Trail shoes: overkill for muddy park or what I need?

[Runnf]

Hi, for winter I am thinking of swapping my normal flat pavement runs for a circuit round my local park, thinking that it will be less slippy to go on grass than icy, leafy pavements.

This escalated to me being online eyeing up some discounted trail shoes to cope with the mud (soil shakers by sportshoes.com) - and then wondered if this is overkill, and i don't need new gear, and also if the trail shoes would be no good for the pavement parts on the way to the park.

Am I overcomplicating it? Anyone got any tips for the best shoes to run on muddy grass in? Thanks

[Grannyhugs Graduate10]

I don’t do a lot of muddy running but I’d guess if you are in the least concerned, and getting a bargain, then the reassurance alone may be worth it. I’m sure many will post with more substantive posts. Good luck

[cheekychipmunks Graduate10]

I run a mix of paved routes and trails, and some routes have both. My rule of thumb is, if there’s even a remote chance of it being muddy, slippery or very uneven, I’ll wear my trail shoes. The difference is amazing in terms of grip. You can buy hybrids which are suitable for both surfaces, although I don’t think I’d want to do a long paved run in them.

Just my opinion, but better safe than sorry I’d say. 😀

[NotPrime]

I normally only run trails so own a variety of trail shoes. If I know it’s going to be really muddy and steep then my inov-8 Mudclaws are usually first choice. The grip over slippery trails is amazing. As ever what suits me may not be appropriate for you. A chat with your local independent running store is recommended.

[Runnf Graduate10]

Very helpful, thanks guys, I appreciate it

[UpTheStanley Graduate10]

What Cheeky said ..... ✅

[ju-ju- Graduate10]

Up to you but flatter soles are more slippery if its really slidey mud. I run alot in the trails, and I find my regular shoes more comfy and effective than trails as I can feel the ground more. But I do go very gently, so if you want the speed you will need the traction to do that.

[Runnf Graduate10 in reply to ju-ju-]

Thank you. I think I will keep an eye out for any January sales & maybe try a pair out if i find a bargain. Til then I'm glad to have found a description of my running that I like - gentle. Thanks ju-ju, I'm borrowing that word! I'm not a speedster, gentle definitely more my style, mud or no mud.