National Running Day

Happy National Running Day! I started my celebration over the weekend by getting back into more serious training. I did a 3.1 mile loop around my neighborhood at 7:30 pace on Saturday. Then on Sunday I met up with a new running buddy to tackle 10.5. We stopped for a couple quick water/walk breaks, but despite the mental challenge -- it feels good to run distance again.

My marathon training starts on Sunday. I'd be lying if I didn't tell you guys that I've had second thoughts about the Wineglass Marathon. Now that Ada's rounding the corner into 3-year-old territory, baby fever is hitting me . . . hard. It also seems like every woman I know has either just had a baby or is announcing a new pregnancy. We always knew we wanted a larger age gap between kids -- but now that I'm signed up for something that means I shouldn't get pregnant -- it's all I can think about.

Regardless, I'd like to stay with the original plan and run the race. I have decided I am going to run this plan, which is basically Hal Higdon's made into a 4-day/week schedule:


I think I'll modify it just slightly because I'd like to run more than one 20-miler. Otherwise, I haven't run this type of distance since 2010, so I am not going to be a hero and try to do anything terribly ambitious training-wise. My goal is to complete the season injury-free and finish the race strong regardless of time. To me, this mileage -- especially those mid-week numbers -- seems totally doable. We'll see how I feel when I start running over 14 miles at a time, which is the farthest I've gone in years and years.

In other running-related news, I recently switched shoes.


I went from the Brooks PureFlow 2 to the Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit. (BTW: This post isn't sponsored.) I am a long-time Nike Free fan, and I gave up on the shoe when they switched over to a bulkier mid-section on it. Anyway, the Flyknits are a bit of a splurge . . . but they feel lighter than air and don't rub and have all the great features of the shoe I remember from way back when.

It took me a couple weeks to truly acclimate back to the Free platform, as the PureFlows definitely had more cushioning. Now that I've adjusted, they are really comfortable. No rub marks or blisters after my long run. They also just feel great slipping into on a very hot day (I never wear socks and have this weird thing about my feet being too hot. Makes me feel claustrophobic!).

I'll probably get out and run for maybe an hour later today (around 7 miles for me -- we'll see). I have trouble transitioning from spring weather to summer because it's basically cold here until, well, now and then the temps jump abruptly into the 80s, leaving little time to realize what's happened. One of my goals for the summer is to get good about hydration before a run so I'm not desperately thirsty and headachy at the end of the run. I see lots of chia frescos in my future.

Fellow runners: How are you celebrating today?

And if you'd like to check out some more running posts from the archives, visit our Running Page. I love looking back in time to my old training. I can't believe how much running used to be, well, the center of my universe! It's still very important to me, so I am excited to dive back in with this whole marathon business!

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Brooks Pure Flow + Running Naked

A while back, I mentioned switching from my long-beloved Nike Frees to the Saucony Virratas.

There wasn't anything wrong with Nike. I just hadn't switched brands in years and wanted to try out another pair of minimal, yet still cushioned shoes on the market. Stephen recommended the Virrata -- so I had high hopes. Unfortunately, after a couple test runs, I couldn't get the sizing right, which I read is a common issue.

Either too tight or too loose. So, I took them back.

I considered buying another pair of Frees (which would have been my 6th!), but ultimately decided I'd like to get something with a bit more cushioning for my upcoming marathon training.

On a whim -- and because they felt amazing when I tried them on -- I purchased the Brooks Pure Flows.

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I suppose I should mention that unlike most reviews I've read, this is not sponsored. I bought the shoes myself and have no affiliation with Brooks. Also: I like to run in my shoes for at least a month or so -- long runs, speed workouts, all different sorts of things -- before giving an honest, informed opinion.

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What struck me most was how comfortable the Pure Flows felt on my feet from the moment I put them on. I am used to running with a low drop -- so there wasn't much of a difference as far as how my foot was hitting the ground. The main change was in the cushioning. Nike is more stripped down in this regard, which has been fine and even helpful in strengthening my feet all these years.

But with all the miles I plan to log over the summer and into the fall, I thought it might be nice to add just a bit more shock absorption. The cushioning on the Flows is really lightweight, though, so I didn't feel like I added extra weight or bulk for a cushy ride.

Here are some features straight from the website:

• The lightweight construction and lush cushioning of the PureFlow 2 are a perfect match.
• Comfort features engineered in a lean way like a shaped BioMoGo DNA midsole that gives your feet a cushy feel without added materials.
• Neutral to Guidance runners can experience a run for the senses without losing the comfort of dynamic cushioning.
• With a wider Nav Band coming up the lateral side and grabbing the midsole, the foot receives arch support without the bulkiness of underfoot materials.
• A center strike pod provides guidance in finding the natural landing zone.

These shoes have been very comfortable on long runs (I've done up to 13.1 miles in them) and supportive during some of my more difficult workouts like mile repeats. This is my first experience running in Brooks, but so far it's been a good one.

I suppose my only issue is when I run over 10 miles, I do get some rub marks on my arches. I have really high arches and don't wear socks, so I don't know if that's part of my issue. I also didn't know if I'd like the asymmetrical lacing system -- some wearers say it gives them pain in the arch -- but I've had no issues.

Overall, I'd give the shoe good marks. I'll continue wearing them and probably invest in another pair when it's time. They are even feeling good for what I think is the beginning of a bunion of my right foot. But that's an unfortunate story for another day.


TRAINING UPDATE:

The half marathon is just 4 days away! I have a yoga class tonight and then 6 x 400s at 5K pace tomorrow and then two rest days. I would be lying if I told you I feel confident at this point, more like freaked out.

Here's last week's workouts:

M: 13.1 mile long run in 1:50:00 -- 8:23/mile
T: 3 mile recovery run
W: 1 hour hatha yoga at gym
R: OFF
F: 5 mile pace run: 7:50, 7:42, 7:43, 7:40, 7:33, + 1 mile 8:20 (cooldown)
S: 3 mile recovery run
S: OFF

I've never been a fan of wearing a watch while training. I have, however, grown to appreciate knowing some of my stats to help push my training. Wearing a watch during a race? I just don't know what to do. I actually think I am going to run naked -- sans watch -- because I don't want to push the pace too hard and bonk in the middle of my race.

Or should I?
No. I shouldn't.
Maybe?

The danger with that is running blind and possibly missing my goal. Strangely enough, to get under 1:45 -- I only have to take like 6 seconds off my miles from my steady 1:46 finish (I've done three recent half marathons steady in the 1:46 range).

What should I do?! Stephen says I should wear the watch and not look at it until the middle of the run . . . but c'mon! I can't just ignore that it's there! Lots of exclamation points. This is definitely an emotional issue.

Whatever I choose, the race is going to come and go, and I will just run the best I can. I haven't actually raced a race to PR in a long, long time. I guess I'll feel cheated if somehow I don't reach my goal. I've put in the work. I've matched the paces. We shall see what happens.

Who else is racing this weekend?
Or do you run in the Pure Flows?
Any last-minute racing advice for me, please?!

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Running Recap

Here's last week in running. Definitely was a good one.

M: 3 easy miles (I was sick, but felt good to get out)
T: 3 treadmill miles at 8:30/mile + kettlebells and squats
W: 1 hour Ashtanga yoga DVD
R: 4 x 800s at 7:30 pace w/ warmup + recovery = 5 miles in 41 minutes
F: OFF
S: Tempo run -- 4 miles at 7:57/mile = 32 minutes
S: 15K + extra miles to add up to a long run of 12 at 8:16/mile = 1:40

= 27 miles total

This week I committed to running actual speed and tempo workouts outdoors. I have always been intimidated by these types of runs. I would dread and dread them . . . and now I know why. I set the paces too fast! Trying to do sub 7-min mile pace for whatever reason. Too hard!

So I worked with Stephen to slot the appropriate times down for my half pace goal of 7:55/mile. Surprisingly, these runs were difficult, but not at all impossible. I'm hoping they pay off, but I did start them late in the training cycle. We'll see, I guess!

I'm a bit disappointed I didn't get in my mile swim, but that's just icing on the cake.

I had originally intended to run yesterday's race as an actual race. Try to dip under 1:13 and PR for the 15K. But I had two things going: 1.) I am still recovering from a chest cold and have been getting coughing fits after hard efforts 2.) I haven't run more than 10 miles at a time since October and, with my half marathon is fast approaching, I wanted to run 12 miles, not race 9.3.


So, a half mile or so in, I settled in with some of my running buddies, and we decided to run as a comfortably hard long run. It was awesome to chat throughout the course, take our time at water stops, and finish with huge smiles on our faces despite some hills at the end. Our time was 1:16:59 (8:16/mile), not a second longer.

Stephen did great, though, and set a new PR of 52:32 (5:39/mile) + came in third overall.


Otherwise, this weekend Stephen played shoe matchmaker for me (it's been 6 months -- my shoes are dead!) and -- for once in the past 2+ years -- they aren't Nike Frees. I still love that shoe, but with marathon training on the horizon, I wanted something minimal . . . but with more cushioning.

So, I got the Saucony Virrata.

I haven't run in them (planning to do a slow three later today), so I'm not sure if I'm keeping 'em yet. But I hope to do a review soon if they agree with me. If you'd like to read more about them, Michele (NYC Running Mama) did a review recently.

How was your last week in workouts? Anyone run a race or PR this weekend?

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Organization, Shoes, and Sauce

This is what our house looked like over much of the weekend. Now, I know I said it was messy, but I'm sorry to disappoint you. It wasn't THIS bad all along. This is just how it looked while we organized.

We pulled everything out of the cupboards. I mean e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g.

I found many bulk mystery flours and other unidentified things. I used to label and date stuff, but lost my way this past year. What I've decided for both a cleaner kitchen and tighter budget is to stop buying exotic ingredients. For example, having bread flour, white flour, and wheat flour is more than enough.

We'll see how long this "rule" lasts. I've been known to get far too excited about food, toting home some new and weird thing to cook or bake with, only to leave it unused for years. Waste. What a bad habit!

Onto much-needed new shoes . . .


It's been a good 7 months since I've bought sneakers, and it was definitely time. Notice anything strange in this photo? Probably not. It's such a minute difference, even I didn't detect anything was off until we got into the car.

First: I decided to go with the Nike FREE 4.0s -- a slightly more minimal version than the Nike Run + 3.0s I've been sporting for the past several years. I'll be sure to review them once I get in some miles and see if there's any significant difference.

(My prediction? No major change).


Anyway, I wear an 8.5. While trying them on, I remember that the right shoe felt slightly snugger than the left. I figured it was because the anti-theft buzzer was on my right foot. I must have been blinded by my love for the magenta color because I ended up buying two different sizes!

(Strangely enough, this is the second time I've come home from shoe shopping with two different sizes. I have no idea why I didn't check before buying. In a rush, I guess.)

I plan to take them back tomorrow and actually buy them again, but online. I found a much better deal at Running Warehouse, where membership to our local runners club means an extra 15% off. I don't know why I didn't just do that to begin with!

Now onto one of my worst food photos ever.


I'll blame it on the iPhone. But really, I can't take a good photo of eggs no matter what camera I'm using. Just don't look at the eggs. Focus on the sweet potatoes. I made the Miso-Tahini Sauce featured on Emily's blog finally over the weekend. I am hooked.

Go make it. NOW! We have a whole jar full of it ready for dribbling and dipping this week. Ada's BIRTHDAY week, by the way. The girl took her first steps yesterday. You can read about them -- as well as the rest of our weekend -- on Writing Chapter Three.

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10 Years of Running: Changes

Shoes.

I started running in a pair of Adidas trail sneaks I found at a discount store at the mall. I kept running in them for two years -- until the model changed enough and I got a black toenail because they didn't fit the same way anymore. I graduated to Mizunos for several years, Wave Runner, I think, at one of my friend's suggestions. Those got old after a while, so I tried the Asics Gel Nimbus and even Kayanos. Runner's World seemed to say they were all the rage, but they were so expensive and just not for my feet.

Then I tried barefooting for a while. I ran 17 miles once in my Vibrams. But my relationship with the Five Fingers lasted about as long as most Hollywood marriages do. (Stephen, on the other hand, is committed to Vibrams -- and me -- for life, it seems.) Now you all know I run in Nike Frees. I've been in them the last two years and, at least at this point, don't see going back.


Routes.

This one's obvious. If you move towns/cities, your routes change. I did an entire post a while back that covered my first running routes. Ah, the memories. I guess more than the physical routes have changed, the way I treat these paths in my head is different.

I used to favor loops and doing several repeats of the same thing (for whatever reason, I don't know). Repeating the same stuff a couple times a week. Then I liked out-and-back runs. I HATE them now. Then there were the long, ambling loops when I was deep into marathon training.

At this point, I'm into random twists and turns. Not running the same ones several times a week. Keeps me guessing.


Club Involvement.

When I was in college, I shied away from running partners and getting too involved with the local club. To be entirely honest, those serious runners intimidated me. I'd overhear them at races making plans to meet up for an "easy 12-miler" on the weekend. AT that point, my longest runs were around 6 miles. 12 sounded grueling and anything but easy.

Now I understand that type of talk. And I'm guilty of it myself -- when you run a marathon or other longer/faster/crazier race, your perception changes. But even better: Our local runners club is totally into including EVERYONE, no matter the ability. I'm all in.


Gear and Fuel.

I started out sans watch. Then I got a basic Timex. I used to HAVE to run with a hat on. Hydration packs. Shot blocks. Gu. Homemade energy chunks. These days, I slap on my shoes and head out to clear my head. If I run long, I drop by the house and have a glass of water with a handful or cereal or the occasional Honey Stinger.

My running is much simpler. And all that performance enhancing stuff has never done much to help with my race times anyway.


Obsession.

It's true. When you're bitten with the running bug, you get the fever. Did I just mix two things there? Whatever. When I first started running, it was all I ever talked about, thought about, and dreamed about. College classes were in there, too -- but if I wasn't studying, I was running, signing up for races, or reading about, well, running.

Now my life is more balanced. Of course, having a blog focused on fitness means I get a little carried away sometimes with how much I think about best ways to do speed work, etc. But I'm much better at switching off the running and enjoying other facets of my life. Balance is good.


Fitness.

I don't think I'm the model of how to train smart. I am overly conservative. I am only now starting to engage in formal speedwork. I skip runs if I feel the slightest bit sick or injured. Still, my fitness level over the years from sticking with running has improved. So have my race times.

What I've done to supplement my running has always changed. Yoga. Strength training. Biking. Swimming. Running has always been in the mix, though. As a result, I have become a stronger runner over time simply by keeping up my routine.


Goals.

Of course I always am interested in participating in different races or chasing specific times. But I guess what I mean in that my goals have changed is this: I don't race all races like I used to. I don't NEED to PR to feel good about a run like I used to. In fact, I don't need to race at all to have running in my life and stay with it.

This weekend, for example, I'm running a 20K. Slowly. And I'm cool with that. I have kept up with 10-milers, but nothing above that since the half marathon. My goal is to finish and not look at a watch once. I think some people think if you're going to do a race, you should definitely race to do your best. I disagree because "best" on any given day is influenced by so many factors. And there's nothing wrong with that.


Motivation.

I started running with a motivation to get fit, but more to lose the freshman 15. Then I got really into improving my times and distances. Things continually change, but as I have mentioned recently, my main motivation for running these days is to be a role model for Ada.

I also want to be a runner for life. That's pretty motivating, too.

What's changed in your running (or other exercises) routine over the years?

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Peppery Polenta Bites

Thing about that ratatouille recipe is that it doesn't fill us up on its own. That's why I made up these peppery polenta bites to accompany dinner. They were definitely an afterthought. We hadn't made polenta in a while, so I mixed up a batch because I thought it'd go well with all the veggies. Then Ada got fussy/tired/cranky right when I was about to pour it into a large baking dish and chill in the fridge. Her impending nap meant I had some more time to put it into our mini-muffin tin.

(My life is exciting, right?)

Anyway, if you haven't made polenta before, it's quite easy. 

PEPPERY POLENTA BITES

What you'll need . . .

• 4 cups water 
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal 
• Pinch of salt 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 

 Method . . . 

1. Just add the salt to the water and bring to a boil.
2. Turn heat down to a simmer and whisk in the cornmeal 1/4 cup at a time. Stir vigorously to prevent lumps and bumps. 
3. Add in the olive oil and keep stirring for around 5 minutes.
4. Then pour into a baking dish -- in this case, a mini muffin tin -- and chill in the refrigerator for a couple hours.

All you need to do to make them crispy and peppery is to preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Spritz a baking sheet with olive oil. Then place your chilled polenta bites on the sheet. Spritz each with a bit of olive oil and then generously top with pepper. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes -- until crisp. Serve with dipping sauce of your choice. Or ratatouille goes great with them, too!

In other news, I finally bought a new pair of running shoes last night. For the first time in a year, in fact -- and I desperately needed them. I don't pay attention anymore to the specific mileage guidelines for when to get rid of shoes. Instead, I take each run as it comes and evaluate how my legs feel afterward.

These shoes felt dead these past couple weeks.


I tried on many different shoes, as a few of you wrote me to say the Nike Run + 2 and + 3 didn't feel the same as the type I'm used to. Stephen had me try on the Brooks Pure Connect (my heel felt so wobbly and lower than my toes -- didn't like it at ALL!), Saucony's Kinvara (eh...), and a few other more minimal types.

I tried on the Run + 2s and HATED them. Something about the decorative side plastic-y things didn't feel right on my feet. But when I slipped my foot into the +3s, I fell in love. Too bad the store only had the most obnoxious, neon color known to man. I edited to to mute it out. If you have sunglasses handy, here's the true color.


OK. Secretly -- and I guess now NOT-SO secretly -- I enjoy having a really bright, loud shoe. Makes me feel like I'll seem faster than I actually am when I lace up at races. I completed my first run in them yesterday (a blustery 5.5-miler) and they were glowing. But so was I. I get so anxious switching models of my favorite shoes. I've had bad experiences in the past, but I think I'm in the clear with this one. (PS: Thanks to the ladies who wrote me to help with making up my mind!)

Oh, yeah! And with several coupons and store credits (from using the store's loyalty card), I didn't spend the $100 retail price. Closer to $60. Nice.

Today on Writing Chapter Three I wrote a longer-than-it-needed-to-be post about our toy storage and cleaning situation. I'd love for fellow parents to let me know what they do to wrangle all their loot. My entire house looks like this one corner does right now.

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Sweet Smelling Sneaks

We have a bit of a dirty secret to share with you today. But I'm not ashamed to admit it because I think it's something a lot of runners deal with. After months upon months of running through the rain, sleet, snow, and heat in the same Vibrams (Stephen) and Nike Frees (Ashley), our shoes STINK.

But it isn't time to buy new just yet.

It's so bad that we actually keep our sneaks outdoors when we're not wearing 'em. I'm a bit worried, though, that doing so only compounds the problem.

It doesn't help that neither of us wears socks. Not when we're running . . . not EVER.


The problem: STINKY SHOES

The solution(s):

a.) Hope the stench goes away on its own. (Tried. Doesn't happen.)
b.) Burn them and buy new. (Too expensive. Potential fire code violation.)
c.) Spray with perfume. (Will only mask and make worse.)
d.) Wash them.


Of course washing them is the only practical choice. But HOW? It's something we struggled with for a while before coming up with a good system. First, I never knew you COULD wash sneakers in the machine. Then I didn't know what suds would be best to get rid of odors (while also being safe for the performance rubbers and other materials). Last, the drying part. To dry in the machine or not? What works best?

Here's what we do -- about once a month -- to keep our sneaks (or toe gloves, in Stephen's case) smelling sweet.

• If your shoes are particularly muddy or cruddy, pre-rinse with your outdoor hose. The more loose dirt you can get off the better.
• We wash our shoes one pair at a time. I don't know if it matters, and I imagine two pairs might be OK, but a smaller load -- we believe -- works best.
• Set your washing machine to small load. Regular cycle. With COLD water only. If you have the option, we set ours to wash for a longer cycle. 14 minutes versus the usual 10-12.
• Before tossing your shoes in the machine, take out the inserts. You'll wash them, too (go ahead and throw them in) -- just not while they're in the shoes.
• Note: You may wish to remove your shoe laces. We haven't had a problem, but there is a potential they could get snagged in the machine. If you're concerned, play it safe.
• Toss in 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of vinegar. Let the washing begin. Maybe make some peanut butter-chocolate chip cookie dough.
• We have used detergent on occasion -- but I've read mixed reviews on that. The only kind I feel "safe" using is this kind we bought at our local sporting goods store.
• TO DRY: Don't -- I repeat -- DON'T -- place your shoes in your dryer. Let air dry. The best way is in the sun on a hot day. Otherwise, a fan can help. Maybe even some newspaper crumbled up to absorb the moisture.

This process will get them looking almost new. Notice, though, that my dirty hippie feet still leave their mark on my inserts.


How do you keep your active feet smelling sweet? Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

And if you're looking for tips on how to keep the rest of your workout gear fresh, check out our Take the Stink Out of Your Workout Gear post.

Remember that giveaway we promised you last week? We'll be posting it later today, so don't forget to check back!

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Random Friday

I've been running in Nike Free Run + for six months now. I gave them a try in the wake of my IT-band injury late last fall. Ever since, and due to a variety of methods and tweaks, my IT has been fine. Sigh. It's a true love story.

Hell, I even featured the left shoe in our banner image!

I'd need a new pair eventually. That was inevitable. And after last weekend's half marathon (in the rain and mud, mind you), I indulged. It wasn't that I absolutely needed them. The shoe's support is still great. However, I always wear the pair sans socks . . . and despite my efforts to wash them, they were pretty rank.

See the difference?


I'll continue to enthusiastically push the Nike Free Run + shoes. Interestingly, I'm partial to the older model, for which stock is dwindling on store shelves. I hunted around to find this pair so I could delay trying a new version a while longer.

I hate when shoes change. Even slightly. So, hopefully the new Nike Frees don't deviate from what I know and love. We'll see in 6 months.

KITCHEN UPDATE

Thanks for all your input on our kitchen redo post. Many of you gave us some amazing ideas, like checking out Habitat ReStores and other architectural salvage yards for deals on cabinets; utilizing open shelving to create the illusion of space, but with storage; moving our microwave to a shelf above the oven with a ventilation system; and browsing the Ikea website/stores for cheap, stylish stuff.

Others reminded us that it could be worse. Our kitchen isn't terribly small. Not everyone has a dishwasher. People who do don't always use theirs. And we should be thankful for what we do have. We wholeheartedly agree.

However, it was what Brookin shared that really got our minds rolling. She sent us this photo (from Apartment Therapy).


We can't believe how much this space reminds us of our own. It also represents the simple, no-frills style we'd like to go for. So, I spent a bit of time pricing out some unfinished cabinets (not that we're closing the door on gently used ones just yet), and it looks like to get some lowers and uppers in a similar arrangement, we'd spend around $1,000. Another $300 or so for a dishwasher. Then some backsplash action and other stuff . . . the $2,000 budget goal doesn't seem terribly out of reach, provided we do the work ourselves.

Stay tuned . . .

GARDEN UPDATE

Grr. It looks like the weather will be wetter than we expected. It's not a total deal-breaker, but things aren't looking favorable for digging in the dirt this weekend.

Or all next week, really.


What you taught us is that we should have a plan before tossing various things in the ground and crossing our fingers. Maybe the rain is trying to tell us the same thing. And I guess we could always shift our focus indoors and continue to organize/clean.

What are your weekend plans? Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

Psssst: Don't forget to enter the Oikos Super Fruits Giveaway!

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Reader Question: Getting into Gear?

Bridget writes:

"I'm a new runner and just started a 5K program. I feel like now that I'm running more miles and more days every week, I need to invest in better shoes, clothes, and other gear. My problem is that since I'm still so new, I don't know what to get and what to pass on. I went to look at shoes this past weekend (those are what I'm most concerned about) and the wall of choices overwhelmed me."

"I don't have a huge amount of money to spend, so I want to spend what I do have wisely. Please help!"


Bridget. Thank you for writing us! Your issue is common . . . and I'm happy to have the opportunity to write about this topic. One of the reasons I love running (versus biking and other expensive gear-heavy sports) is because all you really need to participate is a good pair of running shoes. We'll get back to what a "good" pair means in just a moment.

But first . . . I want to impress upon you that what I just wrote really is true. Running is simply putting one foot in front of the other. In theory, you don't need any gear to run. Especially with the new barefoot running craze. There are, of course, a MILLION (or more) different items that can help make your journey to the start line more comfortable. And a ton of stuff you might just just like to have. The way to pick is really up to your priorities and, of course, your budget.


1.) Shoes, at least in my opinion, are where you should focus the majority of your hard-earned dollars. We've all read that a good pair of shoes should last you between 300 and 500 miles. What does this mean exactly? Well, where you fall in this range depends on factors like your weight, the type of surface you're running on, the type of shoe (cushioned versus racing flat, etc.), and possibly your foot strike.

It's confusing, but you can usually feel when your shoes are, well, dead.

I advise you to -- if possible -- visit a running-specific store and chat with the staff about what kind of shoe you might need for your foot. Whoever helps you will likely ask about your running history (miles per week, goals, injuries, etc.) and maybe even watch you run a bit to see what kind of shoe is right for you.

Running shoes are divided into a variety of types, including:

• Cushioned (high arch)
• Motion-Control (low arch)
• Stability (medium arch)
• Trail
• Racing

If you'd like the basics on each type, Runner's World has a down 'n dirty guide. Now, read carefully for a moment: What is so very important to note is that the most expensive shoe is not always the shoe that's the best for you (or the best in general). People are smitten with the Kayano (by Asics). But unless you need high-mileage stability help, all that extra cash (and, seriously, they cost like $140) is going toward features you don't need. Beware getting sucked into the "more expensive is better" mentality.


In reality, it may take you several shoe brands and models until you find a perfect pair. For example: I started running in Adidas trail shoes. I kept with that model for a while, but when they changed the design. Much to my dismay, it no longer felt right. I then switched for several years to Mizunos -- Wave Creation and Wave Riders. After a while, I craved more cushioning, so I -- again -- switched. I was a fan of Gel Nimbus (Asics) for a long time, but then I developed a foot issue, and no matter how much I tried, I just didn't like the fit. At the suggestion of a running store clerk, I tried out a pair of Glycerins (Brooks), and they felt the best a shoe has ever felt.

However, they also recently changed the model . . . and the new pair simply don't fit well. I was lucky enough to find an older version online, but don't know what I'll do when this pair is kicked. I'm also experimenting with Vibrams, as many of you already know. I love them for runs under the 10 mile distance.


Bottom line: Shoes are where to invest. They keep your feet happy. And unless your feet cooperate, you won't be happy running. Let the experts help and don't shy from less expensive models. As well, do price-comparison shopping online. You may want to hit up a store to get the best fit . . . and then Google it for the best price.

*** However, keep in mind that different models often have different fits. Stick with what you know works, but keep an open mind as your needs change.


2.) Clothing, too, is important because you may deal with chafing and other issues. There's nothing worse than coming back from a run with some awful pain like that. Keeping a few key pieces of tech fabric stuff (versus good old cotton!) will help with your overall comfort . . . and these items can last a long time. I'm still wearing the same cold weather tights I bought when I was a sophomore in college (GULP, that was like 8 years ago!).

As the weather becomes cooler, layering is your friend. We outline a good fall/winter running wardrobe in our How to Suit Up to Set Out post. Never underestimate the power of tech fabrics for cold weather. As you run in the cold, you will still sweat. If that sweat collects on cotton . . . and it will, trust me . . . gentle breezes can make your life a nightmare. It's just plain uncomfortable.


For those of you who regularly sweat gym-style, a couple pairs of shorts and sleeveless shirts work well. Just because you're around lots of people, you need not buy a new outfit for every visit of the week. Mix and match . . . but seriously, most people are too busy finishing their own sessions to care about how you look.


Also: Sale rack stuff is just as good as the flashy new pieces. In fact, I buy the majority of my pieces on sale. Of course, when I'm looking to indulge (which isn't entirely as frequently as I'd like), I enjoy Lululemon.

And to keep those items clean and smelling fine, follow these suggestions from our Take the Stink Out of Your Workout Gear post.


3.) Everything else is up to you.

But as we mention above, you honestly don't NEED anything else to run. There are watches. Fuel belts. Hydration packs. Compression sleeves. iPods. You name it, it's sold for running. The following are some posts dedicated to other types of gear that may interest you. Again: You don't need this stuff to have a successful run.

Though, some of these things might make great additions to your Christmas, birthday, or other gift lists!

• Garmin Watch (FR60 versus the 405CX)
• Running Naked (Sans-Watch)
• Hydration Pack Versus Belt
• Vibrams: Those Funny 5-Fingered Shoes
• Lululemon Fit-Style
• Running Skirts
• Minimalist Running Shoe: ProGrid Kinvara (Saucony)

I more-often-than-not use my old fashioned digital watch to time my runs. Though I have a hydration pack, it really only helped me a handful of times this past summer. I'd rather spend money on entering races than having the most up-to-date gear. And I'm thinking many of you out there would agree with me. It's the feeling I get from running that matters, not looking cool and having all the latest accessories.

Do you have any advice for Bridget? Any great gear that we forgot to mention . . . or that you simply can't live without? We'd love your input! Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

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Making the Switch -- Stephen's Perspective

I'm currently reading Born to Run, Christopher McDougall’s exploration of the life and running habits of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s Copper Canyon, who are arguably the world's greatest distance runners. And I find myself questioning one of the fundamental principles I’ve come to believe as a long distance runner: the foot must be well protected and cushioned in order to run efficiently and economically.


As a high school cross-country runner, my weekly mileage rarely topped thirty-five, and my weekly long run never strayed beyond ten. Believing in quality over quantity, my coaches made every mile count. I went through pair after pair of Asics DS Trainer X, a fast, neutral training shoe.


Now I'm a twenty-something marathoner, and I’ve increased my weekly mileage from 35 to 55 and my long run max from 10 to 20. Likewise, I’ve increased the cushioning in my shoe and upgraded to the Asics Gel Nimbus, the "Cadillac" of all cushioning shoes. Pockets of pillow-y gel in the heel and alongside the mid made my feet feel safe, comfortable, and protected.


But I’ve wondered: Is wearing pillows of gel on my feet the only way for my body to train for a marathon? How have the Tarahumara Indians and elite Kenyan runners been able to compete and complete such long distances wearing only the soles on their feet?

I’m not saying I want to complete my next marathon barefoot -- at least not yet. However, I am interested in weaning myself off the plush cushioning I’ve relied on and investigating a more natural approach to running.


Enter the ProGrid Kinvara, Saucony’s lightweight, minimalist shoe to help runners ease into barefoot-style running. I write "ease" because the Kinvara isn’t as drastic of a change as the Nike Free series or the Vibram FiveFingers lineup, which allow the foot to flex its full range of motion.

Instead, the Kinvara strips away the hard plastic and gel found in many running shoes and relies solely on spongy foam. What I like most about it, besides its weight -- a light 7.7 ounces -- is the heel height, which is lower relative to the forefoot than a traditional running shoe. This translates to a more articulated mid-forefoot strike, which is arguably more efficient and natural.


After covering over fifty miles in the Kinvara, I’ve felt a significant change in how my body responds to each stride. A pronounced mid-forefoot strike coupled with minimal cushioning means that the force and weight of each stride is absorbed less in the lower leg muscles and more in the body’s best shock absorber, the arch of the foot.

In other words, for the first two weeks, my feet have felt tender and sore since they have been absorbing the extra weight, and my calves have felt tight because of my foot’s increased flexibility and range of motion. Beginning week three, I find my body adapting well and feeling more refreshed and efficient.


Once I run this pair into the ground, I hope to continue my journey of scaling down and enjoying a minimalistic style of running. Who knows, maybe this time next year I’ll be logging long distances in Vibrams!!! But more realistically, I think I’ll make the switch to Nike Free+ this fall. After all, the body is a delicate tool that responds best by making minor adjustments, not sudden jolts.

And my adventure is only beginning . . .


What is your experience with barefoot running? Or maybe not experience . . . but opinion? Seems like another way of running naked to us -- which also seems to be a good thing. We've been enjoying posts like Ashley's series on the Vibrams. But let us know -- what's your take? Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

Like what you just read? You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!!

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