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10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11.5 X-Wide

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,257
Fit and Comfort
Weight

Most important from
2660 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Incredibly light and comfortable, these shoes are worth every dollar spent.
Weight
Incredibly light and comfortable, these shoes are worth every dollar spent.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,257
Fit and Comfort
Weight

Most important from
2660 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Incredibly light and comfortable, these shoes are worth every dollar spent.
Weight
Incredibly light and comfortable, these shoes are worth every dollar spent.
#2

Saucony womens Excursion Tr16 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Fuchsia, 8.5 US

Rating
9.8
Terrain Type
Cushioning
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
1751 reviews

Terrain Type
Overall, these shoes combine reliable traction and balanced cushioning, making them a dependable choice for mixed trail conditions and everyday outdoor use.
Cushioning
These shoes strike a great balance with cushioning that supports without being overly soft, making them comfortable for longer hikes and runs.
Fit and Comfort
The narrower toe box provides a comfortable and secure fit for feet that are somewhat narrow, enhancing overall comfort.
Traction
Traction is impressive on dry and gravel surfaces, but caution is needed on wet or smooth surfaces, as initial slipperiness was reported on wet wood and concrete.
Weight
The lightweight design offers surprising agility and stability, contributing to a confident running and walking experience.
Water Resistance
Breathable mesh material keeps feet cool in hot and humid conditions, though it may not be ideal for very wet or muddy environments.

The Saucony Excursion Tr16 for women is designed to handle a variety of trail terrains, featuring carbon-rubber lugs that offer solid traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. This makes it a good choice for running on mixed trails with roots, rocks, or mud. The VERSARUN cushioning provides balanced comfort, supporting feet without being too soft or firm, which is suitable for longer runs where lasting comfort is important.

The mesh outer material allows breathability, helping to keep feet cool, which suggests limited water resistance, so it may not be ideal for very wet or muddy conditions. Protection is incorporated through design details that shield against trail debris. Though weight is not explicitly stated, the materials imply a moderate weight that balances durability and agility for trail running.

Saucony generally offers a dependable fit for women's feet, making this shoe well-suited for runners seeking reliable traction and comfort on varied terrain, particularly in dry to moderately damp conditions. Those who frequently run in very wet environments or require enhanced water resistance might consider other options.

Rating
9.8
Terrain Type
Cushioning
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
1751 reviews

Terrain Type
Overall, these shoes combine reliable traction and balanced cushioning, making them a dependable choice for mixed trail conditions and everyday outdoor use.
Cushioning
These shoes strike a great balance with cushioning that supports without being overly soft, making them comfortable for longer hikes and runs.
Fit and Comfort
The narrower toe box provides a comfortable and secure fit for feet that are somewhat narrow, enhancing overall comfort.
Traction
Traction is impressive on dry and gravel surfaces, but caution is needed on wet or smooth surfaces, as initial slipperiness was reported on wet wood and concrete.
Weight
The lightweight design offers surprising agility and stability, contributing to a confident running and walking experience.
Water Resistance
Breathable mesh material keeps feet cool in hot and humid conditions, though it may not be ideal for very wet or muddy environments.

Buying Guide for the Best Trail Running Shoes

Choosing the right trail running shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe running experience on uneven and rugged terrains. The right pair will provide the necessary support, grip, and protection to help you navigate trails efficiently. When selecting trail running shoes, consider the terrain you'll be running on, your running style, and personal preferences for comfort and fit.
Terrain TypeThe type of terrain you plan to run on will significantly influence your choice of trail running shoes. Shoes designed for technical trails with rocks, roots, and steep inclines will have more aggressive outsoles and protective features. For smoother, less technical trails, you might prefer shoes with less aggressive tread and lighter construction. Consider where you'll be running most often and choose shoes that match those conditions.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe's midsole, which affects comfort and shock absorption. Shoes with more cushioning are ideal for long-distance runs or runners who prefer a softer feel. Minimalist shoes with less cushioning offer a more natural running experience and are suitable for shorter distances or runners who prioritize ground feel. Think about your running distance and comfort preferences when choosing the level of cushioning.
Fit and ComfortA proper fit is essential to prevent blisters and ensure comfort during your runs. Trail running shoes should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to accommodate foot swelling and natural toe splay. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and consider wearing the socks you plan to run in. Pay attention to any pressure points or areas of discomfort.
TractionTraction is provided by the shoe's outsole and is crucial for maintaining grip on various surfaces. Shoes with deep, aggressive lugs offer better traction on muddy, loose, or technical terrain. For hard-packed trails or mixed surfaces, shoes with shallower lugs may be sufficient. Assess the typical trail conditions you'll encounter and choose a shoe with an outsole pattern that provides the necessary grip.
ProtectionTrail running shoes often include protective features like rock plates, reinforced toe caps, and durable uppers to shield your feet from rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. If you frequently run on technical or rocky trails, look for shoes with these protective elements. For less rugged trails, you might prioritize lighter shoes with less protection. Consider the level of protection you need based on the trails you run.
WeightThe weight of the shoe can impact your running efficiency and fatigue levels. Lighter shoes are generally preferred for faster, shorter runs, while heavier shoes with more features and protection are better for long-distance runs or technical terrain. Think about your running goals and the balance between weight and features that will best support your performance.
Water ResistanceWater resistance can be important if you run in wet conditions or through streams and puddles. Waterproof shoes with membranes like Gore-Tex keep your feet dry but can be less breathable. Shoes with quick-drying materials are better for warm, wet conditions. Consider the climate and typical weather conditions of your running environment when deciding on water resistance.

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