The 9 Best Trail Running Shoes for Women

Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Women

Hoka Mafate Speed 4 - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 7.96 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 3 mm

Imagine our delight as we discovered that the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 is a Vibram Litebase outsoled, nimble, comfortable trail shoe ready to tackle whatever the trails throw at us. With a moderate 3 mm, a slightly below-average weight, and versatile protection, this shoe rose to the top as an option for trail runners who want to keep things simple. Designed to be the only trail shoe in your arsenal, the moderately protective Mafate is sturdy enough for alpine running but comfortable enough for daily runs that cross rivers, streets, and fire roads. Thanks to its harmony of elements, the Mafate quickly became a shoe that our veteran gear testers are excited to recommend.

While the Mafate Speed 4 is somewhat lightweight, it could be lighter. Its overall weight for a women's size 6.5 is 7.96 ounces, which is still lighter than average. This shoe is also on the pricier end of the spectrum — you pay for that terrain versatility. If your trail running habits tend to stick to classic trails and cover more intense terrain, you might be better off with the more affordable La Sportiva Bushido III that's great for logging miles on all types of trails. Ultimately, we think that the price and the versatile performance of the Mafate Speed make it a standout shoe that most trail runners will love.

Read more: Hoka Mafate Speed 4 review

Best Bang for Your Buck

Hoka Torrent 4 - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 7.36 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 mm

The Hoka Torrent 4 is a long-time favorite for its wear-all-day comfort and approachable price. In fact, this is the shoe we recommend to most trail runners because of its widely beloved comfort features. This iteration is quite firm, but we enjoyed executing each double-digit mileage run with ease. The traction is made of high-performing, sticky rubber and multidirectional lugs. Hoka added 1 mm to the lug depth in version four, creating even more confidence on technical terrain. The Torrent is an excellent choice if you're looking for a versatile and affordable trail shoe that'll carry you through distances of all lengths.

Hoka continues to refine the Torrent, improving it with every update. This latest version delivers a firm ride, which might not appeal to runners seeking a plush experience. While the underfoot protection is sufficient, it could feel unpleasantly stiff for those accustomed to more flexible, softer cushioning. The updated lug pattern remains highly functional, though we still wish Hoka would incorporate a Vibram Litebase outsole. Vibram outsoles typically offer better grip than standard rubber, which could elevate the Torrent to the next level. Budget-conscious runners looking for a serious trail shoe should give the Torrent a try. For those who prefer a more moderate option, the more affordable Brooks Divide 5 is an excellent all-purpose shoe. The Divide is our top recommendation for new trail runners and comes in as a close runner-up to the Torrent.

Read more: Hoka Torrent 4 review

Top Pick for Rugged Terrain

La Sportiva Bushido III - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 9.11 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm

The La Sportiva Bushido III has always been a sensitive and trail-ready running shoe. This version has numerous improvements from previous iterations, making it a trail shoe that we eagerly deem the best for running seriously rugged terrain. With an ultra-protective toe cap, well-tractioned outsole, and an intimate trail feel even with a rock plate, the Bushido is ready to tackle a variety of terrain types. Its 7 mm heel-toe drop and slightly wide heel create confidence that pairs well with its grippy Bi-Compound FriXion XT 2.0 V-Groove3 outsole. If you are seeking a durable, do-it-all trail shoe that will take your running endeavors to new heights, we do not hesitate to recommend this alpine-ready superstar.

The Bushdio III is on the heavier side, weighing in at just over 9 ounces per women's size 6.5 (US) shoe. This shoe packs a serious tactical punch, which makes it such a strong shoe, so we didn't mind the extra few ounces. The exceptional sensitivity of the Bushido takes a bit of time to adjust to, but once your feet adjust and your small muscles start engaging, it's easy to enjoy the ride it provides. The ability to feel the terrain beneath you and make micro-adjustments as you run seriously levels up the trail experience. If your runs take you through creeks, puddles, and rivers, know that the Bushido doesn't dry out as readily as flimsier built options. Trail enthusiasts seeking a burly, well-tractioned shoe that is suitable for nearly all trail occasions will love everything the highest-scoring Bushido offers.

Read more: La Sportiva Bushido III review

Best for Long Distances on Technical Trails

Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 8.05 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm

The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is a shoe that stands out for ultra-distance fanatics. With just enough cushion, incredible sensitivity, and what ultimately feels like a customizable fit, the S/Lab is one of our most recommended technical shoes and excels over long distances. The strong mesh upper is flexible enough to allow your toes to flex and engage as you run, while the standard trail shoe differential provides great stability. The snug fit of the midfoot and collar makes it feel like an extension of your body on the trails, a coveted feature as the distance adds up. The S/Lab dries quickly after being soaked and allows enough airflow to be a strong contender for hot desert runs.

The S/Lab Ultra 3 is on the expensive side, which is something to consider as you shop — though it comes with a type of built-in gaiter (aka sock collar), saving you from purchasing a pair separately. That sock collar does make it a bit tougher to get on than a traditionally shaped running shoe because of its snug fit. The one-pull lace system is a polarizing feature that some runners love and others hate. The mechanism can get gunked up if you run muddy or wet trails, and the lace pocket for the excess laces is virtually ineffective. But if you want a trail shoe that will feel like part of your body as you run over long, challenging trails, this protective, sensitive, and flexible superstar is a fantastic option. It has been a GearLab award winner and tester favorite for many years.

Read more: Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

Best Trail Shoe with a Traditional Fit

Saucony Peregrine 14 - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 7.95 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm

The Saucony Peregrine 14 rides like your forever favorite road running shoe, making it a top choice for runners seeking familiar comfort on the trails. This version is loaded with updated cushioning, a plush tongue, and redesigned lugs for abrasion resistance. With rugged trail prowess, a budget-friendly price tag, and well-rounded comfort, runners seeking a user-friendly trail shoe will love what the Peregrine provides. Weighing it at just under 8 ounces per women's US size 6.5, the Peregrine comes with a midsole full of PWRRUN foam, a flexible rock plate, and (we think) a perfect toe cap.

Saucony tends to make slightly narrow shoes but has chosen to release a wide Peregrine this time around. By providing more inclusive sizing, this fantastic trail shoe can suit a wider variety of runners. If you are looking for a minimalistic trail shoe, the new plushness of the Peregrine will feel overbuilt. But if you want comfortable cushioning, great protection, and a familiar fit, the 5 mm drop Peregrine might be your perfect match.

Read more: Saucony Peregrine 14 review

Best for Comfortable Zero Drop Performance

Altra Lone Peak 8 - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 8.14 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm

The Altra Lone Peak 8 continues to shine as a perfect choice among ultra-distance runners and hikers, and it's not hard to see why. Boasting 20 mm of stack and cushioning across the entire midsole and a 0.22-inch-thick tongue, along with an expansive toe box, this shoe facilitates a natural splay of the forefoot. This spacious toe box is particularly beneficial for enhancing foot and toe muscle development, potentially aiding in the resolution of foot and toe-related issues in some runners. With its confirmed measured heel-toe drop of 0 mm, this shoe is ideally suited for individuals who run forefoot first, as opposed to heel striking. We highly recommend the Lone Peak 8 for runners and hikers seeking a plush, comfortable, and long-lasting trail companion with a zero-drop design.

Adapting to the zero-drop design of the Lone Peak requires a bit of adjustment period since most traditional shoes are designed with a slight heel lift. Without additional cushioning in the heel to elevate it, your body's rear chain of muscles will need to exert more effort, potentially leading to strain on the Achilles tendon, calves, and soles of your feet. With consistent training and gradual acclimatization, this discomfort can diminish over time. If you're new to zero-drop footwear, it's advisable not to expect immediate long-distance running capabilities with this shoe. Nevertheless, for individuals in search of a cushioned, well-protected, and generously spacious trail running shoe that allows for toe splaying, the Lone Peak fits the bill perfectly.

Read more: Altra Lone Peak 8 review

Best Propulsively Plated Trail Shoe

Altra Mont Blanc Carbon - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 7.04 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2 mm

The Altra Mont Blanc Carbon is unlike any other trail shoes we've tested, carbon-plated options included. The Mont Blanc is as propulsive as it is protective, making it a standout shoe for technical race days. A women's size 6.5 weighs in at just over 7 ounces, which is profoundly light for how much protection and strength this shoe offers. With a 2 mm drop, as measured by our laboratory testing team, this neutral-feeling shoe makes a great race-day companion for runners accustomed to zero-drop kicks or those looking to try out a speed-centered trail shoe.

The Mont Blanc Carbon runs a bit small and slightly narrow, so we recommend sizing up for maximal comfort. Zero drop — or 2 mm drop, as measured using World Athletics standards — shoes are not for all runners, which narrows the scope of applications when it comes to this trail runner. The extreme underfoot protection of the Mont Blanc inhibits its sensitivity, making it a less suitable choice for runners seeking a lot of trail information. Trail runners who want a carbon-plated race day shoe or want to move away from plush zero-drop shoes will love the propulsion, comfort, and protection provided by this one-of-a-kind trail running shoe.

Read more: Altra Mont Blanc Carbon review

Best Ultra-Lightweight Trail Runner

Nnormal Kjerag - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 6.61 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm

The Nnormal Kjerag is unlike the rest of the shoes in our roundup. It is otherworldly in how little it weighs, yet it provides strong traction and more protection than your typical road shoe. The Kjerag is exceptionally sensitive due to its lack of insole, providing the most intimate trail experience we've felt thus far. Its bootie-style tongue ensures a precise fit, and its Kevlar-coated upper is ready to take a beating.

All of the fantastic features of the Kjerag make it an understandably pricey shoe. And even though it offers some protection, there are more rugged options out there that will serve you better on tough, rocky trails. Often, protection and weight go hand-in-hand, so determining your priorities and the type of trail running you want to tackle will help you decide if this ultralight shoe is right for you.

Read more: Nnormal Kjerag review

A Notable Tech-Centered

Speedland GS:PDX - Women's

Weight (per shoe): 8.70 oz | Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm

The Speedland GS:PDX is notable because it is unique and shockingly customizable. Runners can nip and tuck the lugs and drainage ports to suit the terrain they often plan to run. Speedland runners can also opt to purchase a carbon plate that they can add or remove to their heart's content. Every bit of the shoe is a gearhead's dream. In fact, it reminds our testers more of a truly customizable mountain bike than a typical trail running shoe. This shoe is designed with a spacious toebox for comfort and a PerformFit Wrap with BOA Li2 upper for a unique-to-you midfoot lock. With durability and integrity at the core of the construction, Speedland shoes shine as ones that will delight gear-minded runners looking to ratchet up their trail running experience.

While the Speedland GS:PDX shines from a technical perspective, it's not going to be every runner's cup of tea. The price is nearly exorbitant, making it an out-of-the-question splurge for casual runners. Runners who can stomach the price might still not love the heft when compared to some of the lighter shoes in our lineup. The sheer inclusion of technical features and rugged durability makes the weight acceptable, but runners who are on the fence about these components should look elsewhere. Unlike anything that has come before, Speedland shoes will surprise and delight runners who spend most of their time tearing up trails and dreaming about their next multi-summit days.

Read more: Speedland GS:PDX review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	80	Hoka Mafate Speed 4 - Women's Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Women	$185
	78	La Sportiva Bushido III - Women's Top Pick for Rugged Terrain	$145
	76	Altra Lone Peak 8 - Women's Best for Comfortable Zero Drop Performance	$140
	76	Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 - Women's Best for Long Distances on Technical Trails	$190
	76	Altra Mont Blanc Carbon - Women's Best Propulsively Plated Trail Shoe	$260
	75	Hoka Torrent 4 - Women's Best Bang for Your Buck	$130
	75	Saucony Peregrine 14 - Women's Best Trail Shoe with a Traditional Fit	$140
	75	Salomon Speedcross 6 - Women's	$145
	75	Hoka Speedgoat 6 - Women's	$155
	75	Speedland GS:PDX - Women's	$275
	74	Nnormal Kjerag - Women's Best Ultra-Lightweight Trail Runner	$195
	73	Salomon Thundercross - Women's	$140
	73	Topo Ultraventure 3 - Women's	$150
	73	Brooks Catamount 3 - Women's	$170
	73	Nnormal Tomir 2.0 - Women's	$170
	73	Hoka Tecton X 3 - Women's	$275
	72	Merrell Agility Peak 5 - Women's	$140
	72	Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 - Women's	$160
	72	La Sportiva Jackal II - Women's	$165
	70	Brooks Divide 5 - Women's	$110
	70	Merrell Antora 3	$125
	70	Hoka Challenger 7 - Women's	$145
	69	Salomon Sense Ride 5 - Women's	$140
	69	Salomon Ultra Glide 2 - Women's	$150
	68	Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra - Women's	$220
	67	Brooks Cascadia 18 - Women's	$140
	63	New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8 - Women's	$150
	61	Asics Gel-Venture 9 - Women's	$80
	59	Hoka Stinson 7 - Women's	$170
	55	Nike Zegama 2 - Womens	$180
	51	Nike Ultrafly - Women's	$260

How We Tested

For over a decade, we have traveled all over testing women's trail running shoes, getting our hands on hundreds of unique pairs. We've hiked up towering passes in Peru, run over summits in the Rocky Mountains, jogged over dry singletrack in the desert, raced across the beaches of California, and explored the most remote parts of the Pacific Northwest. Some of our main testing locations are Montaña de Oro State Park on the rugged coast of California and the iconic Lake Tahoe. Both locations offer sweeping vistas and scenic peaks — and hundreds of miles of trails with enough slippery scree to test an army of running shoes. Each pair of shoes in our lineup has logged at least 60 miles — some with over 1,000 miles if they last that long. Our review compiles this data to give you recommendations for your best trail sidekick — or two.

Our field testing of trail running shoes is divided 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

Our main tester, Ally Arcuri, is an avid trail runner, an exercise specialist, and a cancer survivor. Ally has been deep in the world of running for nearly two decades and truly found her feet on the trails. She has taken on ultra marathons in the Rocky Mountains and is currently training for shorter, speedier trail races. Ally has a degree in kinesiology from Cal State Fullerton and utilizes her knowledge of biomechanics heavily while assessing each pair of shoes. She currently lives next door to Montaña de Oro State Park in San Luis Obispo County, California, though she attributes her love of trails to her upbringing in the wilderness of South Lake Tahoe.

Analysis and Test Results

Our trail running shoe lineup and testing covers a wide range of products to reflect the best options on the market for most types of trail runners. Each shoe is subjected to the same tests to determine even tiny differences in performance with objectivity. After rating each across our metrics, we assign a comparative score to determine which has the best performance. We offer an in-depth comparison to help you find exactly what you're looking for.

What's the Best Value?

The value of a running shoe is relative, based on how many miles you like to lay down and the shoe's durability, versatility, and cost. If you like to run a variety of trail types, a shoe that offers exceptional versatility will be a better value for you than a more niche shoe that is suitable for only one terrain type. For example, many manufacturers are now releasing race-specific shoes that tend to be a bit pricier and narrower in their scope of applications. When it comes to value, it is important to determine how many pairs of shoes you feel comfortable purchasing and why. If you are ready to level up your races, the value of purchasing a specifically skilled shoe might be worth it. If you are a strong runner who loves serious endeavors but feels unmotivated by pace, more universally styled options will likely provide a better bang for your buck.

The Hoka Torrent 4 stands out as an exceptional value thanks to its versatility and affordable price. Built to last, the Torrent resists premature wear and performs well on trails thanks to stable rigidity and lug pattern. Its all-around performance means you won't need to invest in multiple pairs to tackle different terrains, making it a smart, budget-friendly choice for runners who like to mix up their routes. Time after time, the Torrent stands out as a shoe that offers a cost-effective approach to performance.

The Brooks Divide 5 is another trail shoe that delivers excellent value. Designed specifically for light trails, it offers impressive durability and familiar comfort, enhancing its appeal. This shoe is an ideal choice for new trail runners who aren't ready to commit to high-tech options but want a reliable, comfortable shoe that can handle the demands of trail running with ease. While the Divide was narrowly beaten by the Torrent 4 in our testing this season, the performance gap was narrow. Runners on a budget may prefer the cushion the Divide offers, but either shoe is a fantastic choice if you want to save cash but rip in style.

Foot Protection

When considering the foot protection of a shoe, we systematically look at different elements and how they work together to create cohesive protection while bombing down (or up) trails. In some cases, foot protection impedes sensitivity, another one of our scoring metrics. Some of the best trail shoes on the market strike the perfect balance between protection from unexpected trail hazards and sensitivity to feel what is beneath you.

One of the first things we look for when it comes to foot protection is a rock plate. Though more and more of the best trail shoes are being released without them, rock plates tend to boost a shoe's underfoot protection. A rock plate is a small panel within the shoe's sole that protects your feet from feeling the sharp points of rocks as you travel over them. Shoes that are released without rock plates often have a thicker underfoot cushion, or “stack,” to dampen the intensity of the trail.

Beefy underfoot stacks can be as protective as rock plates, so shoes are measured on how well they protect the soles of our feet, not simply on the presence or absence of a rock plate. As you might imagine, the best rock plates are the ones you can't feel, but they still protect your feet. And some of the most protective heel stacks are also some of the thickest — but not always.

The Altra Mont Blanc Carbon and Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra are two carbon-plated shoes that should not be overlooked when it comes to underfoot protection. Both provide serious underfoot chonk to protect your soles from sharp rocks. The Altra Mont Blanc also impressed us with its serious upper foot protection. We were able to dial in the heel collar to keep most debris out, the flexible toe cap is highly effective, and when we poured water on them it rolled right off the surface.

We also assess the toe cap of each shoe for overall protectiveness. Accidentally stubbing your toe on a rogue rock can quickly sabotage the rest of your run, which is why toe bumpers exist. Some toe caps are constructed of a thin, flexible rubber coating that provides little protection. Other shoes have straight-up bumpers at the front, which can offer more than enough protection from accidental toe stubs.

If you want a trail running shoe that prioritizes underfoot cushion for protection, we enthusiastically recommend a few of Hoka's offerings. The Challenger 7, and Speedgoat 6 are divergent in the types of runners and terrain they best serve, but they all have one thing in common — thick, highly protective underfoot stacks, none of which have rock plates.

Many trail shoes are manufactured with a specific terrain type in mind. The style of toe cap is a great way to suss out what kind of environment a shoe is made for. Shoes with more rigid toe caps tend to be made for rockier, tougher terrain, while shoes with a lamination-style toe cap are more equipped for flowy, sandy trails. The Topo Ultraventure 3, for example, is made for moderate trails and has a more flexible toe cap. It has a 30 mm stack in the forefoot and a 34 mm stack at the heel, which provides ample underfoot protection. Conversely, the a Bushido III offers a thick and firm toe cap which, in tandem with its rock plate, make it a prime choice for protection on high alpine trails.

When measuring foot protection, we take a 360-degree look at each shoe, from its outsole to its toe box to its upper. While none of the shoes we've tested are waterproof, some are more water-resistant than others. Many of the shoes we tested also have a “GTX” version, where Gore-Tex is used to add water protection. If you know you'll be tackling a lot of water, look for this option — just know it's likely to be less breathable and more expensive. We tested the conventional versions of each shoe by splashing through standing water and mud and taking the occasional trip to the beach to let the ocean saturate our shoes.

After getting each shoe wet to see how much water seeped through, we then timed how long it took them to dry. The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 doesn't offer much water resistance, but dries out very quickly in the sun. The single-pull lace system can get gunked up if you splash through a lot of mud, though. For solid summer-centric foot protection, we recommend the Nnormal Tomir 2.0. This shoe is highly breathable but still manages to provide great protection from water splashes and sand. The Saucony Peregrine 14 also has a mesh upper that does a solid job keeping particulates out on sandy runs — and there's a GTX version of the Peregrine for folks who really need extra water repellency.

The updated Brooks Cascadia 18 is a quick-drying shoe that doesn't offer rugged protection, but it allows moisture to move through it quickly once saturated. Unique to the Speedland GS:PDX are the removable (yet permanent once removed) drainage ports. These ports, combined with this shoe's lack of saturatable cushion, make them perfect for tromping through water crossings without sacrificing comfort.

Another element we look at when it comes to foot protection is how well the heel collar protects and prevents sand from coming in. While most of the shoes we tested are completely impervious to sand being flung in through the heel collar, shoes with thicker cushions and more-contoured construction scored higher. Hoka's latest carbon-plated shoe, the Tecton X 3 actually comes with an attached ankle gaiter to avoid this problem. The attached gaiter might not suit all runners for a variety of reasons, but we certainly enjoyed it.

The Merrell Antora 3 has a thicker collar that rides close to the skin. The Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 takes a different approach in that it creates a near-suction-like seal against your ankles. This makes the Pulsar Trail a bit more difficult to get on, but once it is on, sand and pebbles won't be a problem.

All factors combined, the Salomon Speedcross 6 is one of our favorite recommendations for sloppy, obstacle-riddled terrain, partly because of its awesome protection. It has a burly toe bumper and a super finely woven mesh upper. When testing each shoe's ability to prevent sand and other trail debris from infiltrating, the upper mesh is hugely important. The Speedcross does a great job deflecting water as you splash through puddles, though it takes longer to dry because it lacks lightness and breathability. A step down from the Speedcross's intensity is another Salomon option, the Thundercross. Built to be a bit softer and more approachable, the Thundercross is a highly capable shoe that doesn't feel like it's built for breaking trail.

Traction

The outsole design of a trail shoe can make or break your experience. When it comes to traction, it is valuable to decide what kind of trail you'll be running the most and then decide on some contenders from there.

We tested each pair of shoes on slick, muddy trails, loose, scree-covered mountains, beaches, bike paths, and many terrain types in between. No trail shoe is completely slip-resistant, but they all provide significantly more grip than running shoes built only for pounding pavement.

Traction Ratings on Difficult Surfaces

Product	Loose Trail	Mud	Slick Rock
La Sportiva Bushido III	5	5	5
Nnormal Tomir 2.0	5	5	5
Altra Mont Blanc Carbon	5	5	4
Hoka Mafate Speed 4	5	4	5
Brooks Cascadia 18	5	4	5
Speedland GS:PDX	5	4	5
Merrell Agility Peak 5	5	4	4
Saucony Peregrine 14	4	4	5
Hoka Speedgoat 6	4	4	5
Hoka Tecton X 3	5	4	4
Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra	5	4	4
Hoka Stinson 7	4	3	5
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8	5	3	4
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3	4	4	4
La Sportiva Jackal II	4	4	4
Salomon Thundercross	4	4	4
Hoka Torrent 4	5	3	4
Salomon Ultra Glide 2	4	3	4
Salomon Speedcross 6	3	5	3
Altra Lone Peak 8	3	4	3
Brooks Divide 5	3	3	4
Nike Zegama 2	3	3	4
Nnormal Kjerag	4	3	3
Salomon Sense Ride 5	3	3	3
Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2	3	3	3
Topo Ultraventure 3	3	3	3
Asics Gel-Venture 9	3	3	3
Nike Ultrafly	4	2	2
Hoka Challenger 7	3	2	3
Merrell Antora 3	3	2	3
Brooks Catamount 3	4	2	2

While many different traction types exist, a few patterns stand out. In general, shoes with multidirectional lugs of differing shapes provide the best traction. The lugs on trail shoes tend to be around 4 mm, though there is no one-size-fits-all lug depth for manufacturers. On some of our highest-scoring shoes, the lugs are adorned with additional texturing, which can add even more grip. For ultimate grip, the outsole needs to be a bit sticky with lugs that are sharp and strong enough to slightly penetrate the earth.

Our testers have a particular love for trail shoes that deliver a combination of nimble stability and exceptional traction — key features for boosting confidence on the trails. The exceptionally versatile Hoka Mafate Speed 4 stands out with its 5.3 mm multidirectional lugs that create outstanding grip. The Mafate Speed then takes traction a step further with its Vibram outsole, offering a stickiness that perfectly complements the aggressive lug design.

One of the features that catapulted the La Sportiva Bushido III to being a tester favorite on gnarly terrain is its traction. The 3.8 mm lugs make the Bushido suitable for mellower terrain but truly shine on technical, loose terrain where you need to be in total control. The traction pattern of the heel is designed to act as a brake when you stomp it down into the trail. On mushy snow, through muddy creek beds, and loose rock, the traction of the Bushido held up and allowed us to explore our speed confidently.

The Nnormal Tomir 2.0 offers functionality comparable to the Salomon Speedcross, which is renowned for its deep 6 mm lugs that excel in muddy and challenging terrain. While the Tomir takes a slightly different approach, its 4 mm lugs are impressively aggressive, delivering exceptional grip on even the messiest trails. Paired with sticky outsoles, the Tomir proved reliable, handling everything from sloppy paths to melting high alpine snowfields without missing a beat.

The La Sportiva Jackal II is a solidly mountain-ready shoe. It has sharp-edged thick soles that easily grip rocks with their multidirectional, 5.6 mm lugs. The race-focused Altra Mont Blanc Carbon has multidirectional lugs (3.0 mm deep) on a very grippy Vibram outsole. This pair kept us going even on more challenging surfaces, such as loose trails and slippery mud. The Saucony Peregrine 14 has biting lugs but is particularly notable for having a sticky outsole that performs very well on slick rocks.

The Mafate Speed 4 and Ultraventure 3 are both distance-focused trail shoes that perform exceptionally well on moderate hardpacked trails. Both outsoles have strong, durable lugs that hold their grip on varied terrain types. In both cases, ample cushioning makes these shoes suitable for crossing over into road-running territory, which is helpful if you cruise through your neighborhood to get to your local trail system.

Sensitivity

We rank each shoe's sensitivity, or the ability to feel the specifics of the trail beneath you, but where each runner's personal preference lies is a delightfully colorful spectrum. Many trail runners value sensitivity because feeling the undulations and unique trail features beneath you can encourage your body to make micro-adjustments as you run. The stabilizing muscles in your feet and lower legs can work harmoniously when they receive information about where and when to engage or relax. Other trail runners prefer shoes that provide dampened sensitivity, meaning they can feel that something is beneath their feet, but they can't feel exactly how pointy the rock or stick is. If you are a runner who wants a thick underfoot stack for joint cushioning and ultra-distance efforts, the “worst” in this metric might be the best fit for you.

The La Sportiva Bushido III offers supreme sensitivity with a 28 mm stack in the rearfoot and a 21 mm stack in the forefoot. This is slightly thicker than the previous version of the Bushido but still maintains an impressive level of sensitivity. This shoe is the shoe we wholeheartedly recommend if you want an intimate trail experience.

The Nnormal Kjerag also tops our charts when it comes to sensitivity due to its complete lack of insole and its outsole flexibility. The Altra Lone Peak 8 maintains impressive sensitivity on trails despite the inclusion of a rock plate in its sole. With one of the thinnest soles in our lineup and a wide toe box that lets your toes spread and feel things more keenly, the Lone Peak provides quite a bit of trail information.

The S/Lab Ultra 3 is another high scorer in this metric. Sitting 27 mm above the earth at the heel and 18 mm at the toe, its flexible outsole bends and curves around rocks and ruts in the trail. The S/Lab offers just enough cushion to remain a highly sensitive shoe that is appropriate for long distances over technical trails.

Stability

The stability of a shoe is hugely important when it comes to keeping your body safe and healthy on the trails. Stability can best be described as how secure and surefooted you feel on trails, especially when you misstep and land on an unexpected hazard. Does the shoe move with your foot as your body adjusts to regain balance, or does it go one way while your foot goes another? The latter option can result in rolled ankles and more serious injuries, which is part of why stability is so important.

Typical road running shoes have an 8-12 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference between the heel and forefoot stack heights). For the most part, trail shoes have a less significant drop because the lower your heel is to the ground, the more stable you become. The strength of the upper textiles and the inclusion of lateral structures can also aid in creating a super stable trail shoe.

Altra is known for making epic zero-drop shoes, such as the Lone Peak, which means that the heel and toe sit at the same distance above the ground. This style of shoe encourages your rear chain muscles to engage more readily, creating more stability. The caveat here is that zero-drop shoes are not comfortable for all bodies, especially if you're unaccustomed to the fit. If you like zero-drop or low-drop shoes, the latest version of the Lone Peak is one of the most stable trail running shoes we've tested, with a secure fit that helps these shoes feel like an extension of your feet. The Mont Blanc is Altra's entry into the carbon-plated world of racing shoes. Though our in-house testing team measured a 2 mm drop on this stable shoe, that differential is because of the geometry of the rocker — when standing still, these shoes provide a neutral stance that's even closer to level, as Altra advertises.

Salomon recently released a redesigned version of their comfortable standby, the Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2. This shoe boasts a 3 mm drop but is structured in a way that makes it feel less obvious than the Altra shoes we have tested. With hearty traction, a strong midfoot lock, and a spacious-but-not-clown-like toe box, this is a shoe built for stability and agility.

The Brooks Divide 5 and its updated comfort features are surprisingly stable, clenching the top spot in this metric this season. The Hoka Torrent 4 is — according to our standardized measurements — a 4 mm drop shoe with a more svelte profile. The Torrent has a way of absorbing the impact of rogue rocks and missteps that feels supremely stable. The Mafate Speed offers a similar approach to stability but with a bit more softness.

Another element that plays into stability is the width of your shoe. We don't suggest you hurtle down trails in something with a lot of lateral wiggle room, but you should have enough in-shoe real estate for your toes to splay and muscles to engage. Giving your feet this bit of space allows your muscles to work properly, which is your body's way of finding stability as you run. The Lone Peak and Pulsar Trail 2 are super stable shoes because they hit all these key elements that lead to stability. With a plush zero-drop differential (the Lone Peak is significantly more padded than the Pulsar Trail) and an emphasis on toe box space, these are our go-to recommendations for runners who want a very stable shoe.

The La Sportiva Bushido III and Hoka Stinson 7 both have fairly average heel-to-toe drops of 7 mm and 8 mm, respectively. Both these shoes have a very secure fit through their heels, though, helping them to feel quite stable and secure on our runs despite not having an overly low profile. The Tecton X 3 is another shoe that offers above-average stability with a 6 mm drop but can encourage your legs to turn over faster, thanks to its carbon fiber plate. While no shoe is completely foolproof, we absolutely trust the Torrent to keep us stable and upright even on fatigued legs.

The updated Brooks Catamount 3 is another trail running shoe with solid stability due to its strong structure. With solid traction and protection, it rides strong and sturdy, with its slightly narrow midfoot presenting our only concern. The 8 mm drop feels extra stable because of how strong the heel cup holds the foot in place.

Comfort and Fit

This is a tricky metric to assess because of how different every runner's needs and preferences are. We took a holistic approach to evaluating comfort and fit, assessing all of the details of the shoe and aligning that with what kind of runner might prefer each feature set. We describe some shoes as “universally comfortable,” meaning their comfort will appeal to the masses. Other shoes with more niche features will be less universally beloved because their fits tend to be a bit more specific. As we tested, we considered the spaciousness of the toe boxes, the width of the midfoot, and whether or not the heel collar rubs the ankle. We noted how long each shoe took to feel like our own and endeavored to be as unbiased as possible as we focused on how each pair felt on our feet.

In general, shoes with a bit more cushion and toe box space scored higher in this metric. A shoe that stands out to us as one that we think will be highly comfortable for many people is the Hoka Mafate Speed 4. With its supportive but padded body extending through the heel collar, this shoe strikes the perfect balance between forgiving, responsive, and stiff. Its plush, padded tongue prevents the laces from digging in as your feet naturally swell. The toe box isn't as wide as other shoes we've tested, but the mesh upper has a way of molding to accommodate each unique foot shape.

The Lone Peak 8 may not be as universally coveted because of its zero-drop profile, but if that's alright with you, this is one of the most comfortable and well-fitting trail shoes we've tested. Its extra-wide toe box is incredibly comfortable, while the midfoot taper holds your foot in place. The general plushness aligns with a bit of arch support for a shoe that cradles your footbed. While this pillowy, zero-drop shoe won't be for everyone, those who love it will delight in its rugged softness.

The Topo Ultraventure 3 is a comfortable option with a wide toe box. It's not as plush as the Lone Peak, but it also isn't a zero-drop shoe, so it may appeal to a wider variety of trail runners. With a crowd-pleasing 4 mm drop and a versatile fit, the Ultraventure is another high-ranking, comfortable shoe that should be on your radar if comfort is key. The Hoka Speedgoat 6 also stands out in this metric with some new updates that make it cushy, flexible, and breathable.

Salomon excels at crafting functional shoes that deliver exceptional comfort, making them a top choice for runners aiming to conquer ultra distances or log consistent daily miles. The Salomon S/Lab Ultra has the capability to conform to the individual contours of your foot, providing a comfortable cradle. With just a few runs, you'll notice signs of this contouring, particularly in the forefoot area, enhancing the overall comfort and personalized feel of the ride. The Pulsar Trail Pro 2 is another shoe that, after several runs, adapts to your foot's unique shape, resulting in heightened comfort and agility. Similarly, the Salomon Ultra Glide 2 offers a flexible fit with extra cushioning for impressive on-trail comfort.

The Saucony Peregrine 14 is a standout trail shoe in the comfort and fit metric. This iteration of the Peregrine feels stuffed with comfort from its tongue to its sole. We tout this shoe's overall awesomeness because it rides like a typical road shoe, negating the need to have a “break in” period to adapt to the ride a shoe offers. The Peregrine runs ever so slightly on the narrow side, but Saucony offers a wide version, allowing more runners to find a comfortable fit.

Weight

Weighing trail running shoes is one thing, but weighing them and assessing how that weight feels as you run is a whole different ball game. First, we weigh each shoe — in women's US size 6.5 — right out of the box, and then we assess that weight as it compares to the average weight of our current lineup. It's worth noting that textiles, rubbers, and foams are becoming lighter and lighter, and the entire current lineup of shoes we tested is within less than three ounces of each other (per shoe).

We also consider what features and attributes each pair of shoes brings to the table. Some runners are looking for super lightweight and responsive kicks to throttle up and down mountainsides, while others aren't concerned with their shoe's weight. It's important to note that unless ultralight running is your game, the lightest weight does not always make the best trail running shoe.

The most notable ultralight shoe in our lineup is the Nnormal Kjerag, an impossibly light shoe that provides protection and just enough cushion. Weighing in at just 6.61 ounces, this is the lightest shoe we have had the pleasure of testing. The weave of its upper allows it to ride snug to your feet, and with just enough responsive bounce, the Kjerag feels weightless and peppy during runs. That said, it unsurprisingly lacks some of the cushioning that super long-distance lovers might want or need.

The Altra Mont Blanc weighs a remarkable 7.04 ounces per shoe — despite including a carbon fiber plate. This is impressively lightweight for a racing shoe with this much protection and propulsion. This is the second lightest shoe in our current (extensive) lineup, making it an ideal race-day contender for runners looking for a heavy-hitting shoe. On the opposite end of the “intended use spectrum,” the Brooks Catamount 3 is one of the lighter shoes in our lineup and offers solid everyday performance for its impressively low weight.

The Hoka Challenger 7 is notably lightweight, especially considering its thick cushioning, weighing only 7.28 ounces per shoe. On par with it is the Hoka Torrent 4, which weighs 7.36 ounces per women's US size 6.5 shoe. Because of their thick soles, both shoes appear heavier than they actually are, which is a welcome surprise.

A handful of the most well-featured shoes regarding protection score the lowest in the weight metric. The Salomon Speedcross 6 is a rather niche shoe that scored low in this metric. However, the relatively higher weight of the Speedcross is worth it if you consistently run on muddy, mucky trails. The weight rides low, which is a unique feeling if you are accustomed to a more traditional fit. But the beef and weight distribution of the Speedcross allows it to do what it needs to, which is to keep you upright on slippery, hilly terrain.

Conclusion

Your running needs will dictate what kind of trail running shoe will be right for you. We have tested options that prevail on steep mountainsides and others that thrive on sandy singletrack. While no shoe is going to be right for every runner, we hope that by digging into the nuances of some of the best trail running shoes on the market, we can help guide you toward a shoe that will excite you to hit the trails.