Trail running shoes - need GA?

[Kerhel]

I read in FAQs that you don't need a gait analysis done for trail running shoes. I run (run? I am week 4...) mainly on grass and chalk and am off to the shops now to get some noo shoos so I don't have to worry about slipping. Seen some Asics in the sale but I just want to bundle in and bundle out without being stopped (too 😶). I guess I am just looking for comfort? My feet and ankles squish in all sorts of directions off road so I understand why you wouldn't need a GA!

[RainbowC Graduate]

Yes, I believe that’s right because of the way your feet land at all sorts of angles in off-road running, rather than on the flat surface of a treadmill, running track or level path.

Post a pic of your new shoes when you have them so we can all admire them jealously

[Kerhel in reply to RainbowC]

Thank you! Oooh yes forgot about photos!

[GoogleMe Graduate]

I only go for trail running shoes (have only ever had one pair that weren't) I did have a gait analysis because that's what I'd asked for. Has to be said that resulted in the worst running footwear I've ever had the misfortune to wear. Seemed fine in the shop but could hardly stay upright outside and my knees knocked together. That was back in the days before Sweatshop were bought by Sports Direct, back when they had a policy that said you could bring shoes back covered in mud and they would exchange them... which they did, for a pair which suited me fabulously well.

Bear in mind your consumer rights (or lack of them) and check you can return them (unlikely to be after you've worn them outside)

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

All but a handful of trail shoes are neutral, so it is not going to make any difference whether you have the gait analysis or not, if you need trail shoes.

While you are in a shop why not ask for advice from a knowledgeable salesperson, who may be able to explain why.