I had been excited all week to try the new trail shoes today. However, I changed my mind about the order I wanted to wear them in. I decided on the normal Brooks Cascadia for the first and third five-mile laps, and then switching to the new Altra’s for the middle lap.

The Brooks felt snug in a medium-weight trail sock, but also felt good. No factor for discomfort on the first loop. Upon reaching the parking lot, I did a quick changeover into the new Altra Olympus 5 and without hesitation was back on the trail again. The first few minutes they felt a little big, but it didn’t take long for my feet to appreciate the extra toe space. I was trying to be hypocritical of them, but the more I ran, the more I enjoyed them.

Towards the end of the second lap, about 10 miles, my feet were feeling comfortable and content, though I could feel the slightest bit of extra movement in my toes. I think a tad bit thicker Injinji sock will be perfect for these shoes. I even contemplated keeping them on for the final lap, but wanted to feel the difference. Glad I did.

After sliding the original Brooks back on for the final lap, I instantly felt tightness and discomfort across the entire front half of my foot. Though without hesitation, headed for the trail again. I knew it was going to be an interested final five miles when each beginning step was accompanied with slight pain. After about 10 minutes though, my feet adjusted again.

My mind was sluggish for about the first 30 minutes while grudgingly listening to a few songs from a rock band that wasn’t helping. I also tried a few minutes of a Jocko podcast, but I just wasn’t having the extra noise today. I removed the headphones and bonded with nature those last couple hours.

The trail conditions were rather pleasant too. Soft and dry grey dirt with the occasional area of sand. The rolling hills didn’t require any walking or excessive heart rate increases. Overall, a great training run. Afterwards, I annihilated a Panera turkey, bacon, avocado sandwich with turkey chili. I was highly satisfied for the remainder of the day!