"American Strong": The odds were long, long for Meb-Fellow Americans led by Ryan Hall became a team mid race to help him win

The very geeky Letsrun.com has a fascinating article with links to the long, long pre race statistical odds of Meb or Ryan Hall winning, somewhere between 0.05% and 3.7% with 14 runners, including Ryan Hall with personal bests better than Meb's. Yet Meb has proven over and over, despite his "age" that he is willy focused racer on the big day.

adidas Adizero Boston Boost: First Runs Comparison to Adios Boost, Photos

My wife and I were lucky enough to catch two of the only 150 pairs in existence of the new adidas adizero Boston Boost at the Boston Marathon Expo. Full launch expected for September.

adidas Adizero Boston Boost

Do not have full details but the Boston Boost was $120, has about a 10mm drop and should weigh a bit less than the current adizero Boston's 9.1 oz, sitting in the Boost line up between the adios Boost and the Energy Boost as a lightweight trainer marathon shoe, a shoe well suited to... Boston's hilly course.
I ran 2 miles this morning in the Boston Boost and it is very smooth, well cushioned, bouncy, light and responsive. One might think it would run very similar to the current Adios Boost but in many subtle ways it is quite different and runs different too. Seems smoother, a bit more plush, more minimal all around in terms of upper and outsole construction and also a little less fast race snappy and directed. Also feels bouncier than the Energy Boost. Overall maybe a bit too bouncy soft in the heel for my taste.

adios Boost (left) Boston Boost (right)

• considerably more minimal less structured ( fewer overlays) upper than the current adios with lighter mesh and with a somewhat longer heel cup. I say current adios as the adios boost is getting an upper similar to the non boost adios
• wider stretchier toe box and overall fit
• a softer and less structured top of heel counter.  Prefer the adios heel counter.
• a longer and slightly deeper black EVA layer under the foot and out to the toe, a softer ride and more flexible up front than adios. More comfortable and cushioned up front.
• slightly more stack height for Boost than adios but I think less than the Energy Boost. A different heel to midfoot midsole geometry. Note the beveled heel and gap under midfoot on the adios(left) below.

adios Boost (left) Boston Boost (right)

adios Boost (left) Boston Boost (right)

• Less beefy Torsion plates between the midsole and outsole, no medial Torsion structure near the heel in the Boston or the firm EVA center heel (gray oval above) of the adios but a wider heel landing on the Boston. The heel landings of the adios and for that matter the Energy Boost feel a bit more stable, less bouncy soft than the Boston's.
• more Continental rubber on the outsole.

Update 4/22/14: I did run the Boston Marathon in Adizero Boston Boost and while I had a very rough disappointing race with an epic fade after the half it was a beautiful event and day. Overwhelming support on the course, emotion, and friendship. The volunteers were amazing, the crowds intensely supportive, and fellow competitors determined.
Back to the Boston Boost, the shoe I wore at the Marathon, with all of 2 miles on them. They were great. For the first time in a marathon no blisters along the outside of my big toes. No blisters anywhere else either. I dumped lots of water over my head and they drained very well. The open mesh will make these a great hot weather and rainy day shoe.  No foot or calf cramps despite forgetting my calf sleeves although my quads were what gave out. Cushion was just fine. Not the snappy response of the adios boost though for sure.

For another early review of the Boston Boost see Bill Blunderbuss fine initial thoughts here.
Derek Oxley review of the Boston Boost, here
Video introduction by adidas at Competitor.com from the Boston Marathon Expo:  Boston Boost, Adios Boost( new upper), and Sequence Boost.

95,000 Marathon color Daffodils grace Downtown Boston and the course

1964 Boston Marathon Movie Surfaces 50 Years Later: Nothing has Changed

Runner's World as part of its 2014 Boston Marathon coverage has found this incredible 1964 documentary(below). Erich Segal later author of Love Story and then a Harvard Prof, a 19 year old Harvard student, a former pro boxer, and many legends of the sport including the Johnny Kelleys the Younger and Older (who finishes well under 2:55 at age 56) are featured.

Some things never change:

• The weather, 39 and snow/rain. The 19 year old says "perfect temperature" and finishes 19th.
• Buses to the start, on the drive out Segal and the student have a hard time finding the Athlete's Village a k a the High School. The famous Jock Semple, BAA coach and the guy who tried to pull Katherine Switzer off the Boston course a few years later arguing with another race official at the buses. I remember him yelling and screaming as Race Director at Mt Washington in the 70's. Passion and...legendary temper
• The nerves and anticipation on the bus and at the start. A helicopter can be heard overhead. A mob of press and spectators.
• The "huge" field...400 from all over the world. 
• Excellence: The winning time is 2:19, a runner from Belgium with a Finn and Canadian next. Segal in his 5th Boston is 63d in 2:56. The 19 year old Harvard student runs a record marathon for his age.
• Running form looks pretty darn good at the front of the pack. The mid and rear packs could have been from a race today.
• The Lennox Hotel at the finish with doormen helping the runners walk it off after the finish, clearly something that still happens at Boston
• A clear front runner for the win and 2nd and 3d fighting it out to the line.
• The stragglers including the boxer run by newsboys selling special editions featuring the race winners
• The crowds huge on a terrible weather day. 

Enjoy!

Rally-NH Seacoast Strong in Support of the Boston Marathon: Stories from 2013 and a very Special Guest

Boston Runners and Volunteers rally at the North Hampton NH Home Depot joined by Dave McGillvery Marathon Race Director (dark blue 2014 Marathon jacket.

I saw in our local paper that a rally to support the Boston Marathon had been organized by 2 long time race volunteers Pat Cote and Matt Carpenter at the local Home Depot. Pat is a 19 year volunteer and Matt is a 29! year volunteer and is in charge of the 120 volunteers manning the elite waterstops. MC for the event Andy Schalet who announces literally hundreds of road races a year in New England and is the calm, informative decisive last voice most of hear every year as we round the corner into the Boston start corrals.  These folks are among the many who make Boston so special.

Well, there was one more special guest....Dave McGillvray, the long time Race Director who  came up in the middle of obviously one of the busiest weeks any human could have to speak and answer questions.

After Dave 2 runners told their stories from the 2013 race. Incredibly moving was Vicki Miller's story. She is the president of one of the largest New England running clubs and a many time Boston runner. It turns out the first bomb went off in front of her and the second behind her on the finishing stretch. She recounted in great detail and with great emotion what she felt and thought. Should she finish, should she go to the side of the course, the run through debris and body parts, the confusion after the finish, deciding if she should hide under a truck as rumors talked of more bombs or shooters. Incredibly, I was no more than 300 yards further away from the finish line  when the bombs went off and while it was a confused and tense scene it was not the horrifying terror of being so close.

Seacoast Online published an article on the rally with emphasis on Vicki and Dave McGillvray's comments. From the article:

"I saw evil that day," Miller said.

"This year it's going to be love, compassion," Miller said. "This is going to be the (race) of the century."

" McGillivray said he and other race officials have focused on being strong leaders in the months since the bombings, although he said he thinks his ability to distance himself from having an "emotional" reaction to the attack "will all come crashing down on April 15" and during the series of remembrances that lead up to this year's marathon on April 21.

"My own son sat in the bleachers across the street (from the first bomb)," said McGillivray, explaining his decision to run to raise money for the Richard family, as it will be the first time he's run the marathon for anything other than himself. "It could've been the other way around. How can your heart not cry out? That's why I wanted to help out."

Dave gave us some very interesting insights into the past year and the lead up to this year's race. Amazing leadership, focus, and grasp of myriad details. He has run the race 41 times ( I believe not far from the record)  and is known for running the course after the race finishes. He was on course when the bombs went off. An "immortal" with over a 100 marathons, a transcontinental run, a run from Maine to Florida, and many Ironman Tri he underwent a serious heart health scare this year and immediately changed what he could: his diet. He has lost 28 pounds and says he is feeling great but the stress.. probably not a good thing.

Some race tips and stats from Dave:

• 10,000 volunteers, 5,000 others seeking to help were turned away.
• 95,000 daffodils were planted and should be blooming on the course, finally in 60's today! 
• 588 buses will be used to shuttle 36,000 runners to the start in a coordinated fashion to synch with 5 wave starts so that no more than 18,000 are in the Athlete's Village at a time.
• There is less room in Hopkinton than a hundred years ago when a few dozen ran or even at the record 100th but they will make it work as they always do. 
• The start road is 39' feet wide, as always. NY has 17 lanes!
• No backpacks, as we know, but he said if you need 3 small fanny packs including  one around your head feel free in response to a question from a runner about how to bring pre race gear.
• Security will be strong. Unlike a single venue with concentric rings of security, the security at the Marathon will be "in it" not around it.
• Finally, a wonderful quote from Dave" "Scar tissue is stronger than original skin."

I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to take the start of this wonderful and special event this year.

Much as the rally also gave all of us who were at the Marathon last year an opportunity to speak, please feel free to comment and share your thoughts and recollections here.
We are all Boston Strong.  

First Run Review: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail-Versatile Trail Runner, Neither Cush nor Mush nor Brick

I just received a review pair of the New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail, the 2nd shoe featuring New Balance's Fresh Foam technologies of computer designed midsole and outsole geometries. This 10.25 oz men's 9, 8.1 oz women's 8, 4mm drop "trail" shoe retails for $109.95 and will be available by July 2014. 
I say "trail" as I am finding the Fresh Foam Trail is also a fine road shoe. 

New Balance  Fresh Foam 980 Trail

I have run a few miles on road and trail in the 980 Trail so far and am concluding they are a big improvement over the initial 980 Road I reviewed here. (Note 4/10/14: New Balance just sent me another pair of Roads as early pairs such as the one I received may have firmer midsoles than spec. I ran 5 miles in this new Road 980 and the cushioning was very similar to the Trail)  Smooth running even on the road with a foot lay down feel somewhat like Pearl Izumi's E:Motion line, they part ways with the PI shoes and the original 980 Road in that they are well cushioned and not somewhat harsh and overly firm as both the PI and 980 Road felt to me, nor rigid and a bit constricting in the forefoot as the pair of 980 Roads were for me at my true to size 8.5, the Trails here being 9's. The Trails are also not mushy or pillowy as the older model Hoka One One's are. 
Fresh Foam is the marketing slogan and with this shoe it starts to ring true, although I would not characterize the ride as "super soft and bouncy" as New Balance does. More a tuning of cushion and support to provide a smooth, well cushioned, stable and comfortable ride on trail and road. 

After 2 runs they are already more flexible than my still somewhat stiff 980 Road that have 30 plus miles on them. My first trail run in them was on muddy, steep, rooty NH trails and they were equally adept on the trail as on the road, I guess no surprise for this trail shoe!  Good grip, good stability on moderately uneven steep terrain with smooth striding on the flats.

Outsole: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail

First, what is special about the midsole outsole design?
The New Balance 980 Fresh Foam is not made up of innovative materials (a la adidas Boost) or for that matter has a radical design ( a la Hoka).  The 980 is innovative as for the first time New Balance is leveraging parametric modeling software often used by architects to micro design and shape the data characteristics of loading and biomechanics into what is essentially a very simple single material EVA midsole and single material rubber outsole. The outer sidewalls have hexagonal "relief" based on the data modeling, which depending on location, either provide additional support via convex bulging shapes or deform, absorb shock and cushion through concave shapes.

So what did New Balance do to make this such a fine shoe, and an improvement in my view over the initial 980 Road? Well they tuned the midsole and outsole using their software, common sense, and I am sure some feedback from runners.

Midsole

The view below is of the lateral (outside) of the forefoot with Trail top and Road bottom.

Forefoot Lateral Side: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail top, 980 Road bottom

New Balance swapped convex hexagons for concave ones upfront. Result for me a somewhat softer forefoot than the Road as concave shapes deflect a bit more than concave ones. Finger push test shows as much. I believe the midsole material is, or should be, despite my early experience with the Road of the same firmness in both shoes and the differences in feel are due to tuning of the hexagons and outsole.

Heel Lateral Side: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail top, 980 Road bottom

In the heel area on the lateral side(outside) they made the hexagons on the Trail (top) larger and deeper which softens the heel landing without in any way making the shoe mushy.

Heel Medial Side: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail top, 980 Road bottom

On the medial (inside) the Trail keeps convex hexagons from mid foot to heel and they are larger than on the Road. And this is my only quibble to date with the Trail and Road. I think these "support" geometries are intended to slow pronation as they firm that area, and while some may need a bit of help here, I usually run in a neutral shoe. The latest from the American College of Sports Medicine here recommends neutral non support shoes for the vast majority of runners. This said, especially for long trail runs and as the shoe gets some miles, the foot and eventually shoe tend to collapse inward in lighter shoes. I might have kept the smaller convex shaping of the road here as I feel a bit too much inside support in the Trail.

There is no rock plate I can see and don't believe it is needed, plenty of rock push through protection.

Outsole

Outsoles: New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail left, 980 Road right

Here clearly there are differences as the red sole on the Road is clearly for road use and green Trail for trail use. I found that the long deep lugs of the Trail provided superb grip on the steeps, a bit of icy snow, and the mud that I encountered. No mud accumulated but truth be said New England mud is not usually the sticky glop found out West. The lugs reverse towards the heel, sharp face foward, to provide braking. The long lugs also seem to contribute to a smooth ride on road, if a bit noisy. But there is more... The sheet, if you will, that holds the decently spaced lugs is thinner than the more continuous outsole with no flex grooves  of the Road. I believe this contributes to not only better road feel but more flex in the forefoot of the Trail . 

Upper

All overlays except around the lacing and for some strapping at the heel are seamfree. The upper is a very densely woven mesh, not exactly as light as many sub 10 oz trail runners who have but appears durable. I felt very well supported on some relatively rough trails without a need to overly cinch down the laces. It drains well, I did run through ankle deep water on my last run. It should not let dust in but may clog a bit with mud due to the very fine mesh.

The Trail upper is built on the same last (foot shape, volume,etc..) as the Road. The toe box while not as roomy as say the Skechers Ultra  is roomy enough with no sloppy play upfront, always an issue on trails for me. They are far more comfortable up front than my first pair of Road by sizing up half a size. With mid weight trail sock they should work for all my trail runs. If I ran long ultras and had wide feet, and I don't, I might potentially size up another half a size. The tongue is soft, padded and relatively thin when compared to the somewhat overly puffy tongue of the Road. The tongue is held in place by 2 webbing loops. The heel counter padding is a little thinner than the very puffy Road's. 

Update 7/13/14: I finally got to run some Utah single track in Park City. And for my first run out here, 11.5 miles and 2200 vertical feet the day after a half marathon, I picked the 980 Trail. Superb in all respects. Climb well with plenty of grip. Very stable on downhills from heel to toe.  As I expected the "firmness" of Fresh Foam shines on trails. Upper is supportive without being overly restrictive or too loose. A bit pointy in the toe but not a big issue for me. Lack of a rock plate not noticeable at all.

Overall Impressions
The 980 Fresh Foam Trail is a low drop (4mm), very solid,  supportive mid weight trainer runner suitable for both smooth and rough trails as well as roads. It is on the heavier side (10.25 oz)  of modern trail runners which often come in under 10 oz but given the cushion, deep and effective lugs, and rugged upper I think worth the weight for old legs, longer runs and tougher terrain. The tuning of the hexagon geometries and outsole has also made this a fine smooth running road shoe with few if any of the drawbacks associated with trail shoes on the road: harsh firm ride, overly slappy due to the outsole, or weight. I plan to make this one of my goto shoes for Summer 2014.

Competitor.com agrees with my review "...the Fresh Foam Trail—a modified replica of the award-winning Fresh Foam 980 road shoe—is a dynamic and versatile shoe that excels on many different types of terrain." See their review here.

Disclosure: The 980 Trail was provided to me free of charge by New Balance. The opinions herein are entirely my own. 

American College of Sports Medicine Running Shoe Selection Recommendations: Neutral, Low Drop, Light Weight

The American College of Sports Medicine has published a brochure on Running Shoe Selection.  http://www.acsm.org/docs/brochures/running-shoes.pdf. A lot of good recommendations which will shake up long held conventional wisdom and a few that may be a bit too opinionated/ rigid in my view.

According to ACSM the characteristics of a "good, safe running shoe" are:

• Minimal heel to toe drop, 6mm or less whereas most traditional shoes have had 10+ mm. I agree that lower drop is good and most of my shoes are 4-10mm  but when tired in a race I prefer 10mm or so. They do recommend a gradual transition to lower drops.
• Neutral. This is the big one and I totally agree. Stability and motion control shoes to control pronation, the drop of the foot inward  have been a long time staple for many runners. "Pronation should occur and is a natural shock absorber...Stopping pronation with materials (stiffer foam, plastic pieces) may actually cause foot and knee problems...Excessive pronation can in most cases be corrected by therapy and exercises for the foot, leg, and hip rather than by the shoe".
• Light in weight: 10 oz or less for men's size 9, 8 oz or less for women's 8. Totally agree with this for road shoes. Trail shoes may weigh a bit more.

They warn to avoid high thick cushioning. I don't totally agree with this especially if the runner is doing many miles >30-40 per week and can afford more than one shoe. The "super cushioned" Hokas, Skechers Ultra, and the newer Altra shoes can provide great recovery benefit in my view and they can be a godsend for those with bad joints. A mix of shoe types, drops and terrains is best.

Orthotics or extra arch supports bought in stores should be considered temporary "until foot strength is increased."

Wide toe box to allow the foot to splay and toes to wiggle. 

Avoid buying shoes based on foot shape, arch, or what the store folks observe when you walk.

Buy running shoes at the end of the day when your foot is most swollen.

Thanks to Camille Herron who is attempting to run a sub 2:50 marathon in all 50 states for  recently posting the link to this brochure the Running Shoe Geeks group on Facebook

Why I Run: On the Road to Boston-Some Fast Winter Racing, adios Boost and Beet Juice Concentrate

With Boston on the schedule and in the middle of a harsh New England winter what better way to tune things up than some of the many classic longer winter races. So far I have run 3: Stew Chase 15K, Half at the Hamptons, and Black Cat 20 Miler. All went off without a hitch between storms but of course in cold conditions.

How have they gone? Great! Surprisingly so for this old runner.

For the first time since 2011 on  a legit course (i.e. not a downhill point to point) I ran under 1:40 for the half clocking a 1:37.46 at the Hampton Half followed a week later by 7:51 pace without much difficulty at the Black Cat 20 Miler on a very cold day.

So what is going on?

• Training: My training has been consistent,  hovering around 40 miles per week since December up from lower 30's last year. No injuries thankfully.
• adidas adios Boost:  I truly believe the adidas adios boost shoes  (review here) have played a major role in my performance this winter.   Decision made. I will run them at Boston, that is unless I can get my hands on the upcoming Boston Boost.  First time in many years I will run a marathon in something other than a trainer. Great road feel in these shoes. I am able to maintain a snappy consistent stride (for me) and pace without feeling road harshness. Last year I ran my marathons in the Energy Boost (review here) and while easy on the legs found them a bit stiff, directed and constricting. The adios has just the right cushion and rebound and is far less sensitive to stiffening in the cold, important as all 3 races were in below freezing temperatures.  And I have recovered incredibly quick, within a couple of days from each race, including the 20 miler and with no leg soreness.

  

  adidas adios boost

• Beet Juice Concentrate: Before each race,2-3 hours before, and before my St George Boston qualifier  I have taken a shot of beet-it beet juice concentrate.  I heard about beet concentrate via a Runner's World article by Amby Burfoot:  "Nitric oxide (produced by saliva interacting with nitrate in the beet juice) can substantially lower blood pressure, and somehow extend endurance." Amby also cites Alex Hutchinson's Sweat Science article which discusses credible research on the effect of beet juice on endurance: "The amount of oxygen required to maintain a given level of moderate exercise decreased after taking beet juice; in other words, it took less energy to cycle at the same pace." The research cited actually used the beet-it product. I am convinced beet juice concentrate works. I could feel my blood pressure, and nerves, drop and was as calm as a baby before all the cases, no jitters. I had far more consistent splits than usual after a more moderate first few miles than usual. Stuff works for me, convinced of it.

With a few more weeks of good training I expect I will be ready for Boston, and for once calm at the starting line, I hope... 

Mid Foot vs. Heel Strike in Running: Finally Starting to Understand What's Best for Who., Article Competitor

Competitor has a great article by Tom Michaud summarizing the latest research. He starts by... walking where a heel strike is 53% more efficient and the fact that most joggers heel strike first then... speeds up from there.

• The faster you go the more metabolically efficient a mid foot landing becomes. Recent research is suggesting that at a pace of 6:25 per mile most are just as efficient mid or rear foot striking. Slower that that and most runners are more economical with a rear foot landing. 
• Even in minimal footwear 35% of runners strike the ground heel first, ouch! as "heel striking is too efficient to give up"
• Yet, Michaud goes further, and is more nuanced, as those with recurrent knee pain should consider working towards a mid foot strike as it "significantly reduces stress on the knee." and especially so "for faster runners with wide forefeet and flexible Achilles tendons." 
• "Conversely, runners with a history of Achilles, forefoot, and/or plantar fascial injuries should almost always make initial contact along the outside of the heel, because contrary to what many running experts say, striking the ground heel first is safe and efficient."

I think this article makes a lot of sense and provides not only scientific explanation but also valuable variations on the theme of mid vs rear foot striking that can help many runners with injuries.

adidas Energy Boost 2: First Look from Holabird Sports

The original Energy Boost was one of my Best of 2013, actually the Boost material was and is the best. The Energy  got me through 2 painless (almost), blister less marathons.  The next generation Energy Boost 2 is hitting the market in Feb. 2014. From what I understand all changes are to the upper.  Video from Holabird Sports describes some of the changes:

• a new TPU cage at the midfoot upper. I thought this area was fine so will see.
• still the sock like Tech Fit upper which I liked, but many didn't,  but with new arrangement of overlays in forefoot. It looks like the forefoot overlays are reduced to 2 from 3 and the front overlay is moved a bit back from the toe which may make the feel a little more open and less constraining and directed. 
• weight at 9.9 oz Men's 9. Adidas has the Boost 1 at 9.5 oz so heavier, not a good thing.

Race Schwag: Shave Secret - a discovery in the bottom of the bag

A bit off topic from my usual running shoes and gear but I did discover this product in a marathon race schwag bag.

All runners know the feeling of picking up your bib, t shirt, and a bag full of samples, race post cards, and instructions. Often this stuff is ignored or thrown out after a quick glance.
Well in the bottom of my bag for the St George Marathon last year I found a yellow card with a minuscule vial attached. Didn't think much of it until months later as I finally emptied the bag and actually tried the sample of Shave Secret

Great stuff. Literally 3 drops and I get a smooth, nick free shave. Super for everyday use and for travel as a tiny bottle will last for months. They claim secret natural oils do the trick and I agree.

I'll keep a closer eye on the race schwag in the future. Who knows what I might find next.

Shave Secret is available direct and at many Wal Marts.

Why I Run: The Rye Snowy Owl, iSmoothrun & Magellan Echo, Wave Rider 17, and Rudy Project Photochromic Clear Lenses all together on a run

Yesterday on a beautiful clear and cold day I ran a nice 10 mile tempo north along the coast here in NH. I used to favor going south but lately have been taken by bird watching as between the coast road and land there are extensive marshes filled with neat birds. This winter I have spotted a peregrine falcon, great blue herons, and every kind of water fowl imaginable.

immature Peregrine Falcon

 The internet has been filled with pictures of a magnificent Snowy White Owl camped about a mile from my house. You can tell when she is around by the bird watchers parked and staring. Well yesterday on my way back I stopped at their cars and asked where she was. They said you just ran by her, she's on the pole. And there she was. Watched me calmly as I snapped a few "telephoto" shots with my iPhone 5S which by the way handles zooming far better than prior iPhones.

The Rye Snowy Owl

I always run with my phone for 2 reasons: to indulge my geek data side and to have a camera. I never listen to music although I do listen to my run app, iSmoothRun, read off my splits.

Just before my run I had seen comments on a fine review at RunBlogger about the combination of the iPhone iSmoothRun app and the Magellan Echo. I discovered the Echo and iSmoothrun at Outdoor Retailer last summer and reviewed it here. I introduced it to Pete over at Runblogger and he calls the combo "brilliant" in his review. Well back to those comments on Pete's review. Some are steadfast in wanting a watch to keep track of all their stats and can't stand carrying a phone. I am not with them as the apps will increasingly be more capable due to the processing power of the phones and... I love to carry my "camera."

On that run I also tested for the first time some Rudy Project Clear Photochromic lenses in my Rydon sunglasses. Rudy makes in my view  the finest lenses with superb optical quality, has a huge variety of lenses for different uses and are worn by many pro cyclists and nordic skiers.

I got these lenses as they go from almost clear 78% light transmission to dark 18% and have the greatest light transmission for morning/dusk, in and out of forest situations of any of the Rudy lenses.  Well it was sunny and they got very dark and then took a while to return to clear. I was curious why such a long transition. So off to Google I went and discovered that photochromic lenses get darker in cold and transition slower back from dark. In heat they tend to not get as dark but transition far quicker back and forth. This applies to all photochromic lenses. Never knew that.

What would a run be without... shoes to test. I am debating my Boston choices: adidas adios boost (review here), Skechers GoRun Ride 3 (review here), or the Mizuno Wave Rider 17.

Mizuno Wave Rider 17. Source: Mizuno USA

I got the Wave Riders as the combination of light weight 8.6 oz, stack height of 18 forefoot/ 31 heel with a flexible forefoot is in my sweet spot, except... the 13mm drop is more than I am used to. I prefer 6-10mm. Well they are a fine shoe if a bit noticeably high in the heel.  It is going to be a tough choice as last weekend I ran a very fine fast (for me)  15K on a fairly hilly course in the adios boost. No harshness, super snappy and fast feeling. I thought the adios boost might be to light but now am not so sure so off to the Half at the Hamptons in the adios boost the 23d to evaluate further. And back to temperatures, unlike the Rudy lenses or the Wave Rider the boost material is not as affected by cold as the EVA in most shoes, including the Wave Rider, firms up in cold.

Review- New Balance 980 Fresh Foam: Supportive Cushioned Lightweight Product of Computer Aided Design

The New Balance 980 Fresh Foam, a 8.8 oz men's size 9, 7.3 oz women's size 7, 4mm heel/toe drop lightweight trainer is now on sale ($110 MSRP).

Note 4/11/14: New Balance sent me another pair of 980 in size 9, up half a size from my normal 8.5. It turns out the firmness in the midsole I felt in the first pair reviewed here was not to spec, too stiff. The new pair is more cushioned especially in the forefoot, roomy, and has better flex.

The New Balance 980 Fresh Foam is not made up of innovative materials (a la adidas Boost) or for that matter has a radical design ( a la Hoka).  The 980 is innovative as for the first time New Balance is leveraging parametric modeling software often used by architects to micro design and shape the data characteristics of loading and biomechanics into what is essentially a very simple single material EVA midsole and single material rubber outsole. New Balance has used this approach before  to custom design 3D spike plates for elite athletes based on their form and foot shape. I saw the Fresh Foam introduced at OR last summer and wrote about them then.

How does this innovative approach translate to the shoe's design? 
The outer sidewalls have hexagonal "relief" based on the data modeling, which depending on location, either provide additional support via convex bulging shapes or deform, absorb shock and cushion through concave shapes.

New Balance 980 Fresh Foam Medial Side

The medial (inside of foot)  heel area is firmer and more supportive due to convex hexagons on the  sidewall. The forefoot is more cushioned and deforms more due to concave hexagons.

New Balance 980 Fresh Foam Lateral

The lateral (outside of foot)  heel is concave and deforms and absorbs on landing on the decoupled heel, while the lateral forefoot is more supportive allowing the foot to roll inwards for toe off









Does it work? Yes. Not only does my informal finger "durometer" test indicate that convex areas are firmer and concave areas deform more but running in the shoes one gets a sensation of consistent smooth support from heel to toe.

Marketing materials from New Balance say that the 980 has "ultra-plush" cushioning. Well it all depends on what one means by ultra plush. They feel quite a bit firmer than Hokas or Skechers Ultra but less firm than the sometimes harshly firm Pearl Izumi EM line.  They are fairly close in cushion for me to the adidas Energy Boost although quite a bit firmer but more stable with less of the Energy's rebound effect. Running Warehouse has the stack heights at 25mm heel, 21mm forefoot.  They have a thick insole which I believe RW includes. The forefoot certainly feels nicely cushioned similar to an Altra Torin. The overall sensation is by no means unpleasant. One feels very well cushioned, well supported with good road feel. They feel particularly stable, yet cushioned, on downhills.  The bumps in the road have been smoothed out but it still there. Think of the difference between a big Audi and an old school luxury sedan. 980 is the Audi.

Upper and Fit
They fit true to my size 8.5, just, due to a somewhat narrow front of the toe box. I would size up half a size if I was running a marathon in the Fresh Foam and since this review New Balance sent me a half size up which fits far better.  Not really as roomy as the very roomy, almost too roomy, Skechers show below. There a 5 eyelets plus 2 further back to dial in the upper. Tongue is big and thick I think to help cushion use of far back 2 lace holes.  Laced and stayed comfortable without adjustment on the first try. A very modern seamless upper. The only stitching is at the very bottom of the lacing system. Rest is all modern overlays over a soft open mesh.

Skechers Go Run Ride 3 compared to New Balance 980 Fresh Foam 

Outsole
Outsole is completely covered in rubber with a bit of a decoupled heel. The computer aided design informed the size and placement of the outsole's hexagons and it is here New Balance may have gone a bit too far.  The shoe flexes far back near the middle of the area of small hexagons under the instep. Fairly stiff in the forefoot especially in the cold and I am pretty sure it is mostly the outsole and not midsole that causes the stiffness but it is gradually "breaking in" ( with 22 miles on the shoe). Unusual flex and not sure it matches my form as I have a roll forward and toe off near the front. I might have opened the forefoot outsole up to the midsole with grooves to get a more gradual flex. As the shoe does not have a "rocker" as a Hoka does or an air gap far back as the Pearl Izumi does, and they are stiff, it is fairly hard for me to roll forward and off at jogging pace. With more miles they may flex more.  I have not yet tried them at speed but soon will. Often shoes feel and function far differently at speed, particularly stiff ones.

Road Feel and Ride
Apart from the stiff forefoot and flex point far back they run very smoothly with great firm cushion and support. No leg soreness at all the next day. While a 4mm drop shoe, I did not have the sensation I sometimes to that the "heel isn't there". If I was making the decisions I might have gone with a bit softer foam. I say "road feel" as the midsole outsole (lack of lugs aside) could also make this a fine trail shoe in my opinion. I tried them off the side of the road and found them very stable. Unusual, as I often look for trail shoes that can run the road but this one feels starting from a road focus it could easily handle many trails. And New Balance knows this, as a trail version I saw at Outdoor Retailer is coming later this year. It essentially looked like a beefier deep tread on pretty much the same shoe.
Who might like the New Balance 980 Fresh Foam?
The 980 is a well cushioned and light trainer for those seeking a smooth, supportive ride. I might hazard a guess that heavier runners looking for a light sub 9oz shoe will find the Fresh Foam a good option due to its supportive nature. There are support/stability features designed into the hexagons so this could also be a good shoe for mild over-pronators without causing issue for neutral runners.  As long as not muddy or too steep (the stiff forefoot a bit of a concern on steep climbs without a rocker)  the Fresh Foam should also give a stable ride on easier trails. If they feel comfortable at speed I will consider them for my Boston shoe.

See my review of the New Balance Fresh Foam 980 Trail here. A very fine trail shoe for rugged terrain as well as a smooth runner on the road, a versatile hybrid for varied terrain.

For another review of the New Balance 980 Fresh Foam see Holip Soekawan's super review here.

Disclosure: The New Balance 980 Fresh Foam were provided to me free of charge for this review. The opinions herein are entirely my own.

Outdoor Retailer Winter 14: Source Hydration. Tastes Better. Innovative Designs

Source is an Israeli hydration company well known in Europe and by militaries worldwide, including the US, French, and of course Israel's IDF. They have not recently been strongly present in the US market. At OR they had a large booth with neat consumer packs, bottles,and reservoirs and  very serious military tactical hydration and packs on display

Their key differentiator is a "glass like" reservoir film material. By "glass like" Source means the material is far smoother with fewer peaks and valleys on the surface than competitors.

Source Hydration Glass Like Film

This translates to less gunk accumulating in the bladder. I have had a Source hydration bladder for several years, it came in the original Salomon Advanced Skin run vest. I think liquids do taste better in Source and it was my goto bladder on our 10 day trek from Chamonix to Zermatt a few years ago, got one for my wife, and I put it in my run packs.

I was given a  free sample and demonstration of Source's Ultimate Hydration System ($61 MSRP). The Ultimate features:

• Widepac™ 2L / 3L
  Most innovative, smart and successful design, the Widepac Hydration Reservoir makes filling, cleaning and draining easier than ever, and it's 100% leakproof.
• Helix™ Valve
  Features a 360 degree cylindrical valve with soft bite which eliminates the need for a specific mouth orientation. The retreat spring sealing mechanism is leak proof even under pressure.
• Dirt Shield™
  An effective Valve cover that keeps the valve protected and clean when not in use.
• QMT Tube
  Tube with two quick connect adaptors, one on each side.
• UTA - Universal Tube Adapter
  A revolutionary solution for refilling your hydration system on the move. The reservoir is filled directly through the tube eliminating the need to remove the hydration pack from the back for refills.
• Magnetic Clip
• A smart and simple magnetic tube holder clip, easily attachable to shirt, shooulder strap or Molle strap, allowing complete ease of use.
• Weave Covered Tube
  Insulated UV-Block woven cover. Keeps liquid cool and bacteria-free from the first to the last sip. 

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Source Ultimate Hydration Bottle Refill

The reservoir tube can be disconnected at both ends by pressing and pulling secure spring snap valves,  to clean the tube and also to fill the reservoir. Using the blue UTA Universal Tube Adaptor, a soft wide coupling you can refill from a sink tap or from a water bottle without removing the bladder from your pack and opening  the wide mouth as one normally does. The UTA fill came from input from the US military in Afghanistan as drinking water used by soldiers there is bottled. The drink valve is easy to use, rotates 360 degrees and twists to secure shut. A dust cap is included but I find it fussy string, leash and all, and will remove. The magnet is a nice addition to secure the hose wherever you want.

Source 1 liter Liquitainer

The 1 liter (33 oz)  Liquitainer ($11) caught my eye. For most runs of less than 3 hours I use bottles in the front pockets of my race vests. I like the Salomon soft flasks but they tend to flop over when less than full if the pocket is not deep enough. The Liquitainer, as it is more rigid,stands up far better. To drink all one has to do is bend my head a bit and squeeze the bottle. I can almost entirely drain the bottle without taking it out. There is also a 750 ml version which will fit in shallower pockets. Folds flat.







The Dune Extreme Sport Hydration Pack ($126 MSRP)

Source Dune Extreme Sport Hydration Pack

Source Dune Extreme Sport Hydration Pack

Source's take on a performance hydration pack was very interesting.

The cross straps lie over the center area where the bladder sits

allowing a very secure customizable fit. The zip hip pockets

 are easy to get at without removing the pack and will hold an iPhone 5. 

No pockets on shoulder straps which is a bit of a downside as I like to be able to carry bottles, mobile, or nutrition there. 

Review: 14 Patagonia Men's Strider Pro 5" Run Short- Versatile, Comfortable, Effective, Pockets Galore

The Patagonia Men's Strider Pro-5" Short ($59) is a dialed in marvel of style, comfort and carrying capacity. As many of us increasing carry "stuff" when we run, and especially smartphones, finding a way to carry all of it is increasingly a challenge. With marathons banning race vests for security reasons and the smart move to carry a jacket and a bit of nutrition on the trail, pack or belt less carry is a challenge.

Patagonia Strider PRO Short Source: Patagonia.com

The Strider PRO is in its 2nd year. I have the first version and it was great if a bit constricting and limited in carry capacity. Designed in collaboration with Patagonia's run ambassadors this second version iterates last year's model to new levels of comfort and versatility. Really in my opinion, the ultimate run short and I have tried plenty.

The new version includes:

• 5, yes 5 stretch mesh pockets: 2 deep hip pockets suitable for smartphone or light jackets, 2 shallower hip pockets able to hold 2 or more gels, and a rear zip pocket for key or more gels. When empty the pockets are really not apparent, not baggy tacked on Race Ready looking appendages.
• a wide drawstring that can be threaded on the outside or inside of the waistband and minimal stretch waistband to hold it all up when pockets are loaded. Yet always comfortable and non constricting even when loaded
• a very soft smooth fabric with mesh inserts for heat dissipation and breathability in all the right places.
• some pretty wild colors, as well as a basic gray and black.

I have already run plenty of miles in the Strider Pro. The carry capacity without bounce or sagging is very effective. 

Below the shorts with on board: iPhone in case, 2 gels, 1 energy chew package and a NorthFace Better Than Naked Jacket. Didn't even load the rear zip pocket which can carry at least 2 more gels. Due to the drawstring/waistband construction, and tight yet easy to handle stretch of the pockets, nothing bounces or sags. 

Patagonia Strider Pro 

Patagonia Strider Pro 

Patagonia Strider Pro 

You can purchase the Strider Pro Shorts below from REI or Moosejaw. Every purchase from the link helps support my blog. Thanks!

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 14: Updated Altra-The One2, Instinct 2, Paradigm, Superior 1.5,

The smallish Altra Zero Drop booth was packed as usual.  All Altra shoes have zero drop from heel to toe and feature a superb anatomic wide toe box and matching wide forefoot landing. Altra has specific lasts and fit for men and women on all shoes. Love the feel but zero drop is a bit much for me day in day out.  I have run in the Superior and Torin.

My eyes were immediately drawn to a new "maximalist" shoe, the Paradigm. Think of it as the road version of the just released 12.2 oz Olympus trail runner.  Paradigm is a very light 10.5 oz men's 9 with a 34 mm stack height, right up there with the most cushioned Hokas such as the Mafate or Stinson.  The midsole is Altra dual layer EVA with their A Bound energy return layer ( the blue) under the foot. Matching women's model too coming in at 9.5 oz. MSRP $130.

Altra Paradigm

Altra Paradigm

Altra Paradigm

Altra Paradigm: I am a 9 and the shoe here is 10.5 but note the roomy toe box

 Update: I went back to take a closer look at the Altra One 2 avery intriguing and super light new cushioned Altra. 7.5 oz with 24 mm of zero drop stack height, the stack height increasing from 18 from the One (1).  This is a flexible shoe that reminded me of Nike Free but of course more maximalist. I was told it targets Kinvara and Nike Lunar Racer. No heel counter. Unlike other Altras with their EVA A-Bound combinations, the One has something called Inner Flex EVA that I found out is a mix of EVA and A-Bound, a TPE. MSRP $100. A very nice looking shoe.

Altra One 2

Altra One 2

Altra One 2

The Altra Lone Peak 2 trail runner increases its stack height from 22mm to 25mm and has a more aggressive tread.

Altra Lone Peak 2 Men's

Altra Lone Peak 2 Women

Altra Lone Peak 2 Women

Altra Lone Peak 2 Women

I ran in the original Altra Superior. Better on the road than the trail for me due to the very stretchy un reinforced wide upper and no heel counter. One of my favorite lounging shoes. Well the Superior 1.5 adds upper strapping, reinforcements and a heel counter. Altra and zero drop fans will likely find the Superior 1.5 a fine trail racer.

Altra Superior 1.5

Altra Superior 1.5

Altra Superior 1.5

The Instinct, the very popular original Altra is now Instinct 2.0 gets more cushioning and has a 26mm stack height.  MSRP $105.

Many of the models featured are available now from Altra. Your purchase here supports my blog.