UPDATED: Winner announced below.
For the Run This Year challenge for the month of August, I’m happy to announce that we have a very special sponsor: SKORA. They are a running performance shoe company born of the “barefoot movement” that has caused runners to take a closer look at their footwear choices. Here is a quick bio:
At SKORA, we look at things differently We believe that running shoes should be built to encourage running performance that is as biomechanically correct as possible, with minimal interference. Our footwear lets people run naturally. Run Real is our philosophy and we stand by it.
Why am I so excited?
Love the design of their website. LOL. I know, I should be talking about how their shoes feel, but remember, I’m also a graphic designer and I get excited by “cool” looking design, especially from companies who aren’t afraid to be different. Close up and clear photos, large text and lots of white spoace… Ok, I’m getting off topic.
Back to the shoes!
SKORA. reached out to me to give their shoes a try. I really wanted to take them up on the offer, but I have been fortunate enough to test a lot of really good shoes recently and wanted to help give back to you, the readers. I asked if it would be all right to give a pair away for the Run This Year challenge, and they were all for it. Yay!
The 3Rs: Real Running Reminders. >> Click to Enlarge <<
3 Real Differences
Let’s take a look at the technology behind SKORA running shoes
R&D: From initial concept to final product, we believe in purposeful design and development. No detail is too small to be considered, reconsidered and thoroughly tested. LEARN MORE.
UPPER TECH: Premium performance starts with premium materials. Learn more about our unique materials including Pittards Leather and no-sew construction. LEARN MORE.
OUTSOLE TECH: From IBR to CM EVA. Discover how our thoughtful outsole design offers less interference for a more enjoyable run. LEARN MORE.
Also, check out SKORA on Facebook – great Summer Sale going on right now.
The August Challenge:
One lucky winner will receive a pair of SKORA running shoes and discover what it feels like to “Run Real.”
Simply enter through the rafflecopter below. The contest ends August 31 — AND DON’T FORGET you can enter daily (through rafflecopter) by tweeting out the contest or posting a photo on Instagram. It’s an easy was to get some extra entries and increase your chances of winning.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good Luck! Let us know how you #RunReal
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I try to keep my run real by leaving my garmin at home sometimes so I can just enjoy and be one with the road. ;)
I run real but just going out and running, whether I am slow or fast, I am running real.
I run real by listening to my body- no other way to put “running real”. :)
I just discovered your blog thanks to a tweet from Lindsay at the Lean Green Bean! Glad to have found you and will be following! :)
I run real by going as fast/slow as my body tells me
I run real by running MY RACE and MY PACE
I run real by running not very fast or for very long. Not a great runner but would love to improve :)
I just bought a pair of Skora Base shoes in Coral…. waiting for them to ship…. But I would love a second pair in another model!!!! Pick me!!! :)
Thanks for the review. I’ve been curious about these shoes. I think I run real b/c I’ve learned to run from the heart.
I run real by setting my goals and getting out there and making them happen!
These seem cool, I’d love to give them a try :)
I’ve been running without any feedback from my GPS lately, just going by feel! Got me a half marathon PR last weekend!
I run real by getting out there on days when I don’t want to… those always end up being the best runs.
I run real by running my route to the best of my ability. If my body tells me that it’s time to take it easy, I slow down. If it feels too easy, I speed up.
I run real by slowly and gradually increasing pace and distance. Currently building up to 10k distance and pace.
While I do run with a Garmin, I ultimately #runreal by running most f my runs by feel, I use the watch to see what my comfortable pace is on each given day.
I think I need some new kicks because I totally have a stress fracture in my foot that I am trying to ignore – I don’t want to blame my current sneakers because I love them but…….. I may have to!
Run real by running happy. Listening to my body and letting it tell me what I should be doing.
I run real by hitting up the trails!!!
Recently, I’ve been trying to “run real” by leaving my music at home and focusing on how my body feels during the run.
I run real by pushing through the doubt and pain.
They’re so cool!
I run real by reminding myself how wonderful running actually is – and forgetting about all the blahs of the day!
I run real by listening to my body- pushing when I can, backing off when I need to, and being able to tell the difference.
I run real to rid myself of stress
I run real by never giving up.
I RUN REAL by listening to my body, hydrating, and moving my body to love it!
I love my forms. I helps me focus on efficient running and good, well, form. That’s how I run real.
I run real by listening to my body, pushing when I can and taking a break when needed.
I run real, real fast. (lame. sorry) I run real by running with my heart and doing it because I love it!
I frequently run real by leaving the iPod at home and running without music.
I run real by listening to my body and enjoying every run.
I run real when I leave mi iPod home, and listen to the sound of my feet hitting the pavement. Would love to hear some Skora’s hitting the pavement! :D
I run real by continuing to challenge myself, even when I’m not sure if I will succeed.
A professional athlete, I will never be. I run real by being confident in myself. I enjoy running and giving myself personal challenges. I know that it’s good for me and it makes me feel great.
i run real by running my own pace and having fun
I try to keep the run real by remembering that I’m doing this for FUN! I’ll never be a professional athlete, and running is a hobby I should enjoy… so whenever I get frustrated or bummed out, I remember that yes, I love this sport, and at the end of the day I’m no better or worse than anyone else out there logging miles!
I run real by listening. We have good days and bad days. Some days my body says no, but I have an amazing run. Some days, it says no, and that’s it. Some days, it says go and I go further than planned. I take my Garmin but ignore it until I’m done and just try to live in the run.
Also, those shoes look awesome!
I run real by starting again after having broken bones removed from my foot. It’s been a challenge especially after a baby but I just keep trekking no matter how slow.
Just doing it and not worrying about it.
I Run Real by running with heart and soul. Running is my big passion, and every step I take mean something to me. Freedom, strength, forward motion etc.. Everything very REAL and true :)
I am learning to be runner with my 13 year oldand we use it as a way to connect. Cant be more real:)
I run real by not worrying about pace and distance every run, some days, I just go.
I run real by getting out there everyday, even if its just for one mile.
I run real by thinking of where I was a year ago and how running has changed my mind and body.
I run real my dealing with stuff while I run that I try to ignore in every day life. Running really is my therapy. My friend. My sage. My guide. My sanity.
I run real by pushing past mental blocks just running.
I run real by just getting out there, listening to my body and feeling the ground under me!!
I am currently on my 3rd pair of Skora’s, they are so much more than a running shoe. I have a pair dedicated to CrossFit and have never been in more control of my lifts.
I run real by getting out everyday and running no matter what
By not being in competition with others on a daily basis. My run is just that. Go at my speed, my distance. Now and they sure I need to shake things up and Ill run with a faster pace friend. But that is still for me.
Running real is pushing myself to run farther than I thought I could.
I run by feel, and I run for me and not for anyone or anything else!
Keeping it real by running without music and running by feel….
I run real by pushing my limits and enjoying every moment of it.
Really happy to see a Portland company doing so well as a local Portlander! An amazing company that I wish continued success to!
Skora is super intriguing to me.
pick me
I run real and I really run for the first time in my 46 year life. In week 9 of c25k and just getting started.
I run real by getting outside and enjoying the roads. New paths and trails are the best!
I run real by focusing on my run and no one else’s. I’ve got a pair of Skoras and so far love them (still slowly transitioning into them)
I run real by just having “my run”…not competing with anyone, and some days I set out without a goal in mind. I just run.
I run real by keeping in touch with my body while I run.
I “run real” by just focusing on enjoying my run. I try not to get tied up in worrying too much about my pace or my distance, but just go out and enjoy the run and how it makes me feel. #runlove
I love my Skoras! Running Real for me is just getting out and doing it. Be healthy and happy for my family.
I’m doing intervals to build my endurance; 50+ miles per week though is pretty real whether i run or walk.
Running real is tackling the dirt road Ozark hills on EVERY run and loving it!
I keep my run real but making it about me and the run.
I run real by staying “in the moment.” I try to notice everything – the smells, the sounds, the light, the doggies on my usual running course. Every day is different, every run is different – embrace the difference.
I run real by focusing on my form to perfect my stride!
These shoes look amazing! I would love a pair!
I run real by running :-)
I’ve been zero-dropped for 3-4 years, but I’ve never gotten a chance to try out the Skora. I’d love to give them a go!
I run real by running even when I want to stop!
I run real by leaving either my music or my Garmin at home at least once a week.
I Run Real because I understand they’re not all pretty runs, but even the bad runs are better than no run at all.
I keep my running real by always expecting the unexpected, appreciating the otherwise unnoticed, and by riding the hum of the run!
I run real by working my way to barefoot running. I transitioned to the Brooks PureConnect 2’s and it’s been the best decision for my running, my legs, and my feet. I love the feel of being closer to the ground and feeling the run.
I run real by taking off and running until I am content.
I love these shoes. I ran my first half this last weekend in a pair of Form. I own two pair of Skoras and would love another. I can’t wait for the fall collection.
I run real by leaving the music and other distractions home! Allows me to focus more clearly!
I run real in minimal shoes, but I keep burning through vibram fivefingers and skoras look like a great alternative
Would love another pair to add to my collection. Unless I have to wear dress shoes for work, you can find me in running shoes!
I run real by not keeping to a set routine – whenever I need time to myself to think, to listen to music or just to feel a bit free, I go for it.
And never ever run on a treadmill!
Would love a new pair of running shoes!
I have been running real for 40 years, just by getting out the door.
I run real by just running real. :-)
For me a real run includes beautiful scenery that keeps me moving and motivated.
I am relatively new to running I believe that I run real just by running. It’s not easy to get into running, but once you’re hooked, you’re in.
I run real sweaty. Seriously, I must be the world’s most efficient cool-er off-er.
I run real because I run for myself. Not to be the fastest, or the best. Just because it’s good for me, and it makes me feel good. :)
I just run :)
I keep it multi terrain/cross country… a bit of asphalt, loose rock, mud/grass etc. I know it isn’t really what pavementrunner is about, but it keeps things interesting and mind engaged on the running.
I run real by training for my half marathon through rain or shine!
Love testing out and continuing to use awesome running Shoes!
I have had to change my understanding of #RunReal a couple of times in the last few months, but today it means that the only person I need to impress is me – if I’m not able to be satisfied, how can I believe anyone else will be?
I run real by listening to my body and since switching to a midfoot strike 4yrs ago, my legs have thanked me.
I run real by hitting the roads at 6:45 DURING SUMMER to train for my half marathon!
I run when I can, and I work hard to be my only competition – running is something I do for me, and I try to leave the comparisons with other runners out of it.
I run REAL by not fudging my run times (pace) on my social networks. I am real with my times, my successes and struggles ;)
I would love a pair! Plus I’m a coach It would be good advertising!!
I will be running real as I train for my first full marathon. The 2013 CIM.
I run real by taking in all that’s around me when I run and running without any distractions- no phone, no Garmin, no music.
I will be running real… eventually. Working on it!
I run real by getting out there and enjoying not only the good, but the tough miles as well.
i #runreal by leaving my music at home and letting my run work the magic: no tunes to keep me going, just my legs and the road.
I #runreal by just getting out there and enjoying it… no music, just the birds and the ocean swells.
I love my SKORA forms for trail running and would love to win a pair. I #runreal on the local trail.
I run real when I’m alone, listening to my body, pushing when I can, and backing off when I have to.
I just run, for real. Smooth, easy, light and fast.
Great giveaway!
Just ordered my first pair of Skora’s but would love to win a second pair
I run real along the neolithic trails in my local hills.
I’m a fairly new reader to your blog and have enjoyed it tremendously so thanks! I “run real” by getting outside doing my best!
I run real by getting out there and bringing it, regardless of the rope that might be pulling be back. It’s all about overcoming obstacles.
I run real by running without music and really feeling the outdoors!
How do I Run Real? Looking at the hill and convincing myself to go over it, not around it; the only way to defeat them is to run them. (And thanks for hosting the contest, PR!)
Oh, I have wanted to try Skora’s for *ages*, very exciting!!!
In my excitement I didn’t tell you that I run real by being true to myself as a runner and as a person.
I feel like my real running is everyday hitting the pavement
I haven’t seen Skora in any of our local stores here in Colorado Springs, but I’m familiar with them and definitely interested in looking into them more. They’re quite active on Twitter.
What a great review! I’ve been extremely curious about Skora shoes. As a runner, I run real by experimenting with my runs. I’ve recently started racing, doing urban run workouts and speed training. I live to run outdoors as it feels more like a real run :)
What a great review! I’ve been extremely curious about Skora shoes. As a runner, I run real by experimenting with my runs. I’ve recently started racing, doing urban run workouts and speed training. I live to run outdoors as it feels more like a real run :) Treadmills just aren’t the same.
Ohh, awesome giveaway!
I run real when I’m running with my rowing teammates. I don’t run for myself, I run for them.
Just get out there and run. I stick to my training plan and I might not be fast at all but I do the best I can.
I would love to try these!
I just saw these mentioned by Oiselle (they’re pairing Skora with their clothes for their NYC fashion week show) and was perusing their website as a result. Would love to test drive a pair!
I run real by standing up for my time on the road. I don’t let other obligations or the fact that I am never going to win a race stop me from getting out there — except maybe on Fridays if there is wine involved. ;)
I run real by leaving behind my iPod, connecting with the road, and just running where my feet take me. I don’t win races, but I sure love to run.
I run real by listening to my body and enjoying every run I am able to do.
I run real by making running a part of my real life which means pushing a stroller and bringing my two girls along for just about every mile I run… Sure I’m slower that way but I love it and wouldn’t have it any other way!
I run real by sticking to my goals, I don’t let anything get in the way.
I run real by being “one with the run.” I love to run in the moment, and just forget about everything else….
I run real by being “one with the run.” I love to run in the moment, and just forget about everything else….