10 Best Trail Running Shoes For Men 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Trail Running Shoe offers a range of features well-suited for trail-running enthusiasts. One of its primary strengths is the dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides excellent cushioning, enhancing comfort for long runs.

This shoe also includes Toe Protect technology, adding a protective layer against rocks, roots, and other debris, which is essential for trail running. The Vibram outsole and Traction Lug technology ensure superior grip on both wet and dry terrain, making it reliable for various trail conditions.

The gusseted tongue adds to the secure fit and helps keep out debris, essential for comfort and protection on uneven trails. This shoe excels in cushioning, traction, and protection, making it a good option for trail runners prioritizing these features.

The Salomon Men's SPEEDCROSS Trail Running Shoes are a strong contender in the trail-running category, offering several key features that cater to avid trail runners. The shoes excel in terms of traction, with their Contagrip rubber outsole and 5 mm aggressive lugs for excellent grip on various terrains such as rocky paths, muddy surfaces, and loose gravel, making them ideal for mixed and muddy conditions.

The cushioning is designed to provide comfort over long runs, while the welded upper and Sensifit arms ensure a snug and secure fit, adapting well to the natural movement of your feet. This contributes greatly to comfort and stability during runs. The shoes also offer good protection with their anti-debris mesh upper that keeps out mud and trail debris, and the durable ripstop fabric that resists tearing, which is beneficial for navigating overgrown trails.

However, the weight of the shoes may be a consideration for some, as they are designed with durability and protection in mind, potentially making them heavier than some other lightweight trail-running options. Water resistance is another important aspect, and while the anti-debris mesh helps to some extent, the shoes are not specifically advertised as waterproof, which might be a drawback for those running in very wet conditions. Despite these minor points, the Salomon Men's SPEEDCROSS Trail Running Shoes stand out for their impressive grip, stability, and comfort, making them a great choice for serious trail runners.

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 is designed with serious trail runners in mind, especially those who value natural foot movement and reliable grip. Its standout feature is the MaxTrac outsole combined with a TrailClaw lug pattern, offering excellent traction on varied terrains and helping maintain stability on rocky or uneven trails.

The roomy toe box, called eNatural Fit, allows toes to spread out comfortably, which many find reduces foot fatigue during long runs. Cushioning is solid with a 25mm stack height, providing enough padding to soften impacts without feeling overly bulky. The upper uses durable ripstop mesh, balancing protection and breathability.

The shoe weighs about 3 pounds, which is slightly heavier than typical trail running shoes, potentially impacting speed for some runners. If you want a shoe that emphasizes comfort, a natural fit, and dependable traction for extended trail adventures, the Lone Peak 8 is a strong contender.