Best Men's Trail Running Shoes of 2024
TRAIL RUNNERS FOR RUNNING, HIKING, AND BACKPACKING IN ALL CONDITIONS AND TERRAIN
April 2, 2024
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear
A comfortable pair of trail running shoes is essential for a good experience while on the trail. Trail running shoes are the preferred footwear for more than just trail runners. We regularly wear trail running shoes on day hikes, backpacking trips, thru-hikes, and runs in our local urban park.
To find the best trail running shoes, we reviewed the top-rated shoes for trail running and tested the most promising models for months (some shoes we’ve been testing for years) to find the best men's trail running shoes for most people.
We tested trail shoes on everything from trail runs in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona to 2500+ mile thru-hikes across the US. We tested trail runners in the mountains and on local recreational trails. We wore these trail runners while backpacking, hiking, and running.
We’re avid trail runners and have logged over 10,000 miles on various trail running shoes in the past decade. Between trail running adventures, thru-hiking, day hikes, and backpacking trips, we’ve tried trail running shoes from all the major brands and understand the differences in fit, feel, durability, and more.
We tested all kinds of trail running shoes–from zero-drop trail shoes to the best-cushioned trail runners, budget trail shoes to premium waterproof trail runners for the worst weather, shoes for running on a mix and pavement and trail, minimalist trail running shoes, and more. Here are our winners for the best men’s trail running shoes for every kind of use on every type of trail.
If your feet aren’t happy, you won’t be happy. We’ve got you covered with the best trail running shoes for men.
Looking for women’s trail running shoes? See our guide to The Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes.
We create reader-supported, objective, independently-selected gear reviews. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Comparison Table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP | SIZES | WIDTHS | DROP | STACK HEIGHT | WEIGHT (PER SHOE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Jackal II | Best overall Read why |
$165 | 6 - 14.5 | Standard | 7 mm | 29-22 mm | 9.7 oz / 275 g |
| Hoka Speedgoat 5 | Best cushioned Read why |
$155 | 7 - 15 | Standard, wide | 4 mm | 33-29 mm | 10.3 oz / 292 g |
| On Cloudvista | Best minimalist Read why |
$150 | 7 - 14 | Standard | 9 mm | 26-17 mm | 9.9 oz / 280 g |
| Salomon Sense Ride 5 | Best affordable Read why |
$140 | 7 - 14 | Standard | 8 mm | 29.6-21.3 mm | 10.1 oz / 286 g |
| Hoka Challenger 7 | Best crossover road/trail Read why |
$145 | 7 - 15 | Regular, wide | 5 mm | 31-26 mm | 8.9 oz / 252 g |
The Best Men's Trail Running Shoes
Best trail running shoes: La Sportiva Jackal II
Sizes available: US Men’s 6-14.5 / EU 38 - 48.5
Widths available: Standard (D)
Drop: 7 mm
Stack height: Heel 29 mm; toe 22 mm
Weight: 9.7 oz / 275 g
What we liked: Lightweight, great fit, comfortable tongue, grippy tread, wider than most La Sportiva shoes
What we didn’t like: La Sportiva sizing runs small
The La Sportiva Jackal II trail running shoes are lightweight trail runners that balance foot protection, grip, and all-day comfort. They're highly versatile and well-suited for everything from steep technical trails to long, flat stretches on smoother trails. These are our favorite shoes for long, ultra-distance trail adventures, but their all-day comfort also translates well to any length run. We’ve worn the Jackals since the original version for everything – from backpacking the Arizona Trail across the Grand Canyon to running trails in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona.
The Jackal II has a wider last than most other La Sportiva shoes, which have a reputation for running relatively narrow (see our shoe diagram for an explanation about lasts). We loved the original Jackals but had some issues with the heel fit and comfort. The Jackal II has a much-improved heel that fits better, especially with this heel lock lacing technique. They have plenty of room in the toe box for long days on the trail. However, unlike some trail runners with wider toe boxes, these shoes are super stable on rocky, technical terrain.
The Jackal II tread is some of the grippiest we’ve used. They feel secure while hopping from rock to rock or making sharp cuts around a downhill switchback. They also have a highly breathable upper, which helps on those long, hot days. The biggest drawback of these shoes is the fit, however. We had to get a full size bigger than we usually wear. Once we figured out sizing, they fit really well and are wide enough for our wider-than-average feet. There aren’t many shoes that work this well for anything the trail throws at you. And for that reason, we think the Jackal II trail runners are the best trail running shoes overall.
Best cushioned trail running shoes: Hoka Speedgoat 5
Sizes available: 7-15
Widths available: Standard, Wide
Drop: 4 mm
Stack height: Heel 33 mm heel; toe 29 mm
Weight: 10.3 oz / 292 g
What we liked: Very cushioned, great fit, comes in standard and wide sizing, fantastic grip
What we didn’t like: High stack height can feel unstable, exposed midsole foam on tread
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is the most cushioned trail runner we tested and one of our favorites for ultra-distance running and fast hiking. We’ve been wearing Speedgoats for years, and we love the generous amount of cushioning, the sticky Vibram Mega Grip outsole, and the very supportive upper. We wore the Speedgoats while thru-hiking the CDT, where we hiked an average of about 50K daily. We’ve also put a ton of trail running miles on these shoes in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona.
The Speedgoats have 34 millimeters of stack height. This cushion is the most of any trail runner we tested. This feature leads to a diminished trail feel but allows you to walk over sharp rocks without feeling them on the bottom of your feet. They also have a sticky Vibram Mega Grip outsole with deep enough lugs to grip dirt and mud. These shoes grip everything between the sticky rubber and the large v-shaped lugs. They also have an extremely stable upper. When you lace these shoes, the mesh wraps around your foot as if it was designed for your foot. This upper is one of the best-fitting ones we’ve worn, and it stays comfortable all day.
These shoes have a ton of stack. In theory, more stack means higher center of gravity for your feet and ankles. So, in theory, the Speedgoats should be more prone to causing a rolled ankle than shoes with a low stack height. However, in all the years and miles we’ve put into these shoes, we haven’t ever rolled an ankle. That’s more than we can say about other trail runners with much less stack height.
Read our full review of the Hoka Speedgoat 5.
Best minimalist trail running shoes: On Cloudvista
Sizes available: 7-14
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 9 mm
Stack height: Heel 26 mm; toe 16 mm
Weight: 9.9 oz / 280 g
What we liked: Lightweight, responsive midsoles, nimble, speedy
What we didn’t like: Tread doesn’t provide the most traction
The On Cloudvista are some of the simplest and lightest trail runners we tested. When we first held these shoes, we thought, “This is a trail runner?!” They don't look very different from a road shoe, but we were shocked at how well they performed on the trail. We had only planned a quick four- or five-mile run to start, but after 5 miles, they felt too good to turn around – so we doubled the distance. They have a confidence-inspiring upper that comfortably wraps around your foot. And the lightweight, minimalist feel makes hills feel almost effortless.
The Cloudvistas feature the same lightweight midsole design as other On shoes. The Helion foam sole is at the heart of this design, with hollow sections that let you see through the midsole. This unique sole uses a patented combination of stiff and soft materials, resulting in a lightweight and snappy feel unique to On shoes. The design was initially intended for road running, but On added small rubber lugs to the outsole for the Cloudvista. They also beefed up the upper with durable mesh and a reinforced toe cap. They also have a thin integrated tongue that makes for a highly comfortable shoe.
Though we loved how these shoes feel on hardpacked dirt, the minimal lugs don’t provide the best traction on loose terrain. The tread looks like it could almost be a road shoe, and we think they’re great for those runs that involve gravel, hardpacked dirt, and even some pavement. But they're not the best for traction in mud, snow, or steep and loose dirt. However, we love how these lightweight, minimalist shoes feel on maintained trails and hardpacked dirt. On those runs with a little bit of everything, the Cloudvistas offer an excellent balance of weight and comfort with just enough protection.
Best affordable trail running shoes: Salomon Sense Ride 5
Sizes available: 7 — 14
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 8 mm
Stack height: Heel 29.6; toe 21.3 mm
Weight: 10.1 oz / 286 g
What we liked: Affordable, Salomon quicklace system, comfortable, stable
What we didn’t like: Narrow fit
The Salomon Sense Ride 5 are some of the least expensive trail running shoes we tested, but they perform as well as many more expensive shoes. We’ve worn many pairs of the Sense Ride over the past few years. We love the overall stable feeling of the upper and the generously cushioned yet bouncy midsole they’re built on. These shoes do everything well and come in a lightweight package that pushes you to run farther.
The Salomon Sense Rides feature Salomon’s quicklace system. This system consists of a thin cord laced as regular shoelaces, with a slider to tighten the laces. The slider and excess lace tuck into the tongue's top so they don’t bounce around while you run. The tongue wraps around your entire foot; it attaches below the insoles with soft elastic material. And the tongue is cushioned with a stiff foam, so you don’t feel the thin laces on your foot.
These are some of the most cushioned trail runners we tested, too. They have nearly 30 millimeters of stack in the heel but don’t feel too high off the ground. The tread is comprised of many small 3.5-millimeter lugs, and while they don’t dig deep in mud or snow, they’re suited for most trail conditions. While we think these shoes fit very well overall, we found them narrow. They’re narrow enough that by the end of a long run, our toes feel like they’ve been squished together for miles. If you have a narrow foot, this won’t be an issue. But if you have a wide foot, these probably aren’t the best option. Even though they run narrower than many shoes we tested, we don’t think they’re too narrow for average-width feet.
Best crossover shoe (for road and trail running): Hoka Challenger 7
Sizes available: 7-15
Widths available: Regular, wide
Drop: 5 mm
Stack height: Heel 31 mm; toe 26 mm
Weight: 8.9 oz / 252 g
What we liked: Lightweight, great for mixed surface runs, well-cushioned
What we didn’t like: Not the best on rough terrain
The Hoka Challenger 7 is an excellent crossover trail running shoe. We’ve been wearing the Challengers as our road running shoes for several years, and the newest iteration is lighter and has more stack height. Every trail runner needs shoes for road running because there are days when you just want to run out your front door. If you’re like us, those runs follow city streets to the closest gravel or dirt path. The Challengers are an excellent choice for this style of running. They’re not as light as many road-specific shoes, but they feel great on the gravel path that winds through your city park. We’ve put thousands of miles on the gravel trails of Denver’s parks over the years, and most of those miles have been in Hoka Challengers.
The Challenger has a similar design to the Hoka Speedgoat but with smoother tread. They have tons of cushion, which we find more critical when pounding our feet over the pavement. They also have a great-fitting upper and a stable, supportive midsole. We’ve tried “real” road running shoes over the years but have always returned to the Challengers for their supportive and protective feel. Road shoes feel flimsy compared to these shoes, and we’re not used to that feeling.
However, the Challengers aren't the best for tearing up technical trails. They do better on steep inclines over strips of dirt than a road shoe, but they don’t provide nearly as much traction as trail shoes. We lace up these shoes when we plan to run a little bit of everything—sand, dirt, gravel, and pavement—the Challengers can handle it all. We don’t see any reason to use a different shoe for all those trails closer to home.
Read our full review of the Hoka Challenger 7.
Best zero-drop trail running shoes: Altra Lone Peak 8
Sizes available: 7-16
Widths available: Regular, wide
Drop: 0 mm
Stack height: 25 mm
Weight: 10.7 oz / 303 g
What we liked: Zero drop, wide toe box, great trail feel, minimalist shoe, available in many sizes
What we didn’t like: Not great on technical terrain, minimalist trail shoe feel isn’t for everyone
The Altra Lone Peak 8s are some of the only zero-drop trail runners available. Altra has a massive following among trail runners, thru-hikers, and ultralight backpackers who want a shoe that allows your foot to move naturally with room to accommodate foot swelling in extreme conditions. We first wore Lone Peaks while thru hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and we also tested the Lone Peaks on Arizona and New Mexico trails. They excel on smoother trails – they’re great for running over sand and packed dirt in desert environments. The minimalist design is quite popular outside desert regions, too.
These are zero-drop shoes, meaning your heel is at the same level as your forefoot – how it would be when you’re barefoot. The toebox is very wide, so your toes don’t rub each other as you move. The result is an incredibly comfortable trail shoe that is less prone to causing blisters or chafing. The Lone Peaks have a relatively low stack height, so you’re close to the ground and can feel the trail beneath your feet, further adding to the natural barefoot feel. They're constructed with a seamless and stitchless upper, making them even less prone to discomfort from chafing or rubbing. The upper is almost entirely mesh, making these some of the most breathable shoes we tested. The wide platform creates a very stable feel. The tread is grippy, and the deep directional lugs help grip loose dirt and sand.
However, some people don’t love how the minimalist design makes them feel less stable. If you’re used to a more rigid trail shoe, they'll feel flimsy, especially at first. We noticed this on rocky trails where the shoes didn’t feel as protective. However, if you’re looking for a zero-drop trail runner, you probably know the benefits of this design. Note that the sizing of the 8s is slightly larger than the 7s.
Best for long distance trail running: La Sportiva Wildcat
Sizes available: 6 - 13.5
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 12 mm
Stack height: Heel 29; toe 17 mm
Weight: 12.37 oz / 328 g
What we liked: Super durable, breathable, sticky rubber outsole
What we didn’t like: Runs narrow, La Sportiva sizing runs small, better for fast hiking than trail running
The La Sportiva Wildcat is our favorite trail running shoe for light and fast hiking, and often “running” long distances means "fast hiking" as much as it does running. The Wildcat is relatively heavy compared with other trail running shoes we tested, but it’s also one of the most durable and protective shoes. It's a very popular shoe with long-distance thru-hikers, and we’ve seen multiple pairs of these shoes last for nearly 1000 miles. While we wouldn’t recommend relying on a single pair of these shoes for that long, we can confirm it has been done.
The Wildcat is “overbuilt” by modern trail running shoe standards, but we think that's a good thing for the right uses. It has a burly toe cap, and stiffer soles than many trail runners. With a unique lug pattern made of long, thin rubber cleats that run lengthwise, they do well in rough terrain and feel more akin to the tread of a hiking shoe than a runner. The outsole rubber is quite sticky, and the shorter lugs allow for a solid platform to grab onto smooth rock. The upper is a comfortable and airy mesh with synthetic leather overlays for durability. They breathe well and kept our feet comfortable in hot conditions.
Though the Wildcat is excellent for long distances, it doesn’t have as much cushioning as some trail runners. They have a firmer midsole that doesn’t compress quickly, so they don’t have that cloud-like cushion feeling. While this isn't a dealbreaker for us, it might not be best if you prefer that soft, cushioned feeling of modern trail running shoes. The Wildcat is an excellent option for light and fast hiking. And let’s be honest, not all “trail runs” have to be 100% running because most of us can’t run over everything.
Best for traction: Salomon Speedcross 6
Sizes available: 7-14
Widths available: Standard, Wide
Drop: 10 mm
Stack height: Heel 32 mm; toe 22 mm
Weight: 10.5 oz / 298 g
What we liked: Great traction, quicklace system, very protective, comes in standard and wide sizes
What we didn’t like: Feels like overkill on flatter terrain
The Salomon Speedcross 6 is a great trail running shoe that gives you some of the best traction of any trail shoe available. This shoe is designed for rough trails and has a stable, protective upper. We tested them on trails in Arizona and Colorado in the winter and early spring. These shoes feel at home on steep terrain, pushing off in loose dirt and making sharp cuts while speeding down a muddy trail. These are the best shoes when the trail ahead is questionable at best. They have a super grippy tread. The tread has deep lugs and is made of Salomon’s sticky Contragrip TA rubber that keeps your feet firmly planted as you move down the trail. The 5-millimeter lugs on these shoes are some of the deepest of any shoe we tested, and they also have the most heel-to-toe drop.
The high heel-to-toe drop (10 mm) on the Speedcross feels specifically designed for going uphill, but they also work pretty well on flatter surfaces. We were pleasantly surprised with how these shoes felt on a trail run over smoother terrain. The midsole is firm and responsive but also provides plenty of cushion underfoot. The deep lugs are probably overkill on hard-packed dirt, but they also don’t feel like they negatively affect the traction. They lace up with the Salomon quicklace system, which tightens in one motion and never comes untied.
The Speedcross fit pretty narrow. We tested the standard width in these shoes; they were just wide enough to feel comfortable over 6-8 miles. However, they weren’t quite wide enough for our liking on longer runs. However, they also come in wide sizing. We think these are some of the best shoes for dependable traction in rugged terrain.
Best waterproof trail running shoes: La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX
Sizes available: 6-13.5
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 8 mm
Stack height: 28 mm
Weight: 12.5 oz / 355 g
What we liked: Integrated waterproof gator, excellent traction, BOA dial lacing
What we didn’t like: Very expensive, La Sportiva sizing runs small
The La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX are the best waterproof trail running shoes we’ve worn. Many trail runners come in a waterproof version, but few others feature a full-coverage integrated waterproof gaiter like these. Thanks to the Cyklons, we could trail run five or more days a week during a very snowy January in Colorado. We ran hundreds of miles on trails, climbed 14ers, and snowshoed in these fully waterproof shoes. The waterproof gaiters kept our feet dry and warm even in temperatures near zero degrees Fahrenheit. You don’t have to worry about puddles splashing into the top of your trail shoe and soaking your feet when wearing the Cyklons. They have transformed our winter and wet-weather trail running.
The Cyklons feature a full-coverage waterproof gaiter that extends above your ankle. The gaiter zips shut over a BOA lacing system. The BOA dial is outside the waterproof gaiter and is easy to operate with gloves or waterproof mittens. This feature lets you easily tighten or loosen the shoes as trail conditions change. They also have deep 6.5-millimeter lugs with La Sportiva’s stickiest rubber. The lugs bite into snow and mud very well. We rarely felt the tread wasn’t enough on its own, and we only needed to add microspikes when running on smooth ice. The shoe that sits inside the integrated gaiter is very comfortable, too. Over many full days on rough trails, they remained comfortable.
However, the Cyklons are expensive. If you’re a hardcore foul-weather runner, they’re worth it. We’ve already convinced a few of our trail-running friends they’re worth the price this winter, and no one who’s tried them has been disappointed. But if you only plan to run trails a handful of times when it’s cold and wet, they might not be worth it.
Best Wide Trail Running Shoes: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3
Sizes available: 7.5-13
Widths available: Standard, wide
Drop: 5 mm
Stack height: Heel 35 mm; toe 30 mm
Weight: 10.2 oz / 345 g
What we liked: Wide toe box, comfortable, well-cushioned, stable feel
What we didn’t like: Not the best on technical terrain
The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 is our favorite shoe for people who want a roomy toe box in a trail running shoe. This could mean people who have wide feet, but it could also mean thru hikers or long-distance runners who find their feet swell after hours or days on their feet. They also work for shorter runs while you're building to longer distances. We tested them in Colorado, doing everything from marathon-distance runs and summiting 14ers to quick jaunts on local trails. They're so comfortable you might not take them off when you’re done with your run. We’ve had many long days in these shoes and never felt that I-can’t-wait-to-get-out-of-these-shoes feeling. And the wide laces don’t create hotspots on the tops of your feet.
Like the Altra Lone Peaks, the Ultradventures have a roomy toe box so your toes won’t rub and cause blisters. While many of us love the Lone Peaks, not everyone likes how they fit. The upper on the Ultradventure feels more secure than the Lone Peak, and it has significantly more cushioning as well. The heel cup securely holds your foot in place and feels more planted on the ground – even with the higher stack height.
The Ulraventures have a proprietary midsole foam that feels bouncy but doesn’t feel too heavy. Even with 35-30 millimeters of stack height, they still provide a surprising amount of trail feel. However, these aren’t the shoes we’d choose for steep, technical trails. The outsole grips well, but the less aggressive, 3-millimeter square lugs aren’t designed to grip loose dirt or mud. They're better for thru-hiking or ultrarunning, where you’ll be on a variety of surfaces and wearing them for long days. They're also a great road-to-trail crossover shoe.
Other Trail Running Shoes We Tested
Saucony Peregrine 14
Sizes available: 7-14
Widths available: Standard, wide
Drop: 4 mm
Stack height: Heel 28 mm; toe 24 mm
Weight: 9.4 oz / 266 g
What we liked: Lightweight, aggressive lug pattern, more cushioning than previous versions, wrap-around tongue
What we didn’t like: Narrower fit
Saucony has been making the Peregrine trail running shoe for over 16 years. The latest version, the Saucony Peregrine 14, maintains the lightweight design we loved in previous versions but with an even more cushioned midsole. We love how responsive this updated midsole feels while still cushioning our feet for long days. Saucony added more cushion with the 13 version, but they stepped it up with their PWRRUN cushioning and PWRRUN+ sock liner on the 14s.
The Peregrine has a very comfortable upper and generous cushioning around the heel and ankles. You can hike or run in these shoes without lacing them very tight because the tongue attaches to the footbed, so it wraps around your entire foot like a bootie. When you tightly lace them, it creates a cozy, glove-like fit. The well-fitting upper creates a super stable feel, and we love how these shoes feel on technical descents.
The outsole features 5-millimeter multi-directional lugs that work well in most conditions. Their PWRTRAC rubber is tacky enough to grip on slick rock surfaces, though it isn’t quite as sticky as the Vibram Megagrip rubber on the Hoka Speedgoat 5 and Merrell Long Sky 2 or the Frixion® XT 2.0 rubber on the La Sportiva Jackal II. While we like most things about these shoes, they run on the narrower side and don’t have quite enough room in the toe box to be our go-tos for long runs. But if you have narrower feet or prefer a tighter fit for technical running, these shoes are an excellent option.
Sizes available: 7-15
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 6 mm
Stack height: Heel 22 mm; toe 16 mm
Weight: 9.4 oz / 266 g
What we liked: Extremely comfortable, lightweight, nimble, grippy rubber outsole
What we didn’t like: Price
The Brooks Catamount 3 is one of our new favorite trail running shoes for almost everything, but it’s especially good at tackling hills. We took this on several 10+ mile runs to the top of peaks in southern Arizona and were impressed with how they feel as you push off the ground on inclines. They’re lightweight and springy, making long runs to the top of a mountain feel fun. They’re also super stable on the downhills. These are all-around great trail runners.
The Catamounts have a sticky outsole, with 4-millimeter lugs deep enough to grip loose dirt or mud. They have a built-in plate that stiffens the sole and propels you forward as you push off with your toes. Though this isn’t a “rock plate,” per se, it also protects the bottoms of your feet as a rock plate would. The tongue connects to the shoe's insole area, giving these shoes a bootie-like feel and keeping your foot secure inside the shoe.
We love how this upper fits around our feet and immediately felt confident on the downhills with these shoes. The upper mesh is super breathable, too. These are some of our new favorite shoes for hot weather runs. However, these are some of the more expensive trail running shoes we tested. There are less expensive shoes out there that perform almost as well, and if you’re just starting, we would steer you in that direction instead. The Catamounts are a great option if you’re looking for a high-performing, speedy trail runner capable of technical terrain.
Sizes available: 7-16
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 4 mm
Stack height: Heel 23.5 mm; toe 19.5 mm
Weight: 9.45 oz / 267 g
What we liked: Very stable, comfortable, Vibram MegaGrip outsole
What we didn’t like: Not the most cushion
The Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 are some of our favorite trail running shoes for scrambly mountain runs. We logged tons of miles in these shoes last summer on everything from high routes in the San Juan mountains in Colorado to 50k runs in Colorado’s Maroon Bells and Moab, Utah. These shoes are fast and grippy, and inspire confidence underfoot no matter where you take them.
They have a tongue that wraps around the top of your foot to create a super stable fit even when they aren’t laced tightly. And, they have a Vibram MegGrip outsole, which is some of the grippiest rubber we’ve worn on any shoe in both wet and dry conditions. Merrell isn’t known for their trail runners. But don’t write them off just because they’re known for their hiking boots, Merrell also makes great trail running shoes.
Sizes available: 7-14
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 8 mm
Stack height: Heel 20 mm; toe 12 mm
Weight per shoe: 11 oz / 312 g
What we liked: Extremely stable, durable, supportive midsole
What we didn’t like: Heavy, not the most comfortable
The Brooks Cascadia 17 is a legendary trail running shoe that’s been around for 17 iterations. We think the latest iteration is a great shoe, but we think the Brooks Catamount 3 is a better all-around trail shoe for its lightweight design and higher level of comfort. The Brooks Cascadia is a great shoe, though, and plenty of trail runners and hikers swear by it.
Sizes available: 7-14
Widths available: Standard
Drop: 11 mm
Stack height: Heel 28.7; toe 17.3 mm
Weight per shoe: 11.4 oz / 323 g
What we liked: Extremely protective, stiff midsole
What we didn’t like: Feel more like a hiking shoe than a runner
The Salomon XA Pro 3D have been around for nine iterations. They’re a very popular shoe for hiking and backpacking, even though Salomon lists these as a trail runner. These shoes have a very firm midsole that feels great when picking your way through rough, rocky trails. They have a grippy outsole that works in wet conditions.
With the most recent version, Salomon has made these shoes lighter and more responsive than previous versions, but they still don’t feel as nimble as many of the other trail runners we tested here. However, if you’re looking for a durable shoe to transition away from hiking boots or even lightweight hiking boots, this is a great option.
How to Choose a Trail Running Shoe
What terrain will you be running in?
Different trail running shoes excel on different types of terrain. Depending on what kind of trails you like to run, you’ll want to pick a shoe optimized for that terrain. Some trail running shoes are better for steep uphills and descents, while others are better for smoother and flatter trails.
Shoes with a grippy sole, bigger lugs, and more heel-to-toe drop will often be better for going uphill, and the grippy soles and deeper lugs will help with traction on downhill sections as well. Deeper lugs are especially helpful in wet, muddy conditions. Burly lugs won't be as beneficial on that terrain if you usually run in dry, hard packed, and loose dirt. Trail runners intended for rockier, less stable trails usually have a more substantial toe cap to protect your foot from sliding rocks. They also have a rock plate or some other underfoot protection, so you don’t hurt your feet running over rocky terrain.
In our experience, while all these things are important for trail running on rougher terrain, they’re not as important as fit. When the ground is unstable beneath you, the last thing you want is your heel sliding inside your shoe. So for uneven terrain, having a locked-in heel is critical. Shoes with less heel-to-toe drop, shorter lugs, and less underfoot protection are better for smoother, less rugged trail. If the trails you primarily run on are well-maintained, not very rocky, and often dry, then you don’t need a shoe designed to handle the rougher trails. Shoes designed for smoother trails will be lighter since they don’t have all the extras that make trail running over rugged terrain possible.
We usually have a few pairs of trail running shoes to choose from and select the best pair for the terrain we plan to run that day. If you’re buying your first pair of trail runners, we recommend getting one of the many shoes we reviewed here because most are great all-around trail running shoes.
The Topo Athletic are great for trail and rough trail but aren’t designed for off-trail or scrambling.
Will you be running in the rain?
If you run in the rain often, you might want to get a pair of waterproof trail running shoes. Many of the shoes we tested here come as waterproof trail shoes, but not all do. However, if you’re not running in cold, rainy conditions, you don’t necessarily need to get waterproof trail running shoes. We’ve run 1000s of miles in the rain and only use waterproof trail running shoes when it’s cold and rainy. Waterproof trail runners are a good idea in cold, snowy, or slushy conditions. But for rainy runs or warmer weather, those waterproof trail runners aren’t going to help that much.
If you’re running in the rain, your feet will likely get wet, even if you wear waterproof shoes. And with waterproof trail runners, any water that gets in through the top of the shoes will become a puddle around your foot. So unless you’re wearing waterproof gaiters and pants to keep the water out of your shoes, those waterproof trail shoes aren’t going to help you that much. On the other hand, the mesh on standard trail running shoes allows water out of your shoes as well as into them.
If you’re running in the rain, the best running shoe for you is something with a sticky rubber outsole. This recommendation is especially true when running over slick rock or other exposed slab. You want that outsole to be as sticky as possible when running in the rain. If you’re running in the rain over dirt, that dirt will be mud. In wet, muddy, rainy conditions, the best shoe is something with deep lugs to grip the earth beneath you as much as possible. The outsole may almost resemble what you'd find on a hiking boot design, but with much lighter weight materials.
Comparison of the soles on some of the trail runners we tested. From left to right: La Sportiva Jackal II, La Sportiva Wildcat, Altra Lone Peak 7, Salomon Speedcross 5, and La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX.
Are you looking for a trail running shoe for hiking or backpacking?
We almost exclusively wear trail running shoes for hiking and backpacking. To be honest, a lot of what’s considered trail running is actually just fast hiking. We've also hiked in most of the trail running shoes we tested here.
Some trail runners make better hiking and backpacking shoes than others, though. For backpacking footwear, look for a trail runner with good durability. Some trail runners aren’t intended to be worn with a 25+ pound pack, and they might not last as long because of this. Features like a thick rubber toe cap and a dense midsole mean they’ll last longer as backpacking and hiking shoes.
The author in the Salomon Sense Rides on a backpacking trip. When choosing what trail runners to wear, decide your use case scenario, where you’ll be running, and the conditions you expect.
Will you be running on pavement and trails on the same run?
Some of us don’t live right next to a trail. Most of us aren’t that lucky. Many trail running shoes are designed for running on pavement and dirt. Many trail runners can be used on pavement, but some are better suited for pavement.
The best trail running shoes for a mix of pavement and dirt, or crossover shoes as we call them, will have less pronounced lugs that won’t wear down on the pavement but still give you enough traction on trails. They also have a more protective midsole, so they won’t feel as light and nimble as a road running shoe, but they’ll be better on uneven terrain.
Crossover trail runners aren’t the shoes we’d recommend for technical trails that require a lot of traction, but they’ll do well on hard-packed dirt, gravel, and recreational paths. Really, any shoe you’re wearing on a trail is a trail running shoe, but crossover shoes are much better than road running shoes on the trails, and they’re good on pavement, too.
Do you like a minimal trail shoe or a shoe with max cushioning?
Everyone has personal preferencing regarding trail running shoes. Depending on your preferences, you might like a more minimalist shoe with less cushion that allows you to feel the trail underneath you. Or, you might prefer a more cushioned trail running shoe because it reduces foot fatigue over a long day on the trail. Neither preference is wrong, but they do require a different shoe.
A cactus that lodged itself into a pair of Hoka trail running shoes we were testing. The stack height and cushioning is enough that even the spines on this plant didn’t penetrate through.
Do you have special sizing needs, such as wide feet or pronation?
Some trail running shoes come in wide sizing. For men, wide sizing is often called “2E” sizing. Some trail runners, such as the Hoka Speedgoat and Challenger, come in wide (2E) and standard-width (D) sizes.
Some trail runners are simply wider than others. Shoes designed for long distances, such as the La Sportiva Wildcats and Altra Lone Peaks, have a wider toe-box to allow your forefoot to spread out over the course of a long day. Depending on the application, we’ve worn both wide sizes and standard-width-sized trail runners.
If you have other sizing needs, such as pronation, we recommend you try several trail running shoes to see which provide the best arch support for your feet to prevent overpronation. Trail runners with more arch support may help, but everyone’s feet are different.
We’ve also successfully put Superfeet Hike Support insoles in our trail running shoes to help with arch support. You can also get custom insoles made for your feet, and Superfeet recently launched a program to do this. We’re currently testing a pair of these, and they feel great so far.
Read more about the benefits of wearing insoles with your trail running shoes here.
Should I use trail running shoes or hiking shoes?
Whether you use trail runners or hiking shoes depends on the trail, how much ankle support you need, whether you're carrying a pack, and many other features. We break it down in our article trail running shoes vs. hiking shoes.
Trail Running Shoe Anatomy
Talking about trail running shoes can get technical, but they’re just shoes, really. We’ll define some key parts of a trail running shoe below.
Midsole
This is the part of a trail running shoe that contains the cushioning. The midsole is a cushioning foam that sits above the outsole, in between the insole and outsole of a shoe.
Outsole
The outsole of a trail running shoe is the part of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. The outsole of a trail running shoe is made of durable rubber that will grip the trail as you move.
Insole
The insole is a removable insert that sits between the bottom of your foot and the top of a shoe’s midsole. We go into more detail about this below, but you can replace the insoles in your trail running shoes to get more arch support.
Upper
The upper of a trail running shoe is all the material that makes up the shoe. Trail running shoe uppers are attached to the midsole, and are usually made of mesh or other breathable material. The upper is where the shoelaces attach to trail running shoes.
Toe box
The toe box of a trail running shoe is the area where the front section of your foot sits. Toe box is used to reference the shape of the shoe beyond where the laces reach. The amount of space in the toe box varies widely among trail shoes.
Tongue
This is the part of the upper that sits between the laces and the top of your foot. The tongue is usually only attached to the upper near the bottom of the laces, at the toe box. Some trail running shoes have a tongue that wraps around the entire top of your foot for a more secure fit.
Heel Cup or Heel
The heel cup of a trail running shoe is the place where your heel sits inside the shoe. This is sometimes also referred to as the heel counter. Really, this is the back of the shoe that is responsible for holding your heel in place.
Last
The last is a foot-shaped mold that a shoe is molded around. The shape and size of the last determines the shape of a shoe. When talking shoes, last is used as shorthand for the overall shape of the shoe
The author running in the winter in the La Sportiva Jackal II trail running shoes, which have excellent grip even on snow.
Buying Advice
There are hundreds of trail running shoes, so finding the right one can be difficult and overwhelming. We’re here to help. We’ll tell you what to look for in a trail running shoe. We’ll tell you what may not be as crucial for your first trail runner, and we’ll tell you what is.
We’ll break down what makes a great trail running shoe. That way, you can make your own informed decision on which trail running shoe is best for you.
We wrote a separate article about how to choose trail running shoes, but we’ll go through the most important points below to help you choose the best trail runners here as well.
Stability
Trail running shoes should feel stable because you’re running over varied terrain. You don’t want your foot to move inside a shoe when pushing off a giant root, do you? For this reason, you want a shoe that inspires confidence in your feet, providing a platform to move quickly over unstable terrain.
Many factors come into play when assessing the stability of a trail running shoe. A trail running shoe with good stability mostly fits well and has good traction.
Side note: In the (road) running shoe world, “stability” is also a category. Running shoes are sometimes categorized as either “neutral,” “stability,” or “cushioned.” In this sense, “stability” refers to the amount of arch support a shoe provides to prevent overpronation. Read the “Arch Support” section below for more on this.
Traction
The La Sportiva Wildcat trail running shoes have a unique lug pattern made of long, thin rubber cleats that run lengthwise across the bottom of the shoe.
Trail running shoes have a grippy tread on the underside to maintain traction over loose, muddy, or snowy conditions. This tread is found on the shoe’s outsole, or the part that contacts the ground. The tread is made of a pattern or lugs, rubber cleats that dig into the ground to give the shoe traction.
The lugs on trail runners vary in size. The size of the lugs of trail runners is referred to as “lug depth” since it measures how deep the lugs can dig into the ground. The lugs on a trail running shoe can be big and few, small and many, or a combination of both. Lugs come in many different shapes and sizes. Generally speaking, the more pronounced the lugs and tread on a running shoe, the more they will grip the ground under you.
Another factor contributing to traction is the rubber compound used in the outsole to make up the tread. Not all rubber is equal. If you walk across an angled rock surface in climbing shoes, the road running shoes, you’ll notice a difference in how well the shoes grip the slick rock. For this reason, trail running shoes tend to use stickier rubber than road running shoes. But, some trail runners use a grippier rubber compound than others.
WeighT
How much does this trail runner weigh? This one is simple and easy to measure with a scale. Weight is essential in trail runners because you’ll use your legs to lift each shoe 1000s of times every run.
Stack Height
Measuring stack height of two trail shoes. Here are two extremes: Hoka Challenger 7 (left) and Altra Lone Peak 7 (right).
Stack height refers to the total height of everything between the bottom of your foot and the ground in a trail running shoe. Stack height comprises the outsole, where the tread is found, and the midsole, where the cushion and supportive parts of the shoe are found. Stack height is often measured in two numbers, one under the heel and one under the forefoot, since most trail running shoes have a different measurement in these places (see heel-to-toe drop below).
Waterproofing
Some trail running shoes are waterproof, but not all are. Waterproof trail runners are usually made with a waterproof material in the upper instead of mesh. Waterproof trail runners don’t breathe as well, which can cause blisters in warm conditions. For this reason, we think waterproof trail running shoes are great for cold and wet conditions, but not when it’s warm out.
We wear waterproof trail running shoes in winter, mostly for running through the snow. But we usually put our waterproof trail runners away in the spring and reach for a breathable mesh pair instead.
Mesh and Breathability
Mesh and breathability are important for a trail running shoe. When running or hiking for hours, a shoe with lots of mesh to allow your foot to breathe keeps your feet drier and helps prevent blisters. Wet feet can slide inside the shoe and cause stability issues and blisters. Except for in cold weather, we recommend trail running shoes with a breathable mesh upper in all conditions.
Comfort
A comfortable trail running shoe can be the difference between having a great day on the trail and having sore feet. We recommend trying on as many styles of trail running shoes as you can to see which feels the most comfortable to you. Everyone’s feet are different, and something that fits your feet well will be the most comfortable.
Other factors play into the comfort of a trail runner: underfoot cushioning, tongue design, and even the thickness of the laces can affect the comfort of a shoe. Exposed seams can chafe or rub over the course of a long run, too. We assessed all these trail running shoes for long-term comfort during testing, but you can feel a lot of these comfort factors when you first try on a shoe. Try on some trail running shoes and see for yourself.
While the wide platform on these shoes makes for a very comfortable ride, some don’t love how it makes them feel less stable.
Protection
Most trail running shoes have some protection in the upper for rocks, roots, and debris on the trail. This protection is most evident in a rubber protective toe cap on trail runners. Some trail running shoes have a big, burly, rubberized toe section that wraps onto the top of the shoe. Some trail runners have less toe protection. You’ll also see more substantial protection along the sides and heel of trail runners than you do on road running shoes.
Depending on the type of trail you’ll be running most often, pick a shoe with more or less protection. If you’re always going to be running on well-groomed trails, you don’t need as much protection as you will if you’re primarily running on a rugged trail or off-trail scrambling missions.
Trail feel
Trail feel refers to how much your feet can feel the trail through the underside of a shoe. Generally speaking, the lower the stack height, the better you’ll be able to feel the trail. Trail feel is important for maintaining stability over varied terrain, but too much trail feel could make your feet feel sore after a long day running over sharp rocks or roots.
Rock plates
Some trail running shoes have rock plates to protect the soles of your feet from feeling the sharp edges of rocks on the trail. But, you guessed it, a rock plate also diminishes how well you can feel the trail beneath you. Some trail running shoes come with a removable rock plate, which is a stiff insert between the insole and midsole of a shoe. That used to be more popular with trail runners, but these days rock plates tend to be built into the midsole of trail runners.
Heel-to-toe drop
Heel-to-toe drop refers to the difference in stack height between the heel and forefoot of a shoe. It is, quite literally, the number of millimeters the shoe drops from the heel to the midsole.
More heel-to-toe drop makes you naturally lean forward and helps propel you up a hill. But, too much heel-to-toe drop can make you feel unstable, so finding the right balance of forward lean and stability is key here. The “best” heel-to-toe drop usually comes down to personal preference, but we recommend starting with a trail runner with an average (4-8 millimeters) drop.
Some trail running shoes are “zero drop.” These shoes have no heel-to-toe drop and allow your foot to move in the same ways it would if you were barefoot. Some people love zero-drop shoes.
Some people prefer some amount of drop. There is no wrong answer here.
Heel slippage
The heel cup of a trail running shoe should fit your foot well to minimize heel slippage. Here are three heels to give you an idea of how they are shaped differently. From left to right: Salomon Sense Ride 5, Hoka Speedgoat 5, Brooks Catamount.
Heel slippage will negatively affect the comfort and stability of a trail running shoe. If your heel doesn’t fit into a shoe properly, it will slide slightly every time you push off the ground. This sliding can cause chafing and blisters on the back of your heel.
When trying on trail running shoes for the first time, be sure to wear the socks you’d normally wear when running. Then, find an inclined surface to push up on to determine whether the heel slips on this particular model.
If you like how a shoe feels, but the heel slips, you can also try the runner’s loop lacing method. This technique is a lacing alternative that locks your heel in place.
Cushioning
Close-up on the Saucony Peregrine and its comfortable upper and generous cushioning.
A trail running shoe with adequate cushioning will keep your feet comfortable and happy over a long day on the trail. You can usually tell how much cushioning a trail runner has by looking at the shoe's stack height. However, more cushion is not always better.
A trail running shoe with a lot of cushioning will affect trail feel and stability. If you’re higher off the ground, your foot can more easily roll and could cause an ankle sprain. When choosing your shoe, remember that trail running shoes usually lack the ankle support of a hiking boot. Not enough cushioning will tire your feet, though. The right amount of cushion will vary based on the runner and the conditions.
Arch support
Most trail running shoes have a stiffer midsole and, therefore, more arch support than a road running shoe. But, some trail running shoes are more “stable” in this sense than others. Generally speaking, a more minimalist trail running shoe will have less arch support than a shoe with a sturdier midsole.
FAQ
Close up of the La Sportiva Jackal II on rocky terrain.
Is it OK to use trail running shoes on the road?
You can use trail running shoes on the road. Trail running shoes are running shoes, after all. But, you will wear down the tread designed to provide traction on dirt if you run with trail running shoes on the road for long distances. Some trail running shoes are designed for a mix of roads and dirt, so we recommend this style if you plan to run on multiple surfaces with your trail running shoes.
Is trail running better for your feet?
Trail running can be better for your feet because running on an uneven surface makes the small muscles in your feet actually work. On smooth surfaces, only the large foot and ankle muscles are activated. But your feet must conform on trails and maintain balance on varied terrain.
What is the difference between running shoes and trail running shoes?
The difference between running shoes and trail running shoes is that trail running shoes have an underfoot tread designed for dirt, rocks, and roots. Trail running shoes also have more material to protect your feet as you move over and around any obstacles.
The author testing the ON Cloudvista shoes on technical terrain.
Should trail runners be tight or loose?
Trail runners should be relatively tight so your foot doesn’t slide around in the shoe as you push off in any direction. However, trail running shoes should not be so tight that they constrict blood flow to your feet or make them uncomfortable.
Depending on the terrain, you should tighten your trail running shoes enough to maintain stability while being as comfortable as possible.
Should trail shoes be a size bigger?
Trail shoes should not always be a size bigger, but sometimes this is a good idea. If you’re going to be in a hot environment or running for long distances where your foot will swell, you might want to try a trail running shoe a half or full size bigger. This factor varies from person to person, though. Many trail running shoes designed for ultra-distances have a bigger toe box, which is usually where your foot swells. In this case, you might not need a larger trail shoe.
Can you run long distances in trail running shoes?
You can absolutely run long distances in trail running shoes. Trail shoes are designed to be used for long-distance runs.
What socks should I wear with trail running shoes?
You should wear comfortable running socks that breathe well with trail running shoes. Some prefer wool socks for trail running, while others prefer synthetic socks. See our guides to the Best Running socks for more recommendations. You may prefer hiking socks if you're hiking, backpacking, or thru-hiking. See our guide to Best Hiking Socks for our favorites.
The author running in the Salomon Sense Ride trail shoes, a comfortable cushioned trail runner at a more affordable price.
How we tested
We tested trail running shoes over several months on trail runs in Colorado and Arizona. We wore every pair on the Colorado Front Range trails we know best and explored new trails to see how they fared in less predictable conditions. We ran anywhere from 25 to 50 miles per week while testing these shoes, and during the higher volume weeks, we could tell which shoes were more supportive than others. We wore many pairs back to back, on the same trail on the same day, to get a feel for how each pair did over the same conditions.
We've used some of the shoes we tested for several years and already knew them well, and some we wore for the first time during the testing process. We wore every pair for many runs throughout the testing process to determine how they break in and get a sense of their durability.
Close up on the sole and traction on the Hoka Speedgoat 5 trail running shoes.
Why do I need shoes that are specific to trail running?
Trail running presents a unique set of challenges compared to road running, and having shoes designed specifically for the trails can significantly enhance your performance and enjoyment. Here's why investing in trail running shoes is essential:
Enhanced traction
Trail running shoes feature rugged outsoles with aggressive tread patterns designed to provide optimal grip on uneven terrain, loose gravel, rocks, and muddy surfaces. This superior traction helps you maintain stability and confidence, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Improved durability
Trails can be harsh on footwear, with rough terrain, sharp rocks, and debris posing constant threats to shoe integrity. Trail running shoes are constructed with durable materials and reinforced features such as toe guards and rock plates to withstand the rigors of off-road running, ensuring long-lasting performance and protection for your feet.
Stability and support
The uneven terrain encountered while trail running demands increased stability and support to prevent ankle twists and injuries. Trail running shoes often feature supportive midsoles with cushioning and arch support tailored to absorb impact and provide stability on varied surfaces, keeping your feet comfortable and protected mile after mile.
Protective features
Trail running shoes offer additional protection compared to standard road running shoes, with features like reinforced toe caps, ankle collars, and protective overlays designed to shield your feet from sharp objects, roots, and other obstacles encountered on the trails. This added protection minimizes the risk of injury and allows you to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
Water resistance
Many trail running shoes come equipped with waterproof or water-resistant membranes that keep your feet dry and comfortable when traversing wet or muddy trails. This feature is invaluable for maintaining foot health and preventing blisters and discomfort during inclement weather conditions.
Specialized design
Trail running shoes are engineered with the specific needs of trail runners in mind, incorporating design elements such as a lower heel-to-toe drop for a more natural stride on uneven terrain, reinforced uppers for added durability, and drainage ports to expel water and debris. These specialized design features optimize performance and comfort, allowing you to push your limits on the trails with confidence.
The author running on rocky terrain in the Salomon Speedcross 6, which are trail running shoes noted for their traction.
care and maintenance tips
Clean regularly
After each run, remove any dirt, mud, or debris from your trail running shoes using a soft brush or cloth. Pay attention to the outsoles and crevices to prevent buildup that could affect traction and performance.
Air dry
Allow your trail running shoes to air dry naturally after each use. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources like radiators or heaters, as excessive heat can damage the materials and compromise the shoe's integrity.
Remove insoles
Take out the insoles of your trail running shoes regularly to allow them to air out and prevent odor-causing bacteria from accumulating. You can also wash the insoles separately if they become particularly dirty or smelly.
Hand wash when necessary
If your trail running shoes are especially dirty, gently hand wash them using a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that could damage the shoe's materials.
Avoid machine washing
While some trail running shoes may be labeled as machine washable, it's generally recommended to hand wash them to preserve their quality and performance. Machine washing can cause the shoes to lose their shape or damage delicate components like cushioning and support structures.
Store properly
When not in use, store your trail running shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in hot or humid environments, as this can cause the materials to degrade over time.
Rotate shoes
If you frequently engage in trail running or outdoor activities, consider rotating between multiple pairs of trail running shoes. This allows each pair to dry completely between uses and extends their lifespan.
Inspect regularly
Periodically inspect your trail running shoes for signs of wear and tear, including worn outsoles, frayed laces, or damaged seams. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain optimal performance.
Re-waterproof as needed
If your trail running shoes have waterproofing treatments, reapply them as needed to maintain water resistance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you're using.
Replace when necessary
Trail running shoes typically have a lifespan of 300 to 500 miles, depending on usage and terrain. Monitor the condition of your shoes and replace them when they show significant signs of wear to ensure continued comfort and support during your runs.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He’s been a runner since he was a child when he ran 5 days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling.
After moving to Colorado a decade ago, he started trail running on the local trails. Since then, he has completed countless ultra-distance self-supported trail runs on trails throughout the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in trail runners.
You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.
