Last modified on March 16th, 2020 at 10:00 am

Joining a Cross Country Running Camp in Autumn

Cross-country running is all about distance. You have to be able to run for long periods of time, but no matter how much stamina you have, you can’t keep running if your running shoes can’t go the distance. Before you consider joining one of the great cross-country running camps out there, think about what shoe you’d like to run in first. Even if you won’t become the next running champion, you will be able to enjoy some fresh autumn air.

What is Cross Country Running?

As the name suggests, you’re running long distances. Cross-country runners will compete in distance races along paths that usually aren’t paved. In other words, you’re running outdoors across terrain that isn’t always smooth, and in weather that isn’t always sunny.


This is why you need a shoe that has not only a lot of support, but that is made with a lot of traction to help you handle even the rockiest areas when they may be slippery or uneven.


You can be a cross-country runner no matter what age you are. Runners range from teenagers to older, elite professionals. It is a sport that can be found in countries all over the world. A cross country course will generally be a few miles, and can be competitors can be grouped depending on age and gender. When you compete, you start as a group, run according to your abilities and you’ll get a completion time when you finish.

Why Should You Join A Cross Country Running Camp?

Many people have a hard time getting into running long distances, but there are a lot of benefits to running cross-country. For one, it’s a very effective way to stay in shape, and you don’t need any special skills to join in. Most everyone knows how to run. All you need is a good pair of shoes to support you as you move along. With enough practice, anyone can get into a good form and begin to run longer than you could before.


Since cross-country running can take place on any terrain, this means that it can be done anywhere.  You can join in an official cross-country club, or you can join something more casual just in your town. It’s incredibly simple, but not only that, there are some real mental and physical benefits to running cross-country.


The sport can definitely be challenging at times, but running is made to be a workout. As you move, blood flows and your heart works, so the faster you run, the stronger your heart becomes. You’ll get more oxygen into your body and into your joints as you lose weight and be better able to maintain a steady weight.


Runners are more likely than others to be at their bodies’ normal weight . You can also improve your lung capacity and your endurance along the way. Don’t forget about strengthening your immune system either.  Beyond the physical benefits, there are definitely mental benefits to running too. The movement can boost confidence, relieve stress, and help to relieve depression. Your brain will release endorphins that can improve your mood. This is why runners are generally energized and happier, and find that they are less stressed. 


You can also feel more part of a group when you join a cross-country running camp. If you’re looking for a sense of comradery, this is the perfect way to connect with other runners and feel part of a group. You’ll feel accomplished personally while being able to engage with others in a physically and mentally rewarding manner.

Why go Cross Country Running in Autumn?

Of course, you can run at almost any time of the year, although the time of year does play a role. Generally, running in autumn is the best choice. The actual start of the cross-country season is in the fall when the weather is more conducive to the sport.

Less Crowded

Like weddings or holidays, lots of people get married in the summer and spring, and running in the winter can be difficult with the weather. In the fall, there’s a lot less going on. The weather is getting cooler, and your routes will generally be less busy. Especially if you live in a touristy area, you’ll notice that people begin to clear out in the fall and that it will be easier for you to move around without feeling quite so packed together.

Comfortable Weather

The fall temperatures are ideal for running comfortably. Run in the morning for even cooler temperatures, or during the day when you can see all of the scenery. The scenery is definitely a reason to go out running during the fall. There are beautiful leaves all over the ground, bursts of color around every turn, and beauty even in the neighborhood that is familiar to you.

Preparing for Spring

There’s also a logical reason to run in autumn, besides the weather and the scenery. If you like to run and you’re planning on running in the spring, jogging cross-country can help get you into shape to prepare for marathon running.


This is the perfect season to get started if you want to prepare yourself to keep running in the future, especially since there are so many running clubs and options out there during the fall season specifically. Join one to get started on your running journey, whether you’re running for the season or longer.

AFFORDABLE RUNNING SHOES

PRODUCT REVIEWS

This cushion will attenuate shock during impact so you can more smoothly transition as you run.

These rubber-soled ASICS running shoes are made to be comfortable as you pound on the ground, not to mention that the rubber ensures the shoe’s durability. They have a low top from the arch to fit well on your feet, and of course come in a variety of colors for you to choose from. Pick an option to match your clothing, but regardless of the color, you’ll love the rear foot gel cushioning system. This cushion will attenuate shock during impact so you can more smoothly transition as you run. When running, this will be invaluable.


It’s possible that you might need a medical orthotic in your shoe to wear it comfortably too. If that’s the case, then there’s no need to worry. These shoes include a removable sockliner to better accommodate your feet properly, no matter where you are. If you’re going uphill or downhill, you will love the trail specific outsole that will ensure that you have traction everywhere. You’ll stay safe regardless of the terrain that you’re running on or the weather that you’re running in.

PROS:

  • Comfortable and fit the food well
  • Great for an exercise regimen
  • Can be worn all day comfortably

CONS:

The new model uses cheaper materials that support the foot less

Slip your feet into these rubber-soled shoes, which are made to be durable regardless of the weather or of how much you’re running around when you join a cross country running camp in autumn.

When you buy a shoe online, you might be understandably skeptical about it fitting your feet well. It’s a good thing that people report these Saucony Cohesion shoes fitting their feet so well then. Slip your feet into these rubber-soled shoes, which are made to be durable regardless of the weather or of how much you’re running around when you join a cross country running camp in autumn.

The low top is meant to keep you comfortable, along with the VERSAFOAM cushioning technology and grid technology. Really, you have lots of foam on the bottom of these shoes to absorb the shock when you run, and a durable rubber outsole to keep your shoe durable for a long period of time. With the supportive upper overlays atop your shoe, your entire foot will be cradled while you run.

PROS:

  • They’re made to be light on your feet
  • Supportive upper overlays
  • Great for long distances

CONS:

They can be a bit narrow at the toes

You won’t even feel the pressure of the ground beneath your feet thanks to the rubber sole on the inside, which is meant to support you completely no matter how fast you run.

Nike is known for their style, which is definitely why a lot of people like their shoes. But when you’re running cross-country, you need more than just its signature style. You won’t even feel the pressure of the ground beneath your feet thanks to the rubber sole on the inside, which is meant to support you completely no matter how fast you run.

Slip on these shoes to feel comfortable, not just with the support on your foot, but with the upper mesh. This mesh is meant to help with breathability, so if you’re running for a long while, you won’t have to deal with sweaty and uncomfortable feet. You don’t need to worry about your feet getting tired from wearing heavy shoes either. The foam is soft inside, and is made to respond to the shape of your foot.

Wear these shoes for a long time with the rubber outsole, and rely on the traction to support you on all terrain. The toe tip will offer you support on every toe as it responds to every step you take with little impact.

PROS:

  • Great if you have wide feet
  • Very flexible, cushioned, forgiving, and light
  • Effective breathable mesh

CONS:

Sizing tends to run smaller so you might need to purchase a slightly bigger size

As you run in these shoes, especially in something like cross-country, you’ll love the lightweight heel counter.

Reebok is a shoe known for their style. Pick out any of its trendy colours to match any running clothing, or just to make a statement. Beyond the coloring, you’ll love the rubber sole in these shoes that’s made to absorb every step you make. Thanks to the breathable mesh on top too, you won’t need to deal with sweaty feet or an uncomfortably tight shoe either.

As you run in these shoes, especially in something like cross-country, you’ll love the lightweight heel counter. This heel will lock in the stability of your shoe, so that it’s not sliding around on your foot while you’re trying to keep up the pace. These shoes are designed for everyday running, which is why they include a Floatride Energy Foam insole in order to respond well to your steps.

Rely on the medical midsole for comfort with every step, and with the full carbon rubber outsole, you’ll have a smooth ride with every step you take.

PROS:

  • Comfortable medical midsole
  • It’s designed not to cause blisters
  • Floatride Energy Foam insoles

CONS:

People have felt a slight irritation in the heel

These Adidas shoes include a grippy rubber outsole that have a special kind of traction that’s perfect for trail running, and will keep you safe during those random autumn showers that might come on while you’re still out running.

We can’t leave Adidas out of our list. These running shoes from Adidas have a rubber sole like the others, with a low arch and an upper mesh to provide you with a good amount of ventilation to help you feel comfortable with every step you take. No sweaty feet, no pinched toes, no lack of support.

You won’t have to deal with a lack of traction either. These Adidas shoes include a grippy rubber outsole that have a special kind of traction that’s perfect for trail running, and will keep you safe during those random autumn showers that might come on while you’re still out running. With these shoes, you might just be able to go the distance.

But it’s important to make sure that you have the right fit on your shoes. Those of you who usually need half sizes will have to choose if you want a snug fit or a loose fit if you want some good support while you’re running.

PROS:

  • Even in hot weather, these stay comfortable
  • Plenty of grip and traction
  • Perfect for long distance

CONS:

The sizing is one size off; you might have to order one size larger

Conclusion

The right running shoes will help you go the distance, literally. Lace up a pair of these shoes and start your cross-country running journey in the color and style that you want, and with all the support and space in your shoe to keep you in the game for the long run. You might just become a cross-country running star in one of these pairs, but even if you never do more than a little running, you’ll be comfortable with every step.