What To Look For
Trail shoes differ from regular running shoes in several important ways. The soles on trail shoes tend to be thicker to provide better traction on uneven terrain. Because trails are sometimes damp, they often have waterproofed or water-resistant synthetic uppers made of breathable materials. The upper toe, or toe box, has more padding to protect your feet from large rocks and roots. And the color palettes used are usually darker so stains from water, mud, and grass are less visible.
Common Pitfalls
One of the most important questions to consider about trail running shoes is whether you really need them. Roadrunner Sports suggests asking yourself if you're a runner who occasionally runs on trails, or a runner who only runs on trails. Runners who alternate between smooth pavement and rugged trails but can only invest in one pair of shoes will find that a standard running shoe will meet their needs. True trail runners will benefit from the added traction, water resistance and durability of trail shoes, which are typically more expensive than their running shoe counterparts.
Where To Buy
Like running shoes, trail shoes demand very careful measurement to ensure a comfortable fit. Visit a local specialty athletic store or an online sports shoe retailer like Roadrunner Sports, Running Shoes or REI to get the proper fitting evaluation to match your arch and gait with the proper shoe. When buying your trail shoes online, make sure that the company you buy from offers free return shipping in case you're unhappy with your purchase and want to exchange your shoes or receive a refund.
Cost
While regular running shoes range from $50 to $300 for professional models, the range for trail running shoes usually starts a little higher because of the use of extra padding and materials. A solid, high-performing pair of trail running shoes starts at approximately $70 as of 2010. Trail running shoes are worth the investment if you spend all or the majority of your running time on trails. For runners who alternate between different surfaces, a standard pair of running shoes is a good, reasonable investment that can fit your needs.
Member Comments