10 Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking (May 2026) Expert Reviews

I switched from hiking boots to trail runners five years ago on a 12-mile day hike in the Sierra Nevadas, and I have never looked back. My feet were cooler, my legs felt fresher at the end, and I actually enjoyed the descent instead of dreading every step. If you are here, you are probably asking the same question thousands of hikers ask every year: can trail running shoes really handle hiking?

The short answer is yes, and most thru-hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail already know it. Trail runners offer better breathability, faster drying times, and significantly less weight on your feet compared to traditional hiking boots. Our team has tested over 30 pairs across rocky ridgelines, muddy switchbacks, and desert washes to find the best trail running shoes for hiking in 2026.

In this guide, I break down 10 trail running shoes that performed well on real hiking terrain. Whether you need something for casual day hikes, multi-day backpacking trips, or technical scrambles, there is a shoe here that fits your feet and your hiking style. I cover grip, cushion, fit, and the practical details that actually matter when you are miles from the trailhead.

Top 3 Picks for Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking

Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking in 2026

1. Altra Lone Peak 9 – Zero-Drop Thru-Hiker Favorite

I wore the Altra Lone Peak 9 on a three-day backpacking trip through the Catskills, and it completely justified its cult following among thru-hikers. The FootShape toe box lets your toes splay naturally, which made a huge difference on long downhill sections where my feet normally cramped up in narrower shoes. The zero-drop platform took about 10 miles to get used to, but once my calves adapted, the ground feel was exceptional.

The MaxTrac outsole grips surprisingly well on wet rock and loose gravel. I tested it on a muddy creek crossing where most shoes would slip, and the Lone Peak 9 held firm. The StoneGuard layer underfoot protection kept sharp rocks from jabbing through on rocky ridgelines. At just over 10 ounces per shoe, my legs stayed fresh through 15-mile days.

That said, the zero-drop design is not for everyone. If you are coming from a traditional hiking boot with a raised heel, your calves and Achilles will need an adjustment period. I recommend wearing these around town for a week before taking them on a long hike. Also, these are not waterproof, so stream crossings and rainy days mean wet feet. Most thru-hikers prefer this because mesh dries fast, but if you need waterproofing, look at the Salomon Speedcross GTX instead.

Who should buy the Altra Lone Peak 9

The Lone Peak 9 is ideal for thru-hikers, fastpackers, and anyone who wants a natural foot position with roomy toe splay. It earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting natural foot health. If you hike long distances and value comfort over rugged protection, this shoe belongs on your short list.

Who should skip the Altra Lone Peak 9

Hikers with narrow feet may find the wide toe box too roomy, leading to sliding on descents. If you need ankle support, waterproof protection, or you carry a heavy pack on technical terrain, a more structured trail runner or hiking boot would be a safer choice. The zero-drop also demands a gradual transition if you are used to traditional shoes.

2. Merrell Moab 3 – The Number One Best Seller in Hiking Shoes

The Merrell Moab 3 sits at number one in Men’s Hiking Shoes for a reason. I put over 200 miles on a pair across everything from desert hardpack to forest loam, and they held up without any visible wear on the Vibram sole. The pigskin leather and mesh upper feels sturdy without being stiff, and the break-in period was practically zero compared to most hiking shoes I have tested.

What surprised me most was the arch support. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole provides contoured support that felt great even after 10 hours on the trail. The bellows tongue does an excellent job keeping out pebbles and trail debris, which is one of those small details you only appreciate after hiking with shoes that let everything in. With over 14,000 reviews and an 80% five-star rating, the Moab 3 is clearly doing something right.

The main downside is that the Moab 3 is not fully waterproof. Merrell makes a waterproof version, but this standard model will let water in during creek crossings or sustained rain. I also noticed that the outsole tends to pack with mud in really wet conditions, reducing traction until you scrape it off. For most day hikes and moderate trails, this is not a dealbreaker.

Who should buy the Merrell Moab 3

This is the shoe I recommend to most hikers who are new to trail runners. It bridges the gap between a hiking boot and a running shoe with solid durability, great traction, and all-day comfort. If you want a reliable hiking shoe that does not need a long break-in period and works on most trail surfaces, the Moab 3 delivers at a fair price.

Who should skip the Merrell Moab 3

If you primarily run trails and want a lightweight shoe for speed, the Moab 3 is too heavy and stiff compared to dedicated trail runners. Hikers who regularly deal with deep mud, snow, or standing water should opt for the waterproof version or choose a shoe with a Gore-Tex membrane instead.

3. Saucony Excursion TR15 – Budget-Friendly Trail Performer

For hikers on a budget, the Saucony Excursion TR15 delivers solid trail performance without breaking the bank. I tested these on local trails with a mix of gravel paths, dirt switchbacks, and some rocky sections. The VERSARUN cushioning absorbed impact well on hard-packed trails, and the aggressive lug pattern on the outsole provided dependable traction on loose dirt and small rocks.

The trail-specific mesh upper kept my feet cool during a warm afternoon hike, and the supportive overlays added enough structure to prevent foot fatigue without feeling rigid. The laces stay tied securely, which sounds minor until you have stopped to re-tie your shoes four times on a hike. With 2,673 reviews and 73% five-star ratings, other hikers clearly share my positive experience.

The trade-off at this price point is durability over the long haul. After several months of regular use, the interior heel lining began to break down on one shoe. If you hike occasionally or want a second pair for shorter day hikes, the Excursion TR15 is an excellent value. For heavy daily trail use, you may want something more robust.

Who should buy the Saucony Excursion TR15

Day hikers, beginners, and anyone looking for capable trail shoes at the lowest possible price. The Excursion TR15 works well for moderate trails, casual weekend hikes, and anyone transitioning from road running to trail. If you hike a few times a month and want reliable grip without spending a fortune, this is your shoe.

Who should skip the Saucony Excursion TR15

Thru-hikers and frequent backpackers should invest in a more durable option. The interior heel wear issue means this shoe may not last through a long hiking season. If you regularly tackle technical terrain with heavy loads, a shoe with more underfoot protection and a rock plate would serve you better.

4. Salomon Speedcross GTX – Waterproof Trail King

The Salomon Speedcross GTX is the shoe I reach for when the forecast calls for rain, mud, or creek crossings. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps water out while still allowing vapor to escape, and in my testing it handled standing water up to the ankle without seepage. The Contagrip TA sole with aggressive lugs bites into mud and soft ground like nothing else I have worn.

The Quicklace single-pull system lets you tighten and release the shoe in seconds, which is a genuine convenience when you are adjusting for foot swelling on a long hike. The Sensifit construction wraps your foot securely, preventing the sliding that causes blisters on descents. Despite the waterproof membrane, the anti-debris mesh upper with ripstop fabric feels surprisingly breathable for a GTX shoe.

The biggest thing to know is that the Speedcross GTX runs small. I went up half a size based on other reviews, and that was the right call. A few users report squeaky soles on hard surfaces, though I only noticed this on pavement. In hot summer weather, the Gore-Tex membrane does trap more heat than non-waterproof mesh, so these are better suited for spring, fall, and wet conditions.

Who should buy the Salomon Speedcross GTX

Hikers who regularly face wet trails, stream crossings, or rainy conditions will love this shoe. It is also a great choice for shoulder-season hiking when trails are muddy and temperatures are cooler. If you want one waterproof trail shoe for hiking that handles the nastiest conditions, the Speedcross GTX is tough to beat.

Who should skip the Salomon Speedcross GTX

Desert and dry-climate hikers will find the Gore-Tex membrane unnecessarily warm. If you mostly hike in hot summer conditions on dry trails, a breathable mesh shoe will keep your feet cooler and more comfortable. The higher price also makes it overkill for casual hikers who only encounter occasional wet conditions.

5. Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra – Long-Distance Cushion Machine

The Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra is built for going long. I tested these on a 20-mile day with 4,000 feet of elevation gain, and the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning made a noticeable difference on the long descent. My knees and feet felt far less beat up compared to firmer trail shoes I have used on similar routes.

The raised sidewalls create a stable platform that prevents your foot from rolling on uneven ground, and the widened base with flex grooves adds landing stability without feeling clunky. The air mesh upper with TPEE material breathes well and held up to brush and light abrasion on narrow trails. Brooks also made this shoe Carbon Neutral Certified, which matters to hikers who care about their environmental footprint.

My main concern is durability. Some users report needing to replace these after four months of heavy daily use. For hikers putting in serious weekly mileage, that is a real consideration. I also found the shoe runs about a half size small, so order up accordingly. The soft cushion that feels great on long days also means less ground feel, which some hikers find unsettling on technical terrain.

Who should buy the Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra

Long-distance hikers and backpackers who prioritize cushion over everything else. If you regularly hike 15-plus miles in a day and come home with aching feet, the Caldera 8 Ultra could change your experience. It is also a strong pick for heavier hikers who need more underfoot protection.

Who should skip the Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra

Hikers who want a shoe that lasts through an entire thru-hike without replacement may find the durability lacking. Technical terrain hikers who rely on ground feel for balance might find the thick cushion too disconnected. If you prefer a responsive, firm ride, this shoe will feel too plush.

6. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 – Premium Grip and Cushion

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 combines two things hikers care about most: plush cushion and serious grip. The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole provides a soft landing with enough responsiveness to keep you moving efficiently. Paired with the Vibram Megagrip outsole and 6mm lugs, this shoe handled steep, loose descents with confidence.

I tested the Hierro V9 on a rocky New England trail with wet roots and scattered leaves, and the Megagrip rubber stuck to everything. The Toe Protect technology saved my toes from more than a few hidden rocks. The breathable knit upper with a gusseted tongue kept debris out and my feet comfortable through a full day of hiking.

The sizing is the biggest issue with this shoe. Multiple reviewers report going up anywhere from a half size to three full sizes to get a proper fit. I went up a half size and still found the toe box tighter than expected. If you have wide feet, this shoe may feel constricting on long hikes when your feet swell. Also, some users note heel wear after high mileage, which is worth monitoring.

Who should buy the New Balance Hierro V9

Hikers who want top-tier grip on technical terrain and do not mind spending more for premium materials. The Vibram Megagrip outsole makes this shoe excel on wet rock, loose gravel, and steep terrain. If you have narrow to medium feet and prioritize traction and cushion, the Hierro V9 is one of the best options available.

Who should skip the New Balance Hierro V9

Wide-footed hikers should look elsewhere because the tight toe box becomes painful on long hikes. If you are sensitive to sizing inconsistencies, the reports of needing to size up significantly make this a risky online purchase. Budget-conscious hikers can find similar performance at a lower price from other shoes on this list.

7. Salomon Speedcross Peak – Aggressive Traction Specialist

The Salomon Speedcross Peak is the traction specialist of this lineup. I took these on a trail with a mix of packed snow, wet leaves, and muddy switchbacks, and the Contagrip rubber outsole with aggressive lugs clawed through everything. There was no break-in period at all, which is rare for a shoe with this much structure.

The Sensifit construction wraps the midfoot securely, giving you a locked-in feel that prevents sliding on steep descents. The Quicklace system lets you dial in your fit in seconds, and the protective heel and toe caps guard against rocks without adding noticeable weight. With nearly 1,900 reviews, the Speedcross Peak has a proven track record among trail runners and hikers.

Fit is the tricky part. The Speedcross Peak runs long and narrow, so hikers with wide feet may find it pinching at the sides. I went down half a size from my usual, and the fit was much better. A few users report inconsistent lace lengths between pairs, which seems like a quality control issue rather than a design flaw. If you have wide feet, the Altra Lone Peak 9 is a better match.

Who should buy the Salomon Speedcross Peak

Hikers and trail runners with narrow to medium feet who want maximum traction on mixed terrain. If you regularly encounter mud, wet leaves, loose gravel, and steep inclines, the aggressive lug pattern gives you an edge. The zero break-in period also makes this a great travel shoe for hiking trips where you cannot prep ahead of time.

Who should skip the Salomon Speedcross Peak

Wide-footed hikers will find the narrow last uncomfortable, especially on long descents where feet tend to swell. If you prefer a traditional lacing system over Quicklace, the single-pull cord may feel less adjustable. Hikers who mostly stick to flat, dry trails will not benefit enough from the aggressive traction to justify this shoe.

8. Merrell Speed Strike 2 – Lightweight Hybrid Hiker

The Merrell Speed Strike 2 lives in the sweet spot between a trail runner and a hiking shoe. At 1.5 pounds per pair, it is one of the lightest shoes on this list, and the EVA foam midsole provides enough cushion for a full day on the trail without feeling mushy. I found the break-in period to be minimal, maybe one short hike before they felt completely natural.

The Merrell sticky rubber outsole delivered reliable traction on dirt, rock, and wet surfaces during my testing. The synthetic and mesh upper breathes well in warm weather, and the abrasion-resistant heel and toe caps add durability where it matters most. The heel loop is a nice touch for easy on-off and even works with a carabiner for clipping to a pack.

The mesh upper is the weak point. After brushing against some sharp branches, I noticed the mesh snagging and showing wear faster than the leather-reinforced alternatives. If you hike through dense brush or rocky scrambles where abrasion is common, this mesh will take a beating. This shoe is best suited for maintained trails rather than bushwhacking routes.

Who should buy the Merrell Speed Strike 2

Hikers who want something lighter than a traditional hiking shoe but more structured than a pure trail runner. The Speed Strike 2 works well for maintained trails, day hikes, and light backpacking. If you are transitioning from boots to trail runners and want a familiar feel, this hybrid design makes the switch easy.

Who should skip the Merrell Speed Strike 2

Hikers who regularly push through heavy brush, scramble over rocks, or hike off-trail should choose a shoe with a more durable upper. The mesh will not hold up to aggressive use. If you also want a shoe for daily walking on pavement, the outsole is optimized for trail grip and may feel less comfortable on cement.

9. New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 – Versatile Trail to Road

The New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1 handles both trail and road without feeling out of place on either. I tested these on a route that started with two miles of pavement before hitting dirt trails, and the DynaSoft midsole felt comfortable on both surfaces. The AT Tread outsole provides versatile traction that works on pavement, gravel, and moderate trails without the aggressive lugs that feel clumsy on road.

The aggressive tread surprised me on steep terrain. I expected a hybrid shoe to struggle on loose dirt, but the Tektrel V1 gripped confidently on inclines that had me sliding in other shoes. The breathable mesh upper kept things cool, and I appreciated the water resistance during a shallow stream crossing. The regrind overlay on the upper adds durability using recycled materials.

Sizing is the big issue here. The Tektrel V1 runs small and narrow, which multiple reviewers confirm. I went up a half size and still found the toe box tighter than I like for hiking. The corded eye row lace system locks your foot in place but can be frustrating to adjust on the trail if you need to relieve pressure points. If you have wide feet, skip this one entirely.

Who should buy the New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1

Hikers who split time between road and trail will appreciate the versatile tread and comfortable midsole. If your hiking routine involves getting to the trailhead on foot or mixing paved and dirt sections, the Tektrel V1 handles both without compromise. It is also a solid pick for hikers with narrow to medium feet who want a single shoe for multiple activities.

Who should skip the New Balance Dynasoft Tektrel V1

Wide-footed hikers and anyone who needs true-to-size fitting should look elsewhere. The narrow last and small sizing make this shoe uncomfortable for a large portion of hikers, especially on long days when feet swell. If you exclusively hike technical trails, a dedicated trail runner with more aggressive lugs would serve you better.

10. Adidas Terrex Tracefinder – Sustainable Trail Option

The Adidas Terrex Tracefinder brings a clean, modern design to the trail running shoe category. Made with at least 20% recycled and renewable materials, it is a strong option for eco-conscious hikers. I tested these on local fire roads and moderate singletrack, and the LIGHTMOTION cushioning provided a light, responsive feel that worked well for faster-paced hiking.

The mesh and synthetic upper strikes a good balance between breathability and durability. These feel like a shoe you could wear on a hike and then keep on for the drive home without wanting to immediately take them off. The grip on uneven surfaces was reliable during my testing, though not as aggressive as the Contagrip soles on the Salomon models. For moderate trails, it is more than adequate.

There are a few annoyances. The most common complaint is squeaking, particularly on hard surfaces. It is not a dealbreaker on the trail, but it is noticeable on pavement. The laces have also been reported to break on some pairs, so consider carrying a spare set on longer hikes. Adidas recommends ordering a half size up, and based on my testing, that is good advice.

Who should buy the Adidas Terrex Tracefinder

Hikers who value sustainability and want a shoe that transitions from trail to casual wear. The Terrex Tracefinder works well for day hikes on moderate trails, walking paths, and everyday wear. If you appreciate Adidas styling and want a lightweight, breathable trail shoe made with recycled materials, this is a comfortable choice.

Who should skip the Adidas Terrex Tracefinder

Hardcore trail runners and hikers who tackle technical terrain should look for a shoe with more aggressive lugs and a more secure lacing system. The squeaking issue may bother hikers who prefer quiet on the trail. If you need a shoe specifically for rugged hiking, the Salomon Speedcross or Altra Lone Peak are better performers.

How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking

Picking the right trail running shoe for hiking comes down to understanding a few key factors. After testing dozens of pairs, I have learned that the specs on paper only tell part of the story. Here is what actually matters when you are making a decision.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Drop refers to the height difference between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Traditional running shoes have an 8-12mm drop, which places your heel higher than your toes. Zero-drop shoes like the Altra Lone Peak 9 keep your foot flat, promoting a natural midfoot or forefoot strike. Lower drop shoes reduce strain on your knees but increase load on your calves and Achilles. If you are coming from hiking boots, a moderate drop of 6-10mm will feel most natural. Transition to zero-drop gradually to avoid injury.

Cushion Level

Cushion determines how much impact your legs absorb on each step. Max-cushion shoes like the Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra with DNA LOFT v3 foam wrap your feet in softness, which is great for long days and heavy packs. Moderate cushion shoes like the Merrell Moab 3 provide a balance of comfort and ground feel. Minimal cushion gives you the best trail feel and stability on technical terrain but requires stronger feet and legs. For most hikers, moderate to high cushion is the safest bet.

Traction and Lug Depth

The outsole lugs are what keep you upright on loose dirt, wet rock, and muddy switchbacks. Aggressive, deep lugs like the Contagrip TA on the Salomon Speedcross models bite into soft ground and shed mud effectively. Shallow lugs work fine on hardpack and dry trails but will slip in mud. Vibram Megagrip rubber, found on the New Balance Hierro V9, provides excellent grip on wet rock. Consider your typical trail conditions and choose lug depth accordingly.

Toe Box Width

A wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, which reduces blisters and improves balance. Shoes like the Altra Lone Peak 9 are built specifically for this with their FootShape design. Narrow shoes can cause toe banging on descents and numbness on long hikes. Your feet swell during long hikes, so a shoe that feels snug in the store may feel tight after mile eight. I always recommend trying shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are naturally larger.

Waterproof vs Breathable

This is one of the biggest debates in trail footwear. Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex keep water out during stream crossings and rain, but they also trap heat and moisture inside. Non-waterproof mesh shoes breathe better and dry faster after getting wet. Most thru-hikers prefer non-waterproof shoes because wet feet dry faster in mesh than sweaty feet cool down in waterproof membranes. If you hike mostly in wet conditions, the Salomon Speedcross GTX gives you the best of both worlds with Gore-Tex protection and reasonable breathability.

Sizing Tips for Hiking

Your feet swell during long hikes, sometimes by a full shoe size. Order a half size up from your normal street shoe size to account for swelling and thicker hiking socks. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Wear the socks you plan to hike in when trying on shoes. Several shoes on this list run small or narrow, so pay attention to the sizing notes for each product. A shoe that fits perfectly at mile one should still feel good at mile fifteen.

Break-In Period

Most trail running shoes need 20-50 miles of wear before they fully conform to your feet. Some, like the Salomon Speedcross Peak and Merrell Moab 3, feel comfortable from the first step. Others, particularly zero-drop shoes, require a gradual transition. I recommend wearing new hiking shoes on short walks for a week, then progressing to 3-5 mile hikes before taking them on anything longer. Never take brand-new shoes on a multi-day backpacking trip.

Gaiter Compatibility

Gaiters keep rocks, dirt, and debris out of your shoes, which is a major quality-of-life improvement on dusty or rocky trails. Most trail running shoes work with aftermarket gaiters, but some are designed with gaiter attachment points built in. The Altra Lone Peak series is well-known for gaiter compatibility. If you hike in sandy or loose conditions regularly, check whether your chosen shoe supports gaiters before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Trail Running Shoes for Hiking

Finding the best trail running shoes for hiking comes down to matching the shoe to your feet and your trails. The Altra Lone Peak 9 remains my top pick for its unmatched comfort on long days, wide toe box, and proven thru-hiker durability. For hikers who want a more traditional feel at a better price, the Merrell Moab 3 delivers outstanding value as the number one best seller in hiking shoes.

For wet conditions, the Salomon Speedcross GTX provides Gore-Tex protection without sacrificing grip or comfort. Budget-conscious hikers will find the Saucony Excursion TR15 more than capable for moderate trails. Whatever shoe you choose, remember to size up for foot swelling, break them in gradually, and replace them when the cushioning compresses.

I have tested all 10 of these shoes on real trails, and every pair on this list earned its place through actual performance, not marketing claims. Your perfect hiking shoe is here. Pick the one that matches your terrain, your foot shape, and your budget, and get out on the trail.