Trail Runners are hiking footwear that are designed to be used by actual Trail Runners, but have been adopted by the hiking community as the preferred footwear for long distance backpacking trips.
Benefits
Trail Runners are typically very light weight which some hikers prefer, as weight on the feet is equivalent to even more weigh on the back. This allows the hiker to be much more nimble than if they were wearing large hiking boots. They are also typically grippier than your average hiking shoe. Hikers report that most trail runners will dry very quickly when they get wet, making them a good option for when there are many water crossings involved in a hike.
Downsides
Most trail runners are less durable than the more robust hiking shoes or boots on the market. This trade-off often comes when gear is made to be more light weight. On average, long distance hikers report that trail runners should last somewhere along 500 miles, when sturdier footwear may lost triple that, or more, depending on the brand and quality. While trail runners dry quickly, they typically have almost no water-proofing, meaning that they are probably not the best option for cold weather, winter, or particularly muddy hikes.
Another reported issue is that some have soles that are too thin, allowing for rocks and roots to be felt while the hiker walks. This is reportedly made worse with a heavier pack, as the weight and gravity pulls the hiker down harder on the terrain. This can lead to blisters or other foot related problems and even injuries, none of which are ideal for hikers to experience.
Ankle Support
As most trail runners are low cut, they do not provide much ankle support. Though many hikers report that the ankle support provided by hiking boots is unnecessary and prevents certain muscles from forming while hiking. This should not be considered a pro or a con as this all comes down to personal preference and will vary greatly depending on the hiker and their body.
