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We've run thousands of miles to test the top 40 pairs of men's and women's trail running shoes from the most compelling manufacturers like Hoka, Salomon, Brooks, Altra, La Sportiva, and more.
We run trails year round, in all weather conditions, to constantly test the latest models of shoes. Over thousands of miles, we've uncovered which are best for what types of runners and surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated August 26, 2025
Having the right pair of trail running shoes that match your running style, goals, and terrain makes all the difference to your ability to enjoy the journey. It's imperative that your shoes offer the right amount of security and traction to keep you safe, as well as a level of cushioning and stability that feels good in your feet and legs.
Since 2013, we have tested hundreds of trail runners, ticking off Icelandic fastpacks, mountainous ultramarathons, and alpine runs across Peru and around Lake Tahoe. We run in sweltering desert summers, on icy winter trails, and through the muddy mess of shoulder seasons to compare traction, comfort, stability, sensitivity, and protection. Then, we head to the lab to cut these shoes up and analyze features and construction.
The best overall shoes are the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. These stable and responsive shoes continue to impress us with some of the best traction in sloppy terrain that we have encountered. We also love The North Face Vective Enduris 4, which is an approachable shoe for beginners but also quickly became a versatile and reliable favorite among veteran testers.
For a value buy, we recommend both the Brooks Divide series and the Saucony Peregrine series. Both these shoes are comfortable, affordable, and do everything a beginner trail runner needs. Plus, both these lines can still be purchased in previous versions at steep discounts.
Editor's Note: This article was updated on August 26, 2025, to reflect new, impressive results from our latest round of testing, leading to a debut recommendation from The North Face.
Who this is best for: Trail runners looking for a responsive, high-performance shoe that can handle everything from technical singletrack to ultra-distance races will find their match in the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. It's a solid pick for seasoned runners who want a precise fit and versatile traction and are willing to spend a bit more to have it all. Keep in mind that the fit runs a bit narrow, and taller socks are a good idea for comfort and protection around the snug heel collar, which is designed to keep debris out on bushier trail runs.
Why we love it: The whole testing team unanimously adores the S/Lab Ultra 3. We have tested past iterations, and Solomon just keeps putting out a shoe that continues to impress year after year. “This shoe just moves with you — I've never felt something this responsive and stable on such gnarly terrain, and it still feels like a second skin,” one tester shared. The tailored and breathable upper has a socklike fit that helps improve trail-feel, while the sturdy midsole and multidirectional lug pattern offer a dialed-in combo of comfort, protection, and grip. It is our go-to for long, demanding runs across variable terrain.
Should you buy it? If you're after a dependable and high-performing trail shoe and are okay paying a premium, the S/Lab Ultra 3 is absolutely worth it. “I've logged hundreds of miles on rocky alpine routes and they're still going strong—worth every cent,” said one reviewer. The price isn't low, and I had a small gripe with the lace pocket, but the shoe's comfort, responsiveness, and durability make it a smart investment for serious trail runners. For newer runners or those on a tighter budget, there may be better starter options, but few match the overall quality of the S/Lab.
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 10.64 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 8.05 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 9 mm
The S/Lab Ultra 3 is now the S/Lab Ultra. We haven't completed our testing of this latest version yet, but when we do, we'll update our articles with new test results.
The S/Lab Ultra 3 has a comfortable glove-like fit and toothy lugs that stick to just about anything.
Who this is best for: The The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4 is one of the most universally-functional trail running shoes we've had the pleasure of testing in recent years. Not only is it totally suitable for brand-spankin'-new trail runners, but it makes an awesome trail companion for veteran trail enthusiasts as well. The comfort and performance this shoe offers are next level, and we joyfully recommend it to most trail runners looking for a do-it-all shoe for their trail time.
Why we love it: From the moment we put these on, we fell in love. Their fit is similar to an everyday road running shoe, but it offers the performance of some of the most technical trail options on the market. The comfort and fit come together to make it a shoe in which we happily tackle high-mileage days, but it's also versatile enough for short evening jaunts with the dog.
Should you buy it? Runners who are looking for one trail running shoe that won't cost them an overwhelming amount of cash should start by looking into the Vectiv Enduris. It is more affordably priced than other trail running shoe options and is capable of performing in myriad trail situations. While no shoe is a perfect fit for every single runner, this one certainly comes close to footing that bill.
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 8.20 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 9 mm
Whether you're new to the unique feel of trail running or a seasoned runner who thrives on rugged terrain, this shoe offers the versatility, comfort, and performance to meet all your off-road running needs.
Who this is best for: The Brooks Divide 5 is my go-to value recommendation that packs a load of performance. It is a great option for beginners or those just getting into trail running, but it also makes a lot of sense for runners tackling a variety of terrain, from paved roads to light or moderate trails. The Divide 5 is an easy recommendation for runners in more urban areas.
Why we love it: For many iterations now, the Divide has given beginners and trail runners high versatility and impressive comfort without breaking the bank. Brooks recently updated its midsole material to be lighter and slightly more compressive, which livens up the Divide 5 without sacrificing its well-loved stability. Often, fatigue sets in when you're trying to push the distance, and the added support features like a wider platform and higher heel drop provide a good base for consistency when your body's normal running form starts to break down. At the end of a hard effort, these tweaks can help you maintain good form and keep your focus on a strong finish.
Should you buy it? While we love the blend of performance and affordability of the Divide 5, it's not the best option for technical terrain. Its higher stiffness can feel overly rigid, which leads to less confidence in off-camber terrain. Your experience level will allow you to push the model into steeper and rougher terrain, but those with average experience may want something more rugged if they plan on heading down technical ridgelines or mountainous terrain. But for versatility in urban areas, gravel paths, and city parks, the Divide 5 is a no-brainer.
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 10.55 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 11 mm
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 7.85 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 11 mm
Who this is best for: The Peregrine series is an easy choice for trail runners who want strong performance without the hefty price tag. It's ideal for those who mainly stick to technical terrain but need a shoe that can handle stretches of pavement on the way to their favorite trail system. Whether you're lacing up for daily trail jogs or venturing into more rugged alpine zones, the Peregrine 15 is versatile enough to keep up.
Why we love it: With sharp 5.6 mm lugs, the Peregrine 15 is equipped for high alpine adventures, but its midsole is perfectly ready to take you through your daily runs as well. It brings durability, traction, and comfort in one streamlined package, and does so at a fraction of the price of similarly performing models. Saucony kept the traditional fit we've always liked — a roomy toe box, padded tongue, and a heel collar that locks the foot in securely — but updated the build just enough to feel modern and trail-ready. Its 30 mm stack height and 4 mm drop strike a balance between ground feel and protection, making it feel nimble yet forgiving underfoot.
Should you buy it? If you're after a no-fuss trail shoe that delivers on comfort, traction, and value, the Peregrine 15 won't disappoint. However, if you're a seasoned trail racer looking for cutting-edge speed features like a carbon plate or rocker geometry, this shoe might feel a bit too classic. The Peregrine doesn't have the flash of some premium racing models, but for steady, confident trail miles, it's a solid and affordable performer that continues to earn its spot in our lineup.
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 7.78 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 4 mm
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 10.11 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 4 mm
The previous version is also still a top-tier choice — it's widely available online at up to 60% off, making it a seriously smart budget buy.
Available for less than some of the other high-scoring options, the Saucony Peregrine is a capable trail running shoe that is ready to tackle adventures with you.
Who this is best for: The Salomon Speedcross 6 is made for runners who live for the challenge of sloppy, rugged, and unpredictable mountain terrain. If your typical trail run involves mud, snow, slick rock, or steep climbs, the Speedcross 6 offers the kind of grip and build that thrives in those conditions. It's not your everyday trail shoe — it's built for when the going gets messy, technical, and steep.
Why we love it: With its crampon-inspired design, the Speedcross features 5.5mm multidirectional lugs that deliver powerful, 360-degree traction. They even extend upward on the toebox for added bite on ascents. Combined with sticky outsole rubber, this shoe locks you in on slick granite, muddy switchbacks, or snowy slopes. It's the shoe I grab when I know the trail is going to be wet, rugged, or downright gnarly — and I need to trust every step. A fellow tester agreed, noting, “There's usually a trade-off between sensitivity and underfoot protection, but the Speedcross 6 walks a fine line that manages to keep a foot in both realms.”
Should you buy it? Not everyone needs what the Speedcross brings to the table. Its 12mm stack height and aggressive structure can feel unstable if you're mostly running on moderate trails, fire roads, or dry singletrack. It's not ideal for asphalt or desert heat either, where the lugs wear quickly and the upper retains heat. But if you already have a more general-purpose trail shoe and want a specialized option for technical mountain days, the Speedcross is a killer addition to your trail rotation.
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 11.08 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 12 mm
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 8.54 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 13 mm
Versatile enough for racing or more relaxed efforts
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavier
Dries very slowly
Who this is best for: The La Sportiva Bushido III is a capable shoe with traction that can handle just about every kind of trail condition. Whether you're heading into slick spring snow, rocky alpine terrain, or long summer trail runs, the Bushido III has the stability, breathability, and protection to make it your go-to pick year-round. It's a great fit for those who don't want to buy a different shoe for every season or surface.
Why we love it: We keep reaching for the Bushido because of how sensitive and responsive it feels underfoot. This is the one we trust when we need precise feedback from the trail — when every step matters. Its secure heel lock supports quick adjustments and high-speed confidence, while its durable build, toecap, and lugs give it the bite and toughness to go anywhere. The Bushido III strikes an ideal balance between agility, structure, and comfort, and it's priced surprisingly accessibly for such a versatile performer.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for something ultralight or minimal, the Bushido might feel a bit heavy. But given how much protection and stability it offers, that's a tradeoff we're more than happy to make. For anyone seeking one tough, all-season trail shoe that can do it all-- from fast runs to rugged explorations — the Bushido III comes with a strong recommendation from the GearLab team.
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 9.11 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 7 mm
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 11.60 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm
We've also put previous versions of this shoe through our intensive testing. Though the Bushido II doesn't have quite this level of comfort and isn't outfitted with as impressive traction, it's still a great and versatile shoe. If you happen to find a pair on sale, it's a pretty solid, more budget-friendly choice.
The Bushido III delivers a rare mix of sensitivity, secure footing, and durability, making it a go-to for precision and confidence on any trail.
Who this is best for: The Altra Lone Peak 9 is a great choice for runners and thru-hikers looking for reliable all-day comfort, a spacious toe box, and a stable, low-riding shoe. Its traction makes it a good choice for loose and technical terrain. Lead tester Matthew Richardson mentions, “The stability is one of my favorite perks of a lower platform. It allows for a softer cushion feel compared to many taller shoes that use denser foams for support.” Those who like a soft, natural ride and want a good ground feel without sacrificing protection will get along well with the Lone Peak 9.
Why we love it: The Lone Peak 9 continues to deliver the out-of-the-box comfort the series is known for, with updates that improve confidence on tricky terrain. The new ripstop upper has better durability, while the tweaked midsole and outsole compounds keep things agile and responsive underfoot. It's like the comfy sweatpants version of a trail shoe, and this line has long been a favorite for days when distance and comfort matter more than pace.
Should you buy it? If you are in the market for a low-drop shoe, this is the one we recommend. The Lone Peak remains a tried-and-true choice for trail runners, offering generous forefoot space, reliable traction across varied terrain, and impressive durability mile after mile. While runners who prefer a more energetic ride with extra bounce and plush cushioning may find its flatter profile underwhelming, the shoe's consistency, stability, and overall dependability continue to make it a favorite for those who value reliability over flash.
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 11.29 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 0 mm
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 8.60 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 1 mm
Who this is best for: The Nnormal Kjerag is designed for experienced trail runners seeking maximum responsiveness in a minimalist package. Developed with trail running legend Kilian Jornet, the Kjerag is the lightest shoe across both our men's and women's testing groups. Lead tester Matthew Richardson says, “I prefer this model for my speed and high-tempo days more than any other in the lineup due to this blend of comfort and weight.” It delivers a high-performance feel with excellent traction, making it ideal for those who value speed, sensitivity, and a race-day edge.
Why we love it: The Kjerag is impressive because, despite its featherweight design, it doesn't compromise on traction or durability. The Kevlar-reinforced upper adds durability without bulk, while the sticky outsole excels on technical surfaces. While somewhat stiff in the beginning, the shoe conforms to your foot over time to create a dialed-in, glove-like fit that enhances both performance and comfort. Lastly, due to the minimal design, lead tester Matthew said, “I felt connected with the trail while running in these. Their stripped-down weight added to my joy of running in nature.” Every design element feels intentional; this is a shoe built to move fast and stay nimble.
Should you buy it? While seasoned runners will likely love the Kjerag for its agility and sensitive trail feedback, it's not built for beginners or for long-haul comfort. The stripped-down design means minimal cushioning, which may not be ideal for new runners or those heading out on ultra-distance efforts. But for those with trail experience looking for a featherweight shoe that feels fast, fluid, and fiercely capable, the Kjerag is in a class of its own.
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 6.61 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 8.05 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm
The Kjerag 02 is out now, promising increased comfort and energy return. We haven't finished testing this shoe yet, but will update our review when we're through.
The Kjerag is almost absurdly light, with great traction and a performance we love for upbeat trail runs.
Who this is best for: The La Sportiva Prodigio Pro has a dynamic feel and sleek design that will fill your trail runs with speed and excitement. It is built with performance in mind, and this shoe features an energetic, unplated midsole that offers lively propulsion. Its snug, race-ready fit is paired with an excellent grip. This combo gives trail runners a powerful tool that's both fun and formidable, especially if you like to move fast on challenging terrain.
Why we love it: What makes the Prodigio Pro so compelling is its ability to deliver both comfort and responsiveness over long miles. We love the bounciness of the midsole because it pairs so beautifully wth the agility-focused fit. The midsole provides bouncy, cushioned feedback without feeling overly soft, creating a ride that feels both fast and stable. Even on steep or technical sections, our testers found the shoe impressively secure. The breathable Power Wire mesh upper adapts to your foot while maintaining a firm hold, encouraging confident footfalls through variable conditions.
Should you buy it? If you're a seasoned trail runner aiming to sharpen your edge, the Prodigio Pro delivers the tools to push your pace. It's responsive, grippy, and built for the kind of high-effort days where you want every ounce of the shoe working in your favor. That said, it may be too specialized for beginners or those still exploring trail running. The streamlined upper, while effective for keeping out debris and hugging the foot, may feel too stiff for some. Runners looking to up the ante on their racing and pacing will likely love the performance-centered foundation that these shoes provide.
Weight (per shoe, women's size 6.5): 7.72 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 3 mm
Weight (per shoe, men's size 10.5): 9.79 oz | Measured Heel-Toe Drop: 5 mm
Designed to balance responsiveness with serious running prowess, the Prodigio Pro offers enough cushion for the occasional road run and enough strength for climbing mountain peaks.
How We Tested
After well over a decade of testing trail running shoes, our men's and women's review teams don't lack experience. We've racked up in-depth reviews of more than 300 pairs of trail running shoes, running at least 60 miles in each pair. We've covered thousands of trail miles to bring you this review and help you find your next favorite pair.
If there's something to measure or dissect (or both), we've probably done it, all in the name of helping you find the best trail runner for your needs.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our testing process starts with meticulous research to help us choose the best shoes on the market to buy and test side-by-side. Then, we hit the trail, taking detailed notes about each shoe's performance along the way. After that, we spend time with them in the lab, weighing, cutting open, and measuring the significant details of each pair, thoroughly examining them to determine what features contributed to our experience on the trail and how well they could hold up to all the abuse.
Six key metrics were used to assess each shoe and tally its score:
Comfort and Fit (35%)
Stability (25%)
Traction (20%)
Foot Protection (15%)
Weight (5%)
Saturating the shoe and observing how much water penetrates our socks is one of the most effective ways to evaluate the water resistance of a pair of shoes. After that, we conduct a survey to determine how long each shoe takes to dry.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Why Trust GearLab
Ally Arcuri leads our women's test team. She is a trail runner and cancer survivor with a degree in kinesiology from Cal State Fullerton. She uses her biomechanics background to assess each shoe's construction down to every detail.
Shoes, shoes, and more shoes. From the lab to the trail and back again, we've spent an outrageous amount of time geeking out for your benefit.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The men's team is led by Matthew Richardson. Matthew avidly runs mountains in his native southwest Colorado. He's run the Chicago Basin 14ers in a day and finished in the top ten at the Telluride Mountain Run. So, you know, we run.
We spend months running miles and miles in these shoes across variable terrain to get a true picture of how they perform - and then chop them up in our lab to see what's inside.
What Makes It a Trail Running Shoe?
You want to run on a trail. It doesn't have to be complicated, yet the overwhelming number of shoe options and their jargon-filled descriptions don't help matters. Since trails expose your feet to all kinds of environmental factors, trail running shoes are more protective and agile than road running shoes. They're often stiffer than road shoes, with more aggressive traction to stabilize your foot across uneven terrain. They can even include a rock plate or a protective, dense midsole to cushion your feet against rocky impacts.
Budget
Running shoes are spendy, and you'll go through them surprisingly quickly. According to Runner's World, they last somewhere between 300 and 500 miles. If you run 20 miles a week, they'll work well for three to six months. Consider that when weighing the price of your next pair.
The spikier lugs underfoot are larger and more aggressive and are sometimes covered with tacky rubber to increase your grip on variable terrain. The upper materials work to balance the need to withstand abrasions from rough granite or overgrown vegetation with the need to breathe well enough to keep your feet dry and comfortable — especially since you're likely to encounter rain or creek crossings. Some trail running shoes even include ankle collars to block debris.
Our men and women test teams have logged countless trail miles over the last decade to help you find an ideal trail running shoe.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Men's Trail Runners
To see a detailed analysis of the products we pitted against each other, check out our full review of men's trail running shoes. The chart below shows the overall scores of each pair tested.
Key Metrics Scores of Men's Trail Running Shoes
Product
Comfort and Fit
Traction
Stability
Foot Protection
Norda 002
8.5
9.5
8.5
8
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3
9
7.5
8.6
9
Hoka Mafate Speed 4
8.8
8.7
8.2
7.7
Nnormal Tomir 2.0
7.7
9.5
7.9
7.6
La Sportiva Wildcat
7.9
7.8
8.3
8.5
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro
9
8.3
7.4
7.3
Brooks Cascadia 18
7.9
7.2
8.5
8.4
Asics Trabuco Max 4
8.4
5.9
8.6
8.9
La Sportiva Bushido III
6.5
8
9
8
Salomon Speedcross 6
9
10
5
7.3
Nnormal Kjerag
8.8
7.5
8.5
6.4
Hoka Torrent 4
8.5
7.5
7.4
7.8
Merrell Nova 4
8.3
7
7.4
7.6
Hoka Speedgoat 6
7.4
7.8
7.1
8
Hoka Tecton X 3
8.6
6.3
7.3
8
Topo Ultraventure 4
8.3
6.9
7.3
7.5
Brooks Catamount 4
7.8
6.8
7.5
7.6
Craft Pure Trail
6.6
6.9
8.6
7.4
Brooks Divide 5
7.8
4.8
9
7.9
Altra Lone Peak 9
7.9
6.7
8
6.5
Saucony Peregrine 15
8.4
7.1
6.7
6.9
Nike Wildhorse 8
7.5
6.8
7.1
6.9
Nike Ultrafly
7.2
6.3
7.4
6.8
Salomon Sense Ride 5
5.5
5.3
8
8.8
Hoka Challenger 7
7.4
5.5
6.9
6.8
Salomon Ultra Glide 2
6.5
5.3
7.1
7
Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra
6.8
5
5.5
7.8
Above are the scores from evaluating the performance of men's trail shoes. Check out our full review to see our complete set of results and comparisons.
Women's Trail Runners
Our female runner test team put in the work to assess the best women's trail running shoes side-by-side. The individual scores for key metrics in our current lineup of those shoes are shown below.
Key Metric Scores of Women's Trail Running Shoes
Product
Comfort
Stability
Traction
Foot Protection
The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4
8.5
9
8
8
La Sportiva Bushido III
6.5
8
9.5
8.5
Hoka Mafate Speed 4
8
7.5
8.5
7.5
Altra Lone Peak 9
7
8.5
7.5
7
Saucony Peregrine 15
7.5
7
7
8
Hoka Speedgoat 6
6.8
7.5
7.5
7
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro
7
6.5
7.5
7.5
Hoka Torrent 4
6
7.5
7.5
7.5
Topo Ultraventure 4
7
8
6
7
Hoka Challenger 7
7
7
6.5
7
Hoka Tecton X 3
7
6.5
6.5
7.5
Brooks Catamount 4
6
7
7
6.5
Asics Trabuco Max 4
6.5
6.5
6
7.5
Brooks Cascadia 18
6
6.5
7
6
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
7
6.5
7
4
Salomon Speedcross 6
5.5
4
7
8
Brooks Divide 5
6
7.8
5
5.5
Nike Zegama 2
6.5
3
6.5
6
Here's the breakdown of women's trail running shoe test scores. To get the complete picture, visit our full review.
How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shoes for You
Depending on the type of trails you plan to run, you'll want different levels of traction, stiffness, and durability. You might also think that the amount of cushioning a shoe has will dictate the type of trails it is best suited for, but this isn't always the case. Some runners prefer maximum cushioning, even on the smoothest trails, while others want enough sensitivity to feel every rock and root beneath them. Generally, there are three types of trail shoes — light, rugged, and extreme.
Types of Trail Running Shoes
Shoe Aggressiveness
Light Conditions
Rugged Terrain
Extreme Topography
Protection Level
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Flexibility
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Rock Plate
✖
Support
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Lugs
Low profile
Deeper and multidirectional
Deep, multidirectional, and durable
Waterproof
✖
Sometimes
Best For
Mix of roads and trails
Mixed trail difficulties
Off-trail and difficult terrain
Light Trail Runners
Light trail running shoes closely resemble road running shoes, but they have a few subtle features that enhance foot protection, agility, and traction. They're a great option if you alternate between runs around town and trail runs on the weekends. Offering less protection than their hardcore counterparts, these lightweight designs are a great choice for those who prefer to move quickly on less complex terrain.
They are also often more flexible, offering moderate support on rough terrain. They tend to have lower-profile lugs since you don't need top-notch traction on consistent surfaces, and they can catch awkwardly on pavement. The upper portion of these shoes also tends to be made of less durable materials since they won't need to weather as much abuse. (This can also make for a less expensive shoe, which we always appreciate.)
Your feet don't need as much protection if you stick to smooth, rolling trails.
Credit: Ryan Baker
Rugged Trail Runners
This is the sweet spot for most people on most trails. Rugged trail running shoes offer enough foot protection to tackle the majority of terrain without the extreme stiffness and traction of off-trail versions. If your favorite trails aren't consistently smooth and flat, but you aren't leaving the path to scramble across a mountainside, these shoes are for you.
More protective shoes help save your feet with burlier toe boxes and tread that extends to form a protective cap.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Rugged trail shoes offer more robust protection, featuring rock plates or densely padded EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) foam midsoles. The upper fabric is tough, with a more pronounced toe guard. The upper and the platform offer enough support and rigidity to stabilize your foot on uneven ground and steep descents without being so stiff that a lengthy break-in period is required.
Testing shoes in early winter to assess weather resistance and traction.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Rugged trail shoes offer high-quality traction. Larger lugs organized in patterns provide a multidirectional grip on a range of trail angles and surfaces, like loam, sand, gravel, and rock. Widely spaced lugs work well to grip muddy trails while allowing the muck to shed easily to avoid slowing you down. Some of these shoes are covered with soft rubber that offers maximal grip, but these compounds tend to wear down quickly. Others opt for tougher rubber that is less grippy but lasts longer. All these extra features add up to extra ounces. While these aren't the lightest shoes, they are more durable than light trail runners and often last longer.
Both of these shoes have 5 mm lugs, those on the left work well on hard, rocky surfaces thanks to their wide spacing. The narrow lugs on the right are best suited to softer, smoother trails.
Credit: Jill Rice
Extreme Trail Runners
If you've ever looked up at a random rocky mountain and thought, “I'd like to run straight up that,” these shoes may be for you. Essentially a pair of rugged trail shoes on steroids, these extreme trail running shoes are made of the most resilient materials. They usually offer maximum torsional rigidity (think twisting the sole of your foot), and offer great foot protection, but due to their stiffness, they can take time to get used to.
When you're running on terrain like this, a literal lava field in Oregon's Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, you need a burly, protective running shoe.
Credit: Andy Wellman
If you encounter snowfields or streams, you can find waterproof ones, but these tend to sacrifice breathability and can be heavier and stiffer than average. You may need to put some miles in to soften them, but they certainly secure your feet. Many shoes are available in both a regular and a Gore-Tex version, so if you think you see a shoe you like but want the added water resistance, check to see if Gore-Tex is an option.
We wouldn't call this running, but if a section of the trail you want to tackle looks like this, you'll want shoes that can handle it.
Credit: Jonnah D.
Consider Your Route and Climate
Where do you normally run? If you stick to smooth trails and throw in the random road run, light trail running shoes will work wonderfully. Look for a rugged shoe if you like to run on loose terrain prone to moving underfoot. You'll want an extreme, off-trail option if your run requires a map, compass, and multiple route-finding sessions.
Don't forget to factor in your climate. If you often find yourself slogging along on muddy or snowy trails in the spring, a waterproof shoe with large, mud-shedding lugs could be your best bet. If you live in dry and rocky climates, sticky Vibram rubber shoes will make you feel like a mountain goat.
In desert climates, you'll want shoes that release heat and moisture to let your feet breathe and that hold traction in sandy terrain.
Credit: Matt Bento
Cushioning
How much cushion you want in your shoe depends on how much you like to feel the earth beneath you, how far you'll be going, and how easy you want to go on your joints. There are three general categories of shoe cushioning — barefoot or minimal, moderate, and maximum.
Components of Cushioning
Cushioning Level
Stack Height
Trail Feedback
Foot Protection
Best For
Barefoot / Minimal
<15 mm
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Zero-drop running, groundfeel, easy terrain
Moderate
20 - 35 mm
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Balancing tricky trail navigation with underfoot protection
Maximum
30 - 45 mm
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
High elevation days, non-technical terrain
Barefoot or Minimal Shoes
Barefoot shoes largely function to protect your feet only from punctures and abrasions. They let you feel the trail beneath your feet with very little filter. They're usually flat, with no drop from the heel to the toe, forcing you to strengthen your feet and lower leg to provide the cushion and support many of us are used to getting from our shoes. If you're not used to this, you'll have to start very slowly with these shoes. Minimal shoes offer a bit more support with some midsole padding and as much as a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop. They are a good option if you'd like more trail feel but want to ease your body into it.
Some people will wear these kinds of shoes on the roughest trails out there, but they've (hopefully) put the time in to do so safely. If you're new to these shoe styles, they're best on trails with few obstructions since there is little material protecting you from getting a stubbed toe. Trust us on that one.
One of the benefits of a minimally cushioned shoe is how connected you feel to the trail, enabling nimble foot placement.
Credit: Amber King
Moderate
Most trail shoes fall into the moderate cushion category, buffering the harsh feel of rocks and roots without feeling like you're running on marshmallow platforms. They offer moderate feedback from the trail, and this middle ground is great when you need quick footwork to navigate tricky trails but don't want to pay the price of landing hard on a sharp rock if you misstep.
Mid-range cushioning can make for an incredibly versatile shoe, allowing you to feel the trail without being injured by it.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Maximum
Hokas are a classic example of a maximum cushion shoe. I go for these soft, floaty shoes on days with a lot of elevation gain and loss or when my muscles and joints need extra love. They do a lot to reduce the strain of repetitive downhill pounding. The downside is that they often lack a feeling of connection to the trail, and they aren't my first choice for fancy footwork. Racers may feel like they lose energy by pushing off against a cushioned base, but many praise the style for keeping their legs fresh longer. This category is evolving; some modern shoes provide impressive energy conservation and transfer.
When you have many, many miles to cover, the comfort of a well-cushioned shoe can make all the difference to your joints.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel-to-Toe Drop
The heel-to-toe drop is the difference between the shoe's heel height and toe height. Barefoot or zero-drop shoes have no heel-to-toe drop. Minimal shoes can range from a 1 to 4 mm drop. Moderate and maximally cushioned shoes can have a wide range, up to 10 mm or more.
A Word on Our Measurements
If you've perused some of our reviews, you might have noticed that our measured stack height and drop numbers don't always match the manufacturer's claims. This is because there is no industry standard for these measurements — companies can do or say whatever they like. We follow World Athletics guidelines — the international governing body for running competitions — to offer standardized measurements across all pairs we test.
Most of us started running, and even walking, in shoes with a moderate to pronounced heel-to-toe drop, and our muscles developed accordingly. If you switch to a lower heel-to-toe or zero-drop shoe, you'll need to give your body ample time to adjust. You may even need to change your gait. Since there is no extra padding for your heel in a zero or minimal drop shoe, you need to land on your mid or forefoot to dissipate the energy. This doesn't work for everybody, so if you're interested in transitioning to lower-drop shoes, you'll have better luck if you work your way down gradually over time.
Zero-drop shoes work best when you land every step in the middle or on the front of your foot. They don't offer enough support to land on your heel.
Credit: Jill Rice
If you typically land on your heel when you run, higher heel rises may be better for you. Heel-to-toe drops of 7 mm and over are considered to be high heel-drop shoes, according to Running Warehouse, and are best for people who land heel first. Neither high nor low-drop shoes are definitively better; it all comes down to what you and your body prefer.
A higher heel-to-toe drop can sometimes make shoes feel unstable when on steeper trails.
Credit: Jill Rice
Get the Right Fit
Some shoe brands tend to run narrow, while others are known for their wide-toe boxes. It's always a good idea to break out the tape measure, measure your feet, and match their dimensions to the sizing tables on each brand's website. This is especially important if you're trying a new shoe brand or it's been a while since you ordered; your shoe size can shift over time.
Our trail running test teams log miles in each of these shoes so you can find to perfect fit.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
Shopping is fun and all, but we'd rather be trail running. After a decade of testing trail running shoes, we're thrilled to pass our hard-won knowledge on to you. Whether you've just started your trail journey or you're newly barefoot or maximum-cushion curious, we've tested a shoe for you. We hope this review helps relieve the pain of endless scrolling by directing you to an excellent option for your feet and running style.
