It goes without saying that every woman is looking for that perfect black pant: for the gym, for comfort, for having an alternate to jeans. Let’s face it, a great black pant has a more important place in a woman’s closet than even the LBD (little black dress). What LBD do you expect to wear more than once a week and be machine washable? It’s not out there, sister, or at least its not going to make your butt look good if it is.
In walks the Nike Legend pant and Capri line from Nike.
The beauty of these is their durability and they make you look good while hanging tough.
Don’t believe me, see for yourself. Check this video out from Nike. They really went to lengths to get it right:
A solid black workout pant. It really does exist! Who knew? Try them and see for yourself.
“Drop” = the elevation change between the heel and forefoot.
In today’s day and age, gone are the high heels of the Air Max 90′s, and in are the minimalist shoes. Thin is in. It’s more than just having a light shoe, but level is the new desired design of today’s running shoe. Level shoes allow you to run in different elevations, and use your entire leg.
So what’s new for 2012?
New Balance has shifted towards the minimalist field with new Vibram outsoles, which have performed well with a new “sticky” feeling rubber. With both a road and trail versi0n, and very eye catching looks. Adding to that, NB also has different styles depending on your desired level of drop. The “Minimus” line gives you a range from 0mm to 4mm drop. New styles are en route! http://www.sport-seasons.com/minimus/Search
The most eye-catching of the group are the Vibram Five Fingers. Some of the Vibram’s have a negative drop, where the heel is actually lower than the forefoot. One of their more anticipated arrivals are the new SeeYa’s, a very aggressive running version of the popular FiveFingers. Even lighter and with some serious arch support, the SeeYa is designed purely for the runner.
Even if you aren’t a fan of the minimalist wave, Saucony has redesigned three of their trademark shoes to all have a small 8mm drop, which is very low for a running show.
our humble advertisement for the new Saucony shoes
Given the success of the Cortana, which was their first low drop running shoe in recent memory, the Hurricane, Guide, and Triumph all have levelled out. The result is a show that propels you off your toes forward. In addition to being good running shoes, these are great for aerobic exercise such as boxing. The tread patter on the bottom was also overhauled.
Of course, it’s never a bad idea to try these on (especially the Vibrams if you haven’t tried them before), and ease your way into the new technology. While I’m sure plenty of folks will always love their Nike Shox, the versatility of these new and level shoes should win you over if given the chance.
Thinking about those extra holiday pounds? Looking for your next pair of running shoes to make up for it? Sweet.
We have some awesome deals on Asics running shoes – select styles are $25 to $30 off. Asics GT 2160 for $69.99, Asics Nimbus 12 for $89.99 and Asics Kayano 17 for $99.99. Plus, orders over $75 receive free ground shipping.
I saw a comment where a runner described the new Asics GT 2170 as “foot chocolate”. I have to agree! So glad we have these in stock now, some accounts won’t see them until February.
So what’s new with the GT 2170? Here’s the scoop straight from Asics:
For the last 17 years, the GT-2000™ series has produced generation after generation of high-end performance known for its consistently reliable fit, stability and cushioning. The GT-2170™ reprises its role as the industry leader with technical updates that stay loyal to its roots while pushing forward with improved fit and ride.
Discrete Eyelets
To compliment the lighter weight design, the upper now features Discrete Eyelets for a more uniform pull when the laces are tightened; creating an improved personalized upper fit. This series of individual eyestays allow the shoe to move with the foot more effectively while providing a great fit over the instep, as well as a decreased potential for irritation.
Large GEL® Cushioning System ASICS takes great pride in its GEL Cushioning System and this year’s GT-2170 receives the largest GEL® unit in the GT-2000™ series to date. This one piece GEL® heel unit has been designed with a sculpted shape to optimize cushioning.
Full-Length Guidance Line®
Combine the largest series GEL® Cushioning System with a Full Length Guidance Line® extending from the heel to the forefoot and you’ve got a super cushioned ride, perfect for helping the foot move properly through its natural path of progression.
So, if you have a pair already, or plan to get some, let us know what you think about the changes. Post a comment, we love to hear from you!
Last Fall I wrote about my experience running a 5k race in my pair of Vibram KSO FiveFingers. I really enjoy the massage-like feel of the separate toe pockets, and without socks, so I didn’t wear them much over the winter. As we begin to receive several models at the store, I look forward to seeing the response to customers trying a pair on for the first time. Some aspects of the shoe I appreciate are the feel of the toe pockets, the arch-hugging contour of the KSO model with its strap fit system, the grip of the razor-siped rubber outsole, and the whole concept of strengthening the foot, having increased sensory perception and greater flexibility. It makes the shoe really fun to wear for most any casual active pursuits, or if one is a true ‘barefoot’ athlete, even for the most vigorous activity.
The FiveFingers come with instructions for getting them on your feet, which involves tucking one’s toes deliberately into the pockets. It doesn’t take very long to get used to it but is more involved than slipping on ‘normal’ shoes. Some may not enjoy that toe separation, but I found it to give me a sense of greater flexibility and a massage-like feeling.
The combination of the contoured sole and snug upper makes for an arch-hugging fit that actually feels more effective than a running shoe that just has the foot resting on top of a shaped platform for arch support. Impressive.
The KSO model which I have has a smooth outsole, with cuts similar to deck shoes for traction on smooth surfaces, something that is noticeable doing an activity such as TRX Pilates. It would perform well on rock also, but other models have patterns for dirt, road-running and more thickness for all around protection.
These shoes can be a great tool for gaining strength, flexibility, and foot health. The runner’s gait will most likely need to become such that the foot strikes more centered underneath the body, a departure from the reaching out and landing with the heel at an angle out in front. A difference from most running shoes, which have thick mid-soles with an 8 to 15 percent drop heel to forefoot, the FiveFingers have no drop, with only a few millimeters insole/outsole for natural barefoot feel, but protection from skin abrasion or injury.
Seasoned barefoot runners will use these shoes in all seasons and weather, for all kinds of mileage. But for most people, they should be used only in increments starting at about 10% of the time running or working out, maybe one short workout a week at first. I have enjoyed wearing them for casual use, and look forward to lots of low impact use such as light hiking and trail play. There are limitless activity applications, some friction rock climbing would be interesting.
FiveFingers are machine washable, air dry. A welcomed feature for a shoe that is worn mostly without socks.
Warmer weather is here, time for me to get some more mileage in these alternative, fun, foot-glove type shoes.
~Staff member Barry C.
Vibram FiveFingers are now available in several different styles at Sport Seasons. Curious about how to find your size in FiveFingers? Check out the quick video below.
Discrete Eyelets
Large GEL® Cushioning System
Full-Length Guidance Line®
