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

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 is a solid choice for men who enjoy trail running and want a shoe that balances comfort and durability. Its standout feature is the Fresh Foam X midsole, which offers plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable on long or rough runs. The Vibram Micro-Traction lugs on the outsole provide reliable grip on various trail surfaces, helping you stay steady even on slippery or uneven ground. The upper is made from breathable mesh that also offers protection, so your feet can stay cool without sacrificing durability.

At around 2.1 pounds, these shoes are moderately lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue but might feel a bit heavier compared to some ultra-light trail shoes. The shoe offers good support and stability, and the traditional lace-up closure allows for a secure fit. The design is focused on providing a comfortable, snug feel.

If you are looking for a trail running shoe with strong cushioning, dependable traction, and breathable protection, the Hierro V8 is worth considering, especially for mixed or technical trails. However, if water resistance or an ultra-lightweight design are top priorities, you might want to explore other options.

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.

The ALTRA Men's Olympus 5 Trail Running Shoe is designed to offer comfort and reliable performance for trail runners who value a roomy fit and solid grip. One of its standout features is the FootShape toe box, providing extra space for your toes to spread naturally, which helps prevent discomfort on longer runs. The Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, both wet and dry, making it a strong choice for slippery or rugged trails. Support and stability are enhanced by a wide midfoot area, although the shoe's ankle height is moderate, offering some but not extensive ankle protection.

Cushioning is good, with a focus on comfort and shock absorption, but the shoe weighs around 3 pounds, which is somewhat heavier than some competitors, potentially affecting speed for those who prefer ultra-light footwear. The mesh upper promotes breathability. A helpful addition is the GaiterTrap system, which lets you attach gaiters easily to block out dirt and debris without fuss.

This shoe suits trail runners looking for comfort, stability, and excellent grip on varied terrain, but those who prioritize lightweight shoes or need waterproofing might want to consider other options.