7 Best Scott Running Shoes of 2026

Built for runners who demand value without compromise, the SCOTT Kinabalu 2 delivers surprising performance for its class. With a full rubber outsole, it grips reliably on loose dirt and wet rocks, while the dual-density Kinetic Foam midsole provides a balanced blend of cushioning and responsiveness. The 8mm heel-to-forefoot drop encourages a natural stride, making it ideal for beginners or weekend warriors tackling moderate trails—without the premium price tag holding them back.

In real-world testing, the Kinabalu 2 shines on packed singletrack and gravel paths but starts to feel underpowered on technical descents or deep mud. At approximately 300g (based on similar models), it’s not featherlight, but the thermoplastic polyurethane support cage adds structure and keeps your foot stable over uneven terrain. The form-fitting tongue with a locking system prevents slippage, though breathability is just average thanks to the denser mesh—expect warm feet on summer runs.

Compared to the pricier Supertrac 3 or the race-focused Kinabalu Ultra RC, the Kinabalu 2 trades advanced materials for affordability and durability. It’s not built for podium finishes, but for hikers transitioning to trail running or budget-conscious adventurers logging steady miles, it’s a smart, no-frills workhorse. If you’re upgrading from a road shoe and want rugged grip without breaking the bank, this model outperforms expectations—offering 90% of the function at half the cost of elite racers.

When speed meets trail, the Kinabalu Ultra RC rises as a precision instrument for fast, aggressive runners. Its hybrid traction outsole—featuring chevron cleats for forward drive and conical lugs for cornering grip—dominates on fire roads and hard-packed paths, giving racers confidence at high cadences. Paired with the Kinetic Foam midsole, which returns 14% more energy than standard EVA, every stride feels snappy and efficient, turning fatigue into momentum over long distances.

On test runs across alpine trails and technical switchbacks, the shoe proved exceptionally responsive, with the eRIDE rocker midsole guiding foot motion and reducing heel strike impact—key for maintaining form when exhaustion sets in. Weighing in at just 270g, it’s one of the lightest in SCOTT’s trail lineup, and the engineered ultra mesh upper delivers excellent ventilation without sacrificing protection. However, the rock plate, while great for shielding underfoot, slightly dulls ground feel, making it less ideal for technical rock hopping where feedback matters.

Positioned between the entry-level Kinabalu 2 and the elite Speed Carbon RC, the Ultra RC is the sweet spot for competitive trail racers who need speed, protection, and reliable grip without the stiffness of a carbon-plated racer. It’s not quite as explosive as the Speed Carbon RC, but it offers better cushioning and versatility for variable terrain. For runners eyeing timed events on groomed or semi-technical trails, this model delivers race-day readiness with everyday resilience—a calculated upgrade that pays off in performance.

Engineered with female biomechanics in mind, the Women’s Supertrac 3 stands out as a top-tier trail shoe that blends comfort, stability, and terrain mastery. The AeroFoam+ midsole delivers enhanced stability without sacrificing softness, absorbing impacts on rocky descents while still offering enough rebound for uphill surges. Its rocker-shaped eRIDE midsole promotes smooth transitions, encouraging a natural, efficient gait—especially valuable during long trail days when fatigue threatens form.

Tested on everything from muddy forest paths to dry, scree-covered ridgelines, the Supertrac 3 maintained confident grip across all terrain, thanks to its aggressive lugged outsole and durable ripstop mesh upper that shrugs off brush and debris. The women-specific Ortholite ECO X-40 footbed contours perfectly to the foot’s shape, eliminating hot spots even after 15+ miles. With a 29mm heel and 21mm forefoot stack height, it offers generous protection without feeling bulky, though the slightly taller profile can take a few runs to adapt to on narrow ledges.

Compared to unisex models like the Men’s Supertrac 3 GTX, this version excels in targeted fit and gender-specific cushioning, avoiding the common pitfall of simply shrinking a men’s last. While it lacks waterproofing, that omission keeps weight down and breathability high—an advantage over the heavier GTX variant. For women seeking a high-performance, do-it-all trail shoe that balances protection and agility, this model outshines competitors by respecting anatomical differences—making it a benchmark in women’s trail design.

When the weather turns foul, the Supertrac 3 Gore-Tex becomes a go-to for runners who refuse to let rain, slush, or stream crossings slow them down. The fully waterproof Gore-Tex membrane seals out moisture while still allowing moderate breathability, keeping feet dry during prolonged wet runs—a rare feat in trail shoes that often sacrifice ventilation for protection. Underfoot, the AeroFoam+ midsole and eRIDE rocker deliver the same stable, efficient ride as its non-waterproof sibling, making it equally capable on long-distance treks and technical ascents.

We tested it through early-season alpine slogs and riverbed crossings, and the Gore-Tex lining held up flawlessly, with zero seepage even when submerged. The ripstop mesh upper reinforced with TPU resists abrasion from roots and rocks, and the thermoplastic support cage ensures lateral stability on uneven ground. That said, the 29mm heel stack can feel a bit top-heavy on steep, technical descents, and the added membrane brings weight up slightly—noticeable when comparing side-by-side with lighter trail racers.

Stacked against the Kinabalu Ultra RC or the Speed Carbon RC, the Supertrac 3 GTX trades raw speed for all-weather resilience and protective cushioning. It’s not built for sprinting, but for endurance runners facing unpredictable conditions, it’s a reliable fortress for your feet. If your routes involve snowmelt, muddy bogs, or unpredictable mountain weather, this shoe offers peace of mind—delivering rugged performance with the confidence of waterproofing, unlike the more race-oriented alternatives.

Meet the trailblazer for speed demons: the SCOTT Speed Carbon RC, a race-optimized marvel that redefines how fast you can go off-road. At its core lies the Carbitex DFX carbon fiber plate, which dynamically stiffens as you accelerate, delivering track-spike-like propulsion without sacrificing flexibility during recovery or walking segments. Combined with Dual-density Kinetic Light Foam—the brand’s most responsive and lightweight midsole to date—the shoe feels explosively energetic, returning maximum bounce with minimal weight penalty.

On race-day simulations over mixed terrain, the Speed Traction outsole focused grip under the forefoot, ensuring efficient power transfer during sprints and uphill bursts, though it showed slight slippage on loose downhill sections due to reduced heel lugs. The ER2 Evolved Rocker Technology streamlines stride mechanics, reducing braking forces and promoting a forward-driving gait—ideal for runners with a midfoot or forefoot strike. At just 5mm drop and sub-250g weight (estimated), it’s one of the most aggressive racers in SCOTT’s lineup, but demands strong form and conditioning to harness fully.

Pitted against the Kinabalu Ultra RC, the Speed Carbon RC is faster, stiffer, and more specialized—a weapon for podium chasers, not casual trail users. While the Ultra RC offers broader versatility, this model thrives in timed events on firm, predictable trails where every second counts. For elite runners seeking a high-rebound, carbon-powered edge, this shoe delivers championship-level performance—making it the ultimate choice when speed is the only metric that matters.

The SCOTT Pursuit Explore is a hybrid hero built for women who refuse to be boxed into one discipline—equally at home on pavement, packed trails, or gravel paths. Its 100% recycled mesh upper offers surprising breathability and eco-conscious appeal, while the rocker-shaped midsole ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions, reducing strain during long walks or easy runs. Most impressive is the most lightweight & responsive foam in SCOTT’s non-racing lineup, giving a lively feel that outshines typical crossover shoes.

In mixed-use testing—commuting, trail loops, and weekend hikes—the Pursuit Explore delivered consistent comfort, with enough cushioning to handle 5K jogs and sufficient outsole grip for light off-road detours. The recycled EVA construction adds sustainability points without compromising durability, though deep mud or technical rocks expose its limitations: the sole simply isn’t aggressive enough for serious trail work. Still, for urban adventurers who value eco-materials and smooth ride quality, it bridges the gap better than most.

Compared to dedicated trail models like the Women’s Supertrac 3, the Pursuit Explore sacrifices traction and protection for lightweight versatility and environmental responsibility. It’s not a replacement for rugged trail gear, but as a do-it-all lifestyle runner, it outperforms many in its category. For women seeking a planet-friendly, nimble shoe that transitions seamlessly from sidewalk to dirt path, this model offers unmatched adaptability—making every step feel purposeful, on any surface.