The wait is almost over, boys and girls. The days are getting shorter and the weather cooler (at least in my neck of the woods), meaning that the official start to basketball season is almost upon us. Which means for those readers who are still active players, it is time to ramp up your off season training routine. You don't want to show up at tryouts a flabby, out of shape mess who pulls up the rear in the running drills. Just practicing and playing basketball isn't enough to get yourself in serious game shape – you have to get out there and hit the streets and trails and do some long distance running. And I have the perfect running shoe to recommend for your off the court cardio training – the AVIA AVI-Lite Guidance 4.
These are the shoes I'm currently using to run myself back into reasonable physical condition (or a close facsimile of someone in reasonable physical condition). The shoes are extremely lightweight (especially if you previously were doing your running in basketball shoes like I was) and airy. The first time I slipped them on for a run I felt as light as the breeze (or as close as a 6'6" 234-pounder can feel to a breeze). They're comfortable, light, airy and give your feet good protection from the continual pavement (or trail) pounding.
Now, some tech info on the shoes straight from AVIA:
The 2140 is AVIA’s featured neutral running shoe for the mid-to-high mileage runner seeking a lightweight, cushioned trainer. The AVI-Lite Guidance 4 is the perfect blend of speed and support for the neutral runner.
• Adaptive EVA midsole featuring Shear Cantilever System and a lower engineered profile
• Exposed ESS shank in midfoot for support and protection, and blown rubber in the forefoot for a soft ride
• Minimally-constructed lightweight microfiber mesh upper and 3M reflective details for improved safety
• Weight: 10.5 oz
So make sure you win all the windsprints this fall in basketball tryouts. Get out there and run, young man/woman. Run like the wind. And if you need shoes, grab them here:
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