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T rail use and demand for trails is on the rise again. Nationwide, there was an average increase in trail use of 9.5% between 2021 and 2022, and a marginal 1.5% de cline comp are d with 2020—the most significant year for trail use on record. Notably, trail use in 2022 is 45% higher than in 2019, demonstrating enduring demand for trails across the country. is is according to recently released data from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation's largest trails advocacy organization, which shows that participation is near the record-setting levels of the pandemic. In an online survey, RTC found that a majority of respondents (62%) report using trails once a week or less, but 24% say they're using trails more than they did in the past year, which is particularly true for Black (35%) and Latino (27%) trail users. In addition, many Americans say they're interested in using trails more than they do now—26% say a lot more and 36% say a little more. e majority also say that trails contribute to the well-being of the community—44% saying a great deal and 43% saying a moderate amount. Top reasons for using trails include exercise (66%), enjoying a bike ride or walk (59%), spending time in nature (52%), recreation (45%) and managing stress (45%). (RTC's study was conducted online in September, with a sample size of 1,200 adults over age 18, including an oversample of 200 Black and 200 Latino respondents.) When it comes to product and trends for the trail, brands tell us that lightweight products with comfort, durability and versatility are top-of-mind for consumers. And according to our own recent consumer survey focusing on hiking and trail running, consumers are shopping frequently for trail and hike products, with hikers sometimes opting for trail running-specific gear when hitting the trails. (See that survey on page 36.) Here are a few trail-ready products catching our eye for 2023. sportstylemag.com • sportstyle January/February 2023 • 29 Participation on the trail is trending up. Footwear, apparel and gear is getting elevated, too. OUTDOOR INSIGHT / TRAIL REPORT LOWA LOWA is entering the trail running category with the introduction of All Terrain Running (ATR) by LOWA. The line features three distinct silhouettes: CITUX, designed for fast trail running; the AMPLUX, for runners that want to go further and faster; and the FORTUX, for longer distances. The ATR styles feature the proprietary LOWA TRAC Sole system for traction in wet or dry conditions. They also have a carbon reinforced rebound plate for energy return and protection. And the shoes utilize LOWA DYVENA, a polymer compound that offers excellent cushioning to absorb the forces that occur during heel strike. Priced between $160 and $175, the ATR collection will be available at specialty retail starting June 2023. ON THE RISE

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