Kit & Gear

The Best Trail Running Shoes 2023

New to trail running and not sure which shoes to choose?

Then check out some of our top recommendations and best-selling models for 2023.

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER. THIS LIST WILL BE UPDATED THROUGHOUT 2023*

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1. HOKA Speedgoat 5

Take control on technical terrain with the new HOKA Speedgoat 5. This outdoor workhorse is designed to excel on high-altitude, remote, rugged trails, using its exceptional Vibram Megagrip outsole and multi-directional lugs which provide unparalleled grip on any surface.

Most suitable for: Daily training on all-types of off-road terrain

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL HOKA SPEEDGOAT 5 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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2. ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 11

The ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 11 shoe is a versatile trail style that offers adaptive stability with less weight. It's reimagined with better traction for the trails​ - an adaptive guidance system and wide basenets help create a more stable ride on varying terrain. They're functional for when you need extra support during the later stages of your outdoor excursion.​ Rugged and comfortable are the two terms that best describe this trail running shoe. It's for the off-road runner seeking excellent durability, protection and grip.

Most suitable for: Training on all types of off-road terrain and for racing mid-long distances.

SHOP ALL ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 11 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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3. Saucony Peregrine 13

Named after the fastest bird on earth, the agile Saucony Peregrine 13 more than lives up to its name. Stripped down for blistering speeds, it’s time to get comfortable as you fly across the trails. Cushioned with PWRRUN foam and built with a tough grip underfoot, it's everything you need to go farther, faster.

Most suitable for: Training and racing on all types of off-road terrain, lightweight speed and versatility on the trail.

SHOP ALL SAUCONY PEREGRINE 13 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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4. Merrell MTL Skyfire 2

Introducing Merrell’s lightest and fastest trail running shoe. Made for trail and sky runners to excel on the most technical mountains and rugged trails in the world. A grippy, lightweight design and secure fit gives athletes more confidence on technical terrain and an advantage on shorter, steep trails. The MTL Skyfire 2 is built for elite-level performance.

Most suitable for: A lightweight, elite-level racing shoe most suitable for technical terrain.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL MERRELL MTL SKYFIRE 2 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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5. Salomon Sense Ride 5

A versatile trail shoe that does it all, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 is equally in its element on short, fast trail runs as on ultra distances.

A super-comfortable overachiever that easily adapts to a variety of terrains, with a balanced midsole for cushioning, response and an engineered mesh upper with Sensifit for just the right amount of comfortable hold.

Most suitable for: A versatile trail shoe for a range of distances and mixed terrain.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL SALOMON SENSE RIDE 5 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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6. adidas TERREX Agravic Flow 2 GTX

The adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 GTX Trail Running Shoes are athlete-proven, designed to elevate your mountain game with advanced tech you feel in every step you take. Featuring newly engineered mesh upper for even more comfort and breathability, plus rock protection and stability through a full length promoderation foil. 

Wet, muddy trails are part of the experience, but wet feet don't need to be. Enjoy dry feet and a superlight feel as you move from road to trail and back in these adidas trail running shoes. A breathable GORE-TEX membrane seals out wet conditions while ultralight Lightstrike EVA foam cushioning encourages speed and agility over rough terrain. The Continental outsole brings the grip you need for different terrains. 

This shoe is also available to buy without GORE-TEX protection.

Most suitable for: Rugged mountain trails when you require grip, stability and waterproof protection.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL ADIDAS TERREX AGRAVIC FLOW 2 GTX TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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7. Nike React Terra Kiger 9

As the trail turns tough, go with the comfort and speed of the Nike React Terra Kiger 9, there for every unexpected twist and tight turn. Equipped with full-length Nike React foam and a revamped breathable upper, this agile, quick trainer helps keep you zigzagging in and out of trails with speed. It's lower to the ground and lighter than the previous iteration so you can shoot up that steep, rickety path with pace and security.

Most suitable for: Lightweight speed and agility across a range of off-road terrain.

SHOP ALL NIKE REACT TERRA KIGER 9 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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8. New Balance FuelCell Summit Unknown SG

Made for fearless runners brave enough to take on the off-road terrain. The New Balance FuelCell Summit Unknown SG trail running shoe features a FuelCell midsole for energetic rebound and a soft ground lugged outsole and Rock Stop Plate for traction on gnarly terrain. A bootie-style upper delivers a supportive fit while the Toe Protect technology helps keep feet free of debris. This SG edition boasts a lug height of up to 6.5 mm for even better off-road performance.

Most suitable for: Soft ground and rugged trails when grip is a key priority.

SHOP ALL NEW BALANCE FUELCELL SUMMIT UNKNOWN SG TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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9. Brooks Cascadia 16

Adaptable. Protective. Ready for technical terrain. Conquer any trail in the Brooks Cascadia 16. This versatile trail running shoe offers all-terrain stability and durable protection, with softer and lighter cushioning than before to ensure a continuously smooth ride. A shoe designed for trail runners, by trail runners.

Most suitable for: A superb all-rounder, suitable for almost every type of off-road terrain.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL BROOKS CASCADIA 16 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES HERE

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10. inov-8 X-TALON ULTRA G 260 V2

The inov-8 X-TALON ULTRA 260 V2 is the perfect trail shoe for running long distances over soft and muddy terrain. Now boasting an improved fit and locked-in feel, this shoe is aided by a comfortable slimmed-down tongue. Super-strong ballistic nylon upper materials deliver excellent durability. With STICKYGRIP rubber and POWERFLOW MAX cushioning, plus room in the toe box, the X-TALON ULTRA 260 V2 is ideal for runners seeking a grippy, fast-feel shoe with comfort to tackle tough trails and mountains.

Most suitable for: Unrivalled grip on soft ground, perfect for long distances and suitable for both training and racing.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP ALL INOV-8 X-TALON ULTRA 260 V2 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES HERE

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11. The North Face Summit VECTIV™ Pro

The North Face Summit VECTIV™ Pro is a highly advanced race-day shoe that features a new VECTIV™ 2.0 carbon-fibre-plate design with stability wings. It also offers a high-rebound super-soft foam midsole for propulsion that’s tuned to the demands of trail running on technical terrain.

Most suitable for: Specifically designed for ultra-distance trail races and best suited to hard-packed trails.

Check out our detailed shoe review here

SHOP THE NORTH FACE SUMMIT VECTIV PRO TRAIL RUNNING SHOES HERE

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12. Mizuno Wave Mujin 9

The Mizuno Wave Mujin 9 is the best choice for expert trail runners who want to challenge themselves in the most extreme conditions. The Wave Mujin 9 has it all, with the best technologies to protect you and help support you when the things get tough.

Most suitable for: Tough and rugged off-road terrain when grip, protection and stability are the highest priorities.

SHOP ALL MIZUNO WAVE MUJIN 9 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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13. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II

Introducing an aesthetic re-edition of the iconic La Sportiva Ultra Raptor, developed for long-distance off-road routes and prolonged training sessions.

With a soft EVA midsole platform for optimum shock absorption and cushioning, plus a breathable Air-mesh upper for increased air-flow. The Ultra Raptor offers high-levels of protection, stability and support for the toughest and most rugged of trails.

Most suitable for: Designed for off-road, endurance trails, ultra marathon competitions and long training sessions.

SHOP ALL LA SPORTIVA ULTRA RAPTOR II TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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Interested in the latest shoes, apparel and technology? Then head over to our Kit & Gear category for more reviews, tips, advice and product releases.