What is trail running?

Running off the beaten path, through nature and on unpaved terrain. That is trail running. An experience that is different from running on asphalt. If you are going to run in the forest, on sand or in the mountains, trail running shoes are a must-have. In these environments, trail running shoes provide the grip and comfort that regular running shoes cannot offer you.

Table of Contents

• What makes a shoe a trail running shoe?
• Trail running shoes on asphalt
• Trail running shoes as walking shoes

What makes a shoe a trail running shoe?

The difference between a trail running shoe and a road running shoe is related to the different surfaces you run on. Trail running is mainly done on softer surfaces such as mud and sand, but also on uneven terrain such as hills and mountains. Road running mainly happens on asphalt or other paved surfaces. The trail running shoe differs from a road running shoe in the following ways:

More grip: it will not surprise you that the sole of a trail running shoe must provide more grip than that of a road running shoe. After all, the surface you run on is less even and smooth than paved surfaces. Trail running shoes, therefore, almost always have lugs. Lugs that are close together and shallower are suitable for dry and firmer surfaces. On softer and more slippery surfaces, deep lugs that are further apart are a better choice.

Less cushioning: because of the generally softer surface, trail running shoes generally offer less cushioning than road running shoes.

Less support: road running shoes and walking shoes often offer a lot of support and stabilization. In trail running shoes, you will hardly find that same support, as it has less added value. After all, the surface in trail running is often uneven, which means your feet are not in a flat position.

More protection: while trail running, you more often encounter small obstacles. Think of tree roots or sharp stones. A rock plate in the midsole and/or a reinforced toe cap offer a solution here. Also, the upper of the shoe is often made of more durable materials to provide protection against water, sand, and mud.

More snug fit: due to the more uneven terrain you find yourself in as a trail runner, your feet will shift more easily in your shoe. This reduces your reaction time and increases the risk of blisters. To prevent this, trail running shoes have a more snug fit.

Are trail running shoes also suitable for asphalt?

The answer to this is: not really. Trail running shoes are not made to be used on asphalt. This does not mean that you are not allowed to walk or run on asphalt with trail running shoes. However, by using trail running shoes (especially models designed for forest paths) on paved surfaces such as asphalt, the sole of the shoe wears down very quickly. As a result, you will have to buy new trail running shoes more often. Trail running shoes are truly made for uneven surfaces.

Are trail running shoes also suitable to use as hiking shoes?

Trail running shoes are not intended to be used as hiking shoes. Yet, trail running shoes are increasingly used for hiking. This is because the shoe is lighter, offers more grip, and often has a trendier design than the hiking shoe. If you walk in trail running shoes, the soles wear out quickly, on both paved and unpaved surfaces. When hiking, you roll from heel to toe, and the sole of trail running shoes is not built for that. Trail running shoes also do not offer the same support as hiking shoes. For some people, this can lead to instability and strain. So, while it is not ideal to use the trail running shoe as a hiking shoe, it is certainly possible.

Hopefully, this blog has helped explain exactly what trail running is. It is a truly fun activity for those who love running and nature. Do you recognize yourself in this and would you like to start? Then read our blog where we discuss how to find the best trail running shoes for you.