Leon Poultney
Looking to conquer the wilderness with a touch of style and a dash of flair? Look no further than the best trail running shoes! These trusty companions aren't just for show; they'll have you soaring up and down the most rugged hills like a mountain goat with a sense of humour.
Equipped with features to tackle everything from sharp rocks to slippery mud, trail running shoes from top brands like Inov-8, Salomon, and Adidas Terrex are like the Swiss Army knives of footwear. And with Gen Z leading the charge for outdoor adventures, they're as trendy as avocado toast on Instagram!
But don't worry, we haven't forgotten about the pavement pounders out there. Those who prefer their runs on smoother surfaces should check out our best running shoe guide. And if you're serious about your workouts, check out T3's best workout shoe guide for even more shoe-spiration.
Our current favourite trail shoe is Hoka Tecton X 3, a superb model that can propel you forward, no matter how unmanageable the terrain is. A close second is the mighty Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2, which has the perfect mix of cushioning, agility, support, and comfort. If you prefer running shorter distances, check out Saucony's Peregrine 14.
With dual carbon plates, a lightweight PEBA midsole, a grippy Vibram outsole, and a durable yet breathable Matryx upper, the Hoka Tecton X 3 delivers a smooth, responsive ride that excels on technical trails. It’s a fast, comfortable option built for serious trail runners chasing performance and efficiency.
This shoe contains everything we loved about the first-gen, including the excellent grip and durability, the light, speedy, agile ride, the balanced cushioning and stability. But with a better upper to edge up the comfort. This is evolution, not revolution.
With chunky 5mm lugs and a debris-resistant outer, the Saucony Peregrine 14 is perfect for tackling tricky terrain. What's more, in the latest version, there's a softer blend of PWRRUN cushioning for more protection from impacts. It's a great update on a popular trail runner.
Best trail running shoes to buy right now
Best overall
Best for long runs
The Hoka Tecton X 3 is a superb lightweight trail running shoe with a responsive feel that makes it a standout choice for technical terrain.
The dual carbon plates embedded in the PEBA midsole provide noticeable propulsion, which helped me maintain speed and efficiency over varied surfaces during testing.
The Matryx upper, reinforced with Kevlar, offers durability without compromising breathability, and the integrated gaiter effectively keeps debris out, even on the messiest trails.
One of the most impressive aspects is the Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole. It delivers exceptional traction, providing confidence on wet and uneven ground. During a particularly muddy half-marathon, these shoes provided the grip and stability I needed to push through challenging conditions.
While the Tecton X 3 comes with a premium price tag, the performance benefits justify the investment for serious trail runners. If you're looking for a shoe that combines speed, agility, and protection, the Hoka Tecton X 3 is an excellent choice.
Read our full Hoka Tecton X 3 review.
It’s fair to say that the first generation inov-8 Trailfly G270 was a huge hit. With its combination of durable uppers, fast and snappy zero-drop, graphene-infused midsole and super-sticky grip, it scooped best trail shoe awards all over the place.
But when a shoe finds a winning formula, we’re always wary of the follow-up. Brands love to tinker, and not always in a good way. Has the brand-new Trailfly G270 V2 made smart improvements?
Thankfully, yes, it did. Everything we loved about first-gen remains, including the excellent grip and durability, the light, speedy, agile ride, the balanced cushioning and stability. In fact, it feels like you’re running in the identical shoe but with a better upper to edge up the comfort. This is evolution, not revolution; if you love the first-gen, you will love these.
Read our full Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 review
Best for short to mid-distances
We have been waxing lyrical about the Saucony Peregrine from pretty much all of its life, and the recent updates have made this already excellent shoe even greater in our humble opinion.
Both the 12 and 13 were durable and versatile trail shoes that performed well in all weather and on all terrain. The update to the lug design and increased cushioning foam arguably makes the latest version even better,
Again, Saucony like to charge a pretty penny for their shoes, and there's nothing different here, but we've found them to be reliable and last a decent amount of time.
A revised outer is now better at protecting from debris and other crud, while the refreshed tongue is now more comfortable against the foot.
The shoe has also lost a bit of weight, although most won't feel it, plus the softer foam makes things a little more comfortable underfoot when going the distance.
Read our full Saucony Peregrine 14 review.
Best downhill
The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra feels purpose-built for flying downhill. From the first steep descent I did in them, it was clear this shoe was made for runners who want to bomb technical trails without hesitation.
It strikes a fine balance between lightweight agility and downhill control, with the wide forefoot platform giving you the stability you need when the terrain turns unpredictable. Paired with excellent cushioning from the dual Lightstrike Pro layers, the ride feels energetic but never sloppy, even when you’re picking up serious speed.
The EnergyRods embedded in the midsole add an extra snap to your stride, helping with propulsion not just on climbs but also on flatter sections. Grip is another standout: the Continental rubber outsole bites into loose gravel and wet rocks with ease. Fit-wise, the midfoot can feel a bit roomy, but it’s not a dealbreaker if you prefer a slightly less constrictive feel.
The Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is a dream for downhill specialists: lightweight, grippy, stable, and fast. It’s not the plushest or the most protective shoe out there, but if descending is where you thrive, it’s hard to think of a better tool for the job.
Read our full Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra review.
Best road-to-trail
The Summit Vectiv 2.0 Pro updated some of the features that made the original The North Face Flight Series Vectiv so innovative; it also inherited some of its flaws.
Thankfully, the pros outweigh the cons by a mile, including the well-balanced rocker, soft, responsive foam, plenty of energy coming from the carbon plate, and a roomy toe box, making it much easier to recommend the shoes now.
The Summit Vectiv 2.0 Pro is a super shoe through and through, and the price reflects this, which might not be justifiable to (or needed by) many trail runners. Those who can, though, will be rewarded with what we think is the best road-to-trail running shoe these days, and that's no small feat in this saturated market.
Read our full The North Face Summit Vectiv 2.0 Pro review
Best cushioned
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 marks a thoughtful evolution in the Speedgoat series, focusing on enhanced durability, comfort, and trail performance. The updated CMEVA midsole foam is a standout, offering improved stability and longevity while maintaining the plush cushioning that trail runners love.
The shoe's upper has also seen significant improvements, with a more breathable woven design and a four-way stretch vamp that provides a better fit and reduces toe compression on rough terrain. The reinforced toe bumper and dual-sided gusseted tongue add to the shoe's protective and comfort features.
Compared to its predecessor, the Speedgoat 6 continues to deliver exceptional stability, even with a slight increase in heel-to-toe drop from 4mm to 5mm, making it ideal for long-distance trail runners who value comfort and support. However, the shoe's narrow fit might not be suitable for all, and its breathability could be a concern in hotter climates.
The Speedgoat 6 successfully builds on the strengths of previous models, offering a well-rounded, durable, and comfortable trail running experience. While it may not be the best option for those seeking maximum speed or running in extreme heat, it remains a top choice for endurance and stability on challenging trails.
Read our full Hoka Speedgoat 6 review.
Also consider: The Hoka Speedgoat 5 offers a lighter build, enhanced midsole rebound, and excellent traction with the Vibram Megagrip sole. The sock-like mesh upper provides comfort and flexibility, though the narrow toe box may be a drawback for some. Ideal for multi-terrain runners who value grip and bounce, the Speedgoat 5 excels on muddy and technical trails.
Best ultralight
There's no denying that the Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 is something of a specialist shoe. But as a superlight trail running shoe for race days, it's one of the best options. In that sense, it excels in its design specification – it's unbelievably light on the feet, comfortable yet responsive over distances of up to a half-marathon, and out-grips most of its similarly lightweight rivals. On the other hand, as an all-around trail running shoe, it wouldn't be our first choice unless low weight is your ultimate priority. Our advice? Save it for the days you really want to push the pace or beat the competition.
Read our full Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 review.
Best for arch support
The Asics GEL-Trabuco 10 is a very exciting prospect if you're looking for a trail shoe designed for overpronation – on our test runs, the grip was great on an 11-mile trail run over all sorts of terrain, including grass, rocks, road, wooden stiles, stoney tracks and dusty dry-mud fields.
However, if you are already into trail running and not having any problems in that direction, they may be a tad on the stiff, heavier side for you. That said, it's hard not to love the on-trend look of the Gel-Trabuco 10 with the turquoise knitted uppers combined with a hot pink sole with design accents and laces to match. Not to mention, it's comfy right away!
Read our full ASICS Gel-Trabuco 10 review
Best for plantar fasciitis
Well-cushioned and pretty, the Columbia Montrail Trinity MX Trail Running Shoes are sure to turn some heads on the trail. In fact, when we wore them recently on a trip, people commented on how cool the shoes looked, so if you like it when other runners (and hikers) comment on your footwear, the Montrail Trinity MX is a solid choice.
It's also an excellent max-cushioned trail option when leg preservation is your primary goal. The Techlite PLUSH midsole and rocker geometry help you move forward efficiently, and the 5 mm lugs provide enough traction on dry and wet surfaces to keep your footing stable. You could probably find trail running shoes with a similar running dynamic for cheaper, but they won't look as cool as Columbia Montrail Trinity MX.
Read our full Columbia Montrail Trinity MX Trail Running Shoe review.
How to choose the best trail running shoes for you
Choosing the best trail running shoes involves considering several factors to ensure they meet your specific needs and preferences. First, assess the type of terrain you'll be running on, whether it's rocky, muddy, technical, or a combination of these. This will help you select shoes with appropriate features like grip, stability, and protection to tackle the trails confidently.
Next, find the proper fit by trying on shoes and considering factors like toe box width, heel cup snugness, and overall comfort. It's essential to leave some room for foot swelling during longer runs to avoid discomfort.
Additionally, decide on the level of cushioning and support you prefer, whether you prioritise comfort or a firmer, more responsive feel based on your running style and foot mechanics.
Look for shoes with aggressive tread patterns and durable outsoles to provide a reliable grip on various trail surfaces, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Consider features like rock plates or reinforced toe caps for added protection against sharp rocks, roots, and other trail hazards.
Breathability and drainage are also key features to take into account. Opt for shoes with breathable uppers and drainage ports to keep your feet cool and dry, particularly during hot weather or water crossings.
Finally, consider the overall construction and materials used to ensure the shoes are durable enough to withstand the rigours of trail running and provide long-lasting performance.
FAQ
What are the best shoes for trail running
Technically, you can use road running shoes for trail runs, but we strongly recommend getting appropriate footwear for muddy trails. Trail shoes are especially well suited for providing grip on slippery surfaces, one of the biggest obstacles you need to overcome when running on uneven terrain.
Among more established contenders, our pick for the best trail running shoe currently is the Catamount, the latest trail shoe from Brooks to utilise the light and bouncy nitrogen-infused DNA Flash midsole technology we so loved in the Brooks Hyperion Tempo. It is also comfortable and very grippy too.
If you are looking for even more energy return, try the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max for size. These aggressive-looking shoes use a Graphene-infused rubber outsole that provides more energy return than standard EVA midsoles. The upper is pretty comfortable and breathable, too, ideal for warm-weather runs.
If you're after pure speed, look no further than the Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra. These sleek-looking trail running shoes use Adidas' Boost midsole technology, and although the Terrex Speed Ultra might not provide an awful lot of grip on very soft surfaces, you will be able to unleash your full potential on semi-hard to hard trail paths wearing these shoes.
Can you run on road with trail shoes?
Sure you can! Most trail running shoes will work just fine on the road, and it's recommended to use trail shoes if you prefer to run on mixed surfaces. Trail running shoes will provide a better grip off road than road running shoes and won't break your feet when running on tarmac either.
That said, road shoes will provide way better energy return than trail shoes when used on road. That's because trail shoes often have integrated rock shields underfoot, which makes them bend less and return less energy. Due to the extra layers of protection, trail running shoes are generally heavier than road running shoes, although not always: well cushioned and stable road running shoes can be pretty hefty too.
What is the most cushioned trail running shoe?
The most cushioned trail running shoe right now is probably the New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v6. Not only New Balance's Fresh Foam is one of the softest midsole foams on the market today, but the Hierro v6 even goes a step further by combining it with a padded collar and tongue, creating the ultimate, mega-cushioned trail running shoes for people who prefer to run in comfort, even when they are uncomfortable because it's piddling down outside and their head and running gear are soaking wet.
What is the difference between trail shoes and trail running shoes?
Trail shoes are a general term that encompasses a wide range of footwear designed for outdoor activities like hiking, walking, or light trail running. They often feature durable outsoles and protective uppers suitable for off-road terrain.
Trail running shoes are specifically designed for running on trails and rough terrain. They typically have features like aggressive tread patterns, lightweight construction, and cushioning designed for the unique demands of trail running, offering better performance and comfort compared to regular trail shoes.
