But why are they so popular? For the answer, I turned to
Angie Bee Hotz, barefoot runner, blogger and happily married stay-at-home mom to four boys. Angie won her first running gear contest two years ago and loved the product so much (
nuun hydration, also my go-to hydration), that she contacted the company to ask about hosting her own review and giveaway. Since then, her reputation as a fair and honest product tester allowed her the opportunity to test and give away high-end rain gear, jewellery, nutritional supplements and, of course, running shoes. She’s also noticed the popularity of running gear giveaways. In her opinion, marketers realize the influence bloggers have in their communities and the increased sales that positive product reviews can bring (reviews and giveaways usually go hand in hand). She also notes that runners are cautious with their money — taking the time to read several reviews before shelling out cash for shoes or clothing — so having a chance to win gear is even more reason to follow their favourite bloggers.
Personally, I read several reviews about my Pace Gloves before buying them because, as a runner,
I find switching shoes to be an expensive and risky move. For example, I have two pairs of shoes I bought on impulse because they were on sale — and both hurt my feet terribly. With buyer’s remorse, I checked shoe reviews after the fact and indeed, these two particular styles got poor reviews.