Trail running shoes balance comfort, durability and traction, with reinforced uppers and grippy tread patterns that make light work of rugged terrain. Some are great for scrambling, others for racing, but they all excel beyond the beaten path. To find the best trail running shoes, my colleague and I tested 22 pairs this year, logging hundreds of miles across the country, from the slopes of the Sierras to the shores of Long Island. By the time the trail dust settled, seven shoes made the final cut, and the On Cloudultra 3 stood out as our top pick for most runners because it’s nimble, cushy and adaptable. We also liked the Brooks Caldera 8 for its reliable support at a reasonable price.
Scrutinizing everything from upper constructions to outsole compounds, I worked with my colleague, Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, to test trail shoes from such brands as Hoka, Brooks, Altra, Mount to Coast and many more. Along the way, I consulted experts—doctors, fitness coaches and veteran runners—to learn more about trail running shoes and about how to choose a pair. Based on our findings, here are seven of the best trail running shoes, each of which suits a specific type of runner or running style.
Our Top Recommendations
- Best Trail Running Shoes Overall: On Cloudultra 3
- A Reliable Runner-Up: NNormal Tomir 02
- Best Value Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Caldera 8
- Best Road-To-Trail Running Shoes: Hoka Stinson 7
- Best Wide Toe Box Trail Running Shoes: Altra Lone Peak 9+
- Best Trail Running Shoes For Hiking: Asics Gel-Trabuco 13
- Best Trail Running Shoes For Training And Racing: La Sportiva Prodigio Pro
Best Trail Running Shoes Overall
Traverse Rocks, Roots And Rugged Terrain In Comfort
On Cloudultra 3
Weight (pair): 16.6 ounces (women’s), 20.8 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 6 millimeters | Upper: Polyester, TPU | Outsole: “Missiongrip” rubber
I’ve logged hundreds of miles in On shoes over the years, and both my wife and son swear by them for everything from long runs to HIIT sessions. Our familiarity with the brand made it that much more exciting when On released the Cloudultra 3—and I wasn’t surprised when it performed with aplomb.
My positive experience kicked off when I put the shoe on for the first time: Out of the box, the Cloudultra 3 fit well and felt comfortable thanks to its snug upper that cradles the heel and holds the foot in place. I walked around to get a feel for the shoe and found that my tendency to overpronate was curtailed by its Helion HF dual midsole. The two different types of midsole foam—one of which is firm, the other soft—made it easier to land in comfort and quickly transition to the next step, without rolling my foot inward.
The midsole features On’s popular (and proprietary) CloudTec cushioning—empty space is carved into the foam and pockets of air allow for maximum compression. As I stomped on roots and rocks, the sole absorbed and dispersed impact, while on flat, hard-packed dirt, it felt energetic and propulsive. And whether I was running on mud, gravel, dirt, leaves or grass, the outsole provided plenty of traction, ensuring I stayed upright through sudden stops and sharp turns. From top to bottom, every part of the Cloudultra 3 did its job.
With that said, this shoe features a thick, firm sole, so if you prefer trail shoes that prioritize ground feel, consider something with less cushioning like the Altra Lone Peak 9+. The mesh upper is also highly breathable but not at all water resistant, so it isn’t a great option for wet, muddy trails, unless you don’t mind soggy feet. At the end of the day, this is a well-rounded shoe that can handle most trails and support most efforts, which is why it earns the top spot in this guide.
A Reliable Runner-Up
Maximal Cushioning And Grip For Long, Explorative Runs
NNormal Tomir 02
Weight (pair): 18.6 ounces (unisex) | Drop: 8 millimeters | Upper materials: Polyester, TPE, nylon | Outsole: Vibram Megagrip rubber
NNormal is a newcomer in the running world, founded in 2022 by professional endurance athlete and mountaineer Kilian Jornet. Given the brand’s newness, it’s understandable that Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta was skeptical when he slipped on the Tomir 02 for the first time. Fortunately, that skepticism quickly turned to surprise as he began logging miles.
The shoe features a thick, bulbous midsole that looks a bit like a clown shoe, but once you get past looks, it’s incredibly comfortable. The cushioning is definitely soft, but it isn’t sluggish, and there isn’t much of a rocker despite the eight-millimeter drop, so your feet feel planted as they land. That large drop and wealth of cushioning makes the Tomir 02 an excellent shoe for downhill runs when your heels are hitting the trail a bit harder, and the roomy forefoot promotes toe splay for improved stability as things get technical.
The shoe combines Vibram Megagrip rubber with five-millimeter lugs in a semi-aggressive pattern. Vigliotta didn’t have any trouble navigating obstacles or varied terrain, and he specifically noted how fresh his feet felt after long runs. He even took the shoe backpacking in the Sierras, and the thick support and cushioning never faded, nor did the grip over smooth granite slabs. Small details, like offset laces that follow the foot’s natural arch, improve long-term comfort, which speaks to NNormal’s ultra running roots.
Though drawbacks were few and far between, the shoe ran a bit hot, and the upper was on the stiffer side—a result of the brand’s commitment to durability. NNormal creates the upper from a single main material to ensure a cohesive design that lasts longer, but it sacrifices some breathability. Ultimately, this is an excellent shoe if you’re after more cushioning, reliable grip and a durable, deliberate design. Lace it up for a long run or a thru-hike, and it’ll go the distance.
Best Value Trail Running Shoes
Features We Love For Fewer Dollars
Brooks Caldera 8
Weight (pair): 18.6 ounces (women’s), 21.2 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 6 millimeters | Upper materials: Quick-dry mesh | Outsole: TrailTack Green rubber
When we talk about trail running shoes that represent a great value, we’re not talking about the cheapest shoes you can find, but rather, the shoes that excel in most ways without costing an arm and a leg to own. The Brooks Caldera 8 embraces this concept better than any other shoe we tested.
Like many Brooks shoes, the Caldera 8 has a soft, chunky midsole with a lot of foam positioned under the heel to absorb impact. This strategic cushioning made light work of hard-packed dirt as Vigliotta ran along the McKenzie River in Central Oregon, where roots, rocks and water stops were common. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam felt supportive, but it wasn’t all that energetic or propulsive. Brooks’ TrailTack Green rubber compound was also sticky and reliable thanks to multidirectional lugs, though long-term testing will reveal if it’s as durable as Vibram rubber.
Although summer sun at altitude made for hot runs, the shoe’s breathable mesh upper prevented overheating, even as Vigliotta pushed long runs into double-digit mileage. The laces came untied along the way, but after stopping to retie and cinch the shoe up, it didn’t happen again.
At $140, this shoe checks a lot of boxes, though it’s not really built for short, fast runs or races. Instead, the cushioning and blocky profile feel more at home during long runs, when sustained effort is more important than time elapsed. Sign up for ultras if you want to use it as a race shoe, or skip the races altogether and rack up long, carefree miles knowing your footwear didn’t set your wallet on fire.
Best Road-To-Trail Running Shoes
Tread That's Ready For All Sorts Of Terrain
Hoka Stinson 7
Weight (pair): 21.6 ounces (women’s), 25.8 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 5 millimeters | Upper materials: Engineered jacquard mesh | Outsole: Rubber
Hoka’s trail running shoes have been popular among both amateur and professional athletes for years, and I’ve run in Hokas long enough to know the Stinson is a best-seller. Still, I was surprised by just how well this shoe performed on sidewalks and streets as I made my way to local trails.
Upon closer inspection, the shoe’s performance on flat, hard surfaces isn’t actually that surprising. Its tread pattern combines strips of rubber underfoot that are similar to those on road running shoes with trail-ready lugs along the perimeter. The lugs dig into loose dirt, while the central rubber strips offer the versatility you need for roads, tracks or even treadmills. What you’re left with is a shoe that feels just as comfortable on pavement as it does on dirt.
Ultimately, it was on the trail that I came to appreciate one of the shoe’s most impressive traits: stability. The Stinson 7 features what Hoka calls an “H-frame” midsole, with thicker, firmer bands of foam that run along the perimeter of the midsole and cross under the arch. In theory, this design greatly reduces overpronation, and in practice, it kept my feet upright and aligned, even when I intentionally altered my gait to land on different parts of my feet. Every step felt a bit more stable.
The Stinson 7 is a bit heavier than many of the other shoes we tested, but its versatility, cushioning and stability helped it stand out. And despite the added weight, it handles runs on different surfaces incredibly well, from rocky paths to fresh pavement. For runners who want a trail shoe that can do it all, this is a great option.
Best Wide Toe Box Trail Running Shoes
A Popular Shoe With An Updated Outsole
Altra Lone Peak 9+
Weight (pair): 18.6 ounces (women’s), 23.1 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 0 millimeters | Upper materials: RPET ripstop mesh | Outsole: Vibram Megagrip rubber
Admittedly, I was skeptical about how the Altra Lone Peak 9+ would feel as someone who prefers trail running shoes with drop and added cushioning. And yet, while this is a zero-drop shoe, it surprised me with a comfortable and natural feel under the heel, and there was no question about the room up front for my toes. In fact, the toe box is noticeably roomy, and runners with wide feet in particular will appreciate that extra width as their toes spread out with each step.
It’s worth mentioning the “+” in the Lone Peak 9+ name—it refers to the updated Vibram Megagrip outsole, which is new for the Lone Peak series. We tested both the Lone Peak 9 and 9+ and found the latter to be a bit more durable and grippy, especially when navigating loose terrain. It’ll cost you $15 more, but we think the added traction and longevity is worth it.
The Lone Peak 9+ upper is flexible, and it wrapped snugly around my foot once the laces were cinched, with plenty of room to accommodate a wider forefoot. From the first time I handled the shoe, I suspected the upper would be durable, and that was confirmed once I hit the trail: It did a great job protecting against rocks, brambles and debris, though it’s not as breathable as I’d like. Altra describes the material as a ripstop “mesh,” but it held in more heat and moisture than mesh probably should while running in a humid summer heatwave.
The directional lug pattern helped me stay on course as I made my way up and down hills, and I didn’t mind the zero-drop design as much as I thought I would. It shines on longer runs over relatively smooth, straight trails, but what really sets it apart is the wide toe box. That extra room up front allows your toes to splay, improving comfort and stability. For runners with wider feet—or anyone who’s done with cramped, narrow trail shoes—the Lone Peak 9+ offers a welcome fit.
Best Trail Running Shoes For Hiking
Great Traction And Firm Support For More Weight
Asics Gel-Trabuco 13
Weight (pair): 18.4 ounces (women’s), 20 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 8 millimeters | Upper materials: Polyester mesh | Outsole: Asicsgrip rubber
While the tread pattern on the Asics Gel-Trabuco 13 looks aggressive, the lugs are just over three millimeters tall. That gives the shoe a decent bite on the trail, but what really stood out to me was how well it handled hiking, especially when I put some weight on my back.
The Gel-Trabuco is fairly stiff underfoot, with an outsole that doesn’t offer much flex. As iffy as it sounds, that rigidity is actually a good thing when you’re carrying a heavy pack because it provides extra support and reduces foot fatigue over longer distances. There’s also plenty of cushioning underfoot, with extra-thick padding under the heel to help absorb impact if you’re loaded down with gear. Up top, the snug-fitting upper kept the shoe secure during long, muddy miles, even after a full day of rain made local trails slick and unsteady.
In fact, testing this shoe in slick, muddy conditions gave me a real appreciation for its ability to balance cushioning and traction. The shallow but well-placed lugs provided reliable grip, and the mostly mesh upper did a good job releasing heat and moisture, save for some warmth trapped around the heel collar.
Technically, this shoe is designed for neutral and underpronating gaits, which I—an overpronator—am not. Still, I think it works for most runners and hikers, especially if you want extra support without lacing up a true stability shoe. The firm cushioning makes it a lot more comfortable to hike with gear and keeps you light on your feet, so you can save the hiking boots for truly technical terrain.
Best Trail Running Shoes For Training And Racing
A Fast, Explosive Shoe For Competition
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro
Weight (pair): 15.8 ounces (women’s), 17.8 ounces (men’s) | Drop: 6 millimeters | Upper materials: PES, TPU, nylon | Outsole: FriXion White (XF 2.0) rubber
The La Sportiva Prodigio Pro didn’t leave the strongest first impression. On gentle, rolling terrain, Vigliotta found the midsole uncomfortable and the fit slightly narrow, as if it struggled on casual runs. But once he brought it to a trail race series and the terrain became more technical, the shoe found its stride, and from that point on, it became one of our favorites for fast, light, competitive efforts.
The secret to the Prodigio Pro’s penchant for speed lies in its XFlow Speed midsole. The lively and energetic foam keeps you moving quickly, and a slight forefoot rocker lends itself to quick toe-offs and soft landings. It’s not too tall either, so instability isn’t a problem even if you’re bouncing back and forth over obstacles. Vigliotta dodged high-desert rocks with ease and picked up the pace to keep with the pack, all without losing a step. The more technical the terrain became, the happier the shoe was to find its way through the mess.
To focus solely on the midsole would be a disservice to the Power Wire upper, as it’s one we love and haven’t seen before. Made from a web of interconnected threads, it looks like someone threw it together with a 3D printing pen, but the layout is much stronger and incredibly breathability. It’s also finished with a knit collar to create a sock-like fit around the ankle, which maintains a great degree of flexibility with the added benefit of keeping out debris. The upper isn’t all that flexible, so you shouldn’t expect to stretch it out as you break the shoe in, but if you get the fit right, it shouldn’t cause any problems.
La Sportiva knows a thing or two about reliable traction, so it wasn’t all that surprising when we found the Prodigio Pro’s FriXion White outsole to be grippy and durable. Vigliotta raced in this shoe twice and couldn’t remember losing traction, even as sandpits gave way to rock gardens.
As far as downsides go, the Prodigio Pro is a bit narrow, so runners with wide feet should consider something more roomy like the NNormal Tomir 02 or even the Altra Lone Peak 9+. It’s also expensive, so you shouldn’t pick it up as a casual trail shoe unless your everyday runs are fast or technical. If, however, you’re training or competing and want something that comes alive as you push the pace, this is a great shoe for such occasions.
Beyond the best trail running shoes featured above, we also tested 11 other pairs of shoes that didn’t quite win us over for one reason or another.
Mount To Coast H1 ($160): For those of you keeping score at home, the lightest pair of shoes mentioned in this guide weighs about 18.6 ounces, which is light until you consider the new H1 from Mount to Coast weighs a mere 17 ounces—it’s laughably light and a great choice for moving fast over moderate terrain. The two-millimeter lug depth may not be suitable for deep mud, slick rocks or gnarled trails, but it’s an exceptional road-to-trail shoe if weight is a top priority.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hiero v9 ($160): This good-looking shoe from New Balance feels most at home on groomed trails that see plenty of traffic, what with a midrange drop of four millimeters and middling tread. Measuring 42 millimeters thick under the heel and 38 under the toe, ground feel isn’t great, but you can log mile after mile in comfort thanks to all that cushioning. Just don’t expect it to excel when the going gets technical.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 ($155): Stiff, narrow and unstable, the Speedgoat 6 is a bit of a letdown. Vigliotta spent time with it on winding trails around Lake Tahoe before a snowstorm pummeled the basin, at which point he hit the streets to assess traction and stability. While the Vibram rubber kept him upright on slush and ice, cushioning and comfort were lacking, which is why this storied shoe didn’t make the final cut.
Mount To Coast T1 ($180): We’ve used the T1 extensively since its release, and while the design’s two-part lacing system is unique, there’s not much else that makes this shoe truly stand out. Truth be told, it does everything well, and we really like how light, grippy and stable it feels on long runs, but it doesn’t best other technical shoes like the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro, or more comfortable shoes like the NNormal Tomir 02 and Brooks Caldera 8.
Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 ($250): With its crater-like impressions spread out among the lugs, this shoe is certainly eye catching. Salomon says the “wavy geometry” is designed to disperse and dampen the impacts of footfalls, and based on testing, it works as intended. Still, it’s hard to look past the price tag, especially when similar race-ready shoes like the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro cost less and offer the same degree of performance and comfort.
Saucony Peregrine 15 ($145): This lightweight and highly flexible trail runner feels kind of like a barefoot shoe—or at least, as close to it as you can get with a four-millimeter drop and five-millimeter lugs. The mesh upper is soft and doesn’t rub, though it is slightly narrow, and both the outsole and midsole offer decent protection against rocks and roots. Still, it isn’t great for highly technical terrain, and the midsole feels a bit too soft for its own good.
Brooks Cascadia 19 ($150): The Cascadia 19 is comfortable from the first wear, but the stiff outsole beneath a layer of decent cushioning is a letdown. While the shoe’s ability to absorb impact is great, it struggles to make sense of the terrain, so every step feels shaky. It’s a solid, lightweight design, but it feels more like a hiking shoe, and the Asics Gel-Trabuco 13 is more compelling in this category.
Altra Lone Peak 9 ($140): Vigliotta has worn some iteration of the Lone Peak series for years, and he reviewed the Lone Peak 9 not long after its release. Ultimately, we prefer the Lone Peak 9+ for its upgraded outsole that costs $15 more, though the Lone Peak 9 is still a great shoe if you’re after versatility and don’t need Vibram Megagrip rubber.
Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 4 ($220): Lightweight and easy to wear, this unisex trail running shoe feels like a racing shoe-slipper hybrid, with a dual-foam midsole that’s lively and propulsive. Salomon’s Quicklace system tightens everything down evenly, kind of like a BOA dial, while a gusseted tongue helps lock down the fit and keep out debris. We like this shoe a lot, especially if you’re racing or want something that feels like a road shoe, but the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro is ultimately more compelling for around the same price.
Arc’teryx Sylan Pro ($200): We had high hopes for this pricey trail shoe from Arc’teryx, but the cushioning lacks any real character, and the aggressive rocker leads to a lot of instability. The Vibram Megagrip outsole is certainly grippy, and there’s no denying it looks good (Arc’teryx’s color palette is unmatched), but we tested far too many great shoes that cost less to crown this one a winner.
Altra Olympus 6 ($175): This shoe is incredibly uncomfortable out of the box. It pinches in all the wrong places and feels heavy, which makes every run miserable, though we appreciate the use of Vibram Megagrip rubber and the Achilles pillow that’s designed to add plushness to the heel.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 ($155): The Pegasus Trail 5 fully embraces style, but substance is more of an afterthought. That’s not to say it isn’t capable, but the tread, support and cushioning are all average at best. Really, it’s a better road-to-trail shoe, as evidenced by the photos on Nike’s website that capture it on pavement. If it’s such a great trail shoe, you would think Nike could at least promote it as such.
Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 ($155): A lot of people have fallen in love with Topo Athletic in recent years, but the Ultraventure 4 doesn’t show us why. Though it’s plush and roomy, the on-trail experience feels a bit vague, plus it looks pretty bland. The use of Vibram XS Trek EVO rubber is a nice touch if you’re transitioning between different surfaces, but we wouldn’t wear this shoe for technical trails or fast runs. Instead, it’s a solid option for easy miles and long hikes.
Merrell Nova 4 ($140): The Nova 4 features plenty of cushioning and multidirectional lugs that bite into the terrain, but it doesn’t stand out for any particular reason. Still, we appreciate Merrell’s use of recycled materials, and the cushy FloatPro Midsole offers plenty of support for those who need it. At this price, it’s a great all-round shoe for casual trail runs and walks, but steer clear of technical terrain and races.
Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed ($160): The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed is indeed built for fast and light pursuits thanks to an eight-millimeter drop and total weight (per pair) of 17 ounces. It’s also incredibly breathable, grippy and comfortable over long distances, which we love to see from a race-ready shoe. While the Prodigio Pro was ultimately more responsive and structurally supportive, this is a fantastic shoe if you’re looking to cut weight, or if you prefer footwear from Adidas.
The Forbes Vetted gear team has over 10 combined years of experience testing, researching and reviewing technical gear and apparel. Logging hundreds if not thousands of miles in different types of footwear, we’ve tested everything from walking shoes to hiking sandals over the years.
We’ve been running trails for the better part of two decades, and we’ve worn all manner of trail running shoes in that time. Here’s how we tested shoes to find the best options for different types of runners and running environments.
If a trail running shoe is too loose or too tight, it won’t provide reliable, long-term comfort, which means you won’t want to wear it. We tested shoes for comfort and fit by logging real miles on a variety of terrain, from rocky and rooted paths to smooth forest trails. Each pair was worn for multiple runs to gauge how they performed over time, and we specifically looked for pressure points, rubbing and hot spots as the miles added up. Our goal was to find shoes that fit well out of the box and offer support deep into long, tiring efforts.
To evaluate traction, we tested each pair of shoes on a variety of surfaces, including loose gravel, slick mud, wet roots and steep inclines. We paid close attention to grip during climbs, descents, sharp turns and sudden stops, and we tested in both wet and dry conditions when possible to understand how lugs and outsole patterns performed under different conditions. The goal was to find shoes that deliver reliable traction no matter the terrain or weather.
We tested stability by running on different types of terrain, from highly technical trails to casual dirt paths and quiet backcountry roads. Along the way, we looked for models that maintain ankle alignment and minimize instability, and we made note of any shoes that felt unstable or uncomfortable. Ultimately, midsole structure, heel support and the width of the platform will determine how stable a shoe is, and the best ones will deliver a stable, planted feel without sacrificing comfort.
To test for protection, we ran on trail with sharp rocks, gnarled roots and debris, evaluating features like toe guards, rock plates and upper constructions along the way. Shoes were also tested for how well they kept out water, dirt and other materials, and the top performers struck a balance between protection and mobility, allowing us to move freely without feeling exposed to the elements or obstacles.
To assess value, we considered how each shoe’s performance compared to its price, factoring in comfort, durability and versatility to find models that offer the best performance for the money. Shoes that held up well over long miles of tough terrain without falling apart scored the highest, while those that couldn’t handle the terrain or provide long-term support fell to the bottom. Our goal was to highlight options that perform well over time and come with a price tag that mirrors their capabilities.
Your feet and the trail conditions you’re likely to face are the two most important factors to consider when investing in trail running shoes, but there are several others to keep in mind as well.
Trail running shoes should feel great on your feet mere seconds after they come out of the box. For the best fit, try them on in the evening or late afternoon, when your feet are naturally more swollen and mimic how they’ll be during a run. Make sure that your toes have room to wiggle and splay, your arches are in good contact with the insole and the bridge of your foot is wrapped snugly by the upper.
Your heels should stay securely in place without sliding from side to side or rising up and down. And if you notice any pinching or rubbing that doesn’t go away after making adjustments, the fit probably isn’t right, and it’s time to try a different pair.
When the time comes to choose trail running shoes, we recommend looking at options from ground up, and that means assessing the outsole. As the part of a shoe that makes contact with the ground, this layer plays a pivotal role in your ability to stay upright as you navigate the terrain. Brands will often use unique terms and proprietary materials that can cause confusion, which is why it’s easiest to look at an outsole’s tread pattern and lug depth, as these play a key role in how well your shoes grip different types of terrain.
“Many people don’t realize how crucial tread and lug depth are,” says Dr. Gold. “I prefer using lugs that are at least four to six millimeters in diameter for rough terrain,” as this range delivers plenty of bite. Deeper lugs provide better traction on steep, muddy or technical trails, and shallow lugs are usually suitable for moderate terrain or man-made surfaces like pavement.
“Shallow lugs are like trekking on race flats; they just won’t hold on steep or muddy slopes,” says Dr. Gold. Road-to-trail shoes like the Hoka Stinson 7 will be more durable on hard surfaces and offer a smoother, faster ride if you’re transitioning between roads and well-maintained trails. Consider where you intend to run before evaluating a trail shoe’s outsole and its tread.
Midsole cushioning is one of the most important and personal aspects of a trail running shoe. It plays a pivotal role in shock absorption, energy return and comfort, but unlike running shoes that normally equate more cushioning to more comfort, trail running shoes are a bit more nuanced.
For example, too much cushioning on rocky, rooted or technical trails can lead to instability, which increases your risk of injury, while too little cushioning can take a toll on your feet after a few short miles.
“Cushioning should largely mirror the runner,” says Dr. Gold. “Heavy runners or those with joint trouble usually need more shock absorption, but too much cushioning on uneven ground could backfire. Reactivity and support need to be balanced at all times.”
For most runners, moderate or “balanced” cushioning offers enough protection from rocks and roots without sacrificing trail feedback and stability. If you’re a long-distance runner, you may want more cushioning to take the edge off repetitive impacts and long descents. And if you’re into shorter distances, you can usually get by with less cushioning to save weight and keep you light on your feet. Ultimately, the midsole that’s right for you will depend on your running style and the terrain, but don’t be afraid to run in a few different to find what works for you and your body.
Even though a shoe’s upper is usually an afterthought, its construction will directly influence comfort, durability and performance. For example, the right upper will strike a balance between breathability and protection, shielding you from rocks, roots and debris, while the wrong upper will leave your feet feeling wet, hot, dirty or even in pain. Ultimately, a reliable upper should provide a protective, secure fit that holds your foot in place. And keep in mind that different upper materials will influence how a shoe feels—tough uppers resist wear and are likely to be stiff, while soft and flexible uppers adapt to movement and sacrifice some durability.
The durability of your trail running shoes starts from the ground up. Start by looking for outsole rubbers with a proven track record, like Vibram or Brooks’ TrailTrack Green rubber, as these will stand up to miles on rough terrain. Next, consider midsole foams that maintain their cushioning over time, and from there, find uppers that aren’t known for ripping or tearing. Features like toe guards, heel guards and rock plates will make a trail shoe more durable while providing additional comfort.