It's HOVR time!

Welcome back folks, as a Bib Rave Pro Under Armour sent me a pair of the HOVR Sonic to test and review. For more information on becoming a Bib Rave Pro, and to leave and write your own reviews, go to Bib Rave.

My feet in HOVR Sonic

 When I was selected for reviewing the Sonic's, I was skeptical at first. I am normally a zero drop runner, and have been since I first started running. The HOVR Sonic is a 8mm heel toe drop and comes in at 9.6oz. It has a knit upper and features their HOVR foam tech. I've put 100 miles in these, so let's get right to the good and bad.

THE UPPER

The upper really impressed me with these. The lightweight knit upper was ventilated and molded to my foot. I didn't have hot spots and the elastic material helped hold my heel in. There is a plastic type of material on the heel that helps hold your foot in, I have never experienced this in a shoe before, but it wasn't bad.
 One problem I have with knit uppers is how hot they can be in the Summer. These were hot, but the ventilation helped.
 The tongue was super! It was thick enough that you couldn't feel the laces and had elastic on the sides helping to wrap and hold your foot in. The flat laces were a nice touch as well. I could run in them without double knotting them.

THE LOWER

The real claim to fame with the Sonic's is the HOVR foam. Inside the outer foam is a layer of foam compression wrapped to keep it from breaking down. It keeps the shoe firm, but cushioned so you can turn up the speed when needed. Being a mid foot striker, the shoe rolls forward nicely to propel you forward. They're starting to show some signs of compression on the sides where the cut out is near the heel, but for 100 miles I would think it's normal. 

The out sole features full blown rubber covering the entire shoe. Personally I think it's a little much and hinders some of the flexibility. 

Overall I've enjoyed running in the UARunning HOVR Sonic. They surprised me with a good fitting upper, an awesome tongue, and a firm quick ride. My only question is where did the 'e' go? It must be too fast. To get your own pair check out the link HOVR

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As always thanks for reading and lace up and get out there,

Ben

Keep it Shady!

As a Bib Rave Pro I was sent a pair of Shady Rays to test and promote. For more information on becoming a Bib Rave Pro and to read and write race reviews, go to Bib Rave. 

What is up everybody? I was recently selected to test out some sunglasses from Shady Rays and they did not disappoint. Shady Rays is a smaller company bringing you a multitude of styles and price points. I have a problem with losing or breaking my shades so I like to find a decent product for a good price.  Another facet of the company I can get behind is a portion of the proceeds from every pair sold goes to Feeding America. I like and support companies that offer a good product and help those in need.

I selected the Signature Series Emerald Ice Polarized for my pair. Being a kid of the 80's, I love the classic 'Wayfarer' style frames and mirrored lenses. Plus the frames are clear, so maybe I won't get tan lines on the side of my face. The glasses themselves are light weight and fit my face. I wore them during a recent half marathon and they didn't bounce or fog up. Pretty much, where you put them is where they are staying. 

The hinges are metal and snug, which I like. It doesn't feel like they're going to stretch out and fall off. Another good thing is the lost of broken warranty. If you lose or damage your shades,  Shady Rays will replace them for up to 2 pairs of the same style. I cannot think of another company that will replace glasses if they are lost. As far as cleaning the lenses, they come will a soft case for storing and wiping them off. I have used my shirt on occasion and have not had any problems. I still think you should stick with the cloth. 

Full sun/ all Shady

Over all, I've been pleased with my Shady Rays, and plan on getting another pair to switch up things once in awhile.

Thanks for reading and remember to lace up and get outside!

If you want to check out Shady Rays go here. Use code BIBRAVE and get 50% of 2 pairs for a limited time!

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