4.6(911)4.6 out of 5, 911 ratings
roadcushioned
119.99 poundsPrice checked 5 Sept 2026View on Amazon UK(opens in a new tab)
Running · Explainer
Understanding Running Shoes
Confused by running shoe specifications? This guide breaks down the key terms – drop, stack height and more – to help you understand what they mean for your run.
Published · 2 min read
When choosing a pair of running shoes, it’s easy to get bogged down in technical jargon. Terms like ‘drop’ and ‘stack height’ are frequently used, but their meaning isn’t always immediately clear. This article aims to clarify those terms, explaining what they represent and how they relate to the overall feel and performance of a shoe. It's about understanding the underlying principles, not simply accepting marketing claims at face value.
Surface: Road or Trail
The type of terrain you’ll be running on is the first factor to consider. Road shoes prioritise a smooth, responsive ride and typically feature a relatively flat outsole with hard-wearing rubber. Trail shoes, however, require more grip and stability. Their outsoles have deeper lugs – the raised sections of rubber – which dig into soft ground like mud or loose dirt. This design provides better traction but can feel less stable on hard surfaces.
Cushioning and Heel Drop
- The ‘drop’ refers to the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe. A higher drop – typically around eight to ten millimetres – can reduce strain on the Achilles tendon, while a lower drop encourages a more natural midfoot strike.
- Stack height dictates how much material sits between your foot and the ground. More stack generally means a taller, softer-riding shoe, offering increased cushioning.
- The midsole is the foam layer within the shoe that provides the primary cushioning. It’s designed to absorb impact forces with each stride.
The running shoes we currently track on Amazon UK, ordered by verified customer rating. They are here so you can read a real listing against the explanation above — we have not tested them, and the ratings shown are Amazon's.
- 80.99 poundsPrice checked 5 Sept 2026View on Amazon UK(opens in a new tab)
- 130.99 poundsPrice checked 5 Sept 2026View on Amazon UK(opens in a new tab)
- 4.4(330)4.4 out of 5, 330 ratingswide fit
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74.99 poundsPrice checked 5 Sept 2026View on Amazon UK(opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What does ‘last’ actually mean?
The ‘last’ is the foot-shaped mould around which a shoe is constructed. Different lasts create different fits; a wide-fit shoe will use a wider last, but this doesn't automatically equate to buying a larger size – it’s about the overall shape and volume of the shoe.
Why does waterproofing affect breathability?
Waterproof uppers typically employ materials that prevent water penetration. However, these materials often reduce the ability of the upper to ‘breathe’, meaning they trap heat and moisture inside the shoe. A mesh upper provides better ventilation but offers no protection from the elements.
What is a rock plate?
A rock plate is a stiff layer built into the midsole of trail shoes, designed to protect your feet from sharp rocks and uneven terrain by distributing pressure across a larger surface area.
Who wrote this
The TrailHaven editorial team. We research and write these explainers from published standards, manufacturer specifications and verified customer feedback on Amazon UK — not from hands-on testing, which we do not claim to have done. Where a figure comes from a test standard we name the standard; where it is a rule of thumb, we say so. Corrections are welcome via the contact page.