Trail running shoes can have a thicker sole, so they can be sturdier and more supportive than road shoes, and they often have more grip, so you can trust your footing while running on slippery or rough terrain.
To help you find the best trail running shoes for you, we’ve researched and tested countless shoes to find the most comfortable, durable and precision-fitting options.
Here are our top picks.
Our Editor’s Best Trail Running Shoes Reviews
Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes for Men, Black/Black/Phantom, 9
Key Features:
-
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a trail running shoe that is designed for runners who want to conquer soft, technical trails. The shoe features an aggressive grip, precise foothold, and protection.
-
The Speedcross 5 is a trail running shoe that has been redesigned with deep, sharp lugs for an improved grip and a more dynamic upper for better fit and stability. The tight mesh on the shoe prevents debris from being trapped between your foot and the footbed.
-
The Salomon trail running shoes are designed for a smooth ride on any terrain, whether you’re running on the road, on a local trail, or on something more rugged.
-
Salomon makes shoes for a variety of outdoor activities, including trail running, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering. They have shoes for both children and adults, as well as gear to help you achieve your goals.
-
The Salomon trail running shoes are designed for both road and trail running. They are made with a passion for outdoor sports and innovation, and they help make any path your own.
Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes for Women, Wrought Iron/Spray/White, 8
Key Features:
-
The Contagrip TA trail running shoes are designed for maximum grip on loose, soft, rugged, and uneven surfaces. The shoes feature deep, sharp lugs made from a compound that balances durability and adhesion.
-
The SensiFit cradles the foot from the midsole to the lacing system, providing a secure, snug, and virtually customized fit all around the foot. This is ideal for trail running shoes because it will keep your foot secure in the shoe so that you can focus on your run.
ALTRA Men’s AL0A547L Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Gray – 10.5 M US
Key Features:
-
The trail running shoes has won the RUNNER’S WORLD 2022 AWARD for the best trail shoe.
-
The trail running shoes have a MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern for grippy traction.
-
If you are looking for a trail running shoe that will allow you to go further with less impact on your feet, then this is the shoe for you. The Balanced Cushioning platform provides support for both the heel and forefoot, while still allowing for low-impact landings.
-
These trail running shoes have a FootShape toe box that allows the toes to relax and spread out naturally. This provides a more comfortable and natural fit for the runner.
-
The Altra EGO trail running shoes are designed to provide a responsive and soft ride for the wearer. The midsoles of the shoes are made from a material that is designed to provide cushioning and support for the foot, and the outsole is made from a durable rubber that is designed to provide traction on various surfaces. The shoes are available in a variety of colors and sizes, and they come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
New Balance Men’s 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe, Team Away Grey/Magnet/Black, 10.5 XW US
Key Features:
-
This trail running shoe is designed for comfort and support. The Cush+ midsole cushioning provides ultra-soft, all-day comfort without sacrificing support. This shoe is ideal for runners who want a comfortable, supportive shoe for their long runs on the trail.
-
The trail running shoes have a leather and mesh upper. This provides the shoes with durability and breathability.
-
The trail running shoes have a comfort collar that helps prevent irritation and hugs the ankle for a superior fit.
-
New Balance has designed a new trail running shoe with a ultra soft comfort insert. This will provide the customer with a more comfortable feel while they are out on the trails.
-
The all-terrain rubber outsole on these trail running shoes provides excellent grip and traction on any surface, making them perfect for running on any trail.
WHITIN Men’s Trail Running Shoes Minimalist Barefoot 5 Five Fingers Wide Width Toe Box Size 10 Toe Box Gym Workout Fitness Low Zero Drop Male Light Weight Comfy Lite Tennis FiveFingers Dark Grey 43
Key Features:
-
This trail running shoe has a padded rear collar pad for achilles comfort.
-
This trail running shoe has a 5 mm POWER FOOTBED for underfoot cushioning. This feature provides extra comfort and support for the foot while running on rough or uneven terrain.
-
The trail running shoes have an engineered knit upper for a sock-like fit and a flexible feel. They are designed for runners who want a comfortable, sock-like fit with the flexibility to move freely.
-
The shopper is looking for a trail running shoe with a zero-drop, non-elevated sole in order to maintain proper posture and balance.
-
The shopper can expect a shoe with a sticky-grip rubber outsole that provides grip, traction, and durability for trail-ready performance.
ALTRA Women’s AL0A548E Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoe, Navy/Light Blue – 9 M US
Key Features:
-
The shoe has a soft cushion that makes it comfortable for long runs and has a great grip for different types of terrain.
-
The trail running shoes have a MaxTrac outsole and a multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern for grippy traction.
-
These trail running shoes are designed to provide a balance of cushioning in the heel and forefoot, to encourage low-impact landings and a more natural running stride.
-
If you’re looking for a trail running shoe that will allow your toes to relax and spread out naturally, then this is the shoe for you. The FootShape toe box provides ample room for your toes to move around, making it a great choice for those who want to run naturally.
-
The Altra EGO trail running shoes are designed to provide a responsive and soft ride for the wearer. The midsoles of the shoes are made from a material that is designed to offer a comfortable ride, and the shoes also feature a number of other features that are intended to make them more comfortable for the wearer.
New Balance Women’s Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe, Blue/Yellow/Pink, 8
Key Features:
-
The NITRELv4 shoes from New Balance are designed to be comfortable and functional both on the road and on the trail. They are cushioned and have a stylish design.
-
The trail running shoes have a DynaSoft midsole cushioning that provides a responsive ride with plush comfort.
-
The shoes are designed for both on and off road activities and have a rugged AT Tread outsole for added traction.
-
The trail running shoes are designed for both the trail and the street. They have a sporty textile and engineered mesh upper with a versatile aesthetic. They are also equipped with New Balance’s trademarked ABZORB cushioning in the midsole for added comfort and support.
-
These are lightweight trail running shoes that are built to withstand everyday wear. They have no-sew overlays for a sleek and stylish look and feel.
Saucony Men’s Peregrine 12 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Charcoal, 10.5 Wide
Key Features:
-
The Peregrine 12 is a trail running shoe that is lighter and faster than its predecessor. It has a redesigned lug pattern that allows you to ditch debris more easily, and PWRTRAC rubber that ensures maximum traction and grip.
adidas Terrex Ax4 Shoes Core Black/Carbon/Grey Four 10 D (M)
Key Features:
-
The Adidas Terrex AX4 is a trail running shoe designed for comfort and durability. The shoe features a black, carbon, and grey color scheme, and a four-inch platform. The shoe is designed for both men and women and is available in sizes 10 and up.
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe, Golden Hour/Moon Shadow/Red Clay, 8
Key Features:
-
The Fresh Foam X midsole provides a cushioned and comfortable experience for the wearer. This makes it ideal for trail running shoes.
-
The Vibram outsole on these trail running shoes provides superior grip, making them perfect for running on any terrain. The Vibram trademark guarantees quality and durability, so you can be sure these shoes will last.
-
The trail running shoes have a construction that is breathable and protected. This is ideal for shoppers who want a shoe that will keep their feet comfortable and safe while they are running on trails.
-
The shoes have a synthetic upper, which is a type of material that is designed to be tough and durable. The mesh upper helps to keep the feet cool and dry.
-
The shoes have an adjustable lace closure, so the shopper can customize the fit of the shoes.
Trail Running Shoes FAQs
1. What are some good trail running shoes?
Some good trail running shoes are the Adidas Ultra Boost, Nike Air Max, and the New Balance Fresh Foam.
2. What are some features to look for in trail running shoes?
Some features to look for when shopping for trail running shoes include a shoe with a good grip to prevent slipping, a water-resistant upper to keep your feet dry, and a shoe with a cushioned sole to absorb impact.
3. How do I choose the right trail running shoes for me?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the right trail running shoes for you. First, consider the type of terrain you’ll be running on. If you’ll be running on rough, uneven terrain, you’ll want a shoe with good traction. Second, consider the weather conditions you’ll be running in. If you’ll be running in wet or muddy conditions, you’ll want a shoe with good drainage. Finally, consider your own personal preferences. Do you prefer a lighter weight shoe, or a heavier duty shoe? Do you prefer a more cushioned shoe, or a less cushioned shoe? Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can narrow down your choices and select the best trail running shoe for you.
4. How do I care for my trail running shoes?
To care for your trail running shoes, you will want to clean them after each use and allow them to dry completely. You will also want to inspect them for any damage and replace them if necessary.
5. What are some common problems with trail running shoes?
Some common problems people have with trail running shoes are that they are not very comfortable, they are not very durable, and they do not provide enough support.
Conclusion
There are many great trail running shoes on the market. Our list of the best trail running shoes will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.