Trail/running shoes

Muule's advice: How to choose your trail and running shoes?

Every runner is unique, and every terrain imposes its own unique demands. Whether you're a road runner, mountain trail runner, or mixed runner, choosing the right trail and running shoes is essential for your comfort. Finding the right balance between cushioning, grip, and support is essential to optimize your performance. Discover our tips for selecting the trail and running shoes that perfectly meet your needs.

Trail or running shoes: what are the differences?

Trail running and running are two similar disciplines, but with different requirements. Running primarily involves road or track races, while trail running takes place in the great outdoors, with varying terrain and elevation changes.

Running shoes : Lightweight and designed to absorb shock on hard surfaces like asphalt. They prioritize comfort and responsiveness with a thinner sole and optimized cushioning.

See our selection of women's running shoes and our men's running shoes .

Trail running shoes : Reinforced and featuring a more robust, grippy sole for uneven terrain. They offer better grip and increased protection against natural obstacles.

See our range of women's trail shoes and our men's trail shoes .

It's essential to distinguish between these two types of shoes when choosing a model that's best for your practice. For runners who alternate between road and trail running, hybrid shoes are an excellent alternative, combining cushioning and grip to adapt to different terrains.

The essential criteria for choosing your trail and running shoes

The type of terrain

Road running : Choose lightweight, comfortable running shoes with good cushioning to absorb shock.
Mountain trail running : choose trail shoes with reinforced grip, sturdy, notched soles and good ankle support.
Whether you're running a trail in the forest or on a less technical path , aim for a good balance between cushioning and grip. You can choose trail shoes with lighter, more flexible soles than those for rugged trails.

Consider cushioning

Cushioning protects joints from repeated impacts. Shoes with high cushioning offer optimal protection, particularly recommended for long distances. They effectively absorb impacts , helping to protect your knees, hips and ankles.

On the other hand, if you prioritize responsiveness and a natural feeling of speed, shoes with less cushioning will be ideal. They offer greater dynamics and increased responsiveness for a smoother, faster run.

The drop

The drop of a trail/running shoe represents the difference in height between the front and back of the shoe. It plays a key role in the dynamics of your run and how your foot interacts with the ground. A low drop (0 to 6 mm) allows for a flatter foot position, thus providing a more natural running sensation. This type of drop promotes a smoother and more dynamic stride, with better energy return. However, a low drop requires good running technique and is therefore recommended for intermediate to advanced runners .

On the other hand, a high drop (8 to 12 mm) is more suitable for heel-strike runners . This type of drop offers better joint protection. If you tend to run with heel strike, a high drop can improve your comfort while reducing the risk of injury.

Stability and support

A good running shoe should provide solid support to prevent twisting, especially on uneven or uphill trails. The structure of the upper and the lacing system play a key role in this support. Precise lacing and a well-adjusted upper ensure an optimal fit and better security for your foot. Some sneakers are equipped with a self-locking speed lacing system , thus preventing any loosening during the run. In running, although the terrain is more even, good support helps prevent injuries related to poor posture or poorly supported feet.

Breathability and waterproofness according to the season

If you're trail running or running in the summer or on dry trails, choose breathable models. These running shoes promote the evacuation of heat and moisture, which helps keep your feet dry and comfortable. On the other hand, for outings in winter or wet conditions, waterproof shoes, such as those equipped with Gore-Tex membranes, offer better protection against water while maintaining a certain breathability.

Choosing the right trail and running shoes is crucial to avoiding injuries and improving your performance. By taking into account your body shape , your terrain and your specific needs , you will find the ideal model to fully enjoy your sports sessions.

Discover our complete selection of outdoor shoes suitable for all activities and all terrains.