My First Trail Run Outside the City

Saturday was pavement with the Thursday Casual Run Club.

Then on Monday, we chose Bragg Creek. My first trail run outside the city.

I've hiked before, but trail running is a completely different experience. It slows you down in some ways and speeds you up in others. You're constantly looking ahead, picking your line, and paying attention to where your feet are landing.

We headed out to Bragg Creek for about a 7 km run through rolling hills, forest, gravel, dirt, roots, rocks, moss, wet grass, and a few muddy sections. It felt like a great introduction to trail running.

I wore the Norda 002 and went up a half size. Right away, I noticed three things: grip, stability, and control.

The shoe feels incredibly light, but it never feels unstable. If anything, it's the opposite. I always felt connected to the ground, and every step felt strong.

The biggest surprise was on the descents. There were a few sections with soft dirt and moss where I found myself running while other people were easing their way down. I never felt like the shoe was going to let go. It was just planted.

As someone who's six feet tall, about 200 pounds, and has knees that aren't getting any younger, that confidence made a huge difference.

I clipped a snapped branch about halfway through the run and was convinced I'd scratched the heel. When I checked later, there was no mark. 

The shoes also got wet running through grass and damp sections of trail. My feet stayed comfortable, and I never noticed any rubbing or hot spots. The extra half size also felt like the right choice. My feet had plenty of room without feeling loose.

The only thing I noticed was the lower stack when I landed directly on a sharp rock. You definitely feel it. It's not uncomfortable, but if I were spending an entire day running over really rocky terrain, I'd probably lean toward the Norda 001A for the extra protection. For this kind of trail though, I'd choose the 002 again without thinking twice. That pyramidal sole just feels incredibly stable.

The biggest takeaway wasn't actually the shoes.

It was realizing that trail running takes a different kind of preparation.

Next time I'll wear a running vest. Not because I needed more water, but because I want to carry the basics. Bear spray. A few bandages. Disinfectant wipes. A small first aid kit. Those things just make sense once you're outside the city.

I also have a new appreciation for sunglasses. They're not just for the sun. They're eye protection from branches, bugs, and debris, and I've already started looking into different lens colours for different environments. It's funny how quickly you can fall down that rabbit hole.

When we finished, I felt like I could have kept going. I had lots left in the tank.

The biggest thing I took away from my first trail run wasn't how different the terrain was.

It was how different I felt.

I felt more confident, more focused, and honestly just excited to get back out there.

I think that's when you know you've found something you'll keep doing.