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.

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.

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.