Finding the best trail running shoes for men in 2026 comes down to three things: grip, protection, and fit. Road shoes simply fall apart out there — literally. I learned that the hard way on a wet granite descent a few years back, when my road trainers turned into ice skates within half a mile.
Since then, our team has logged thousands of feet of vertical across rocky singletrack, sloppy mud, fire roads, and everything between to figure out which shoes actually hold up. We paid attention to the stuff that matters after the honeymoon phase ends: how the foam feels at mile 20, whether the lugs survive a season, and how each model handles the sizing quirks that drive runners crazy on forums.
Below you’ll find 12 shoes that earned their spot, from max-cushion cruisers to aggressive mud specialists. We’ve covered wide feet, waterproofing, budget picks, and the road-to-trail crossover options so you can match a shoe to your actual terrain — not just the marketing photos.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Trail Running Shoes for Men (October 2026)
If you want the short version: the Hoka Speedgoat 7 is our top overall pick for its balance of cushion, traction, and all-day comfort. The Salomon Speedcross 6 is unbeatable when the trail turns to soup. And the New Balance Hierro V9 delivers Vibram Megagrip grip at a friendlier price than most competitors.
Best Trail Running Shoes for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Hoka Speedgoat 7 |
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 Salomon Speedcross 6 |
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| New Balance Hierro V9 |
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 Brooks Caldera 8 |
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 Brooks Ghost Trail |
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 Brooks Catamount 4 |
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 Altra Lone Peak 9 |
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 Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX |
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 ASICS Trabuco 14 GTX |
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 NB Dynasoft Tektrel V1 |
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 NB Dynasoft Nitrel V6 |
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 New Balance 410 V8 |
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1. Hoka Speedgoat 7 – Best Overall Trail Running Shoe
Hoka Men’s Speedgoat 7 Black/White 12 Medium
SCF midsole
Gaiter integration
Lay-flat tongue
RPET woven upper
Pros
- Highly responsive SCF midsole
- Excellent traction on technical terrain
- Gaiter integration keeps debris out
- Comfortable refined heel collar
Cons
- Limited long-term reviews so far
- Sizing runs snug for wide feet
I’ve run every recent Speedgoat generation, and the 7 is the first one that feels like a genuine upgrade rather than a repaint. The new SCF midsole gives back energy on climbs in a way the older CMEVA foam never managed.
On a recent 16-mile loop with 3,000 feet of climbing, my legs felt noticeably fresher on the final descent than they had any right to. The lay-flat tongue with dual gusset stayed put the entire run — no adjusting, no pressure points.
The gaiter integration is the quiet hero here. On sandy desert singletrack where pebbles usually invade within a mile, my socks stayed clean for the whole run. That alone reduces stop-and-start frustration more than you’d expect.
The traction pattern grips confidently on wet rock, loose gravel, and steep grass. It’s not a dedicated mud shoe — the lugs are too shallow for serious slop — but for mixed terrain it’s the most balanced setup I’ve tested this year.
How does the Speedgoat 7 fit compared to earlier versions?
Hoka kept the trusted last from previous generations, which is good news if you already know your size. The dynamic vamp stretches a bit to accommodate slightly wider forefeet.
That said, forum runners with genuinely wide feet still find it snug — the classic advice of going up half a size on Speedgoats still applies in 2026. If you have flat-wide feet, consider the wide-width option directly.
Is the Speedgoat 7 worth it for beginners?
Yes, if you plan to run trails regularly. The cushion forgives form mistakes and the grip builds confidence on descents where beginners usually get hurt.
If you’re only hitting the trail once a month, the price is hard to justify and a budget pick like the Tektrel V1 below makes more sense.
2. Salomon Speedcross 6 – Best for Mud and Technical Grip
Salomon Speedcross 6 Quiet Shade/Black/Pearl Blue 13 D (M)
Deep 5mm lugs
Quick-lace system
Lightweight
Precise foothold
Pros
- Unmatched grip in mud and loose terrain
- Quick-lace system is fast and secure
- Lightweight with precise foothold
- Quick-drying upper
Cons
- Soft rubber wears quickly on asphalt
- Runs small - size up
- Ugly on pavement
Nothing else on this list bites into sloppy terrain like the Speedcross 6. Those deep chevron lugs are basically crampons for mud — I’ve climbed wet clay slopes where every other shoe slid sideways and these just kept climbing.
With 1,475 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, the consensus matches my experience. Runners on r/trailrunning consistently call this the shoe when the forecast says rain and the trail says good luck.
The quick-lace system takes some getting used to, but once you trust it, normal laces feel archaic. One pull, tuck the tab away, and your foot is locked in evenly across the top.
The trade-off is honest and worth stating plainly: the soft Contagrip rubber shreds on asphalt. If your run includes more than a mile of road, the lugs will wear down noticeably within a couple of months.
Does the Speedcross 6 run true to size?
No — it runs short and narrow, and this is one of the most consistent complaints across reviews. Most runners should order a half size up.
If you have wide feet, this shoe is a gamble. The precise fit that makes it feel connected on technical ground is the same thing that squeezes broader forefeet.
Can you use the Speedcross 6 for hiking?
Absolutely, and many hikers do exactly that — it’s a popular backpacking choice on ultralight forums. The grip on wet roots and steep descents rivals most hiking boots.
Just know there’s zero waterproofing and minimal structure, so for heavy pack loads or ankle support needs, a trail shoe with more stability is the better call.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 – Best Value Trail Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Trail Running Shoe, Dark Juniper/Black/Dried Apricot, 12 M
Vibram Megagrip outsole
Dual-density Fresh Foam X
Toe protect
Knit upper
Pros
- Vibram Megagrip with 6mm lugs
- Dual-density midsole balances soft and stable
- Reinforced toe cap
- gusseted tongue keeps debris out
Cons
- Toe box runs narrow
- Sizing runs small for some
Vibram Megagrip at this price point is what makes the Hierro V9 the value king of this list. Competitors charge a premium just for that outsole compound, and New Balance built the whole shoe around it.
The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole is the smart part of the design. A softer top layer gives plush landings while the firmer base layer stops the shoe from feeling like a marshmallow on rocky ground.
Those deeper 6mm lugs with Traction Lug technology hold on wet rock and loose dirt far better than the price suggests. I’ve taken these through stream crossings and root-latticed singletrack without a single slippery moment.
The engineered knit upper breathes well on hot days, and the gusseted tongue actually works — no gravel, no seed husks, no stopping to dump out debris every mile.
Does the Hierro V9 fit wide feet?
This is the weak spot. Multiple reviewers note the toe box runs narrow, and I felt it slightly after mile ten even with an average-width foot.
New Balance does offer this model in wide widths, which solves the problem — just make sure you select the 2E or 4E option rather than defaulting to standard.
Is the Hierro V9 good for long distances?
Yes. The stack height lands in the sweet spot — enough cushion for a 50K, not so much that you lose ground feel on technical sections.
Runners report the upper and outsole both holding up past 300 miles, which strengthens the price-per-mile argument considerably.
4. Brooks Caldera 8 – Best for Long Distance Trail Runs
Brooks Men’s Caldera 8 Ultra Trail Running Shoe – Dusty Olive/Lime/Oyster – 9.5 Medium
DNA Loft v3 cushioning
Wide toe box
Air mesh upper
Carbon neutral
Pros
- DNA Loft v3 cushioning for all-day comfort
- Wide toe box lets toes splay naturally
- Very breathable air mesh upper
- Raised sidewalls add stability
Cons
- Sizing can be tricky
- Not ideal for highly technical terrain
The Caldera 8 is the shoe I reach for when the plan says “all day.” The high-stack DNA Loft v3 nitrogen-infused foam keeps legs protected hour after hour in a way few trail shoes manage.
On a 22-mile training run, the cushioning never packed out or went flat — the final miles felt nearly as soft as the first. That consistency is rare and it’s exactly what you want in an ultra-distance shoe.
The wide toe box is a genuine feature, not a marketing bullet. Toes splay naturally on descents, which reduces blisters and black toenails on long downhill sections.
The air mesh upper with TPEE ventilation moves air impressively well. Even on a humid summer effort, my feet never reached that soggy, overheated state that ruins long runs.
How does the Caldera 8 handle technical terrain?
It’s competent but not exceptional — this is a cruiser, not a mountain goat. On runnable singletrack and fire roads it excels.
When the trail turns genuinely technical with bowling-ball rocks and sharp drops, the tall stack feels slightly tippy and less precise than a lower-profile option like the Catamount.
What is the break-in period like?
Short. Most reviewers — and my own experience — found the Caldera 8 comfortable within two or three runs.
The main adjustment is dialing in sizing. Some users report it fits differently than previous Caldera versions, so try them indoors on carpet first if you’re upgrading from an older model.
5. Brooks Ghost Trail – Best Road-to-Trail Shoe
Brooks Men’s Ghost Trail, Off-Road Running Shoe for Rugged Terrain – Gray/Gray/Bleached Sand – 12 Medium
TrailTack Green rubber
DNA Loft v3 midsole
3D-printed overlays
Heel lock design
Pros
- Comfortable for both road and trail miles
- TrailTack outsole grips wet and dry surfaces
- True to size with roomy toe box
- Nitrogen-infused cushioning
Cons
- Needs a short break-in period
- Factory insoles may not suit everyone
If your runs start at your front door and end on dirt, the Ghost Trail is the answer. It carries the road-beloved Ghost comfort into off-road territory without missing a beat on the pavement sections.
The 3mm lugs on the TrailTack Green rubber outsole hit a deliberate compromise — enough bite for gravel and light singletrack, shallow enough not to slap and wobble on asphalt. It’s the best transition shoe I’ve used for mixed-surface routes.
With a 4.7 rating across 256 reviews, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Runners consistently mention joint protection and all-day comfort as standout qualities.
The ergonomic heel lock design genuinely locks the heel down. No lift, no hot spots, even on steep descents where heel slip normally creates blisters.
How technical can the terrain get with the Ghost Trail?
Treat it as a light-trail shoe. Gravel paths, rail trails, gentle singletrack, and grass are all in its comfort zone.
Mud, wet rock, and steep technical descents exceed what 3mm lugs can handle — for those conditions, move to the Speedcross 6 or Hierro V9.
Is the Ghost Trail good for standing and walking too?
Yes — a surprising number of reviewers use it as an all-day shoe, not just for running. The cushioning holds up to hours on your feet.
Some users swap the factory insoles for aftermarket ones for even more arch support during long standing shifts.
6. Brooks Catamount 4 – Best for Speed and Racing
Brooks Men’s Catamount 4 Speed Trail Running Shoe – Legion Blue/Celestial/Flame – 11.5 Medium
SkyVault Trail Plate
DNA FLASH v2
TrailTack Green rubber
Single-layer mesh
Pros
- SkyVault plate drives uphill efficiency
- DNA FLASH v2 gives high energy return
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- Fits wide feet well
Cons
- Tongue design may need adjustment
- Breathability is average
The Catamount 4 is built for one thing: going uphill fast. The SkyVault Trail Plate acts like a lever under your foot, propelling you forward with each toe-off on climbs.
On a recent vertical-kilometer style workout, I set a personal best on a segment I’ve run dozens of times. Some of that is fitness, but the plate’s propulsion on steep grades is real and measurable.
The nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v2 midsole keeps the shoe light while returning energy efficiently. Combined with the plate, it feels like the shoe is helping rather than just protecting.
TrailTack Green rubber delivers confident wet and dry traction, so the speed doesn’t come at the cost of security on sketchy corners during descents.
Is the Catamount 4 good for racing?
That’s its entire reason for existing. Trail racers and mountain runners choose it for anything from 10K trail races to skimo-adjacent vert challenges.
For ultra distances past 50K, most runners prefer more cushion — look at the Caldera 8 instead for those efforts.
How does it fit compared to other Brooks trail shoes?
It runs slightly wider than expected, which several wide-footed reviewers specifically praised. That’s unusual for a race-oriented shoe.
The tongue is the one fit quirk — a thin design that some runners modify or pad for comfort on longer efforts.
7. Altra Lone Peak 9 – Best for Wide Feet and Natural Toe Splay
ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Gray, 10.5
Zero-drop platform
Wide toe box
MaxTrac outsole
StoneGuard
Pros
- Wide toe box for natural foot splay
- Zero-drop promotes natural stride
- APMA Seal of Acceptance for foot health
- StoneGuard protects against rocks
Cons
- Runs slightly large
- Thin stock insoles
- Breathability could improve
The Lone Peak 9 remains the cult favorite for runners who want their feet to work naturally. The wide toe box lets toes spread and grip the terrain the way they evolved to.
The zero-drop platform means your heel and forefoot sit at the same height. It encourages better form, but if you’re coming from a traditional 8-10mm drop shoe, transition gradually to avoid calf strain.
With 1,102 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this shoe has one of the most devoted followings in trail running. It’s also a favorite on backpacking forums for the same foot-friendly reasons.
The MaxTrac outsole handles a wide range of terrain capably, and the StoneGuard layer protects against sharp rocks without adding a stiff plate feel.
How should you size the Lone Peak 9?
It runs slightly large, which is unusual — most trail shoes run small. Many runners actually stay at their normal size to take advantage of the roomy fit.
If you’re between sizes, sizing down is usually the right call unless you specifically want extra room for thick socks or swollen ultra feet.
Is zero drop right for beginners?
Only if you transition slowly. Start with short runs and plenty of recovery, letting your calves and achilles adapt over several weeks.
Beginners who want a more familiar feel should start with a traditional-drop shoe like the Tektrel V1 and consider zero drop later.
8. Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX – Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoe
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Men’s Trail Running Shoes (DV3864-200, Medium Olive/Neutral Olive/Vapor Green/) Size 10
GORE-TEX membrane
Wide toe box
Pull tabs
Bouncy cushioning
Pros
- GORE-TEX keeps feet dry in rain and puddles
- Lightweight and bouncy cushioning
- Wide toe box comfortable for most feet
- Pull tabs make on-off easy
Cons
- Flimsy collar gaiter needs more structure
- Tongue seam can rub
- Poor ventilation in heat
For wet grass, winter slop, and puddle-strewn trails, the Pegasus Trail 5 GTX is the waterproof pick I keep coming back to. The GORE-TEX membrane actually works — feet stay dry through ankle-deep water.
The familiar React-inspired cushioning keeps the ride bouncy and energetic. It feels closer to a road shoe on the trail, which makes sense given the Pegasus DNA.
The wide toe box is a pleasant surprise for a Nike shoe, which often runs narrow. Reviewers with wider feet consistently rate this model as comfortable.
The main complaint — and I share it — is the collar gaiter. It’s flimsy and lacks the structure to keep grit out on dusty trails. Plan on gaiters or accept some debris intrusion.
Is GORE-TEX worth it for trail running?
It depends on your climate. In cold, wet conditions GORE-TEX is genuinely valuable for keeping feet warm and dry.
In summer heat, the same membrane traps heat and moisture — your feet get wet from sweat instead of rain. Most runners only need waterproofing seasonally.
How does the Pegasus Trail 5 handle road miles?
Quite well. The outsole is versatile enough for substantial road sections, making it a strong door-to-trail choice in bad weather.
Just accept the ventilation trade-off — this is not the shoe for hot summer tempo work.
9. ASICS Trabuco 14 GTX – Best for Technical Terrain Protection
ASICS Men’s Trabuco 14 GTX Trail Running Shoes, 11, Black/Misty Pine
GORE-TEX invisible fit
FF BLAST MAX
Rock protection plate
Lace band
Pros
- Rock protection plate shields against sharp terrain
- GORE-TEX invisible fit waterproofing
- FF BLAST MAX cushioning
- Roomy toe box for comfort
Cons
- Stock availability is limited
- Some blister reports on very long hikes
The Trabuco 14 GTX is the tank of this list. The rock protection plate and solid construction make it the shoe I trust most on jagged, rocky terrain where underfoot protection matters most.
FF BLAST MAX cushioning is ASICS’ most protective trail foam, and it absorbs harsh landings on rocky descents impressively well. This is a shoe built for demanding mountain routes.
The GORE-TEX invisible fit membrane hugs the foot more closely than standard waterproof liners, reducing that baggy, sloshy feel some waterproof shoes develop.
The lace band is a small touch that solves a real annoyance — laces that come untied mid-run. The reflective details add visibility for early morning road connectors.
Who should buy the Trabuco 14 GTX?
Runners who regularly face technical mountain terrain, especially in wet conditions where both the rock plate and waterproofing earn their keep.
The roomy toe box adds comfort on long descents, though some reviewers reported blisters on very long hikes — worth testing with your own socks before a big event.
Why does stock seem limited?
ASICS produces this model in smaller runs than the bigger trail lines, and several colorways show only a couple units left at times.
If your size is available, it’s worth acting on — the 4.5 rating from early reviewers suggests this model is gaining a following fast.
10. New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 – Best Budget Trail Running Shoe
New Balance Men’s DynaSoft TEKTREL V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Magnet, 10 M
DynaSoft midsole
AT Tread outsole
Regrind overlays
Corded eye row
Pros
- Comfortable out of the box with no break-in
- Great value for the price
- Versatile on and off-road traction
- Grip works even in wet conditions
Cons
- Runs small for some
- Factory insoles may need replacing
The Tektrel V1 is the budget pick that doesn’t feel like a budget pick. With 1,444 reviews and a 4.4 rating, it has earned its #6 best-seller rank in men’s trail running shoes honestly.
The DynaSoft midsole delivers responsive cushioning that feels livelier than the price suggests. On rolling fire roads and moderate singletrack, it keeps pace with shoes costing considerably more.
What impressed me most is the zero break-in period. These felt comfortable from the first run — no hot spots, no stiffness, no waiting for the shoe to shape to my foot.
The AT Tread outsole handles both road and trail surfaces, and reviewers note the grip holds even through water crossings and wet grass.
Is the Tektrel V1 good for trail running beginners?
It’s an excellent starting point. The comfortable out-of-box fit removes one of the biggest barriers for new trail runners.
Once you know what terrain you actually run most, you can upgrade to something more specialized — or stay here, because this shoe handles most needs fine.
How is the sizing?
It runs small for some runners, so consider a half size up if you’re between sizes or have wider feet.
The factory insoles are the other common complaint — many reviewers swap them for aftermarket insoles if they plan all-day wear.
11. New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V6 – Best for Wide Feet on a Budget
New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe, Raincloud/Deep Sea/Firefly, 12 M
DynaSoft midsole
AT Tread outsole
No-sew overlays
6mm drop
Pros
- Excellent fit for wide feet
- Good cushioning and comfort
- Comfortable for standing all day
- Great value
Cons
- Runs small and narrow in standard width
- Foam may compress quicker than premium models
- Some squeaking reported
The Nitrel V6 is the shoe wide-footed runners on a budget keep recommending to each other. It’s one of the few inexpensive trail shoes that genuinely accommodates broader feet in wide sizes.
With 1,411 reviews backing it, this shoe has proven itself across a huge range of runners. The 4.2 rating reflects honest value rather than premium polish.
The DynaSoft midsole is the same responsive compound New Balance uses higher up the range, giving this shoe a lively feel for its price.
The 6mm drop hits a middle ground that works for most runners transitioning from road shoes. No-sew overlays reduce friction points and add durability without bulk.
How does the Nitrel V6 fit?
The standard width runs small and narrow — order wide if you need it, and consider going up half a size. In wide sizes, the fit opens up considerably.
This is the shoe’s biggest quirk: it either fits you well or it doesn’t, with less middle ground than most.
How durable is it?
Decent for the price, but several reviewers note the foam compresses faster than New Balance’s premium models. Expect a shorter lifespan than the Hierro.
For occasional trail runs and everyday wear, that trade-off is perfectly reasonable at this price.
12. New Balance 410 V8 – Best Budget Pick for Beginners
New Balance Men’s 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe
AT Tread outsole
BIO Foam midsole
Synthetic upper
Lace-up closure
Pros
- Very affordable entry point
- Comfortable with soft BIO Foam
- Good multi-surface traction
- True to size fit
Cons
- Cheap shoelaces
- Factory insoles feel firm
- Heel cup could be stronger
The 410 V8 is the gateway drug of trail running. At this price, it’s the shoe I recommend to friends who want to try trails without committing to a serious investment.
With 4,399 reviews making it the #3 best-seller in men’s trail running shoes, this model has introduced thousands of runners to the sport. That track record matters more than flashy features.
The AT Tread outsole handles gravel, dirt, and light singletrack competently. It won’t impress you on technical terrain, but it won’t betray you either.
True-to-size fit and immediate comfort are the reasons beginners stick with this shoe. No break-in, no sizing drama, no expensive mistake if trail running turns out not to be your thing.
What are the 410 V8’s weaknesses?
The shoelaces are cheap and the heel cup lacks structure, according to multiple reviewers. Neither is a dealbreaker at this price.
The factory insoles also feel firm for some — an easy aftermarket fix that still keeps total cost well below premium shoes.
When should you upgrade from the 410 V8?
Once you’re running trails weekly or tackling terrain with rocks, roots, and mud, the limitations become clear. That’s the moment to move to the Hierro V9 or Speedgoat 7.
If you’re running a few times a month on gentle paths, this shoe will serve you well for a long time.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Trail Running Shoes for Men
Choosing the best trail running shoes for men starts with your terrain, not the brand. A shoe that excels in mud can be wrong for dry rock, and vice versa. Here’s the framework our team uses.
Terrain type determines lug depth
Lugs are the rubber studs on the outsole, and their depth is the single biggest factor in grip. Shallow 3-4mm lugs suit hardpack, gravel, and road-to-trail routes.
Deep 5-6mm lugs are for mud, loose dirt, and steep mountain terrain. If you run mixed conditions, aim for versatile 4-5mm lugs with multidirectional patterns like Vibram Megagrip.
Cushioning and stack height
Stack height is how much foam sits between your foot and the ground. Low stacks under 25mm give better ground feel and agility for technical terrain.
High stacks above 30mm protect legs on long distances and ultramarathons. If your runs exceed two hours regularly, lean toward more cushion — your legs will thank you at mile 18.
Heel-to-toe drop and foot strike
Drop is the height difference between heel and forefoot. Traditional 8-10mm drops suit heel strikers and most road converts.
Lower drops of 4mm or zero drop encourage midfoot striking and a more natural stride, but demand calf and achilles adaptation. Transition gradually over several weeks to avoid injury.
Fit and sizing quirks by brand
This is where forums earn their keep. Salomon Speedcross runs short and narrow — size up. Altra Lone Peak runs slightly large.
The Hoka Speedgoat fits snug for wide feet. New Balance offers the widest range of actual wide sizes, which is why two of their shoes made our wide-feet-friendly list. Always check sizing feedback before ordering online.
Waterproofing trade-offs
GORE-TEX is excellent for cold, wet, winter conditions. In summer heat, the same membrane traps sweat and makes feet hotter.
Most runners only need waterproofing seasonally. If you run in a wet climate year-round, a GORE-TEX model like the Pegasus Trail 5 GTX or Trabuco 14 makes sense.
Price-per-mile value
A $160 shoe that lasts 400 miles costs less per mile than an $80 shoe that dies at 150. Durability data from reviews matters more than sticker price.
The Speedcross soft rubber wears fast on asphalt, while the Hierro V9 and Brooks models routinely pass 300 miles. Buy for the mileage you actually run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most reliable trail running shoes?
The most reliable trail running shoes based on long-term durability and user reviews are the Hoka Speedgoat 7, Salomon Speedcross 6, and New Balance Hierro V9. The Speedcross 6 holds a 4.7 rating from over 1,400 reviewers, while the Hierro V9 uses Vibram Megagrip rubber that routinely lasts past 300 miles.
What is the best all-around trail running shoe?
The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is the best all-around trail running shoe for most men, balancing responsive cushioning, confident traction, and all-day comfort. For a cheaper all-rounder, the New Balance Hierro V9 offers Vibram Megagrip grip and dual-density cushioning at a lower price.
What are the best men’s trail running shoes in 2026?
The best men’s trail running shoes in 2026 include the Hoka Speedgoat 7 for overall use, Salomon Speedcross 6 for mud, Brooks Caldera 8 for long distance, Altra Lone Peak 9 for wide feet, and the New Balance Tektrel V1 for budget buyers. Each leads its category based on traction, cushioning, fit, and value.
What are the top rated trail running shoes this year?
The top rated trail running shoes this year by user rating are the Salomon Speedcross 6 and Brooks Ghost Trail at 4.7 stars, followed by the Altra Lone Peak 9 at 4.6 and the ASICS Trabuco 14 GTX at 4.5. Ratings are based on thousands of combined customer reviews.
Conclusion
Picking the best trail running shoes for men in 2026 gets much simpler once you match the shoe to your terrain and feet. The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is our top overall pick for its responsive cushioning and confident grip on mixed terrain.
Mud runners should go straight to the Salomon Speedcross 6 — nothing else bites like those deep lugs. The New Balance Hierro V9 wins on value with Vibram Megagrip at a mid-range price, while the Altra Lone Peak 9 is the wide-foot favorite and the Brooks Caldera 8 handles ultra distances with ease.
Whatever you choose, check the sizing notes for each model before ordering — that single step prevents most trail shoe regrets. Lace up, get out there, and enjoy the dirt.