I have developed a habit of trying to get every last mile that I can out of my running shoes, both on the road and trail running. I have one pair of trail shoes that I still wear on some of my short runs, not risking them too far from the trailhead in case they completely fall apart. But how long do trail running shoes last for “normal” runners who don’t test shoe limits as much as I do?
Good quality trail running shoes last between 300 and 500 miles. That variation is based on the abrasiveness of trail surfaces as well as heat and how often the shoes get wet. In exceptional circumstances, trail running shoes can last as long as 800 to 1000 miles.
Let’s study those factors in greater detail so that you can get the maximum life from your trail running shoes.
How Long Do Trail Running Shoes Last?
Just like other shoes, trail running shoes are tough but they are not built to last forever. Since trail running is twice more challenging than flat surface road running, it could cause trail running shoes to be worn out a bit sooner.
However, trail running shoes are specialized shoes meant for trail running, which sometimes involves mountain running or fell running. Therefore, these shoes are designed to be durable, adaptable, supportive, versatile, and comfortable.
So, how long do these shoes last? An excellent pair of trail running shoes could last for 480 to 800 kilometers or 300 to 500 miles of total running distance. But of course, this varies per trail runner as there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration when determining the life span of trail running shoes.
What Is Trail Running?
Unlike flat surface road running, trail running is the form of running that combines hiking and running on trails and unpaved grounds. This form of sport usually lets runners immerse themselves in different settings of nature and environment.
Moreover, trail running is twice as hard and more challenging than the usual running on flat roads. Therefore, a lot of runners and athletes around the world are taking interest in this fun and exciting activity.
Today, thousands of trail running races have been conducted worldwide and these events continue to be organized and implemented annually or regularly in order to further develop and promote the sport and to allow more runners to join and experience this activity.
What Are The Factors Affecting Trail Running Shoes’ Life Span?
There are factors that need to be considered when determining the life span of trail running shoes. These include the following:
- Quality – Some brands of trail running shoes are just more durable than others. It is, therefore, necessary for trail runners to identify these brands so they can spend their money more wisely.
- Terrain – Trail running shoes would tend to wear out faster when they are frequently run on rougher terrain.
- Runner’s weight – The logic is rather simple, if the runner is heavier, he/she will put on more weight on the trail running shoes, causing the shoes to receive more stress.
- Acceleration – If the runner tends to run in a more accelerated manner, this will add more stress to the shoes.
- Running technique – Trail running shoes tend to wear out unevenly with different running techniques like supinating, pronating, toe-strike, or heel-strike.
The Characteristics Of Worn Out Trail Running Shoes
Are you wondering if your trail running shoes are still fit for your usual trail runs? Here are some of the signs that your trail running shoes need to retire from the sport:
- Worn soles that portray excessive wear and have bald patches
- Uneven wear due to damages and running technique of the trail runner
- The shoes will feel flat as the foam loses the ability to rebound
- The trail runner will be likely to experience nagging pains and aches since the shoes do not provide the proper support and comfort needed
So it seems that my recent strategy of wearing shoes until they are completely worn-through and I can poke a finger through the hole is a bit excessive.
Tip In Taking Care Of Trail Running Shoes
- 1) Use your trail running shoes only for trail running. Don’t use it for other purposes.
- 2) When wearing them or taking them off, always untie and tie the laces.
- 3) Do not clean your trail running shoes in the washing machine or dryer. See my post on how to clean your trail running shoes.
- 4) It would be best to have multiple pairs and have a rotational schedule when using them.