Kit & Gear

The Best Trail Running Shoes for Ultra-Distance Races 2024

Running an ultra-distance trail race for the first time and unsure which shoes to wear?

We take a look at this season's best ultra-distance trail shoe models, all specifically designed to tackle technical off-road terrain.

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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ASICS METAFUJI™ TRAIL

For dedicated trail runners seeking to enhance their performance, the ASICS METAFUJI™ TRAIL stands out as a premium choice designed to deliver speed and efficiency on demanding terrain.

HOKA Tecton X 3

A top of the range shoe ready to propel you through gnarly terrain. The HOKA Tecton X 3 adds winglets to its carbon fiber plates for extra stability with two layers of PEBA in the midsole. Most notably, there is now a knit collar that extends up from the tongue like a gaiter to mitigate trail debris, with a lightweight upper making this version more durable and ready for whatever the trail throws at you.

Nike ZoomX Ultrafly

Featuring a carbon plate and plush ZoomX cushioning, Nike's championship trail-racing shoe offers peak performance, sleek speed and endurance for those who want to summit nature's playground.

Saucony Xodus Ultra 3

Featuring a full-length core of ultralight PWRRUN PB ensures max energy return for an extra spring in every step, a breathable upper and an improved PWRTRAC outsole with nimble 4mm lugs for traction, the Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 is the perfect ultra-distance trail running shoe.

Salomon S/LAB ULTRA

Salomon S/LAB ULTRA was co-designed by renowned ultra runner François d’Haene and Salomon. Redefining the limits of pinnacle product performance, it's the first shoe to keep performing after 10 to 15hrs of racing. A foam and plate combo carve out new territory for ultrarunning bringing previously unexplored sensations.

Find out more about the Salomon x François d’Haene Ultra Collection range here

HOKA Mafate Speed 4

A pinnacle product for technical trail, the HOKA Mafate Speed 4 distills what we’ve already seen in the EVO Mafate and the Mafate Speed. The same lines are here, just updated with new textiles and construction, including a breathable, single layer jacquard mesh and two-part PROFLY+™ midsole with the lightest, most responsive HOKA foam underfoot.

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Check out our detailed shoe review here

The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro 2.0 IKB

Featuring artwork and the iconic blue colour used by artist Yves Klein, The North Face VECTIV Pro 2.0 IKB has carbon fibre plates for propulsion and super-soft Dream midsole foam for incredible levels of cushioning and energy return.

Shop the The North Face IKB range now

Salomon S/LAB GENESIS

Tested by some of the best ultra-runners, including Courtney Dauwalter, the new Salomon S/LAB GENESIS is paving the way for a new open-minded take on high-commitment trail running. One where you rack up more shared experiences than PBs, and also where the distance is not about the number but about the adventure.

Brooks Catamount 3

Great for races between 50 and 100k, get ready for top-speed trail adventures in the Brooks Catamount 3.

Light, responsive cushioning plus a propulsion plate for uphill efficiency join forces to produce this fast and responsive trail-running shoe.

Altra Olympus 6

Get ready to tackle all terrain with the Olympus 6, Altra's plushest trail runner.

Featuring a natural fitting footshape, a redesigned lug pattern and a plush EVA midsole for incredible cushioning and comfort.

Merrell Agility Peak 5

Building on the success of one of Merrell's most popular trail running shoes, the Agility Peak 5 provides updates to this already successful trail runner. In this latest version, the rocker is increased, weight is reduced to less than 300g, and the heel cup is sculpted for better on-foot comfort and less slip.

This shoe is also available in waterproof GORE-TEX versions and a winter boot, the Agility Peak 5 GORE-TEX Trail, designed for cold and extreme weather conditions.

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