Best Trail Running Shoes of 2026

On Cloudsurfer 2

With plush cushioning and MissionGrip™ rubber outsole, the On Cloudsurfer is built for long trail runs and races.

Key Highlights:

• Weight: 10.1 oz. (M) | 9.1 oz. (W)

• Plush cushioning to absorb impact

• Missiongrip™ rubber outsole is lightweight yet provides reliable traction

• Crafted by precision-engineered Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to ensure the shoe is durable under different forces and conditions

Comfortable right out of the box! Supportive and well cushioned. Like the rounded toebox! These are light and springy/cushy without feeling big. I went up 1/2 size from my usual and they fit great. Very happy with my purchase! ~ Andrea

HOKA Challenger 8

The Hoka Challenger 8 offers a lightweight trail runner with a reliable grip and plenty of cushion.

Key Highlights:

• Weight: 9.7 oz. (M) | 8.7 oz. (W)

• Compression molded EVA foam

• Lighter and increased stack height across the whole shoe

• Smaller, tightly spaced lugs in the center and larger, more aggressive lugs at the perimeter for improved traction

The first thing I noticed was how incredibly light they are. The size fit perfectly and comfort was immediately amazing. I wasn't sure I would like the round heel but it feels quite natural. ~Chris

Nike Pegasus Trail 5

The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 provides extra grip on technical terrain while ensuring smooth transitions from trail to road. 

Key Highlights:

• Weight: 10.5 oz. (M) | 8.5 oz. (W)

• Flywire technology integrated with the laces to help secure your midfoot

• Nike Trail All Terrain Compound enhances abrasion resistance and increases traction on the trail in wet conditions

Love these. New to running and have flat feet. Didn’t realize how much running sneakers were important till I got these. I can’t go back to running in anything else. Three months in, some snow and rain later and still holding up well. No complaints. ~Tina

Brooks Cascadia 19

Designed to provide stability on technical terrain, the Cascadia features a classic fit to provide plenty of room in the toe box.

Key Highlights:

• Weight: 10.7 oz. (M) | 9.8 oz. (W)

• Dynamic cushioning with a protective upper

• Sticky traction ensures secure strides to enjoy the view instead of looking at your feet

I’ve worn the Cascadia since the first model was released. It’s one of those shoes that continues to improve with each new model. It is my go-to trail shoe, and it has great traction in snow. ~Kevin

Altra Experience Wild 2

Ideal for rugged trails, the Altra Experience Wild 2 features grippy MaxTrac™ outsoles for plenty of grip, cushion, and protection.

Key Highlights:

• Weight: 10.4 oz. (M) | 8.8 oz. (W)

• Compression-molded EVA foam for a lightweight, responsive midsole

• The rocker shape is designed to give the feeling of being propelled forward without taking away your natural stride

I use this shoe for my daily runs that are a mix of pavement, smooth trails and some small cobble. Compared to several other Altra shoes, these are by far my favorite. They have also lasted longer than most shoes due to no tears, delamination, etc. Now that my existing pair are at 250 miles I am ordering a second pair. ~KS

Whether you’re looking for a trail running shoe that sheds mud, offers waterproof protection, or provides plenty of cushion, start with our list of the best trail running shoes for your next adventure. If you have additional questions about how to buy trail running shoes, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Footwear Expert!