10 Best Trail Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 is designed with trail runners in mind, offering strong cushioning and protection suitable for rough outdoor terrain. Its dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole provides a soft and comfortable ride, absorbing impact well while running on rocky or uneven trails. The toe protection feature helps shield your feet from stones and roots, which is a big plus when navigating tricky paths. The Vibram outsole and Traction Lug technology give you solid grip on both wet and dry surfaces, reducing the risk of slipping. The gusseted tongue keeps debris like dirt and small stones out, enhancing comfort during longer runs. Weighing just over 2 pounds, these shoes strike a balance—light enough to not feel heavy but still durable for trail use.

The New Balance Men's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe is designed with versatile traction in mind, thanks to its AT Tread outsole that performs well both on roads and trails. This makes it a solid choice if you want a shoe that can handle mixed surfaces. It features a soft BIO Foam midsole that provides comfortable cushioning underfoot, helping to reduce impact during runs.

The Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are built to handle tough and varied trail conditions, making them a strong choice for serious trail runners or hikers who need reliable performance. They feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, which keeps your feet dry in wet or windy weather while still allowing breathability to prevent overheating. The shoes offer advanced stability through a 3D chassis, giving good support and protection underfoot, which helps reduce fatigue on rough terrain.