The BEST Trail Running Shoes Winter 2021 | Feat. Salomon, adidas, Nike and more

[@runningchannel]

What's your favourite shoe to run in? Do any of these take your fancy? Tell us in the comments below:

[@ThatRunningGuy]

I love my Nike Wildhorse 6’s, royal blue👌

[@1989Tod]

Altra Superior 4.5 :)

[@alistairwood1800]

The Goretex version of the Nike Pegasus 2 trail has been my favourite for long weekend trail runs recently. I guess grip could be slightly better in wet/mud but it's so comfortable I keep going back to it. Was surprised at how good it was.

[@normanzielke6108]

Inov-8 Terra Ultra G270. There isn't anything special about them except that they fit my feed like a glove...

[@hairyairey]

Reminded of the maxim that before you criticise someone run a mile in their shoes, then you'll be a mile away and have their shoes! (Yes, I know it was walk, but we're runners!)

[@GreatCoveRunningTV]

I'm glad to see you reviewed a shoe by Altra. After I got used to Altra's zero drop, wide-toe-box shoes, I won't put anything else on my feet; not for running, not for the office, not for church. As you noted, the Altra is shaped differently than all the rest. That's because it is shaped like a foot instead of like a torpedo. Not saying they are the correct shoe for everybody, but they are definitely doing some things right.

[@johnroddy8]

Saucony Peregrine 10s and Hoka One One Speedgoats should definitely have been in this list.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching, John. We actually included both shoes in our trail shoe round up from May here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpy0h4KQrad0pdU

[@soupyruns9709]

Asics Gel Fujitrabuco are stability trail shoes, as an “over pronator” I’ve been using them for the past 2 years and never had an issue with them, they’re a great trail shoe. 👍🏻

[@runningchannel]

That's great to know, thank you!

[@dufferuk]

Altra Lone Peaks all the way for me, I have the 4.0’s and they have the perfect balance of everything for me - they are affectionately known as my off-road slippers! Great video again guys!

[@runningchannel]

Thanks Martin!

[@abstinentrunnerkel5198]

Yes! I always say that running in LP's is like running in slippers! 😆

[@lexington476]

11:02 I like that you showed used/dirty shoes, that you have worn them.

[@runningchannel]

Yep! Definitely well tested! What are your favourites at the moment?

[@lexington476]

@@runningchannel I've been a huge New Balance fan for the last 10 years, but ever since last year or so when they released fresh foam they've completely turned me off. Fresh foam to me is way way too soft. Right now my trail shoes are an older pair of New Balance Summit KOM with the Rev Lite foam, they're a couple years old. I don't do trail running that much so they probably only have a hundred miles on them, despite the manufacture date of December 2018.

[@Trailrunner1978]

The Torrent 2 are the best trail shoes I have ever had. Did longrun in 20 cm wet and heavy snow yesterday. The shoes got really wet, but performed amazing. And they do great in summer also. They are the shoes I have done my longest run in. They are light, and feel very cushioned, allthough the stackheight is not very high. I am a heavy runner, at 231 lbs, but no problem. They have a plush feeling also. Shows very little wear and tear.

[@astroglow]

yey! Altra's got a mention, i love mine both my road and trail shoe as i love the toe box and Vibram sole, used to get loads of lower leg problems when i started running until i switched to altras and never had a problem since. i know most dont like zero drop but for me they are the right shoe, hopefully they will get some more coverage on the running channel

[@runningchannel]

Thanks so much for sharing and glad you liked the video :-)

[@kevinlemanquais2006]

I use the Hoka Speed Goat 4. More cushion then the Torrent, though the higher stack height can make it a little unstable on Rough trails.

[@peterdraper1478]

I've got those too. Great on the road or on the trail - best shoes I've ever had

[@keith0keith01]

Best trail shoe I ever had.. probably best shoe overall for me

[@brian2990]

Altra superior. hands down.

[@willthetrucker7613]

Altras for me. On my 4th pair and nothing compares to the roominess, comfort and support. They're also less expensive than other shoes (Nike, Hoka and Solomon) that I've tried.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for sharing William 😊

[@Fheterosporum]

Nice video on trail shoes. Running in melt/snow I look for waterproof. I have put about 800km on a pair of Brooks Ghost GTX. Few if any of the shoes mentioned here were waterproof. How much do the Gore-Tex versions vary from the ones presented in this video?

[@davidnewton3528]

Completely agree with the review on the Saolomon WIldcross, I have Speedcross which I imagine are pretty similar. I just can't buy any trail shoes without quicklace now! Tying your laces is so 1990s ;)

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching David! Yes, those quicklaces are a game changer :-)

[@kevinlance1813]

Finally getting an opportunity to catch up on my TRC vids. Xmas Eve snowstorm here in WNC about 5 inches of new snow, sitting here watching Outlander bingefest with a cuppa and the Mrs. I've got the Salomon and actually wore them tonight nice to have the Gore Tex in the snow. Season's Greetings all.

[@runningchannel]

That's great Kevin! Happy holidays to you - hope you're enjoying the videos :-)

[@Butterfly07949]

Really thinking about buying the Merrell MTL long sky. They not only look awesome in the orange but across lots of testers they look like the ones for me.

[@kevinlemanquais2006]

It's adorable the way Anna says Adidas.

[@tobyk8125]

Correctly? Only Americans say aDEEduss! :-)

[@myksyk]

I've always pronounced it this way too. I guess it doesn't really matter.

[@kevinlemanquais2006]

I'm from the CT, in the U.S. I'd have to say every other state here, has it own pronunciation of just about everything.

[@partyboy007tiger]

I currently run in the Saucony Peregrine 10 which is an absolutely cracking trail shoe. Santa's bringing me some Hoka Speedgoats which I'm also looking forward too. A great budget shoe is the New Balance 590V4. I'd recommend that to anyone who's thinking of starting trail running.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for sharing Christopher :-)

[@tijnvveen]

I always wear Vibram Fivefingers whatever I do. Just did a wet and muddy marathon trailrun in the woods yesterday on my V-Trail 2.0

[@Erelyes]

I have a pair of Asics Gel-Sonoma GTX that are fantastic. They have completely worn through the sole so they're not really trail shoes any more, but they were super comfy 'all rounders'. The only problem is that they're a 2E and Asics doesn't sell the 2E variant in my country at the moment.

[@marcvanderlinden7618]

Altra timp? Lighter than the Olympus but still nicely cushioned, wide toe box and grippy

[@hg3755]

Inov-8-Terra-Ultra G270 and Salomon sense pro 4 are my Nr. 1, now in winter and muddy conditions Salomon Wildcross and Peregrine 10

[@iandroberts75]

Nike Wildhorse 6 for me, loving the react midsole and looks awesome!

[@woody_runs]

Great review. So many to try but I’m currently using Inov-8 Parkclaw 275’s. Brilliant shoes and very good for winter running on slippery roads too 👍🏻

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching Martyn! I've also used the Parkclaws and love them! - Mary

[@airchreece6799]

I am currently using the GORE-TEX version of the Nike Pegasus 2 and I'm very happy with them :D

[@alistairwood1800]

Me too :)

[@MRBarton369]

How are they with winter weather? I live off lake Erie... Lots of snow lots of mud. Thanks in advance

[@airchreece6799]

@@MRBarton369 They are doing wonderful, i have never had an issue with water leaking in my feet (very important for me). Lots of snow didn't met but in muddy conditions had also no problems. I'm pleased with them but no, i'm not an expert. Please do some more research because I don't want to influence you...

[@deec6535]

I’ve always worried the Olympus would be too unstable given the amount of cushion. I love the Superior 4.5 and the Lone Peak 5. Perfect ground-feel and comfort. Rubbish on any smooth and wet surface (think wet tile restroom floor on a rainy day).

[@alwaysuseless]

I'd recommend the Olympus for training and even wearing around town. On race day, I'd wear a lighter Altra model with less cushion.

[@petergibbs6993]

I am interested in the Salomon and INOV8 as I have some Hoka ATR which are a bit meh and make my feet ache. Just had some Saucony Peregrine 10 and they are awesome you can even run on the road for some sections too. Great video guys 👍

[@runningchannel]

Thanks Peter! Let us know which you choose and how you think they compare to the Hokas :-)

[@Marcel030NL]

What about On? Curious to find out if you like them for the trail.

[@tommyquinnhughes]

I’m a big fan of the Topo Ultraventure and have just bought my second pair. Wide Torbox, cushioned and vibram sole. It is a brand starting to get traction in the UK and they are my go to trail shoes for everything but very muddy conditions when I switch to something more luggy like my Scott Supertrac.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for the suggestion, Tommy! We'll look into this for the next round up :-)

[@raymondmorrow7926]

My favorite trail shoe for racing is the Hoka Evo Jaws. Not a lot of cushion but extremely lite and super grippy.

[@runningchannel]

Yep - excellent for mud!

[@danielace4212]

A fine video while I sat and drank my morning coffee. Nice shoes being showcased.

[@runningchannel]

Glad you enjoyed, Daniel! Which ones were your favourite?

[@danielace4212]

@@runningchannel I'm REALLY liking the Altra Olympus 4 :-)

[@Kelly_Ben]

Any preferences on shoes for snow?

[@MonteComeau]

Salomon S-Lab Ultra 3. I have tried many and this one is the winner for me.

[@runningchannel]

Good to know!

[@stuartthurstan]

For dry trails I stick to my trusty Brooks Adrenaline, but once the trails get wet and muddy I like Saucony Xodus Iso 3. Heavy shoe to be sure but decent protection and most importantly excellent grip in the sloppy stuff!

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching Stuart and great suggestions!

[@fastrax1949]

A very thorough review, well done. Of course you couldn't cover everything. Here at the Complete Runner, the best selling trail shoe .....by far....... is the Saucony Excursion GTX at £95. Great value. Well cushioned, good outersole but most especially the Goretex membrane in the upper helps our local customers cope with the perils of Ilkley moor! Topo Athletic models go well also; with all the Topo range featuring the wide "anatomical" toebox. Next year? The ASICS line up is v.exciting. Trabuco Max, updated Trabuco (9) but most especially the TRABUCO TERRA. At £100 it should prove to be a great addition to the Asics range. Time will tell.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching Terry and those are all great suggestions! We'll look into the Topo range for the next round up :-)

[@runbikerun8189]

I really enjoy the Brooks Catamount (but can't figure out why it's white). The shoe is great as a "commuter" (running on road to get to the trail). Light in weight and the nitrogen infused midsole gives it exceptional responsiveness.

[@runningchannel]

Good to know!

[@MarkSmith_Best-Athletics]

New colourways drop on the Catamount in the new year. Black and pink with the neutral sole for women and the mens one is similar but substitute the pink for a luminous yellow.

[@fabsterun]

GEL-FUJITRABUCO 8 I just picked these up for a very cheap price on Asics outlet . Just gonna take an older cheap version to test out trail running . I'll set off soon

[@fatrunner]

I use the. Salomon Alphacross GTX. They are an entry level shoe but I'm pretty pleased with them and not looking to upgrade for a while, want to get some new road shoes first.

[@filmic1]

Though heavy, my Salomon XA 3D are terrif, w/a beefy heel counter for winter running in my Canada. Lugs can keep me secure on lumpy icy spots on sidewalks and roads, even kept me upright on rutty ice on trail. I don't recall coming back with wet feet, yet. I swear they made my legs feel like lead a couple of times. I have a La Sportiva Wildcat for spring/summer/fall. I'm over 200lbs

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ericdunthorne1981]

The only shoe I could use on the list is the Altra. I need a natural toe box to be comfortable. It didn't look like any of the others had a natural toe box.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching Eric! Yes I believe Altra are well known for their ergonomically shaped shoes. I have a wide foot and have found that Inov-8 are super comfy as well as New Balance. Hope this helps, Mary

[@ericdunthorne1981]

@@runningchannel Thanks for the reply. I'll check out Inova-8 & New Balance they do look comfy. I really enjoy your content thanks for all the good info.

[@ashley1scott]

@@ericdunthorne1981 The inov-8 although they claim to be wide are not wide at all unless you remove the 5mm footbed that comes in them, which of course removes some/a lot of the comfiness of the shoe. I currently do shorter runs in the Altra Superior, but will be swapping out for the Lone Peak or the Olympus for anything longer than 30 mile. NOTE: Although the Timp sit between the Lone Peak and Olympus in the range, they do come up a little narrower.

[@ericdunthorne1981]

@@ashley1scott Yeah, I really like the Logan Peak 4.5. I'll probably picking up the Loan Peak 5. It's supposed to be out at the end of December.

[@asrinidhiut]

Great video! Was also wondering about appropriate socks that go with trail shoes... Especially on rather dry trails. I recently ran through patches of very dry grass and it was really annoying (a little painful too!) when the sharp ends of the grass and some twigs, thorns, kept getting stuck to my socks! Is there such a thing as trail running socks?!

[@jaynerushton3442]

Have been wearing Salomon speed cross for the last years !!!! They are great . A bit heavier than some however protect well on wet muddy stones rterrain

[@runningchannel]

Good to know Jayne!

[@windy6564]

Saucony Peregrine 10, good for those with a narrow foot.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for sharing :-)

[@maverickcorner]

I use saucony excursions Tr 11 trail shoes; for winter road running I go with Altra Torin 4 wrapped with Yaktrax chain, .not an ideal way of running in snow as it does change ur gait, but keeps me safe and secured.

[@runningchannel]

That's great to know :-)

[@trocomerlo]

I'm tempted to get the torrent 2 but a local shop told me they returned all their stock cause they had a lot of problems with the sole falling off after a couple of runs

[@J-Dogg-wt1hp]

Salomon speed cross 5 are great ones too awesome cushion great grip on trails great running hiking shoe . not sure if they are getting old on the market i should check out their latest i suppose .

[@moggy992]

When these shoes are weighed are there average sizes for mens and womens as the smaller or bigger the shoe there's either lesser or more materials for the sizes. Odd question but one I've thought of as surely a 5. 5 for instance would surely be lighter than an 8.

[@KevinHoegler]

Greatly appreciate the video! I am looking to buy trail shoes soon! Thanks!

[@jackash1975]

Currently running in the Topo Athletic Ultraventure and the Torrent. Love then both but thus far, i feel the Ultraventure is a better built shoe.

[@stefanjohansson3670]

A) if run trail you should definitely stay away from cushioning shoes. They are unstable. B) You should run mid so no wedge should be there. - My shoe: Merrell Trail Glove 5.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching, Stefan! As for cushioned shoes it really depends both on the type of trail you're running on and personal preference. If you're running on a well packed trail surface then you may want a bit of cushioning, whereas if you're going on more technical stuff then cushioning might not be the best for you :-)

[@davidcallan7844]

I suppose winter is relative, I find Adidas Terrex with Boost hold up in below -0c temps and Salomon and Arcteryx GTX . These work well in snow and if icy I throw a pair of Kahtoola Exospikes on. 🤘😎🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@runningchannel]

Great to know, David - thank you for sharing!

[@tonylavers3532]

Hoka EVO speedgoat??? Simply the best?

[@darrylhanstein1884]

Altra lone peak is a definite hit for uk trails 👌🏻

[@runningchannel]

Oooh thanks for the recommendation Darryl!

[@olgapereverzeva9145]

What would you recommend for sandy trail in the desert?

[@mr.schoko8032]

I'm really keen to try out the Hoka Torrent 2. This year I ran in the Hoka Challenger ATR 5, which I liked, although not as much as the ATR 3

[@runningchannel]

Fab - let us know what you think of them!

[@DaanVerhaar]

Great video, as ever, thanks for sharing! Currently running the Asics FujiTrabuco Gel 8, my wife as well. We are happy with the comfort, support and wide toebox, but durability leaves a lot to desire. Upper mesh is very vulnerable and stitching around the ankle, inner lining and outer shell coming loose. Now looking at the Altra Olympus 4 or Salomon Speedcross 5 Wide version. Curious how the Speedcross 5 compares to the Wildcros.

[@runningchannel]

Sounds great! Let us know which you choose :-)

[@michaelgoode9555]

Must be nearly time for an up to date review. Can I ask that when you do the review that you look at wider shoes for those of us who need wider shoes and perhaps those also with goretex or similar linings. I ask because I wear Brooks wide shoes and they have a wide version of their Cascadia shoe but they do not do the wide version with goretex lining. Seems like those of us wide wider feet are missing out.

[@runningchannel]

We have a trail running review coming in January Michael, but thanks for your suggestion. We'll do our best to make sure to include some wider shoes in our round up.

[@PortEXE]

Were they comfortable straight out the box?

[@espacesX]

The adidas is unique in this Comparison as the Ultra Like e.g. the Agravic XT has a TPU-midsole, which lasts much more longer than EVA. Even the Nike has REACT, which is Long lasting pebax, the BOOST of adidas is cutresistant, which is REACT Not. Furthermore BOOST can be firmer Like BOOST HD, while the Flex and rebound at pebax is controlable If it's soft only. The adidas TWO Ultra Parley Like the Parley with Litestrike midsole are Not offered in a Gore-Tex Version. GTX-version is the adidas TWO GTX only, which is Not an Parley-Knit upper Shoe-Model. The Scarpa Rush is less a Trail-Running shoe it's more an cross-hiking-shoe. Plenty of protection and a torsion-plate which is a midfoot-protection-plate as Well. The protection-plate for the midfood is Missing on e.g. the La Sportiva Akyra. The adidas Agravic XT has such a midfoot-protection-plate Like the La Sportiva Bushido/Bushido II. A shoe to have a Look on. The Salewa Train Lite K. More runable shoe compared to the Scarpa Rush. Entry model for Trail-Running is more the adidas Response 2.0 TR. If there should be a shoe in the Comparison where you can throw everythimg against it: adidas Skychaser / Skychaser LT / Skychaser XT. From Trail-Running to Via Ferrata everythimg possible. More lighter and flexible shoe for this: Salewa Train Lite K...with less protection as well. If you then Look at Salomon the X Alpine PRO Shows how narrow the bandwidth of the technology of Salomon is. Like at Hoka One One...there is No Trail-Runner shoe at Hoka One One for alpine gravel at Downhill. A shoe with gravel-brake is missing. Just have a Look on the La Sportiva Akyra with a quite aggressive gravel-break. The adidas Skychaser bites at alpine gravel Well. Furthermore BOOST + adaptive and robust Continental rubber is best at adaptive grip.

[@Outdoorliving74]

You missed a lot of better and well known top of the range shoes from all the manufacturers tbh. Hoka Speedgoat 4, Mafate 2 Saucony peregrine Nike wildhorse Salomon s/lab A range of brooks shoes like cascadia. La sportiva akasha and their other trail shoes. Altra also do other too end trail shoes. You picked a lot of alternatives made by non traditional running shoe manufacturers that really don’t live in the same league as the above mentioned brands imo.

[@lh3540]

one thing I can't stand is the trend toward minimalist tongues and toggle laces. I have really bony "dancer's feet" (insanely high arch, long toes, narrow heel) and I NEED a cushioned tongue if I don't want bruising across the top of my feet. They can put all the money they want into the lugs and rock plates, but if there's zero tongue padding I'm not even looking. Saucony's laces sit entirely behind the tongue on me, which is a serious WTF. That's my deal breaker.

[@runningchannel]

So sorry to hear this L H. Which trail shoes are you wearing at the moment?

[@gusmalave4864]

Hi there just trying to find the right shoe to commute and go around canal and few hills bit of muddy as well not really sure which shoe I can pick. Actually on Kayano 24

[@MikeProcter1]

I've just bought the on Cloudventure waterproof shoe. I like the snug feel and the deep tread. Not seen them reviewed

[@runningchannel]

We reviewed those in our last trail shoes round up! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpy0h4KQrad0pdU

[@MrRichjdillon]

Thank you , very in-depth and detailed review.

[@runningchannel]

Glad you found it helpful! What are your favourite trail shoes?

[@MrRichjdillon]

@@runningchannel I currently using Brooks Revel 2 but looking for something with a high arch support .

[@TarasSkyJourney]

Try the GTX version of your Trail 2s Anna. They are amazing. (Though nothing will keep your feet dry if you're over your ankles in water. ;) )

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for the tip Tara! Wellies will ;-) but not that easy to run in lol

[@cdh79]

talking about the zero-drop Altra.. how important, or what role does the drop play for midfoot strikers? I would imagine that's much more important to take into consideration for heel-striker, or am i wrong?

[@Kelly_Ben]

My experience- 0 drop is great for those who transition slowly, AND have the physical confirmation for it. Sadly even as a mid foot striker I have abnormally short Achilles, and even transitioning slowly, I got my first calf strain. I later read that your daily footwear is very important- that if you wear shoes with a drop all day every day, then wear 0 drop for your runs, you're putting an unhealthy amount of strain on your calves.

[@chuonghong6131]

Why no Hoka Speedgoat or Saucony peregrine 10?

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching :-). We actually reviewed both of these shoes in our earlier trail shoe round up here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpy0h4KQrad0pdU

[@richardbruce6156]

Great video but surprised to see that the Brooks Catamount isn’t in the review, one of the best trail shoes released in 2020. Great for road to trail but now it is getting wetter here on the IOW I am looking for something just as comfortable but with a little more grip for the wet ground, still needs to be road to trail friendly, any suggestions?

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for the suggestion, Bruce :-). We reviewed the Brooks Cascadia in our earlier Trail Shoe round up here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpy0h4KQrad0pdU but we'll look into the Catamount for the next round up. In terms of a road to trail shoe there are some great options out there. Have you tried Hoka Challenger ATR? Or Inov-8 Parkclaws?

[@richardbruce6156]

Thanks for the reply, I have the Cascadia 14 and for some reason I get a blister on the ball of my left foot after about 4 miles, changing socks and insoles doesn’t make any difference, I have also tried the Hoka ATR but the high arch causes me pain. Might give the Inov8 a go, thanks for the advice, really appreciated.

[@LB-bv8pm]

Saucony Peregrine :-)

[@lisaenglish7000]

Thank you for this video! I moved here from the States a few months ago and where we are now there is more distance with walking trail options than road running, which is what I've always done back home. Do you think I need a trail shoe for these muddy but mostly level grounded walking trails (although sometimes I have rocky areas I feel unstable in)? Is there a good crossover shoe that you can use both on roads or offroads? This is a new area for me and so many choices (and SO. MUCH. MUD. )

[@runningchannel]

Hey Lisa! Thanks for watching :-). It really depends on how much mud you need to run through... If they are well packed trails with a few muddy patches, something like the Hoka or New Balance would be fine. But if it's a more technical trail then you may want to look at an inov-8 or Saloman shoe which will offer better grip on rock and mud - just be careful if you're transitioning to a lower drop (which a lot of trail shoes are). Hope this helps! Let us know which ones you pick :-)

[@JackTheGroenendael]

I love the Saucony Mad River TR!

[@runningchannel]

Cool Jeff! Thanks for watching :-)

[@Nbstevens78]

La sportiva Mutants and if bit boggy the Scott Rc ultra trac are superb in the fells thats defo one of the main shoes you see now.

[@runningchannel]

Great suggestions - thank you!

[@Northernerdownsouth]

Mutants seem to have made a comeback of sorts. A really old shoe but if it ain't broke...

[@Nbstevens78]

@@Northernerdownsouth yeah solid shoe decent foot protection for long days bit still good ground feel.... or as my mate says there like slippers

[@lynseyk]

If you have to run on the roads to get to the trail, what are these shoes like? Particularly the Salomon Wildcross? I’ve done some races that are a mixture of trail and road, but have always worn road shoes and slipped a lot on the trail bits. Would I be better wearing trail shoes? I’m an overpronater Any advice would be welcome 🙂

[@ryanrisbridger2063]

Nike Terra Kiger are a good shoe for racing on trails and do not feel hard underfoot on roads for the off trail parts. Grip is good and sticky and they borrow the zoom cushioning from the Nike road shoes.

[@neilworgan]

Love the video. Can you make a similar video with pairs under £100?

[@runningchannel]

Thanks Neil - we'll definitely bear this in mind for next time :-)

[@clairel3730]

Hi . Sorry to be stupid but what difference does "the drop" of a shoe make ? Who should have what drop ? Is it all to do with run style ? Foot plant ? 😀

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching Claire! So the "drop" is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of the midsole. Zero drop is supposed to be a more natural way of running but because most of our running shoes are higher drop, it's important that if you want to change to zero drop, you do so over a period of time (I pulled my calf muscle running in my partner's Inov-8 Mudclaws, for example!). There are schools of thought on both higher drop and lower drop shoes. Ultimately it's about finding what works best for you and your style of running. Hope this helps. - Mary

[@clairel3730]

Thanks for that. In simple terms - does it mean that if you have a lower drop , that you get up on your toes more and therefore run faster ? Does a heal striker need a higher drop ? What about a forefoot striker that just wants to run for fun 😄

[@marcvanderlinden7618]

@@clairel3730 if you are forefoot, then zero drop (altra for instance) or low drop (hoka) should suit you. I use a combination of both as a midfoot striker, and it has brought back fun in my running!

[@ashley1scott]

@@clairel3730 A heal striker is more likely to be wearing a higher drop shoe due to wanting more cushioning under their heal to well cushion the impact. Someone landing on their mid-foot or forefoot would be more suited (normally) to a lower drop shoe.

[@clairel3730]

Thanks both - it's a minefield out there in terms of trying new shoes. I have always been hesitant about trying something new in case it causes injury.

[@steveruppel]

Great review!

[@runningchannel]

Glad you enjoyed it! Which ones were your favourites?

[@doubleg3812]

Really a helpful video for a runner like me. Regards Gaurav Gautam

[@runningchannel]

Glad it was helpful :-)

[@gschianta]

I use Scott Supertrac Ultra RC. A bit heavy but great traction and really comfortable (at least for my feet). Give it a go if you don't know them 😉

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Nbstevens78]

Awesome shoes for big days out.... had 3 pairs currently got the new ultra trac 2's on the go as they said even better grip... decent gear

[@tommyquinnhughes]

Enjoy the Scott Supertrac in the mud, but switch to Topo Ultraventure when drier.

[@Nbstevens78]

@@tommyquinnhughes not had a set of the Topo's

[@samchu5335]

got the Torrent 1s on discount :D currently eyeing the Brooks Caldera 4 too for more cushion & its lighter than the Speedgoats

[@runningchannel]

Sweet! Good luck with the Brooks! Let us know what you think :-)

[@milesverschuur1220]

ALL Salomon Trail Shoes have the quick lace system, best to keep that in mind!

[@runningchannel]

Good to know!

[@arronthomas6177]

Salomon wildcross good for 50k ultra trail ?

[@MrMisuma]

I needed a break from running do to a sore achilles tendon(?) and I’m finally back at it. The last couple of months, I’ve been thinking about trail running, so this is just perfect. Thank you! (PS: Can you please make a video review of different types of headlights?)

[@runningchannel]

Glad you enjoyed it Michael! And yes, we're working on winter accessories video which will feature head torches now! Stay tuned!

[@gusmalave4864]

I’m looking for a trail road shoe that works fine all year long and can use in road, trails, towpaths, wet and snow Been thinking about Saucony Peregrine 11 what do you think? My weight is 105 Kg , neutral thank you

[@runningchannel]

That sounds like a great shoe! There's also the ST version if you're looking for something for more extreme conditions 😊

[@gusmalave4864]

@@runningchannel thanks for the answer and thanks even more for sharing all your expertise. Really enjoying to watch your channel ! 🥇

[@flatfootrunner8910]

I have flat foot and wear Salomon speedcross 4. I feel comfortable after replace insole. However, my toe nail was damaged 2 times if running more than 25km due to impact when going downhill. I am looking for another brand/model for 50K trail run.

[@runningchannel]

Have you tried just buying 1/2 a size larger to see if this helps with the toenail issue?

[@flatfootrunner8910]

@@runningchannel the funny thing is only on my left toe nail... anyway, I will consider to purchase wider toe box trail shoes.

[@EauRouge]

Great video guys!! My favourite is the: NEW BALANCE Fresh Foam Hierro v5 (Goretex version available).

[@shelleydavidson3095]

New to trail running and trying to find a good shoe to begin with! On the Salomon Wildcross, with the lace system being tucked in at the front, do you feel it on the front of your foot when running? Thanks :)

[@runningchannel]

Depends on how snug the fit of the shoe is for you - might be worth trying up half a size if that's something you've had trouble with before? The Salomon is a lovely shoe and Anna has enjoyed lots of miles in hers 😊

[@shelleydavidson3095]

Amazing! Thanks for the advice! :)

[@Frater369]

I cant believe in these recent reviews that big channels are still not reviewing VJ 🤦🏻‍♂️. Come on guys keep up

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching! We would love to be able to feature more trail shoes, but unfortunately it's not always possible. Thanks for the suggestion though and we'll definitely look into these for our next roundup :-)

[@ACJ60]

Please would it be possible on shoe reviews to say what size the ladies versions go up to? I need size 9 and quite a few manufacturers don’t do them in my size 😕

[@runningchannel]

Thanks for watching A J and we'll not this for the next video :-)

[@ACJ60]

@@runningchannel Thank you 😊

[@alexanderaberg5347]

Why is winter in the title when the first shoe you mention is for summer?

[@nicksrunningandadventureschann]

I'm looking at getting the new balance fresh foam trail shoes

[@runningchannel]

Fab, Nicky! Let us know what you think!

[@edmccauley99]

I'm looking to get some trail shoes (thanks for this video!) and was considering the Brooks Cascadia - any experience of that one?

[@SimonBransfieldGarth]

I bought a pair of these in the summer and I was disappointed. They seem pretty average until you get to any kind of sticky mud and then I just get a thick layer of mud stuck to the shoe that makes running all but impossible (you lose all grip and add an extra half kilo of weight per foot). Does not seem to happen with other shoes, at least not to the same degree. Pretty much given up on them unless conditions are dry. So worth trying them out before you buy if you can.

[@edmccauley99]

@@SimonBransfieldGarth Thanks for taking the time to reply, much appreciated!

[@Northernerdownsouth]

@@SimonBransfieldGarth the cascadia is a great shoe for rocky paths and trails. It's not designed to deal with clay or mud mind. I ran my first ultra in them and can't fault them.

[@soif72]

The best shoe for me is the vibram v-alpha

[@prabeshbhattarai5010]

I subscribed this channel.

[@runningchannel]

Thanks Prabesh!

[@lexington476]

Are any of the Park Runs in the UK Trail runs? Just wondering, here across the pond where I live there's not many Park Runs, and looking at other states they're mostly easy path runs.

[@runningchannel]

It's a mixture over here... Some are in urban areas so are on paved paths. Others are a mixture of paved paths and grass. I have run one in the Lake District here (northern England, in the mountains) which was pure trail and actually has the highest elevation gain of any parkrun the UK! It was beautiful - but brutal! Do you have 'parkrun tourism' over there or are they a bit too far spread out? - Mary

[@lexington476]

@@runningchannel I'm in the midwest so they're really spread out, so it's not practical. You go somewhere like the south east, or west coast then you can do Parkrun tourism easily. But where I'm at, it's not practical, at least to me 🙂.

[@tomnugent19842]

La Sportiva Jackal ❤️

[@MrAidazzz]

Torrent 2 is really good. And fast

[@BeerMatt96]

Love my More Mile Cheviot 4 fell running shoes: deep lugs and very comfy, ideal for the mud-fest that is Mole Valley parkrun. Oh, and they were £25.

[@swimrunmatt]

should trail shoes be a bigger size than my road shoes? I've never had trail shoes before, and I've seen people say to get a slightly larger size

[@kevinlemanquais2006]

Never heard that one. You should try on any shoe before you buy. All of my trail shoes are the same size as my road shoes for the most part. Different shoe companies may fit different.

[@joshipravin2427]

Superb.. 👌

[@runningchannel]

Thanks 🤗

[@cdh79]

I have the Hoka Speedgoat 4 and really like them. edit: If I had to buy it now, I'd get the Evo speedgoat though

[@runningchannel]

Great shout! What's the difference between the 4's and the Evo?

[@paulsmith3583]

Damn, just spotted this video. I've literally just come home with my first pair of trail shoes. I went for the Speedgoat 4 after trying a few pairs on the treadmill. 🤞

[@cdh79]

@@runningchannel The midsole and sole of the EVO is from the Speedgoat 3, but it has a stronger, but lighter upper than the Speedgoat 3. The EVO is made for trail-competitions. The Speedgoat 4 is a bit heavier and has a different upper and midsole than the SG3 or the EVO.

[@cdh79]

@@paulsmith3583 I'm sure you won't regret that choice.. when I bought mine, the Evo were already out of stock (they just reintroduced them again recently, so it seems they made a new batch), but I can't say anything bad about the Speedgoat 4.. they were a perfect companion on challenging trails on Madeira in the end of December/early January last year (when going on vacation and travelling was still considered a normal activity ;))

[@keith0keith01]

Hoka speedgoat! The best trail running shoe