Mud Run Shoes

Mud Run Shoes: A good investment for OCR Racers

For those taking part in any mud run, whether it’s a Tough Mudder or Spartan Race, or ultra-marathon style obstacle course race, it’s essential to invest in quality mud run shoes.

Many first-timers to an OCR event will say it’s best to use an old pair of trainers. This may sound like good advice for those that are unsure about doing future events. That aside, by not investing in a good pair of mud run shoes could hinder your “first-time” experience and future enjoyment in the world of obstacle course racing. Many first-time mud runners, eventually, sign up to do further events.

Consider this, a Range Rover has tyres that are built to handle varying degrees of mud and rugged terrain. With that in mind, it makes perfect sense to adopt the same mindset and obstacle course racing is no exception.

What to look for when choosing a pair of Mud Run Shoes

Lightweight Shoes
When it comes to mud runs, you’re going to be climbing, crawling, jumping over obstacles, and moving through wet slippery terrain and it’s essential to have footwear that’s durable, breathable, and lightweight. Whether your mud run is 5k, 10k, 12 hours, or 24 hours long, you’ll greatly benefit from mud run shoes that are lightweight.

Mud run shoes that can handle drainage well
There’s no doubt, that you’ll encounter obstacles that are surrounded and even submerged in water. Throughout your mud run, you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. So, choosing mud run shoes that are breathable and that dry quickly is key. Equally, you also want to have running socks that try and prevent your feet from getting wet.  It’s not always easy when doing an OCR event. However, there’s nothing worse than running in cotton socks that retain moisture. When your feet are wet, you also more prone to blisters. Therefore, it’s wise to invest in socks that can help to keep your feet drier for longer.

Mud run shoes that offer good traction 
For off-road running you’re going to need some quality mud run shoes, that can power through the thickest and wettest terrain. And especially, if you’re competing in a timed-lap obstacle race like Europe’s Toughest Mudder, having shoes that are grippy will help to overcome the slipperiest of obstacles are well worth the investment.

James King has competed in multiple OCR events including Europe's Toughest Mudder from 2019 to 2022, multiple mud events, 10k runs and currently for his first marathon. James includes useful tips and experiences about OCR on his blog mudrunlifestyle.com.