Trail Running Rock Plate
The rock plate in a trail running shoe is a firm plastic or carbon fiber material meant to protect the runner from sharp and irregular shaped stones.
Trail running rock plate. Most trail running shoes outside of those aimed at minimalist design feature rock plates which are typically between the squishy midsole and the hard outsole of a trail shoe. The main differences between trail running shoes and road running shoes are in relation to the type of running surface. For trail running it is best to have shoes with good tread as well as built in protection foot support and stability for uneven surfaces. If you plan to run on gravel or rocky technical trails it s wise to find a shoe with this kind of built in protection.
A good trail running shoe needs two essential characteristics. Some trail running shoes come with a rock plate or nylon shank built into the midsole that help protect your foot against rock bruising. Shop for men s trail running shoes on sale discount and clearance at rei. The right trail running shoes can help you tackle off road terrain.
Rock plates inevitably add weight to a shoe so if you don t need one that is if. While the peregrine is a well balanced trustworthy companion for most trails it s not a standout on highly technical terrain and is overbuilt for pavement and gravel. It also explains about types of running shoes cushioning heel to toe drop and how to get the right fit. Built with a rock plate at the midsole for protection from rough trail surfaces this rugged trail shoe is designed to be lightweight durable and just flexible enough.
For truly gnarly trails i ll go with a trail shoe but for this retro fit i needed a material that. Find a great deal on men s trail running shoes. Rock plates protect your forefoot from rocky trails and toe guards and uppers add. This article offers advice for finding shoes that meet your needs.
This material is embedded between the outsole and midsole of the shoe for added protection on the trail.