Altra Instinct: Run with Childlike Bliss Again

Remember what it felt like to run as a child? That feeling of freedom as your short quick strides carried you across the open grassy fields.

Back then we never thought about the length of our stride or how our feet contacted the ground. We just ran... fast and free. Thankfully today’s modern minimalist running movement offers us all the chance to go back to those moments of childlike bliss.

At the crux of the movement is the notion that the foot can do a better job at self-stabilizing and balancing the weight of the body when it can move freely and is allowed more, relatively unencumbered, natural contact with the ground than when it’s in a shoe that is thickly cushioned or overly correcting by design.

Rapidly establishing themselves as an innovative pioneer in the naturalist running movement Altra Footwear has designed line-up of running shoes that mimic the natural shape and heel-to-toe ratio of the foot thereby allowing the body to run more naturally, more efficiently.

Running gait and injury expert from the University of Virginia School of Medicine Jay Dicharry MPT says running in shoes with near level profile is an ideal situation because it allows the body to run in the most natural position possible without having to compensate too much for how the shoe is trying to dictate the movement of the foot.

If that is indeed the case - and we believe that it is - then the Altra Zero Drop platform is the shoe that puts your feet in the 'ideal situation'.

Most running shoes are built on a 2-to-1 heel-to-toe ratio (twice as thick in the heel as the forefoot). Unfortunately we know what happens next and it's not good for runners.  The cushioned heel strikes the ground first instead of the shoe landing on the more biomechanically efficient midfoot or forefoot. Excessive heel-striking marks an open-invitation for potential foot and leg injuries.  

Zero Drop footwear by ALTRA however is built on a 1-to-1 ratio meaning that the heel and forefoot are the same heights off the ground. This encourages a more natural stride allowing the runner to land on the midfoot or forefoot-- the way Mother Nature originally intended.  The Altra Instinct does this while still offering cushioning and protection.

As noted in our First Look review, the term zero-drop may lead some to believe that Altra’s Instinct is little more than another addition to the “minimalist movement”. While some “zero drop” shoes can be categorized as minimalist – certainly not all minimalist shoes are Zero Drop, nor is the men’s specific Instinct designed specifically as a minimalist running shoe.

For our crew member the beauty of the shoe rests in its foot shaped design.  By building a shoe that maps the design of your foot the Altra Instinct allows your feet and toes to lay in a natural and relaxed position.  Due to the gender-specific design the foot maintains its proper anatomical position allowing for maximum shock absorption and a more powerful toe off.

Credit to Altra for this image of the Instinct blazing through the Wasatch Mountains

Asymmetrical Lacing, Heel Claw, and an 'A' shaped midfoot design that snugly wraps the midfoot all add to a superior fit for this Zero Drop platform.  Once you try them on and experience the difference of fit and feel, you’ll wonder why Altra is the only shoe specifically designed to follow the natural contours of your feet.

Altra's FootPod outsole maps the bones and tendons of the human foot allowing for maximum flex and responsiveness. With canted lugs mapping your foot, this unique outsole provides a natural all-purpose traction system which served our tester well from sidewalks to dirt roads and everything in between.

And did we mention that the Gumption Gals thought the Instinct looks great with jeans?

The Results...

Over the course of a lengthy testing period our Gumption Crew member used the Altra Instinct as his primary running and training shoe.  For the purposes of this review you may find it helpful to know that our field tester tops the scales at 6’4” and is a traditional heavy heel striker. Yet from the treadmill to city streets, country roads and 10K’s our crew member tacked on the miles and came away with a new perspective on running. Following is a summation of the positive changes noted from running/ training in the Altra Instinct:

• Less impact and stress on knees, shins and lower back.
• Zero shin splints over the course of the testing period.
• Transformed the stride and gait increasing strength in calves.
• Increased awareness foot placement and balance so that every change made in step and stride was felt instantly allowing for quick adjustment improving form over the course of longer runs.

Our Altra Instincts beaten up, but never beaten down.

Room for Improvement...

The durability and fit of the Instinct exceeded any expectations that our team had for the shoe entering the review process.  The only minor complaint issued by our tester was that his midfoot was left slightly tender after the 10k competition.  However that is most likely due to the fact that the feet are still in the process of fully adjusting to a new running style.  

Bottom Line...

While the Instinct may not be a cure-all for all runners and their specific issues, we believe that Altra has crafted a shoe that strikes the perfect balance of barefoot styled minimalisim with cushion and comfort.  Evolving from Zero Drop Rookie to first place finishes in a 5K and 10K race, our crew member’s final response may provide the best summation of their time with the Altra Instinct: “Count me as a convert.”   

Point6 Ultra Light Micro: The Velvet Glove Treatment for Runners Feet

A bad pair of socks can wreck a run. They can cover your feet unevenly or fail to protect your skin from the chafing and excess moisture that causes nasty blisters.  With so much time and technology (not to mention cash) invested in your running shoes, shouldn’t you expect more from your running socks?  

Point6 understands that runners don’t want any unnecessary fluff between their foot and footbed.  As such this company has gone to great lengths to create a line-up of performance socks specifically designed to support you in your run mile after mile.  Our team vetted the Point6 men’s Ultra Light Micro Running sock - a minimalist styled sock designed for the runner who desires the least amount of sock in their running shoe.
 

On Fit and Performance...
Who knew wool could be so comfortable?  In the Ultra Light Micro, Point6 has engineered a precise anatomical fit that is comfortable and itch-free without bulk.  Merino wool regulates temperatures, sends sweat packing and fights funky foot odor.  The Ultra Light Micro Sock’s nylon and spandex allow the sock to retain its natural shape run after run while mesh knit ventilation zones provides extra comfort and breathability on long runs.

The Ultra Light Micro’s feature Point6’s hand looped toe seam.  Admittedly, our crew usually prefers the no-seam technology found in similar socks.  That being said, we once we slipped on the Ultra Light Micro socks, the hand looped toe seem was not only smooth, but, as denoted by the Point6 website, virtually, undetectable by toes. It’s important to note that these socks are designed without cushioning which may ward off those who enjoy a little more padding.  Yet for those seeking a performance/minimalist fit you can take comfort knowing the Micro’s won’t disrupt the relationship your foot has with those fancy kicks.

Our crew member did denote some slight sliding in the midfoot region when wearing the socks with their Zero Drop Shoes.  However,  from treadmill to trail there was never a blister or discomfort issue while wearing these socks.

Bottom Line...
The Point6 Ultra Light Micro Running socks are so light weight in most instances you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.  With you mind free from the need to focus on your socks, you can run unencumbered as your feet appreciate the softness and durability of these socks as they carry you from pavement to peak in comfort. 

 
*As a disclaimer, we understand and recognize that every runner has their own preference.  Some runners like thicker socks for additional cushioning, others prefer thin socks for a "lighter" feel.  This review is based upon our field teams impressions from using the Point6 Ultra Light Micro socks in the field during both training and competitions.  As you read the review we ask that you keep your own preferences in mind.  

KEEN Tryon WP: Designed for Adventure, Built to Last

Blurring the lines between hiking boots and adventure shoes, KEEN’s stylish and rugged water proof Tryon lets you hike deep into the backcountry with cool, sure-footed determination. As noted in our First Look, these fast and furious adventure shoes are loaded with features that will give you a much needed assist in tearing up the trails.

The Tryon is built to last: Even after canyon-country abuse, the Tryon’s abrasion resistant and breathable textile mesh upper showed only normal wear and tear, while the sole held up better than average for a shoe this light. Every step on rock-strewn trails and slush-covered slick rocks in California’s Auburn Recreation Area felt secure thanks to the Tryon’s tacky low-profile tread. Add to that the stone-bruising protection plate and patented rubber Toe Guards and our tester’s feet were well protected against those nasty rocks and polished roots on expeditions around Lake Tahoe.

KEEN designed the Tryon with a higher cut providing ankle protection without limiting range of motion while KEEN’s S3 Heel support structure kept our field testers heel locked securely and comfortably providing greater stability and overall traction.

A removable metatomical footbed cradles the natural contours of your foot so your dogs aren’t barking at you the last few miles of your adventure. 
To make the footbed even more comfortable, KEEN adds their ZORB stroble technology providing exceptional shock absorption in the knees and ankles so your legs won't be tired when Lake Tahoe's South Shore night life comes calling.  

The Tryon also features KEEN.DRY, KEEN's proprietary waterproof, breathable membrane that lets vapor out without letting water in. Over the course of our review period, the Tryon’s proved to be exceptionally breathable and remained bone dry whether crisscrossing babbling brooks or standing in a stream to lend a hand to hiking companions.

Now let's get scientific... Research has shown that even 1 or 2 ounces of extra weight on your feet exponentially increases your oxygen use, taxing your cardiovascular system and wearing you out.  Which is why you can trek light knowing your Tryons weigh in at about 13 oz (for a size 9 shoe) - less than many competitors.  

Room for Improvement...
For a company known for providing plenty of room in the toe-box the KEEN Tryon has a more slender front end than some other shoes in the KEEN Trailhead Line-up - something that hikers with a larger-sized foot may notice on long downhill descents. If you think this may be a problem for your particular foot, simply size up 1/2.  

Secondly, while our field team revelled in the competence of these shoes on quick hit mountain and backcountry exploits, the general consensus was they could use a little more arch support for general every day use.

Bottom Line...
Hardcore ruggedness and comfort come together in the KEEN Tryon providing a quick and aggressive platform for your feet on trips where you’d rather cover lots of ground instead of carry lots of gear.  From shimmying down ravines in old quarry’s to rock hoping in Tahoe’s Zypher Cove and tackling trails in between, the KEEN Tryon has proven to be a responsive, versatile and durable shoe for outdoor enthusiasts living by the fast and light motto.

Review: Platypus Origin 3.0 Hydration Pack

Built upon the Platypus heritage of well-designed hydration systems, the Origin series of packs marks Platypus’ foray into the world of hydration backpacks.

The smallest of the Origin line-up, the Origin 3.0 Hydration Pack provides the outdoor enthusiast the ability to carry up to 2 liters of liquid refreshment and still have storage space - 183 cubic inches worth - for keys, nutritional supplies or any other goodies you may want for your trek.

Similar to its larger sized siblings, comfort and durability are at the foundation of the Origin series of packs. The contoured fit of the Origin 3.0 is designed to support aerobic activity. The BioCurve ventilated backpanel conforms to your movements while allowing air to flow freely between you and the pack. The padded ergonomic shoulder straps provide comfort without compromising maneuverability. Both the BioCurve backpanels and the shoulder straps are overlayed with a soft, stretch-woven fabric that provides next to skin comfort and suprising durability.

Constructed from 200D nylon and treated with a urethane laminate for a waterproof finish, the Origin 3.0’s got your back when the sun fades behind those dark clouds and Mother Nature turns on the water works. Add to that welded, water-resistant zippers and heat-taping on all critical seams, and the Origin 3 is ready to handle the toughest of adventures.

Origin 3.0’s hydration system is second to none. It uses the same lightweight, puncture resistant, BPA free 2 Liter Big Zip™ SL Reservoir place in a dedicated reservoir pocket  as the Origin 22.20 hydration pack designed to keep your gear dry while maintaining the pack’s internal storage capacity.

Like the entire series of packs, the Origin 3.0 utilizes unique toggle mounts for the Big Zip SL reservoir, creating a more stable, secure housing for the reservoir. This housing system effectively eliminates the lateral movement and instability suffered by reservoirs in similar hydration packs.

The leak proof antimicrobial reservoir keeps water fresh and taste free and opens with ease for stress-free filling and cleaning. Add to that multiple housing options for your hose and an on/off position on the bite valve you’ve got a hydration system that is not only adaptable, but keeps the water in the reservoir and not on your stuff.

Room for Improvement...

Overall, the Origin 3.0 is well-constructed, provides lots of room for those much needed goodies and provides enough liquid refreshment to tide over an elephant. As with all gear, though personal preference rules the day and as such there are a few critiques offered for consideration by our field team:

• For our medium sized field testers the pack worked well for short day hikes and outings on the mountain bike, the Origin 3 but was too broad and bulky for running on those mountain trails or busy city streets.
• When we handed the pack over to our Clydesdale Category tester, the pack felt more appropriate for trail runs, but felt small on the back and was problematic in terms of adjustment for the sternum strap.

Bottom Line...

Looking for a small sized hydration pack perfect for high-energy, low-duration pursuits?  With an ergonomic fit, sizable storage space and easy to use hydration system, the Origin 3.0 has a plethora of quality features to offer.  Coupled with durable weatherproof construction this pack will serve you well for years to come.  

That being said, whether you add this pack to your closet of outdoor goodies will depend on the intended use.  If you’re looking for a streamlined hydration pack that rides tight and close for longer trail runs this first generation pack may not be the ideal fit.  However, for quick power outings around town or out on the trail the Origin 3 is a great buy for the medium sized hiker who doesn’t mind the fit and feel of a broader pack.

Columbia Baselayers: The Merger of Technology and Performance

Layering your clothing is a tried-and-true way to ensure comfort (and warmth) during those days where the mercury drops and your breath hangs in the air around you mid-sentence. The beauty of this simple concept is that it allows you to make quick adjustments based on your activity level and changes in the weather.

Thanks to Columbia, it’s time to ditch those cotton undies and the souvenir T-shirt from that U2 concert and upgrade to the Baselayers bolstered with Omni-Heat technology for warm, dry, layer-able comfort during your active cool weather pursuits.

On the Merger of Technology and Performance...

John Wooden once said, “It's the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.”

By paying detailed attention to the oft-ignored liner of our cold weather garments Columbia is inciting a revolution in outdoor performance apparel through their patented Omni-Heat technology.  This thermal reflective technology manages body heat through a system of tiny silver dots.  These tiny dots are the little details that work together to make big things happen.

Similar to an emergency blanket, Omni-Heat’s tiny silver dots bounce body heat back at you while at the same time allowing excess heat to escape through the permeable/breathable regions between the dots thereby preventing your body from overheating.  

According to Columbia, the Omni-Heat technology on average boosts heat retention by 20%.  While the Gumption Crew had no scientific means of measuring the increased levels of heat retention here’s what we can tell you from our time in Mother Nature’s laboratory: It works.    
Columbia’s Omni-Heat technology kicks in when you need it most and helps regulate body temperature while keeping you comfortable without compromising your performance.

As your next to skin layer, baselayers are also primarily responsible for keeping built up moisture away from your skin.  Towards these ends Columbia’s “Omni-Wick™” feature moves moisture away from the body, allowing perspiration to evaporate quickly. This wicking/evaporation process keeps you cool and your clothing dry, even when you’re heart rate is hitting the red zone.

In a nutshell, the Omni-Heat and Omni-Wick technologies work in harmony to  expel sweat but lock in warmth, better regulating your body temperature.  And while those technologies are working to help you perform better, antimicrobial treatment keeps the fabric feeling (and smelling) fresh during high-exertion activities which your adventure buddies will appreciate on the drive home.

On Fit and Feel...
Columbia’s top and bottom baselayers provide a slim, form-fitting design that fits more like a second skin than additional piece of garb.  Instead of feeling like a knight heading out for battle, the fabric blend of polyester and four-way-stretch elastane is light and flexibile working with you in your athletic endeavors all while reducing excess fabric bulk.  

The other feature our field crew thoroughly enjoyed was Columbia’s flat-lock stitching.  Flatlock stitching provides comfort by minimizing friction against the skin.  So whether your going for a morning run, or heading into the backwoods on a snowshoe adventure, smooth interior seams ensure that you never need to worry about any skin discomfort.

Bottom Line...
Columbia’s Omni-Heat technology is part of the new school look for this old school brand forging a new standard in outdoor clothing that’s difficult to beat.  No matter what your cold weather adventure entails, Columbia’s Omni-Heat midweight baselayer garments are a mandatory addition to the closet of any outdoor enthusiast.  Columbia’s full line of baselayer apparel is available in tops (standard and ½ zip) and bottoms for both men and women.  

Columbia's Peak Ascent™ Beanie: Warmth Redesigned

Thanks to the crafty crew at Columbia, the traditional beanie just hit the next step of the evolutionary ladder.

Columbia has taken the classic design of your favorite cozy winter lid and lined it with their Omni-Heat® thermal reflective lining.  Similar to an emergency blanket, Omni-Heat's tiny silver dots bounce body heat back at you while at the same time allowing excess heat to escape through the permeable/breathable regions between the dots thereby keeping your noggin' from overheating.    

By capturing your head’s own heat and circulating it evenly throughout, Columbia says Omni-Heat keeps you 20-percent warmer.  Perhaps even better, the Omni-Heat lining doesn't increase the thickness of the seams so the Peak Ascent Beanie still fits snug and avoids leaving you with that not-so-cool cone head look.

So when you run out the door to hit the slopes grab Columbia’s Peak Ascent Beanie because your mom always told you keep your dome warm.
 

The Bottom Line...
Classic design with new world technology keeps you warm without being itchy or uncomfortable.

Rider Sandal R1 Series Flips: Taking Your Feet Global

Celebrating their 15th year in the US market Rider Sandals is extending its brand in 2012, expressing its authentic Brazilian heritage with “Street Summer.” Inspired 100% by the Brazilian lifestyle, “Street Summer” captures the essence of Brazil with vibrant colors and the cultural trends of Brazilian fashion; all while delivering comfort, flexibility and durability.

Rider has given the Gumption Gear Crew a sneak peak at the R1 Urb and R1 Urb Plus flips, part of the new 2012 Street Summer flip collection. As part of the "Street Summer" line-up the the R1 Urb and R1 Urb Plus flips feature Rider mixes contemporary urban trends and distinct Brazilian beach fun with a dash of attitude and Rider specific technologies.

On Fit and Performance...
Looks can be deceiving, and out of the box the R1 Rider Series may give the appearance of a standard casual flip with swanky 3-D tread. Toss them on however and you’ll be thankful for the technological features packed away into the soul of these sandals.

When sliding on a pair of flips there’s really only two things that you want: comfort and support. On both counts our field team testers gave these causal flips solid marks.

The comfort factor stems from Rider’s exclusive “Flexpad” technology. According to Rider, millions of micro-air chambers provide a lightweight footbed with enough flexibility, comfort and durability to support you through a day full of classroom shenanigans or beachside brews.

While the inner lining of the strap is not as soft as a more traditional neoprene jersey lining, the R1 Urb and R1 Urb Plus feature Rider's "Fast Fit" technology which adjusts to a variety of foot shapes and constantly adjusts to your individual walking style. The interior of the R1 series straps are textured to allow for additional breathability which pays dividends on those long hot summer days. An innovative dual hinged adjustable upper at the toe post allows for subtle movement that provides extra comfort when you’ve got to hustle to snag that prime beach spot.

Beyond the material technologies used to construct Rider’s new line of sandals, the footbed is also anatomically contoured. This slight rolling contour of the flip makes for effortless use and prevents your body from kicking out extra energy while globe trotting from beaches in Rio de Janeiro to Australia’s Manly Beach.

Speaking of globe trotting, our field team loved the unique sole of the sandals which feature a 3-D map of Lapa, a hip region in the City of Rio de Janeiro.

And because you want to ensure your beaches stay clean and pure you can take comfort knowing all these sandals are made of 30% recycled material and are 100% recyclable in your nearest Bin #3.

Room for Improvement...
While a new pair flips from Rider’s Street Summer 2012 collection would be a nice addition to your summer footwear, there are a few areas for improvement that our testers noted.
• The footbed could use more of an aggregated surface to allow for better traction in both wet and dry conditions.
• During the break-in period, the rubber toe posts did create mild discomfort on the inside of the big toe and there was mild pinching, all of which fade as the flip and your foot go through that introductory period.
• While comfortable for casual wear or short periods of use, our team would prefer a little more arch support for extended periods of wear.

Bottom Line...
Can't afford a trip to Rio de Janeiro? The 2012 Rider R1 Urb and R1 Urb Plus flips might be the next best thing, and at only $27 and $30 respectively, it’s safe to say far more affordable.