By definition, trail running is a running exercise that takes place on outdoor trails and mountainous terrains. It differs from road running as participants take on more challenging surfaces. As such, trail running shoes must be sturdy enough and equipped with features for that environment. But what is the anatomy of a good trail running shoe? Read on to find out!
Cushioning
Cushioning is an important feature when it comes to running shoes. It is even more important in trail running as the activity involves a high intensity. The role of cushioning is to offer relief to your body by minimising the impact generated when your feet hit the ground. Simply put, it is the shoe’s capacity to absorb the impact.
When running on rough terrains, your feet need impact absorption within the first 50 milliseconds. Failure to do this may cause injuries such as ankle sprains. Most trail running shoes are over-cushioned to provide adequate support and reduce the degree of adaptation during your exercise. Better cushioning means maximum comfort for you as a trail runner.
Heel Drop
Commonly referred to as drop, the heel drop compares the amount of cushioning under your heels and the cushioning under your toes. This measurement focuses on the difference in the thicknesses and how comfortable your feet are when running.
A trail running shoe with a lower drop fosters a forefoot and mid-foot strike. This increases the stress on your ankles and lower legs every time your feet hit the ground. On the other hand, a higher drop encourages a rear-foot strike. With a higher-drop shoe, you shift the stress to the knees and hips, which is safer for you.
With the many types of trail running shoes in the market, it is natural to get confused in your selection. Your ideal drop will depend on your gait and the part that hits the ground first. For instance, runners who touch the ground heel first (over 90% of people) work best with a higher heel drop of 6 to 12mm. If you are in the 10% who hit the ground with the forefoot, you may need to consider a trail running shoe with a lower drop.
Traction and Grip
These two features are closely related. Traction refers to the force that prevents the shoe from sliding across surfaces. If the shoe has high traction, it means that it has a great grip, and the runner won’t keep slipping.
To know the traction and grip of your running shoes, you need to check the tread pattern. If the tread patterns are small, it implies that they have powerful slip resistance and, thus, adequate grip. On the other hand, if the treat pattern is huge or missing, the shoes will not offer much traction, and you will not have a strong grip on the ground.
When shopping for trail running shoes in stores such as Runners Need, you can easily check for these features. Most of the shoes on the platform are non-slip rubber and have a pattern on the outsole. They grip well and provide you with enough traction for your activities.
Midsole
The shoe’s midsole is another feature that determines your comfort when running. It is located just above the outsole and comprises a layer of foam connecting the upper to the outsole. It is responsible for cushioning.
With technological advancements, manufacturers use rocker technology to design a curved midsole. It is more adaptable to your feet and will be perfect when running downhill. Even better, the shoes have integrated carbon plates in the midsoles for enhanced comfort.
Shoe Weight
How heavy should your shoes be? Among all the aspects affecting a trail runner’s performance, the weight of their shoes ranks top. In recent studies, runners with lighter shoes were faster than those with heavier shoes.
However, trail running doesn’t involve high speed as it is not a competition. For this reason, these shoes are often heavier due to the added cushioning and support for your feet. The construction technology used in the shoes makes them sturdier, more durable (with weatherproofing abilities), and comfortable for you while trail running.
Fit
While it is not exactly a feature, trail runners must ensure that the shoes fit adequately. The shoe’s anatomy is made for heavy terrains, but it shouldn’t be difficult or uncomfortable to wear. As you shop on Runners Need for your next pair, you must fit and focus on how the shoe feels on your feet. Podiatrists recommend that you fit them in the late afternoon as they expand.
Conclusion
The anatomy of the trail running shoes is significantly different from the regular running shoes or sneakers. Whether you want to purchase a new pair of shoes or upgrade them, you must consider all the features discussed above. Besides the aesthetics, getting the right pair of trail running shoes will positively impact your experience. Visit Runners Need and get your perfect fit!