Trail Runners
Lightweight running shoes for trail hiking
Top Recommended Trail Runners
Salomon Speedcross 5
Salomon
Aggressive trail runners with exceptional grip for technical terrain and wet conditions.
Why I Recommend This
"These have carried me through hundreds of miles on Utah's trails. The grip on slickrock is unmatched, and they dry fast after creek crossings."
Pros
- Excellent traction
- quick-dry mesh
- comfortable fit
Considerations
- Aggressive tread wears on pavement
- narrow toe box
Hoka Speedgoat 5
Hoka
Maximum cushion trail runner designed for ultra-distance and rocky terrain comfort.
Why I Recommend This
"These have carried me through hundreds of miles on Utah's trails. The grip on slickrock is unmatched, and they dry fast after creek crossings."
Pros
- ["Maximum cushioning"
- "Excellent stability"
- "Vibram outsole"
- "Great for rocky terrain"]
Considerations
- ["Heavy for trail runner"
- "Expensive"
- "Thick sole reduces ground feel"]
Altra Lone Peak 7
Altra
Zero-drop trail runners with excellent traction for technical Utah terrain and all-day comfort.
Why I Recommend This
"These have carried me through hundreds of miles on Utah's trails. The grip on slickrock is unmatched, and they dry fast after creek crossings."
Pros
- ["Zero drop design"
- "Wide toe box"
- "Great traction"
- "Comfortable for long distances"]
Considerations
- ["Durability issues"
- "Sizing runs large"
- "Not waterproof"]
Altra Lone Peak 7
Altra
Zero-drop trail runners with wide toe box for natural foot positioning on long distances.
Why I Recommend This
"These have carried me through hundreds of miles on Utah's trails. The grip on slickrock is unmatched, and they dry fast after creek crossings."
Pros
- Zero drop design
- wide toe box
- excellent for long distances
Considerations
- Less cushioning
- minimal heel support
Pro Tips for Trail Runners
Buying Smart
- Buy quality once instead of cheap twice
- Check used gear first - often like new at 50% off
- End-of-season sales offer best deals on premium gear
- Rent expensive items before buying to test fit
Maintenance Secrets
- Proper care extends gear life by 5-10 years
- Store trail runners in breathable bags
- Clean after every 3-5 uses
- Professional tune-ups pay for themselves
Hidden Deals & Insider Sources
Secret Sales
- REI Garage Sales (members only) - up to 70% off
- Patagonia Worn Wear - guaranteed used gear
- Local gear swaps in spring/fall
- Facebook Marketplace often has steals
Best Times to Buy
- Trail Runners: Best deals in February & August
- Memorial Day weekend sales
- Black Friday for premium brands
- End of season clearances
You're All Set!
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