10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 19 is designed for trail runners who want reliable performance on rugged and varied terrain. It offers strong traction thanks to its TrailTack Green outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces, including rocky or uneven paths. Cushioning is a highlight here, with the DNA LOFT v3 foam in the heel and forefoot delivering a soft yet responsive feel that helps absorb impact without sacrificing energy return. This makes longer runs more comfortable.

The shoe’s fit and comfort are enhanced by a breathable mesh upper that dries quickly and protects against trail debris, while the reinforced toe cap and mudguard add durability in rough conditions. Stability is boosted by the updated Trail Adapt System and Ballistic Rock Shield, which together help smooth out rocky terrain and reduce foot fatigue. The shoe is on the heavier side compared to minimalist trail shoes, which might affect those who prefer very lightweight footwear.

While the upper is quick-drying, it does not offer full waterproofing, so it may not be ideal for consistently wet or muddy trails. The wider 14 width option makes it a great pick for runners needing extra room. This model suits trail enthusiasts seeking a dependable, cushioned, and protective shoe that can handle mountain landscapes and mixed trail conditions, providing a balanced blend of comfort, durability, and grip.

The Brooks Men's Ghost Trail is designed for trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable, versatile shoe for rugged and technical terrain. It excels in traction thanks to its TrailTack Green rubber outsole with 3mm lugs, offering solid grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which is important for safety on unpredictable trails. The cushioning uses Brooks' nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole, providing a soft but responsive feel that helps protect your joints during long runs or hikes over uneven ground.

Comfort-wise, the shoe features a breathable air mesh upper to keep feet cool, combined with 3D-printed overlays on the toe and mudguard for added protection against rocks and debris without making the shoe heavy or bulky. The fit is secure and customizable, with ergonomic heel locking and adjustable lacing to reduce slipping and improve comfort across different trail conditions.

This shoe represents a strong option if you want a durable, comfortable choice with good traction for dry, rocky, or mixed trails, especially if you value a secure fit and cushioning designed for longer outings.

The Altra Women's Lone Peak 9 is designed for serious trail runners who need a reliable shoe for varied and challenging terrain. Its standout feature is the secure wrap-around fit, which locks your foot in place to prevent slipping during intense movement. The shoe uses Altra's EGO midsoles, offering a high level of cushioning that supports long or tough trail runs while maintaining comfort.

Traction is another strength here, thanks to the DuraTread rubber outsole combined with a multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern, providing dependable grip on different surfaces including loose or uneven trails. In terms of protection, the shoe covers the basics well but doesn’t emphasize heavy-duty shields, so it’s best suited for moderate rock and root encounters rather than extremely rugged trails. The breathable mesh upper enhances ventilation but may allow water to enter, so the shoe is more suitable for moderate weather conditions rather than very wet environments.

This shoe fits well for women who prioritize comfort, stability, and traction in their trail running footwear, especially on mixed terrain and moderate weather.