Trail running means running surrounded by nature . We often try to oppose trail running to road running, but they are actually two disciplines that are very close to each other. Obviously – the field where the discipline is practiced is different, but the basic principle remains unchanged: put one foot in front of the other! The diversity of the surface obviously implies different needs. Let’s start by talking about the shoes trail running shoes for women.
What criteria should I adopt to choose my trail shoes?
Trail running requires shoes designed for uneven surfaces. Given the vastness of the current offer, getting lost is very easy. Don’t panic! Just ask yourself the right questions:
- What use will I make of my shoes?
- When we talk about use we mean:
- What kind of surface will I encounter?
- What are my goals?
- Over what distances?
On mostly soft or muddy pitches, opt for aggressive grip . The sole will be equipped with a tessellation that is both deep and spaced to facilitate the escape of the mud. An excellent tightness of the instep will help you to cope with any unexpected … and any situation of instability!
On difficult and pebbly surfaces , it will be necessary to have a rigid midsole capable of giving greater stability . The upper part of the shoe will be particularly reinforced to protect your feet from stones.
Does your race take place on varied and ever-changing surfaces? Do most of the supports take place on surfaces in good condition ? Opt for light and versatile shoes . An intermediate tread pattern, up to 4mm, will provide the necessary adhesion to most surfaces. They will allow to maintain a good yield. The soles with a limited thickness will give lightness and stability (less deformation of the lugs and feet closer to the ground). Finally, soft shoes will facilitate the succession of steps in the fastest parts.
The grip on trail running shoes
With a sole equipped with integrated lugs, you will immediately have the opportunity to approach powder, pebbles and snow without encountering any difficulty. The knobs ensure better grip on muddy terrain , that’s true. However, the tessellation will also be adequate on dry or sandy soils. They will offer better stability as well as – at the same time – a higher level of effectiveness. Many trail shoes have a multi-purpose sole. They allow you to run in all conditions.
Trail shoes are reinforced. The protections under the foot will attenuate the contact with the sharp edges and with the tips. On the upper part of the shoe the reinforced toe will protect the toes and the instep from bumps or scratches.
In this way, trail shoes resist over time despite having to deal with sometimes aggressive surfaces.