Spring is finally here, so I wanted to showcase some of my favorite running gear for the season. Now, not all of this is brand new or top of the line, but rather things that I find useful, durable and valuable for running during the spring months. The Fresh Brew Run Club is based in Michigan where the weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to wear the right gear.
The Nike Invincible line of running shoes has been a fan favorite for several years now. First introduced in 2021, this cushioned shoe became a staple of easy runs, long runs and even marathons for thousands of runners. The Invincible 2 was essentially the same shoe, just with a slightly tweaked upper, but the third version is a complete redesign. Upon release, there have been many thoughts, both positive and very negative. To clear things up, I took the Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 for a couple runs and gave my thoughts.
Check out my full video review here:
I tried not to read too much into the reviews. My perspective is often different than many of the elite runners and professional shoe reviewers that get their hands on these first. I review running shoes from the perspective of an average to below average runner. While I love running and run about five to six times a week, my marathon PR is right around four hours. That’s not exactly Boston Marathon qualifier territory. I don’t need every shoe I run in to be super fast, light or high-tech. I’m simply looking for something that’s going to be comfortable and stable as I steadily churn through miles.
The redesign of this shoe starts with the outsole, which is now a two-piece construction. It has small nubs on the bottom which provide decent traction, although I would not recommend using these in the snow.
The midsole still has a ton of ZoomX foam, but has a sort of “cut out” design that might help to cut down on the weight of this shoe. Overall, this is still a pretty heavy shoe, but if you are using it for long/easy runs it won’t be an issue. It isn’t a racing shoe, although I did run my marathon PR in the Invincible 1 last spring.
The upper is also totally redesigned. The FlyKnit material on the top appears to be thinner and possibly more breathable than the tightly woven previous versions. It’s 20 degrees F here, so I can’t be sure, but subscribe to my YouTube channel and I’ll report back when the weather get’s warmer. Nike also took out a lot of padding around the heel collar both on the inside (I talk about possible issues with this below) and the outside (for some reason the previous versions had a ton of padding on the outside. Maybe to protect from bear traps?) The laces are back to a more stretchy material and actually sort of short, so hang on to your old laces. Finally, the design looks a bit sleeker, with some sharp contours, as opposed to the smoother look of the previous designs.
This is the number one complaint with the Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 – the heel slip. This is basically when your heel slides around in the shoe because it isn’t locked into place by the heel collar. Many runners were complaining about this, and right out of the gate, I noticed it too.
Now, it wasn’t as pronounced as the Nike Infinity React, which made me feel like I was running in sand, but it was enough to make me retie my shoes using all the shoelace eyelets in order to fully secure my foot. After making that adjustment, I can absolutely say the heel slip is not an issue. My shoes are tied a little tighter than I prefer and it took some getting used to, but there is no heel slip. A commenter on my video also suggested a runner’s knot, which is something I haven’t tried, but might help as well.
No doubt! This is an ultra cushioned shoe, where the entire midsole is one solid chunk of foam. If you’ve never worn an Invincible, it will probably feel like nothing you’ve ever run in. The shape of the shoe also give a slight feeling of running down hill. The shoes are springy and responsive. Now here’s the catch; if you’ve run in the Invincible 1 or 2’s, you might notice a difference. In my opinion, the Invincible 3 is a cushioned shoe, but is a little more firm than the original versions. It isn’t uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have the buttery soft feel right out of the box from previous versions. At the time I’m writing this, I’ve run about 30 miles, so maybe they need to break in, but I would say the Invincible 3s are a more firm shoe.
Stability is a huge part of a running shoe, and as a perpetual ankle sprainer, even more important to me. The Invincible 3s midsole is solid ZoomX foam, which isn’t the most stable material for a running shoe. However, Nike compensated by making this a really wide shoe. It isn’t wide on the inside (more on this below), but the surface area that the outsole covers helps to add a lot of stability. I am a heel striker, and my worst ankle sprains have come when I land on a rock or stick. The width and the ZoomX foam’s ability to absorb the difference in terrain makes for a very stable shoe. You will notice some side to side flex, but I have yet to twist my ankle seriously in any Invincible. I noted the firmer feeling above, which I also think contributes to the stability of this shoe.
Yes, the Nike ZoomX Invincible is true to size. I have seen some comments online about getting a size smaller to account for the heel slip, but I wouldn’t recommend it. These shoes seem to fit my size (10) perfectly, both before and after using all the shoelace eyelets. I would say the Invincible 3 runs slightly wide, but I have pretty narrow feet, and didn’t notice any issues. If you know your Nike size, go with that.
Overall this isn’t a bad shoe. I think some of the initial wildly positive reviews (from people who seemingly got the shoe for free…) were a bit exaggerated, as well as some of the wildly negative reviews that mentioned the heel slip. A quick adjustment to the laces should take care of that issue. Now, should I have to lace my shoes in a completely new way on a shoe that costs $180? No, probably not. Is it a bit disappointing that the shoe doesn’t feel quite as soft as the original two versions? Yes, it is.
At the end of the day, I will not be sending this back, but rather running in this for 300-400 miles because that’s what I do with all my shoes. But in the meantime, I will have my eyes peeled for possible alternates, such as the New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4 or the Asics Novablast 3.
Overall, a decent shoe, but it might disappoint diehard fans of the originals.
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Overall, cities can make it safer for runners by creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment, providing dedicated running paths and spaces, improving street lighting, and promoting active transportation.
What are some things your city has done to improve safety for runners? Leave a comment below!
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The Nike Alphafly 2 is Nike’s premier, flagship running shoe, chock full of the latest running shoe technology. You’ve seen the best runners in the world wear this shoe, but is it good for the average runner too? In my review, I took to the park paths to review the Nike Alphafly 2 at varying “slower” speeds. Check out the video below:
The Nike Alphafly 2 has some incredible technology. This is a super shoe, which essentially means it is an ultralightweight shoe with a carbon fiber plate in the midsole. The Alphafly 2 features extremely bouncy and light ZoomX foam on the midsole with the carbon fiber plate inside. This plate is to provide energy return to your stride and propel you forward. There are also Air Zoom pods to help propel you forward. The upper is made of Nike’s Atomknit material, which is so thin that you can see right through it. There is minimal padding around the heel and the upper fits like a sock around your foot.
If that sounds like a lot, it is. But is it too much for the average 4-hour marathon runner? Let’s find out.
This is an awesome shoe.
This is a super shoe, meaning it will 100% improve your performance, no matter what pace you plan on running. It’s fun, light and will turn some heads out on the course. If you can stomach the price, this shoe is a great racing shoe with enough cushioning to keep your feet happy for a full 26.2 and beyond.
Be sure to subscribe to The Fresh Brew Run Club on YouTube for more shoe reviews, weekly vlogs and other running-related videos. Finally, check out some previous shoe reviews on this page.
When it comes to buying running shoes, it’s important to find a pair that fits your specific needs. Here are a few tips for how to buy the right running shoes.
There are three main foot types: neutral, overpronated, and supinated. Neutral feet have a normal arch and roll slightly inward when running. If this is you, congrats, you have the ideal foot type for running. Overpronated feet have a low arch and roll excessively inward. Supinated feet have a high arch and roll outward.
Knowing your foot type will help you choose a shoe with the right level of support. Bring an old pair of shoes (even if you don’t run in them) to a running shop and have the staff take a look. They can also analyze your stride to determine the best shoe for you. You don’t need to know anything about running, trust the experts!
Running shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. You want to leave some space between your big toe and the front end of the shoe. This is to give your foot room during your stride, but also account for your foot getting bigger as you run longer. Additionally, make sure the shoe is comfortable to walk in and doesn’t rub or cause any discomfort. A shoe that is too small can cause blisters or even damage to your foot.
Different shoes are designed for different surfaces, such as road, trail, or track. Road shoes have a harder sole and are made for running on pavement. Trail shoes have a more aggressive tread and are designed for running on dirt or gravel. Track shoes are lightweight and have a flatter sole for running on a track, and may even include spikes on the bottom. It’s usually a good idea to start with a road shoe and go from there.
If you’re a heel striker (when your heel hits the ground first in your stride) like me, look for a shoe with more cushioning in the heel. I tend to wear down the outsole in the heel area first, to finding a shoe with cushion and lots of rubber on the bottom (like the Nike Invincible) is a good idea. If you’re a midfoot or forefoot striker, look for a shoe with more cushioning in the front of the shoe. Most shoes are designed with mid or forefoot strikers in mind.
Don’t be afraid to try on multiple pairs of shoes to find the best fit and comfort for you. It’s also important to note that different brands and styles may fit differently, so it’s always a good idea to try a few different options. If a store allows you to take your shoes out for a run around the block, do it! The best way to gauge the comfort of your running shoes is to actually run in them. A shoe might feel great while walking the aisles of a store, but they can feel completely different while running.
These are a few of my recommendations for how to buy the right running shoes. Be sure to subscribe to The Fresh Brew Run Club on YouTube for tips, shoe reviews, weekly running vlogs and so much more, all from the perspective of an average runner. Also check out my previous reviews. Happy running!
Welcome to my Nespresso pod ratings. I love Nespresso pods. I love running. I love drinking Nespresso before I go for a run. So this post is my ongoing rankings of Nespresso pods as I attempt to try all the Vertuo pods. I am starting this journey in January 2023, and will continue to add to update this list as I add more pods. Be sure to check out my running vlog for my video reactions as I try each one. I also do running shoe reviews, so check that out as well!
My ratings. Click the links to shop for each flavor.
More to come!
Be sure to subscribe to The Fresh Brew Run Club on YouTube, a channel dedicated to talking about running and coffee from the perspective of the average runner and coffee drinker.
Instagram user NVTZR posted official images of the Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 on his page. The cushioned running shoe returns in a redesigned outsole, midsole and upper. Check out the photos below, and leave your thoughts in the comments.
According to Runner’s World Magazine Runner-In-Chief Jeff Dengate (awesome job title), the ZoomX Invincible 3 will come out on February 2, 2023. Jeff noted some more details in his post:
“Expected release date is 2/2/2023 for $180. Nike specs men’s 10 at 317g (11.2 oz) and women’s 8 at 256g (9.0 oz). Astonishingly, my size 12 of all 3 versions weighed exactly 347g (12.2 oz).“
Check out the Fresh Brew Run Club’s reaction video to the Invincible 3 below:
The outsole and midsole remained the same for the V1 and V2 versions of the Invincible. But the Invincible 3 features a fully redesigned outsole, with what looks like a two-part rubber material. The “cleats” on the bottom of the shoe remain, but there appear to be “holes” in the outsole, exposing the ZoomX foam material from the midsole.
The heart of the Nike ZoomX Invincible is the midsile, which has been completely redesigned. Next, the massive hunk of foam remains, but there appear to be some cutouts on the heel area (possibly to reduce weight) and some additional material encasing the midsole foam, which could add to the stability of the shoe overall.
The upper is redesigned as well, with what appears to be a new type of Flyknit. The first two Invincibles had more of a textured material, while the Invincible 3 has a smoother, more refined-looking material. Another notable change is the padding around the heel collar. The first two versions had tons and tons of padding on the inside and outside of the shoe, where the Invincible 3 has significantly reduced the padding, which now looks similar to a Vaporfly or Alphafly.
The main Swoosh is redesigned, and a new Presto-like Swoosh has been added to the toe. Finally, there is also a heel pull-tab, which was not on either of the first two versions.
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Welcome to the first edition of the Fresh Brewsletter. I hope to make a weekly update on my running endeavors, as well as other aspects loosely related to running. Subscribe to the Fresh Brew Run Club by entering your email for updates. I promise I won’t spam you with a bunch of useless nonsense; my nonsense will be extremely useful.Â
Speaking of running in all these states, I launched my 50 State Running Challenge this week, where starting this summer, I am trying to run in all 50 states. It will take me a lifetime, but I am up for the challenge, and welcome any excuse to travel to Hawaii and Alaska. The first video is from my home state of Michigan, on my favorite running path, the Detroit Riverwalk.
Bad news. My Nike ZoomX Invincible 2 is cracking. The midsole foam has a few concerning cracks after 100 miles. I’ll cover it in a future video, but I never had this problem with the first version of the shoe, and I even ran 500 miles in one of them. I am racking my brain trying to remember if I got my heel caught in a bike chain or bitten by a dog, but I can’t recall. Hopefully, this is just a fluke.
I tried to get Dunkin Donuts in Boston. I showed up at the location 30 minutes before I had a tour across the street (which seemed like plenty of time) but my order wasn’t completed in time and I sadly had to leave it. However, I did get a (very costly) orange juice. It was ok. Never ended up having a Dunkin coffee in Boston. It’s always unfortunate when you miss out on local fare that you can’t get anywhere else.
Happiness by The 1975. Great song. It’s a burst of saxophone-laden positivity that makes my runs fly by. I’ll always associate this song with running the city of Boston, as I had it on repeat all week.
Great piece on Marge Hickman, a 72-year-old runner competing in a 100-mile race in Lousiville. Goals, tbh. Read via the New York Times.
Thanks for reading the first ever version of The Fresh Brewsletter. Subscribe by submitting your info on the homepage. If you have topic ideas, questions, comments or anything else, shoot me an email at freshbrewrunclub@gmail.com.
Thinking about purchasing the Pegasus Trail 3? In this video, I go over my first impression of this trail running shoe, on a very challenging run in Sedona, Arizona (spoiler alert, I only fell once). Watch the video below for the full review.
Overall, the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 is a fantastic running shoe. It was stable, gripped the trail even on dusty terrain and was durable enough to endure a very rocky path. That durability protected my feet from rocks, dirt and cacti. The elastic band around the ankle helps to seal your foot off from debris and even water.
I wouldn’t say there are any directly “bad” elements of this shoe, but the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Gore-Tex is a bit heavy. But that weight is for good reason, the shoe is strong enough to withstand some tough trails and runs. The shoe is also a bit pricey, so be sure to shop around for the best deals.
Overall, this was a great shoe. It prevented me from slipping, even when running downhill on a dusty path. It clearly protects your feet from rocks and obstacles you may encounter on tougher terrain. Plus, the colorways are pretty cool.
What do you think? Have you run in the Nike Pegasus Trail 3? Let me know in the comments!
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Check out my previous shoe reviews here.
Welcome to the 2021 Fresh Brew Awards, where I give my favorite (and least favorite) things in the running universe in 2021. It’s been an eventful year, so why not hand out some illustrious awards to close out another year around the sun? Below is my video, but the full awards show is written out below. Enjoy!
The 2021 Fresh Brew YouTuber of the year is Stephen Gnoza and his “Serious Runner” series. Part of the reason I started making videos was because I was frustrated with the deadpan self-importance of much of the running video content I found. Stephen’s satirical videos take some of that overly serious content to task, with classics such as “A Serious Runner Does an Easy Run” and “A Serious Runner Posts on Instagram” among others.
The 2021 Fresh Brew Podcast of the year award goes to the Six Minute Mile Podcast. Mostly known as an informative and entertaining email newsletter, the podcast version also strikes that balance. With interesting and fun conversations, this pod was my favorite in 2021.
If you’ve followed my content, you know I am in constant disdain over the lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in the Metro Detroit area. This city was built for cars, and cyclists, walkers, and runners are clearly an afterthought. So this award goes to the worst of the worst intersection. Congratulations to 6th and Main Steet in Royal Oak for taking the award this year. Main Street is a busy thoroughfare and this intersection is quite challenging t cross. Instead of a traditional pedestrian crossing, stop sign or stop light, there’s a tiny “yield to pedestrians” sign in the middle of the road that approximately every car ignores. It’s dangerous, hard to cross, and the winner for the worst intersection of the year.
This year’s runner-friendly city (based on my own personal observations) is Ferndale, MI. As I mentioned earlier, Metro Detroit isn’t the friendliest area for runners, but at least Ferndale is trying. From dedicated bike lanes, to real pedestrian crossings, to drivers who actually pay attention to us peons running in the streets, Ferndale is putting in more effort than most cities. Of course there’s work to be done (like making it less of a dangerous journey to cross Woodward), but congrats to Ferndale.
The Fresh Brew Running Route of the Year goes to the Riverwalk in Detroit. I made a video about this, which you should watch, but a few highlights are the fact that you don’t have to deal with cars, the scenery of the city and the river, and the accessible bathrooms. Congratulations, Riverwalk.
The winner for Running Tech of the Year goes to the Whoop Strap. This wearable fitness tracker measures strain, recovery and sleep, and a myriad of data points in between. For runners specifically, I most like the fact that it will help you gauge whether you are fatigued or just unmotivated about getting out of bed and running in 33-degree weather. It can also help you track different things that impact your workouts and recovery. For example, if I don’t wear blue-light-blocking glasses at night, my sleep is much worse. If you’re serious about your training, I highly recommend this product.
The winner for the Fresh Brew Second Place Finish of the year goes to me, for my second-place finish at the Volkslaufe 10K in July this past year. It’s my awards show after all, right? Congrats to me. Check out my vlog here.
This is the Fresh BREW Run Club after all, so the award for the 2021 Coffee Shop of the Year goes to Desert Oasis in Royal Oak, MI. The winner of this category not only has to have great coffee (they do), but also excellent vibes inside the shop (they also do). It’s a great place to grab a fresh brew, sit down by the window and do your thing on a laptop or read a book. Congrats, Desert Oasis.
The 2021 Fresh Brew Coffee Brew of the year goes to Nespresso’s Intenso coffee. I am a big fan of Nespresso, and in my opinion, this is their best work. It’s bold, pairs well with a little splash of creamer and will give you that caffeine boost needed to power through a long run. Congratulations, Intenso.
For after your run, the 2021 Beer Brew of the Year goes to the Mr. Blue Sky Raspberry from Griffin Claw. This Wheat Ale is a spin on their popular original Mr. Blue Sky, but this time with a raspberry twist. Perfect for a hot summer day in the backyard, or on a patio somewhere. Buy it here.
The Fresh Brew Run Club Runner of the Year award for 2021 goes to Craig Engles. The FBRC is all about having fun, good vibes, and cracking some jokes, and Craig embodies this mentality. Funny, honest and quite fast, it was great seeing Craig get some national exposure to people outside of the running world (such as his appearance on Pardon My Take). The kind of runner you want to crack a fresh brew with.
If I learned anything from making videos this year, it’s that people care the most about my shoe reviews. So that’s why I saved this category for last in The 2021 Fresh Brew Awards. The 2021 Fresh Brew Run Club Shoe of the Year goes to the Nike ZoomX Invincible. I’ve made a bunch of videos about this shoe, so check those out for my full thoughts, but overall, I loved running in this shoe. From the massive foam cushioning, to the rocking motion when you run to the durability, this shoe has been with me for a majority of my runs this season. I dare say it has surpassed the Nike Pegasus Turbo as my all-time favorite shoe. Here’s to you, Invincible!
Thanks for reading the 2021 Fresh Brew Awards! If you haven’t subscribed to my YouTube channel, be sure to do that for more running-related content. Happy trails!