So, I waited awhile because I wanted to give these two a real chance to see which one I preferred. After my trip to Roadrunner Sports I ended up narrowing my choice down to these two, and it was a close one! They are both fantastic shoes with great cushioning, which I really need. I used to run on a mix of pavement, grass, dirt and even the occasional treadmill but now I run primarily on pavement, so my shoes take quite a bit of abuse and without significant cushioning, so would my joints.
I have been running in my Brooks Glycerin 8s for some time now, and they have been my absolute favorites, easily beating out my first Nike Zoom Equalon 4s. I have loved my Brooks but did want to try a few others out, you know, just for variety and to be sure I wasn't missing an even better ride ;)
I had tried so many (read previous reviews for that day trip to the store), but I had heard great things about Asics from other runners, so I was intrigued and really wanted to try them. After numerous test runs in the store, the Asics Gel Nimbus 13 and Brooks Glycerin 9 were in a dead heat and decided I would eventually get them both for my next rotation, though that day I left with just the Asics because, well, I was just going for something different. They are both responsive and comfortable shoes, with great cushioning for running on pavement. I've since put about 100 miles on each of them, so I think I can safely review them.
First the Asics Gel Nimbus 13 seen below (which is exactly the one's I left with). Cute as they can be :)
One of the reasons I wanted to try the Asics is that many runners I know with high arches find them to be then best for them, and since I do have high arches, I figured I should give them a try.
These shoes have decent ventilation, and remain comfortable throughout my regular 3-5 mile runs. The mesh upper breathes well, though I had gotten used to my Glycerin 8s where I could actually feel the breeze through my toe-sies ;), not so with these but no sweaty feet so that's ok.
They also have a nice heel drop, which is important for me as it helps with my arch support and weak ankles. Not too high, but just enough for the support I need.
On the treadmill, they were amazing and the midsole was so responsive I felt propelled forward. On pavement, well, a bit less so, but the cushioning is great and absorbs a good amount of the shock from running on pavement. I sometimes feel like the cushioning absorbs a bit more energy than it should and could have a bit more return on the energy, but all-in-all it's a comfortable ride.
I did notice a bit of heel slippage after the first few runs, but a runner's knot helped with that. I had hoped that after a few more runs I could go back to my standard lacing, but no such luck. With the runner's knot I don't have any more heel slippage, just takes that extra step in the morning that I don't particularly care for at 6am, but it's a minor thing. If you have very small ankles, you should keep that in mind.
The insole is comfortable enough and the shoe is sufficiently supportive that I can run with or without my orthotics. For the first 80 miles or so I ran without my orthotics, now I'm using them again (but that's because I'm nursing an overuse injury that's not shoe-related).
Overall it's a comfortable shoe, and I'm glad I purchased them. I will give the 14s a test run in about 300 or so miles, but they are my 2nd favorite shoe. It was neck and neck for a bit, but for the reasons set out below, Brooks is still the best shoe for me.
Next up, Brooks Glycerin 9. This is my current favorite ride, the color is cerise, which matches pinks and reds equally well (if that matters to you...)
My favorite shoes in my last rotation between Nike and Brooks were my Brooks Glycerin 8s. After reading numerous reviews and test-running in the store, they never disappointed. For that reason alone, I pretty much figured I'd end up with the 9s, and I was right.
I don't notice a significant difference between the 8s and 9s, though the reviews seem to indicate a bit more support for the midsole in the 9s.
Subjectively there seems to be a bit less ventilation than in the 8s, but moreso than the Asics. I like the mesh upper and appreciate the increased ventilation, for no other reason than it just feels good.
The heel drop is just about right, providing the comfort and support I need. I'd actually be ok with an a slightly higher heel profile, but this is sufficiently supportive for my needs The Glycerin 9 is a bit lighter than the 8, not substantially so, but any decrease in weight without sacrificing cushioning is appreciated.
I have no heel slippage in the Glycerins with my standard lacing, so no need for any runner's knot. The laces are short, so no double-knotting for security, but after hundreds of miles on 2 pairs of Glycerins, they've never come undone so I guess they got something right in the the lace department and no need for extra long laces.
The midsole is responsive with good energy return, even on concrete. I notice a slightly higher return energy from the Brooks than the Asics. It's not a huge difference, but it's enough to increase my pace slightly - always a good thing. The DNA on the 9s runs the entire length of the mid-sole, which may be the reason for the better energy return. That's the marketing speech, I have no idea what that means but I do know a responsive shoe when I run in one, and this one doesn't disappoint. Again, on the treadmill, it's very noticeable but on concrete everything suffers.
With these as well, the insole is comfortable and sufficiently supportive that I can run with or without my orthotics. As with the Asics, the first 80 miles I ran without, now back to using them (again, for reasons not connected at all with the shoes). The standard insole is far more comfortable in the 9s than the 8s. Honestly, the 8s insole seemed to be made with the intention that you weren't going to use it, it almost seemed like an after-thought. Not so with the 9s, it's comfortable enough to be of real value in the shoe. I like the option of running with or without orthotics as well as having a choice as to whether or not I use a standard insole or replace it with something else.
Overall, the shoes are very similar and you can't go wrong with either one, but the heel slippage on the Asics and the slightly reduced energy return cause the Brooks to edge out as my favorite.
Can't wait to test out the Glycerin 10s and Asics 14s. I see they reduced the heel drop in the Asics 14, so it's looking like I will be a Brooks girl in the next rotation as well - but I'm willing to test them both to confirm ;)
Showing posts with label Shop. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shop. Show all posts
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Life Lessons from Running
First, a little history:
I'd been a confirmed gym rat for years, and about a year or so ago I was stuck at a plateau that I couldn't break with cardio or weight training. I'd hit a wall and no matter what I tried or how hard I worked, I just couldn't break through this final plateau. Oh those last 10#s are stubborn! Someone suggested I try running. Now, I never could run and the thought of it was NOT something I wanted to entertain. Finally, begrudgingly, I gave in and tried it.
I first started on the treadmill, could run maybe 30 seconds then walk a minute or more. I persisted until I was finally able to achieve a 5 minute run/1 minute walk. That didn't really take as long as I thought it would, but persistence paid off. I was tied to the metrics on the treadmill and had never considered running outside. First, I figured I'd just walk more frequently, sit down when I could. Also, I felt I needed the treadmill to move in order to keep me from slowing down or stopping altogether. See, I was running for the purpose of reaching a goal and not for the process. I really didn't enjoy it, but I was committed to the process.
One day a friend from the gym grabbed me on my way in and took me running outside. We ran the Silver Strand from IB to Coronado, wow that really is a beautiful run (or bike ride!). Needless to say, I was hooked and haven't been able to get back on a treadmill since. I also found, surprisingly, that I ran faster and longer outside than I did inside. I didn't need the machine to pace me. I was even able to run a full 5 miles without a single walk break. Surprised myself!
Some months later I experienced a severe high ankle sprain and stress fracture. The result of both over-training and failing to slow down on a trail. 2 months on crutches and unable to do much in the way of any training put me back to nearly ground zero on my training regimen. Back on the road again, but with a new run/walk training method. It took awhile, but I'm back to running a full 5k without a walk break. Not the 5 miles I used to do, and not at the pace I used to run, but I'll get there. I can't say I love running, or that I'll always do it. But I don't hate it anymore, more often than not I really do enjoy it, and there's no arguing with the results: lower body fat and increased cardiovascular fitness...so I press on.
I've learned a lot through this experience. Most of which I apply to my training schedule, but much of which also applies to life and business. See, cross-training isn't just for the gym, it's also for the mind and spirit.
1. Pace Yourself:
Go at your own pace and take breaks when you need them. Walk when you need to, and sometimes when you want to. as long as the "need to" is more often than the "want to" then you're fine. This helps your training, but also your business plan. Sometimes you need to slow down, catch your breath, then pick up the pace again. You have to go at your own pace, not one set for you by someone else. Yes, a defined pace or program can be helpful, but in the end you run your own race and have to modify it for yourself.
2. Set Goals:
Set a goal and then strive to beat it. I like setting a minimum goal that I need to reach and then exceed that. Some people try and set their maximum goal and then reach it. Either way, the sense of accomplishment is motivating. Without a goal, you won't notice progress. That's fine for a hobbyist, but for serious training, and serious business, goals matter. They matter a lot. Now, once you've reached those goals comfortably, change them. Make them a bit more difficult. Rinse and Repeat.
3. Run Your Own Race:
Competition can be a good thing. It can be motivating to compete against others. But at the end of the day, the best person to compete against is yourself. Beat your own time. Exceed your own goals. Forget what's right for someone else. How fast they run or how well their business appears from your view. Your goals, your pace, that's what matters. As long as you're moving forward, you're doing great!
4. Enjoy the Process:
Find something you truly enjoy and then just dive in. Do you love to run? Then do that. Do you prefer cycling? Dance? Swimming? Machine-based cardio (Elliptical/Stairs)? Whatever you truly enjoy, start there. You shouldn't have to hate your workout, or your job for that matter. Take some time to find out what you love and do that. Within that there may be parts of the process you don't love, but you should enjoy it overall. Make it fun!
5. Cross-Train:
Now that you've found something you enjoy, switch it up some. Try something new. Don't just be tied to one thing, your body and mind need variety. If you run or bike and it's a rainy day, don't just hit the treadmill or indoor cycle, dance or do some other indoor cardio-fun. Using different muscles will benefit you in the long run.
If you weight train, and you should, then you should also do some yoga or pilates on your off days. Not only will this benefit your weight training, but it will also benefit your cardio workout as well. Yoga and Pilates, while both being a form of strength training, focus heavily on developing your core as well as stabilization muscles and flexibility. All of which you need for total body conditioning.
In life and business, find a hobby that's completely different from your job. Now that can also be your workout, or it can be volunteering for a cause you believe in. It can also be using your business skill-set to benefit another business or individual as a volunteer. Take a class. If you excel at numbers, take a marketing class. If you are a star-networker, take an accounting class. Stretch your mind and you'll find areas you never knew you could use and grow. Your primary gift remains, but cross-training your mind will help you grow in amazing ways.
6. Reward Yourself:
It's hard work, hard on your body and mind. Take time to enjoy your life, de-stress. Go shopping for something fun. Go out with friends. Spend time with family. Get a massage. This is critical, life is meant to be lived and loved. Appreciate what you have, where you've come from and where you're going. Enjoy the process! At the end of the day, and the end of your life, these details matter.
I'd been a confirmed gym rat for years, and about a year or so ago I was stuck at a plateau that I couldn't break with cardio or weight training. I'd hit a wall and no matter what I tried or how hard I worked, I just couldn't break through this final plateau. Oh those last 10#s are stubborn! Someone suggested I try running. Now, I never could run and the thought of it was NOT something I wanted to entertain. Finally, begrudgingly, I gave in and tried it.
I first started on the treadmill, could run maybe 30 seconds then walk a minute or more. I persisted until I was finally able to achieve a 5 minute run/1 minute walk. That didn't really take as long as I thought it would, but persistence paid off. I was tied to the metrics on the treadmill and had never considered running outside. First, I figured I'd just walk more frequently, sit down when I could. Also, I felt I needed the treadmill to move in order to keep me from slowing down or stopping altogether. See, I was running for the purpose of reaching a goal and not for the process. I really didn't enjoy it, but I was committed to the process.
One day a friend from the gym grabbed me on my way in and took me running outside. We ran the Silver Strand from IB to Coronado, wow that really is a beautiful run (or bike ride!). Needless to say, I was hooked and haven't been able to get back on a treadmill since. I also found, surprisingly, that I ran faster and longer outside than I did inside. I didn't need the machine to pace me. I was even able to run a full 5 miles without a single walk break. Surprised myself!
Some months later I experienced a severe high ankle sprain and stress fracture. The result of both over-training and failing to slow down on a trail. 2 months on crutches and unable to do much in the way of any training put me back to nearly ground zero on my training regimen. Back on the road again, but with a new run/walk training method. It took awhile, but I'm back to running a full 5k without a walk break. Not the 5 miles I used to do, and not at the pace I used to run, but I'll get there. I can't say I love running, or that I'll always do it. But I don't hate it anymore, more often than not I really do enjoy it, and there's no arguing with the results: lower body fat and increased cardiovascular fitness...so I press on.
I've learned a lot through this experience. Most of which I apply to my training schedule, but much of which also applies to life and business. See, cross-training isn't just for the gym, it's also for the mind and spirit.
1. Pace Yourself:
Go at your own pace and take breaks when you need them. Walk when you need to, and sometimes when you want to. as long as the "need to" is more often than the "want to" then you're fine. This helps your training, but also your business plan. Sometimes you need to slow down, catch your breath, then pick up the pace again. You have to go at your own pace, not one set for you by someone else. Yes, a defined pace or program can be helpful, but in the end you run your own race and have to modify it for yourself.
2. Set Goals:
Set a goal and then strive to beat it. I like setting a minimum goal that I need to reach and then exceed that. Some people try and set their maximum goal and then reach it. Either way, the sense of accomplishment is motivating. Without a goal, you won't notice progress. That's fine for a hobbyist, but for serious training, and serious business, goals matter. They matter a lot. Now, once you've reached those goals comfortably, change them. Make them a bit more difficult. Rinse and Repeat.
3. Run Your Own Race:
Competition can be a good thing. It can be motivating to compete against others. But at the end of the day, the best person to compete against is yourself. Beat your own time. Exceed your own goals. Forget what's right for someone else. How fast they run or how well their business appears from your view. Your goals, your pace, that's what matters. As long as you're moving forward, you're doing great!
4. Enjoy the Process:
Find something you truly enjoy and then just dive in. Do you love to run? Then do that. Do you prefer cycling? Dance? Swimming? Machine-based cardio (Elliptical/Stairs)? Whatever you truly enjoy, start there. You shouldn't have to hate your workout, or your job for that matter. Take some time to find out what you love and do that. Within that there may be parts of the process you don't love, but you should enjoy it overall. Make it fun!
5. Cross-Train:
Now that you've found something you enjoy, switch it up some. Try something new. Don't just be tied to one thing, your body and mind need variety. If you run or bike and it's a rainy day, don't just hit the treadmill or indoor cycle, dance or do some other indoor cardio-fun. Using different muscles will benefit you in the long run.
If you weight train, and you should, then you should also do some yoga or pilates on your off days. Not only will this benefit your weight training, but it will also benefit your cardio workout as well. Yoga and Pilates, while both being a form of strength training, focus heavily on developing your core as well as stabilization muscles and flexibility. All of which you need for total body conditioning.
In life and business, find a hobby that's completely different from your job. Now that can also be your workout, or it can be volunteering for a cause you believe in. It can also be using your business skill-set to benefit another business or individual as a volunteer. Take a class. If you excel at numbers, take a marketing class. If you are a star-networker, take an accounting class. Stretch your mind and you'll find areas you never knew you could use and grow. Your primary gift remains, but cross-training your mind will help you grow in amazing ways.
6. Reward Yourself:
It's hard work, hard on your body and mind. Take time to enjoy your life, de-stress. Go shopping for something fun. Go out with friends. Spend time with family. Get a massage. This is critical, life is meant to be lived and loved. Appreciate what you have, where you've come from and where you're going. Enjoy the process! At the end of the day, and the end of your life, these details matter.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Holiday Shopping!
Use code: REPFLYER for free shipping!
There's still time to organize a fundraiser for your favorite organization, it's easy and fun!
There's still time to organize a fundraiser for your favorite organization, it's easy and fun!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Fall Shopping
Great products at great prices! Contact us about doing a fundraiser for your favorite group or charity, they're fun, rewarding, and just in time for holiday giving!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Fashion Forward
Surprisingly great fashions at not surprisingly great prices! Check it out for yourself, or consider hosting a fundraiser or e-party. Contact us for details either at the store site or here. Did I mention...I LOVE doing fundraisers :)
Thursday, August 4, 2011
What's New :)
Great products at prices that understand our current economy! Our current vision is to focus on fundraisers, so while you're shopping for yourself (and saving some money we hope!) please be thinking of what organization you'd like to support and send a contact email from the store about setting up a fundraiser for your favorite organization!
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