I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Reebok. I received a Famous Footwear gift card to purchase a pair of Reebok shoes to facilitate my review and to thank me for participating.
I laced up my first pair of running shoes this week, and last night I took them through their paces in their first race! I know. You’re thinking, what!? Aren’t you a former running coach? Didn’t you run a half marathon before you had kids?
Yes. And true. However, I always wore cross trainers or trail running shoes; I never actually got road running shoes!
But when I had the chance to shop Famous Footwear for Reebok sneakers, I jumped, er, ran for the chance! I needed a pair of “real” running shoes, and did you know, runners should replace their shoes every 300-500 miles? I am certain I was over that mark!
In my shopping research, I called a few Famous Footwear stores, and found they do not carry Reebok women’s running shoes in stock, so I purchased online. From my in-store shopping experiences with Famous Footwear, I know they have a huge shoe selection, but if you’re shopping for a particular shoe or brand, it helps to call ahead.
I happened to catch one of Famous Footwear’s many BOGO sales, plus I got 15% off as a Famous Footwear Rewards Member. I used my gift card to get myself and my son a pair of running shoes (oops! Ordered his too big! Room to grow, or maybe I’ll use their easy in-store exchange program!).
My pair came in quickly, Reebok Realflex Run shoes in Grey with Sherbert/Coral trim.
Ordering running shoes online made me a little nervous – would the size be correct? I ordered up half a size, because I fall between a 7.5 and 8 in regular shoes, and tight toes while running is no joke. The size 8′s fit well, with a little wiggle room in toes, so I could’ve probably gone with the 7.5 as these shoes seem to run true-to-size. However, with my wool running socks, they fit comfortably and didn’t flop around so I am happy with the fit.
So how did my new Reebok running shoes perform?
I wore trail runners against the advice of running professionals, but they were so comfortable I never wanted to make the switch until now. Last night was race 4 out of 5 in the Cross Country series I’ve been running, so I laced up my new Reebok shoes for their first race! (Read about why I run!).
Over paved roads, dirt trails, and grass fields, I ran 2.6 miles. I know my new running shoes performed well because… I never even thought about them the entire race! As a runner for many years, I pay attention to things like whether my heel slips, ankle support, secure laces, and overall arch support and shock absorption. Everything felt great!
If I had to make one change to these shoes, I’d add a loop on the tongue – the tongues tend to slip to the outside, especially on my right foot. This happens to me with shoes that don’t have a lace loop, so I like lacing through the loop to secure the tongue.
I’m pleased with the lightweight and flexible feel of my Reebok running shoes, adding comfort to my experience (trail running shoes are stiffer and a bit heavier).
Does a good pair of running shoes make a difference?
Absolutely, yes! For foot health, you want a shoe that supports your level of activity. Remember, runners should replace their shoes every 300-500 miles because they wear down around that point.
Also, I think the lighter-weight shoe made a difference for me. I came in 2:30 minutes faster than the previous race! Was it the shoes? Well, as I haven’t trained heavily between the previous race three weeks ago and last night’s, I say yes!
I’ve been an avid runner since my college days, and years ago I coached middle school cross country, but since having kids, my routine has been off and on. Getting a new pair of shoes was a huge treat and very motivating for me!
Sharing my excitement about the new shoes and entering races has been motivating for our toddler as well – he kept wanting to join in the runners he saw going by (especially when he saw his mama round the bend!), and maybe next week, we’ll let him run the kids’ race! (He really wants to!).
Want to know the most amazing feeling? Seeing your toddler cheering you on as you run, and having him run you into the finish chute! His little tow head bobbing along next to me those last twenty paces made my heart burst!
Can’t wait to get that boy a pair of Reebok running shoes in his size so he can join his mama on the road!
Do you run? What’s your routine like? When’s the last time you got a new pair of shoes!?
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Reebok. I received a Famous Footwear gift card to purchase a pair of Reebok shoes to facilitate my review and to thank me for participating.
Does a good pair of running shoes make a difference? #ReebokMom originally appeared on A Year with Mom & Dad on August 13, 2013.