Trail Shoes on Sale

Traction and rubber: grip according to the terrain

The sole makes a difference on trails. Three to four millimetre studs are enough on dry paths and rolling terrains; beyond five millimetres, they dig into mud and thick grass. The Hoka Mafate features five millimetre studs made of Vibram Megagrip rubber, known for its grip on wet rock, while the Saucony Xodus Ultra has four millimetre studs in the same rubber. The adidas Terrex Agravic uses a Continental sole, crafted by the tyre manufacturer's expertise. The La Sportiva Mutant, with its FriXion rubber studs and integrated gaiter, is designed for mud and wet terrains.

Other outdoor sales

Outdoor sales also include:

• Hiking shoes.
• Men's clothing, jackets and tights.
• Women's clothing.
• Luggage, vests and hydration packs.
• Equipment, poles and headlamps.

All outdoor sales can be found on the outdoor page.

Drop and cushioning: from zero drop to maximum cushioning

The drop, the height difference between the heel and the front of the foot, influences the stride. The Topo Athletic Pursuit, with zero drop and a very wide toe box, allows the toes to spread out and promotes a midfoot strike; it is suitable for wide feet, but requires a gradual adjustment to spare the calves. The Hoka Mafate, with an eight millimetre drop and a thick dual-density sole, focuses on maximum cushioning for ultra running. The adidas Terrex Agravic SL, with a six millimetre drop and Lightstrike Pro foam, seeks a compromise between dynamism and protection. For a heavier or beginner runner, generous cushioning and a wide sole help protect the joints.

With or without Gore-Tex: waterproofing and breathability

A Gore-Tex membrane keeps the foot dry in dew, snow, and puddles on winter trails: the Terrex Freehiker GTX is equipped for cold and wet outings. The downside is that a shoe with a membrane breathes less, and if water enters through the collar during a stream crossing, it dries slowly. Non-membrane models, in open mesh, allow water to escape and dry while running: they are preferred in summer and on runs that cross streams. A gaiter, integrated like on the Mutant or added on top, prevents stones and snow from entering from above, regardless of the chosen model.

Short, long or ultra trail: which model for which distance

The distance targeted influences the choice. For short trails, up to about thirty kilometres, lightness and precision are key: the adidas Terrex Agravic SL or the La Sportiva Helios, low and flexible, provide good sensations during accelerations. On long trails and ultra distances, protection becomes more important, with a thicker sole and a more covered upper: the Hoka Mafate, the Saucony Xodus Ultra, or the Asics Trabuco help limit fatigue over the hours. Versatile models like the Terrex Tracefinder or the Rossignol Vezor support varied outings. Winter sales come just as spring races are being prepared, a good time to replace a worn-out pair.

Frequently asked questions

What trail shoes for the GR20?

The GR20, in Corsica, alternates rocky slabs, scree, and equipped passages over nearly one hundred and eighty kilometres. A very grippy rubber on rock, a reinforced toe cap, and protective cushioning are essential.

What trail shoe for a weak ankle?

You should look for a wide sole and a medium drop, which stabilise the foot's placement, rather than a very high and unstable model. Strengthening the ankle and using poles downhill also reduces the risk of sprain.

How to lace trail shoes for downhill?

Tighten the midfoot firmly and use the last eyelet for a locking lace, which prevents the foot from sliding forward. The toes should not touch the front of the shoe on steep slopes.

How to clean trail shoes?

Rinse them with clear water after a muddy outing, brush the studs, and remove the insoles. They should dry in the air, filled with newspaper, never near a radiator which weakens the adhesives.

Narrow foot: how to prevent it from floating in the shoe?

A narrow fit at the heel and a shaft that tightens well during lacing prevent the foot from floating on cambered surfaces. Italian mountain models, like those from La Sportiva, are known for their precise and fitted fit.