Run Diva

Run Diva Reviews Vibram Five Fingers

Vibram Five Fingers

I recently had a chance to test out the Bikila model of Vibram Five Fingers. Their PR department thought I should feature an article on Vibram Five Fingers. I said sure, send me a pair to test out and I'll be more than happy to write a review. I decided to go with the Bikila model, although Five Fingers are minimalist running shoes, the Bikila seemed to have a bit more support and coverage than some of their other models. I also like the crazy magenta, orange, gray color scheme of the Bikila's. The women's Bikila model is also available in a silver, gray, silver and a sky blue, dark gray, gray color schemes.

According to the Vibram website: "A breakthrough in running shoe design, Bikila® is our first model designed specifically to promote a more natural, healthier and more efficient forefoot strike. While many folks have been running in their Vibram FiveFingers® for years, the Bikila® is our first model created exclusively for a more natural running experience."

You may have started to see runners using Vibram Five Fingers at recent running events. I have seen a few people using them during the past year. They are those strange looking shoes, which look a bit like a beach shoe, but with five individual pockets for your toes. Vibram are available in a number of different models for both men and women.

Above: The Bikila model of Vibram Five Fingers in the magenta, orange, gray color scheme.

Barefoot Running Craze

Although I am an avid cyclist, and have been biking for over 8 years, I only started running 3 years ago. About a year and a half ago I was having a lot of foot and leg problems and started investigating other methods of running. I was a heavy heel striker, and got very interested in the mid foot method of running, to see if that would help alleviate any of my running problems. I received media copies of Chi Running and The Pose Method of Running books, both of which are proponents of the mid foot, or forefoot method of running.

Read my reviews of the Chi Running and Pose Method of Running books:

• Book Review Chi Running by Danny Dreyer
• Book Review Pose Method of Running

Above: Left - Vibram Bikila; Right - Brooks T6 racing flats.

Minimalist Running Shoes

Along with switching to the mid foot method of running, I've also been experimenting with different types of running shoes. Brooks is one of my sponsors, and I get all of my running shoes from them. I like to train and race in minimalist running shoes, which are very light weight and extremely flexible.

I currently use Brooks T6 racers for my events involving run distances of 6 miles or less. I like to do my mid distance runs and races in Brooks Launch and have recently purchased a pair of the Brooks Racer ST 5. Since I've been training and racing in minimalist shoes for the past couple of years, I didn't find the transition to Vibram Five Fingers to be too difficult. If you are currently training and/or racing in heavy, motion control shoes you may find that Vibram Five Fingers are not the shoe for you.

 

Above: Left - Vibram Bikila; Right - Brooks T6 racing flats.

Ease Into Running with Five Fingers

Even being a mid foot striker for the past year and a half, I still had a bit of difficulty getting used to the Vibram Five Fingers. Running in the Vibram caused 3 problem areas when I first started using them:

• excessive calf stress
• tight/cramped arches
• blisters on bottom of big toes

These issues all resolved themselves after a few runs in the Vibram. I do not recommend the shoes to anyone that is a heavy heel striker. If you are currently a mid foot striker or looking to change from being a heel striker to become a mid foot striker, then you may find the Vibram Five Fingers to be the perfect shoe for you.

Above: The bottom of the Vibram Five Fingers Bikila model.

Bike Diva Tests Vibram Five Fingers

• 2 mile run around neighborhood
• 3.5 mile run after 28 mile triathlon bike ride
• 4 mile run around neighborhood 

I've taken the Bikila's out on a few test runs. The Vibram website suggests a gradual transition from regular running shoes to running exclusively in their shoes: www.vibramfivefingers.com/faq/barefoot_running_faq.htm. Here are the top tips, taken from the Vibram website, on how to transition from a regular running shoe to running in a pair of Five Fingers:

• Tips on correct forefoot running form can be found here
• Run no more than 10% of your typical running distance for the first 2–3 weeks
• After 2–3 weeks, gradually increase mileage by 10%–20% every couple of weeks
• If you ever start to feel pain during a run, stop! You can always try again in a couple of days
• Never run 2 days in a row for the first month
• Stretch before and after each run, focusing on calves and feet, because Vibram FiveFingers running will stimulate these muscles
• If, after several weeks of training, you are consistently very sore, you need to rest and back-off on your mileage

 

Above: Run Diva modeling her Vibram Five Fingers. Pretty goofy looking, but most of my running shoes are really LOUD colors. These are definitely ME! :)

Running Sock-less

I've raced duathlons; run-bike-run, for the past two years. And 2011 will be the year of the triathlon; swim-bike-run, for me. I participated in my first triathlon on February 6, and have an additional 13 triathlons planned for 2011. I am always looking for ways to become faster at my races, and anything that can help you save time in transitions will get my attention.

I've been experimenting with going sock-less during the bike and run portion of my bike and run trainings. I will save a bit of time not having to struggle to put socks on after finishing the swim portion of my triathlon races. I've done up to a 30 mile bike ride without socks with no problem. I use Lake triathlon bike shoes while biking and no longer wear socks while cycling, unless it is a REALLY cold day.  But I haven't found the perfect running shoe to wear sock-less. Every shoe I've tried has caused blisters on one or more areas of my feet and/or toes.

Vibram Five Fingers have to be worn sock-less. The design makes it impossible to wear socks. They also fit tight like a glove, unlike regular running shoes. I buy all my regular running shoes one size larger than my street shoe size. I did my first 1/2 marathon in a running shoe that was my regular shoe size, my toes kept hitting the top of the shoe and I ended up with 2 black toe nails after that race. The toenails eventually fall out and regrow, but it is a long and ugly process.

To get the correct size of the Vibram shoes, you measure the length of your feet, in inches, and convert that to the correct Vibrum size. I take a size 40 Vibrum shoe, which coincidentally is the same size as my cycling shoe. The Vibram's fit quite snugly and take a few seconds to correctly position each of your toes into the individual toe pockets. I find I can get them on a bit faster each time I go to use the shoe, so although it seemed to take me a long time to put them on the first time, now I can get them on in just a few seconds.

 

Above: Vibram Bikila (top) VS Brooks T6 racing flats (bottom).

Additional Information

I'll be doing additional test runs with the Vibram Five Fingers and will write another post on how I like running with them within the next few weeks. I plan on using them during the run portion of Sunday's bike-to-run brick workout with my Team in Training triathlon team. And on February 26, I will probably use the Bikila's at a local 5k run.

Webiste: www.vibramfivefingers.com

Twitter: twitter.com/Vibram5Fingers

Facebook: www.facebook.com/VibramFiveFingers

Take care,
Lynn Smythe AKA the Run Diva

When to Retire Running Shoes

Above: The Run Diva's running shoes she will be using during the 2011 race season. Left to right; Brooks T6 racing flats, Brooks Launch, Brooks Racer ST 5. Traditional laces have been replaced with Lock Laces.

A common question I get from my running friends is, how often do you change running shoes. Or how many miles can you run in a pair of shoes before it's time to retire them and get a new pair? I am fortunate to be sponsored by Brooks, so I have access to awesome running shoes year round.

Miles Per Shoe

I can log around 250-300 miles on each pair of shoes before retiring them and getting a new pair. The tops of the shoes still look great, but if you turn the bottoms over, once I start seeing a lot of wear on the treads it's time to replace shoes. I strike heavier with my right foot than my left, so my right shoe always wears out a lot quicker than my left. My chiropractor says I place about 6 pounds more on my right foot than my left, but when I first started seeing him, I placed 23 more pounds on my right foot - YIKES!

Besides the obvious signs of wear you will see when examining the treads on the bottoms of the shoes, eventually the rest of the shoe will start to break down. So even if the shoe looks okay, the inner cushioning and shock absorption qualities of the shoe will eventually start to wear down, another reason why you should replace your running shoes on a regular basis. I mainly use minimalist running shoes and racing flats, which don't have a lot of cushioning to begin with.

Above: Old Brooks T6 racing flats on the left, new ones on the right. I would say it is past time to retire the old ones. The tread is totally worn down especially on the outside of the foot.

Running in worn out running shoes can lead to problems with your running gait which can eventually lead to injuries. DO NOT run in old, worn out shoes! I usually save a pair or two of my old shoes, if they are still in pretty decent shape you can wear them to do strength training at the gym. I also like to keep an old pair on hand, if the treads aren't too worn out, to wear to muddy events. My daughter just used a pair of my old Newton shoes to run the Warrior Dash - there were multiple mud pits to run through so she just needed an old pair of shoes to use which she could throw out after the race.

Daily Mile Gear Tracking

I normally rotate between 2-4 pairs of running shoes and keep track of the miles run in each pair. I use Daily Mile to keep track of all my workouts and each workout you record has a section called Attach Gear. I use that section to add all my bikes and running shoes, so that I know exactly how many miles per week/month/year I am riding my triathlon bike, my road bike and running in each pair of running shoes. You can retire gear, such as when you are getting rid of an old pair of shoes, or add new equipment, such as when you have just bought a new pair of shoes.

Above: My new and old Brooks Launch. Again, the treads are getting worn out on the outer edge of the shoe. I wouldn't use the old ones for running anymore, but they are in good enough shape to use at the gym when strength training/lifting weights. I am a mid foot striker and land on my forefoot, thus the heel area of most of my shoes show almost no wear.

Run Diva's Current Running Shoes

Here are the running shoes I currently have in my closet:

• Brooks Cascadia 5 - trail running shoe
• Brooks T6 - light weight racing flats, for runs up to 6-8 miles
• Brooks Launch - light weight mid to long distance training shoes
• Brooks Racer ST 5 - light weight mid to long distance training shoes

Donate Old Shoes

Many of the larger running races in my area have a collection area for old running shoes. The organization can refurbish and/or resole old shoes and donate them to people in need. My local YMCA  has a shoe collection bin outside the main entrance. So just because you are retiring an old pair of shoes, doesn't mean they have to go straight into the trash bin. Recycle whenever possible!

Take care,
Lynn Smythe AKA the Run Diva

Gore Partners with Brooks Sports

GORE Partners with Leading Running Company Brooks® Sports, Inc.

Partnership Will Deliver Innovative Running Shoes with Superior Comfort and Protection for the Fall 2011 Season

PR Newswire

ELKTON, Md., Nov. 16, 2010

 

ELKTON, Md., Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Recognizing the continuing trend of runners seeking enhanced comfort and protection in their footwear, W.L. Gore & Associates, inventor of high performance fabric technology, has joined forces with leading running company Brooks Sports, Inc. (www.brooksrunning.com) to create a range of new running shoes engineered with the GORE-TEX® brand for Fall 2011.

Acknowledging Brooks as an innovative industry leader in designing high-performance men's and women's running shoes, apparel, and accessories, Gore will supply its GORE-TEX® brand and technology know-how to Brooks' seasonal portfolio to enhance the comfort and protection performance of some of their most popular styles, the on- and off-road Adrenaline™ ASR™ and neutral Ghost, the third edition of which was awarded the distinction of "2010 International Editor's Choice" earlier this month by leading running magazine Runner's World.

"We look forward to a long and collaborative relationship with Brooks, playing off of each others' strengths and best-in-class technologies to build Brooks footwear enhanced with the

GORE-TEX® brand," said Matthew Schreiner, global product footwear specialist at Gore. "As runners look to enjoy both on- and off-road running, our mission is to enable the best running experience possible for runners of all styles and skill levels, no matter what ground conditions they encounter along the way."

Both Brooks and Gore have a long history of innovating with the best technology to meet consumer needs. Brooks is responsible for several key advancements in performance running footwear including patent-pending Brooks® DNA--the smart cushioning system that instantaneously adapts with each step to a runner's unique biomechanics, pace, gait, and surface--and BioMoGo, the world's first biodegradable running shoe midsole that biodegrades 50 times faster than conventional athletic shoe midsoles in an active, enclosed landfill. In Fall 2011, both of these technologies work alongside waterproof, highly breathable GORE-TEX® liners featured in two debut styles from Brooks: the Adrenaline™ ASR™ GTX^® and the Ghost GTX^®.

"We always look for compelling ways to deliver on runners' needs, and many of our customers have asked us for performance footwear that can keep their feet dry and comfortable in even the soggiest conditions," said Andre Kriwet, director of global footwear management for Brooks. "That's why we're excited to bring GORE-TEX® technology into two of our top-selling shoes. The durable membrane is waterproof from the outside yet allows perspiration vapor to escape from the inside for optimal performance on-the-go."

The Adrenaline™ ASR™ GTX^® and Ghost GTX^® will both be available in men's and women's sizing on August 1, 2011, for a suggested retail price of $120. Giving runners more choices to meet their needs, Brooks will continue to offer the Adrenaline™ ASR™ and Ghost series without GORE-TEX®.

About Brooks

Brooks Sports, Inc. is a leading running company that designs and markets a line of performance footwear, apparel, and accessories in more than 60 countries worldwide. A subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Brooks was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in Bothell, Wash., near Seattle. The company's mission is to inspire everyone to run and be active by creating innovative gear that keeps them running longer, farther, and faster. Visit www.brooksrunning.com for more information, and follow frequent brand updates on Twitter (@brooksrunning) and Facebook (Brooks Sports).

About W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

With more than $2.5 billion in annual sales and approximately 9,000 employees in 30 countries worldwide, W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., provides diverse, high-performance solutions in consumer, industrial, electronic, medical, and surgical markets. As well-known for its unique corporate culture as for its products, Gore's 50-year success story rests equally on product and organizational innovation. Perhaps best known as the inventors of expanded PTFE (ePTFE) and the makers of GORE-TEX® fabric, Gore is a leading manufacturer of thousands of advanced technology products that comprise a breadth of capabilities.

© 2010 W.L. Gore & Associates, GORE-TEX®, GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY™,

GORE-TEX, Guaranteed To Keep You Dry and designs are trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates.

SOURCE W. L. Gore & Associates

CONTACT: PR Contact: Cynthia Amon, +1-410-506-2647, C: +1-443-553-0333, camon@wlgore.com or Brooks Contact: Tamara Hills, +1-425-489-2444, tamara.hills@brooksrunning.com

Web Site: http://www.wlgore.com

Pictures of My New Fuel Belt

Run Diva's New Fuel Belt

Yesterday I posted up information on my new Fuel Belt: Team in Training Helium 4 Fuel Belt. Today I took it out for a 5 mile trail run at Morikami Park in Delray Beach. Morikami has some easy, hard packed gravel trails. I didn't want to run anything too technical as I'm doing the 1/2 Ironman duathlon at Miami Man on November 14, and need to stay injury free.

Perfect Hydration Option for Long Runs

I used all 4 water bottles on the Helium 4, during my run, and filled them all with water. I had a gel pack and my car keys in the storage pouch. Since I only ran 5 miles, I didn't need the gel pack, and only went through about 1/3 of my water. The Helium 4 would make a great hydration system for half and full marathons. I'm thinking on a longer run, I might fill 2 of the water bottles with Nuun electrolyte drink, 1 bottle with plain water, and 1 bottle with diluted gel. That should take care of all my nutrition and hydration needs for a 1/2 marathon, and I might try that set up during the half marathon portion of Miami Man.

Above: Wake up Run Diva, it's time for a trail run with your new Fuel Belt!

Super Model I'm Not

Before I left the house, I got my husband to take a couple photos of me modeling the Helium 4. I guess neither one of us was awake at 7 AM. Most of the pictures came out blurry and were unuseable and I look really tired in all the photos. Oh well, at least it gives you an idea of what the Helium 4 Fuel Belt looks like while wearing it.

Above: Hamming it up for the camera.

Take care,
Lynn Smythe AKA the Run Diva

Team in Training Helium 4 Fuel Belt

Cocoa Beach Bike Ride

On Sunday, October31, my husband and I participated in the 28th annual Intracoastal Waterway Century Ride. This was a 102.5 mile road bike ride which started and ended in historic Cocoa Village, Florida. My husband and I did the ride through our local Team in Training chapter. A complete report of the ride can be read on my Bike Diva blog: 2010 Cocoa Beach Century Ride.

Above: Helium 4 Fuel Belt with 4 small water bottles and storage pocket.

Team in Training Pasta Party

The night before the ride, Team in Training hosts a pasta party for all the TNT chapters participating in the event. This year approximately 36 riders from the Central Florida, South Florida and Palm Beach chapters participated in the event and raised almost $100,000 to help the Leukemia & Lymphoma Socieity find a cure for various blood cancers.

Above: Close up of Helium 4 Fuel Belt, showing a single water bottle and zippered storage pocket.

Team in Training Swag

After the pasta party, our chapter had a team meeting to go over last minute ride details. At the meeting, any participants that exceeded their fundraising goals of $1,750, were given special recognition and a variety of cool Team in Training swag. Palm Beach chapter team member Micki Fetterman raised over $9,000 and got all sorts of cool TNT swag. One of her gifts was a Team in Training branded Helium 4 hydration belt made by Fuel Belt.

Above: You can run, walk or hike with the Helium 4, using 1, 2,3 or all 4 of the bottles filled with water or elelctrolyte solution.

Run Diva Gets Swag

I was sitting next to Micki when she received the Fuel Belt. She said it wasn't something she would ever use. She knows I do a lot of running and asked if I would like it. AWESOME! I had been looking at getting another Fuel Belt, I currently have a pink Crush Fuel Belt which holds a single, large 22 ounce water bottle. I had been looking at the Fuel Belts which carry multiple, smaller bottles. So the Helium 4, which holds 4 eight ounce bottles was perfect. Thanks Micki!

Above: Stylish Helium 4 Fuel Belt in Team in Training colors.

 

Here are the details of the Helium 4 Fuel Belt:

• Lightweight helium 3-D ventilated foam pads provide highest level of breathability and comfort
• Four 8 oz. bottles evenly distributed
• Knit elastic with velcro closure
• Detachable race pocket 
• Reflective piping keeps you visible 
• Bottles are dishwasher safe
• Total Volume: 32 oz.
• Sizes: S (27-29), M (30-32), L (33-35), XL (36-38)
• Color: TNT Purple
• MSRP: $45.95

Run Diva's Workout

I tested out the Helium 4 Fuel Belt for the first time on Wednesday. I used it during the second run portion of my multi sport workout. Since I was going for a short run, I decided to only fill up two of the four water bottles. The storage pocket was perfect for carrying my car keys, and on longer runs I would also place my ID and a few $$ in the pocket.

• 1 mile warm up run - I don't carry hydration with me on really short runs
• 30 minutes upper body and core work with personal trainer - I bring a hand held water bottle with me to the gym
• 17 mile tri bike ride - I use a Profile Design aero water bottle on my tri bike
• 3.25 mile run - I used the Helium 4 Fuel Belt on this portion of my workout

Above: Official Fuel Belt photo of the Team in Training Helium 4 hydration belt.

Run Diva's Final Verdict

I think the Helium 4 Fuel Belt is going to work out really well for my medium to long training runs. I run mostly on road, but also do a bit of trail running. I like the Helium 4 storage pocket, besides my keys and ID, I can also carry a gel pack or two when doing really long trainings. I might even use the Helium 4 at Miami Man on November 4. I will be racing in the 1/2 Ironman duathlon at Miami Man; which consists of a 1 mile run - 56 mile bike - 13.1 mile run. I will probably use the Helium 4 during the half marathon portion of the race.

Another Fuel Belt Review

Read my 2009 review of the Fuel Belt Crush Bottle Carrier.

Take care,
Lynn Smythe AKA the Run Diva

Active Energy Partners With K-Swiss

PRESS RELEASE

Active Energy Inks Licensing Deal With K-Swiss

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Active Energy, a division of Accessory Exchange, has inked a deal with K-Swiss to become its exclusive accessory licensee. Rich Stober will serve as President over the new division and under his leadership, Active Energy will produce and distribute accessories to include socks, sport bags, and headwear.

 (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100913/NY61729 )
 (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100913/NY61729 )

"The combination of our expertise in the accessory market and the power that the K-Swiss brand provides will be the perfect platform to springboard K-Swiss into these very important categories," noted Abe Dweck, CEO Active Energy, a division of Accessory Exchange.

The collection of accessories is scheduled to hit shelves during the second quarter of 2011. Distribution will be focused on department stores, sport specialty shops and family shoe chains.

"We have been actively seeking out the right partner to expand our accessory offering. We have found that partner in Accessory Exchange," said David Nichols, Executive Vice President of K-Swiss.

About Active Energy:

Headquartered in New York City, Active Energy is a division of Accessory Exchange, a privately held company that manufactures accessories for both the private label and branded market. Accessory Exchange has just marked its 100th anniversary in 2009.

About K-Swiss:

Founded more than forty years ago in Van Nuys, California, K-Swiss (NASDAQ:KSWS) introduced the first all-leather tennis shoe, the K-Swiss "Classic" in 1966. Since its inception, K-Swiss has rooted itself in California Sport with an aim to be the most inspiring and innovative sports brand in the market. Today the company offers performance and lifestyle footwear and apparel for several categories under its California Sports umbrella including Tennis Heritage, California Fit (Running, Triathlon and Fitness) and California Youth. K-Swiss also designs, develops and markets footwear under the Palladium brand, and owns the FORM Athletics brand. For more information about K-Swiss, visit www.kswiss.com.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100913/NY61729
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN3
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100913/NY61729

Source: Active Energy

CONTACT: Tara Clavell-Vera, Now and Zen Group, +1-212-564-2122

Web Site: http://www.kswiss.com/

First Run with Garmin Forerunner 310XT

I just purchased a Garmin Forerunner 310XT multisport computer. I will be using it to track my cycling and running training and will use it during my duathlon races. The 310XT will be replacing my Garmin Edge 305 cycle computer, which I have recently lost, and my Tech 40 run computer.

I have to order the quick release strap and bike mount so I can quickly transfer the computer from my wrist while running, to my bike while cycling.

I'm still learning how to use the Garmin Forerunner 310XT and have to read the online manual to figure out how to use it on the bike. Right now I've only used it for the run. But you are supposed to be able to use it for just about any type of sport, including swimming!

New USA Triathlon Wetsuit Regulation

USA Triathlon Adopts New Wetsuit Regulation

Beginning in 2013, wetsuits may not exceed five millimeters in thickness

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Following extensive research and consideration, USA Triathlon announced today that beginning in 2013 use of wetsuits exceeding five millimeters in thickness will not be permitted at USAT-sanctioned events.
 
The new regulation, which falls under Article 4.4 Wetsuits of the USA Triathlon Competitive Rules, states: "Effective January 1, 2013, any swimmer wearing a wetsuit with a thickness measured in any part greater than five millimeters shall be disqualified."
 
"Our board has been considering this issue and the impact it might have with our athletes for some time," said USA Triathlon CEO Skip Gilbert. "The overall feeling is that it makes perfect sense to align with the guidelines set by our international federation and multisport enthusiasts around the world. This is a standard that is good for the athlete community and our sport overall."
 
By implementing this rule change, USA Triathlon falls in line with the international standard of five millimeters recognized by the International Triathlon Union (ITU) and other National Governing Bodies.
 
The adoption of this rule is designed to eliminate any competitive advantage gained by enhancements in wetsuit technology in recent years. Studies have shown there is a marked and measurable performance benefit to the use of certain wetsuits, specifically added buoyancy effectively reducing passive drag. These performance benefits have led to an increased, and artificially induced, reduction in physical demand required during the swim leg of a triathlon and an increase in speed.
 
USAT recognizes that there may be wetsuits currently available on the market that are greater than five millimeters in thickness. Consequently, the organization has implemented a phase-in period of the rule to allow the use of wetsuits that currently do not meet the thickness requirement. This announcement of the new regulation serves as notice that the rule change will come into effect in 2013.
 
USAT recently solicited feedback on the wetsuit thickness issue from its certified race directors via a comprehensive survey. The majority of those surveyed supported USA Triathlon's adoption of this rule.

About USA Triathlon

USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the National Governing Body for triathlon - one of the fastest growing sports in the world - as well as duathlon, aquathlon and winter triathlon in the United States. USAT sanctions 3,100 races and connects with more than 133,000 members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work with athletes, coaches, and race directors on the grassroots level, USAT provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including World Championships, Pan American Games and the Summer Olympic Games.

Team Synergy Triathlon Sponsorship

Are you interested in joining the Synergy Team?

We offer 5 ways to qualify for sponsorship:

1. Full Sponsorship: Free products in both Synergy and Gray as well as performance bonuses. Qualifying Criteria: Elite athletes who are ranked top 10 in the world by ITU or Ironman.
2. Partial Sponsorship: Any Synergy and Gray product at whole sale cost. Qualifying Criteria: Elite age group athletes ranked top 10 in their age group by USAT.
3. Challenged Athletes: Any Synergy and Gray product at whole sale cost. Qualifying Criteria: Athlete has a physical and/ or economic challenge and is an up-and-coming athlete. To qualify as an economic challenged athlete, you cannot be more than 25 years of age or a senior.
4. Team Synergy: This sponsorship is open to all and it consists of buying our Team Package, which is your choice of a Gray bike, a set of Gray wheels, a Synergy wetsuit and a set of Synergy apparel. You can chose more than 1 in each category, but you must buy at least 1 in each category. Many clubs take advantage of this program and we offer affordable screen printing as well. The Team Synergy Sponsorship is priced at whole sale +10%.
5. We offer refurbished wetsuits (mainly Orca brand, since we never get Synergy suits returned!) and demo wheels (mainly samples or event demos – we never get Gray returns either!) and bikes at great discounts to athletes, who cannot afford conventional, new products. We know triathlon is an expensive sport and we want to help!

Please feel free to contact us anytime, if you are interested in taking advantage of any of our programs above. Go to the Synergy/Gray website for additional information: www.synergysport.com.

Pearl Izumi Running Shoes & Clothing

PRESS RELEASE:

Run Like an Animal Anytime, Anywhere

Pearl Izumi introduces new running shoes and apparel designed to meet time demands of serious runners

LOUISVILLE, Colo., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- To run like an animal, Pearl Izumi introduces new fabric technologies, including its new In-R-Cool(TM) fabric, to help runners better manage and control their body temperature to stay cool and perform at a higher level, and the SyncroFuel(TM) line of responsive, lightweight running shoes designed for high performance road and trail runners.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100215/CG55060)

Pearl Izumi's new line of SyncroFuel(TM) running shoes and P.R.O. Series Fly running apparel offers a "take no prisoners approach" to provide runners the high-tech features they need to train and race at their peak performance, anytime, anywhere -- rain, cold, heat or humidity.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Pearl Izumi (http://www.pearlizumi.com/) is a leader in developing innovative, high tech shoes and apparel for runners, cyclists and triathletes. To further fuel the desire of runners to run like an animal and to connect with like-minded runners, Pearl Izumi has launched a new Facebook page, Pearl Izumi Running and posts news and updates on Twitter at PearlIzumiRun, in addition to keeping runners informed through its web site, http://www.runlikeananimal.com/.

New SyncroFuel(TM) Running Shoes

Pearl Izumi's new SyncroFuel(TM) road and trail running shoes are light and fast. These responsive, lightweight trainers offer mild pronation control and excellent cushioning for training or the next race. SyncroFuel(TM) running shoes feature Pearl Izumi's unique seamless race upper, which provides an anatomic fit, combined with a mid-foot and forefoot mesh that offers optimum breathability and comfort when you're pushing the edges of your running experience.

The new SyncroFuel(TM) Road running shoe, available in both men's and women's sizes, is a responsive, lightweight trainer designed for one thing - going fast! Built with a half-length medial side syncro-stability frame, the SyncroFuel(TM) road shoe offers mild pronation control and excellent cushioning for the runner training for their next race. Suggested manufacturer's retail price: US$110.

The new SyncroFuel(TM) XC trail running shoe is ideal for trail racing and training. It's specifically designed for the off-road runner who demands high performance, lightweight cushioning with mild pronation control and traction. Tested and raced by the Pearl Izumi Smith Ultra Team, the SyncroFuel(TM) XC is built with a half-length medial side syncro-stability frame and features a high abrasion seamless race upper with a hybrid mesh combination consisting of 100% recycled polyester mid-foot mesh and a breathable forefoot mesh. Suggested retail price: US$110.

Pearl Izumi's new SyncroFuel(TM) shoes round out a complete range of running shoes that allow runners to tailor their running shoe selection to meet the exacting demands of training runs or race day. "Whether you're training on single track in the Rockies, back to break your PR at Boston, or conquering the pavement with your running club, we have the shoe for you," said Geoff Shaffer, marketing director for Pearl Izumi.

Introducing Groundbreaking In-R-Cool(TM) Technology

Many of Pearl Izumi's P.R.O. Series Fly running shorts, shirts and jackets are built with ground-breaking In-R-Cool(TM) integrated fabric technologies to enhance performance and athletic comfort. Unlike typical polyester based products, Pearl Izumi's In-R-Cool(TM) technology reduces overheating and increases comfort by reducing perspiration.

In-R-Cool(TM) technology brings the reflective cooling benefits of white fabrics to dark fabrics, reducing perspiration by half, in comparison to traditional black fabrics. By reflecting UV light, In-R-Cool(TM) reduces the fabric's surface temperature to the same temperature as a white fabric and provides UPF 50+ sun protection. To further enhance athletic comfort in warm conditions, In-R-Cool(TM) technology utilizes a special perspiration-activated technology that cools the athlete's body surface temperature by 5% and delivers unparalleled UPF+ sun protection.

Pearl Izumi's no-compromise P.R.O. (Performance and Race Optimized) Series is 3D motion engineered for the most demanding runners with the highest standards for leading edge apparel design, construction and craftsmanship. The company's P.R.O. Series Fly running apparel are literally designed to perform the way a runner actually moves, providing an anatomic fit through minimal seaming and the use of body conforming materials to increase running performance.

"With our new P.R.O. Series apparel series, we combine the latest in fabric technologies to keep you drier and warmer during wet, cold weather, or drier and cooler during hot, humid weather," Shaffer said. "We take the extremes out of running during extreme weather conditions - which gives runners more time to pursue their passion."

Some of the new additions to Pearl Izumi's P.R.O. Series running line for 2010 include:

P.R.O. Series Women's Fly Sport Tank. The W's Fly Sport Tank provides athletic support in a streamlined fit with our innovative new In-R-Cool(TM) fabric technology that cools the body while you exercise. P.R.O. Transfer fabric with In-R-Cool(TM) technology provides optimal skin cooling when you perspire. Laser cut direct-vent panels dry fast, provide superior temperature regulation and ventilation. The tank's inner bra is built with plush elastic for athletic support. Suggested retail price: US$65.

P.R.O. Series Long-Sleeve Fly Top. The lightweight men's Long-Sleeve Fly Top features Pearl Izumi's innovative In-R-Cool(TM) fabric technology that cools the body while you exercise and allows for full body UV protection. At the same time, Pearl Izumi's exclusive P.R.O. Transfer fabric provides optimal moisture transfer with a superior hand feel. Suggested retail price: US$65.

P.R.O. Series Fly Top and Sleeveless Fly Top. Pearl Izumi's new P.R.O. Fly Top features its most innovative fabric in a lightweight and incredibly comfortable performance running top. The Fly Top is made with P.R.O. Transfer with In-R-Cool(TM) fabric for anti-static and anti-microbial protection, and features direct-vent panels for enhanced ventilation. Suggested retail price for the Fly Top: US$50; suggested retail price for the Sleeveless Fly Top: US$45.

P.R.O. Series Fly Compression Short. The Fly Compression Short with Pearl Izumi's In-R-Cool(TM) fabric technology provides the performance support you need combined with a sleek streamlined design. Designed with P.R.O. Transfer fabric with In-R-Cool(TM) fabric technology, the short provides an optimal compression fit and reflective UV sun protection. Direct-vent panels provide superior ventilation, and the internal brief offers support and comfort. Suggested retail price: US$70.

About Pearl Izumi

Pearl Izumi (www.pearlizumi.com) is a world leader in the manufacture of performance sports apparel and footwear for avid cycling and running enthusiasts. Based in Louisville, Colo., a suburb of Boulder, Pearl Izumi is a wholly owned subsidiary of Shimano American Corporation, located in Irvine, Calif.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100215/CG55060
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Pearl Izumi

CONTACT: Stephen Dupont of Pocket Hercules, +1-612-435-8315,
stephen@pockethercules.com, for Pearl Izumi

Web Site: http://www.pearlizumi.com/