Running on rough terrain is significantly different from running on paved paths. On the way of the athlete every now and then there are obstacles in the form of bumps, pebbles, ups and downs.
Therefore, you should choose specialized shoes for this route, namely trail running shoes that can protect runners from injury.
Features of the trail running shoe
Off-road running shoes have a number of differences from other running shoes:
- weight - can range from 220 grams to 320 grams, depending on the functions of the sneakers;
- thick but flexible outsole - due to uneven terrain, the outsole is significantly thicker for additional protection of the feet and premature wear, while allowing the foot to flex freely;
- deep tread - enhances traction on uneven or wet terrain;
- additional sole - provides foot cushioning;
- strong material and "skeleton" of the upper - protects the foot from shocks, water, dirt, stones or sand inside the shoe, thanks to the fabric, durable plates or an additional tongue;
- coverage - tight and soft protection of the ankle from dislocation and rubbing;
- special lacing - made of dense long-lasting material, there may also be a lacing pocket;
- breathability - allows the foot to breathe, preventing the "greenhouse" effect.
Sneaker material, sole
The covering fabric of the rough terrain running shoe is different:
- genuine leather is a long-lasting and flexible, but poorly breathable material. Suitable for off-season workouts;
- artificial leather - stronger than natural, but less flexible;
- mesh cover - lightweight summer version. Durable, provides ventilation and protection from small pebbles, sand, etc. found on the ground;
- Gore-Tex membrane coating is a moisture-repellent or water-resistant coating that allows excess moisture to evaporate inside the shoe. Winter option.
Trail running shoe outsole - multi-layered:
- Upper - Provides traction and protection for the foot. Material - a combination of natural, synthetic rubber and duralon - porous artificial rubber;
- the middle part is responsible for depreciation. Material - springy and porous, softening contact with a hard surface;
- lower part, insole - dense foam rubber material for better cushioning or a porous material that follows the individual anatomical shape of the foot.
How to choose trail running shoes - tips
When looking for shoes for trail running, you shouldn't be looking at looks. The main criteria are the comfort and protection of the foot from injury and damage.
Some useful tips when buying:
- Fitting and size selection. Mandatory item. Shoes should be measured in training socks. Sneakers should not dangle, even when not laced up, or squeeze the leg, while there should be a margin of 3 mm between the longest toe and the fabric, 1.5 mm wide on each side. It is advisable to run directly in the store.
- Comfort. The top and last should conform to the shape of the foot and not constrain movement or chafe
- Sole. The material should be tight, but bend easily. To do this, you can bend the shoes with your hands or stand on your toes - the bend of the shoe should follow the bend of the foot. In addition, the sole must be free of glue marks.
- Tread pattern. Depends on the choice of location. Sand, soft earth, clay or mud - the pattern is large, aggressive with protruding elements. On snowy or icy areas, studs are a must for better grip.
- Lacing. Among the proposed shurovka options, you should choose the most convenient one with the possibility of quick repair on the track.
- Weather. For a warm period, preference should be given to a breathable mesh material. In the cold season, a membrane coating is suitable.
- Toe and heel protection. The heel and toe must be rigid to protect against unexpected snags on the track. At the same time, the sock, when pressed on it, should be slightly pliable, but soft inside. The heel should fit snugly around the heel.
- The use of sneakers. For competition, you need to choose a model for professional runners. It is equipped with great functions and costs many times more. For regular workouts, a simplified version is suitable at a lower cost.
The best trail running shoes and their prices
Terrex Agravic GTX Аdidas
- for women and men;
- for short distances over rough terrain;
- aggressive 7 mm tread made of Continental rubber;
- rigid block;
- PU-reinforced bottom, heel and toe;
- shock-absorbing foam layer boots;
- waterproof membrane lining Gore-Tex;
- material - high density breathable nylon.
The cost is 13990 rubles.
Salomon S-LAB Sense
- unisex;
- light weight 220 g;
- non-aggressive tread, but at the same time precise grip on the terrain;
- thermopolyurethane toe cap;
- breathable 3D Air Mesh;
- tight, but not restricting movement, fixation;
- the presence of a sewn-in tongue for a comfortable fit.
Cost 12,990 rubles.
Asics Gel-Fuji Trabuco 4
- for men and women;
- for long distances;
- Asics Gel in the heel and forefoot for maximum cushioning;
- additional protective midsole plate protection plate;
- exoskeletal heel for fixation;
- membrane lining Gore-Tex;
- lace pocket.
Price RUB 8490
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor
- for men and women;
- for long distances;
- aggressive tread made of Frixion XF with IBS rubber;
- rubberized hard toe;
- membrane lining Gore-Tex (there is a model without it);
- cover - breathable protective mesh;
- a stabilizing insert on the inner sole.
Price RUB 14,990
Haglfs Gram AM II GT
- for men and women;
- for different distances;
- wide shoe;
- stiff heel protection;
- membrane lining Gore-Tex;
- protective coating against dirt, water, sand and stones;
- drawstring pocket
Cost 11,990 rubles.
How do i care for my sneakers?
To make your trail running shoes last for many years, follow these simple but essential care guidelines:
- it is necessary to wash after each run, without waiting for the dirt to dry, otherwise the upper material may be damaged. To do this, it is enough to use warm, but not hot water, soapy water and a soft cloth so as not to damage the surface or sole;
- in the presence of leather inserts, it is recommended to treat them weekly with skin care products;
- washing in a washing machine is prohibited. Heavy impacts on the drum spoil the material, the water-repellent lining and shock absorption;
- drying near radiators or heaters is prohibited. You can use specialized shoe dryers;
- Rough terrain running shoes should only be used for their intended purpose. Daily wear on asphalt paths will negate the tread pattern.
Owner reviews
I have run over 100 km in these shoes and decided to share my impressions. Despite the full compliance with the functions declared by the seller, initially I categorically did not like the product.
The shoes turned out to be heavy and slipped on wet stones. However, after the first trail I changed my impression. They proved to be very stable in the mountains, on snow and grass, keeping them from drifts. I recommend this shoe to all runners, including beginners.
Dmitry about Terrex Agravic GTX Аdidas
I have been using them regularly since 2012.The model is a real find, albeit an expensive one. The cushioning is low, but the shoe is very lightweight. Water resistance is excellent. Tight fit on the leg. The outsole is thin compared to other models, but for me this is another plus.
The grip on the stones is strong. Despite all the advantages, I also found a minus - because of the non-aggressive protectors, the grip on wet grass, slippery mud and wet snow is zero. Therefore, I use different footwear for such slopes.
Valery about Salomon S-LAB Sense
I got acquainted with the Asics Gel-Fuji Trabuco 4 sneakers on a test drive. Our team ran in a park area with many ditches, streams, bridges and slides. Besides, all this was covered with barely fallen snow. The sneakers turned out to be incredibly comfortable, running in them was comfortable, and all the ups and downs were easy.
A couple of times I ran through the liquid mud, but my feet remained dry. The sole also withstood the collision with hemp from the cut bushes, protecting the feet. Thanks to the helium insert, the legs did not feel stiff even after running 8 km. The day after the test, without hesitation, I bought myself these wonderful sneakers, which I advise you.
Alexey about Asics Gel-Fuji Trabuco 4
I've been running for a long time, but I used to use regular sneakers, after which knee problems started. Having decided to buy professional shoes, I opted for Asics. Thanks to the cushioning, the pain went away and the running became much more comfortable. Of the minuses - a high price, not sold everywhere, a meager color range. Of the advantages - waterproof, strong, soft, with a tight fit on the leg.
Svetlana about Asics Gel-Fuji Trabuco 4
The model seemed to me massive, reliable with an aggressive tread. Having run in them all winter, I was satisfied. I used a version without a membrane. The sole is dense, the toe and sides are protected by dense inserts. I'm going to test them on rocky mountain trails soon. I advise the sneakers to everyone - they turned out to be comfortable, high quality and suitable for long distances.
Anna on La Sportiva Ultra Raptor
When purchasing trail running shoes, you should focus on foot comfort and protection from injury. Before buying, you should carefully choose a model that is suitable in all respects, trying on and testing it. Do not forget about the rules of operation, which will increase the service life of the sneakers.
