10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 is designed with trail runners in mind, offering strong cushioning and protection suitable for rough outdoor terrain. Its dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole provides a soft and comfortable ride, absorbing impact well while running on rocky or uneven trails. The toe protection feature helps shield your feet from stones and roots, which is a big plus when navigating tricky paths. The Vibram outsole and Traction Lug technology give you solid grip on both wet and dry surfaces, reducing the risk of slipping. The gusseted tongue keeps debris like dirt and small stones out, enhancing comfort during longer runs. Weighing just over 2 pounds, these shoes strike a balance—light enough to not feel heavy but still durable for trail use.

The shoe’s mesh outer material suggests it may not offer significant water resistance, so wet conditions might lead to damp feet. The fit seems secure and comfortable, especially with the inner cotton lining. If you’re looking for a cushioned, protective trail shoe with reliable traction for moderate to rugged terrain, these could be a good option. Just note they might not keep your feet dry in very wet conditions.

The Altra Men's Lone Peak 9 is designed as a trail running shoe with features suited for varied outdoor terrain. Its breathable mesh lining helps keep feet cool during runs, and the roomy toe box allows toes to spread naturally, improving comfort on longer trails. The rubber sole provides decent traction on different surfaces, making it well-suited for moderate trails.

Altra shoes typically aim for a balanced, comfortable ride with a lightweight feel, supported by the shoe's synthetic and mesh construction. This makes it easier to move quickly and reduces fatigue. The roomy toe box supports natural foot movement, though fit may vary depending on individual foot shape.

This shoe is a good choice for trail runners seeking a breathable, lightweight option with comfortable toe space and reliable grip on moderate trails. Those looking for strong water protection or heavy-duty trail shielding may want to explore other models.

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe in Dusty Olive and size 9.5 offers several appealing features for trail runners. At 10.7 oz (303 g), it's moderately lightweight, making it suitable for long-distance runs without feeling too heavy. Its altra EGO midsole provides moderate cushioning, delivering a balance between comfort and responsiveness.

The maxtrac outsole is designed for excellent traction, which is crucial for varied and rough terrains, ensuring grip and stability. The shoe has a stack height of 25 mm and a zero-drop design, promoting a natural stride and potentially reducing strain on the calves and Achilles tendon. Fit and comfort are supported by the ankle-height shaft and synthetic outer material, which is machine washable for easy maintenance.

The shoe's weight is reasonable, but might feel a bit heavy for those used to ultra-light models. For trail runners looking for a well-rounded shoe with solid traction and cushioning, the ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 is a reliable choice.