More and more runners are complaining about injuries after training. The original problem is hard and compacted soils, unfortunately even in the forest. Many “hiking trails” are filled with gravel here. A huge problem for daily training.
Which running shoes or running sandals would be best in my experience?
As the developer of the Tarasoles barefoot sandals, I have given this a lot of thought. In warm weather, running sandals are simply my favorite training tool. Even the Tarahumara Indians from the rocky north of Mexico walked hundreds of kilometers with so-called “huaraches” without sustaining any injuries. The undersoles of the traditional Huarache sandals are made from old car tires and feel extremely hard underfoot. Why are there no injuries? Experts have been speculating about this for many years. My answer: the floors and the ground are hard but uneven, so the position of the foot changes with every step. The foot and – therefore – the entire musculature are optimally trained and the risk of injury remains low.
On a trail run, the ground in the forest is soft and alternates with stony ground. Which footwear is suitable?
The sole should have a grippy profile so that it can get slippery. I developed the mountain model for a minimalist running experience. The 4.5 mm Vibram Claw undersole offers an optimal grippy profile, which Vibram developed especially for outdoor activities. The claw sole has little abrasion and provides a robust walking sensation. For light and soft cushioning, I developed the mountain model on a week-long hike and thought about the middle layer of this Tarasoles sandal. Here I chose a 3mm Aero Sorb material from Nora, which should ensure lightweight and high-quality shock absorption. The insole of the mountain model consists of an anti-slip surface that is weather-resistant and prevents slipping even in the rain.
You can view the mountain model here
The mountain sole can also be selected as the bottom sole for the Huarache Classic. The straps hug the foot softly yet robustly. If you prefer lacing, you can choose this in the Tarasoles store.
The company “Joe Nimble” offers an innovative running shoe.
For almost a year, an experienced team of biomechanics and world-renowned experts in running technology and footwear science worked on creating a running shoe with a biomechanically optimized design that makes the biggest dream of passionate runners come true
The Ultreya®stands for:
- More walking comfort
- Optimum propulsive force
- Maximum stability
A wider, anatomically correct toe box allows the toes to spread out – so they can perform their natural stabilizing function during the ground contact and push-off phase of running. This prevents overpronation, which is so feared by runners.
(Quote from Joe Nimble’s website).
I’m currently training with the Trail Addict from Joe Nimble and the mountain model on stony ground in the low mountain ranges of Germany. I am grateful for the grippy undersole and the soft yet natural feel. When it gets warmer, I prefer the minimalist mountain model. The Huarache Classic with mountain outsole is my latest innovation.
The Ultreya will be my next running and hiking shoe, as I am looking for solutions on long asphalt routes. I will keep you up to date. I’m curious. What experiences have you had?