Is it permissible to run on trails with your regular road running shoes, or should you invest in specialist trail running shoes? The answer is contingent on several variables.
To begin, how many kilometers off-road do you run each week? It’s a worthwhile purchase if the answer is more than a few, or more than one short trail or mixed road/trail run each week. Second, what sort of trail surface do you normally run on?
Wearing trail running shoes, or mud running shoes, if the ground is soft, muddy, or full of pebbles and roots, is also recommended since they provide superior traction and may even avoid a fall. Third, what type of running shoes are you currently wearing?
Trail running shoes will give the performance and safety that your “road only” shoes cannot if the bottoms are reasonably smooth and provide limited grip.
When looking at trail running shoe descriptions online or talking with a running store salesperson about off-road running shoes, there are four essential aspects to consider.
A Shoe with Rugged Outside
The outsole is the portion of the shoe that makes contact with the ground, and it is the characteristic that distinguishes trail running shoes from road running shoes. Rugged outsoles are required for trail running activities to grip whatever terrain you’re on.
If your local off-road trails are rather smooth, you won’t need a large “lug” outsole or the added weight of those protrusions that contact the ground first, but if you travel rugged trails, you’ll need an outsole to match.
Mud and Water Protection
A good pair of trail running shoes will keep your feet dry, comfortable, and free of blisters. This is particularly useful on trails, where you’re more likely to run in mud or puddles. To keep the damp away from your foot, look for a shoe that employs Gore-Tex or another waterproof or water-resistant material.
Trail running and mud running shoes should be durable enough to resist the conditions they may encounter. Off-road running shoes can range from lightweight to tougher versions, so make sure you choose the correct weight. New Balance 999 Hyannis Blue shoes are perfect lightweight shoes. You must give it a try.
Protection from Pebbles
Another problem specific to trail running shoes is keeping pebbles, gravel, and other path detritus from slipping into shoes, even if they’re a snug fit. A single stone beneath the heel or ball of one foot can spoil a trail run or race, therefore good trail running shoes defend against this risk.
This is accomplished through features such as integrated hard-plastic plates that protect the feet from pebbles and other sharp items, as well as shoelace tongues that keep debris out of your shoes.
Off-Road Shoelaces That Are Secure
Because of the twisting, turning, and occasional touch with shrubs, shoelaces come undone more readily on trails, so make sure the shoe you select has laces that aren’t too long, too short, or too slippery. Some trail running shoes even have pockets where you can tuck your laces safely inside and out of the way.