Garmin Forerunner 935: Review

Disclaimer:  I received the Garmin Forerunner 935 to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

It's hard to contain my excitement with my latest product review!  I have been an avid runner since 2011.  In the last seven years, I have been extremely loyal to Garmin.  It's the only brand I've ever owned. 

I still remember my very first GPS watch.  I was so excited to have a running watch that tracked GPS and told me simple statistics like time, pace and mileage. I felt like the coolest cat on the block.  I had arrived, officially, as a serious runner.  

Fast forward another year.  I upgraded.  Then, I upgraded again to the forerunner 235.   The forerunner 235 was the GPS watch that I felt was the absolute "Taj Mahal" of running watches.  It had so many specs and notifications, I was in heaven!  It is truly a watch that does everything.   How could any watch do more? 

But then.... enter the Forerunner 935!   When developing this watch, Garmin thought of everything; from the sleek design, to the multi-sport functions and even the silky feel of the band on your skin.  Yes, as a female, the silky feel is definitely something I noticed. 

I could honestly discuss every aspect of this watch, but in an effort to keep my blog post from becoming a novel, I will concentrate on just a few.  If you are interested in learning more about this watch, please visit the website here.  

TREADMILL RUNNING & CALIBRATION 

Being a Minnesotan, I'm used to running in all weather conditions, but sometimes it's just impossible to run outside; especially at -20 degrees.  I do own a treadmill and I use it frequently.  Until receiving the forerunner 935, my data for indoor runs was sub-par.  Sure, after several runs it seemed that my previous watch would calibrate relatively close to the actual pace and mileage.    

However, I was very excited to see just how awesome this watch does with indoor treadmill runs.  After my first run, I was immediately prompted with a message to calibrate and put in my actual treadmill statistics.  I was very impressed with this function and I'm happy to report that my second run indoors the watch data was EXACT.  Now that's a cool function!  Way to go Garmin!   It's certainly nice to be able to record your stats while using the treadmill.   

VO2 Max 

What is VO2 max?  It's the maximum rate of oxygen consumption after incremental exercise.  Essentially, the higher the number, the better the runners cardiovascular fitness is.  It also reflects the endurance capacity of a runner during exercise.  Elite runners are in the very high 60s and low 70s usually.  Over the course of that last month, I have seen my VO2 max increase which makes me happy! 

SLEEP FUNCTION

The Forerunner 935 syncs effortlessly with the Garmin Connect App and my Iphone 6.  It is in this app, that I gain so many other valuable statistics.  I am definitely a data nerd so I enjoy browsing the app to find my daily stats.  One in particular that I really love is the sleep functionality.  I wear this watch 24/7.  The only time I take it off is to shower (even though it's waterproof) and to charge.  Sidenote:  I rarely charge this watch.  It's battery life is amazing!

This watch is sleek and comfortable to sleep in and I absolutely love the alarm!  It gives me a gentle vibrate to wake me up.  Because I wear it to sleep, I have completely eliminated my noisy clock alarm and my husband doesn't even know I leave the room for my early morning wake-up calls.   For an added bonus, there is a snooze function.  I must admit that I've used the snooze function a few times. 

Along with the alarm, the Forerunner 935 will record your sleep statistics based on your movement during sleep.  With two little boys and early morning visits to their bedroom, it's funny to see where I spike and when I'm sleeping deeply.  

GPS 

One of the most exciting things for me to see after I complete a run is my GPS map.  The Garmin Connect App does a fabulous job pinpointing your exact locations.  Someday, I'd like to try to make a cool pattern out of my GPS map.  How cool is this data? 

 

 

STATISTICS 

I truly believe there is not much else this Garmin can do.  But, here are a few of the added statistics that this watch has:

• Heart Rate - I really enjoy knowing my heart rate at my fingertips while training
• Steps  - I have a 10,000 step goal daily
• Intensity Minutes
• Floors climbed
• Stress - according to my stats, my stress level is low.  YIPPEE!
• Calories in/out
• Sleep - I could get more sleep, but couldn't everyone?

NOTIFICATIONS 

 

As I stated before, I am a data nerd and notifications are one of my favorite aspects of this watch.  This watch will receive text, call, movement, and social media notifications. Don't worry, if you don't want to get all of them, you can use your phone settings to turn them off!    It has also completely replaced my Garmin Vivosmart for all of my activity notifications. 

 

 

 

 

I honestly could gush about this watch for days and days.  I am a Garmin lover for life and this watch has made me a true believer.  In my opinion, it does have an above average price of $499.  But, what I will say is - this watch delivers!  If you are debating at all whether this watch is for you don't be nervous.  It will absolutely fill your needs and then some! 

 

Happy Running! Now, go buy that Garmin!

Adidas Ultraboost X - Review

Disclaimer:  I received the Adidas UltraboostX from Adidas as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador) and check out www.bibrave.com to review, find and write race reviews.

Running shoes are as important to a runner as a banana is to a monkey; as white is to rice or a moth to a flame.   In fact, it's not uncommon for an avid runner to have multiple pair of running shoes in their monthly mileage rotation. 

I know that I currently have three pair in my rotation.  I am always seeking out the perfect pair to add to my collection.  When Bibrave gave me the opportunity to test these light and sleek UltrasboostX, I was super pumped! 

What makes these unique is the new adaptive arch that is designed to hug your foot.  It also allows the runner to feel supported on the run.  As you can see from the photo above, these shoes are sock-like.  They fit my foot perfectly and the first time I put them on I could feel the comfort!  I regularly wear these out-and-about without socks. 

I will admit, at first try on, they felt a bit snug.  They did require a tug and adjust to feel just right.   I ordered true to size at 9.5.  My regular shoe size is 9, but I always size up 1/2 size when I purchase running shoes.  Reading other reviews online, some comments were that these shoes run small.  I can see how they 'feel' a bit snug at first, but the toe box was perfect length for me and they were tremendously comfortable.  My big toe had ample room toe move up and down. 

The sock-like feel of the shoe is like no other shoe in my arsenal.  I do have to wear thin socks however, because if I have too much cushion, it got distracting and I felt like the shoe was too tight on the top of my foot.  

They are really a beautiful shoe.  Being the girly-girl that I am, I am very happy that I went with the orange color.   They do come in black as well as gray.

The shoe had their maiden voyage on the treadmill when I completed a one mile sprint.  These shoes had an incredible bounce to them and I really enjoyed my first run wearing them.  They are ultra light-weight and have the right amount of support for the treadmill for sure!

Throughout this last month, these shoes have been to several spin classes, some cross-fit and to the grocery store.  Because they are so comfortable, I reach for them to even run errands.   Today, I even got complimented at spin class.  I know theses shoes aren't designed for spin, but the traction control in the pedals is great!   Plus they are breathable, which I like.  I also don't have super sweaty socks when I'm done wearing them and that is always a bonus!

My sister and I at spin class

I feel as though these shoes handle well on the road and have great traction.  My only disappointment was that they seemed to bother my arch with longer runs stretching over 7-8 miles.  If I concentrated on tempo runs with shorter mileage,  they were comfortable and light.  Would that deter me from purchasing these shoes?  No.  But, I do feel that I need more cushion and rise for my mileage.  I don't necessary think that this is a shoe 'flaw.' 

These shoes are a neutral shoe; as are all of the shoes in my current running rotation.  Could the sore arch have been a fluke?  Maybe.  But, with marathon training in full swing,  I didn't want to take a chance, so I stuck to shorter mileage with these shoes. 

Here are some specs:

• Neutral Running Shoe
• Responsive cushioning
• Primeknit flawless fit
• Breathable
• Second-skin experience
• Adapts to foot strike
• Great traction
• 
  

For a girly-girl like me, these shoes are super stylish and comfortable.  I love the versatility that I have in this shoe because it easily goes from treadmill, to road, to spin bike and to the store.  

I do feel that these shoes are a bit pricey at $180.  Yes, running shoes ARE expensive and you do get what you pay for.  However, in a market with many shoe brands to chose from, I feel that the price tag may be the biggest deterrent of these shoes - ultimately making many consumers not even give them a fair shot when they really do have so much to offer.

If you are looking for a great, light and adaptive shoe,  certainly give these a try!  I will continue to wear these for the coming months ahead.   When they have worn out and ran their last mile, they will be placed alongside my other fallen comrades in the shoe graveyard in my closet.  :) 

Beat the Afternoon Munchies

Sponsored Post:  This post is sponsored by Quest Nutrition, 

but the content and opinions expressed here are my own. 

We've all been there.  It's three in the afternoon.  Our stomachs are growling.  Our energy is fading. We could sink into our covers, pull the sheets over our heads and crash for an afternoon nap.  But, who has time to do that?  Certainly not me!  I'm a busy working mother who can use all the help I can get!  I need a hero in my corner, and I've found that Quest Hero Bars are just the ticket! 

I've been in this situation so many times!  Especially in the afternoon, my mind is full with chocolate candies dancing and potato chips crunching.  Unfortunately, when I get "hangry," I don't make the best afternoon snack choices.  I find myself craving everything in sight!  Most always, in order to get me out of the slump, I reach for high calorie, sugary fixes.   Not anymore! 

I'm now on a quest with delicious protein bars!  I have found just the right balance to help me fight off the sugary cravings!  

What makes Quest Hero Bars unique?  Allulose.  But what IS allulose?  It's a natural sweetener found in some fruits and it contains almost zero calories.  It has a bold sweet taste without the calories.  Allulose is not absorbed when eaten.  From your lips, straight through and NOT to your hips.   How great is that?  Plus, they taste like a sinful decadent dessert without any guilt!  

My favorite is the Chocolate Caramel Pecan!  Just look at the yummy, gooey goodness! Each bar has a delicious chocolate coating and a satisfying protein center. 

They contain between 170-200 calories.  They also have 10-11 grams of fiber and a whopping 15-17 grams of protein.  They fill me up and leave me satisfied!  I usually eat them on my way home from work and can't wait to pull it out of my purse and rip the wrapper. 

These bars come in three perfect flavors:  Chocolate Caramel Pecan, Vanilla Caramel and Blueberry Cobbler. ( pictured below )

If you are looking for more information please visit the link here.  You will not be disappointed you gave these a try!  

If you want a decadent paradise with every bite, these are for you!  Next time that afternoon sugary craving strikes, grab your favorite hero and melt away with the flavors!  

Eagle Creek Pack-It Sport Review

Disclaimer:  I received Eagle Creek Pack-It Sport to enjoy and review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out Bibrave to review, find and write race reviews.

DON'T SWEAT IT!  PACK-IT!

Running stinks!  It really really stinks! 

Don't fret!  

I actually really love running.  I even sometimes dream about running.  Running clears my head.  It makes me stronger.  It makes me a better mother; a better wife; a better friend.  

However, among all of the wonderful things running gives me... it also gives me some pretty funky smells too!  I have been told to go "take a shower" once or twice!   I hate to admit it, but it's true that sometimes I smell like death after a run. 

I found this meme a while ago and I knew that I kept it for a reason.   It's funny, but true!  Sometimes,  my smell could rival a ripe skunk!  Are your nose hairs searing yet?  Can you put yourself right into that air stream of fresh skunk in the morning?  We've all been there.  

Now imagine yourself after a long race.  Reaping in the victory of that finish line.  The medal still freshly hung around your neck;  your banana in hand.   The sweet/salty mix of crusty salt on your face from your sweat.   Don't forget your wet, sweaty clothes.  They can be just gross!  P-U!  

At my race a few weekends ago, my clothes went directly into the Pack-It bag! 

After I run a longer distance,  I am wet with sweat from my head to my toes.  Sounds adorable guys, right?!  WRONG!  

Before I found my Eagle Creek Pack-It,  I'd toss my clothes in an airtight bag and hope to not gag when I got home to throw them in the wash.  Don't even get me started for a destination race.  What DO you do with your clothes that you can't wash in your suitcase?  

In the past,  I have taken the hotel bags that hang in the closet for dirty clothes.  You can't miss them, they are usually labeled LAUNDRY.   I've even brought ziplock bags with me on vacation for my stinky clothes.  However, the problem with these bags is that they are not breathable and my clothes stay wet.  How gross!  But, I no longer have that problem.    

Eagle Creek Pack-It to the rescue! 

Eagle Creek has "Gear That Gets Rocked and Keeps On Rolling."  I am loving this bag.  It even comes with a separate bag for my shoes!  The shoe bag zips closed and fits up to a Mens Size 13!  It's perfect for packing my shoes away from all of my other clothes!   My dirty, smelly shoes can be packed right next to my clean clothes and there is no smelly transfer! 

Here are some specifics on this great bag! 

• Antimicrobial
• Odor controlling
• Water Repellant
• Machine-Washable
• Ultra-light
• Packable
• Compact
• Breathable
• Separator to put clean clothes on one side and dirty on the other

The bag comes in 4 great colors and is a reasonable $40.  But, if you use code 'SPORT15' you get 15% off any order!  Make sure you check out the entire Eagle Creek website because they know gear!  They have everything from luggage and duffel bags to backpacks and travel accessories!  I'm sure you'll find something you love.

Don't forget to tune into our #bibchat on Twitter this Tuesday, April 25th, 8PM CST.  You could win your very own Eagle Creek Pack-It sport!   

Walking On Clouds - Review of OOFOS Original Sport Sandal

Disclaimer:  I received OOFOS Ooriginal Sandals to enjoy and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

Think back to your last finish line.  Your hot, sweaty, tired.  Your body is exhausted.  You want to sit down, stretch and relax - maybe with a beer in hand at your finish line.  

More often then not, the first thing we do as runners is remove our socks and our shoes after a long hard run.  Until now, my drop bag at races has always been stuffed with any old pair of sandals or flip flops with no regard to if they are actually good for my feet.  

At home, after a long run,  I immediately would pull off my shoes and walk barefoot.  However, I know now, that is not the best way to care for my very tired and sometimes over-worked feet. Our feet are what takes us the distance.  Everyday, we put one foot in front of the other to get us to our finish line. 

 It's about time we give our feet the love they deserve.  

They deserve to feel the Oo! 

 

I'm a sporty girl and these sandals have become a staple in my everyday life.  I wear them whenever I can - even to kick-boxing.  Just slip on comfort and GO!

Currently, in MN it's cold and clearly not sandal weather just yet.  But, that hasn't stopped me from wearing them around my house every chance I get, especially after long runs.   Rather than walking barefoot my feet now feel as though they are walking on clouds!  

Let's talk a little bit about the science of OOFOS! 

OOFOS Recovery Sandals are better than their competitors because:

• Absorb MORE shock than traditional foams
• Patented footbed cradles arches
• Relives pressure on ankles, knees and lower back
• Durable foam holds it's form indefinitely
• So light that they float
• Machine Washable

What I love most about my OOFOS sandals is the way they make my feet feel AFTER I take them off. My feet truly feel as though they have been walking on clouds.  They feel relaxed - even pampered!   I have a spring in my step.  I can conquer the world!

OOFOS are very comfortable and come in a variety of styles and colors.  If thongs aren't for you - don't fret!  They have slides and clogs as well! 

These sandals are true to size to my normal footwear.  I wear a 9 shoe and a 9.5 running shoe.  I ordered size 9 and they fit fantastic!  

I've currently completed 6 weeks of training for my next marathon so these sandals have really come in handy.  Oftentimes, when the kids are snug in their beds, I'll start an epsom salt soak.  I will sit back and relax and afterwards I'll slip on my OOFOS.   I'm learning how to better care for the feet that so desperately need the comfort and relaxation!  

You've probably noticed that these particular sandals have the breast cancer symbol on the side.  I chose these sandals because these are a part of the Project Pink line from OOFOS.  For every pair of shoes from this line sold,  $10 is donated to cancer research.  I really think that this is fantastic - and besides,  pink is FUN! 

OOFOS mission is to make yOO feel better, one step at a time.  When one of their own, Duncan Finigan, was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer, the OOFOS team knew that they had to help the cause!  The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute was the cause they were to support!  If you'd like to see more you can follow the link here.

I have really enjoyed these sandals and they have quickly become part of my daily shoe wardrobe. But let's be honest, my shoe collection is really just running shoes and flats.   These fit in very nicely! 

My only con was that after wearing them a while, but feet seemed to be a bit sweaty, and on our hard wood floors, I started to squeak a bit while walking.  I know that sounds ridiculous, but the noise got to be aggravating.  I will say that once the weather gets nicer,  I will be wearing them outside and alas - no wood floors. 

I would absolutely give these recovery shoes a try!  They will for sure be joining me at many finish lines to come! 

Lick Your Lips Good! My Review of Nugo Dark Chocolate Nutrition Bars

Disclaimer:  I received Nugo Dark Chocolate Nutrition Bars to enjoy and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

When I first was given the opportunity to test out another nutrition bar I was skeptical.  I have tried many nutrition bars and honestly, in my opinion, the fact that they were packaged for convenience was really their only redeeming quality.  Many of the bars that are currently on the market today seem chalky, have a strange texture, are the size of my thumb and boast lots of information about how they are the best bar out there.   The problem is - the competitor bars "say" they are the best, but if I can't stand to eat them,  they are just going to sit in my pantry.  

BUT - I am here to tell you.  Nugo Nutrition Dark Chocolate bars are absolutely fantastic!  Truly.  They are!   They come in 7 different flavors so you're sure to find one that you enjoy!  For this review,  I received twelve bars in 4 different flavors;  Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Mint Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Pretzel with Sea Salt and Chocolate Coconut.  

YUM!  All of these flavors tasted amazing.  

My absolute, hands-down, favorite was the Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel.  OMG - the flavor blast was so decadent.  The dark chocolate with the large pieces of sea salt had me licking my lips just "thinking" about eating it.   If there is only one bar you're willing to try, this is the flavor.

Sorry, couldn't resist the Sponge Bob reference. HA! 

What do I love about these bars? 

• Gluten-Free
• Vegan
• Less than 15g of sugar per bar
• 10g of protein
• Real dark chocolate
• Rich in antioxidants
• 200 calories 
• Great Texture
• Great Size
• Price

We all know that runners spend a lot of money on their sport.  Ok, so maybe it's just me?!?  One of the other major selling points for me was the availability of these bars and their price point.  They are available in many different locations and I found them two different places only miles from my home.

If you're having trouble locating a store near you, they also can be purchased online.   I was pleasantly surprised to see that you can get an entire box of 12 for $19.00.  That's less than $1.50 per bar.   Very reasonable.    In an expensive sport,  it's refreshing to see a nutrition bar that doesn't break the bank! 

I love the convenience of these bars as well.  Not only are they easy to stash in my purse, they are easy to eat.  They have a great texture and I really felt like I was getting a guilt-free chocolate fix.  I found that I ate these bars mostly on the way to work with a piece of cheese for breakfast or as an afternoon snack for that pick-me-up much needed after a long work day.  

I am a busy mom of two boys and work full time.  I always have one of these bars in my purse to help me when an emergency strikes!  We all know what happens when I get "HANGRY."   On another note;  my kids loved them as well!   I actually hid them so they wouldn't eat them!  #momoftheyear 

If I had to place my favorites in a list it would look like this: 

1. Chocolate Pretzel with Sea Salt
2. Chocolate Coconut ( a very close second to the pretzel )
3. Mint Chocolate Chip
4. Chocolate Chocolate Chip

I truly enjoyed all of the bars I tried.    If you just HAVE to try these bars for yourself, and I strongly suggest you do, you may order online at Nugo Nutrition and receive 15% off your order with code "BIBRAVE1".  Hurry as this code is only good through Feb. 8th, 2017. 

I promise you'll find a bar that you love!   

Looking for a guilt-free dark chocolate nutrition bar? Tune in this Tues., Jan. 31st at 8pm for #bibchat with @NuGoNutrition and @BibRave. pic.twitter.com/3VxLx02jgv

— RUN gina RUN (@hanzelboyzmama) January 26, 2017

Madison Half-Marathon Race Recap! Urban Race With a Small-Town Feel!

Disclaimer:  I ran the Madison Marathon & Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin is a sight to be seen!  It glows in the moonlight and is just as picturesque in the daylight!   If you're looking for a beautiful urban race but also a small town feel, this race is for you! 

The BibRavePro team before the race!

I just had to stop to take this picture after bib pick-up! It was too beautiful to pass up!

Madison is a busy metropolis.  College kids everywhere, tall buildings, Camp Randall Stadium, quaint neighborhoods, lakes... the list goes on.   Race management does a great job navigating runners through all of the best parts of Madison.  This is definitely a race to add to your bucket list. 

I arrived in Madison on Saturday and checked into my hotel which was about 1 1/2 miles from the starting line; easily walkable along the bike path.  I chose to drive and was pleasantly surprised at the on-street parking for Sunday's big race!  It was FREE and there was a ton of open spots to park - I did arrive one hour before the race start, so depending on when you arrived, the street parking may be sparse.  However, there were plenty of ramps to park in as well.

The expo was small and quiet, but we got individualized attention at each booth if we wanted it.  I thought that was very nice.  When we arrived at 5pm on Saturday night, the expo was wrapping up, so there was a lot of merchandise already purchased , therefore the picking was slim.  That didn't bother me though.  The finisher shirts were awesome so I was very happy with that!  

How cute are these?  I loved the color and the fit was great! 

The pre-race accomodations for this race were fantastic.  The race starts and finishes on Capitol Square so that is an added bonus.  Anyone for a great photo op?  And did I mention.... FREE race photos!  What an amazing perk and so worth it!  I noticed photographers in at least 3 different locations, but looking at my photos I think they were at more places.  Thank you to race management for the photos because in my opinion that sets this race apart from others for sure!

Porta-potties lined one block of Capitol Square and there was no more than about a 5 minute wait.  I have a tendency to visit the bathroom several times before a race.  The last time for me was literally 3 minutes to race start and I made it there and back before the start.  Very convenient and well organized. 

Bag check was handled efficiently.  We could bring our own bag or use the bag we were given at the expo.  My one and only suggestion for this would be for the race to provide cinch bags with a drawstring.  I ended up bringing my own bag so that I could tie it closed.  Really not a make-or-break deal, but just a suggestion. 

The marathon start was at 7:00 am with the half marathon start at 7:10 am.  There were not corrals, but pacers lined up accordingly and you could follow in line from there.  For this race, I chose not to run with pacers and I did just fine.  I stayed fairly consistent with my 8:40 pace and was very happy with the way the finish turned out for me. 

After looking at my splits, I giggled.  My pace was consistent and steady with 8:40/mile except for the hills.  Oh the hills.  Not too many, but a few were a challenge. 

 

The photo above was taken at about mile 8.  We were running in a beautiful neighborhood, but the hill ahead awaited.  At mile 9 the view was absolutely stunning,  but you had to work to get there.  Be prepared.  The hill is relatively short, but steep.   Trust me....your view at the top is breathtaking!

At the top of mile 9, straight ahead is the capitol on the other side of the lake.  You run amidst some of the most prestigious homes in Madison.  A fantastic down hill puts you in front of the Governor's Mansion, make sure to look out for it, although I don't think you'll miss it.   Miles 8-10 were my favorites of the race for sure! 

Along the way, there were ample water stops, but spectators were sparse.  I prefer to run without music, but this may be a race to bring your headphones.  If you rely on crowd support be sure to bring some distraction with you! 

Just about when you're at the finish line be prepared for one last hill.  It's a longer one and it's placement puts a runner in a bit of a pickle.  At mile 12.5,  I just wanted to be done.   But, I had one last hill to conquer.  The hills made the medal all that sweeter.  I kept telling myself not to quit and made it up and enjoyed a nice downhill after!  Wahoo!   The half marathon overall was not "that" hilly, but the course was definitely not flat either.  I liked the variety. 

The finish line party was great.  There was no shortage of food at the finish line as Panera had bag lunches for everyone with your choice of ham, turkey or veggie sandwiches.  I loved it!  Each finisher received a beer as well.  There was also a post race band playing until 12:00pm. 

To be honest, and I know this seems crazy,  I really loved this race for the post-race photo opportunity.  Pictures by the capitol were just so beautiful.  I took plenty! 

The medal was super cool!  I loved the ribbon color as well!

I even made fellow Bibrave Pro Casey jump with me afterwards!  It's my signature photo after every race and this backdrop didn't dissappoint! 

My finish time was 1:57:30.  I ended up with 8:51/mile.  I have ran 9 half marathons, and this was my 2nd best.  I was extremely happy with this as I had been struggling to break 2 hours in previous races.  The weather was chilly at 34 degrees, but really perfect for running! 

I really enjoyed myself during this race and hope to one day be back to Conquer the Capitol.  

 

Do These Glasses Make Me Look Bad-A#$?

Diclaimer:  I received the XX2i Brazil1 sunglasses to review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

Casual, Sleek, Retro & Bad-Ass!  Yup, those are the adjectives I'd use to describe these sunglasses.  You're probably wondering.... "Why does she need SO many pairs of sunglasses?"  I will come back and say; You can never have too many!  

Truth is, I have been given the amazing opportunity to have tested 4 different models of XX2i sunglasses.  This pair is the first pair of casual sunglasses I've tested.   I have been pleasantly surprised by them! 

At first glance, out of the box, they didn't WOW me.  BUT, when I put them on and  saw the blue, shimmering 8K optics,  I was SOLD.  They are so cool.  I have a little more swagger in my step when I wear these and I'm not kidding.  

These glasses are light-weight and the key-hole nose piece fits my face perfectly.  My eyelashes do not touch the lenses either, which is a huge plus!  They are decorated with two small silver accents on each side - which I love!  They also come in a variety of colors; however I think the black is the best!  I'm transported into the 50's and 60's when converse and rolled jeans were a fashion.  Oh wait - that IS the fashion.  Nonetheless, you can grab these glasses with virtually any outfit and your stylin' in seconds.  

Recently, I wore them post-race in Madison.  Immediately at bag pickup I grabbed them and slipped them on for fantastic coverage and polarized comfort!  Don't these glasses make my medal look big?!?!?!  HA!

I didn't get the opportunity to run with these glasses on, but due to the versatility and the strap that comes with them, you could absolutely take the on a run or ride.   These glasses are permanently in my car or my purse so I can grab them whenever I want!

I would say my only negative for the fit was after a few hours of wearing them, I did feel a bit sore at the top of my ear from the arms of the glasses.  Although, I do feel that they could be adjusted to be a bit looser on the back. 

XX2i backs ALL of their sunglasses with a 365 day return policy.  For any reason, they can be returned for FREE,  no questions.  Although,  I'm sure you'll love them!  Don't forget to use the code "XX2iROCKS" to get 50% OFF! 

***For a limited time: THROUGH TUESDAY, Nov. 22nd. Code: "BRAZIL1" gets you 60% off these glasses. 

Don't miss out on these super cool, casual specs from @XX2i ! Just in time for xmas! "XX2iRocks" gets 50% off! #brazil1 #bibchat @BibRave pic.twitter.com/KHPOFX2MKK

— RUN gina RUN (@hanzelboyzmama) November 15, 2016

Don't forget our BibChat on Twitter! Join Bibrave for #bibchat on Tuesday, Nov. 22nd, 8 PM CST.  XX2i will be giving away a pair of Brazil Sunglasses!