10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 8 is a solid choice for trail runners looking for a shoe that encourages a natural running style. Its roomy eNatural Fit toe box allows your toes to spread comfortably, which is great for stability and avoiding blisters on longer runs. The 25mm stack height gives decent cushioning, making it comfortable over varied terrain without feeling too bulky. The MaxTrac outsole combined with the multi-directional TrailClaw lugs offers reliable grip on different surfaces, helping you maintain traction on slippery or uneven trails.

The durable mesh upper strikes a good balance between breathability and toughness. Protection around the foot is adequate for light to moderate trails, though it may not provide heavy-duty rock protection. Its lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, and the shoe’s design supports natural foot movement, which can enhance comfort during longer outings.

This shoe suits trail runners who prioritize comfort, toe space, and good traction on mixed terrain, while those seeking waterproofing or extra rugged protection might consider other options.

The Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are built to handle tough and varied trail conditions, making them a strong choice for serious trail runners or hikers who need reliable performance. They feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, which keeps your feet dry in wet or windy weather while still allowing breathability to prevent overheating. The shoes offer advanced stability through a 3D chassis, giving good support and protection underfoot, which helps reduce fatigue on rough terrain.

Their Contagrip rubber outsole provides solid traction on mixed surfaces, including loose gravel, so you can trust your footing on tricky trails. Additionally, the reinforced toe cap adds extra protection against rocks and roots, which is important for rough outdoor paths. While the shoe is focused on durability and protection, it might be a bit heavier than simpler trail runners, which could affect speed for those who prioritize lightweight gear.

The fit is designed to be secure and stable, but may feel snug for wider feet. These shoes suit runners or hikers who want dependable waterproofing, strong grip, and foot protection for challenging trails rather than those looking for ultra-lightweight or minimal cushioning options.

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 GTX is designed for trail runners and mountain hikers who need reliable protection and adaptability on rugged terrain. Its standout feature is the waterproof GORE-TEX upper, which keeps feet dry without making the shoe feel bulky, great for wet or unpredictable weather. The cushioning uses DNA LOFT v2 foam, providing a soft, comfortable feel that absorbs impact well over various surfaces, making longer runs less tiring. Fit and comfort are enhanced by breathable mesh and overlays that protect from debris, while the ankle-height design offers extra support without restricting movement.

Traction is strong thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, which grips well on both wet and dry trails, and it includes recycled materials for a more eco-friendly touch. Protection goes beyond waterproofing with a ballistic rock shield in the midsole to guard against sharp objects, plus TPU mudguards and toecaps that block trail debris effectively. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, this shoe is moderately light, balancing protection and agility, though some runners looking for ultra-light shoes might find it a bit heavier.

This shoe is well-suited for those tackling mixed or mountainous trails who prioritize waterproofing, stability, and durable protection, but it may be less ideal for runners focusing solely on speed or very lightweight gear.