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One of the features I noticed in most trail shoes was the<br />
shoe lacing system. Some come with a pocket that allows<br />
you to tuck the loose end of the lace inside to prevent<br />
them coming undone or getting caught. Others come with<br />
a toggle system that allows you to loosen and tighten your<br />
shoes with one swift pull.<br />
Another feature is the heel drop, the amount of cushioning<br />
under the heel. This will once again depend on the main<br />
use of your shoe, if you intend to use them mainly for<br />
running then look for a pair with a greater heel drop.<br />
"Remember, there is<br />
rarely a time when<br />
one shoe will do it all,<br />
so choose the one that<br />
is best for your major<br />
needs."<br />
If you are in your shoes for a long time, the weight of them<br />
can make a real difference, so check how they feel but<br />
also how much they weigh.<br />
So how do you know which one is right for you?<br />
Firstly you have to know what type of trail or activity you<br />
are likely to navigate. This is easy if you always run the<br />
bush, for example, but it does get a little trickier when you<br />
have a variety of terrains and uses.<br />
One of the biggest mistakes I have made when buying<br />
shoes in the past is getting them too small, especially for<br />
when I am adventure racing. If you are going to be in your<br />
shoes for a longer period of time your feet are going to<br />
swell, so make sure you have enough room. If you have<br />
the typical kiwi wide feet, then look for a shoe that gives<br />
you more room in the toes, your feet will thank you for it.<br />
Try on plenty of shoes, what may feel great on your feet<br />
can feel totally different on someone else so let the shoes<br />
do the talking. Some people prefer the feeling of a high<br />
profile shoe, which can provide extra support around the<br />
ankles, whereas others prefer a low profile style allowing<br />
for more maneuverability.<br />
Remember, there is rarely a time when one shoe will do<br />
it all, so choose the one that is best for your major needs,<br />
and you may just need to follow Jenny’s lead and have a<br />
different shoe for each different occasion!<br />
Stretch gaters<br />
help to keeps<br />
debris out of the<br />
lace area<br />
Quick lacing system makes lacing easy<br />
and the neoprene cover keeps pebbles<br />
and brances out of your shoes.<br />
Extra features such as SALEWA’S 3F<br />
system help to keep the shoe snug and<br />
connected around your ankle<br />
and Instep helping to keep out debris.<br />
Look for a durable breathable<br />
mesh or a waterproof fabric if this<br />
is important to you.<br />
Extra protection at the toe, sides<br />
and heels helps to protect your<br />
shoes from a variety of terrains.<br />
A higher heel drop will provide<br />
more cushioning<br />
Look for a good grip on the soles,<br />
and a lug suitable for your activity.<br />
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