In the October 2006 edition of Runner’s World (RW) magazine, the RW editors tested 27 trail shoes at their shoe lab. I have always like Runner’s World’s testing process because it’s a combination of mechanical testing in a lab and feedback by actual wear-testers.
In this case, 300 wear-testers reviewed this year’s best trail running shoes. The following 10 trail shoes were the highest rated by Runner’s World.
- New Balance 872 - RW Editor’s Choice - “Recommended for average-weight runners with normal to high arches who run on both the road and a variety of trail surfaces.” As with all New Balance shoes, the 872s are available in different widths, which make it the only shoe in the RW guide with various widths.
- Adidas Response Trail XII - RW Best Buy - ”Recommended for runners with normal arches looking for a neutral-cushioned shoe with decent stability that will do well on both road and tamer groomed trails.”
- Asics Gel-Trabuco IX - RW Best Update - ”Recommended for runners with normal to low arches looking for a hybrid trail shoe that does just as well on roads as on less-rugged trail surfaces.”
- Brooks Adrenaline ASR - ”Recommended for bigger runners with normal to low arches who run on a mix of hard-packed trails and pavement.”
- Montrail Continental Divide - RW Best Debut - ”Recommended for bigger runners with low to flat arches who frequently run on more technical, rocky surfaces.”
- Nike Shox Junga - RW Best Debut - ”Recommended for runners with normal to high arches who frequently run on rocky, uneven trails.”
- Reebok Premier Switchback TR - ”Recommended for runners with lower arches who are looking for a shoe that works well on roads or tamer city-park trails.” We currently don’t have any merchants offering this trail shoe.
- Saucony Grid Labyrinth - ”Recommended for medium-size runners with normal to low arches who run on a variety of trail surfaces.”
- Teva X-1C - ”Recommended for runners with normal to low arches who run on a variety of trail surfaces or for those looking for a supportive off-road racing shoe.”
- The North Face Radial - ”Recommended for runners with low to normal arches looking for a hybrid trail shoe for road and trail.”
I’ve given you the highlights from Runner’s World guide but I highly recommend you pick-up a copy of the magazine to fully understand how these shoes were evaluated. Correct fitting shoes can make a world of difference between enjoying your run and being miserable. Over the years, I have realized how important proper fitting shoes will improve your running biomechanics and prevent injuries. Speaking of injuries, here’s a good article from RW about injury prevention.
Fall is upon us, so get a new pair of trail shoes and enjoy the beautiful fall weather and scenery!
