Category: Product Review

Tuesday Topics: Turtle Gloves Lightweight Turtle-Flip Convertible Running Mittens Review

Disclaimer:  I received a pair of Turtle Gloves Lightweight Turtle-Flip Convertible Running Mittens as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!  

Tuesday Topics-22.jpgThis week’s Tuesday Topic:  How do you cool down after a run?  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to Link-up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

I’m deviating from this week’s topic to write a review about the Turtle Gloves Lightweight Turtle-Flip Convertible Running Mittens.  I am always looking for new running gear to stay warm during the Winter.  When the opportunity came to try out these gloves, I immediately signed up.  

I was sent a prototype of the new running mittens.  When I received them, I was a bit disappointed because I was expecting them to be thicker.  I mean, running mittens have to be thick to keep your hands warm, right?  Never judge a book by its cover.  After my first run I knew these gloves were perfect for those cold days of running.

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The mittens are made of polartec material.  They’re also wind and water resistant.  My hands never felt cold on my runs.  As a matter of fact, my hands were a bit sweaty!  Not a problem.  I didn’t have to take my gloves off but instead just convert them to a fingerless glove.  See the video below.

Two things I was not crazy about:

⇒ 1) The color.  They’re an ugly and boring gray.  I made a face when I saw them.  Then I remembered that were a prototype and were made specifically for us to review.  Definitely cannot get picky about the colors.  🙂

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⇒ They were too big.  I ordered a medium and should have asked for a small.  Obviously that was my fault.  I used my watch on my left hand to tie the glove.  The gloves need an elastic around the wrist for a more comfortable fit.

Overall, they’re great gloves.  They’re thin but also wind and water resistant.  They keep my hands warm which is all I ever want from a pair of running gloves.

These have not yet been released.  You can still go to the website to check out the other styles that they offer.  Remember, use promo code TURTLEGLOVESBR to save 15% on your order!

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Tuesday Topics: My Oofos Ooahh Sport Project Pink Recovery Sandals

Disclaimer:  I received a pair of Oofos Ooahh Sport Project Pink Recovery Sandals 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. 

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This week’s Tuesday Topic:  Who are some of your favorite running/fitness athletes and why?  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to Link-up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

I’m deviating from this week’s topic to write a review about Oofos Ooahh Sport Project Pink Recovery Sandals.

So many people rave about these sandals.  Last month BibRave had an opportunity for BibRave Pros to test them and I quickly signed up.  I was so happy when I received the email letting me know I was selected.  Then the countdown began for the sandals to arrive.

So what do I think about them?  They’re strong and durable.  They’re very comfortable.  Let me repeat that again….THEY’RE VERY COMFORTABLE.  I’ve been wearing them every single day.  Even my mom likes them.  I swear that these sandals along with a sleeve, inserts, stretching, and foam rolling have helped with my plantar fasciitis.  

Even Mateo likes them and wants a pair in his size!

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Here are a few facts about Oofos:
:ribbon:  OOfoam recovery technology absorbs 37% more impact than other footwear foams.
:ribbon:  OOfoam impact absorbing recovery technology has been scientifically proven to reduce stress on your body while walking, allowing you to recover faster after a workout and feel better all day.
:ribbon:  The footbed is designed to cradle your arches and move with your feet, which allows for a more natural feel.
:ribbon:  They are easy to keep clean as they are machine washable.
:ribbon:  They offer free ground shipping and free returns on every order.
:ribbon:  They also have an awesome rewards program.  Head over to the Oofoos Rewards Page to check it out for yourself and start earning points right away!

If that didn’t convince you to get a pair, how about this?  :ribbon: Did you know that OOFOS donates 3% to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute from EVERY PAIR OF OOFOS on oofos.com YEAR ROUND??  This is not just a promotion they do for a month or so and it’s not specific to only the Project Pink lineThey make a 3% donation from EVERY PURCHASE on oofos.com.  They do this so they can make more substantial contributions to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute on a regular basis.  That’s a pretty cool commitment, isn’t it?!? 

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Cancer sucks.  We’ve all been affected by breast cancer in some way.  My sister was diagnosed with it in her late 20s almost 30 years ago after her youngest was born.  She has gone through radiation, chemo, and a double mastectomy.  Luckily, she is alive and grateful to see her kids grow up.  She has two grandchildren and is also happy to spend time with them. 

So what are you waiting for?  Go on and order a pair or two.  Be sure to check out the Limited Edition styles just in time for the NYC Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and Marine Corps Marathon. 

Remember, that with each purchase OOFOS donates 3% to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

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NuGo Egg White Protein Bars Review

Disclaimer:  I received NuGo Egg White Protein Bars 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. 

Thanks to BibRave I was afforded the opportunity to try out a new to me product – NuGo Egg White Protein Bars.  I had never heard of this product till a few months ago.  I received a mixed box with 12 bars in 4 flavors: Dark Chocolate Sea Salt, Maple Pecan, Blueberry, and Peanut Butter.

When I first received my box, I couldn’t decide on a flavor and finally picked Dark Chocolate Sea Salt.  It was delicious!  I shared with my sister and she also agreed that it was good.

So what’s so great about these protein bars?  
• They’re made with real fruits and nuts.
• They’re non-GMO and 180-200 calories.
• They’re certified gluten-free and OU Kosher Pareve.
• Each bar has 12-14g of protein with no soy or dairy!

I don’t exactly have the healthiest eating habits but whenever I can, I try to not always eat junk food.  I actually felt good eating these protein bars because I knew this was better than eating a hamburger, pizza, or a hot dog.  Don’t get me wrong, occasionally I do eat hamburgers, pizza, and hot dogs but I am trying to cut down.  🙂 

Each bar is chewy like a candy bar.  I would enjoy one with a cup of coffee.  They’re tasty and easy on my stomach.  They’re also perfect for post-workout needs as it is a great protein option for fueling your body. 

I am not a big fan of Blueberry nor Peanut Butter and surprised that these were also very good.

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My favorite one is definitely the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt.  I like that this was just what I need to satisfy my chocolate craving.

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If you’d like to try NuGo Egg White Protein Bars use code: “BIBRAVE” for 15% OFF at www.nugonutrition.com.  You can choose a single flavor, or try the variety pack.  This discount is good until August 3rd.

Linking up with MarciaPatti, and Erika for Tuesdays on the Run.

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Friday Five 2.0-Yes to Athlinks!

Disclaimer:  I am promoting Athlinks 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’ve been running for over 10 years.  Thanks to Athlinks, I have a record of every race (159 races) that I’ve done.  

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I also have a record of my PRs in all race distances.

Athlinks-2.jpgWhat is Athlinks?  It is a database that houses results for all athletes.  These include pretty much all timed endurance sports (running, swimming, and triathlon).

I don’t know how long I’ve had my account.  It is a FREE account so if you haven’t set one up yet, do so right now.  You can sign up with an email address, Facebook, or Google Account.

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With Athlinks:
1. See your most recent race results and your upcoming races.  This is in the Overview tab.
2. You can check your race results.  All of these races are listed in chronological order so the latest one is on top.  This is in the Results tab.
3. Search and be friends with other runners.  This is in the Following tab. 
4. See how you did compared to your friends that also ran the same race.  This will be shown by either a “Win” or a “Loss”.  This is in the Rivals tab.

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5. Find all of your personal records.  This is in the Statistics tab.

I use Athlinks mostly to keep track of my races and my PRs.  Maybe once in a while I’ll also check out how many wins or losses I have compared to my friends.  In my case, I have more losses than wins.  🙂  I also like filtering by race distance or a specific race and compare how I did.

Here are my results from the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle beginning in 2006.

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There is also an Athlinks App you can download to your phone.  

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I am pleased with my experience with Athlinks.  It has been a positive one since the beginning.  It is FREE and EASY.  <<Nothing to lose.  If you don’t have an account, set one up right now.  Don’t forget to follow me on Athlinks.

I’m linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for Friday 2.0.

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Detach Coconut+ Review

Disclaimer:  I received Detach Coconut Water 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 in week 11 of training for the Illinois Marathon.  This will be my 9th marathon and I am excited but at the same time also nervous.  Over the years while training for various races, I’ve tried various energy gels and hydration drinks.  Everyone is different so what works for one person may or may not work for others.

While running I always make sure to drink water.   I will admit that there are days in which all I’ve had to drink is coffee.  I know, not good.  I do love coffee though.  I was excited and looking forward to try Detach Coconut+.  I had never heard of it and am glad I tried it.

Detach-2Detach Coconut+ was founded with the need for an all-natural drink that helped the creators stay hydrated, focused and supported their training.  They also donate and support initiatives that share their core values, through a portion of the profits, such as Alzheimers Association, World Bicycle Relief, and Sonoma Pride.

Detach Coconut+ is a coconut water-based drink with only a subtle coconut flavor, improved electrolyte balance, low glycemic energy and a micro-protein blend (Beta-alanine, Citrulline and Theanine).  These are vital for the following reasons:

• Beta-alanine – commonly found in trace amounts of legumes and seaweed, has been shown to improve the muscles energy production at intensity and in some studies improving 800m times by ~10s for 1 time use and ~15s after cumulative use.

• Citrulline – commonly found in melons is a known vasodilator, improving Nitric Oxide levels in the body.  This opens up your blood vessels and improves blood flow.

• Theanine – commonly found in many teas especially white and green teas. Theanine is also known as a neurotropic as it impacts feelings of positivity and focus.

In addition each bottle only has 60 calories and NO “fake” sweeteners which leave a nasty aftertaste.

It is recommended to take 1 bottle 30 minutes before a workout and 1 bottle during exercise.  I drank one bottle while on a long run (90 minutes).  It was a cold day but had no trouble finishing my run.  I enjoyed the citrus flavor and couldn’t really taste the coconut.  Actually I could only taste the lemon flavor which I liked.

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I also used it to make a smoothie to rehydrate and have some protein and carbs.  I used Detach, Orgain Protein Powder, and a banana.  I realized later that I should have added hemp or chia seeds for additional protein.

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In conclusion, Detach Coconut+ tastes great and provides an organic and alternative way to stay hydrated.  In addition, it is gluten free and certified paleo.

Would you like to try Detach Coconut+?  You can order it from Amazon or from the Detach Coconut+ website.  In addition, you can sign up for their newsletter to get information on coupons, promotions and giveaway opportunities.