Running on challenging trails is a great activity to exercise your limbs after a week of spending hours sitting in front of the computer.
If you love challenges and want to try trail hiking, you should start looking for the best trail running shoes for hiking.
It is not too hard to look for running shoes, as you can find different brands and designs in the market.
We listed down some of the best options for both men and women who want to venture into trail hiking.
Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking (Men’s)
1. New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoes
The New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoes looks very solid because of its unique design.
While it is heavier compared to the previous model from the same series, it will not weigh you down when you are on the trail.
This is made for rugged use, too, so it is an excellent choice if you want a running shoe that can take the strains of an uneven trail.
Product Highlights
The New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoes provides an ordinary fit.
In fact, more than 83 percent of the people who tried these shoes think that it fits them perfectly.
The New Balance 481 comes with a range of widths, so you won’t have much of a problem with the sizing.
They also come in half sizes, which means you won’t have to go one size higher or lower.
The New Balance 481 features a Cush+ midsole that provides ultra-soft cushioning and comfort without sacrificing the level of support it offers.
It has an AT tread, which is a dual-use outsole tread that combines both running and trail lug designs.
Aside from trail running, this running shoe can also be worn when doing daily chores since it is very comfortable to wear.
Although it is heavier than regular walking shoes, you can use it for work or when you are hanging out with your friends.
What We Like
The best thing about the New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe is you can find a size that is perfect for your feet.
When it comes to trail and running shoes, you need something that would fit your feet perfectly, so looking for shoes that come in half sizes would benefit you greatly.
What We Don’t Like
The New Balance 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe is not waterproof, which may or may not be a big problem depending on the weather on the trail.
Still, most running shoes nowadays are already waterproof, so it is a bit of a downer for this amazing shoe.
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2. New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes
The New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes is one of the latest models in the brand’s trail running shoe series.
It is 100% synthetic and has a rubber sole, so it is very light and comfortable to wear.
Product Highlights
The New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes boasts an all-terrain rubber outsole that is made specifically to provide comfort and protection while you are on the trail.
It has a breathable mesh or synthetic upper and a round toe.
The lace is upfront, and the collar and tongue are both cushioned, providing additional comfort to your feet.
In addition, it has a durable upper with leather and synthetic overlays, so you can be sure that it is very durable.
Although the upper contains leather, it keeps its breathability so that your feet won’t feel hot while walking on the trail.
The lockdown support will prevent your feet from slipping out of these running shoes.
The New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes also contains an IMEVA foam midsole and XLT footbed to provide the ultimate comfort on the trail.
It gives you the comfort you need while also giving your feet protection and support, which is especially necessary on rocky terrains.
What We Like
The traction outsole with All-Terrain tread is one of the best features of the New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes.
New Balance made sure that the shoe can provide the protection and comfort that you need through its shoe tread.
The shoe is also available in wide sizes, so you can find a size that would fit your feet.
What We Don’t Like
Sadly, this running shoe is not water-resistant.
If you want to use it, you have to check the weather on the area and make sure that it won’t rain during your trail and leave your feet soaking wet.
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3. Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes is the fifth version of the Speedcross series from Salomon.
It is also one of the best currently since it was an improved version of the previous models.
Compared with its predecessors, the Speedcross 5 has an improved grip, better stability and protection, and a dynamic upper.
Product Highlights
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes features an anti-debris mesh that would prevent debris from entering the shoe.
Also, even if you are on a sandy trail, the shoe will remain breathable throughout the journey.
Unlike the previous versions, it doesn’t have stitches and has a smooth fit.
The previous versions of Salomon Speedcross have thin midsoles, but the Speedcross 5 has a thicker one with better protection.
It also boasts the EnergyCell+ compound, which can offer high-energy return while providing enhanced cushioning without any rock plate.
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes is designed with a Contagrip TA compound, which would provide the best grip on soft, loose, muddy, and technical terrain.
It offers better traction because of the wider-spaced lug pattern.
It also has impressive durability and can last for a very long time, even if you use it regularly.
What We Like
The appearance of the Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes is a big plus because it is exceptionally stylish.
Another thing that you would love about it is the enhanced midsole, as it offers amazing protection and comfort to your feet.
What We Don’t Like
The only problem with the Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes is the sizing.
Most Salomon shoes are too narrow, so they might not be the best fit for people with wide feet.
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4. CAMVAVSR K7-2 Running Shoes
Men love the CAMVAVSR K7-2 Running Shoes because it is focused on comfortability.
It provides adequate protection to your feet, but most of its features are focused on providing comfort to the user.
As a piece of fashion footwear, it is definitely a popular choice for men who wants to go out in style.
Product Highlights
The CAMVAVSR K7-2 Running Shoes is known for being an all-rounder because it is not just a sneaker for trail running.
Instead, it is also a regular, everyday shoe that you can wear for almost any occasion.
It features an air mesh upper that offers impressive ventilation and is very lightweight.
As such, it won’t put too much pressure on your feet when you are walking or running.
The CAMVAVSR K7-2 Running Shoes also boasts a breathable fabric for additional ventilation, as well as a durable Anti-slip sole that offers excellent stability and traction for different terrains.
The best thing about this trail running shoe is its lace-up style design, which is a type of footwear with a slip-on style.
You can still use the lace to adjust the fit of the shoes, though.
What We Like
This is the best running shoe to wear on trails that are not too rocky or muddy.
It is one of the most breathable and comfortable running shoes on the list.
Even if it doesn’t provide the ultimate protection that you are looking for, it is a fantastic choice for regular treks or trails.
What We Don’t Like
The CAMVAVSR K7-2 Running Shoes has a problem with sizing because it is not advisable for people with wide feet.
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5. New Balance Nitrel V3 Trail Running Shoe
The New Balance Nitrel V3 is considered a crossover trail shoe.
It is the perfect choice for easy trail runs that do not have any technical sections.
You can use it for light mud trails or wet terrains, but it is the best choice for dry, single-track trails.
Product Highlights
The New Balance Nitrel V3 Trail Running Shoe is 100% fabric and synthetic, so it is very lightweight and comfortable to wear.
It has a rubber sole, and it is made for all types of terrains.
The toe box is a bit narrow, but it is not a problem because it is reinforced and provides adequate protection when walking or running on rocky terrains.
It features a REVlite midsole that can offer amazing responsiveness and durability to your shoes.
It is also lighter than other foams with the same performance, so it is perfect for running.
This shoe is extremely durable and won’t be easily damaged by rocky terrains.
What We Like
The level of comfort that the New Balance Nitrel V3 Trail Running Shoe offers is pretty amazing since the shoe is extremely breathable and lightweight.
What We Don’t Like
The only problem with the New Balance Nitrel V3 Trail Running Shoe is its moisture-wicking feature.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t drain sweat very well, especially when compared to other models.
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Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking (Women’s)
1. ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes
If you are looking for an affordable trail running shoe that provides great stability and protection, the ASICS Gel-Venture 7 is definitely a good choice.
It provides decent underfoot protection with little flexibility in the arch.
Product Highlights
If it is your first time trail running, you might want to try the ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes.
It is an inexpensive pair of shoes that are designed to provide the most basic features that you need on a running shoe.
For starters, this shoe boasts GEL technology in the rearfoot area, and, as such, it provides sufficient shock absorption when on the trail.
It also features an Ortholite sock liner, which offers an additional cushioning on the underfoot.
The EVA midsole is also a great addition to the ASICS Gel-Venture 7, as it delivers the comfort and protection that you need for your feet.
It protects against impact and improves the rebound of the shoe.
Extra support is also provided by the sturdy upper, which is made from synthetic leather.
What’s more, the internal heel counter can help keep your foot on its natural line, allowing you to make efficient strides.
The ASICS High-Abrasion Rubber outsole provides terrific durability to the shoes, too.
What We Like
The ASICS Gel-Venture 7 may not be as good as other more expensive running shoes for women.
Nevertheless, the GEL technology for the rearfoot area is one of the best things you can get from a running shoe.
The shock absorption is incredible and would help protect your feet on rocky terrains.
What We Don’t Like
The only thing that you won’t like about this shoe is the sizing.
The shoes are too narrow, so if you have wide feet, you will have a hard time finding a good fit.
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2. New Balance Arishi V1 Trail Running Shoes
The Arishi V1 is a stylish pair of footwear that we think is one of New Balance’s best running shoes for women yet.
New Balance is known to create fantastic running shoes for both men and women, and this model is currently one of the hottest releases that it has made.
Product Highlights
The New Balance Arishi V1 Trail Running Shoes provides both protection and comfort for your feet, especially if you plan to have a long hike.
This is a shoe made for long-term use and looks amazing at the same time.
As such, you can use it for other activities aside from trail running and trekking.
This pair of shoes has an AT Tread outsole that can provide versatile traction for on- and off-road trekking.
It is incredibly sturdy and can provide the protection that you need for your feet on rocky terrains.
The EVA foam insert is added to increase the wearer’s comfort, too.
The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is explicitly made to provide more cushion to the shoes and give it a more lightweight feel.
Also, the Toe Protect technology will provide protection to your feet from roots, debris, and rocks while you are on the trail.
The upper does not have any sew construction to make sure that you will have a sleek feel and fit.
What We Like
The New Balance Arishi V1 Trail Running Shoes is known for its Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, which ensures additional comfort to your feet.
It also made the shoe more lightweight while offering more cushion.
What We Don’t Like
There is a bit of discomfort on the forefoot section of the shoe.
If your feet are too big, it might bunch the toes together, so it would be uncomfortable to wear for long trips.
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3. New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoes
If you are looking for an affordable running shoe, the New Balance Women's 510 V4 is your best choice.
Compared to other trail running shoes, it is definitely cheaper.
It provides impressive features that would protect your feet and keep them comfortable while on the trail.
Product Highlights
The New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoes is known for being a low-priced model, but it still has some decent features that would make you want to have it.
The shoe is 100% synthetic and textile, and it has a rubber sole.
It is a bit heavy compared to other trail running shoes, but it is tolerable, and you won’t have any problems while using it.
The New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoes features a leather/mesh upper with reflective detail.
It also boasts of an NB ultra-soft comfort insert to provide more comfort to your feet.
The injection-molded EVA in the midsole, as well as the ABZORB cushioning, will guarantee that your feet will be protected from rocky terrains.
What We Like
Durability is one of the best reasons to buy the New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoes.
It looks great and can last for a long time, as long as you can maintain it properly.
What We Don’t Like
The New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoes is a bit heavy compared to other trail running shoes.
It is also a bit uncomfortable in the toe area because it is too narrow.
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4. Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker
The Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker is a complete overhaul of its predecessor and now has a low-profile and lightweight build.
This version is both breathable and comfortable to wear.
It is entirely different from the previous version, but if you want a running shoe with fantastic stability, this might just be what you are looking for.
Product Highlights
The Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker is an extremely versatile running shoe.
You can use it for different terrains like uneven mountain trails, rocky surfaces, and more.
It has a low-profile design, as well, and it is very lightweight and breathable. Thanks to that, these shoes would prevent your feet from sweating too much.
The Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker features a traditional lace closure.
It also has a Hyperlock TPU film heel counter to improve the security of your feet and prevent it from slipping out of the shoe.
Added to these shoes are M Select Fresh antimicrobial agents, which would help reduce odor.
It also has a breathable mesh lining, integrated insole, and TrailProtect rock plate that would protect your feet from debris.
What We Like
The best thing about the Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker is its additional protection on the midsole as well as the TrailProtect rock plate.
The previous version is more focused on comfort, while this one is focused on protection.
What We Don’t Like
If you tried wearing other trail running shoes, the Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker is not as comfortable as the other models.
Since it is more focused on protection, the comfort factor has been reduced significantly.
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5. Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 W Trail Running Shoes
The Salomon Speedcross 5 W Trail Running Shoes is an amazing running shoe with a fantastic grip and better stability.
It is the fifth version from the series and is also one of the best because a lot of features from the previous versions were improved.
Product Highlights
The Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 W Trail Running Shoes has an anti-debris mesh upper that would prevent any debris from entering your shoes.
With these on, you can walk and run on rocky and sandy trails without worrying about the sand and small rocks entering your shoes.
This trail running shoe also features the EnergyCell+ compound, which can provide a high-energy return while offering incredible cushioning to your feet.
It has a Contagrip TA compound, as well, which will give your shoes the best grip on any terrain.
Finally, it has been designed to have a wide-spaced lug pattern, which means that it can offer better traction.
What We Like
If you are looking for a fashionable running shoe, the Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 W Trail Running Shoes fit the bill.
The enhanced midsole is also incredible because it provides both comfort and protection to your feet.
What We Don’t Like
The only issue with the Salomon Women's Speedcross 5 W Trail Running Shoes is that the shoes are too narrow for people with wide feet.
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Buyer’s Guide
Looking for the best trail running footwear for hiking is a bit complicated.
You’d have to make sure that the shoes provide the comfort and protection that you need for trail running.
You are going to use your feet the whole day, so you have to choose the best shoe for this kind of activity.
We listed down a short buying guide to finding the best pair of trail running shoes for hiking below.
1. Fit
You have probably tried to walk or run with a shoe that is either too small or too big.
If it is too big, your feet might slip off, and if it is too tight, they will hurt after just a few minutes of running or walking.
Hence, you need to make sure that the running shoe is a perfect fit for your feet.
Here are a few tips that you can follow:
- Buy shoes at the end of the day because it will help determine the right size for your feet.
At the end of the day, your feet swell, so it is better to try on some running shoes during this time.
When trekking, your feet will swell, too.
As such, make sure that your shoes can handle the swelling and will still fit your feet perfectly.
- Be sure that the heel is locked in securely.
You should lace the shoe in a way that the heel will be secured.
Make sure that the heel can still move a bit, though, so it should not be too tight.
- Leave at least half a centimeter on the big toe.
Again, your foot will swell while walking, so you need to give some room for your foot to grow.
- Always bring your trail socks with you and wear them when fitting running shoes.
You won’t wear the shoes without socks, so you have to make sure that you are wearing your trail socks when fitting.
2. Drop
Check the heel drop of the shoe; it determines the difference in cushioning for the heel and the toe.
Basically, it pertains to how your foot will strike the ground when you jump. Traditional shoes usually have a drop of about 10 mm and above.
It provides more cushioning on the heel since it is the first part of the foot that would hit the ground.
You can also opt for a zero-drop shoe, which implies that it provides the same amount of cushion on the heels and toes.
A lower heel drop would mean that a mid-foot strike is most likely to happen. It also means that the Achilles tendon will have to work harder.
If you have been using a traditional running shoe, you will need an adjustment period if you are going to switch to a lower-drop running shoe.
3. Tongue
The tongue of the shoe is located below the shoelaces. It is the part that protects your feet from the pressure of the shoelaces.
The tongue will make sure that the laces will not rub against your skin while you are walking.
When looking at the tongue of the running shoes, the size should be enough to cover the top part of your feet and prevent the laces from rubbing against your skin.
You should also look for stitched trail shoe tongues because they provide protection against the elements.
4. Outsole
The outsole is the bottom part of the shoe and is also the part that touches the ground.
It has to be sturdy enough to handle different kinds of terrains, especially if you are looking to buy trail running shoes.
Most outsoles are made from the combination of carbon rubber and blown rubber.
This can help create the tread and provide better durability, traction, and grip.
If you are going to buy running shoes for trail running, you should look for a more aggressive tread pattern.
Make sure that it has deeper lugs for better stability.
5. Weight
For trail running, you need to look for lightweight running shoes. Heavy shoes will only hold you down, so it is better to look for lightweight options.
Although they often have less protection, they will remove the pressure provided by heavy shoes when running.
FAQs on Trail Running Shoes for Hiking
1. Can you use trail running shoes for hiking?
Yes, you can use trail running shoes for hiking, but they are not as good as a real hiking shoe.
This is because they don’t have the necessary grip and traction for a slower hiking pace.
2. Do you need special shoes for trail running?
You can go trail running without wearing running shoes.
However, you have to remember that regular shoes don’t provide stability, protection, and traction.
Only running shoes can help minimize the chances of injury to your feet when trail running.
3. Is it bad to use trail running shoes on the pavement?
Trail running shoes are safe to wear even if you are running on roads or pavements.
Even if they are designed for off-road runs, they are safe to use on pavements.
4. What is the difference between trail running shoes and hiking shoes?
Trail running shoes are lighter, and they are made for quick movements.
Hiking shoes are heavier, and they have deeper lugs, more cushioning, and better protection.
They are also bulkier and more durable compared to trail running shoes.
5. Should trail running shoes fit tight?
No, trail running shoes don’t have to fit tightly.
Instead, it should fit snugly around the arch area and offer a locked-down feel on the heel to make sure that it will not slip off the shoe.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right trail running shoe is a must to make sure that your feet will be protected during your hike.
Among the shoes we’ve listed above, we think that the best shoe for men is the New Balance 410 V6 Trail Running Shoes, as it provides balanced features.
As for women, the best one is the ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes since the GEL technology provides more comfort and protection.