10 Best Lightweight Trail Shoes [2025]

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Finding the best lightweight trail shoes can be a daunting task, especially with the overwhelming number of options available on the market today. With various brands, designs, and features to consider, it’s easy to feel lost in the search. What works for one runner might not suit another, and the right balance of comfort, grip, durability, and weight can vary greatly depending on individual preferences and the specific trails you plan to tackle. Navigating through countless reviews, specifications, and user feedback can quickly become a time-consuming and frustrating endeavor.

To streamline this process, we meticulously researched and tested a wide array of trail shoes, ultimately shortlisting ten standout products that cater to diverse needs and preferences. Our selection criteria focused on key performance aspects such as cushioning, traction, and breathability, ensuring that each shoe offers an exceptional outdoor experience. By relying on our curated list, you can save valuable time and avoid the hassle of sifting through endless options, confidently choosing the best lightweight trail shoes for your adventures.

Top 10 Best Lightweight Trail Shoes In The Market

Last update on 2025-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Lightweight Trail Shoes Reviews

Bestseller No. 1
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 11, Graphite Grey/Spice Latte
  • Mesh upper: Improves breathability
  • The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology:
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • AMPLIFOAM cushioning: Improves cushioning
  • Trail-specific outsole pattern: Improves grip on various surfaces
Bestseller No. 2
New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Phantom/Black/Castlerock, 13
  • AT Tread outsole provides versatile traction during both on and off-road activities
  • Synthetic upper
  • Soft BIO Foam midsole for comfort underfoot
  • Durable overlays and meshes for lasting wear
  • Lace-up closure for a secure fit
Bestseller No. 3
Saucony Men's Excursion Tr15 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Shadow, 12
  • Rugged outsole: Grippy lugs on the outsole are made with carbon rubber for rock-solid footing.
  • Versatile cushioning: A moderate stack VERSARUN cushioning packs plenty of underfoot comfort no matter the destination.
  • Durable protection: The trail-specific mesh with supportive overlays locks your foot into place and protects from debris without looking or feeling bulky.
  • Lighter footprint: This style contains recycled materials.
Bestseller No. 4
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 7.5, Indigo Blue/Papaya
  • Mesh upper: Improves breathability
  • The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology:
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • AMPLIFOAM cushioning: Improves cushioning
  • Trail-specific outsole pattern: Improves grip on various surfaces
Bestseller No. 5
Altra Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Grey, 10.5
  • Push Yourself: With our tough DuraTread outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern for grippy traction, you can focus on the trail infront of you
  • Go Further: Balanced Cushioning platform places the heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground, which encourages low-impact landings
  • Stay Dry: A weather-resistant eVent bootie surrounding your foot keeps you prepared for even the wettest conditions
Bestseller No. 6
adidas Men's Terrex Soulstride Trail Running Sneaker, Silver Green/Black/Semi...
  • Men's outdoor shoes for trail running
  • MESH UPPER: Mesh upper for breathability and light weight
  • LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING: EVA midsole offers step-absorbing, durable comfort
  • TRAXION OUTSOLE: Traxion outsole maximizes grip in all directions with lugs designed for rugged terrain
  • MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials. By reusing materials that have already been created, we help to reduce waste and our reliance on finite resources and reduce the footprint of the products we make
Bestseller No. 7
ASICS Men's Gel-Sonoma 7 Running Shoes, 9.5, Black/Bright Orange
  • Engineered mesh upper: Helps improve breathability
  • At least 20% of the shoe’s main upper material is made with recycled materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions:
  • The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology:
  • AMPLIFOAM technology: Cushioning helps create a soft and flexible feeling underfoot
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
Bestseller No. 8
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 510 V6 Trail Running Shoe, Castlerock/Black/Sizzle,...
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • AT Tread outsole provides versatile traction during both on and off-road activities
  • Toe Protect technology helps protect feet from rocks, roots and debris
  • 3D molded midsert provides a soft and supportive blend of added comfort and support
  • Upper features no-sew construction for a sleek fit and feel
Bestseller No. 9
Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, Walnut, 11
  • Pigskin leather and mesh upper 100% recycled laces and webbing Bellows tongue keeps out debris Protective toe cap 100% recycled mesh lining Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support Molded nylon arch shankLightweight EVA foam midsole for stability and comfort Vibram TC5+ rubber sole
  • Merrell is focused on merging performance, styling, and comfort to empower all people to confidently explore the outdoors
  • Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
Bestseller No. 10
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite Trail 2 Running Shoes, 8.5, Black/Light UBE
  • Durable and breathable no-sew mesh upper:
  • AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning: Helps to improve durability and create a more flexible feel at footstrike
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • OrthoLite sockliner: Provides soft step-in comfort
  • Trail-specific outsole: Helps provide better grip on off-road surfaces

Last update on 2025-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, our selection of the best lightweight trail shoes is the result of thorough research and analysis, taking into account factors such as comfort, durability, traction, and user feedback. We carefully considered a variety of brands and models, testing them under different trail conditions to ensure they meet the diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts. By focusing on lightweight options, we aimed to provide you with shoes that enhance your agility and reduce fatigue during long hikes or runs, making your outdoor adventures more enjoyable.

By following our list of the best lightweight trail shoes, you can confidently choose a pair that suits your specific activities and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or a casual hiker, these recommendations will help you find footwear that offers the right balance of performance and comfort. Investing in the right shoes can significantly improve your experience on the trails, allowing you to explore further and enjoy the great outdoors with confidence.

Pamela Couch

I am a designer, shoe-obsessed lifestyle expert, and founder of https://footwind.net/, a shoe boutique located in Downtown Atlanta. I love shoes and I love being able to share my passion for them with others.