What is the difference between running on a road and running over rough ground? Not a lot you might think these days considering the potholes created by last year's bad weather, but for a runner, the difference can mean injury prevention. Running on uneven ground such as trails, tracks and fells requires an investment in specifically designed shoes.
Wearing the wrong shoes, that are not designed for uneven ground, is inviting a greater risk of injury to yourself and possibly others, if you run in a group. So what is the right shoe? Obviously ones that can cope with hard impacts is essential, but they also should be light and airy i.e. weight is an important aspect. They should also be close fitting to stop your feet moving around within them. They should also have a low profile from heel to forefoot to increase your stability.
The above are design aspects to look for but first you need to decide whether your new shoes are going to be for just running on uneven surfaces or you will also be on roads for part of your run. If you are only running on fells etc., then you could invest in a shoe designed specifically for uneven surfaces. A good company to check out is INOV-8. The use all the latest technology to produce fantastic shoes for trails running. They also have a couple of new designs that combine trail and road running.
If you intend to combine trails running with road running, then make sure that the shoes you buy are suitable for both. Many road running shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort for the wearer by providing cushioning, however do remember that cushioning is less important in a trails shoe than grip and stability.
The design of the shoe should maximise grip and stability. The upper should be durable and have close fitting lacing, although don't comprise too much on toe space. The sole should have deep lug
The above are design aspects to look for but first you need to decide whether your new shoes are going to be for just running on uneven surfaces or you will also be on roads for part of your run. If you are only running on fells etc., then you could invest in a shoe designed specifically for uneven surfaces. A good company to check out is INOV-8. The use all the latest technology to produce fantastic shoes for trails running. They also have a couple of new designs that combine trail and road running.
If you intend to combine trails running with road running, then make sure that the shoes you buy are suitable for both. Many road running shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort for the wearer by providing cushioning, however do remember that cushioning is less important in a trails shoe than grip and stability.
The design of the shoe should maximise grip and stability. The upper should be durable and have close fitting lacing, although don't comprise too much on toe space. The sole should have deep lug
If you intend to combine trails running with road running, then make sure that the shoes you buy are suitable for both. Many road running shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort for the wearer by providing cushioning, however do remember that cushioning is less important in a trails shoe than grip and stability.
The design of the shoe should maximise grip and stability. The upper should be durable and have close fitting lacing, although don't comprise too much on toe space. The sole should have deep lugs. Another aspect to consider is do you need a waterproof lining or fabric such as GORE-TEX? If you are undecided between several similar shoes, consider the value you place on design and functionality, grip, comfort, weight, cost and weather protection. I would recommend comfort in preference to saving a few ounces in weight. It is a good idea to try before you buy and if possible don't forget to check out your local running shop for some good advice!
The design of the shoe should maximise grip and stability. The upper should be durable and have close fitting lacing, although don't comprise too much on toe space. The sole should have deep lugs. Another aspect to consider is do you need a waterproof lining or fabric such as GORE-TEX? If you are undecided between several similar shoes, consider the value you place on design and functionality, grip, comfort, weight, cost and weather protection. I would recommend comfort in preference to saving a few ounces in weight. It is a good idea to try before you buy and if possible don't forget to check out your local running shop for some good advice!