Exploring the Role of Footwear in Trail Running and Hiking: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction Off-road activities such as trail running and hiking have undergone a significant surge in global popularity over the last 2 decades, but this engagement also raises the potential for musculoskeletal injuries, which are prevalent and comparable to rates reported in road running. Footwear is critical in these dynamic environments, incorporating features such as aggressive outsole patterns and structural stability elements to accommodate varied and rugged terrain.

Methods Given the limited synthesis and fragmented nature of the literature, this scoping review systematically mapped and summarised existing research on the influence of footwear in hiking and trail running. The review was guided by three research questions that examined key outcome domains and methodological approaches, using the Arksey and O'Malley framework, and was reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Results A search across four databases identified 16 eligible studies. Thirteen studies (81%) focused on trail running, exploring various footwear types, including advanced footwear technology, minimalist designs, and specific midsole characteristics. Biomechanical outcomes were the most frequently investigated (62% of studies), while physiological outcomes, performance, injury, and comfort were addressed in 25%–31% of studies each.

Conclusion Although methodological strengths include an increasing commitment to ecological validity by leveraging wearable sensors in combined lab and field protocols, persistent limitations include frequent use of small sample sizes and the underrepresentation of female participants in many controlled trials. A significant evidence gap remains regarding the chronic effects of prolonged footwear use and the interaction of footwear with fatigue. Future research requires methodological standardisation and longitudinal studies to advance toward individualised, evidence-based footwear solutions.