Trail runners on Whitney?

Trail runners are great, as long as you are generally staying on the trail system.

If your route to the mountain heads cross-country over some of the interesting sierra passes, the runners may leave a little to be desired.

– Klas

As above, trail runners are just fine. It's what I wear in my last two hikes up Whitney.

They'll work just fine. Note that they usually have crappy traction compared to boots, so you may have less confidence on the rocks.

"Would trail runners hold up on the 5 day trip alright?"

I through-hiked the PCT in trail runners last year, including Whitney/JMT portion in early June. 5 pairs got me 2600+ miles, using a shoe that's regarded as poor for durability (Golite Sundragon II's) so one pair of trail runners will surely last you 5 days (!).

In fact, trail runners or similar shoes have become the most common choice for long distance backpackers, no worries on that score. If you're still uncertain, bring a little extra duct tape.

You will be fine with trail runners. That is what I used a few years ago. Just watch you foot placings. Some of the those rocks can hurt. Other than that, your feet will love you!!!

I agree.

In 2007 I did the High Sierra Trail from Sequoia National Park to Mt. Whitney going 70 miles with Innov8 Terroc 330's without a problem.

I do find that the Innov-8, which are the only brand of trail runners that I have used (I am on my 3rd pair…2 pair Terrocs and now using 295s) and I find that 200 miles on them is what I am getting.

In that sense, I am disappointed in the short tread life of the sole….the rest of the shoe has done very well.

-Tony