Christmas Shopping
- By Doug Kurtis
Free Press Columnist

Total Runner, Runnin Gear, Hanson's Running Shop, Running Fit, New Balance, Tortoise and Hare, The Running Factory and Gazelle Sports are the running shops that serve Michigan and Ontario.   There is probably no other area that has as many running stores. With Christmas just four weeks away they are convenient places to pick up fun and useful gifts.

So what could be on this year's need, want and just surprise me list?   Let's start with latest technology in GPS (Global Positioning System) watches.   The Garmin Forerunner 201 wrist-mounted watch is a wearable personal navigator that is lightweight (2.7 ounces), waterproof and comes with a rechargeable unit.   What 's great about this watch is that puts everything on your wrist.   It can track time, speed, distance and beep at pre set distances. The unique watch uses the WAAS   system of satellites and ground stations to provide position accuracy at most locations around the planet.   All for less than $200.

Runners should be seen when they are running in the dark and they need to see too.   The tried and true reflective vest is a simple gift but now there are a number of great new things to pick from.   Check out Brook's nightlife magnetic LED (light emitting diodes).   It blinks out the Brooks logo for up to 180 hours before needing batteries. It's less than half an ounce but what makes it great is that you can attach it anywhere using its magnet system for only $15. Brooks also makes a bendable band light that can fit on any wrist.

Princeton Tec has whole line of Pulsar LED flashlights that can be used for running, camping or biking.   The ultra light (2 ounces) Scout headlamp is small enough to fit in your pocket yet multifunctional. It is designed to be used on a head strap, belt or baseball cap. Its unique hinged lamp can spread light where you need it.   The two high output emitting diodes are impact resistant, shockproof and never require replacement.   It also has an innovative electronically controlled switch system to adjust between three levels of light and two emergency signals ($19).

Another new company with some interesting one of a kind products is 180S. Their ear warmers are the only product of its kind with motion control.   Its internal frame is designed to expand and contract to comfortably fit the head. The warmers look sporty and they have two layers of insulation to keep you warm yet dry ($25).

Also from 180S is a glove/mitten combination.   A retractable windproof hood covers the fingertips and can be tucked away into the built in cuff pocket ($20).

Looking for some trail shoes for this winter?   Try the Adistar Trail $120 for its water repellant upper an aggressive sole or Asics new Kayano XI for $135.   For a nice relaxing shoe after a long run try the women's New Balance 801BP ($60).   New Balance also has a full line of Race For The Cure shoes and apparel.

A gift certificate from one of the running shops would be the easy way out but browsing through the store to find an interesting gift is a lot more fun.

Contact Doug Kurtis at Detroit Free Press, 600 W. Fort St. Detroit, 48226