What are the best trail running trainers?

Running

There are so many brands and even different types of terrain, to stability, the amount of cushioning and the cost for trail running trainers to choose from. Therefore, we have tried to select the best from each category. Here are some that we think are good options. If you think that any others should be on this list, please do let us know by using the comment box at the end.

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These are great neutral stability trail trainer. They are now categorized as Mountain Trail due to the fact they have a rock plate underneath in the sole and makes them great on roots, stones and rocky terrain but not heavy in weight. It has a protective toe box but not stiff which it makes it the perfect flexibility. They are great all-round versatile trainers with good underneath luges to handle grip and some mud. If you have road/paved sections, the luges are not too hard on the surface and the cushioning inside is great for shock prevention on harder surfaces. Also available in the GTX version, which is a waterproof Gore-Tex for wetter months avoiding wet feet. These are a great all-rounder from anything from small runs to ultramarathon distances.

This is a classic for the best cushioning around. It has become extremely popular for ultrarunning when you want your feet to be in comfortable long distances. You will see they stacked higher than a lot of the other options and really embraced the first trail shoe with lots of cushioning. The idea being that instead of using rock plates for protection the extreme cushioning will absorb the pounding and hardest from rocks and loose stones instead. These are perfect for tackling various terrain and switching to harder ground such as roads and pavements. Again, they are available in a Gore-Tex version for wet weather.

These trail trainers are perfect for wet muddy conditions. They provide super deep luges that are great for gripping into the mud and to be able to continue running through it rather than sliding all over the place. Hence why it is suited to racing and speed. They have a great upper that prevents loose debris and stones from entering the shoes and protecting your feet. This helps to prolong the life of the shoes meaning less wear and tear. Also available in a Gore-Tex version.

If it is less cushioning you require, therefore making your feet feel lower to the ground these are great option. Some people prefer to know what lies more beneath their feet for stability rather than masking it with cushioning. This can help you adjust more depending on the type of terrain you are tackling. You can see on the sole of the trainer’s feet shaped toe box designed to allow you to spread your toes out more, especially for steep ascents and descents. Making this a better choice for wider foot.

Do you have another suggestion? Vote here and then leave a comment to tell us what we missed.

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