Teresa Bergen
March 22, 2024 12:18 PM PT
If you’re new to trail running, you might wonder why you can’t just wear your regular running shoes. You can — they just won’t work as well. Trail running shoes are designed to handle wilder conditions than asphalt, such as steep inclines, patches of mud and snow, and areas full of roots and rocks.
Great as trail running shoes are, you’ll still want to wear your regular running shoes on roads. Abrasive pavement can wear down rubber lugs on trail running shoes.
Which shoes are the best for trails? “There is no one-size-fits-all trail shoe,” said Steve Moore, owner ofRun Moore, a specialty shoe store in Maryland. “The best trail shoe for you depends on factors such as foot shape, injury history, and the types of trails you run on.”
So, to find some of the best trail running shoes, we surveyed avid trail runners to get their opinions. Here’s what they had to say.
1
Hoka Clifton 9
Hoka Clifton 9 (Amazon)
“Hoka Clifton 9 is by far the best trail running shoes I’ve found so far,” said personal trainer and nutritionist Jasmine Peterson. She traded in her Nike Zoomx for Hokas and now runs faster and feels more comfortable.
“The shoes are flexible yet very sturdy and stable. As my trainer suggested, I got a ½ size larger, and they fit perfectly for my foot shape,” Peterson added. “They also proved to be quite resilient to different surfaces and weather conditions, which is great if you are an all-year runner like me.”
2
GORUCK Rough Runners
Photo courtesy of GORUCK
The GORUCK brand was designed for the sport ofrucking, which involves hiking over rugged terrain with a heavily loaded backpack.
“I have been wearing [GORUCK Rough Runner shoes] on runs (both indoor and outdoor) as well during “rucking” (heavily weighted running/jogging) sessions,” said Tom Eskey, personal trainer, nutrition coach, and founder ofGarage Gym Revisited. “Before I began running in heavily-wooded areas (and other, less-wooded trails) I didn’t realize the extent to which a more “robust” shoe was necessary for these ventures.”
Some shoes he tried weighed down his feet too much for running and felt like “cloggy boots.” But not the Rough Runners. “I have found the Rough Runners to employ the best elements of a slightly heavier-than-average running shoe (10mm heel drop, relatively lightweight, mesh lining) with robust qualities (dual-rubber compound outsole, heel-locking mechanism) to enhance stability and overall durability in tougher environments.”
So far, he’s put nearly 300 miles on a pair of Rough Runners and sees “no significant signs of wear.”
3
Merrell Trail Glove 5 (Amazon)
Merrell originated in 1981 as a hiking boot brand. So, the company knows a thing or two about trails.
“The Merrell Trail Glove 5 is a testament to what trail runners seek,” said Aashish Rastogi, personal trainer, trail runner, and CEO ofSportsUncle. “Its durable construction can withstand the most rugged terrains, while the Vibram sole offers unmatched grip, enhancing safety and performance.”
4
Salomon Speedcross 5
Salomon Speedcross 5 (Amazon)
Rastogi also endorses the Salomon Speedcross 5, which he describes as “a marvel in engineering, offering exceptional traction across varied surfaces. Its aggressive lug pattern ensures stability even in the muddiest conditions, setting a new standard for trail running shoes.”
Outdoor gear expertSheri Nagleis also a fan. “This shoe has a noticeable lug pattern on the outsole that grips dirt, rocks, and roots, which is super helpful on hikes where the trail is loose or soft,” she said. “The quicklace system makes them easy to get on and off, and they have a protective toe cap, which is great when stubbing your toe on the inevitable trail obstacles. The only downside is they don’t have a wide toe box, so they may not work for all foot shapes.”
5
Salomon SPEEDCROSS 6 GORE-TEX
Salomon SPEEDCROSS 6 GORE-TEX (Amazon)
Another shoe by Salomon also makes our list. Even within a brand, runners will have different experiences.
“Based on my experience competing in Spartan races like the Super (10K) and the Beast (21k), I’ve gone through various trail running shoes, because of the running demand across challenging terrains,” said Chris Pruitt, personal trainer and CEO ofWorkout Healthy.
“My top recommendation is the Salomon SPEEDCROSS 6 GORE-TEX. Its superior fit and traction have consistently given me the confidence to tackle slippery slopes and rough paths. The durability of this shoe is excellent, standing up to the rigors of training and multiple races over a couple of years without significant wear. While I’ve also tried the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 3, I found it slightly too narrow for my liking, leading to discomfort towards the race’s end.”
6
Ryka Kenai Trail Walking Shoe
Ryka Kenai Trail Walking Shoe (Amazon)
Los Angeles-based hiker and trail runner Lauren Gregor introduces this lesser-known company to the list.
“After years of my favorite Sauconys, I was due for a new pair of trail shoes and found Ryka. I was looking for a shoe designed for women and Ryka is exactly that,” Gregor said. “I have the Kenai Trail Walking Shoes and love the wider toe box because no matter what shoe I always used to have pain from my toes bumping into my shoes after long hikes, but these feel great.”
7
Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II
Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II (Amazon)
Eric Orton, running coach, performance expert, and “Born to Run” author, favors the Mesa Trail II from Xero Shoes.
“This is my natural running shoe of choice for the trails because it provides ample protection to my feet,” he said. “With a zero-drop design and minimal cushioning, it allows my feet to do the work, which strengthens them over time. The shoe’s design enables me to use my feet and leg muscles appropriately. They’re comfortable because they have a wide toe box that allows my toes to spread out.”
8
Merrell Skyfire 2
Merrell Skyfire 2 (Merrell)
Orton also likes the Merrell Skyfire 2 for certain terrain. “I run in the rugged Teton Mountains, so I use these shoes for faster running on technical mountain climbs,” he said. “They are extremely lightweight, nimble, and low to the ground, yet provide great grip and protection. This allows me to run very fast and perform well on vertical and technical terrain.”
9
Inov-8 Trailfly g270 V2
Inov-8 Trailfly g270 V2 (Amazon)
One more suggestion from Orton: the Inov-8 Trailfly g270 V2. He describes them as his “all-time favorite shoes and my all-day shoe for trail runs.”
“It’s zero-drop, and has precision grooves in the midsole and outsole, offering the right amount of protection for the rugged mountains yet flexibility to allow my foot to function naturally.”
10
Skechers Men's Go Run Trail Altitude
Skechers Men’s Go Run Trail Altitude (Amazon)
Trail runner and consumer trend analyst Nguyen Huy chooses Skechers Go. Huy likes the cushioning, bounce, and “aggressively lugged outsole.”
“Skechers has also clearly put thought into the fit—the adjustable upper and roomy toe box accommodate different foot shapes and swelling that can happen during long runs. To me, these shoes represent the perfect marriage of comfort, protection, and stability that discerning trail runners like myself seek.”
11
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 (Amazon)
Hokas are known for cushioning and comfort. “This shoe has a thick midsole, which keeps my feet comfortable all day during long, tough hikes,” said Nagle. “The outsoles are built to grip really well, so there’s no concerns about wet or dry trail conditions. These trail runners are designed more like standard supportive tennis shoes with a high stack height, which could be a potential drawback for some runners.”
Avid trail runner and travel enthusiastYulia Safalso endorses this Hoka. “These shoes don’t compromise comfort for durability. They are lightweight, yet offer robust protection on rocky trails. The wider forefoot gives a comfortable fit which is a rare find.”
12
Altra Lone Peak 6
Altra Lone Peak 6 (Amazon)
Nagle also favors the new Altra Lone Peak 6.
“The cushioning is completely balanced throughout, and it has a wide toe box that allows your feet to relax and spread out (i.e.- prevent toe blisters). Their grip and traction are unbeatable, and they even have a hook-and-loop tab to attach my gaiters easily, so that’s a nice bonus! The only thing is that zero-drop shoes like these don’t have arch support, so it may take some getting used to for some trail runners.”
13
Hoka Mafate Speed 4
Hoka Mafate Speed 4 (Backcountry)
One more Hoka makes the list.
“The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 features a premium Vibram outsole and a responsive midsole, providing traction, durability, and agility,” said Moore. “Its midsole blend, similar to that of Hoka’s faster road shoes, offers a bouncy and lively ride without sacrificing cushioning. Additionally, the forgiving toe box allows ample room for toe splay, enhancing comfort and stability on varied terrain.”
14
Altra Lone Peak 8
Altra Lone Peak 8 (Backcountry)
Moore also likes the Altra Lone Peak 8, which “boasts a zero-drop platform and a roomy toe box, delivering a natural and agile feel on the trail. The shoe’s “foot-shaped toe box” design promotes toe splay, allowing for a more balanced and powerful stride. Despite its seemingly low volume of cushioning, the Lone Peak 8 provides a surprisingly plush and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long-distance runs or rugged trails. Both of these shoes have garnered praise for their performance and comfort, making them popular choices among trail runners.”
While only the Altra 6 and 8 made our list, the 7 also has its adherents. “I believe the best trail running shoes are the Altra Lone Peak 7s,” said personal trainer, registered dietitian, and MyFoodAllergyTeam contributor Jesse Feder. “I really love the wide toe box that allows my foot to splay out and get a good grip with each stride on a trail.”
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