10 Best Men's Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed to offer a blend of comfort, protection, and stability for runners and mountain hikers. One standout feature is its DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which ensures soft comfort across various terrains. The TrailTack Green outsole provides reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces, which is vital for maintaining stability on unpredictable trails.

Additionally, the shoe integrates an articulated ballistic rock shield that offers extra foot protection without sacrificing flexibility, an essential aspect for rough terrains. The breathable and quick-drying mesh upper, along with the TPU mudguard and toecap, help shield your feet from debris, adding to the shoe's protective qualities.

However, the shoe's weight at 1.5 pounds might be a concern for those who prioritize lightweight footwear. Another potential drawback is that the shoe is hand wash only, which could be inconvenient for some users. Despite these minor issues, the Cascadia 18 stands out for its combination of cushioning, protection, and stability, making it a solid choice for trail runners who require dependable performance on varied terrains.

The ALTRA Men's Olympus 6 Trail Running Shoe is a solid option for trail runners looking for a reliable shoe. Starting with traction, the rubber sole should provide a good grip on various terrains, which is essential for trail running. Altra is known for its comfortable, plush cushioning, which should make your runs more comfortable by absorbing impact effectively.

The shoe also likely offers decent support and stability, crucial for preventing injuries on uneven trails, thanks to its construction and design typical of Altra products. Protection is another important aspect, and the synthetic-and-rubber materials should offer adequate protection from trail debris and rough terrain. The fit and comfort are enhanced by the breathable mesh lining, which helps keep your feet cool and dry.

If you have a particularly wide or narrow foot, you might need to try them on to ensure a good fit. These shoes may not be the best choice for extremely wet conditions unless you pair them with waterproof socks. Weighing 3 pounds, they aren't the lightest trail running shoes, which might be a concern for those prioritizing speed and agility. Additionally, being imported and made of synthetic materials, they may not appeal to those looking for eco-friendly options. The ALTRA Men's Olympus 6 offers many strengths that can benefit both casual and dedicated trail runners who need reliable footwear for various conditions.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 trail running shoe is designed for comfort and natural foot movement. Its roomy toe box allows toes to splay naturally, enhancing stability on uneven trails. The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during long runs, contributing to comfort in warmer conditions.

Featuring a rubber outsole that provides decent traction, the shoe may not be optimal for very slippery or technical terrains due to lack of specific advanced grip features. Cushioning is provided mainly by an EVA insole, offering moderate comfort that may be less plush compared to other trail shoes focused on extra shock absorption. Pull tabs make it easy to put on and take off.

This shoe is ideal for trail runners who prioritize comfort and natural foot movement on mild to moderate trails. It may not be the best choice for those requiring heavy-duty protection or water resistance.