Guide to pick the right running shoe: From trail running to mountaineering

Perfectly fitting shoes are the holy grail for every endurance athlete. But, do you need a different model for long distance vs. shorter distance runs? Which shoe is best for Via Ferratas? And what should you consider when making a purchase? Here are some tips to help you find the right trail running or mountaineering shoe!

When conquering the mountains the focus of your shoes should be on optimum support and maximum grip. With that being said, below are a few features that you should take into account when getting your new pair of shoes:

Cushioning: Refers to the capacity to absorb the force of an impact in order to ensure a soft landing while running and can be leveled in high, moderate and minimal.

Minimal to moderate cushioning is better for more technical and steep terrain, where you need more agility, whereas maximum cushioning is especially popular on long distance running.

Energy return: The amount of energy that the shoe is able to return when force is exerted upon it. The different levels range from maximum, moderate to minimum.

When running fast sky races or focusing mainly on speed you'll need to utilize the full power in your legs and this requiring maximum reactivity of your shoes. Meanwhile on your everyday runs or longer distances, where the focus is less on pushing for every second, you'll need moderate to minimum reactivity.

Protection: The ability of the shoe to protect your feet from external obstacles (rocks, roots) and impact with terrain (mud, wet trails) but also protection deriving from cushioning. Protection can be maximal, moderate and minimal.

Foot type: Our Trail running shoes offer different fits which range from wide, normal to slim.

In a wide fit you have more space for a proper blood circulation on longer distances even when your feet swell on. If you want to keep a high versatility of usage the best is to choose a normal fit. Last but not least the slim fit offers full control and sensitivity where the shoe feels tight like a glove on the feet.

Keep in mind: There is not one perfect trail running shoe! We recommend that you always try the shoes out if you can. One model of a trail shoe may work great for someone, but not work for you.

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