fierce products: armpocket

Now that I'm slowly, but surely getting back into the swing of running, I'm also trying to figure out the whole gear thing. fathlete confession: Now that I'm training, I'm realizing why three years ago, I declared no more long distance races for me. It's a bathroom issue. I'm not big on using port-o-potties and when I trained for Maui, I mastered the art of "holding it til the run ends." Seeing that I'm older and my bladder is weaker, that strategy doesn't work very well. Gah! But this post has nothing to do with sorting out bathroom issues. Moving on...

I'm trying to decide what gear works for me. Things have changed since my last two major races and the gear available is amazing! I used to run with my ipod shuffle. These days, I'm running with my iphone because 1) Nike+GPS iphone app is awesome. 2) It's safer to have your phone on you when running. Thing is, it's a bit bulky. After shopping around, I found a great product called armpocket. I really like the sport i-20 with the clear window (pictured above).

Before I begin telling you how awesome this product is, it's only right that I let you know that I actually had to return my armpocket. This has nothing to do with it being a bad product. I now know that I'm just not someone who likes to run with something strapped to my arm. I find that my hands tend to swell when I run with it. This might have something to do with the arm band needing to be snug and my arm needing some circulation. Again, it's a me issue and not a product issue. Moving on...

For those of you looking for an armband to hold your iphone (or other device during runs), I highly recommend the armpocket. First off, it's secure. There is light bounce, which is normal. But overall, it stayed in place and didn't twist around or cause any chafing (which is a testament to good design, including good placement of the velcro). Second, it comes in a variety of colors (including purple, which is now in stock... but wasn't when I bought mine... just sayin'). Third, it carries what I think are the essentials: an iphone with a case, keys, id, cash. Finally, because it has a clear plastic window, it protects your iphone (no need to worry about it being drenched in sweat). Overall, if you're someone who likes to wear their gear on the arm, this is a great product.

Today's Small Victories
I made it to SF for a hike.

Today's Workout
6 mile hike in SF

Notes (to myself) about this workout: In total, the SO and I were out for over two hours. It wasn't particularly hard, but it was a long hike/walk. Big kudos to the SO who really stuck it out. He's recovering from an injured achilles and I know this hike wasn't easy. However, we finished and he's recovering nicely. As for me, I'm okay. I'm a little sore and slightly disappointed that I'm not running more. However, I need to cut myself a break. The Nike Half isn't until October, so official training doesn't start til July. With that, I just need to ease into the running. One step at a time...

**FYI I am in no way paid or compensated for sharing my opinion about the armpocket or any of the products I feature in “fierce products.” These are just things that I personally like. However, if you are from armpocket and you want to shoot a gal some stuff to try out, I’d have absolutely no objections to that. I promise to share an honest opinion about it!