Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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I love wearing trail running shoes but they should come with a warning! I started out wearing full height hiking boots, then mid height hiking boots but more recently I've been experimenting with hiking shoes and trail runners.

The benefits of trail running shoes are:
Light
Breathable
Flexible
Comfortable
Feel less fatigue

For me, I feel they are best suited to hot and dry conditions. If backpacking, they suit lighter weight of ultralight backpacking gear.

However, not is all rosy. They also have the following drawbacks:
No ankle protection
Not very durable
Not very durable
Either no waterproofing or limited waterproofness

Whatever you decide to purchase, make sure you sure TopCashBack to get extra discounts from High Street and Online Shops:
topcashback.co.uk/ref/backpackinguk

Personally, I love using Sports Shoes as they also have deals on!

For me, I feel there is a risk of using trail runners on long distance backpacking trips and long distance hiking trail. Also, if carrying weight, you are putting yourself at risk.

If you are into your hiking, backpacking and wild camping please SUBSCRIBE @BackpackingUK

Thanks, Andy.

#hiking #hikinguk #ultralightbackpacking