Sponsored by Zappos, all opinions are my own.
You might not know this, but it’s thanks to my friends at ASICS that I had a chance to train for and run the 2013 New York City Marathon! And that was after they helped me through training in 2012, when we arrived to find the race cancelled due to Hurricane Sandy.
For me the hardest part of a marathon is usually the final few days before the race where I start to wonder what the heck I’m doing…ok that and say mile 23, which is categorically my least favorite.
I Move Me
I Move Me is ASICS motto and having worked with them, I know they truly believe in making great gear that allows you to do what you love.
Right now, I’m not yet back up to marathon distances, but I did crank out my first 15 mile run since getting injured 2 years ago and hot diggity that felt amazing! There’s certainly part of me that’s now pondering if it’s time to lace up for marathon number 9.
It gives me butterflies thinking about it, which is usually a pretty good sign that it’s right on the edge of my comfort zone and yet not so far that I’m terrified!! My plan is to get through the Phoenix half in February continuing to work back to my pre-injury paces and then start making some choices about the full!
What helps you decide when it’s time for a new challenge?
ASICS GT-2000 7
Let’s be honest, you know I’m very picky about shoes. I don’t love a lot of models, but I do love giving you an insight in to a different shoes because I understand it’s SCARY to try a new style.
What if you hate it?! Order from Zappos so you can send it back for free.
What if it’s the wrong size?! Order from Zappos so you can exchange it.
What if you want it ASAP?! Order from Zappos because it’s free and fast.
Of course you’ll likely keep the ASICS GT-2000 7, so only the super fast shipping and easy order will be what matters this time around.
I rarely run in a stability shoe, however it’s actually been something I discussed with my PT since knee surgery. In particular, my left foot seems to roll in a bit more now and while we are working on all kinds of strength that slight roll puts a lot of extra pressure on the knee!
If you’re having knee trouble a great place to start is with your stride and hip strength, but next start finding the right shoe for you.
N will often notice that while standing in a shoe, their ankles have fallen inwards. A good sign you need some extra support under your arches.
ASICS GT-2000 7
I haven’t run in any of the predecessor models, so I can’t give you a comparison for those who loved them. Instead, my observations from running in them:
- Stability shoe for overpronation, but not stiff or uncomfortably pushing the arch, which is often my issue with stability shoes
- Women’s version is also suited for neutral runners because it’s a slightly different last than the men’s (probably why I liked it)
- Good middle of the road cushion
- Fits true to size
- Plenty of room in the toebox
- Shoe felt flexible on push off and comfy around the foot – it’s designed for a glove like fit, but that doesn’t mean tight
- 10 mm heel to toe drop is higher than I often run in, but it still felt really good and no issues with changing my foot strike
A number of reviews suggested the 6 was closer to the original feel of the shoes, which means the 7 is just a step up on that with better technology for cushion and fit without weight.
I’d say this will be a shoe in my short run rotation. I’m partial to a little more cushion on long runs since the knee injury, but it’s a good fit for those light days.
I’ve always had great luck with the quality and durability of of the ASICS I’ve run in. As noted, I trained in a few different styles for the NYC marathon and everything held up great. These are going in to my shoe rotation, especially as the long runs get longer!
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