are trail runners really better than hiking boots?

Last weekend, I was all set for a long hike in the Smoky Mountains, but my old hiking boots felt like bricks on my feet. I kept hearing folks rave about trail runners, especially the Asics Gel Trabuco and Mizuno Wave Mujin. So, I did something a bit wild for me—I wore my regular sandals, thinking it’d be more comfortable. Well, my feet were a mess by the end, and every little pebble felt like it was out to get me! Now I’m wondering if switching to trail runners is really the answer. I’m not sure if they’ll hold up on rocky trails or if they’re just another trend. Has anyone actually put these shoes through their paces on tough hikes? I’m a bit skeptical—can they really protect your feet and still feel light? It’s hard to believe a shoe that looks like a sneaker can handle mud, roots, and all the rough stuff. If you’ve tried them, did you end up missing your old boots, or was it a game changer? #hikinglife #trailrunners #outdooradventures #Travel