As the trails around Chattanooga start to shake off winter and come back to life, there’s a certain kind of runner who hears the call a little louder. Mud, rocks, roots, rolling climbs…it’s not chaos, it’s a playground.

At Fast Break, that runner is our very own trail nerd, Chase Klinedinst.

Chase logs her miles where pavement ends, and as spring approaches, she’s dialing in the shoes that can keep up. Right now, two standouts have earned permanent rotation status on her trail rack.

The Long Run & Race Day Favorite

If trail shoes had a “main character,” the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 would be striding into the scene in slow motion.

Chase doesn’t hesitate: “The step-in feel is incredible.”

This is a high-cushion, high-performance shoe built for distance. Underfoot, Saucony uses their energetic PWRRUN PB foam, delivering a lively, almost spring-loaded ride. That responsiveness is framed by a layer of PWRRUN foam for added durability, so it’s not just fast…it’s built to last.

And when the trail turns rugged? The aggressive tread grips like it has something to prove.

For Chase, this is the pick for long runs and race days. When the miles stack up and the terrain fights back, this shoe answers.

The Daily Trail Workhorse

Not every run needs fireworks. Some just need a shoe that shows up, grips well, and lets you dance across the terrain.

Enter the Topo MTN Racer 4.

Chase calls this her daily trainer, but don’t let that label fool you. This shoe is ready for technical trails, quick footwork, and those moments where you’re hopping from rock to rock like the trail is a game of lava.

Built by Topo Athletic, the MTN Racer 4 offers a responsive mid-cushion ride with seriously aggressive tread. The FKT insole helps with water drainage, which means creek crossings don’t turn into soggy regrets.

And then there’s the toe box. Wide, natural, and forgiving. Your toes get to spread out and do their thing, which Chase loves for stability and comfort on uneven ground.

So…Which One Is Right for You?

If your trail personality leans toward:

• Big miles, race efforts, and max comfort → Xodus Ultra 4

• Daily runs, technical terrain, and nimble movement → MTN Racer 4

Or, take a page from Chase’s playbook and rotate both. One for the grind, one for the groove.

Hit the Trails This Spring

Spring in Chattanooga isn’t just a season. It’s an invitation. The trails are waking up, the air is shifting, and the miles are waiting.

Stop by and we’ll get you laced up in the right pair. Whether you’re chasing your first trail run or your next PR, the right shoe makes the dirt feel a little more like home.