We all buy shoes, but for the outdoor enthusiasts, buying a good pair of trail running shoes is a complex task. Finding trail running shoes requires you to analyze a lot of information such as the weight of the shoe, the durability and the traction.
While some trail running shoes can end up costing a small fortune, there are some pretty good options out there that are much more affordable. We have performed thorough research so you could easily find the very best trail running shoes without any effort. Check out our list to see our top 10 picks.
Top 10 Trail Running Shoes Overview Chart
Features Only Found in the Top Trail Running Shoes
When planning your purchase of trail running shoes, you’ll want to consider several different aspects. While a pair of shoes may seem like a basic purchase to make, trail running shoes are in a whole different category. Here are just a few of the factors that you’ll absolutely want to consider before buying a pair of trail running shoes.
- Feeling Barefoot is important for a runner. Obviously you don’t want to run trails barefoot, but you want to feel like you’ve got nothing dragging you down. This means you’ll want a pair of shoes that fit like a glove and are incredibly lightweight.
- Breathability is a huge factor to consider when purchasing athletic shoes. Feet sweat a lot while running and you want your feet to benefit from some air. Breathable mesh makes a huge difference with the sweat and the comfort of your feet while running.
- Durability is of utmost importance. Running through trails will definitely wear down any pair of shoes, so getting a pair that can last longer will allow you to save money. A durable trail running shoe will also allow you to perform better for a longer period of time.
- Traction of the soles is incredibly important as well. With a better traction, you’ll feel more in control while running. Whether you’re running uphill or downhill, you’ll want as much control as you can get.
- Foot Protection is another aspect to consider. Many trail running shoes integrate a steel top cap, allowing your feet to benefit from additional protection. This is incredibly important since most trails are unpredictable.
5 Best Trail Running Shoes Reviews
1. Merrell Men’s Bare Access
The Merrell Men’s Bare Access Ultra Trail Running Shoe is one of the best trail running shoes currently available on the market. With its textile and synthetic materials, this shoe breathes well and allows for great airflow. The shoe’s sole is also made from synthetic material.
The breathable mesh adds to the comfort of this shoe by removing most of the unbearable shoe odours that are a problem with other trail running shoes. Merrell has added a trademarked UniFly treated midsole to this shoe, which adds additional stability while running. The UniFly midsole also reduces the shock to the feet while running.
The M Select Grip creates amazing grip to the ground, regardless of the surface that you’re running on. With a comfortable cushioning feel, this shoe makes even the longest runs easy on your feet.
With the Merrell Men’s Bare Access Ultra Trail Running Shoe, you’ll feel like you’re running around with incredibly efficient cushions on your feet. With odour protection and unique midsoles that absorb most of the shock to create smooth landings, you’ll be able to run for hours at a time without having to worry about your feet.
2. Columbia Redmond Trail Shoe
Among the top trail running shoes in our list is the Columbia Men’s Redmond Trail Shoe. This shoe has a textile and leather exterior, giving it a highly durable and resistant shoe. With a thick rubber sole, this shoe gets even more durable and can be used for hours at a time without ever having to worry about your feet.
As a great fitting trail shoe, this Columbia Men’s Redmond shoe is created from suede leather, mesh and webbing. The mesh lining allows for great airflow to the feet, allowing for most of the odours to escape.
The midsole is incredibly lightweight without compromising on the cushioning. This allows for a soft landing and a comfortable fit every time. The outsole is created with omni-grip non-marking traction rubber, which allows you to run off-road or on without ever having to deal with traction issues.
If you’re looking for a highly shoe with features only found in the top trail running shoes on the market, you’ll want to consider the Columbia Men’s Redmond Trail Shoe. Made from quality materials and thick rubber, this shoe will last more trail runs than you would expect.
3. Salomon S-Lab Sense 3
If you’re looking for a high quality trail running shoe then you’ll certainly want to take a look at the Salomon L36189700 Mens S-LAB Sense 3 Trail Running Shoes. This shoe has a unique seamless construction that allows your feet to feel like they were born with these shoes on them.
The patented Sensifit 2nd skin seamless construction is made from high quality mesh. The mesh allows for your feet to breathe, getting rid of odours and allowing you to feel nearly barefoot. With a protective TPU toe cap, you’ll be able to run along trails without having to worry about banging your toes.
With a lightweight construction, the Salomon S-LAB Sense 3 running shoe allows you to run without additional weight dragging you down. The Tendon Dynamic Traction, unique to Salomon is created with the trail runner in mind. You will easily be able to run offroad with these shoes without having to deal with harsh landings.
If you’re looking for an overall high quality trail running shoe at an affordable price tag, you’ll definitely want to look into the Salomon S-LAB Sense 3 trail running shoes.
4. Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R
Available in numerous different colors, the Adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R GTX Mountain Sport Shoes are among the best trail running shoes on the market. With breathable Gore-Tex mesh, these Adidas shoes allow for incredible airflow that eliminates odours, while keeping your feet comfortable.
The moulded sock liner adds additional support and comfort for your feet while jogging. Along with a lightweight construction, this shoe can be worn without dragging you down; the type of feature you would expect from a high quality trail running shoe.
The Adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R GTX Mountain Sport Shoes are designed with the professional jogger in mind; they provide a fast run with outstanding shock absorption. This provides a smooth and cushiony run regardless of whether you’re running on a hard surface or offroad.
With superior features, a cushioned sole and additional stability, this shoe is among the best on the market. It comes with breathable mesh exterior and a high traction rubber outer sole. If you’re looking for a great shoe at an affordable price, you’ll certainly want to consider this mountain shoe by Adidas.
5. Saucony Men’s Peregrine 4
The Saucony Men’s Peregrine 4 Trail Running Shoe is one of the greatest trail running shoes currently on the market. Made from synthetic and nylon materials, this shoe breathes well and offers extreme comfort. This shoe is imported and made from a thick rubber sole that provides a great grip regardless of the surface that you run on.
Saucony has added a unique FlexFilm upper HydraMax moisture-wicking collar to these shoes, which prevents moisture build-up and allows for a comfortable experience for the duration of your run. This shoe will stay dry for the entire run, providing you with a much more enjoyable jog.
The stability and cushioning offered by this shoe provides you with a smooth landing every time you put your feet down on the ground. Along with a gusseted tongue and an easy to lace system, the Saucony Men’s Peregine 4 Trail Running Shoe is a great shoe to bring along with you on the trails.
