Every trail shoe box promises grip and protection. Here is how we actually choose.
1. Fit
A thumb's width of space at the toe, a heel that does not slip and no pressure on the sides. Try them on in the afternoon, when your feet are biggest.
2. Your ground
- Hard, rocky paths: a firmer sole and a rock plate.
- Mud and soft ground: deeper lugs that are spaced apart so mud falls out.
- A bit of everything: medium lugs and a comfortable fit.
3. Everything else
Colour, weight and the name on the side matter much less than the first two.