I have always had a love/hate relationship with tight-fitting running shoes. For instance, my tightest ever pair of running shoes brought me my fastest 10k time, though the motivation for running so fast may have been getting to the finish line sooner so that I could get my shoes off.
Trail running shoes should not be tight. If trail running shoes are too tight it will affect how your foot lands, leading to sore spots, blisters, and even shin splints. Your feet tend to swell as you run, so too-tight shoes become agony by the end of a long run.
Let’s take a closer look at trail shoe tightness so that you can learn from my mistakes and not be side-lined by a preventable injury like I was.
Should Trail Running Shoes Be Tight?
The direct answer to the question of whether trail running shoes should be tight is — no. Trail running shoes should not be tight. It is very much like the case in other shoes required for other sports or activities. Why?
If your trail running shoes are tight, it will cause many problems as you go along. The tightness can lead to too much friction between your feet and shoes and it could result in blisters or sore spots. Moreover, tight trail running shoes will end up restraining or preventing your feet from functioning well during your run.
To sum it up, trail running shoes that are too tight are uncomfortable, uneasy, impractical, and problematic to wear.
What Is Trail Running?
Trail running is an exciting form of running that mixes running with hiking. It is usually being done on unpaved trails and mountainous grounds. Nowadays, millions of trail runners all over the world get to experience this whole new level of running and the number continues to grow more as trail running allows its runners to immerse in the wonder of nature.
Tight Vs. Snug
Picking the right size of trail running shoes can sometimes be confusing. You would either pick a shoe that fits your feet snugly, tightly, or loosely. But the best trail running shoes is the one that fits your feet snugly and just right.
Tight shoes are annoying to wear. They restrain your feet from actually functioning well. Moreover, wearing tight shoes can definitely cause your feet to get sores and blisters even in just a short distance.
Snug-fitting shoes are the best kind of trail running shoes. They fit your feet just right and will allow your feet to comfortably move while you are running and hiking on the trails. These shoes will provide you the right amount of support, stability, and comfort as you go run and have fun.
Characteristics Of Proper Trail Running Shoes
Trail running shoes are different from ordinary road running shoes. Here are some of the characteristics of trail running shoes:
- Trail running shoes are usually heavier than road running shoes, which are lightweight and meant for speed and responsiveness.
- These shoes provide better stability and traction to better grip on uneven grounds.
- It has sturdy outsoles with huge lug patterns.
- Even though its profile is low, it has very protective upperparts.
- It is usually made of water-resistant or quick-drying materials.
Tips In Choosing The Best Trail Running Shoes For You
1) Determine your running style or technique. Once you do, you will be able to choose the best type of trail running shoes for you.
2) Fit the shoes before buying them. Make sure that the trail running shoes that you are going to buy fit your feet snugly and just right. If not, your feet will either be uncomfortable or constricted from functioning well while you are trail running.
3) Research different brands. Some brands create thick, heavy trail running shoes that provide great support while some brands offer minimalist, lightweight trail running shoes that provide great comfort. Choose which among these brands is best for you.
