We’ve run a few obstacle races - and you need far different shoes than if you’re running the average 5K: with heavy mud, slippery obstacles,and uneven terrain, having a versatile, durable shoe on one's feet is imperative to not only finishing the race, but doing it without injury. Here are five great sneakers built for obstacle race dominance:
Vibram Spyridon
Recently, studies have been released saying that modern running shoes are great for the feet – but worse for the rest of the body, putting more pressure on the spine and the knees to absorb shock where the feet aren't. The Vibram Spryidon has become a popular alternative to the traditional running shoe, a minimalist enclosure for feet, form-fitting around individual toes and giving the foot more flexibility in grip and weight-bearing. They're a great option for obstacle races because they won't fall off in mud pits or carry a lot of extra mud weight throughout the race.
Light, versatile, extremely comfortable, but we suggest you take the time to break them in before using them in a race as they’re very thin soles may be painful on some runners knees and joints. If you want to give them a tryhead over to our EMS page and grab an EMS coupon code to save a few bucks along the way.
Reebok ATV19+
The Reebok ATV19 is one of the most stylish, futuristic-looking obstacle race shoes on the market. If there is an “official” obstacle racing shoe, it's the ATV19: designed in anticipation of Reebok's partnership with the Spartan race series, this shoe specializes in shock absorption and grip, with an advanced, tire-like sole system for maximum efficiency (and being made from carbon rubber, is reinforced for durability). At $140, they're a pricey option – but for the dedicated racer armed with a few Reebok coupon codes, it's a terrific shoe that is bound to garner some attention on the course.
Nike Zoom Waffle Racer 8
Our next shoe is for those seeking speed on the muddy race paths: the Zoom Waffle 8 is built with cross-country running in mind, and doesn't have some of the advanced trail-traversing features of the first two shoes. Priced around $50, this is a great, affordable option for runners doing low-level races or looking to keep their costs down (with race registrations running upwards of $100, this can be a concern), a lighter, simpler option for fitness enthusiasts new to the obstacle racing scene.
Inov-8 Mudclaw 300
It's all in the name with this Inov-8 shoe: the Mudclaw was designed to conquer mud. Just look at the teeth protruding from the bottom: everything about it screams “extreme grip” - and with a waterproof membrane protecting the outer layer, it's the best chance to keep one's feet somewhat dry when dealing with the treacherous terrains of the Tough Mudders and Warrior Dashes of the world. Unfortunately, there's no “full body suit” option – at least, not yet (also, check out the X-Talon 212 option, a great Inov-8 alternative).
New Balance Minimus 1010 Trail
A great shoe for training or obstacle race beginners, the New Balance Minimus is perfect for lighter courses and runners who eventually plan to move to a Vibram 'barefoot' option. It's light, provides plenty of shock absorption with the cushioning on its sole. It's not the greatest option for protection against rocks or debris: but for beginners and those preparing for their next big race, the Minimus provides great protection and versatility. There are trail-and non-trail models of the Minimus available: grab a New Balance coupon code and check them out.
