Product Review: BUFF Pack Run Cap

Disclaimer: I received a BUFF Pack Run Cap 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’m not the biggest fan of wearing hats while running and typically prefer BUFF’s other headwear options. The reason why: it never fails that while wearing a hat, like a trucker hat, sweat manages to drip down into my eyes and down my face. Not a fan of that at all, so I avoid wearing hats. I’m starting with this point because the Pack Run Cap NEVER allowed any sweat into my face on the days I wore it running and there were some incredibly humid and nasty hot days I that I chose to wear it. How does it do this? It has a reliable and low profile sweatband wrapped around the inner part that does its job and then some.

Now, you might think if the cap is absorbing all that sweat then it must be getting damp, heavy and not pleasant to wear anymore. Not so! I’ve never had a hat breathe as well as the Pack Run Cap when I know I’ve been sweating in sweltering heat and it remains light as can be. Again, how? Fastwick fabric side panels wick the moisture away and your head can breathe.

These two features have impressed me the most with the BUFF Pack Run Cap but they’re obviously not the only features of this cap. The upper panel provides up to 98% protection from UV rays. There is an elastic cord at the back for a surprisingly secure fit that never loosened while running outdoors. It also has a reflective tab on the back and reflective logo on the front that adds low-light visibility.

My experience using the BUFF Pack Run Cap was a positive one. I have to say that since I am anti-hat for the most part. For me, it was just so lightweight and it was as if I didn’t even have something on my head. That’s how light it really is! I loved that it was easy to fold up and simply slide into my pocket if necessary. I liked that the material was soft and had 4-way stretch ability so it didn’t tighten too much on one side over another.

Now, if you don’t like the color of mine, BUFF has other options for you to peruse through. Also, if a full cap is not your cup of tea, they had the same material in a visor too. You can’t lose with the Pack Run Cap. Whether you like it hats or not, this is a nice option! Bonus, if you want 15% off your BUFF purchase, simply go to https://buffusa.com/bibrave and sign up for the BUFF newsletter and, boom, a discount for you! I highly recommend this product!

Any questions or comments, please feel free to drop a note below!

And, as always, happy running!

Product Review: Extreme Fit Compression Socks

Disclaimer: I received a selection of Extreme Fit compression socks 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’m going to come right out and say from the start that I liked these socks. They performed for me the way I expected them to perform. I know that may seem like something that should be obvious with a product like this, but it isn’t a guarantee, ever. Let me begin my saying I thought the level of compression in their running-orientated socks was on the mark. The sock never felt too tight and hugged against my legs and feet the way I wanted it to do. They are also a very soft sock in the feel and it’s as if you don’t even have anything on your feet. Now, Extreme Fit does offer two levels of compression in their socks. They have socks with 15-20 mmHg compression and socks with 20-30 mmHg. Now, what those numbers represent is how much compression the sock will provide for your legs and feet; a tightness level, if you will. So, for runners you would go higher and if you were wearing the sock for traveling or standing at your job all day, the lower number would work for you.

As someone who runs both long and short distances, I found their runner socks to be topnotch and on par, if not better than some other brands out there. Another great option in the runner’s line of socks were ones that had extra amounts of reflective marks on them. Perfect if you are the early riser runner or the dusk runner where it may not be as easy to spot you. And I’m talking some seriously good reflective material.

I’m also a big fan of how many styles Extreme Fit offers on their website. And how they package some of their socks into solo options, 3-packs and even 6-packs! So many options with colors and designs; they even offer some socks with copper-infused fibers inside of them. You would be hard pressed to NOT find a style or color of sock on their site.

And who says that their socks are only for running or walking? Do you work in a hospital? Hair salon? Travel frequently on airplanes or train for work? Do you need compression socks for grocery shopping? Daily chores? Extreme Fit can benefit you with their product. I’ve used them myself when riding my bike, and I’m just relearning how to do that after over 30 years of not riding one.

And don’t think you’re limited to just socks with Extreme Fit. No way, no chance. They have calf sleeves. Arm sleeves. Ankle sleeves. Knee sleeves. Even specialized sleeves if you suffer from plantar fasciitis. They truly are in the business of helping their clientele feel better and perform better.

(Photo credit to https://www.extremefitusa.com/)

Extreme Fit is out to help you with their graduated compression options. Wouldn’t you like to reduce swelling and pain while energizing your feet and legs? All that and you’ll be supporting muscle recovery later. It’s worth it for your body and these socks are definitely a good option to try. And if you decide to TRY NOW, please use code BRP20 to receive 20% off your order of $50 or more. And they currently have a ton of options on sale so you will be making off like a bandit if you order now! Don’t hesitate, these are a great option if you require compression socks on your athletic journey. I’ve loved the pairs I’ve tested and have felt very comfortable in them as well as comfortable AFTER my runs or bike rides.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to send them to me. I’ll be happy to answer them for you!

As always, Happy Running!

Sponsor Review: Raley’s Supermarkets, SPONSOR of the Napa Valley Marathon

Disclaimer: I received a $25 gift card to review Raley’s Supermarkets 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!

Now, that the Napa Valley Marathon is over it is NOT the time to neglect your body and all you did to prepare for that race. It’s been a week since you ran, so you need to make sure you not only rest but keep putting fuel into your body. Specifically, recovery fuel. And, yes, Raley’s can help you in that department as well. Visit their website to see how simple it is to find exactly what you’re looking for and how to spot it in the store. They have every category for you from Clean Label to Gut Health to Organic to Keto-Friendly. And everything in between too!

Post marathon is an important time for the body. There’s a lot of recovery going on so be sure to take advantage of Raley’s nutrition strategist who provides the necessary tips and information to make your marathon experience not only enjoyable on race day but afterwards as well. I mean, you need to prep for that next marathon!

I hope you take the time to visit Raley’s website and utilize all the free information, tips and advice they offer as well as visit the store and stock your pantry with some great products that fit whatever need you may have in your dietary lifestyle.

Happy running!

Madison Mini Marathon Training Update

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Madison Mini Marathon race 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!

Well, this is going to be the most boring update you could ever possibly read. Ever since the wondrous month of April where I set personal bests in my marathon finish time and in my 5K finish time, I have done almost nothing in the last six weeks. I ran twice in the  month of May, accumulating just over 13 miles for the month and so far zero miles for the month of June. Why? Because of what is likely a sports hernia.

No, I am not making a self-diagnosis here. I waited those first couple of weeks in May doing nothing and then attempted to run. After having pain and discomfort return almost immediately, I shelved myself again and made a doctor’s appointment. The doc did some tests and said it wasn’t a hernia as far as he could tell but that it was likely a sports hernia. I was also given the card of a hernia specialist if I wanted to be absolutely positive of the diagnosis. So, what have I been doing instead? Well, a lot more lifting with upper body (carefully) and some lower body (even more carefully), some bike riding at the gym and, finally, walking. Lots of walking.

Lots and lots of walking….

As you can see, I’ve tried to keep my humor up with these walks but it hasn’t been easy. It has been extremely frustrating and I am close to losing my mind. This is not how I envisioned my Madison Mini Marathon training taking place. I am not in the danger zone yet, but it is getting close to where I will not be prepared by mid-August for this half marathon (where I was greedily hoping to set another personal best.) It is Wednesday, June 12, today and I plan to run or attempt to run before the end of this week. This is mainly to see if I have healed enough. If I have not, then I plan to call the specialist to see what is going on and if I will be healed and ready to race by August. Worst case scenario then would be I could run it but it would be for fun and nothing else. Fingers will be crossed. I’m just really sick of walking at this point. And don’t let the smile fool you, haha.

If you’ve been running and training out there, maybe you’d like to race the Madison Mini Marathon this August! It isn’t too late to sign up! And if you use code BIBRAVE5 at checkout you will save $5 on your entry! Hopefully we will run this together!

If you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to ask or comment!!

Happy Running (or walking)!!

Product Review: Orange Mud Gear Vest Pro

Disclaimer: I received an Orange Mud Gear Vest Pro 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!

Call me a believer in a product I didn’t think I needed and certainly never had a want for before having the opportunity to test it out. It’s a hydration vest. “Why would I want one of those?” “I can map out running routes to come across water fountains.” “I can bring a sport belt with water bottles attached to it if I want.” “This vest thing is going to be cumbersome and annoying bouncing around my body.” These are all phrases and questions I said at one time or another. This product review will explain why I was wrong and, to be frank, an idiot thinking that this was a piece of gear I didn’t need.

I will address each of my questions above to answer why an Orange Mud Gear Vest Pro is a great item to own. Yes, I can map out running routes that take me past multiple water fountains, but wouldn’t it be nice to venture down new paths without being concerned about where necessary hydration will come from. And this vest makes it possible to carry plenty of water for marathon training runs. The included bladder fits 35oz of liquid and you can add a 500mL bottle and a 600mL bottle to the front pockets on the vest.

Why wear this when I can wear a sports belt that hold water bottle as well as everything else I may need: driver’s license/ID, energy chews, reserve battery charger for phone, energy waffles, etc. If you check out the picture above here, you will see the answer for my ID and charger. A zippered pouch right in the middle that is out of the way but completely secure leaving me no worries of anything falling out or being in the way if I am trying to pull out energy chews/waffles. And where am I putting those items? The two pictures below show the front access pockets that can be used for those items. In the first photo, I am using one of the extra water bottle pockets to store my energy waffle. The second picture shows one of two over the shoulder velcro pouches that held my energy chews. Both easily accessible and my fuel remained intact and not mushed down.

ADDED BONUS MOMENT: On the top clip in the front of the Orange Mud Gear Vest Pro is a whistle. Yes, I said whistle. When using this vest in the early mornings or late evenings, what better option to include in the makeup of the vest itself. Scare away coyotes (or other aggressive animals) while using your pocket space for pepper spray if desired.

The final question/concern was why would I want something bulky filled with water bouncing around as I ran? The fact is that it IS NOT bulky and bouncing around your back. Honestly, every time I have worn the hydration pack, I haven’t even noticed it being there. It isn’t on too tight but it also doesn’t flop around when running or when trying to get a sip of water. It has been the perfect complement to my runs and other gear options I take with me on long runs. I truly do love this product and am glad I had the opportunity to test it out.

Still on the fence about trying out the Gear Vest Pro? Give them a try while saving some of your money by using code “BIBRAVEGVPRO” to get 15% off any Orange Mud product! And have faith in what you are buying! Orange Mud provides great customer service and backs their products. Manufacturing defect? Lifetime replacement. Have an accident with your pack? Leave it on the top of the car and take off? They understand and will offer a replacement at a “fair charge.” Also on their website are guidelines and suggestions for proper care and cleaning of their packs and bladders.

I hope you have found this product review of the Orange Mud Gear Vest Pro to be helpful and useful in guiding you to getting your own hydration pack if you were in the market for one. Solid product, solid company!

Should you have any questions or comments, please feel free to drop me a line and I’ll be sure to get back to you!

As always, happy running!

Product Review: TURTLe GLOVES – Turtle-Flip Mittens

Disclaimer: I received a pair of TURTLe GLOVES Turtle-Flip Mittens 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 have to be honest to start here: I didn’t really need a pair of mittens for outdoor activities, or so I thought. I have a pair of gloves that I use on runs already but I figured I would test out the mittens just for a change. Wow, these mittens are amazing. I would have never thought that at first sight, but they not only work great but have more than one basic use!

As you can see in the photo above, you can wear them as mittens, or you can fold them back into fingerless gloves, hence the “Flip” in their name! I know this idea may seem simple and obvious but it’s the quality here that really prevails for Turtle-Flip Mittens! Made with Polartec Power Stretch Pro material, they are form-fitting and offer moisture management, comfort and durability. They wick away the sweat allowing your hands to breathe but also are fast-drying! And it doesn’t matter which hand you put them on, left or right!

Now, I preferred running with the fingerless glove option even with the temperatures in the low 20s. And my hands never felt cold. They even felt a little warm at times. And the great benefit, of course, was still being able to have access to my phone and refueling options without having to take the mittens off. The mittens also are long enough to stretch down from your hands to the sleeve of your shirt, so no skin is exposed. Another great choice I’ve attempted once (but forgot to take a picture) is that you can slide the open mittens up your arms if wanting warmth there.

Right now, if you want to try a pair of these (and I highly suggest it) go to the Turtle Gloves website, make a selection with your size (I chose M/L since the sizing runs big, XL would be if you have really large hands) and be sure to use code “TurtleBibRave” to save 15% off your order. These are a great accessory for any outdoor activity in weather that is in cold temperatures. And the fact that they have multiple options for you, they are a steal with all the comfort they provide on your run.

If you’d like some other opinions on the mittens, check out these blogs here:

She Runs by the Seashore

Jenna Runs

Run, Eat, Ralph

La Chica Runs

Trailgators Anonymous

livinglovingrunner

Happy running!!

KT Tape Product Review

Disclaimer: I received a selection of KT Tape 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 was excited at the opportunity to test KT Tape, especially after reading about its benefits and how to use it properly. You could say I had been ignorant in the past to the uses of kinesiology tape and how it could ever offer any benefit to me. Wow, was I wrong! The box of tape I was provided offered several options: Pro Wide (for areas like the lower back), Pro (everyday use for most areas of the body) Extreme Pro (similar to Pro, but stronger adhesive) Gentle (easier removal) and Cotton.

The first area I chose to use KT Tape on was my right glute into the hamstring. It’s an area that I have been having issues with and have been constantly stretching and foam rolling to ease the discomfort. Number one thing I did was take a wash cloth and rub down the areas of use. I mention this here because it will play a factor later in my review. First application, I was blown away! I used one strip of the Pro style tape and one strip of the Extreme Pro. First time out running I could feel the support 100%. Also, it helped alleviate the pain during a run that I have been dealing with. Now, it didn’t mean that foam rolling wasn’t necessary but it definitely provided a benefit for me. That same “first time” I also used the Pro and Extreme strips for my left shin.

The KT Tape website has videos showing you how to apply their product correctly for each area of the body. This is EXTREMELY helpful and I would definitely suggest watching beforehand. The shin video was spot on with what to do to make the product effective and to make it last. What do I mean by that last part? KT Tape isn’t a one run and done product. The shin application I did stayed in my leg for 7 days!! That multiple run and gym workouts and showers that it survived through and remained effective! The same for the tape I applied to my glute/hamstring area. And when it was time to remove it, it came off without pain; that’s something I wasn’t sure about since my legs are rather hairy.

Now, back to that pre-application process. I did have some issues with the first time I used the Gentle Tape. I chose my right knee for that application and did the same run down with the wash cloth. I applied the Gentle Tape and it stuck and seemed fine. Post workout and shower that day, I noticed it was slightly lifting off my skin. Then later at work, my pants must have caught it some when sitting/standing and pulled the tape up more. It was done. I had to remove the tape and toss it away. I was frustrated and couldn’t understand why it didn’t stick as well. My legs are hairy there as well but not as much as my shins and the adhesive shouldn’t have been an issue. I did some research and discovered that oils and oily skin can cause problems. I also read that, from the beginning with all applications, it would be best to run down the area with rubbing alcohol to remove all oils, etc. from the skin. Lesson learned and the next application of the Gentle Tape was pure success and lasting success (four days of use this time, which KT Tape themselves says is the normal length of time on average).

One last item I think is important to mention is how instructive KT Tape is, both in their website and in the actual packaging with the product. The website provides videos for all applications. They take their time showing you where to place the tape for the maximum effect and how much tension you should be using when stretching out the tape as you apply it. They make sure the tape will work with the flow of your body and not break or be ineffective with an incorrect amount of tension. Within the product box itself, you receive a diagram, similar to one on their site, and a couple of visual variations of popular application areas, like your knees. Again, super helpful.

 

All in all, I was impressed with KT Tape and am only disappointed in myself for always ignoring it and thinking it looked goofy on other people. I see (and feel) the benefit now. It works. It helps. If you go to their website and order, make sure to use the code BIBRAVE30 and save yourself 30% on your order. But do this quickly, because it’s for a limited time only!!

Any questions or comments feel free to post!!

And happy running as always!!