10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe offers several features aimed at enhancing your trail-running experience. Designed with an AT Tread outsole, this shoe provides versatile traction, making it suitable for a variety of terrains, whether you're navigating rocky trails or smoother paths. The soft BIO Foam midsole adds a layer of cushioning, which can help in providing comfort during long runs, reducing the strain on your feet. With a synthetic upper and durable overlays, these shoes are built to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. However, the synthetic material might not offer the best breathability compared to natural fibers, which could lead to warmer feet in hot conditions.

In terms of fit and comfort, the shoe features a lace-up closure that ensures a secure fit, which is essential for stability on uneven surfaces. The shoe is also available in an X-Wide size, catering to those with wider feet who often struggle to find comfortable running shoes. Weighing around 2 pounds, they are moderately lightweight, but there might be lighter options for those prioritizing speed over durability.

The shoe’s water resistance is not specifically highlighted, which suggests it may not be ideal for extremely wet conditions or water-heavy trails. For those who frequently run in rainy weather or through streams, additional considerations like water-resistant features might be necessary. This shoe is particularly suitable for trail runners looking for a durable and comfortable option with good traction and cushioning. It might not cater as well to those who need advanced waterproofing or are looking for ultra-lightweight options. Nonetheless, for regular trails and mixed terrain, this shoe offers a solid balance of protection and comfort.

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe offers several features that cater well to trail runners. Its Balanced Cushioning platform and FootShape toe boxes are designed for optimal comfort and low-impact running, making it a good choice for long-distance trail runners. The cushioning is intended to provide a balanced feel, ensuring that both the heel and forefoot are at the same height from the ground, which can encourage a more natural running form and potentially reduce the risk of injury.

The shoe's mesh outer material and rubber sole provide breathability and durability respectively. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, essential on uneven terrains. The eVent bootie feature adds a level of water resistance, making these shoes suitable for wet conditions and offering protection against the elements. While the weather-resistant feature is beneficial, it's worth noting that the overall weight of the shoe might be slightly heavier due to this additional layer, which could be a drawback for those prioritizing lightweight footwear.

This shoe is best suited for runners looking for comfort and durability, with added water resistance for diverse weather conditions.

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail runners and mountain hikers, offering adaptable stability and trail-ready protection. Its DNA LOFT v2 cushioning provides a soft and comfortable experience over various terrains, making it suitable for long runs. The shoe also features the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, which delivers excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, enhancing safety and control.

The Adaptive Stability through the Trail Adapt System ensures flexibility and protection with its articulated ballistic rock shield and zonal outsole pods, allowing for a stable ride over uneven terrain. The breathable mesh upper is durable and dries quickly, with added overlays in high-wear areas for extra protection against trail debris.

Additionally, the TPU mudguard and toecap are designed to keep out debris, ensuring comfort on extended runs. However, the shoe weighs 1.5 pounds, which may be slightly heavier compared to other trail-running shoes, potentially impacting performance for some runners. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Cascadia 18 is a solid choice for trail runners seeking stability, comfort, and protection on diverse terrains.