Trail Running Adventure on Sandals

Tapak Sandals: A trail runner's review
I got these Tapak Sandals from RD Rhodel Sarande as an entitlement for the Gold Rush Trail Challenge. Which is a very useful entitlement to have. I have more finishers' jerseys than I could wear, and more medals than space to hang them. At least this pair of sandals I can use when trail running.
It's my first-time trail running in sandals, and it's on this 18km long trail run. I already had the experience of hiking and biking in them, but never trail running.
On long trail adventures especially ultra races, I only wear my trusted pair of Hoka trail shoes. I can't imagine doing these extreme activities in sandals. Especially if you're competing for top spots on the podium.
But after last Sunday's long trail run, I now understand why a lot of people enjoy running in these. They are for sure FUN! You get a sensation that you can't get when wearing shoes.
The things I like about Tapak Sandals:
The first thing you'll notice is the ground feel. You have a better connection with the ground you're running on. Unlike trail shoes, these sandals don't have huge lugs. But I noticed that there's good traction. Since you have a good ground feel, your foot easily adjusts to uneven terrain.
The sandals are also light that you can bomb downhills in them with confidence. You first need to get used to them, perhaps a couple of kilometers. After that, you don't really feel that you're running fast on technical trails in sandals!
The things I don't like about Tapak Sandals:
One of the issues I had though is with the straps. They don't provide a good lockdown. Yes, you can tighten them, but it can get very uncomfortable, especially the buckle. That's why I have changed the configuration of the straps, and it made a lot of difference.
I have mentioned that they are light. But considering they are sandals, I think they can be a bit lighter. I know they use recycled tires for the outsoles, which might contribute to the weight. But maybe they can do something to make them a tad bit lighter.
Conclusion:
Will I be using them on my future trail runs? Yes! but only for chill runs. For structured training and racing in general, I still can't see myself in them. Trail shoes still provide more protection from gnarly terrains and better support in long trail run adventures.
But these sandals for sure will be in my arsenal!

[@kulantro6576]

*_Pwede po paki demonstrate kung paano nyo binago yung strap ng sandals?_*

[@freddieblanco]

Hi po. Will do a follow up video on this.