8 Best Running Shoes for Trekking 2026

If you’ve ever felt cramped by conventional running shoes on rugged trails, the NORTIV 8 Whitney is a breath of fresh mountain air. Designed with a wide toe box that lets toes splay naturally, this shoe champions foot health and biomechanical efficiency—perfect for runners seeking natural foot movement without sacrificing stability. The 4mm lugs on the slip-resistant rubber outsole bite into loose terrain, while the Jacquard mesh upper ensures airflow during long climbs, making it a standout for wide-footed adventurers who want comfort and control in one rugged package.

On mixed terrain—think forest paths, rocky inclines, and urban sidewalks—the NORTIV 8 delivers consistent performance. The lightweight EVA midsole provides noticeable shock absorption, especially beneficial for heavier runners pounding the pavement or descending steep trails. While it handles wet surfaces decently thanks to its grippy sole, deep mud can cling between lugs, slightly reducing traction in sloppy conditions. Still, the arch-supporting insole molds subtly over time, enhancing comfort during multi-hour treks.

Compared to the Salomon XA PRO 3D, the NORTIV 8 trades some premium durability and waterproofing for affordability and foot freedom. It’s not built for alpine-grade downpours or technical scrambles, but for daily trail use and city-to-trail transitions, it excels. Ideal for runners with wide feet or foot conditions like bunions, it offers a rare blend of space, support, and style. While it lacks advanced stability tech, it delivers more natural motion support than most budget trail runners, especially when stacked against the basic cushioning of the Quest Black model.

Step into the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9, and you’ll immediately feel why it’s engineered for cushioned support like no other. The dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole, infused with bio-based materials, delivers a plush yet responsive ride that soaks up trail impacts without feeling sluggish—ideal for long-distance hikers and trail runners who demand joint protection. Paired with a Vibram outsole and 4mm lugs, it grips slick rocks and loose gravel with confidence, while Toe Protect technology shields against root strikes and scree, making it a fortress for your feet on punishing terrain.

In real-world testing across wet woodland paths and dry mountain switchbacks, the Hierro V9 shines in durability and all-weather performance. The gusseted tongue keeps dirt and pebbles out during off-camber hikes, and the upper resists abrasion from brush and overgrowth. While the shoe offers excellent underfoot protection, its heavier weight (13.5 oz) becomes noticeable during speed sessions or technical climbs, where agility matters more than cushion. It’s not the nimblest option, but if you prioritize impact absorption and foot safety, this shoe handles abuse like a pro.

Against the Saucony Excursion TR15, the Hierro V9 offers far superior cushioning and grip but at nearly double the cost and added bulk. It’s a clear step up from budget models like the Quest Black, especially in wet conditions where Vibram’s superior traction dominates. Best suited for ultra-hikers, heavy-footed trekkers, or anyone logging miles on rough trails, it balances eco-conscious materials with rugged performance. While not the lightest, it delivers best-in-class comfort and protection, outperforming most in sustained endurance scenarios.

The Adidas Terrex Tracefinder 2 is a masterclass in lightweight efficiency, built for runners who want speed without surrendering durability. Weighing just 12.2 ounces, it feels nimble on fast ascents and technical descents, while the 10mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural stride transition ideal for efficient trail running. The LIGHTMOTION midsole delivers a springy, low-profile cushion that responds quickly to footstrike—perfect for agile trail work—while the recycled mesh and synthetic upper keeps weight down and breathability high, even on hot summer hikes.

In real-world trail use, this shoe excels on hard-packed dirt, gravel, and fire roads where quick footwork matters. It transitions smoothly from trailhead to ridge line, offering reliable grip on dry rock and moderate traction in damp grass. However, the shallow lugs struggle in deep mud or loose scree, where deeper treads like Salomon’s Contagrip dominate. The lack of a gusseted tongue also means fine debris can sneak in during extended off-trail sections. It’s not built for extreme conditions, but for fast-and-light missions, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the FitVille Extra Wide Hiking Shoes, the Tracefinder 2 sacrifices space and ankle protection for speed and minimalism. It’s closer in spirit to the Saucony Excursion TR15 but with a lighter footprint and more responsive ride. Ideal for slimmer-footed runners who prioritize pace over maximum cushion or waterproofing, it’s a top pick for day hikes and trail runs where every ounce counts. While it doesn’t offer the plushness of the New Balance Hierro, it delivers better agility and breathability, making it a true featherweight contender.

For men with wide or extra-wide feet, the FitVille Trekking Shoes are a revelation—offering a true wide fit that eliminates pinching, numbness, and toe compression on long hikes. Available in 2E and 4E widths, the spacious toe box allows natural splay, reducing pressure on bunions and hammertoes, while the arch-supporting insole and cushioned midsole deliver all-day comfort on rocky ascents and muddy descents. The all-terrain outsole grips reliably on wet roots and slippery slopes, making it a dependable companion for wide-footed trekkers who refuse to compromise on fit.

In field testing, these shoes proved adept at handling everything from forest trails to stream crossings. The breathable mesh upper wicks moisture quickly and dries fast after light rain, though it’s not fully waterproof—so deep puddles will soak through. The heel cup stabilizes the rearfoot during sidehill hikes, preventing slippage, but the upper lacks overlays for lateral support on technical terrain. While not built for sprinting, the shoe’s balanced cushioning absorbs impact well over long distances, especially compared to flatter budget models.

Versus the NORTIV 8, the FitVille offers even greater width options and a more supportive arch system, though it’s slightly bulkier and less stylish. It outperforms the Quest Black in fit and comfort but doesn’t match the Salomon XA PRO 3D in stability or waterproofing. Best for hikers with foot pain or orthopedic needs, it fills a critical niche: a trail-ready shoe that doesn’t force wide feet into narrow molds. With superior width flexibility and comfort, it beats most in its price range for foot-specific relief.

The Quest Black trail shoe is a budget-friendly workhorse, built for beginners and casual hikers who need decent performance without breaking the bank. Its waterproof upper keeps feet dry in light rain and damp grass, while the EVA cushioning provides a stable, soft step on uneven ground—ideal for weekend trekkers tackling moderate trails. The non-slip rubber outsole offers reliable grip on rocky paths and packed dirt, and the secure lacing system locks the foot in place, minimizing heel slip during descents.

On real trails, it performs admirably for the price. It handles short hikes, campground walks, and urban park trails with ease, absorbing small impacts and resisting wear from repeated use. However, the breathability is limited, leading to heat buildup on warm days, and the cushioning flattens over time, lacking the resilience of pricier foams like Fresh Foam or LIGHTMOTION. The tread is durable but not aggressive, slipping slightly on wet rocks or loose gravel—so it’s best for non-technical terrain.

Compared to the Saucony Excursion TR15, the Quest Black offers similar durability at a lower cost but with less refined cushioning and no recycled materials. It’s heavier than the Adidas Terrex Tracefinder 2 and lacks the wide fit of the FitVille or NORTIV 8. Best suited for occasional outdoor users or as a backup pair, it delivers essential trail features on a tight budget. While not built for elite performance, it outperforms many entry-level sneakers in grip and protection, making it a smart starter shoe for light trail use.

The Saucony Excursion TR15 hits the sweet spot between value and versatility, offering rugged trail capability without the premium price tag. Its carbon rubber outsole with deep, grippy lugs bites into loose soil and wet rock, delivering confident footing across mixed terrain, while the VERSARUN cushioning provides a balanced, moderate stack height—firm enough for stability, soft enough for comfort on long hikes. The trail-specific mesh upper resists abrasion and sheds debris, and with recycled materials in the build, it adds eco-conscious appeal without sacrificing toughness.

In real-world testing, the TR15 excels on day hikes, gravel roads, and moderate singletrack. It handles light rain well, though it’s not waterproof, and the supportive overlays keep the foot centered during lateral moves. The cushioning isn’t as plush as the New Balance Hierro V9, but it’s more responsive and lighter on the foot. On extended climbs, it stays breathable, though hot weather can still lead to warmth buildup—common in most trail meshes.

Against the Adidas Terrex Tracefinder 2, the Saucony feels slightly heavier but offers better durability and grip. Compared to the budget Quest Black, it delivers superior materials, cushioning, and overall refinement. Ideal for hikers and runners seeking reliable performance at a fair price, it’s a true value-for-money champion. While it doesn’t have wide widths or waterproofing, it outperforms most in its class with rugged simplicity and consistent traction, making it a go-to for dependable trail access.

The Salomon XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex isn’t just a trail shoe—it’s a high-performance fortress built for the most demanding mountain environments. With a GORE-TEX membrane, it delivers true waterproof protection without sacrificing breathability, keeping feet dry in downpours and stream crossings while preventing overheating. The 3D Advanced Chassis provides rock-solid stability on uneven terrain, reducing ankle roll on side slopes, while the Contagrip outsole offers best-in-class grip on mud, rock, and loose gravel—making it the most confident performer in wet, technical conditions.

In real-world alpine hikes and muddy forest treks, this shoe dominates. The reinforced toe cap shrugs off rock strikes, the sensifit upper cradles the foot like a glove, and the aggressive lug pattern digs in where others slip. It’s heavier than lightweight rivals like the Adidas Terrex, but that mass brings unmatched durability and control. The cushioning is firm—ideal for load-bearing hikes—but may feel stiff to runners seeking plushness. Still, for multi-day treks or off-grid adventures, it’s nearly unbeatable.

Compared to the New Balance Hierro V9, the XA PRO 3D offers better waterproofing and lateral stability, though the Hierro has a softer midsole. Against the Saucony Excursion TR15, it’s in a different league—more protective, more technical, and built for serious terrain. Best for serious hikers, thru-trekkers, and off-trail explorers, it justifies its premium with all-weather readiness and elite grip. While it costs more than most, it delivers best overall performance, setting the benchmark for trail running shoes built to conquer anything.