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Gear Guide

Best Trail Running Shoes 2025

From muddy singletrack to rocky mountain trails, we tested the top trail shoes for every terrain and running style.

Best Grip

Salomon Speedcross 6

Unmatched traction in mud and soft trails

Best Value

Nike Pegasus Trail 4

Road-to-trail versatility at a good price

How to Choose Trail Shoes

Terrain

Mud needs deep lugs. Rock needs protection. Mixed needs balance.

Protection

Rock plates for technical terrain. More cushion for ultras.

Conditions

Wet trails need drainage. Gore-Tex for winter.

Quick Comparison

ShoePriceDropBest For
Salomon Speedcross 6$14010mmSoft trails, mud
Hoka Speedgoat 5$1554mmTechnical, rocky
Nike Pegasus Trail 4$14010mmMild trails, road-to-trail
Brooks Cascadia 17$1508mmMixed terrain
Altra Lone Peak 7$1700mmUltras, long trails
Best Grip

Salomon Speedcross 6

$140
Drop

10mm

Terrain

Soft trails, mud

Cushion

Medium

Pros

  • + Aggressive lugs for mud
  • + Quick lace system
  • + Excellent lockdown
  • + Durable

Cons

  • - Lugs wear on rock
  • - Narrow fit
  • - Stiff ride
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Best Cushion

Hoka Speedgoat 5

$155
Drop

4mm

Terrain

Technical, rocky

Cushion

Maximum

Pros

  • + Plush cushioning
  • + Vibram outsole
  • + Wide toe box
  • + All-day comfort

Cons

  • - Less ground feel
  • - Can feel unstable
  • - Heavier
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Best Value

Nike Pegasus Trail 4

$140
Drop

10mm

Terrain

Mild trails, road-to-trail

Cushion

Medium

Pros

  • + React foam comfort
  • + Road-to-trail versatile
  • + Familiar Pegasus fit
  • + Good price

Cons

  • - Less aggressive grip
  • - Not for technical terrain
  • - Drainage could be better
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Best All-Around

Brooks Cascadia 17

$150
Drop

8mm

Terrain

Mixed terrain

Cushion

Medium

Pros

  • + Balanced performance
  • + Rock plate protection
  • + Comfortable for long runs
  • + Reliable

Cons

  • - Not specialized
  • - Moderate grip
  • - Nothing exceptional
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Best Zero Drop

Altra Lone Peak 7

$170
Drop

0mm

Terrain

Ultras, long trails

Cushion

Medium

Pros

  • + Zero drop natural feel
  • + Wide toe box
  • + Ultramarathon favorite
  • + Comfortable for hours

Cons

  • - Transition period needed
  • - Less cushion than Hoka
  • - Grip is moderate
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