Fall is the perfect time to get back into the swing of training. Maybe you are preparing for a race late in the year or in the early spring season, or maybe you are doing your best to get back in running shape after taking it easy over the long, hot summer. Whatever your reason for lacing up this autumn, you need the right fall shoes for all of your needs. Whether you are facing muddy trails, an endless stretch of pavement or a surprising fall snowstorm, your footwear can make or break your training. Try some of these top picks for whatever terrain you plan to train on this fall.

 

Paved Roads or Sidewalks

The hard surface of the road or the sidewalk can be painful on your joints and your feet, but a good pair of shoes with some light cushioning can make all the difference. Some models to check out:

 

The Saucony Hurricane 14

The Saucony Hurricane 14 is ideal for over-pronators who need plenty of cushioning and support to pound the pavement. This shoe has long been a favorite of runners of all levels and the updated 14 model is great for all types of fall training runs. Try it if you are looking for a smooth, comfortable ride with less pounding on your joints.

 

The Brooks Ravenna 3

The Brooks Ravenna 3 is another supportive shoe that has lost some bulk from its previous model. Those runners that are looking for support and responsive cushioning with slight motion control will find this a great daily trainer that can go from road workouts to your next race. Overall, this is a solid, versatile shoe that can handle the wear and tear of the roads.

 

The Mizuno Wave Precision 13

The Mizuno Wave Precision 13 is an all around great shoe for the road, with lots of comfort and support for neutral runners in a very lightweight package. The bounce-back cushioning of this model combined with a durable outsole make it a shoe that can take you mile after mile.

 

Rugged Trails

The trails call for a bit more substance in a shoe, along with features that enable you to grip the surface of the ground. Try some of these top models for your fall training on the trails:

 

The Mizuno Wave Ascend 7

The Mizuno Wave Ascend 7 offers ultimate traction, but with a sleek feel that helps you to feel fast and steady on even the toughest terrain. This trail shoe is ideal for over pronators and features responsive cushioning for a plush ride even with rocks below your feet.

 

Brooks Cascadia 7

For neutral runners looking for a trail shoe that is not only durable, but also environmentally friendly, the Brooks Cascadia 7 is a top choice. This model features a rock shield and multi-directional tread, which helps to give you extra balance no matter how challenging the trails underfoot are.

 

New Balance WT10 Minimus (Women’s) and MT10 Minimus (Men’s)

If you prefer minimal shoes to regular trainers and are ready to tackle the trails, The New Balance Minimus WT10 and the Minimus MT10 are ideal for you. This shoe is for runners with little to no over-pronation and is ultra light, which will help you feel extra speedy on your fall training runs. The Vibram outsole provides extra durability and traction for a smooth run over rocks, roots and whatever else the trail throws at you.

 

Snow-Covered Roads or Trails

You never know when a fall snowstorm is going to strike, especially with the odd weather patterns that have taken over the last few years. Be prepared with shoes that can handle whatever comes their way. Trail shoes work well on wet roads and muddy trails, as well as when the snow is falling. They can also handle some ice, but if you are really looking to keep your balance and have a great run regardless of the weather, it may be a good idea to try a traction device that attaches to your regular trail or road running shoes. One to try:

 

The Yaktrax Pro Shoe Traction Device

The Yaktrax Pro Shoe Traction Device is made of steel coils and heavy duty natural rubber and fits around your shoes with a secure nylon hook and loop strap. The device makes you feel like you are running on a dry surface, even in icy, snowy or rainy conditions. Surprisingly, this durable addition to your shoes is lightweight, so you won't feel weighed down.

 

No matter where your fall training takes place and in what conditions, you can still manage to get great runs in with quality shoes made for the terrain you are tackling. Check out more great running shoes for men and running shoes for women at Run.com.