Given the choice, I’d pick trails over pavement every time. I live in the city, though, and sometimes I just don’t have time to drive someplace to go for a run.

So, I got some new road shoes recently, just before learning that I’d have to cut back on my running. At least this pair will last longer!

I’ve been running in Saucony shoes for years now, and lately I’m loyal to their Triumph model (guess why I first tried that one?).

Sauconys in general have plenty of room in the toe, and the Triumph are very well cushioned, to better soak up the pounding. They keep improving the model, too. The latest, version four, are lighter and better ventilated than ever. They also come in sort of greenish gold color that’s so hideous it’s cool… at least I think so.

For curiosity’s sake and because I’d heard good things about them, I tried a pair of Brooks Adrenaline shoes last summer, too. They were great on pavement, and very comfortable, but not quite as cushioned as the Triumph 3 or 4. I didn’t end up using them much, and have since passed them on to my son, who wears the same size as me, though he’s yet to finish grade school.

I didn’t wear out the Adrenalines mainly because they never felt right off road. Sometimes I run from my house to Mine Falls Park. The Sauconys have a nice wide tread, and they soak up roots and stones well. The Brooks felt tippy on uneven terrain.