For those new to OCR Obstacle Course Racing – such as Tough Mudder or Spartan, an important issue is the footwear and finding the best OCR running shoes for racing these types of events.

It’s hard to just say, oh so and so is the best shoe; go for that. This is because every obstacle course runner will have there own preference and favourites. Also, what might be a great OCR shoe for one person might feel very average to another.

Best OCR Running Shoes Guide

Finding The Best Obstacle Course Racing Shoes

However, there are some general principles that you need to look for in the best obstacle course racing shoe.

In this guide, we’ve done the research, and we’ll take you through some of the top obstacle course racing shoes currently available.

The criteria we used to select out top OCR shoes was based upon the shoes meeting the requirements list below.

OCR Shoe Requirements

  • Grip On The Outsole
  • Ability To Drain Water
  • Lightweight, Don't Carry Extra Weight
  • Comfortable & Secure Fit
  • Durable & Robust

Top OCR Shoes In 2021

Anyway, that’s enough rambling; let’s take a look at the best OCR obstacle running shoes for 2021. That’s the real reason you’re here. Our pick in this first section have been specially designed for obstacle course racing and will reallt get the job done.

Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260 V2

VJSport VJ iRock Shoe

Salming OT Comp

Inov-8 X-Talon G 235 OCR Shoe

Inov-8 Mudclaw 275

Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder 2

VJ Sport VJ XTRM

Best OCR Shoes From The Trail Running Scene

The shoes we have listed below are not specifically designed for obstacle course racing. However, we think they are trail and fell running shoes that could easily adapt. We used the same criteria as in the previous section to select the one’s we think could be great as OCR running shoes. They offer fantastic grip in soft terrain, comfort and durability – want you to need for a muddy run race event.

Walsh PB Elite Extreme Fell Running Shoes

Salomon Speedcross 5

Salomon Speedcross 4

OCR World Championships Video Highlights

Best OCR Running Shoes Conclusions

Finding the best OCR running shoe is trial and error for beginners. It sometimes means trying a few brands and seeing what works best for you. When I’ve bought trail running shoes in the past, that just didn’t seem right after a few weeks. I would still use them or find a use for them.

If you are new to obstacle course racing or have just signed up for your first event, I would suggest picking a trail running shoe rather than a specialised OCR shoe. There is no need to blow big money on a shoe that might get little use or feel right personally for you. You might also want to take a look at our other guides; Best Trail Running Shoes For Mud Under £100 and Salomon Speedcross 4 Review.

Later on down the line, if you have caught the OCR bug, you could then invest in a more specialised pair of shoes.

Ultimately the answer as to what is the best OCR shoe is personal. Still, I hope you have learned something new in this guide. I’m sure to find your perfect race shoe in no time.

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