Go Kara! Kara Goucher to Skechers Performance Division

The rumor has been around for a while. Today it was finally announced! Wlcome to Skechers Performance Division Elite Team!
#GoElite #GoLikeNeverBefore



runnersworld.com/elite-runners/kara-goucher-signs-with-skechers?cm_mmc=Facebook-_-RunnersWorld-_-Content-News-_-KaraSignsWithSketchers

Meb wins 2014 Boston marathon.....

In case you missed it! Meb Keflezighi and Skechers Performance Division won the Boston marathon 2014!

TheRunningSwede will try to update this blog with all kinds of links and information about  Meb's Boston Marathon 2014 victory!

This is how it was done!


Lets Run about Ryan Hall and the tactics
http://www.letsrun.com/news/2014/04/untold-story-american-teamwork-ryan-hall-helped-meb-keflezighi-win-boston/?fb_action_ids=764015310608&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B235

Boston Globe:
http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2014/04/26/meb-keflezighi-had-bit-help-boston-marathon/biZef6n1LqsNYt8QCXyCWN/story.html

Craig Leon on the tactics
http://craigleonrunning.com/2014/04/27/2014-boston-marathon-taking-back-monday/

How Skechers beat NIKE
http://fittish.deadspin.com/how-skechers-beat-nike-in-the-boston-marathon-1566841335/+samer

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/wp/2014/04/22/skechers-beats-nike-in-boston-marathon/

Competitor Running
http://running.competitor.com/2014/04/shoes-and-gear/sole-man-meb-skechers-huge-success-story_101271

SGB Weekly
http://sportsonesourcecloud.com/sgbweekly/2014/SGB_14Q2/SGBW_1417lo.pdf

Interviews:
http://universalsports.com/video/2014-boston-marathon-meb-keflezighi-interview/

http://running.competitor.com/2014/04/boston-marathon/video-meb-keflezighi-2014-boston-marathon-post-race-interview_100590




GoMeb Speed3:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20140418005289/en/Meb-America%E2%80%99s-Top-Marathoner-Race-Skechers%C2%A0GOmeb-Speed#.U16VXlVdVvA

http://sneakernews.com/2014/04/21/american-meb-keflezighi-wins-boston-marathon-wearing-skechers/

Skechers Performance Division
http://www.thestreet.com/story/12676841/1/go-meb-skechers-gets-a-leg-up-with-boston-marathon-win.html

http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2014-04-21/skechers-won-the-boston-marathon-dot-but-why-was-it-even-in-the-race

http://www.kansascity.com/2014/04/22/4975962/keflezighis-boston-win-a-boost.html

http://americasmarkets.usatoday.com/2014/04/21/american-wins-boston-marathon-so-does-skechers/

http://blogs.wsj.com/cmo/2014/04/21/boston-marathon-win-also-victory-for-skechers/

http://www.boston.com/life/fashion/2014/04/22/skechers-meb-marathon-win-game-changer/ssGMsATjJ5VThhSQBUybMI/story.html

Skechers GoMeb Speed3

Let me introduce you to the shoe that winner Meb Keflezighi was wearing when he won 2014 Boston Marathon!

Skechers GoMeb Speed3

Skechers GoMeb Speed3

2014 Boston Marathon Weekend

Over the weekend I had the pleasure to meet lot of great people and runners. I was going up Friday this time to stay at my friend Joshua http://vagabondrunning.blogspot.com/. Friday night we went out to meet up with BonkProof runner Jonathan Hill for some beet juice, running and running shoe geek talk. Great dinner at Boston Works by Fenway Park.

Saturday

Saturday morning I  had planned to do an easy shake our run with strides, as Joshua lives right by the first Newton Hill, we gave that one a shot. Very different to run this hill with fresh legs! After some easy mileage with strides and stretching we went in to Boston and the expo. The plan was to get my bib and then do some damage at the Skechers Performance Division marathon expo. I had a great day talking to runners from all over the world. Did some promotion to Scandinavian runners who has not really seen Skechers GORun shoes yet. Lot of work to do in Northern Europe, hopefully I can help out to spread the word! I always having a great time meeting up with the Skechers Perfromance Division Team! A great team that are really supportive.

After the  expo I meet up with my wife Erin and the rest of the family at our hotel in Waltham, again had a great dinner.

Sunday

Easy run in the morning, some easy mileage with some strides. Feeling ready. Sunday I had two interviews planned. First with Skechers Performance Division and then Swedish TV4. Unfortunately the Skechers interview got cancelled. But I had a blast doing the SWE TV4 interview. Mostly about my experiences after my finish last year when I most likely meet the two "bombers" but also a lot of questions about this years marathon and security.

Late Sunday we finished up with a really nice easter dinner, hosted by our local Cosgrove family. Always a great time to catch up with them! Also the family always helps out to hand off my water bottles along the race course, Thanks Charlie you did a great job! We were back at the hotel around 7PM. I did the last preparations and hit the bed early. Shoe of choice was Skechers GoMeb Speed2. Fuel was Honeystinger gel.

Monday morning:
Alarm went off 5:30AM, easy breakfast with bagels and oatmeal. Plan was to hit the road around 7:00AM.
This year with all security around Boston marathon, we had to go to a different drop off spot as we chose to drive to the start from the hotel. At the drop off we got searched by security and metal detectors. Not a big deal, it all went really smooth. The yellow school bus took us this year to the back side of the school and the "Athletes Village". A much longer walk then I'm used to from earlier marathons. The plan was to go to the Skechers Performance Division house, to relax a bit before the start and to meet up with Team Wicked Bonk Proof and other #GOelite runners. Skechers Performance Division had set up the back yard of the house with a rest room, chairs and some beverages. It was a great atmosphere and great to meet up with guys like Caleb Masland and Seth Hasty. Again walking down to the start you got searched with metal detectors and the police was more present then. Also standing in my corral waiting for start you could see snipers on the roofs.

Race Report:
With low mileage in my legs, due to all Hamstring issues I been threw, I had no clue where I was at. It was hot already from the start and the forecast was high 60's. Normally I get fried around 55. I knew I had the best possible shoes for me Skechers GoMeb Speed2 and great fuel 6 HoneyStingers gel.....When start went off I felt it was more crowded the earlier years. I couldn't really find a good pace first half mile, I got a bit stressed out that the first mile would be 7:30+. It landed at 6:53, and I got more relieved and relaxed. The field of runners started to ease up and I got in to my zone trying to hit even splits around 6:45. I felt really strong, trying to have fun. Already from the start I could feel the heat but it did not bother me really. At mile 6 I got my first water bottle,. I kept the bottle for about 2 miles. It was really nice to cruise pass 2 water station without getting into the battle of getting fluids. The miles were ticking and I had great splits, still feeling strong. Wellsley passed by and I had my second water bottle placed out right after the 13.1 mark. Again great to get your own stuff and I kept it for a mile. At this time you start to prepare yourself for the hills. Close to Newton, I saw a familiar runner, Reno Stirrat. Reno had started feel his PF and had decided to slow. Reno is a great guy and I felt really bad for him. I asked if he needed anything like gel, but Reno gently said no and encouraged me to have a great fun race. Reno is a great guy for sure! Hills were coming closer and at this point started to feel the marathon. I had to dig a bit deeper to hit splits in the heat. First Hill by the Newton Fire station was ahead of me. I started to get in to the hill zone and climb the hill by effort. It felt pretty good, but I also started to battle with my mind. On the down hill and flat parts I tried to run relaxed and get prepared for the upcoming tasks but I started to struggle in the heat. I feel I kept decent pace over the hills but I did not recover as I had wished for between them. The last hill is Heartbreak Hill, in the middle of the hill the rumor started to spread out that Meb had won the 2014 Boston Marathon. Soon everyone started to scream "Meb won!" I really got a kick out that, very inspiring. I knew I had to dig deeper to finish strong. Heartbreak Hill passed and i knew from this point its mostly down hill.

I tried really hard to pick up 6:45 splits but my legs did not respond. The splits came closer to 7:00. I started to pick out strategic goals to keep me going. Mile 25 was the point were my wife Erin and family would be.

Erin and Kim cheers on all #GOelite runners!

Plan was to keep pace up and hopefully drop a few faster ones. I passed Erin, always so great to see her! Now I started to feel some cramp building up in my hamstring. I was thinking "please no". A split second later I had to do a fast stop, by a cop. Who helped me stretch my left hamstring. On to Bolyston Street and what a feeling! Crowd was amazing. Hamstring was OK , no more worries and I pretty much just sucked in everything I could. By the finish line I got the opportunity to "high five" one of the heros from 2013 Boston Marathon Carlos Arredondo, what a great way to finish my 2014 Boston Marathon.

I was happy to get to the start line healthy this year and couldn't be more proud of myself and how this marathon turned out! With Meb winning the Boston Marathon and how the runners and the crowd really took back the streets of Boston! 2014 Boston Marathon will always be one of my "best"marathons!

My Strava:


#GOelite

Skechers Performance YouTube Reviews

Vice President of Technical Development Kurt Stockbridge walks you trough the GoRun line up!

Ride3


GoRun3


Ultra


Bionic2


GoMeb Speed2


Skechers Performance Division Youtube Chanel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/skechersperformance

Skechers GoBionic2 Review

I did never tried the first version of Skechers GoBionic. 0mm drop was never an attraction for me and I was very happy with my shoe rotation last year. I read and heard  really good things about the Bionics and during NYC Marathon expo, I received lot of questions from runners when the new Bionic2 was going to be released. I was asked by Skechers Performance Division to log some miles in the new Bionic2 and I have to say I was excited to finally get to test the Bionics. Over the winter I have been logging about 250 miles in the new Bionic2, as a part of Skechers Performance Division wear tester program.

Skechers GoBionic2 

Whats new
SkechersBionic2 carries over the same mid sole unit as the first Bionic. The big changes comes to the upper. Skechers also  offer a 2:1 insole system. For the Bionic2 that means that you can chose between 0mm/4mm drop.

Upper
The upper on the Bionic2 is like a stripped down version of Skechers GoRun3. You get the same stretchable mesh in the front, which gives your toes lot of room to spread out. The mid foot area has less overlays and a lighter mesh then GoRun3. The lace system is also different from GoRun3. You will find less rows for the rounded laces. At times I have found it hard to get an even pressure from the laces and they can create hot spots on top of your feet if you're not careful with the lacing. The mid foot area offers a really snug fit and you can go sock less in these. Due to the cold NJ weather I have only tried this a few times. Over all the upper is really snug with minimal overlays that interfere, go sockl ess if you want, the upper wont cause any problems for you.

Midsole/Outsole
Bionic2 carries over the same  mid sole  unit as the the first edition. You will find the same deep open flex grooves. The whole unit is build around 18 different Resalyte pods, this makes shoe very flexible in every possible direction. Some blown rubber are placed at strategically places. For some runners including myself, the rubbers might be placed on the wrong pods. I could have used more blown rubber in the mid foot front area.  You can see my wear and tear on the pictures below.

Performance/Conclusion 
I have really enjoyed the close to road feeling of the Bionic2, this and  the really close snug fit has made the Bionic2 one of my favorite shoes in my current rotation. I have used the Bionic2 with the insole for a 4mm drop on most of the runs, this gives you some extra cushion, but still you have that great road feel. Bionic2 can be used  for all different kinds of runs.  Longest run for me has been a 16 miler. In the end I could feel that my feet and legs got a bit fatigue from the flexible mid sole unit. In my experience it takes a bit to get use to the flexibility of the Bionic. When going 0mm drop I could feels some tension in my calves as I'm not use to this drop level.  The Resalyte makes the Bionic2 very responsive and the grip of the road is great.  I have been thinking that this could be a shoe for shorter races as it is very responsive and I get a fast feeling, but the fact that the deep flex grooves pick up every pebble you pass, its a bit of a problem on a race day. Over all I have really liked every run with Bionic2, they kind of makes you happy when you lace them on.

Pros
- Great upper, with a really nice close to the feet snug feeling. Offers plenty of room for your toes
-Very responsive and flexible.
-Outstanding road feel.
-2:1 insole system. 0mm or 4mm drop options

Cons
-Flex grooves, is a pebble magnet. After each run I have too clean the shoes from stones and pebbles.
-Durability of the out sole. Some of the pods goes down really quick.
-Probably not the best pick on a snowy day, due to the deep flex grooves.
-Laces could create hot spots on top of your feet.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skecher Performance Division 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.”

6 weeks to Boston!

Here we are, and its 6 weeks left to Boston. Training goes well and I have now started to do more Boston specific work outs. Trying to focus a bit on the downhills, getting more speed in. Last week I got 85 miles in, which is really good for me. I hope to continue to log miles over 80 per week. Legs has responded well but I feel its hard to tell how my pacing and speed form is. The chilly and windy weather here in NJ makes it so hard. So far we had one really nice day, that's it. Its a real test for the motivation for sure. Hamstring has been working really well, at times it has been firm but using the Rumble Roller has helped to ease it up.

Next weekend its time for the tune up race. Im doing "Miles for Music" 20K in New Brunswick NJ. I hope to get a great result in before I start the taper before Boston. Its not so much about time, I just need the right feeling that I'm on the right way.

Race gear from Skechers Elite Team came in. They look really great, Red, Blue and White!

Gear Im using right now are:
Skechers Ride4 (prototype).... Easy, recovery and longer day
Skecher GoMeb Speed2....For faster day work outs
Skechers GoBionic2.....Easy days and some Speed work outs
Skechers GoRun3....My every day "go to trainer" Can be used for anything!

Socks has been Feetures! Elite wools socks all winter (and it has been quite a brutal winter), they have kept my feet toasty really well.

Nutrion: I tried tailwind for a while, but i did not sit really well in my stomach. Honeystinger as always worked really well for me and it gives me sustained energy and no issues with stomach. And they taste really great!
I have always been a big fan of Beet Juice, it leaves a mess in the kitchen. This year I'm trying a new approach. Beet powder and Beet shots from Beet-It. Beet-It shots works really well and also easy on the stomach

Skechers GoMeb Speed2 Review

Last year I was all set for Boston Marathon, shoe of choice was Saucony Fastwitch6. I had no doubt that Fastwitch6 was going to be the greatest flat for me. Enough of protection in a lightweight package. I have a small obsession for racing flats I have to admit, so I had been keeping my eyes open for Skechers GoMeb Speed. Anyone who has an interest in racing flats should have, it was #4 at the London 2012 Olympics. One problem, it was not going to be released in time for Boston Marathon. I contacted Skechers Running Division and asked about release date and they responded "we can send you a pair for you to try, plenty a time before Boston Marathon" Since I got the my first pair of GoMeb Speed, I  have never looked back and I did set a new PB at Boston Marathon. So of course I get a bit worried when Skechers Running Division announce that they are going to release GoMeb Speed2 at the NYC Marathon expo only 7 months after the first edition was released!

NYC Limited Edt

Whats New:
The GoMeb Speed2 carry over the same midsole unit, no changes here. You will get the same firm, responsive ride. The big changes are the upper and the tongue. The weight is a bit lighter size 9 comes in right under 7oz at 6.8oz

To break it down:

Midsole/Outsole
No changes here. You will get the same firm responsive ride. What impressed me most during Boston marathon is how I really could feel the energy the shoe was giving back. I really needed it when my form and legs started to get fatigue in the end. I had to dig deep last to miles and I remeber how great the shoe responded.  The Resalyt Midsole is a lightweight injection-molded compound with memory retention helps absorb impact. (from Skecher website). The Stability plate in the midfoot secure the run and gives you a bit of support. Also it gives you a faster transition to toe off.

Upper: and Fit
Here is the big update. The upper is now almost seamless, with printed overlays. The material is firmer mesh that really snugs your feet. The printed overlays gives you a bit of support but really the mesh itself hugs your feet really well. With GoMeb Speed2 you have to be careful with your sizing to get the snug feel. With my normal size 9.5, I had way to much mesh in the forefoot, it folded unnaturally during my workouts. I would say its the down side of using almost only one piece of mesh to create the whole upper. After sizing down a half size the fit was perfect! The tongue has now more structure and wont create and hot spots or folds, great update. The laces is something I personally often switch out quick. For the GoMeb Speed2 I used Sure laces to improve the fit.

Conclusion/Performance
I'm happy to find the same energetic and responsive ride with GoMeb Speed2. The upper has a greater snug feel that really raps you foot great, if you get the right size. The sizing of GoMeb Speed2 is the key for the upper technology and mesh features. You really want to lock down your feet to avoid the spare mesh that could be an issue in the front. If you get the right size you have nothing to worry about the upper update is great. Many runners had an issues with the tongue on Speed1. Skechers Performance Division paid attention and di a great job. It gives protection on top of your feet and will not fold. Again GoMeb Speed will be on my feet at Boston Marathon,GoMeb Speed2 is a shoe that I can trust and I know will respond well the whole 26.2 miles!

 

 

 

  More Speed2 Reviews:

http://www.believeintherun.com/index.php/2014/01/30/skechers-gorun-speed-2-gomeb/

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skecher Performance Division 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.”

Skechers GoRun Ultra

I have to admit, before trying the Ultra. I had zero experience with maximum cushioned shoes. Sure I have checked out Hokas but could never see myself wearing them, So I was a bit skeptic when I first heard that Skechers Performance Division had a new maximum cushioned shoe in the loop. I am not an Ultra runner and as Im building up for Boston Marathon I have not done much trail latley. So how did the Ultras fit in, in my rotation? With Polar Vortex weather forecasts, snowy roads and stiff temperature here in New Jersey, I had found a perfect shoe for my winter running and recovery runs!

The GoRun Ultra was inspired by Ultra runner Robert Youngren, here you can read his blog and how Ultra was designed: http://youngrenepics.blogspot.com/2013/11/skechers-gorun-ultra-from-drawing-board.html

To break it down

Midsole/Out sole unit:
Ultra use a combination of a soft Resalyte midsole and more rigid Resagrip outsole to provide cushioning and support. Information from Robert Youngren blog:

Stack Heights 

  Forefoot =  23.0 mm
  Midfoot = 29.0 mm
  Heel = 27.0 mm 
  Net Drop = 4.0mm
  Sockliner = 3-7 mm (tapers from 7mm at heel to 3mm at forefoot)
 
Outsole offers a pattern of medium sized lugs, shaped as triangles almost. Although I have not tried the Ultras on the trails, I have tried them on pretty rough, slushy winter condition roads. And the runs have been safe and secured. Truly I feel this works as well as a road shoes as it does on the trails. The cushioning is very well present, although I enjoy a road feel shoe, I have actully found the cushioning  being pleasant the day after a hard work out when your legs are beat up.  

The running feeling is very "poppy" and the midsole flexes well. I have no problems picking up paces with the poppy feeling.

Upper/Fit:
The upper is very roomy. I have no problems getting a extra thick sock in them on a very cold day. In the front, the mesh is a bit stretchy, for toe display and a tighter mesh in the arch area to secure the fit. A couple of overlays add to the structure of the upper. Nothing to fancy, just simple functional design. The roomy upper is probably very useful if you're are planning to go the Ultra distance where your feet gets pretty swollen and beat up.

  
Performance: 
 As with all maximum cushioned shoes, you get a good stack height. You would think that the shoe therefor have sacrifice the energy return and the "pop" feeling. Ultra does not. I was pleasantly surprised how "fast" they actually felt and how flexible they are. They offer you ton of protection at the same time. I have heard from other runners who had used Ultra and rolled their ankles. This has not been an issue for me.

Sum up :
Im not a trail runner and Im not an Ultra runner, still I found a great place in my running shoe rotation for the Ultras! With a simple roomy upper, and a well cushioned ride the Ultras has given me great protection from Mother Winter nature. The stack height has given me good protection from the slushy wintery roads and the roomy upper has allowed me to add a thicker socks
Out sole lug pattern has protected me from sliding around and I have been able to focus on the running. I really like how I can pick up paces whenever I want without feeling the shoe is in the way.
Even if you're not an Ultra runner, you can find a place for Ultra in your rotation. Its a great versatile shoe that works for many purposes, you just have to explore the shoe and find your way!

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skecher Performance Division 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.”

Skechers GoRun3 review

I have to admit, I had a love affair with the Skechers GoRun2. With the GoRun2 I did most of my runs building up toward my Boston Marathon 2013 sub 3 PB. I loved how the GoRun2 kept me low to the ground with superb road feel ( a feeling that I had been looking for, for years), a snug upper that wraps your foot without bells and whistles! So I was a bit worried when I first opened the GoRun3 shoe box. I have now 160 miles in the GoRun3 and I'm convinced, this is for the better!

What has changed and whats new:
The upper is totally redone, without loosing the snug fit over the arch area. The front of the shoe offer now a more airy stretchable mesh. This makes your toes happy as they are able to spread out more. If you play around with the laces you can get a really snug feeling, having all the different mesh styles working together.
With the GoRun3 Skechers offer a 2 in 1 insole. This means that you can choose your drop between 4mm or 8mm. With the 4mm option you get lower to the ground and you have a more road feeling. the 4mm is the option I prefer. With the 8mm option, you lose some of the road and the experience is a more a cushioned ride. Its really a matter of taste, I prefer as I mentioned above the road feel. The road feel is still there with the 8mmm option but you get a much softer and cushioned ride.

To break it down

Mid Sole
GoRun3 carry over the same mid sole console as GoRun2. The difference is the insole and the 2 in 1 option. With 8mm you get a more cushioned feeling and ride. If you take out the insole for the 4mm option you get the same feeling I liked with GoRun2. Great flexible road feeling, you stay close to the ground.

Upper: The upper has been totally redone. Skechers are working with several different mesh styles to give you a secure fit and at the same time giving enough room in the front for your toes to display. This works really well and the different mesh styles almost feel like they were meant for each other. In the front you have the 3 layer Power-prene mesh on front panel. This is a very open mesh. This will most likely be a winner on a warm day but could be cold and trap snow on a cold snowy day. With some smart overlays and a tighter mesh in the arch area, the foot is secured. I was a bit afraid of loosing the sock like feeling you have with GoRun2, but its still there. Nice and smooth feeling but at the same time the foot is locked down.

Fit: Here you have to careful. With the new 2:1 insole sizing might differ for you.  My advice is to try them on and decide what option you like and are going to use. If you take out the insole the shoe will get bigger. Like the old trick my mom used when I was a kid to save a few bucks. Buy to big shoe and slide in an insole and they fit. If you take the insole out the shoe will run bigger.

Performance: With the 4mm option, as mentioned above you get the close to the ground feeling. Very responsive without being mushy. If you like to pick up the paces the shoe respond well and gives a lot of energy back. I find the 4mm option being a very fun shoe to do work outs in. For me the 4mm option is enough to go the full 26.2, but if you don't thing it s enough you can choose the 8mm option as it feel like more shoe under your foot. Still with a very responsive and energetic ride.

Sum Up: I was  afraid at first but the GoRun3 is a great update to GoRun2. GoRun3 feels more like a complete shoe, still without loosing the feeling from GoRun2. GoRun3 offers a new 2 in 1 insole system. When you try them on be careful with you sizing. With GoRun3 a have a shoe that I can use for all my workouts toward my goals 2014. And for the price of $80 you get the best valued running shoe on the market!

Other Reviews: http://runrepeat.com/skechers-gorun

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skechers Performance Division 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.”

Winter Running 2014

First post of the year! Of course it has to be weather related and running in really cold weather! Temperatures and weather has not really been kind to us here in NJ, but hey it can be worse. We are not living in Maine! I always try to complete all of my runs outside and for this year that equals a lot of layers of clothes! This blog is a sum up of how I dress before a really cold run!

Head: As head wear I use a beanie from Gore with wind protection in the front. On really cold days I add an extra headband, also with wind protection to keep my head warm. Sunglasses gives a great protection of your face and eyes. On really cold runs I use a Buff to cover my face and neck, but you might also want to try a face mask. Friends of mine has recommended a face mask from Under Armor.
The fix: Wind proof beanie

Upper body: Its so easy to over dress and get to warm during your run. It is ok to freeze the first couple of minutes of running, but once you get going your are going to get warm. I usually use base layers from CRAFT of Sweden, to me they are outstanding and has always kept me warm and dry. Cold days I use two layers of CRAFT and a weather proof jacket from Sugoi, not to heavy just enough to break the wind. Yes Craft is expensive but they will keep you dry and they last for decades.
The fix: Layers and Keep upper body dry

Hands: I have really cold hands and I cant take a run with cold hands. I always double up on the layers on my hands. Really cold days I use Gore Tex mittens with a wool liner glove. This solutions has kept my hands warm even on the coldest days with really stiff temperatures. Milder days I use a windproof glove from Sugoi.
The fix: Mittens

Legs: I hate to repeat myself, but the trick is really to use layers smart and keep the winds away from your body. Again I use base layers from CRAFT of Sweden, together with wind proof underwear from Asics or New Balance. As for the tights I use a really old pair of Nikes with Wind proof front. This solution is for really cold days. Milder days it might be enough with just the wind proof underwear and a pair of thinner tights.
The fix: Wind proof underwear

Feet: As with the hands, the feet is something I want to keep warm. This year we have been using different shoe models from Skechers Performance Division . All with the "All Weather" protection mesh:

• Special All Weather GOdri three layer edition
• Layer 1: Water resistant protective exterior barrier
• Layer 2: Micro-porous membrane allows air to pass through while keeping water out
• Layer 3: Form-fitting and moisture-wicking mesh interior

The All Weather models, GoRun2, GoRun Ride2 and Bionic Trail has been used in pretty nasty conditions. All from heavy rain/snow and temperatures down to real feel -2. On a really cold days you want to keep the winds away from your toes. If you use a shoe like Skechers All Weather and a pair of really nice wool socks you are good to go, I have been using Elite wool socks from Feetures!. So far my toes has been toasty and warm. If you want to add some traction on a snowy day, the Bionic trail is the shoe to pick. Although its a trail shoe it works really well on the roads and gives you great traction on the snow.  The All weather protection keep your feet dry in most conditions but if you stay out for 60 min+ in heavy rain, no shoe in the world will keep your feet dry. The All Weather mesh is not as stretchy as the regular GoRun mesh but it does wrap your feet really well. The feeling is the same as the original GoRun series.
GoRun series reviews here:
GoRun2
Ride2 
Bionic Trail
The Fix: Windproof shoes and wool

My Winter running blog from 2013:  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skechers Performance Division 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.”

December, 50 000 and Boston

Boston Marathon is soon 18 weeks away! Hamstring is getting better bu I have been having some issues with tightness and grumpiness. I have been able to run bun have been moving forward slowly this week in order to put not to much stress on it. I got a nasty tick bite 2 weeks ago and was put on heavy antibiotic. Not sure if that had anything to do with my grumpy hamstring but over all I felt very tired. I'm trying not to over do the foam rolling and stretching but I have to admit its very tempting to give it an extra push with the foam roller after a run (sorry Caleb). So Monday it is 18 weeks til Boston and I hope to be back soon doing some quality work outs and get the mileage up.

I proud to announce that I'm going to represent Feetures! socks during 2014 as an ambassador. I have been using their elite socks for years now, so I'm really exited to represent them an an ambassador. Feetures! Gives you a really close, snug feeling and you don't have to worry about chafing. The Elite socks comes in different cushioning ?thickness. I really like the Ultra light sock, snug fit and as I like the road feel when running, the Feetures! does not interfere with that feeling. As the tempreatures get stiffer here in NJ, I'm going to use the Merino wool version of the Elite. Nothing beats wool when the freezing temps are biting your toes.

Swedish Colored socks will match Swedish colored Speed2

50 000
50 000 visitors is getting closer for therunningswede.com! This week the blog will pass 50 000 visitors...Thank you all who has visited the blog during 2013 and A big thank you to all my friends at Skechers Performance Division for all support!

Running in the dark

Winter time has arrived which means shorter days of daylight. For most of us runner it means that you have to run in the dark. In Northern New Jersey where I do most of my runs, I do not have any shoulders on the road, no street lights and a lot of "crazy" drivers. My experience is that most of the drivers don't really respect you as a runner, to busy paying attention to their cell phone texting/talking or Seniors who are to old to drive their Cadillac's . This apply to any running on the roads, not just in the dark. So when I run in the dark, I try to make myself as visible as possible. Of course the rule number 1 is to run on the right side of the road, facing the traffic, again this apply to any running on roads. You wanna see the traffic and get an understanding if they actually see you and respect you. Numerous time I have been forced to take a dive in the ditch because of reasons mentioned above.

So when I get out for my night runs I wanna try to make myself as visible as possible. If I look like a Christmas tree in the end, fine, as long as it does not interfere with my running.

From top I wear a headlamp, I add a red light in the back. I have had great success with my Princeton Tec Fuel, perfect amount of light and its lightweight. In the back I have a small signal light from Petzl.

Upper body: Most jackets have some kind of reflective & illumination features but as my main "source" of reflective & illumination, I wear a Amphipod Xinglet Reflective Wear. This "vest" gives you lot of freedom and does not interfere with your running. This "vest" also provides 360 degree reflectivity.

Legs and arms: Again most of today's tights and jackets comes with some sort of reflective illumination feature. For the legs and arms I add reflective bands from Nathan, they are easy to put on and stays in place while you are running. Adding this to the parts that moves more gives you extra visibility and drivers will see you faster.

Shoes: Most brands today have added reflectiv illumination features to their shoe lines. If not most of today's shoes have some spots in the back of the shoe or in the front. Here are some options:

• Saucony Kinvara 4 ViziGlo.
•  Nike Air Pegasus+ 30 Shield

We have been using shoes from Skechers and the Nite Owl series. The Nite Owl series is GoRun2 ( review here) and GoRun Ride2 (review here)  with added photoluminescent technology. We have now tested the shoes for several of runs and walks ( with our dog Tess) and I have to say this technology really works. After only a few hours "charging" the shoes they glow for your entire run or walk. An the glow is sharp! Downside can be if you forget to put the shoes out before your run, it wont work. The shoes need light and to be charged to "lid" up. I have my shoes out 24/7 so its not an issue for me, but if you keep your Nite Owls in the closet, you need to remember to get them out a few hours before your run.

I never rely on one source of reflective & illumination gear. The Nite owls or any other products in this blog should not be your single source of light, reflection or illumination. Use them together in order to stay safe on the roads.  There are many other ways you can make yourself visible on your run, these are just the equipment I use at the moment. You can find lights and leds for every single piece of your body if you wish. Find the way that works for your running, your gear and environment.  As mentioned before I get a little bit paranoid when running in the dark and I wanna make sure the drivers sees me ahead of time. I might look like a Christmas tree when I'm running at night, but that is OK as long as it keeps me safe!

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Skechers Performance Division as part of their Skecher Performance Division brand ambassador program. I was not required to write a positive review. All other brands mentioned in this blog was bought by myself. 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.”

NYC Marathon Momentum

By far this was not Meb Keflezighi best NYC Marathon. But instead of call it a day when his body screamed NO, Meb continued and finished in 2:23:47. He stopped, walked and then continued in a "slower pace".

These videos describes it all and why I think he his #1 marathoner!

 http://www.flotrack.org/coverage/250963-New-York-City-Marathon-2013/video/723689-Emotional-Meb-Keflezighi-after-NYC-Marathon-2013

 http://www.flotrack.org/coverage/250963-New-York-City-Marathon-2013/video/723682-Meb-Keflezighi-body-shut-down-from-lack-of-training-in-NYC-Marathon-2013-full-interview

 Lot of great things are happening for Skechers Performance Divisin right now, Meb signed a new contract with Skechers Performance Division after NYC Marathon

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/skechers-performance-division-extends-multi-135500426.html

And Skechers Performance Division wins "Brand of the Year Honor" from Footwear News!
http://online.wsj.com/article/PR-CO-20131106-909214.html

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/skechers-performance-receives-brand-of-the-year-honor-from-footwear-news-2013-11-06?reflink=MW_news_stmp

NYC Marathon Expo

As I was not running the NYC Marathon this year I had the pleasure to representing Skechers Performance Division, Friday and Saturday. The best part of this is of course meeting and connect with  runners from all over the world. The best meeting was the guy from LA who had been at the LAX airport with his daughter at the same time as last Fridays shooting took place and had to leave all their luggage behind, including all his running gear. We laced him up with the brand new GoRun3 has we did not have the Bionic Ride at the expo. Lawrence Miller from the Valley was the runner and he successfully finished the Marathon in 3:57:36.





Also I had the pleasure to meet the  Skechers Performance Division, including Kurt Stockbridge. Walking with Kurt at the Expo talking Shoe geek stuff and showing him whats "New" and what runners are taking about on the forums was a blast.

At the Booth, Skechers had the brand new GoRun3 and GoSpeed2. Both in the NYC limited edition black and gold. Both have the same platform with brand new uppers. GoRun3 also got a new "extra" sock liner so you can pop it up to 8mm with some extra cushioning Reviews are coming soon.

The expo itself was kind of an disappointment. I feel most of the companies did not come there in good shape.  For an example:

Adidas did not have the brand new Adios Boost, very disappointing. They had as display but you could not buy it.....

Mizuno usually have the new Rider at the NYC expo, not this year. Instead they put all their guns on the New Creation and Prophecy ($210!!!!!!!) Of course its always a pleasure to network and talk running with Seth Hasty from Mizuno!

New Balance had the new RC 1400 v.2. Good looking shoe, I hope they firmed up the heel a bit. Crazy amount of overlays in the front, could possible cause hot spots....

Asics, I didnt even bother.....What a Zoo! I peeked in just to confirm that they did not have the new HyperSpeed6

Newton, checked out the the Energy and the new trail shoe Boco AT. Really enjoyed how Kurt looked at the Newton sales rep after analyzing the BOCO AT and said...."how could you release this shoe"

Saucony, nothing new really that caught my attention. The Kinvara had got the ViziGlo upper....

Really looking forward to see the Boston expo in April. To me that is the number one expo in USA, open for public.

Skechers GoRun3 Released

 Just in time for NYC Marathon, the brand new GoRun3 has been released by Skechers Performance Division! With the exact same midsole/outsole as the GoRun2 but with an improved more breathable upper. Three colors has been release on Skechers.com:

Blue/Green

 Black/Red

 NYC Marathon Edition

 Review is coming soon! #Golikeneverbefore