I don’t run, never have and never thought I would. I’ve tried running (when forced) and failed to find pleasure in the monotony of right-foot-left-foot pounding on pavement with only the sound of my breath as a companion. What would it take for me to run? Looks like the 2011 Ragnar Relay Wasatch Back is the answer.
Before, maybe I would run if an outdoor gear shop had a one-hour only, 90% off sale on brand new powder skis. Even if that splendid dream did come true, my stride would resemble something more akin to a rapid saunter. Perhaps an event more primal would motivate the sprinter in me, like a bear attack or someone announcing there’s only one IPA left in the cooler. With this well-versed history of running avoidance, the fact that I begrudgingly accepted an invitation to run in the Ragnar Wasatch Back will mystify scholars for eons.
I didn’t willingly sign up for this shindig. The earth actually shook when I was lassoed in and registered by an overzealous team organizer who left me with little choice (she took my “maybe” as a “yes” and signed me up anyway.) I justified my acceptance with memories of working as a volunteer during last year’s Ragnar event where I saw how much fun my wife and friends were having on the course while I toiled away picking up garbage in a dorky reflective vest. Slowly, my allergy to running on streets started to cure, medicinally healed by the encouragement of spouse and peers.
Damn them. Damn their “you can do it, it’s not that hard,” and “it’s more of a party than a run” wordage. Everybody’s support of me has ruined years of carefully sculpted avoidance and excuses, and has led me to this breathless fact: I’m running… and I’m actually starting to like it.
Of course I haven’t gone over 3 miles in a single run, so my current enthusiasm may abruptly end when the training schedule starts requiring 6 to 8 mile, multi-day runs up hills.
Another setback has been a lack of running gear. As a “never-run,” I didn’t have the proper shoes, clothes, or even a watch that I could use to time myself. Thanks to some awesome gear companies, I’ve been outfitted with all I need and will be testing and reviewing the gear I right here on UtahOutside.com. Below is a list of running gear that will be reviewed, so check back if you’re interested in purchasing some for yourself.
Salomon XR Crossmax 1 Running Shoes
The Crossmax is a true “door-to-trail” running shoe that can tackle runs on both pavement and dirt. This training shoe is built for athletes who rack up lots of miles on the trail, and are looking for features like pronation control, stable cushioning and weather protection.
For those chilly morning runs, there’s this warm, breathable hoody. The Salomon Swift features thermal fabric, anti-odor venting panels, thumb loops, and fold-out mittens to protect fingers from unexpectedly frosty air.
Salomon XT Advanced Skin S-LAB
Salomon has come up with a form fitting hydration pack for long-distance runners. It’s called the XT Advanced Skin 5 S-Lab Set. It sets itself apart from other hydration packs because it uses a harness wrap to keep it snug on the body, sort of like a hydration vest.
The Suunto T3d training watch is an all in one device. Paired with a heart rate monitor, and Suunto’s Footpod or GPS Pod, and you have a wristop computer that gives you real-time training info to keep your workouts working.
Vasque Transistor FS Trail Running Shoes
The Vasque Transistors will be used mostly for trail running. They use a new patent pending FootSync Fit System that the company says connects the runner to the ground in a more seamless way without sacrificing cushioning. They are made from synthetic leather and airmesh nylon uppers and with a Flux Foam Strobel Board in the footbed.
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