Hoka One One Rincon
SPECS:
5mm offset 6.3 ounces for a Women’s 8 Mid-level neutral cushion shoe Single-layer durable mesh upper Early-stage meta rocker system for a quick acceleration $115 This was a highly anticipated new Hoka shoe that came out in Summer 2019. I am a huge fan of the Clifton, and Clayton which has morphed into the Mach (which I am not really a fan of). When I was told this was the love child of the Clifton and Clayton, I knew I needed to try it. I was so surprised with how cushiony it felt for such a lightweight shoe! With all Hoka shoes, they have a low heel to toe offset of around 6mm or less, and a high stack height packed with a ton of cushion. Customers that come into the store that aren’t Hoka fans and have tried this and have been pleasantly shocked by it. I was torn between this shoe and the Clifton for Chicago Marathon and ended up with the Clifton because the majority of my training was done in the Clifton and I am happy now that I can save it for when I can get back into training. The mesh upper is super thin but super durable, very breathable, and not restricting at all. Hoka is known for its rocker system, which I compare to a rocking chair, it pushes your gait forward, makes you land more forefoot, and gives you the extra push forward. The Rincon is on the cheaper end of Hoka at $115, and I am shocked by the amount of cushion it provides, if you haven’t tried Hoka before, I suggest to try this shoe!! |
Hoka Clifton 1 vs. Clifton 5
The Hoka One One Clifton is one my favorite training shoes. After suffering from many stress fractures and overuse injuries I was hesitant to try out a lower drop shoe (5mm). With the combination of Berry Superfeet for my high arches, I found my go to duo for marathon training! When you first look at Hokas you will see a very high stack height and a rocking chair support system called Meta Rocker, which helps guide your feet after fatigue has set in and keeps your form in check. Hoka is known for their lightweight and plush marshmallow cushion that is good for long runs to races. Now on their 5th edition, Hoka decided to bring back the OG Clifton. The Clifton 1 has the original vibrant colors and as well as a soft EVA midsole and light breathable upper. This edition of Clifton 1 is an ounce lighter than the Clifton 5. After loving the Clifton 4 (going through 3 pairs), I was happy to try out the new updated Clifton 5 a little bit more plush cushion and toe box accommodates to any foot narrow or wide. I never tried out the Clifton 1 before and was happy when they released it for a second go around. In the Clifton 1, the upper is definitely different and lighter then the Clifton 5 and the tongue isn’t as plush which can sometimes cause irritation if you aren’t wearing socks that are high enough. The lighter material is definitely very breathable and a great shoe for workouts and races. Since there is less shoe, the cushion of Clifton 1 isn’t as much as the Clifton 5. Overall, for long runs I will be sticking to the Clifton 5 and for shorter runs and workouts the Clifton 1 will be a good alternative for a lighter, faster shoe.
The Brooks Glycerin 15
The new and improved Brooks Glycerin 15 offers a new plush transition zone and is an even lighter weight than the previous model.
Shoe Specs:
As a fan of a softer cushioned shoe, the Brooks Glycerin felt amazing on my feet! It's great for longer runs and for easy days after a hard workout. I was afraid that with this amount of cushioning, it would feel like a lot of shoe but it doesn't feel heavy at all. This high cushioned shoe makes my legs feeling fresh after running in them. Even though they are lightweight, the Glycerins are durable for all of those miles ahead.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/shoe-review-brooks-glycerin-15
Shoe Specs:
- Weight: 10.6 oz (Men's) | 9.2 oz (Women's)
- Drop: 10mm
- High cushioning
- Neutral
As a fan of a softer cushioned shoe, the Brooks Glycerin felt amazing on my feet! It's great for longer runs and for easy days after a hard workout. I was afraid that with this amount of cushioning, it would feel like a lot of shoe but it doesn't feel heavy at all. This high cushioned shoe makes my legs feeling fresh after running in them. Even though they are lightweight, the Glycerins are durable for all of those miles ahead.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/shoe-review-brooks-glycerin-15
The Hoka One One Clifton 4
Hoka One One are known for their high cushioned, lightweight running shoes. Many people are drawn to Hokas because of their maximalist cushion look - what type of person would wear this shoe?! Hoka shoes have become increasingly popular over the past years because their versatility in training and racing. With long time and injury prone runners, Hoka's high cushioning helps to protect joints, bones and muscles while avoiding injuries and the common aches and pains of running.
Shoe Specs:
I was hesitant to run in the Clifton 4 at first but never judge a book by its cover! The shoe fit my foot perfectly, with the new open engineered mesh allows for breathability and support. I love the amount of cushion that the Clifton 4 has since I have been prone to stress fractures and injuries in the past. After doing a 12 mile long run in them, I fell in love! My legs felt like I could run even further. I didn’t feel like I had that much shoe on my foot because of how light weight it is. The Hoka Clifton 4s have everlasting comfort for long runs but are light enough for those quick runs and races.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/shoe-review-hoka-one-one-clifton-4
Shoe Specs:
- Weight: 9.3oz (Men's) | 7.6oz (Women's)
- Drop: 5mm
- High Level Cushioning
- Neutral
I was hesitant to run in the Clifton 4 at first but never judge a book by its cover! The shoe fit my foot perfectly, with the new open engineered mesh allows for breathability and support. I love the amount of cushion that the Clifton 4 has since I have been prone to stress fractures and injuries in the past. After doing a 12 mile long run in them, I fell in love! My legs felt like I could run even further. I didn’t feel like I had that much shoe on my foot because of how light weight it is. The Hoka Clifton 4s have everlasting comfort for long runs but are light enough for those quick runs and races.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/shoe-review-hoka-one-one-clifton-4
A Quick Guide to Oiselle Apparel
By Kristen O.
Oiselle is a running apparel company made by women for women (sorry guys). The company was founded by Sally Bergesen in 2007 after her search to find a pair of shorts that fit well and didn’t chafe.
10 years after Sally's initial search, the brand is still going strong. Oiselle offers versatile pieces that are perfect for going out with the girls or wearing for a run. Philadelphia Runner shops carry Oiselle apparel, including some of my favorite pieces. Here's a quick rundown on their materials:
LUX: One of Oiselle's softest materials made with polyester, which wicks away moisture and also contains spandex, allowing for some give during those hard winter runs. Lux material is used in pants, tops, scarves, and headbands.
ROGA: Oiselle's signature short is a stretch woven fabric that is three times as stretchable than other fabrics on the market. It also comes in an embossed material which contains more polyester and is even softer! The roga fabric is mostly found in their shorts but they also use it in skirts, dresses and hats from time to time.
The Oiselle Roga shorts are my favorite running shorts, especially the Toolbelt Roga shorts with mesh pockets big enough to fit my iPhone.
The Oiselle Roga shorts come in several lengths, from left to right: Mac Roga, Roga, Long Roga
ARQUE: A seamless material that is chafe-free, anti- odor and super wicking fabric that fits perfectly on any runner’s body. The arque material is found in their signature Flyte long sleeve and Flyte tank top. The Flyte LS is warm enough to wear on those 40 degree degrees but also works for days that creep up into 60s.
FLYOUT: A new, innovative fabric in collaboration with Polartec is made of mostly polyester, and tencel is designed for a variety of climates. Flyout material is a lightweight, adaptive, not clingy or restrictive fabric that moves with you and keeps you running. Flyout comes in short sleeves, long sleeves, shorts, base layers, and also tights!
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/oiselle
Oiselle is a running apparel company made by women for women (sorry guys). The company was founded by Sally Bergesen in 2007 after her search to find a pair of shorts that fit well and didn’t chafe.
10 years after Sally's initial search, the brand is still going strong. Oiselle offers versatile pieces that are perfect for going out with the girls or wearing for a run. Philadelphia Runner shops carry Oiselle apparel, including some of my favorite pieces. Here's a quick rundown on their materials:
LUX: One of Oiselle's softest materials made with polyester, which wicks away moisture and also contains spandex, allowing for some give during those hard winter runs. Lux material is used in pants, tops, scarves, and headbands.
ROGA: Oiselle's signature short is a stretch woven fabric that is three times as stretchable than other fabrics on the market. It also comes in an embossed material which contains more polyester and is even softer! The roga fabric is mostly found in their shorts but they also use it in skirts, dresses and hats from time to time.
The Oiselle Roga shorts are my favorite running shorts, especially the Toolbelt Roga shorts with mesh pockets big enough to fit my iPhone.
The Oiselle Roga shorts come in several lengths, from left to right: Mac Roga, Roga, Long Roga
ARQUE: A seamless material that is chafe-free, anti- odor and super wicking fabric that fits perfectly on any runner’s body. The arque material is found in their signature Flyte long sleeve and Flyte tank top. The Flyte LS is warm enough to wear on those 40 degree degrees but also works for days that creep up into 60s.
FLYOUT: A new, innovative fabric in collaboration with Polartec is made of mostly polyester, and tencel is designed for a variety of climates. Flyout material is a lightweight, adaptive, not clingy or restrictive fabric that moves with you and keeps you running. Flyout comes in short sleeves, long sleeves, shorts, base layers, and also tights!
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/oiselle
Wearsafe
By Kristen O.
Wearsafe is a newer product to hit the shelves at Philadelphia Runner. I bought one and haven’t had to use it yet for anything - which is good! It is very small, discreet, and easy to put on my key chain, shirt, or shorts. The hardest part about setting it up was unscrewing the back to put the battery in! I just downloaded the app and put in my friends and family as my emergency contacts. Hooked it onto my keys and carry it wherever I go. Here's a quick rundown on what Wearsafe is and why you might want to pick one up!
WHAT? Wearsafe, also known as “Tag” is a key fob that works via bluetooth as a personal safety device. It sends your friends and family your location, live audio and creates a chat to coordinate a plan to help you out.
Photo via Wearsafe
WHERE? Wearsafe can be discreetly placed on your keys, shorts, shirt, bag, anywhere! Comes with a keychain and clip to put on your clothing.
WHY? For personal protection during running. 77% of runner’s train alone. 33% of women have been harassed while running alone. Safety has no cost!
WHO? Anyone, any runner! Male, female, teens, people with medical conditions - whether you’re running, walking or doing any type of activity.
HOW? Via bluetooth within 200 feet range of your smartphone. Which means you will have to have your phone with you. It is one simple press of a button- it notifies your trusted network that is set up in the Wearsafe app. It is easier to press than to fumble with your phone.
Photo via Wearsafe
The Wearsafe retails for $30 with 6 months of free service, then $5/month after the trial! The app is free to download for you and your network.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/product-review-wearsafe
Wearsafe is a newer product to hit the shelves at Philadelphia Runner. I bought one and haven’t had to use it yet for anything - which is good! It is very small, discreet, and easy to put on my key chain, shirt, or shorts. The hardest part about setting it up was unscrewing the back to put the battery in! I just downloaded the app and put in my friends and family as my emergency contacts. Hooked it onto my keys and carry it wherever I go. Here's a quick rundown on what Wearsafe is and why you might want to pick one up!
WHAT? Wearsafe, also known as “Tag” is a key fob that works via bluetooth as a personal safety device. It sends your friends and family your location, live audio and creates a chat to coordinate a plan to help you out.
Photo via Wearsafe
WHERE? Wearsafe can be discreetly placed on your keys, shorts, shirt, bag, anywhere! Comes with a keychain and clip to put on your clothing.
WHY? For personal protection during running. 77% of runner’s train alone. 33% of women have been harassed while running alone. Safety has no cost!
WHO? Anyone, any runner! Male, female, teens, people with medical conditions - whether you’re running, walking or doing any type of activity.
HOW? Via bluetooth within 200 feet range of your smartphone. Which means you will have to have your phone with you. It is one simple press of a button- it notifies your trusted network that is set up in the Wearsafe app. It is easier to press than to fumble with your phone.
Photo via Wearsafe
The Wearsafe retails for $30 with 6 months of free service, then $5/month after the trial! The app is free to download for you and your network.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/product-review-wearsafe
Show Some Leg: How to Buy Women's Running Shorts
By Kristen O'Connell & Takia McClendon
Are you in the market for new running shorts? With so many options on the market, sometimes it's hard to pick the running short style that will be a great fit for your workout, body type, etc. Do you like short loose-fitting shorts or long tight fitting shorts? Do you like black shorts or bright shorts with patterns?
Use this guide as a resource to find out which styles/types may be best for you.
YOUR GUIDE TO WOMEN'S RUNNING SHORTSWhen choosing a short, here are the five things you want to consider:
What type of short do you want?: The most popular styles are compression (tight fitting shorts), split shorts (very short performance styles that offers a great range of motion), and v-notch shorts (the most popular style).
How long do you like your shorts?: Running short inseams are typically between 3 inches and 7 inches (although there are shorter and longer ones available). If you don't want to show a lot of skin or want to prevent your legs from possibly rubbing together, consider a longer compression short. If you're looking for short and "flowy", try 3" v-notch or split shorts.
How many (if any) pockets do you need? Will you be carrying your phone, keys, and/or ID? If so, you'll definitely need to think about storage. A lot of short options will have pockets built in the waist band or side panels. Some shorts even have zipper pockets to keep your items secure.
What are your shorts made of?: The best running shorts are made with synthetic materials that wick away moisture and keep you dry. Although the price tag on cotton shorts may seem more appealing, don't forget that cotton absorbs moisture and can lead to uncomfortable rubbing and chafing.
Do you want a liner? (And should you wear underwear?): A lot of running shorts will have a brief or compression liner built in. They're designed to help prevent infection and keep you dry. If you're wondering if you should wear underwear with them, the answer is typically no. Remember, you want to keep your bottoms dry so there's no need to add extra layers when there's a built-in brief.
Brooks 5" Chaser Short
READY TO APPLY WHAT YOU LEARNED?Stop by one of our shops and try on some of our popular short styles. If none of the shorts below stand out to you, you can try many other options in-store.
Oiselle Roga Shorts $48: made with a stretchable polyester and spandex fabric blend. Thick yoga waistband with drawstring, rear pocket, build in liner with key pocket. Comes in many different lengths and styles:
- Summer Roga $52: A nylon based fabric with mesh panels for a soft, lightweight summer running short.
- Long Roga $52: Not a fan of 4” inseam? Rogas come in a 6’’ inseam with an extra front pocket big enough to fit your smart phone!
Nike Flex Rival Short
Nike Rival Flex Short $45: Made with Nike’s famous Dri-Fit technology, these shorts have a breathable flex material with a recycled polyester brief for long-lasting comfort. It also has three pockets: two external pockets and one zippered pocket. Not sure about the length you prefer? These shorts comes with in two lengths : 3” and 5” and a 2-in-1 with a spandex liner.
Brooks 5” Chaser Shorts $48: these seamless has a knit power waist with two pockets, one that is sweat resistant and can fit a iPhone 6. The side petal slit is flexible and allows for a full range of motion, and long run lasting comfort with a built in brief liner.
https://philadelphiarunner.com/blog/womens-running-shorts
Saucony Guide ISO
Shoe Specs:
-Stability
-Plush cushion
-Weight 9.1 oz (womens) 10.3 oz (mens)
-8 mm offset
The new and improved Saucony Guide ISO is the new version of the Guide 10. With its new upper, ISOFIT, it allows for a more personalized fit since the shoelaces aren’t tied into the shoe, it morphs to your foot! Saucony uses a very plush cushion called Everrun which is a more responsive and durable material that allows for a quicker take off during your run. On the bottom of the shoe, the Triflex material increases dispersion of force giving a lot of traction and flexibility.
The Saucony Guide ISO is a mid level stability shoe, good for someone who overpronates but doesn’t want too much support. The Everrun cushion is everlasting after using them for miles, and the ISOFIT hugs my foot just right, so there is just enough support on top of the shoe. The PWRFOAM medial support in the Guide allows for a easy transition during your gait. Overall, I love the Guide for those post workout days when my feet just a little extra support and cushion.
-Stability
-Plush cushion
-Weight 9.1 oz (womens) 10.3 oz (mens)
-8 mm offset
The new and improved Saucony Guide ISO is the new version of the Guide 10. With its new upper, ISOFIT, it allows for a more personalized fit since the shoelaces aren’t tied into the shoe, it morphs to your foot! Saucony uses a very plush cushion called Everrun which is a more responsive and durable material that allows for a quicker take off during your run. On the bottom of the shoe, the Triflex material increases dispersion of force giving a lot of traction and flexibility.
The Saucony Guide ISO is a mid level stability shoe, good for someone who overpronates but doesn’t want too much support. The Everrun cushion is everlasting after using them for miles, and the ISOFIT hugs my foot just right, so there is just enough support on top of the shoe. The PWRFOAM medial support in the Guide allows for a easy transition during your gait. Overall, I love the Guide for those post workout days when my feet just a little extra support and cushion.