Trail Running Shoes

Recent Trail Running Shoe Reviews

La Sportiva Bushido II

The La Sportiva Bushido II is a solid, comfortable trail running shoe for all-around, year-round use on trails and mountains. With excellent traction and fit, it retains everything I loved about the original Bushido trail runner with some minor refinements. When I heard that La Sportiva was introducing an updated Bushido II trail runner my first response was "No!" What if they screwed something up? I've worn at least six pairs, possibly more, of the original La Sportiva Bushidos over the five years… Full review

Saucony Koa ST

Pretty great trail shoes for hiking and running in loose conditions. Very comfortable, nice fit, looks great, but not without some drawbacks. Having been transitioning my gear from a more traditional kit to a more lightweight/UL backpacking kit, one of the first things I considered was moving from a traditional light hiking boot to a lighter trail shoe for hiking and backpacking. Luckily I found these on a closeout sale, and was immediately drawn to their sharp good looks (the brilliant colors of… Full review

Altra Superior 4.0

The Superior 4.0 is a supremely comfortable shoe, with many improvements over its predecessors (better fit, materials, flexibility). Yet the 4.0 maintains most of the best characteristics that make this model my favorite hiking shoe. They are responsive to the trail, fit my narrow feet perfectly, and the tread is excellent for gripping loose gravel and even snowy patches. They are lightweight and dry fast. My only disappointment is that they did not last quite as long as my Superior 3.0/3.5s. Description… Full review

Altra 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 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 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 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 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