Fit Finds: Handana and On Cloudrunner

Handana

Available at: Bettysport
916 W.12th Austin, TX 78701

C'est Chic
5800 W. Slaughter, Austin, TX 78749
Product Cost: $15

Handana is a nifty little band for wiping sweat, whether you’re running, cycling, practicing yoga, or at CrossFit, spin class, or any workout. Handana slips on like a glove (your thumb goes in the center hole) and can be worn on either hand. It’s made out of a terry wick-away Lycra and Supplex, which is a Nylon that feels like cotton. It dries more quickly than cotton, so you can throw it in the washer on cold with like colors and it is soon ready for your next workout.

What makes it cool:

Sweat. Snot. Handana handles it! Also, the palm area creates a convenient place to hold an oversized hotel key or extra packet of Gu.

AFM loves that this is a homegrown product created by local Austin runner, wife, mom, and nurse anesthetist Katie Niemeyer. “I began working out after my children were born,” said Niemeyer. “Running is 'my time' to regenerate physically, mentally, spiritually. It is also one way to show my children, by example, how to live a healthy life, but also to be empowered in whatever you do so you can be an encouragement to those around you.”
 

On Cloudrunner

Available at: all Austin-area RunTex locations (Lake Austin, Far West, Riverside, The Triangle) and the Square in Georgetown. Directions at runtex.com
Product Cost: $149

I had the awesome opportunity to test drive these radical new shoes from On Running, and I have to tell you they are fantastic. The marketing spin is that by using their patented CloudTec 3D system, “heavy impact is transformed into a light, natural run that stimulates your postural muscles.” Reviews go on to say that “an enforced CloudTec 3D system enables excellent stress absorption, efficient energy transfer and fast recovery.”

Well, I can tell you their crazy waffle sole design really works. From the moment I put them on for a simple walk to my first five-mile jaunt, they were incredibly comfortable. As an old guy, I expected some leg pain at the end of the run (and maybe even some blisters). But there was none of that. These are among the most comfortable running shoes I have ever put on and they look really cool too. I was able to run more efficiently and with a more comfortable pace. I could actually focus on my gait and the beauty around me. I have even gotten numerous comments from friends and strangers alike about how cool they look. Wow! How good is that?

Lou Earle
Publisher and CEO,
Austin Fit Magazine