Chi Discussion Forum

I’m practicing for my first Ultra distance in July 2013 (314 miles, 10 days)

I was wandering if anyone had advice for practice leading up to the race.

Also, Hoka shoes are now being used my many Ultra distance runners. They have a 4mm drop, like a minimalist shoe, but lots of cushioning for the many miles one runs in an Ultra.

Any thoughts/experiences using this shoe?

I read Karl Meltzers blog amongst others and he went to Hokas and became an endorser. I seem to recall he got injured in his first race with them.  He claimed the injury wasnt due to the shoes, but the guy was a 100 mile machine and odd timing seemingly on his injury.  His performance hasnt been the same since.  May all be coincidental.

I know lots who wear Hokas and a couple of things come to mind. First, your form has to be really good, spot on landing under your hips, or you will slip down on ice or mud. I’ve been witness to that a couple of times. Second, obviously, you can’t feel the road (or trail) as much, so you are lacking feedback about your landing. That’s precisely why long distance runners like them because they want to be able to bomb down the trails and not feel every root and rock.

They were developed by guys who run in the Swiss Alps (they are everywhere at UTMB). Most of the elite ultra runners I know (save Karl, whom I don’t know him personally) don’t wear Hokas. May be because they are wearing their sponsor’s shoes, but…Catra Corbett LOVES hers. She is addicted to super long distances and has had her share of issues. So if you are going to do a 100 miles, and especially if the terrain is rocky, maybe they are an option. That’s your choice.

So from a Chi Running perspective? I don’t recommend them, especially if you are trying to get feedback to help align your form. You can go with much less without feeling every little rock, and have a better chance of getting feedback. You have lots of options out there. Better to train with less and get your form down, and save them when you do your 100 miler. Hope that helps.

Laura Houston
Certified Chi Running and Chi Walking Instructor
Seattle WA

Jan - one more thing. 314 miles for your first ultra? Over 10 days? Which event? Just want to clarify.

Laura