Shoe Test Route opens at Coed y Brenin

This weekend saw the latest addition to the extensive network of dedicated trail running routes at Coed y Brenin, as the 1 mile Shoe Test Route // Llwybr Prawf Esgid opened. The multi-surface loop was designed by Run.Coed y Brenin owner Matt Ward.

Working with Natural Resources Wales’ Coed y Brenin recreation ranger Graeme Stringer over the last few months, the route was fully way marked, inspected and opened on the 1st of August. Matt explains the philosophy behind the new route:

“I am very grateful for the co-operation with Graeme once again. We share a vision to have a full offering of trails for runners, of all standards and all abilities, and that is really coming together now with the addition of this trail.

“We already have a tremendous network of trail running trails and footpaths here at Coed y Brenin, from 3-13 miles. However, with the growing use of the demo centre at the running shop we felt a 1 mile loop would have a number of uses.

“Firstly, it enables more people to use the centre for testing shoes, as a runner can test a number of shoes in a number of sizes on that shorter route. It also serves other uses. Obviously it’s a short route, which stays close to the proximity of the visitor centre, so can be used by youngsters and families for a short run. We also hope that schools and running clubs will come here to use the route for competition and training maybe. Finally, it also serves as a great start point for people getting into running. A complete beginner could come here and run / walk the 1 mile route, build up slowly, and then ‘graduate’ to the longer trails. Hey, it could even be a great loop for experienced and elite runners to come and do 1 mile off-road reps – the uses are endless!

“Underfoot it offers every type of surface you need to test a shoe – hard pack gravel, tarmac, forest road, loose stones, mud, steep descents – it’s perfect really. Of course, it also takes in some lovely wooded areas too, so you feel as though you are in the middle of the forest, even though you don’t venture that far from the visitor centre.”

For further details on all of the trails on offer at Coed y Brenin head to the Run.Coed y Brenin running trails page