Trail Running Shoes

Recent Trail Running Shoe Reviews

Salomon Men's Sense Pro 2

These are a lightweight, low profile trail shoe. I have been using them for backpacking (as a guide, and recreationally) on well-maintained, rocky, gravelly, and moderately muddy tracks in Tasmania and Nepal. They lack the cushion needed for heavier packweights (15+kgs) over long or hard trails, but are comfortable at lighter weights or shorter days. The Salomon Sense Pro 2's are a light and low-profile trail runner that makes a good backpacking shoe for lightweight packs and/or shorter distances. Full review

Altra Men's Superior 4.0

Every day and twice on Sunday. Hands down the most comfortable running shoe I've ever worn. You won't be disappointed. The large toe box is different from most brands, but I'm sold. Full review

Adidas Men's Response Trail 9

The traction is fantastic and stability (particularly on technical descents) is superb. They're a heavy shoe, but don't feel overly heavy on the trail. They size small, I've gone up a full size and they still feel snug. The lacing system and build are excellent. Had these for three months and used them a fair bit trail running on steep muddy trails over winter in Wellington, New Zealand. The traction is fantastic and stability (particularly on technical descents) is superb. In mud and on wet rock… Full review

Hoka Men's Challenger ATR 5

The Hoka Challenger ATR 5 is a great trail running shoe that can double as a nice backpacking shoe for people looking for a nice comfortable shoe with plenty of room in the toe box and that's also available in wide sizes. I am home based in Washington state but make regular trips to California to visit family and when I do I always try to squeeze in a backpacking or fishing trip to the east side of the Sierras. In Washington I generally wear a lightweight hiking or mountaineering boot for most of… Full review

Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260

An aggressive, deep-lugged tread and snug fit make the Mudclaw G-260 a prime choice for muddy trails and other soft surfaces. Comfortable enough for all-day runs. The graphene-enhanced soles also grip well on wet and dry rock and hard-packed dirt, but the lugs can chip. Best held in reserve for running over mud, bogs, sand, and other soft surfaces. “Mud, mud, glorious mud Nothing quite like it for soothing the blood…” The Mudclaw G 260 is Inov-8’s top shoe for running on muddy trails or… Full review

Topo Athletic Women's Hydroventure 2

A nice breathable waterproof trail running shoe. I have wide feet. Even shoes that are supposed to have a large toe box result in stubbed toes and blisters between toes. I decided to try Topo Athletic shoes and they do not disappoint. My toes can spread out easily. I got the Hydroventure model as I wanted something waterproof. I couldn't find them in a store anywhere and had to order them online but tried a different pair of Topo Athletic shoes at REI before ordering them. I was glad I did as the… Full review

Inov-8 Men's Roclite G 345 GTX

The Inov-8 Roclite G 345 GTX is a very high quality mid-ankle boot that offers superb traction, while still being very lightweight. Inov-8 classifies this product as a hiking and running boot that provides comfort and traction over trail protection. Graphene rubber technology takes this footwear to a new level, making it ideal for unstable and slippery terrain during moderate mileage days. Inov-8 released the Roclite G 345 GTX to meet the needs of the "fast & light" hiker or trail runner looking… Full review

Inov-8 Men's Terraultra G 260

The Terraultra G-260 is a «colorful» shoe for running on hardpacked trails, with Inov-8’s reliably tough uppers and a grippy, but not necessarily longer-wearing, graphene-enhanced outsole. Snug and comfortable fit even on my unconventional feet. My last pair of Inov-8s, X-Talon 212s, did not want to die. After over 1000 km, the deep lugs were worn down bald on the heels and thin elsewhere, but the uppers were pretty well unperturbed. I did have a fit problem with them, though, so that I had… Full review

Salomon Women's X-Mission 3

The second pair I've bought. These are my all time favorites! I like the fit of these shoes. I tend to have a slightly wider than normal toe space and average heel. I like that the toe box on these shoes are roomy. The quick pull laces are great for fast adjusting. No issues on the break-in period. Not a blister or hotspot. I wear them hiking and have zero problems. They are not waterproof, so I do not wear them hiking in the rain, but I wear them running errands in the rain and they are fine (I… Full review