As many OCR athletes enter the dreaded off-season, we reflect on the skills that need developing in the coming months. In my informal research, I see a very common thread among us—we must build that iron grip. “Nevermore will a rig claim our burpees/souls!” we exclaim in our goals for 2018. That’s a solid goal, but where the heck does one start? Enter Grip Builder 101 developed by the team at OCR Beast.
Like many obstacle course racers, I have developed some impressive calluses on my hands and feet from working grip strength and running on a regular basis. There is nothing more frustrating than when you tear your callous or pop a blister and experience that raw, stinging discomfort that will ultimately sideline you for a few days while your body works to heal itself.
The upper materials have been updated to a super soft and airy textile, so light and smooth it feels like being barefoot. The water pickup is minimal, the drainage is excellent and hence the wet weight is almost as low as when it’s dry. The midsole is very flexible and keeps the weight down. The height of the heel cup is slightly reduced in order to reduce pressure at the Achilles tendon. Terrain feel is remarkable thanks to the low profile of the sole.
Evan Dollard heads to Tempest Academy to work on his free running and ninja skills, exercising that ever important grip strength.
