At Ancient Ways Revealed, we delve into various categories that reflect the rich heritage and traditions of the Southwest. Our content is designed to provide insights into ancient practices, rituals, and cultural narratives that have shaped the region.
Our categories include:
- Longform Chapters: In-depth explorations of historical and cultural topics.
- Ritual Studies: Analysis and documentation of traditional rituals and their significance.
- Southwest Archives: A collection of resources and documents related to the heritage of the Southwest.
Each category is crafted to enhance your understanding of the ancient ways that continue to influence contemporary life in the Southwest. We invite you to explore these categories and discover the wisdom and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Running the Old Roads: Footwear, Terrain and Southwest Tradition
Long before modern running shoes, people across the Southwest covered great distances on foot. Running held a respected place in many Pueblo communities, where footraces have long been tied to seasonal observances, ceremony and community life. The Tarahumara (Rarámuri) of northern Mexico, often mentioned in conversations about endurance running, are known for running in simple sandals called huaraches. These traditions are a useful reminder that what you wear on your feet matters less than how well it suits the ground beneath you.
Matching footwear to the land
Anyone planning to run during the day around Santa Fe, or on the trails and mesas of northern New Mexico, deals with conditions that set the region apart. The ground ranges from packed dirt and loose sand to volcanic rock, arroyo beds and steep juniper-lined climbs. A few general principles help:
- Trail-specific soles with deeper lugs grip loose, gravelly surfaces better than road shoes.
- Breathable uppers help in dry heat, though a tighter mesh keeps out sand and fine grit.
- A protective toe area helps on rocky ground where roots and stones are common.
- Moderate cushioning suits the mix of hard-packed paths and paved stretches between trailheads.
Altitude, sun and time of day
Santa Fe sits at roughly 7,000 feet, so newcomers often find the thinner air makes running noticeably harder at first. Midday sun at elevation is intense, and many local runners prefer early morning or evening. If you do run through the middle of the day, carry water, wear sun protection and shorten your usual distance until your body adjusts. Anyone with heart, lung or joint concerns should talk to a medical professional before starting a new running routine at altitude.
Respecting the places you pass through
Many trails in the region cross or border lands with deep cultural meaning, including ancestral sites and tribal lands. Stay on marked paths, follow posted closures and never disturb artifacts or structures. For background on the sites and histories behind these landscapes, see our Field Notes and the regional entries in Places.
Also on this site: ancientwaysrevealed.com