Looks from the map like there is some asphalt but mostly well-maintained dirt roads. Is this true? Safe for racing flats?
Let me start by saying I never wear racing flats - I’m not that fast ! - But the dirt road(S) in 5430, in past years have had quite a bit of ‘ripples’ that I imagine would not feel too good in flats. The other issue is the ‘grip’ or lack of it with flats. I’m gonna wear a pair of shoes that have a bit more tread.
FWIW
DB
Very little paved road and mostly on grit roads - not sure how much grip your racing flats have but as a general rule - something with a bit more tread may stop you slipping just a tad on each step. Personal choice but mine would be for something a bit more sturdy.
Hope this Helps
I wore racing flats last year and felt a bit beat up. The dirt roads are pretty good but there are some ripples and some bigger rocks, etc. This year, I’m going with something in - between a flat and a training shoe (Specifically - Mizuno Elixir). Also, I’m going to go with socks this year as you tend to get some grit in the shoe as the race goes on.
Good Luck!
New Balance 790. It is like a cross country racing flat. Nice and light, comfy, and supple, but with a touch of tread to keep you attached to dirt. I wore mine for the Boulder Peak (covers some of the same dirt stretches) and was fine. A couple of places where I just watched my step, but I tend to try and plant my feet on smooth dirt instead of a pointy rock no matter what shoe I am wearing.
So help me decide:
Flats - NO
Lightweight Trainer (Brooks Axiom) - MAYBE
Sturdy Trainer (Brooks Adrenaline) - MAYBE
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Lightweight trainer. There is nothing on that course that requires “sturdy”, unless you are referring to a “sturdy” tolerance for high levels of sun exposure since there is NO shade on the run.
Lightweight Trainer - Yes
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Ditto… lightweight trainer.
I’ve run it in flats a couple of times. The washboard bumps are sort of a pain but it’s not too bad. The thing that you really need to be prepared for IMO is the heat. There is NO SHADE on the run course, and the MuffinTop oh-shit-not-again weather forecast is calling for yet another 100 degree day. So with that in mind I would wear something that can get wet, because you’ll want to dump a lot of cold water on youself.
They have ice on the Run course, right?
Axiom - FUR SURE
It’s my “happy” shoe and will be fine for that course…IMO. Also, I never found the sun/heat to be much of an issue. A little ice in the hat and you should be good to go.
G
Yes, but not at every aid station.
…and when you get that ice…
…stuff it down the back of your shorts… instant core cool down! 