Road running vs trail running: which one is best for you?

The difference between the two is the surface. Road running occurs on solid ground like asphalt and pavements, whereas trail running takes place on muddy paths, grass and uneven ground.  

Whilst you can wear road running shoes to take on the trails (and vice versa), some runners wear specially-designed trail shoes. These shoes typically feature more grip and stability than road running shoes, to account for the unpredictable nature of the surface and provide more protection for the feet.

If you’re starting your running journey, you’ll likely take your first few steps from your front door onto the pavement – which is the biggest pro, because you can get going right away (well, after a quick warm-up).  

The other pros of road running include:  

• you can choose what time you go  
• if you want to get faster, road running offers the perfect terrain, as it tends to be flat 
• it’s a great way to explore what your local area has to offer  
• you can make new friends by joining in with your local Parkrun event or through a running club. 

The main downside is that it can get boring. You’ll find you’ll probably stick to a similar route or loop because you know how far it is, and it’s easy to just go and get it done.  

Other cons of road running include: 

• it’s not scenic – unless you really like concrete 
• it’s a solid surface that can feel hard on joints and knees  
• air quality is poor due to fumes from cars 
• it can be dangerous if you’re crossing busy roads. 

The best thing about trail running is the feeling of freedom. It’s a chance to explore forests and the countryside, be a kid again and put your worries aside.  

I spoke with Matt Swaine, the founder of Trail Running magazine, and after discussing the many benefits of the sport, we decided these were our top four:  

• It’s a chance to connect with nature and spot wildlife 
• You see beautiful views, no matter what route you take  
• It’s easier on the joints – compared to road running, because of the varying terrain 
• There’s no pressure to run constantly, and walking is encouraged. 

Swaine says: “When I’m running on a trail, I feel like I’m a tourist – exploring and connecting with nature. Sometimes I take binoculars with me for wildlife watching. Once, I saw six different species of butterflies while on a trail, which made me so happy.” 

As with anything in life, trail running has some drawbacks. The weather is usually the biggest issue when trail running, because it can change in an instant. One minute you could be happily running along a path without a care in the world, and the next, it becomes a muddy bog and you’re slipping all over the place. 

It’s also beneficial to invest in specific trail running shoes that are designed with thicker materials to protect your feet, and deeper lugs on the sole to give you more grip, which is an added expense.  

Other cons of trail running include:  

• You’ll need more kit – a backpack is nearly always essential, containing food and clothes 
• If it’s been raining, you will get muddy 
• The chances of getting lost are higher  
• It can be harder in the winter when there’s less daylight. 

Swaine and I also discussed how, unless you’re lucky enough to have a trail on your doorstep, you’ll often have to drive or find a mode of transport to get you there.  

However, he offered a solution: “If you get creative, you can find a trail run near you. There are scraps of land everywhere. You might have to work a bit harder to find places, but it’s all about exploring – that’s what trail running is. All challenges can be joyous if you look at them in the right way.”  

The beauty of being a runner is that you can do what you want, so if you can’t make your mind up when it comes to road running vs trail running – it doesn’t matter. It comes down to personal choice and,  ultimately, safety.  

In the darker months you may have to do more road running so you can see where you’re going and lessen the chances of falling or slipping. In the warmer months you might prefer to run in the shade of a forest on a trail.  

At the end of the day, the surface doesn’t really matter. It’s your time to do what you want, so make up your own rules and enjoy it.