Record entries for the London Marathon and the boom in run clubs show our collective interest in running is reaching a fever pitch – and it’s no surprise really.
Running is the most accessible sport that you can do, you simply need a pair of trainers and you can begin pounding the pavements. But for many, the idea of zipping through the streets of the capital just doesn’t have appeal. Whether it’s on account of the pollution, the people or the lack of scenic views, the motivation to lace up our sneaks can be seriously lacking.
Throw in the possibility of exploring alternative terrain and spending time in the great outdoors, however, and it might just pique the interest of any reluctant runner. This is no doubt why searches for ‘How to get into trail running’ have increased by 75 per cent in the last year on Google with a boost of 57 per cent in finding the ‘best running trails near me’.
But the trail calls for a different kind of kicks. We consulted Henriette Albon, Arc'teryx Trail Running Athlete and Ladies Winter Record Holder for The Bob Graham Round, to find out what to look for.
What are trail running shoes?
“Trail running shoes are essentially specialist running shoes that will help you stay on your feet when you venture off the beaten path”, Albon explains. “The most noticeable feature compared to your everyday road shoe is the bottom of the shoe. There you will find so-called lugs which are often required to tackle unpredictable terrain. Much like treads on a tyre, deeper lugs translate into better grip”.
What should you look for in a trail running shoe?
According to the trail running athlete, “There’s a myriad of trail shoes out there to suit different types of terrain. Just imagine the difference in underfoot conditions between a wet, muddy run in Epping Forest versus going up Snowdon on a sunny day. For that reason, you need to know roughly what type of trail you’ll be (most regularly) running on in order to find an outsole that’s up for the task”.
She continues, “If you do a lot of running in mucky conditions, opt for a trail shoe with deep lugs and good traction. For a rockier trail, you’re better off with shallower lugs and a grippy outsole like Vibram as this will translate into more stability.
“In my opinion, you’ll also want a trail shoe with some level of cushioning and support to avoid hurt feet being the limiting factor on your outings. Every runner is different though, and much like with road shoes, there’s a wide range of trail shoes out there with different fits and levels of cushioning”.
Can I use trail running shoes on the road for road running?
“On hard-packed, dry trails a stable road shoe will work just fine”, Albon reveals. But she adds, “A single patch of slippery mud can send you flying through the air though, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. A good option if you find yourself regularly running routes involving both road and trail is to get a trail shoe for mixed terrain such as the Arc’teryx Sylan. This type of trail shoe works really well on both pavement and runnable trails and is my preferred choice when venturing outdoors”.
Are trail running shoes good for hiking?
“I often find myself using trail running shoes when I go for a hike, as they’re lighter than a hiking boot”, says Albon. “If you’re looking for ample ankle stability and some level of protection from the elements, a specialist hiking shoe is probably a better option for most people though”.
How to clean trail running shoes
“If you’ve encountered a fair amount of wet mud on your trail run, you might find your shoes lathered in it when you’re done”, she begins. “If you live in the countryside, cleaning your shoes can be as simple as standing in a river for a couple of seconds after your run. I wouldn’t advise this if you’re based in a city like London though. In that case a garden hose or a sink/shower/ bathtub is likely a better option. Don’t worry about scrubbing your shoes with a toothbrush, just give them a quick rinse before standing them up to drain and dry. Simple, quick and easy”.
Shop the best trail running shoes for remote landscapes below
Merrell Agility Peak 5 Women's Trail Running Shoes
The Merrell Agility Peak 5s were put through their paces on a multi-day run. This took place over four days in which 69km was covered on uneven terrain and during 30°C heat, yet there was not a blister in sight nor pain or rubbing – a testament to the quality of this shoe.
While the shoes have a stacked sole, they remain relatively lightweight on the feet (they weigh less than 300g). Vibram MegaGrip enhances this to keep you steady and your precious feet protected when obstacles arise. The mesh upper is breathable and promises impressive ventilation, while the abrasion-resistant toe cap is on hand to ensure their durability.
Buy now £125.99, Sports Shoes
New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v6
As you move through wet to dry and concrete to rocky terrain, you need a high-performance trail shoe that’s up for the task - New Balance’s DynaSoft Nitrel v6 is that trainer. While minimal in design details, setting a black and white design with pops of pink, the model more than makes up for it with its responsive nature.
Comfortable from the first wear, the DynaSoft Nitrel v6s are kitted out with their own midsole and EVA foam insets with no overlays to prevent rubbing. The outside is an AT Tread for off-road grip and stability but you could easily wear them every day or for casual walking with their sophisticated look. Cue the compliments.
Buy now £90.00, New Balance
Arc'teryx Sylan
Created with the expertise of trail running athletes, the Sylan shoe is courtesy of Arc'teryx, a brand that sits in the heart of the Venn diagram of fashion and functionality. Earning the seal of approval from the street style set as well as trail fanatics, the label has prioritised performance with the very chic shoe.
As such, the upper has ventilation for a comfortable, breathable ride as well as reinforced protection so they stand the test of time through mountain sprints or rocky long-distance runs. The rocker midsole propels you forward, while the foam cushions the impact of each step with rebound. The sole is made up of a Vibram Megagrip to provide traction no matter how slippery or stony nature the ground is.
Buy now £180.00, Arc'teryx
Vivobarefoot The Primus Trail 3.5
The all-terrain nature of Vivobarefoot’s The Primus Trail 3.5 means they’re ready for action. The lightweight silhouette is flexible for speed on uneven footing but is durable enough that, when rocks or rocky ground is underfoot, they will see you through.
The shoes are made from recycled and recyclable materials with the upper composed of 93 per cent recycled polyester. Slimline in aesthetic, the outsole offers grip and durability through the minimal 3mm base and 2.5mm lug height, while the textured arch is made for dynamic movements. These are the waterproof iterations for all-season exploits.
Buy now £140.00, Vivobarefoot
Altra Experience Wild
Part of the Altra Experience collection that includes an everyday and road-running silhouette, Wild is the trail shoe that boasts the Utah-born running brand’s signature roomy toe box to encourage toe-spreading stability and natural movement - something you’ll spot across the range.
With performance considered in every aspect of the design, you will first notice just how lightweight the shoe feels as you race through dirt. Steep climbs and elevated mileage is where these sneakers shine thanks to the compression-moulded midsole foam and trademarked MaxTrac outsole that provides traction with every step. The low drop and rocker shape enhances the toe-off.
Buy now £129.99, Sports Shoes
Lululemon Beyondfeel Trail
When creating the footwear arm of its covetable athleisure collection, Lululemon paid close attention to fit and feel by analysing the specific differences between the foot shape and body movement between men and women. The Canadian label began with specialised silhouettes for women and has now expanded to men too as well as unveiling a trail silhouette.
The versatile Beyondfeel Trail can be worn from road to rocky terrain, supporting the feet with a lugged outsole and supportive upper, while remaining breathable. The shoe is fitted with directional traction and the same supercritical foam midsole of its designated road trainer for cushioning and speed.
Buy now £158.00, Lululemon
ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 12
The GEL-TRABUCO 12 is the eagerly anticipated successor to the lauded 11 silhouette and ASICS has retained the crucial elements that earned the shoe its high praise, while demonstrating its commitment to the Japanese practice of ‘Kaizen’, meaning continuous improvement. These include more cushioning and stability at the trademarked FF Blast midsole and 3D Space Construction and protective elements at the upper.
The outsole is kitted out with the brand’s ASICSGRIP technology and adds a forefoot rock plate and toe reinforcements to withstand the harshest of debris-lined terrain. The shoe is also temperature regulating, keeping the wearer cool as the mileage increases or the temperature elevates.
Buy now £140.00, ASICS
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
Everyone knows a Nike head, and if it’s your go-to brand then the Pegasus Trail 4 has to be your Gore-Tex trainer of choice. As well as a sleek silver and black design, and statement trail symbol they’ve got all the practical features you’d want from a trail runner. Waterproof Gore-Tex will keep out wet weather with the higher ankle gaiter giving extra dry coverage.
Buy now £144.99, Nike
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Stacked cushion soles are a signature of Hoka’s and that makes them ideal for long-distance road running with the pressure that the hard ground can put on your joints. But what about the trail? Well, there are advantages for that terrain too, especially floors dotted with stones and debris.
The Speedgoat 6 gives you freedom of movement on uneven footing as the label’s characteristic foam is layered with what it refers to as ‘aggressive traction’. It pairs this with an internal support chassis that secures the foot in place. The upper is constructed from a breathable woven textile that is lightweight and offers ventilation as you push harder to achieve your running goals.
Buy now £140.00, Hoka
Salomon SUPERCROSS 4 GORE-TEX
Leading the gorpcore revolution, Salomon’s signature shoes are now spotted as ubiquitously on the streets of London as they are on the trails. But don’t for one minute have them confused as solely a fashion silhouette.
The shoes, in particular, the Supercross 4 were designed with advanced features to optimise your runs first and foremost. You only need to look to the sole for evidence. The base of the trainer is complete with lugs and grooves that give you enhanced grip even through mud, taking its inspiration from tyres in their tough and waterproof nature. The Sensifit construction replaces laces but locks feet in place with a surprising level of hold.
Buy now £140.00, Salomon
