Monday, November 15, 2010

Old Trails, New Terrain

Last week was an eventful one for running in my new Vibram KSOs. I increased distance and covered new terrain.

Until Wednesday, I had only run a series of three-milers in the silly toe shoes. I ran four miles that evening on the roads, which actually seemed to loosen up my legs that had been a bit tight since switching over to my latest foray into less shoe.

I tacked on almost another two miles Friday afternoon, but on trails instead of asphalt. I ran another four-plus miles on more trails Saturday morning.

My legs are using reverse psychology on me. Instead of feeling tight and tired after longer runs on tougher terrain, my limbs feel loose and ready to go.

The Vibrams provided lots of ground feel, which was difficult when it came to a few jagged gravel patches along the two trails. However, with the rubber padding, my inclination was to try to continue moving quickly, whereas being barefoot would have made me slow down to avoid pain.

Some of the hills were tough because the silly toe shoes don't provide a whole lot of traction. With wet leaves and loose soil, my feet wanted to slide in some places.

Overall, running the trails in the Vibrams was much more fun than running on pavement. Too bad the lack of daylight makes it tough to enjoy such environs during the work week. C'est la vie. Cheers!

Two Week Taste
Saturday evening, the Enthusiast and I cracked open a couple bottles of our homebrewed porter for an early taste. Early results: F'ing yum!

The official unveiling will be Thanksgiving, when I pass the poison to family members and loved ones.

8 comments:

The Sean said...

The leaves are slick this year... find yourself a headlamp and get out there!!! Happy running:)

Psyche said...

I'm enjoying reading about your Vibram experiences. Agree with the Sean...

Vibtrams.
Headlamp.
Trail.
Go!
Happy running:)

Junk Miler said...

Use the rocks and slickness to dial in on your form.

Anonymous said...

I prefer the Vibrams on trails as well. If I can't run barefoot on the street, I run in shoes.

Carolina John said...

Yum indeed.

MCM Mama said...

Hmm, since I'm surrounded by concrete, my only experience with Vibrams on non-pavement/concrete has been in my front yard, which is currently covered in acorns. Ouch. I'm gonna have to get to a trail one of these days and try them out there.

And I can send you my address if you need a judge for your beer. Just sayin'

the erratic epicurean said...

congrats on the successful home brew - what is the name of this porter?

Jess said...

Sounds like you're really enjoying the Vibrams! I hope you can at least get out and enjoy the trails on the weekends.