10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe in Dusty Olive and size 9.5 offers several appealing features for trail runners. At 10.7 oz (303 g), it's moderately lightweight, making it suitable for long-distance runs without feeling too heavy. Its altra EGO midsole provides moderate cushioning, delivering a balance between comfort and responsiveness.

The maxtrac outsole is designed for excellent traction, which is crucial for varied and rough terrains, ensuring grip and stability. The shoe has a stack height of 25 mm and a zero-drop design, promoting a natural stride and potentially reducing strain on the calves and Achilles tendon. Fit and comfort are supported by the ankle-height shaft and synthetic outer material, which is machine washable for easy maintenance.

The shoe's weight is reasonable, but might feel a bit heavy for those used to ultra-light models. For trail runners looking for a well-rounded shoe with solid traction and cushioning, the ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 is a reliable choice.

The ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe is designed with comfort and performance in mind, making it a good choice for trail runners. The standout feature is its signature FootShape design, which offers more space for the feet to sit naturally, addressing differences in men's and women's feet for improved comfort. The shoe's Altra EGO foam provides a good balance between responsiveness and comfort, ideal for long runs.

Its Balanced Cushioning ensures your heel and forefoot are equally distant from the ground, promoting better alignment and running form. The MaxTrac outsole offers impressive grip and traction on various terrains, enhancing stability and confidence on trails. However, the shoe's synthetic outer material may not offer the best durability compared to other materials.

Additionally, while the shoe provides good protection and cushioning, its weight might be a bit heavier than some competitors, potentially impacting performance for those seeking a lighter option. The shoe is machine washable, making maintenance easy, but it does not specifically mention water resistance, which could be a drawback for wet conditions. The ALTRA Lone Peak 7 is a solid option for trail runners, offering comfort and reliable traction, though it may not be the best for those prioritizing lightweight and waterproof features.

The Saucony Women's Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe is a well-rounded choice for trail enthusiasts. It boasts a durable rubber outsole with grippy lugs made of carbon rubber, ensuring you have solid footing on various terrains. The moderate stack VERSARUN cushioning offers ample underfoot comfort, making it a good option for longer trails.

The shoe's fit is enhanced by trail-specific mesh and supportive overlays, which lock your foot in place while protecting against debris without adding extra bulk. This provides a good balance of comfort and security during your runs. For most trail running scenarios, these shoes provide excellent traction, comfort, and protection.