THE ANATOMY OF A RUNNING SHOE Text: Jenny Wikman / Photo: Emelie Voltaire
Trail shoes are packed with features for running off-road on various inclines and surfaces, unlike regular road shoes that are made for flat asphalt or footpaths. Let’s have a closer look at these wonders.
Upper
The upper is responsible for keeping the shoe on your foot, and trail shoes are generally a bit tighter than road shoes so they don’t slip around when you’re running through woods or bogs. The upper also ventilates sweat and contributes to the shoe’s comfort. The shoe should be combined with a running sock that maximises ventilation, moisture management, and comfort. Pick a thin one made of synthetic fibres or merino wool. Cotton is the enemy of warm, sweaty feet.
PULL TAB A handy substitute for a shoehorn.
LINING Linings and extra padding make the shoes comfortable and reduce chafing from, outer seems or at the heel. Trail shoes have very little padding to absorb less water and avoid extra weight.
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OUTER MATERIAL Shoes for trail running are made with an extra-robust outer material. Apart from fast-drying synthetics or ventilating mesh, you’ll often see a plastic film protecting the textile from sharp branches and moisture. This protective film runs a centimetre or so above the sole and is called a ‘mudguard’. It keeps water from seeping in when landing on wet, soft ground.
