How to choose the drop of the trail running shoe?

How to choose the drop of the trail running shoe?

The drop is the difference in height between the support of the heel and the support of the anterior part of the skin at the level of the midsole.

- How to choose the drop of the trail running shoe and products

The difference in height means that the foot inside the shoes is more or less inclined.

The drop in trail running shoes generally ranges from 12 mm to 4 mm (leaving aside natural running shoes with a low drop of 2 mm or zero drop for a moment).

What does drop have to do with choosing a trail running shoe? Well a lot

Those who have a refined running technique will land on the front of the foot and those who are not so fine will land on the back of the foot.

Simplifying the case a lot, who lands on the back is slow while who lands on the front is faster (I imagine now the criticism and whistles fly).

With a trail running shoe with a 12 mm drop, the foot tends to make a complete transition landing with the heel, passing through the midfoot and taking off with the front part, that is, with the tip.

With a lower drop , the landing-take-off transition is more natural since the middle part of the foot or even the toe is supported, forcing us to change the running posture, throwing the body forward.

I'm not going to start saying what is better or what is worse because, here again, it depends on each one of you.

As a general indication, we can say that by avoiding landing with the heel, we are able to give more reactivity to the race thanks to the fact that we throw the body forward and it is easier to give impulse with the ankle, which generates more energy.

Well that's it, let's buy low-drop shoes ... nope ! Because as indicated, it requires a refined technique that involves adaptation . If you are not prepared at low drops, you will surely have discomfort when running or even injuries.

Tip for beginners: At least 10 or 8 mm drop to start.

Let's see the different drop categories in trail running shoes

Drop zero. Suitable shoes for lovers of natural running. It takes time to get used to it and reach this level of differential. Very radical, in fact, little used although every day it gains more followers.

4mm drop, practically flat for most of us. It is a drop suitable for runners with good running technique who land with the forefoot and seek maximum sporting performance. We find this drop especially in fast competition shoes and for generally short distances.

Drop between 6 and 10 mm. Here we will find most of the slippers. The choice of a more or less larger drop will depend on each one of us.

12 mm drop. They are the shoes with the highest drop in the trail market, they can be suitable for beginners and for those who need a shoe that can correct their stride with the passage of km in long distance races. In the case of a 12-millimeter drop, the back of the heel is normally very amortized, which is why they are z devices that are used mainly for long distances .

Comparison of maximalist and minimalist trail running shoes

Again, it depends on each one of you, but we can say that most mountain runners use a drop between 8 and 10 mm for the long distance of more than 42 km, and a drop of 6 to 8 mm for distances shorter between 21 and 42 km

The amortization of the trail running shoe.

The amortization of the trail running shoe.

The midsole is the element that mainly provides amortization to the trail shoe.

The type of material used in the midsole and its thickness will give us more or less amortized shoes.

- The amortization of the trail running shoe and products

Almost all shoe manufacturers have their own material that can be more or less soft and more or less reactive. Let's understand this reactivity as the return or push that the shoes offer when landing.

A trail shoe that is too amortized and not very reactive will give us a soft sensation, a bit chewy , as if we were running on a kind of water mattress.

On the contrary, a low amortized trail shoe could be very hard and cause discomfort with the passage of kilometers.

One of the main factors that can determine payback is the running technique of the mountain runner.

A runner with a refined and efficient technique who lands mainly with the ball of the foot, close to the metatarsals, might prefer a less amortized scarp since these runners tend to be faster and the efforts and tensions of the race are well absorbed by the musculature.

However, runners with less efficient running technique tend to land on the back of the foot, that is, on the heel .



The fact of landing with the heel means that all the vibrations of the impact with the ground are transmitted directly to the bone structure and tendons of the body and are not well absorbed by the musculature. This continual heel landing has to be offset by more generous payback.

Another determining factor that has to do with the amortization of the shoe is the runner's own weight, generally, without going into the 1000 possible specific cases, the more the runner weighs, the more amortization will be needed.

Another fundamental factor when it comes to the midsole is the distance we are going to travel. The longer the distance, the more we will need amortization to absorb the thousands of impacts with the ground.

So, different types of materials will be more or less soft and offer more or less amortization.

In addition to the type of material used, another element that will determine the amortization capacity of the shoe is the amount of material, and say the thickness of the midsole.

Trail shoe midsole comparison

Attentive! because I am not talking about the drop or differential that we will see later.

A midsole with more material offers greater amortization. But watch out for the patch!  because too much material has two negative effects.

The first negative effect is the weight of the shoe. Typically, the compound in the midsole contributes a lot to the weight of the shoe . So the more material we put in, the more the shoe could weigh.

The second negative point of a too high midsole is that it takes us away from the ground and the sensitivity of what we have under our feet is lost

This fact can make shoes with a lot of midsole a bit unstable when supporting the foot, especially on technical routes and can also influence our speed since if we are not well used we will be less precise in the support.

 Being taller we will be less stable and basically it will be easier for an ankle to bend and cause a sprain.

Finding the ideal repayment level is very difficult. Moreover, it does not exist, as everything we will see in this article depends on ourselves.

A perfect amortization would be:

An amortization that provides comfort for any distance and weight of the runner, that makes the shoe reactive when we want to run fast, that is flexible, that allows you to feel the ground without protection problems for the footplate ... and that at the same time protect and stabilize the support.

Practically impossible

Here you have a generic summary referring to amortization

• The more the broker weighs, the more amortization will be required
• The longer the career, the more amortization will be required
• More amortization means more comfort
• More amortization means more weight of the shoe
• More amortization due to a high midsole implies greater instability
• More amortization due to a high sole implies more isolation from the ground, or what is the same more protection but less precision in the foot supports.

The first tip for choosing a perfect trail running shoe. Analyze yourself

 The first tip for choosing a perfect trail running shoe. Analyze yourself

There are many factors that influence when choosing a trail running shoe but the first thing we have to take into account is ourselves, we have to be honest with ourselves and understand our characteristics.

-  The first tip for choosing a perfect trail running shoe and products

We must consider factors such as our weight and our running technique , that is, how efficient we are when running and if our strides are more or less refined.

How much do you weigh? How do you run Do you need to stabilize the support? How much do you run Where do you run

Many answers are answered to these questions and new questions arise

1. The more you weigh, the more amortization you will need.
2. If you have a refined running technique, you will probably need less amortization in the heel area and you could choose shoes with a lower drop.
3. There are many other external factors that influence the choice of the shoe. I am referring mainly to the duration of the race that you will have to face or to the characteristics of the terrain in which you normally run.

• If you run on technical trails you will need more protection.
• If you run simple ultratrails you will need more comfortable shoes.
• If you run on muddy terrain, a suitable sole to have good traction

After clarifying, what runners are you? Where do you run? and what do you expect from the shoes? , you can start to analyze the intrinsic characteristics of the shoe.

All these factors intertwine with each other and depend on each other, to a point where everything becomes complicated and it becomes difficult to reach a decision.

In addition, the shoes themselves have characteristics that are in contrast to each other, such as a very protective and slightly waterproof upper , it will be little breathable and could generate too much heat or have problems evacuating water when we go through puddles.

But hey, I don't want to anticipate too many concepts, let's go step by step.

How to choose your trail running shoes

 How to choose your trail running shoes

More than in any other discipline, the correct choice of sports is essential in the world of mountain racing and sky mode. In the market there are many models with different drops, ankle boots, volumes and midsoles, but ... how to choose the product that best suits our needs?

- How to choose your trail running shoes and products

Differences between asphalt and trail running shoes
Asphalt running shoes only have to protect from the repetitive impact of the foot on a firm surface, but when it comes to running on unpaved terrain, the footwear must offer three fundamental benefits:

- Stability
- Grip
- Protection


Apart from the use for which they are intended, another big difference between running shoes and trail running shoes is their composition. The asphalt running shoes are made with breathable and lightweight materials that promote speed and reactivity. On the contrary, trail sneakers must perform more functions compared to a product designed for firm surfaces. They must allow to face any terrain with total safety and, especially, to withstand the lateral and torsional forces that occur in the uneven terrain typical of off-piste. In this case, the main objective of the development process is the search for durable components for the sole and more rigid materials for the boots.


What happens when trail running shoes are worn on asphalt (and vice versa)?
A good trail shoe keeps the foot firmly inside the sneaker, provides adequate traction on mud or snow and the correct grip on smooth, wet rocks. In addition, it must be comfortable and protect from stones and sharp objects. A running shoe that is used on uneven ground reveals its own limitations in that it is not stable enough and does not provide the necessary grip and protection when moving over rough terrain, risking slipping or twisting an ankle. Also, tree roots or rocks could damage the liner materials, while dust and dirt could easily penetrate through the collar or upper perspiration materials causing discomfort and blisters.

On the other hand, the use of trail shoes on asphalt or other abrasive surfaces can lead to premature wear of the sole studs and compromise grip when running on unpaved terrain again. Also, the stronger materials needed for trail running could be too hot if the shoes are used differently. In short: can you run on the road with trail running shoes? In principle, yes, but you must remember that if you choose the right product for a specific use, it will last longer and wear less.


Main characteristics of trail running shoes
Cushioning:
It is a factor that depends a lot on the type of terrain and the distance that each one is used to running. Riders who prefer shorter distances and more technical terrain will sacrifice a bit of cushioning for lightness and responsiveness to stay closer to the ground and react to changes in the terrain. Those who run long distances, on the contrary, are looking for greater cushioning to keep the foot comfortable throughout the time of use, which could be many hours or kilometers, as in the case of ultra trail. Another relevant aspect is related to the cushioning material, because if it is too soft, it can be unstable on any surface other than a smooth and simple track. Therefore, it is always recommended to find the right balance between damping and stability.

Drop:
This is the difference in height between the back of the shoe (the hindfoot) and the front area (the forefoot) measured in millimeters. It is a personal characteristic and depends a lot on the running style that characterizes each runner. Those who run on the heel, in general, choose a product with more cushioning in this area and, therefore, with a higher drop. On the other hand, those who tend to run on the forefoot tend to look for sneakers with a lower drop. In addition to the drop, another element that must be taken into account is the profile of the shoe, that is, the height or total thickness of the sole / midsole measured in the hindfoot and forefoot, since the difference between these two measurements will determine the drop. Generally, a raised profile indicates that the shoe offers more cushioning.

Protection and stability:
These are two elements that must be considered depending on the use to be made of the product. Trail shoes usually include a piece of protection in the sole or rock plate and reinforcements in the toecaps to guarantee basic protection of the foot. Additionally, some models have protection systems for the upper part of the foot with elements to cover the laces or integrated gaiters to prevent dirt from entering. Other models are waterproof thanks to membranes or specific treatments.
Other elements that provide support and stability are related to the composition of the buttress and the structure of the laces in the forefoot. These elements ensure that the foot remains firm inside the shoe, which must be enveloping without squeezing the foot. If the last is too wide, the stability will not be sufficient, with the consequent risk of twisting a foot, while if the last is too narrow, it will be uncomfortable if the feet swell from the heat. It should be remembered that footwear models can vary greatly from each other and that this can influence our perception of their stability. The last should not be confused with the structure.
The height of the midsole also influences the stability of the footwear: if the height is limited, the footwear will be more stable, since the foot lands closer to the ground as the center of gravity is lower.

Sole characteristics:
The existence of pronounced studs on the sole indicates that the shoe is suitable for off-piste use. However, their prominence and separation must be taken into account to identify the type of terrain for which they are best suited. If the cleats are high and spaced apart, it means that the shoe will perform well in mud and snow as shorter cleats close together prevent mud from slipping off the bottom of the shoe causing a lot of problems. Another fundamental characteristic of the sole is the material used to make the tread. A softer, more grippy compound will help maintain traction on smooth, slippery surfaces (wet wooden bridges or tree roots can be treacherous) but will wear out faster if used on rocky and more abrasive surfaces . Even in this case, it is often necessary to find a balance between grip and durability. However, a brand specialized in trail running will work to propose different technical solutions, such as La Sportiva, which has developed its own series of trail running shoes with high-performance materials.

Waterproof: yes or no?
A waterproof shoe has the obvious advantage of keeping the foot dry on wet ground and in the rain, although it is necessary to pay attention, because there is no membrane that prevents water from entering the upper part of the shoe in case of having to cross a stream. In this case, the water could not even be drained and the foot would be completely wet. Therefore, it is recommended to use a waterproof protective gaiter to avoid risks. Traditionally, the use of waterproof membranes was not well seen in the world of running, because they add weight and create stiffness in the footwear. However, today, innovative technologies like Gore-Tex's Invisible Fit can mitigate these problems, as they are incredibly thin and lightweight membranes that still guarantee waterproofing. Ultimately, a waterproof shoe is warmer than a traditionally made shoe, which is an advantage in cold or humid climates but may be less suitable for hot and sunny climates.

How to choose the most suitable trail shoe according to the distance?
Short distance shoes
Trail running is practiced at all distances and levels of technical difficulty. In this category we can include training sessions, short races and, of course, vertical races (or only uphill). In this case, lightness is everything. We do not need a shoe with a high degree of protection, but one that is very comfortable and reactive to reduce energy consumption to a minimum. Discover the entire range of La Sportiva short distance shoes.

Cushioning:
it is a less important factor when what matters is the lightness of the shoe for a faster and shorter run.

Drop:
In general, fast running is characterized by resting on the forefoot, so it is usually preferred that the drop be less. It is even more preferred, in the case of vertical runs where heel support is practically non-existent. However, it all depends on the personal running style and preferences of each runner.

Sole characteristics:
the choice will depend on the terrain and conditions. In a short distance race, we will hardly find different types of terrain, so if the route is on muddy terrain it will be better to opt for a longer sole with high heels separated from each other; whereas, a rocky and dry layout will require the use of a sole with lower studs and less spaced. As the race will be fast, it is advisable to opt for a material with a good grip that guarantees good traction on smooth rocks.

Protection:
In this case, the search for lightness can be detrimental to protection, to the extent that priority is given to a lightweight, responsive and flexible shoe. However, as it is a product oriented to mountain races, it is essential that it has protection in the toe, regardless of the distance.

Stability and fit:
it depends on the terrain of the layout. In the case of short and technical distances, a good grip on the foot will be necessary and that it does not move inside the shoe. On the other hand, a more stable and sensitive midsole with a medium-low height could be chosen, although with less cushioning.


Middle distance shoes
When we speak of medium distance we refer to routes that generally range from 20 km to the distance of the marathon. In this case, the choice of the ideal shoe should be oriented towards a fairly light and reactive model, with good protections on the toe and on the sides of the boot. However, it must also be a precision shoe with excellent grip, since in a classic medium distance race, it is usually run downhill and it is necessary to maintain a good rhythm in the few moments when the track is flat and in those who have to overcome ascents on more technical terrain. Discover the La Sportiva models designed for medium distance.

Cushioning:
it is necessary to find the precise balance between a shoe that is light and flexible but that has, at the same time, enough cushioning to withstand runs of more than an hour.

Drop:
When there are some faster sections and you run at intervals of one to three hours, the most used and recommended drop is the medium 6mm.

Sole characteristics:
As already mentioned, in this case the choice also depends a lot on the type of route and the weather conditions, but a versatile material in terms of grip and durability will be appropriate for almost any circumstance.

Protection:
Although this factor may depend on the surface of the terrain, it is still useful to choose a product that offers good protection. It may not be a key feature on simple routes, but it will be essential on descents or more technical sections.

Stability and fit:
You have to make sure that the shoe is comfortable and does not squeeze the foot too much, but that it is enveloping and firm to be able to run on different types of terrain. Traces can be uneven, so the shoe should support the foot while allowing it to expand when swollen from the heat.

Long distance shoes
Finally, for athletes who aspire to run distances greater than the typical 42 km of a marathon, the most important thing is to have a comfortable shoe (leaving aside other aspects that may be important in short distances). Imagine that you have to wear sneakers for 10 or 15 hours, or even longer. If it is very narrow and enveloping, after a few hours you could begin to feel pain; If the sole is too stiff, you could get plantar arch cramps. Therefore, it is important to wear a soft and comfortable shoe with good cushioning. Find the long distance running shoe models, developed by La Sportiva.

Cushioning:
the longer the distance, the more important it will be to wear a comfortable running shoe for long hours. This means that runners will look for a shoe with greater cushioning the greater the distance they have to run in a single outing.

Drop:
in this case the drop is a matter of very personal preference. Some people run ultramarathons with a zero drop, but they are usually experienced runners. However, for those who start at these distances, it is safer for the drop to be at least 6 mm. Even the fastest and most experienced runners, who typically run on the forefoot, begin to land on the heel when fatigued. Therefore, it is best not to risk injury with a shoe with too low a drop. Shoes designed for long distances usually have a drop that varies between 6 and 10 mm.

Sole characteristics:
A lightweight shoe helps to avoid wasting energy, therefore, the usual trend is to opt for shoes with short studs for long distances. The ideal shoe should have a studded tread that is pronounced enough to grip soft and slippery surfaces, but not too complex so that the weight is not excessive. The materials used to manufacture the sole components also play an important role. Choosing injection soles or technologies developed to achieve greater shock absorption will be very useful from the first to the last kilometer, as well as finding a combination capable of combining grip and durability in order to guarantee traction on different types of terrain.

Protection and stability:
in this case, comfort and cushioning are prioritized over protection and stability. Running speed is lower, so a long-distance shoe generally has less protection and stability, but still enough for the foot to support the variety of terrain that may be encountered.

Adjustment:
As already mentioned, comfort is the most important and, therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the boot of the shoe is elastic enough to allow the natural expansion and contraction that the foot experiences due to changes in temperature and when overheats during the race. The first time the shoe is tried on, the foot should not feel tight or constricted, neither across nor across the length, but rather that the materials surround it.

How to Choose Trail Running Shoes

 How to Choose Trail Running Shoes

Choose Trail Running Shoes
This post is part of the series of articles related to trail running:


If you want to experience hiking trails in a new way or if you are an urban runner who wants to change up the routine, it's hard to ignore the call of trail running.

- How to Choose Trail Running Shoes and Products

However, before heading to the mountains, you need to choose trail shoes specifically designed to venture beyond the asphalt. Trail running shoes differ from road shoes in several ways:

Rough Terrain Grip: Reinforced outsoles enhance traction to help you move more safely over dirt, mud, gravel, roots and rocks.
Foot Protection - A variety of internal and external features help protect feet from impact with rocks, branches, and roots. Durable upper materials that resist wear and scuffs.
Rigid Construction - Trail running shoes are designed to prevent excessive foot rotation. Also, because trail running involves a shorter and more variable stride as you adjust to the ground to find the optimal balance, pronation control is not something to pay much attention to.
This article covers four things to help you choose the best shoes to buy:

Shoe Type: the options are; for easy trails, bumpy trails, or off-piste
Cushioning - Options range from barefoot to great cushioning
Drop / Drop: this measure affects the running mechanics
Fit - You should get expert help and be willing to change your shoe choice because this is the most important consideration




Types of Trail Footwear
Shoe selection begins with evaluating the type of trails you plan to run on. Make your best guess at this point: if you run regularly, a new pair of shoes will have a life expectancy of four to six months, which is another way of saying that the opportunity to try other alternatives will not be far off.

Trail running shoes fall into three broad categories:

Light
Minimalist Light Trail Shoes

Lightweight trail running shoes are designed for relatively even surfaces. Think maintained roads, gravel roads, and wide tracks. These shoes are the closest in weight and construction to road shoes.

The characteristics of this category of footwear include:

• Modest rock and root protection
• Lightweight designs make it easy to keep a fast pace
• Moderately rigid constructions that promote stable foot placement
• Shallow studded soles provide traction on slippery floors
• On some shoes: ample cushioning in the midsole that allows you to comfortably ride mile after mile
• In other shoes: minimal cushioning in the midsole that allows you to feel more in contact with the trail

Resistant
Trail Medias Shoes

Rugged trail running shoes are basically designed for running on mountain trails, which can range from a trail engineer's masterpiece to laying out abandoned trails. Therefore, this category covers the widest spectrum of terrain.

Features can include:

• Toe protection in the front and hidden underfoot plates to protect against roots and rocks
• Strong materials and coatings for protection against dirt and thorns
• Rugged midsole cushioning to absorb footfall during steep descents and hard rock plate landings
• Supportive upper and rigid structures to stabilize feet on curves and unstable surfaces. Some models also include internal stems, which add stiffness to the midsoles
• Various lug patterns provide grip and stopping power at any angle
• Chunky, multi-directional studded soles for traction on soft, wet and muddy ground. The wide space between the studs allows the mud to shed freely
• On some shoes: soft, strong rubber that grips on wet rocks or wooden surfaces
• In other shoes: harder and less adherent rubber that offers greater durability

All terrain

Padded Trail Shoes
If you plan to run where mortals fear to tread, off-road / off-road shoes are for you. The off-road shoes offer all the features listed for rugged trail shoes, above, with a few improvements:

Materials will be stronger - you may see polyurethane foam midsoles, for example, instead of the EVA foam midsoles found in most rugged trail running shoes
The structure will be sturdier to provide greater “torsional stiffness,” which means that a shoe is less likely to give way when high torque is applied. This is important when very few of your footsteps are on flat ground.
Using in remote areas can carry you through streams and swamps and expose you to harsh climates, so you'll find more waterproof shoes in this category.
Buying trail shoes for hiking, trekking or hiking - Some hikers do this to save weight. That's fine, but be prepared to replace them often. Whether you find them more or less comfortable will depend on the weight of the backpack, the hardness of the road and the resistance of the foot.

If you decide to do it, look at the off-piste models because they offer more durability and support than tough or lightweight trail shoes. Here you can see the list of best lightweight hiking and trekking shoes.

Cushioning
The level of cushioning, sometimes referred to as "sole height," has remained largely unchanged for many years until barefoot shoes revolutionized the industry. A few years after that, a contrary trend emerged when sneakers with cushioned midsoles hit the market.

Today, this “feel” versus “float” damping spectrum offers you a wide range of options:

• Barefoot / Barefoot: As you can imagine, these are the shoes without padding on the sole. The appeal is that they allow you to develop an enhanced feel for the trail and your own biomechanics.
• Minimalist: These shoes are a good option if you want a better trail feel but aren't comfortable giving up all the cushioned midsole padding
• Moderate - One could classify them as traditional trail running shoes, with enough padding for you to comfortably run on rocky and rugged trails
• Maximum: these are the models that offer a lot of padding in the midsole. Devotees say that shoes with maximum cushioning are easier on the joints and reduce fatigue in high-mile runs. Naysayers say the super soft cushioning in some shoes makes the toe "squishy" (less efficient) while running.

Fall / Drop
Heel to toe drop or drop is a measure closely related to cushioning height. From 0mm to greater than 12mm, heel to toe drop is the difference between height at the heel and height at the forefoot:

Barefoot shoes have a 0mm drop
Minimalist shoes usually have a 0-4mm drop
Moderate and maximal shoes offer a wide range of height differences between heel and toe


To decide which heel drop will work best for you, consider these tips:

Match the fall with your current sneakers. You will avoid playing with the biomechanics of your body. And keep in mind that even if you are buying the same model of shoe, you should check the drop. From time to time, a sneaker brand may alter the drop from heel to toe when updating a sneaker design.

If you don't have running shoes, look at your other shoes. Look at your other athletic shoes first. If you don't have sports shoes, look at your casual shoes.

Most shoes will have a moderate heel-to-toe drop, which simply suggests that you avoid trail running shoes that are at or near the 0mm and 12mm ends of the spec range. If you wear flats or flip flops all the time, then low shoes may be fine.

A low heel drop encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike. The result is a more stable landing pad, along with better balance and muscle engagement.

This beneficial biomechanical change is a huge draw on barefoot and minimalist shoes. However, not everyone benefits or can transition to a low-drop shoe.

If you are considering switching to barefoot or minimalist sneakers, take it easy. Plan for a few months of transition time and some discomfort while you adjust. To learn more, read Barefoot / Minimalist Running Basics.

Note that you can also find shoes with moderate and maximum cushioning that have a low heel drop. Switching from a well-cushioned high-heeled sneaker to a well-cushioned low-heeled sneaker is not for everyone. It involves some discomfort and takes a little time to adapt.





Adjustment
Fit is more important than any other consideration. A shoe that gets rave reviews is not a great shoe for you unless it fits your foot. And getting a good fit involves more than length and width. Feet are biomechanically complex and a good fit will also take into account factors such as arch shape, arch length, foot volume, and more.

Consider shoe lasts: Each brand builds their shoes around a sophisticated foot shape called a "last." Your goal is to find which brands have a similar last to your foot. Then you can shop online and have a better chance of getting shoes that fit you well.

Don't assume you know the size of your shoe - your feet change as you age, so it's always wise to measure yourself. Next, you need to take into account the fact that your feet swell as you run - you'll want shoes that provide the right length and width at the toe.

Get a fit study: A shoe specialist can assess the size and shape of your feet and advise you on how different brands fit. Many stores can do this for you, but you should plan ahead for the best experience.

You may not need to make an appointment, but we recommend choosing an uncrowded schedule or asking when the more experienced footwear staff will be in the store. Go later in the day because your feet swell up and you can make sure you get shoes that are big enough to fit.

Finally, a shoe specialist can help you come out with sneakers that alleviate a wide range of foot problems, such as bunions, toe pain, plantar fasciitis, and more. A specialist can also advise on your braces or find a pre-made insole to suit your needs.

How to choose my trail running shoes?

 How to choose my trail running shoes?

Finding the right sneakers is for some and for some a very complicated mission, a mission that becomes even more complex when one is new to the discipline. The process of choosing a trail running shoe, of course, is not exempt from this difficulty, not a few years ago, when the discipline was semi-unknown, nor now, when the world of mountain racing is gaining in popularity, diversity and technicality.

- How to choose my trail running shoes and products

The perfect shoes may not exist, but the right shoes do exist. As in everything in this life, we do not have an ABC to reach them but, fortunately, we have experts and runners hardened in a thousand battles that can help us not to trace the wrong path in our search for the long-suffering footwear that will take us along trails , peaks, slopes and ravines. Cristóbal Colón, podiatrist and CdM collaborator, and Juanan Ruiz, Ultra Trails runner and manager of the Tottrail store, advise us on this delicate task.

1. ADVICE YES, BUT EACH ONE IS EACH ONE

Each is from a mother and a father. Listen to the advice and feelings of other runners but do not assume them as your own. The preferences and tastes of other trailrunners do not necessarily have to suit you. Today we have more information than ever on this discipline, information of great value that can be of great help, but this is not mathematics: there are no perfect results or general laws; what may be good for one may be an ordeal for another. Advice yes, but, as our head podiatrist, Cristóbal Colón, says, “each one is each one”.

2. NEITHER DROWNED NOR UNTIED

This is a classic and as such cannot be left off the list. The shoes, neither fair nor dancing. Paying attention to the last is essential for a good fit. "The consistency of your foot –whether it is narrow or wide– with the last is very important to adapt to your fatigue partners," says Juanan Ruiz.

3. A SNEAKER FOR EVERY SITUATION

There is no perfect shoe but there is the right shoe. It is not the same to run 20 km than to do 60 km, it is not the same to run on grass, on a not very aggressive terrain, than to do it on a technical and stony terrain, it is not the same to train as to compete ... Is it necessary to continue? In the world of mountain racing we can find a great diversity of situations that require a diversity of solutions.

Therefore, it is important to have several models of shoes, one for each situation. While it is true that it involves a greater outlay, it is no less true that our performance in the race and our feet will thank us for it. Juanan Ruiz makes it clear to us: “the secret is to have a good closet”.

4. FASHIONS APART

Sometimes it is healthy –physically and psychologically– to forget about fashions, brands and images and really think about what is important: how much do we weigh? What type of footprint do we have? What is our running technique? The needs of each broker are different; We all need shoes, true, but we all have different physical conditions. It is necessary to adapt our purchase to those needs, because each one will be better off with a shoe with a specific drop and with a specific last. Columbus's advice on this matter is direct, blunt: "Don't eat 100% advertising."

5. THE NEW vs THE OLD

A sneaker review does not always mean higher quality. The new version of our favorite sneaker can break our schemes, that is, it may be totally different from what we knew. Because we like the first design, we don't necessarily have to like the new version, and vice versa. Anyway, it is clear, there are second parts that are good.

6. IN THE STORE

If you are new to this, the most sensible thing is that you let yourself be advised by the sales professional of the store. Squeeze him with the questions that arise and put him to the test. In addition, it is important that you put on the two feet of the model you have chosen in situ. Tie them well and walk or jog gently through the store because this is where the first sensations begin. Invest a little more time and do not stop trying half a number more and a half number less of your size, you already know that there are differences between the same size of two different brands.

How to choose your trail running shoes?

 How to choose your trail running shoes?

It is clear that one of the most common questions among "Trail Runners" is - we say it from experience - How to choose your trail running shoes? The choice of our / yours trail running shoes is one of the most important to be able to enjoy from the mountain with guarantees.

- How to choose your trail running shoes and products

That is why, and thanks to our experience, we present you a series of questions that you should ask yourself when choosing your ideal shoes. It is clear that this is a general approach, since many other personal factors, philosophies, etc ... of each individual come into play.

1. TYPE OF USE
- COMPETITION: Obviously, competition-oriented shoes have some common characteristics among all of them. Weight is one of the most important factors among this group, we are talking about shoes that are around 250g (approximately). The last is usually another of the differential points, most of the time betting on rather narrow lasts and lighter, more minimal insoles. Another point that we have seen that is usually a common denominator among shoes intended for competition is the drop, since it is usually somewhat lower (this rule is not always met).

- TRAINING: In this case, we are looking for shoes with a greater weight, probably due to a direct relationship in general structure of the shoe and cushioning (which is superior). The last is usually wider prepared to support more volume of kilometers. Another point that this shoe profile usually has in common is durability, the materials are more durable than in competition shoes, for example.

- MIXED: At this point we find the "intermediate" shoes that can be used both for competition and training. Their numbers are in the middle of the two mentioned above, although depending on the profile of the runner they may be more for training or competing.

2. TYPE OF LAND
- COMPACT: When we talk about terrain we must talk about the sole and there is a big difference between soles intended for compact terrain and oily terrain. In this case, the soles are usually with less prominent studs and with more studs bareness (multi studs), with less space between them. In the photo you can see a clear example of this type of soles. In this sense, although it does not always have to be this way, uppers can be less protected, somewhat more open and breathable.

- DECOMPOSED: A terrain that is difficult to control on many occasions, that is why shoes are so important in this type of terrain. What we must pay attention to if we are looking for shoes for these types of terrain on the sole, which must be with prominent and separate studs, to avoid saturation of the mud. Another of the points in common that these shoes usually have is the more protected upper, both in protections and in the mesh, which is usually more resistant and waterproof (not always). They can also incorporate leggings or tighter collars.

- VERSATILE: Obviously we are talking about those shoes that are located somewhere in the middle, they do not have a heel as prominent as those specific for greasy terrain, but not as little as those for compact terrain. A profile of shoes that without being specific in anything, will work correctly in everything.

3. DIFFICULTY OF THE TERRAIN
- TECHNICAL: We speak of technical terrain when we speak of broken, stony areas, with difficulty in walking. If our goal is to run on these terrains, we should look for structured shoes, with good support and fit. In addition, the outer protections must be prominent, to avoid impacts on the foot. They usually incorporate anti-rock plates in the sole / midsole, to protect the soles of the feet, especially over long distances.

- EASY: The easy terrains are those that are well marked, that do not have many obstacles that prevent our progress. The shoes for these areas are less structured, somewhat more "free". The sole tends to have less prominence on the studs and with fewer protections (anti-rock plate).

- VERSATILE: The shoes for changing terrain, versatile, are usually a point in between the two previous ones. They are not usually very structured "tank" shoes, but neither are they without structure, they will work correctly on easy and technical terrain.

4. DISTANCE
- SHORT: We are talking about a profile of shoes that are usually lighter, with less structure in general. Damping is usually less generous, lower profiles. The last can be somewhat narrower, sharper and the templates are usually more minimal.

- MEDIUM: That intermediate point that can be used for both short and medium distances, depending on the runner profile we are, is surely the most versatile shoe profile if we talk about distances. Its structure is usually medium and its cushioning pleasant, without being very cushioned.

- LONG: They tend to be sturdier, more structured and, as a consequence, heavier shoes. The midsole is usually more of the protagonist, with higher profiles and with wider cushioning sensations. The last is usually wider and its templates are of higher quality and profile.

5. RUNNER WEIGHT
- LIGHTWEIGHT (H <70kg / M <55kg): Shoes that tend to be less structured, lighter and with less cushioning (lower profiles), in general.

- MEDIUM (H70-80kg / M55-65kg): For this runner profile, we should look for shoes with a little more body, more structured. The midsole is usually of higher profiles and with greater sensations of cushioning.

- HEAVY (H> 80kg / M> 65kg): They are usually shoes with more body, more structure (higher weight). The midsole tends to offer greater cushioning thanks to higher profiles and more thought-out compounds.

6. FINAL REFLECTION
- It not only depends on the weight of the runner, it depends on many other factors.

- It also depends on the sensations, the experience that we want to have when running (Natural running, minimalism, terrain sensations, protection ...)

- Obviously, it depends on our training area. We must analyze our training "yard" to be able to choose a correct trail running shoe for us.

- Our personal goals, our bets, when running will be the ones who mark the profile of shoes we want to choose.

- The more we know about ourselves, or the friend who asks us for a recommendation, the better recommenders we will be (previous models, tastes, sensations, terrain, technique, distances ...).