The 8 Best Trail Running Shoes for Men of 2024

Best Overall Trail Running Shoe

Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3

Weight (per shoe): 10.64 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Salomon recently updated their S/Lab Ultra 3 to version 2, which includes an updated upper containing Matryx fiber. This change is claimed to reduce the weight by 10%, and while our tests didn't show quite 10%, we still think this is the best running shoe on the market. The S/Lab Ultra 3 has long been a favorite for ultra-athletes who desire predictability and speed. While this is a minor update, we are thankful Salomon is being particular about the changes and really only adjusting what is necessary.

Since the inception of the Ultra lineup, Salomon has refined its ability to provide snug comfort. If we had to pick one pair of trail runners, this would be it. Some users may find the platform a bit harsh at times, but we think after easing in, you'll be pleased, especially if you find yourself on a technical trail. Some users may find this model overly aggressive for easier running and should opt for something a bit softer. But if you desire ultimate performance and comfort, then don't look further than the Ultra 3.

Read more: Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

Best Value Trail Runners

Brooks Divide 4

Weight (per shoe): 10.82 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm

The Brooks Divide 4 is a bargain, and we recommend it for beginners or those looking for a more stable ride. Durability and value keep us recommending it year after year through multiple iterations. With version 4, the same great upper remains, but it's now more breathable thanks to thinner, stiff mesh. While not particularly light at 10.82 ounces per US men's size 10.5 shoe, Brooks delivers a dependable ride. That ride is dense, and the Divide prefers smooth to moderate trails. This is also a great option for around town, where you'll likely be moving between a variety of surfaces.

More advanced runners may find this shoe overly rigid. This rigidity reduces flexibility, which is needed to tackle technical terrain, especially at speed. While smaller lugs are fine on lighter shoes, something this stiff would benefit from a bit more give from the outsole to feel confident. If you want a bit more sensitivity and better traction for not a whole lot more money, the Merrell Nova 3 is a great option. But for those looking to blend hiking and running, this could be a great option. At this price point, you are receiving durability and comfort above all, and the substantial upper and outsole rubber should last for many miles.

Read more: Brooks Divide 4 review

Best Trail Running Shoe with Ultralight Cushioning

Nnormal Kjerag

Weight (per shoe): 8.05 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm

It's no surprise that world-renowned mountaineer and trail runner Kilian Jornet would create an ultralight model as his first shoe after departing Salomon. The Nnormal Kjerag is the lightest trail shoe we've ever tested — by over an ounce per shoe! — and we are impressed with its comfort and performance. Nnormal has stripped back the excess, creating cushioning that follows today's trend without sacrificing the stiffness that is crucial for precision running. The midsole of the Kjerag transfers more energy than the competition, but this can also beat you up faster than plush designs. A leading concept at Nnormal is durability, and the craftsmanship is clear in this design. While it's expensive, we feel good knowing this shoe should last for a long time.

The Kjerag will be most appealing to advanced runners, and we'd recommend adding it to your quiver. That said, we wouldn't recommend this as your only trainer. As we mentioned, the firm cushioning can and will beat you up over time. This is especially noticeable when you are running with tired or dead legs. The Kjerag requires a lot of input and concentration to drive, so as soon as you relax, the shoe will lack traction and comfort. For those looking to tackle the most technical terrain, we'd opt for something more substantial, like the highly tractioned Salomon Speedcross 6. But for runners wanting to set a PR or simply feel fast, this is our favorite model.

Read more: Nnormal Kjerag review

Best-Tractioned Trail Runner

Salomon Speedcross 6

Weight (per shoe): 11.08 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12 mm

If it ain't broke, don't fix it is the mantra Salomon lives by regarding the legendary Speedcross line. The newest iteration, the Salomon Speedcross 6, includes minor design tweaks that improve upon the already great platform without reinventing the wheel. Long known for its aggressive outsole and unrivaled traction, designers modified the rubber compound to improve performance in muddy conditions. They fine-tuned the sagittate lug pattern for an even better grip on mud, rock, and everything in between. This new version is slightly lighter than the previous model, updating the upper to include more mesh for improved breathability. But don't worry, the Speedcross 6 still offers a glove-like fit straight out of the box. We're fast approaching a decade of running in this line of shoes, and our heart only grows fonder for this beloved trail runner.

Despite our gushing, we still have a few criticisms of this specialty shoe. Our biggest carry-over complaint between the previous version and the Speedcross 6 is the overly assertive and outdated drop design. With a thick heel counter and an exceptionally large heel-to-toe drop, this shoe is particularly unstable when running downhill. Although the breathability has improved by tweaking the type of mesh over the instep and forefoot, the Speedcross is better deployed during the cold weather months or high-altitude runs through the mountains. On the flip side, with other, less supportive, and less comfortable shoes pushing into its weight class, we no longer complain about the heft of the Speedcross 6. If weight is a big deal for you, the Nnormal Tomir 2.0 weigh slightly less and have traction nearly as incredibly as the Speedcross. At the end of the day, there is no better option for those who like to run off-trail, over snowy mountains, through muddy river bottoms, and up steep, rocky crags than the Speedcross 6.

Read more: Salomon Speedcross 6 review

Best for Long Distance Trail Runs

Hoka Torrent 3

Weight (per shoe): 9.60 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm

Dropping the heel stack height to 28 mm for a Hoka shoe caught our attention when the Torrent lineup came along. It's been a favorite of ours for its incredible energy transfer that doesn't beat you up or leave you feeling fatigued. The Hoka Torrent 3 is a beautiful combination of the cushioning we love from Hoka with the power of an ultra-lightweight shoe. This iteration has an improved outer compound that increases both traction and durability. The same slimmer design gives a more performance-focused wrap to your foot to really minimize movement. There is substantial stiffness, too, so we recommend this on anything from roads to moderate technical terrain.

This stiffness lends itself to a harsher ride when side-hilling or tackling very technical terrain. Sensitivity is important to provide feedback to the runner, allowing for more instantaneous adjustments of the foot. We find this stiffness less precise when running fast down technical terrain. The lateral stiffness of this model is high, so it likes to be kept in its lane, not jumping around from talus block to talus block. We particularly like using this all-around versatile shoe for long runs. There is a quickness to it but enough cushioning to get you home once the fatigue starts to set in.

Read more: Hoka Torrent 3 review

Best for Trails with High Vertical Change

Hoka Speedgoat 6

Weight (per shoe): 10.58 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm

Odds are, you know about the Hoka Speedgoat 6. It's an iconic modern trail shoe that changed the way we think about cushioning. For this iteration, Hoka ditched the out-of-box broken-in feel and opted for a harder, stiffer midsole. At first, we weren't fans, but after running in the model, it relaxed, providing similar cushioning to the previous model without diving into the too-soft, gushy feeling previous versions slid toward after a few hundred miles. The upper has also been reworked, opting for a thinner mesh, which helps reduce weight and increase drying speed. Increased durability is appreciated, as previous iterations often felt mushy after the first 100-200 miles.

While we think these changes were largely improvements, we do think loyal fans of the series will be disappointed by the out-of-the-box feel. We'd suggest not judging the model by the first 50 miles and being patient with the break-in period. This stiffness is also appreciated on technical terrain and we found less deforming of the midsole on hard rocks. Stability has also improved, and micro adjustments of technical loose terrain are more confident in this updated iteration. We also loved the Nnormal Tomir 2.0 for its springiness and excellence on technical trails, though it has a bit too much room for our feet to slide forward on the downhill (though you may not experience this issue). All in all, the newly redesigned Speedgoat 6 is still an excellent choice for long ultras and big days in the mountains.

Read more: Hoka Speedgoat 6 review

Best Zero Drop Trail Runner

Altra Lone Peak 8

Weight (per shoe): 10.95 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm

The Altra Lone Peak 8 is comfortable from the first step right out of the box. Built tough enough to handle epic trails and tough terrain, this series has been a favorite of ours for years — as well as the whole zero-drop community. Thru-hikers depend on this model while crossing hundreds of miles of trails. If you are the type of person who likes one do-it-all shoe, this could be a perfect choice for you. The zero-drop platform provides consistent cushioning across the foot, and its lower stack helps maintain stability.

When running fast and hard, the upper isn't quite snug enough for our taste. There is a bit too much movement, especially when running on off-camber trails. But this downside, in our case, is a positive for others. Long days on the trail swell your feet, and often, many shoes are overly snug, reducing breathability and comfort. If your top priorities are a zero drop profile and running in comfort, we'd highly recommend the Lone Peak 8.

Read more: Altra Lone Peak 8 review

Best Crossover Road-to-Trail Performance

Hoka Tecton X 2

Weight (per shoe): 9.64 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm

TheHoka Tecton X 2 is an outstanding performer within our test group, specifically designed to conquer diverse terrains with remarkable speed. With its newly updated upper, this model ensures optimal foot security, effectively minimizing any undesired foot movements. While the unique carbon plates may require some adjustment, the spring mechanics deliver excellent energy rebound. Our extensive testing consistently favored this model for intense speed workouts and competitive races. While its true potential shines on mixed surfaces like gravel and easy trails, experienced runners can also tackle challenging terrains with confidence. Urban athletes who frequently transition between natural pathways and roads will appreciate the thoughtfully designed lug pattern, ensuring minimal drag.

However, those less inclined towards performance-oriented footwear may find this shoe more than they require. The carbon plates, although beneficial, demand a certain level of impact to function optimally. For casual runners, this model may feel imprecise and unfamiliar, lacking a natural feel. Additionally, the carbon plates restrict adaptability on rugged trails, necessitating precise footwork to avoid potential strain on the ankles. As a result, we suggest that beginners consider other options before attempting this as their initial trail shoe. However, if you currently feel underwhelmed by your footwear's responsiveness during high-intensity runs, the Tecton X 2 warrants serious consideration.

Read more: Hoka Tecton X 2 review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	80	Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 Best Overall Trail Running Shoe	$190
	79	Nnormal Tomir 2.0	$170
	78	Nnormal Kjerag Best Trail Running Shoe with Ultralight Cushioning	$195
	76	La Sportiva Bushido III	$145
	76	La Sportiva Karacal	$155
	74	Salomon Speedcross 6 Best-Tractioned Trail Runner	$145
	73	Hoka Torrent 3 Best for Long Distance Trail Runs	$130
	73	Hoka Speedgoat 6 Best for Trails with High Vertical Change	$155
	73	La Sportiva Wildcat	$145
	72	Altra Lone Peak 8 Best Zero Drop Trail Runner	$140
	72	Brooks Catamount 3	$170
	71	Hoka Tecton X 2 Best Crossover Road-to-Trail Performance	$225
	71	Merrell Nova 3	$125
	70	Saucony Peregrine 14	$140
	70	La Sportiva Prodigio	$155
	69	Brooks Cascadia 17	$140
	67	Salomon Sense Ride 5	$140
	66	Brooks Divide 4 Best Value Trail Runners	$100
	66	Nike Wildhorse 8	$140
	66	Nike Ultrafly	$260
	65	HOKA Challenger 7	$145
	64	Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra	$220
	63	Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2	$160

How We Test Trail Running Shoes

Trail running shoe testing never ends, as companies release new models throughout the calendar year. We continue our tests in all seasons, all over the country, and often have the opportunity to compare the most current models against previous versions of the same shoe. Although our testers don't always log their distances with a GPS watch, they know they have collectively run thousands of miles while testing over 130 different pairs of trail running shoes in the past decade. Our testing process combines thorough research, detailed scrutiny at our testing facility in Lake Tahoe, industry knowledge, and many hours spent out on the trail. Testing these shoes side-by-side gives us well-informed data anchored in real-world experience, and we've used that knowledge to put together this review to help you find your perfect trail sidekicks.

Our in-depth testing process of trail running shoes is spread across six rating metrics:

• Foot Protection (25% of overall score weighting)

• Traction (20% weighting)

• Sensitivity (15% weighting)

• Stability (15% weighting)

• Comfort and Fit (15% weighting)

• Weight (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Over the years, we've had a pretty epic group of athletes test these trail running shoes. Currently leading that charge is Matthew Richardson, a resident of SW Colorado who has years of experience moving through the mountains. Progressing through the region's wide range of activities, running remains his biggest passion. Some of his achievements include a day trip to the Chicago Basin 14ers and a top-ten finish at the Telluride Mountain Run, which had over 14k of vertical in 38 miles. A lover of maps, Matthew enjoys creating and exploring new routes and is always in search of the next great loop.

Chiming in from the Sierra foothills of Nevada is longtime reviewer Matt Bento, a lifelong runner since high school. Matt discovered his enthusiasm for trail running one summer while working in Yosemite Valley when temperatures hovered in the 90s, and he decided it was too hot to go climbing. He methodically logged miles and built up his endurance until he could run the Yosemite high camps loop, a 40-mile adventure through the Sierra high country. Ever since he's found many ridge runs and link-ups throughout Sierra and believes the best runs start in the dark and end with a cheeseburger.

Adding his expert opinion to this already stacked lineup of reviewers is Aaron Rice. A New Englander whose heart was called to the mountains instead of the sea, Aaron has lived (and run) up and down the Rocky Mountains for the past 15 years: from the Flatirons of Boulder, CO, to the Tetons outside of Jackson, WY, and now in the high desert of Santa Fe, NM. As a professional ski patroller and avalanche educator, his favorite time is spent in the high alpine.

Analysis and Test Results

During our discussion of testing metrics and shoe performance, please keep in mind that all ratings and comparisons are made in relation to the other tested products. We carefully select and purchase only the most highly rated products, so the competition is fierce. A shoe with a low score can still be a great option, depending on your personal needs and budget. Within our in-depth reviews, we break down each metric individually so that you can more easily tune into the pros and cons of each specific trail running shoe. If you are new to trail running and unsure of what you should look for in a shoe, it is always good to take a moment to consider your foot shape, running style, and any athletic goals you may have.

What's the Best Value?

A significant consideration when selecting a pair of trail running shoes is the value of the purchase. While one could simply assume that you get what you pay for, years of testing have proven that this isn't always true. When considering the value of a trail running shoe, three aspects are essential: price, performance, and longevity (i.e., durability).

Two of these, price and performance, are easily quantifiable and can be compared directly. The Brooks Divide 4 is a particularly valuable option, as it scores nearly as high as some of the top competitors in key metrics yet costs significantly less. If you don't need quite as much stability as the Divide, the Merrell Nova 3 is an equally good option for all-round value and versatility. While these particular shoes may not appeal to seasoned trail runners, they are a fantastic entry-level option for those interested in trying out trail running for the first time.

The third aspect of value for a trail running shoe, longevity, is not nearly as easy to quantify. Since all shoes eventually wear out and need to be replaced, finding those that can withstand more miles of abuse before disintegrating helps determine that shoe's value. Unfortunately, every runner puts a different amount of strain on their shoes, so their lifetime varies widely. We certainly put each batch of test shoes through the wringer, and durability issues often present themselves early on. But time restraints on our testing period mean that we don't have the time to thrash every pair of shoes before publishing our findings. That said, we have been particularly impressed thus far with the craftsmanship of the Nnormal Kjerag — though it doesn't come cheap.

Foot Protection

Trail running is a demanding sport, both on your feet and shoes. We've determined that the most important criterion for evaluating a trail running shoe is how well it protects your foot. The soles of the feet are among the most sensitive areas of your body, so if you intend to traverse rocky and uneven terrain, then your shoe will need adequate underfoot protection.

While almost all modern running shoes have an outsole and midsole, underfoot protection comes in one of two forms: a rock plate made of a plastic or composite material that adds rigidity to the shoe and absorbs impacts, or in place of that, thick foam cushioning. The most common type of foam used is EVA, which protects the foot from protrusions and absorbs a significant amount of the impact inherent to running before it travels upward into the body. Advancements in carbon fiber technology have allowed shoes like the Hoka Tecton X 2 to incorporate this material into their midsoles, offering a new level of underfoot protection and power output. Perhaps unsurprisingly, foot protection often comes at the expense of sensitivity, and vice versa, which is why we grade for both.

A lesser component of foot protection is how well the upper protects the top and sides of your feet from protrusions like sticks or abrasion by rocks. The ends of the toes are a common point of abuse, as we have all accidentally kicked a rock while bombing down a trail. Rigid toe bumpers go a long way in helping to alleviate this pain, and the Brooks Cascadia 17 offers some of the best toe box protection available. Many manufacturers skimp on upper materials to save weight and offer more breathability and water drainage, while some have uppers as mighty as a bulletproof vest. But if you end up with a beloved shoe whose one downfall is a more delicate upper, you can always wear gaiters to supplement.

A handful of shoes offer superior foot protection compared to the rest of the field. The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 does a great job of protecting the undersides of the feet with its PU foam and utilizes a lightweight, breathable, and impressively durable upper. The La Sportiva Karacal has a highly effective rock plate with a stack height of 32 mm and an ankle collar that all come together to offer some of the best foot protection in trying conditions. Hoka shoes are known for their thickly stacked shoes, with midsole foam that is dense and highly absorbent. Although shoes like the Hoka Tecton X 2 and the Hoka Challenger 7 have higher stack heights, the slightly more stripped-down Hoka Torrent 3 still provides superb underfoot protection.

The Nike Wildhorse 8 also offers an outstanding amount of foot protection, having one of the hardness outsoles we've tested. All the models from La Sportiva we've tested offer great foot protection. The Karacal, the Bushido III, and the Wildcat all provide tank-like protection with padded tongues, toe bumpers, and rock plates that make them perfect options for demanding runs in the mountains. For gravel road runners looking for maximum energy transfer and protection for long days, we'd recommend the Salomon Sense Ride 5 or Salomon Pulsar Pro Trail 2.

While you might think that a carbon plate would also add foot protection, our testing found that not to be the case. Instead, the differences between each of the carbon models in our lineup are found more in their varying levels of spring and energy transfer. From most traditional to highest spring loading: Hoka Tecton X2, Nike Ultrafly, Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra. We'd personally steer away from the Speed Ultra unless you are an expert-level runner competing at a high level. The Nike Ultrafly is a great middle ground that didn't overwhelm us with bounce. The Hoka Tecton X2 remains our favorite carbon model because of its ability to tackle more technical terrain without feeling overly bouncy and torquey.

Traction

If it weren't for the drastically increased performance regarding traction, there would not be much incentive to purchase trail shoes over a pair of running shoes for pavement. Based on this assessment, one can understand the argument that traction is one of the most important aspects of a trail running shoe.

Three main factors contribute to a shoe's ability to grip a variety of surfaces well: the type of lugs, the shape and spacing of the lugs, and the properties of the rubber used. Deeper, more aggressive lugs grip most surfaces better, especially steep dirt, grass, mud, and snow. More and more trail running shoes reflect this, with lugs becoming increasingly more aggressive across the board. It's worth noting that all of the shoes we test offer pretty solid traction, especially on your standard dirt trail.

Traction Ratings Across Various Surfaces

Product	Loose Trail	Mud	Slick Rock
Salomon Speedcross 6	5	5	5
Nnormal Tomir 2.0	5	5	5
La Sportiva Wildcat	5	4	4
La Sportiva Bushido III	4	3	4
Hoka Speedgoat 6	4	3	4
Altra Lone Peak 8	4	3	4
Brooks Cascadia 17	4	3	3
Nike Wildhorse 8	4	3	3
Hoka Torrent 3	3	3	4
Saucony Peregrine 14	3	3	4
La Sportiva Karacal	3	3	3
Merrell Nova 3	3	3	3
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3	3	2	3
Nike Ultrafly	3	2	3
Salomon Sense Ride 5	3	2	3
Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2	3	2	3
La Sportiva Prodigio	3	2	3
Brooks Catamount 3	3	2	3
Nnormal Kjerag	3	2	3
Brooks Divide 4	3	2	2
Hoka Tecton X 2	3	2	2
Hoka Challenger 7	2	2	2
Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra	1	1	1

Lugs that are close together tend to do a better job of gripping well on rock and hard dirt surfaces, while lugs that are further apart usually shed mud faster. The deepest lugs in our lineup are the Salomon Speedcross 6 (5.50 mm), the Nnormal Tomir 2.0 (5.00 mm), the Saucony Peregrine 14 (4.90 mm), and the La Sportiva Wildcat (4.76 mm).

The Salomon Speedcross 6 offers the best traction we've found. It's an ideal shoe for just about every mountain condition. It's one of the few shoes that tackled sloppy shoulder season snow with ease. Mud, slippery roots, and wet rocks couldn't stop these impressively grippy shoes. And, with a well-designed lug pattern, the Speedcross also holds its own on loose, dry trails, to boot.

Another pair we found ourselves reaching for when the going got tough is the Nnormal Tomir 2.0. This shoe offers a truly amazing blend of speed, comfort, and traction. Both the Tomir 2.0 and the Nnormal Kjerag provide exceptional traction for their intended uses, and we enjoy running on the grippy, lightweight Vibram LiteBase outsoles (which are also found on other shoes in our lineup). These two pairs also contain our favorite midsole, which creates an outstanding combination of energy transfer, stability, and sensitivity. Our only complaint with the Tomir 2.0 is that we often shifted forward in the shoe when tackling steep downhills at speed. You can read more about this in the comfort section of the individual gear review.

The hardness of the outsole rubber also plays a large part in the traction performance of a shoe. Softer rubber, like that on the La Sportiva Karacal or Hoka Torrent 3, tends to be stickier and does a far better job gripping rock, both wet and dry. The downside of soft rubber is that it wears out or, in some cases, rips off, often shortening the shoe's lifespan. In contrast, firmer rubber tends to be more durable and lasts longer but often performs worse in wet conditions. The firmest outsoles in our lineup are the Hoka Tecton X2, Nike Wildhorse 8, and Nnormal Kjerag. If you run out on snowy and icy trails, you can always add a pair of highly effective snow grips for an extra kick of traction.

Sensitivity

We define sensitivity by how easy it is to get feedback from the trail beneath your feet as you run. Both drop and stack play an important role in sensitivity. Trail running shoes are designed to protect your feet from abrasion, direct blows from the pointy sides of rocks, or repeated impacts on your body inherent in the motion of running itself. However, they also need to balance this protection with the foot-to-brain feedback — known as proprioception — that is necessary to run effectively. The shoes that allow for more accurate feedback are easier to run in, as they make it easier to run naturally without having to consciously consider every step. This, in turn, not only makes for a more pleasant run but helps you to avoid tripping and falling.

Before humans started wearing shoes, the feet provided a critical link with the world via their sense of touch. Many modern runners have found that they are better runners when the sensitive link between the feet and the ground is maintained, and even more, satisfied runners. If this connection is more important to you than protection, you may enjoy a barefoot-style shoe — just be sure to do the research into how to make this change in a healthy and safe way. Altra's Lone Peak 8, with a 25 mm forefoot stack height and 0 mm drop from heel to toe, is stylized after these barefoot-style shoes. They maintain a low- or zero-drop profile, a wide-toe box for natural toe splay, and a lightweight design without sacrificing the type of underfoot protection and cushioning we expect from a trail runner.

Burlier mountain runners, like the La Sportiva Bushido III (22 mm forefoot stack, 8 mm drop), don't sacrifice support or grip for the sake of sensitivity. But their moderate stack height keeps your foot closer to the ground, increasing that necessary sense of connection. Several other lightweight options, such as the Nnormal Kjerag (17 mm forefoot, 8 mm drop) and Saucony Peregrine 14 (27 mm forefoot, 3 mm drop), offer a lower stack height and increased flexibility to improve ground feel and your overall sense of movement.

Stability

Trail running takes place over uneven ground, and being able to land and push off from a platform that is stable both longitudinally and laterally is a critical feature of how well a shoe performs. Failure to maintain stability through the running stride will lead to either losing traction and slipping or, even worse, rolling an ankle and causing an injury. Through extensive testing over many years, we have found that stability is impacted mainly by the following four factors: stack height, heel-toe drop, landing platform, and the width/fit of the upper.

The stack height represents how much material rests between the ground and your foot. In most cases, the larger the stack height, the greater the chance for a rolled ankle — although this threat can be mitigated by having a broader landing platform, as determined by the shape of the bottom of the shoe. A wider platform typically ensures better stability, while a narrower platform is less stable. Heel-toe drop measures the difference in stack height between the heel and the toes. The upper is the third basic component of a shoe, aside from the outsole and midsole, and is what we look at as the “body” of a shoe. A shoe with an upper that firmly holds your foot allows you to land squarely on top of the footbed, minimizing movement within the shoe.

Over the last many years, shoe companies, mainly in response to customer demand, have been slowly lowering the average heel-toe drop, which today rests around 6-9 mm. Shoes with a substantial drop, like the Salomon Speedcross 6, can be less stable on uneven off-camber terrain, particularly when combined with narrower outsoles or a loose fit. Shoes with little to no drop, like the Lone Peak 8, are often more stable, especially when they have wide landing platforms and a secure fit.

Another critical factor for stability is the firmness of the midsole. Very stiff shoes tend to be more stable than soft and pliable ones. A flexible shoe that can easily bend in any direction allows your foot to take the shape of what it lands upon, but this is not generally the most stable design. We have accustomed ourselves to walking on flat surfaces, and a shoe that provides this feels more stable, especially if you are stepping on a very uneven surface like rocks and roots. The platform of the versatile La Sportiva Bushido III ticks all of these boxes. With a low stack height, a rigid midsole, and a specialized heel cup, this shoe creates a strong connection between all our leg joints, resulting in one of the most stable performances we've found. The Brooks Divide 4 also features a rigid platform that makes it a great stable shoe for runners just getting into their sport.

Thanks to a wide platform and stiff midsole design, the Brooks Cascadia 17 (4.63 inch, 33 mm) and Brooks Divide 4 (4.58 inch, 32 mm) are some of the most stable shoes for consistent terrain — one of the reasons why they have remained fan-favorites among runners for so many years. The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 (4.31 inch, 31 mm) and Nnormal Kjerag (4.42 inch, 25 mm) scored similarly well in our head-to-head stability testing. The La Sportiva Wildcat combines dense cushioning with a large heel that makes for an impressively stable platform, even while carrying a hydration pack full of supplies for your day.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is a challenging criterion to rate because it is so subjective. Everyone's foot is different, and a shoe that feels amazing to one person could be unwearable by another. Some products are wide in the toe box while narrow in the heel, and some are just really narrow (or wide) throughout. Some fit perfectly “to size,” while others run slightly long or short. We offer our take on each pair's size relative to the “average” fit of a trail running shoe.

To assess each shoe, we run dozens of miles in every pair. We consider underfoot cushioning and responsiveness, we scrutinize tongue comfort and lace feel, and we examine heel collars and all-around foot feel. While our running team has their favorites that fit well on their feet, the results we present are as unbiased as possible, considering shoes against the fictitious “average fit” to help you find a pair that is likely to work for your particular foot geometry and running needs.

Craftsmanship plays a prominent role in how comfortable a given model is. The most comfortable pairs use a seamless construction that makes them easy to wear sockless if you want to. Poorly sewn seams or material overlaps inside a shoe can rub and wear against the foot over long distances, creating significant comfort issues. Likewise, shoes that don't do an excellent job of naturally holding the foot in place require you to crank down the laces to provide a secure fit, often leading to discomfort along the top of the foot or front of the ankle joint.

Most of our findings for comfort come from compiled experiences on long runs over a variety of terrain. We also made sure to run through streams and rivers to gauge how much water each pair absorbs and how quickly it can shed that water afterward. While some people don't mind taking the time to sit down and remove their shoes and socks before fording a stream, nobody will do this during a mountain race or if they have to cross a river many times in a day. We prefer to simply let our shoes get wet, cross the creek quickly, and hope the shoes dry quickly as well.

It is no surprise that the shoes with the plushest padding often feel the most comfortable right out of the box. The Salomon Speedcross 6 and Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 are other top contenders for comfort, particularly for those who often run in rugged, mountainous terrain. The Brooks Divide 4 is plush and padded, and the Brooks Catamount 3 is so comfy we found ourselves wearing them for all sorts of non-running activities. The Nike Ultrafly is sold as a race shoe, but the plush comfort on these thickly padded carbon fiber plated shoes is better suited to an ultra race pace rather than a quick five or 10K. For users wanting maximum comfort while blending running and hiking, we'd recommend the Altra Lone Peak 8 and Nike Wildhorse 8. Many other shoes featured in this review are also exceedingly comfortable, but we acknowledge that it is nearly impossible to completely eliminate user bias when assessing comfort.

The La Sportiva Prodigio was the only shoe in our lineup that gave us issues that were severe enough that prevent us from running in them. The stiff upper dug into our ankles, creating a pinching sensation that prevented us from recommending them for comfort. However, we have reached out to users, and it's clear that not everyone has this issue. We think if this shoe works for you, it could easily be a fantastic choice. However, because its fit is so polarizing across users, we can't fully recommend it to all trail runners.

Weight

We love to use weight as a grading metric. It is easily quantifiable and provides a straightforward mathematical tool for comparison. But more importantly, we consider weight because all of life, and virtually every outdoor sport, is a battle against gravity — the less weight burdening you, the freer you are to move around and push the limits of your sport. When running, you repeatedly pick your feet up to move them forward, so the weight on your feet does matter. However, trail running shoes throw a wrench in this equation when you consider that the features added onto a shoe to improve performance may also contribute to a higher weight.

For instance, thicker and burlier midsoles with rock plates are heavier, but they protect the feet more. Cut out too much of this protection, and you will surely end up with a super-light shoe, but you will also have to moderate your speed significantly to avoid damaging your feet. The takeaway is that lighter is better, but only if it doesn't compromise functionality. The shoes described here naturally fall within a spectrum when considering these two factors, and which end of the spectrum you fall on is entirely a personal choice.

The Nnormal Kjerag, weighing in at only 8.05 ounces for a men's size 10.5 US, is the lightest shoe in our review by more than an ounce per shoe. Despite this featherlight weight, it still manages to feel durable and substantial. That said, the Kjerag is best for race and tempo days, and we recommend having something more cushioned for recovery days. The Hoka Challenger 7 impresses us with its substantial cushioning and one of the lightest weights we tested, at just 9.47 ounces per shoe. It's a great option for lightweight running from dirt roads to two-track. With a carbon fiber insert and ultralight foam, the lightweight Hoka Tecton X 2 (9.64 ounces) is one of our favorites for tempo and race efforts as well. Turnover feels effortless when running uphill, and its blend of cushioning and support is impressive, given its weight.

Conclusion

Running on trails is an excellent way to stay fit and healthy and has just as many benefits for the mind as it does for the body. We love it for the incredible variety, the connection to nature, and most of all, we love the potential for adventure. There are many different styles and types of trail running shoes, many of which are designed for specific purposes. We hope this article has helped you with your decision-making process and that you end up with a pair of shoes that you are happy with and can be a partner on the memorable adventures to come. Happy trails!