10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe offers several features aimed at enhancing your trail-running experience. Designed with an AT Tread outsole, this shoe provides versatile traction, making it suitable for a variety of terrains, whether you're navigating rocky trails or smoother paths. The soft BIO Foam midsole adds a layer of cushioning, which can help in providing comfort during long runs, reducing the strain on your feet. With a synthetic upper and durable overlays, these shoes are built to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. However, the synthetic material might not offer the best breathability compared to natural fibers, which could lead to warmer feet in hot conditions.

In terms of fit and comfort, the shoe features a lace-up closure that ensures a secure fit, which is essential for stability on uneven surfaces. The shoe is also available in an X-Wide size, catering to those with wider feet who often struggle to find comfortable running shoes. Weighing around 2 pounds, they are moderately lightweight, but there might be lighter options for those prioritizing speed over durability.

The shoe’s water resistance is not specifically highlighted, which suggests it may not be ideal for extremely wet conditions or water-heavy trails. For those who frequently run in rainy weather or through streams, additional considerations like water-resistant features might be necessary. This shoe is particularly suitable for trail runners looking for a durable and comfortable option with good traction and cushioning. It might not cater as well to those who need advanced waterproofing or are looking for ultra-lightweight options. Nonetheless, for regular trails and mixed terrain, this shoe offers a solid balance of protection and comfort.

The Brooks Women’s Divide 5 is well-suited for runners who want a versatile shoe that handles both road and light trail running comfortably. Its standout feature is the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which makes the ride soft and smooth while being 10% lighter than before. This added cushioning helps absorb impact, especially useful when moving between pavement and uneven trail surfaces. The fit feels secure and snug thanks to a road-inspired design with a tongue gusset, and the breathable, quick-drying mesh upper adds comfort while protecting against trail debris with a TPU mudguard and toecap. Traction is strong for light trails, thanks to the TrailTack rubber outsole with aggressive lugs that grip wet and dry terrain well. However, the shoe is better for moderate trails rather than very rugged or technical terrain, as the lugs are not deeply aggressive and the overall protection is moderate.

It weighs about 1.5 pounds, which is reasonable for a cushioned trail shoe but might feel heavier compared to ultra-light racing shoes. There is no specific mention of full waterproofing, so it may not keep feet dry in very wet conditions. A bonus is its carbon-neutral certification, reflecting eco-friendly materials and manufacturing. For women runners looking for a comfortable, adaptable shoe for mostly easy to moderate trail routes with some road running, the Divide 5 is a solid choice.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 is designed with trail runners in mind, featuring a breathable mesh upper that keeps feet cool and comfortable during long runs. Its roomy toe box supports natural toe splay, which can improve balance on uneven terrain. The shoe includes a lace-up closure and pull tabs for easy on and off. Cushioning is provided by an EVA insole, offering decent comfort, though it may feel less plush compared to some heavily padded trail shoes.

Traction is managed by a rubber outsole that performs well on a variety of surfaces. Protection comes from an elevated, rounded toe design which provides additional space to prevent toe injuries on rocky trails, while the mesh upper offers limited water resistance and minimal shielding from debris. The shoe’s construction with mesh and EVA materials suggests a lightweight build, beneficial for speed but potentially less durable under very rough conditions.

The Lone Peak 9 is suitable for runners who prioritize comfort, natural foot movement, and breathability on moderate trails. For those needing high water resistance or heavy-duty protection, other options might be more appropriate.