Running Footwear
Find the best trail running shoes, including minimal and barefoot models, right here, thanks to independent reviews and ratings by real trail runners, endurance athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts. Don't forget the technical wicking running socks and compression socks.
For more top-rated outdoor footwear—including hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering boots, climbing shoes, and sport sandals—check out our full Footwear reviews and ratings for real-world user reviews.
The best running footwear, reviewed and curated by the Trailspace community. The latest review was added on August 2, 2022. Stores' prices and availability are updated daily.
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Recent Running Footwear Reviews
Brooks Cascadia 16
Brooks continues to stand on the podium with this high-quality trail runner. Offering ample room in the forefoot while still holding perfectly secure, the Cascadia 16 provides the wearer with a lightweight shoe that has excellent under-foot protection. This lightweight shoe is best suited for the hiker/trail runner that needs great traction and support on groomed trails, rough terrain, or anything in between. The Cascadia 16 is available for both men and women as a waterproof (GTX) or well ventilated,… Full review
Swiftwick Flite XT Trail
Up your socks-game with a set of all-around socks that can be stretched into service for almost any three-season activity. I can wear shirts that don’t wick sweat away and I’ll be fine. I can put up with a crappy, $3 vinyl poncho. I can tough it out when my pack tries to wear a hole in my hide. However, if my feet aren’t happy, I’m MUCH less fun to be with. This is why I no longer complain about paying for great socks. The Swiftwick Flite XT Trail socks qualify as great socks. This isn’t… Full review
Salomon XA Pro 3D
I found these shoes 7 years ago for jogging. After trying on so many shoes, and some buying and then taking them back, I found this shoe. The best supporting shoe ever. I wear my orthotics in them. I wear them for walking anywhere. I wear them playing pickleball. Yes, I fell twice playing pickleball in a regular tennis shoe in the first three-week period. Never fell at all in the Pro Xa3d. Love this shoe. I don't find it heavy. Usually by the time I am ready for another pair, they have cool colours. Full review
La Sportiva Jackal
Great support, well made, tough and strong shoe but sizing is off. I got this shoe for regular city/trail walks. Not a runner on trails but wanted a shoe that has good support, is durable, comfortable, and can handle uneven paths. This shoe was also something I wanted to use abroad whilst walking in countries where the streets are more or less like walking on trails—.i.e. with water, gravel, stones, mud on the sidewalks. My goal was to get a shoe that has good traction, is tough on such sidewalks,… Full review
Inov-8 Parkclaw 275 GTX
Great traction in slippery conditions, super comfy insole, but a bit more squishy than I am used to. High ankle support rubs on the ball of my ankle. Took a chance and grabbed these sneakers on a good sale from an online retailer. I bought quite a few shoes online and have had great luck with sizing. First impressions, these shoes are super light and the insoles are super squishy and kind of make my feet a bit tired after a longer walk or hike. After a few Kms my feet kind of settle into the footbed… Full review
Brooks Cascadia 15
Excellent shoe for backpacking, both on and off trail. Brooks Cascadia 15 Brooks Cascadias are widely panned for trail running...too heavy, too stiff, no spring, too narrow, etc., but are routinely praised for stability, protection, durability, and traction. The negative attributes may be problematic for trail runners, especially at ultra distances, but they, with the positives, match up pretty well with the needs of long distance hikers. And in my case they provide the support and stability… Full review
La Sportiva Karacal
Conforms well to a slightly narrow foot with average arch height. Lacing system stays in place, which benefits those who prefer laces that don't adjust while in use. Lugs on sole are tall enough for grip, but low enough to still feel the ground on harder surfaces. These shoes fit well for a slightly narrow foot. I prefer a shoe that envelopes my entire foot and then flexes with it as I land in different positions. Wide toe box shoes are not for me. I prefer a narrow toe tip that only contacts the… Full review
Upstep Fitness Walking & Hiking Custom Orthotics
Upstep custom orthotics are molded to your feet in order to provide optimal support and cushioning for activities of every kind. Whether you’re an athlete or you’d just like some added comfort, these insoles are designed to accommodate you. MSRP: $379 If you’ve ever been curious about high-end foot insoles, you’re not the only one. I’ve struggled with arch pain and plantar fasciitis periodically, and I’m willing to invest in the appropriate remedies. During my search for foot support,… Full review
Balega Ultralight Crew
Very thin sock for running. Fairly good protection from friction, and stretchy fit. Fabric tends to soil and pill fairly easily. I like the socks for walking and running but prefer Balega’s more robust options. Balega’s Ultralight Crew is a lightweight running sock, made of “Drynamix“ moisture-wicking fabric that is supposed to keep your feet cool and wick moisture away to keep your feet feeling dry. Balega also touts its seamless toe as a way to avoid friction points. Unisex sizing in sizes… Full review
