Trail running requires specialized footwear that can handle rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and long distances on uneven surfaces. Whether you’re hitting the trails for the first time or you’re an experienced runner seeking high-performance shoes, choosing the right pair is crucial for comfort, grip, and overall performance. To help you find your perfect match, we’ve rounded up the best trail running shoes for 2025, covering budget-friendly, best-value, and high-performance options.
The ideal trail running shoe offers excellent traction, support, and cushioning while keeping your feet protected over long distances. Below, we explore key factors to consider when buying trail running shoes and review the top models to enhance your trail adventures.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Trail Running Shoes for Comfort & Performance
Choosing the right trail running shoe is essential for comfort, grip, and injury prevention. Here’s what to look for:
Traction & Outsole – Opt for durable rubber compounds like Vibram or Contagrip with deep lugs for reliable grip on dirt, mud, rocks, and wet surfaces. Multidirectional lugs enhance traction on technical terrain and steep descents.
Cushioning & Midsole – The midsole cushions impacts and enhances comfort over long runs. Minimal cushioning offers a closer-to-ground feel, while more cushioning absorbs shocks and reduces fatigue. EVA foam and proprietary materials like Salomon’s EnergyCell or Brooks’ DNA LOFT are top choices.
Stability & Support – Stability features like rock plates or medial posts protect your feet and maintain alignment on uneven terrain, reducing injury risk.
Fit & Comfort – A snug but not tight fit is crucial. Ensure enough room in the toe box and a secure heel fit to avoid blisters. Always try shoes with your trail running socks for accuracy.
Upper & Protection – Breathable mesh is best for warm conditions, while waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX are vital for wet trails. Reinforced toe caps and side overlays improve durability.
Heel-to-Toe Drop – Lower drops (0–4mm) encourage a natural stride, while higher drops (8–12mm) offer extra cushioning for heel strikers. Choose based on your running style.
Weight & Pronation Support – Lighter shoes boost speed and agility; heavier ones offer more protection. Neutral runners have more options, while overpronators may need extra stability features.
Best Value Trail Running Shoe: Salomon Sense Ride 5 (Click here for Women’s)
Price: Mid-range
Best for: Versatile trails and mixed terrain
For runners who need a balance of comfort, durability, and grip without stretching their budget, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 is a top pick. Its EnergyCell midsole offers responsive cushioning, absorbing shocks and ensuring comfort over long distances. The Contagrip MA outsole excels on both wet and dry surfaces, providing consistent traction on dirt, gravel, and rocky terrain.
A standout feature is the Quicklace system, which allows runners to quickly secure their shoes and make adjustments on the go—perfect for races or variable trail conditions. The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort while protecting against debris.
Whether you’re running single tracks, mountain trails, or forest paths, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 offers versatility without compromising performance.
Pros:
- Versatile across multiple terrains
- Responsive cushioning for long-distance comfort
- Durable outsole with excellent traction
- Quicklace system for easy adjustments
Cons:
- Quicklace may not be preferred by all runners
- Less cushioning than ultra-distance models
Best Budget Trail Running Shoe: Brooks Divide 4 (Click here for Women’s)
Price: Affordable
Best for: Light trails and road-to-trail running
If you’re looking for a trail shoe that combines affordability with quality, the Brooks Divide 4 is a strong contender. Ideal for light trails and road-to-trail running, it features Brooks’ DNA LOFT cushioning, which softens impacts without sacrificing responsiveness. The outsole provides solid traction on dirt and light trails, though it may struggle on more technical terrain.
The breathable mesh upper enhances airflow, keeping your feet cool, while the reinforced toe cap offers protection against rocks and roots. For beginners or runners who run mixed surfaces, the Divide 4 delivers comfort and durability without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Comfortable DNA LOFT cushioning for mixed surfaces
- Budget-friendly with reliable performance
- Breathable upper for improved ventilation
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Less aggressive outsole limits technical trail use
- Not as durable as premium models
Best Entry-Level Trail Running Shoe: Saucony Peregrine 13 (Click here for Women’s)
Price: Affordable
Best for: Beginners and all-around trail use
The Saucony Peregrine 13 is designed for runners new to trail running or those who want a versatile shoe without spending a fortune. It’s lightweight, with a PWRTRAC rubber outsole featuring multidirectional lugs for excellent grip on dirt, mud, and rocky surfaces. The foam midsole offers reliable shock absorption, reducing fatigue on longer runs.
The protective underfoot layer shields your feet from sharp rocks and roots, while the breathable upper ensures your feet stay cool. The Peregrine 13 strikes a balance between speed, grip, and protection—making it a top choice for runners transitioning from road to trail running.
Pros:
- Aggressive lug pattern for excellent grip
- Lightweight design for speed and agility
- Protective midsole against sharp rocks
- Versatile for various trail conditions
Cons:
- Firmer midsole may be uncomfortable for some
- Narrow fit may not suit wider feet
Best Trail Running Shoe for Ultra Distances: HOKA Speedgoat 5 (Click here for Women’s)
Price: Premium
Best for: Technical trails and long-distance running
For ultrarunners and those tackling extreme distances, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 is unmatched in performance. This high-performance shoe features a dense foam midsole for enhanced cushioning, keeping your feet comfortable over ultra-distance runs. The Vibram Megagrip outsole with deep lugs delivers exceptional traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
A reinforced toe cap protects against rocky terrain, and the wider base provides unmatched stability on technical descents and ascents. While it’s heavier and more expensive than standard trail shoes, its durability and comfort make it a must-have for serious trail runners pushing their limits.
Pros:
- Plush cushioning for long distances
- Excellent traction on technical terrain
- Durable, high-mileage construction
- Superior stability for technical sections
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Bulkier than minimalist trail shoes
Best Trail Running Shoe for Technical Terrain: La Sportiva Bushido III (Click here for Women’s)
Price: Premium
Best for: Technical terrain and precision fit
For those who demand precision on technical trails, the La Sportiva Bushido III is a powerhouse. Designed to enhance stability and grip on rocky and uneven surfaces, it features an aggressive lug pattern and sticky rubber outsole for unbeatable traction. The shoe offers a secure, supportive fit with excellent responsiveness for runners who prioritize speed and technical precision.
Though the cushioning is firmer, it provides enough protection without sacrificing agility. This shoe is perfect for technical descents, steep ascents, and high-speed trail races where precision matters most.
Pros:
- Outstanding grip on steep, technical terrain
- Secure fit for technical precision
- Lightweight yet durable
- Excellent responsiveness for fast-paced runs
Cons:
- Firm cushioning may not suit all runners
- Narrow fit may be tight for wider feet
Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shoes for You
Choosing the best trail running shoes depends on your experience level, terrain, and personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option like the Brooks Divide 4, a best-value pick like the Salomon Sense Ride 5, or a high-performance shoe like the HOKA Speedgoat 5, the right choice enhances safety, comfort, and performance. Consider grip, cushioning, stability, and fit to ensure every run is enjoyable and injury-free. With the right pair, you’ll confidently tackle any trail and make every run your best one yet.
