garmin forerunner 935 multisport gps watch review

Disclaimer: I received a Garmin Forerunner 935 Multisport GPS Watch from Garmin to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I've been a Garmin watch user for about 3.5 years now. I had the Forerunner 220 and upgraded to the Fenix 3. The latest addition to the collection, so clearly I'm a fan of Garmin, is the Forerunner 935 Multisport GPS Watch.

One of the big upgrades from my Fenix 3 to this Forerunner 935 is the built-in heart rate monitor. I know a lot of people do HR training, so having a built-in monitor can be super useful. I know I can't stand having the strap on; sports bras are enough to deal with, I don't need to add more chaffing items to my body. If you prefer the strap, you can still use one that connects to the Forerunner 935 which can then give you even more data than the wrist function alone.

The amount of data you can get from the Forerunner 935 is outstanding. Besides heart rate, it can analyze your sleep and patterns and your stress levels. How cool is that? Though I have to say, both have been depressing numbers for me. I barely get any deep sleep and my stress levels are higher than I expected. Apparently I don't rest enough, so it's something I'd like to work on in the new year. And as far as light sleep, I'm looking into somethings that might help me get some extra deep sleep – any recommendations? I'm going to try using an eye mask again (I used to use them, but got out of the habit, but wondering if where the new placement of our bed is has more light coming at me than my previous spot and think the mask might help), and maybe trying some yoga moves before bed. Anyway... 

Quick and easy to pair with my phone.

There are a ton of different sports your can track, not just running. I've used it for cycling, and when I join a gym again, I'll be able to use it for swimming. Why would I join a gym again? Well, my husband got me a new bike for my birthday.... and now he's trying to get me to register for sprint triathlons, which means I need to not only re-learn how to ride a bike (and maybe even learn, because when I was a kid, I wasn't focused on technique, just on getting to and from my friends' houses haha), but I also have to get back into swimming. In high school gym we did swimming, so practice with strokes is more recent than when I last seriously rode a bike, but still. It's been quite a while and I'm not sure I could ever really use the freestyle stroke and go in a straight line.

I noticed for cycling, a lap would consist of 5 miles. You can change this if you want in the settings. I'd venture a guess that most people using the cycling are a bit faster than I and wouldn't need updates every mile like we do for running. I'm hoping with practice I'll get faster there too ;)

I love that for running I can have multiple data screens and set each one to be the data I want to see. My most utilized ones are lap pace and time. Other good data items to have on there are average pace, overall distance, and overall time (which for the life of me, I can't remember the correct term for at the moment haha). 

The battery life on this bad boy is nearly two weeks, but if you know me and my odd anxieties, I need to charge it before it gets below 50%. It's just a weird thing I have. I prefer to see the battery on green, rather than yellow or red. It freaks me out of illogical reasons. Green is good, and I prefer to see that color more often on my watch. Speaking of...

Alerts you when you hit recovery heart rate.

Another cool thing you can do with your watch is set the watch face. You can download from Connect IQ on your phone or the computer, and most of them allow you to customize colors and which data items are most important to you. On my old watch, my favorite was the countdown watch face. With this one, I've been using one that shows my stair & step goal and how far I've gotten on each, time, notification number, battery, and date. I was able to choose my colors for each item. You can also create your own watch faces using the FaceIt App. Another fun way to customize it to your style is to get some colored wristbands – I bought a few to try (blue and lime green), but haven't had a chance to switch them out yet. Sounds like it shouldn't be too hard, though. I love that you can make it your own, while still getting all of the benefits it offers.

Ready to run on a cold November day in Chicago.

The watch is extremely lightweight, weighing in at only 49 grams. Way more lightweight than I was expecting. It's very comfortable to wear, but I'm not sure sleeping in it is for me. I think I sleep weird or something, because it's usually in the way or hurting my face haha. I thought that maybe after a month of wearing it every night it wouldn't bother me anymore and I'd be used to it, but not quite. 

This watch is pretty baller and I haven't even scratched the surface of everything it can do yet. I think it might take me a year to figure out all of the amazing features and how it can improve my running and day to day life. Highly recommend, but if it's not quite in your wheelhouse, I'd say you could get any Garmin and be happy. The phone app syncs quickly and easily to your watch and all of the information can be found in the app and online; which they are continuously updating to make it more user friendly. I've been a fan for a few years, and I don't think I'll ever switch to a different brand because I've been so happy with their products and user experience.

Three of the same watch. Three different watch faces and personalities.

Quick information:

• Offers advanced running and multisport features in a comfortable watch you can wear all day, and it only weighs 49 grams
• Provides elevation changes with a built-in barometer; altimeter and electronic compass help you keep your bearings
• Evaluates your training status to indicate if you’re undertraining or overdoing it and offers additional performance monitoring features
• Provides advanced dynamics² for running, cycling and swimming, including ground contact time balance, stride length and more
• Battery life: up to 2 weeks in watch mode, up to 24 hours in GPS mode, up to 50 hours in UltraTrac™ mode (with wrist-based heart rate), or up to 60 hours in UltraTrac™ mode (without wrist-based heart rate)

Connect with Garmin Fitness:
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knuckle lights colors review

Disclaimer: I received Knuckle Lights COLORS to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews! 



With fall and winter upon us, that means running in the dark. The sun rises late and sets early, leaving us runners with very little time to run in the daylight. Not all of us work from home or have the ability to go for a runch. Even my short runs take me close to an hour, so even if I didn't mind showing back up to work all sweaty, I just don't have the time to go during my lunch break.

This leaves early morning runs (not my thing), or evening runs. I'd say that even if you have street lights in your area, having Knuckle Lights COLORS with you is a smart way to go out, as it can allow you to see the cracks, potholes, etc a bit easier, it also makes YOU more visible to cars. Just like wearing bright, reflective clothing is safe, having some extra lights that make you more visible to cars can help keep you on your feet.



I've tried the Knuckle Lights rechargeable, and they are awesome. They hold a charge for a long time, and being able to plug them in to get them ready for the next run is easy. I was a little weary of the battery powered ones, as I had a pair a very long time ago that seemed to require new batteries every run. Lucky for me, these do not have this problem. The batteries last MUCH longer and I have yet to replace them, even after maybe 8 hours of use. 



Knuckle Lights COLORS have three different power settings: High, Low and Blinking. I'm not sure why anyone would use blinking, but I suppose if you have good light for running, it's a great setting to use to make you more noticeable to drivers. I'm always in low light conditions using them, so I'm always on high. They are comfortable to wear and easy to adjust, plus lightweight (they only weigh 3oz each).

Not only have I used Knuckle Lights COLORS for running, but also to go get the mail and when the power goes out to navigate the house. They're awesome for so many activities!

The Knuckle Lights COLORS come in baby blue, pink, or black. I picked blue, as it's my favorite color and of course matches a lot of my running outfits haha. Each unit requires one AA battery, and two batteries came in the package, so you can take them out and use them immediately – no wait. They cost $39.99 and you'll get free shipping in the US. Grab a set now with a 15% discount using code BIBRAVEPRO. They'd be a great stocking stuffer for the runner friend or family member in your life.



Here's a quick guide to Knuckle Lights COLORS:

Knuckle Lights are designed to be worn on the front of your hands, in a perfect position to light your path and be seen on your next walk or run in the dark. 

The ultra wide flood beans move with the natural motion of your arms, providing an even, steady light that illuminates the entire area in front of you.

Knuckle Lights COLORS includes:

• 120 Total Lumens — The extra bright lights emit a wide flood beam, providing a steady, even light in front of you that does not bounce, even with your arms moving.
• 2 Lights Per Set — The units connect together magnetically. The soft silicone straps are easily adjusted to fit any size hand and even over gloves. The units are almost unnoticeable at less than 3 ounces each.
• 3 Power Settings — High, Low and Blinking.
• Batteries Included —  Each unit operates on 1 X AA battery
• Waterproof — The units are fully waterproof and can be used in any type of weather, and will operate in below freezing temperatures down to -20 Celsius.

With Knuckle Lights you can confidently step out in the dark and SEE & BE SEEN. 

Join BibChat on Tuesday, December 5 at 8pm CT for a chance to win your own Knuckle Lights COLORS!

Connect with Knuckle Lights:
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eagle creek cargo hauler duffel review

Disclaimer: I received an Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

You probably have noticed that I run with a lot of gear, which also means for races (even local), I have a lot to bring with me. I like to be prepared, so I have ALL the things. And often times, this means I have three different bags of stuff. In the winter it's even worse, because a change of clothes after a very cold Chicago winter race means some bulky, warm sweatshirts, pants, and yep, even a blanket.

Not using your duffel? Fold it up into itself to easily store it.

In comes the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L. The 60L is their medium sized bag, and let me tell you, it is a very decent size. For reference, they have a small duffel which is 45L and a large which is 120L. They come in blue/grey, black, fern/grey (my pick, because even though I love blue, I figured I should branch out a bit (pun not intended haha)), cherry/grey, and orange/grey. All great options, it just depends on your style.

Packed with a blanket to put on my legs post-race for the drive home.
Really helped warm me up! 

Surprisingly, the bag is very light and only weights 1lb 12oz. It is made with an extra-durable, water-repellent coated Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite fabric; fusion of technology that merges max abrasion-resistance with ultra-light carry. Don't be confused though, water-repellent is not waterproof. If you are caught in a downpour, it's likely to soak through the bag and get some items wet (most likely the outside pockets vs the larger inside one, if that helps). 

What I love most about this Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L is that there are multiple ways to carry it – by its removable backpack straps, padded top haul handles, or side grab handle. 

Want to check the bag? Remove those backpack straps and stuff them in a pocket. Lock the #10 zippers. The bottom is foam padded to help protect contents against impact. 

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I use this bag just about every weekend to gather my race gear, change of clothes, for the group runs that I attend right after work. My husband makes fun of me for packing it for races, because it is large, asking if I'm leaving for the weekend. Truth it, it's just easier to toss things in it than trying to shove it all in a smaller bag. And it smooshes down, so it's not like it's really taking up that much space. I'm not filling it to the brim haha.

My favorite way to carry it. And yeah, I wear this sweatshirt a LOT. haha.

Eagle Creek also has this great 'No Matter What Warranty'. It covers the Lifetime Warranty promise plus the added insurance of repair or replacement due to damage, regardless of the cause. During this period, they will repair or replace it at their discretion.

Here are all the quick read details and features:

• ULTRA-LIGHT (You can’t tell by the picture, but the 60L weighs only 1 lb 12 oz!!)
• Made with an extra-durable, water-repellent coated Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite fabric: a fusion of technology that merges max abrasion-resistance with ultra-light carry
• Bartack reinforcement on all high stress points for maximum schlepping
• Carry by its removable backpack straps, padded top haul handles, or side grab handle
• U-shaped lid for easy access to main compartment
• Sizeable easy-access zippered end pockets for gear organization
• Six heavy-duty lash points for attaching this bag to a roof rack
• #10 lockable zippers with storm flap shield zipper from rain
• Bottom is foam padded to help protect contents against impact

Product Specification:
Capacity – 3665 cu in | 60 L
Dimensions – 26.5 x 10.25 x 13.5 in | 67 x 26 x 34 cm
Modular Dimensions – 13.5 x 10.5 x 5 in | 34 x 26.5 x 12.5 cm
Weight – 1 lbs 12 oz | 0.82 kg
Material: Bi-Tech™ Armor Lite

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L is usually $99, but is currently $79.20, so act fast if you want to grab yourself one of these versatile bags. If you want to go smaller, the 45L is $71.20 (marked down from $89), and the 120L is $95.20 (usually $119). You'll also get free shipping on orders $49+ (may depend on your location).

Check out this cool video that fellow BibRave Pro and good friend, known as Daddy Did You Win? on social media, posted on YouTube packing the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L:



It fits so much stuff!! I'd definitely recommend the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 60L if you're looking for a durable, versatile, sturdy, light-weight bag for traveling or if you're a need all the gear for every single run kind of person like me.

Connect with Eagle Creek:
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buff® thermonet™ multifunctional headwear and hat review

Disclaimer: I received BUFF® ThermoNet™ Multifunctional Headwear and hat to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Winter is coming (or here for some people). Despite the fact that it's still fall as far as dates go, plenty of us have been getting those sub 20 degree temps already. Granted, here in Chicagoland, it didn't seem to get away from summer until the end of October. I was hoping that when the BUFF® goodies came in early October, I'd be able to use them right away. Unfortunately, it didn't cool down enough for me to test them until Hot Chocolate 15k came around.

I love BUFF® products. I use the half BUFF® all summer long to wipe away sweat from my face (and to prevent that unpleasant eye burn) and it's great in the winter as a headband to keep the ears warm or as a face mask to keep the face warm and to warm up the air a bit before breathing it in. It's been an essential piece of gear no matter the weather, so of course I wanted to try out their new ThermoNet™ line.



I love the color options – I went with crash berry, which is a mix of purples, but also really liked the arrowhead option. The hats come in four options: crash berry, black, arrowhead, or Banff Film Festival. The multifunctional headwear has a few more: black, crash berry, soft hills turquoise, damask purple, hunter military, and tip logo.

I was glad I brought both the hat and multifunctional headwear for Hot Chocolate 15k on Sunday, October 29 as it was pretty cold standing around waiting to start, especially in the shade. I think it was around upper 20s. Once we started going, I was able to warm up and eventually take off the hat and then the BUFF® that was being used as a gaiter.

They came in handy again for Hot Cider Hustle 8k last weekend when it was windy and the temp was 19 degrees during the race. Snow and ice on the ground, BUFF ® ThermoNet™ at and multifunctional headwear around the face kept me warm. Of course, I eventually got hot and took off the hat haha, but it's always needed the first mile or two (and all that pre-race standing around). You know me, I always get hot fast, which is why I'm still in shorts when it's in the 40s ;)



They are both super soft and comfortable and can be worn together, or separate. I like that the hat is able to fit my headphones underneath a little better than some of the other hats I've tried. These items will definitely be a staple this winter along with the Merino Wool BUFF® (also super soft and necessary to add to your collection!).

Here are more technical details about the products from the website:

When weather conditions require high-thermal insulation, the new ThermoNet™ multifunctional headwear provides maximum protection from the cold. This comfortable, thin multifunctional headwear is made with breathable, durable PrimaLoft® yarn that is four times warmer than regular microfiber. The result of years of research and testing, ThermoNet™ multifunctional headwear wicks moisture away from your skin while trapping heat inside, keeping you comfortable and dry in even the most frigid winter weather.

• Featuring PrimaLoft® yarn
• High-thermal insulation: mimics the warmth of down
• 4 times warmer than microfiber
• High warmth-to-weight ratio means you don’t need bulk to stay warm
• Moisture management
• Seamless

Complete the look with a matching ThermoNet™ Hat:

When the temperature dips, keeping your head warm is the key to whole-body temperature regulation. Our new ThermoNet™ Hat provides maximum protection from the cold with a breathable, durable PrimaLoft® yarn that is four times warmer than regular microfiber. The result of years of research and testing, the ThermoNet™ Hat wicks moisture away from your skin while trapping heat inside, keeping your head comfortable and dry in even the most frigid winter weather.

• Featuring PrimaLoft® yarn
• High-thermal insulation: mimics the warmth of down
• 4 times warmer than microfiber
• High warmth-to-weight ratio means you don’t need bulk to stay warm
• Moisture management

BONUS: Receive 20% off your entire order at www.buffusa.com when you purchase at least one product from the ThermoNet™ collection. Includes ThermoNet™ Multifunctional Headwear, Hats, or Balaclavas. Enter code: *BIBRAVETHERMONET20* at checkout. Expires: 11/17/2017

oofos project pink

Disclaimer: I received a pair of OOcloog Project Pink Clog to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!



I am a big fan of OOFOS products. I have their OOmg Low Shoe (which they just came out with a full black color that I need for work stat), the OOriginal Sport Sandal, and I picked up a pair of the limited/special edition Chicago Marathon OOsport Slide Sandal. 

Obviously I'm trying to get a full collection of their products and was in need of adding the OOcloog Clog. When BibRave gave the Pros the change to be involved with OOFOS Project Pink, I wanted to be a part of the promotion and was thankfully picked to receive the clog. Yahoo!

During Chicago Marathon training, I was having a lot of heel issues (believed by me to be a symptom of tight calves/PF flare ups). This meant if I sat down to long, or after sleeping, I had a lot of trouble walking without pain when I got up again. Keeping OOFOS by my bed so I could slip them on when I woke up helped immensely. I also wore them around the house, as I read being barefoot would make PF worse.

I love to toss them in my car for post-race. I will note that they are warm, so for most of the past month I haven't been able to wear them outside the house because it's been too hot for them (needed the sandals), but it's starting to cool down, so they've been useful for running errands. So, if your feet are always cold, these will work for you year round. If you are like me, and your feet got hot quick, then they'll be more of a fall and winter shoe and I'll rotate in my sandals during warmer temps.

What makes them different? OOFOS are made with OOFoam, which absorbs 37% more shock than traditional footwear foam. They reduce stress on your feet, knees, and back. They cradle your arches. More information regarding why your feet have earned this.

Now onto the Project Pink portion (information from the OOFOS website). 

This extends beyond footwear to a cause that strikes way too close to home: the fight against breast cancer.
Duncan Finigan is a long time member of the OOFOS family and was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer in October 2014. After Duncan’s diagnosis, it was an easy decision for us to choose breast cancer research as the cause that OOFOS would stand behind. 

$10 of every pair of the Project Pink collection sold is donated to breast cancer treatment research at Dana-Farber. As one of the world’s leading cancer care centers, the Dana-Farber team works tirelessly to find a cure to help the millions around the world that are affected. 

Read more about Duncan's Story here.

Perfect to wear to Yoga and Beer - slip on and off easy peasy.

Connect with OOfos:

website | facebook | twitter | instagram | youtube | pinterest 

5k crate subscription box review

Disclaimer: I received one 5k crate to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I love trying new things, so when the change to try a subscription box came up within the BibRave Ambassador Program, I decided to opt in. There's a lot of products out there, and can cost a lot of money to try them all out, and the choices are overwhelming. Getting a subscription box with handpicked items from 5k Crate can make that a little easier. Plus, it's not just the snacks, gels, or whatever. It's gear and accessories. Yes, please. October boxes start shipping on 10/16.

What is 5k Crate? Let's go into more details before I talk about what I got. 5k Crate is a curated quarterly box for runners of all levels. It costs $59.99 (free shipping within the US), and every 3 months you'll get a box filled with 4–6 handpicked items. The 5k Crate is about offering subscribers a premium subscription that provides the best apparel and accessories on the market today. They promise not to be another subscription box filled with just snacks and gels, but rather deliver to you a box filled with products that you will happily be able to use over and over again.

WHAT'S INSIDE

Each quarter you will receive quality apparel, gear, and accessories from well known brands like Nathan, HydraKlick, Mission, Nike, Zensah, Kunckle Lights, Nike and others that are sure to motivate you but more importantly, that you are sure to use over and over again. You choose men or women, then your shoe, top, and bottom sizes. 

When I opened my box, I noticed how nicely packed it was. There was a card (with a short handwritten note on it) that described the products inside and what the costs of each product was. So what came in my box (July–September box)?

• Mission VaporActive Alpha Running Shirt (hot pink) $35.95
• Mission VaporActive Cooling Towel (blue) $19.99
• Spigen Wireless Bluetooth Headphones (black) $45.00
• Zensah No-Show Compression Socks (white, grey, and bright pink) $19.99
• Epic Full-Size Body Wipes (x2) $2.50 each
• La Fresh Travel Sunscreen Samples (x3... except mine only had 2, but that's ok) $1.00 each

The box arrived the day before I left for Disneyland, so I packed the Zensah socks and the travel sunscreen samples since I knew I could get some use out of those on my trip. Let's go down the line and discuss a little about each product.

Mission VaporActive Alpha Running Shirt

I'm not gonna lie. I didn't love this shirt. While the VaporActive and the color were great, it just wasn't a great cut for me. I'm very picky about what I wear for running, because if there's any seams rubbing, that can be uncomfortable (and lead to chaffing). The shirt was just a snug on my muffin top, and I could tell it would bother me while running, so I didn't wear it for that. It's fine for walking or just to wear for errands/around the house (because I wear tech shirts all day if I can), but not great for me personally to run in. I think maybe if I went a size up on that one it would work... but you know how tricky sizing can be. For whatever reason, sizes are different and fit different depending on brand and style. 

Mission VaporActive Cooling Towel

This came in HANDY. It has been hot here in Chicago, and while training for the Chicago Marathon, some of these long runs have been brutal. Like, 90s and sunny. That is not my cup of tea at all. If you know me or follow me, you'll know that I prefer 30s over summer temps. I tossed this towel in my bag and would use it after my long runs. It helped to cool me down and feel more comfortable post-run. Just yesterday I ran at noon in the city when it was another hot day (95 and sunny, ick). I actually folded up the towel and put it in the pocket of my hydration pack. I only had to run 3 miles, but they were tough. At mile 2, I took out the towel, wet it at the water fountain on the lake front path, and wore it around my neck for the last mile. It's getting a lot of use and I would highly recommend it for anyone that overheats like I do in the summer. I say overheat like I do, because I get crazy hot running even in the 50s and 60s haha.

Spigen Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

So, I already have a pair of wireless bluetooth headphones I love for running. They are open ear so they are awesome for safety when outside. And they fit nicely. I have a really hard time getting most earbuds to stay in my ear, especially when running. So I'm not going to mess with what already works so well. Instead of wearing these for running, I decided to bring them to work. They're nice headphones, and it's nice not to be constantly dropping my phone because I turned and pulled the cord of wired headphones, landing my phone on the floor.  

Zensah No-Show Compression Socks

I'm a big fan of Zensah, and wear their compressions sleeves and socks a lot. I've never actually tried their low socks, though. Don't ask me why. I was excited to give these a try. They are thin and lightweight and come up to your ankles. They fit nicely and were very comfortable. I wore them for running and all day for work and for when I was Disneyland walking around in the parks all day. No blisters or problems. Very comfy.

Epic Full-Size Body Wipes

These body wipes are no joke. They say full-size and they mean it (dubbed the Massive Wet Wipe. Yep, it's massive alright). I tossed one in my bag for a post-race wipe down. Obviously in the heat of summer, we get sweatier than normal, and here's some real talk: I've been dealing with some body acne which I think has to do with being so sweaty, but not being able to shower for another hour because I have to drive home. Being able to wipe all the sweat off and clean the pores has helped reduce this body acne. I've never dealt with this before, so it was new to me and confusing, but I think I pinpointed the problem, and these wipes have helped to fix it. They work great and smelled nice. I'm not sure I always need such a large sized wipe, but I bet they'd be awesome for ultras, camping, and other travel. What's really great about these wipes is that they are made with bamboo, which is a wildly renewable resource, which makes the wipes 100% biodegradable. Score.

La Fresh Travel Sunscreen 

These travel packs came in handy for traveling. Much easier to put in your purse than a full container of sunscreen (and light-weight!). It was easy to apply, and you don't get all that sunscreen lotion all over your hands. I really liked having these, and might stock up. It certainly makes applying sunscreen more convenient, and we all know how important it is to sunscreen up! I know as an Irish, blonde-haired girl I need it bad. I burn very easily.

5k Crate was a pleasant surprise. You never really know what to expect from these things, and I was really happy with the selection of gear and accessories. I've found some new staples that'll get a lot of use (or something I know is worth buying more of). Give it a shot. You might find some of your new favorite products!

Connect with 5k Crate:

website | facebook | twitter | instagram

What the other BibRave Pros had to say:

Tedrick | Jenna | Mai | Ang | Vanessa

under armour horizon rtt trail shoe review

Disclaimer: I received the UA Horizon RTT Trail Shoes to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Finding the right shoe for you can be hard, let alone finding a trail shoe that works not only for your running style and foot, but also to the trails you run. I generally run some tame trails, but sometimes I head over to more technical trails to run with my trail loving friends (and on the rare occasion, by myself).

I had the opportunity to try a pair of Under Armour Horizon RTT Trail shoes. Choosing a color was tough, but in true Heather fashion, I went with one of my favorite colors — the teal ones (official color is Marlin Blue / Neptune). Picking a shoe size can always be iffy too, but I took the 'what size fits me best test', which resulted in the same size I usually wear. 

When I got the shoe, I was intrigued by the traction on the bottom. They looked like they would be great for the really technical trails where you would need good traction to get up some of the trickier hills or to stay on your feet in a muddy situation. I never got to test the latter, as the trails in the area aren't supposed to be run on when they are muddy (to preserve them, and I do my best to follow the rules), but they did work great on getting up hills where I needed a good foothold (better than my usual road shoes).

I am in full marathon training mode, so I was weary of trying them on my long runs, but I did wear them for short/medium runs up to 6 miles. I didn't have any issues with blisters and the fit was great. I'm glad I went with the size that was recommended. I found it was true to size, but sometimes size can be relative, so I'll say the shoes I usually wear for running in the two brands I wear are both the same size, and the Under Armour RTT Trail Shoes are the same.

They were a little heavier than the shoes I'm used to, but I feel like that is standard for a trail shoe – I think they are made a little more sturdy and durable. It didn't bother me, it's just something I initially noticed, but quickly got used to. I felt they moved well with my foot when running and didn't notice any heel or knee pain (something I've been dealing with lately, which I think has to do with running in shoes that aren't a great fit for me, so I am usually pretty weary of new shoe models I haven't worn before for running).

There were a few instances where I was running on rocks that I noticed my ankle rolling a bit, but I honestly think that's just me and my lack of gracefulness and being a bit on the clumsy side. This didn't happen when it was the dirt, tree roots, grass, etc. Just when on the rocks. Nothing got stuck in the bottoms. I felt the cushion wasn't over the top, but there was enough that my heels weren't bothered in them.

I love getting out to the trails; though they are more difficult, which means I'm even slower than usual, I always feel accomplished and I enjoy my time out in nature. Having a shoe that fits the terrain better gives me the excitement and energy to make the trek out rather than just running around the neighborhood (which gets pretty boring).

I would have liked to get out to the trails more, and I did try, but sometimes life gets in the way. I was able to get out there 5 times to test these shoes out for 5–6 miles each time. I tried another day – I got everything ready to go so I could go straight from work and I was so proud and later in the day at work I realized I didn't pack a sports bra... that's not really negotiable, and by the time I got home from work I didn't have the time to get out to the trails before making it to BibChat at 8pm CT that night. I did go the next day, but it just wasn't the same haha. 

Some info on the UA Horizon RTT Shoe from the website:

These were made for the runner who makes the trail their second home. With superior cushioning & incredible durability, they‘re are ready to put in some serious miles.

Product DNA

• Durable PU & textile upper for breathability & reliable protection
• Reinforced welded synthetic material in critical areas for increased durability
• Mesh heel with dual protective welds
• Molded collar foam package for added comfort
• Charged Cushioning® foam puck placed under the heel for responsive comfort
• Lightweight, full-length EVA midsole for optimal cushioning
• High traction rubber lug outsole for dependable traction on a variety of conditions
• Offset: 7mm
• Weight: 9.2 oz.
• Imported
• Colors: 

• Marlin Blue (300) / Neptune

• Black (001) / Steel
• 
Raisin Red (916) / Black Currant

• Midnight Navy (410) / Mediterranean
• Pomegranate (693) / Gray Matter
• Cost: $109.99

I would recommend these for anyone looking for a trail shoe that is sturdy and durable. I heard a few of the other BibRave Pros even ran through streams and puddles in them and had no issues. Everyone is different, but for me, they were comfortable and worked well for the trails that I was running. 

Under Armour has also started up a running series and you can join one of my best running friends Amy at Copper Mountain. They have a ton of distance options: 50k, marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, vertical challenge, 10k, and 5k. I love when a race has so many options to choose from; just about something for everyone. It looks really challenging, but that's what we love, right? It takes place September 9 and 10 and you can save 40% on any distance using code BIBRAVE40.

Connect with Under Armour:
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Read what the other BibRave Pros had to say about the UA Horizon RTT Trail Shoe:
Mel | Tedrick | Lindsey | Jessica | Fallon | Casey | Vanessa | Angie | Frank | Amy