Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 35
February 22, 2025
Gorewear Gear Review | Ready for the Extreme Runner
I know, I know; how many times can we talk about how the right gear gets you out in any weather?
But honestly, it’s true! And Gorewear makes it easy to find what you need, whether running through the freezing winter temps or battling the scorching heat of summer.
One of the reasons Gorewear stands out is that it’s part of the company behind GORE-TEX—the same GORE-TEX you see on almost every rainproof jacket.
They’ve mastered creating durable, waterproof, and windproof fabrics.
But do they know ...
February 21, 2025
8 Best Running Water Bottles
As a runner, you know the importance of staying hydrated. But carrying a bottle can feel bulky or cumbersome, especially during long runs. That’s why we’ve tested and put together a list of the best handheld running water bottles!
It pays to stay on top of your hydration year round, not just while running in the heat of the summer if performance and feeling good are top priorities for you (and why wouldn’t they be?!)
Staying hydrated isn’t just a nice to do; it’s a necessity.
Dehydration is not...
Chipotle Had A Running Contest To Win Free Burritos For A Year And Two Runners From Arizona Did Something Absolutely Wild To Win
Do you think you love Chipotle the most?
And by that, I mean more than any other runner living in your immediate vicinity – or at least, in the vicinity of your closest Chipotle?
Strava and Chipotle recently teamed up to launch a January challenge for runners in cities all over the United States. The runner who logged the most segments on the one-block stretch in front of their participating Chipotle wins a year of free burritos or bowls.
That top athlete wins the title of “Local Legend,” which...
Salomon S/LAB Ultra Glide Review | Max Trail Cushion At A Max Price
Known for its innovative approach to trail running, Salomon’s newest addition, the Ultra Glide, is no exception. Using “Relieve Sphere” technology, the outsole is designed to relieve fatigue and reduce pressure from repeated turnover on trails. Its wavy geometry certainly pushes the envelope in design—but it comes with a hefty price tag.
The Ultra Glide promises comfort over long distances on rugged terrain, featuring SalomonFOAM+ AND SalomonFOAM cushioning (that’s right, double the foam!), a 6m...
February 20, 2025
Brooks Catamount 4 Review | Fast and Technical
The Brooks Catamount 4 had seen some noticeable improvements with a re-positioned carbon plate and reworked lug design. I took this shoe on a wide range of trails and varying paced runs to see what all the hype was about.
I ran everything from the Saturday long run to trail speed work to the social, easy run on soft dirt, rocks, sand, and snow and was really happy with how these shoes performed everywhere.
The Catamount is a responsive, neutral shoe under all trail conditions that is going to be...
Nike Vomero 18 Review | Going Up, Up and Up
I’ve run in a number of Vomero’s and often received the question, is it different from the Pegasus? Nike has taken a whole new look at things and the Nike Vomero 18 is a new shoe entirely. Let’s talk about the change and it’s substantial!
For 2025, Nike is moving to a new system of naming and creating shoes. You’ll see that for the everyday runner there is now the Structure for stability, the Vomero for that max cushion feed and Pegasus for the responsive ride. Within each of these, over the yea...
10 Unique Races: Automatic PR’s and New Challenges
If training’s starting to feel a little boring, or you’re just craving something different, signing up for a race outside the usual 5k or half marathon might be exactly what you need. We did the research and found some unique races across the country (and world!) that might not be on your radar…. yet.
This list dives into everything from fast, exciting one-milers to tough 19 mile challenges in some of the most incredible places in the world.
These races are quirky and challenging and some even ...
February 19, 2025
Why Do My Legs Itch When I Run? (It’s Not Just You!)
You know that feeling when you’re midstride and feel like you need to break out a dance move just to scratch your legs? Runner’s itch is one of those weirdly common things that no one really talks too much about but it happens to way more runners than you’d think.
@runfitmumkatieBefore you spiral down a rabbit hole on the internet or completely scratch your skin off, let’s get one thing straight...runner’s itch is totally normal.
Sure, it’s frustrating especially when you’re in the zone, but we...
The World’s SuperHalfs Explained And How You Can Enter Them
Runners love a challenge and oh boy do we love a series of challenges!
The World Marathon Majors have become huge both because of media attention and because of the opportunity to earn a bonus medal.
But what if you don’t want to run 26.2? Or you’re looking to not deal with the lotteries…enter the World’s SuperHalfs Series!
We love that this series is getting a lot of attention, but that may indeed mean these races start becoming harder and harder to get in to, sorry!!
What are the SuperHalfs?...February 18, 2025
Vinco Sunglasses Review | Worth the Pricetag?
I’m kinda picky when it comes to sunglasses. More times than not, sunglasses and hats are usually too tight and often give me a headache a mile into a run. Those pieces of gear usually go to the gear graveyard and are forgotten. Which means I was curious if a pricey pair of Vinco Sunglasses would be worth it? Here’s what happened!
When you’re heading out for a run, every piece of gear makes a difference. You want something that’s comfortable and actually does what it’s supposed to so that you’r...
