California just ensured one of itswettest winters in state history. I didn't mind all that rain, though, because it gave me the perfect opportunity to try some of the latest waterproof running shoes. I aimed for puddles, muddy ruts, and small streams with childlike abandon while out on my runs. I occasionally experiencedsore feet-a comfortable upper is hard enough to design, and making it impervious to water only stiffens it.

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