are trail running shoes good for hiking

Are Trail Running Shoes Good for Hiking? My Experience

I’ve always been curious about using trail running shoes for hiking, so I decided to give it a try. My first experiment involved a relatively easy, well-maintained trail near my home. I chose my favorite pair of Salomon trail runners, and honestly, they felt surprisingly comfortable. The lightweight feel was a welcome change from my heavier hiking boots. The grip was excellent on the packed dirt path, giving me plenty of confidence. Overall, this initial experience was very positive.

My First Hike in Trail Runners

For my maiden voyage using trail runners for hiking, I chose a relatively easy, well-marked trail in the nearby Redwood Regional Park. I packed my usual hiking essentials⁚ water, snacks (a granola bar and an apple – my go-to trail mix!), a lightweight first-aid kit, and my trusty camera to capture the stunning scenery. I laced up my Salomon Sense Ride 4 trail runners – a pair I’d previously only used for shorter trail runs. The lightness was immediately noticeable; it felt like I was barely wearing anything at all compared to my usual hiking boots. The initial miles were a dream. The trail was mostly smooth, packed dirt, and the responsive cushioning of the trail runners made the experience enjoyable. I found myself moving with an unexpected agility, easily navigating the gentle inclines and declines. The grip on the trail was superb; I felt confident and secure even on slightly loose sections. I even attempted a small, rocky outcrop, and the shoes handled it surprisingly well. The breathability was also a significant advantage; my feet stayed surprisingly cool and dry, even as the temperature climbed slightly. By the time I reached the halfway point, I was feeling incredibly positive about my decision to use trail runners. I paused to enjoy the breathtaking views of the redwood canopy, snapping some photos to commemorate my successful adventure. The rest of the hike continued without incident. My feet felt comfortable, and I didn’t experience any blisters or discomfort. When I finally returned to the trailhead, I was pleasantly surprised at how little fatigue I felt. I attributed this to the lighter weight and enhanced responsiveness of the trail runners. It was a truly delightful experience, and I was already planning my next hike in them!

Unexpected Challenges on a More Difficult Trail

Emboldened by my initial success, I decided to test my trail runners on a more challenging trail – the notoriously rocky and uneven Mount Tamalpais trail. This time, I packed extra water and snacks, anticipating a longer and more strenuous hike. The initial part of the trail was similar to my previous experience⁚ the trail runners performed admirably on the well-maintained sections. However, as the trail grew steeper and rockier, I started to encounter some unexpected challenges. The minimal ankle support became apparent as I navigated uneven terrain and loose scree. My ankles felt a bit more vulnerable than they would have in my sturdy hiking boots. I had to be much more deliberate and careful with each step to avoid twisting them. The lack of substantial protection from rocks and debris also became a noticeable drawback. I felt several small pebbles and rocks impacting the soles of my feet, which, while not painful, were definitely less comfortable than the protection offered by my hiking boots. On steeper descents, the thinner soles of the trail runners offered less cushioning, and I felt the impact more directly on my joints. The grip, while still good, wasn’t as reliable on the loose, rocky sections as it had been on the packed dirt trails. I found myself needing to be more cautious and deliberate in my foot placement to avoid slips. Despite these challenges, I managed to complete the hike, but it was a far more demanding experience than I anticipated. I reached the summit, but my feet were noticeably more tired and achy than they would have been in my hiking boots. The experience highlighted the limitations of trail runners on particularly rugged terrain, making me appreciate the robust protection and ankle support offered by traditional hiking boots.

Comparing Trail Runners to Hiking Boots

After my experiences on both easy and challenging trails, I felt compelled to do a more direct comparison between my trail running shoes and my trusty hiking boots. My hiking boots, a pair of sturdy Merrell Moab 2s, are significantly heavier and bulkier than my Salomon trail runners. This weight difference is immediately noticeable; the trail runners feel incredibly light and nimble, almost like wearing slippers compared to the substantial feel of the hiking boots. This lightness is a significant advantage on less challenging trails, allowing for quicker movement and less fatigue on long distances. However, this lightness comes at a cost. The hiking boots provide far superior ankle support and protection. The high-cut design and stiffer construction offer significantly more stability on uneven terrain, reducing the risk of ankle sprains or twists. The thicker soles of the hiking boots offer superior cushioning and protection from rocks and debris, making them far more comfortable on rough trails. I found myself feeling significantly more protected and confident on rocky sections wearing my hiking boots. The sole design of the hiking boots also provides superior grip in muddy or wet conditions. While my trail runners held up well on dry trails, their grip was noticeably less reliable on slick surfaces. In terms of breathability, I found the trail runners to be slightly more breathable, which is beneficial on warmer days. However, the hiking boots, with their Gore-Tex lining, offered better protection from water and mud; Ultimately, the choice between trail runners and hiking boots comes down to the specific terrain and the priorities of the hiker. For well-maintained trails, the lightweight and nimble feel of trail runners is a significant advantage. However, for more challenging terrain, the superior ankle support, protection, and grip of hiking boots are essential.

My Verdict⁚ The Right Shoe for the Right Hike

After putting both my trail running shoes and hiking boots through their paces on various trails, I’ve reached a clear conclusion⁚ there’s no single “best” shoe for all hikes. The ideal footwear depends entirely on the specific trail conditions and your personal preferences. For well-maintained, relatively flat trails with minimal obstacles, my Salomon trail runners proved to be excellent. Their lightweight design and excellent grip on packed dirt and gravel made for a comfortable and efficient hiking experience. I found myself moving much faster and feeling less fatigued compared to when I wore my hiking boots on similar terrain. The lightness was a real benefit, allowing for quicker ascents and descents. However, when I tackled more challenging trails with significant elevation changes, rocky sections, and muddy patches, my hiking boots were the clear winners. The added ankle support and protection provided by the Merrell Moabs were invaluable, giving me the confidence to navigate tricky terrain without fear of injury. The superior grip in wet or muddy conditions was also a major factor. On these more challenging hikes, the added weight of the boots was a small price to pay for the increased safety and stability. Therefore, my verdict is that trail running shoes are a fantastic option for less demanding hikes where speed and lightweight comfort are priorities. However, for more challenging trails requiring significant ankle support and protection from the elements, sturdy hiking boots remain the better choice. Ultimately, the best shoe for you will depend on your specific needs and the nature of the trails you plan to explore. Choosing wisely can significantly impact your enjoyment and safety on the trail.