What are the benefits of cross-training for runners? Cross training offers a wide range of advantages for runners, whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned marathoner, or recovering from injury. Here are the key benefits, supported by expert sources and scientific studies: Injury Prevention Improved Overall Fitness Rehabilitation and Recovery Mental Refresh and Motivation Enhanced Performance…
Category: Running Gear Reviews
Building the Perfect Running Kit with GOREWEAR
Today, I’m lacing up in a trio of GOREWEAR essentials: the Everyday Thermo 1/4 Zip, the Concurve 5″ 2-in-1 Shorts, and the Contest 2.0 Tee. Here’s how these pieces come together to create the ultimate running kit for every condition – I went for a run at the hilly and popular cross country trail nearby….
Jack Be Nimble, Jack Be Quick. Jack Wore The Altra Superior 7.
The Altra Superior 7 is the latest iteration in Altra’s minimalist trail running lineup, designed for runners seeking a natural, connected-to-the-ground experience with a touch of cushioning. Nimble. Quick. Lightweight. Fit & Comfort Ride & Performance Durability Pros & Cons Pros Cons Minimal feel with some protection Limited traction in mud/aggressive terrain Extremely flexible and…
The Altra Experience 4mm Drop Shoe Collection: Flow, Wild, and Form
Altra Running, long celebrated for its zero-drop, foot-shaped running shoes, expanded its lineup last year with the Experience series-a collection of shoes featuring a 4mm heel-to-toe drop. This new range includes Experience Flow, Experience Wild, and Experience Form, each tailored to different running needs while maintaining Altra’s core philosophy of natural movement and comfort. What…
The Switchback Innovative Game Changer From LEMs Shoes
After four years of research and development, LEMs Shoes has finally launched their revolutionary and innovative Switchback Sandal. Designed to be the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and foot freedom, it’s LEMs Shoes one minimalist footwear that’s built to move with you, whether you’re hiking, traveling, backpacking, walking, or just relaxing. They have created a…
Comparison of Xero Shoes Sandals & New Spring Colors
Xero Shoes has just launched their new sandal styles in attractive Spring colors: D-Trail (men & women), Genesis (women only), and Aqua Cloud (women only). Besides these styles, there’s also other models including H-Trail, Z-Trail EV, and Z-Trek. With so many models to choose from, how do you decide what to purchase? We’ve created an…
Meet the ultra-lightweight road runner from VIVOBAREFOOT
The VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Flow is a lightweight barefoot shoe designed for road running, cross-training, and casual wear. The Primus Flow is ideal for experienced barefoot enthusiasts looking for a versatile shoe that excels in lightweight performance. It’s also great for runners who prefer minimalistic footwear with a natural feel. However, beginners who are new to…
The Minimalist Hiking Shoe That’s Changing the Game
The LEMs Shoes Trail Blazer is a minimalist hiking shoe designed for versatility, comfort, and natural movement and suitable for various terrains and activities. Key Features Hiking Performance Walking & Rucking Performance After extensive usage, the LEMs Shoes Trail Blazer gives us the impression that it is more of a hybrid between a trail running…
Tifosi Optics Try Before You Buy Launches
Tifosi Optics Try Before You Buy Program Choose your favorite pairs from their vast selection and Tifosi Optics will deliver them right to your doorstep! Wear test and see how you like the fit and return them back to them with the included, pre-paid return label, for a full refund if you’re not satisfied. Period….
Altra Running New Spring Styles 2025
Timp 5 BOA The Timp 5 gets a BOA® Fit system for on-the-go adjustments. With a cushioned midsole and grippy Vibram® outsole, the Timp 5 BOA is ready to get wild. Dial the perfect fit and adjust it as much as you need to throughout your run with the BOA® PerformFit™ Wrap Configuration system. Lone…
VIVOBAREFOOT New Spring Styles 2025
VB Tracker Textile AT VIVOBAREFOOT‘s outdoor classic with a definitive vegan* upgrade with 100% recycled, animal-free materials. Following in the new-look footsteps of the Tracker Leather, the Textile version features a waterproof membrane, innovative design touches, and construction, lifting this barefoot hiker into new territory. VB Primus Flow The newest member of the Primus family,…
Xero Shoes New Spring Styles 2025
Scrambler Low EV – High Performance Trail Runner Get ready to hike, run, and explore your favorite trails in the Scrambler Low EV, Xero Shoes most versatile trail shoe. The durable, abrasion resistant mesh keeps debris out while letting air flow, so you can enjoy maximum comfort both on and off the trail. The outsole,…
LEMs Shoes New Spring Styles 2025
Trail Blazer (M/W) The ultimate trail and hiking shoe designed for those who crave both performance and comfort on rugged terrain. This is LEMs Shoes wide-fit version of the Trailhead. Designed for those seeking a rugged trail shoe with extra toe space and a zero-drop platform, this version offers the perfect fit for those who…
The Most Comfortable Windbreaker Ever For Cycling, Running, and Mountain Biking
Designed for three-season comfort and protection against wind, GOREWEAR running, cycling and mountain biking windbreakers feature incredibly soft, highly breathable, wind-blocking fabric with specially woven anti-wet cling interior for groundbreaking next-to-skin comfort. ANTI WET-CLING Made with a unique woven interior that reduces wet cling and feels incredibly soft on the skin. The 3D fabric structure…
Altra Escalante 4 SW for running, rucking, and transitioning to minimalist running shoes
I have posted about the Altra Escalante 4 SW earlier this year – my favorite travel & walking shoe. In this review, I have followed up with the Escalante 4 for running and rucking (power walking with a weighted backpack or rucksack). The Altra Escalante 4 SW Smartwool Edition is a unique collaboration between Altra…
Conquer Rain and Wind with the GOREWEAR ENDURE GORE-TEX LE1 Tonal Logo Jacket
End of Season Deal – 40% OFF Use code: EARLYDEALS Valid January 13-15, 2025 for 40% off select styles only. Enter code EARLYDEALS at checkout to apply. Cannot be combined with other offers or used towards previous purchases. Shop GOREWEAR End of Season Sale The GOREWEAR ENDURE GORE-TEX LE1 Tonal Logo Jacket is a premium,…
My Favorite Altra Shoe Meets a Signature Smartwool® Merino Blend Upper
The Altra Escalante 4 SW is a special edition of the popular Escalante 4 running shoe, featuring a collaboration with Smartwool to incorporate a Merino wool blend upper. Design and Materials Fit and Comfort Performance Durability Aesthetic Appeal Considerations Special Circumstances I decided to take the Escalante 4 SW on a short trip to Asia…
Lightweight Warmth Redefined with Smartwool Active Fleece 1/2 Zip
A few selections from Smartwool Fall ’24 collection starting with the Active Fleece 1/2 Zip. Designed for comfort, warmth, and versatility, the Smartwool Active Fleece 1/2 Zip is a solid choice for anyone looking to stay warm without sacrificing mobility or breathability. Material & Warmth Fit & Comfort Practical Design Breathability & Moisture Control Durability…
The Ultimate Beginner Drone for Fun and Exploration
Looking for flying fun for the first time? We stumbled on the Ruko U11MINI, an affordable compact drone for beginners. Founded in 2017, Ruko Innovation specializes in the design, development, and sales of consumer electronics for home life and entertainment, particularly drones. Ruko holds numerous invention and utility model patents and possesses independent intellectual property…
Why Ridge Merino Is the Ultimate Choice for Travel and Everyday Comfort
Merino Wool Resources I have reviewed numerous merino wool or blended merino wool or alternative merino wool products over the last 15 years. And the question I always get is “Why is it SO expensive”? Please read my post in 2016, “High performance does not mean high price over the long run”, to get detailed…
Discover Stylish Sunglasses for Every Occasion with KALIYADI S22 and S11
In this review, we wear tested KALIYADI classic sunglasses, specifically these two models: S22, S11. KALIYADI Matte Finish Sunglasses S22 The KALIYADI Matte Finish Sunglasses S22 are a versatile and affordable option for those seeking quality sunglasses. Design and Style These sunglasses feature a sleek, matte finish that gives them a modern and understated look….
Elevate Your Everyday with the Minimalist REN Water Bottle
LARS NYSØM, an Austrian company founded by Patrick Fischer and Sebastian Fritz, genuinely believe that everyday essentials can make every day a little bit better and become your everyday favorites. True to their claim “The Simple Beautified“, they transform functional everyday objects into interior essentials or fashion accessories that bring beauty into everyday life. Piece…
Enjoy Sun Protection and Style without Breaking the Bank with KALIYADI
KALIYADI sunglasses offer a unique combination of high quality, affordability, and practicality that sets them apart from other brands. Their brand philosophy centers on making sunglasses an essential and accessible part of everyday life for everyone. KALIYADI Brand Philosophy KALIYADI’s core belief is that sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory but rather an essential…
Shoes That Minimalist Runners Buy From Xero Shoes
Ever since I started Wear Tested Gear Review (formerly Minimalist Running Shoes) in 2010 and the Natural Running Center (with Dr. Mark Cucuzzella), both our websites have referred runners and shoppers to Xero Shoes among the few minimalist and barefoot shoe manufacturers like VIVOBAREFOOT, LEMs Shoes, Topo Athletic, Altra Running, and Carets. Why Wear Minimalist…