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Toby’s just opened its 45th branch in Ayala Harbor Point, Subic.

– Lamont Walters, Kelly Williams, Toby’s Franchisees Marvin Caparros and Alex Figueroa, and Toby’s President Toby Claudio –

Address:
2nd level, Ayala Harbor Point Mall
Rizal Avenue, Subic Bay Freeport Zone Olongapo City, Zambales

When I started running way back in 2006, the only pair of socks I used were thick and long Thorlo socks that I had used way back in college for hiking. (Stop laughing!) As a newbie, I knew little about using runner-specific socks and I relied on the knowledge that Thorlo was a well-known, credible brand (almost like Cole Haan for shoes).

As I progressed as a runner, I preferred thin rather than thick socks to avoid blisters. I learned that it’s not really running shoes that cause blisters, but the socks. Hence, choosing the right pair of socks for us runners is just as important as choosing the appropriate shoe for our foot type.

Last month, Thorlo provided me with Thorlo Experia Socks for testing. I was flabbergasted. I hadn’t really thought of using Thorlos again since I knew them to be thick and hot. But, these Experia socks were thin in most areas and provided extra padding in places that need extra cushioning.

I ran 12k this morning using the Thorlo Experia socks and my Nike Pegasus 28. Here’s my review about Thorlo Experia Socks.

PROS:
– Comfortable fit. I’ve never felt socks more comfortable than Thorlos. I felt like I was walking on clouds.
– Extra padding at the right places. The additional padding are on areas where runners need it most: where our heel strikes and at the balls of our feet. There’s even padding for my bunions! (Thank. You. Lord.)
– Uses coolmax. This means that it uses technical fabric that is moisture-wicking and it will prevent blistering.
– Breathable. Despite the padding, the entire sock is made of thinner material which allows for ventilation. Perfect for the summer heat.
– Lightweight. The socks don’t feel heavy even with the extra padding. Should it get soaked in rain water, the thin material won’t make the socks too heavy as well.
– Attractive colors. I like the bright colors. A welcome change from my white or black socks.

– Extra padding at the ball of the foot –

– Extra padding at the heel –

CONS:
– A bit pricey at P799.75. I haven’t tested the durability of the product, but if it lasts as long as my Thorlos from college then perhaps it’s worth the premium cost if you can afford it.
– If you prefer thin, barely-there running socks, then this may not be for you. While the material is thin and comfy, I’ve tried other brands that have been thinner.

Thorlos are available at the following outlets:
A Runner’s Circle (Roxas Boulevard)
Planet Sports (Trinoma, Rockwell, Shangrila, Newport, Alabang Town Center)
Riovana (BGC, Katipunan)
ROX (BGC)
RUNNR (BGC)
Rustans (Gateway, Makati, Shangrila, Alabang Town Center)
Secondwind Running Store (Ortigas, Greenhills, Matimtiman, QC)
Sports Warehouse (Mamplasan)
The Athletes Foot (Galleria, Glorietta, Alabang Town Center)
Tobys (Alabang Town Center)

I got myself a copy of Runner’s World – April-June 2012 with teammate Ani de Leon-Brown on the cover.

There’s an article entitled “Best of Running”…

Aaaaw, TBR made it to the list of Most Popular Local Running Blogs.  Thanks RW Philippines and those who mentioned TBR, especially those who unfailingly continue to read about all the crazy stuff I get myself into. Congrats to Bald Runner and Jinoe and Que of Takbo.ph too.

Oh, and if you do get your hands on a copy, don’t forget to read this hilarious article of Lit Onrubia, another crazy runner who ran Condura Marathon even if he was sick. Hats off to RW illustrator who gave us all a good laugh with this red-nosed caricature of our friend talking into his phone haha!…

Last night, Oakley unveiled its new shades, apparel, and even shoes for friends and media.  I felt fortunate to be invited to the event. In this summer heat, I’m always on the lookout for new shades to spare me from the intense sun.

– with Nicole Wuthrich, Coach Rio de la Cruz’s fiance, and Jun –

The fashion show presented Oakley’s new line for surfing, wakeboarding, golf, biking, and other sports. Lots of eye candy here…aside from the fantastic shades which I, uhm, focused more on, of course!

Much to our pleasant surprise, the star of the night was no other than Coach Rio de la Cruz who looked cool and confident walking down the ramp. Who wouldn’t be when these four women immediately posed by his side?!

Congratulations to Oakley for a successful event!

I was invited by Jun to be “saling pusa” with Coach Norman and his athletes for a day trip to Subic. The Shiv and I couldn’t refuse.

– with Coach Norman Pascual and his triathletes. Thanks for accommodating me! –

Plan was to swim 1.6km at Dungaree and bike 40km. I wanted to be home before dinner with the kiddos, so we opted to skip the 5k run.  (Yes, the life of a wannabe triathlete mommy comes with a lot of “tough” decisions.)

Much to my surprise, the open water swim was a pleasant experience. I loved loved loved every minute of it.  I enjoyed it so much that I don’t want to swim in a pool anymore. Hah!

When it came to the bike, I was nervous from the onset.  It was only the second day that I took the Shiv out on the road and, as I’ve learned the past week, riding this tri bike is completely different from my roadie.  (Just mention the word “aerobars” and I start sweating!) At the back of my head, I knew I needed to improve on my handling skills before I road the hills of Subic with the boys.  So, as I was climbing the first hill and wondering how the hell I was gonna descend them later on without killing myself, I chose to stay safe and I headed back.

When I got back to Manila, I felt so bad about the bike that I headed for the gym and ran my frustrations away. 7k intervals.  Aaaah, nothing like a run to wash all the worries away!