There was a time in my life when most of the running I did was on the road. As a result, I didn’t have a dedicated pair of trail running shoes. One particular day I was coming down a trail and had my right foot slip out from under me on a corner. Luckily there was a prickly bush to catch my fall and I didn’t land on any rocks.
Trail running shoes have the grip to deal with rocks, loose sand, mud, snow, etc, and make a big difference to prevent your feet from slipping. Trail running shoes also have better protection for your toes than road shoes do, in case you stub a toe against a rock whilst running.
Let’s study the ways that trail running shoes will make a positive difference to your trail running.
Do Trail Running Shoes Make A Difference?
Every sport or activity has different demands and requirements, especially in the proper equipment, tools, and footwear required. There are proper shoes for playing basketball, football, golf, and other sports. Moreover, there are proper shoes for cycling and running as well.
If you are into trail running, then you should not wear ordinary running shoes that are used on flat surface roads. Trail running shoes make a difference because it provides more support and more traction which are much needed when you run on trails.
What Is Trail Running?
Trail running is unlike the usual running on flat surface roads. This form of running involves running and hiking on unpaved grounds and mountain trails and it allows the runners to immerse themselves in nature and wilderness.
Since there are lots of beautiful nature trails found in almost every part of the world, trail running races or events have always been conducted all year round in different countries and states. Trail runners are required to bring proper safety equipment and to wear the proper outfit and shoes in order to run securely and successfully.
How Are Trail Running Shoes Different From Other Shoes?
Shoes that are made for flat surface road running are generally light in weight. Moreover, the treads on these shoes are usually thin. Why is it? It is because road running shoes are meant for responsiveness and speed. Traction is also not that needed because the ground being run on is flat.
Now, trail running shoes are very different from road running shoes. Here are some of its differences:
- Trail running shoes are usually heavier but some brands make minimalist trail running shoes.
- These shoes are designed to provide more support to the runner’s feet and lower limbs.
- Trail running shoes aim to protect the runner’s feet on rugged trails and terrains.
- The treads on these shoes are thicker and more defined in order to provide more traction on uneven grounds.
Why Do You Need To Wear The Proper Trail Running Shoes?
1) Lesser risk of injuries
Not wearing the proper trail running shoes when you go on trail running will expose you to more risks of injuries. Road running shoes tend to be slippery on trails and wearing them instead of trail running shoes could hurt your feet, lower limbs, and your entire body as well. If you wear proper trail running shoes, you can be assured that you will face lesser chances of injuries.
2) More support and comfort
Trail running shoes are made to provide ample support and comfort even when you run on uneven trails and rugged terrain. Trail running can be very challenging and wearing the proper footwear for such sport or activity can add to your confidence that you can finish what you started.
Tips In Taking Care Of Your Trail Running Shoes
1) If you regularly run on trails or join trail running events, it would be best to own many trail running shoes which you can use on a rotating schedule. This is to prolong the life of your trail running shoes.
2) Do not wash them in the washing machine. This will deteriorate the life and quality of your trail running shoes. It is best to always follow the instructions when washing your trail running shoes. Here is the post that I wrote about how to clean your trail running shoes.
3) Do not let them sit dirty. After your trail run, make sure to remove any debris caught on your shoes. Remove the dirt and if it is too dirty, wash the shoes properly.