Last updated on December 1st, 2022 at 03:04 pm
Whether doing an easy warm up or using the incline feature to cram in hill training, I find myself on a treadmill more often than I would have expected. While I prefer the great outdoors over running on a treadmill, I find myself on one least a few times a month. To my enjoyment, my trail running shoes work perfectly on the treadmill.
Don't Hesitate Using Trail Running Shoes On Treadmill
The main reason to use trail running shoes on a treadmill is to save money. Shoes can be costly, and buying a pair just for treadmill running is likely unnecessary.
Just think of what treadmill running is. It is, at its core, a form of running without much resistance and with minimal friction.
Additionally, a treadmill won’t wear down the tread on the bottom of your shoes. At least not like gravel-covered bridal trails will.
For instance, trails can be unforgiving and rough, while treadmills are smooth surfaces that literally bounce with each step.
In fact, treadmill running will actually abuse your trail shoes less than running trails.
So, if you are standing at the gym right now wondering whether stepping on the treadmill will kill your Salomon Speedcross Shoes (Link to Amazon), you can relax. It won’t.
Why Treadmills Won't Destroy Your Shoes
The main reason treadmills aren’t a danger to your trail running shoes has to do with the way treadmills operate.
For the overwhelming majority of treadmills ,you press a button and a long belt begins to move around a platform at the selected speed. In other words, you aren’t expected to propel the belt into motion.
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Because you aren’t expected to use your muscles (or shoes) to propel the belt into motion, the amount of friction the bottom of your shoes will experience is minimal.
This means that you will be able to run on the treadmill in pretty much any shoe you want, including trail running shoes.
Some treadmills will require you to propel the belt into motion. These are very rare. Almost all treadmills in membership gyms are the type that propel themselves.
Running in Place is Less Friction
As the treadmill belt rotates around the platform you can adjust the speed at which it moves.
So, when on the treadmill you will notice that the sensation is completely different than running on a trail.
In fact, you are literally running in place.
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And you are simply pushing with enough pressure to lift your body and feet high enough above the belt so you can float for a moment.
As a result, this is very easy for any athletic shoe to handle.
Wearing Trail Shoes on a Treadmill is Overkill
Trail running shoes are built to stand up to some major abuse and are typically heavier than the standard running shoes.
Plus, thy’re often equipped with protection around the toes and on the bottoms that prevent rocks from puncturing your feel. None of these attributes are necessary on a treadmill.
Sure, your trail shoes will work just fine, but they might not contribute to feeling light on your feet.
A Trail Running Shoe Perfect for Treadmill Running
While wearing trail running shoes on a treadmill is an overkill, it won’t necessarily hurt your shoes.
For this reason, there are some shoes better designed to do both. Below is our top pick for a trail shoe that also handles itself well on the treadmill.
Salomon Speedcross Trail Running Shoe
The main reason we like this shoe for both trail and treadmill are its relative weight, and moderate toe protection.
Simply put, its light weight will make it an easy run no matter where you run.
In addition to its weight the Salomon Speedcross Trail Running Shoe provides a decent amount of toe protection without bogging the shoe down with too much rubber.
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Not only is this shoe is light enough for easy treadmill use, it features good-sized lugs for trails. In fact, these attributes make this a great option for technical trails.
If running trails, and hitting the treadmill both look to be in your future this shoe makes sense for you.
Check out more pictures, pricing, and specs on Amazon here: Salomon Speedcross Trail Running Shoe for Men or here Salomon Speedcross Trail Running Shoe for Women
Selecting Shoes for Treadmill Running
Additionally, to step your treadmill game up to the next level, consider purchasing a nice pair of lighter road shoes.
In fact, the focus when buying shoes for treadmill running should be on light weight, comfort, and tread.
Weight
For instance, your shoes don’t need to be bulky or heavy-duty like those for the trail.
So, we’d recommend finding something lighter so you can bound easily as the treadmill belt loops around.
Comfort
Additionally, your workout shoes will also presumably be worn around the gym or your weight room.
So, get a well rounded all purpose running shoe that is as comfortable as it is lightweight.
Furthermore, you’ll want a shoe with comfortable arch support that matches your needs.
Plus, a soft, breathable upper and comfortable heel cup.
Treads
Finally, shoes primarily for treadmill running won’t need to have bulky lugs and toe protection.
So, ideally you’ll use a lightweight, comfortable running shoe with moderate tread.
Don't Let Your Shoes Keep You Off The Treadmill
Additionally, specialized running shoes, like trail shoes, are a little costly, so hesitating before using them on a new surface is understandable.
However, there is a simple way to know for sure if a treadmill will be suitable; try it out for yourself. Whether one mile or five miles trying your trail running shoes on the treadmill will convince you.
The shoes will be alright, you’ll save a little money, and you can still get that steep incline training in on the treadmill. Additionally, treadmill training is a great idea if you need to be close to a restroom or you’re working from home. Plus, it’s easier to train indoors during winter or rain.
Image credit: Benjamin White | (source) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0)