10 Best Trail Running Shoes [2025]

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Finding the best trail running shoes can often feel like navigating a dense forest without a map. With countless brands, models, and features to consider, selecting the right pair to suit your unique needs can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or just starting out, the wrong choice can lead to discomfort, injuries, and an overall less enjoyable running experience. The diversity of terrains, weather conditions, and personal preferences only adds to the complexity of making the optimal decision on your own.

To help simplify this process, we’ve meticulously researched and shortlisted ten of the best trail running shoes currently available. Our selection takes into account various factors such as comfort, durability, traction, and support, ensuring that each option caters to different types of runners and terrains. By curating this list, we aim to save you time and alleviate the hassle of sorting through an overwhelming array of choices, allowing you to hit the trails with confidence and ease.

Top 10 Best Trail Running Shoes In The Market

Last update on 2025-05-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Trail Running Shoes Reviews

Bestseller No. 1
ALTRA Men's Mont Blanc Trail Running Shoe, Coral/Black, 10.5
  • Lightweight and ultra-breathable upper: wraps your feet in total comfort.
  • Standard Footshape Technology - Allows toes to spread for comfort and stability.
  • Traditional lacing system - Prevents shoe slipping and keeps the foot secure.
  • EGO Max Midsole - Rebound and durability provided to reduce the risk of injury.
  • Balanced cushioning platform - For low impact on the trail.
Bestseller No. 2
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Garoé V2 Trail Running Shoe, Dark...
  • Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort. Bio-based content is made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint
  • Upper features no-sew construction for a sleek fit and feel
  • Toe Protect technology helps protect feet from rocks, roots and debris
  • AT Tread outsole provides traction on both paved and off-road surfaces
  • Hydrohesion rubber outsole helps you maintain grip in wet conditions
Bestseller No. 3
ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Green, 10.5
  • Stay Focused: With our MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern for grippy traction, you can focus on the trail infront of you
  • Reimagining Legendary: With a refined upper for durability, a grippy outsole, and a roomy toe box you'll be ready to bag larger-than-life trail adventures
  • Run Naturally: Our eNatural Fit toe box allows the toes to relax and spread out... naturally
  • Stay Comfortable: Stack height of 25mm provides ample cushion for long runs
Bestseller No. 4
Saucony Men's Excursion TR16 Trail Running Shoe, Night/Black, 11
  • VERSARUN cushioning keeps you moving in balanced comfort all day long.
  • Grippy carbon-rubber lugs provide the best traction, so no matter what kind of terrain you cross, you’ll feel unstoppable.
  • Fresh design details deliver the trail protection you need with a look that goes beyond the outdoors.
Bestseller No. 5
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. 6
New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 10.5...
  • 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. 7
WHITIN Men's Extra Wide Width Barefoot Minimalist Shoes Zero Drop Trail Running...
  • Spacious forefoot allows for natural foot movement and toe splay to empower your stride
  • The trail-specific mesh with supportive overlays locks your foot into place and protects from debris
  • Additional padding around the ankle collar also feels softer and locks down the heel more securely
  • Wrap-around TPU overlays with braided fishing line the lateral sides offer an excellent combination of speed and stability
  • Grippy rubber soles with 3mm trail lug pattern provide reliable grip on adventures without sacrificing ground feedback
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. 10
Saucony Women's Excursion TR15 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Mint/Yellow, 8
  • VERSARUN cushioning absorbs impact and reduces pressure for comfortable strides every step of the way.
  • A trail-specific rubber outsole grips the ground and gives you confidence on rough, uneven terrain.
  • A durable mesh upper keeps dirt and debris at bay so nothing can slow you down.
  • This style is vegan and contains recycled upper materials.

Last update on 2025-05-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, finding the best trail running shoes can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, providing the comfort, support, and durability needed to tackle any terrain. The ten products we’ve highlighted were chosen based on extensive research, expert reviews, and user feedback. We considered factors such as grip, cushioning, breathability, and overall performance to ensure that each shoe on our list meets the diverse needs of trail runners. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore local trails or a seasoned athlete preparing for your next adventure, our curated selection aims to guide you in making an informed decision.

By following our list of the best trail running shoes, you are setting yourself up for success on your runs. Each shoe has been vetted for quality and functionality, so you can trust that any choice you make will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trail running experience. Embrace the great outdoors with confidence, knowing that you have the right footwear to support your journey and keep you comfortable every step of the way. Happy trails!

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.