10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2026 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 New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe is designed with versatile traction in mind, thanks to its AT Tread outsole that performs well both on roads and trails. This makes it a solid choice if you want a shoe that can handle mixed surfaces. It features a soft BIO Foam midsole that provides comfortable cushioning underfoot, helping to reduce impact during runs.

The synthetic upper with durable overlays and mesh offers protection and breathability, which is important when running on uneven terrain. It is water-resistant, so it can handle light wet conditions, but it’s not fully waterproof, meaning heavy rain or deep puddles might let water in. Weighing about 2 pounds, the shoe is moderately light but not the lightest option available, which might be noticeable on longer or more technical runs.

The lace-up closure provides a secure fit, though the shoe's fit might feel a bit wider due to the 'W' (wide) size, beneficial for those with broader feet but possibly less snug for narrow feet. This shoe suits runners who want a reliable, comfortable trail shoe for varied terrain without the need for extreme waterproofing or ultra-lightweight performance.

The Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are built to handle tough and varied trail conditions, making them a strong choice for serious trail runners or hikers who need reliable performance. They feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, which keeps your feet dry in wet or windy weather while still allowing breathability to prevent overheating. The shoes offer advanced stability through a 3D chassis, giving good support and protection underfoot, which helps reduce fatigue on rough terrain.

Their Contagrip rubber outsole provides solid traction on mixed surfaces, including loose gravel, so you can trust your footing on tricky trails. Additionally, the reinforced toe cap adds extra protection against rocks and roots, which is important for rough outdoor paths. While the shoe is focused on durability and protection, it might be a bit heavier than simpler trail runners, which could affect speed for those who prioritize lightweight gear.

The fit is designed to be secure and stable, but may feel snug for wider feet. These shoes suit runners or hikers who want dependable waterproofing, strong grip, and foot protection for challenging trails rather than those looking for ultra-lightweight or minimal cushioning options.