Support your Arches and they will Support you!

Experiencing foot pain? Johnnie, one of our veteran Customer Care Specialists, has extensive experience working with foot problems and different types of arch supports. Over-pronation is one of the leading causes of foot discomfort. Your feet are the base and support for your whole skeleton. As you step down your arch flexes and stretches to accommodate the rolling motion of heel to toe. Adding an arch support to a shoe will roll the foot up into the correct position. As a result, unnecessary pressure will be lifted off your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

Johnnie's personal experience with foot ailments started back when she worked for a local shoe store. She was required to wear slip-on dress shoes for hours. These uncomfortable shoes had no support and wreaked havoc on her feet, knees, and lower back. She tried an arch support for extra cushioning and comfort, and after a week of wearing them, the pain started to ease up. Keep in mind at first the arch support may hurt a little, but after they are broken in and your feet get used to them, they will help.

So, are Arch Supports right for you? Over-pronators, people who tend to work longer hours on their feet, or those who have current foot/knee problems could benefit from an arch support.

Road Tested - Men's Tempo Tee and Vega Short

Tom, our elite wear tester, took the men's Tempo Tee and Vega Short on several test runs over the last few months. In order to give the items a proper review, he wore each piece in both warmer and cooler temperatures. Here is what he had to say:

The men's Tempo Tee is a great basic top for running. It holds up well in cooler weather and warmer weather. But this is not just a top for running, it would be great for all outdoor activities. I really enjoyed the wicking properties and the ability of this shirt to keep me dry. And priced at $28.99, this shirt is a great value.

Other things to keep in mind:

The top also washed really well in cold water.

Here is Tom's review on the Vega Short:

Like the Tempo Tee, the Vega Short is also very comfortable in cooler or warmer weather (variety of climates). Some special features of this short are the Phantom Waistband™ for a comfortable fit (you don't even know the shorts are there, they are that comfortable) Cadence light fabric for a lightweight feel, and Lightning Dry™ fabrication to keep you even more comfortable. This is an excellent running short for the elite as well as the novice runner. The mobility is great, and with 5 inch inseams, it gives adequate leg coverage. This is the most comfortable short I have ever tried!

Other things to keep in mind:
This short also washed really well in cold water.

From the looks of our reviews, the Tempo Tee and Vega Short might be worth trying out for summer running. On the Wear Tester grading scale:

Overall Grade (1-26.2 Miles)
1-8 Mile(s)(Good) 9-17 Miles (Better) 17-26.2 Miles (Best)


Tom gives this outfit (tee and shorts) a grade of 24 miles!


Any other runners out there tried the Tempo Tee or the Vega Short? If so, let us know how it performed!

--Cassie

Running the Marathon: Do I Run to Compete or Run to Finish?

I came across this article from the New York Times today about the Modern Day Marathoner. With convenient training programs, accessible information, and inspiration from celebrity marathoners, more runners than ever before are taking on the 26.2 mile journey. This article discusses the evolution of this idea and compares the current marathon training regime to how legendary runners trained in the past.

So, what do you think of this recent craze of "normal" folks taking on the marathon? I personally get inspired by everyday people who want to take on the challenge. It shows me, if they can do it, then why can't I?

What is the best way to train for a marathon? The convenient 3 to 4 day a week running jaunts (even long walks?) or the twice a day high impact runs of the 1970's? If you are an experienced or new marathoner, let us know your thoughts...

Cross Training for Better Workouts!

While running is a popular way to keep in shape this summer, it's important not to forget there are many other activities out there to keep you toned. If there are days during the week where you need a break from running those extra miles, try swimming, biking, or playing team sports.

Check out this article on Cross Training from the latest edition of Runner's World magazine. Read up on tips to improve your cross training workouts!

--Cassie

Memorial Day Free Shipping!

Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with NBwebexpress.com!

Now through May 28th get free ground shipping on everything - no minimum purchase!

Shop for grads, dads, and anyone else in need of fitness gear for the summer months ahead.

--Cassie