Choosing the right shoes for le Bélier Trail by Ekosport | Le Bélier

Choosing the right shoes for le Bélier Trail

Trail shoes :

Shoes are the most important piece of equipment for any trail runner. Whatever race you set out on, choosing the right trail shoes is crucial to your comfort, safety and performance. Here are a few tips to help you find the pair that's right for you. Remember to adapt your choice according to your level of trail running experience, but also according to the distance you'll be covering.

Here are the essential criteria to consider when choosing your trail shoes:

Comfort is the main criterion for choosing a trail shoe. When trying on shoes, make sure they fit your feet properly. They should offer enough room for your toes, without being too tight or too wide. They should also provide good support in the heel and midfoot area to avoid chafing and blisters. Don't hesitate to try out different brands and models to find the one that best suits the shape and size of your feet.
Trail running can be demanding on your feet and joints due to the steep surfaces and obstacles present. Choose trail shoes with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and reduce muscle fatigue. Cushioning should be adapted to your body weight, the distance of your runs and your personal preferences. In addition, make sure the shoes offer sufficient protection against rocks, roots and other trail obstacles.
The drop represents the difference in height in centimeters between the front and rear of the shoe, including the thickness of the sole. A shoe with a drop of 0 is considered minimalist, while a medium drop is generally around 8 mm and a large drop over 10 mm. The choice of drop depends partly on how you feel, and partly on the type of terrain. However, the latter is not a decisive criterion in the choice of shoes, unlike cushioning, which plays a role in both comfort and safety. A shoe with more cushioning will be more suitable for heel attack, but will be a little less light.
The type of terrain you plan to run on is an important factor in choosing your shoes. For running on the trails of the Aravis mountains, you can opt for a versatile pair of shoes offering both good grip and sufficient traction. If rain is forecast and the terrain is muddy, choose shoes with deep lugs for good mud evacuation.
Finally, stability is crucial when trail running, as rough and uneven trails can increase the risk of twisting and injury. Look for trail shoes with adequate ankle and heel support. Make sure the shoes hold your feet in place without restricting their natural movement.

Choosing the right trail shoes is an important process for all outdoor runners. By taking the following criteria into account, you'll be able to find the perfect pair to take to the trails!

Hiking shoes :

Hiking shoes must guarantee comfort, performance and safety. For the various hikes on Bélier, you can opt for either low-cut hiking boots or high-cut shoes, which offer better ankle support on more difficult terrain.

Comfort is paramount when you plan to walk for long hours. Make sure your shoes offer good fit and support. They shouldn't be too tight or too loose. Take into account width, cushioning and arch support. Don't forget to try the shoes on with the hiking socks you plan to wear, to choose the right size.

Hiking boots need to be durable to withstand wear and tear and last for many miles. Opt for quality footwear, made with resistant materials and solid construction. Abrasion-resistant soles and reinforcements in the toe and heel enhance the shoes' longevity.

Hiking boots must allow your feet to breathe to prevent heat and moisture build-up. Look for breathable materials like mesh or perforated leather, which promote ventilation and moisture management.

You can also opt for waterproof shoes with a Gore-Tex membrane, useful in bad weather or if the terrain is wet.