REVIEW: Under Armour HOVR Sonic

Disclaimer: I received a pair of Under Armour HOVR Sonic shoes to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I love Under Armour products but I’ve actually never owned a pair of UA sneakers. I have so much UA gear as I’ve always enjoyed them for working out and running. When I had the opportunity to test out the Under Armour HOVR Sonic non-connected sneakers, I was all over it. I was so excited to get these and try them out.

As noted above, I received the non-connected (NC) version of the HOVR Sonic. The only different between the NC and Connected is that the Connected version has UA’s Record Sensor. The UA Record Sensor provides data from your run to your phone. The Connected version would’ve been cool to have but I was completely fine with the NC version. I use a running watch that provides me with a ton of data.

The UA HOVR Sonic is a NEUTRAL shoe and that is what I have always worn. I was really looking forward to getting these and trying them out.

As you can see in the photos, the pair I received were black with some white and red. I didn’t know what color I was getting, so when I opened the box, I was pleasantly surprised. I think they look great.

The next step was the biggest. My foot is a little wider so sometimes I have issues with certain running shoes that I try on. They feel like they are squeezing my foot too much. I had never tried these on, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was so happy and a bit surprised how well they fit when I put them on. The shoe seemed to fit me really well, like a glove, and I felt like these sneakers would not need as much time for me to break in and get used to. They just seemed right from the start. Normally, it takes me a few weeks to really feel like a pair of show is broken in. That wasn’t the case with these.

These sneakers are so comfortable. They are nice a light too. The UA HOVR technology definitely delivers. They feel good, are nice and plush, and provide nice cushion.

The top of the sneaker is made up of compression mesh. I don’t have a pair of running shoes with this type of material. I loved it. It stretches to your foot and has real nice texture to it. I really liked how these shoes felt on my feet. You can tell how breathable these sneakers are too which is a huge help right now in the humid weather we’re experience in New Jersey. The soft knit upper dries fast too.

One of the specs they note that I noticed immediately is the unique tongue construction. It is attached to the footbed by stretchable support wings. This helps it maintain a snug fit throughout the foot.

Below is a list of the UA HOVR Sonic Specs:

  • UA HOVR™ technology provides ‘zero gravity feel’ to maintain energy return that helps eliminate impact step after step
  • Compression mesh Energy Web contains & molds UA HOVR™ foam to give back the energy you put in
  • NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
  • Soft knit upper dries fast & provides a breathable, compression-like fit that delivers lightweight directional strength & unmatched comfort to help you go the distance
  • Ventilated midfoot panel increases breathability
  • Unique tongue construction is attached to the footbed by stretchable support wings to maintain a snug fit throughout the foot
  • External TPU heel counter for additional support & structure
  • Removable, anti-microbial Ortholite® sockliner molds to the foot for customized comfort & cushion
  • Blown rubber under the forefoot is lightweight yet incredibly responsive
  • High-abrasion rubber placed under the heel to help absorb ground contact
  • Offset: 8mm
  • Weight: 9.6oz
  • Imported

Overall, I’ve been very pleased with the Under Armour HOVR Sonic NC sneakers. They have been a great addition to my running and work out shoe rotation. Besides running, I have used them to lift in and cross train. They felt right on the elliptical and the stepper. I’m definitely a fan.

Do you own a pair of UA HOVR Sonic shoes?

What is your favorite color for your running shoes?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about UA HOVR Sonic:

Karen          Amy S          Jenn          Shannon          B.J.          Ben          Lissa          Barb          Amy W          Alastair          Mary Jo          Aubrene

Check out Under Armor on:

Twitter: @UARunning
Instagram: @UARunning

 

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REVIEW: NuGo Egg White Protein Bars

Disclaimer: I received NuGo Egg White Protein Bars to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I’ve enjoyed different types of NuGo bars in the past. They have been used throughout my training a lot. When I heard that they had a brand new product called NuGo Egg White Protein bars, I jumped at the opportunity to test them. I have loved the other NuGo products I’ve ate and I love egg whites, so I figured this was a win win. It delivered just like I thought it would.

I try to make sure I add plenty of protein to my diet. I like to make sure I am replenishing my body with the protein it needs after my runs, especially my long runs. NuGo Egg Whit Protein bars make it easy. This yummy, healthy option packs the protein I’m looking for.

The NuGo Egg White Protein bars come in four flavors. The four flavors are Dark Chocolate Sea Salt, Peanut Butter, Maple Pecan, and Blueberry. I love dark chocolate and peanut butter, so I was real happy to see them as flavors. I wasn’t sure how I’d like the Maple Pecan or Blueberry but I was pleasantly surprised with each, especially the blueberry. I don’t pick blueberry much when it’s an option  but this was one I liked a lot and never hesitated to pick it again after having it the first time. One of the hardest things was deciding which flavor to have after my runs, as I liked each one of them almost equally.

These protein baes are gluten free, kosher, non-GMO, and made with real fruits and nuts. NuGo starts with the highest quality fruits and nuts, then add non-GMO egg white protein. Egg white protein is a complete protein, containing all of the amino acids your body needs, while being virtually fat and cholesterol free.

Each Dark Chocolate Sea Salt bar is 190 calories and packs 13g of protein. They contain egg whites, chocolate, almonds, cashews, dates, and sea salt.

The Peanut Butter bar is made up of egg whites, peanuts, almonds, and dates. It is 200 calories and contains 14g of protein.

Egg whites, pecans, almonds, cashews, and dates make up the Maple Pecan bar. This bar has 200 calories and 13g of protein.

Only 180 calories are in the Blueberry bar. Made from egg whites, blueberries, cashews, and dates, this bar provides 12g of protein.

These bars are clean, simple, and delicious at a lower cost than most of the competition. NuGo is an independent natural foods company. Check it out.

With only 180-200 calories per bar, these have been fitting into my nutrition plan nicely. I definitely recommend you try these out if you’re looking for a protein bar for your post-workout needs. It is a great protein option for fueling your body.

Use code BIBRAVE for 15% OFF by 8/3/18.

Which one of these four flavors would you try first?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about NuGo Egg White Protein Bars:

Lindsey          Janelle          Sara          Danielle          Kim          Katy          Karen          Brad          Ryan          Lissa

Check out NuGo on:

Twitter: @NuGoNutrition
Instagram: @NuGoNutrition

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REVIEW: Ultima Replenisher

Disclaimer: I received Ultima Replenshier to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I’m always looking for ways to improve my fuel and bring my hydration to the best possible levels. When I was provided the opportunity to test out a variety pack of Ultima Replenisher and a tub of Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder (Cherry Pomegranate flavor), I was all over it.

With summer underway and the weather being so hot and humid in New Jersey, it was the perfect time of year to put this product to the test.

As stated above, the 30 servings tub was Cherry Pomegranate flavor. The variety pack consisted of sixteen individual packets consisting of five flavors. The five flavors were orange, grape, lemonade, raspberry, and cherry pomegranate.

Ultima’s tagline on the box is “electrolytes, pure + simple”. This is spot on. It is simple to use this electrolyte supplement. I simply selected the flavor I felt like, cut the top and poured the powder into a 16 oz bottle of water. Then just shake it and drink it. That simple and easy.

I really liked each flavor. I would probably say my favorites were orange, grape and lemonade but the others were very good too.

Ultima Replenisher offers six electrolytes (Phosphorus, Calcium, Potassium, Chloride, Sodium, and Magnesium) and support minerals. It contains zero calories, zero sugar, and zero carbs. As you’ve read, I’ve been counting my calories and eating healthier to prime my body for the NYC Marathon. Having an option like Ultima Replenisher with the zero calories, sugars, and carbs is fantastic. It’s allowing me to add flavor to my hydration while supplying me much needed electrolytes and support minerals after my runs. Definitely a fan.

No artificial flavors or sweeteners are added to Ultima Replenisher. It’s vegan, non-gmo, gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and keto-friendly.

As Ultima promotes, they care about what you put into your body as much as you do. With all six electrolytes plus support minerals, real fruit flavors and plant-based colors, it is a go-to choice for healthy replenishment so you can feel and perform your best.

Definitely check out Ultima Replenisher to step up your fueling and hydration. You’ll love the flavors and the ease of it. It’s clean hydration done right.

Use code ULTIMABR for 15% OFF at by clicking here.

What do you drink after your runs?

Which one of these five flavors would you try first?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about Ultima Replenisher:

Alastair          Angie          Nicole          Katy          Corey          Amy

Check out Ultima Replenisher on:

Twitter: @GoUltima
Instagram: @GoUltima

 

 

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REVIEW: GATORADE ENDURANCE

Disclaimer: I received the Gatorade Endurance New Flavor Bundle to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I was excited to have the opportunity to test two brand new flavors for Gatorade Endurance. The new flavors that I received were the watermelon endurance formula (32 oz canister) and the mango energy gels. I also received a really cool Gatorade Endruance watermelon themed bottle that has been coming through clutch for me on my runs.

Most of the longer races I’ve ran offering Gatorade Endurance on at its hydration stations. I knew this was a fantastic opportunity to train with fueling options that I use on race days. Plus, these flavors were definitely two that caught my attention, especially the watermelon endurance formula. I LOVE watermelon so seeing this option now available was an added bonus.

The Gatorade Endurance Formula Powder provides nearly two times the sodium (310 mg) and more than three times the potassium (140 mg) than traditional Gatorade. This is really important to me. As you have read, I’m still working on my hydration due to the excessive sweating that I have during my runs. The more sodium and potassium the better. The formula powder is only 90 calories per 12 oz, so it keeps the calories in line and has been fitting into my daily calorie count on the days I’ve used it to fuel my runs.

One of the nice features of the brand new watermelon Gatorade Endurance formula powder is that there are no artificial flavors.

Gatorade also promotes that the watermelon flavor has a light taste. This was definitely the case. Sometimes, energy drinks can be a bit overpowering and not sit right during a long run. This new flavor definitely delivered on the light taste, which is a great thing. You taste the watermelon but it isn’t overpowering. It also doesn’t taste like it’s too water downed either. It’s nice and subtle. I’ve really been enjoying it on my longer runs.

The Gatorade Endurance energy gel is a 1.3 oz pouch that contains 20g of carbs, 90 calories, 100mg of sodium, and 35g of potassium. The new mango flavor is easy to take down and has a nice taste to it. It didn’t leave me any weird after tastes and felt fine in my stomach during my runs. The new flavor did not disappoint. It’s perfect for distance training and racing. I’ve been taking one before my longer runs and I can feel the pop of energy it is meant to supply. I’ve been very satisfied with this brand new flavor.

Definitely check out the two brand new flavors from Gatorade Endurance. They are perfect for those that are racing and training for prolonged periods of time. Check out GatoradeEndurance.com for more information.

Do you use Gatorade Endurance in your training?

What is the next flavor you’d like to see for Gatorade Endurance?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about these two brand new flavors from Gatorade Endurance:

Jessica          Lindsey          Karen          Lissa          Amy          Katy          Corey          Amy S          Barb

Check out Gatorade Endruance on:

Instagram: @GatoradeEndurance

 

 

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REVIEW: Luvo Flipped Bowls

Disclaimer: I received eight Luvo Flipped Bowls to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Use code BIBRAVE to receive 1 FREE when you purchase 7 meals at shop.luvoinc.com.

As some of you know, I’ve decided I’d like to take off some weight as I prepare for the New York City Marathon. I have dedicated myself to a healthier diet, so when I was presented the opportunity to test out the brand new Luvo Flipped Bowls, I jumped at the chance.

For this review we were provided two each of the four brand new meal types. The new meals are Chicken Meatballs in Pesto Sauce, Chicken Meatballs in Stroganoff Sauce, Chicken Meatballs in Garlic Wine Sauce, and Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce.

The Pesto Sauce, Garlic Wine Sauce, and Stroganoff Sauce meals are only 300 calories and the Tomato Basil Sauce is just 340 calories. These calories easily work in to my daily plans and have helped me in a crunch.

How have they helped me in a crunch? Well, they are quick and easy to cook. Simply take the bowl out of the box, put it in the microwave and I heat them for 3 minutes. Let it stand for a little to cool and eat. That’s how simple and easy it is. You don’t need to poke holes in the plastic or pull the top off, stir, and reheat. Nope, nothing like that. I’ve had a few busy days where the Luvo Flipped Bowls have saved me for lunch. Not only have I been able to quickly make them but they have provided me with a healthy, quick, and easy option for lunch.

The first meal I tried was the Chicken Meatballs in Stroganoff Sauce. Whenever I hear stroganoff, I’m like, I’m getting that. I’m a sucker for it. My favorite meal is a meatloaf stroganoff that my wife and mom make. I even make it every so often but they do make it better than I do. This flipped bowl comprises of a decadent sauce of sautéed mushrooms, onions and sour cream over whole wheat rotini with chicken meatballs, cauliflower and kale. I liked this Luvo Flipped Bowl a lot. It has a very yummy taste to it and is filling.

I absolutely loved the Chicken Meatballs in Pesto Sauce. Honestly, if you would’ve asked me to rank which bowls I would like most before I tried them, this one wouldn’t have been one of them. I was wrong. I found the Pesto Sauce Flipped Bowl to be absolutely delicious. The flavor of the sauce was spot on and I love how it’s a healthy take on the classic pesto sauce. It mixes well with the whole wheat penne, chicken meatballs, and vegetables. I highly recommend this bowl.

The Chicken Meatballs in Garlic Wine Sauce features whole wheat rotini, chicken meatballs, white beans, veggies, and a traditional garlic wine sauce. I thought this flipped bowl had a little kick to it which was nice. I really liked the white beans in this one. It was very filling and done nicely by Luvo.

The fourth Flipped Bowl was the Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce. When Luvo came up with this Flipped Bowl, they described it as a spin on chicken parm with chicken meatballs atop whole wheat penne, tomato balsamic sauce, and parmesan quinoa crust. I think they did a great job describing this. I love chicken parm so to have a similar healthy option available is perfect. This delicious bowl packed plenty of yummy flavors to satisfy my taste buds and cravings.

Luvo has done a terrific job with these brand new Flipped Bowls. They taste wonderful and not like your typical frozen meal options. These heat up quickly and don’t taste like a microwaved meal. I was definitely shocked and happy to learn this.

These meals also are very satisfying and have filled me up for lunch. I’ve had these mostly after a run too. For portion size comparison, I’ve put these into my own bowls and they fill them.

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy option, definitely check these out. Definitely giving the chef’s at Luvo five stars for a job well done in preparing these.

Don’t forget to use code BIBRAVE to receive 1 FREE when you purchase 7 meals at shop.luvoinc.com.

Which one of these four flavors would you like to try first?

Do you need a healthy, quick option for lunch?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about Luvo Flipped Bowls:

Brenda          Lindsey          Katy          Fallon          Amy

Check out LUVO on:

Twitter: @LuvoInc
Instagram: @LuvoInc

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REVIEW: COROS PACE Multisport Watch

Disclaimer: I received a COROS PACE GPS Multisport Watch to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I was so excited when the opportunity came up to test the brand new COROS PACE GPS Multisport Watch. When I say brand new, I mean brand new. COROS just released this new watch in the past month. I was honored to be one of the first testers of this great new product.

After unboxing the watch, the first thing I noticed was how nice the bands felt when you touched them. Throughout my testing, I’ve had no issues at all with irritation. The bands still feel sleek to the touch even after using it on lots of sweaty runs and in the pool. The band also provides lots, and I mean lots, of notches for you to properly fit the watch on your wrist. The band comes in three colors: red/black, black/black, blue/black. I received the red/black and love how it looks and stand outs.

For workouts, you can select from Indoor Run, Outdoor Run, Outdoor Cycle, Pool Swim, Open Water, and Triathlon. The watch is waterproof. I always get nervous when I hear “waterproof” but this watch has proven to me I have nothing to worry about as I’ve used it my pool for laps and enjoyment.

The face of the watch looks fabulous too. It provides you plenty of data without having to push any buttons. On mine, I can simply look down and see the time, date, steps taken throughout the day, calories burned through the day, active minutes, and battery life. One unique and very cool feature is that the watch face lights up whenever you turn it to look at it allowing one to see the information easier. Kudos to the COROS PACE GPS Multisport Watch on a great watch face.

You can toggle through other important data too. My watch allows me to see calories burned and where it stands against my daily goal along with steps. You can click over to a second screen that shows your Exercise Time and steps.

Next panels, provides your current Heart Rate along with your last four hour average heart rate and a line chart showing your heart rate over the past four hours. You can toggle over to another HR screen where it shows you your current Heart Rate and what Zone you are in. It will show what part of the zone you are in. There are five zones. Zone 1 is 0-108, Zone 2 is 109-126, Zone 3 is 127-144, Zone 4 is 145-162, and Zone 5 is 163+. After your runs, you can go on the app and it will show you the time you spent in each zone during your run and the percentage. I have loved being able to see this piece of data.

The next screen is the Barometer. Full disclaimer, I really haven’t looked at this screen much. .I think it’s neat that it’s there though and something I will look into more in the future. You can toggle over and see what the Elevation currently is and what the average has been the last four hours. This screen has come in handy as I’m trying to figure out what hills I need to include more in my runs to prepare myself for the Rock n Roll Dublin Half Marathon and the New York City Marathon. This feature has become more and more important to me.

The last screen is a compass. Obviously smart to have for any runner or hiker to figure out what direction they are headed in.

The last screen is for notifications from your phone. I have my phone connected to my COROS PACE Multisport Watch so I’m able to see when a call is coming in, when I receive and email or notification. I’ve really enjoyed being able to use this feature, especially when I’m working out. Helps me stay connected just in case an emergency arises.

The watch uses GPS, GLONASS, and BDS satellites to pinpoint your location and altitude. As noted previously, it also uses a barometer to accurately provide altitude.

The app has so much data. I love it. It allows you to put in your goals and definitely helps to motivate you to hit them each day. It keeps your history so it’s easy to look back at past workouts to see how you compared or improved against it. You also can receive medals for hitting certain achievements. The watch also features an alarm, allowing you to make sure you wake up on time for your workouts.

The calories burned has been helping me a lot right now. I’ve decided I want to lose some weight so I’m able to properly fuel my body as I am tracking calories in versus out so I net the proper amount.

The data has easily synced up right away for me. I’m able to review and analyze how my workouts have gone as soon as I want to.

The watch currently retails for $299.99 and is available through Amazon.

I really like this watch. If you’re in the market for a multisport watch, check this out. Runners, swimmers, cyclists, and triathletes should all give it a look.

Do you have a multisport GPS watch with wrist heart rate censor?

What stats do you like the most from your watch when you run?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about COROS PACE GPS Multisport Watch:

Corey          Lindsey          Kim          Ryan          Ang
Mai          Michael          Amy

Check out COROS on:

Twitter: @CorosGlobal
Instagram: @CorosGlobal

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REVIEW: Knockaround Premium Shades

Disclaimer: I received two pairs of Knockaround Premium Shades to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Use code BIBRAVEKNOCKS for 20% off an ENTIRE order at Knockaround.com.

I’m starting this review by getting right to the point. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the Knockaround Premium Sunglasses. You can not beat the look of them, how comfortable they are, and best of all the value for the low price that they sell for. I highly recommend the  Knockaround Premium Shades.

I selected the Frosted Grey frames with Green Moonshine mirrored lenses. The shades have UV400 protection and are FDA approved impact resistant lenses with laser etch logo detail.

These sunglasses came in a protective pouch and at the perfect time of year as the sun has been out a lot in New Jersey since I received these. I put these Frosted Grey/Green Moonshine polarized shades to the test right away on my runs.

These shades knock out the glare and the refined arms and frame offer superior comfort. This was even the case when I wore these sunglasses along with my AfterShokz Trekz Airs. There was no discomfort at all. Fit nicely. The slightly wider fit definitely helped accommodate this along with a great overall fit.

These sunglasses never moved while I was running. If I turned to look and check on my surroundings, I never felt them budge which is a must for any shades I’m going to run in. They didn’t fog up on me at all and the lenses are easy to clean too.

I love the frame styles of the Premium Shades. I think they look great on everyone I’ve seen wearing them.

Another wonderful thing about these shades are that not only are they great for running but I can wear these out at any time. Love them.

My wife ended up “borrowing” the Knockaround Premium Frosted Black Ice/Smoke Polarized Shades from me for her run one day. She came back raving about how comfortable they were while running and how awesome they look. Needless to say, that “borrow” has turned into “they’re mine now”.

At such a great price, the polarized retail for $20 and the non-polarized for $15, I’m planning on picking up more styles. They have a wide selection, so I’m sure you will find many styles you like. At that price, you can pick up a few pairs to help you pair accordingly with your outfits.

Don’t forget to use code BIBRAVEKNOCKS for 20% off an ENTIRE order at Knockaround.com.

Do you like to wear sunglasses when you run?

What is your favorite Knockaround Premium Shades color combination?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about Knockaround Premium Shades:

Corey          Jeannine          Randy

Check out Knockaround on:

Twitter: @Knockaround
Instagram: @Knockaround

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REVIEW: Amphipod PureRun Minimalist Hydration Vest

Disclaimer: I received a  Amphipod PureRun™ Minimalist Hydration Vest to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

When the opportunity came up to have a chance to test the Amphipod PureRun Minimalist Hydration Vest, I jumped at it. As I prepare to run my first ever marathon (NYC Marathon) in November, I knew a hydration vest was a must have for training. Looking at the Amphipod PureRun Minimalist Hydration Vest online, it checked off all of the boxes for what I was looking for in my first vest.

I’ll admit, the one thing that worried me was would it fit properly. I have wide and broad chest, shoulders, and upper body. I measured and it looked like I was just under the maximum for what they recommend for the size 2. Needless to say, until it showed up, I kept worrying it wouldn’t fit and I wouldn’t be able to test it out. Well, finally when the vest arrive, I couldn’t wait to see if it fit. To my surprise not only did it fit, it wasn’t tight at all, and I had to adjust the straps to make it smaller. I was so pumped and happy.

Then when I took it out for the first run I was expecting some discomfort or getting used to it. That didn’t happen. The vest fit so well that I barely noticed it was even on. The vest is ultra-light and truly minimalist like its name states. The lateral stabilization system provides bounce-free stability and a customized fit.

The cooling free-flow Air Mesh construction helps so much when running on a hot, humid day. I was able to feel this firsthand last week as we had a few very hot and humid days. The vest did the trick.

The vest comes with two 12 oz ergonomic bottles. One is stored on the right side of the vest and the other is stored on the left side. They are very easy to pull out while running and use. It’s nice knowing that you have a minimum of 24 oz to drink just by only using these two bottles while out on a run.

The versatile storage pockets provide easy-access to whatever you need on your runs. Whether it’s hydration, nutrition, or other essentials that you need to take with you while you run, this vest has you covered. There is also a rear upper zip-pocket for extras with cord pass-through and lower zip pocket for essentials.

The one thing I’m looking forward to the most though, is the Amphipod PureRun Minimalist Hydration Vest bladder compatible roomy storage pack. It can fit a 2L bladder. I don’t have a bladder for it yet but have been looking and planning on picking one up very soon. This is essential for any vest in my opinion and I love it that this vest can be used with or without the bladder. There is a hydration tube clip on the front of the vest’s right side. This will be a key piece of gear for me on my long marathon training sessions over the summer and into the fall.

I’ve really enjoyed using this vest on my runs and plan on getting a ton of use out of it. The vest retails for $100 on Amphipod.com. I think you get great value for this and definitely recommend it to others.

Do you use a hydration vest when running?

What are must haves in a running vest for you?

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about Amphipod PureRun Minimalist Hydration Vest:

Renee          Bradford          Barb          Alastair          Meridith          Andrea

Michael          Mai          Amy

Check out Amphipod on:

Twitter: @Amphipod
Instagram: @amphipodrunning

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New Jersey Half Marathon Goals

Disclaimer: I’m promoting The New Jersey Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Tomorrow I run The New Jersey Half Marathon for the second year in a row. It will be the first time I have run a half marathon course for a second time. I definitely remember a bunch of the course but can’t say it’s a course inside and out. I’m sure things will come back to me as I’m running tomorrow. It’ll be interesting to see how I do. I’ve decided to come up with a few goals for tomorrow. We will see how I do in accomplishing them. Good luck to all of the other runners tomorrow. Run your race.

  1. Don’t get out so fast. I think I let my adrenaline really take over out of the gate. I remember running a faster start than I expected. Learn from the past.
  2. Smile as I cross the finish line. I’m not sure I’ve done this in a race yet. Really live the term “Run Happy”.
  3. Keep any self-doubts to a minimum throughout the race. Counter them with positive sayings and thoughts.
  4. Really take in the race this year. I was so focused last year that parts of the race are a blur.
  5. Stay hydrated. Drink throughout the race.
  6. Say thank you to as many volunteers as I can when I see them.
  7. Make sure I find my wife and kids around mile 9. There is nothing better in a race then when you spot your family cheering you on.
  8. Enjoy a post-race beer. I’ve never had beer directly after a race, so it’s time.
  9. Just have fun. The rest will take care of itself.
  10. Be proud the entire day.

We will see how it goes but no reason I can’t accomplish these goals. You’ll notice I don’t have a time listed. I want to see how the race is going. I have something in mind but I don’t want to base the success of my race on that, so I’m not listing it as a goal.

The hard work is done. Now it’s time to have fun. Time to run New Jersey.

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Five Things I’m Looking Forward To At The New Jersey Half Marathon

Disclaimer: I’m promoting The New Jersey Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

This Sunday (4/29), I will be running The New Jersey Half Marathon for the second consecutive year. I’m really looking forward to it and can’t wait. Training is coming to an end and I’ve been doing a lot less these past two weeks but will get more into that during a later blog post. Right now, I’m just looking forward to these five things:

  1. It’s definitely one of the coolest places to start a race. The race begins at the Monmouth Park Racetrack. With it being at the racetrack, there is plenty of parking and areas to warm up and get ready. Plus, the start is just awesome. Just like a horse race, a bugler starts it off by playing the bugle. I’ve always loved that. Then to top it off, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen blares from the speakers. Hey, it’s Jersey. No better way to get pumped up and started than with the Boss.
  2. It’s a mostly flat and fast course. I really enjoyed the course last year. I’ve run four half marathons so far and this was the fastest one I’ve run and it’s by a lot. I ran last year in 1:58:00. The only time I’ve cracked 2 hours so far. The course takes you through a few towns so the scenery changes a bunch which is nice. The inclines that are on the course are small. If you want to BQ, this is the place to do it in the full marathon.
  3. The boardwalk finish. I love the beach, one of my favorite places to be. The Jersey Shore always will have a special place in my heart.  It’s so cool to run and see the waves crashing. You’re on the boardwalk for a little less than 1 1/2 miles. It’s a spectacular finish venue.
  4. The post-race party with complimentary Asbury Park Brewery beer. I’ve yet to run a race that I get a free beer at the end. I’m really looking forward to hearing some live music and enjoying a nice cold beer after running 13.1 miles.
  5. Seeing my wife and kids at the finish. Last year’s New Jersey Half Marathon was the first half marathon I’d ever run. It was so special to see them at the finish line. I was proud and nothing beat the hugs I got from them. I can’t wait to experience that again. One additional thing that is cool about this race is that my family can see me around mile 9 and walk only a few blocks over to the finish area. It’s very convenient.

There is still time to sign up for the half marathon or you can run the 5K on Saturday, April 28. Hope to see you there!

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