There will be lots more stuff on this topic in the coming months. Long Lead Items, (besides conditioning). Buy those two pairs of shoes but consider investing in a good orthotic insole. If you have the cash, (or a parent with no idea what to get a Plebe-to-be for graduation), go to a specialized runners store with a good rep and have a pair made for you, and your 2 pairs of new shoes. Short on $s? Pick the one that feels best at your local sporting goods store. Insoles will make a huge difference, ask your favorite runner. DD says running during PS "isn't about going fast, it's about going forever". The cushion and support of a well-fitted insole will pay off tons in weeks 4-5-6.
For the past three years, I've said the same thing, (channeling DD and my DW). If you are a female, now would be a good time to think about having a simple "9-to-5" eyeliner tattoo done. DD also does eyebrows, (hers are light blonde...my DNA). My wife spent 30years jumping out of bed to run to an O.R. or to O.B. and she swears by these. DD had hers done just before PS and has repeated an application since. DD said she took a little bit of flack during PS for looking too put-together during PS. But you know
"When you look good you feel good"............ and Daaaarling:
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Seriously: Wife and DD swear by this and the time it saves them. Costs a $200-400 here in Sea Wa. and takes about 3-4 days for redness to go away after the Tat.
What to wear to I-Day? I've been watching this board for 4years now and it still isn't entirely clear what you get to keep. That said, in addition to those shoes and insoles, I'd show up in the best pair of white ankle-high compression socks I could find and compression shorts. Letters home from PS will plead for both. I'd have a 2nd pair in my duff. If they take em away, big deal, I get em back and its not like the running stops after PS. I'd put 1 or 2 leg compression sleeves in the duff too. Same logic, the sleave costs $11, $12 and I will get em back. If I get to keep em, I can get the jump on shin-splints, or give em to a desperate shipmate. Women's underwear is a mystery, (always has been), but I remember that DD hated the stuff she was given and was able to wear ones we sent her. Same logic I'd...... ahh you..... would wear a pair best for the task at hand and bring a second pair----as long as they are white. I guess same-same for a sports bra.
Since we are talking about that "First Care Package", we got the same advice and acted on it dropped it in the mail in Annapolis on I-Day. BUT, if I had it to do over again, I'd keep the box open and visit the Mid Store on I-Day (or before) to BUY A SECOND SET OF USNA Std. PT GEAR. Sucks to put on wet gear in the AM.
Finally, as a parent on I-Day I would've had one of many available calcium-magnesium beverages to hand her with her sandwich, (that stuff really does level stress abit). I'd also hand her one of the Matcha tablets we both take now-days. Nothing but organic matcha, no drugs no caffeine just smooth energy look on Amazon "Matcha tablets". I think both of these work really well...... even if the didn't the placebo effect would have been hugely helpful that first night of PS.
Disclaimer: I am Just Dad, I have not been through plebe summer, I just know people who have.
Congrats to all those with an interest in this thread. Son, Daughter, Parent you've earned a unique and highly rewarding journey. Good luck to you.