Trail Running Shoes for Men and Women | Merrell, Salomon, The North Face, and Timberlands - Sun & Ski Sports

How should trail running shoes fit?: Fit should be snug at midfoot and heel, with about a thumb-width (≈1 cm) of space in the toe box to prevent “toe bang” downhill. It's great to try shoes on in the evening or after a run, wearing your trail socks.
What terrain type should I match to shoe outsole?: Soft, muddy trails need deep, widely spaced lugs (>5 mm). Hard-packed or rocky terrain benefits from shorter lugs (<4 mm), which offer more stability.
Waterproof or breathable?: Generally, non-waterproof, breathable shoes are better for trail running. Waterproofing like Gore-Tex tends to trap sweat unless conditions are constantly wet. Sun & Ski offers both waterproof and breathable models -opt for waterproof only if you're running consistently in muddy, snowy, or wet environments.
Do I need a rock plate or other protection?: Rock plates help shield your feet on rocky terrain. Reinforced toe caps, stiffer outsoles, and gusseted tongues also help protect your feet and keep debris out. Sun & Ski stock shoes with these protective features—ask about models with rock plates for added comfort.
How much cushioning and heel drop should I choose?: Stack height (midsole foam thickness) varies based on preference—minimal for ground feel, higher for shock absorption. Heel-toe drop (heel height minus forefoot height) helps running form: zero-drop for forefoot strikers, higher drop for heel strikers or longer runs. Sun & Ski offers varied cushioning and drop options—test them to find your balance of protection and responsiveness.
How long do trail shoes last?: Most trail shoes last 300–500 miles (~480–800 km), depending on terrain and usage. Rotating between pairs (at least two) can help them dry and prolong lifespan. Sun & Ski team can advise on mileage tracking and rotation strategies.
Should I size up half a size?: Many runners size up half-size to accommodate foot swelling and thicker socks. But snug fits are also fine if you're technical or fast, especially on shorter runs.
Can I use trail shoes for hiking or road?: Yes, trail shoes work for hiking due to lighter weight and better traction. They can also be used on roads, but aggressive lugs may wear faster on pavement. Sun & Ski carry cross-over hybrids suited for both trail and light road runs.
Do I need different shoes for racing vs training?: Lightweight, low-stack, racing shoes are great for speed and performance. For long training runs, choose cushioned shoes with more protection.