Skechers GOrun3 Breast Cancer Awareness Shoes Supports the American Cancer Society

Thanks to Skechers for sponsoring today’s discussion and supporting the American Cancer Society.? They provided me with a pair of Skechers GOrun3 Breast Cancer Awareness shoes and compensation for this review.

For almost 7 years I answered calls for the American Cancer Society.? If you called 1-800-227-2345 in the early morning hours, you may have talked to me in my role as a Cancer Information Specialist.

The calls covered many topics: I might have cancer, I just found out my coworker has cancer, how do I avoid cancer, I need a ride to treatment, what’s going to happen now, etc.

If you’ve ever had a conversation about cancer then I guarantee I’ve had that conversation as well.

When I moved to Arizona, my career with the ACS ended.

October was a particularly tough time on the phones.? Call volume went way, way, way up.? As did emotions and concerns all relating to Breast Cancer.

Sometimes those calls were depressing.? Sometimes they were beautiful.? Sometimes it was heartbreaking.? And sometimes it was hilarious.

That may sound callous, but really, a portion of the world takes lemons and makes lemonade.? On those rare days when I hung up the phone with laughter, I gave extra thanks that these people came into my life and hoped I somehow helped them as well.

The reason I run is not in small part due to my time at the American Cancer Society.? I learned that my health is something I should never ever take for granted and that physical movement is one way to combat a variety of cancers.? Including breast cancer.

This month Skechers released a new line of shoes and clothing in support of the American Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Full disclosure:? I’ve become a little jaded when it came to all the pink that floods our world each October.

I love pink, don’t get me wrong!? And I love that we all “know” what pink symbolizes during this month.? But at the same time… pink everywhere all the time raises a lot of questions.? Does pinking October really work?

When this opportunity to discuss Breast Cancer Awareness and Skechers came up, I did a little research.

My first call was to the American Cancer Society.? Just how much was Skechers sending to you guys?
[Tweet “The answer: Skechers comitted to a minimum donation of $150K”]

That’s not chicken scratch when it comes to donations, my friends.

Armed with this information I felt good about trying these babies out.

Skechers sent me a pair of the GOrun3 as part of this campaign.

Skechers first came to my attention as a running shoe option when Meb?Keflezighi won the Boston Marathon in them.

Yes.? That’s right.? He was wearing SKECHERS.

My running groups were all a twitter over this news and I know a few of us wanted to know more about the brand and the shoe.

Who knew Skechers had a legit running shoe?

Well played, Skechers.? Oh- and congrats Meb!

Skechers GOrun 3 ? Awareness ($85)

Designed for speed with innovative performance technologies to promote a midfoot strike, it fosters a barefoot running experience while offering cushioning and impact protection.
??? ?Improved breathability and flexibility
??? ?Roomy forefoot. 3 layer Power-prene mesh on front panel allows for support while offering ample room for toe splay
??? ?GOimpulse sensors offer flexibility and feedback for a responsive running experience
??? ?M-Strike Technology? promotes a midfoot strike
??? ?Custom Fit insole is removable for an even more minimal feel
??? ?4mm Heel Drop to bring you closer to a natural barefoot experience
??? ?Resalyte? Midsole – Proprietary lightweight injection-molded compound with memory retention helps absorb impact
??? ?Nearly seamless flexible mesh upper with lace up front

I usually run in a stability shoe which do not mimic barefoot running at all.? They tend to be heavier and big on support and cushion.

I was ready to find the GOrun 3 to be lacking when it came to cushion but was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they were for me!? My usual size 8.5 feels a smidge big in the Skechers brand so you might consider going down a size.

I ran on the treadmill at the gym for 2 fast miles.

I’m not Meb, but I felt like him that day.

I loved the lightness and responsiveness of this shoe!? I’m not sure I could go for long runs in these since my feet are pretty whiny and sensitive and needs LOTS of support.? But for a short 2-3 mile training run, I’m in love with these new shoes!

I also tested them out at the park where I ran some sprints.

Inside or outside they felt great.? I’m thrilled with the level of cushion and support these minimalist shoes provide.

Trying out the Skechers GOrun 3 is opening new doors for me as a runner.? I’ll be mixing these into my shoe rotation for sure.

On a more personal note, my Aunt Teresa lost her battle with breast cancer? in 2005.

Her daughter lost her mother when she was only 9-years-old.? That’s the same age as my daughter Claire.? I can’t imagine.

Another aunt is currently battling the disease.? She’s been through hell, frankly.? And I’ve never heard her complain.

It’s important to know that Breast Cancer is a risk for women.? The stats are chilling.

These women should be honored.? However you choose to do it, remember your sisters battling for their lives.

And get your mammograms annually.? Hear me?? Do it.

This month I won’t be answering the phones but I will be running.? The GOrun3 will remind me not to take my health for granted.? They will remind me that pink is important to a lot of my former callers and I’ll honor that by running for them.

Will you be recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness this month in honor of a loved one?