Gearing Up

    This year I have managed to enter events with a fairly minimal expenditure on gear. I have made the local thriftstore my Go-To source for most of my workout clothes and have scored some major finds. Like new Speedo and Nike swimsuits for about $3 each. Nike Dri-Fit tops, Canari cycling shorts, Nike and Adidas warm up jackets, and a plethora of name brand tops and tights, each piece for between $1 and $5 each. Not bad, not bad at all.
    Shoes are another story. I run in a minimal shoe with zero drop and very little cushioning, almost none as a matter of fact. This does me right on trail runs and 5K to 10K runs, but I think that I may have to look into shoes with just a bit more sole if I am to run half-marathons. Yes, I know that I should be able to run barefoot without any discomfort, if my footfall is correct and gentle. But I have not reached that stage, and may not. For now, I know how I run and want a shoe that will accommodate my style. I do love my Merrell Trail Glove, they are so comfortable on trails, and let me feel connected to the vagaries of the ground, greatly reducing the chance of rolling an ankle. The minimal sole with zero drop lets me run without jarring my entire body, especially my knees. I have developed a mid-sole strike, which feels natural and easy, and need a shoe that allows this. Because of my fondness for my Trail Glove, I am looking at other Merrell designs built more specifically for distance road running. The Dash Glove, or Pace Glove look like good options. Once again, I will have to save my sheckels. I have decided that yes, I am a runner. And that I actually, truly enjoy running. Yes, especially trail running. At saturday's event I was talking to a fellow racer, he told me of a marathon in Alaska that is run entirely on trails through the woods, now THAT is a marathon worth running.
    As for cycling gear. This is another area I will have to spend a little of my limited funds. I want Aerobars for the Half-Ironman next summer. Aerobars allow you to rest your weight on forearms, far more relaxed, aerodynamic, and more energy efficient. I would like to get clip in cycling shoes to let me get more power out of every rotation of the pedals. I also want a water bottle that attaches to the handlebars and allows drinking without having to fumble for a bottle, losing focus and time. Another addition may well have to be a streamlined helmet. Yeah, they look kinda ridiculous, but like the Aerobars, it would increase aerodynamics and energy efficiency, and decrease fatigue. As always, I read and research as much as I can. One salient point made in an article on cycling was that it is a common misconception that if you aren't a great cyclist then you don't need the fancy gear. On the contrary, if you are not a fast, powerful cyclist, then you will benefit all the more from good gear that will reduce the energy you have to expend to get from Point A to Point B. Once again, I think I need to get some sponsors.