7 Best Gore Tex Running Shoes of 2025

When mud becomes your playground, the Salomon Speedcross GTX doesn’t flinch—it thrives. Engineered with a Gore-Tex-lined floating tongue and an anti-debris mesh upper, this shoe seals out slush and grit while maintaining breathability, making it a trail dominator in wet, messy conditions. The standout? Its aggressive Contagrip TA outsole with deep, widely spaced lugs that claw into soft terrain like a beast, giving runners unshakable confidence when every step threatens to slide.

On real trails, we tested it through rain-soaked forest paths, creek crossings, and sloppy climbs—and it delivered tenacious grip and splash-free dryness. The 6mm lugs bite into mud with precision, though on hard-packed dirt or pavement, the traction feels overbuilt and slightly cumbersome. The Sensifit wrap and Quicklace system lock the foot down with race-ready snugness, but narrow-footed runners may find the midfoot cage too tight. Cushioning is firm, prioritizing ground feel over plushness—great for technical trails, less so for long-distance comfort.

Compared to the New Balance Hierro V8, the Speedcross GTX trades cushioning for control, making it ideal for short-to-mid distance trail sprints in恶劣 weather rather than endurance runs. It’s the go-to for runners who prioritize grip and protection over soft landings, especially in muddy, unpredictable terrain. While the Alphacross 5 offers similar Gore-Tex defense at a lower cost, the Speedcross GTX delivers a more refined, responsive ride with superior lockdown—just expect a premium fit and feel that demands rugged use to justify its edge.

If mileage matters more than mayhem, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 GTX is a revelation. Built for long-haul trail comfort, it combines a high-stack Fresh Foam X midsole—with 3% bio-based content—for a luxuriously soft ride that doesn’t pack out, even after 20+ miles. The Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers reliable traction on wet rocks and loose gravel, while the Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry without the swampy overheating some waterproof shoes suffer from.

We took it on extended forest loop runs in drizzly conditions, and it excelled in mixed terrain endurance scenarios—from root-strewn singletrack to muddy switchbacks. The increased midsole height provides excellent impact protection, ideal for heavier runners or those tackling rugged ascents and descents. Breathability is surprisingly good for a Gore-Tex shoe, though on warm, humid days, the upper can feel a bit stuffy during high-output efforts. The printed upper is durable but lacks the structured support of Salomon’s Sensifit, making it less precise on technical descents.

Against the Salomon Speedcross GTX, the Hierro V8 trades raw grip for long-distance plushness, making it a better companion for ultralight trail marathons than muddy scrambles. It outcushions the Brooks Ghost 17 GTX on trails while offering comparable weather protection, but with a more natural ground feel. For runners who log serious miles in wet, variable conditions and want eco-conscious materials without sacrificing performance, this is a standout. It’s not the lightest or fastest, but it’s arguably the most forgiving in the Gore-Tex trail category when fatigue sets in.

Don’t let the wallet-friendly tag fool you—the Salomon Alphacross 5 GTX is a serious contender disguised as a budget pick. With the same Gore-Tex waterproofing and Contagrip outsole DNA as its pricier siblings, it delivers legit trail protection and grip without cutting corners on core performance. The 6.5mm aggressive lugs dig into mud and loose rock with authority, while the Fuze Foam midsole balances softness and responsiveness in a way that belies its cost.

In real-world testing, it handled rainy trail runs and off-camber slopes with surprising composure. The upper is more basic than the Speedcross—using a traditional lacing system instead of Quicklace—and the fit is roomier, which benefits wider feet but sacrifices some precision. Breathability is decent, though during fast-paced efforts in mild weather, heat builds up faster than in non-waterproof models. On hardpack or paved connectors, the ride feels a bit bouncy, but on soft, wet trails, it’s stable and confident. It’s not built for speed demons, but for runners seeking durable, all-weather capability without overspending, it’s a steal.

Compared to the Speedcross GTX, the Alphacross 5 trades refined fit and advanced lockdown for broader accessibility and value. It lacks the floating tongue and Sensifit wrap, but for weekend warriors who face occasional mud and consistent rain, it covers 90% of needs at a fraction of the cost. Against the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX, it offers deeper lugs and stouter construction, making it better for true trails rather than hybrid paths. This is the smart upgrade from road-to-trail runners who want Gore-Tex confidence without maxing out their budget.

Nike’s Pegasus Trail 5 GTX bridges the gap between road comfort and trail readiness with sleek, urban-trail flair. Designed for runners who bounce between pavement and fire roads, it brings Gore-Tex protection to a lightweight, responsive platform that feels familiar underfoot—thanks to its Pegasus DNA. The outsole blends shallow trail lugs with a road-friendly pattern, offering just enough grip for light trails and wet sidewalks, but not enough for serious mud or steep, loose descents.

We tested it on mixed urban-trail routes—damp park paths, gravel connectors, and rain-slicked concrete—and it performed admirably as a do-it-all commuter shoe. The upper is breathable yet weather-resistant, and the Gore-Tex lining kept feet dry during puddle splashes and light rain. However, in deep mud, the lugs clogged quickly, and the lack of aggressive tread made climbing slick roots a slippery gamble. The cushioning is firm and snappy, great for tempo efforts, but lacks the plushness needed for long trail days. It’s best suited for runners who prioritize speed and style over backcountry ruggedness.

Against the Salomon Alphacross 5, the Pegasus Trail 5 GTX is lighter and faster, but less capable on technical terrain. Compared to the Brooks Ghost 17 GTX, it offers a more dynamic ride on pavement but less stability on wet trails. It’s not the most protective or grippy option, but for city dwellers who want one shoe for wet commutes and weekend trail jaunts, it’s a stylish, versatile performer. If your trails are more dirt road than alpine scramble, this Nike delivers urban-ready versatility with a Gore-Tex safety net.

When smooth, predictable comfort is the goal, the Brooks Ghost 17 GTX shines as a road warrior built for all-weather consistency. Its DNA LOFT v3 midsole, infused with nitrogen, delivers a plush, adaptive cushioning that absorbs impact like a premium sedan on cracked sidewalks. Wrapped in Gore-Tex Invisible Fit—bonded directly to the upper—it offers seamless waterproofing without the clunky, rubbery feel of older wet-weather shoes, making it ideal for rainy commutes or damp morning jogs.

On wet pavement and damp park paths, the Ghost 17 GTX feels stable, quiet, and reassuring. The flex grooves in the midsole promote a natural roll-through, enhancing stride efficiency, while the rubber outsole grips slick surfaces with dependable tenacity. It’s not built for trails—loose gravel and mud expose its shallow tread and soft cushioning as liabilities—but on roads, it’s a fortress of comfort. Breathability is moderate; in warmer rain, feet stay dry but can feel warm after 5+ miles.

Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24 GTX, the Ghost 17 GTX drops the GuideRails support for a more neutral, free-flowing ride—perfect for runners with stable gait. Against the New Balance 880 V15 GTX, it offers softer cushioning and smoother transitions, though slightly less responsiveness. It’s the top pick for daily road runners who refuse to let weather dictate their routine. If you want a no-nonsense, weatherproof road shoe that prioritizes soft landings and mile-eating ease, this Brooks is a reliable, confidence-inspiring companion.

For runners who need structure in the storm, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 GTX is a supportive fortress wrapped in Gore-Tex armor. Its GuideRails holistic support system is the star—reining in excess knee and hip movement without overcorrecting, making it ideal for overpronators or those logging miles on tired legs. Paired with DNA LOFT v3 cushioning and Gore-Tex Invisible Fit, it delivers weatherproof comfort with biomechanical intelligence, a rare combo in waterproof runners.

We tested it on long, wet road runs and found it rock-solid on slippery surfaces, with a rubber outsole that bites confidently into wet pavement. The midsole softens impact without wallowing, and the GuideRails engage subtly—no harsh edges, just guided stability when fatigue sets in. However, the support system adds weight, and the shoe feels less nimble than neutral options like the Ghost 17 GTX. On trails, it’s out of its depth—stiff and traction-limited—but on urban runs in foul weather, it’s unshakably reliable.

Against the Ghost 17 GTX, the Adrenaline GTS 24 GTX trades freedom for structure, making it better for runners with stability needs. Compared to the New Balance 880 V15 GTX, it offers superior motion control but less cushioning softness. It’s the best choice for supportive, all-weather road running, especially for those prone to joint fatigue or irregular gait. If you want a guardian angel for your stride when skies open, this Brooks delivers targeted support wrapped in breathable, waterproof precision.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 V15 GTX isn’t just waterproof—it’s a benchmark in balanced performance, earning its title as Best Overall for good reason. With Full-length Fresh Foam X midsole, it delivers a cloud-like yet responsive ride that excels on long road runs, wet sidewalks, and even light trails. The Gore-Tex upper is seamlessly integrated, offering dryness without the sauna-like heat some waterproof shoes bring, and Hydrohesion rubber outsole grips slick surfaces with quiet confidence.

In testing, it handled everything from rainy 10-milers to post-storm trail walks with impressive composure. The cushioning is plush but not mushy, striking a rare balance between protection and propulsion. Reflective details add safety in low light, a thoughtful touch for early risers. Breathability is acceptable—better than most Gore-Tex road shoes—but on warm, wet days, feet can feel slightly insulated. The upper fits true-to-size with a snug midfoot, though wide-footed runners might crave more room.

Against the Brooks Ghost 17 GTX, the 880 V15 GTX offers comparable cushioning with better wet-surface grip, while topping the Adrenaline GTS 24 GTX in ride smoothness despite lacking its support tech. It’s heavier than the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX but far more capable in sustained rain. For runners who want one do-it-all shoe that conquers wet roads, commutes, and hybrid paths without compromise, this New Balance is the most complete package—delivering top-tier comfort, protection, and versatility in a single, intelligently designed silhouette.