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  4. 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More)
  • 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More) 5

10 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2022 (Salomon, New Balance, and More)

Thinking of moving your running routine outdoors? If you're wanting to expand beyond paved roads and sidewalks, you're going to need a good pair of trail running shoes. The best trail running shoes offer protection and cushioning against harsher elements, and provide the level of support you desire. 


We chose Salomon's Men's Speedcross 5 trail running shoe as our number one pick. The shoe's larger lugs on the soles will give you enough grip on wet and soft trails. Be sure to check out our entire top 10 list for a variety of options in men's and women's styles. Our buying guide provides additional insights on what to consider when purchasing your next pair of trail running shoes. Here's to better running on the trails!

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

Why Do I Need Trail Running Shoes?

Why Do I Need Trail Running Shoes?

If you're going to be running on trails that contain loose gravel, rock, or mud, you will need the extra grip that trail running shoes can provide. This extra grip, plus additional stability, will prevent injury and make it easier for you to run. Without trail running shoes, you may find that you need to run slower or come down to a walking pace. 


Trail running shoes with waterproof materials can give you extra protection and warmth in wet areas, and toe guards can stop rocks and roots from injuring the top of your feet. Trail running shoes also feature enhanced shock absorption and protect your feet from the impact of rocks and roots on the ground. 


Trail runners are also designed to prevent your feet from rotating and have sturdier materials to avoid rips and tears. 


The recommended fit for trail running shoes is similar to other types of footwear. You want them to be snug around the heel and arch but provide enough wiggle room between your large toe and the top of the shoe. The ideal gap is the width of your finger.


If you can't or haven't had a professional fitting, consider ordering your regular shoe size and one size up and one size down from online vendors. Check the return policies to ensure you can send back the ones that don't fit as well. 

How to Choose Trail Running Shoes - Buying Guide

What makes a good pair of running shoes depends on your preferences and the terrain. However, you should consider the condition of the surfaces and trails you use, the amount of cushioning in the shoe, and the heel-to-toe drop. 

1

Determine What Surfaces You Will Run On

There are typically three different types of trail running shoes for various surfaces. These types include trails that are relatively even, such as gravel paths. They also include rugged trails that can include mud and rocks. Plus, off trails with streams, inclement weather exposure, and terrain with undefined paths.

Lightweight Shoes for Even Trails

Lightweight Shoes for Even Trails

Trail running shoes designed for light trails or paths with relatively even surfaces have a low profile, a breathable mesh upper, a lightweight design, and shallow lugs for traction on soil that's packed


These shoes also provide some degree of protection from rocks. Some trail running shoes made for light trails have more cushioning, while others have a minimal amount. 

Support and Protection for Rugged Trails

Support and Protection for Rugged Trails

Shoes made for rugged trails give you more support and protection via toe guards and underfoot plates. The material in the upper section has additional support and is sturdier to give you added stability


The soles of these shoes have diverse patterns for added grip from multiple directions. The sole designs and traction also allow mud and softer soil to break free.


Trail running shoes designed for challenging paths use the most resilient materials, like polyurethane foam midsoles. By comparison, rugged trail shoes typically have EVA, a rubber-like plastic foam, midsoles. Off-trail shoes are more likely to use waterproof materials, such as GORE-TEX, for protection against rain, snow, water, and cold. 

Mesh and Tall Lugs for Muddy Trails

Mesh and Tall Lugs for Muddy Trails

If you live in a hot and humid climate, look for a mesh material that will dry out quickly and provide good air circulation. 


The bottom of your shoes should also feature tall lugs with wider spacing that can go deep into muddy soil without having the soil stick to the shoe. These lugs are typically at least five millimeters deep or tall. You should also look for a stronger reinforced toe box and foot cradle that prevents falls and twisting. 

2

Consider the Amount of Cushioning

Consider the Amount of Cushioning

Trail running shoes can offer everything from no padding to heavy padding. If you have joint and knee problems or pain, heavy cushioning can lessen the impact your joints feel while running. 


You might choose a moderate amount of padding if you want to use your shoes on uneven trails with rocks and paved roads, you run long distances, or you typically run on trails with packed surfaces or soil. 


Minimal or no cushioning will work for you if you're running short distances, are running on smooth or soft trails, or like to feel the ground under your feet.  

3

Look For Shoes With a Rock Plate or Nylon Shank

Look For Shoes With a Rock Plate or Nylon Shank

Rock plates and nylon shanks are plastic inserts or fiberglass and plastic support structures that sit between the midsole and outsole. 


While running on gravel or rocky trails, you will want a running shoe with a rock plate or nylon shank built into the midsole to prevent your feet from bruising. Runners who are going to stick to smooth, even, or soft trails may not want this additional protection. 


Rock plates and nylon shanks can add extra weight to trail running shoes, which some people may be uncomfortable with. Alternatively, you can look for thicker foam instead of a rock plate. Foam absorbs more shock and impact, while rock plates make the ground feel more natural under your feet. Rock plates also keep your feet secure.  

4

Determine the Appropriate Heel-to-Toe Drop

Determine the Appropriate Heel-to-Toe Drop

The heel-to-toe drop is the variance between the heel height and forefoot height, and it also relates to cushioning. Barfoot shoes have a heel-to-toe drop of zero millimeters, while minimal shoes have measurements between zero and four millimeters. Moderate to maximum cushioning ranges from five to 12 millimeters.


If you're not sure what heel-to-toe drop will work for you, take a look at your current running shoes or other shoes you find comfortable. Lower measurements give you better balance and stability when landing, but not everyone's feet will do well with a lower heel-to-toe drop. 


If you're switching to a shoe with lower measurements, you will want to give yourself time to break in the shoes and get used to the feeling. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Trail Running Shoes

Our top 10 list is based on customer reviews, styles, and features, like shoes designed for light, rugged, and super-rugged trails. You will find a variety of shoes for men and women that offer different comfort and protection levels.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Salomon

Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe

Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe 1

$109.99

High Mid

Good for Soft and Muddy Trails

2

Saucony

Women's Excursion TR11 Running Shoe

Saucony Women's Excursion TR11 Running Shoe 1

$49.95

Low Mid

Best for Light, Even Trails

3

New Balance

Men's 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe

New Balance Men's 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe 1

$53.30

Mid

Shoes With Added Comfort Features

4

Asics

Women's Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner

Asics Women's Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner 1

$67.00

Mid

Lightweight Shoes That Absorb Shock

5

Adidas

Men's Rockadia Trail

Adidas Men's Rockadia Trail 1

$59.95

Mid

Comfortable, Supportive Shoes With Good Grip

6

New Balance

Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe

New Balance Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe 1

$49.95

Low Mid

Everyday Traction and Running

7

Salomon

Women's Speedcross 5W Trail Running Shoe

Salomon Women's Speedcross 5W Trail Running Shoe 1

$112.87

High Mid

Extra Protection for Soft and Rugged Trails

8

New Balance

Men's Fresh Foam More Trail V1

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam More Trail V1 1

$164.99

High

Extra Cushioning for Rugged Trails

9

Nike

Women's Quest 2 Trail Running Shoes

Nike Women's Quest 2 Trail Running Shoes 1

$60.51

Mid

Waffle-Pattern Traction for Flexibility

10

Leyang

Unisex Trail Running Shoes

Leyang Unisex Trail Running Shoes 1

$25.49

Low

Flexible Design With Non-Slip Soles

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

SalomonMen's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe

Men's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$109.99
High Mid
Reference price
$109.99
High Mid

Good for Soft and Muddy Trails

These trail running shoes provide a medium amount of cushioning and support. However, they have a high amount of protection against the elements and have larger lugs on the soles to grip the ground on muddy and soft trails. These do run narrow, so you may need to go up a size if you have wider feet. 


Some reviewers reported that parts of the sole or mesh upper began to tear apart after a few months of use. However, the majority of reviewers stated the shoes fit comfortably and provide the right amount of cushioning and support. They were able to get good traction in loose gravel, mud, and slippery areas. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

SauconyWomen's Excursion TR11 Running Shoe

Women's Excursion TR11 Running Shoe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$49.95
Low Mid
Reference price
$49.95
Low Mid

Best for Light, Even Trails

Saucony's trail running shoes for women are good for lighter trails with even surfaces. There is adequate traction for these types of surfaces and breathable mesh in the upper section of the shoe. A lower heel-to-toe drop provides stability and balance as your feet impact the trails. 


One group of reviewers stated they experienced problems with shoelaces breaking or pieces of the shoes coming apart within a short amount of time. However, a larger group of reviewers were pleased with the overall fit. They also liked that these shoes work well on different types of surfaces.  

No.3

New BalanceMen's 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe

Reference price
$53.30
Mid

Shoes With Added Comfort Features

These trail running shoes for men work on a variety of trails, including grassy and graveled surfaces. There is additional cushioning in the collar to provide extra comfort. This feature also adds support to your ankle, giving you a more precise fit. 


The soles give you enough traction for slippery surfaces, and the lugs are low enough that you can comfortably run on paved or smooth surfaces. 


One group of buyers expressed concerns about the shoes being too narrow, especially in the toe. A few also had concerns about fake shows, so we included a link to Kohl's as well. However, most reviewers were impressed with the tread and said these shoes work well in different running environments

No.4

AsicsWomen's Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner

Women's Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$67.00
Mid
Reference price
$67.00
Mid

Lightweight Shoes That Absorb Shock

Asics' trail running shoes have cushioning that absorbs shocks as you hit the ground. The midsole's design gives you additional support and stability for hard surfaces. The soles have reversed lugs for running in different types of terrain, whether you're going up or down a hill. 


Some reviewers complained that the shoes run small and tight, and others said they don't have good traction on wet or slippery surfaces. But most reviewers liked their arch support and the comfort level. They also said that these shoes are lightweight enough to be worn all day.  

No.5

AdidasMen's Rockadia Trail

Men's Rockadia Trail 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$59.95
Mid
Reference price
$59.95
Mid

Comfortable, Supportive Shoes With Good Grip

These trail running shoes' mesh uppers offer breathability, while the synthetics that define the edges of the mesh materials provide solid support. On the outsole are traction features that grip the ground from multiple directions


A few reviewers complained about the noises the shoes made when in use, noting a squeaky sound. However, the majority of reviewers said these shoes are comfortable and lightweight. They liked that they could run on paved and non-paved trails, indicating the grip of the shoes is good. 

No.6

New BalanceWomen's Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe

Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V4 Trail Running Shoe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$49.95
Low Mid
Reference price
$49.95
Low Mid

Everyday Traction and Running

New Balance's Dynasoft trail running shoes have a lighter design and traction for running on trails and pavement. These shoes have an EVA insert for added comfort. There is also enough breathability in the uppers for running on hot and humid days.


The most common complaint from reviewers was that the toe box is too narrow and small. This group of buyers found they had to move up a half size or more to get the correct fit. Overall, most reviewers said they are comfortable and provide a good amount of support. They also like these shoes' cute look.

No.7

SalomonWomen's Speedcross 5W Trail Running Shoe

Women's Speedcross 5W Trail Running Shoe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$112.87
High Mid
Reference price
$112.87
High Mid

Extra Protection for Soft and Rugged Trails

Salomon's trail running shoes have larger and sharper lugs on the soles to give you extra traction on rough trails. This includes surfaces that are muddy and wet. There is also added stability built into this shoe's design.


A smaller group of reviewers said that parts of the shoes wore out after a few months. Overall, however, most reviewers complimented the amount of traction and grip they were able to get. They also liked the built-in cushioning and great arch support.

No.8

New BalanceMen's Fresh Foam More Trail V1

Reference price
$164.99
High
Reference price
$164.99
High

Extra Cushioning for Rugged Trails

These trail running shoes provide additional cushioning for rugged trails full of mud, rocks, and running water. The textured rubber sole has extra grip on unpaved and soft surfaces. Even though there is more cushioning and a four-millimeter heel-to-toe-drop, these shoes still have a lightweight feel.


A few reviewers said that these shows run tight or narrow. But most reviewers reported that they are very comfortable and made of durable materials. They also liked that these shoes offer a good amount of traction on various surfaces and trails. 

No.9

NikeWomen's Quest 2 Trail Running Shoes

Women's Quest 2 Trail Running Shoes 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$60.51
Mid
Reference price
$60.51
Mid

Waffle-Pattern Traction for Flexibility

Nike's Quest 2 trail running shoes have a waffle pattern on the soles that adjust to variations in the terrain. The materials in the uppers are breathable, and the laces are in a cable design for a secure fit. There is also some support and cushioning in the EVA foam midsole. 


A small group of reviewers said these shoes could offer more support. However, the majority of buyers thought that this shoe fits well, and they appreciated the cute style. Many reviewers also said that they are very comfortable.

No.10

LeyangUnisex Trail Running Shoes

Unisex Trail Running Shoes 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$25.49
Low
Reference price
$25.49
Low

Flexible Design With Non-Slip Soles

These trail running shoes have a flexible design; they easily adjust to your foot shape and are simple to slip on. They offer good traction for a variety of surfaces, and the soles are non-slip for extra grip on wet surfaces. These shoes are unisex and fit either men or women according to the manufacturer's size chart. 


Some reviewers complained about the durability of the materials, saying they experienced tears and weak stitching. However, most reviewers appreciated the lightweight feel of these shoes and said they work in various scenarios. Some used them for running while others used them as all-day work shoes. 

More Helpful Gear for Exercising Outdoors!

Exercising outdoors can give you a feeling a treadmill can't, but there are some extra considerations and gear you will need to keep in mind. Check out these suggestions!

Top 5 Trail Running Shoes

No. 1: SalomonMen's Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe

No. 2: SauconyWomen's Excursion TR11 Running Shoe

No. 3: New BalanceMen's 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe

No. 4: AsicsWomen's Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner

No. 5: AdidasMen's Rockadia Trail

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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