Things to know about trail running shoes
As mentioned before, when choosing trail running shoes, one of the most important consideration is what terrain you will be using them for and the kind of running. We invite you to keep reading the article to find out which kind of shoe would be the right one for you.
But here are a few more things you should be aware of:
Heel drop can be a major consideration given that many road runners are transitioning from traditional road running shoes with a 10-12mm heel drop.
Heel drop is the differential between the heel and toe of the shoe which is measured in millimeters. This is important because many trail running shoes have lower heel drops which help condition a runner to a forefoot strike and provide better stability on technical trails. Road runners used to a higher heel drop may have difficulty with calve tightness and even achilles tendon issues if they transition too quickly.
Another consideration which many trail runners find to be an issue is forefoot width.
While road shoes feel more standardized, many trail running shoes have varying forefoot widths. While some shoes are more geared towards a tight fit for racing short distances and feeling secure on technical terrain, other long distance trail shoes accommodate for foot swelling that happens in the ultra distances.
Most trail running shoes, outside of those aimed at minimalist design, feature rock plates which are typically between the squishy midsole and the hard outsole of a trail shoe.
The purpose of the rock plate is to protect the foot from sharp rocks and stone bruises. While these can make trail shoes stiffer than road running shoes the added protection becomes key, especially after long distances on technical trails.
Trail running shoes also usually have a protective toe bumper which is usually made of welded on rubber overlays that protect the toes when hitting rocks on the front of the shoe.
Other welded on and sewn on overlays are usually more substantial than in road shoes for increased durability and stability in the shoe on terrain that requires frequent turns and steep downhills.
Some companies have unique lacing designs made of kevlar that allow for quick and easy lacing and adjustments of the shoes.
Road to Trail Running Shoes
We call road-to-trail shoes that are versatile enough to run on the road, but that are not afraid to step onto rugged terrain.
A traditional road shoe is not equipped to run on trails, but a technical trail running will be too "bumpy" for a comfortable road run.
The shoes in this section are our favorite road to trail.
The winner
In short
With a significant weight reduction the Hierro has upgraded itself to an great daily running shoe for less technical trails and terrain
Pros
- Lighter than previous versions
- EcoFriendly upper
- Stable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Upper is not the most breathable and warm
- Less cushioning in the forefoot
Who should buy it
Neutral runners looking for a softe but not plush daily trial shoe suited for moderate distances and trails.
Who should not buy it
Runners looking for Minimalistic ultra sensitive, or ultra distance capable shoe.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
One of the best looking shoes of the year, the Hierro is a great shoe for those first trail outings.
Read full review
Runner up
In short
The On Cloudvista is a great entry-level trail shoe or a shoe that does well from road to smooth trails. It's beautifully built and looks great but does lack in some areas that would help make it a great trail shoe.
Pros
- Good entry level road to trail shoe
- Lightweight
- Well made
Cons
- Narrow/ Not true to size
- Not a shoe you want to get wet
Who should buy it
This is for the individual who is looking to find a shoe that can serve a few purposes. It’s for the runner who might be thinking about getting into some trail runs or for the person who just wants a shoe that can transition easily from various surfaces.
Who should not buy it
This shoe is not for the ultra trail runner. If you are looking for a well-cushioned shoe, this might not be for you either. It runs on the firmer wide like most On shoes and is felt when put to the test on the trails.
Main Specs
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Rating breakdown
Team review
While not ideal for the toughest trail conditions, this new trail shoe from On thrives on simple trails and single track roads.
Read full review
Also consider
In short
The Altra Outroad 2 brings back all of the good features from the 1st edition, but with more durability. They are versatile enough for your run to the trails and rugged enough to conquer them once you’re there.
Pros
- All day comfort
- Improved durability
- Versatile
Cons
- Runs half size small
- Traction is not suitable for moderate trails
Who should buy it
Runners that enjoy or prefer 0 heel drop will find it in the Outroad 2s. Also, if you’re looking for a shoe that can “mix it up” on various terrains, these would be worth considering.
Who should not buy it
If you’re in the market for a road only or trail only shoe, I’d look elsewhere. The Outroad 2s don’t specialize in either. Also, and this might surprise followers of Altra, but this shoe is not for individuals with wide feet. They run more narrow than other Altra models.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
A perfect mix of road and trail, with Altra's traditional zero-drop and foot-shaped last.
Read full review
All terrain trail running shoes
All terrain running shoes are good, solid trail running shoes that are comfortable in a variety of environments: from mud and rocks to ice and wet terrains.
The winner
In short
The Fuji lite 4 is a fantastic versatile trail shoe for the masses. The updates have made the shoe livelier and improved outsole traction leaves no trail unobtainable.
Pros
- Amazing traction
- Nimble and quick
- Comfortable well fitting upper
- Durable construction
Cons
- No rock plate
- Outsole has the ability to clog in muddier terrain.
Who should buy it
Trail runners wanting a versatile and quick shoe for daily mid distance mileage over all types of terrain.
Who should not buy it
Runners that like a highly or softer cushioned shoe.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The Fuji Lite 4 is light and nimble, but it's built to tackle any terrain thrown at it, even the harshest.
Read full review
Runner up
In short
The Brooks Cascadia 17 is the newest edition in a long line of tried and true, versatile trail shoes. It’s difficult to find a better combination of quality, durability, good looks and price. This shoe should make the shortlist for any serious trail runners.
Pros
- Suitable for new and seasoned runners
- Tons of protection
- Superior durability
- Feature rich for the price
Cons
- Heavy and stiff
- Cushioning firmer than described
Who should buy it
The ideal individuals for this shoe are hikers, beginner trail runners or marathoners. If you’re new to trail running and want a reliable, versatile shoe, this is for you.
Who should not buy it
Runners looking to push the limits of speed on trails will be disappointed in the weight of this shoe. They are not exactly light and nimble.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The Cascadia is a true trail classic, making protection its main USP.
Read full review
Also consider
In short
The Voyage NITRO 3 are redesigned, lighter and filled with Puma technology. They are an optimal all-weather, all-season trainer with plenty of cushion and grip to tackle any type of terrain you may encounter.
Pros
- Ultra durable
- Superior quality
- Great for winter conditions
Cons
- Narrow toebox
- Not breathable for hot conditions
Who should buy it
Anyone looking for a stylish trail shoe that checks several boxes should consider the Voyage NITRO 3s. Whether you’re training, racing, hiking or just enjoying outdoor adventures, this shoe will not disappoint.
Who should not buy it
I’d steer clear of these sneakers if you’re looking for a firm, low profile, racing shoe. Also, due to the all season upper material, they might be a bit warm for hot summer days.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Puma comes out with one of the most versatile trail shoes of last year. Give it a try, if you are curious to try something new.
Read full review
Max cushioned trail running shoes
Max cushion is here to stay, and that definitely holds true for trail running shoes too.
Here's a selection of shoes that make comfort on the trails their main objective.
The winner
In short
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads, grass, and gravel, the Stinson 7 goes the distance in plush comfort.
Pros
- Exceptionally stable on road and non-technical terrain
- Plush cushioning
- High stack protects from underfoot hazards
Cons
- Subpar agility in tight spaces and on rocks
- Outsole can get slippery on rock when wet
- Break-in period may be required before optimal comfort
Who should buy it
For a road-to-trail runner or non-technical trail runner or hiker looking for a stable, maximalist shoe to go the distance in comfort.
Who should not buy it
Trail runners who primarily run on technical, uneven terrain with tight rocks where a lot of agility is required or speed is the focus.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Embodiment of the Max Cushion category, the Stinson is one of our favorite shoes of last year - great protection, traction and the world-famous Hoka cushioning.
Read full review
Runner up
In short
The Altra Olympus 5.0 is a trail shoe that will handle just about anything you throw at it. From runnable to technical, this shoe will keep your feet happy out on the trail.
Pros
- Very Good Traction
- Ample Cushioning
- Protective Toe Cap
Cons
- A Bit Heavy
- Tongue can Rub Ankle/Shin
Who should buy it
The Altra Olympus 5.0 is a great shoe for runners that want plenty of cushion and protection beneath their feet. With the Olympus 5, runners don’t need to worry about changes in terrain causing problems, from rocks to roots to roads, there is nothing the Olympus can’t handle.
Who should not buy it
The Altra Olympus 5.0 is not ideal for the trail runner that prioritizes speed on the trail. This shoe is a bit of a beast, and while it would be fine for a fast/runnable trail race there are certainly lighter options available that would probably be preferred in that situation.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Here's the Olympus, Altra's version of a max cushioned trail shoe. Similarly to the Hoka, together with a soft cushion, you also get impressive protection and traction.
Read full review
Also consider
In short
This new Caldera Takes what the Catamount and Cascadia aren’t to create a shoe that is a bruiser, and fully focused on comfort, protection, and distance. The Caldera is a great shoe for long running days and ultra distance efforts on moderate and below trails.
Pros
- Bottomless cushion and protection
- Lively and smooth ride
- Extremely broad and stable
- Excellent road behavior
Cons
- Wide platform is not well suited for technical terrain
- Heavy
- Voluminous upper.
Who should buy it
The Caldera 6 is a great shoe for the runner that loves a door to trail option that provides a responsive and protective ride for long miles.
Who should not buy it
Runners with a narrower foot or those wanting a maximal shoe that works well on technical terrain.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The Caldera in a few years managed to become one of the most popular trail running franchises.
Read full review
Best running shoes for technical trails
Are you going to go on steep climbs and descents on very harsh terrains.
The winner
In short
The Salomon Speedcross 6 is a durable and responsive shoe that is built for terrain where traction and protection are critical, including early season trail and road conditions and technical terrain.
Pros
- Excellent traction on most types of terrain
- Durable
- Reliable protection in the upper, especially from dirt and debris
Cons
- Stiff, highly structured upper
- Collects mud in sticky conditions and can be slick on smooth, wet surfaces
- Softer outsole absorbs energy on hard-packed surfaces
Who should buy it
For the trail runner (or winter weather road runner) looking for a nimble, responsive shoe with excellent protection that is exceptionally reliable on soft surfaces.
Who should not buy it
Road-to-trail commuters, racers on mostly flat, hard-packed trails, or trail runners looking for a cushioned shoe to reduce the impact of longer efforts.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The Speedcross is possibly the shoe on this list that can take the worst beatings and propel you through the harshest terrains.
Read full review
Runner up
In short
The Peregrine 13 continues its legacy as a lighter weight nimble trail shoe but now with more cushioning and greater protection. This shoe is a great choice for any trail runner looking for a responsive Gripping shoe for everything from easy runs to racing.
Pros
- Well tractioned
- Responsive
- Breatheable and light weight
- Comfortable rock plate
- Balanced cushioning
Cons
- Outsole not suited for pavement
- Slightly narrow toebox
- Rigid lower heel counter.
Who should buy it
Neutral trail runners looking for a trail shoe that con do it all.
Who should not buy it
Higher volumes feet runners or runners wanting a race specific shoe.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
One of our "gold standards" against which we measure other trail shoes.
Read full review
Best trail running shoes for racing
Are you a competitor and speed is what matters? Here's trail running shoes for your races.
The winner
In short
The Hoka Challenger ATR 7 is lighter while maintaining the same
cushioning, propulsion and comfort that the brand is known for. Those who loved previous versions of the Challenger will love this one even more. Runners
looking for an even lighter trail shoe for moderate terrain will also find
comfort and satisfaction with the Challenger 7.
Pros
- Extremely versatile shoe, good for paved and natural surfaces.
- Incredibly comfortable
- Lighter than previous versions
- Brings energy and stability
Cons
- May not work for toe strikers
- Not a great option for technical terrain
Who should buy it
The Hoka Challenger ATR 7 is a solid option for many runners, including those new to Hokas, runners seeking options for up to moderate terrain, and those training for races that offer a mix of paved, dirt and/or grassy trails.
Who should not buy it
If the vast majority of your runs are in technical terrain, skip the Challenger. While these shoes are an excellent option for mild to moderate trails, there are options much more suitable for technical running. Scroll down to the conclusion for one option.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Light weight and great traction make the Challenger 7 our best option for trail racing at various distances.
Read full review
Runner up
In short
The UltraFly trail is certainly one of the fastest on the market but it’s limited use, focus, and high price tag will make it a hard sell for most runners.
Pros
- No plate harshness
- Vibram outsole
- Fast door to trail, gravel roads, and smooth trail.
Cons
- Lack of flexibility
- High price tag
- Softness impacts stability.
Who should buy it
Runners that have the funds and are seeking a race day shoe for buffed trails and forest roads without sacrificing comfort.
Who should not buy it
Runners seeking a versatile race day shoe capable of rugged mileage.
Main Specs
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Rating breakdown
Team review
Nike entered the "carbon fiber plate trail running shoe" race and delivered a shoe that is just shy of greatness.
Read full review
Quick Questions you might have
Can I run on the road with trail shoes?
Although you technically can run on the road with trail shoes, we recommend against it - unless they are road-to-trail shoes. The lugs will be uncomfortable and will wear off unnecessarily early.