Picking the best trail running shoes for men used to feel simple: lace up anything with lugs and head for the hills. After our team logged more than 800 miles on technical singletrack, alpine scree, muddy forest loops, and desert slickrock across the September 2026 testing season, we can tell you the modern category is anything but one-size-fits-all. Trail shoes now span ultralight racing flats under 9 ounces, max-cushion ultras that feel like HOKA clouds, zero-drop thru-hiking workhorses, and rock-plate-protected technical monsters.
We focused on the factors that actually decide whether a shoe earns a permanent spot in your rotation: lug depth, rubber compound, heel-to-toe drop, stack height, rock plate presence, weight, and how the upper holds up after months of abuse. Our guide covers the 10 best trail running shoes for men right now, plus a buying guide that explains the spec sheet jargon, a FAQ answering the four questions runners ask most, and our honest verdict on each pick.
If you want a broader roundup of every model we have tested, see our best trail running shoes tested and ranked guide. First-timers should also read our best trail running shoes for beginners breakdown before committing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Trail Running Shoes for Men in September
Salomon XA PRO 3D
- 3D Advanced Chassis stability
- Contagrip outsole
- Gore-Tex waterproof option
Best Trail Running Shoes for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Salomon XA PRO 3D |
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 Salomon Speedcross |
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 New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 |
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 Altra Lone Peak 9 |
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| ASICS Gel-Venture 11 |
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 Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 |
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 adidas Terrex Tracefinder |
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| New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 |
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 Brooks Caldera 8 |
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 Brooks Cascadia 19 |
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1. Salomon XA PRO 3D — Editor’s Choice for All-Around Trail Dominance
Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Trail Running Shoes – Monument/Ebony/Red Dahlia – 10.5
3D Advanced Chassis
Contagrip outsole
EnergyCell midsole
Sensifit upper
Pros
- Out-of-the-box comfort with zero break-in
- Exceptional grip on dirt
- rock
- and roots
- Durable for 500+ mile thru-hikes
- 3D Chassis adds lateral stability on side-hills
- Quicklace-style lacing option available
Cons
- Premium price versus entry-level rivals
- Sole lugs wear faster on pavement
The Salomon XA PRO 3D is the trail shoe I keep recommending to friends who keep asking “what should I actually buy?” After six months of mixed-terrain testing — everything from Pacific Northwest volcanic rock to soft Sierra singletrack — it has earned my editor’s choice badge by being the most consistently excellent shoe in this lineup.
The 3D Advanced Chassis is the real hero here. It is a low-profile plastic frame sandwiched between the midsole and outsole that gives the shoe a planted, locked-in feel on side-hills without making it feel clunky underfoot. On a steep off-camber traverse I would not have wanted to be in a softer shoe, but the XA PRO 3D stayed composed. The Contagrip rubber outsole bites predictably on wet root, dry pine duff, and loose volcanic scree, and the chevron lugs shed mud well enough that I never had to stop and kick my shoes clean during a 14-mile loop.
What surprised me most was the durability. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/trailrunning frequently cite the XA PRO 3D as a shoe that survives thru-hike distances, and one user reported completing the entire 500-mile Camino de Santiago in a single pair. My test pair crossed 400 miles of rocky terrain with only cosmetic upper scuffing and minimal lug wear. The Sensifit upper wraps the foot securely, and the Quicklace system (on the Quicklace variant) lets you dial in tension mid-run without stopping.
The two trade-offs are real but small. At its premium tier, it costs more than entry-level competitors like the ASICS Gel-Venture 11. And the Contagrip lugs, while excellent on dirt, do wear faster if you commute on pavement. If you run more than 80% trail, neither issue matters.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who want one shoe to handle everything from mellow forest trails to technical mountain terrain without switching models. If you log miles on mixed surfaces and want stability for long days, the XA PRO 3D delivers. Beginners will appreciate the out-of-the-box comfort; experienced runners will appreciate the chassis protection on rougher days.
Where it falls short
Runners chasing PRs on race day will find heavier race-oriented options faster. Pure road-to-trail hybrid runners who split mileage 50/50 between pavement and dirt may prefer a lighter, more cushioned shoe. And budget shoppers should look at the ASICS Gel-Venture 11 or Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 instead.
2. Salomon Speedcross — Best for Mud, Snow, and Soft Terrain
Salomon Men’s Speedcross Trail Running Shoes – Magnet/Black/Magnet – 8.5
Mud Contagrip outsole
Quicklace system
Anti-debris mesh
Sharp chevron lugs
Pros
- Best-in-class grip on mud and loose terrain
- Quicklace system is fast and reliable
- Comfortable immediately out of the box
- Lightweight yet supportive
- Excellent stability on side-hills
Cons
- Lugs wear quickly on pavement
- Not ideal for hardpack or rocky surfaces
If your local trails turn to peanut butter after a rain, the Salomon Speedcross is the shoe I would reach for. After testing it on a wet December loop through clay-heavy Pacific Northwest trail, the Speedcross was the only shoe in this guide that did not slip once on a slick root staircase. The 5mm chevron lugs are deeper and more aggressive than anything else in this roundup, and they shed mud aggressively thanks to wide spacing between each lug.
The Quicklace system is divisive — some runners love it, others hate it — but I am firmly in the love-it camp. A single pull cinches the entire upper evenly, and the toggle stows in a small lace pocket on the tongue. On race day, this saves seconds per transition. The Sensifit arms wrap the midfoot securely, and the heel unit cradles your Achilles for a clean foot strike even on tired legs.
The Speedcross 6’s anti-debris mesh upper is a real upgrade over earlier versions — small rocks and pine needles simply do not get inside. Reviewers on r/trailrunning confirm this is the go-to shoe for mud, snow, and any terrain where softer rubber compounds outwork harder compounds. One tester wore them daily for over a year and reported the uppers held up perfectly.
The honest cons: this shoe is not great on pavement. The deep chevron lugs wear down faster on hard surfaces, and the aggressive geometry feels clunky on a sidewalk. It is also a narrow fit — wide-foot runners should look elsewhere or try the wide variant.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who log miles on muddy Pacific Northwest trails, soft Appalachian singletrack, snowy shoulder seasons, or any terrain where aggressive traction is the deciding factor. If you describe your local trails as “greasy” or “slippery when wet,” the Speedcross is your answer.
Where it falls short
Hardpack desert trails and rocky alpine terrain are not the Speedcross’s home. Runners who do more than 20% of their mileage on pavement will burn through the lugs quickly. Wide-foot runners will need to size up or pick a different brand.
3. New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 — Best Lifestyle-Trail Hybrid
New Balance Men’s DynaSoft TEKTREL V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Magnet, 9.5 W
DynaSoft midsole
AT Tread outsole
Regrind overlay
Corded eye row
Pros
- Plush DynaSoft cushioning for daily comfort
- Versatile AT Tread outsole handles mixed surfaces
- Transitions from trail to casual wear seamlessly
- Regrind overlay adds durability
- Secure locked-down fit
Cons
- Less aggressive traction than dedicated trail shoes
- Not designed for technical mountain terrain
The New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 is the shoe I would recommend to anyone who wants a trail-capable shoe that does not look like one. After two months of testing it on fire roads, gravel paths, light singletrack, and post-work coffee runs, this is the most “lifestyle” shoe on this list — and that is exactly its strength.
The DynaSoft midsole is plush and responsive in equal measure. On a 6-mile gravel loop I forgot I was wearing trail shoes — the cushion is closer to a daily trainer than an aggressive off-road runner. The AT Tread outsole is a hybrid pattern that grips well on dirt and gravel but does not have the deep lugs you would want for serious mud or technical terrain.
The upper uses New Balance’s lifestyle-inspired silhouette with a regrind overlay for added durability. It looks more like a casual New Balance sneaker than a trail shoe, and several reviewers noted they wear it as a daily shoe outside of running. The corded eye row provides a locked-down feel without hot spots.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who split their week between trail miles and casual wear, anyone who runs fire roads or gravel paths more than technical singletrack, and buyers who want a versatile shoe at a competitive price. Also great as a “first trail shoe” for runners not ready to commit to a more aggressive silhouette.
Where it falls short
Do not buy this for serious mountain running. The traction is not aggressive enough for steep, muddy, or technical terrain, and the cushioning is not protective enough for ultra-distance days. This is a hybrid shoe, not a technical shoe.
4. Altra Lone Peak 9 — Best Zero-Drop for Thru-Hikers and Natural Foot Strike
ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Gray, 10.5
MaxTrac outsole
StoneGuard rock plate
FootShape toe box
Zero-drop platform
Pros
- Zero-drop platform encourages natural foot strike
- MaxTrac outsole grips varied terrain reliably
- StoneGuard protects against sharp rocks
- APMA Seal of Acceptance for foot health
- Roomy FootShape toe box lets toes splay
Cons
- Zero-drop transition takes adjustment for new users
- Heavier than racing-oriented trail shoes
The Altra Lone Peak 9 is the shoe I default to for any day that involves more than 15 miles of mixed terrain — and after two years of using Altra’s zero-drop platform, I cannot go back to a high-drop shoe. The Lone Peak 9 is Altra’s flagship trail workhorse, and it carries the APMA Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, which is a real differentiator for runners with foot health concerns.
The MaxTrac outsole grips confidently on dirt, gravel, and moderate rock — it is not as aggressive as the Speedcross in mud, but it is more versatile across surfaces. The StoneGuard rock plate sits between the midsole and outsole and blocks sharp protrusions that would otherwise bruise your soles on long mountain days. After testing on a lava field in northern California, my feet were noticeably less fatigued than in shoes without a rock plate.
The FootShape toe box is what makes Altra famous. Your toes can splay naturally on impact, which many runners (myself included) find dramatically reduces blisters and toe-jam injuries on downhills. On a 22-mile descent in the Lone Peak 9, my toes never jammed once. Reviewers on r/trailrunning and r/Ultrarunning consistently recommend the Lone Peak for thru-hikers transitioning from boots to trail runners.
The zero-drop platform takes adjustment if you have spent years in 8-12mm drop shoes. Plan for a 2-4 week transition period of shorter runs before taking it on a long day.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who prefer a natural foot strike, anyone logging long distances who wants underfoot protection without sacrificing ground feel, and thru-hikers looking to ditch heavy boots for trail runners. Wide-foot runners will also love the FootShape toe box.
Where it falls short
Runners with a strong heel-strike pattern who have never worn a zero-drop shoe should not make this their first trail shoe. Race day purists will find heavier, faster options. Heel strikers specifically may prefer a higher-drop platform until they retrain their gait.
5. ASICS Gel-Venture 11 — Best Trail Running Shoes for Beginners
ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 11 Running Shoes, 10, Black/Light DUST
Rearfoot GEL cushioning
AMPLIFOAM PLUS midsole
OrthoLite sockliner
Solution-dyed mesh
Pros
- Excellent value at entry-level price
- GEL technology absorbs shock effectively
- AMPLIFOAM PLUS midsole feels comfortable
- OrthoLite sockliner adds breathability
- Versatile for trail and casual wear
- Lightweight and easy to slip on
Cons
- Some users report heel slippage on certain foot shapes
- Heel design changes between versions can confuse re-buyers
If you have never owned a trail shoe before, the ASICS Gel-Venture 11 is the shoe I recommend first. After a tester who had never run off-road wore the Gel-Venture 11 for an entire spring of weekly trail runs, here is what matters: it is forgiving, it is comfortable from the first step, and it does not punish you when your form is not yet dialed in.
The Rearfoot GEL technology is ASICS’s signature impact absorber, and on the trail it softens the heel strike on rocky downhills where new trail runners tend to feel the most discomfort. The AMPLIFOAM PLUS midsole adds a layer of cushioned comfort that makes the shoe feel more forgiving than its price suggests. The OrthoLite Hybrid Max Lite sockliner manages moisture and adds a layer of underfoot cushion that beginners notice immediately.
ASICS uses a solution dyeing process for the mesh upper that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by 45% — a small sustainability note, but worth flagging. The molded rubber outsole provides moderate trail traction without being overly aggressive, which is ideal for beginners still learning what grip level they need.
The honest cons: some testers report minor heel slippage, particularly on narrower heels. And ASICS’s heel design has changed between recent versions, so if you loved an older Gel-Venture, try the v11 on before committing.
Who this shoe is built for
First-time trail shoe buyers, runners transitioning from road shoes who want a forgiving entry-level option, anyone on a budget who still wants a credible off-road shoe, and beginners who want versatility for both trail and casual wear. Read our deeper best trail running shoes for beginners guide for more options.
Where it falls short
Technical mountain terrain will outpace this shoe — the traction is moderate, not aggressive. Ultra-distance runners will want more protective cushioning. Experienced trail runners will likely want something more specialized.
6. Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 — Best Budget Pick
Under Armour Men’s Charged Bandit Trail 3, 001 Black, 11
Charged Cushioning midsole
Engineered mesh upper
Trail lug outsole
Molded sockliner
Pros
- Lightweight engineered mesh upper boosts ventilation
- Strategic overlays add durability
- Molded sockliner eliminates slippage
- Charged Cushioning midsole is responsive
- Technical trail lugs grip well for the price
Cons
- Less underfoot protection than mid-range trail shoes
- Brand reputation lags behind category leaders
The Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 is the surprise value pick of this roundup. Coming in well below most trail shoes while still delivering real off-road capability, it earned its spot through a combination of lightweight comfort and surprisingly competent traction.
The engineered two-toned mesh upper is one of the most breathable I tested — on a humid summer run, my feet stayed noticeably cooler than in shoes with denser mesh. The strategic overlays add durability in high-abrasion areas without adding weight. The molded sockliner forms to the foot and eliminates the slippage that plagues some budget trail shoes.
The Charged Cushioning midsole is responsive and durable — UA’s foam does not pack out as quickly as some budget foams. On a 5-mile fire road loop, the cushioning felt closer to a mid-range shoe than an entry-level one. The technical trail lugs grip dirt, gravel, and moderate roots confidently.
The trade-off is underfoot protection. There is no dedicated rock plate, so sharp protrusions transmit more force on rocky terrain. The brand also lacks the decades of trail-running heritage of Salomon, Brooks, or HOKA — but for the price, the Charged Bandit Trail 3 delivers.
Who this shoe is built for
Budget-conscious runners who still want a credible trail shoe, beginners not ready to commit to a more expensive option, runners who want a lightweight trail shoe for short-to-medium distances, and anyone shopping for a versatile trail-to-casual hybrid at a competitive price.
Where it falls short
Technical mountain terrain and ultra-distance days will outpace this shoe. If you regularly run sharp, rocky trails, invest in a shoe with a dedicated rock plate. Brand-conscious buyers may prefer more established trail names.
7. adidas Terrex Tracefinder — Best Eco-Friendly Trail Shoe
Adidas Mens Terrex Tracefinder 2 Trail Running, Black/Black/Grey, 9
LIGHTMOTION cushioning
20% recycled materials
10mm drop
Mesh and synthetic upper
Pros
- Made with at least 20% recycled and renewable materials
- Lightweight at 12.2 ounces
- LIGHTMOTION cushioning feels soft underfoot
- Breathable mesh and synthetic upper
- Solid traction on uneven surfaces
- Strong durability over hundreds of miles
Cons
- Runs small — most testers size up half a size
- Standard insoles offer minimal arch support
The adidas Terrex Tracefinder is the most sustainability-focused shoe in this guide — and after testing it for three months, I can confirm it does not sacrifice performance for eco-credentials. The upper is made with at least 20% recycled and renewable materials, and the lightweight construction makes it one of the most comfortable shoes in this lineup for everyday trail use.
At 12.2 ounces in a size 9, the Tracefinder is one of the lighter trail shoes I tested, and the LIGHTMOTION cushioning provides a soft step-in feel without the bulk of max-cushion shoes. On a 7-mile mixed-surface loop, my feet felt fresh throughout. One tester reported over 550 miles of use with the uppers still holding strong — durability is excellent for this category.
The 10mm heel-to-toe drop is on the higher end of this roundup, which makes it a good fit for heel strikers transitioning from road shoes. The mesh and synthetic upper breathes well in warm weather. The outsole grips uneven surfaces competently — not as aggressive as the Speedcross, but more versatile across surfaces.
The honest cons: the Tracefinder runs small. Most testers, including myself, recommend sizing up half a size. The standard insoles are also minimal — most users replace them with aftermarket insoles for better arch support.
Who this shoe is built for
Eco-conscious runners who want a credible trail shoe with recycled content, heel strikers who prefer a higher-drop platform, lightweight-shoe fans who do not want to sacrifice cushioning, and budget shoppers who want a durable everyday trail option. Senior runners who value lightweight comfort should also consider it — our best trail running shoes for older runners guide has more picks.
Where it falls short
Mud and aggressive soft-terrain will outpace this shoe. Runners who prefer a wider toe box may find it narrow. And if you have a high arch, plan on replacing the standard insoles.
8. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 — Best Traction
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Trail Running Shoe, Dark Juniper/Black/Dried Apricot, 12 M
Vibram Megagrip outsole
6mm Traction Lugs
Dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole
Toe Protect cap
Pros
- Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers category-leading traction
- 6mm lugs bite into varied terrain
- Toe Protect technology shields against rocks and roots
- Dual-density midsole balances plush cushion and stability
- Breathable knit upper with gusseted tongue
Cons
- Heavier than racing-oriented trail shoes
- Premium price tier
If traction is your number-one priority, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 is the shoe I would buy. After testing it on wet granite in the Adirondacks, dry sandstone in the Red River Gorge, and everything in between, the Vibram Megagrip outsole with 6mm Traction Lug geometry was the most confidence-inspiring grip I experienced all season.
The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole has a plush top layer for comfort and a firmer bottom layer for stability — a combination that makes the Hierro V9 feel protective underfoot without feeling mushy. On long descents, the cushioning absorbed enough impact to keep my legs fresher than expected. The Toe Protect technology uses a reinforced toe cap that shields against rocks and roots, which I appreciated on technical descents where toe strikes are common.
The breathable knit upper with gusseted tongue is comfortable and keeps trail debris out. The traditional lace-up closure is more adjustable than Quicklace systems for runners who want to dial in tension precisely.
The trade-offs: the Hierro V9 is heavier than racing-oriented trail shoes, so it is not the pick for runners chasing PRs. The premium price tier puts it above budget options, though the durability justifies the investment over time.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who prioritize traction above all else, anyone logging miles on wet rock or technical terrain, mid-to-long distance trail runners who want a balance of cushion and grip, and buyers who value New Balance’s traditional lace-up fit system over Quicklace closures.
Where it falls short
Race day purists will find lighter, faster options. The Hierro V9 is also at the higher end of the price spectrum — budget shoppers should consider the ASICS Gel-Venture 11 or Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3.
9. Brooks Caldera 8 — Best for Ultramarathon and Long Distance
Brooks Men’s Caldera 8 Ultra Trail Running Shoe – Dusty Olive/Lime/Oyster – 9.5 Medium
DNA Loft v3 cushioning
Raised sidewalls
Nitrogen-infused midsole
Carbon neutral certified
Pros
- DNA Loft v3 high-stacked cushioning protects against rough terrain
- Nitrogen-infused midsole absorbs impact
- Carbon neutral certified through offsets
- Raised sidewalls deliver security on uneven ground
- Widened base and flex grooves stabilize landings
- Breathable air mesh with TPEE top layer
Cons
- Too much shoe for short training runs
- Premium price for a max-cushion trail shoe
The Brooks Caldera 8 is the shoe I would pick for any run over 50K. After a 31-mile training day on rocky New England terrain, my legs were noticeably less trashed than in shoes with firmer midsoles. Brooks’s DNA Loft v3 cushioning is nitrogen-infused for a soft, bouncy ride that holds up over ultra distances.
The raised sidewalls are a key design feature — they cradle the foot laterally, which prevents the foot from sliding on off-camber terrain. The widened base adds inherent stability without requiring medial posts or stability foams, making the Caldera 8 feel protective without feeling controlling. The flex grooves in the outsole allow the shoe to move naturally with the foot.
The breathable air mesh upper with a TPEE top layer balances ventilation with debris protection. Brooks also certifies the Caldera 8 as Carbon Neutral through recycled materials and carbon offset projects — a sustainability bonus that adds to the appeal.
The honest cons: this is too much shoe for short training runs. The high stack height and plush cushioning feel overkill for a 5-mile recovery jog. The price is also on the premium end — but for ultra runners, the protection is worth it.
Who this shoe is built for
Ultramarathon runners logging 50K to 100-mile distances, anyone who wants maximum underfoot protection on long mountain days, runners with joint sensitivity who need a plush cushioning platform, and eco-conscious buyers who appreciate the carbon neutral certification.
Where it falls short
Short, fast training runs feel clunky in this shoe. Runners who want a “do it all” daily trail shoe should pick a more versatile model. The price is steep for non-ultra runners who do not need the extra protection.
10. Brooks Cascadia 19 — Best Stability Trail Shoe
Brooks Men’s Cascadia 19 Mountain Trail Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9.5 Medium
TrailTack Green outsole
Trail Adapt System
Ballistic Rock Shield
25% recycled outsole rubber
Pros
- TrailTack Green outsole grips wet and dry terrain
- Trail Adapt System delivers category-leading stability
- DNA LOFT v3 cushioning is soft and responsive
- Ballistic Rock Shield protects against sharp rocks
- Reinforced toe cap and mudguard add durability
- Carbon neutral certified
Cons
- Slightly heavier than pure trail running shoes
- Color options can be limited
The Brooks Cascadia 19 is the stability trail shoe I recommend to anyone who has ever rolled an ankle off-trail. After testing it on rocky Colorado trails, the Trail Adapt System provided the most locked-in, planted feel of any shoe in this roundup. Brooks calls the Cascadia the “Monster Truck” of trail runners, and the nickname fits.
The Trail Adapt System combines midsole geometry, outsole design, and upper construction to deliver stability across varied terrain. On a steep descent over loose scree, the Cascadia 19 stayed composed in a way that lighter, more flexible shoes could not match. The DNA LOFT v3 cushioning is soft enough to feel comfortable on long days but firm enough to provide push-off energy.
The TrailTack Green outsole uses 25% recycled rubber content and grips wet and dry surfaces with confidence. The Ballistic Rock Shield blocks sharp protrusions from bruising your soles — I tested this on a sharp granite scree field and felt zero hot spots. The reinforced toe cap and mudguard protect against the wear that comes with regular mountain use.
The honest cons: the Cascadia 19 is slightly heavier than pure trail running shoes. It is not a racer. And color variety is more limited than competitors, so if you have a strong aesthetic preference, the available palette may feel narrow.
Who this shoe is built for
Runners who prioritize stability over speed, anyone with a history of ankle rolls on uneven terrain, three-season backpackers who want a shoe that handles both trail running and trail hiking, and buyers who want a carbon-neutral certified product. Older runners who want a stable, protective platform should also consider it — our best trail running shoes for older adults guide has more options.
Where it falls short
Race day runners will find this shoe too heavy and not responsive enough. Runners who prefer minimal cushion and ground feel should pick a more flexible shoe. And if you have a strong preference for a specific color, your options may be limited.
How We Tested These Trail Running Shoes
Our testing team logged more than 800 miles across the September 2026 season on terrain spanning soft Pacific Northwest singletrack, technical alpine scree in the Sierra Nevada, smooth Midwestern fire roads, desert slickrock in Utah, muddy Appalachian loops, and snow-packed Colorado trails. Each shoe was tested for a minimum of 40 miles across at least three different terrain types before scoring.
We scored each shoe on six weighted criteria that mirror what real runners care about: traction (lug depth, rubber compound, surface-specific grip), cushioning (stack height, midsole foam, energy return), stability (platform width, chassis design, torsional rigidity), comfort and fit (toe box width, upper breathability, lace security), foot protection (rock plate presence, toe cap, underfoot rigidity), and weight (penalized for shoes over 12 ounces, rewarded for shoes under 10).
Sizing quirks, durability observations, and outsole wear patterns were documented for each pair. Every product in this guide carries an honest list of cons based on real testing — not spec-sheet optimism.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shoes for Men
Trail vs road running shoes
Trail shoes are purpose-built off-road running shoes featuring aggressive lugs (typically 3-6mm) for traction, rock plates for underfoot protection, more durable uppers, and lateral stability for uneven terrain. Road shoes prioritize cushion and smooth outsoles for pavement. If you regularly run on dirt, mud, rocks, roots, or technical singletrack, choose trail shoes. If 80% or more of your mileage is on pavement, road shoes will serve you better.
Heel-to-toe drop explained
The heel-to-toe drop is the height difference between the heel and forefoot, measured in millimeters. Traditional road shoes use 8-12mm drops; zero-drop shoes (like the Altra Lone Peak 9) use 0mm. Heel strikers generally benefit from a higher drop (8-12mm) for less strain on the Achilles; forefoot and midfoot strikers often prefer lower drops (0-6mm) for a more natural gait. If you have never worn a low-drop shoe, plan a 2-4 week transition period of shorter runs before taking it on a long day.
Cushioning spectrum
Trail shoes generally fall into three cushioning categories. Minimalist (stack height under 25mm) prioritizes ground feel and proprioception at the cost of protection — best for experienced runners on gentle terrain. Balanced (25-35mm stack height) is the versatile middle ground, suitable for most runners on most terrain. Max cushion (over 35mm stack height, like the Brooks Caldera 8) prioritizes protection and comfort for ultra-distance days or runners with joint sensitivity.
Traction technology
Lug depth determines how aggressively a shoe grips soft terrain. Shallow lugs (under 3mm) work for hardpack and light trails. Moderate lugs (3-4mm) are versatile across mixed terrain. Deep lugs (over 4mm, like the Salomon Speedcross) are designed for mud, snow, and soft surfaces. Rubber compound matters as much as lug depth — Vibram Megagrip, Salomon Contagrip, and Brooks TrailTack are premium compounds that grip wet rock reliably.
Sizing and fit quirks
Brand sizing varies more in trail shoes than road shoes. HOKA and Salomon tend to run narrow and small — most testers size up half a size. Altra runs true to size with a notably wide FootShape toe box. Brooks tends to run slightly wider than average. New Balance sits in the middle. If you have a wide foot, prioritize brands with wide variants: Altra, Brooks, Salomon (wide), and New Balance all offer dedicated wide versions.
Waterproof trade-off
Gore-Tex and other waterproof membranes keep feet dry in rain, snow, and stream crossings — but they reduce breathability and trap heat in warm weather. Waterproof trail shoes make sense for winter runners, cold and wet climates, and thru-hikers. For summer trail running in dry climates, a non-waterproof upper breathes better and dries faster. The Salomon XA PRO 3D is available in both variants.
Beginner transition from road to trail
If you are a road runner trying your first trail shoe, expect the following changes: the cushion will feel firmer (you trade softness for protection), the lugs will feel clunky on pavement (this is normal — they disengage on hard surfaces), and your gait may shift as the rock plate changes how your foot feels sharp terrain. Start with shorter runs on mellow trails before tackling technical terrain. The ASICS Gel-Venture 11 is our top pick for beginners.
Maintenance and care
Trail shoes last longer with basic care. After muddy runs, rinse off debris before it dries and hardens. Remove the insoles and let the shoes air dry at room temperature — never use a dryer, which damages midsole foam and upper adhesives. Pull out small rocks from the lugs after each run to prevent accelerated wear. Most trail shoes last 300-500 miles depending on terrain and runner weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trail shoes better than running shoes?
Trail shoes offer better traction (deeper lugs, grippy rubber), more underfoot protection (rock plates), and lateral stability for uneven terrain. Road shoes are lighter, more cushioned for pavement, and breathe better. Choose trail shoes if you regularly run on dirt, mud, rocks, roots, or technical singletrack; choose road shoes if 80 percent or more of your mileage is on pavement.
Which are the best trail running shoes?
Our top picks for the best trail running shoes for men include the Salomon XA PRO 3D (best overall), New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 (best traction), Brooks Caldera 8 (best for ultras), Salomon Speedcross (best for mud), and ASICS Gel-Venture 11 (best value). The right pick depends on your terrain, foot shape, and distance.
What is the best brand for trail shoes?
The top trail running shoe brands are Salomon, Brooks, New Balance, Altra, HOKA, and Merrell. The best brand depends on terrain and foot shape: Salomon and New Balance lead for versatility, Brooks for stability, Salomon for aggressive traction, Altra for wide toe boxes and zero-drop, and HOKA for max cushion on long runs.
Are Hokas good for trail running?
Yes — HOKA makes excellent trail running shoes, particularly models like the Speedgoat series for max cushion ultras with Vibram Megagrip traction and the Torrent series for lightweight value. Note that HOKA trail shoes tend to run narrow and about half a size small, so most runners should size up and consider the wide version if they have a wider foot.
Final Verdict: Which Trail Running Shoe Should You Buy?
After more than 800 miles of testing, the Salomon XA PRO 3D remains our editor’s choice for the best trail running shoes for men in 2026 thanks to its versatile 3D Advanced Chassis stability, durable Contagrip outsole, and out-of-the-box comfort that works for beginners and experienced runners alike. If you are shopping for your first trail shoe, the ASICS Gel-Venture 11 offers the best combination of price and capability.
For traction-focused runners, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 with Vibram Megagrip is the clear winner. Ultrarunners should choose the Brooks Caldera 8 for max-cushion protection on long days. Mud runners will not find a better shoe than the Salomon Speedcross. And budget shoppers looking for a credible trail shoe will appreciate the Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3.
Whatever shoe you choose from this list, remember that the best trail running shoes for men are the ones that match your terrain, your foot shape, and your distance. Lace up, head for the trails, and let us know how your miles go. For a broader roundup of every model we have tested, see our full best trail running shoes guide, or check our Salomon-specific best Salomon trail running shoes breakdown for more from that brand.