Running is an important aspect of every fit person’s day, especially for those preparing for a marathon.
Running long miles requires having the best trail running shoes, as they can greatly impact the runner’s performance.
It’s no accident, then, that we decided to make a list of some of the greatest running shoes that would fit almost any individual’s running needs.
This list is made according to their features, performance, the rating other users gave to these shoes, and their overall performance.
5 Best Trail Running Shoes – Editor’s Pick
Out of all these trail running shoes, we’ve picked five which are truly among the best you can get.
Product Name
Material
Color
Get it AT
New Balance Men’s Leadville V3
Fabric, Synthetic
Black/Toxic
ASICS Men’s GEL Venture 5
Synthetic
Black/Shocking Orange/Blue
Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4
Anti-Debris Mesh/Water Resistant Textile
Slate Blue/Black/Blue Yonder
Skechers Sport Men’s Energy
Leather and Synthetic
White
Altra Men’s Lone Peak 3
Textile/Synthetic
Black/Yellow
Product Name |
Material |
Color |
Get it AT |
New Balance Men’s Leadville V3 | Fabric, Synthetic | Black/Toxic | |
ASICS Men’s GEL Venture 5 | Synthetic | Black/Shocking Orange/Blue | |
Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 | Anti-Debris Mesh/Water Resistant Textile | Slate Blue/Black/Blue Yonder | |
Skechers Sport Men’s Energy | Leather and Synthetic | White | |
Altra Men’s Lone Peak 3 | Textile/Synthetic | Black/Yellow |
9. Adidas Performance Men’s Freak X Mid Cross Trainer
Ideal for: Running trails
These training shoes are among the best trail running shoes for those who like to go on insanely difficult tracks.
The lightweight synthetic and mesh provide optimal comfort and breathability when used extensively.
Their multi-surface traction outsole and the best possible grip on different types of surfaces make these trail running shoes an irresistible option for many.
They are durable and still comfy on the inside for a better and more pleasurable wear.
Heights:
- Very lightweight
- Extremely durable
- Comfortable
- Offer great ventilation
Plains:
- Might be narrow
- Run small
8. La Sportiva Bushido Men’s Trail Running Shoe
Ideal for: Technical terrain
Next on our best trail running shoes list, we have the Bushido trail running shoe.
This is among the most aggressive footwear you could wear.
Nonetheless, they are a safe bet for all types of trails or attitude, like hitting a rock at full speed.
These shoes are made with dual-density compressed EVA rock guard in the forefoot, while the TPU Shank helps prevent bruising.
They are very breathable thanks to the AirMesh uppers and the lateral mesh inserts which help to keep your feet dry and to prevent blisters.
Heights:
- Excellent stability on rocky, steep descents, and slick trails
- Provides excellent stability and traction
- They are lightweight
Plains:
- Might run small
- Might be too stiff for some types of terrains
7. Reebok Men’s R Crossfit Nano 5 Training Shoe
Ideal for: Running trails
Reebok is a brand that’s famous for its activewear, and their R Crossfit Nano 5 training shoes are no exception.
These shoes are designed for fitness enthusiasts and can take a beating and still maintain their qualities.
Since it is important to have both stability and flexibility, these shoes have a wide toe box.
So, even if you go running on a hot summer’s day, your feet will still have enough space to breathe thanks to the intelligent design.
Heights:
- Designed to last
- Great breathability
- Amazing style and design
Plains:
- Rigid tongue
- Might be uncomfortable for the heels
6. DC Men’s Pure Action Sport Sneaker
Ideal for: Running trails
DC shoes are a classic among runners, bikers, skaters and much more.
Still, they’re not usually made for mountain hiking or technical terrain, so they might be sort of a surprise.
These shoes have a cup sole for extra support, and the toe cap is stitched three times for added durability and minimal risk of tearing or holes.
Most of these trail running shoes are made of durable leather.
The side of the shoe has two distinct air holes for airflow and breathability for the foot during wearing.
All in all, these are great shoes to wear when trail running.
Heights:
- Extra support
- Durable
- High-quality fabric
Plains:
- Unstable sole – might be ineffective on slippery or very difficult terrain
- Wide build, the foot might slip while running
5. New Balance Men’s Leadville V3 Trail Shoe
Ideal for: Hard trail tracks
The New Balance Men’s Leadville V3 Trail Sho have premium cushioning, a great toe protection system, and RevLite foaming. These all offer an all-in-one foot deluxe experience.
It is very comfortable to wear these shoes, as they offer a “running on air” sensation.
The New Balance running shoes are worth their time, especially for those who like to test their shoes to the limit.
Heights:
- Comfortable
- Great cushioning
- FantomFIt upper
- Gusseted tongue
Plains:
- Can wear down after several months of use
- Wide in the heel
4. ASICS Men’s GEL Venture 5 Running Shoe
Ideal for: All types of trail and track terrains
This Asics trail running shoe is famous for its durability, lightweight, and comfortable feel.
That is thanks to the cushioning technology they have.
Besides, the resilient well-ventilated upper sole, the heel collar, and padded tongue fundamentally improve the comfort of your feet inside of the shoe.
Moreover, the stable platform does not compromise the shock attenuation and protection it offers.
The open mesh layers allow free air flow inside the shoe.
So you are sure to maintain dry and cool feet even during rigorous training or the hottest of days.
Heights:
- Amazing traction
- Durable
- Flexible upper sole
- Breathable and lightweight
Plains:
- Might be tight and narrow
- Poor arch support
3. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes
Ideal for: Steep trail tracks
The Salomon Speedcross is a brand with which many are familiar.
What makes the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 trail runner such a good option is its traction adherence.
This means that you can wear and use them on virtually any type of ground, especially the steep type of track.
These shoes offer you a good balance of sensitivity and protection, meaning they keep your feet protected while also making sure they don’t have to suffer.
Heights:
- Very good traction
- Great grip
- Offer a precise foothold
- Contragrip rubber sole
Plains:
- Some customers claim they do not last long
- Too narrow
2. Skechers Sport Men’s Energy Afterburn Lace-Up Sneaker
Ideal for: Easy trails
These next shoes are, as you can see, from Skechers, an award-winning global leader in the lifestyle footwear industry.
Made from leather and synthetic material, it has a padded tongue and collar.
This design offers quality stitching that will serve you well on the trail.
However, keep in mind that they are not suitable for mountain-like trails.
You would also need some good trail running socks with them, to make them more comfortable, so don’t forget about them either!
Heights:
- Attractive design
- Comfortable and flexible
- Good cushioning
Plains:
- Poor arch support
- Sizing might be off
1. Altra Men’s Lone Peak 3 Running Shoe
Ideal for: Rocky terrain trails
These running shoes have a zero-drop design, whilst featuring a foot-shaped toe box.
The fact that it has a zero drop means that the height of the shoe is the same from heel to toe.
The foam technology that Altra uses, the A-bound EVA, is held as being one of the best on the market.
Another great feature is that the shoe’s rock plate is embedded in the midsole for increased stability on uneven rocky terrain. But, at the same time, it still offers adequate protection.
Heights:
- Extra comfortable
- Shock-absorbent
- New and improved upper support, midsole, and outsole
Plains:
- Might cause instability for some people
- Not very durable, according to some
Conclusion
Up, up, and away, as this wrapped up our list of best trail running shoes that should serve you well, no matter how many miles you are planning to run.
So, whether you’re in for something not that expensive, but still resistant enough, or something that you know will keep you on track for a long time, our list will surely come in handy.
Let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments section below!
Recommended Read: The Best Headlamps to Take on Your Next Trip