Humble Running Newsletter #24
Back in action!
Your regularly scheduled Humble Running programming will be resuming.. slowly and gradually. The newsletter has also been on hiatus while I was recovering, which wasn’t exactly intended. I guess I got a bit out of rhythm with certain things, so this one will be a catch up..
Race to Robie Creek 2026
With my planned race scheduled for the week after Robie Creek, I had already planned to miss out this one. I had the idea to go over and catch some race vibes, and this was a good opportunity to check out runners’ shoe picks for this unique race.
Three-time champ Nate Souther went with the Hoka Rocket X 3 (my shoe pick for the Munich Marathon last Fall), while others opted for a wide array of trail & road shoes. This half marathon features 8 miles on dirt with 2,100 ft+ of elevation gain.
Kiprun Kipsummit Max Comparisions
The Hoka Speedgoat 7 vs Kiprun Kipsummit Max A/B test video ran long, so I broke out some comparisons into a separate video. Lots of different avenues to explore here from foothold, fit, sizing, and of course A-TPU midsole comparisons.
Btw, my ribs are just now feeling recovered from the spill I took during that A/B test run. But my right shoulder is still bothering me.
Running to Race?
4 full weeks off from running definitely gives you time to think about some stuff. Throw in missing out on a race you’ve been focusing on for months - and it was time for a vent session.
Now that I’m back running again, I’ll probably do a follow up to this one with some lessons learned.. or should I say - lessons that became apparent, which will hopefully “stick” going forward.
Thoughts on two Ultra Speedsters
Hoka Rocket X Trail and Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra 2 are two shoes that I had gotten miles in before my injury struck. Here I go for a hike and share my thoughts on both shoes.
These are two high-end runnable terrain ultra racers. But which shoe is the best pick for your next ultra?
Spring 2026 - In for Test
Shoes (and apparel) were starting to pile up while I was recovering. I share some impressions here on what I have in the testing queue - The North Face Altamesa 300 V2, Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL, ACT Running C.1, Scarpa Golden Gate LT, and Hoka Zinal 3.
Check recent videos on the channel to see which shoes I’ve picked for my first runs back. I’ve been going with shoes what have easy fits and easy rides - to match my gradual ramp up period.
Summer Running
We had very hot spell a couple weeks ago, which was a good chance to try out some summer sun apparel. Lightweight shirts from Salomon, CEP, and Stio.
Also in for test - INOV8 Trailfly V2 and Topo Pursuit 3. These two won’t be among my first choices as I get back into running, as they definitely ride like more natural-style shoes. But stay tuned for follow-ups once my legs, feet, and ligaments get back into the swing of things!
UltrAspire Traverse - 20 Liters
Everyone saw the Traverse (or hundreds? of these packs) out at Cocodona. You need to carry a lot of gear throughout a 250 mile race (DUH), and lots of fluids! I load up 5+ liters in this review and guess what? Rock solid!
Yes, UltrAspire has had a huge presence at Cocodona over the years, but you can’t deny the performance and capacity of this pack for those types of events.
Prodigio Pro Sale
This one just popped up in the last day or so. La Sportiva Prodigio Pro at backcountry.com for $169 !
Unfortunately, limited size availability for the white version, but as of now, all sizes available in black. Scoop these up at this price!
REI Anniversary Sale
20% off Full Price items for members - through May 25. Many great picks here, just a few - NNormal Cadi, Nike ACG Zegama Trail, La Sportiva Prodigio Pro, Hoka Speedgoat 7, TNF Altamesa 500 V2, Brooks Cascadia Elite, Nike ACG Ultrafly 2, Salomon Ultra Glide 4, Adidas Speed Ultra 2, Hoka Mafate 5, and more !
Now is the time to grab some fresh trail kicks for summer!
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