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 The calendar and the trees say that fall has arrived, but it sure doesn't feel like it. This tropical air mass we've been stuck in for the past week has made it seem more like the start of summer. This morning I reached for my lightest, whitest shirt in the hopes that I would feel cooler on the run. My body wasn't fooled. I felt like I was running in a sauna. A mosquito-infested sauna.
In years past I might have gotten frustrated and taken a short hiatus from running (that's what gym memberships are for, right?), but I've gotten so much fresh inspiration from Fleet Feet Peeps like you that I keep plugging away in the humidity, knowing that I'll be able to enjoy running in the cool, crisp air of fall that much more.
On Saturday my inspiration came from Janice, Carol, Rebecca and the other ladies in our summer 10k training program who continue to meet on their own every Saturday to train for the Old Wethersfield 10k. The race was supposed to be in August, but was rescheduled to mid-November due to Hurricane Irene. I know I would have had a hard time convincing myself to train for another 10 weeks, but these ladies are dedicated and committed to the core. They are runners.
On Monday evening, I got a double-dose of inspiration which fueled my run this morning and motivated me to push past the un-comfortableness and not cut my run short. First it was Eleanor, a first-time visitor to the store whose goal is to walk the Hartford Half Marathon with her sister and four friends. As her training peaked, Eleanor was experiencing some foot pain. Not one to let a little pain get in her way of her goal, Eleanor took her doctor's advice to get a good pair of shoes so she could finish what she started back in April. What makes this story so amazing is that Eleanor is walking the half marathon in celebration of her 70th birthday - and her friends are all over the age of 64. They call themselves the Hallelujah Sisters which is what they are going to exclaim when they cross that finish line in a few weeks.
Then, as we were about to close up, two women named Nichole and Shannon came running into the store, sighing in relief that they made it with five minutes to spare so they could purchase a pair of compression socks. It took me a few minutes to realize that one was wearing a hydration belt with four empty bottles and that both were dripping with sweat.
I asked if they had just finished a run around town. They replied that they actually decided to run to the store. I didn't think much of it since several customers who live in town will run to the store on Wednesday evenings for our fun run - until Nichole mentioned that they live in South Windsor. Yup, they ran 15 miles in Monday's heat and humidity to get to Fleet Feet and buy some socks (and to meet their families for a ride home). There is something about a point-to-point run in the double-digits that makes you realize the impressiveness of the distance you covered. Kudos to you girls!
For all of you out there who have been toughing out your training through this Indian Summer, thanks for being a source of inspiration for the rest of us. Our thanks to you is the wish that the combination of cooler weather and the rest of taper makes running on race day effortless so you can join the sisters in a rousing Hallelujah as you cross the finish line!
Be Fit,
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review: Lunar Eclipse |
The Nike LunarGlide hit the sweet spot of fit, function and fashion. With a comfortable low-seam upper, dynamic support for moderate overpronation and an amazing set of colors, this shoe works on the track, the road or around town. It's no surprise that it quickly became one of Nike's top sellers and a favorite of both runners and walkers.
You may not know it, but the LunarGlide has a big sibling. The LunarEclipse features a low-seam upper which holds the foot in place while minimizing irritation on the forefoot. Runners or walkers with bunions will experience pure bliss. The upgrades from the LunarGlide start in the heel of the upper. A plastic shank links around the heel and connects through the back of the arch. This construction, while lightweight and low bulk, provides excellent support for the ankle and minimizes heel slip.
 The LunarEclipse midsole features the same dynamic support as the LunarGlide. This innovative stability system provides pronation control equal to that of a traditional medially posted shoe while maintaining an unbelievably light weight. Additionally, this support, which increases diagonally under the arch, is gentler on the foot than the "brick wall" approach of most stability shoes.
 The real upgrade comes in cushion, however. The LunarEclipse practically redefines plush. The entire shoe feels like running on pillows while somehow maintaining the energy return that such soft shoes usually lack. The midsole actually drops down through the forefoot to contact the ground, resulting in a padding under the ball of the foot is almost impossibly soft.
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Amy's Gear Corner | |
It is that time of year when the sun rises late and sets early. Be safe when you run in the dark with these enlightening products:
Reflective, High-Viz Jackets, Vests & Tops: We have several jackets and vests in stock from Brooks' Nightlife and Saucony's Vizi-Pro lines to keep you safe and comfortable. They all provide front-to-back reflectivity, water resistance and high visibility colors like highlighter yellow, green, orange and (new) pink. They are lightweight, breathable and deliver excellent weather protection along with free range of motion. Don't worry; you will not look like a fluorescent, glow in the dark geek.
 The new Brooks Silver Bullet Jacket is a super-lightweight jacket that packs a big punch with a high tech aluminum membrane that enables you to stay warm without adding extra layers even on the coldest of mornings. It even features cozy cuffs with thumbholes and a flip-mitt as well as a moisture-proof media pocket.
 Brooks Nightlife Arm and Leg Bands: You need these bands. Why? They provide high-contrast color and 3M Scotchlite retro-reflective detail - giving you extra visibility. And, the soft elastic provides just the right amount of tension, so they are comfortable even when worn against the skin.
 Saucony's Elite Arm Warmers: Don't be intimidated by the name. Yes, these arm warmers were originally designed for Saucony's elite runners, but they're perfect for everyone! They are made with Saucony's DryLete fabric which regulates temperature, wicks moisture and provides UV protection. The reflective detailing will enhance your visibility and the ergonomic fit makes you feel fast...fast as the elites!
 Amphipod's Xinglet's: Amphipod has improved their popular Xinglet by adding dual strobe reflective LED zones on the front and back along with 360 degrees of reflectivity (that's 40% more than most vests)! This ultra-lightweight Xinglet is ideal for runners and walkers wanting a minimalist feel, but maximum visibility. The ultra-bright LEDs are extremely efficient with an extra-long battery life. And, it is adjustable folks!
Also in stock are the original Xinglet and the Pocket Xinglet featuring a large, easy-access zippered pocket.
 Quarrow's Super6 Cap-Light: Any time you need hands-free lighting, the Super6 Cap-light is just what you need. The clip claw can attach to caps, visors, seat belts, backpacks, shirts and many other items as well. Just clip or mount this light anywhere! The 2 LEDs can last up to 120 hours and 6 LEDs can last up to 48 hours! You can easily switch between 2 or 6 powerful white LEDs with a simple on/off button. This light's not just for running - works great camping or when grilling outside in the dark!
RoadID's Firefly Supernova: This little fella will surprise you with its high visibility in such a little light. Simply, it's the lightest, brightest most durable light in its class. Other lights in its category don't have a chance. Many customers and staffers can't get over how bright this safety light is. It is durable too! The plastic clip allows you to attach it to your belt, waistband or even your shirt collar. Go out in the dark and be seen from up to a mile away! The "flashing" mode or "steady" mode allow you to customize how you want to be seen. |
| Half Marathon Cheer Zone - Join Us |
 We're hosting a special Cheer Zone at the halfway point of the ING Hartford Half Marathon (near Asylum Ave and Trout Brook Drive) on Saturday, October 15 and are looking for individuals and organizations scouts, soccer teams, clubs, bands, etc) to help us make some noise to motivate the runners. No experience necessary - you just need to know how to shout, clap, give high-five's and ring a cow bell.
If you are interested, please park at the UConn campus on Trout Brook Drive or on Lawler Rd by 8:15am so you can be in place for the first runners who will pass through the Zone shortly after 8:30am. The last of the runners should arrive by 9:45am (these are the athletes who really need our support and encouragement).
It's just 90 minutes of your day, but it will mean the world to thousands of runners. Please join us! |
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No Boundaries - Downtown Session Added | |
Are you one of those people whose New Year's Resolution went something like "Get in shape" or "Run a 5k"? Or maybe you have been inspired by a friend or family member who runs - or are addicted to watching The Biggest Loser? Take advantage of the year's best running weather and end the year fit and healthy by participating in our 5k Training Program!
Our popular "Learn to Run" program is designed for people who don't run or have recently started running as well as those who have a hard time sticking to a running program or are unsure what to do. We use run/walk intervals and slowly ramp-up the time spent running and distance covered until you can complete a full 5k (3.1 miles).
For those who have successfully completed a 5k before, we will offer a separate training program for you designed to help you run faster and more comfortably.
We will have two sessions this fall - Saturday mornings at the store and Monday evening's downtown under the Bushnell Park Arch. Both programs last 10 weeks and graduate with the Mitten Run 5k in Blue Back Square on Sunday, December 4.
You do not need to make every practice in order to successfully complete the program - though, participants that come to at least half the practices will earn themselves a sweet running jacket (in addition to your team tech tee) courtesy of New Balance!
No one is too old or too slow for this program so be courageous and join us! Click on your session below to register online - or come into the store. Program fee is $95.
West Hartford (Saturday's at 9am) - begins Oct 1
Downtown (Monday's at 5:30pm) - begins Oct 3
We will be hosting an Information/Meet the Coaches night at the store on Wednesday, September 28 at 7pm if you would like to find out more information or register. |
| Disney Marathon Training - Starts Oct 22 | |
Ever thought of running through Disney World? Read on because this might be the opportunity for you! We are teaming with Run Disney to offer a marathon training program to help train you to complete the Disney Marathon on Sunday, January 8.
 Fleet Feet staffer Deb Stroiney and her husband Dave Cilley will be coaching this program. Deb and Dave have run the Disney Marathon the past 2 years - with Deb conquering the Goofy Challenge this past January! Whether you are a first time marathoner or looking to PR, Dave and Deb can help you on your way.
The training program starts on Saturday, October 22. Participants should be able to complete a long run of 11 miles before the first practice. Program cost is $100 and includes your training program, coached long runs, mid-week speed workout, a cool tech team shirt, product samples, as well as Run Disney perks (discounted race entry fee and park tickets).
If you are running Disney and training on your own, you can join our group virtually for free and take advantage of special Run Disney Perks like discounted race entry fee and park tickets.
Contact Coach Deb for more details or join us on Wednesday, September 28 at 7pm for an Information Night with the coaches. |
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Featured Races |
Mum-a-Thon Road Race & Fitness Walk
October 9 at 1pm
Center Connecticut's largest continuous road race is now in it's 42nd year! The event takes place at the HealthTrax Fitness Center in Bristol and features 5 and 2 Mile Road Races, a 2 Mile Fitness Walk and a kids' fun run.
Register before October 1 and your registration fee is just $22 and guarantees you a race t-shirt and access to the post-race party which includes food, drink, massages, showers and lockers. Kids can enter the Fun Run for $5.
For more information or to register, click here.
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We've Got Your Back 5k Run
October 22, 2011 at 9am
We've Got Your Back is the Spinal Research Foundation's signature event. The goal of the 5k road race and 1.4 mile Fun Run/Walk is to increase spinal health awareness and help raise needed funds that directly contribute to life changing research and educational programs.
The event takes place at Forest Park in Springfield, MA. The scenic, wooded course means you will get to run through some beautiful fall foliage. Another big perk of this event is a generous prize structure that includes $1,000 in cash prizes for the overall winners, gift certificates for age-group winners and random raffle prizes for all in attendance.
Registration is $30 before October 1st and $35 afterwards - though, you can save $5 by registering online. Click here to learn more.
Plus, everyone is invited to attend the Spinal Health Fair on race day (located at the registration site)! This fun filled community event features a host of vendors and is open to all ages and will be held from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Learn how your spine works and what you can do to prevent injury at our Spinal Wellness Booth. Fun and informative for the whole family! |
| Moving Comfort Sports Bra Promotion | |
During the month of October, Fleet Feet Sports is partnering with Moving Comfort to donate $1 for every sports bra sold to a neat non-profit called Feel Your Boobies whose mission is to remind women to be proactive and check for lumps in their breasts.
Plus, when you purchase a Moving Comfort sports bra, you will get a fun and environmentally-friendly reusable tote bag! Come in today for a professional fitting by one of our female bra fit specialists. No appointment necessary.
Remember: your sports bra should never celebrate a birthday! It may feel comfy when it's all stretched-out, but it's not good for the long term health of your breasts! |
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Farro: Another Whole Grain
By Aubrey Schulz | |
For Labor Day, I made a wonderful tasty potluck dish, a Citrus Parmesan Farro Salad. It was a well-liked salad that used the whole grain, farro, which was new to all the guests. People were curious about farro and wanted to learn more. As an educator would say, it was a perfect teachable moment.
A whole grain has all three parts of its seed intact. The protective outermost bran contains the fiber, B vitamins, minerals and proteins. The tiny innermost germ is oil rich and is responsible for providing B vitamins, minerals, enzymes and essential fatty acids. The remainder of the grain is the endosperm. Here lies the bulk of the carbohydrates, small amounts of B vitamins and proteins.
Grains are often manipulated by food manufactures. When a grain is not in its natural 100% whole grain state, it has been refined. Only the endosperm is present. The most nutritious parts of the grain, the bran and the germ, have been striped away. When a grain is refined, about 22 natural nutrients have been taken away. An enriched grain has only 5 or 6 nutrients added back in. Some grains are labeled as "pearled", as is sometimes the case with farro or barley. When a grain is pearled, it passes through a pearling machine and two giant rollers peel off the outermost bran. As a result this grain in no longer a whole grain.This same process turns brown rice into white rice. White rice, just like white flour, is more refined and void of much of its nutritional value. The end product is a starchy carbohydrate rich endosperm. Along the way, fiber, vitamins, minerals and proteins have been lost.
Whole grains, with all of its three parts intact, are great sources of health and energy. Whole grains have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity. Whole grains are an excellent calorie source for runners and athletes who need carbohydrates to fuel their active lifestyle.
There are many types of whole grains in your grocery store. They are just a little harder to find. You will need to look past the endless products made with refined grains. Once you find them, be forewarned they will take longer to prepare than instant rice. While they are cooking, you can be preparing other elements of your meal or packing your gym bag for the next day's workout. Your fitness isn't developed in an instant, please don't expect the same from your dinner. There are short cuts and time savers, but I'll save that for another article
---------------------------------- Aubrey Schulz is a certified nutrition and triathlon coach with Get Out N Play . Aubrey works with clients to help them reach their nutritional and athletic goals, both in the kitchen and out on the road. She is hosting a workshop entitled Road to Better Health on October 25th at the West Hartford Senior Center. |
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STORE HOURS
Mon-Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-5
Phone: 860-233-8077
www.fleetfeethartford.com | |
EVENT CALENDAR
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted. | |
Wed, Sept 28 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Sept 28 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Sept 28 @ 7pm
Disney Marathon Training Program Info Night
Wed, Sept 28 @ 7pm
No Boundaries 5K Training Program Info Night
Yes, you CAN Run a 5k!
Thurs, Sept 29 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout
Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, Oct 1 @ 9-10:30am
FREE Injury Assessments
by Select Physical Therapy
Sat, Oct 1 @ 8am
Informal Old Wethersfield 10k Training Group
Pace Range: 9-11min/mile
Sat, Oct 1 @ 9am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Sat, Oct 1 @ 9am
No Boundaries 5k Training
Program Begins
Meet at Store
Register Here
Sun, Oct 2 @ 6:30am
Informal Marathon Training
Group Run - 21 Miles
Pace Range: 8-12min/mile
All are welcome
Meet at Farmington Rail Trail
Mon, Oct 3 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Mon, Oct 3 @ 5:30pm
No Boundaries 5k Training Program - Downtown Session Meet under Arch
in Bushnell Park
Register Here
Wed, Oct 5 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Oct 5 @ 6:30pm
Saucony Vizi-Pro
Evening Fun Run
Gifts for all & free Vizi-Pro Kinvaras for the "Most Reflective Runner" - Be Creative
All abilities welcome
Thurs, Oct 6 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout under the lights
Saint Joseph College Track
All ages & abilities
Oct 13 & 14; 11am-7pm
Marathon Expo
Expo Specials from CEP & Timex, FREE Kinesiotaping
Sun, Oct 16@ 10am-1pm
Marathon Recovery Clinic
Injury Care, Stretching, Massages, Food, Race Day Video & More -- FREE!
Sat, Oct 22 @ 8-11am
Run Strong & Injury-Free
Running Clinic
at "The Bubble" in Tolland
FREE - but RSVP here |
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FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, Oct 1 - 9-10:30am | |
Injured? Don't know whether you can run/play sports or if you should really see a doctor? Come to our free injury assessment clinic staffed by a certified athletic trainer from Select Physical Therapy. No appointment is necessary.
These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday (there will be no clinic on Saturday, Oct 15 due to the Marathon). Next in-store clinic will be Sat, Oct 29.
Can't make the clinic? Call or email Stacy at Select's FREE Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633)
Stacy is a a licensed athletic trainer and Select PT's Director of Sports Medicine. Depending on the severity of your injury, she may give you instructions on how to care for your injury at home or direct you to one of Select Physical Therapy's 30 clinics in CT for a free evaluation. | |
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Hartford Marathon Expo
Thurs & Fri - Oct 13-14
11am - 7pm
XL Center |  | |
We're getting ready to set-up our biggest booth ever at this year's Healthy Lifestyles Marathon Expo. In addition to all the essentials you will need on race day like nutrition, Body Glide, socks, race number belt, Sweaty Bands, etc, we will have a CEP Compression Showroom featuring all of their best-selling products (socks, sleeves, shorts and braces) and a special selection of watches and heart rate monitors from Timex.
We will also be partnering with Select Physical Therapy to offer free kinesiotaping on Thursday and Friday from 11am-1pm and 5-7pm. To ensure that the tape stays on for race day, we recommend that you shave the part of your body you would like taped and refrain from using lotion.
Additionally, Mike DeStefano, athletic trainer and Performance Enhancement Specialist from Select PT, will be on-hand on Thursday from 11am-4:30pm and Friday from 11am-1pm to perform an analysis of your running gait both barefoot and with running shoes using state-of-the-art Dartfish motion analysis software.
Mike will use the data recorded to analyze your biomechanics and offer recommendations to correct deficits and inefficiencies via a CD after the marathon. This personalized analysis normally costs $200, but the Expo Special is just $75! |
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FREE "Roll-Out the Miles" Marathon Recovery Clinic
Oct 16 @ 10am-1pm |  |
Come roll out the miles at our special Recovery Clinic hosted by Fleet Feet Sports and Select Physical Therapy at Select PT's West Hartford office (29 North Main St).
Select's physical therapists and athletic trainers will be offering injury assessments as well as ice and heat treatment for sore muscles. Robeks will be giving away tasty smoothies. Anytime Fitness will have trainers helping you stretch. FOX-CT will be replaying their race coverage on the big screen and Fleet Feet Staffer Deb Stroiney will teach you how to use Trigger Point Therapy and Foam Rollers to flush the lactic acid from your muscles and release trigger points.
There will also be massage therapists on hand giving massages for $1/min and Swahn Engraving will be offering a special medal engraving service (medals will be returned to you within 1 week).
Mark your calendars, grab your running partners (or come alone and meet new ones) and give your body, mind and stomach some post-race love! Everyone in attendance will be entered to win a sweet Recovery Gift Basket valued at $200. |
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"Run Strong & Injury-Free"
FREE Running Clinic
Sat, Oct 22 @ 8-11am |  | |
Back by popular demand - this time at the Star Hill Family Athletic Center ("The Bubble") in Tolland! Fleet Feet Sports is teaming up with Select Physical Therapy and Dr. Daniel Veltri, one of CT's's finest orthopedic surgeons and Ironman, to host a free running clinic offering tips and tools to help you run strong and injury free. During the 3-hour clinic you will:
- Learn how to prevent and treat common injuries
- Discover firsthand the benefits of foam rolling and trigger point therapy
- Participate in a dynamic workout designed to strengthen your core (prepare to sweat!)
- Have your lower extremity strength and balance tested
- Find out what type of running shoes are best for you
Additionally, Mike DeStefano, athletic trainer and Performance Enhancement Specialist from Select PT, will be offering Dartfish video gait analysis of your running both barefoot and with shoes on for just $90 (normally $200).
This state-of-the-art technology is utilized by professional athletes and is featured during television coverage of the Olympics to show viewers the frame-by-frame motion of figure skaters and skiers. The service includes a personalized video with an analysis of your biomechanics and recommendations to correct deficits and inefficiencies.
For more details or to RSVP, email Paula Dombek or call 860-896-9145. Don't wait too long to RSVP as these clinics reach their 25 person capacity quickly. |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |  |
Join Duncan & a great group of Fleet Feet Friends for a casual fun run each Wedensday night at 6:30pm. We go between 1-5 miles (a route for all abilities). All paces (including walkers) are welcome to join us.
It's a great way to meet new friends and running partners.
Meet at the store.
Note: Fun Runs are canceled during snow and thunder storms and when roads/sidewalks are too icy and dangerous. Check our Facebook page on Wednesday's for status of run.
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| Thursday Night Track Workout |  |
Track Workouts are Back!
Join us every Thursday - 6:30pm at Saint Joseph College Track. Please park in the upper parking lot (NOT the O'Connell Gym lot or we risk losing our permit to use the track).
These workouts are designed for runners of ALL abilities. The goal is to introduce you to different types of running (intervals, hills, tempo runs) and help you get stronger and faster. This is your opportunity to get professional coaching for free - and meet some great fellow runners.
Can't make it to the workout, email Schuyler to subscribe to his Weekly Workout email. Do you feel the need for speed? Or maybe your workout routine needs a little spice. Join Coach Schuyler each Thursday for a fun track workout. |
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Run/Walk Meet-Up Group: Every Saturday at 8am |  |
Every Saturday we will open our doors at 9am to runners and walkers looking to meet-up with others. We will have a place to hold your keys and change of clothes, as well as provide a bathroom, water and a book of routes ranging from 1-18 miles for you to select from. Our goal is to help match people of similar paces and training distances so no one has to run alone.
There is no charge to participate in the Meet-Up. If you already have a group of friends you run with, you can still take advantage of using Fleet Feet Sports as your meeting location from anytime between 8-10am.
For more information, check our official "Meet-Up" group web site. |
| We're on Facebook! |  |
Become a "fan" of Fleet Feet Sports Hartford and be the first to know about new events, participate in interesting discussions and view great photos of our Fleet Feet Peeps in action.
Check out our page by clicking here. |
| Return Policy |  |
We believe in the PERFECT FIT - it's part of our Fitlosophy. If you are not 100% satisfied with the fit of your shoes, socks, sports bra, insoles, etc, we invite you to bring the item back within 30 days of purchase. Even if you wore the item outside.
Give us an opportunity to find a better solution for you. We want to help you get the proper tools to live fit! |
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Extra 10% Off
Summer Apparel |
Update your summer running wardrobe for next year (heck, it's hot enough to wear shorts and tank tops right now!). Take 10% off all summer apparel (shorts, short-sleeve shirts and sleeveless shirts). If the item is on our Clearance Rack, you get an additional 10% off!
Offer not valid on previous purchases. No other coupons or discounts apply except for your $15 Rewards Vouchers. All sales are final. | | Offer Expires: Sunday, October 9, 2011 |
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