Tuesday, September 14, 2010

We (Mostly) Interrupt Our Regularly Scheduled Smart-Assery

Bad stuff happens. It follows no rules, and plays no favorites. It often gives no warning, and when it does it often goes unheeded. We’ll all be dealt our share of bad. We may not be able to prevent it, but often we can be better prepared. Sometimes very small things can stop the bad stuff from being really bad stuff. Things like RoadID.

The kind folks at Outside PR, astutely recognizing that I am an imminent danger to myself, were kind enough to allow me to choose one of the RoadID products to get my feedback. As one who is drawn to irony like a moth to a flame, I chose the Wrist ID Elite. Fortunately one is not required to submit to any physical or mental challenge to qualify as ‘Elite’.

The concept behind RoadID and their products is quite basic, and exceedingly important. Sometimes the bad stuff is bad enough that you can’t speak for yourself to try and get or direct help. RoadID products provide critical information clearly and quickly in the event of an emergency. Information that can literally be the difference between life and death. I’ve had some close calls with cars over the years while training, and generally speaking the man-vs-car battle is a pretty easy wager. There are countless situations beyond a motor vehicle run-in where you could be rendered uncommunicative. RoadID is designed to increase the odds in any of these situations. As someone who has never carried ID while training, I’m really fairly embarrassed to not have ordered one of these long ago. I came to the realization long ago that I am not bulletproof. I’m finally starting to behave that way as well. Doesn’t mean I can’t still run around in tights and a cape. More of a lifestyle choice than a functional decision.

My Wrist ID Elite arrived in a spiffy shiny box, ready for action.

After trimming the strap down to size it was ready for a run.  I opted for the blue version, but there are 8 different color bands to choose from.  I also went with the Original version rather than the Interactive version.

BandAid = Man vs. 500-degree rotisserie.  Sadly they do not yet make a GrillID

Before wearing it out of the house, I had to subject it to the ultimate test. My 8 year-old-daughter. The final word on all things cool and/or fashionable. The verdict…


Money in the bank.

I’ve worn it on every run since I got it, and have had no issues with chafing, rubbing, etc. I hardly even notice it’s there. It’s made of rubber and metal, so there’s nothing to soak up sweat. This is one of those things that you really hope you never actually need. Like airbags, or a backup parachute. Fortunately I’ve not ‘needed’ it yet, so maybe it brings the wearer good luck as well. I can’t recommend this product, or any of the RoadID products highly enough. It just makes so much sense, and is one of the few things you can control when the situation is completely out of your control. As the daylight hours continue to get shorter, and more of my training is done in the dark, I feel better every day that I have this on my wrist when I head out.

Be safe, and be prepared.

20 comments:

  1. Can't believe there was a time before RoadID! Simple and necessary accessory.

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  2. You really should wear Scooby Do bandaids if you're going to show your injuries on your blog. Rotisserie, my ass. You know it was your curling iron.

    If I wear my Road ID while skydiving will I be safe?

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  3. Great review! I can't wait to get mine!

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  4. Glad it got the 8-yr. olds approval! I just got my first this year too (thanks to Outside PR!) and really feel like it's something I should have done years ago.

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  5. I think the 8 year old approving this is all the endorsement you need!

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  6. I've been putting mine off...and for no good reason. Thanks for the push.

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  7. Is there a LIFE-RoadID I can buy?
    ;)

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  8. Yeah... I should really get one of those.

    BTW, your daughter is just the cutest thang ever.

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  9. Ordering one with my next bonus...and your girl is adorable!

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  10. An absolute must have - never go for a run without it!

    Your daughter is just too cute!

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  11. It's funny that you posted this now because I was just thinking today about buying a Road ID for myself and my husband. I've been putting it off, and this is the reminder I needed.

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  12. My only qualm with the wrist bracelet is the tan lines it leaves. I've noticed (because I care about tan lines??) that i'm more likely to throw the bracelet in my iFitness belt, which is better than nothing. Next time, I'll order the ankle bracelet. Agreed though, --- it is an AWESOME product!

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  13. I need to order one up today. I swear the older I get the more I freak myself out that something will happen to me out on a run. Now that your cute 8 year old gave the official thumbs up, I can feel well advised in ordering the bracelet! :) Thanks!

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  14. Road ID, Schmoad ID. What's really important is if you won Week 1 of Fantasy Football.

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  15. I was thinking of getting the ID for my shoe, if I put one more running item on my arm or wrist I'm going to look like robocop. Your daughter is adorable!

    thanks for the comments about my marathon, I can't believe it's over!!

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  16. Ooooh I'm waiting for mine to come in the mail. Green natch. :)

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  17. Although I'm not running too far from home yet and always let someone know my route, I still could get injured or sick and need help. Because I'm not going too far, I've put off getting this type of ID or something to carry a cell phone in etc. - so thanks for the reminder. Adorable daughter btw

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