accessibility mode: off

FAN MAIL: CHRIS MELLO

“My name is Chris Mello and when I found out you were a pole vaulter I just had to write to you. I love what you’re doing with Stem Footwear. I was a pole vaulter in high school for two seasons and for a year and a half in college. Like you, I suffered from a host of injuries; heel bursitis, plantar fasciitis, posterior tibias tendonitis, patella tendonitis, and the worst of all for me: compartment syndrome. I saw a number of orthopedists and other doctors and none of them had answers (some suggested it was in my head!). Needless to say, I was very frustrated. In college, I finally quit athletics all together because I grew to hate running so much as it was very painful. Well, after that I started hiking a lot more and found out that I could run on the trails without pain. Without knowing, it was because I shortened my stride and started landing more towards the midfoot. This year I started out running completely barefoot, and it has been wonderful so far. I wanted to do to much to soon, so I’ve had to back off a bit. I don’t know why I didn’t realize this earlier, but when I was younger and through high school I was always as fast as the fastest kids when I was barefoot, but throw on a pair of sneakers and it slowed me down.”

Regards,
Chris

Additional Articles

Winter Hiking Tips to Stay Safe and Comfortable in Cold Weather

Once the cold weather hits, it’s easy to choose the cozy comfort of the warm indoors over getting outside. However, getting outside in the winter means fewer crowds, plus it keeps you in shape and fights those winter blues. With the right gear and planning, winter hiking doesn’t have to equate to discomfort. Follow these winter hiking tips and change how you think about getting outside in cold-weather.
Continue Shopping
You just added:
Cart Subtotal: