Try It – Products to Try in the New Year

As the warmth from New Year’s parties flow into the cold reality of January 1st, the echo of resolutions, some obviously repeated, others soon to be forgotten, will be heard from every corner. The will to do better and to be better is at its strongest point in what is seen as the opportunity of a new beginning.

But the new beginning is merely a continuation of a Winter already in progress and life-long habits that continue to push forth like flowers in the Spring. So rather than resolve, we should try; try some things that may be beneficial and may stick.

And this is where your pal Jamoosh comes in with a few things that, if you haven’t given a try yet, you should consider giving a shot. You never know, like Little Mikey, if you try it, you just might like it (sorry for the dated reference).

Injinji Socks

If you are a runner and you haven’t heard of Injinji toe socks, consider turning your “I am a Runner” card in. Injinji toe socks likely owe their media popularity to Vibram Five Fingers, since they are the only socks that can be worn with the popular minimalist shoe.

Runners so often think about the importance of the shoe that socks are often over-looked. Further, many runners dismiss the toe socks, thinking they are exclusively for the Five Fingers. Big mistake on both counts. Every runner should get a pair of Injinji socks and give them a try for a few runs.

Your feet will be happy, especially if you like a wide toe box. In fact, in order to take advantage of a wide toe box, a runner should enlist the help of the Injinji toe socks, which allow your toes to splay, because unlike other socks, they don’t constrict your toes.

Personal Note: I have not had a blister on any toes, nor a black toe since moving to the Injinji toe socks.

2Toms Stink Free

I often wear my Altra’s (exclusively for walking) and my Merrell Trail Gloves without socks. As you can imagine, my feet conjure up quite a stank. That’s where 2Toms Stink Free comes in.

Not sure of the chemical properties of said spray, but it definitely works. It apparently will work on other gear as well, but I use it specifically on those two pair of shoes. It definitely makes a difference and I appreciate that my shoes do not arrive before I do or linger after I am gone.

Nite Beams

This past week a Houston jogger was hit by a car in the dead of night. The jogger was in a cross walk, but the driver (who was allegedly under the influence) did not see her. No word on what the runner was wearing, but I would hazard a guess that flashing lights were not part of her wardrobe.

That is one reason why you should consider Nite Beams, obnoxiously bright flashing lights in a variety of colors.

Nite Beams come in a variety of colors for those who consider themselves fashion forward and have a need to coordinate their running outfits accordingly. But more importantly, there are a number of styles and sizes that make it easy to accessorize with a little bit of safety when running under the cover of darkness.

They are great for runners and cyclists alike.

Personal Note: I wear them just below my knee and on my arms for maximum visibility.

Tidings of Happiness

The new year approaches. Stay warm and stay safe this evening.