August 24, 2009
Pretty Awesome Socks
As any avid runner may tell you, it's important to have quality socks protecting your feet from the elements whether you're a trail or city runner. Runner's World asked 20 ultra-healthy types living in Boulder, Colorado to abuse and use a wide range of running socks, all made from earth-friendly bamboo, and other high-tech fabrics. Here are a few highlighted by Runner's World:
Darn Tough Vermont Run/Bike 1/4 Cushion
Several participants raved about the durability and the cushioning of the merino-wool socks. Many "testers" were training for ultramarathons and stated a single pair lasted them the duration of their training AND their race. DarnTough.com
Bridgedale X-Hale Speed Diva and Demon
The Diva (women's) and Demon (men's) are light-weight, yet provide a considerable amount of cushioning for the heel and ball of the foot. The company uses a blend of merino wool and moisture-wicking yarn that helps keep bunions and heels from getting red and chafing BridgedaleUsa.com
Nike Elite Structure Running
From Portland's own backyard, the Structure received rave reviews from Marathoners who enjoyed the extra support through the arch, which is provided by a Lycra band. The over design features two layers of low-friction yarn and a thicker weave in the heel and toe for cushioning and durability. Nike.com
If you'd like to learn more, the full sock article can be accessed at RunnersWorld.com. Enjoy a cushier run today!
Posted by orbike at 10:23 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 17, 2009
First Thursday Runs at Fit Right NW
Hey runners, looking for an alternative way to enjoy First Thursday in the Pearl? Fit Right NW has been doing scavenger hunt runs all over NW and Downtown Portland the past few months, and, well, it's kind of a blast. Unfortunately, only one more remains. Their last "hunt" will be September 3rd.
Here are the details:
Meet at 5:30pm at Fit Right NW: 1207 NW 23rd Ave (corner of NW 23rd and Northrup). It's hard to miss with all the tents and music booming from the storefront. You can run/walk alone or with friends/colleagues. Either way, it's a fun way to get in a workout, and they emphasize it's not a race.
At 6pm the store's employees hold up massive signs stating locations of checkpoints - where runners receive tickets for the raffle - and they are scattered all throughout Portland. The idea is, the further the checkpoint, the more tickets runners receive. A word to the wise, it's quite handy to have someone on board who knows the NW and Downtown area like the back of their hand. The store provides Ziploc bags, pens and paper to write down clues and hold participants' tickets as they run rampant through Portland's neighborhoods. Keep in mind, the more tickets accumulated, the better the odds of winning prizes during the raffle. Participants have one hour to hit as many checkpoints as possible. They MUST be back by 7pm, otherwise chances of entering the raffle have flown out the window.
All that aside, it is a great way to keep one's mind occupied while running and passers by always wonder what the runners are up to. It's also a great way to get shop owners involved, as well, as participants discover new boutiques and pastry shops they might not otherwise have come across on their own. Don't miss out on the last scavenger hunt in September. Until then, enjoy the wonderful running weather!
Posted by orbike at 5:12 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack