REVIEW: Buff USA EcoStretch

Disclaimer: I received a Buff USA Original EcoStretch to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews.

Hello.  I'm Barb and I am in injured runner.  I pretended to be fine for months, but then my spouse saw me running and made me promise to take time off.  He said that I ran like I was injured.  I took a month off and when I tried to run again, I felt something.  I went to the free injury clinic at my local run shop and left not with stretches, like usual, but with a phone number to call to schedule an appointment and get x-rays.  

That was July.  I had a stress fracture in my femur from "repeat trauma."  I was on crutches for what seemed like forever but was only two months.  Then, I was permitted to walk, but "not for exercise."  A few weeks later, I started physical therapy and was so happy to discover the AlterG, which allowed me to run without all of my bodyweight, which was a good thing since that had increased over the months without lacing up.

Then I was cleared to run outside but "no more than three times per week."  That last qualifier has been a little difficult, especially during this past holiday weekend, but all-in-all, I have followed all medical instructions.  I am now up to approximately nine miles a week (compared to 25 miles per week).  My pace is slow but I am outside and I could not be any happier.   

During my training to get back at it, I had the opportunity to test the Buff USA Original EcoStretch.  

My favorite way to wear the Buff is as a neck warmer because after a run, I typically move it up as a headband to keep my hair and sweat out of my face.  I have also worn the Buff Original EcoStretch as a hat, by typing one end together.  

I even used it as a mask, when I wanted to run into the coffee shop for a cup of joe and a muffin.  

I have had a lot of luck with Buff products.  They are easy to use, are machine washable and come in many fun patterns.  In fact, I have written about my love for Buff products before.  

Discount Code: Sign up for newsletter to save 15% buffusa.com/bibrave

Don't take my word for it, see what others had to say about the Buff USA Original EcoStretch:

Lissa

More coming....

Review: ROAD iD Sidekick

Disclaimer: I received ROAD iD  Sidekick as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

One of the first things I did, when I started running in 2012 was purchase a ROAD iD bracelet.  I have religiously worn that pink bracelet with my Garmin for every run and, most recently, bike rides.  

When I had the opportunity to test out the Sidekick, I signed right up.  The ordering process was quick and easy and before I knew it, I was receiving email updates that my order was in production and had been shipped.  

Unfortunately, I did not read closely and ordered a size too small.  No problem:  ROAD iD had me order a new (proper size) and I was receiving similar emails that the engraving was in production and on the way.  The online ordering was easy, shipment was quick and the quality is great.  

Now that I personally own two ROAD iD products, I prefer this Sidekick as I no longer have to search in my bag for my ROAD iD bracelet since it is securely attached to my Garmin wristband.  

I cannot recommend ROAD iD products enough as it is a good idea to have such information available to first responders.  

Check out some other BibRave Pro reviews of the ROAD iD Sidekick below:

Chloe

Patrick

Phil

Running on the Other Side of 40

Runirvana

Review: Knockaround Sport Collection Sunglasses

Disclaimer: I received Knockaround Sport Collection Sunglasses as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

I love sunglasses.  It is a problem, I know.  I wear sunglasses year-round. I cannot tell you how many pairs of sunglasses I own.  I often wear them to match my outfits.  But when I am running, I wear them for comfort and practicality (keep sun, rain, snow, wind and debris out of my eyes).  

When given the opportunity to test Knockaround Sport Collection Sunglasses, I jumped in on the action, immediately.  

I first had the opportunity to test Knockaround Fastlane Sunglasses in 2019 and fell in love as I was surprised how they stayed put on my nose, even during the sweatiest of runs.  The Knockaround Sport Collection Sunglasses are no different and I enjoyed giving this pair a try. 

I selected the Spearmint/Sunset Knockarounds, thinking that although this is a color I like, chances are I would probably never order for myself.  Funny story:  The sunglasses matched many of my favorite running tops. 

Again, the glasses stayed put and offered enough room on the top of my ears for my AfterShokz, allowing me to not be blinded by the sun and listen to my audio book, simultaneously.  The quality of the sunglasses is also impressive as I sat on them, while getting into my car, last week, and they did not break.  I tend to be a little harsh on my sunglasses as although I kept this pair in the little bag they came in, they were often found at the bottom of my bag, under my labtop, wallet, keys, etc.  Still they managed to survive.  

Are you ready to try these sunglasses?  Use discount code BibRaveKnoncks5 for 20% OFF your entire order (one use per customer).  

Read what other BibRave Pros are saying about the Knockaround Sport Collection Sunglasses:

Katy 

Danielle

Coach Fischer

Meredith

Jeremy

Michelle

GearJunkie

Chloe

Review: Aftershokz Aeropex

Disclaimer: I’m promoting the AfterShokz Aeropex as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

As a BibRave Pro, I had the opportunity to try out the AfterShokz Aeropex, just a year and a half after trying out the AfterShokz TrekzAir, which is when I joined many other BibRavePros singing the AfterShokz Praise. 

The packaging was very user-friendly and with one quick charge, I was ready to take the Aeropex on an inaugural run.  The case was easy to open with a tab to pull and the accessories were in simple-to-open clear plastic bags.  Included with the Areopex was a charger cord, ear plugs, a rubber case and a two-year warranty card. Unlike the TrekzAir, the rubber case did not have a zipper but rather a magnetic clasp, which tended to make it a bit more difficult to cram everything into and close, but with patience, it was doable.  

Surprisingly, the Aeropex are even lighter than the TrekzAir.  Wearing with hats and sunglasses is no problem and the system stays put and does not move.

The set up was crazy easy and intuitive (I never even looked at the instructions).The charge cord is magnetic and is much easier to plug into the system than that of the TrekzAir, which is similar to a Kindle plug.  Both go into a regular USB style charger and then into an outlet.  

Overall, I am very impressed with the Areopex.  I still like my TrekzAir, but the Aeropex are now my favorite.

Cyber Monday and Race Discounts

Disclaimer: I’m promoting the AfterShokz Wine & Dine Sweepstakes as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Today is Cyber Monday and people are scouring the internet for the best deals on stuff.  I prefer experiences over things and, as a runner, I am sometimes able to snag some Cyber Monday deals on race registrations.  While I am looking, I thought I would share some BibRave savings and a unique opportunity:

First, AfterShokz is hosting a sweepstakes to give away one lucky runner and a friend the opportunity to experience the 2020 runDisney Wine & Dine Half-Marathon, 10K, or 5K! AfterShokz will cover flights & hotel accommodations for 2, a race entry for you and a friend and 2 one-day hopper passes so the winners can recover by hitting up the parks! To register, simply click here.

December 2019

12/7/2019 A Christmas Story Run - Cleveland, OH

Use code "OHFUDGEBR" for $5 off

12/7/2019 - Enmarket Savannah Bridge Run - Savannah, GA

Use code “BIBRAVE” for 15% off

12/7-8/2019 - Humana Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio

Use code “19RNRBRP16” for $16 off half/marathon.

Use code “19RNRBRP6” for $6 off shorter distances.

12/8/2019 - Honolulu Marathon - Honolulu, HI

Use code “BIBHNL19” for 10% off!

12/15/2019 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Phoenix - Phoenix, AZ

Use code “BRHCPHX19” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat

12/15/2019 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Tampa - Tampa, FL

Use code “BRHCTAMPA19” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat

12/22/2019 - Mount Dora Half Marathon - Mount Dora, FL

Use code “BBRAVE” for 15% off!

January 2020

1/11/2020 - Times-Union Half Marathon & 5K- Jacksonville, FL

Use code “RUN15” for 15% off

1/11/2020 - Irvine Half Marathon & 5K- Irvine, CA

Use code “BRIRVINE” for 10% off

1/12/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate San Francisco - San Francisco, CA

Use code “BRHCSANFRAN19” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

1/18-1/19/2020 - Marathon Bahamas (Sunshine Insurance Race Weekend) - Bahamas

Use code “MBSPECIAL” for 10% off! 

1/19/20 - Key West Half Marathon & 5K - Key West, FL

Use code “BIBRAVE20” for 20% off half marathon.

February 2020

2/1/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Houston - Houston, TX

Use code “BRHCHOUSTON20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

2/2/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Atlanta - Atlanta, GA

Use code “BRHCATL20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

2/2/2020 - Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon - San Francisco, CA

Use code “KPSFBIBRAVE” for $5 off the 5k, 10k and half marathon

2/8/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Dallas - Dallas, TX

Use code “BRHCDALLAS20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

2/8/2020 - Hilton Head Marathon, Half, 8K - Hilton Head, SC

Use code “HH15” for 15% off 

2/9/2020 - Life Time Miami Marathon & Half Marathon - Miami, FL

Use code “BIBRAVEMIAMI” for $5 off!

2/15/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Nashville - Nashville, TN

Use code “BRHCNASH20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

2/16/2020 - Honda Miles Per Hour Run - Chicago, IL

Use code "RAVEMPH" for $5 off individual or team entry

2/22/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Charlotte - Charlotte, NC

Use code “BRHCCHARLOTTE20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

March 2020

3/1/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Seattle - Seattle, WA

Use code “BRHCSEATTLE20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

3/1/2020 - 305 Half Marathon & 5K - Miami Beach, FL

Use code “BIBRAVE305” for $5 off half only

3/1/2020 - Napa Valley Marathon & Half Marathon - Napa, CA

Use code “BIBRAVE10” for $10 off the full or half marathon distances

3/22/2020 - Oakland Running Festival - Oakland, CA

Use code “OAKLANDRAVE20” for 10% off

3/22/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate San Diego - San Diego, CA

Use code “BRHCSANDIEGO20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

April 2020

4/4/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Louisville - Louisville, KY

Use code “BRHCLOUIS20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

4/4/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Philadelphia - Philadelphia, PA

Use code “BRHCPHILLY20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

4/4/2020 - Publix Savannah Women’s Half & 5K - Savannah, GA

Use code “BIBRAVE” for 15% off

4/5/2020 - Statesman Cap 10K - Austin, TX

Use code “BIBRAVE2020CAP10K” for $5 off registration

4/11/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Minneapolis - Minneapolis, MN

Use code “BRHCMINN20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

4/11/2020 - Milwaukee Marathon - Milwaukee, WI

Use code “RUN15” for 15% off

4/18/2020 - Allstate Hot Chocolate Detroit - Detroit, MI

Use code “BRHCDETROIT20” for Free Hot Chocolate running hat 

4/18/2020 - Blue Ridge Marathon - Roanoke, VA

Use code “BRMRAVE” to save 20% off distance of your choice!

4/23-25/2020 - Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon - Champaign, IL

Use code “2020BIBRAVEILLINOIS” for $10 off any event other than youth run

4/26/2020 - Delaware Marathon - Wilmington, DE

Use code “DELAWARERAVE20” for 10% off

May 2020

5/3/2020 - The Providence Marathon Presented by The Providence Journal  - Providence, RI

Use code “RUN15” for 15% off

5/3/2020 - Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon - Pittsburgh, PA 

Use code "BIBRAVE10PGH" for $10 off the full, half, or relay

June 2020

6/26-28/2020 - Missoula Marathon - Missoula, MT

Use code “BibRave2020” for $5 off half/full entry

August 2020

8/29-30/2020 - Santa Rosa Marathon - Santa Rosa, CA 

 Use code “SAVE10” for 10% off

AfterShokz - Visit bibrave.aftershokz.com and use code “BRBUNDLE” for $50 off the Adventure Bundle. 
BUFF - www.buffusa.com/bibrave - sign up for newsletter & get 15% off.
GoSili - https://www.target.com/p/gosili-straws-warm-ombre/-/A-54404587 Save $1 on your reusable GoSili Silicone Straws at target.com using promocode “GOSILI1OFF” at checkout. 
Orange Mud - Use code “BIBRAVEWRAP” for 15% off
Turtle Gloves - “TURTLEGLOVESBR” for 15% off

Review: Nuun Rest

Disclaimer: I received some Nuun Rest to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews.

I have been in a monthly mileage competition with a couple of friends and every month, my friend has won, except last month. August was a good running month: My leg was feeling better and the weather was nice. This month, I have really been kicking it up with my runs and workouts. As a result, however, I have been significantly more tired than usual. Thankfully, I received the Nuun Rest around the same time as my workouts and running started to pick up.

Some things I have learned is that Nuun Rest is intended for recovery, not as a electrolyte replacement, and that it may make the user sleepy. The key components of this product is Magnesium and Tart Cherry juice which are intended to aid in recovery. I mixed a tablet with approximately six ounces of warm(ish) water or cold water that warmed in my car, while I was out running or working out. There was a bit of a residue left in my glass, once I finished the drink, but I was able to easily wipe or rinse it out. I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised about how tasty the drinks were. I preferred the blackberry vanilla, when it was warm out, and the lemon chamomile, in place of a warm evening tea.

I am not too health conscious: I know that I need to eat more natural foods (fruits and vegetables) but I love bread (processed sugars). I run and workout often and I think the Nuun Rest is be a nice choice, for those days that I clearly have moved my body too much and need a boost on relaxing and getting enough sleep.

If you are interested in giving Nuun Rest a try, be sure to save yourself some money by using HYDRATEBIPRO to get 20% off (excluding subscription options and bundles). This discount code is good through October 31, 2019 but do not wait to use it.

Review: FBOMB Macadamia Nut Butters

Disclaimer: I received a FBOMB macadamia nut butters to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews.

I received an assortment of FBOMB macadamia nut butters to test out and immediately noticed that they were full of macadamia flavor with added enhancements like chocolate and coconut.

Other BibRavePros who tried FBOMB, enjoyed the butters in their morning oatmeal or on fruit but I preferred to enjoy my nut butter as a mid-morning snack with a bagel. The texture of FBOMB nut butters is much like melted butter so it can got a little messy and depending on flavor, may have nuts or a thicker texture that will squeeze out at the end.

I wish I received a few sticks to use as an ingredient for chocolate chip cookies as the macadamia flavor is legit and I know would make some amazing cookies!

I usually ate my FBOMB macadamia nut butters with flatbread or bagels but I am certain that it would be excellent on top of pancakes or in oatmeal.

If you are interested in trying these FBOMB macadamia nut butters, visit here and use code BRP10 to save 10% off the 16-count FBOMB Nut Butter Variety Pack.