Trail running shoes
The special sport of trail running calls for special shoes from Merrell, Grisport or Teva. While trail running you move across various types of terrain, and routes sometimes even lead through water. Trail running shoes therefore have many different features, such as a waterproof construction and an outsole that offers plenty of grip.
What are trail shoes?
The special sport of trail running naturally calls for special shoes: trail shoes! While trail running you move across various types of terrain, and trail routes sometimes even lead through water. It's therefore not so surprising that trail shoes come with many different features; for example, many trail shoes are waterproof, fitted with sturdy midsoles, and have an outsole that offers plenty of grip. Did you know, by the way, that you can often tell from the sole what kind of terrain a trail shoe suits? A sole with large, widely spaced studs, for example, is very suitable for soft and/or wet surfaces. Planning to go trail running in the mountains instead? Then it's better to choose a trail shoe with many small studs placed close together.
Difference between trail shoes and hiking shoes
Regular hiking shoes are of course mainly designed for walking on various surfaces, with lots of attention paid to the right cushioning and sufficient grip. For trail shoes good grip matters too, as you're running over dirt, sand, clay, pebbles and other unpaved terrain. Always wear trail shoes rather than regular hiking shoes when trail running; trail shoes are specifically made for this, and choosing hiking shoes instead can lead to unpleasant injuries.
Why wear trail shoes?
Unlike hiking shoes, trail shoes don't need to offer as much cushioning. While trail running you're of course mainly running on unpaved paths, meaning the impact your muscles and joints take has noticeably less effect. However, your route is sometimes very unpredictable, your run might take you over slippery surfaces, and then it's of course very important to have plenty of grip. Trail shoes often have a very coarse tread on the sole, meaning you won't slip quickly! At Plutosport.nl you'll find plenty of trail shoes for both women and men.
Conversely, it's also not advisable to wear your trail shoes for hiking. As you now know, trail shoes have quite different features than hiking shoes, meaning you'll miss essential support. There's also a good chance the tread of your trail shoes will wear out if you walk on paved roads.
What size trail shoes do I need?
Before ordering your new trail shoes, it's of course wise to determine what size you need. For all trail shoes you'll find a size chart where you can find a matching size based on the length of your feet. Each brand has different sizing, so really take a moment to measure your feet to determine the right size!