Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 32
March 13, 2025
Asics Gel Cumulus 27 Review | Great Beginner Running Shoe
If you liked the Cumulus 26, excellent news not a lot has changed The Asics GEL Cumulus 27 remains a solid daily run shoe for most folks, but especially those with high arches.
You don’t often see shoes with anything to help underpronation, which is rolling to the outside of the foot. So it’s nice to have something that’s not overbuilt to recommend to our runners.
If you like a nice moderate cushioned neutral running shoe to be the work horse in your rotation this is a great option. I’d say newe...
Saucony Ride Vs Saucony Guide: Which is Right For You
Finding the perfect running shoe can be a daunting task, but narrowing down your options can make the process easier. If you’re considering a shoe from Saucony, you may be torn between the Saucony Ride vs Saucony Guide. While both shoes are designed to provide a comfortable and supportive running experience, they have different features that cater to different types of runners.
Depending on your foot type and running style, one shoe may be a better fit for you than the other.
I’ve spent some ti...
March 12, 2025
Nike Vs New Balance | Comparing Models
When trying to find your perfect running shoe there’s always a question of which brand is right for you. New Balance vs Nike running shoes is going to provide you with some very different options. Let’s compare models in different categories to help you make a choice.
Both brands have a long history, things people love and things people dislike.
And like every running shoe brand they tend to have moments where they seem to be the dominant running shoe. This has a lot to do with marketing or get...
KURU Atom 2 Review | All Day Comfort
Raise your hand if you’ve ever spent an entire day on your feet, only to come home and immediately kick off your shoes with a sigh of relief. Yeah, we’ve all been there. But what if you didn’t have to? I’d like to introduce to you the KURU Atom 2, a shoe designed to keep your feet happy all day long.
I’ll be the first to admit, I’m picky when it comes to shoes. If I’m going to be on my feet for hours, I need something comfortable, supportive, and well….not ugly.
Because let’s face it, most shoe...
12 Week Half Marathon Training Plan | Beginner and Intermediate
Have your eye on a half marathon but need some help with training? Don’t worry we’ve got your back with two different 12 week half marathon training plans.
Half marathon training plans typically range from 12 to 20 weeks, depending on your experience and fitness level. Some runners need more time, while others can handle a shorter build up.
Our 12 week plans assume you’re already running 15-20 miles per week, setting you up for success without increasing the risk of injury from ramping up too q...
March 11, 2025
A Guy Just Clocked A Pretty Solid Marathon Time Racing In Jeans
When you think about people who train to run marathons, you probably imagine them decked out in latest performance wear.
That’s not the case with Truett Hanes.
He bucked the stereotype and decided to go 26.2 miles in denim!

And guess what? He clocked a time of 2:42:50 in those jeans.
The Springfield, OR native has actually run three marathons in his trusty blue jeans (not to mention one 50K ultramarathon), and recently clocked his personal best time at the Austin Marathon....
Veja Condor 3 Advanced Review | A Beautiful Mess
The Veja Condor 3 Advanced stands out with its sleek design and eco-conscious construction. What we want to know is how does it stack up as a fast running shoes? I mean it’s gorgeous and we want to wear it daily, but it feels a little off the mark for our runs.
The new Veja Condor 3 Advanced brings sustainability to the running world with its bio-based materials. We’re really excited to see brands putting more emphasis on sustainability and that’s the first focus for Veja.
You may have seen th...
March 10, 2025
Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review | Speed Unleashed
One of the best parts of testing running gear is the thrill of logging miles in a new brand—or in this case, a new-to-me brand. And what better way to get acquainted with Hoka than by lacing up the Cielo X1 2.0? Let me tell you—Hoka didn’t just enter the elite racing shoe conversation; they stormed in, loud and clear.
The Cielo X1 2.0 is built for speed demons chasing PRs.
With an aggressive forefoot rocker, lively dual-density PEBA foam, and an updated winged carbon fiber plate, this shoe doesn...
10 Best Carbon Plate Running Shoes 2025
In recent years, a new technology has taken the world of running shoes by storm: carbon plate running shoes. These pricey and often highly acclaimed shoes shoes have garnered immense attention and sparked heated debates among athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts alike. I’ve done the testing to help you understand how different brands feel.
But what exactly are carbon plated running shoes, and what makes them so special?
Traditionally, running shoe technology focused on providing cushioning, stabil...
March 9, 2025
Diadora Gara Carbon 2 Review | Steep Price, Fun Ride
Another $300 race day shoe? It’s starting to feel like the norm, and yet how many of us really need these fancy shoes? A new study says we mentally feel better and run faster in them, so maybe all of us! Today we’re putting the Diadora Gara Carbon 2 to the test.
Probably like many of you, I was unfamiliar with the brand Diadora before trying the Diadora Gara Carbon 2, but who doesn’t love checking out a new brand in case it’s the Cinderella you’ve been looking for!
The new shoe technology that h...