Hoka - Clifton LS x Satisfy

I've never worn Speedgoats, but I've got Challengers and Cliftons that fit true to size for me!

Specific trail running shoes are a must. Unless your run goes through just wide flat tracks (even if moderately steep), then regular running shoes are ok. For example, I run some of these "flat" runs in my Hoka Clifton and I'm good. However, if your track goes through forest, hills and narrow bumpy, stoney trails, then no, you'll want grip in your wheels. I'm not a fan of the Pegasus, but that's just me. Check out the Speedgoat or the Mafate. Sportiva, Salomon Sense Ride or Genesis... Also now the Saucony Peregrine has get rid of their infamous sole heel "cut" and now sport a one-piece sole back, which makes wanna buy them again. As for the ankle thing, apart from the shoes and of course getting gradually used to the terrain by training your self specially in downhills, there's no shortcuts here, Im afraid: You'll want to have strong musculature there (and anywhere for that matter). Look up for ankle strenght exercises, you can alternatively consult a physio and have some concrete custom routines for your case. Having strong ankles in strong legs will get you far in trail running.

Hoka Clifton has lugs and is plenty durable on the rocky, gravelly railroad grade I usually run on. They also worked well on a granite California Sierra Nevada trail. IMO, trail shoes are not useful except in extreme conditions or mud. The Cliftons are light, well padded, and have a rocker sole that help with rolling off the front without stressing the fascia, achilles, and calves.

I’m on my 3rd season of switching to trail runners over hiking boots. Everyone may have a different experience but for me, my feet have never been happier (Hooka, Speedgoat 5).

I’ve switched almost entirely to trail runners including on a lot,of rugged terrain. I did find that when I was using Hokas that I had an increased tendency to roll my ankle after about ten miles. I like the padding, but have found lower drop shoes to be better for this. Altras are good, but I destroy them in about 300 miles. Trying Topos right now. Not as padded, but low drop with a wide toe box and they seem to be holding up better.

Trail runner will be fine. I was talking to a guy recently that said the AT requires real boots. But even by his argument, trail runners will be fine. The thing with trail runners is when you are tired, it is easier to roll your ankle. I have only found this to be a concern when I was using Hoka. Altras and Topos have less to zero drop and they don’t have this occur for me. Though Altras kind of suck for durability (expect 300 miles unless they fixed things). And Topos have less padding and are not as comfortable.