[Jesse Rich]

Another point is that you may be running when it’s actually more efficient to hike. At a certain grade, power hiking can better to keep hr lower and reduce strain on muscles, ligaments, and tendons. If you’re feeling lactic acid build up, my guess is you’re just going too fast and likely running when it could be more efficient to hike. It does take trial and error to know what grades are good for each. In general, perhaps reducing overall output on easier days would relieve the tension you feel in your lower legs. Zero drop shoes also tend to put higher strain on the calves if you happen to be wearing low to no drop shoes.