Trail running is a sports activity that involves running on a natural, unpaved path. It may involve mountainous, hilly, or somewhat rocky terrains. It is generally a more physically demanding activity than road or track running.
Hence, taking on the sport needs proper preparation, which includes getting the proper footwear.
Trail running shoes need to be chosen carefully because they are going to have to withstand a lot of stress and indentations.
Table of Contents
- Features of a good trail running shoe
- Salomon Men’s Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoe
- Salomon Speedcross 5
- HOKA Speedgoat 5
- New Balance Men’s 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe
- New Balance Men’s 410 V7 Trail Running Shoe
- Skechers Men’s Gorun Altitude Trail Running Shoes
- ASICS Men’s Trail Scout 2 Running Shoes
- Saucony Men’s Excursion Tr15 Trail Running Shoes
Features of a Good Trail Running Shoe
Some of the features to look out for while choosing trail running shoes include the following:
1.Comfort and Fit: A trail running shoe should offer maximum comfort and fit for your movement. It should be of the right size, not just in terms of length and width but also in how they wrap around your feet.
It should give you just the right grip to protect your joints from excessive strenuous movements that can lead to injuries.
While choosing trail running shoes you should consider the general shape of your feet such as its arch because this will determine your level of comfort while running.
Interior cushions also determine comfort while running. It can help to reduce abrasions on the sole of your feet and reduce the amount of work you have to do to keep moving. Properly padded shoes absorb the pressure of landing and help to reduce discomfort or pain in the joints and knees. Padding also absorbs moisture and keeps your feet dry and fresh.
2.Trail: The trail you plan to run is an important consideration when choosing a trail running shoe. Some trails are more rugged than others. Hence, a trail running shoe that will seem perfect for one may feel a little like running on bare feet for another.
Trails with more even surfaces do not require heavy-duty trail running shoes. Trail running shoes with minimal paddings and low feet protection can serve effectively. Since there will be a low risk of ankle dislocation from uneven surfaces, the rigidity of the running shoes may not be a problem. So, for running on trails with relatively even surfaces, rigid running shoes can be used.
For more rugged trails, heavy-duty trail running shoes will be more desirable. They are generally more durable for the wear and tear of rugged terrains. The rocks on the way may pose threats to the toes. Trail running shoes for such terrains should have toe guards to protect the toes.
Such shoes should also contain tough, durable soles to protect the feet and also resist sharp rocks from penetrating them. Maximum cushioning is also desired to keep the feet as comfortable as possible on rough surfaces.
The soles should also be slip-resistant on surfaces such as mud and smooth rocks.
3.Quality: Quality should be an important factor to consider while choosing a trail running shoe. You should buy a product that is proven to provide the maximum service required. Trail running is a strenuous activity that also affects the shoes. Choosing one which can withstand the stress and not give out on you on short notice can be a matter of life and hard life.
4.Weight: It is typical for runners to desire lightweight shoes. It gives more comfort and is energy efficient. It is proven that lightweight running shoes allow you to run further in less time.
However, more rugged trails will require heavier shoes to endure the difficulty in the terrain.
5.Price: The price of the product will determine whether you should go for it. It may have the qualities you desire but if you have to break the bank to acquire it, you may have to go for a less pricey option.
6.Heel-to-toe drop: This is the difference in height between the toe and the heel parts of the shoe. There are four groups of heel-to-toe drops for running shoes. They are zero drop (0mm difference), low drop (1 – 4 mm difference), mid drop ( 5 – 8 mm), and high drop (8mm and above). The standard heel-to-toe drop for running shoes is 10mm.
The choice of running shoes is dependent on the heel-to-toe drop you are most comfortable with. The lower drops will load the ankles and Achilles more while the higher drops will put more pressure on the knees and hips.
7.Weatherproof: The right trail running shoes should have you covered during adverse weather. It should protect your feet and have enough traction for slippery surfaces.
Best Trail Running Shoes
Some of the best running shoes are reviewed below:
1.Salomon Men’s Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoe
This is a great product for trail running. It is properly cushioned to reduce some of the pressure on your muscles. Let us look at some of its features:
Features
● It is made of high-quality water-resistant materials. It also has an anti-debris mesh to give more comfort in a wider range of terrains.
● The sole is a rubber Contagrip outsole for extra grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. It also has Profeel film to protect the feet from harmful objects.
● It has the Optivibe cushioning which is specially designed to absorb the load and ease the pressure on your muscles.
● The sizes range from 7 to 14.
● It comes in three colors which are black, goji berry, and phantom.
● It has a lace that allows you to tie it to the best fit.
● It is easy to maintain and can be washed with a washing machine.
Conclusion
The Salomon Men’s Sense Ride 4 Trail Running shoe is a great option for running through your neighborhood or difficult terrain. It has a breathable mesh that avoids debris clogging up your shoes and allows ventilation for your feet.
2.Salomon Speedcross 5
This product is designed to give you a rugged fit and provide a firm grip and traction on soft, wet surfaces.
Features
● It is made of tough, durable materials. It has a tough, rugged appearance that matches its strength.
● It has the right amount of cushioning to keep you comfortable throughout your run.
● There are 7 color patterns available.
● The sole is made of tough rubber with sharp lugs for extra grip on wet or soft surfaces.
● The available sizes are size 7 to size 14 wide. Each of the sizes has a wider size for wider feet.
● You can lace it up to maximum comfort.
Conclusion
The product is stylish and rugged. It is a good option for terrains that may be wet and slippery. It can easily be cleaned with a washing machine.
3.HOKA Speedgoat 5
This is a stylish product with an extra sole curve to give you an added bounce.
Features
● It is made with durable synthetic material and the sole is made of rubber.
● It has a removable full-length EVA foam cushion for extra comfort and load absorption. This helps to ease the pain on your feet and the pressure on your muscles and knees.
● The interior is lined with breathable, soft textiles to reduce abrasions on your feet and ankles while wearing it. It also helps to absorb moisture and allow ventilation.
● It has a breathable mesh upper cover for proper ventilation.
● Its outsole is made of durable Vibram Megagrip sole with 5mm stepped rubber lugs for a firmer grip.
● There are three beautiful color patterns available.
● The sizes range from sizes 8.5 – 14 and may have varying prices.
Conclusion
This product is designed to provide maximum comfort with its generous foam padding. It also produces maximum grip and can be used in virtually all terrains including muddy areas, rocky terrains, or icy sections.
4.New Balance Men’s 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe
This product is designed for all-terrain trail running. It is rugged, durable, and made of 100% leather.
Features
● It is made of 100% leather. The material is durable and suitable for all terrains.
● The sole is made of rubber and comes with an outsole designed to provide grip and traction in all kinds of terrains.
● It has the Cush+ midsole cushioning to deliver ultra-soft, all-day comfort.
● It has a leather and meshed upper Comfort Collar that helps to provide ventilation, absorb moisture and ensure a good fit.
● The available sizes range from 7 to 16 X-Wide.
Conclusion
The product is strong, durable, and designed to carry you throughout the day through difficult terrain and still keep your feet comfortable all day.
5.New Balance Men’s 410 V7 Trail Running Shoe
This trail running shoe is stylish and designed to provide comfort during demanding physical activities.
Features
● It is made with mesh synthetic material with breathability.
● The sole has prominent lugs for extra traction.
● It is water resistant and can protect in adverse weather.
● It has a soft midsole to provide extra comfort and support. The interior is designed to keep your feet cool in warm weather.
● It can be laced up to provide the best fit.
● The sizes range from 7.5 to 14 X-Wide.
Conclusion
This product is great for trail running. It keeps you comfortable throughout your run.
6.Skechers Men’s Gorun Altitude Trail Running Shoes
This trail running shoe offers excellent breathability and grip for uneven surfaces.
Features
● It is made of high-quality synthetic material with widespread mesh for high breathability.
● The lugs on the outsole provide extra traction and grip.
● It is a water repellant that helps to keep your feet dry during wet weather or while running across creeks or slightly flooded surfaces.
● It has an air-cooled Goga mat which provides support and bounces to ease the load pressure on your feet, muscles, and knees. It also helps to keep the feet dry by wicking off moisture.
● There are more than 15 available color patterns for the product.
● Available sizes range from sizes 7 to 14 Wide. Each size has an X-Wide and a Wide version.
Conclusion
The Sketcher’s Men’s Gorun Altitude Trail Running Shoes are built for maximum comfort and breathability. It is stylish and versatile.
7.ASICS Men’s Trail Scout 2 Running Shoes
These trail running shoes are built for style, support, and comfort.
Features
● It is made of high-quality, durable polyester material.
● It has an impressive internal heel counter for more support. The EVA midsole provides cushioning to keep you comfortable all day.
● The sole is made of rubber and the outsole is lugged to provide extra grip.
● It can be laced up to give maximum comfort and stability.
● The available color is black with a cherry tomato.
● Sizes available range from sizes 7.5 to 14.
Conclusion
The ASICS Men’s Trail Scout 2 Running Shoes is a stylish trail running shoe that gives you support and confidence during runs.
8.Saucony Men’s Excursion Tr15 Trail Running Shoes
This is a great product with durability and comfort. It is built to last and withstand difficult terrains.
Features
● It is made of tough, durable synthetic material built to withstand wear and tear.
● The sole is made of carbon rubber with grippy lugs for rocks, soft soil, or muddy areas.
● It has the Versarun cushioning packs which gives your feet and joints more comfort and forgiveness.
● It is not water resistant and may not be suitable for wet conditions.
● It can be laced up to provide your best comfort and fit.
● Sizes available range from size 7 to 14 Wide. Each of the sizes has a version for wider feet.
● 7 Colour patterns are available. They include shadow/black, alloy/ space, shadow/royal, etc.
Conclusion
Although consistent use of the Saucony Men’s Excursion Tr15 Trail Running Shoes under wet conditions is not advisable, it more than makes up for it its durability and surefootedness in all terrains.
In summary, these products are great options for a safe run of trails that require a strong grip on the surface, stability of the feet, and support. They also offer protection for your toes and sole.
