New Flats

I got home from cross country practice and work and found a box I had been waiting for: my new shoes! After 11 months of regular and faithful service, my Brooks Mach 11s (spikeless) were ready to be retired. I haven't calculated the mileage on them, but I'd venture I put in at least 600 miles on them. Not bad for a pair of racing flats.

Brooks Mach 13 spikeless

I replaced them with the newer (and louder) Mach 13s (spikeless). What I've come to discover is that racing flats are a great addition to any shoe rotation. They're perfect for most runs under 10 miles. Lightweight, low profile, and good flexibility for a low price ($58.50 using a coupon code at runningwarehouse.com). They are also very versatile and great for both roads and trails. I have the spikeless model so they won't have a lot of grip in muddy conditions but other than that, they're great. I don't get why more runners don't incorporate them into their arsenal.

The test run in them would have to wait a few hours though. I opted for a nap, and then when I woke up Kate and I decided to hit the beach to beat the warm temperatures (mid 80s in the afternoon). Nice to enjoy such things while we can before the school year starts and we're both much busier.

Horses seen during the walk down to the beach

As for the run, it went well. Despite not eating much today my energy felt fine. The shoes felt great as well. As expected, they were a bit stiff the first mile or two but then they started to break in and felt really comfortable. All indicators point to another successful pair of flats, just like the earlier model. Good stuff.

Ran 5.7 miles @ 7:16/mile pace.
Paved and dirt roads.
Very hilly.
Around 80 degrees, partly cloudy.
Brooks Mach 13, shorts, short sleeved shirt.