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A Blog about running and life in general in USA.....
Showing posts with label #salmingUSA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #salmingUSA. Show all posts
Thursday, January 18, 2018
Friday, November 3, 2017
Salming Distance 5 Review
Salming Distance has been with Salming since the very first start and was awarded best debut by Runners World when it first was released. So what has happened over the years with Distance? Distance became immediately my favorite Salming shoe. The fact that Distance worked really for my faster day, longer days and for race day, got me hooked. Salming original was streamlined had a three layer upper that wrapped you foot perfect. Over the two next editions, Salming tweaked a bit with the uppers and lost some of streamlined feel. Version 2 felt a bit too wide and 3 a bit too long for me. Then out of the blue, a few months after D3 was released, Salming released the all black D4! The original feel was back, this time with a two layer upper and with a more responsive Runlite midsole. Now D5 has been out for a while and the original feel is still very much there. Introducing Todd Baranoski (instagram Todd_ultrarunner) who will also give his opnion on D5!
Salming Facts:
Todd's opinion:
Being primarily a trail runner my first shoes with Salming were their Trail shoes which I love and carried me across thousands of training and race miles. Since I kinda came into their shoes from different direction than most people I wanted the same awesome fit and feel to match for a daily road trainer. That being said I’m a huge believer in matching trail shoes to the road shoes. You don’t want to have to change your cadence or style to get the same speed out of your shoes. That is also how I recommend shoes to people that ask me, as a set to use together. The D series especially the D5’s are that shoe to me. With the D5’s I get a seamless transition from D5’s for fast road training and the T3’s for fast trail running. Yet the I still use them for the odd road race I do. I can’t wait to see what upgrades Salming come up with the D series to help get even faster.
Where do Salming go from here?
Salming Distance is the back bone, the soul of Salming Running line up. The shoe has been with Salming since the beginning, without any major changes and it breathes the feeling Salming slogans are saying, #nononsense and #naturalrunning. Maybe Salming should give the Distance a major facelift like they did with Speed5/6? I could actually see Race and Distance as one shoe, to get a more of a marathon racer. Salming can do this without loosing the feeling of Distance and Race, and at the same time cover the gap in the line up for a true marathon racer........
- Weight: 8oz
- Drop: 5 mm
- Color: Gecko Green
- Gender: Men
- Stack: 21,5 mm center of heel 16,5 mm ball of foot
- Midsole: Runlite™
- Outsole: Lite rubber
- Torsion: Torsion Efficiency Unit™
- Lining: Mesh
The improved RunLite™ midsole compound offer great responsiveness. A
two-layer sandwich upper construction deliver a very comfortable feel
while keeping your foot stable through the exo skeleton feature. Let
your feet experience the light, natural feeling – even on long
distances!
RunningSwede says:
As mentioned above, D5 has the same feel as D4 and the original feel of the original Distance. Upper is streamlined with a simple structured mesh and the Exo Skeleton to keep foot in place. What I like is the simplicity of this upper. Its just enough and at the same time very functional. I always get the feeling that this is a racing flat, which is true, but it can be used for so much more. If you could only
have one shoe, this would be it. Its enough for long days, tempo/work out days and race day. The new lighter and more responsive Runlite works really well for all this categories of running and it is very responsive. A torsion unit in the mid foot helps you with some stability and heel/toe transition. I have used Distance for marathons and recently I used D5 for the last 10 miles of a trail 50K race. D5 would be light enough for a fast 5K but also give you enough protection for a marathon without slow you down. I often get the question what shoe can you compare Salming to. D5 would be comparable with Adidas Adios/Boston, Nike Elite and New Balance 1400.
RunningSwede says:
As mentioned above, D5 has the same feel as D4 and the original feel of the original Distance. Upper is streamlined with a simple structured mesh and the Exo Skeleton to keep foot in place. What I like is the simplicity of this upper. Its just enough and at the same time very functional. I always get the feeling that this is a racing flat, which is true, but it can be used for so much more. If you could only
Todd's opinion:
Being primarily a trail runner my first shoes with Salming were their Trail shoes which I love and carried me across thousands of training and race miles. Since I kinda came into their shoes from different direction than most people I wanted the same awesome fit and feel to match for a daily road trainer. That being said I’m a huge believer in matching trail shoes to the road shoes. You don’t want to have to change your cadence or style to get the same speed out of your shoes. That is also how I recommend shoes to people that ask me, as a set to use together. The D series especially the D5’s are that shoe to me. With the D5’s I get a seamless transition from D5’s for fast road training and the T3’s for fast trail running. Yet the I still use them for the odd road race I do. I can’t wait to see what upgrades Salming come up with the D series to help get even faster.
Where do Salming go from here?
Salming Distance is the back bone, the soul of Salming Running line up. The shoe has been with Salming since the beginning, without any major changes and it breathes the feeling Salming slogans are saying, #nononsense and #naturalrunning. Maybe Salming should give the Distance a major facelift like they did with Speed5/6? I could actually see Race and Distance as one shoe, to get a more of a marathon racer. Salming can do this without loosing the feeling of Distance and Race, and at the same time cover the gap in the line up for a true marathon racer........
Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Salming Running USA as part of their brand ambassador program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Salming Distance 4 Review
Salming Distance 3 was recently released and I have not had a chance to review that edition yet. Rumors started that Salming D4 limited edition was going to be released during the summer. Sure enough pictures started to leak out of an "all black" shoe called D4. D4 was first released in Europe and a couple of weeks later in USA. A little bit of a strange release as D3 was recently released and Im not quite sure why. One thing I know, Im glad they did. Its such an great update.
Salming Speed, Distance and Race have been around for three years now, with only few tweaks as updates for each edition and year. Salming D4 Limited Edt is the biggest update so far on the Salming Running original shoes, not Miles or the trail shoes included.
In this update you will find all the technologies from the earlier editions: Runlite (update, lighter and more responsive) Exo Skeleton, Torsion Efficiency Unit, TGS 62/75
Upper
D4 has a 2 layer construction instead of 3 as the earlier editions of Distance had and is to the most part seamless. The upper feels a lot lighter and hugs the foot in a less compressed way. As mentioned above the foot is secured by a 2 layer construction and the Exo Skeleton helps to secure the foot from moving to the sides. It has been a very hot and humid summer here in NJ, and the D4 has been handling it very well, the mesh feels light and breathable In some case the overlays on running shoes can interfere with the shoes mesh and the breath-ability. The D4 has minimal and strategical overlays that does not interfere.
Im allergic to brands who does not pay attention to the laces. Salming does a great job with the laces and D4 ones has stayed tied. They are on the thinner side and can cut in on top of your feet if you laces them to hard.
Color, D4 limited edition comes in an "all black color with some red details, kind of a stealth look. Its either you hate it or love it. I love the black color but Im aware that black might not work for everyone, its personal preference.
Midsole/Outsole
The biggest change when it comes to the midsole is the new Runlite midsole material and the new outsole material TOC66 (Traction Outsole Control 66). Its now lighter, has a more responsive feel to it and are more flexible. I hate to use the sentence "the shoe feels faster" but that's just the way the new Runlite midsole material and the shoe makes you feel. With the responsiveness and flexibility you get a less restricted toe off and a smoother flow.
The rest of the midsole/outsole stays the same, you find the same Torsion Efficiency Unit as older version of Distance and the same outsole traction pattern. Ive now 90 miles on my D4 and so far no wear and tear on the outsole.
Sum Up
Its a weird release for sure but Im very excited. D4 brings more joy to my run. Its a great update that makes sense. Salming has done small tweaks over the years on the Distance, but D4 is the first one were you can really tell the difference. You will still find the same original idea behind the original Distance, but D4 has now received a well needed face lift,
Distance 4 is now a great contender to other brands marathon racing shoes, like Adidas Adios Boost and New Balance RC 1400. D4 feels lighter, more responsive and it feels like the shoe comes more to life, compare to older versions of Distance. D4 is like a Distance with a Turbo Charger!
Ive used D4 to all kind of runs and D4 can handle them all. I wouldn't hesitate at all to take D4 the full 26.2, or just use it as my daily trainer. You can throw anything on D4 and it can handle it all.
Now since D4 is closer to a marathon racer, I'm curious what will happen to my old Salming marathon/tempo shoe, Salming Speed!
http://shopsalmingusa.com/products/salming-distance-d4-men-black-red
Disclosure
of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Salming Running
North America as part of their Salming brand ambassador program.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have
expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the
Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use
of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Salming Speed, Distance and Race have been around for three years now, with only few tweaks as updates for each edition and year. Salming D4 Limited Edt is the biggest update so far on the Salming Running original shoes, not Miles or the trail shoes included.
In this update you will find all the technologies from the earlier editions: Runlite (update, lighter and more responsive) Exo Skeleton, Torsion Efficiency Unit, TGS 62/75
Upper
D4 has a 2 layer construction instead of 3 as the earlier editions of Distance had and is to the most part seamless. The upper feels a lot lighter and hugs the foot in a less compressed way. As mentioned above the foot is secured by a 2 layer construction and the Exo Skeleton helps to secure the foot from moving to the sides. It has been a very hot and humid summer here in NJ, and the D4 has been handling it very well, the mesh feels light and breathable In some case the overlays on running shoes can interfere with the shoes mesh and the breath-ability. The D4 has minimal and strategical overlays that does not interfere.
Im allergic to brands who does not pay attention to the laces. Salming does a great job with the laces and D4 ones has stayed tied. They are on the thinner side and can cut in on top of your feet if you laces them to hard.
Color, D4 limited edition comes in an "all black color with some red details, kind of a stealth look. Its either you hate it or love it. I love the black color but Im aware that black might not work for everyone, its personal preference.
Midsole/Outsole
The biggest change when it comes to the midsole is the new Runlite midsole material and the new outsole material TOC66 (Traction Outsole Control 66). Its now lighter, has a more responsive feel to it and are more flexible. I hate to use the sentence "the shoe feels faster" but that's just the way the new Runlite midsole material and the shoe makes you feel. With the responsiveness and flexibility you get a less restricted toe off and a smoother flow.
The rest of the midsole/outsole stays the same, you find the same Torsion Efficiency Unit as older version of Distance and the same outsole traction pattern. Ive now 90 miles on my D4 and so far no wear and tear on the outsole.
Sum Up
Its a weird release for sure but Im very excited. D4 brings more joy to my run. Its a great update that makes sense. Salming has done small tweaks over the years on the Distance, but D4 is the first one were you can really tell the difference. You will still find the same original idea behind the original Distance, but D4 has now received a well needed face lift,
Distance 4 is now a great contender to other brands marathon racing shoes, like Adidas Adios Boost and New Balance RC 1400. D4 feels lighter, more responsive and it feels like the shoe comes more to life, compare to older versions of Distance. D4 is like a Distance with a Turbo Charger!
Ive used D4 to all kind of runs and D4 can handle them all. I wouldn't hesitate at all to take D4 the full 26.2, or just use it as my daily trainer. You can throw anything on D4 and it can handle it all.
Now since D4 is closer to a marathon racer, I'm curious what will happen to my old Salming marathon/tempo shoe, Salming Speed!
http://shopsalmingusa.com/products/salming-distance-d4-men-black-red
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Boston Marathon Weekend Recap
As usual it feels unreal when Boston Marathon finally is there. Starting in December with your training and fighting long runs in bitter cold temps and winds. The cold weather was a never ending story this year and it also became the signature of the 2015 edition of Boston Marathon. In other words I was prepared!
This year me and my family was traveling up to Boston, Saturday morning. I was going to help out at the Salming Running booth at the expo. Car ride went smooth beside a small detour in Boston as our friend Waze GPS app did not have clue about Boston exits! (app is now deleted).
I had no desire really to walk the expo this year, went straight to meet the Salming Running staff. The Salming booth was located in a narrow aisle across from Boston Olympics booth and not far from Samuel Adams, this means a lot of traffic of visitors. For the first time and finally I got the opportunity to meet the Salming crew Tor, Anders and Tom. All very passionate about running and knowledgeable, I felt like I was "home", also got the opportunity speak Swedish with Anders. Anders and I are from the same region in Sweden. I always enjoy the expo part, connecting with runners and friends like Seth Hasty (finally got to show him Salming shoes), I was happy to be with a Swedish brand this time.
Sunday, is about rest and get prepared. We did some easy walking downtown and had lunch. We always do the traditional family dinner at the Cosgrove's in Framingham. Dinner was spot on for my taste. Pasta, sweet potatoes, some beets and grilled tofu. Again I had the same planning as two years ago, I was going to stay closer to the start and stay with Ted and Maria. Their hospitality is gold worth and I get an extra hour of sleep as the drive is only 10 minutes to the start.
Race morning. Alarm was set to 6:15am. First a quick shower, followed by a oatmeal and bagel breakfast. Close to 7am Ted and Maria drove me to Hopkinton. I have seen "Athletes Village" and the mess and long lines to the Porta Johns, so I decided to stay close to the start and have pretty much direct access to 200 porta johns. As I get nervous close to start I need that option. I was lucky to get a spot under a roof, as it started to rain light and the winds had started to pick up. I was chatting to a nice guy from Toronto/Ontario. Boston is always great in that way, making new friends and connections. Around 9:20am I started to walk up to the start, rain had stopped at this point. All preparations were done, I had my Salming Speeds and Singlet on and I had my beet shot. Race mood was on!
Forecast for the race had predicted light rain and east winds up to 20mph!
Race. The last 30 min before start always goes quick. You listen to the presentations of the Elite fields and the national anthem. I kept a poncho on until last second, to stay warm. 10 o'clock the start gun went of. It took approximately 2:40 for me to get to the start line and to get the my official start time.
With Coach Caleb Masland we have worked on a 6:45 pace and also a plan for the race:
I felt comfortable between mile 2-8. Around mile 8 the rain started again, this time hard. You got soak wet within seconds and your body got cold. I tried to move on but I had to put in more effort then I wanted to at this point. I also started to feel that I needed to take a quick pit stop. Right before the Screaming tunnel I stopped quick, lost about 20 seconds, I was not worried about this at this point. Between 8-15 it was tough, but that is the nature of a marathon, you go thru different stages. I did put trust in my training and I was sure I could work myself out of it. Mile 13 I got my next bottle of Skratchlabs, I took a few sips with a couple of salt tabs and moved on toward the Newton Hills. When I started the first Newton climb, I realized that I started to pass a lot of runners, everything started to feel easy a proof that I had done my pacing right. I was able to keep almost my 6:45 pace during the Newton Hill segment of Boston Marathon. Before I knew it I was on top of the Heartbreak Hill with only 5 miles to go. I checked my watch and could tell that I had a good chance to go under 3 hours. I decided to give a good push at this point. Targeting mile by mile and to chase down runners. It worked really well and I kept my energy. At miles 23 I meet Kenth again, I lost him after my pit stop earlier in the race. Also my wife Erin and family would be at mile 24.
I was very happy to see them and I knew at this point that I would go under 3 hours. Although I was worried about my history with late marathon stage cramps. I decided to back off a little the last 2 miles to play it safe. Not pushing another cramp. Coming in to Boylston Street is always amazing, although Boylston is longer then you think. The crowed is just great. I just sucked everything in!
With a perfect execution of my plan my time was 2:57:53. Its easy to think what my time would have been on a perfect day but I had trained in worst conditions then wind and rain and I was prepared!
#nononsense
This year me and my family was traveling up to Boston, Saturday morning. I was going to help out at the Salming Running booth at the expo. Car ride went smooth beside a small detour in Boston as our friend Waze GPS app did not have clue about Boston exits! (app is now deleted).
I had no desire really to walk the expo this year, went straight to meet the Salming Running staff. The Salming booth was located in a narrow aisle across from Boston Olympics booth and not far from Samuel Adams, this means a lot of traffic of visitors. For the first time and finally I got the opportunity to meet the Salming crew Tor, Anders and Tom. All very passionate about running and knowledgeable, I felt like I was "home", also got the opportunity speak Swedish with Anders. Anders and I are from the same region in Sweden. I always enjoy the expo part, connecting with runners and friends like Seth Hasty (finally got to show him Salming shoes), I was happy to be with a Swedish brand this time.
Sunday, is about rest and get prepared. We did some easy walking downtown and had lunch. We always do the traditional family dinner at the Cosgrove's in Framingham. Dinner was spot on for my taste. Pasta, sweet potatoes, some beets and grilled tofu. Again I had the same planning as two years ago, I was going to stay closer to the start and stay with Ted and Maria. Their hospitality is gold worth and I get an extra hour of sleep as the drive is only 10 minutes to the start.
Race morning. Alarm was set to 6:15am. First a quick shower, followed by a oatmeal and bagel breakfast. Close to 7am Ted and Maria drove me to Hopkinton. I have seen "Athletes Village" and the mess and long lines to the Porta Johns, so I decided to stay close to the start and have pretty much direct access to 200 porta johns. As I get nervous close to start I need that option. I was lucky to get a spot under a roof, as it started to rain light and the winds had started to pick up. I was chatting to a nice guy from Toronto/Ontario. Boston is always great in that way, making new friends and connections. Around 9:20am I started to walk up to the start, rain had stopped at this point. All preparations were done, I had my Salming Speeds and Singlet on and I had my beet shot. Race mood was on!
Forecast for the race had predicted light rain and east winds up to 20mph!
Race. The last 30 min before start always goes quick. You listen to the presentations of the Elite fields and the national anthem. I kept a poncho on until last second, to stay warm. 10 o'clock the start gun went of. It took approximately 2:40 for me to get to the start line and to get the my official start time.
With Coach Caleb Masland we have worked on a 6:45 pace and also a plan for the race:
- For the long downhill section of the course (all the way to mile 16-ish), don't let yourself run faster than target goal pace. The "bank time" strategy is a TRAP in Boston. Instead, let the downhills make the effort less strenuous, and instead bank some energy for the last 10 miles.
- Through the Newton Hills, the focus should be on staying efficient and not emptying the tank. Expect to give back 10-ish seconds per mile through this section, which will only put you 1 minute "behind" when you get to the top of Heartbreak Hill.
- Once you hit 21, put the hammer down. If you've been smart to this point, you will have the legs to make up the minute you lost on the hills and then some. Focus on passing as many people as possible to stay motivated, and enjoy the crowds!
I felt comfortable between mile 2-8. Around mile 8 the rain started again, this time hard. You got soak wet within seconds and your body got cold. I tried to move on but I had to put in more effort then I wanted to at this point. I also started to feel that I needed to take a quick pit stop. Right before the Screaming tunnel I stopped quick, lost about 20 seconds, I was not worried about this at this point. Between 8-15 it was tough, but that is the nature of a marathon, you go thru different stages. I did put trust in my training and I was sure I could work myself out of it. Mile 13 I got my next bottle of Skratchlabs, I took a few sips with a couple of salt tabs and moved on toward the Newton Hills. When I started the first Newton climb, I realized that I started to pass a lot of runners, everything started to feel easy a proof that I had done my pacing right. I was able to keep almost my 6:45 pace during the Newton Hill segment of Boston Marathon. Before I knew it I was on top of the Heartbreak Hill with only 5 miles to go. I checked my watch and could tell that I had a good chance to go under 3 hours. I decided to give a good push at this point. Targeting mile by mile and to chase down runners. It worked really well and I kept my energy. At miles 23 I meet Kenth again, I lost him after my pit stop earlier in the race. Also my wife Erin and family would be at mile 24.
I was very happy to see them and I knew at this point that I would go under 3 hours. Although I was worried about my history with late marathon stage cramps. I decided to back off a little the last 2 miles to play it safe. Not pushing another cramp. Coming in to Boylston Street is always amazing, although Boylston is longer then you think. The crowed is just great. I just sucked everything in!
With a perfect execution of my plan my time was 2:57:53. Its easy to think what my time would have been on a perfect day but I had trained in worst conditions then wind and rain and I was prepared!
#nononsense
Monday, April 6, 2015
2 weeks and Salming USA
Last week was a really busy week for me. On Wednesday my best friend from Sweden came to visit us. Really great to catch up and show them out area, incl Woodstock. On top of that Easter was this weekend with a family dinner. So I cramped in my 2 work outs that Coach Caleb had on the schedule on Monday and Wednesday morning. With the peak training, Im cutting down the mileage and are doing some turn over work outs and marathon pace mileage. The rest of the week I tried to get my easy runs in, before everyone woke up. I was up at 5AM, and wow that was tiring for me. I struggled to hit paces under 8. I think it was a combination of the darkness and being tired. It felt like the effort was more like 7-ish but looking at my watch, it was more 8+. It was a bit confusing and at times frustrating.
For turnover this week, I did a 15X30 sec strides, with 30sec recovery.
Marathon Pace was a long run, 15 miles with 5 miles marathon pace.
Last week my race gear came in. Shoes and clothing. Looks good. it gives me 2 full weeks to break in my shoes and try out the gear!
For Boston I will use Salming Speed!
Not sure about the color of singlet, both colors I got looks really great!:
For turnover this week, I did a 15X30 sec strides, with 30sec recovery.
Marathon Pace was a long run, 15 miles with 5 miles marathon pace.
Last week my race gear came in. Shoes and clothing. Looks good. it gives me 2 full weeks to break in my shoes and try out the gear!
For Boston I will use Salming Speed!
Not sure about the color of singlet, both colors I got looks really great!:
Monday, March 30, 2015
Three weeks and peak training starts!
Last week was a great week for me with two big workouts. I started this week with tired legs after last weekend Miles for Music 20K race. The long run this week was 21 miles was 4K-1K alternations for 25 K (marathon pace). Pace felt good, a bit faster then I plan to run in Boston. As always, I added some extra hills in the end. The speed part this week was 13 miles with 10 miles of marathon pace. Again did not have any problems with the pace and did the marathon pace part a bit faster, around 6:30.
So with 3 weeks left I'm starting to cut down on the mileage. It feels good and I'm very confident. Will be nice with some lower mile weeks and get some rest after a tough winter. Hopefully the heat will arrive soon as well!
Shoes:
Salming Distance
Salming Speed
#runswedish
So with 3 weeks left I'm starting to cut down on the mileage. It feels good and I'm very confident. Will be nice with some lower mile weeks and get some rest after a tough winter. Hopefully the heat will arrive soon as well!
Shoes:
Salming Distance
Salming Speed
#runswedish
Monday, March 2, 2015
Winter Sum up
Well the winter is not over yet, but January and February are in the books. These two months have been brutally cold and windy. This has taken a real big piece of motivation out of me but in the end I have stayed positive and now I'm leaving the cold winter behind me.
A little bit about the training. Last year I had huge back to back hamstring issues, and I did not have enough miles in miles legs for Boston. This year I have been lucky (knock, knock) with my hamstrings but was down three days with a bad stomach virus. I also had an accident loading our wood burning stove, I dropped the steamer and got all the burning hot water on my right foot. Leaving me with second degree burns and blisters. Two weeks of bandaged foot but I hit all of my miles and work outs. Foot looks better now but it was scary nasty looking for a while!
Coach Caleb (www.coachcaleb.com) has been for this Boston training been focusing on two work outs per week, which gives me plenty of runs to get recover every week. Target miles has been 75 but I plan to hit 80+ weeks for March. as said above the winter has been cold and work outs been extra tough, with all the extra clothing, chilly temps and really strong cold winds. Some days/work outs it has been almost impossible to hit the paces. The effort is there but it has been frustrating that you re not hitting the planned pace. I have added my Strava site on the side bar menu if you like to follow my training.
Gear, as Im a Salming Running ambassador, I have been using their clothing and shoes this winter. On the top I have been using the UltraLite Jacket. A really nice light jacket that breaths well and at the same time blocks the winds. I cant say enough of good things about the this jacket! If it gets really cold, I add the Running Vest on top of the jacket. The Vest can also be used for safety as it comes in a bright yellow color with added reflex printings. This solution has kept me happy warm all winter.
Check out the Jackets here: http://www.salmingrunning.com/us/mens-apparel/jackets/#
On my feet I always put my trust in wool, and for the best fit I use Feetures! Elite wool socks. They alsways keep my feet warm, no matter what!
Hopefully weather gets better and we can get some #nononsense speed in!
#runswedish
A little bit about the training. Last year I had huge back to back hamstring issues, and I did not have enough miles in miles legs for Boston. This year I have been lucky (knock, knock) with my hamstrings but was down three days with a bad stomach virus. I also had an accident loading our wood burning stove, I dropped the steamer and got all the burning hot water on my right foot. Leaving me with second degree burns and blisters. Two weeks of bandaged foot but I hit all of my miles and work outs. Foot looks better now but it was scary nasty looking for a while!
.JPG) |
| Winter Running |
 |
| Salming Running Vest |
Gear, as Im a Salming Running ambassador, I have been using their clothing and shoes this winter. On the top I have been using the UltraLite Jacket. A really nice light jacket that breaths well and at the same time blocks the winds. I cant say enough of good things about the this jacket! If it gets really cold, I add the Running Vest on top of the jacket. The Vest can also be used for safety as it comes in a bright yellow color with added reflex printings. This solution has kept me happy warm all winter.
Check out the Jackets here: http://www.salmingrunning.com/us/mens-apparel/jackets/#
On my feet I always put my trust in wool, and for the best fit I use Feetures! Elite wool socks. They alsways keep my feet warm, no matter what!
Hopefully weather gets better and we can get some #nononsense speed in!
#runswedish
Friday, February 20, 2015
Salming Running Race Review
Salming Running Race is the lightest of the Salming Running shoes I use. So far I have been using them in races up to 10KM, but I have used for training runs up to 20 miles. For this years Boston Marathon I have decided to use Race. For my fall 2014, I picked Salming Running Distance as the Hambletonian Marathon was very hilly. I simply wanted something more under my feet. But for Boston I think Race will be perfect for me.
Facts:
Weight: 6.5 oz (Size US 9)
Drop: 5mm
All the tech info you can find here: http://www.salmingrunning.com/us/technologies/
Facts:
Weight: 6.5 oz (Size US 9)
Drop: 5mm
All the tech info you can find here: http://www.salmingrunning.com/us/technologies/
Friday, February 13, 2015
Friday, January 9, 2015
Salming Running 2015
Some color updates to look forward to from Salming Running Spring -15 and a brand new Trail shoe......
 |
| Race singlet-15 |
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Salming Running Distance Review
As a part of Salming Running USA ambassador team, I receive free running shoes from Salming USA. For my longer runs and for Hambletonian Marathon. I have been using Salming Distance. Distance is the heaviest of Salming shoe line up (still very light, 8.4oz, size 9). Hambletonian Marathon has a very hilly elevation profile and I wanted to make sure I had enough under my feet for this Marathon. Any of Salming running shoes can actually serve as a fast marathon shoe, depends on your liking. http://www.salmingrunning.com/shoes/distance/mens/distance.aspx
Salming says: "Covering mile after mile calls for a combination of comfort and durability. Accordingly, our shoes designed to function in more rugged environments utilize a 3 layer upper construction. A first layer of mesh material adds comfort, while the middle stabilizes lateral movements and reduces pressure on the foot. The exterior thin net mesh encapsulates and wraps up the front in a neat fashion, adding durability to the shoe."
RunningSwede says: The three layers are making a great job locking down your foot and gives you a secure fit. I have not experienced any kind of chafing. It sounds like it would be overkill to have three layers but nothing is in the way and it actually is pretty minimalistic. In the beginning I felt the layers in the front was to bulky, but it got better as the Distance needed some break in time. Now I feel like the upper material is more molded and shaped after my feet. As the upper snugs very well, I can see how runners with wider feet, might feel that Distance could run on the narrow side. Heel cup and toe box are covered with light plastic material. Its not in the way in the toe box but I feel they could have used something lighter and smooth. Heel cup and collar is cut low and does not chafe, gives you a light feeling. Salming uses the same lacing for Distance and Speed, easy to lace up and to get even pressure. The collar and lacing, is a lighter leather looking material that adds to the way Distance secure the fit. Distance also comes in a A2 version, where they have revised the upper using two over lays (I have not tried this version yet). The upper for Distance uses the same idea as Salming Speed which I reviewed here: http://www.therunningswede.com/2014/09/salming-running-speed1-review.html
Midsole/Drop/Torsion
Salming says:
"The RunLite™ midsole features a special High Abrasion Injection EVA, designed to create a nice feel for the ground. The midsole is light and responds to the surface in a flexible way from the very first step. The Salming Race natural running shoe has a midsole with special lightweight molded EVA, in order to get a race-like feel and extremely quick characteristics."
" Responsive without being overly supportive - The Torsion Efficiency Unit™ brings sturdiness to the shoe. It is appropriately placed to generate maximal running efficiency. The Distance model features a semi-transparent TPU, while the Race model is powered by a lightweight carbon fiber torsion unit."
"Our standard heel to toe drop of 5 mm sets up a natural running posture, allowing a correct lean throughout the stride. This drop is used in Distance, Speed and Race models."
RunningSwede says: As mentioned in other review, drop in the range 4-5mm is something I prefer but might not be for everyone. Distance has 5mm and that fits my gait well. Distance is built low to the ground but is more of a shoe compare to Salming Speed. You still get a great feeling for the road despite the higher stack height. RunLite offers a great firmer feel, with a great response. Its fast, firm with a great energy return. The Torsion Efficiency Unit offers a touch of extra support in the midfoot, this could be great, in the later stage of a marathon when your gait start to get "tired" and you need that little extra touch of support from your shoes. Although Salming is marketing Distance as a Distance trainer I would put the shoe more in the marathon flat - performance trainer category. Reasons for that is the firmness of the mid sole unit.
Outsole
Salming says:
Lightweight yet with sticky characteristics, our blown rubber compound is strategically placed to provide you with great grip in all slopes, twist and turns you might encounter.
RunningSwede says: With Speed, Salming had left some of the EVA foam exposed in the forefoot. With Distance this area is covered by rubber, for me this add durability and a more grip. In heel and outer section of the forefoot a more durable rubber is being used. I do feel that some runners might be able to feel the difference of the two different rubber as they add two different firm feeling to the forefoot, but for me this has not been an issue.
Conclusion/Ride:
I used Distance for my Hambletonian Marathon and it offered me great protection, a fast feeling without being to bulky and heavy. I like to feel the road when I run but at the same time I need the right amount of protection. Distance offered that to me during my Hambletonian Marathon. Yes, Distance is marked as a distance trainer but to me Distance is more of an performance trainer. Distance ride is firm for sure, for runners seeking a well cushioned long distance trainer with a softer feel this might not be for you. But if you are looking for an everyday trainer that will serve well as your marathon race day shoe, Distance is a great choice. As today's every day training running shoes, like Mizuno Sayonara are coming closer to the weight of sub 8oz I feel Distance fits right in to that category.
http://www.salmingrunning.com/shoes/distance/mens/distance.aspx
Other Reviews
snabbafotter.se
http://www.snabbafotter.se/2015/04/09/test-av-salming-distance/
Other Reviews
snabbafotter.se
http://www.snabbafotter.se/2015/04/09/test-av-salming-distance/
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Hambletonian Marathon recap
Goshen and the Hambletonian Marathon is approximately 45 minutes away from our home and the option to pick up the race bib the morning of the race morning made this race very convenient. Perfect to just relax the day before the race.
As I have mentioned earlier, the training leading up to this race has been I would say perfect. No injuries or other cramps. Some minor aches here and there but that is totally normal. Of course I was checking the course and weather forecasts anxiously during the week and I knew I was up for a really touch marathon and challenge. The course with its rolling hills are tough as it is, with winds up to 30mph I knew it was going to be brutal. The winds were going to come from north west, and that means full blast head wind for the last 6 miles.
Alarm was set to 4:45am, of course I woke a bit ahead of the alarm. As usual oatmeal breakfast with an egg. I choose not to drink coffee the morning of the race to avoid frequent pit stops during the race. All gear was packed the evening before so I was ready to jump on highway 84 to Goshen. It was a bit chilly in the am and i could definitely feel the winds when I got up to Goshen. I was thinking arm sleeves and gloves but decided to go without and Im glad I did. Bib pick up was just 5 min walk away from parking and by the Hambletonian Race track they had line up plenty of porta johns, easy to access without any lines. The village of Goshen and the historic race track Hambletonian was a great experience, cute town with a really cool looking horse race track hidden behind the main street. My dad as a trotting race fan back home in Sweden, always talked about the Hambletonian Trotting race and it was cool to finally see were the race and name finally came from http://www.harnessmuseum.com/pages/main-home-page-info/hambopage.htm. I will definitely bring my parents to Goshen next time the visit us here in US.
I did my warm up and routines at the parking lot 2 min from the start, trying to stay warm. I was getting in the right mood to tackle the 26.2. With me I had a couple of salt tabs and 4 Huma gels.
At the start I was a bit to "hot" when some one blew the starting horn 20 sec early, I "jumped the gun". I had started my watch and did not have time to reset it and I knew I was going 20 sec off the whole time. Not a big deal, but it throw me off for a few seconds.
The Start!
At start approximately 10 runners took of in a higher pace. It was hard to tell who was marathoners and who was relay runners. The plan was not to go out crazy, follow the plan as the first loop is very hilly. First hill came almost immediately, it felt easy and I felt good. The winds were strong but did not really bother me at this point. For the first 4 miles its pretty much up 0.5 miles and down 0.5 miles. I felt the miles were ticking fast. At mile 3 I caught up with a relay runner and were using her draft. She was using a 6:45 pace and I felt good getting some help, trying to preserve my energy. At mile 7 I had to stop for a 20 sec pit stop. Kind of frustrating as I had had good company but I had to do it. I t feels like no matter what I do, I always have to stop. At mile 8 the first part of the Heritage Trail started, for about three miles the course were on a softer packed (not to soft) trails. Mile 8-10 was on this trail and it was almost flat. At mile 11 you're back in Goshen, some quick turns and you pass the start line and the first relay change. Second loop use the 2 first miles of the first loop. Two big hills almost immediately after you leave Goshen. Again did not feel to bad to climb the hills and I passed 13.1 around 1.28. I was happy with that time, it was were I wanted to be as I knew that the last 6 miles are flat.
At mile 14 I started to get ready for the big hill at mile 15. I have heard from volunteers that I was in fifth place. From mile 13 I had started to see a runner ahead of me and when the "big hill" at mile 15-16.5 started I could clearly see that he had hit the hammer and the wall. He was standing still running. Hill was tough and felt endless but it was a great feeling when it was done. I knew at this point that I had one big hill left at mile 19.5. Of course the long hill cost me lot of energy but I felt OK and I could keep the pace after the hill. Again I started to prepare myself for the next task, what they call the "Cowbell Hill". I didnt not think this was going to be that much of a task and I was going to get an fast run to the finish. But the story is different, "Cowbell Hill" felt like a massive wall and I struggled a bit on the way to the top, trying not to hit hammer and to explode.
After the hill I was trying to pick up pace, but at this point I had straight head wind. With my history of late marathon hamstring cramps, I started to get worried for that as well. I used my last gel at mile 21 and took my last salt tab at mile 23. I also used some Gatorade from the great volunteers to try to get some extra fuel. It was frustrating to see a sub 3 go away at this point but I kept pushing pace around 7-7.10. Last 6 is flat on the Heritage Trail again, this part of the trail is paved. At mile 25 I passed runner in third place, he was totally out of gas, getting help and form one of the bikers who followed the top runners. It was a great feeling and a proof that I ran my race as planned.
Coming in to the Hambletonian Race Track was a great feeling! But the lap on the track felt forever. And by finish I think my calves had enough. Finish time was 3:02:31 gun time and 3:02:26 chip time.
Finish line Video!
http://results.chronotrack.com/athlete/index/e/11337769
Overall I'm very satisfied with my performance today. I knew going in to this race the course was brutal (and sure it was) but i didn't count on the strong winds. Mother nature is nothing you can do about and its the same for all the runners in the race, but I do think the strong winds and running solo breaking the winds cause me a sub 3 today. Would I have done the race differently? Nope, the plan was to keep the pace I have been practicing, 6:45 ish. I followed the plan ran by effort over the hills. I was fueling well. Maybe i need to practice on more hills and late speed work to be stronger in the end! Coach Caleb Masland put me in the best position for this one and I rate my performance as my best marathon race ever. I have to say overall I'm happy with my #nononsense approach....
Hambletonian marathon is a great small town marathon. Great scenic and challenging course. All volunteers and staff were great and what can beat a craft brew (Newburgh Brewing) at the finish line!!!!
Gear!
Shoes: Salming Distance. Great light weight shoe, 8.4oz. Kept feet and legs fresh. I was never worried about my feet. Shoes felt light over the hills and had a great transition and kept me on my toes over the hills.
Singlet: Salming. Lightweight, breathable no chafing and great looking. All you can ask for!
Socks: Feetures! Elite socks. No chafing and no blisters.
Gel:Huma gels: I keep getting back to this chia seed gel. Works great with my stomach and I can feel the energy. Used lemon with caffeine. Taste great!
As I have mentioned earlier, the training leading up to this race has been I would say perfect. No injuries or other cramps. Some minor aches here and there but that is totally normal. Of course I was checking the course and weather forecasts anxiously during the week and I knew I was up for a really touch marathon and challenge. The course with its rolling hills are tough as it is, with winds up to 30mph I knew it was going to be brutal. The winds were going to come from north west, and that means full blast head wind for the last 6 miles.
Alarm was set to 4:45am, of course I woke a bit ahead of the alarm. As usual oatmeal breakfast with an egg. I choose not to drink coffee the morning of the race to avoid frequent pit stops during the race. All gear was packed the evening before so I was ready to jump on highway 84 to Goshen. It was a bit chilly in the am and i could definitely feel the winds when I got up to Goshen. I was thinking arm sleeves and gloves but decided to go without and Im glad I did. Bib pick up was just 5 min walk away from parking and by the Hambletonian Race track they had line up plenty of porta johns, easy to access without any lines. The village of Goshen and the historic race track Hambletonian was a great experience, cute town with a really cool looking horse race track hidden behind the main street. My dad as a trotting race fan back home in Sweden, always talked about the Hambletonian Trotting race and it was cool to finally see were the race and name finally came from http://www.harnessmuseum.com/pages/main-home-page-info/hambopage.htm. I will definitely bring my parents to Goshen next time the visit us here in US.
I did my warm up and routines at the parking lot 2 min from the start, trying to stay warm. I was getting in the right mood to tackle the 26.2. With me I had a couple of salt tabs and 4 Huma gels.
At the start I was a bit to "hot" when some one blew the starting horn 20 sec early, I "jumped the gun". I had started my watch and did not have time to reset it and I knew I was going 20 sec off the whole time. Not a big deal, but it throw me off for a few seconds.
The Start!
At start approximately 10 runners took of in a higher pace. It was hard to tell who was marathoners and who was relay runners. The plan was not to go out crazy, follow the plan as the first loop is very hilly. First hill came almost immediately, it felt easy and I felt good. The winds were strong but did not really bother me at this point. For the first 4 miles its pretty much up 0.5 miles and down 0.5 miles. I felt the miles were ticking fast. At mile 3 I caught up with a relay runner and were using her draft. She was using a 6:45 pace and I felt good getting some help, trying to preserve my energy. At mile 7 I had to stop for a 20 sec pit stop. Kind of frustrating as I had had good company but I had to do it. I t feels like no matter what I do, I always have to stop. At mile 8 the first part of the Heritage Trail started, for about three miles the course were on a softer packed (not to soft) trails. Mile 8-10 was on this trail and it was almost flat. At mile 11 you're back in Goshen, some quick turns and you pass the start line and the first relay change. Second loop use the 2 first miles of the first loop. Two big hills almost immediately after you leave Goshen. Again did not feel to bad to climb the hills and I passed 13.1 around 1.28. I was happy with that time, it was were I wanted to be as I knew that the last 6 miles are flat.
 | ||||
| Purgatory Road mile 14apx |
 |
| Trying to run strong! |
 |
| Almost at the top |
 |
| "Cowbell Hill" |
After the hill I was trying to pick up pace, but at this point I had straight head wind. With my history of late marathon hamstring cramps, I started to get worried for that as well. I used my last gel at mile 21 and took my last salt tab at mile 23. I also used some Gatorade from the great volunteers to try to get some extra fuel. It was frustrating to see a sub 3 go away at this point but I kept pushing pace around 7-7.10. Last 6 is flat on the Heritage Trail again, this part of the trail is paved. At mile 25 I passed runner in third place, he was totally out of gas, getting help and form one of the bikers who followed the top runners. It was a great feeling and a proof that I ran my race as planned.
Coming in to the Hambletonian Race Track was a great feeling! But the lap on the track felt forever. And by finish I think my calves had enough. Finish time was 3:02:31 gun time and 3:02:26 chip time.
 |
| Back in Goshen! |
Finish line Video!
http://results.chronotrack.com/athlete/index/e/11337769
Overall I'm very satisfied with my performance today. I knew going in to this race the course was brutal (and sure it was) but i didn't count on the strong winds. Mother nature is nothing you can do about and its the same for all the runners in the race, but I do think the strong winds and running solo breaking the winds cause me a sub 3 today. Would I have done the race differently? Nope, the plan was to keep the pace I have been practicing, 6:45 ish. I followed the plan ran by effort over the hills. I was fueling well. Maybe i need to practice on more hills and late speed work to be stronger in the end! Coach Caleb Masland put me in the best position for this one and I rate my performance as my best marathon race ever. I have to say overall I'm happy with my #nononsense approach....
Hambletonian marathon is a great small town marathon. Great scenic and challenging course. All volunteers and staff were great and what can beat a craft brew (Newburgh Brewing) at the finish line!!!!
Gear!
Shoes: Salming Distance. Great light weight shoe, 8.4oz. Kept feet and legs fresh. I was never worried about my feet. Shoes felt light over the hills and had a great transition and kept me on my toes over the hills.
Singlet: Salming. Lightweight, breathable no chafing and great looking. All you can ask for!
Socks: Feetures! Elite socks. No chafing and no blisters.
Gel:Huma gels: I keep getting back to this chia seed gel. Works great with my stomach and I can feel the energy. Used lemon with caffeine. Taste great!
Friday, October 17, 2014
Peak, Beets and No Nonsense
Final week is here, crazy how fast time goes. I have not been blogging much about my training this year. Had major computer issues over the summer, that I was hoping to fix but ended up getting a new laptop (which was delayed for a month).
Over the summer, Coach Caleb at Team Wicked BonkProof had me do lot of track work. Every Wednesday, I drove to the local track at Kittatiny High School for different track sessions. Track is something I have never done before really and I think this addition will help my over all speed and toughness.
Mid August we started to focus more on marathon specific workouts, longer segments of marathon pace and longer runs with fast finish. You can follow my training here on Strava:
http://www.strava.com/athletes/3181761
Training has been really good, been doing some really tough weeks with mileage over 100. To be able to do this I have been running doubles, with second run during my dinner break at work. Sure I have been tired in the end of the 100 weeks but I hope this pays off when its time to face the 26.2!
The Hambletonian course has a very hilly first 18 miles, or I should say rolling hills.
I need to pace my self and run my own race. After the hills I hope to loosen up and go for negative splits. Im sure my training and all miles I have done will pay off here. They say that a marathon starts at mile 20 usually, with this course its not true. Its starts at mile 1 with all the rolling hills!
No injuries this time (thank good). Some minor aches but nothing to worry about. So this will be the first marathon since Boston 2013 with out any injuries. Again I hope the consistency of the training pays off and I can finish strong this time.
Taper/Peak weeks are always nerve wrecking for me. I think this is a good thing. You know something is going on, that you have trained for, for weeks. It would be strange if you did not feel anything after all investments you have done in yourself and your training. I hope my legs respond to lower mileage and some peak specific work outs. Although I have been feeling a bit off and sluggish, I took off Thursday from running, to give my body some extra rest. Of course I'm doing my beet juice. No sure if it will help me, for me its now more of tradition, something I do before my marathons to get in to the right mood.
This marathon I will use a new brand of shoes as mentioned before. This Sunday I will be using Salming Distance. Not as light as I have been using before, but light enough to feel fast and protected. Size 9 come in 8.4oz. (around the same weight as Adios Boost, world record shoe :)) The feel of Distance is actually pretty close to the original Adidas Adios a shoe that I really like and been using in the past. With the Distance I know I will have a fast shoe that will protect my feet and legs the whole 26.2!
Again I will put my trust in Huma gels for nutrition, the only gel I could notice a difference and it does not give me nausea and I had a great run with Huma at Boston 2013.
Over all I think I will be ready to tackle all the hills on Sunday. I have definitely done all the work and have the right gear. It will be a #nononsense race!
Over the summer, Coach Caleb at Team Wicked BonkProof had me do lot of track work. Every Wednesday, I drove to the local track at Kittatiny High School for different track sessions. Track is something I have never done before really and I think this addition will help my over all speed and toughness.
Mid August we started to focus more on marathon specific workouts, longer segments of marathon pace and longer runs with fast finish. You can follow my training here on Strava:
http://www.strava.com/athletes/3181761
Training has been really good, been doing some really tough weeks with mileage over 100. To be able to do this I have been running doubles, with second run during my dinner break at work. Sure I have been tired in the end of the 100 weeks but I hope this pays off when its time to face the 26.2!
The Hambletonian course has a very hilly first 18 miles, or I should say rolling hills.
I need to pace my self and run my own race. After the hills I hope to loosen up and go for negative splits. Im sure my training and all miles I have done will pay off here. They say that a marathon starts at mile 20 usually, with this course its not true. Its starts at mile 1 with all the rolling hills!
No injuries this time (thank good). Some minor aches but nothing to worry about. So this will be the first marathon since Boston 2013 with out any injuries. Again I hope the consistency of the training pays off and I can finish strong this time.
Taper/Peak weeks are always nerve wrecking for me. I think this is a good thing. You know something is going on, that you have trained for, for weeks. It would be strange if you did not feel anything after all investments you have done in yourself and your training. I hope my legs respond to lower mileage and some peak specific work outs. Although I have been feeling a bit off and sluggish, I took off Thursday from running, to give my body some extra rest. Of course I'm doing my beet juice. No sure if it will help me, for me its now more of tradition, something I do before my marathons to get in to the right mood.
Again I will put my trust in Huma gels for nutrition, the only gel I could notice a difference and it does not give me nausea and I had a great run with Huma at Boston 2013.
Over all I think I will be ready to tackle all the hills on Sunday. I have definitely done all the work and have the right gear. It will be a #nononsense race!
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