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 ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe in Deep Forest is designed with several features that benefit trail runners. One standout feature is the FootShape design, which provides extra space for your feet to sit naturally, making it comfortable over long distances.

The shoe also includes Altra EGO foam for a balance of responsiveness and comfort, which can help keep your runs smooth and less tiring. The Balanced Cushioning platform ensures your heel and forefoot are at the same level, promoting better running form and reducing the risk of injury. For traction, the MaxTrac outsole offers excellent grip and durability, making it suitable for various terrains.

However, the shoe's water resistance is only moderate, which might not be ideal for very wet conditions. At 3 pounds, these shoes are relatively heavy, which could affect performance on longer runs. The leather outer material provides good protection and durability, but may not be as breathable as other materials. If you often run on diverse terrains and need a shoe that offers comfort and good traction, the ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 7 is a solid choice, though it may fall short in extremely wet conditions and for those looking for a lighter option.

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe offers several features that cater well to trail runners. Its Balanced Cushioning platform and FootShape toe boxes are designed for optimal comfort and low-impact running, making it a good choice for long-distance trail runners. The cushioning is intended to provide a balanced feel, ensuring that both the heel and forefoot are at the same height from the ground, which can encourage a more natural running form and potentially reduce the risk of injury.

The shoe's mesh outer material and rubber sole provide breathability and durability respectively. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, essential on uneven terrains. The eVent bootie feature adds a level of water resistance, making these shoes suitable for wet conditions and offering protection against the elements. While the weather-resistant feature is beneficial, it's worth noting that the overall weight of the shoe might be slightly heavier due to this additional layer, which could be a drawback for those prioritizing lightweight footwear.

This shoe is best suited for runners looking for comfort and durability, with added water resistance for diverse weather conditions.