Do I Really Need Trail Shoes for Walking on Park Trails?
Do I Really Need Trail Shoes for Walking on Park Trails?Brandon writes: “We are planing a trip to the national parks in Utah and Arizona. The trails look well maintained, so do I really need a trail shoe or hiking boot, or will my good quality running shoes do?”Answer: I wear trail shoes rather than athletic running or walking shoes for any natural trails. Here are my reasons for using trail shoes or boots on dirt, gravel or rocky trails: 1. Rocks. Even small rocks along the trail can cause a lot of discomfort through the soles of most running shoes. I have sorely regretted wearing my usual lightweight performance shoes on a flat gravel road. The trails in the Southwest USA have plenty of rocks. Trail shoes are as lightweight as most running shoes, but they have a rock guard in the sole and toe so you won’t get the “poke-through.” 2. Rugged soles for better traction. On a natural trail with uphill/downhill incline, you need good traction to prevent slipping. Trail shoes have soles desi
