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January/February 2011
For the Washington Running Report
Sometimes during the winter months when we dread leaving the warmth of our home to run outside with brutal winds whipping at our faces and wet snow and slush, we all need a little nudge, whether it's a new top, snappy hat, or a motivating read. Below are a few products that have crossed our desk. We always encourage our readers to make a trip to their local specialty running store where helpful sales staff can direct you to a wide range of winter running gear. For a complete list of stores in DC, MD, and VA go to www.runwashington.com and click on Resources tab.
Craft PXC Thermal Top
The new Craft PXC Thermal top is a true multi-sport performance piece that embodies attention to details, maximum moisture transportation, unparalleled aerodynamics, and an ergonomic 3D fit. Made with a slightly brushed, soft, and very stretchy fabric to give full freedom of movement. The thermal yarn on the inside is made of Craft's Zero layer to help regulate temperature in cold conditions. Other features include a two-way front zipper for ventilation, two back mesh pockets, and an extended back hem with silicon gripper. Perfect for cold-weather running! -Kathy Freedman.
Cost: $89.99. Available in XS-XXL for both men and women
For information: www.craftsports.us
Hurraw Lip Balm
All natural, vegan, made from premium raw, organic, and fair trade ingredients. Offered in many natural and fun flavor options. The balms are super smooth, not draggy, not sticky, not sweet, not too glossy, not too smelly, never grainy, long lasting; plus, it holds up to being in a pocket all day without melting. Each tube is hand mixed and individually poured. A great product to be used by everyone regardless of lifestyle or eating habits. -Kathy Freedman.
Cost: $3.79. For information: www.hurrawbalm.com
Mastering the Marathon: Time-Efficient Training Secrets for the 40-plus Athlete
By Don Fink
This is an ideal resource for runners past 40 years of age who seek to improve their race times while reducing the risk of injury. The author offers sensible advice and sample plans to prepare for a marathon; most manuals offer marathon training methods that work well for younger athletes only. He also provides a general overview of the sport of running, making this book a valuable guide for any age group.-Drew Woodrich, WRR Express eNewsletter.
Cost: $15.95. Lyons Press, 2010.
After the Last PR: Virtues of Living a Runner's Life
By Dave Griffin
The author's name may be familiar to longtime Washington Running Report readers. Griffin wrote a column, "On Running" and is the coach of the Westminster, MD-based Flying Feet Running Programs and running columnist for the Carroll County Times. His PRs include 32:11 (10K), 1:12:24 (half marathon), and 25:42 (5 miles) and in case you are wondering, he set his last PR in 1989. This self-published book is a collection of writings that explore valuable life lessons he has learned via running in chapters, such as "Diligence - Constant and Earnest Effort" and "Patience - Ability to Endure Delay."-Brenda Barrera.
Cost $12.95. Amazon.com (Flying Feet Running Programs, 2010).
Long May You Run
By Chris Cooper
This goes beyond the basics of running, training, and racing. It is a collection of essays, stories, statistics, humor, resolutions, achievable goals, and advice on nearly 200 separate topics. Cooper, a Penn State graduate and competitive runner, wanted to write a book that, "keeps me coming back to it whenever I needed the inspiration of a swift kick in the butt." Contributors include Jeff Galloway, Pete Pfitzinger, Pam Reed, Brian Sell, Kathrine Switzer, and Bart Yasso to name a few. -press release.
Cost $24. Touchstone/Simon & Schuster, 2010
Specialty Running Stores - Experts Give Product Tips/Advice
From Facebook
Fleet Feet-DC - Did you know that the foam mid-soles in your running shoes that absorb the shock get harder when it is freezing cold outside and can lose 1/3 of their shock absorbing ability when it is below 20F? The ground gets harder too. Be sure you are not running on old shoes in these conditions.
Metro Run & Walk - Do not fear running outside in ice and snow. IceTrekkers diamond grips provide excellent traction for any winter condition.
New Balance Tysons Corner - The "New" MR870BS lightweight stability trainer is now available at your New Balance Tyson's Corner Store. Those of you who loved the 826 will most likely love this more.
Potomac River Running - Mizuno 'Breathe Thermo' apparel, a unique technical fabric that heats up when wet, from sweat or rain. Great option for the upcoming winter months.
The Runner's Corner - Sugoi SubZero Tights. Wind/water resistant. Warmest thermal tight boosted with extreme water resistance to maintain dry environment. And water resistance keeps you warm and reduces overheating by allowing perspiration to escape. Reflective Sugoi logos on both legs for increased visibility in low light conditions.
Running, Etc. - Cold weather . . . The trick to staying warm when the temperature drops, is staying dry. Try moisture wicking polyester fabrics this winter.