10 Best Trail Running Shoes, According to Our Editors

Trail running shoes might have crossed over into everyday style, but out on the trail, they’re still doing a very real job. With the growth of adventure sports, so has the range of shoes on offer. This is excellent news for you, the consumer. However, it also makes choosing the right pair easier said than done.

If you’re running on dirt, gravel or rocky tracks, trail running shoes make a noticeable difference. They give you more grip, more protection and more confidence underfoot, which means fewer slips, less foot fatigue and a far better run overall. To save you the guesswork, here are 10 of the best trail running shoes you can buy right now.

Best Trail Running Shoes Overview

• Best overall: Hoka Speedgoat 6
• For a lightweight trail running shoe: Salomon Genesis
• For distance trail runners: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 
• For race day: Saucony Peregrine 15
• For beginners: Brooks Cascadia 19
• For shopping on a budget: Nike Pegasus Trail 5

1. Hoka Speedgoat 6 – Best Cushioned Workhorse

Price: from AUD$289.99

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is designed for runners who spend long hours on the trail and require comfort they can trust when the terrain becomes rough. It’s a maximum-cushioned, all-terrain shoe that feels secure on rocks, roots, and steeper sections, thanks to a Vibram Megagrip outsole and deep 5 mm lugs. Compared to earlier versions, this one feels slightly firmer and more controlled underfoot, with a supportive upper that provides a secure fit. You lose a bit of that ultra-soft feel the Speedgoat became famous for, but you gain stability and confidence when the trail gets technical. This is a shoe for protection and control rather than outright speed.

Pros

• Comfortable, high-stack cushioning that works well for long runs on rough trails.
• Excellent grip on loose, wet and technical terrain.
• More stable and supportive than earlier Speedgoats, especially on uneven ground.
• Secure and comfortable fit with good lockdown and minimal break-in required.

Considerations

• The midsole feels firmer and less plush than in older versions.
• Lugs wear quickly on hardpack or road surfaces.
• The fit runs slightly narrow for those with very wide feet.
• Not exceptionally light or responsive for racing.

2. Saucony Peregrine 15 – Best Grippy All-Rounder

Price: from AUD$149.99

The Saucony Peregrine 15 is a do-it-all trail shoe that strikes the sweet spot between grip, speed, and control. It retains the classic, close-to-the-ground trail feel for which the Peregrine is known, but adds a softer, more forgiving ride than older versions. This is the trail running shoe you reach for when you don’t know exactly what the trail will throw at you, from hardpack and gravel to rocky, technical singletrack. You still get good ground feel, but with enough protection to run fast and stay confident.

Pros

• Excellent grip across mixed terrain, including loose gravel, wet rock and steep trails.
• More comfortable than older Peregrines, with cushioning that feels firm but not harsh.
• Good protection from rocks and roots without losing that agile, nimble feel.
• Secure, locked-in fit that works well on technical sections.
• Light and responsive enough for everyday trail runs and faster efforts.

Considerations

• The forefoot runs on the narrower side, which may not suit those with wide feet.
• The outsole wears out faster if you spend a lot of time on hard surfaces.
• Still feels firmer than the Max Cushion Trail shoes on long descents.
• Not ideal for regular road use or deep mud conditions.

3. Altra Timp 5 – Zero‑drop, Roomy Toe Box

Price: from AUD$209.95

The Altra Timp 5 is a relaxed, do-it-all trail shoe for runners who like a natural feel underfoot. It adheres to Altra’s zero-drop platform and roomy toe box, then adds a more secure upper and a well-balanced midsole that works across a wide range of trails. From easy dirt paths to moderately technical singletrack, it feels stable, comfortable and predictable. It also happens to be better received than the recently released Timp 6, making it an easy recommendation over the latest version.

Pros

• The zero-drop design feels natural and stable once you’re accustomed to it.
• The roomy toe box provides your feet with ample space to spread, making it ideal for longer runs.
• Reliable grip on mixed terrain thanks to Vibram Megagrip.
• Balanced cushioning that protects without feeling soft or unstable.
• More secure and comfortable upper than older Timps.

Considerations

• Zero drop can be tough on calves if you are coming from high-drop shoes.
• Cushioning is comfortable but not plush enough for everyone on long descents.
• Fit may feel too roomy for narrow feet.
• Not ideal for regular road running.

4. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II – Technical & Mountain-Ready

Price: from AUD$239.95

The Ultra Raptor II is made for serious terrain rather than casual trail miles. It’s the shoe you want when the route gets steep, rocky and unpredictable, and you need something that’s planted and protective rather than light and quick. Underfoot, it’s firm and stable, with ample protection from sharp rocks, while the upper feels tough enough to withstand repeated scrapes. It doesn’t have that smooth, springy ride you get from more modern trail runners, but it makes up for it with confidence and control. If your trails blur the line between running and hiking, or you spend a lot of time in alpine or mountain environments, the Ultra Raptor II should be top of your list.

Pros

• Excellent grip on rock and steep terrain, especially on climbs and descents.
• Very stable and protective underfoot, with a solid feel that suits technical trails.
• A tough, durable upper that withstands rough conditions well.
• Secure fit through the heel and midfoot, with a wide option available.

Cons

• Standard fit runs narrow in the toe box.
• Can feel heavy and stiff compared to more run-focused trail shoes.
• Sticky rubber can wear faster if you spend a lot of time on abrasive rock.

5. Nike Pegasus Trail 5 – For Road to Trail

Price: from AUD$200

The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a true door-to-trail shoe for runners who move between footpaths, bike paths, fire roads, and light singletrack during the same run. The ReactX midsole feels smooth and cushioned without being sloppy, making it comfortable for longer mixed surface outings and easy road kilometres to and from the trail. Grip is best on gravel and dry dirt rather than technical terrain, but that’s the trade-off for a shoe that still feels natural on pavement. With the Pegasus Trail 6 expected to drop in March 2026, the Trail 5 is also hitting a sweet spot where discounts start to appear, making it a smart buy if you want a versatile, everyday trail shoe without paying the full launch price.

Pros

• Smooth, cushioned ride that works well for mixed road and light trail runs.
• Provides a good grip on gravel, dirt, and fire roads without feeling harsh on pavement.
• Roomier and more comfortable upper with improved lockdown compared to the previous version.
• Versatile choice if your runs include road sections or urban access trails.

Considerations

• Grip isn’t as firm as dedicated technical trail shoes in mud or very rocky terrain.
• Slight weight increase compared with the previous model.
• Not ideal if most of your running is on highly technical singletrack.

6. Brooks Cascadia 19 – Stable All-Rounder

Price: from AUD$279.99

The Brooks Cascadia 19 takes a long-time favourite and finally makes it feel more like a running shoe than a hiking boot. It retains the sturdy, dependable feel for which the Cascadia is known, but the softer midsole and broader base make it smoother and more comfortable over long distances. It’s stable and predictable on mixed terrain, with ample protection underfoot, making it a good choice for runners who prioritise comfort and durability over speed.

Pros

• Softer, smoother ride than older Cascadias, especially on longer runs.
• Very stable and confidence-inspiring on uneven ground.
• Good grip across most trail conditions.
• A tough, protective upper that withstands rough use well.
• Roomy and comfortable, with a fit that accommodates feet that swell.

Considerations

• Still feels heavy compared to lighter, faster trail shoes.
• Grip is good but not class-leading in very slippery or muddy conditions.
• Can feel overbuilt on smooth, fast trails.
• Not ideal for long stretches of road running.

7. Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 – Roomy, Secure Trail-Cruiser

Price: from AUD$260

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is built for comfort first, especially if your idea of trail running leans more towards long, steady miles than technical mountain routes. It’s cushioned and relaxed underfoot, with plenty of space up front for your toes to move naturally, while still maintaining security through the midfoot and heel. The ride is smooth and predictable, making it a good option for long runs, light ultras, and road-to-trail days where the terrain stays fairly friendly. It’s not designed to tackle gnarly alpine trails, but for gravel, hardpack and mellow singletrack, it does the job well.

Pros

• A spacious toe box that allows your toes to spread without the shoe feeling loose.
• A comfortable, cushioned ride that works well for long, easy efforts.
• More secure midfoot and heel than you might expect for a high stack shoe.
• The outsole handles gravel, hardpack, and light trails while still feeling fine on the road.
• Breathable upper that works well in warm conditions.

Considerations

• Lacks the protection and structure needed for very rocky or technical terrain.
• Shallow lugs struggle in deep mud or loose ground.
• Feels more relaxed than responsive if you want a snappy ride.
• Not the most durable option for heavy use on rough trails.

8. Altra Lone Peak 9 – Classic Zero Drop with Grip

Price: from AUD$269.95

The Altra Lone Peak 9 sticks closely to the formula that made the Lone Peak so popular in the first place. It’s low to the ground, zero drop, and very roomy up front, which makes it a favourite for runners and hikers who want a natural feel and plenty of space for their toes. Compared to older versions, this one feels a bit more structured and durable, with improved traction and a more secure build, albeit at the cost of some of the flexibility the Lone Peak used to offer. It still suits long days out and mixed trail use best, especially if you value foot freedom and ground feel over cushioning and speed.

Pros

• Zero-drop design with a low stack height provides good ground feel and a natural stride.
• Very roomy toe box that works well for wide feet and long days.
• Improved traction compared to older Lone Peaks, especially on mixed terrain.
• More secure and durable feel than previous versions.
• Works well for both running and hiking.

Considerations

• Feels firmer and stiffer than older Lone Peaks.
• Lockdown can still feel loose if you do not dial in the lacing.
• Runs warmer and heavier than expected for its category.
• Zero drop and lower cushioning may not suit everyone, especially on long, rocky descents.

9. Hoka Challenger 8 – Road to Trail Crossover

Price: from AUD$199.99

The Hoka Challenger 8 is designed for runners who want a single shoe that can handle almost everything. It’s soft and comfortable underfoot, with enough cushioning to cover long road kilometres, then keep going when the surface turns to gravel, fire road, or easy trail. Compared to older versions, it feels slightly more stable and accommodating, with a smoother ride and improved grip when things get somewhat uneven. It’s not an actual trail weapon, but if your runs blur the line between road and trail, the Challenger 8 is a reliable option.

Pros

• Very comfortable cushioning that suits long, steady runs.
• Smooth transition from road to gravel and light trail.
• Improved grip compared to earlier versions without feeling harsh on pavement.
• A roomier fit that works for a wide range of foot shapes.

Considerations

• Lacks protection for very rocky, muddy or technical trails.
• The ride is relaxed rather than fast or responsive.
• Lugs and outsole wear out faster with extensive road use.

10. Salomon Genesis – Technical & Secure

Price: from AUD$135.00

The Salomon Genesis is built for runners who spend most of their time on mountain trails rather than smooth, cruisy paths. It’s stable, secure and confidence-inspiring, with a firm ride that prioritises control over softness. The upper is rigid yet not bulky, the fit is precise without being overly narrow, and the grip is dependable, especially when the terrain turns steep or rocky. It’s not a plush, floaty trail shoe. Still, if you want something reliable and composed on long, technical runs, the Genesis sits in the reasonable middle ground between everyday trainers and race-focused mountain shoes.

Pros

• Firm grip on steep, rocky and technical terrain.
• A stable and controlled feel that inspires confidence on uneven ground.
• Rugged but lightweight upper that holds up well to rough trails.
• Secure fit that feels precise without being overly narrow.

Considerations

• The ride is firm rather than cushioned.
• The outsole can wear faster if you run a lot on abrasive rock or road.
• Quicklace system may cause pressure for some runners if not adjusted carefully.

What to Look For in Trail Running Shoes

When it comes to trail running shoes, the features are more important than the brand name, because the right combination can be the difference between feeling confident on the trail and fighting your footing every step of the way.

• Traction pattern: Look at the lugs on the outsole. Deeper, widely spaced lugs grip well in mud and loose dirt. Shallower, closer lugs work better on hardpack and mixed surfaces. Stickier rubber helps on wet rock.
• Cushioning level: The level of cushioning affects both comfort and protection. More stack and softer foam smooth out long runs and more complex surfaces. Firmer foam gives better feedback and control on technical ground. Choose your shoe based on your typical run length and terrain.
• Protection plate: A rock plate located under the midsole helps block sharp rocks and roots. It adds a bit of weight but makes a big difference on rocky or uneven trails. If you primarily run smooth trails, you can skip a bulky plate.
• Fit and toe box: Trail shoes should feel secure in the heel and midfoot. A roomy toe box allows your toes to spread out on long runs. Too tight up front can cause discomfort or blisters on downhills.
• Upper material: Breathable mesh is ideal for dry, warm conditions. Tougher fabrics or overlays matter if the trail is rough or full of debris. Think about durability versus weight.
• Heel drop: Heel drop affects your stride feel. A higher drop can feel easier if you come from road shoes. A lower or zero drop gives a more natural stride, but may take time to adapt.
• Weight: Lighter shoes feel quicker and more agile. Heavier shoes tend to offer more protection and durability.
• Stability features: Look for a stable platform, supportive heel counter, and secure lacing if you run technical trails. These help you stay balanced on uneven ground.
• Durability: Trail shoes take a beating. Firmer outsoles and reinforced uppers tend to last longer, but they can also add weight. Decide if you want longevity or a lighter ride.
• Grip on mixed surfaces: If your runs include roads, paths, or fire trails, choose a hybrid outsole that works well on hard surfaces while still providing good grip on dirt.
• Ease of entry/exit: Some shoes use quicklace or speed systems. They are quick to put on, but require some adjustment to get the fit right.

How We Made This List

From the author, Ally Burnie: We compiled this list using our experience, in-depth research, and time spent reviewing Reddit threads and trail running forums. In my case, I’ve also run in the women’s versions of a couple of these shoes, which gives me a good idea of how the men’s versions might perform.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Men FAQs

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