Resoling trail running shoes: What is it and what are its advantages?

At RUNNEA, we know that trail running shoes resoling is a topic of growing interest among trail runners. The ultimate goal is to extend the life of the shoes by replacing the worn out sole with a new one, instead of buying a new pair. But it is a process, and a decision, that you have to know and be clear about in order to achieve the desired result.

This process, although controversial and subject of debate, is gaining popularity due to its many benefits. At a time when running and trail running are becoming more and more abundant in shoes, models and their specific sports applications, this "new" trend comes to offer a quality alternative when we want to continue to extend the life of our training and competition companions. That's why in this article we explore the advantages of resoling and how it can influence the runner's experience.

What is resoling a shoe?

Let's start with the basics... Resoling a shoe involves removing the worn out sole and replacing it with a new one. It is a process that is performed by specialized workshops that, in addition to changing the sole, offer different types of repairs depending on the terrain we want to target and the preferences of each runner.

Generally, resoling includes the replacement of the sole and, in some cases, the midsole if it is very worn. The new sole is carefully bonded to the bottom of the shoe, ensuring that performance and durability are optimal and suited to our particular needs.

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On the other hand, it should be noted that there are several methods for resoling shoes, in this particular case, trail running shoes. On the one hand, some workshops use traditional manual techniques, while on the other hand, there are those who can use specialized tools and adhesives. However, the majority of the market offers quality finishes with high care manual manufacturing processes.

Advantages of trail shoes resoling

Focusing directly on the discipline that has seen the most growth in this sector, trail running, we can highlight some of the main advantages that make resoling one of the most popular practices of the moment. Among its many benefits, we can highlight the following:

1. Economic savings: One of the most obvious advantages of resoling is the savings. Buying a new pair of trail running shoes can be expensive (less if you do it through the RUNNEA search engine), while resoling them is usually much cheaper. The cost of resoling varies, but generally ranges from €15 to €25, depending on whether the customer provides the sole or the workshop supplies it.
2. Sustainability: Resoling shoes is an environmentally friendly practice that contributes to waste reduction. Instead of discarding old shoes, resoling allows them to be reused, thus reducing the environmental impact. This sustainable approach fits perfectly with the values of a sport that is increasingly aware of the need to reduce waste and excessive consumption of resources.
3. Extending the life span: Resoling extends the life span of shoes that are already adapted to the runner's foot. Often, the sole is the first part to wear out, especially in hilly terrain, while the upper part of the shoe can be kept in good condition. With a new sole, the shoes will offer the same comfort and performance as when they were new but with a better fit and adaptation to the foot, derived from their use.
4. Customization and improvement: Resoling also offers the opportunity to customize the shoes to the specific needs of each runner. Thus, it is possible to choose soles designed for different types of terrain, improving performance in specific conditions. For example, Vibram, one of the leading brands in the industry, offers soles with different lug patterns and compounds that can be better adapted to rocky, muddy or dry terrain.

When is it advisable to resole trail shoes?

Knowing when to resole your shoes is crucial. To know when to do it, thus avoiding excessive wear that could lead to partial or complete breakage of the shoe, or to discard a sole prematurely, we must keep in mind both the signs of wear and the use we want to give them or the type of terrain through which we will travel.

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Obvious signs of wear include loss of traction, holes in the sole and a general feeling of instability when running. If the sole is visibly worn but the midsole and upper are in good condition, it's a good time to consider resoling.

For its part, sole durability also depends on frequency of use and type of terrain. Runners who frequent rocky and abrasive terrain may need to resole their shoes more often than those who run on softer terrain. Generally, it is recommended to consider resoling after running between 500 and 800 kilometers, although this may vary depending on the conditions of use and the type of shoes used.

Vibram soles: The best second life for your trail running shoes

Vibram soles are recognized in the industry as one of the best in the market due to their exceptional durability, grip and prestige. These soles are specifically designed to offer superior performance in a wide variety of terrains, from the softest and muddiest to the most rocky and abrasive. The Italian brand has developed models almost exclusively for repair shops, guaranteeing perfect fit and optimum performance. Among the types of soles offered, the following are the most outstanding:

• Vibram Peak District: ideal for soft and muddy terrain, with a high and separate lug design that offers exceptional traction and retention. Not the best choice for hard, rocky terrain due to the height of the lugs.
• Vibram Zegalite Litebase: A more versatile option that works well in mud and hard terrain. It has a granulated base to prevent mud from adhering, and is the lightest sole among the options mentioned.
• Vibram Zegama: Perfect for hard, rocky and abrasive terrain. It offers generous thickness and a closed lug design that provides stability and traction on steep descents. It is ideal for ultratrails and races on varied terrain.
• Vibram Fast Trail: The most versatile option, suitable for varied terrain. Its "V" lug design offers traction and retention in different conditions, without being too heavy.

In short, trail shoes resoling offers numerous advantages, from cost savings to sustainability and extended shoe life. It also allows the shoe to be customized to improve performance on different types of terrain, adapting to the specific needs of each runner.

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So if you're considering resoling your shoes, evaluate the condition of the midsole and upper. If both are in good condition and only the sole is worn, resoling may be an excellent option. Look for specialized shops with experience in resoling trail shoes and consider high-quality sole options, such as the aforementioned Vibram soles.

Overall, a solution that can be especially useful in specific situations where sole wear is the only problem, allowing runners to continue enjoying their favorite shoes in perfect condition. And you, do you dare to give a second life to your favorite trail running shoes? We'll read your opinions below!