No one is objective, and no matter how many trail running lovers you ask, you will get the same answer: "Anyone who tries trail running repeats and ends up getting hooked, because it is a 100% additive sport", or something very similar. So if you include yourself in that profile of runners who are changing the asphalt for the mountain, the first basic rule that you should note is that you go from less to more, and in progression. This way you will keep possible injuries at bay.
And it is that to start without doubts in this trail running you have to be clear about what you are exposed to when you become a "runner". Injuries of the caliber of plantar fasciitis, periostitis, tendonitis, pyramidal tendonitis, or those associated with the calf, soleus and hamstring muscles are the order of the day in all mountain runners.
- You may be interested in: The best trail running shoes 2017 for the Runnea editorial staff.
- You might be interested in: The cheapest train running shoes on the market.
In this sense, the best method of prevention goes through specific strength work, especially aimed at developing and strengthening the lower body, but also the core area with the purpose of avoiding the oscillation of your body while running on different surfaces. And while we're on the subject of adapting to the terrain, the choice of trail running shoes is also fundamental, not only to minimize the risk of injury, but also to improve your performance as you progress as a mountain runner.
Yes, as with asphalt, trail running shoes are also a world apart. This gives rise to a flip side, because the fact that there is a wide range of specific trail models is to the benefit of the runner who has the option to choose; but it also carries the risk of not getting it right with the purchase to be made.
That is why in Runnea we have looked at the novelties of a reference brand like Mizuno, which already has a long history in trail territory, and more and more followers of the Japanese brand do not hesitate to wear their models both for training and for competition in the mountains.
For initiated "runners": Mizuno Wave Kien 4
The Wave Kien family of the Japanese house stands out for being a model of trail initiation, so it is suitable for the whole group of occasional mountain runners or beginners. It is especially good as a transition shoe, since it is designed to alternate training on asphalt - rather short distances - and routes in the mountains.
Thus, the fourth version of the Mizuno Wave Kien 4 has as its strong points that it provides stability, comfort and optimal grip for mountain terrain. These outstanding performances come hand in hand with the incorporation of Mizuno's most advanced technologies. Namely:
- EL8: Compound that is included in the midsole of the shoe, and as Mizunos own designers assure, this material is 10% lighter than EVA foam, but without reducing cushioning, and even increased energy return.
- XtaRide: This exclusive concept of the Japanese brand allows technology to be put at the service of the runner, and is able to provide a more natural adaptation to the surface on which it runs.
- Midfoot Groove: This is Mizuno's own system, which takes the form of a flexion channel, and whose X-shaped arrangement provides the correct torsion to stabilize the footprint, despite the irregularities of the terrain. This translates into greater security in each stride.
Technical specifications
- Drop: 9 mm.
- Weight: 295 grams male /255 grams female.
- Gait: Neutral.
- Use: Training.
- Average pace: 5:30 min/km.
For experienced runners: Mizuno Wave Mujin 4
When talking about the fourth version of the Mizuno Wave Mujin we speak with knowledge of cause and with foundation because our #RunTester of Team Runnea, and specialist in trail running, Dávid Cárdenas has gutted this latest installment of the Wave Mujin with great detail in another of its magnificent product analysis, and giving it a score of 79 A remarkable high!
The Mizuno Wave Mujin 4 is a model oriented to runners of medium-high weight and who cover long runs and are comfortable in the long distance. Its most outstanding features reinforce such significant sections as comfort, protection, stability, traction and grip to move without difficulties in various terrains. In this sense, the Wave Mujin 4 incorporates the Michelin outsole, inspired by the "Wild Mud" tire, as one of its most outstanding materials, adding its self-cleaning tread pattern.
In addition, these Mizuno Wave Mujin 4 also incorporate other weight technologies from the Japanese company, such as the XtaRide, the Xta Groove flexion channel and the ESS Rock Plate, whose mission is to provide protection, safety and stability.
On the other hand, in the improvement of this update of the Wave Mujin 4, Mizuno has opted for a total redesign of its upper, which includes DynamotionFit technology to provide greater comfort, at the same time as a friendlier fit, and, of course, without sacrificing optimal support, protection and cushioning.
Technical Specifications
- Drop: 12 mm (22 mm - 10 mm)
- Weight: 335 grams (male) | 315 grams (female)
- Gait: neutral
- Usage: medium and long training runs and races
- Pace average: 5'00 - 6'00 min/km
An additional detail to these two new trail updates from Mizuno is that both the Wave Mujin 4 and the Wave Kien 4 are available in GTX version. This Gore-Tex membrane increases the waterproof performance of the shoe.
Other highlights from Mizuno: Daichi 2 and Hayate 3
Apart from the novelties of the 2017 season of Mizuno for trail running, the Japanese brand also has other flagships to "trailear" with total safety, protection and the best performance to progress in every training and competition in mountain territory. These are the Mizuno Wave Hayate 3 and the Mizuno Daichi 2
Mizuno Wave Hayate 3
Trail model designed to overcome all obstacles both in competition and in fast training, as they prioritize speed and performance. The Mizuno Wave Hayate 3 include Michelin outsole to ensure excellent grip and traction on different terrains.
Mizuno Wave Daichi 2
The second version of the Mizuno Wave Daichi is Mizuno's most versatile training shoe, offering a more dynamic, lightweight and cushioned feel. Ideal for regular workouts in all types of terrain and conditions, thanks to its Michelin outsole, among other materials and technologies.
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