Whether running through muddy forests, scrambling up stony trails, or cruising alpine terrain, your shoes call the shots. These faithful companions should be robust and allow your feet to breathe. And, let’s not forget, they need to fit your feet like a glove and cater to your preferred terrain. The range of trail running shoes on today’s market is vast: We’ve created a 2022 “best-of” list suited to short, medium, and long-distance runs!

Who’s doing the reviewing?

Our finalists are a compilation of recommendations from specialists and sports magazines such as Alpin, Runner’s World, OutdoorGuide, or xc-run. Also on the list of winners are those shoes that our Bergzeit experts/employees have test-run.

Which trail running shoes are the best for short and medium distances, ultra runs and competitions? Find out more here!

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The best trail running shoes at a single glance

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The best trail running shoes for short to mid distances

Salomon Speedcross 5

Like its predecessors, the Salomon Speedcross 5 is an ultra-light, stable trail running shoe that is particularly popular with those who like to run fast on medium-length forest trails. According to outdoor-magazin.de, the Speedcross 5’s self-cleaning outsole excels with a “powerful grip in both lowlands and steep mountain terrain” and comes as a women’s and men’s model for running and fast-paced hikes alike.

Especially suitable for quick trail runs and mountain routes or anyone looking for a very light, agile all-terrain shoe.

• Test rating: buying tip and “ultra-light running model” in outdoor-magazin.de 05/22
• Features: synthetic, Gore-Tex technology, quick lacing, rubber outsole, concise lug construction for optimal grip on complex trails
• Material: synthetic and textile, mesh insert, rubber outsole
• Cushioning, profile: 10mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 615g/pair

Merrell MTL MQM

MQM stands for “Moving Quickly over Mountains.” Merrel’s newcomer is true to its name, offering an airy-comfortable lightness for nimble trail runs. It’s a genuine all-rounder for those who want to mix it up between the occasional sporty hike and a mountain run. The MQM Vibram® outsole provides perfect grip – especially in wet conditions. Hot tip from our editorial team of trail runners!

Especially suitable for: Short runs in any terrain – especially on rainy days, the Merel MTL MQM promises firm grip and ultimate hold!

• Test rating: buy tip and “perfect all-rounder” in outdoor-magazin.de 05/22
• Features: recycled mesh, TPU reinforcements, narrow fit in the forefoot and slightly wider in the heel area, soft upper, EVA foam midsole, Vibram® MegaGrip outsole
• Material: 100% recycled mesh, EVA, TPU
• Cushioning, profile: 6mm | plenty of cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 625g/pair

Adidas Terrex Speed Pro

“Terrex Racing “pretty much says it all. This new model from Adidas Terrex is primarily for highly ambitious trail runners. Minimalism is the guarantee for agile, nimble runs over short distances. How. Thanks to cushioning made of Lightstrike material, the absence of an insole, and its featherweight of less than 200 grams.

Especially suitable for: ambitious short-distance and competitive runners – thanks to its sensational lightness and minimalist design, fast, short distances with the Adidas Terrex Speed Pro turn into an absolute pleasure!

• Test verdict: a real game-changer for “mountain runs, short sky races, and speed trails ” in Trail Magazine 5/22.  
• Features: high portion of recycled Primegreen materials, lightweight and highly breathable mesh, targeted reinforcements, sock-like feel, direct and dynamic Lightstrike cushioning, non-slip trail outsole made of Continental™ rubber.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester.
• Drop, cushioning, profile: 4mm | little cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: 380g/pair

Brooks Catamount

“Everything that has to do with speed off-road and in the woods is its forte,” is how the trail running portal xc-run.de sums it up. We’re talking about the Catamount (depicted here in the women’s version), an agile trail running shoe from Brooks that impresses with its drive, secure fit, and excellent traction. Its centrepiece is the nitrogen-enriched DNA flash cushioning, enabling a rounded roll-off behaviour in the field test. Already one of the editors’ favourites in 2021, the dynamic and lightweight Catamount thus also receives a very definite recommendation in 2022. Also, for Runner’s World, “a hot tip for fast trail runs.”

Especially suitable for: Fast runs to shorter ultra trails – trails with forest floor, rugged terrain, and steep downhills.

• Test rating: buying tip in XC-Run.de 02/22, “for the fast ultra runner” in OutdoorGuide 06/21, and “hot tip” in Runner’s World 10/21
• Features: medium-wide fit (D), lightweight and very breathable mesh upper, TPU mudguard all around, an attachment point for gaiter (velcro, heel), quick-drying drainage system, DNA Flash midsole (extra light, visible nitrogen foam structure), movable Ballistic Rock Shield protector, robust profiled TrailTack outsole made of Sticky Rubber, lace closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, Polyurethane, Polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 6mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 528g (pair); Women: 498g (pair)

Salomon Sense Ride 4

Salomon is known primarily for spectacular competition shoes, but the Sense Ride 4 is versatile for woods and meadows. Stash the laces in the Quicklace lacing system pouch, while the Optivibe foam sole dampens, according to Runner’s World, “in a balanced manner,” even on longer runs. Overall, a well-balanced companion in low mountain terrain and flatlands.

Particularly suitable for a daily training round in technically light to medium terrain and more extended sessions.

• Test rating: “recommendable all-rounder” in Runner’s World 10/21
• Features: close-to-the-foot SensiFit™, EndoFit™ upper, Ortholite® sock liner, protective Profeel Film technology, uniquely cushioning Optivibe™ midsole, versatile Contagrip® MA trail outsole, quick lace-up closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester.
• Drop, cushioning, profile: 8mm | plenty of cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: women: 470g (pair)

Altra Timp 3

Ideal for wider feet: The Timp 3 (shown here in the women’s version) from Altra is immensely comfortable and hassle-free thanks to efficient lacing. It adapts well to slimmer foot shapes. In its practical test, Runner’s World emphasises the wide sole combined with the zero-curvature – ideal for those who fear twisting an ankle. The Timp runs dynamically on both soft and challenging trails, and the grip on stony surfaces is also excellent. In light terrain, an impressive shoe.

Especially suitable for: Outdoor athletes looking for a comfortable trail shoe for forest floors and somewhat more challenging terrain.

• Test rating: “very dynamic” in Runner’s World 10/21
• Features: mesh upper, lightweight PU reinforcements, roomy toe box, gaiter lockdown at heel (Velcro) and forefoot (D-ring), 5mm pre-moulded sock liner, soft cushioning Quantic™ midsole, deep-tread MaxTrac™ rubber outsole, lace-up closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester.
• Offset, cushioning, tread: 0mm | plenty of cushioning | medium tread
• Weight: Men: 622g (pair); Women: 506g (pair)

Brooks Cascadia 16

For years, Brooks has delivered a convincing performance with its Cascadia series. The 16th version of Brooks’ trail running shoe (shown here in the women’s version) also shines as a “universally applicable offering,” as Runner’s World magazine sums up. Bergzeit trail running expert Flo appreciates the significant improvements over the previous version: better ventilation, lighter DNA Loft v2 midsole, and Rock Shield with vertical grooves. On Flo’s short and long runs, the Cascadia 16 conveys “fun and solidity,” the shoe also drains water quickly away.

Especially suitable for: all tarmac stretches, even in technical passages, and the shoe is a delight on rainy days.

• Test verdict: “universally applicable” in Runner’s World 10/21; “ingenious shoe,” finds Bergzeit test runner Flo in Bergzeit Expertentest 09/21.
• Features: Breathable mesh upper, drainage system, gaiter fixation at heel (Velcro), medium width fit (D), soft DNA LOFT v2 midsole, protective Rock Shield with good mobility, significant friction, and lightweight TrailTack rubber outsole.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 8mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 596g (pair); Women 538g (pair)

Dynafit Feline SL GTX

The mountains are its universe: Alpin magazine crowns Dynafit’s Feline SL GTX (shown here in the women’s version) as an all-around tip for “all-trail adventures” with a unique fun factor when running downhill. The team from XC-Run.de also sees the strengths of the Feline SL “in alpine terrain and on alpine surfaces.” The non-slip Pomoca outsole, direct running behaviour, and firm damping make it possible. The reinforced toe cap comes in handy on rocky surfaces, while a Quicklace lacing system with a storage option in the mesh also pleases in the test. Note: It runs small to size

Especially suitable for: Those who seek their adventures in alpine and challenging terrain – in all weather conditions.

• Test rating: All-round tip in Alpin 08/21 and “trail rocket” in XC-Run.de 03/21
• Features: Heel Preloader heel tension, Sensitive Fit fit, Ballistic Bumper reinforcements with toe cap, Invisible Lacing quick lacing with protective cover, Ortholite® sock liner, Pomoca Gliding Path System for natural rolling, Multipad midsole, Pomoca Feline SL outsole, Quick lacing.
• Material: Rubber, EVA, Polyurethane, Polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 8 mm | medium cushioning | coarse profile
• Weight: men 580 g (pair); women: 500 g (pair)

Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra

Light as a feather – the Speed Ultra (here in the women’s version) from Adidas Terrex. Alpin Mag gave these a test run and remarked that the responsiveness and flexible sole allow only one verdict “Excellent”! Especially the Continental outsole offers experienced runners a “bombproof grip on wet, stony ground” – so trail running stays fun! OutdoorGuide is also convinced by the Speed Ultra, especially on long ascents and moderately rugged terrain, as “it is very comfortable to wear” and lives up to its name.

Especially suitable for: Experienced trail runners looking for a running-friendly, reactive shoe for shorter distances or competitions.

• Test rating: “very good” in Alpin 08/21, “dynamic and fun” in Runner’s World 10/21, and “super light and comfortable” in OutdoorGuide 06/21
• Features: lightweight and highly breathable mesh upper, targeted TPU reinforcements, sock-like fit, softly padded heel, efficiently cushioning Boost™ Lightstrike midsole, grippy Continental® outsole, lace-up closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Offset, cushioning, profile: 8 mm | medium cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 580 g (pair); Women: 500 g (pair)

The North Face Vectiv Enduris

For rolling along: Thanks to light rocker sole construction, even running uphill with the Vectiv Endurire in the women’s version) is (almost) effortless. The spacious toe box is a plus point, ensuring stability and a good guide. Overall, the trade magazine awards the comfort tip to the trail running shoe from the North Face for the rolling comfort and the “good damping.”

Especially suitable For those who value comfort and cushioning on leisurely trails on the flat and easy climbs.

• Test rating: comfort tip with “very good” in Alpin 08/21
• Features: Breathable mesh upper, OrthoLite® X55™ insole, dual-density 3D TPU plate, responsive dual-density midsole, 3.5mm long lugs, lace-up closure.
• Material: rubber, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 6 mm | high cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men’s 618g (pair); Women’s 530g (pair)

Dynafit Alpine DNA

Created for competitions, at home in training: With the Alpine DNA (here the women’s version), Dynafit presents a versatile running shoe for fast and technical trails, which convinces the testers of xc-run OutdoorGuide also in daily uphill training. The close midsole and outsole’s -right fit, comfortable cushioning and responsiveness, and dynamics of the Alpine DNA make an all-rounder on trails up to marathon distances. Bergzeit expert Elisa is impressed with the flexible “perfect and stabile feel.”

Especially suitable for: Ambitious runs and competitions that require reliable footwear for demanding passages.

• Test verdict: “real competition shoe that is at home in a multitude of segments and areas” in “XC-Run.de 05/21; “excellent” for short and medium distances in OutdoorGuide 06/21 and “excellent for alpine terrain” sums up Bergzeit Elisa in the Bergzeit Expert test run 03/21.
• Features: slim, sock-like DNA fit, lightweight and breathable upper, targeted reinforcements, lacing under mesh cover, Adaptive Tongue System, DNA Volume Reducer (second insole), Alpine Rocker sole for optimal rolling, grippy profiled Vibram® Megagrip trail sole, lace-up closure.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 6 mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 540g (pair); Women: 460g (pair)

La Sportiva Bushido II

In the mountain and climbing tradition of La Sportiva, you notice the trail running shoe Bushido II (here in the women’s version) simply. Outward-facing studs with the option of attaching spikes provide perfect grip, while the TPU skeleton offers protection from rocks, stones, and pointy branches. The team at xc-run.de sees the shoe as an “all-rounder in the terrain or even as a partner for the longer distances.” The magazine OutdoorGuide has already praised 2020 also the “sense of security in steep terrain,” downhill blocks the sole of the “sock-like” Bushido II very well – made for mountain running.

Especially suitable for: Outdoorsmen who feel completely at home when trail running on rocky terrain.

• Test rating: “an optimal choice” in xc-run 04/21 and “state of the art” in OutdoorGuide 05/20
• Features: Breathable mesh with TPU reinforcements, waterproof Gore-Tex® membrane, cushioning EVA insert in the midsole, ergonomic 4mm Ortholite® footbed, grippy FriXion® Red rubber outsole, lace-up closure.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 6mm | medium cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 640g (pair); Women: 560g (pair)

Scarpa Spin 2.0

The lightweight Spin 2.0 (shown here in the women’s version) from Scarpa is perfect for fast ascents, alpine running, and competitions. The overlay has a minimalist finish, while the outsoles proved direct and agile according to XC-run.de’s practical test. The shoe fits snugly on foot as a competition shoe, and the laces can be stowed away for convenience. The Spin 2.0 shows its complete running behaviour in challenging and technical terrain; it’s dynamic and offers a light-footed sensation thanks to the Pebax Rnew® cushioning.

Especially suitable for: Experienced trail runners with trained muscles who have fun with a minimalist shoe for short and mid distances.

• Test rating: “designed for being swift” XC-Run.de 03/21
• Features: TPU reinforced mesh upper, Sockfit LW construction for pressure-point free contact on the foot, Ortholite® insole, stable Fixion sole, top cushioning by Pebax Rnew® midsole, profiled outsole made of Vibram® Megagrip rubber, lace closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 4mm | medium cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 500g (pair); Women: 430g (pair)

The best trail running shoes for long distances

Scott Supertrac 3.0 GTX

Scott has designed its new shoe, the Scott Supertrac 3.0 GTX, with long-distance runners in mind. According to industry experts, a multi-talent boasts excellent grip, cushioning, and a highly soft strike. So it’s no wonder that the newcomer is also popular for more extended mountain runs!

Especially suitable for: Long-distance trails and (hiking) routes in complex terrain – thanks to its solid outsole and control, ankle-rolling is a thing of the past!

• Test verdict: a true “all-rounder” which, according to outdoor-magazin.de 05/22, assures perfect grip and fit, especially on long distances with soft terrain due to its non-slip outsole
• Characteristics: medium-width, firm fit on the heel, outstanding cushioning and arch support, soft, smooth push-off, ultra-firm cushioning
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyester, polyurethane
• Cushioning, profile: 8mm | cushioning plus | outsole with thick traction

Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultra

The Agravic Ultra (in the women’s version) from Adidas Terrex displays robustness on long trails. This top-end model is designed to be rather stiff with a high cut. A TPE plate is integrated into the midsole – all in all, the Agravic Ultra offers the best protection on demanding trails. At the same time,e the grip is “phenomenal” on steep and wet meadows,s according to OutdoorGuide. Those looking for stability and protection will find it in this shoe. The Agravic Ultra is lightweight but optimally padded in all the right places.

Especially suitable for: ambitious runs on long distances that include varied, moderately technical terrain. A running shoe that offers maximum protection and optimal grip.

• Test verdict: with this shoe, you are “prepared for long trails” – OutdoorGuide 03/22.
• Features: open-pored mesh, seamless reinforcements, soft tongue padding, sock-like fit in the midfoot, wider toe box, combined cushioning technologies (Boost, Lightstrike), bio-based TPE inlay (stabilisation, energy return, and protector), treaded outsole made from Continental® rubber, lace closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester
• Cushioning, profile: 8mm | cushioning plus | mid-profile
• Weight: Men: 598g (pair); Women: 498g (pair)

Inov-8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max

It’s rare to find running shoe reviewers as unanimous as they are about Inov-8’s TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max (shown here in the women’s version). The experts from XC-Run.de and Runner’s World and Bergzeit reviewer Flo appreciate the TrailFly as a loyal companion on long runs and ultra races. The graphene in the midsole foam offers increased energy return – a true benefit for less fatigue on long distances. Another plus: the toe box is pleasantly spacious but not too wide, the grip firm and secure at all times. Thanks to the ten-millimetre-deep Adapter-Flex™ groove, the shoe adapts to uneven surfaces.

Particularly suitable for: Long runs and demanding hilly trails and fields, where a reliable grip is needed.

• Test verdict: “absolutely recommended” in Runner’s World 10/21, “favourite for long runs” XC-Run.de on 05/21; conclusion of Bergzeit reviewer Flo in Bergzeit Expertentest 05/21: “biting trail beast.”
• Features: sustained efficient G-Fly™ cushioning (Graphene-Enhanced Foam), resilient 6mm Boomerang insole, wide toe box (Grade 5), adaptable Adapter Fit™ fit, Adapter Flex™ lugs for sole flex, Graphene-Grip™ outsole, tread depth: 4mm, lace closure.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester.
• Cushioning, profile: 6mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 600g (pair); Women: 600g (pair)

Salomon Ultra Glide

On long runs, the Ultra Glide’s firm cushioning is instantly noticeable. Salomon has designed a trail running shoe with the Ultra Glide that provides comfort on extended runs. The Ultra Glide sits “bombproof”, according to Bergzeit’s trail runner Danny. He also concludes that a more precise running sensation is allowed thanks to a well-thought-out quick lacing system. Especially good for technical, demanding trails.

Particularly suitable for Trail runners who want a well-cushioned, comfortable shoe and ultra running on moderately challenging terrain.

• Test verdict: Bergzeit tester Daniel is delighted with the “comfort on ultra-long routes” in the Bergzeit Expert Test 09/21. In a test, you can read his test report here: The Salomon Ultra Glide trail running shoe.
• Features: Energy Surge midsole, SensiFit™ side wings, Contagrip® outsole, Profeel Film, Open 3D mesh fabric, Quick lacing.
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyurethane, polyester.
• Cushioning, profile: 6mm | plenty of cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Women: 440g (pair)

La Sportiva Jackal

It fits nicely on foot, is excellently cushioned, and protects thanks to the toe cap and Rock Shield with every step: the Jackal from La Sportiva (here in the women’s version). The Jackal shows its strengths over long distances. In the xc-run.de test, the testers ran “very smoothly and roundly” in all-terrain and even in steep downhill sections. The stability is not at the expense of comfort. During daily training sessions, the shoe also feels comfortable; it copes ideally with off-road and asphalt passages and inspires efficient power transmission and excellent grip.

Especially suitable for: Outdoor athletes looking for an all-rounder for daily training sessions and long distances.

• Test rating: strikes the balance of “running performance and off-road mobility” in OutdoorGuide 06/21 and “a shoe for every trail runner” in xc-run.de in 03/20
• Features: sandwich mesh, TPU reinforcements, mono-Bava nylon side inserts, elastic cuff, microfiber lining, Ortholite® Ergonomic sock liner, EVA midsole with Infinitoo™ polyurethane pads, EVA Rockshield, dual-density Fixion® Red rubber outsole and IBS side lugs, lace-up closure
• Material: rubber, EVA, polyamide, polyurethane, polyester.
• Cushioning, profile: 7mm | much cushioning | medium profile
• Weight: Men: 600g (pair); Women: 500g (pair)

What should you look for when buying a trail running shoe?

Aren’t road running shoes and trail running shoes the same thing? Sure, both types of shoes are made for running. Still, you do not have to be an expert to see the fundamental differences with a first look: Trail running shoes have a rugged outsole and traction lugs that provide optimal grip when moving through mountainous backcountry. A trail running comes into its own when leaving sealed roads.

Trail running shoes are also more robust and abrasion-resistant than road running shoes and protect your feet from rocks, thorns, and heavy impacts. An additional stone protection plate in the midsole prevents the sole from being punctured. If you cross streams or run in the rain, water drain off thanks to drainage slots. Thanks to a low-torsion sole, these shoes offer you improved surefootedness during your mountain runs.

What shoe suits you best, depends on the terrain!

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Before buying your new trail running shoe, you should think carefully about the terrain you prefer to run. And, hand on heart: What distances do you run? And in which season? This will also determine which style of shoe is your perfect match. For example, if you run mainly on forest trails, you need less cushioning than on hard surfaces. Muddy trails require aggressive grip, and if you’re an ultra-trail runner, you’ll probably be glad for extra cushioning and support to get through those punishing miles. Last but not least: In the end, the shoe that fits your foot best and fits securely without pinching is always the best bet – so be sure to try out different models, preferably from several manufacturers.

Trail running footwear in the Bergzeit Shop

See all the trail running shoes