Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 13
August 17, 2025
Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Review | Swiss Army Knife At Great Value
If you’re looking for a shoe that combines moderate cushioning while staying lightweight and snappy, the Salomon Aero Blaze 3 deserves some consideration. Here’s our review.
I’ve put the new Aero Blaze 3 through some of my summer training runs on roads, greenways, and, because of the heat, a lot of treadmills. This shoe has impressed me with its lightweight bounce through the many hot and sticky runs.
The Aero Blaze 3 improved on the Aero Blaze 2 in multiple areas: more rebound thanks to the new...
How to Increase Walking Speed: From Slow Stroller to Speed Walker
Turning those leisurely strolls into a power walk can actually help you live longer. Science has backed this with new studies and we’ve backed the how to with a decade of coaching, so let’s help you pick up the pace safely.
We totally get it, not everyone wants to run. But most of us do want to feel good, stay active, and keep our bodies moving. That’s where daily walks come in.
Honestly, we’re big fans, and the team here at Run To the Finish even meets weekly to rack up some steps!
Recently, va...
August 15, 2025
10 Best High Drop Running Shoes | Ideal for Achilles Or Ankle Mobility Issues
We’ve tested a ton of high drop running shoes and have rounded our favorites up for you in this list.
We’ve said over and over that there is no running shoe that is going to be perfect for every runner in every situation – and when it comes to a low or high drop, your needs could change as you age or deal with injuries, too.
High drop refers to running shoes with a heel-to-toe drop between 12mm-10mm, so definitely higher than your 8mm average shoe. They’re beneficial for runners who are dealing...
August 14, 2025
Nike Vs Adidas Running Shoes: What’s the Difference
We’re pitting two of the biggest names in the shoe world against each other: Nike vs Adidas Running Shoes. Let’s compare specific models and features to help you find the best fit for your training and racing.
Perhaps, like me, you think of Adidas first for soccer or even fashion. But they’ve been a long time player in the running industry as well.
Both brands have things people love and things people dislike.
And like every running shoe brand they tend to have moments where they seem to be the...
Decoding Your Running Gel: What Those Labels Really Mean
Ever feel like shopping for gels and run fuel requires knowing a secret language? You’re not alone. The options are endless with different brands, flavors, and labels full of sciency jargon. Let’s get a better understanding of gel labels so you know what you’re trying.
Isotonic, hydrogels, sugar-free gels, different textures, and the list goes on. If our heads are spinning, we know yours probably are too.
But here’s the thing, skipping your fueling because you’re nervous to try a gel, or becaus...
August 13, 2025
Running Gear To Get You Through The Dog Days Of Summer | August Gear Round-Up
Just when you think summer can’t get any more unpleasant, August arrives.
It usually brings with it extra humidity, too-warm swimming holes, and the ever-pleasant horsefly – but don’t worry, because we’ve tested out some gear that will make stepping out for your run feel like the best part of your day.
If you’ve tried something we’ve featured, we’d love to hear your feedback. It helps us keep going and decide what to try out next.
Tailwind Nutrition Rapid HydrationAs a sports dietitian, I’m alw...
7 Long Distance Running Shoes That Make Marathon Training Bearable
What shoes do half marathon runners wear? Are there better shoes for a marathon or even a road ultra? Let’s talk about the best long distance running shoes for your foot. From a whole lot of testing by myself and others we’ve got your recommendations.
After 33,000 miles of running I have some opinions and luckily for you I’ve also been able to run in a wide variety of running shoe models, brands and styles. Providing me with extra knowledge to help you find the shoe that’s going to feel great wit...
Two Running Shoes No One Saw Coming: ASICS Megablast and Sonicblast
ASICS has been keeping two new shoes very hush hush. Even meeting with them last year at The Running Event where brands are playing up all the new things, nada. Not a word! Then last week on my doorstep were two brand new models for the Blast line up of shoes: Megablast and Sonicblast.
Many brands are going to this silo approach of having a family of shoes. Great in some ways and very confusing in others, so here is a quick breakdown of the line:
In fact, here’s what we’ve already reviewed from t...
August 12, 2025
Tracksmith Eliot Range Review: A Strong Trail Return That Needs Fine-Tuning
We put the new Tracksmith Elite Range trail shoe to the test in the Colorado mountains to give you a complete review.
This isn’t Tracksmith’s first foray into trail running, but they would say it’s their best foot forward. The team put in some long hours really exploring what they wanted from a shoe in terms of materials and performance.
After hearing from a variety of athletes that they’re spending more time on the trails to play, Tracksmith wanted to come back with a technical collection that w...
August 11, 2025
ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 Review | Finally An 8MM Drop Best Stability Shoe
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 continues Asics’ philosophy of kaizen (continuous improvement) by upgrading the shoe while maintaining the trusted stability the Kayano is so well-known for.
At 32 iterations, the Asics Gel-Kayano is one of the longest running shoe models out there. And for good reason! It is an incredibly reliable, comfortable shoe that keeps going and going.
This new version has kept all the key elements that people love about past models, with a few notable updates that make this a sta...


