Reviews

This weekend I met Mom for lunch and some shopping at REI. With our trip to Seattle next month and the text from Tommy that "It's freaking freezing" in the mornings....we figured we might want to be prepared! Mind you, all I was really looking for was a running belt for water and Gu packets and maybe a vest......

I left with 2 running jackets, a fleece vest, running belt, anti-blister socks, water repellant spray and a long-sleeve running shirt. (btw-THANKS Mom for an early gift)!

At any rate, I am really trying to prepare better for this race in terms of appropriate clothing and replenishing during the race. This is one area I know I could have done better from my last experience. When doing online research I found some decent reviews. So, now that I have tried a couple of these items out, maybe I can help someone in the future by reviewing them.

Here is a photo of the Amphipod running belt that I tried on this weekend's run. I carried two of the bottles which hold 8 ounces each. I did water in one and a kiwi-strawberry propel made from powder in the other. I kept a Gu packet (mocha, if any one cares) and a piece of Extra (sugar-free) gum in the pocket. I had several Jelly Belly's in the pocket as well, but the type of material really rattled with the beans, so I took them out and had them in my coat pocket. The bottles can be horizontal or vertical, so I did one in each position to see what would work best for me. I was able to work with the horizontal bottle best, as getting the bottle out was a little tough, however putting it back in was easy.

The new Brooks Nightlife Jacket was a last minute change to my purchases. I was contemplating my other choices when a nice sales lady came over and asked if we needed help. "No, just trying to make a decision" I replied. She asked about what I was buying for, etc. and said "Did you see the Brooks jacket?"......I hesitantly followed her over to the display and tried it on. It is heaven, lightweight, water and wind resistant AND has 3M reflective technology which would help me be more visible on dark runs.

I ended up wearing it on my 15 mile run this weekend and found it to be a great purchase. Although I was warm on some of the hill training I did, once I got to the top I was able to take the zipper down and allow in some cool air and then re-zip. The pockets help my Jelly Belly's and the hidden pocket at the chest was perfect for holding my chapstick. This was certainly a good buy and I imagine I will get many miles out of it!