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

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Navy, 9

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,447
Traction
Support and Stability
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
325 reviews

Traction
The 9's offer noticeably better heel grip and lateral stability compared to earlier versions, making them more nimble and confident on trails.
Support and Stability
The 9's offer noticeably better heel grip and lateral stability compared to earlier versions, making them more nimble and confident on trails.
Fit and Comfort
Exceptional comfort comes from the roomy toe box and zero drop design, allowing natural foot movement and reducing hotspots even on longer runs.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,447
Traction
Support and Stability
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
325 reviews

Traction
The 9's offer noticeably better heel grip and lateral stability compared to earlier versions, making them more nimble and confident on trails.
Support and Stability
The 9's offer noticeably better heel grip and lateral stability compared to earlier versions, making them more nimble and confident on trails.
Fit and Comfort
Exceptional comfort comes from the roomy toe box and zero drop design, allowing natural foot movement and reducing hotspots even on longer runs.
#2

New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Cayenne/Shadow Grey, 11.5

Rating
9.8
Traction
Cushioning
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
2723 reviews

Traction
Built with breathable materials and solid traction that performs well across varied surfaces, ensuring dependable grip and comfort.
Cushioning
Delivers consistent comfort and support, especially beneficial for those with fallen arches or needing reliable cushioning throughout the day.
Fit and Comfort
Fits true to size, providing a secure and comfortable fit that users appreciate for both trail and casual wear.

The New Balance Men's 410 V8 is a solid choice for trail runners seeking reliable grip and comfort without heavy or complicated features. Its AT Tread outsole is designed to provide good traction on various surfaces, making it versatile for both trail and light off-road use. The soft BIO Foam midsole offers decent cushioning to help absorb impact, which is important for running on uneven ground.

The synthetic upper, combined with durable overlays, gives a balance of breathability and protection, though it does not include specific waterproof or water-resistant features, so it may not be ideal for wet conditions. With a lace-up closure, the shoe offers a secure and adjustable fit that most runners will appreciate for stability. Weighing about 2 pounds, it is moderately weighted—not too heavy but not ultra-light either—suiting those who prioritize durability over speed.

This shoe provides decent support and protection against trail obstacles but lacks the advanced stability features found in more specialized trail shoes. It serves as a dependable and comfortable option for casual and moderate trail running rather than for intense or highly technical terrains.

Rating
9.8
Traction
Cushioning
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
2723 reviews

Traction
Built with breathable materials and solid traction that performs well across varied surfaces, ensuring dependable grip and comfort.
Cushioning
Delivers consistent comfort and support, especially beneficial for those with fallen arches or needing reliable cushioning throughout the day.
Fit and Comfort
Fits true to size, providing a secure and comfortable fit that users appreciate for both trail and casual wear.

Buying Guide for the Best Men's Trail Running Shoes

Choosing the right pair of men's trail running shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe running experience on rugged terrains. Trail running shoes are designed to provide better grip, stability, and protection compared to regular running shoes. When selecting a pair, consider the type of trails you will be running on, your running style, and personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
TractionTraction refers to the grip of the shoe on various surfaces. This is important because trail running often involves uneven, slippery, or loose terrain. Shoes with aggressive lugs (deep, widely spaced treads) offer better grip on muddy and soft trails, while shoes with smaller, more closely spaced lugs are suitable for hard-packed trails. If you run on a mix of terrains, look for versatile shoes with moderate lugs.
CushioningCushioning is the amount of padding in the shoe's midsole, which affects comfort and shock absorption. High cushioning provides more comfort and protection for long-distance runs or rough trails, but it can be heavier. Low cushioning offers a more responsive feel and is lighter, making it suitable for shorter runs or smoother trails. Choose the level of cushioning based on the distance you plan to run and your preference for comfort versus responsiveness.
Support and StabilitySupport and stability features help prevent injuries by keeping your foot in place and providing balance on uneven terrain. Shoes with a firm midsole and a wider base offer better stability, which is important for technical trails with rocks and roots. If you have a tendency to overpronate (your foot rolls inward), look for shoes with added support features like medial posts. For neutral runners, standard stability features should suffice.
ProtectionProtection in trail running shoes includes features like toe guards, rock plates, and reinforced uppers to shield your feet from rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. If you run on very rocky or technical trails, look for shoes with robust protective elements. For less technical trails, lighter protection may be sufficient. Consider the level of protection based on the roughness of the trails you frequent.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for preventing blisters and ensuring an enjoyable run. Trail running shoes should fit snugly but not too tight, with enough room in the toe box to accommodate foot swelling during long runs. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and consider wearing the socks you plan to run in. Pay attention to any pressure points or areas of discomfort, as these can lead to issues during your runs.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you run in wet conditions or through streams and puddles. Waterproof shoes with membranes like Gore-Tex keep your feet dry but can be less breathable, which might lead to sweaty feet in warm conditions. Water-resistant shoes offer some protection while maintaining better breathability. Choose based on the typical weather and trail conditions you encounter.
WeightWeight affects how heavy the shoes feel on your feet, which can impact your running efficiency and fatigue levels. Lighter shoes are generally preferred for faster runs and races, while heavier shoes with more features (like extra cushioning and protection) are better for long-distance runs and rough trails. Balance the need for lightweight shoes with the necessary features for your running conditions.

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