Trail running shoes can make or break a run. The wrong pair on wet rock or a technical descent isn't just uncomfortable — it's dangerous. We've ranked the five best trail running shoes you can buy in 2026. No filler, no sponsored picks.
Hoka Speedgoat 5
From £145 · Available at Amazon UK
The Speedgoat 5 is the trail running shoe that does everything well. Hoka's signature maximal cushioning means your legs thank you on long efforts, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole handles everything from soft mud to dry rock with confidence.
The fit runs slightly narrow — wide-footed runners should size up. But for most people, this is the benchmark against which everything else is measured.
Pros
- Outstanding cushioning for long distances
- Vibram Megagrip in all conditions
- Well-balanced and confidence-inspiring
- Durable over hundreds of miles
Cons
- Narrow fit
- Premium price
- Bulkier on technical terrain
Salomon Speedcross 6
From £130 · Available at Amazon UK
If you run in mud, the Speedcross 6 is in a league of its own. The aggressive chevron lugs dig into soft ground like nothing else, giving you traction on descents that would send lesser shoes sliding.
It's a specialist shoe though. On hard-packed or rocky trails, those same lugs feel harsh and uncomfortable. Know your terrain.
Pros
- Unbeatable grip in mud
- Secure locked-in fit
- Responsive energetic ride
- Iconic proven design
Cons
- Poor on hard terrain
- Less cushioning than Hoka
- Runs narrow
Brooks Cascadia 17
From £110 · Available at Amazon UK
The Cascadia has been a trail running staple for over a decade and the 17th edition is the best yet. DNA Loft v2 cushioning keeps the ride comfortable, and the outsole handles mixed terrain well for most UK trail runners.
It won't win in a direct comparison to the Hoka or Salomon in their specialist areas, but as a daily trainer that does everything adequately for a fair price, nothing beats it.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Versatile across mixed terrain
- Comfortable for long runs
- Wide toe box
Cons
- Not as grippy as Salomon in mud
- Less cushioned than Hoka
- Heavier than competitors
Saucony Peregrine 14
From £120 · Available at Amazon UK
When the miles get serious, the Peregrine 14 earns its reputation. PWRRUN cushioning absorbs impact without feeling dead underfoot, and the 4mm lugs provide enough grip for most technical terrain.
It's a narrow shoe with a close fit that ultra runners tend to love — keeps your foot from moving around during those long efforts where foot fatigue becomes a real issue.
Pros
- Built for very long distances
- Secure fit reduces foot fatigue
- Good balance of grip and versatility
- Proven ultra pedigree
Cons
- Too narrow for wide feet
- Less cushioned than Hoka for easy days
- Overkill for short runs
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7
From £125 · Available at Amazon UK
The Hierro v7 is the crossover shoe — equally at home on trails and roads, perfect if you split your running between surfaces. Fresh Foam X midsole is genuinely plush with a roomy toe box.
Not the most aggressive off-road performer, but for someone who wants one shoe that handles everything — park runs, road miles, weekend trail adventures — nothing does it better.
Pros
- Works on road and trail
- Roomy comfortable fit
- Plush cushioning for easy days
- Great everyday trainer
Cons
- Not technical enough for gnarly trails
- Less grip than specialist shoes
- Soft for faster running