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

The New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe is a solid choice for those who enjoy both on-road and off-road running. The AT Tread outsole is a standout feature, offering versatile traction that helps you stay steady on various surfaces. The shoe's cushioning is provided by a soft BIO Foam midsole, which adds comfort for your feet during runs. However, some might find the support and stability a bit lacking, especially on more challenging trails.

Durable overlays and mesh material enhance the shoe's longevity, making it a reliable option for frequent use. The synthetic upper and lace-up closure ensure a secure fit, although the faux fur outer material might not be to everyone's taste and offers no water resistance, which is a downside for wet conditions.

The shoe is relatively lightweight, coming in at 2 pounds for a size 12, which is good for reducing fatigue over long distances. While it excels in traction and comfort, those seeking high levels of support, stability, and water resistance might need to look elsewhere. This shoe is well-suited for casual trail runners who prioritize comfort and traction.

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 Brooks Men’s Divide 5 Trail Running Shoe is designed to be versatile for runners who switch between road and light trail running. It stands out with its DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which is lighter and softer than previous versions, providing good impact absorption and a smooth ride — ideal if you want comfort over longer distances on varied surfaces. The TrailTack rubber outsole with aggressive lugs offers solid grip on both wet and dry trails, enhancing traction and stability without feeling too heavy. This shoe fits like a road shoe, which means it has a snug midfoot hold thanks to a tongue gusset and an updated mesh upper that is breathable and dries quickly. Protection features like a TPU Mudguard and toecap help keep debris out, although it’s more suited for light trail conditions rather than very rough terrain. It’s not fully waterproof but its materials offer some water resistance, making it better for damp rather than muddy runs. At around 2 pounds, it strikes a balance between lightweight and durable.

This shoe represents a great choice for those seeking a comfortable, eco-friendly option capable of handling both pavement and easy trails with decent support and traction. For runners who regularly tackle technical or highly rugged trails, exploring shoes with more aggressive protection and stability may be beneficial.