How to Buy Trail Running Shoes

Shoes are your most important piece of equipment in the sport of trail running. Here's how to buy the right pair.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Trail Running Shorts
• Trail Running Socks
• Trail-running Shoes

1. Buy shoes designed for trail running. Trail shoes usually have a more aggressive tread than road shoes. They're intended to help you on tight turns, on steep and slippery hills, and in situations where added support may mean the difference between a speedy run and a sprained ankle.

2. Read shoe reviews in major running magazines. Most publications print yearly lists of their favorites.

3. Plan to spend between $70 and $90 for your first pair of trail shoes. The best pair of shoes for you may not be the most expensive.

4. Go shoe shopping late in the day, when your feet have had time to swell to their maximum size. Go too early and you may end up with shoes that are too tight.

5. Shop around, try many different brands and styles, and compare prices for the ones you like most.

6. Make fit a priority. Have your feet measured by the salesperson and wear your running socks.

7. Try the shoes on. Walk around the store or, if the salesperson says it's OK, jog down the block.

8. Narrow your choices down to two or three pairs of shoes, then go with whatever feels best on your feet.

Tips & Warnings

• If you've never run before, give it a try and make sure you're ready to commit before you go out and spend money on a new pair of shoes. Any pair of sneakers will do for your first few trail runs.
• Your salesperson may or may not be a trail runner. Ask lots of questions and judge for yourself.
• Trail running is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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