Trail running shoes

What are the differences between trail running and hiking shoes?

Trail running shoes are an essential element in any trail runner’s kit. They allow to venture everywhere, on rocky mountain trails and forest paths alike. They feature lugged outsoles to grip in any circumstance, with a rugged construction to provide support in the descents and prevent injuries. A trail running shoe is a hybrid between hiking and running. Contrary to hiking shoes, trail trainers are lighter and have a lower cuff, to carry more momentum on every stride. They also offer better traction than a regular running shoe and are more durable.

The right questions to make the right decision:

Short run or long distance, what’s your type?

Trail running is divided in a wide range of categories. For instance, someone who runs short distances needs a different shoe to an ultra-runner. For long distances, trailers will favour comfort and good cushioning, to munch through miles and prevent trauma. At the opposite end of the spectrum, for short distance trail runners (5 to 10 km), a trail running shoe should provide performance and be lightweight above all.

Comfort, which shoe for the best cushioning?

Comfort is one the essential elements when buying a trail running shoe. Various characteristics play a role in making a shoe comfortable. Among which:

• Cushioning

Mostly influenced by the material and thickness of the shoe. A thick and soft sole provides more comfort than a thin and stiff sole. In addition, depending on their design, soles are developed to offer excellent dynamic cushioning to make you feel comfortable, while being efficient. Such is the case of the LightStrike cushioning found on the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2.

• Heel drop

The notion of heel drop indicates the height difference between the rear and front of the shoe. When walking barefoot, your heel strikes the ground at the same time (or almost) as the forefoot. The heel drop is 0 or barely higher.

For trail running, a drop below 6 mm is regarded as low. It means your heel is 6 mm higher than your toes. This type of drop is generally better for trail runners with a forefoot strike. On the contrary, over 6 mm of drop is regarded as high. It fits runners who strike with their heel.

It can sometimes be difficult to know which type of heel drop to choose. Some specialised centres and podiatrists can analyse your running form and identify what is best for you.

Should I choose a waterproof shoe?

While Gore-Tex, a very efficient waterproof membrane, has been popular for the past few years and can be seen on numerous outdoor garments, it can show its limitations for trail running.

Gore-Tex is a very good option to protect you from moisture in rainy weather. However, when trail running, especially in summer, you tend to sweat. In hot and dry conditions, you’ll end up with wet feet, as the membrane prevents water from getting in, but from getting out as well.

Therefore, the best option is to own a pair of Gore-Tex trail running shoes along with a pair of non-waterproof trail running shoes. Use the waterproof shoes only when the conditions require it!

What type of lugs to choose?

Depending on the terrain you run on, you’ll have to pay attention to the type of lugs featured on your trail running shoes. One thing is certain, this sport requires trainers with excellent grip. Long and flexible lugs (5 mm or more) are perfect for soft and wet surfaces during your winter forest runs for example. On the other hand, shorter and stiffer lugs offer better comfort and performance on dry and hardpack terrain. They'll also improve your experience on pavement.

Men or women, find what you need at Glisshop!

We hope these tips will help you choose the right trail running shoe for your needs and goals. Glisshop offers trail running shoes for any terrain. We have everything to make you and your whole family happy and ready for summer with high-quality equipment designed by the leading brands in the trail running and outdoor industry!