Exactly What To Look For In A Pair Of Trail Running Shoes 

However local or remote, Australians love a cruisy bushwalk or a lengthy hike. We also love a run, which is why it seems strange that fewer people haven’t taken up trail running as a longer hobby. Great for your cardio and building strength in your legs, taking your runs out into the fire trails and nature tracks that Australia has in abundance is the perfect way of building your all-around fitness while switching off, absorbing some scenery and maybe squeezing a podcast or two in. And it’s for this very reason that stylish, comfortable and functional trail running shoes are also hot property right now. Shoes from the likes of Salomon and Nike, equipped with a more rugged, all-terrain build and the technology to keep things comfortable on long cruises through your local national park, are as desirable among street style savants as they are veteran runners, and they have an array of benefits that make them a prime candidate not just if you’re thinking of taking up trail running as a serious hobby, but if you’re keen on your bushwalks as well. 

So, what should you look for in a pair of trail runners? The build of trail running shoes differs fundamentally from the normal running or walking shoes you take on your walks along the beachfront. Trail runners are generally more heavily structured and supportive than lightweight road runners, particularly around the ankle, helping to reduce instances of injury when walking or running over uneven terrain. They also typically have firmer, more durable rubber that sacrifices a little cushioning in the name of grip and longevity. A trail running shoe’s upper is also slightly more rugged and weatherproof, but you’ll want to ensure that you get a pair with a breathable upper, meaning they can dry out properly if they do get wet. Some shoes, like Salomon’s XA Pro 3D V8, aren't just stylish, but come with a Gore-Tex upper that repels water but remains breathable enough to let the shoe breathe if you do have to go wading.

Finally, cushioning remains key to help keep you feeling comfortable and fresh during long runs or bushwalks. Trail runners typically don’t have super soft or squidgy cushioning underfoot, but rather provide a more supportive, responsive ride so you can pop off obstacles and uneven terrain while also ensuring that your knees and ankles are getting the kind of ride they need.