Written by Cindy Ruvalcaba
Published: 08 Feb 2024
Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau
Are you passionate about running trails, or are you looking to start? Having the right pair of trail running shoes can make a big difference in your experience. In this article, we will explore the 8 best trail running shoes that offer comfort, support, and durability. Whether you're navigating rocky terrain or muddy paths, these shoes will help you stay safe and comfortable on your trail runs. So, let's dive in and find the perfect pair of trail running shoes for your next adventure!
Overall Score: 7/10
The Kricely Men's Trail Running Shoes are fashionable and stylish running shoes suitable for outdoor sports and casual wear. With lightweight and flexible materials, breathable knit mesh upper, and X-GRIP sole for great traction, these shoes are perfect for running, hiking, walking, cycling, and other sports. This stylish sneaker comes in a variety of colors and features a reflective design to increase recognition. While comfortable and breathable, they may not be suitable for long-distance running due to limited cushioning.
Key Features
- Lightweight and Flexible
- Breathable and Comfortable
- Great Grip and Absorb Shock
- Fashion and Reflective Design
- Multi-occasion Use
Specifications
- Color: Black-1
- Dimension: 10.00Lx3.00Wx8.00H
- Size: 10.5
Pros
- Comfortable and stylish
- Breathable and supportive
- Great traction and wear-resistant
- Available in various colors
- Suitable for various activities
Cons
- Limited cushioning for long-distance running
- Sizing may be inconsistent
The Kricely Men’s Trail Running Shoes are a great choice for those looking for stylish and comfortable sneakers for outdoor and casual activities. While they offer excellent support and breathability, they may not be ideal for long-distance running due to limited cushioning. Overall, they are well-made, lightweight, and versatile shoes suitable for various activities. If you’re looking for fashionable yet functional sneakers, these are definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes are designed for women who are passionate about trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering. These shoes provide exceptional performance and a perfect fit, with superior stability and grip in all surface conditions. The sleek design, advanced traction, and quick lacing system make them ideal for various outdoor activities. They are highly durable and comfortable, allowing for a smooth ride on any terrain, whether it's a local trail or more rugged landscapes. These shoes are praised for their versatility, ventilation, and lightweight construction, making them the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Next Generation Design: Improved grip and dynamic upper
- Enhanced Stability: Refined look and better stability
- Superior Traction: Larger lugs for better grip on all surfaces
Specifications
- Color: Blooming Dahlia/Black/Vibrant Orange
- Dimension: 13.78Lx9.84Wx9.84H
- Size: 7.5
Pros
- Impressive durability, lasting 3-4 years
- Exceptional traction and stability on various terrains
- Comfortable for long-distance hiking and trail running
- Versatile and well-ventilated design
- Quick lacing system for easy wear
Cons
- Insole cushioning may wear down over time
- Issue with tread wear after certain mileage
- Requires some time to get used to during transition
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes for Women exceed expectations with their outstanding durability, traction, and comfort. While they may have some minor drawbacks, their overall performance and design make them a top choice for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or a beginner hiker, these shoes offer the confidence and support you need to conquer any terrain.
Overall Score: 6/10
The UMYOGO Sport Running Shoes for Mens are breathable and lightweight sneakers suitable for casual wear, walking, running, and light sports. The knit upper material allows for breathability and flexibility while the rubber sole provides durability. However, there have been some complaints about the shoes' comfort and durability.
Key Features
- Rubber sole for high durability
- Elastic blade soles for flexibility
- Knit upper material for breathability
- Suitable for casual, walking, travel, and light sports
Specifications
- Color: 1red1
- Size: 8
Pros
- Breathable and lightweight
- Suitable for various activities
- Durable rubber sole
Cons
- Issues with comfort and durability
The UMYOGO Sport Running Shoes for Mens offer breathability and flexibility, making them suitable for various activities. However, there have been complaints about comfort and durability, which may affect the overall satisfaction with the product.
Overall Score: 6/10
The Core Trail Running Shoes are the perfect choice for active individuals who love outdoor sports. These water-resistant, breathable running shoes are designed for both men and women. With high-quality materials and a quick lacing system, they provide exceptional traction and comfort. Whether you're running, hiking, or just enjoying casual outdoor activities, these shoes offer the flexibility, protection, and support you need.
Key Features
- HIGH QUALITY: Soft, lightweight, durable upper material and high-quality rubber outsoles
- WATER RESISTANT: Made of breathable, water-resistant fabrics
- QUICK LACING SYSTEM: Small compartment for the laces in the shoe's tongue
- NON-SLIP OUTSOLE: Wear-resistant, non-slip outsoles provide optimal traction power
- MULTIPURPOSE: Ideal for running, hiking, camping, trekking, and casual use
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: 7 Women/7 Men
Pros
- Comfortable and durable for outdoor activities
- Water-resistant and breathable materials
- Quick lacing system for convenience
Cons
- Inaccurate sizing for some customers
- Poor quality in terms of strap durability
The Core Trail Running Shoes are a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite some sizing and quality issues, the overall comfort, durability, and versatility make them a worthwhile investment.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is an aggressive, durable trail running shoe designed for conquering soft, technical trails. With a dynamic upper for better fit and stability, this shoe provides a smooth ride on any terrain.
Key Features
- Aggressive grip for improved traction
- Dynamic upper for better fit and stability
- Suitable for road running, trails, or rugged terrain
- Innovative outdoor sports gear since 1947
Specifications
- Color: Black/Black/Phantom
- Dimension: 13.00Lx9.00Wx5.00H
- Size: 7.5
Pros
- Great traction and stability on typical trails
- Suitable for running, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering
- Comfortable and snug fit with quick lace system
Cons
- Narrow fit may not be suitable for wide feet
- Insoles may curl up in wet conditions
- Some quality issues with construction and glue
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a top-notch trail running shoe suitable for various terrains. It offers excellent traction and stability while ensuring a comfortable and snug fit. Despite some minor quality issues, this shoe is highly recommended for trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Saucony Men's PEREGRINE 11 Trail Running Shoe is designed for a confident grip on a wide variety of terrains. It features aggressive lugs made of PWRTRAC tacky rubber and PWRRUN cushioning for a responsive feel. The shoe also includes a rock plate for additional protection and a top layer to add durability to the air mesh bootie. With its gravel/black color and size 10.5 medium, this shoe provides comfort, stability, and traction for both running and hiking.
Key Features
- Aggressive Lugs: PWRTRAC tacky rubber
- Cushioning: PWRRUN technology
- Protection: Rock plate
- Durability: Ultralight top layer
Specifications
- Color: Gravel/Black
- Size: 10.5 Medium
Pros
- Confident grip on various terrains
- Responsive feel with cushioning
- Added protection and durability
- Comfortable air mesh bootie
Cons
- Lacks speed lacing system
The Saucony Men’s PEREGRINE 11 Trail Running Shoe provides excellent grip, cushioning, and durability for running and hiking. With its stylish design and comfortable fit, it is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. While it may lack a speed lacing system, its overall performance and quality make it a great investment for trail activities.
Overall Score: 8/10
The New Balance Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe is designed for both function and fashion. The ultra-responsive ride, trail-ready traction, and adventurous style make it a versatile choice for everyday wear.
Key Features
- Tackle New Terrain
- Ultra-Responsive Ride
- Trail-Ready Traction
- Adventurous Style
- Sleek and Strong
Specifications
- Color: Black/Orange
- Size: 8
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable with excellent traction
- Stylish and lightweight
Cons
- Flat laces are too long and untie easily
- Narrower and less cushioned than other New Balance shoes
The New Balance Women’s Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe offers an ideal blend of comfort, style, and durability. While the flat laces may pose a challenge, the overall performance and aesthetic appeal make these shoes a great choice for everyday activities.
Overall Score: 8/10
The New Balance Men's Hierro V6 Trail Running Shoe is the perfect combination of style, comfort, and durability. With a synthetic and mesh upper, these shoes are designed to provide stability and a soft landing. The mountain teal/blaze color adds a pop of color to your running gear. The lacing is designed for comfort, and the slightly rubberized toe protects against moisture. However, some users have pointed out that the bottom sole tread is relatively thin and the long-term durability of the foam/cloud sole remains to be seen. Overall, these shoes are highly comfortable, well-built, and stylish. They are ideal for walking, running, or hitting the trails.
Key Features
- Synthetic/Mesh Upper
Specifications
- Color: Mountain Teal/Blaze
- Size: 11.5
Pros
- Stylish and comfortable
- Well-built uppers
- Specially designed lacing for comfort
- Protective rubberized toe
Cons
- Thin bottom sole tread
- Long-term durability of foam/cloud sole
The New Balance Men’s Hierro V6 Trail Running Shoe offers the perfect combination of style, comfort, and durability. With its sleek design and special features like protective rubberized toe and specially designed lacing, these shoes are not only comfortable but also sturdy. While there are some concerns about the long-term durability of the sole, the overall user satisfaction remains high. Whether you’re walking, running, or hitting the trails, these shoes are definitely worth considering for your next footwear purchase.
- Know Your Needs
- Understand the type of terrain you'll be running on (e.g., rocky trails, muddy paths, etc.)
- Consider the weather conditions you'll be facing (e.g., waterproof shoes for wet conditions)
- Comfort is Key
- Look for a shoe with good cushioning to protect your feet on rough terrain
- Make sure the shoe fits well and has ample room for your toes to wiggle
- Durability
- Check for reinforced toes and heels to withstand the impact of trail running
- Look for durable materials that can handle the wear and tear of outdoor running
- Traction
- Choose a shoe with a rugged outsole for better grip on uneven surfaces
- Consider a shoe with lugs for traction on muddy or slippery terrain
- Support and Stability
- Look for a shoe with a sturdy midsole to provide stability on uneven ground
- Consider a shoe with ankle support if you have weak ankles
- Breathability
- Choose a shoe with breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry during long runs
- Look for mesh panels or vents to allow air circulation
- Weight
- Consider the weight of the shoe, lighter shoes can provide faster runs but may compromise on durability
- Find a balance between weight and durability based on your personal preference
- Water Resistance
- Consider a shoe with water-resistant or waterproof features if you'll be running in wet conditions
- Look for a shoe with gusseted tongues to keep water and debris out
- Budget
- Decide on a budget range and stick to it, but consider long-term value over initial cost
- Look for sales or discounts to get a good deal on a quality pair of trail running shoes
- Try Them On
- Visit a store to try on different brands and models to find the best fit for your feet
- Test the shoes by walking around and simulating trail running movements to ensure comfort and support
- Read Reviews
- Look for customer reviews and expert opinions on different trail running shoes to gather more information
- Consider feedback on comfort, durability, and performance to make an informed decision
- Warranty
- Check the warranty policy of the brand to ensure you are covered in case of defects or premature wear
- Consider brands with a good reputation for honoring their warranties
- Consider Special Features
- Some shoes may have additional features like rock plates for protection or drainage systems for water runs
- Evaluate if these special features are necessary for your specific trail running needs
- Test Before You Commit
- If possible, borrow a friend's trail running shoes or rent a pair to test them out before making a purchase
- Getting a feel for the shoes' performance on the trails will help you make a more confident decision
Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Best Trail Running Shoes
Some key features to look for in the best value trail running shoes are durable rubber outsoles for traction, protective toe caps to shield your feet from rocks and debris, and comfortable cushioning for long runs.
You can determine if a trail running shoe is a good value by looking at the materials used, customer reviews, and the brand’s reputation for quality and performance.
Yes, there are budget-friendly options for trail running shoes that still provide good performance. Look for sales or discounts on reputable brands, or consider purchasing from a lesser-known brand that offers good quality at a lower price.
When choosing the right size for trail running shoes, consider that your feet may swell during long runs, so it’s best to go for a slightly larger size. Also, make sure there is enough room in the toe area to prevent blisters and discomfort.
To make your trail running shoes last longer, make sure to clean them regularly, avoid wearing them for everyday activities, and rotate between different pairs to give them time to air out and recover.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.