Author: iancorless

Hoka One One 2012 s/s update

Wow – all my stock arrived last week while I was in Lanzarote. Over 40 pairs of bright Hoka One One supreme running shoes. With pre-orders and orders that arrived in early March, I now only have 5 pairs left! Yes, 5 pairs left. I am awaiting another delivery this week, but as I mentioned previously, Hoka One One stock is now very low throughout the shoe range. I will update the ‘Shop’ on my site with new colour ways and available sizes.

In brief the following are available in ‘selected’ sizes:

Bondi B – citrus/silver/grey UK7 through to UK12 – only 2 pairs of 12’s left

Bondi B – white/black/citrus UK7.5 to UK11.5 – and 2 pairs of UK12.5 – no 12’s left

Bondi B – anthracite/orange/white UK 7.5 to UK13 (no 12’s) Bondi B – ladies shoe UK5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8.5 but only 1 or 2 pairs in each size

Stinson B – blue/silver/orange UK7.5 to UK13 Stinson B – white/silver/citrus UK7.5 to UK12

Stinson B Evo – citrus/black/cyan UK5.5 to UK11.5

Stinson B Evo – anthracite/citrus/black UK8 to UK12.5 – no 11.5’s

Stinson B Evo – ladies UK5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5

Mafate 2 – citrus/anthracite/white UK8 to UK11.5

Mafate 2 – anthracite/white/orange UK7.5, no 8, 8.5 to UK11.5, no 12 and 1 pair of UK12.5

Hoka One One 2012 stock

Hoka One One stock is due to arrive between March 5th and 12th.

Despite stock not even being in the UK, I am already low on some models and sizes. To be honest, some shoes are sold out…. so, if you are looking for any of the 2012 shoes I strongly suggest you pre order before arrival in the UK.

The Stinson EVO in the ‘flag’ colour option was a limited edition anyway, but I now only have left one pair in each of the following sizes UK6.5, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10 and 11.

I will be able to order the Stinson EVO in citrus/black/cyan from UK4.5 to UK11.5 (limited availability)

or I will be able to get anthracite/citrus/black in UK8 to UK13.5 (very limited stock).

Bondi B in the ‘flag’ is available, again very limited options and sizes. Other colour options are available in citrus/silver/black

and white/black/citrus.

Stinson B has good stock from UK7.5 but from UK4.5 to UK7 are sold out.

Please contact me directly at hokaoneone@me.com for stock updates and availability.

Talk Ultra

Episode 2 of Talk Ultra is now available via http://www.talkultra.com or from iTunes.

iTunes

Libsyn

This is an action packed show and at 2hours 19mins will be perfect for your long runs. The show includes an interview with ultra legend Gordy Ainsleigh. Gordy is the creator of the iconic Western States 100 mile race and in out interview he tells us about what it was like to run the race in the early 70’s and how the race has progressed.

We also have a chat with Hal Koerner – Hal won the Rocky Raccoon 100 mile race and we get his feedback on the race and his performance.

We have a Meltzer Moment with ‘Speedgoat’ Karl Meltzer. Karl also discusses his run at Rocky Raccoon and gives us his ‘Good, Bad & Ugly’ from the ultra world.

Phil Essam discusses the Tipton 100 in Ultralegends and in our 15 minutes of Fame we have Billy Isherwood. Billy took part in the Atacama Desert Race by racing the planet after a life of drug and alcohol abuse. It is an inspiring story and one that you can read about in his book Dead Man Running.

In addition to the above we bring you news and reviews from around the ultra world.

Episode 3 will be available on February 24th.

Hoka One One 2012 due to arrive March

HOKA ONE ONE

Introduction:

Hoka One One was the brainchild of Jean Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud. Both very experienced adventure racers and runners. Nicolas Mermoud has placed very highly at UTMB.

They set themselves an objective. To create a shoe that reduced fatigue, impact and muscle strain. Hoka One One was born.

Sponsored Athletes include: Dave Mackey (ultra runner of the year), Christophe Le Saux, Ludovic Pommeret, Maud Combarieu and Karl Meltzer (31 100 mile wins)

The Technology behind the shoe:

The sole is oversized up to 2.5x a conventional run shoe and therefore offers outstanding impact resistance. It ensures a natural stride and IMPORTANTLY they only have 4mm drop from heel to toe. They are therefore very much inline with the barefoot philosophies of natural foot strike and mid to forefoot running. In addition, the shoe eradicates any harshness from the terrain, allowing you to ‘run over’ obstacles. A good analogy would be the difference between a no suspension mountain bike and one with full suspension.

Within the shoe, your foot sits within a ‘bucket’ that is recessed into the sole. Not only does this offer a precision foot strike but it also offers great stability.

Despite looks, the shoes are incredibly light. They defy gravity. The combination of lightweight and great cushioning reduce stress and fatigue. The shoe adapts and moulds to the terrain allowing you to ‘run through’ the most difficult terrain.

A unique addition to the shoe is a ‘rolling’ sole. This helps deliver superior underfoot performance allowing your foot to ‘rock’ forward. Try them downhill…. You will fly! The rocker sole propels you forward.

The increased footprint of some 35% bigger than a conventional road shoe offers increased stability. The wider base compensates for the height of the sole making every foot strike a confident one.

Throughout the range of Hoka One One shoes, grip changes with each model. The Bondi B road shoe has less grip and traction to allow for speed, the Stinson B (was Combo XT) mixes between the Mafate trail shoe and Bondi B and provides a shoe that works well on either road or trail. The Mafate is designed for severe off road running and the newly modified Mafate 2 has a new upper and increased grip. The new shoe in the Hoka range is the Stinson Evo. This shoe has all the benefits of increased foot platform and cushioning but has been re-worked into a shoe that offers a race fit. It has a breathable upper, speed lacing, increased grip and reduced weight; it is an out and out race shoe!

Statistics:

Less Impact – Increase contact with the ground by some 45% and less impact by 20-33%

On the flat a reduction of energy consumption by -3 to 5% (oxygen+lactate blood measurement+running mechanical properties)

Uphill -8 to 18% decreased energy consumption

Downhill -15 to 20% reduced shock impact

Conclusion – Better performance for less effort and increased protection

The Shoes:

Bondi B – Road shoe

Bondi B by Hoka One One 2012

Bondi B is a high performance road shoe suited to marathon runners, triathletes and ultra runners. Bondi B absorbs impact, shocks and reduces fatigue. It has 2x EVA volume and a 50% rocker profile. It has a 20mm recessed bucket situated within the midsole and provides support and control as and when required.

Stinson Evo – Trail

Stinson Evo/ Stinson B Evo by Hoka One One 2012

Stinson Evo is designed for absolute racing performance. It is the flagship of the Hoka One One 2012 range. It has a new outsole with EVA lugs to improve on weight. The surface profile has been altered to provide enhanced grip on mud and wet rocks. In addition, this grip provides superior uphill traction. The upper has been optimized to provide a precise racing fit with improved forefoot hold that balances weight and support. It has a quick lace system for rapid adjustment and the new upper has improved breathability. Revisions to the mid sole include a contoured sidewall which help reduce weight and it has a 25mm recessed midsole. The shoe has a 50% rocker profile, 2x2x EVA and recessed foot bucket.

Mafate 2 – Trail

Mafate 2 by Hoka One One

Mafate 2 is designed for tough terrain. It is designed around grip and support. The outsole has been overhauled over previous Mafate models and has a 4.5mm lug profile to offer superior grip. The upper has also been reworked to offer a precision fit and with a 30mm bucket within the midsole this provides a level of hold second to none. Lacing over previous models has also been adapted by adding an additional lacing loop allowing the runner to obtain a tighter fit if required. The shoe has 2.5xEVA and a 50% rocker profile. In addition, the Mafate 2 has a 35% wider foot platform over conventional trail shoes allowing you to ‘run through’ tough terrain.

Stinson B – Road & Trail

Stinson B by Hoka One One

The Stinson B, previously Combo XT (I am awaiting new imagery of the Stinson B, this is a 2011 model) is designed as a go anywhere shoe. It combines aspects of the Bondi B and Mafate. It has a 2.5x EVA and 50% rocker profile and has a tread pattern that is suitable for road and light trail. However, if the trail is hard, dry and rocky, this shoe realty does excel. It has a soft cushioned upper, a wider fit and it reinforces comfort without compromising support or stability. It has a 30mm recessed bucket and offers supreme protection.

In action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IH91KFK7ABE

Stock & Ordering:

2012 stock is due to arrive March 5^th to 12^th and is available from www.hokaoneoneuk.co.uk

Analysis and Use:

Mafate by Hoka One One

First time impressions of the Hoka One One sometimes mean that potential users can’t get beyond the look of the shoe! Yes they are different and Hoka One One does not try to hide the fact. In fact, the contrary, they use strong bold colours that attract your eyes and your initial reaction on seeing them for the first time is ‘what the hell are they?’

Mafate Waterproof by Hoka One One

I had the same reaction. I saw them in a French Trail Race in 2010. A real tough mountainous event and in first place came through this lightweight athlete bouncing along and a pair of brightly coloured shoes. I took a second look…. and then a third and then a fourth look. I laughed to myself. But then I thought about it… hold on, this guy is in first place!

I stored the memory and then I saw them at another race, then I saw four or five pairs. I decided it was time to investigate and purchased a pair! Within 1 week I was sold… I was never going back!

Hoka One One at UTMB 2011

I started with the Bondi B. I purchased them on a Friday. Walked in them all day Saturday and then ran a road marathon on the Sunday. It was liberating! I bounced along with an effortless glide and energy return from a shoe that I hadn’t felt before. As the miles ticked by I noticed considerably less fatigue, a notable reduction in impact and the key factor was that I found that they made me want to mid/ forefoot strike. I would say the only noticeable change I made to my gait and stride was that I took shorter steps and increased my cadence.

Not long after I purchased the Mafate for trail running. Believe me, if you are running on rutted, hard and rocky terrain the Hoka One One are the full suspension mountain bike of the run world. What was obstacles became just glitches that I could run through the terrain without worry… downhill the shoes excelled taking away the harshness of the terrain and allowing a comfort level never experienced when running downhill before. At the end of a race or training, fatigue and ‘doms’ were reduced significantly allowing for faster recuperation and an ability to train at a higher level on repeated days.

Time to Fly - Hoka One One

Observers would look at the shoes and in this barefoot/minimalist market would laugh! However, they missed the point…. Hoka One One only has a 4mm drop from heel to toe making this a real mid to forefoot shoe. A low differential is key for enabling runners to land in a ‘natural’ way. The difference with Hoka One One is the cushioning. All other manufacturers obtain a low differential by reducing cushioning; not Hoka One One. They offer all the benefits of a minimalist approach but with superior cushioning and comfort. It has now been confirmed in many aspects of the natural run movement that Hoka One One are inline with the philosophies of a more natural run style.

So, back in the UK I wanted to purchase the shoes! Mmmm stumbling block. Due to the uniqueness of the shoe, obtaining and shoes in the UK was extremely limited. So, as the saying goes of ‘putting your money where your mouth is’ I did just that and I started to sell the shoe.

In the final 6 months of 2011 and certainly in early 2012 I have noticed an increased awareness and acceptance of what Hoka One One can offer.

All I can say is, if you don’t like the looks, get over it! Once you put them on and run in them, you won’t mind. They are an experience to behold…

Stinson B by Hoka One One

Time doesn’t stand still…

Well, the launch of Talk Ultra happened on Friday 27th Jan and one week later we have had over 5500 downloads.

Needless to say, both Ian and myself are completely blown away with the response.

This though is just the start. It has taken me months of work to get the show released, but now it is released we have to go through the process every two weeks.

Episode 1 had a few editing issues that I was aware of but we didnt have the software to solve them! Or should I say the combination of knowledge and software… To this end I spent 20 hours yesterday going through some new software and bringing my knowledge base to the correct level. My editing now has gone a little slower as it takes a while to get used to the shortcuts and to edit intuitively. The good news is though we have some significant sound improvements over episode 1.

Don’t get me wrong. Episode 1 was very satisfying but those little errors do irritate. I want the production levels to be the best!

This week we have topped the iTunes charts for sports and recreation podcasts and have had a top 10 placing in ALL podcast. Impressive and very satisfying.

Moving forward we have some great interviews coming up. Last night I interviewed David Horton, 1am for me – 8pm for him. Podcasting brings a whole new level of ‘endurance’ to ultra. Not only do I need to run long, I also seem to sleep less. C’est la vie… David Horton is a legend and his interview will be in episode 4.

In episode 2 we have the creator of Western States 100 miler, Gordy Ainsleigh. Gordy is a real character and has some great stories to tell. Boy can he talk….. 😉

Episode 3 will have New Zealand runner Anna Frost. Anna had a fantastic season in 2011 and over the winter months has been doing some really impressive challenges. Sponsored by Salomon, she is part of one of the top ultra teams. They have a very impressive line up in Sandes, Jornet and Heras amongst others.

Importantly, all our shows have Speedgoat Karl Meltzer doing a ‘Meltzer Moment’. Karl has won 31 100 mile races in his career and he is still at the top of his game. We have given Karl a free reign and in each show he will talk about the Good, Bad & Ugly of the ultra world.

Eventually, I will get to write up about some of my recent racing and training.

Look forward lot your feedback on Talk Ultra.

Keep running….. ian

Talk Ultra

Wow, it has been a really hectic few months and blogging has been put on hold. The reason? Well, Talk Ultra.

I have been trying to get an ultra running podcast off the ground for the best part of 12 months. Suddenly, in September/ October 2011 it all started to come together. My good friends at Martahon Talk, Martin Yelling and Tom Williams confirmed that the expansion plans for the MT brand was going to go ahead and therefore finally I was in a place to get Talk Ultra off the ground.

I contacted Ian Sharman, fellow Brit who now lives in the USA who happens to be a pretty darn quick ultra runner. He burst onto the ultra scene in 2011 with a stunning 12:44 at the Rocky Raccoon 100 miler. He was a great choice as a co host. Great runner, respected athlete and a good communicator.

Key aspects of a new podcast had to bring something new to the arena. I had plans up my sleeve and I am pleased to say that they have all come together and appear in episode 1 of the show.

Firstly is a key interview with a star or notable celebrity in the sport. Episode 1 has South African, Ryan Sandes. Episode 2 has Western States creator, Gordy Aisnleigh. Episode 3, New Zealand runner, Anna Frost and so we have set the scene for a great show format.

I contacted Ultra Legend Karl Meltzer and asked if he would do a regular slot on the show. He agreed! Speedgoat Karl will now be on every show in a ‘Meltzer Moment’ talking about the Good, the bad and the ugly of the sport.

In order to appeal to the masses, I also wanted to include a section that gave ‘every’ listener the opportunity to be a guest on the show… This is called ’15 mins of fame’ and we encourage you all to nominate and recommend anybody. We have no criteria other than that the person should have achieved something special within ultra sport. This maybe something for charity, running a first ultra, maybe running 50 ultras or maybe just doing that ‘zone thing’ that stands out from the crowd.

Ultralegands is a look at the history of the sport. Phil Essam from Australia will provide a regular 5 min slot looking back at how ultra started and key moments in the sport.

So, it is an exciting time. Each show will be released every two weeks and episode 2 will be available on Feb 10th.

As I write, episode 1 has been available for 48 hours and we are absolutely blown away with over 3500 downloads. Incredible.

I value your feedback and your support so please contact me.

You can download the show here:

SHOW LINK

RSS feed
http://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss

iTUNES
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073

Many thanks and don’t worry. I will be back with regular posts!!

Yours in sport,
Ian

Endurancelife Stage 1 – Northumberland

Sunrise on the Northumberland Coastline

The long awaited Stage 1 of the 2011/2012 Endurancelife Coastal Series finally arrived with a new course and a new venue on the Northumberland Coastline. This is a coastline that I have very little knowledge of and so once again, Endurancelife enabled me to fulfill a couple of things that I always like to do when I do a race, see a new place and run somewhere different and challenging.

I hadn’t actually realised how close to Scotland our race venue was. Bamburgh Castle was literally not much more than an hours drive from Edinburgh. Unlike the other races in the Coastal Series, this coastline was more gentle. What it lacked in up and down coastal paths it made up for with Castles, beaches and stunning views.

It was an early start to the day, but then again, this is nothing unusual when racing. Niandi and myself arrived at Bamburgh just in time to see the sun break the skyline and provide us with an orange glow in the early morning chill. It was quite a start to the day. Andrew Barker from Endurancelife was running around taking photos and capturing video while other EL staff prepared registration and all the last min prep that goes into a race, or should I say races of this size and nature. What has always been a great feature of EL races is the provision to provide distances of varying nature, 10k, half marathon, marathon and now ultra. Of course, if you have raced any EL race before, you know the 10k is 12k, the half is 14 miles, the marathon is 28 miles and the ultra, well, the ultra could be anything…. you always get value for money! And I mean this in a very positive way. Trail racing is never an exact distance and we never want to be cheated.

The Northumberland race in many ways was a unique event. This is the one and only ‘point to point’ race in the CTS and therefore at 0800am the marathon and ultra runners were transported by coach some 30 min away to the race start at Alnwick. Our obective was to run from Alnwick, back to the coast and then run north up the coastline back to Bamburgh Castle.

Endurancelife, Northumberland Marathon route

As you will see from the above map, Alnwick was inland and it provided us with quite a beautiful start. It became apparent early on that our day was going to be a ‘good day’. The sun was out, skies were blue and the early morning chill was going to soon disappear and provide us with a warm and clear day for a great run. We grouped together in a field while Gary from EL provided us with our usual pre race briefing. The route was pretty simple; run to the coast, turn left and run north until you reach Bamburgh Castle. Of course, no route is that simple but EL always do a great jog of marking the route with red/white tape or white chevrons painted on the floor (eco friendly paint) or objects to help navigate the runners in the right direction. Of course you need to pay attention and keep your eyes peeled, after all, following the route is actually part of the event.

Alnwick Castle - race start

At 0900 we were off and an early group soon formed with guys up front, myself and Oliver Sinclair in 4th and 5th and then a couple of other guys close behind in 5th and 6th. The early trail was mostly through fields, farmland and woods. We had the early joy of wading through a river up to our knees. Perfect! completely wet feet in the first few miles of a marathon. I actually didn’t mind. To be honest I found the chill from the water nice on the muscles. Today I was running a little cautious as the previous weekend I had raced a 50k. The five days after that race had been devoted just to easy runs of 4 miles twice a day with the emphasis on loosening my legs rather than training.

The six of us pushed to the coastline, as I looked around at the race numbers I was surrounded by 5 ultra runners and I was the only marathon runner. A nice position to be in. In principal the ultra runners should be running a little slower than the marathon runners but considering I had no competition around I had no reason to run any harder.

After about 45 min we moved from a road section, crossed a bridge and we were then on the coast. Oliver Sinclair lifted the pace slightly, Andrew Bass followed and I basically maintained 3rd place maybe some 100m back.

As we hit the coast we had a mixture of terrain; sand, road and grassy trails. Because of the mixed nature of the terrain I had decided to use a new pair of Hoka One One shoes called ‘Stinson B Evo’. These shoes are actually only going to be available in 2012 but it was important for me to start testing them so that I could provide feedback. Unlike other shoes in the Hoka range these shoes offer increased grip, a race fit and obviously the supreme cushioning that Hoka offer. EL races always offer challenging terrain, not only for the lungs but for your feet, so, a good pair of shoes is a must. I have to say, that the Stinson B Evo is going to be a great addition to the Hoka range.

Hoka One One - Stinson B Evo

As we moved up the coastline Andrew Bass had taken the lead followed by Oliver Sinclair and then myself. The 4th and 5th placed runners had run with me for a short while but as we hit the dunes and mixed terrain we had all found our natural place. I could still see Oliver and Andrew but behind me was nobody, so I settled and concentrated on keeping an even pace. I went through the 2nd checkpoint at around 1040 am, this would mean that I was about 10 min behind the Half Marthon runners who started at 1030am.

Ian at Northumberland

The sun was out and it was getting pretty warm. As we ran past our second Castle of the day, Andrew was waiting with his camera at the ready. This section was tough underfoot. You needed to look at your foot placing. Ok, excuses over. Question? Is the above photo concentration or do I really look wrecked?

Wrecked or not I was leading the marathon and in 3rd place overall behind the two ‘ultra’ guys up ahead. As we moved on we now had sections of coastline, long stretches of beach and back markers from the half marathon race ahead. At the 20 mile mark I went through a bad patch…. I could feel some fatigue from the previous weekend and had to dig deep to put the ‘walk demons’ away and keep the tempo going. On the beach sections I cut the lines as best as I could looking for the shortest line. Happy to get my feet wet if meant I saved on distance.

At the final checkpoint Bamburgh Castle was in view and as I shouted ‘about a mile to go?’ the marshall said ‘erm no!’ Aaaagh, this is when the EL value for money kicks in. On those days that you want the marathon to be 26.2 you just know it is not going to be. Endurance running is as much about the mind as the body and when you think your finish is less than 10 min way but then soon realise that actually it is probably going to be more like 30 min away, you need to recoup, dig in and push on.

The final beach section was a long one. The terrain was good though, yes it was softer tan trail but it wasn’t deep sand. Finally the foot of the castle came and we had some nice twisty dunes to navigate our way through.

A mile to go in the dunes

Out of the dunes we had a climb up to the castle a right turn and then a couple of hundred meters to the finish. A great finish awaited with the castle making the perfect setting. I made the total distance covered just short of 28 miles and my time was 3:46.

In summary this is a beautiful course and it is extremely runnable. It is a great first event for those moving to trail racing or those tempted by the EL series of Coastal Races. My buddy and team mate, Oliver Sinclair won the Ultra so it was a great day out for the Endurancelife Team.

The finish - Bamburgh Castle

Nottingham Ultra 50k

As you will know, both Niandi and myself took a good beating at the Trail du Mercantour in September. With Nottingham Ultra landing exactly three weeks later, my plan was to rest and recover, do a little training and go to Nottingham ‘fresh’ but a little under trained.

I actually took a full 10 days rest. I really felt as though my body and my mind needed that break. Mercantour had twisted us and bashed us like no other race. Considering we had also used our Hoka One One shoes, I dread to think what I may have felt like had I not used them!

I started back with a few 4 mile runs and then at the weekend did a 10 mile trail and 12 miles on the road. All pretty easy paced. I felt sluggish and I also could still feel some ‘deep’ fatigue that I needed to get rid off. Race week was easy and then 3 days before the race I went out on the road and ran 8 miles tempo, finally, some two and half weeks after our French race I felt as though some zip was coming back. I purposely then took two days rest and arrived at Nottingham with Niandi feeling fresh.

Course Profile

The race was primarily off road running in the steps of Robin Hood from Sherwood Forest to the cobbled streets at Nottingham Castle and the statue of Robin Hood. Checkpoints and feed stations where placed at approximately every 10k and the route was marked by stickers or yellow arrows sprayed onto the ground or trees.

From the off a group of us moved to the front and within 3 to 4 miles the race was strung out. Two guys up front by 20 or 30 seconds, one guy in the middle and then myself and another guy in 4th or 5th.

Coming into the first check point the positions stayed like this but as naturally happens and feed stations the order changed. I didn’t stop at all as I was running very much self sufficient. I had a bladder and 2x 500ml bottles and ‘shot blocks’ for energy. My plan was just to keep pushing and not loose momentum.

Coming into check point one

As the course twisted and turned it was really important to keep your eye on the markers. Don’t get me wrong, the route was really well marked but it was easy to miss a waypoint if you just kept your head down too long.

Arriving at a golf course the markers suddenly disappeared. Now running 3rd/4th place the time wasted looking for an arrow allowed the 5th runner to catch us. The three of us looked left, looked right and then suddenly saw a glint of yellow that would take us around the golf course. A sudden screech and a quick turn around saw one of my fellow runners go over on his ankle… I had done almost exactly the same minutes before but had run it off knowing that I would probably have some swelling and pain the following day. He had to ease up and once we had checked he was okay pushed on.

It was becoming apparent that the early pace was now causing my running partner some trouble and without accelerating away from him he slowly drifted off my pace. I had now moved up into 3rd place but when I arrived at checkpoint three I was told I was in second place some 7 minutes off the lead guy.

Priority now was to hold pace and maybe try for a late push. It seemed unlikely that I would reel back in 7 minutes but it is so easy to have a bad patch. Throughout the event, a MTB rider had been going backwards and forward between the fron of the field. He didn’t provide updates but it was good to see him as it always confirmed I was on the right track. At one of the many gates, I looked back to see a runner who had moved up through the field who was now in 3rd place. I think at this point I had possibly slowed unknowingly allowing him to move up to me. As we pushed on I felt his presence and not wanting to be a carrot I eased up, let him past and decided to have a role reversal. The weather now was pretty warm and this guy was running in tights, long sleeve top and t shirt over the top. He made me feel hot!

In the final sections of the race I had pegged him all the way and when I noticed his pace start to drop I put a hard effort in and pulled away only to arrive in Wollaton Park, with no markings. Looking around it wasn’t clear of the direction to take. He came back to me and then we saw a runner who pointed the direction to take. I ten pulled away again aonly to find that at the next junction we had no clear markings again. I was wasting time now and when you are in 2nd place that is just no fun!

I branched left, 3rd place followed me. I was half committed as I was unsure I was taking the right direction. Looking over my shoulder I saw 4th place runner taking a different direction. I turned, ran hard across the park and pulled my up to him. Now 5th and 6th place had joined us and it was becoming beyond funny. Nobody knew the direction to take and so we looked at the map and decided on a route. It was wrong!

My second place now become an 8th and I think the 9th place runner had come through and moved up to 2nd.

Bit between my teeth I started the chase but I was running on frustration and at 28/29 miles into a race you just don’t have that ‘spare’ resources to run hard. Out of the park around some road works and on to the canal. I had moved back up into 4th with 3rd in sight but probably a minute away. With just over a mile left I couldn’t pull it back. I arrived at the Robin Hood statue on reflection happy with my 4th but frustrated it wasn’t 2nd.

Hoka One One – 2012

Hoka One One shoes utilize a unique rolling motion to deliver superior underfoot performance. Featuring a 50% rocker profile, Hoka One One help provide an excellent stride transition. It propels you forward with every foot strike.

Hoka One One are the only shoe to utilize oversize technology. Using up to 2.5x the EVA volume in the midsole in comparison to conventional running shoes. Offering outstanding impact absorption they allow you to run natural irrespective of the terrain.

Your foot sits within the sole in a unique patented bucket design which is recessed between 20 to 30 mm into the midsole. This allows for precision striking and optimum stabilisation of the foot. Importantly, this bucket allows for for excellent responsiveness despite the high level of cushioning.

What is also key across the Hoka One One range is that they utilize a wider footprint. In comparison to normal run/ road shoes this platform is 35% wider. This profile works to counter the increased height but also to add confidence and increased grip to every foot strike.

The sole of the shoes are designed to synchronise with your terrain and as such, Hoka One One have developed a series of shoes so that you have the right shoe for your chosen terrain. The midsole is also designed with grip in mind allowing for the correct amount of deformation so as to provide constant contact with the ground.

The 2012 Range

The Hoka One One shoe range has taken a firm hold in 2011. In 1 year, they have featured in 8 Countries with 17 major victories.

Diana Finkel 2010Hardrock 100 Karl Meltzer Massanutten 100, Pony Express Trail, 2064 miles Dave Mackey 2011 Miwok 100k, 2011 American River, 2011 US Trail Championships, Bandera 100k Christophe Le Saux Sahara Raid 200k, 2011 Australian Outback 540k, 2011 Gutan Trail 200k,, 2011 Guadrun 150k, 2011 Tour des Giants 2nd place….. and so on, the results keep coming!

For 2012, the shoes will undergo some tweaks and minor adjustments based on feedback from runners and as an ongoing development of the shoes and brand. 2011 saw the introduction of the Combo XT (Stinson in the US) and it is this shoe that has been developed into a new shoe for 2012, the Stinson B Evo.

BONDI B

Bondi B is the road shoe in the Hoka One One range and is ideally suited to ultra runners, marathon runners and triathletes who want to push endurance boundaries. Ideal at reducing impact, shocks and lessening fatigue. The Bondi B also works exceptionally well on hard and compact trail. In principal, the shoe remains unchanged for 2012 with one exception. Sizing has beed tweaked and the Bondi B will now ‘fit’ inline with all shoes in the Hoka One One range. I recommend that if you are not already a Hoka One One user you should size up by a 1/2 size from your current run shoe.

Price – £130 plus postage and package

Ordering and colour options:

Pre Orders for 2012 will be accepted on completion of an order form. No payment will be required until stock has been received in the UK. Delivery is expected March 2012.

Colour Options:

Limited stock and special orders are available for the Unisex white/citrus/cyan ‘branded’ with Hoka One One on the side. This is a statement shoe. I definitely recommend pre ordering of this colour way.The standard unisex shoe for 2012 will be available in sizes 4.5 UK to 12 UK in citrus/silver/greyThe Mens shoe (or unisex if your foot size is larger that 7.5 UK) will be available in 7.5 UK to 13.5 UK in anthracite/orange/white

Bondi B is still available at anytime in 2011 colours and size (please go 1 full size up from your current run shoe if it is not a Hoka One One)

STINSON B

Stinson B is currently named ‘Combo XT’ in the UK and will be renamed for 2012 to fall in line with naming in the rest of Europe and America. The shoe has no changes, other than colour for 2012.

Ideally suited for runners who love to mix road and trail. The Stinson B offers great comfort over mixed terrain, a breathable upper and a tough sole for increased durability and traction. This shoe in 2011 has become a ‘best seller’ for runwildrunfree. Clients have seen the benefits of it’s go anywhere attitude, increased comfort and it’s ability to leave you fresh from repeated running or racing. Sizing will fall in line with all shoes in the Hoka One One range and if you are new to Hoka One One, we recommend a 1/2 size larger than your current road/trail shoe.

Price – £116 plus postage and packaging

Colour Options:

Stinson B will be available in 7.5 UK – 12 UK in blue/silver/orangeA darker colour option and larger shoe size will be available in black/anthracite/lime in sizes 7.5 UK to 13.5 UKIf you require a smaller size from 4.5 Uk, we will be offering the Stinson B in white/silver/citrus as special order only

Ordering is possible by emailing ian@hokaoneoneuk.co.uk and requesting an order form for 2012. The current Combo XT model is still available at the 2011 price of £99.

MAFATE 2

Mafate 2 has been reworked for 2012. Designed for the most demanding off-road running the Mafate 2 has been constructed around grip and support. The outsole has been overhauled to provide a deeper 4.5mm lug profile, it has enhanced grip and increased abrasion resistance.

The upper has been re-designed offering high support construction for a precision fit and the lacing system has also been tweaked to help improve fit. The Mafate is how Hoka One One started and is the benchmark from which all Hoka One One shoes have been based. Oversize technology, rocker profile, great comfort, increased foot print and the ability to run on all terrain and maintain a high pace.

Price – £126 plus postage and packaging

Colour Options:

Mafate 2 will be available in citrus/anthracite/white in sizes 4.5 UK to 12 UKA darker colour option with larger sizes will be available as a special order only in anthracite/white/orange in sizes 7.5 UK to 13 UKOrdering is possible by emailing ian@hokaoneoneuk.co.uk and requesting an order form for 2012.

STINSON B EVO

Stinson B Evo is the new addition for 2012. A development from the Stinson B (Combo XT) it is designed for absolute racing performance. A new lightweight and highly breathable upper encloses the foot, holding it firm with a new ‘speed lacing’ system (conventional laces supplied). The outsole has been re-designed offering greater grip on trail. It has high abrasion EVA lugs to improve on weight without sacrificing abrasion resistance. The surface profile has been altered to provide enhanced grip on challenging terrain such as wet rocks, mud and when going uphill. Equally, it transfers from trail to road seamlessly. Stinson B Evo also features an ortholite insole that improves comfort through its breathability, anti-bacterial properties and the fact that it will not compress over time.

Price – £136 plus postage and packaging

Colour Options:

The two main colour ways for 2012 will be the unisex citrus/black/cyan available in 4.5 UK to 12 UKThe Mens shoe will be available in anthracite/citrus/black in sizes 7.5 UK to 13.5 UKA blog post with photographs on the Stinson B Evo is available here: https://iancorless.wordpress.com/2011/09/30/hoka-one-one-stinson-b-evo/

The above review is a little more in depth and the photographs show in detail the benefits of this new shoe.

All 2012 stock will be available from March 2012. I have been informed that 2012 stock will be limited and therefore if you have any special needs or requirements I strongly recommend pre-ordering. No payment will be required until your chosen shoes arrive in the UK and are available for postage. Please email ian@hokaoneoneuk.co.uk for an order form or if you would like any additional information.

Current 2011 stock is still available from http://www.runwildrunfree.co.uk and moving forward, all shoes orders will be taken via this website using PayPal as means of payment.

Hoka One One – STINSON B EVO

Hoka One One is the brainchild of two gravity sports enthusiasts Jean Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud. Both men have been adventuring as long as they can remember and their trail running experiences have taken them across the globe. They quickly came to an important conclusion; fatigue, impact and muscle strain were challenges that runners of all stripes had to deal with. So, Jean Luc and Nicolas came up with a brilliant idea, why not design a shoe that would help to alleviate these problems.

This week I was fortunate enough to spend some time with Steve Couper from Sidas and go through the new Hoka One One range for 2012. Needless to say, this was a real bonus. After some discussions with Steve and Nicolas, I was aware that the 2012 range had some significant changes and importantly, a new shoe.

First thinks first, the new shoe!

STINSON B EVO

Wow – first impressions are stunning. Steve had all the colour ways on display of this new show but your eyes to go straight to the Unisex show with the bright and bold Hoka One One written on the side of the shoe. The white/Cyan/Citrus colours stand out and just draw attention.

The Stinson B Evo is designed for racing performance and as such is designed around precision and flexibility. The new outsole design includes high abrasion EVA lugs to improve on weight without sacrificing abrasion resistance. The surface profile, as a whole, has been altered to provide enhanced grip (in comparison to the Combo XT/Stinson) on challenging terrain such as wet rocks and mud as well as providing greater uphill traction.

Stinson B Evo sole

The upper has been optimised to provide a precise racing fit and this shoe feels much more streamlined with improved forefoot hold. The upper is also considerably more breathable, it balances all aspects of weight, support and breathability perfectly. There is a pull-cord quick lace system for rapid adjustment (conventional laces also supplied). The midsole which includes a new contoured sidewall synchronises perfectly with the 25mm recessed misdsole. Finally, the Stinson B Evo includes and ortholite insole which improves comfort through its breathability, anti bacterial properties and the fact it will not compress over extended use.

Technology

The Stinson B Evo provides off road racing performance thanks to an enhanced sole and ‘rocker’ profile. The rocker profile creates a smooth energy efficient stride transition. As with all shoes in the Hoka One One range, the Stinson B Evo uses oversize technology with 2.2x the EVA volume of conventional run shoes. This ensures high impact resistance, a smooth underfoot feel and importantly, this enhanced sole allows you to run over mixed terrain in much more comfort allowing you to keep the pressure on and the pace up. Your foot actually sits ‘within’ the sole in a ‘bucket’, this allows for an unparalleled level of control. In addition, the new grooves in the sole allow for enhanced flexibility.

Colour Options & Stock

The two main colour ways that runwildrunfree will stock for 2012 will be Citrus/Black/Cyan and Anthracite/Citrus/Black.

Citrus/Black/Cyan - Unisex

Anthracite/Citrus/Black - 7.5UK to 13.5UK

In addition to the above, I will have available for PRE ORDER ONLY the limited edition White/Cyan/Citrus with the ‘Hoka One One’ branding on the side. This is a real ‘statement’ shoe and as such will be the shoe to be seen in come 2012.

White/Cyan/Citrus 4.5Uk - 12UK

Sizing? If you currently use either Mafate or the Combo XT in the UK we recommend that you order the same size. If you are currently using the Bondi B, we recommend a 1/2 size smaller. If you are new to Hoka One One, we recommed that you size up by a 1/2 size.

Ordering? I will take pre orders on all shoes and colour ways with an expected delivery in March 2012. I not require advance payment until the shoes arrive in the UK, however, I will require you to complete an order form with a £25 deposit.

Contact? Please email me at ian@hokaoneoneuk.co.uk

Stock? UK stock of all Hoka One One shoes in the first six months of 2012 will be limited. I therefore strongly advise you to avoid disappointment by acting in advance.

Price? £136 plus recorded postage (please remember that Hoka One One shoes last considerably longer than conventional run shoes, 6-800 miles)