt out on the (limited) options for running in the neighborhood where I was living. There was 1 nice running path, but once you do it 50+ times, motivation to continue to do so begins to vanish.

Anyway, I have moved to a new neighborhood (less than a mile from the beach here in SoCal!) and I also got an iPhone. The Nike+ GPS app for iPhone relies on GPS to determine how far you’ve run, so I no longer need to have my Nike+ shoes with me to track my runs.

So now I’m able to record run data, and I have tons of new paths to explore. Awesome!

On a somewhat unrelated note, I recently acquired a pair of barefoot running shoes (“Evo Mesh” by VIVOBAREFOOT) from Planet Shoes. I’m planning on trying them out tonight, and if all goes well I’ll be posting a review shortly. Stay tuned!

Finally Tracking My Runs Again is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Should I incorporate barefoot running into my current training regimen?

John — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:20:58 +0000

Runner’s Question: I am currently running a minimum of 7 miles a day. My dad told me I should be running barefoot strides after every workout. I tried that on the football field, only 4 strides. When I was done, I noticed that my calves and hips felt amazing. Does a little bit of barefoot running actually prevent injury?

My 2 cents: Good question! I’ve been doing my share of barefoot running lately… As in literally running without any type of footwear. I’ve only worked up to roughly 3 miles, as it tends to get harsh on your feet, especially when running through the terrain that I’ve been (neighborhoods… streets and sidewalks). I only do it during the day when so I can concentrate on my foot placement and be sure that I’m not stepping on any glass. Anyway, not gonna go off on a long rant here, but I would definitely recommend adding barefoot running to your training/cardio regimen. Just be sure to start slow and ease your way into it. Only do like 3-4 blocks your first day – Your calves are going to be feeling it soon after!

Add your two cents! Answer this question (or check out the other answers) in the comments section below.

Should I incorporate barefoot running into my current training regimen? is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Why The Lack Of Nike+ Updates?

John — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:33:10 +0000

Just a quick update, for those of you wondering why I seemingly haven’t been running at all lately.

The Nike+ run updates in the right sidebar come from the Nike+ iPod chip. This chip is in my sneakers. I haven’t been running in sneakers lately. I’ve actually been running barefoot. More to come on barefoot running later, but until I figure out a way to use the Nike+ run tracker without wearing shoes (or perhaps with a pair of Vibram Five Fingers), I’m not sure how I’ll be keeping that thing updated.

But yeah, general lack of updates due to what I’d say is a major shift in my running regimen. Slowly but surely working my way into the whole running without shoes thing… So far, so good. Will post a more detailed update all about this when I have some more time.

Why The Lack Of Nike+ Updates? is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Running Shoe Guide

John — Sat, 30 May 2009 16:46:52 +0000

As you (most likely) already know, running is a great way to keep fit and can be a lot of fun, too. It is very important to make sure you have the correct equipment before you start and one of the most important investments is a good pair of running shoes. They can improve your running gait and prevent injuries. There are thousands of different running shoes to choose from and most of the big sports manufacturers invest money into the science and technology of running shoes.

Running Shoe Components

A running shoe comprises an outsole, a midsole, an upper, a heel counter and a post or footbridge. Apart from that, running shoes vary enormously in design and color. A running shoe has to be flexible and durable, control motion and absorb shock. It is best to buy your shoes from a specialist running shop, or at least a sports shop, so you can get good advice from the sales staff. Try on shoes in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly larger.

Each person has slightly different feet, so a great shoe for someone else might not necessarily be the best one for you. The shape of your feet, your weight, any foot problems, your running style and running surfaces (tarmac, sand, treadmill etc) and various other factors can affect which running shoe is going to suit you and your lifestyle the best.

Types of Running Shoes

You can divide your feet into one of three basic types – normal, flat or high arched. Have a look at your wet footprint on the bathmat when you get out of the bath. If you see a full imprint, this means you are flat footed. If there is an arch cutaway, your foot is normal. If there is a very narrow band or no band between the front and back of the foot, you have high arches. Foot type affects which sort of running shoes will be better for you. The normal foot tends to be the most biomechanically efficient and you will need shoes with moderate motion control. If you have high arches, avoid stability or motion control shoes, as these will limit foot mobility. If your feet are flat, high stability or motion control shoes with firm midsoles will reduce the amount your foot naturally rolls in and be more comfortable and better for you. Avoid highly curved or cushioned shoes if your feet are flat, as they will restrict stability.

When trying on running shoes, make sure they feel good as soon as you put them on. The average pair of running shoes should be able to run 1000 km so comfort is a must!

Running Shoe Guide is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

How To Buy The Right Running Shoes

John — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 11:36:21 +0000

Wearing proper shoes for different types of running is vital. There are three different types of shoes that should be worn. For easy days and long runs, daily trainers work fine. For tempo runs, hill workouts, and races longer than 10k light weight trainers are the best choice. For track workouts and races shorter than 10k racing flats work great.

Daily trainers are the shoes that you will run the most mileage in. Make sure that your daily trainers are comfortable. I believe that all shoes should be comfortable right out of the box. The daily trainers that I wear fit so great that I am not afraid to run a 20 miler the first time I wear them. Shoes that need to be broke in are probably not the right type of shoe for your feet. Find out what type of foot that you have and then only purchase shoes that fall into that category.

Light weight trainers are great shoes for faster paced training. For tempo runs and hill workouts light weight trainers are the ticket. Light weight trainers have adequate cushioning and support to protect your feet and still are light enough for faster paced running. Be careful when buying light weight trainers. Make sure that you purchase the correct type for your type of feet.

Another great thing about light weight trainers is that they are light enough and stable enough for longer races. I personally wear trainers for half and full marathons. My own experience has been that my feet never hurt after half marathons, finishing a full marathon everything hurts. I would still recommend wearing light weight trainers for these race distances.

Racing flats are very light weight, usually less than 9 0z. Be careful with racing flats, finding the correct fit is extremely important. Don’t always purchase the lightest pair that you can find. I prefer racing flats with some support and cushioning. A few ounces of cushion and support are always better than becoming injured just to save 10 or 15 seconds in a 5k.

I personally would not recommend wearing racing flats in races longer than 10k. I have worn racing flats in a couple of half marathons and my feet were sore for days afterwards. Since I have worn light weight trainers exclusively my feet never hurt afterwards.

The most popular time to wear racing flats is during track workouts. The feeling of wearing light weight shoes during fast paced workouts is what makes racing flats so popular. I personally like to wear racing flats during all of my track workouts. There are others who wear racing flats only for a race. Choose which time works best for you.

There is a lot of discussion surrounding a person’s body weight and shoe selection. I am 6’1 and weigh 180lbs, so being a larger runner I still wearing light weight trainers and racing flats. I would recommend that each person decide for themselves if they want to wear lighter shoes.

How To Buy The Right Running Shoes is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

How to Buy Running Shoes

John — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:14:41 +0000

There are many quality shoes that you can choose from for a variety of purposes. One type of shoe that you can purchase is the running shoe. In order to find the right pair of running shoe for your activity level, consider the following tips.

Some points to consider when purchasing running shoes would be how long you run per day and how many times per week that you run. This is an important consideration for the life of your new running shoes because these shoes can be costly. Most good quality running shoes will cost on average from 50 dollars to a few hundred dollars, with few exceptions.

If you are a runner who runs about 25 minutes a day or less and three times a week, you are a person who may not need expensive running shoes. If you are looking to purchase a new pair of shoes, consider brand names that are known to perform well. For men, consider the Brooks Beast style shoe, or the Mizuno Alchemy shoe. The Brooks shoe should be purchased the same size as your street shoe and the Mizuno shoe should be purchased a half size bigger than your street shoe. Women who run 25 minutes a day or less can purchase either the Asics Nimbus or the Mizuno Wave Rider. These are both excellent running shoes. Both of these shoes will measure a half size bigger than womanâs street shoes.

If you run more than 25 minutes a day, several times a week, you will want to consider a more expensive running shoe. These higher quality shoes are designed to withstand more impact and offer more foot protection. Men may want to consider the Asics Nimbus, which measures a half size larger than your ordinary street shoe. Also, Mizuno Alchemy, which runs a whole size larger than the average shoe, is a good choice. Women might want to look at purchasing either the Brooks Glycerin or the Mizuno Alchemy. Both of these shoes usually measure a half size larger than the normal street shoe.

The brand you choose for running, however, is not exactly a doctorâs order, at least not most of the time. You can choose excellent running shoe models from a variety of other companies as well. Nike, Asics, Etonic, and Reebok are all brands that produce high quality athletic running shoes and are often popular choices. These are some of the brands that people most think of when considering brands of running shoes.

There are other considerations when purchasing running shoes. Think about how often a week you will run, and where you will run. For instance, if you are staying mostly on pavement or track fields, you may not need as rugged of a sole on the bottom of your shoe. On the other hand, if you prefer exercising outside on nature trails, mud, or other rough terrain, you will want to purchase a shoe that can withstand the elements.

Another big factor that affects which type of athletic running shoe that you should buy is whether or not your foot pronates. Pronation is when the foot turns in such a way that the inner sole of the foot holds most of the body weight. Over time, this condition can cause flat feet, Many of the more popular brands of shoes make running shoes that will help correct this problem in most people. Another option to help correct pronation is a shoe insert. These shoe inserts will help a runner maintain better balance while running for added safety.

One more aspect to consider when shopping for running shoes is to determine whether you have narrow or wide feet, and whether or not they are arched or normal. There are many lines of shoes are designed for various foot shapes and arch levels. In addition, there are several resources for people with flat feet. Brooks Beast and Saucony Grid Stabil are two of the most distinct models of shoes that offer added support for people with a variety of foot conditions, such as flat feet. Sometimes an arched insole or arch brace can help combat against the problem of flat feet as well.

If you are serious about running and run everyday, or whether you want to run three days a week or less, consider all the options when looking at running shoes. The easiest way to search for available styles of shoes that are right for you is on the Internet. You can easily find locations of shoe stores nearest and research various brands and features.

How to Buy Running Shoes is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Running With The Proper Running Shoes

John — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:40:58 +0000

Runners get benefits from many different areas, the first is cardiovascular, the second is they are getting aerobic exercise and third is they are increasing endurance. A good pair of running shoes can be an important investment that can vary in style and function. When deciding to buy shoes makes sure you are purchasing the shoes for the right activity. Running shoes are manufactured for specific activity. When shopping for running shoes you should not look at the fancy designs but the functionality and durability of the shoe. The best women’s running shoes are designed to give the feet control, stability and cushioning. Finding the perfect pair of running shoes is part science and part art, with a healthy dose of research thrown in. There are many different running shoes today; there are those that can be used on grass, mountain trails and on tar. The majorities of running shoes are development and produced so the shoes can be used on sidewalks or road surfaces because this is where many of the runners run today.

The shoe should have about a thumbs’ width of space more than the full size of the feet. The middle foot area should have a secure and comfortable resting place beneath it. Also, be sure to try on both shoes. On many people one foot is usually bigger than the other foot. Inside the shoe is a stiffened cup encasing the toes known as the box, or block? The place over the toe is called the vamp, the opening near the toes is called the throat of the shoe.

Shoes that are well made have the ability to provide a rubber sole that can give good traction while an athlete is in motion, this will reduce the chance of getting injured. Shoes with motion control are especially recommended for athletes’ with flat feet or over pronator. Give serious consideration to buying a motion control running shoe if you wear orthotics or have flat feet. A shoe with motion control is a good stable shoe to choose.

Just like many of the advanced technologies like ipods, cell phones the running shoe has technically evolved in the marketplace. Running shoes are very important for the runner, it helps with balance and the runner needs a great shoe to absorb the shock to the leg and the shoe needs to be strong to handle the impact when the runner is running. Running shoes are designed for sporting activities. Runners benefit from the combination of cardiovascular and aerobic activity. Buying a good pair of running shoes is very important, in general running shoes should be replaced every 3-4 months, the new running shoes come in many different styles. At the top of this list was clearly a high-quality pair of running shoes. The key components of a perfect pair of running shoes are cushioning, stability and durability. Most of the common injuries when shoes are not fit properly are pains in the knee, arch pain which is under your foot and a sharp pain the heel.

Running With The Proper Running Shoes is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

Tips on Safe Running

John — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:01:25 +0000

People go for running, jogging or walking either for the purpose of exercising or for sports event. To ensure safe running and to prevent running injuries, plan the running program properly. The warm-up and stretching exercises are a must before you start running. Do the stretching exercise again after you finish running.

Always prefer to run in the early morning or evening. This is highly important in hot summers to avoid sun strokes. Avoid running at night. Do not run in traffic areas. Be conscious of your running environment in order to prevent injuries while you run. Try to run on clear, smooth, even, and almost soft surface. Avoid running on hills, which increases stress on the ankle and foot. When running on curved surfaces, change directions in forward movement, so that pressure on both feet is even.

Wear proper dress and footwear. Your dress material should provide insulation, absorb perspiration and moisture from skin and protect against wind and external moisture. While buying your running shoes, look for good shock absorption and construction that will provide stability and cushioning to the foot. Make sure that there is a minor gap between the end of the toe and the shoe. Replace your shoes when it loses the shock absorption capability.

Apply good sunscreen lotions or creams, wear sunglasses and hat with a visor if you are exposed to sun while running. During cold seasons, do not expose your skin. Wear gloves, full jackets and hat, and cover the neck. Petroleum jelly can be used on exposed areas, such as the nose.

Drink some fluid 10 to 15 minutes before running and every 20 to 30 minutes while you run. Dr. Lewis G. Maharam who is the world’s premier running physician, medical director of New York Road Runners, ING New York City Marathon, Elite Racing’s Musical Marathons and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team and Chairman of the Board of Governors, International Marathon Medical Directors Association, said in an article “I can safely say that there is no substitute for a sports drink when exercising for more than 30 minutes. If you drink it — using thirst as your guide — you will truly be healthier and perform better”.

If you have asthma, you may find difficulty in running or exercising. Changing your diet and exercise habits can help asthma patients to run. Try to lose extra pounds to make you run more effectively, even with your asthma. Eat fresh vegetables rich in magnesium, avoid food items which trigger asthma attacks, drink eight and ten glasses of water every day, and stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Practice breathing exercises that will allow you to maintain proper breaths even while running. Know your limits and stop running if you get a tightening feeling in the chest. Always have your asthma inhaler with you at all times, especially when running or exercising.

According to experts, walking or running barefoot develops muscle strength in the feet, legs, and hips. Also it stretches and strengthens your calf muscles, improves your walking or running style and equilibrium. Many runners routinely finish their practice with barefoot running in the grass. But, if you have some serious medical ailments like poor circulation, diabetic neuropathy, and open crack or wound never run or walk with barefoot. For safe running with barefoot apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet and avoid running on or near hazardous areas.

Don’t wear a headset or jewelry while running. Carry a whistle or other noisemaker. This will help you in emergency situations. If you are running alone, carry identification card or paper containing information such as your name, phone number, blood group, and medical information. Let your family members know where you will be running and taking rest. Have some money with you to make a phone call in emergency situations. Seek the advice of doctor within 24 hours if you are injured.

Tips on Safe Running is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.

How do you get your sneakers to grip to the track?

John — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 01:05:26 +0000

Runner’s Question: Ok,
I have a pair of Lynx Sneakers (still saving up for spikes!),
and I have to run a relay in three hours time,
but i am afraid that i am going to slip on the running track (its happened to me before). Are there any easy ways to get your sneakers to grip better to the running track? (ect.vasoline)
I think the track is synthetic

Add your two cents! Answer this question (or check out the other answers) in the comments section below.

How do you get your sneakers to grip to the track? is a featured post by John Vantine from A Runner's Blog.