Hoka One One Clifton Review - First Impressions

WHERE ARE THE BRAKES??

HELP!!

That was how I felt when I took it for a medium-long run the other day, just 3 days after purchase.

The Hoka One One is well known for its maximalist shoes, and you can be sure to recognise its chunky looking shoes from afar. Chunky, responsive, maximum cushioning and stability, it sounds like an absolute dream to run (really) long distance in a pair of Hoka's.

My new runners, the Hoka One One Clifton.

With an upcoming race and not much time left to train for, I settled on the Clifton for three reasons: cushioning, lightweight, and affordable price.

With its maximum cushioning technology, Hoka shoes generally promise its wearers a squishy, if not cushy ride. The Clifton, despite being one its latest lightweight models for road running, does not disappoint in this aspect. It is light, but still squishy. So squishy that they make pretty excellent walking shoes!

Its Meta-Rocker profile is noticeable on the outlook but I barely noticed it as I ran. They promote mid-foot to forefoot landing, propelling you forward with ease.

I should have taken a picture before I ran in them! :)

The purple bits strategically placed at the heel and forefoot are hi-abrasion rubber soles (made with EVA) to absorb full ground contact.

I would have preferred the aqua colour. :)

Although they still look chunky, with heel and forefoot height at 29mm and 24mm, don't let it fool you. They give you about 4mm / 5mm from heel to toe offset, yet you don't really feel the ground. It actually feels like 6mm when you're walking in them, but more 4mm when you're chasing speed.

Salomon Skin Pro 10+3 Hydration Vest - Review For Women

I've been using this pack for about 3 months now and gosh, how time flies!

It was a last minute decision to purchase the vest for me to use during the Razorback Run as I needed something bigger than my Nathan to carry all the mandatory items and some extras.
 

Full to the brim - almost!

The features and technology of the Salomon Skin Pro 10+3 hydration vest can be found on its website, so I won't go much into the details here. It is nice and light at 420gm (on empty). Without utilising the 3L expansion, the 10L is more than sufficient for general use.

Left: A smaller outer pouch to stash your smaller items.
Right: The 10L section. The blue zipper opens up an additional 3L.

Unlike some of the Salomon or Ultimate Direction vests with size specifics (based on your chest size), this vest has "no size" and is a one size fits all.  You will need to adjust the shoulder straps to fit you better.

The top of the padded shoulder straps have velcro bits allowing you to adjust the length (of the straps) according to your comfort.

However, being petite at 5'3 and liking a snug fit, I have my shoulder straps pulled up high and all the way to the edge of the velcro just to have the vest fit me properly.

Tighten the buckle straps as well and the end result can end up being pretty messy. You will need to fold/knot whatever straps that are sticking out unnecessarily and tuck them in. As long as they don't flap around and slap you in the face or neck, they won't be in your way during a run. :)

Salomon XT Wings 3 - The Review

My pair of women's Salomon XT Wings 3 is about 3+ months old and they're probably one of the bigger investments I've made (so far) in terms of my running hobby. We know that Salomon products are sold in Malaysia at a very steep price and during the sale period, you're lucky if you can purchase something with at least some discount to soothe that potential cardiac arrest of your wallet.

The upper is made of a single layer of open air mesh combined with a nylon layer, thereby making it quick drying and very breathable. There are textile parts placed at strategic sections of the upper mesh to help prevent overheating on very warm days. 

The tongue cover prevents mud and debris from getting inside the shoes. 

With the Quicklace™ system, one quick tug of the laces tightens them, with minimal adjustment required if necessary. I've always been in awe of these minimalistic laces - they look so delicate yet they are quite strong.

Once you've tightened the laces, tuck them into the pocket located at the top of the tongue cover.

(Can they design a similar one for our running shoes with regular tie-on shoelaces? Sometimes they come undone even with double knots!)

Skechers GObionic Ride - Initial Review

With hints of pastel pink and coral blue, this pair of Women's Skechers GObionic Ride just screamed "girly" to me.  

If pink is enough to throw me into an excited frenzy, imagine what pastel pink can do to me! *hops around with glee*

Hello there, my pair of lovelies!

Like its predecessor the GObionic, the GObionic Ride (hereafter fondly referred to as "GBR") retains its ultra lightweight synthetic and mesh fabric upper. The upper wraps around your feet with breathable material and keeps your movement flexible.

With a 4mm heel drop for a minimal heel lift.

The GBR has a 4mm heel drop which does not compromise the natural position of the feet to remain low to the ground. 

18 articulated Bio-Responsive cushioning zones.

The sole looks almost similar except for a rearrangement of  its rubber traction pads. You will note the missing piece at the arch area.

S for Skechers, not Superman. :)

The toe box also remains extremely roomy, providing a natural splay of the feet. Flat footed people like me will not to worry about the lack of toe space.

An option to go for a 'barefoot' feel is to remove the sockliners.

Should you prefer to go for a more 'barefoot' feeling, you still have the option to remove the Ortholite anti-microbial sockliners. I am however, still conservative and prefer my sockliners in place. :)

Key differences between GObionic Ride and GObionic

Skechers GOrun Ride Ultra

Being in a community where running is an up and coming scene, the place to be seen (pun! :D), our attire and shoes may sometimes attract the attention of fashionistas and well, people in general. :)

I am extremely pleased to see more women runners wearing bright and colourful shoes these days. Years ago when I started running, I hated the limited choice of bright coloured shoes (save for Nike), especially when I could only choose the ones suitable to my foot type. Old fashioned white and grey or blue were sooooo dull!

Grey and blue, instead of my usual love for pink shoes! :)

Last year, I had the privilege of being provided with a pair of Women's GOrun Ride from Skechers Malaysia for a review. (My first impression and take on the shoes were previously stated here and here.) Loving the bounce and responsiveness of its soles, I decided to buy the Women's GOrun Ride Ultra to add a bit of colour to my collection of running shoes.

I *love* the hints of pink beneath the mesh

The only visible difference between the two is the slightly thicker mesh to the upper as well as the colour combinations. Otherwise, both shoes remain similar with its nearly weightless synthetic and mesh fabric upper. 

Ooh please disregard my mud-stained socks.
I love the pink and blue in my shoe - it rhymes!

The more cushioned Resalyte midsole provides sufficient comfort without compromising the flexibility of the shoes.

In fact, there so nicely cushioned that I tend to treat them as the shoes for traveling.

On an elephant ride in Chiang Mai.

Even if you don't want to take them running, the GOrun Ride will you serve you well as a pair of walking shoes.

You do know the reason why I chose the blue pair of GOrun Ride Ultra, don't you?


See this post. :)

Skechers GOrun 2 - Initial Review

My first take on the shoes can be found here.
Many thanks to Skechers Malaysia for giving me a pair of GOrun 2 for testing!


If you've been waiting to find out how the Women's Skechers GOrun 2 flow glide fly ride, I'm sorry it took me this long to keep you posted!

Photo credit: hubby's

The outlook: The vibrant pink and lime colours creates a very hot combination and makes the shoes without a doubt, eye-catching and drool-worthy.

Caught cam-whoring with my shoes. :)

Even in the shade, the shoes refuse to be inconspicuous - they have to stand out and boast!

Happy colours!

What is it about the GOrun 2 that makes it the ONE pair of shoes you should have?

The whys:

1. The soft upper mesh for one, is so pliable and soft that you'd think you were slipping your feet into a pair of soft leather ballerina shoes. No stress in putting them on when you're in a rush to head out for a run.

2. The M-strike is unnoticeable or less noticeable unlike its predecessor, the GOrun, and the GOrun Ride (GRR). Although less responsive than the GRR due to the reduced cushioning, there is still that little *boing boing* factor (as I mentioned in my GRR post) which gives you that tiny bounce upon landing.

3. They are so light. I thought I wouldn't find another pair of Skechers I'd adore as much as my GObionic but looks like I was wrong. The GR2 is currently topping my chart!

Post-holiday: Still looking good.

4. They're tougher than they look. As I mentioned earlier, I was extremely worried about letting them take a beating on the trails. There was the sandy ground, grass, pebbles and gravel to deal with and I was grimacing apologetically each time I thundered downhill. I was like, "Oh gawd, I'm sorry! So sorry! Stay strong!"

Nevertheless, the Resalyte™ proved to be living up to its name.

Running at The Tan Track, Royal Botanical Gardens, Melbourne on New Year's Eve.

Running on the Tan track was no trouble at all. It felt just like running on dusty tarmac. I could still the firmness of the ground when I land.

The GR2 flew so well that I managed to record a 8km personal best that day. Fab!

So if clothes make a man, don't tell me that shoes make the runner? :D
I'm just kidding! But I am inclined to believe that the shoes do assist in making you run more efficiently, if they so happened to be the right shoes for you.

Just recently over the weekend at the MPIB Run, I raced in the GR2 again. I must admit that I really enjoy my short runs in them as they make sprinting so effortless.

Just about to u-turn towards the finish line at MPIB Run 2013.

I confess that the total mileage for this pair of shoes has yet to exceed 100km so I can't say for sure how they would feel like in the long run. The longest I have ran in them is 16km, which so happened to be my trail run in Melbourne!

Most people seem to be concerned about the narrow fit which I have yet to experience it. But rest assured that I will keep you posted on any further developments as I start my long distance training runs this weekend. I am crossing my toes that the GR2 will be my shoes to tackle 42.195km in April this year.

If you're interested to get yourself a pair, check out them out at your nearest Skechers' outlet!

The ladies' GOrun 2 is now (at this moment) available at Pavilion, 1Utama, KLCC and Sunway Pyramid outlets at RM369.

-----------------
Other reviews:
Believe in the Run
Happy Feet
Jamie Pang

Post-race: Dirty but satisfied.

Other related posts: My First Take

That Pink Running Dress

It was gifted to me by Lynn many, many moons ago and I didn't know when would it be most appropriate to don it.

About 2 months ago, I finally took the courage to put it on. (Such drama!)

Photo credit: Moving On AC

Where else to officiate it but the MPIB running clinic on a Saturday morning? :)

The response was adorable, with the men asking/saying:

"Wow, did you just return from a night out clubbing?"

"What is THAT you're wearing?"

"Are you sure you can run in that??"

"Oh, must definitely take a picture of this!"

And of course, the most popular question asked by everyone:
"Where did you get it from?"

Nuu-Muu is based in the USA, with its simple philosophies of believing in strong girls and women, in real bodies and real friends, in trying really, really hard and in having fun along the way.

Their dresses are versatile for most sports activities, be it cycling, yoga, running, swimming etc or you can go casual, pairing it with leggings or jeans for shopping trips, party or just to chill.

The side slits provide easy movement for the legs.

Putting on the nuu muu dress is a breeze. It slides down easily as I pull it over my sports bra and shorts. Adjust it and you're good to go!

It's made from 83% polyester and 17% spandex and also made in the USA. :)

Ooh check out my calves. :P

If you think about it, it's like a super long running vest which ends mid-thigh. The nuu muu sure makes you feel sexy and feminine, despite sweat pouring down your face after a crazy run!

Recently during a trip to Melbourne, I donned it for the second time for a 8km run around The Tan Track. [Race report here.]

Some pairs of eyes followed my dress as I walked around, as I was warming up before the run. Conspicuous, indeed! It's very hard to blend in with the crowd when you're in a pink dress. :)

During the run, I found myself having to occasionally pull the hem of the dress down as it would ride up. I think my pair of Nike shorts I wore underneath it may have been too loose, hence allowing the nuu muu to slide up at times. Not sure, but I may have also gained some weight. :S

The first time I wore this during the MPIB clinic, I had worn a tight pair of shorts underneath and the dress didn't ride up as much as this time. I think I was 2kg lighter then!

After the VRR Champagne & Croissant New Year Eve Run

The nuu muu comes in 6 different sizes for women and 4 sizes for girls. I was given a size S (bust: 32-34, waist: 26-28, hip: 36-38) and although it looked a bit tight around the armpits, I think I preferred this size, ensuring I have a waist. Too loose, I wasn't pleasing to the eye. :S

Each nuu muu is priced at US$70 each, and a ruu muu (a nuu muu with a back pocket!) priced at US$80. Based on how it flatters the figure and the quality of the material, I would say that it's an investment worthwhile.

Blue this time, and with a pocket at the back!

Since I loved the dress so much, I recently purchased 2 more and this time I chose the ruu muu, the dresses with pockets at the back.

Delivery took about 2 weeks to arrive and I was SO relieved that Pos Malaysia didn't nick my dresses, or I would have been VERY annoyed.

These dresses cost a bomb, sniff.

(But worth it.)

A place to keep my things! :)

The nuu muu does not have a pocket and I found myself pulling up my dress, just to keep my car keys into my shorts' pocket. Casual bystanders may have been disgusted with me, tsk tsk, what an unlady-like thing to do!

But let's see how the ruu muu feels. I'll be wearing it tomorrow at the MPIB run!

----------------

In conjunction of their 5th anniversary, nuu muu is having a ONE DAY SALE only, from 12:01am Pacific Time to 11:59pm Pacific Time (about 16 hours behind us)! Or has it already started, I'm not sure!

Check them out!

Skechers GOtrail - The Introduction and Initial Review

As mentioned earlier in this post, I was really excited to know that Skechers had launched its GOtrail shoes. Having enjoyed the GOrun Ride and GObionic shoes, I couldn't wait to try their GOtrail shoes for a similar (good) experience.

And to have a pair in hot pink was just the cherry on top!

THE INTRODUCTION

Hot pink shoelaces that catches the eye.

The 'm' signifies that the GOtrail is part of its minimalist range of shoes, with reduced cushioning and support as compared to the more traditional running shoes.

The stretch-fit upper provides a sock-like fit, ensuring that your feet are comfortably snug. The tongue remains securely in the centre (in place) and does not slip to side.

Sock-like fit and GOdri mesh upper.

The first thing I noticed was the hydrophobic mesh and synthetic upper material was different from most of my trail shoes. You can't tell that it's mesh!

In fact, based on Skechers' GOdri technology, the unique material is made up of microporous membrane which allows air to pass through while keeping water out. Providing an all-weather protection, it is water-resistant with a protective exterior barrier while its interior mesh wicks moisture effectively. 

And it's really soft!

The next interesting difference I noted was the lack of removable sock-liner. Despite the lack of it (or none thereof), the fit is comfortable and the insole itself, with anti-microbial lining, was not slippery at all. 

There is a supportive brace at the heel cradle to provide stability and security in the rearfoot, but you will barely notice it nor the 4mm heel drop as it remains flexible to allow your foot to move more naturally. 

The Resagrip™ outsole.

The first thing a trail runner checks when purchasing trail shoes is its outer sole. So it was only natural for me to flip the shoe over (after admiring its mesh upper!) to study the lugs and tread pattern.

GOimpulse sensors.

Skechers' signature GOimpulse sensors remains in place on its outer sole, but this time, with a tread pattern to weather the all-terrain trails. Unlike the usual pillars you find on the GOrun, the lugs on the GOtrail are sturdy for increased traction control (reminding me of boots!) and made from ultra-durable compound yet is lightweight and flexible.

I was very fascinated with the lugs, unlike the ones on my other pairs of trail shoes.

Its sole also has what you call a Rock Diffusion Plate which disperses pressure through your soles to defend against uneven rugged trail terrains. You don't feel this 'plate' but rest assured that your foot landing is stable.

THE REVIEW

I first wore them for a short hike and trail run at Bintang Hill a few weeks ago. The hill itself reminded me of Gasing Hill where you'd spend more time clambering uphill and can only run properly on flat ground. There were also some rocky paths which proved difficult to manouvre around and over.

It is going down these rocky paths that proved to be the test of the GOtrail. As the upper mesh of the GOtrail is very soft and pliable to the shape of your feet, I had to take my time to lumber down. I'm not sure whether this was because the upper was not firm enough to steady my grip on the side of the rocks.

(To be fair, I think the shoes were a tad too big for me - one size too big.)

Last weekend in FRIM was the second test on the shoes with both Nick and Jamie.

Jamie's calf is rather distracting in this photo.

The trails in FRIM are not as technical as say, Bukit Kiara and Gunung Nuang but nevertheless a good place for everyone to get into trail running due to the variety of terrains.

While the shoes require further testing to be done, my thoughts of the GOtrail are tentatively as follows:

The Good:

1. The upper mesh was really good in wicking off moisture, mud and leeches. Leeches! This is a plus point already.

2. The lugs provide excellent traction on the ground and gravel. As they are also soft and responsive, you do not feel them while running on the road.

3. Lightweight.

4. You can spot me from far as my hot pink is really bright.

The Not So Good:

1. The heel collar is a little bit lower than what I'm usually used to. Perhaps it needs to be at most 1cm higher.

2. The synthetic material on the upper may not be breathable enough once the air is hot and humid.

3. The colour runs. My white socks had a tinge of pink when I took my shoes off.

Would I wear them again? 
Yes.

Why?
Love the boot-like lugs. And leech protective shield!

When?
Soon.

Skechers GOtrail - The Interview

 Choosing your pair of trail shoes depends on several factors:

1) low profile (keeping your feet closer to the ground) and firmer cushioning.
2) breathability for long term comfort.
3) good fit
4) grip
5) lightweight
6) waterproofing
7) protective toe box and upper

I was quite excited to find out that Skechers was launching a pair of trail shoes which I was very eager to test them out. To made things even sweeter, the Gotrail shoes had one in hot pink!

My pair of hot pink Skechers GOtrail.

Last week I managed to take the GOtrail for a short run and hike at Bintang Hill. For further testing, Jamie and I thought the trails in FRIM would be a great place and Nick joined us for the morning's long and tiring run.

What made it interesting was that we had an interview right after our run! :)

Well, it was an imaginary interview by Meb Keflezighi which we can only hope and dream will happen one day.

Jamie attempts the muddy Pacat Trail.

Possibly Meb: Hi guys, understand you took the GOtrail out today on the not-too-technical FRIM trail. What do you think of the shoe in terms of fit?

Yvonne Teo: Nice and comfy. Then I realised it was due to the upper which is stretched to fit your feet as snugly yet securely as possible. I know the GOtrail has a supportive brace for the heel but I think the heel collar should be a bit higher, maybe an additional 1cm or so, to properly lock the heel in place.

Nick Philips: Seeing as how most of the GO series range of shoes fit me pretty well, I have no complains with the GOtrail too though it did feel a little narrow and the heel counter could have been a little higher up and maybe slightly firmer but otherwise, it fit like a sock, at least it felt that way to me.

Jamie: As with all GO series, mostly good! The GO series has one of the best made uppers and the trail version is no different. While it fits snug, my toes never felt compressed and was able to spread for a more secure footing on the trails due to the stretchable upper. I think having good ground contact is essential in trail shoes and the GOtrail gives you that courtesy of a low ride. One thing which Skechers can improve is the heel section where the collar of the shoe should to be raised such that the soft PU heel stabilizer or brace is located further up the archilles. The present location of the stabilizer is too low negating the intention of what it's put there to do. The shoe has non-removable sockliner so there's nothing to remove when cleaning the shoe. The fabric used to line the footbed appears to be fragile but only time will tell if they're durable.

Jamie offers his hand to Nick for support. Such a sweet picture! :D

PM: What were your other trail shoes? How do they compare to the GOtrail in terms of weight, breathability, cushioning and support?

YT: I have three other pairs of trail shoes; the New Balance WT625GO and WT909GB, and the recently acquired Brooks' Pure Grit. The GOtrail is the lightest of them all. I honestly thought they would be heavy as its lugs seemed to be quite chunky. Despite being light, the GOtrail proved to be stable on uneven ground as the lug traction is quite secure. They are comfortable, too. For cushioning and support, I would say that I'd go with my NB WT909GB for long trail runs as it has proved to be very stable. The hydrophobic mesh upper on the GOtrail is not as breathable as the Brooks Pure Grit. My feet got pretty warm after a while but you'll forget about it once you're into your run. Nevertheless, the mesh upper proved to be an effective leech shield as I spotted a leech trying to penetrate through my shoe and thank goodness it didn't succeed!

NP: Since I've never run trails before I have no benchmark for comparison but as a trail layperson, I would say it offered just the right amount of cushioning and support though breathability was an issue a little. In terms of weight, I thought it was pretty light weight for a trail shoe seeing as how I hardly felt the shoe on my feet, well except when I was squelching around through the mud. The grip though was phenomenal with hardly any slippage even on the rocks.

J: My rarely used Cascadia is a block of brick compared to the GOtrail. Although well built and provide good protection, the Brooks' stack height is rather high resulting in not-so-nimble kind of ride. The GOtrail is way lighter, lower to the ground retaining the 4mm drop while still having enough comfort for FRIM and I believe Kiara type of trails. Built this light and low, I managed to stay agile, hopping over the roots in the local trails. The shoe retains the flexibility of the series and on the breathability it wasn't too bad even though I was a little apprehensive of the GOdri upper which kept out the mud and water. It's still too early to tell how the outsole holds up. From a once over, the shoe should be more than enough for dirt and leafy paths with the ruggedized outsole feeling more durable that the pure foam of the other GO series. The traction is pretty impressive on pebbles and smooth rocks. I think it should be fine short of taking them to the sharp and vicious rocks like those we see in Mandai, Singapore.

Nick and Jamie's GOtrail shoes survived the muddy Pacat Trail.

Nick and I walking up Steroid Hill aka Tongkat Ali Trail. I was craving for Ribena!
Photo credit: Jamie

PM: Do you think the GOtrail will be suitable for a race like TMBT (The Most Beautiful Thing)?

YT: Er, it really depends on the distance, 25km, 50km or 100km? I'm confident that the GOtrail has really good traction with deep lugs to grip the trail and avoid slipping. In fact, I was surprised to find myself running downhill quite fast just now. But I might have to test them further during a longer run and in wet conditions to see just how water resistant they are.

NP: Don't look at me, this is my first ever trail session.

J: For that you'll have to ask The Woman *points at Yvonne* as I've not run TMBT.

I knew hot pink shoes would be easily spotted amidst the greens!
Photo credit: Jamie

PM: The GOtrail has a protection plate built into the midsole. Could you feel that? As you can imagine, my customized GOruns are kept as simple as possible allowing me to run as fast as possible *winks*.

YT: Nope, I didn't feel a thing! Maybe because the shoe is comfortably flexible and light.

NP: I poked, I prodded, I pulled, I twisted, short of dissecting the shoe, for the life me I couldn't feel it which is an advantage for a trail shoe, not making it stiff.

J: Lucky you for having customized shoes, Possibly Meb! In the case of the GOtrail, I didn't particularly feel the plate. If I hadn't read the sticker on the box lid, I wouldn't have realize the presence of anything else in the midsole. But since it's there, power to the runner!

Running down Salem High Country.

PM: Is the shoe suitable for road running?

YT: During a short run on the road before entering and exiting the trails, the GOtrail felt pretty OK. Usually with a stiffer outer sole, you'd find your feet pretty sore running on the road in your trail shoes. Be that as it may, I don't think you should be road running in your trail shoes. Got to keep the tread patterns intact as much as possible.

NP: I would have to say yes (within limits) since I took it for a short 5k run prior to this. The lightness and flexibility of the shoe makes it feels somewhat like a more toughened GOrun. Though you can run roads with it, I wouldn't really recommend it. Oh and it gets really hot when road running with it.

J: On the short stretch of road before entering the trail, the shoe felt OK. But since I've plenty of road shoes, I won't be wearing the GOtrail on the road. However, you shouldn't have any problems in taking it to a mixed i.e. trail-road course. With the low volume of trail running I typically do, and having found a less bulky ride in the GOtrail, I can now donate my little used Cascadia!

After a 3 hour run, we were stoked to find a Fanta stall along the main road in FRIM. Someone gestured  us to come over and have a drink, but the Fanta reps told us to try all their flavours. Orange, Grape and Strawberry - all were refreshingly good!

PM: Did Skechers Malaysia tell you when the GOtrail will be on the store shelves there?

YT: The GOtrail is now available at all Skechers' outlets. The men's shoes are retailing at RM399 and the women's at RM369.

Group pic after the run!
Photo credit: Jamie.

Many thanks to 'Possibly Meb' for the kind interview. 

If it were real, I think I would have fumbled and tripped over my words and it would have been very embarrassing!

Check out Jamie and Nick's blogs for all things related to running and other stuff. Thank you for the company, guys!

Possibly FRIM-related posts:
A Dream Trail Indeed
Salem High Country in FRIM
Testing Out The Brooks' Pure Grit
Longest Trail Running Training