Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Clothing, Shoes & Accessories

The Angle may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The best trail running shoes for men and women

By

Those who want to take the road less traveled and appreciate the wonders of nature might like to try trail running as exercise. While it takes you more time to run the whole course, it is a bit more challenging than running around the neighborhood since the paths are not paved and require more than just your average walking shoes. With trail running, more focus is also needed to go you up and down hills, and avoid obstacles along the way. Then you’ll be able to reap the benefits of having a stronger core and sharper reflexes. And so your feet won’t get the worst end of the bargain, it is important that you choose the right trail running shoe.

Apart from comfort, a trail running shoe has to have enough traction for the kind of terrain you plan to run. We’ve rounded up our top picks that will perfectly suit most trail runners. And if you’re looking for savings, make sure you check out our lists of the best Black Friday sneaker deals and shoe sales going on right now.

Recommended Videos

At A Glance:

  • Most comfortable:

    Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Running Shoe

  • Most protection:

    Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner

  • Most durable:

    Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D

  • Best budget:

    ASICS Gel-Venture 5 Trail Running Shoes

  • Best antimicrobial:

    New Balance Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe

  • Best cushioning:

    Saucony Excursion Tr11 Running-Shoes

  • Best for kids:

    Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Shoe

Most comfortable: Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Running Shoe

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe comes in five colors, so there’s bound to be one to match whatever mood you’re in today. They’re comfortable and light with a cloudfoam rubber sole and textile lining. It only gets better with time since it will mold to your feet and conform to your running style. It is also fashionable enough to go with casual wear. For more like this, take a look at some of the best running shoes for women.

Most protection: Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner’s low-profile look is very much on-trend in the fashion department. They also have extra traction for even the gnarliest of trails, yet have a minimal sole thickness, so it’s as close as you can come to running through the wilderness barefoot without going full Castaway. It assures stability, durability, and slip-resistance with its high-performance Vibram rubber sole. It is also vegan-friendly as no part of it was sourced from animal products. For more like this, take a look at some of the best running shoes for men.

Most durable: Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Salomon shoes are already renowned for their comfort and excellent grip. That’s what you’d expect from a 60-year-old mountaineering brand, and the Men’s Xa Pro 3D are very much the pinnacle of their creative and engineering knowledge. They are particularly ideal for rugged trail runners as they boast a 3D Advanced Chasis for unpredictable terrains and Sensifit for a precise fit.  The Quicklace is made from a highly resilient polyester cord that makes it easy to put on and tighten.

Best budget: ASICS Gel-Venture 5 Trail Running Shoes

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Men and women on a budget will appreciate the ASICS  Gel-Venture 5 Trail Running Shoes and both beginners and seasoned pros will love that it can be used on any terrain. The synthetic leather upper provides extra support while the internal heel counter allows you to make efficient strides. The rearfoot gel technology then helps absorb shock as you transition to midstance. It also promises a breathable and flexible fit with a removal sock liner that accommodates a medical orthotic.

Best antimicrobial: New Balance Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe

[caption id="attachment_10450" align="aligncenter"][/caption]

Those who want to feel like they’re running barefoot should try a Vibram outsole with New Balance’s Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe. It has strategically-placed flex grooves that tick all the right boxes in terms of stability and durability for off-road performance. What’s more, is that it has an antimicrobial treatment to reduce odor so you can sweat all you want while your shoe stays fresh.

[cc-link url="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FSDDUGE" merchant="5b9be81f89f4b3242158adcd" type="button"]

Best cushioning: Saucony Excursion Tr11 Running-Shoes

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Saucony has always been a brand that dedicates itself to every runner, and the Excursion Tr11 Running-Shoes is designed for every personality with nine possible color options. Whether you want something subtle or bold, you’ll always get one that is comfortable and stylish for any terrain. The knit mesh upper allows air to pass through while keeping debris out and the outsole lugs offer great traction and underfoot protection. It also has a heel grid system that ensures your feet can experience long-lasting cushioning.

Best for kids: Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Shoe

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Parents who want their kids to appreciate the great outdoors at a young age can get them the Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Shoe. This pair is versatile enough for all kinds of sports, be it running or hiking trails, biking, or climbing, and still be able to wear them for yard play and for everyday wear. They might not even need help from their caregivers to put it on with its hook and look closure that instantly assures a secure fit.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
The Angle Contributor
The Angle Contributor
Shop smarter with The Angle, your guide to the best online sales, deals, and once-in-a-lifetime bargains you can’t afford…
The 7 best water shoes for different aquatic adventures
water shoes

When you’re in the water, shoes typically aren’t required. But if you want the added comfort and protection when you stroll the beach or go on activities like diving, hiking, kayaking, or surfing, it helps to gear yourself up with the right footwear. Whether it be in the form of sandals, boots, slip-ons, or sneakers, water shoes keep your feet not only dry and secure but also at peak performance. 
Aquatic shoes have evolved in a lot of ways, with modern options boasting a broad range of features, including water drainage, underfoot traction, and thermal protection. Whatever outdoor adventure you plan on embarking on this summer, there's a pair out there that's meant to be your water buddy. Barefoot slip-ons and sandals should work well enough for a casual day at the beach or some light water sports. But if you're going on rocky terrain or other rugged exploits, it's better to invest in bulkier shoes or something with a strong grip at the bottom. We’ve done a digging of our own and rounded up here some of the best water shoes on the market -- all of which you can count on for superior comfort and functionality.
At a Glance:

Best multipurpose: Crocs Classic Clog Slip On Water Shoe

Read more
The best running sunglasses for eye protection

While everyone can use some vitamin D from the sun, too much exposure can do more harm than good. It is probably normal for most of us to apply sunscreen every day to prevent skin damage but we must not forget that our eyes are also sensitive to sunlight. UV radiation not only dries or burns our skin but also damages our eyes with the potential risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. That said, wearing sunglasses is your best bet at deflecting the sun's harmful UV rays from your line of sight.

Those who enjoy going for a run outdoors no matter the weather should at least have one pair of running sunglasses to protect their eyes. Besides, having sunnies on boosts your sporty style as much as it shields your eyes from running into low-hanging branches or flying insects. Choosing the best running sunglasses simply depends on your overall comfort. You just want to look into one that does not get in the way of your vision. It is also smart to get a pair with anti-slip silicone nose pads to assure that they don't fall off on the course of your run. We've put together our top picks for your consideration.
At A Glance:

Read more
The best orthopedic shoes for men and women
best orthopedic shoes pair of black man hightop sneakers

Orthopedic shoes are designed to support your foot's natural contour which makes them very comfortable. It also comes with the reassurance of a sure fit with specific flex points and properties that can absorb impact when out walking (see the best walking shoes). A solid pair of orthopedic shoes will certainly be able to cater to different foot types as well as address common foot ailments such as calluses, fallen arches, deformed toes, bunions, and hammertoes.

To ensure their shoes meet their orthopedic needs, people cite support and comfort as important features but they seek stylish orthopedic shoes, as well. Good thing there are some that comply with all those demands. There are a number of options available for both men and women and we've shortlisted what we consider to be the best of the best so you can pick one that would best suit your style. We've also found the best shoes for nurses if you happen to be one.

Read more