RunningWarehouse.com Blog

We Are the Champions, My Friends

For all you SLO folks out there, did you know that our retail store puts on a heck of a good time in the form of a group run every Thursday night? Ditch the iPod for an evening and come join your fellow human beings in a 5-6 mile run around San Luis Obispo.

Weekly run routes and pace are totally up to the group. Don’t worry, no one will get left in the dust, and you won’t be bored stiff either. It’s a good workout and great conversation with other local runners. Runs start at our retail store on Suburban Road at 6:00 pm. In recent weeks we’ve done a loop up to Madonna and back on Los Osos Valley Road and a trail run on the Irish Hills.

It’s easy to get a reminder about the run each week and find out about special events, like our Timex GPS run a few weeks ago (group shot above). Just send an email to info@runningwarehouse.com letting us know you’d like to be added to our email list. Or, sign up for our list by the register at our retail store.

The Details

• Who: You, other hip runners, some of our retail staff
• What: A 5-6 mile group run
• When: 6:00 p.m. Thursdays
• Where: The RW retail store at 181 Suburban Road
• Why: Fitness, Fun, Camaraderie

Hope to see you soon for a Thursday Night Run!

Matt Running Sport running warehouse group run, running warehouse thursday night run

Asics Gel Cumulus 14 Women's and Men's Running Shoes

Our Tweet

The Asics Gel Cumulus 14 is a solid daily trainer for the neutral runner who wants to rack up miles in comfort.
(View Men’s Gel Cumulus 14 and Women’s Gel Cumulus 14)

Big Updates

• Weight Fluctuation: The Men’s Cumulus 14 comes in about a half ounce lighter than the outgoing model, but the Women’s Cumulus 14 is actually an ounce heavier than the prior model. The lighter Men’s weight is likely due to a more sculpted midsole and slightly reduced Gel cushioning. We have not been able to determine the source of the weight increase on the Women’s model.
• Full Length Guidance Line: This line, now running the length of the outsole, is designed to improve gait efficiency.
• Firmer Ride: The Cumulus 14 offers lots of cushioning but has been tuned to deliver a more responsive ride than last year’s model.

Road Test

All right, kids – time for Latin 101. Did you know that cumulus means “pile” or “heap”? Betcha didn’t. But now you do. And while our testers found plenty of cushioning in the latest Cumulus, it feels dialed back a bit from the “heap” of cushioning in prior generations.

That said, the Cumulus 14 certainly is not a firm shoe, but the updated ride helps to make it feel more stable. Though the Cumulus weighs about the same or even a bit more than the Nimbus 14, Asics’ top-of-the-line neutral trainer, several testers reported that it actually feels lighter than that model.

The upper received lots of positive remarks, with testers commenting on the fantastic heel fit and slightly closer fit in the forefoot compared to recent generations. Those of you who have been fans of this shoe for many years might feel that the latest version harkens back to the closer fit of versions 8 and 9. If you’ve purchased the Cumulus in the past for a more generous fit, definitely give the new model a thorough try-on to see if you might need to bump up to a wide width.

The latest Cumulus carries on its mission of high-mileage comfort, but takes a bit of a different direction by becoming a touch more responsive and closer-fitting for a more connected feel with the road.

Runners Say

“Really smooth transition in this shoe. I think the full-length Guidance Line helps to keep the shoe moving forward fluidly.” – Matt

“The ride of the Cumulus 14 is firmer than I expected, and the upper feels a bit more streamlined than the prior model.” – Moe

“Great landing for heel strikers. It’s pretty good for a midfoot strike too, but I’d probably go with a different shoe if I regularly landed on my forefoot.” – Daniel

Matt Running Shoes asics cumulus 14, asics gel cumulus 14, asics gel running shoes, Asics Running Shoes

Running Warehouse already carries Ryders and Tifosi sunglasses, two well-known names in running optics. And now we’re adding two more big brands: Smith and Nike. These new brands give you a full range of choices for improving and protecting your vision on the roads and trails.

Smith Optics

A company known both for performance and lifestyle sunglass models, Smith Optics produces several models geared for optimal vision during sports and exercise.

Smith Pivlock V90, Parallel, and Parallel Max Detail

Models We Carry

• Smith Pivlock V90 ($139.00): This well-known model features a frameless design that helps improve ventilation and gives you the widest possible field of vision. You also get a ton of lens tech, including distortion correction for an accurate vision of the road ahead and full-spectrum UV protection. Hydrophilic nose and temple pads hold the glasses firmly in place.
• Smith Parallel ($129.00): This feather-light model offers all the same lens tech features as the Pivlock V90, except you get a polarized grey lens. Like the Pivlock, the Parallel also comes with clear and red tint interchangeable lenses for cloudy or mixed light conditions.
• Smith Parallel Max ($129.00): The Parallel Max sports the same frame as the Parallel, with a slightly larger lens shape that extends lower on the cheek and further backward toward the temple for additional coverage.

Nike Vision

Sunglasses from Nike Vision are much more than just regular old shades with a Swoosh on the side. The company is known for producing high quality performance eyewear.

Nike Impel Swift, Impel, and Tailwind12 Detail

Models We Carry

• Nike Impel ($179.00): These top-of-the-line running sunglasses are loaded with goodies, including durable magnesium temple arms, lens distortion correction and a scratch-resistant lens coating. Ventilation is maximized via the “flying lens” design and an adjustable, ventilated nose bridge. Other features include hinges that spring open and full UVA/UVB protection.
• Nike Impel Swift ($179.00): Enjoy all the features of the Impel, but with a different lens cut that’s more rounded on the outside edge.
• Nike Hyperion ($139.00): With the same lens technology as the Impel (distortion correction, scratch resistance, UVA/UVB protection), the Hyperion trades out to a full-nylon frame for a lower price tag.
• Nike Tailwind12 ($99.00): The model you’ll see on many Olympic athletes in London this year, the Tailwind12 offers a bucketful of features, including distortion correction, flying lens to prevent fogging, cam-action hinges and a durable full-nylon frame.

Matt Running Accessories nike hyperion, nike impel, nike impel swift, nike running sunglasses, nike tailwind12, smith parallel, smith parallel max, smith performance sunglasses, smith pivlock v90, smith running sunglasses

Our Tweet

Nike Free 4.0 v2 may be the Goldilocks of the Free family – it strikes a balance between the Free Run 3 and Free 3.0 v4 for great runnability.
(View Men’s Free 4.0 v2 and Women’s 4.0 v2)

Big Features

• 6mm Offset: The Free 4.0 slots in between the Free 3.0 (4mm heel-to-toe offset) and the Free Run 3 (8mm heel-to-toe offset).
• Lightweight, Durable Platform: The midsole material is designed to provide a bit of padding with enough durability to double as an outsole.
• Increased Flexibility: Diagonal flex grooves in the midfoot and deep cuts (sipes) throughout the platform allow for ultimate flexibility.
• New Upper: The NanoPly overlay material is used where extra structure is needed in the shoe, while still permitting the upper to breathe and stretch. The upper also features asymmetrical lacing for a more comfortable midfoot and a fold-under tongue for easy entry and exit.

Road Test

Even if you’re a big fan of the Nike Free concept, chances are good the Free 4.0 v2 might not be on your radar. The original Free 4.0, appearing briefly in 2006, had a laceless upper that wasn’t a big hit with runners. After 6 years in limbo, the Free 4.0 reappears as a thoroughly re-envisioned model that received wide praise from our testers.

The Free 4.0 sports a 6mm heel-to-toe offset. Testers found the shoe to feel very level, and the platform cradles the foot. And while every shoe in the Free collection offers a very smooth and flexible ride, testers repeatedly commented that the Free 4.0 struck a nice balance of protection, flex and responsiveness. One tester noted that the shoe felt less padded toward the very front, forward of the metatarsals. All testers noticed a fairly high arch in this shoe, which actually helped them feel a bit more anchored in place.

The attractive upper of the Free 4.0 strategically uses Nike’s new NanoPly overlay technology. Our testers are mixed on the NanoPly material in general – some like the huggy fit it gives, others feel it’s a bit too restrictive – but the 4.0 strikes a good balance of using NanoPly and traditional mesh. Testers noted some crinkling of the fabric up front during toe off, due to the use of NanoPly by the big toe, which doesn’t allow the mesh in the toebox to fold freely. The crinkling did not cause hotspots, but may be a bigger concern for sockless runners. On the plus side, all testers felt the Free 4.0 offers a bit more toebox height than either the Free 3.0 v4 or Free Run 3.

Overall, we found the Free 4.0 v2 to be an adaptable shoe that could do duty as a foot strengthening tool, daily trainer or race-day shoe, depending on a person’s needs and running style.

Runners Say

“I think the tongue that’s stitched only one side is the perfect design for the Free. It’s easier to slip the shoe on and there’s a really snug fit once you’re laced up.” – Matt

“Even though it doesn’t have the Dynamic Fit system that is being added to many Nike shoes, the Free 4.0 feels very secure in the midfoot without ever feeling too tight or pinching my foot.” – Daniel

“I would have liked a little more room in the midfoot. I didn’t get a hotspot or anything because the interior is nice and soft.” – Lauren

Matt Running Shoes Nike Free, nike free 4.0 v2, nike free running shoes

Straight, Hourglass, Athletic, Pear

Every woman out there has her own unique shape, and we understand how tricky it can be to find running capris that flatter different figures. To help you find a great capri for your hard-working legs, we had four Running Warehouse ladies test out a ton of capris to find the most flattering options for different body types…check out our results below!

Straight (far left)

Your waist and hip measurements are very similar, and you have few curves. A capri that hugs your body all the way down will highlight your slim figure and a color contrast detail down the side can create the illusion of gentle curves. Our top choice: Mizuno Exodus ¾ Tight

Hourglass (middle left)

You are shaped…well, like an hourglass. Your bust and hip measurements are similar, and your waist is defined. A snug capri lets you flaunt your feminine curves. Our top choice: Sugoi Jackie Knicker

Athletic (middle right)

You have broad shoulders, narrow hips and a fair amount of muscle definition in your legs. Opt for either a flared capri to balance your top half, or a more form-fitting capri to accentuate your sculpted gams. Our top choice: Saucony LX Mod Tight Capri

Pear (far right)

You have a curvaceous bottom half, and are more petite up top. Reach for a capri that has a straight-leg fit to keep your top half in proportion and flatter your booty-licious bottom half. Our top choice: Moving Comfort Flow Capri

If you’re looking for more fierce options for your bottom half, check out the rest of our capri selection at Running Warehouse.

Alice Running Apparel run capri, running capris, women's running capri, women's running capris

How cool would it be to set a new PR in the Saucony Kinvara 3 shoes you won from Running Warehouse? Pretty cool, right? Enter our contest and you could sport the latest Kinvara for free!

Congratulations to Andrew in Oklahoma, winner of our Kinvara 3 Giveaway. And thank you to everyone who entered!

Matt Running Shoes

On May 6, 1954, Roger Bannister became the first person to run the mile in under 4 minutes. His time of 3:59:40 at Iffley Road track in Oxford bested the standing World Record by 2 seconds and broke a barrier many people thought was impossible.

His record didn’t last long, however. John Landy, a rival Australian runner, logged a time of 3:58:00 less than two months after Bannister’s run. The World Record fell 7 more times over the next 20 years.

So how does Bannister’s achievement stack up today, nearly 60 years later? Pretty well, actually. Sure, there are countless runners who can break the 4 minute mark now, but the current World Record time of 3:43:17 (held by Hicham El Guerrouj) is less than 17 seconds faster than Bannister’s record. And back in 2005, Bannister’s mile time was named the “Greatest Athletic Achievement” according to Forbes Magazine.

It’s worth taking a few minutes to watch the full race to see Bannister’s awe-inspiring performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWqwi6FcyH8

Matt Running Sport roger bannister 4 minute mile, roger bannister 4:00 mile, roger bannister world record

In the immortal words of Right Said Fred, “I’m too sexy for my shirt, too sexy for my shirt, so sexy it hurts.” If this describes you, we can relate. But for those spring days when it’s too chilly to bear your arms and midriff on the road or trail, we’ve picked a few of our favorite mid-weight running tops to keep you going strong.

Pearl Izumi seems to hit the mark time after time with great performance run apparel. The Pearl Izumi Infinity In-R-Cool Long Sleeve (above, at left) is an excellent blend of technology and feminine style. The In-R-Cool technology in the fabric reacts with perspiration to lower the body’s surface temperature  by up to 5%, so you can enjoy lightweight coverage without overheating on transitional spring days.

The Saucony Transition Hoody (above, middle) is another great option for those in-between days when you want a little something extra as you head out on your run. The fabric of this piece is soft and incredibly lightweight. The meshy construction of this hoody makes it very breathable, resulting in fantastic ventilation.

For a great go-to long sleeve top for lightweight coverage, reach for The North Face GTD Long Sleeve (above, at right). Mesh in all the right places makes this top highly breathable, and offers just the right amount of coverage. Minerale fibers further increase breathability, and prevent the odor-building bacteria, so you can stay fresh on your run.

Want to see all your long sleeve options? Check out our Women’s Top Finder, where you can select your preferred size, type and more.

Alice Running Apparel cool weather running, long sleeve running tops, spring run tops, summer run tops

Our Tweet

Weight’s down and flexibility is up in the Nike Free Run+ 3, now lower to the ground with a more customizable fit.
(View Men’s Free Run 3 and Women’s Free Run 3)

Big Updates

• Lighter Weight: The Men’s Free Run 3 checks in about an ounce lighter than the Free Run 2. The weight loss for the Women’s model is not quite as dramatic, but weight is still down a few tenths of an ounce.
• Increased Flexibility: Updated midsole Flex Grooves follow a more natural foot motion.
• Fresh Upper Design: No longer featuring “bootie” construction, the Free Run 3 has a tongue and a supportive inner sleeve that wraps under the arch and around the midfoot for increased arch support and an adaptive fit. Strategic use of NanoPly overlays results in lightweight structure that still allows the foot to move.
• Reduced Midsole Height: The Free Run 3 is 2mm lower in the heel and 3mm lower in the forefoot compared to the Free Run 2. This update provides a more connected feel with the road.

Road Test

Testers weren’t sure what to expect before they put on the latest Nike Free Run. After all, the shoe has undergone some pretty significant changes, particularly in the upper. But after slipping this shoe on and lacing it up, testers who have run in prior versions of the Free felt right at home.

On first glance, the new upper that includes a tongue may make you think that the Free Run 3 is sneaking its way into the Traditional Running Shoe Club. Not so fast. The tongue construction actually makes the shoe easier to put on, and the tongue itself is thin and breathable. The tongue did not create any unwelcome seams or hotspots and the shoe remains highly runnable if you want to go sockless.

Once they were situated in the shoe, testers appreciated the adjustability of the new Dynamic Fit system in the midfoot. It doesn’t feel quite as customizable as other implementations of the system, such as in the LunarEclipse+ 2 and Vomero+ 7, but still gives a runner the ability to cinch down the midfoot in just the right places or leave the midfoot fit more generous.

Of course, the most notable feature of the Free Run remains its mid/outsole. In its latest version, the platform remains flexible and offers an extraordinarily smooth transition. So what types of runs can you do in the latest Free Run? It remains a great foot strengthening tool, given how much emphasis it gives to making your foot do the work. After running in the shoe regularly, testers report that daily training and even speedwork are not only possible, but are actually enjoyable. Runners who take the time to work up their foot strength in the Free Run can expect handsome rewards both in this shoe and when running in other flats and trainers.

Runners Say

“Feels like more of a protective ride than a cushioned one. If you’re a heel striker, this shoe will help you change your ways.” – Matt

“The forefoot by the base of the laces is on the snug side for me, and I also experienced some pinching by the little toe.” – Daniel

Matt Running Shoes Nike Free, nike free run 3

The Color Run

Summer is on its way, and we’re ready for some lighthearted fun. That’s why we were so stoked when we found The Color Run. At 31 different locations around the States, runners will gather for an energy-packed, 3.1 mile taste-the-rainbow sweat session. Young, old, fast, slow… it doesn’t matter for this race! The only requirements for the 5k are a white tee shirt at the starting line and complete color mania at the finish line.

So how does this thing work, exactly? At each kilometer marker, race volunteers, sponsors and staff toss powder at participants in a different bold color, transforming your white tee into an art piece. Kilometer number one is yellow, two is blue, three is green, four is pink, and the finish line is a glorious jubilee of color. Judging by the photo gallery from previous races, this event is a must for anyone who loves fun, running and being outside. Check out race locations and dates to find an event near hue…oh sorry, you.

Alice Running Sport color run