Disclaimer: I am a brand ambassador for the company mentioned in the article. However, I believe 100% in everything I stated in here. The company did not ask me to write this article or say something in particular about their products.
Since I started trail running as a result of the pandemic, running has become more of a fun adventure instead of running with the ultimate goal of racing for medals. Over that past few months, I have had the opportunity to explore local trails in my area such Sprewell Bluff, Arrowhead Park, and Flat Rock Park. More importantly, I am enjoying the time outdoors close to nature but away from traffic and other distractions. Therefore, I am now developing a deeper appreciation for trail running.
Over the past few months, I have learned that running on trails minimizes repetitive stress injuries by taking away a lot of impact stress on the ankles, knees, shins, and hips resulting from daily running on pavement. In addition, trail running strengthens your core muscles and works different muscle groups than road running. This ultimately will offer benefits that translate to both physical AND mental advantages for me as a duathlete.
At the same time, I am also learning that trail running requires intense focus that requires you to carefully watch where you’re going. While the terrain of a trail can vary, most often the surface of the trail is significantly softer than pavement. Whereas lightweight shoes are great for running on the concrete and asphalt of roads, a heavier shoe consisting of durable soles with more grip and cushioning to protect your feet from rocks and roots is generally best for trail running. Furthermore, proper trail shoes should provide support on uneven surfaces, preventing the ankle from twisting when the foot comes down on rocks, sticks and other obstacles on the trail.
I have sworn by the HOKA One One brand for years because it has been the only shoe that allowed me to run long distances comfortably without pain. I started running in the Bondi and currently run in the Carbon X on the roads. I choose to start my journey into the world of trail running in the HOKA Stinson ATR 6. This is a shoe designed specifically to support and protect the foot on rugged terrain. The Stinson provides excellent grip and traction on all kind of terrains and it has maximum cushioning designed with the idea of absorbing the repetitive impact of landing while running on any terrain. Essentially, it’s the trail counterpart to the Bondi, which is perfect and I have been satisfied with it so far.
In short, I’ve found trail running to be better for my body and mind. Since I started trail running, I experience less frustration and find myself having more feelings of calm. Likewise, I know I am just beginning to scratch the surface of my trail running potential as I extended my joy of running by moving off the pavement. More to come.