Trail running shoes aren’t just for runners. Increasingly, hikers wanting to travel light and fast are choosing these agile shoes, especially for long distance trails like Te Araroa.

Upper

Usually made from quick-draining and super light synthetic materials. Expect plenty of mesh panels and a breathable lining to help keep feet cool and dry. 

Fit

A good fit is vital for foot stability over uneven terrain. It is also essential for comfort. Some models may stretch and soften once broken in – and even while they’re being used,  as they adjust to swelling feet. But, a shoe that is uncomfortable from the start, will remain uncomfortable.

Midsole

Technical midsoles are made from various shock-absorbing materials that also help rebound and propel the user through their stride. Midsoles often include a plate to protect the underfoot from stones and other trail debris. 

Outsole

Wide-spaced, dirt-shedding lugs are common. But don’t just look for shoes with the most lugs – manufacturers use a variety of rubber compounds to provide traction that also offer a long-lasting tread.

Toe box and heel

A reinforced toe box with synthetic overlays will protect toes from bumps. It should be wide enough to allow toes to spread during activity. The heel needs to be cupped securely to prevent movement and blistering. 

Sizing

A good rule of thumb is to buy a shoe half a size larger than your regular size and if you plan on doing ultra distances, think about getting at least one pair that is a full size larger – feet can swell up to two sizes over longer distances.

La Sportiva Bushido II $299.95

A snug-fitting and stable off-road shoe with a TPU skeleton that wraps the midsole. There’s an air mesh upper with thermoplastic film reinforcements, compression moulded EVA midsole, breathable mesh lining and 20% recycled Ortholite footbed. It has a FriXion Red outsole for long lasting grip. 600g (m), 500g (w). www.mountainadventure.co.nz

The North Face VECTIV Enduris 3 $280

An ultra-distance shoe with forked heel that improves energy return and forward propulsion, midsole rocker geometry, and internal heel support for closer fit. Breathable, protective mesh uppers. Surface CTRL rubber outsole with 3.5mm lugs. 614g (m), 514g (w). www.thenorthface.co.nz

La Sportiva Jackal II Boa $369.95

A high-performance ultra-long distance mountain running shoe. It features the Boa Fit system for quick and precise fit and lacing adjustments, thermo-adhesive TPU reinforcements at toe and heel, and a double 3-layer microfibre closure for heel hold and stability. There’s a 20% recycled Ortholite footbed and super-sticky outsole. 540g (m), 600g (w). www.mountainadventure.co.nz

Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 $259

Designed for long distances with an internal bootie for locked-in fit and a lightweight and supportive ‘FloatPro Foam’ midsole. There’s a breathable mesh and TPU upper, recycled laces, a gaiter D-Ring and Vibram MegaGrip outsole. 560g (m), 440g (w). www.merrell.co.nz

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 $289.90

This shoe has Topo Athletic’s most cushioned platform. It has an increased stack height for protection and comfort, and a responsive ZipFoam midsole compound. It’s made with a sustainable mesh upper (three plastic bottles per pair) and has a Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole. 578g (m), 470g (w). www.ippnzshop.co.nz

The North face VECTIV Infinite 2 $330

An agile long-distance technical terrain shoe. It has a 3D dual-density Pebax protective footplate, midsole rocker geometry for forward propulsion, a stability-enhancing forked heel and an EVA midsole. Surface CTRL rubber outsole with 5mm lugs. 614g (w), 540g (w). www.thenorthface.co.nz

Merrell Agility Peak 5 $299

An ultra-cushioned, rugged terrain shoe with breathable mesh and TPU upper, 50% recycled EVA foam footbed, rock plate for protection and mesh collar and tongue to improve stretch and fit. Recycled laces, mesh lining and footbed cover. Vibram MegaGrip outsole. 470g (m/w). www.merrell.co.nz