Gear Review: Shokz OpenFit

It's been awhile since I've written about running gadgets. In the past few years I've gotten new running watches and headphones and tested new shoes, but nothing really seems to merit a full blog post. However, when I was thinking about getting the new Shokz OpenFit headphones, I realized no one I knew had switched from the classic bone conducting Shokz headphones to these new true-wireless options. The responses I got were generally, "I love my Shokz, let me know what you think of the OpenFit if you get them!" So it seemed like a review was in order.

Various Updates

Running

A couple weeks ago, I went back to see my doctor and schedule my fasciotomy. Not only has my calf pain been back, but the mental and emotional anguish of being injured has been weighing heavily on me. Running has been the only exercise that ever worked for me; I believe it played a huge role in making my depression manageable and helping me live a more balanced, happier life.

So I am very much looking forward to surgery at the end of the month. I'm savoring each run right now; after surgery it will be three months before I can be truly back to running the way I like, or think seriously about training.

This month I wrote a post for the Skirt Sports blog about my WORD. A word that motivates me and keeps me moving. I have used transcend as a mantra for ages - it has applied to overcoming pain, doubt, negativity, and fear. These days, it seems even more applicable to life in general.

My post is here. Please give it a read!

I laughed a little at this robot's assessment of my writing skills. Doesn't it know purposeful repetition is an artistic choice?! 

Product Review Update

I've tried out the MIIEGO headphones a couple more times. While they definitely resulted in sweaty ears at the gym, I found this wasn't as uncomfortable as I thought it would be when outside.

The picture on the right shows all the sweat from wearing them to the gym, but after my outdoor runs they're not this sweaty!

The band across the back is still a little too tight and pulls a bit, but otherwise I'm pretty happy with them. I hope the band loosens up a touch with use, because right now my one major complaint is that they slip due to the band wanting to rebound into its twisty shape.

Work

I'm enjoying being back at work. This year we have a third CRT (curriculum resource teacher) and it's been great! The three of us make a really strong team.

We had 78% totality during dismissal on Monday. That was fun!

We moved into a bigger office this year, too, and it's much nicer than the old one. The year has gotten off to a smooth start so far.

Real Life

Last Friday, some friends joined me and Matt for a peaceful march of resistance and reflection, followed by a vigil for Charlottesville and Heather Heyer. It is very hard for me to explain how it feels, as a Jewish woman and an American, to see Nazis brazenly marching in the streets, but gathering with others in hope and love served as a balm for my sore heart and strengthened my resolve to resist.

And seeing the response in Boston? That was perfect.

What is your word?
How have you been dealing with national events lately?

ABK

MIIEGO Headphone Review

A couple weeks ago, out of nowhere, my Jaybird headphones stopped working. I am really not in the market to replace $150 headphones, so I started looking around for a new brand. In the meantime, I struggled with some cheap corded earbuds I had lying around the house, and I remembered how much I freaking hate cords.

Then, I saw a post on Flip Belt's Instagram. You guys know I'm a huge fan of Flip Belt, so I was excited to see that they were pairing up with a bluetooth headphone brand...I trust Flip Belt so I figured the headphones would be a good bet.

Ladies, we have headphones designed just for you! Check out the AL3+ Freedom Bluetooth headphones for women now! ***Link in profile***

A post shared by FlipBelt (@flipbelt) on Jul 13, 2017 at 4:17pm PDT

I reached out to Flip Belt to see if I could test out and review a pair, and a couple days later I had a beautiful pair of coral MIIEGO headphones in my hands. I really wanted to try the M1, which is their bluetooth earbud version, but I was happy to try the AL3+ Freedoms.

The headphones come with a carrying case, extra foam speaker covers, and a charging cord.

First Impressions:

I immediately found the packaging, color, and design attractive. The headphones coil up into a neat little bundle and the carrying case is compact and sturdy. The instructions were clear and simple; the headphones paired up easily with my phone and were fully charged and ready to use right out of the box.

Right out of the box, full battery! I tested the pairing and buttons immediately and mastered their use in under 5 minutes.

I did have a couple concerns right off the bat, though. Would they stay in place while running? Would they feel bulky and warm?

After taking them out for a spin, I'm pretty happy with them.

Ready for a run. I tested the headphones in 88 degrees, 90% humidity, sunshine, and no breeze.

Pros:

Lightweight
Easy storage
Stylish
Good sound quality
Easy to install & use
Comfortable

Cons:

A little warm for FL summer
Need some adjusting/moved a little
The band doesn't lie quite flat enough

I was pleasantly surprised - the headphones stayed in place and needed less adjusting than my favorite earbuds ever did!

Verdict:

For the price, these are really nice headphones for the gym or just hanging out. They're not my favorite for running but they aren't bad.

I wish they fit a little more loosely. The twist in the wire made the headphones "tight" across the back of my head so they pulled a little, which is the only reason they moved at all; I think with time this tight coil will loosen a bit and they'll become more comfortable, will stay in place better, and will pull less.

They are not as bulky as I thought they'd be - they're really lightweight. My ears definitely got warm from wearing the headphones. I tested them in fairly normal Florida weather but what others might call extreme. I don't think the warmth would be bothersome in most other states at any time of year.

Rating: 8.5/10, B+
Price: $79.99

I'll definitely continue to use them! If the coil loosens up and the fit improves, I'll write an update, as well.

ABK

Running Mail

What is it with summer and stocking up on all the running gear?!

I swear, it's like when I finally have some time on my hands I realize how much I need want new sports bras, running shoes, and sundry accessories. Luckily I had an Amazon gift card to spend recently because it made my summer purchase a little less painful.

First, I needed sports bras. We're supposed to get new ones every six months and some of mine are literally years old. I'm small-chested, so when bras lose elasticity it's not a huge deal, but I recently had to toss a handful.

I wanted new bras that were cute (because I'm been practicing running without a shirt on - it builds confidence!) and flattering.

I like the lower-cut of the Under Armor Mid Sports Bra, and the colors were fun, so I got two. I also got a Champion Great Divide bra and love the neon green! The fit is very flattering, too.

Oofos recovery sandals have been on my "want" list for months but they're pricey; having a gift card made it easier to finally buy them. They are super ugly but really comfortable; I feel like a granny when I wear them. Comfort over fashion here, folks!

Next, I got myself a second FlipBelt. I seriously love mine for running - it's the first belt I've run in that I literally never have to think about once it's on - and decided to get one for work next year, because I'll be expected to have my cell phone on me at all times. I ordered if off Skirt Sports because I could use my discount, and got one of their new skirts while I was at it. (Don't forget you can use ABK20 for 20% off!)

The Cascade is one of their newer skirts and it is SO cute. I love the pleats!

I originally got my FlipBelt in black because I'd never used one before; now that I'm running without a shirt more often and the belt is visible, I thought getting a fun, vibrant color for my second was the way to go.

Finally, I saw a couple weeks ago that Road ID is now making IDs that slip onto the Apple Watch.  (They also make them for FitBit.) Honestly, we rarely wear our Road ID bracelets because we don't like wearing multiple things on our wrists when working out, and this way we'll always have it on us no matter what.

They both include our name, birth year, and emergency contact numbers. I also listed my allergy and medical information on mine, and still had space to write NO REGRETS across the bottom for motivation.

I told Matt it would be good for me to have at all times in case there's ever an emergency at school and they need to identify my unconscious body but he didn't find that funny.

The IDs come in nice metal boxes and fit perfectly on our watchbands. I paid extra to have Matt's done in black because I wanted him to actually agree to wear it; it blends in perfectly. Now I'll be a little less nervous when he's paddling in rough waters.

Of course, this isn't it. I've been buying, testing, and returning shoes for weeks now as I continue to look for my perfect new sole-mate.

Comparing the fit of my current shoes to the Brooks Ravenna.

But that's a post for a different time!

When's the last time you bought new sports bras?
What's your favorite running-related thing to buy?
What shoes do you wear when you're not wearing running shoes?

ABK

Linking up with Erika for TOTR today!

Announcement Time

After my first marathon, my mom asked me why I don't run in skirts. The marathon was the first big race she'd had a chance to spectate, and all the skirts caught her eye. It was funny that she asked, because during the race I'd noticed the skirts too and was thinking how much I'd appreciate all those pockets.

So, Mom bought me my first running skirt. It was the cougar (now called the lioness) from Skirt Sports and I was instantly in love. The pockets, the anti-slip shorties, the pleats...I just loved it all.

My first lioness skirt! (And a little Archie photobomb.)

Since then, I've collected a few other skirts from Skirt Sports. The jette skirt has fewer pockets but is perfect for shorter-than-marathon races, and I got a second lioness skirt, which I wore at BDR. I also picked up a couple pairs of shorts.

My other lioness skirt was very useful during BDR.

The allure for me is always pockets. I love that the redemption fitness shorts are spandex with side pockets. You never see that! I really hate how difficult it is to carry all my stuff during long runs and races, and pockets are key.

Two pockets on the side (large enough to fit my phone in its case) and one zip pocket in the back make these shorts my new favorites.

This is a really long way of saying that I'm a total fan of Skirt Sports, and now I get to be an Ambassador Captain for them, too! I don't often like to take on ambassadorships. Like I commented on Janelle's post about ambassadorships recently, the expectations can feel overwhelming and hard to live up to. Am I a good enough runner to earn this? Can I really promote this company in a genuine way, because I truly like them, without seeming like an empty shill?

Because I honestly love Skirt Sports's products and mission, I felt passionate about applying, and I'm really glad to have been accepted. I can't wait to join this community of supportive, active women. And I'm sure there will be some perks in it for you guys, too.

In fact, what better way is there to complete this announcement than by sharing my family/friends discount code? The code may change as their website undergoes an update this next week, but I'll share the new one if that happens. Use ABK20 for 20% off any merchandise on their website.

Have you ever accepted an ambassadorship?
Besides comfort, what do you look for in running gear?

ABK

Mail Time!

Please tell me I'm not the only one who still has flashbacks to Blue's Clues upon the arrival of the mail. Anyone? Bueller?

Wow, two 90s references in three sentences. I must be in a mood.

Anyway, I'm really excited. Two amazing things came in the mail this week. The first was a post-marathon gift from my mom, as if she hadn't already done enough by driving across the state to cheer me on at a sport that, for non-runners, can be pretty boring to spectate.

After seeing so many runners in skirts at the race, she told me she thought they were adorable and wondered why I didn't run in one. I told her I had one, but it didn't have enough pockets for a marathon, and I'd bookmarked one I really wanted to get when the time was right.

She went ahead and bought the skirt I've been coveting from SkirtSports. I instantly fell in love. The skirt boasts three roomy pockets (two on the undershorts and one zippered pocket on the waistband) that are all large enough and secure enough to fit my iPhone.

I'm in love with the pleats!

 The shorts have a wide rubber grippy along the hem that keeps them from riding up even an inch, and they're long enough to prevent any kind of chafing.

Showing off one of the pockets.

Of all my shorts/skirts with rubber grips along the legs, these work the best.

The skirt fits so nicely and goes well with every top I own. Somehow wearing cute clothes makes me feel awesome during my run; I couldn't stop smiling Sunday when I took it for a test run!

 I want like...a million more of this skirt. It will definitely be my go-to for long runs from now on.

The other piece of mail that made my week was, of course, also running related! My new race decals finally arrived!

 Matt applied the stickers and I did the honors of carefully pulling the backing off. They turned out just how I waned them to!

I've been having a little trouble motivating myself to get back into a set schedule for running. I'm sure my lethargy will pass once winter break starts. Two days, people! I know I can make it!

Oh, and it's the first night of Hanukkah! So happy Hanukkah to any of my fellow MoT out there. I can't wait to have some latkes this week; I just have to decide which kind I want to make!

Click here for recipes!

Do you ever wear running skirts?

What was the last piece of mail you got that made you smile?

ABK

Go Time

Sudafed might dry me out and exacerbate my dehydration, but at least I can breathe again!

Miles of paths, literally in my backyard...why have I not done this before?!

My legs definitely enjoyed all the time off, and a run through the golf course was a great change of pace. I loved the variety of terrain - paved paths, crushed shell, soft asphalt, grass - and the sprinklers. 

I was really excited to try my new Pro Compression socks, too. I usually run in Thorlos but they've been so hot lately. I was nervous to try these because, while I love the sleeves, I was worried the socks wouldn't be cushioned enough.

I'm literally going to order at least six more pairs like...this week. They're JUST cushiony enough where it counts, but my feet didn't hurt (and they've been really achy lately) and they felt snug and secure without feel hot at all.

And an added bonus? Colors!

It feels good to be back, and my eye is back on the prize. I'm feeling reignited. I'm ready to go!

ABK

Reebok ONE Cushion Review

A few weeks back, Reebok opened the #runwithone campaign promotion looking for brand ambassadors interested in trying out running shoes. 

The survey was brief, and just days later I received a confirmation email that my shoes were on their way!

I immediately did a little research on the shoe Reebok had chosen to send me. 

 

From their website: 

• Structured textile upper designed to support the foot over the center of the platform, plus spacer mesh for breathability
• Low-cut design for added mobility with technical upper construction for fluid, seamless motion transition through the shoe
• Three-foam midsole with ultra soft layer for shock attenuation, lightweight layer for foot guidance, and a responsive layer to help with propulsion forward
• Stable and flat lateral arch area for maximum ground contact for runners with a neutral gait
• Outsole release zone for pronation control and stride integrity, plus outsole progression groove for longitudinal flexibility
• High abrasion rubber heel with decoupled outsole durably isolates shock absorption at the heel strike

I'll be honest: before getting the shoes, I was a little skeptical. Of all the brands I've run in, Reebok has never been one of them. I was also nervous to learn that these were shoes for neutral runners, and I tend to over-pronate, especially as I get tired on longer runs.

My shoes arrived in a timely manner. Out of the box, I was pleased with the color and style. I tried them on with two different running socks, my Thorlos and my Pumas, and they were comfortable with both. I waited for a training day that called for a short run because - being the cautious runner I am - I didn't want to try a speed workout or long run in brand new shoes. 

I was pleasantly surprised with the ONE Cushions. They were soft in a way that made my feet feel comfortable on my run, but not so soft that I felt I was lacking support. They felt light and were extremely easy to run in. They weigh 9.9 oz (a touch heavier than my current shoes) and the fit was roomy at the toe and snug at the heel. In fact, there seemed to be extra padding there to avoid slippage, which was wonderful. I wear a size 7 shoe regularly, but in running shoes I wear an 8.5, and that's what I ordered - these fit just how I like them! 

Overall, I definitely think I'll add these to my regular rotation for short runs, but because of the flatter arch, I don't see them becoming a long distance shoe for me.

I received these shoes free of charge as a Reebok brand ambassador for the purpose of writing a review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own and I was not compensated for my review. An error in my order meant I received two of the same pairs, so I'll be sending one back for a different model, which will receive a separate review.

Have you ever run in Reeboks?

Do you get nervous to try new brands/models of running shoes?

ABK

A Review Times Two!

Today I bring you two reviews! First, let's talk hydration. A few weeks ago, I received an email from Ignite Naturals about trying their electrolyte powders. This is the first time I've ever received a free sample of a product to try and review.

(Is this where I say that I'm not being paid for this review, and my opinions are my own.)

From the Ignite Naturals website.

The sample came in a convenient little box filled with multiple packets of the Dragonfruit Lemon Lime, Tangerine Passion Fruit, and Blueberry flavors. I'm interested to see that they have an unsweet flavor to offer as well.

Things I love:

• The powder allows you to make your drink as diluted or strong as you want.
• The mix is all-natural, GMO free, completely plant-based, and gluten free.
• There are no stimulants, artificial sweeteners, or processed sugars.
• I've used it post-workout a few times in the past week and feel more hydrated and less sore afterward, so I think it works!

Now, there is one drawback here, but it's probably due to the facts that 1) I'm a sugar fiend, and 2) I don't usually drink electrolyte beverages anyway. No matter how I mixed the flavors, they just didn't pack the same sweet punch as other "sports drinks" I've had.

Also, I've noticed it's pretty good at getting my digestion moving, so I like to drink it after a run, not during.

But if you don't like a super-sweet drink on the run and want an electrolyte drink that doesn't list a million artificial ingredients on its label, I highly recommend it. The Tangerine is my favorite flavor, hands down.

My second review today is for something I've been wanting ever since Ragnar. If you recall, there were free sports massages offered at exchange 13, and I was all about that. Well, my masseur used The Stick on my calves, and I was sold.

After my last half, I asked (awkwardly) for the masseur to use the Stick on me, and again this tool moved up my "want" list to my "must have" list.

My MIL unknowingly purchased this for me when she got me a gift card to Fit2Run for my birthday. (The card was meant for sunglasses, but since Meg got me a pair, I chose to go another route.)

 This little beauty is magical. I chose to get the smallest size, but it comes in three lengths. The longer the Stick the more versatile, but since I'll mostly be using this on my calves and quads, the shortest length works just fine.

As you can see, the Stick is designed with special plastic links (for lack of a better term) that move and adjust under pressure, so you always get a really great massage on just the points where you need it most.

Archie was VERY interested.

 There's no need to press hard, and the instructions advise that you "don't have to hurt the muscle to help the muscle." An easy roll along the leg is enough to loosen things up for immediate relief.

Serious business.

The Stick is a nice complement to my foam roller. It makes it easier to focus on a single point; not to mention that rolling this way is faster and takes less balancing! This is for sure my new most favorite thing ever.

What are your thoughts on electrolyte drinks?
Do you use a stick roller?

ABK