Category Archives: Reviews

Road Tested: Cheribundi

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I’m all over fruit juices from upstate New York farms.

Flavored apple juice from Red Jacket Orchards in Geneva, Ontario County – I buy it every time I see it.

Freshly-squeezed Wegmans orange juice? Can’t get enough of it.

So when Cheribundi approached me about trying a sample of the tart cherry juice, I was all over it.

I love cherries, therefore I would love cherry juice, I thought. And I was right.

The juice is tart but refreshing, and the Geneva, New York-based growers boast there are 50 freshly-picked cherries in each bottle.

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Lately, I’ve been hearing all about “superfoods,” which are foods supposedly beneficial to your health – like kale, broccoli, berries and lentils. Cherries, of course, are among them.

Cheribundi calls their cherries a “superfruit” since each is packed with phytonutrients, melatonin and vitamins including vitamin A, potassium, iron and calcium.

The original tart cherry juice (my favorite) is 90% pressed tart cherries and 10% apple juice, which sweetens the drink instead of sugar. Yep, that’s no added water or sugar.

Cheribundi teamed with food scientists at Cornell University (ahh, Ithaca, my old home) and researched the benefits of tart cherries, and also created a gentle juicing process to maintain cherries’ levels of melatonin, vitamins, nutrients and other antioxidants.

Rather than take part in Cheribundi’s 7-day challenge, I decided to test the juice each time I returned from what I deemed my worst recent runs, hoping the juice would work its magic powers.

Presto. Each time I felt better. (Not to mention, my hubby was entertained as I repeatedly tried to squeeze every last drop from the bottle).

And there are several types of juices, teas and even smoothies.

The juice is meant to support restful sleep, promote a healthy inflammation response and is deemed “the Ultimate Antioxidant.”

Personally, I love the benefits, but I drink it because its natural, local and darn tasty. A win-win-win!

cherryjuices

Plus, I  love that the Cherry People are headed up by a man named Pear. (Steve Pear, CEO). Little things just make me smile.

Have you ever had cherry juice? Do you love all things tart and tasty? Have you been to the Finger Lakes, were farmers grow the cherries that becomes Cheribundi juice?

Cheribundi provided the cherry juice for me to taste and review. Opinions and (attempts at) wit are entirely my own.

Product Review: Taffy Activewear

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About a month ago, I posted about becoming an ambassador for Taffy Activewear. Since then, I’ve had ample (get it?) opportunity to road test the Taffy line, and I wanted to give you guys a full review. Because talking about this line of activewear, which I am 100% in love with, is my jam. If you are a plus-sized woman, and are in the market for activewear, you’re going to want to read on.

When I’m looking for activewear, I’ve got five things in mind: style, fit, quality, variety and price.

Style: When it comes to being stylish, Taffy has got it going ON. Before I found Taffy, my typical workout top was a Men’s 3XL grey t-shirt. To say I looked like a box is gross (and I do mean gross) understatement. I felt frumpy and lumpy and all around dumpy. Now, with my ever-growing collection of Taffy tops, I can go out for a walk with my girls, or to a Zumba class, and feel cute and chic.

Taffy Essential Top in White. Fab.

Taffy Essential Top in White. Fab.

 

Fit: Clearly, this is a key element in clothing purchases. How do they fit? I’ll be honest, my non-activewear size is just outside of Taffy’s range (1X-3X or 16-24). But being that activewear tends to have some stretch, the 3Xs do just fine for me. Taffy items are generously cut to accommodate our curves. The Essentials Racerback tank is especially forgiving of my broad shoulders. And their tops are longer in the torso than most I’ve found (this was awesome for me, being that I am a 6’0″ glamazon). And when your workout gear fits well? It just makes things easier. No one wants to be that girl out walking while pulling the bottom of her shirt down.

Quality: Let’s be real, whether you’re plus sized or not, your activewear takes a beating. You are stretching and squatting and SWEATING in it. (Hi, it’s 82 degrees here today.) While I might occasionally get a couple wears out of a sweater, there is no way workout clothes aren’t getting washed each and every time they get worn. My Taffy products have held up really well over the last couple of months. The craftsmanship of the products is great. So we’re 3 for 3 so far!

Variety: If you are a clothes horse (and I am), I think you’ll be more than pleased with Taffy’s selection. Like sleeves? They’ve got ’em. No sleeves? You’re good too. Long pants, capris, tanks, tees. It’s all there. And colors. So far, I’ve got red, black, pink, green, white, blue and I’ve got my eye on a super cute cheetah print. Like the style, this means I get to feel cute when I hit the track, and not like I’m wearing the same thing over and over.

Just part of my ever-growing Taffy collection.

The Taffy Logo. Adorable.

The Taffy Logo. Adorable.

 

Price: Okay, for many of us, this is the most important factor. You want a cute, quality product, but you don’t want to have to give up your first-born to get it, right? Right. And if you’re trying to lose weight, and you don’t plan to be in a specific size forever, you really don’t want to fork over and arm and a leg for one tank top. Taffy pricing is comparable to other plus size lines, typically a bit lower. Tops are in the $30-$40 range, pants are just under $50, and their most expensive item right now is the Taffy Essentials Jacket. And at $64, I can tell you that is a lot less than what I typically see jackets going for. (And if you buy it in white, you will be so happy that you will wish it stayed cold forever. I mean, not really, but you know what I mean). And then, there are sales! Taffy has some really great stuff on sale right now. And as if that weren’t enough, you can you my Taffy Ambassador code, BEC15, to get 15% off and free shipping. Sweet deal just got sweeter.

So, that’s it. Taffy exceeded my expectations in every category. I’m so happy to have found them, and I couldn’t be prouder to represent their brand. If you guys have questions, just give me a holler in the comments. I’ll be happy to continue waxing poetic about Taffy!

Road Tested: Apera yoga bag

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It’s been years since I had a decent gym bag.

I’ve looked for months, but typically just fell back on my old standbys, a reusable grocery bag or a tote bag given to me for participating in a friend’s wedding a few years back.

They work, but barely.

 yg2Don’t laugh, this was my old gym bag.

Then last month I discovered Apera, a Colorado-based company that launched mid-2012 and has a line of sports bags with antimicrobial product protection, which helps prevent growth of bacterial odors in and on the bag.

Apera generously offered me a yoga tote to check out and review for Scoot and I am smitten.

yogatote1Yoga tote has a space just for your yoga mat. Photo by Apera

Not only is it cute, (hello, fuchsia!) but it’s incredibly versatile. I can use it as a gym bag, as an overnight bag and as a carry-on for one of my many race weekends. Happy dance!

It’s also got LOTS of deep pockets to store all sorts of goodies. And that means I can put my keys in one zippered pocket and my phone in another (and that, my friends, will avoid any possibility of them colliding and scratching the phone screen.)

Brought my bag to work with my gear for an evening run.

Brought my bag to work with my gear for an evening run.

Sadly, I have not yet used it for yoga, as I am a sporadic yogi. Next week. I promise. Or not. We’ll see.

Each Apera bag also has the following:

Ventilated compartments: (note the mesh a top my bag) The bag’s breathable material allows for air flow, and in turn keeps everything inside dry and stink-free.

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My bag is filled with Thursday’s workout gear, see the separate slot for my sneakers?

Wipeable linings: (and yes, I already spilled water in here. It cleaned up easily.)

A washable insert: (I’ve used it for my swimming goggles thus far.) It’s meant to help you separate your wet and dry gear and keep everything else in your bag from getting wet.

 insertPic by Apera, my goggles aren’t as sleek and my cap is pretty hideous

I also love to support small companies that have a meaningful mission.

And Apera does just that. For every three bags the company sells, they donate one bag to a Special Olympics athlete.

Want to win an Apera bag of your own? It’s your lucky day as Apera gives one bag away each month. All you have to do is sign up to receive to Apera’s newsletter via e-mail and you are automatically entered into their monthly drawing.

This month, the bag of choice is Apera’s sling tote, which retails at $109 and is next on my “must-have” list.

slingtote_giveawayThe sling tote

Subscribe by March 31 to be in the drawing for the Sling tote. The winner will be notified via email by Apera. Go to the Apera site to enter and scroll to the bottom of the screen and type in your email address. It’s that easy.

They also often offer deals. Currently, the entire blue line of Apera bags (any style Apera bag in blue!) are 40% OFF. Also, all of the duffel packs (any color) are 40% OFF.  Happy shopping!

catbag

Note my cat lounging with my yoga tote. She’s trying to pose like it. HA!

Do you have a favorite gym bag? What sort of bag do you use? What are the pros and cons? I’ll get you started, I sometimes use a plastic grocery store bag. YUP.

Disclosure: I received one Apera yoga tote to review. All words and opinions are my own.

LuBelle Fit Review and Giveaway

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Shopping, running and reading are three of my favorite things. If I could figure out how to combine all three, I totally would. (Actually, I haven’t tried audio books on a run. Hmmm…) Shopping and running go hand-in-hand though, don’t they? Runners always need new gear. Just nod your head, please. (See, husband? Everyone here agrees with me.)

My athletic attire often becomes my momoflage, as I take the kids to school before (or sometimes after- stand back) my workout. Naturally, I want something pretty, as well as functional.

So, you can imagine how thrilled I was when LuBelle Fit offered to send me one of their t-shirts. LuBelle Fit is an active apparel brand that opened this past July by two mother runners. The shirts range from flowy to slim fit, to performance-wicking bamboo.

I received the Run For Your Life tank just in time for my weekly long run. This organic tank is a blend of 67% Bamboo Lyocell, 29% cotton and 4% spandex jersey. You know those t-shirts they sell at Anthropologie for $80, that you want to live in because they’re soft and super comfortable? This tank is even better than those. The first word that came to mind when I opened the package was “luxurious.” I loved the fun graphic and the beautiful color for fall too.

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How did it perform? It felt great during my long run in humid (and sunny, then rainy, then sunny again) Florida. It’s lightweight and doesn’t get clingy once you start to sweat. The fit is true to size and it washed beautifully too. Full disclosure? I wore it on Sunday and ordered another style on Monday morning. (The Aqua Heart tank- a design that is even more lovely and detailed in person. And in one of my favorite colors!)

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LuBelle Fit is adding new designs and retiring old ones as they go. They’re also going to offer long sleeve tees for fall. I’m a fan! I can’t wait to see what these gals come up with next.

LuBelle Fit was sweet enough to offer a top to a Scoot reader, and it’s the winner’s choice! Just click on the happy little rafflecopter pic below. Giveaway ends at midnight (Eastern time) on 10/16.

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Disclaimer: I received one LuBelle Fit tank to review. All opinions are my own.

Road Tested: LaceLocker shoelace fasteners

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Shoelaces and I have a love/hate relationship. Actually, it’s more of a neutral/hate relationship: I don’t pay them any attention when they do what they’re supposed to do. But I hate when they decide to revolt and untie themselves. I am clumsy enough as it is; I don’t need my laces’ help in tripping, okay?

Needless to say, I was pretty stoked when Stash Sporting Goods reached out to us about trying their LaceLocker shoelace fasteners, which are designed to securely store your tied laces so that they don’t come loose or get dirty/wet.

The question was this: was it possible that I could actually get through an entire walk without having to find a safe spot to retie my shoes?

I took to the streets to find out. First, though, I had to get these little contraptions onto my sneaks. They looked a little daunting at first – insert this tab into this place, then fold and fold, etc. As I mentioned in my Fitbit review, I hate reading directions, but there are just four steps to get your laces locked into place so even direction-loathers like myself can deal with it.

Easy as 1, 2, 3, 4!

Easy as 1, 2, 3, 4!

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Ta-dah!

The process was ridiculously quick and easy, which I sincerely appreciate as both a mother and an eternal lazy person. Then! To the streets!

Bottom line is this: my shoelaces didn’t budge. Like, at all. I be-bopped (okay, fine, dragged myself) up and down some gnarly hills and my laces stayed locked. And while I might not use them for every single run, you can bet your sweet booty that I will use them for every single race. I definitely think LaceLocker fasteners are a must-have for every runner on race day, especially for those of you who are looking for your next PR. There’s not a chance you’ll have to stop to retie your laces. 

Plus, how adorable is that name? They really ARE little tiny lockers for your laces!

Stash Sports were awesome enough to offer up a pair of LaceLockers to a lucky Scoot reader. To enter, click on the cute Rafflecopter pic below. The giveaway runs through 10/8!

rafflecopterlacelocker

Click the pic to enter!

Disclaimer: I received one pair of LaceLocker fastener for review. All words and opinions are my own. Giveaway prize donated by Stash Sporting Goods. 

Product Review – Vega One Starter Kit

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vega

I love smoothies. Like, I LOVE them. A lot. So when Vega One reached out and asked if we’d be interested in giving the Vega One Starter Kit a try, I was super excited.

Because SMOOOOOTHIES.

When I got the package from Vega, there were actually two starter packs included, so I wrangled the teen into trying them out with me. She’s an athlete and always trying to include healthy options in her diet. You know, to balance out the cheese balls.

The Vega One Starter kit can be purchased online. Each 5 day starter kit comes with 5 packets of shake mix (2 Chocolate, 2 French Vanilla and 1 Berry). I love this. One of my main complaints with a lot of meal replacement shakes is the lack of individual or trial options. Because before I plunk down a mid to large sum of money for a month’s worth of shakes, I kind of want to know what I’m getting into.

They also include a recipe booklet and a coupon in the box, which is cool. But I like to color outside the lines, so I didn’t actually go with any of Vega’s recipes.

I started with Chocolate, which I mixed with frozen bananas, PB2  and almond milk. This is a standard smoothie recipe for me, and usually a hit with the kids as well. If you don’t know what PB2 is, go here. And then buy some. And then write me a thank you note.

Right off the bat, the teen was like ‘Is it kind of…green?’ (It actually does have a hue to it. I didn’t take pictures. Mornings here are chaos enough without me doing ‘smoothie selfies’). I think that threw her off enough that by the time she tried it, her mind was already made up. Teen was not a fan.

The green didn’t bother me since I’ve been known to toss some spinach into my smoothies anyway. I wasn’t sure what to expect taste-wise, but a friend of mine had used Vega products before and she referred to them as ‘plant-y’.

It’s not inaccurate. There is a definite plant-y taste to the smoothies. Which isn’t bad, quite the opposite. But if you’re coming off of run-of-the-mill whey-based or soy-based protein powders, you’re going to notice a difference. Just chill with it for a few days (which the starter kit gives you ample opportunity to do). You’ll get used to the plant-y goodness.

With teen no longer on board, I got a little nutty with the vanilla. Meaning peanuty. And grape-y. I mixed the vanilla powder with almond milk, PB2 and frozen red grapes for a ‘PB&J’ smoothie. YUM. Seriously.

And since I wanted to try one of the smoothies ‘as is’, I made the berry with just almond milk and ice. I wasn’t a fan, but honestly, with some additions, I totally could have been.

I wish I had super exciting pictures to show you but I am fail in that area. Not that smoothie pics are super exciting, but still.

Overall, I really like the Vega products. I felt like I had a lot of energy on the days where I drank these, and they definitely kept me full for a while. Like I said, taste-wise, this ain’t your mama’s protein powder, so if you’re used to overly sweet, artificially flavored powders, you’re going to have to get used to the difference, but it’s a worthy endeavor.

Road Tested: SKORA

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Earlier this month, we shared that Vic and Mer scored SKORA shoes to rack up the miles during our September training. Mer received the SKORA CORE, while Vic tested the FORM model. How did we fare? Read on!

skora1-1Mer:

I’ve heard about minimalist shoes since before I actually started running. A friend of mine (hi Jen!) raved about her minimalist shoes and I have to admit that while I was intrigued, I was also scared as well. I’m a wee bit – what’s the word? – clumsy. Therefore, I’ve always been under the assumption that the more substantial the shoe, the better off I’d be. Au contraire, mon frère!

Let me take a moment to talk about the shoes themselves. The box is pretty. The shoes are prettier! They are super light-weight (apparently mine average 6.7 ounces). The width of the toe-box is something that really stood out to me because usually the front of my foot feels a bit confined. I really like how my toes are able to spread with each step; I feel like it helps improve my stride.

skora2

Hello, my light and airy pretty!

I committed to a running streak for the month of September for our Million Mile Run team; I also planned to give the month to testing out the SKORA shoes. I started with a couple of miles on the treadmill doing intervals. It was raining the first couple of days of the month so I figured it was the perfect time to see how the shoes felt on a flat and, well, monotonous surface.

The sole of the CORE shoes are 11mm, according to the handy dandy comparison chart, and I could actually feel the tread on my treadmill. Crazy, right? The sensation was different than what I was used to but during those first couple of interval runs, I felt really good and was itching to get outside!

skorafeet

The first day of school was midweek and once both of my boys were on their respective buses, I was ready to run. Being that it was the first test run outside with the SKORA, I decided to do an easy mile. Once I hit the turn around, I was feeling so good that I happily continued on, rounding out the run at 3 miles.

skoraer

From there, it was on! I was blessed with good weather so my outdoor running streak was a go. The CORE shoes are good for “light trail running” and that’s good because I’m not lucky enough to live near many trails. However, when I ran the Electric Run DC, we went from paved road to gravel to grass to gravel to road. Not what I had expected but the COREs did great (and I had a blast!).

One thing I do wonder about is that the COREs feel a smidge big on my feet. I fluctuate between sizes 6.5 – 8, depending on the shoe. When it comes to running shoes, I usually go big with a size 8, since feet can swell during runs. However, I think I probably could have gone with a 7.5 with the CORE model.

With that knowledge, I will say that I’m a SKORA shoe convert. As you might have read, I’m currently waylaid by a quad injury but once I get the all-clear (fingers crossed!) from the orthopedist this week, I plan to return to running. And to my SKORA.

Vic:

When I first ripped open my box of SKORAS, I couldn’t believe how fun they looked. Super cute, right? I tried them on immediately… and was smitten.

formBad-ass girly camo!

I honestly was confused by minimalist shoes well before I heard of SKORA. I only ever pictured those hideous five-clawed contraptions that remind me of the awful water sandals from the mid-90s. You know what I mean, maybe you even had a pair. They were all the rage. *Shudder*

So I first tried my zero-drop FORMs at the end of a 5 mile run. My first few steps really threw me for a loop! My feet fell close to the ground. I thought I’d done something horribly wrong and would soon trip over my own feet. I kept expecting to land higher, and quickly adjusted my stride to avoid “missing” the pavement.

Alas, I did not fall! My feet carried me along and felt incredibly light as I ran. I tripped over nothing and felt like my feet were floating.

The FORM pair boasts a 13mm sole — 9mm if you remove the insole — and are meant for roads or trails. If you are a klutz like me, you want to avoid trail running in the FORMs because while you may feel light on your feet, you may  also feel some rocks and roots.

On the road – where I typically run – I didn’t feel small rocks or anything amiss. Bonus points for you, SKORA! I also got lots of compliments from other runners and walkers on the road. Double kudos, SKORA!

The top portion of SKORA shoes are made of goatskin leather with a water-resistant coating and a soft feel (they actually feel grippy).  The soles are tough rubber.

I noticed that when I ran in the shoes on a hot day my feet became rather warm. Apparently, the leather warms up, resulting in some rather sweaty feet.  This might actually be a bonus in colder weather! Stay tuned.

Minimalist running shoes aren’t for everyone. You will likely have to adjust your running style and build slowly – by walking and running short distances first — or your feet may regret it. Don’t test them out while training for a big race. Wait until your training cycle is over, in case something goes awry.

Since I AM training for NYC Marathon, I only wore the shoes for short runs and walks. I’m a fan! They feel incredibly different than my usual shoes — Mizuno WaveRiders and Adidas Supernova. But different can be good. In my case, It was worth it! I look forward to logging more miles in my FORMs!

We each received a pair of SKORA shoes for review. No other compensation has been given. Our opinions and words are our own.

Road Tested: PocketFuel Whole Food Fuel

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I’ve always loved peanut butter, but my nut butter obsession reached new heights when I first visited Meri for the Rothman 8k two years ago. Meri made us whipped oatmeal for breakfast, along with a mini buffet of topping options (she’s an excellent hostess), including different nut butters. Who knew there was more out there than plain old peanut butter? Not me, that’s who.

Fast forward to today, when I currently have 5 different jars of nut butter in my pantry. I love it in oatmeal, on fruit, toast, pancakes, a spoon. So, when PocketFuel sent us their selection of nut butters, I elbowed my way to the front of the line for the opportunity to try them. I let Meri join me- because I’m such a good friend- and because she got me started on all this yumminess in the first place.

Nut butter heaven

Nut butter heaven

PocketFuel Whole Food Fuel is made from 100% natural, whole food ingredients found in nuts, seeds and fruits. It provides a natural energy boost before or during your workout by delivering a balanced combination of simple and complex carbohydrates. It boosts blood sugar immediately but also helps to sustain energy for hours.

PocketFuel also works as a recovery fuel, as carbohydrates replace the energy lost and protein begins to repair and strengthen muscles.

PocketFuel is a natural powerhouse of electrolytes; it contains sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride to refuel and rehydrate your body. But most importantly, how does it taste? Meri and I, along with our husbands, put these to the test this month.


Mer:

pocketfuel

I’m a routine driven person. Especially when it’s five in the morning and my brain is struggling to catch up with my body. I lay my gym clothes out the night before (although there has been a time or two when something – usually my bra – winds up inside out). My keys, towel and wallet are always in the same spot but a few weeks ago, I also added a PocketFuel the night prior.

During the summer I joined up with the Rise and Run Club and although the sun is not rising nearly as early as it was over the summer, I’m still trying to tackle a couple of miles before my hour weight training session. (Or I was before I hurt my quad last week.) But as you know, working out for a couple of hours requires fuel! Vic had told me of her love for PocketFuel so I was really interested in giving it a try. Usually I grab a banana prior to my workout so I went with the Banana Blueberry PocketFuel to try first.

Squishing the almond butter around in the packet, I read over the nutrition label; since there were two servings I decided to have half prior to my run and then eat the rest in between the run and weights, during my stretch. I don’t usually bring “snacks” to the gym, but hey, why not?

The Banana Blueberry was delish! I love almond butter as is, but wasn’t sure what I’d think of the fruit taste. It was the perfect mix of the flavors, nothing was too overpowering and I LOVED the crunchy texture from the almonds. Additionally, I really liked that I was able to eat it in two servings – it was easy to recap and take along with me.

Since I devoured the Banana Blueberry, I decided to go the dilution route for the Chocolate Haze – hazelnut butter. After another training session, I headed home, ready to give the Chocolate Haze a whirl… with almond milk. The PocketFuel folks suggest a 1:1 ratio of liquid to PocketFuel. I had a bit of a heavy pour on the almond milk but the mix was tasty!

Of the two, well, I’m an almond butter girl, through and through. Hazelnut butter is delicious but I feel like the almond butter was more filling. As I said earlier, I’m a routine driven person, and I’m planning on adding PocketFuel to my routine.

Since sharing is caring, my husband, Jay got to try the Pineapple Coconut almond butter and Vanilla Haze hazelnut butter. Generally speaking, I don’t like coconut, so he said he’d take one for the team (because he doesn’t particularly like pineapple or coconut. That’s a good man right there).

Given that bit of information, it’s no surprise that he tried the Vanilla Haze first. He had it prior to a training session. After he returned home he reported back that his head was clearer and he was more awake during the session (he works out at 6am too).

Two days later, he tried the Pineapple Coconut. He was a bit hesitant, given the flavors, but he was pleasantly surprised with the almond butter. He said there were only mind hints of pineapple and coconut, they were not overpowering at all. He actually enjoyed that more than the Vanilla Haze!

Only downside? He could feel where pieces of coconut got stuck in the seams of the pocket and no amount of squishing he did could free them up.

Thanks for sharing with us, Brooke!

Brooke:

Josh and I are both working out several days per week. I’m in the middle of half-marathon training, and he’s just getting back in to running (and training for a 5 miler). I’m an early morning runner, so adding some nut butter to my oatmeal is the perfect breakfast because it gives me some extra protein and a big boost in flavor. I love that the fuel package is resealable; it’s incredibly convenient. Even better, the ingredients are all things I can pronounce. All things that occur in nature. My favorite flavor is the Coconut Cherry. I love coconut, and I could have squeezed it straight from the package into my mouth. (I totally did that. Sorry, not sorry.)

Breakfast of champions. Or busy parents. You know.

Breakfast of champions. Or busy parents. You know.

Josh is always on the go- he takes one of our girls to school, heads to the gym, and then he eats post workout. He tried the butters on toast and oatmeal, and he loved the Chia, Goji & Honey in his cold oats. He told me that he felt full and energized through lunch time, and for a guy who usually skips lunch in favor of work- well, that’s a great thing.

PocketFuel provided samples of their nut butters for free. All opinions expressed are our own.

PocketFuel wants to share their natural, whole food energy with you! One reader will receive a sample pack of nut butters. Please click the link below to enter. We will verify the winning entry via Rafflecopter. This giveaway runs from now until 9/25 at midnight.

rafflecopterpocketfuel

Click the pic to enter!

Road Tested: It’s Fresh (FRESH)…Exciting!

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So, a while back, my buddy Anne and I blogged about being fathletes. We talked about sports bras and lack of plus sized workout clothes and chub rub.

And swoob. We talked a lot about swoob. Which is either a cute nickname for under-the-breast sweating, or a shortened version of Swamp Boob, depending on who you ask. Hint: Anne and I both say the latter.

Shortly after that post, the awesome folks at Fresh Body asked us if we would like to try their product, Fresh Breasts. We like fresh breasts, so we said yes.  (Like there was even a question! Do we want less swampy boobs? We absolutely do!)

From the Fresh Body website: Fresh Breasts® was scientifically created to keep you and your “girls” dry and unchafed so there’s no more of those uncomfortable and awkward arm-crossed encounters. Women can now rest easy; we’re replacing “swoobs” – dreaded boob sweat – with smiles!

Applied as a lotion that quick-dries into a silky, clump-free powder, Fresh Breasts® can be applied as often as needed and is recommended as part of your daily routine. And, unlike most deodorants and powders, our natural scentless formula is free of all aluminum, parabens, and talc – just as nature intended.

Yay Fresh Breasts!

Yay Fresh Breasts!

Did we get Fresh Breasts? We’ll each tell you a bit about our experience with the product. Disclaimer: There will be no accompanying pictures or photographic proof of this product’s effectiveness because if you think I’m taking a picture of my swoob, you are seriously kidding yourself. I like you guys, and me, way too much for that.

Anne

I was so excited when Chicks Bec and Meri told me that we were going to get to test out Fresh Breasts; I stalked my mailbox, and eagerly ripped into the package from Bec when it arrived. Nevermind that I was at home for the night, lounging in pajamas–I was trying this stuff out right that second.

All in all, I tried the product out on four separate occasions: the aforementioned night at home, a regular workday, and two sweaty and humid 5Ks over the past couple of weeks.

What I liked: The first night, the product really did feel good going on. I was already kind of misty from a long day at work, and there was definite freshening occurring. For the second test, the product held up well over the day–I didn’t have to covertly sneak into my office once to try to get a little air circulating. And I noticed definite improvement in the areas under my bra that tend to chafe. As far as the 5Ks are concerned, I felt a marked difference in “swamp of funk” marinating tendencies. Fresh Breasts didn’t completely eliminate swoob, but it made things less uncomfortable overall, and seemed to speed up the time it took for things to clear up, post-race.

As far as what I was less than impressed with, my biggest issue is with the mess factor. The product website claims that this leaves no powdery residue in your clothing. I have to disagree. Y’all, I was a mess of powdery residue. I’m willing to accept that this is partially my own fault–when I’m getting ready for a 5K at 6am, I am not at my most cognizant. For both 5Ks, I wound up with Fresh Breasts on my thighs, and for regular workday use, there was definitely product left over in my bra at the end of the day. Not the end of the world, but if you’re looking for a mess free solution, you’re going to need to be a lot more careful than I am.

Ultimately, I’d have to say that the product mostly lived up to its claims. This isn’t specifically marketed towards athletes, and so expecting it to do the job perfectly during a 5K where the temperature was creeping up towards 90 by the time I crossed the finish line was a little unreasonable on my part. I’m grateful to the folks at Fresh Body for being generous enough to let us try the product out, and to my Scoot Chicks for inviting me to help.
Bec

Admittedly, athletics took a pretty low spot on the list of Things I Got Done This Summer. Like, at the bottom. Like, it looks like a footnote. So, from a working out perspective, I didn’t get a lot of opportunity to use Fresh Breasts. I did, however, load the ladies up with product on a few really hot and humid days. And then last weekend, I ran (errrr, walked) Diva Dash Boston, a 5k with obstacles, and I made sure to get my Fresh Breasts on.

The Positives – Things definitely felt fresher down there, and from a day-to-humid-as-heck-day perspective, it definitely kept me dry. While the product description indicates that it is scentless, I actually found it to have a light scent, but very pleasant. Application was easy (although I kept getting a little turned around as to just how much of the breast I was supposed to cover – just the underside? Everything but the nips? Full boob? I think I wound up somewhere in the middle.

Anyway, it felt really good going on and dried quickly. There was some residue on my hands once I was done applying, but nothing major and it washed off with soap and water.
The Not So Positives – When it came to exercising, there was definitely still some swoob. Less, but still there. Which is fine. I wouldn’t want anything so strong that sweat couldn’t break through its barrier because I think that would require lathering my breasts with a bunch of nasty chemicals and I’m not down with that. So, I guess that’s not really a negative? I mean, yes I had boob sweat at the end of a hot 5k, but I didn’t have Swamp Boob. And there was no chafing, which was awesome. I’m actually thinking that this would help with chub rub in some other areas.

Speaking of other areas! The also make Fresh Balls for you guys! Because according to the Fresh Body website, 99% of men suffer from sweaty balls. I didn’t know this! And there are some other products, like Fresh Feet and Fresh Baby’s Bottom.

That is our take on Fresh Breasts. Overall, we were fans and will continue to use the product. So, if you see us out on the street, just know that we are pretty dry in the underboob region*.

*Bec, no one in the world besides you cares if your boobs are sweaty. Shut up now.

Thanks Fresh Body for giving us a product that lessens swoob! Now, who has a product that can get me off my couch? Anyone?

The Color Run vs. Color Vibe

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It’s time for the results of our good-natured color throwdown!

Remember back in the spring when we told you I would run several color-themed 5k races in western New York this summer? Ah yes, we’re going back a few months.

The Color Run and Color Vibe both graciously offered me entries to run each event. Although the color was theirs, all opinions are my own.

I enjoyed both events, but let me say its rather tricky to compare two colorful 5k races that I ran in different cities and in different weather conditions.

You may recall that when I ran the Color Vibe back in April, the sky opened up on the runners. It hailed, it snowed and it was darn windy. As a result, few stuck around for the after party. (Was there one? I don’t actually know.)

after4yes, that’s snow (Color Vibe)

Last weekend, I headed to Buffalo, NY with my friend and colleague Tina for The Color Run and Tina’s first-ever 5k.

I blogged specifically about Saturday’s race on my work blog. (Click HERE to read)

tina blueThe blue color zone along Lake Erie (The Color Run)

So let’s try a comparison breakdown of the two races:

Participants:

Both events touted thousands of runners (8,000 or so for the Color Vibe and 10,000 for The Color Run, according to race organizers.) Both figures seemed a bit inflated, but I’d certainly agree that thousands of people took part in each event. Let’s just say both races were crowded, but it was never overwhelming. Race organizers knew how to move the crowd.

At the Color Vibe, the first group of runners didn’t begin until about 10-15 minutes after the appointed race start time, which on a normal day wasn’t a big deal. But the temps had dropped to the 30s and the skies were dark, Plus there was confusion about the start time, so we actually waited about 45 minutes for the race to begin.

colorfunLindsay, Deb and Charlotte running through campus (Color Vibe)

In comparison, The Color Run started at its appointed start time, though it took Tina and me an extra 20 or so minutes to reach the start area after the the first runners set off. (We actually watched the first folks finish!)

waldoA sea of white shirts. Can you spot me? (The Color Run)

Round 1 goes to The Color Run

Color Zones: At both races, we ran through four color zones.

Color Vibe participants were doused with color packets right out of the gate. I loved that idea – get runners with a burst of color right from the start! Unfortunately, I wasn’t ready for it, so I basically missed the first of four color zones. (My fault, not theirs.)

pinkThink pink! (The Color Run)

The Color Run seemed to have more volunteers throwing powered color on participants, so it was hard for anyone to get past a zone without a hint of color.

That said, in any color race, ASK the throwers to hit you with color if you want to be covered. They will oblige.

If you want minimal color, try to zip past and dodge the throwers. Stay in the middle, where other runners act as a color buffer.

Round 2 is a draw

The course: Obviously this will vary greatly from race to race. My suggestion for all future color event participants is to pay attention to the 3.1-mile course you will be running.

The Color Vibe was entirely housed on the campus of a local community college. It’s a smart move because its self-contained and doesn’t require race organizers to close roads and divert traffic. That said, the route includes a large amount of parking lots… which also means less event parking.

The Color Run’s route was a refreshing surprise to me. You guessed it, I didn’t check out the course before the event because I knew I’d be walking much of it. The 5k course started in Buffalo’s Canalside Park, next to the First Niagara Center and followed some downtown roads and lakeside roads, into a marina along Lake Erie and back.

colorrun2Along Lake Erie (The Color Run)

Because of its location, The Color Run route seemed far more picturesque.

Round 3 winner: The Color Run

Race swag: Entry to the two races are pretty much the same. $45 for the Color Vibe and $50 for The Color Run.

With the Color Vibe entry, I received a race shirt (which I wore for the run), one color packet, sunglasses and Boston bracelets, a thoughtful gesture by race organizers as we ran several days after the Boston Marathon bombings.

The Color Run entry included a race shirt (again, I wore it), a race headband, a color packet and some stickers.

Both events sold a number of other products. The Color Run organizers repeatedly threw swag such as race socks and bags into the crowd.

Round 4 winner: Color Vibe

After party: Both events hosted pre-race and post-race parties, which included music, dancing and a celebratory atmosphere.

Because of the wintry weather at the Color Vibe, most participants ran for their cars and shelter after finishing the course. Few people stuck around to sing and dance in the snow and hail. (Gee? Why?) and most volunteers apparently abandoned their post-race posts. I heard there was a photo booth, but never found it. I spotted bottles of water in a pile, though no one was handing them out.

I never saw a big-post race color throw take place by the stage. Instead, participants doused each other with packets of color at or near the finish line. We still had fun, but couldn’t help but wonder if I’d missed something.

after2Our own color throw (Color Vibe)

The Color Run’s after-party was a huge event. The weather was perfect, thousands of people danced to the music and we watched three separate color tosses take place in the 30 minutes after we finished our race.

20130820-143026.jpgA color throw at the Buffalo after-party (The Color Run)

Volunteers passed out Kind bars and offered a water bottle for thirsty runners.

Round 5 winner: The Color Run

colorizedI’m an oompaloompa (The Color Run)

Both events were a blast, though different. All of my running partners were a joy! And I love how color events are untimed races, geared toward beginners. The events aren’t about winning, but the joy of running.

But overall, the top winner was THE COLOR RUN. Congrats to the Happiest 5K on the Planet!

What Color event is your top choice? What stood out to you to make that event better than its competitors? Tell us in the comments!