Singer and actor Cha Eunwoo participating in a trail running competition. Outdoor brand SNS.
원본보기 아이콘What are you up to these days? "Heading to the mountains for trail running."
Tired of running on asphalt or along the Han River? Trail running?where you run through forest paths, trails, sandy terrain, and mountain tracks?is trending among the MZ generation (Millennials + Generation Z).
After golf, tennis, and running, trail running is emerging as the next big trend. Outdoor and sports brands are responding quickly to this shift.
On April 6, participants of the Jeju International Trail Running were running while enjoying the Jeju scenery where canola flowers and cherry blossoms blend together around the Jorangmal Experience Park in Gasi-ri, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju. Photo by Yonhap News
원본보기 아이콘Why is trail running suddenly so popular?
Search volume surge: According to Musinsa, searches for trail running shoes from April to June 2025 increased by 121% compared to the previous year.
Celebrity effect: Celebrities such as Cha Eunwoo and Dex have posted about trail running on social media.
Differentiation: A tougher and more unique running experience than others! Plus, you can show off your style with vests and mini backpacks.
Brands are jumping in one after another
Outdoor brands
Kolon Sports: Expanded its trail running shoe lineup from 9 models to 29. Offers a full lineup from 'TL-1' (for beginners) to 'TL-X' (for experts).
Black Yak: Leveraged hiking shoe technology to launch 'Flow Run D.' As of May, sales increased by 53% compared to the previous year.
Sports brands are also joining in
Dynafit: Increased imports of trail running shoes by 820%. Equipment and apparel also saw significant growth, up 360% and 140% respectively.
Teton Bros (LF): Shifted focus from hiking to launching the 'Strider' line dedicated to trail running.
Capturing the 'running MZ'! Competitions are being held
Black Yak: Currently hosting 'Trail Run Jeju.'
Dynafit: Plans to hold the 'Taebaek Trail' in September. Early bird tickets sold out in just two minutes.
Local governments are also showing great interest: Regions such as Hongcheon, Taebaek, Incheon, and Geoje are leveraging their mountainous terrain to attract trail running competitions.
"The joy of running up mountains at your own pace. The MZ generation is all about trail running right now."
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Reporter ming@asiae.co.kr
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Edit Kim Inwook kiminuki@asiae.co.kr
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