Best Trail Running Shoes (2025): Our Picks After Hundreds of Trail Miles

At a Glance 

• Available in standard and wide sizes
• Plush midsole
• Compatible with gaiters
• Works for beginner and advanced trails

This springy yet burly pair of trail running shoes can take you from flowy, hard-packed dirt to steep pitches littered with scree. The Ultraventures perform like a race shoe and are comfortable, to boot. I spoke with product tester Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, who says, “I feel incredibly stable in these. They have a wide but locked-in toe box and extra lacing. The midsole has enough give during each footstrike to feel comfortable, but enough support that you’re not overpronating.” All together, these features are why the Ultraventure 4 earns our top overall spot for trail running shoes.

Versatility: 4/5

Outsole: 5/5

Appearance & Design: 5/5

Why We Like the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4

The Ultraventure 4s scored highly in all of our tests, earning no lower than a 4 out of 5 in every category. In particular, our tester loved the durability of the outsole lugs, noting that after more than 150 miles on all kinds of terrain, the tread still looks fantastic. As such, they make great long-distance running shoes.

It’s not just the durability that impressed Kate, though. “I really can’t say enough about how wonderfully sticky and grippy this outsole is,” she says. “It’s a Vibram outsole, a brand that has a reputation for making outsoles with great traction and grip.” The pair earns 5 out of 5 points for both traction and lug pattern.

Alternatives

Kate didn’t have many negatives to point out about the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4s. She did knock a point, though, from the score for the upper construction—they earn 4 out of 5—because while they have great breathability due to the engineered mesh, water seeps in and stays there. Don’t wear them in the rain, she advises.

If you’re in need of waterproof trail running shoes, try the Brooks Cascadia 19s, which are available in a GORE-TEX variation for added protection.

Testing Breakdown

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4s earned the highest average score across all trail running shoes we tested.

Vs. The Average

Compared to the average trail running shoe, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 has slightly more plush cushioning and slightly lower heel drop and weight per shoe.

At a Glance 

• Certified CarbonNeutral product
• Waterproof version available
• Rock plate protects feet
• Nitrogen-infused midsole cushioning

At $150, the Brooks Cascadia 19s are among the least expensive trail running shoes we tested. Despite that, they scored highly in almost every category, solidifying their “best value” title. When I spoke to Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC about these shoes, he raved about their versatility and comfort, calling out the padded heel counter, balanced midsole cushioning, and cradling heel cup.

Stability & Performance: 4/5

Construction & Durability: 4/5

Outsole: 4.5/5

Why We Like the Brooks Cascadia 19

When I asked Ben about his favorite features of the Cascadia 19s, he was quick to note their overall stability and performance, which he rates at 4 out of 5. “Stability comes from the oversized, flared-out footprint for added ground contact in each step, which can be beneficial when trying to maintain your footing over loose terrain,” he says. “The heel feels more padded than previous Cascadia iterations, which provides a nice support system across your Achilles without compromising on comfort.”

Ben awards the Cascadia 19s a score of 4.5 out of 5 for the outsole, too, noting, “Brooks’ TrailTack Green outsole shines. The lugs, while not very deep, provide a great sense of traction and can maintain their grip over loose and packed pathways alike. Naturally, you’ll likely slip and slide through deep mud bogs, but for the errant puddle or ditch, these are more than enough.” 

RELATED: Best Stability Running Shoes

Alternatives

Though the Cascadia 19s scored well all-round, there is one category where Ben would like to see some improvement: adjustments and comfort. The shoes still earned a respectable score of 3.5 out of 5, but Ben notes that it’s tough to achieve a locked-down feel due to the plushly-padded tongue. “Plus, the laces themselves (a traditional nylon rope with synthetic aglets) are less secure than the serrated laces found in other Brooks trail running shoes,” he adds.

Searching for something more minimalist? Check out the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail, which we recommend for a barefoot-style shoe.

Testing Breakdown

The Brooks Cascadia 19s scored highly in nearly every category, with particularly high remarks for customer service and overall value.

Vs. The Average

Brooks offers a longer trial period than most brands, and the Cascadia 19s cost slightly less than average.

At a Glance 

• Zero-drop, barefoot-style shoe
• Excellent waterproofing
• Runs slightly narrow
• 5,000-mile sole warranty

It doesn’t get more minimalist than the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail WP Low (or Mid, if that’s your thing). I’ve worn these all over trails in Colorado, Washington, and Idaho, as well as in my swampy hometown in Louisiana. Everywhere, they’ve impressed me with their lightweight, locked-in feel, and broad base of support.

Versatility: 4/5

Outsole: 4/5

Stability: 5/5

Why We Like the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail

With an abrasion-resistant upper, locked-in forefoot, and ultra-stable midsole, the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail WP excels on nearly all types of trails. After wearing them for more than 200 miles, I’ve come to love the barely-there design. It takes time to adjust to barefoot running shoes, but once you do, you’ll appreciate how light you feel on your feet. 

They earn 4 out of 5 points for versatility, which I can personally vouch for after wearing them for short and long trail runs (my longest in these was a 20-miler), 12,000-foot summit climbs, and more. They also earn 4 out of 5 points for construction and durability, due largely to Xero’s proprietary outsole. It’s better, in my opinion, than most Vibram soles I’ve had, which is considered the gold standard in outsole durability. Xero even offers a 5,000-mile sole warranty, which is a testament to the construction.

Alternatives

The Scrambler Trail WP shoes are watertight, for sure, but the tradeoff is breathability. They earned a 3.5-out-of-5 rating for their upper construction due to low breathability, plus the watertight seams are showing some wear after three months of (albeit very heavy) use. I worry they’ll start to let water seep in with continued wears. 

Additionally, not everyone will love the rigid underfoot feel these provide. They intend to help you build strength naturally in your feet while still protecting them from rugged terrain. It’s noticeable, and you might feel discomfort on long-distance trail days. For comfort, the Scrambler Trail earned 3 out of 5 points (with the caveat that it’s a purposeful design). 

For a plush trail shoe with a lofty stack height and bouncy responsiveness, try our best overall pick, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4.

Testing Breakdown

The Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail WP scored high-to-perfect in many categories, with some average scores for appearance and comfort sprinkled in. 

Vs. The Average

The Scrambler Trail costs slightly more than average but is right on par with its trial period.

At a Glance 

• Roomy, wide toe box
• Excels in most trail conditions
• Also great for hikers
• Zero-drop sole with soft midsole cushioning

If you are in need of trail shoes that let your toes spread out, the Altra Lone Peaks are about to be your new best friend. I’ve worn several iterations of Lone Peaks, and Altra’s Original FootShape footbed provides plenty of wiggle room. Another tester, GGR managing editor Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC, rates the toe box with a score of 4 out of 5 and says her “toes didn’t feel squished at all.”

Adjustments & Comfort: 4/5

Outsole: 3/5

Appearance & Design: 5/5

Why We Like the Altra Lone Peak 9

We love the combination of wiggle room and stability in the Altra Lone Peaks. My feet tend to swell when running long-distance, so I appreciate the extra space in the toe box, especially on descents after a long climb. Plus, they’re well-cushioned with a balanced feel. Amanda rates the cushion at 4 out of 5 points, saying, “They’re not super soft but it’s more than what you’d find in a true barefoot shoe.”

The Lone Peak 9s also earned high marks for construction and durability, particularly with regard to the upper construction. The ripstop mesh upper is tightly woven, and no-sew overlays enhance the durability further. Yet, they’re still flexible and soft—despite years of running in Lone Peaks, I’ve never poked a toe hole through the upper. 

Alternatives

Amanda wasn’t stoked about how quickly the outsoles wore down on her Lone Peak 9s. “The outsole is definitely already wearing down, particularly along the outer edge of the shoe up by my toes,” she says. “I’ve worn these on a couple of really rocky hiking trails, so I’d expect them to wear down somewhat, but they do seem to be wearing down faster than I would have liked or anticipated.” She gives them 3 out of 5 points for outsole durability. 

When on her feet for more than 6 miles, Amanda also felt some discomfort, which she attributes to possibly not being accustomed to zero-drop shoes. “If you want to run long distances in them, I’d suggest gradually building up.”

Need a trail shoe with more support? The Brooks Cascadia 19 may be a good fit with a 6-millimeter heel-to-toe drop and Brooks’ DNA Loft v3 midsole cushioning.

Testing Breakdown

The Altra Lone Peak 9 earned mostly above-average ratings, with special callouts for appearance and design, upper durability, and value.

Vs. The Average

With a lower drop, less cushion, and a lighter weight than the average trail running shoes, the Lone Peaks lean to the minimal side. 

At a Glance 

• Seamless transitions from road to trail
• Ideal for less technical terrain
• Breathable mesh upper
• High heel-to-toe drop

Do you dream of running straight from your apartment to your local trail? You can in the Nike Pegasus Trail 5s! Our top choice for switching between pavement and dirt, the Pegasus Trail 5s feature moderately deep outsole lugs along with midsole stabilizers for uneven terrain. Tester Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, says of their performance, “The brand employs its ReactX foam across the midsole, which I feel is great for light trails and has a nice blend of comfort and responsiveness.”

Versatility: 4/5

Adjustments & Comfort: 4/5

Upper Material Design: 3/5

Why We Like the Nike Pegasus Trail 5

Versatility is the name of the game here. Between the breathable mesh upper, medial support in the midsole, 2-millimeter outsole lugs, and toe bumper, the shoes’ features “all combine for a reputable road-to-trail shoe,” says Ben, who gives them a score of 4 out of 5 for construction and durability. He also points out that the Pegasus 5 is a nice option for fashion-forward runners, awarding the shoes a score of 4.5 out of 5 for appearance and design. “There are a handful of different colorways available, both neutral and vibrant, and I do like the silhouette when paired with a pair of shorts or joggers,” he says.

Alternatives

Our tester appreciates the versatility and beginner-friendliness of the Pegasus Trail 5, but that comes with downsides. For instance, “The mesh upper is nice and breathable but could be susceptible to rips when traversing roots, rocks, or crags,” says Ben. Still, the pair earns a solid score of 4.5 out of 5 for construction and durability—the caveat is it’s important to match your shoes to your intended trail type. 

Ben also calls out the stability and performance rating of 3.5 out of 5. “The heel counter is padded, but without a ton of structure,” he notes. “I never feel like I’m slipping out of the shoe, but this lack of sturdiness does give me hesitation when tackling steeper, more technical terrain and obstacles.”

For a more robust shoe that easily traverses rocky terrain and rugged trails, try the La Sportiva Bushido IIIs.

Testing Breakdown

The Pegasus Trail 5 scored higher than average in many categories, with some key drawbacks.

Vs. The Average

The cost of the Pegasus Trail 5 falls in line with the average, and they are slightly heavier with a larger heel drop. 

At a Glance 

• Carbon-plated race shoes
• Built-in gaiters
• Rocker plate for extra propulsion
• Lightweight but max-cushioned 

Super shoes have become commonplace among road runners, but there aren’t as many options for the trail. The HOKA Tecton X 3 features all of the best components of race shoes—dual carbon plates, sockliner ankle collar, and a featherweight design—while maintaining necessary components of trail shoes. I chatted with product tester Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC about the Tecton X 3 and he says, “These trail shoes employ HOKA’s Matryx textile across the upper that offers up lightweight breathability and excellent durability. I also cannot praise the Vibram outsole enough for its traction and durability.” 

RELATED: Marathon Training Plan

Stability & Performance: 4/5

Adjustments & Comfort: 4/5

Outsole: 4.5/5

Why We Like the HOKA Tecton X 3

Ben, who’s been using the Tecton X 3 as daily runners, praises the stability and performance with a rating of 4 out of 5. “There’s excellent underfoot stability thanks to the paralleled carbon plates, and I appreciate that HOKA extended the sidewalls around the heel for extra support,” he says. “You can even see some of the carbon at the midfoot and heel.” 

The gaiter-like knit liner also reinforces the locked-in feel of these race day shoes, he adds, and keeps debris out of the shoes. That’s a win, because stopping to pour pebbles out of your shoes isn’t ideal on race day.

Alternatives

While Ben thoroughly enjoys the HOKA Tecton X 3s, he notes they are not for everyone. With a nearly-$300 price tag, these earn just 2 out of 5 points for price and value. It’s not that the features don’t justify the price—they certainly do—it’s just that the features are unnecessary for most runners. We’re always wary of making runners at any level feel like they need the most expensive shoes to have fun and perform well.

If carbon plates and gaiter-style ankle collars feel like a bit much for you, a more beginner-friendly pair of trail runners is worth a try. Check out the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4, which features components great for everyday runs. 

Testing Breakdown

The HOKA Tecton X 3 scored highly across most categories, including construction and durability, stability and performance, tread pattern, and customer service.

Vs. The Average

Compared to the average trail running shoes, the HOKA Tecton X 3 is much more expensive and has a shorter trial period (though it’s worth noting that HOKA’s trial period allows you to wear the shoes without limits).

At a Glance 

• Designed for highly technical trails
• Ultra-lightweight upper
• Sticky rubber outsole
• Slanted lug pattern

La Sportiva is a top brand name in mountaineering, so it’s no surprise that the Bushido IIIs snagged the top spot for technical trail running. They’ve got “mountain running” in the name, after all. I talked to product tester Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, who appreciates their stability. “I made sure to step on gravel, loose rocks, and the smoothest rocks I could find, and never felt unstable,” he says.

Outsole: 4/5

Stability & Performance: 4/5

Construction & Durability: 4.5/5

Why We Like the La Sportiva Bushido III

The Bushido III stands out in the durability department, Matt says, giving it a nearly-perfect score of 4.5 out of 5. “These feel extremely durable and tough. The sole is very sturdy, the outsole material is durable,” he says. “I’m extremely impressed with the construction.” The missing half-point is due to the thin tongue, which Matt says is hard to grip and adjust compared to thicker ones.

Matt also points out the incredible ventilation of the upper material. “The top and sides are ventilated to the point of being able to see my hands through the shoe,” he says. While it’s comfy, he points out that it’s not a great idea to take them out running in the rain. 

Alternatives

The Bushido IIIs are built for a specific purpose—mountain running—and it shows in the design. This isn’t inherently a bad thing, but it does take away from versatility, which is something to consider when $160 is on the table. Matt gives them a rating of 2 out of 5 for the category. They could work for different kinds of hikes, he says, but they’re not a pair he’d want to wear all the time. “I changed out of them as soon as I was done hiking before the drive home, since the bottom is so stiff that it’s not something I’d want to wear around all day,” he notes.

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that can take you from the trail to happy hour, take a look at the Nike Pegasus Trail 5—our pick for “road-to-trail” shoes. They feature more moderate design elements that make them comfortable for a variety of uses.

Testing Breakdown

The La Sportiva Bushido III isn’t our highest-scoring trail running shoe, but we think it’s worth it for its specific purpose.

Vs. The Average

The Bushido III runs close to average for weight and heel drop, as well as price. It features firmer cushioning than average and a shorter return period.