Sunshine, fresh air, and endorphins – the things that can make your day perfect! The only thing that can ruin this picture is blistered feet from running or walking in the wrong shoes. If you’re ready to leave your treadmill behind and hit the trails, you might wonder whether you need to get yourself the best shoes for trail. Well, we’re here to tell you that you should! The best shoes for trail and road running require a different level of protection, support, and traction than your regular footwear. They tend to have thicker soles, extra traction, and more weatherproofing features! Here, we’re going to show you the best shoes for trail hiking, running, and walking! Enjoy!
Table of contents
- Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes
- ALTRA Women’s TIMP 1.5 Trail Running Shoes
- Arc’teryx Norvan LD 2 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
- Brooks Catamount
- adidas Women’s Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes
- Salomon Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoes
- Brooks Cascadia 16 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
- ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak 5 Trail Running Shoes
- Saucony Men’s Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoes
- Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Shoes
- HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 Trainers
- New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Hierro V6 Trail Running Shoes
- Salomon Speedcross 5 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
- How To Choose The Best Shoes for Trail
- Are running shoes good for trails?
- Can I use road running shoes for trail running?
- Are trail shoes good for everyday use?
Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes
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Yes, we get it. With the Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes, you either love them or hate them. They’re nothing like the rest of the shoes on this list. While they might look a bit odd, there’s a deliberate thought process to them. As one of the best shoes for trail and road running, they’re made for those who want a more natural run.
They offer a zero-drop design, low cushioning, and that glove-like fit, all of which combine to give your feet a sensory perception. Plus, they’re also suitable for people who want to improve their running gait, creating a more efficient stride that lowers the impact through the knees and heels. If you can get over the strange design, we highly recommend giving them a try.
- What We Love:
- An extermely unique yet comfortable and functional option that’ll surprise many people.
- Pros:
- Innovative design
- Good for barefoot runners
- Extremely comfortable
- Lightweight
- Machine-washable
- Cons:
- The design might be a turn off for some people
ALTRA Women’s TIMP 1.5 Trail Running Shoes
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Among all the best shoes for trail hiking, we think the ALTRA Women’s TIMP 1.5 Trail Running Shoes are the perfect footwear for those with wide feet. That’s because they offer a large and wide toe box. This feature is also nice because it allows space for your feet when they start to swell as you begin to log the miles in.
Aside from that, you should also know that they’re a pair of zero-drop shoes. This means they’re suited to those who prefer a more natural feel when running. What’s more, you’ll also have reduced impact on the knees and less strain on the lower back. Plus, the durable outsole offers a great grip on both tame and technical terrains.
- What We Love:
- A super comfortable option that can also be used for everyday activities.
- Pros:
- Soft midsole
- Grippy outsole
- Wide toe box
- Durable
- Offer a more natural feel
- Cons:
- Tend to run small
Arc’teryx Norvan LD 2 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
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The Arc’teryx Norvan LD 2 Men’s Trail Running Shoes are the best shoes for trail and road running that are built for long runs. They’re the kind of thing that’s designed for those mountain excursions where you’re taking on a mix of sustained climbs and long, loping descents over all kinds of terrain, and the course of a few hours as well.
Another feature that we love is the lightweight upper that’s made from a durable polyester mesh with reinforced sections to add support, structure, and a bit of protection around the toes. For comfort, there’s padding around the ankle cuff and a lovely tongue that has an elastic gusset on one side to create an almost sock-like wraparound.
- What We Love:
- These shoes are arguably the most ideal option for long runs.
- Pros:
- Breathable
- Grippy rubber sole
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Lightweight
- Available in multiple color options
- Cons:
- Need a break-in period
Brooks Catamount
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The Brooks Catamount is hands-down one of the best shoes for road and trail running on the market today. After all, Brooks is one of the top travel shoe brands for women. These shoes are lightweight, secure, comfortable, and above all, they’re also highly functional. Their DNA Flash midsole brings its A-game here and provides the right amount of bounce to make each stride comfortable.
Meanwhile, the TrailTack outsole and the Ballistic Rock Shield will guard the sole from protruding objects on the ground as well as provide a stable platform to land and take off from on uneven terrain. Even better, these best shoes for walking trail are available in 4 different colors that are equally eye-catching. While they might be a tiny bit pricey, you won’t regret getting these shoes as they’re that good. If you love these shoes, check out Brook’s travel shoes for walking on concrete and Disney World as well!
- What We Love:
- A comfortable option that’s also highly functional.
- Pros:
- Sufficient traction and support
- Durable rubber sole
- High performance in all environments
- Multiple color options
- Lightweight
- Cons:
- Only for women
adidas Women’s Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes
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It’s in the name; the adidas Women’s Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes are meant to go fast. These best shoes for trail and road running reek agility and are raring to go as soon as you put them on. You might wonder, how can these shoes be so fast? Well, they use the combination of Boost midsole and Lightstrike cushioning, which provide explosivity that’s hard to find in other best shoes for trail hiking. Speaking of hiking, you might also want to take a look at our best snacks for hiking and best hiking pants!
Made for racing, the fit is certainly race-like, which is tight and narrow. On top of that, the Continental rubber outsole is super grippy, even on wet surfaces. Plus, many women adore the look! Though only available in 2 different designs, both of them look extremely stunning. Best of all, they’re far from expensive!
- What We Love:
- An ideal pick for women who prioritize speed.
- Pros:
- Incredibly fast
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Great for mixed surfaces
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Cons:
- Narrow toe box
Salomon Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoes
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The next best shoes for trail hiking in this list are the Salomon Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoes. These shoes are loved by many because of their Optivibe midsole that’s focused on reducing vibrations and energy loss, leading to more comfortable and efficient running. The combination of this midsole with the shoe’s moderate structure gives these shoes some stability as well.
Meanwhile, the minimally lugged Contagrip outsole performs surprisingly well over a wide variety of terrain and conditions, including while ascending and descending. It also provides enough protection on rocky terrain. Furthermore, the fit is more accommodating than many other Salomon models, particularly with a roomier toe box. By the way, did you know that Salomon also makes some of the best travel shoes for winter?
- What We Love:
- A comfy and responsive pair that’s perfect for all your adventures.
- Pros:
- Durable Contagrip outsole
- Roomy toe box
- Comfortable
- Optivibe midsole
- Versatile
- Cons:
- The laces can be better
Brooks Cascadia 16 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
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The Brooks Cascadia 16 Men’s Trail Running Shoes are a solid pair from a brand that’s been around for over 100 years. These shoes are particularly a good option for beginners. As the best shoes for walking trail, they feature a midsole and outsole construction that helps the shoe mold more closely to the ground, creating a more stable and secure experience.
These shoes also include the brand’s Ballistic Rock Shield, which protects the shoes against small pebbles and provides better side-to-side adaptability on uneven surfaces. In addition to handling a range of trail conditions, these amazing shoes also work well on pavement, making them a nice pick if you choose to stick to more established trails.
- What We Love:
- They’re an idealoption for beginners that packs a lot of nice features.
- Pros:
- Well-cushioned
- Beginner-friendly
- Offer enough support in all terrains
- Ballistic Rock Shield
- Durable rubber sole
- Cons:
- The grip isn’t sticky enough for very technical terrain
ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak 5 Trail Running Shoes
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If you prefer a pair of zero-drop shoes, then the ALTRA Me’s Lone Peak 5 Trail Running Shoes are your best bet. While the Lone Peak series has been around for over 10 years, the latest model features ALTRA’s TrailCraw and MaxTrac outsole, providing plenty of grips regardless of your terrain.
These best shoes for road and trail running also score high marks with runners for their balanced cushioning, which allows your foot to rest in its natural position. That’s not all, as many people also think these shoes are breathable, easy to lace, and good for water drainage. When it comes to aesthetics, these shoes don’t disappoint! They come in 7 different color options, which are all equally nice.
- What We Love:
- The best zero-drop shoes that you can get on the market.
- Pros:
- MaxTrac outsole for better grip
- Available in 7 different colors
- Balanced cushioning
- Breathable
- Easy to lace
- Cons:
- A bit too lightweight for some people
Saucony Men’s Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoes
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Affordable and functional, it’s hard not to fall in love with the Saucony Men’s Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoes. These best shoes for trail and road running feel like a great all-rounder, as they work well on an easy trail and perform when needed with tougher conditions underfoot. While they might be slightly heavier than other trail shoes, it’s not something that you’re aware of when you’re out in them as they feel light and responsive.
Furthermore, the PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole feels firm under your foot, which suits those who aren’t looking for a soft ride. The lugs do a fantastic job, and the grip of these shoes also stands out straight away. Thanks to the Bright Future design, they also have a bit of personality, making them an attractive option.
- What We Love:
- They’re a nice all-rounder that’s perfect for those who are looking for a firm ride.
- Pros:
- Aggressive lugs for extra grip
- Bright Fuutre design
- PWRRUN cushioning
- Durable construction
- Breathable
- Cons:
- A bit heavy
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Shoes
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The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Shoes are a great all-terrain option that can also be worn as everyday trainers on occasions. These best shoes for trail hiking perform well on lighter trail runs and on the road too, which is impressive. Another thing that makes these shoes popular is the fact that they’re available in countless color options that’ll make you stand out.
Meanwhile, the Air Zoom foam underfoot, combined with the Cushion sole tech, will cushion your landings and soften impact force. The outsole lugs will give you extra traction on softer terrain, and the mesh upper will support airflow inside the shoes so your feet will stay dry and cool. Lastly, they’re affordable!
- What We Love:
- The best value for money for those who like to run on all types of terrain.
- Pros:
- Highly breathable
- Roomy toe box
- Comfy padding
- Unisex design
- Reasonably priced
- Cons:
- The collar sits a bit too low
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 Trainers
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Yes, HOKA ONE ONE’s shoes for plantar fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis are great, but did you know that it also produces the best shoes for trail and road running? HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 Trainers are a must-have all-rounder that has a lightweight construction, ample cushioning, and a roomy toe box. These shoes also include 5mm-deep lugs for grip and a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet from overheating.
What’s more, these best shoes for walking trail are designed with HOKA’s Megagrip technology, meaning that the shoes will keep you stable and secure in both wet and dry conditions. We also love the removable, foam padded insole that provides plenty of cushioning and support.
- What We Love:
- An insanely grippy and stable option that’s perfect for those trail hiing and walking.
- Pros:
- Insane traction
- Stable platform
- Breathable upper
- Removable insole
- Wide toe box
- Cons:
- Run small
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Hierro V6 Trail Running Shoes
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Unlike some of the best shoes for trail hiking on the market, the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Hierro V6 Trail Running Shoes are incredibly versatile. They look great and can truly be worn whenever, be it on the trail, in the pub, or when you’re out on a walk with your friends. But this doesn’t mean they don’t perform amazingly on the trail.
The plush Fresh Foam midsole will make every step more than comfortable. These shoes are soft and far from firm. Moreover, the Vibram MegaGrip will help you descend safely and provide some grip when trying to attack hills. Besides that, we also like the synthetic/mesh upper that uses zonal TPU threads for added support and protection in high wear areas.
- What We Love:
- Highly cushioned trail shoes that doesn’t break your bank.
- Pros:
- Stylish design
- Incredibly versatile
- Fresh Foam midsole
- Zonal TPU threads for added support
- Also available for women
- Cons:
- A tad heavy
Salomon Speedcross 5 Men’s Trail Running Shoes
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When it comes to soft terrain, traction is key. That said, the Salomon Speedcross 5 Men’s Trail Running Shoes is the perfect option for this kind of condition. They shine on soft, muddy trails thanks to their arrow-shaped, 6mm-deep lugs. Not to mention, they also feature an updated grip that’s designed to be extra sticky.
Thanks to the sole, these best shoes for trail hiking are a great option for running on snow or over wet rocks. Even better, they’re available in 7 different color options! Other notable features include a high heel-toe-drop, a good amount of cushioning, and a wide toe box, making them a nice pick for runners with wider feet.
- What We Love:
- The best shoes for trail that perform exceptionally well on soft terrain.
- Pros:
- Grippy sole
- Perfrom well on soft terrain
- Well-cushioned
- Wide toe box
- Multiple color options
- Cons:
- Less breathable compared to other best shoes for road and trail running
How To Choose The Best Shoes for Trail
Aside from trail running vests, having the best shoes for trail is important too. That said, there are some important things to consider when getting them, which are:
Comfort
Needless to say, when it comes to the best shoes for trail, comfort is king. You should make sure the shoes you’re getting have ergonomic designs and added cushioning layers for additional comfort.
Stability
You don’t know what to expect out there. So, your best shoes for trail and road running should offer extra support and be stable on uneven, rocky, wet, or muddy terrains.
Durability
Everyone loves shoes that can stand the test of time, which is why you should pay close attention to the durability and weatherproofing features of the trail shoes!
Price
As with other shoes, the best shoes for trail hiking can get super spendy. However, you shouldn’t be afraid of getting a pair that costs way less as not all cheap options are bad.
Are running shoes good for trails?
While your road running shoes might be able to handle some easy, hard-packed trails, you should invest in a pair of trail running shoes. They’re especially helpful on steep inclines, technical terrain, or when trails are wet, muddy, or covered in snow.
Can I use road running shoes for trail running?
Road shoes are a fine option on some trails, though they perform best on surfaces that resemble roads. By all means, lace up your road shoes for trail runs with minimal hazards such as a crushed-stone bike path or the woodchip trail. However, leave them at home when the going gets wilder.
Are trail shoes good for everyday use?
Though they’re designed for off-road runs, trail shoes are generally safe to wear when running on a road or pavement as well! There might be times when your road shoes may be a better choice, but the best shoes for trail are likely versatile enough for various road conditions.
