As people are getting ready for WE RUN MANILA 10K this weekend, you might want to pick up a pair (or 5) to keep you wet-free from the rains. Nike presents the Nike Running Shield Pack. Five pairs (should’ve been six but the Lunar Fly +2 is not available locally) use the same colorway (the women get their own set, sample below) and all five use water-repellent reflective uppers. You can either choose from the Nike Free Run+ 2, Lunar Swift+ 3, Zoom Structure+ 15, Lunar Glide+ 3 and the Lunar Eclipse+. The men get the grey-orange colorway while the women get the grey-yellows. Drop by any major Nike store for these water-repellent runners. If you’ve got them already, then I’ll see you this Saturday!

There have been night runs before, but never quite like this. Nike Philippines launches We Run Manila 10k, a run that pays homage to runners, and invites runners from all over to gather and celebrate their love for the sport, music and the country.

Nike’s We Run concept basically pushes runners to connect, motivate and inspire each other. This special run aims to do that. The Manila leg is one of 15 cities across the world participating in this Nike We Run 10k. The night run will happen on October 15 and will happen at the Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Aside from getting a good run in the evening,  runners and fans alike are treated to a concert with Chicosci and Parokya ni Edgar. The registration for Nike We Run Manila 10k started last Monday, September 5 (Monday) at Nike Park Fort, RunnR Bonifacio High Street and Shangri-la Plaza, online through www.facebook.com/NikeRunningPH and in select universities. Registration fees and categories as follows:

A special discount for registered runners will also be available at select Nike stores.

Categories:

Individual

1. Women’s Under 25 – For women aged 24 years and below on the race day
2. Men’s Under 25 – For men age 24 years and below on the race day
3. Women’s Open – Open to women of all ages
4. Men’s Open – Open to men of all ages

School Challenge – School Team Category – Colleges and Universities

Aside from We Run, Nike will also launch the Run Buddy Run Nike+ Challenge. Although running is considered a personal sport, it’s communal as well. This Challenge urges you to run with a “buddy” and through the Nike Running Philippines Facebook page and the Nike+ platform, and win a VIP Race Day Experience, among other prizes at We Run Manila 10k.

riven through Nike Running Philippines Facebook page and the Nike+ platform, the challenge will see pairs of run buddies race it out to win a VIP Race Day Experience at the We Run Manila 10K, and other Nike prizes. For more on the Challenge and We Run Manila 10k, visit www.facebook.com/NikeRunnningPH or follow Nike Philippines on twitter via @NikePH.

Yes, the 2011 edition of the Air Max is now available. After the success of the Air Max 2009, Nike continues to use the full-length Max Air unit on the shoe to make sure the ride is well-cushioned and stable. The major difference between this and the previous two pairs would be the upper. For the 2011, Nike wanted the shoe to be more lightweight, durable, and well-ventilated. The inner bootie is made up of mesh for better breathability and great fit.  I’m lovin’ the look on this one as opposed to last year’s AM. The only thing I don’t like about the 2011, as with the previous two, is the steep price on them. The Nike Air Max 2011+ retails for 8,195 php.

If you’re not a fan of the full max air unit, there’s the Lunar Haze+. The shoe also uses Hyperfuse on the upper but uses Lunarlon technology on the midsole rather than the Max unit (and that’s why it has the Lunar prefix on it…). The Lunarlon on this shoe is pretty responsive and resilient, making the shoe durable and stable on long or quick runs. The two pairs are now available at Nike stores nationwide.

Since they debuted the Lunar tech back in ’08, I’ve had nothing but good things to say about the quality and performance on all the pairs they’ve infused it on. From the Lunar Trainers, Glides, and Runners, here’s the latest one to join the Lunarlon family of runners- the LunarElite+2. As most running sneakers are all about lighter and more flexible, the 2nd edition of the LunarElite+ continues to do so. Design-wise, it does remind me of the Presto, but performance levels are nowhere near the LunarElite+. Aside from the Lunarlon outsole, the shoe’s upper is made up of mesh and flywire to keep the foot secure during the user’s run.

I’m no expert in running but when your shoe is only 10 oz, I’m pretty sure you’re not lugging around a  pair of bricks when you go on with your run. The LunarElite+ 2 is definitely a shoe that’ll keep you in check for your daily run.  For more on the tech of the shoe, I’ll be posting it on the Sole Movement facebook page. The LunarElite+ 2 retails for 5,495 php and is available at Nike stores everywhere.

Need to run off the holiday weight? Here’s a couple of Nike Runners to get you going. Not only will you shed the pounds off, you’ll also look good while doing it. From the Air Max 2010 to the Vomero, Nike’s got a good line or runners to choose from. Drop by Nike Park for more info on these runners.

For all the running buffs, the Nike LunarEclipse+ is now available in store at all major Nike stores nationwide. the LunEclipse + delivers premium cushioning, comfort and runner-specific support for a plush, smooth ride. The shoe looks like any other Lunarlon-cushioned shoe but it definitely feels different once you get a move on.  This daily distance trainer is ideal for a wide range of runners, from underpronators through severe overpronators.

I don’t think I’ll bore you guys with the tech specifics (unless you want it. leave a message below if you want me to post the technology behind the LunarEclipse+). All you have to know about the shoe is made with comfort, stability and support in mind for the modern-day running enthusiast.

The shoe comes in at 6,495 php and comes in a couple of colorways for both Men and Women.

OFFICIAL NIKE RELEASE: New iPhone App for Runners Uniquely Motivates, Maps, Tracks and Connects to a 3 Million Member Community

Building upon its growing array of digital training tools for athletes, Nike  today announced the availability of its new Nike+ GPS App on the App Store. The app is engineered to operate seamlessly between GPS and an accelerometer for an accurate, motivating and entertaining runner’s tool. If you’re an iPhone/iPod Touch user, I’m sure you’ve been to the App Store and have seen this on the page.

The new  App allows runners to use their iPhone to visually map every run while tracking pace, distance, time and calories-burned as well as stay motivated with instant feedback during and after each run from athletes like Paula Radcliffe and Lance Armstrong, and comedian Tracy Morgan. The app also connects runners around the world or just down the street through www.nikeplus.com, the largest running community in the world with more than 3 million members.

“We are so excited to introduce the true “Runner’s App,” for iPhone combining the dynamic power and community of Nike+ with the user-friendly functionality of GPS and accelerometry,” said Stefan Olander, VP, Nike Digital Sport. “We will continue to evolve the digital options we provide to runners so that their running experience is always unique and inspired.”

The Nike+ GPS app for iPhone allows runners to:

Run Anywhere: From indoor to outdoor, track to treadmill, this new app combines the power of GPS technology with an accelerometer to map and track a run from anywhere. Even if the GPS signal is not available, the accelerometer will allow the user to continue to track pace, distance, time and calories-burned.

Map Your Runs: GPS technology allows runners to keep track all of their routes including a breakdown of pace and distance at different points during a run. Runners can even tap the screen during a run to see their current location.

Challenge Yourself: The “Challenge Me” feature allows runners to challenge themselves to run farther, faster, or longer than a previous run already logged. The app will also track run history to be able to personalize challenges.

Stay Connected: Runners can wirelessly connect with www.nikeplus.com after each run to instantly save the run and share it with friends via the site, Twitter, or Facebook. In addition, they can view their progress on goals, participate in running challenges and download coaching programs.

Stay Motivated: Runners receive motivating messages from top athletes and celebrities when specific customized goals are achieved, challenges are won, or when a personal best is achieved. Runners can also tap the iPhone screen to receive in-run feedback.

The Nike+ GPS App is available for $1.99 from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch at www.itunes.com/appstore.  The Nike+ GPS App is compatible with the iPhone and iPod touch although the app will function only through accelometer technology on the iPod touch.

Video tutorials for the Nike+ GPS App are available at:

• http://videos.nikemedia.com/NikePlusGPSApp_1.mov
• http://videos.nikemedia.com/NikePlusGPSApp_B.mov

The third most popular Air Max from the line (well, to me at least. But I did hear the 2009s are pretty kick ass too) is back this Summer for general consumption. Two colorways- Comet Red and Blue Slate are now available at most stores- Shoe Salon, Nike Park, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them at Nike Stadiums and the like. Among the two, I would go for the Blue Slate. Though more and more I look at the Comet Red CWs, the more and more they look much better. Anyhoo, the shoe’s been out for about a week already and retails for P6,995. Are they too pricey for a comeback? I hope to see them at the outlet shelves. I’ll hold out ’til then. Or will I regret not picking them up asap?

Yesterday was the first time in quite a while that I’ve been to the gym. Had the flu for a week and then Holy Week put a break on the daily routine. For the past year, I used to wear Lunar Trainers for running and the gym. They were damn light and were great to work out in. But it’s been over a year and they are pretty beat up. It’s time to hang ‘em up and break in some runners. As I’ve mentioned before, I want to get back into running. And if the guys over at Biggest Loser Asia can do it, I can too (but before you start having visuals of how I look, I’m not that BIG). But we all need to be fit and healthy so that we all can enjoy life fully.

So I decided to fight off sleep and headto the gym at 7am armed with the Nike Air Span+ 7. Compared to the Lunar Trainer these runners offers a better ride. But I dunno, this is the first time I’m rocking them. What’s great with them is that I don’t feel the need to break them in coming out of the box. I’m sure they’ll feel much better after a couple of miles on them. I used the pair for boxing, then I’;ll try them out for running later this week. The Air Span+ 7 is definitely much more stable but still lightweight.

With boxing, footwork is key. I had no problems with the Air Span+7 as I could shift from left to right with ease. I had problems with LT before as I would over turn because of the upper. The Flywire that acts as a heel-lock worked wonders as it secures the heel and kept me stable. The overlay pattern on the upper really works and provides proper support. I always thought those streaking designs on the upper were all just flash and snazz– but they actually work!

Looking at the Midsole, the crash pad by the heel provided great support as it helps absorb the shock of impact. From the Cushlon ST midsole to the arch bridge, they allowed me to flex my foot appropriately with support. As far as the outsole goes, there are deeper grooves to develop a smoother transition from each strike. Another note here would be the sticky rubber panel by the forefoot. This helps in traction for all types of surfaces. So whether you’re on the ring or on the slippery streets, they won’t let up.

So far so good. And now for some drama. Don’t you just hate seeing couples argue while you’re working out?  Let me roll back a bit to the start of my workout. The girl walks into the gym. Pretty girl, I’d think she’d be 22, 23….25 max. A couple of minutes later the boyfriend walks in, feeling like he’s all that with his better than average physique. The girl wraps her arms around the guy’s neck and kisses him in front of everyone. First, off, we don’t need to see this! Ok, so we can’t walk up to the girl, we get it. But to do this in public?! I’m actually cool with this, but it was just too much that early in the day. But what was more annoying was the guy’s look. It was as if he was already having a bad day. I so wanted to knock that dude out– he just looked off. Now I’m not the type to get into fights but some people just rub you the wrong way. One thing that was odd was that after the guy kissed his girl, he seemed like he was still pissed. It was like he was PMSing and she was trying to comfort him. It just felt wrong.

I was in the process of finishing up my workout when the couple started arguing. I couldn’t get up as it would be obvious that I could overhear their conversation. Anyways, they continued on and the incident by the speed ball occurred. Crying and whimpering was all that came out from the girl. Annoying, I tells ya. Leave the drama at home or anywhere else but not in public places! Haha, sorry bout that. I just had to share that. That scene totally totally stole the thunder from my new runners. Oh well, what can you do.

PEs weren’t the only things Nike released over the holidays. There were a couple more kicks that were out alongside the PE collection. Most of the stuff here also came out in December, though I have been hearing things that there are a lot more in store for us Nike fans this 2010.

The Zoom Hustle. I didn’t take a picture of Tony Parker’s other PE shoe which is the Zoom Hustle. No, this is not a Hornets colorway (though it could definitely be if we wanted it to be), but a French National team colorway. Everybody loves Tony (and his gorgeous wife Eva Longoria), especially the folks over at Nike. The other French National colorway sports a perforated blue upper with aqua accents all throughout the shoe. The other color here is a Black/Electrolime version of the Zoom Hustle. I’m not sure if you notice the resemblance, but the Zoom Hustle resembles the Hyperflight from ’01. There’s also a white colorway available but all in all, I don’t like the shoe.

Maui Invitational Hypermax and Hyperize Supreme. I’m sure most of us aren’t familiar with the Maui Invitational. The Maui Invitational is basically the biggest (and to a certain extent most prestigious) Preseason Tournament for US College Basketball. Last November, host Chaminade (HI), Gonzaga, Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, Arizona, Colorado, Maryland and Cincinnati played there with the Zags taking the Chip. Now, to the sneakers. Nike produced special editions of the Hypermax and the Hyperize in honor of this Tournament. All 8 teams can either rock the black/gold (Chaminade, Vandy, and Colorado) colorway or the blue/red (Zags, Wisconsin, ‘Zona, Maryland and Cincy) joints for the tournament. Aside from the colorways, there is a floral print accenting various parts of the shoe. You might not see it here, but they’re usually found on the heel and ankle area of both pairs.

DJ Clark Kent x AF 25 Low. Sneaker lover-DJ Clark Kent has released a couple of special kicks over the past couple of years with Nike. From his 112 Pack, AF1s for All-Star, and the Un-Guccis, DJ Clark Kent definitely knows what he’s doing when it comes to sneakers. This time around, Clark Kent and Nike came up with a simpler tone for the Air Force 25 Lows. Coming in two colorways (black and silver), these are quite tame compared to the other sneakers he released in the past. These do have his Clark Kent logo on the tongue and come with 3M detailing (meaning=reflectorized!) on the toe box area. I personally am not a fan of the AF series so this is a pass for me once again.

LunarSwift+ Running. I bought my first Lunarlite runners way back in ’08 and have been a fan ever since. Though they do are bright as stabilo markers, they do provide you with ultra comfort and cushioing. The LunarSwift+ is the latest member of the Lunar+ family.

So there you have it. I believe I’ve finally caught up with all the holiday releases. Though there are a couple of kicks on the horizon– Jordan Alpha 1, Kobe V, and a couple others that are worth your ducats. I do encourage you to drop by the nearest Nike store for more on the latest kicks around town.