The
North Carolina winters and not harsh but the change in seasons can be a bit
schizophrenic with one week feeling spring like followed by an Artic
(relatively speaking) blast. Choosing layers for each run can therefore be a
bit problematic. The time change also impacts clothing selection as by the time
I am ready to run each evening the sun is setting and my run begins in daylight
and often ends in darkness. I require flexibility in comfort and warmth as well
as visibility for safety.
Enter
the New Balance Glow Collection!
I
have accessed two products in this new line, the New Balance Glow Beacon Jacket
and NB 1400 Glow Running Shoe. I will review both in this post.
What
They Say:
“Defy
The Dark”
“This
might be our brightest idea yet. The Beacon Jacket helps you run safely day or
night. In low light, the bold color really pops. Reflective trim gives
360-degree visibility at night. And in no light, the Beacon literally glows.”
Like a beacon of light, the Beacon
Jacket features three levels of visibility details, making you visible from
dawn to dusk. The low-light visibility comes from the bright color, blending
safety with style. The oncoming-light visibility comes from the 360-degree
reflective trim, so you’ll catch the light when the headlights and streetlights
hit you at night. The no-light visibility comes from the revolutionary
glow-in-the-dark technology on the sleeves and back: charge the Beacon Vest
under direct light for 10 minutes and you’re ready to go, and ready to glow.
Features
·
Material: 86% Polyester and 14%
Spandex
·
A minimal charge to the
glow-in-the-dark graphics of 10 minutes under direct light illuminates your
performance. There you glow.
·
Drop back hem
·
Glow-in-the dark gradient dot screen
print graphic at sleeve, back panel, and logo
·
Interior media pocket for storage
·
Reflective logos and trims
·
Two secure zip pockets
·
Wind-resistant
What
I Say:
Out
of the package the Beacon Jacket is a BRIGHT yellow. This alone would provide a
nice level of visibility. But throughout the jackets chest, arms and back are
strips and lines of reflective material. These serve not only as reflective
visibility but also afford a glow in the dark benefit. Incredible Design = Peace
of mind!
The
jacket has two large zippered pockets and the from zipper slides easily with a
covering flap to prevent any air gaps. The jacket is extremely light and wears
well. Out on the run it provides that wonderfully, flexible top layer providing
warmth but with the option to unzip fro enhanced breathability.
But
it is in the NB Glow design where I have fallen in love with the Beacon Jacket.
My runs are all residential and with each entrance to a neighborhood I always
hesitate and look for cars. But even with my caution I fear a turning car may
not see me. With the Beacon Jacket’s extreme visibility I feel far more safe
and secure. And, bottom line, I feel incredibly awesome running in the jacket!
Form
meets function! Highly Recommended!
What
They Say:
“Bright
and light on your feet, this special edition Glow in the Dark 1400 is designed
for efficient training and racing — day or night. Break your PR and stand out
while doing it, even after the sun goes down.”
Lightweight performance designed for
both training and racing, this special edition 1400 men’s running shoe boasts
glow-in-the-dark technology that defies the dark by making you more visible in
low-light conditions. You’ll love the shoe’s ultra-light yet secure fit and
feel that comes from the innovative mesh/no-sew overlay upper and responsive
yet durable midsole cushioning.
Features
·
10 mm drop: due to variances created
during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 10 mm
drop are approximate
·
Blown rubber outsole
·
Glow in the dark application
·
No-sew material application
·
Synthetic/mesh upper
What
I Say:
I
have been a big fan of the 1400 Series prior to the release of the NB Glow
edition. I actually tooled through much of a mid-winter trail ultra wearing the
1400s and was absolutely please with their design. The shoes fit wonderfully
with a nice, but maybe not plentiful, room for toe splay. I would describe the
ride as flexible but not squishy, perhaps more on the firm side. I will add the reference to a "10 mm drop" amazes me. I am primarily focused on running in shoes with a 4 mm offset or less. I have run successfully in the 1400 and do not feel they have anywhere near this design specification. Interesting. I really enjoy
the ride they provide and they are always in my “go to” shoe rotation.
The
NB Glow 1400 incorporates the same technology of the Beacon Jacket and is
bright-bright in daylight, and provides a glowing sense of security at night.
While I cannot fully appreciate the glow of the Beacon Jacket on the run I can witness
the benefits of the NB 1400. They catch my eye as they step into view with each
stride in daytime. And at night I have observed the glow they produce in
oncoming headlights.
The
conclusion? I love the feel and ride of the 1400 Series from New Balance.
Enhancing this wonderful design with the NB Glow visibility and safety is an
incredible addition. I highly recommend checking out this shoe, and the full
New Balance Glow line.
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