Todi sandals

This year I have decided that since I own about 20 pairs of shoes and all kinds of multisport gear I would start doing reviews on my blog.

Today I am reviewing the Todi sandal. Designed for people and athletes who beat their feet up during the day to have something to relax in.

• Fit and Feel
• Out of the box these fit a little big, I went 1/2 size down from most of my running shoes and they were roomy but not to the point where they would fall off. As I have worn them they are starting to mold more to my foot and now feel great. 
• 1st thoughts
• When I 1st read about these I was intrigued because I always wear sandals of some type after a race, unless it is cold, and thought these looked good but would also serve the purpose I always am going for. To let my feet relax, as they just took a beating from another duathlon.
• 1st time wearing them  
• I got them on Christmas from my parents and out of the box I noticed they were very solid. Not bulky like some sandals but seemed very well made. I wore them a bit that night around the house and they felt like they looked, very comfortable. 
• 1.5 weeks in
• I have worn these almost everyday since Christmas and I am very satisfied with the purchase. I know my parents got them but I gave them a USAT code to use so they saved some money, 30%, but feel they are worth every penny still. I train between 10-12 hrs a week and run anywhere from 20-35 miles a week and the rest is spent on cycling. These are by far the most comfortable sandals I have worn and would recommend them to anyone. 
• The only drawback 
• The only drawback in my opinion is the sizing. The sizing runs a little big, which is stated on the website that you should order a size down if you wear a 1/2 size. I would follow that recommendation. Otherwise I haven't found anything to complain about. 

When you look at the site there are numerous bullets regarding the purpose of the sandal and mention of the features. Check out the link below and you can explore more for yourself. 

Todi Originals

New Balance 110W review

I got these shoes about a week ago and noticed some chatter on some of the social media sites regarding questions about them, so I decided it would be good to throw my 2 cents in since I have now had 2 runs in them.

Here is what NB has to say about this shoe, "The New Balance 110 trail running shoe sets a new precedent in lightweight trail racing, making such a powerful impression that it has been named "Best Minimalist" in the TrailRunner Editor's Choice awards. Built in close collaboration with leaders in the sport, this minimalistic trail runner is built to deliver the optimal race day experience. A great combination of tried and tested features with new performance attributes will ensure that this highly anticipated update to the 101 delivers a smooth and responsive ride on any trail."

Here is my breakdown of the shoe after getting a pair in the mail, which wasn't free!!

• Looks & Feel
• I think it's a sharp looking shoe, love the synthetic upper material. Lightweight (9.1 oz) and a nice bright yellow shoe hiding under the blue water resistant outside.
• Test fit
• Tried them on, walked around and immediately noticed why it was suggested to size down from my Minimus 10 road shoes. They run longer but slightly narrower as well. No complaints but definitely keep that in mind if/when ordering. If you have the minimus trail it is more cushioned and truly felt like the minimus road with lugs on the bottom. Very comfortable. My only complaint would be the top of the upper is very snug, I was worried on my run it would be uncomfortable but it seemed ok and I had my tights underneath. Anyone with bigger ankles than me may run into an issue.
• 1st run
• Ran 10 miles in zone 2/3, did some intervals on the road and I couldn't tell the difference between this and my road 10's. Felt great under foot, very lightweight, and responsive. These shoes had superb traction in the snow, and felt very solid on the mostly untouched sidewalks. It was 20 degrees here yesterday during my run and my feet were toasty. Not only does the upper keep the elements out, it keeps the warmth in. See below.
• Post 1st run thoughts 
• Got home did my cool down and stretching and then realized how hot my feet were. For me that's huge. I am cold all the time and to get done with a run and spend another 10 minutes outside doing warm down drills my feet are always cold this time of year. I was very pleased with that.
• 2nd run 
• 10k in 9 degrees. All zone 2 but all hills. Again the shoes performed like my Minimus 10 road and felt great. Feet were again nice and toasty despite every other part of my body being cold. The pic I have attached is after todays run and the shoes have a good collection of salt and sand on them but no snow made its way in. 
• Post 2nd run thoughts
• After a few runs in these shoes I am very happy with the purchase. I paid $124 for them and feel they are worth every penny. Again, my only complaint if you would even call it that is that the top of the synthetic upper is snug but I have had no issues with it. I guess I would say it is more of a precaution to those who have big calves/ankles. 
• So far I have 16 miles in on these shoes and feel comfortable recommending them to anyone who uses minimal shoes already. They are a 4mm drop shoe, so if you haven't been running in minimal shoes slowly work your way up in mileage. 
• Here is a link to the New Balance Site:
• New Balance 110W