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THE PERFECT TRAIL SHOES
Get speedy and stylish with William Goodge
Looking for the best trail running shoes that tick all the boxes? According to our guest, ultra runner William Goodge, the starting point for finding the perfect pair is always the terrain. Get his full guide below.
Story Featuring
By Justin Kendall
17 March 2024 · 4 min read
Trail shoes: just as comfortable scampering across remote landscapes as stomping around metropolitan fashion events. A bit like William Goodge, then. This week on THE PERFECT X, we’ve enlisted the help of a hardcore runner and influencer who’s dashed the length of the UK, set a record around Lake Como, and stormed from LA to New York in just 55 days. Safe to say, he knows what to put on his feet.
But Goodge also brings the style creds: he’s been spotted at Paris Fashion Week, featured on the cover of Men’s Health, and frequently dabbles in modeling (the sporty shades look is something of a signature). So, if you’re more fashion than fitness, there’s something for you here, too.
Gorpcore may be a well-trodden path, but beyond the aesthetic, we’re digging a little deeper into what makes the perfect trail shoe. With Goodge alongside our host Dino Bonočić, it’s time to get down and dirty on both the style and substance of the perfect trail shoes. Dress to sweat.
What makes the perfect pair of trail shoes?
What I’m really looking for is something fit for the job at hand, and that can vary depending on what terrain you’re tackling. Is the run in a desert or somewhere particularly dry? Don’t give me GORE-TEX. Or do we need something with more grip, because underfoot conditions could get slippery? That’s the fun thing about trail running — so many variables affect your footwear choice.
When you’re buying a new pair, what do you look for first?
When trying on the shoe I want my foot and especially my ankle to feel secure. Trail, unlike pristine flat tarmac, is going to put extra pressure on your feet, ankle ligaments and calves. For the upper though, I do want some movement and breathability. And for the sole, I want to see good lugs, giving me confidence they can grip onto anything I’ll be facing.
How important is the brand?
Brand is important in one aspect for me, and that’s confidence. Tried and tested is always going to attract me more.
Designer trail shoes in general – waste of money or worth it?
It depends on why you’re buying the shoe, and if you’re actually going to be performing in it. If you’re buying it just for what it looks like, then, of course, it’s worth it if you think it’s cool.
If you were a trail shoe, which would you be?
ASICS TRABUCO for sure. Great for long distances, good chunky sole. Can kinda go anywhere and everywhere.
SHOP THE LOOK
“ The fun thing about trail running — so many variables affect your footwear choice. ”
- William Goodge
BAD WEATHER, ROCKY ROADS: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II
Which features make this shoe perfect for technical trails?
It’s got big, hard lugs on the sole, as well as my favourite feature, which is great stability around the ankle.
Where do you see yourself wearing this pair?
In bad weather conditions, especially wet ones, and on longer events with challenging downhills. It has braking technology in the sole that can help with those tricky sections down the hill.
If this trail shoe was an animal, what would it be?
A mountain goat.
SHOP THE LOOK
“ Tried and tested is always going to attract me more. ”
- William Goodge
PUTTING IN THE MILES: ASICS Trabuco Max 3
What makes this shoe great for long-distance running?
That big, chunky, comfy sole. It’s going to soak up a lot of impact for each step I take.
Why do you think this shoe is perfect for anyone, regardless of their sporting level?
Because it’ll serve you well over any terrain. It might not be the best in every single environment, but it’s versatile enough to deal with most things.
Why is having a reliable, go-to pair like this important?
No decision fatigue! I know I’m grabbing them, and I’m confident they’re ready for the run.
Shop the selection
FOR WHEN PACE MATTERS: Nike ZOOMX ZEGAMA
Why are these shoes perfect for fast runs?
They’re lightweight and super breathable. I love the way they look and the feeling they give you when you’re running the trail at speed.
How would this pair fit into your lifestyle?
They’re great daily wear. Couple them with a pair of straight fit jeans, and the shoe will elevate the look.
What’s the biggest mistake you see when it comes to designing shoes for fast trail running?
Probably going too minimal. The gains you’ll get by saving a few grams of weight are marginal. They still need to be able to handle the conditions.
Shop the selection
SPEED ROUND:
Hi-tops or low-tops?
Low-tops.
Leather or textile?
Textile, much more to play with.
Colour or neutral?
Day-to-day neutral, colour for the occasion.
Intricate detailing or clean design?
Clean design but I will notice those extra little touches.
Slim or chunky silhouette?
Chunky.
Quick lace or classic lace?
Classic. Don’t reinvent the wheel.
Worn for style or only outdoors?
Can I meet you halfway?
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