Best Trail Shoes For Men

When it comes to hitting the trails, having the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in your performance and comfort. Whether you're an experienced trail runner or a weekend hiker, finding the best trail shoes for men is essential for tackling rugged terrain with confidence. This curated collection features top-rated trail shoes based on user reviews, ensuring that you can make an informed decision about which pair will best suit your outdoor adventures. From durable outsoles to supportive cushioning, these trail shoes are designed to provide the stability and traction needed to conquer any off-road challenge.

What to Look for in the Best Trail Shoes for Men?

Choosing the right trail shoes is essential for comfort, safety, and performance on rugged terrain.

1. Traction and Outsole Design

Look for trail shoes with aggressive lugs and durable rubber outsoles to provide reliable grip on uneven, muddy, or rocky surfaces. The tread pattern should match the type of trails you frequent most.

2. Fit and Comfort

A secure yet comfortable fit prevents blisters and foot fatigue. Consider shoes with a roomy toe box, adequate arch support, and enough cushioning for your preferred trail distances.

3. Protection Features

Trail shoes often include reinforced toe caps, rock plates, and durable uppers to guard against roots, rocks, and debris. These features help keep your feet safe during challenging runs or hikes.

4. Water Resistance and Breathability

Depending on the weather and trail conditions, you may want shoes with water-resistant or waterproof membranes. For hot climates, prioritize breathable materials that allow moisture to escape.

  1. 1

    Reebok ZigWild Trail 6 "Black/Cold Grey 7" Men's Running Shoe

    About this product

    A men's running shoe with a textile upper and ZigTech outsole for superior cushioning in black and grey.

    A men's running shoe with a textile upper and ZigTech outsole for superior cushioning in black and grey.

    What customers like?

    • Unique design
    • Superior comfort
    • Durable construction
    • Excellent arch support
    • Great ground grip
    4.5 (1,823 reviews)
    Standard Price $115
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  2. 2

    adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Gore-Tex "Core Black/Core Black/Grey Four" Men's Hiking Shoe

    About this product

    An abrasion-resistant hiking shoe with GORE-TEX membrane and BOOST midsole in black and grey.

    An abrasion-resistant hiking shoe with GORE-TEX membrane and BOOST midsole in black and grey.

    What customers like?

    • True to size fit
    • Excellent for light hikes
    • Comfortable
    • Well made
    • Gore-Tex protection
    5.0 (1,026 reviews)
    Standard Price $220
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  3. 3

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-Tex "Black/Anthracite" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A waterproof trail shoe with GORE-TEX upper, ReactX foam midsole, and all-terrain outsole for wet conditions.

    A waterproof trail shoe with GORE-TEX upper, ReactX foam midsole, and all-terrain outsole for wet conditions.

    What customers like?

    • Versatile for trail and road running
    • Attractive appearance
    • Comfortable midsole
    • Quick break-in period
    5.0 (185 reviews)
    Standard Price $180
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  4. 4

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX "Smokey Blue/Light Silver/Armory Navy/Smokey Blue" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A waterproof GORE-TEX upper and ReactX foam midsole provide dry comfort and responsive energy return.

    A waterproof GORE-TEX upper and ReactX foam midsole provide dry comfort and responsive energy return.

    What customers like?

    • Attractive design
    • Excellent grip
    • Great control
    • Stylish appearance
    • Comfortable fit
    4.0 (184 reviews)
    Standard Price $170
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  5. 5

    The North Face Oxeye Tech "TNF Black/TNF Black" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A fashionable, run-inspired black shoe with a breathable upper, TPU overlays, and cushioned EVA midsole.

    A fashionable, run-inspired black shoe with a breathable upper, TPU overlays, and cushioned EVA midsole.

    What customers like?

    • Good support
    • Cool design
    • Versatile
    • Comfortable
    • No need to tie laces
    4.4 (115 reviews)
    Standard Price $129
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  6. 6

    The North Face Oxeye "TNF Black/TNF Black" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A breathable, recycled-material shoe with a high-rebound EVA midsole and SURFACE CTRL™ rubber outsole.

    A breathable, recycled-material shoe with a high-rebound EVA midsole and SURFACE CTRL™ rubber outsole.

    What customers like?

    • Quick drying
    • Comfortable for everyday use
    • Attractive appearance
    • Suitable for walking
    • Easy to clean
    4.9 (111 reviews)
    Standard Price $119
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  7. 7

    Nike Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature "Black/Khaki/Sanddrift/Ironstone" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A durable trail running shoe with a breathable mesh upper and rubber outsole for excellent traction.

    A durable trail running shoe with a breathable mesh upper and rubber outsole for excellent traction.

    What customers like?

    • Durable construction
    • Excellent grip
    • Lightweight feel
    • Stylish appearance
    • Comfortable fit
    4.8 (90 reviews)
    Standard Price $85
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  8. 8

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 "Black/Velvet Brown/Anthracite" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A trail running shoe featuring ReactX foam cushioning, breathable mesh upper, and durable traction in black and brown.

    A trail running shoe featuring ReactX foam cushioning, breathable mesh upper, and durable traction in black and brown.

    What customers like?

    • Good control on trails
    • Excellent cushioning
    • Comfortable fit
    • Secure heel lock
    Standard Price $155
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  9. 9

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 "Black/Monarch/Pale Ivory/Off Noir" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A men's black trail shoe with ReactX foam, Flywire technology, and reflective details for enhanced performance.

    A men's black trail shoe with ReactX foam, Flywire technology, and reflective details for enhanced performance.

    What customers like?

    • Durable construction
    • Excellent grip
    • Thoughtful design details
    • Comfortable fit
    5.0 (90 reviews)
    Standard Price $150
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  10. 10

    Nike Juniper Trail 2 "White/Black/Vivid Sulfur/Khaki" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A durable trail running shoe featuring a breathable mesh upper and rugged, speckled rubber outsole for traction.

    A durable trail running shoe featuring a breathable mesh upper and rugged, speckled rubber outsole for traction.

    What customers like?

    • Versatile for various activities
    • Supportive and stable fit
    • Attractive style and appearance
    • Excellent grip on trails
    • Quick drying and breathable
    4.0 (86 reviews)
    Standard Price $90
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  11. 11

    The North Face Hedgehog 3 "New Taupe Green/TNF Black" Men's Waterproof Shoe

    About this product

    A rugged black and green hiking shoe featuring waterproof DryVent™ membrane and durable SURFACE CTRL™ rubber outsole.

    A rugged black and green hiking shoe featuring waterproof DryVent™ membrane and durable SURFACE CTRL™ rubber outsole.

    What customers like?

    • Great look
    • Good grip
    • Sturdy construction
    • Comfortable fit
    • Flexible sole
    5.0 (85 reviews)
    Standard Price $135
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  12. 12

    Nike Pegasus Trail 3 "Mystic Teal" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A breathable trail running shoe with responsive cushioning, secure midfoot support, and excellent traction in Mystic Teal.

    A breathable trail running shoe with responsive cushioning, secure midfoot support, and excellent traction in Mystic Teal.

    What customers like?

    • Versatile for trail and road
    • Durable construction
    • Excellent grip
    • Lightweight design
    • Comfortable fit
    4.0 (80 reviews)
    Standard Price $140
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  13. 13

    Nike ACG Lowcate "Cargo Khaki/Black/Bright Cactus/Moss" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A mixed-material men's shoe in cargo khaki and black with a supportive Trailframe and traction-focused rubber outsole.

    A mixed-material men's shoe in cargo khaki and black with a supportive Trailframe and traction-focused rubber outsole.

    What customers like?

    • Retro vibe
    • Durable sole
    • Stylish design
    • Excellent traction
    5.0 (20 reviews)
    Standard Price $115
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  14. 14

    Carhartt Outdoor Waterproof Low "Black" Men's Hiker Boot

    About this product

    A black nubuck leather hiker boot with waterproof membrane, maximum arch support, and slip-resistant outsole.

    A black nubuck leather hiker boot with waterproof membrane, maximum arch support, and slip-resistant outsole.

    5.0 (16 reviews)
    Standard Price $149.99
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  15. 15

    Nike Wildhorse 10 "Alabaster/Lightning/Saturn Gold/Medium Ash" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A trail running shoe featuring responsive ReactX foam, breathable mesh upper, and all-terrain traction in gold and ash.

    A trail running shoe featuring responsive ReactX foam, breathable mesh upper, and all-terrain traction in gold and ash.

    5.0 (13 reviews)
    Standard Price $165
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  16. 16

    Nike ACG Lowcate "Mica Green/Rosewood/Light Bone/Phantom" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A mixed material upper and rubber outsole provide style, support, and traction for versatile adventures.

    A mixed material upper and rubber outsole provide style, support, and traction for versatile adventures.

    Standard Price $115
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  17. 17

    Carhartt Gilmore Ripstop Soft Toe "Grey" Men's Wide Shoe

    About this product

    A grey ripstop nylon men's shoe with slip-resistant outsole and FastDry™ Technology for all-day comfort.

    A grey ripstop nylon men's shoe with slip-resistant outsole and FastDry™ Technology for all-day comfort.

    4.0 (2 reviews)
    Standard Price $109.99
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  18. 18

    Carhartt Gilmore Ripstop Soft Toe "Grey" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A grey ripstop nylon shoe with slip-resistant rubber outsole and FastDry™ Technology for all-day comfort.

    A grey ripstop nylon shoe with slip-resistant rubber outsole and FastDry™ Technology for all-day comfort.

    Standard Price $109.99
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  19. 19

    The North Face Truckee "Black/Grey" Men's Shoe

    About this product

    A durable men's shoe with abrasion-resistant mesh, rugged suede upper, and dual-density EVA midsole.

    A durable men's shoe with abrasion-resistant mesh, rugged suede upper, and dual-density EVA midsole.

    Standard Price $99
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  20. 20

    The North Face Truckee Mid "Black/Grey" Men's Boot

    About this product

    A rugged black and grey men's boot with abrasion-resistant mesh, suede upper, and OrthoLite® footbed.

    A rugged black and grey men's boot with abrasion-resistant mesh, suede upper, and OrthoLite® footbed.

    Standard Price $109
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  21. 21

    Reebok AT Craze 3 "Black/Escape Blue/Digital Lime" Unisex Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A unisex trail running shoe with a leather upper, EVA midsole, and rubber outsole in black, blue, and lime.

    A unisex trail running shoe with a leather upper, EVA midsole, and rubber outsole in black, blue, and lime.

    Standard Price $75
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  22. 22

    Hoka Mafate 2 "White/Fresh Cut Grass" Unisex Running Shoe

    About this product

    A lightweight white and green running shoe with deep cushioning, Vibram Mega-Grip outsole, and debris protection.

    A lightweight white and green running shoe with deep cushioning, Vibram Mega-Grip outsole, and debris protection.

    Standard Price $170
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  23. 23

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX "Blue Beyond/Copper Moon/Monarch/Blue Void" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A waterproof trail shoe with GORE-TEX upper, ReactX foam midsole, and all-terrain outsole in blue copper.

    A waterproof trail shoe with GORE-TEX upper, ReactX foam midsole, and all-terrain outsole in blue copper.

    What customers like?

    • Reliable in both dry and wet conditions
    • Comfortable cushioning
    • Versatile for on and off road use
    • Excellent waterproof protection
    1.0 (184 reviews)
    Standard Price $170
    Shop Now
  24. 24

    Nike Pegasus Trail 5 "Light Silver/College Grey/Dark Red/Barely Volt" Men's Trail Running Shoe

    About this product

    A men's trail shoe in red, grey, and silver with responsive ReactX foam and breathable mesh.

    A men's trail shoe in red, grey, and silver with responsive ReactX foam and breathable mesh.

    What customers like?

    • Responsive cushioning
    • Versatile for hiking and work
    • Excellent grip
    • Lightweight feel
    • Flexible design
    2.0 (90 reviews)
    Standard Price $150
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When searching for the best trail shoes for men, it’s important to consider the unique demands of off-road adventures. Trail shoes are specifically designed to provide enhanced grip, stability, and protection on uneven terrain—qualities that set them apart from standard running or casual footwear. Whether you’re tackling rocky paths, muddy trails, or forested routes, the right pair of trail shoes can make a significant difference in both comfort and performance. Key features to look for include durable outsoles with aggressive tread patterns for traction, reinforced toe caps for added protection, and breathable yet sturdy uppers to withstand the elements.

Trail shoes aren’t just for avid trail runners; they’re also an excellent choice for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys spending time in nature. Men who frequently participate in activities like hiking, backpacking, or obstacle course races will benefit from the specialized support and durability that trail shoes offer. These shoes can also make thoughtful gifts for those who love exploring new trails or simply enjoy walking in local parks. With options ranging from lightweight designs for speed to more rugged models built for challenging conditions, there’s a suitable style for every type of adventurer.

Selecting the right pair involves considering factors such as fit, cushioning level, water resistance, and overall weight. Some may prioritize lightweight flexibility for faster movement, while others might seek maximum stability and protection on technical trails. No matter your skill level or preferred activity, investing in quality trail shoes ensures greater confidence and enjoyment during every outdoor excursion. Proper footwear not only enhances your experience but also helps prevent injuries—making it an essential part of any man’s outdoor gear collection.

Best Of FAQ

What features should I look for in the best trail shoes for men?

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When choosing trail shoes, look for features like durable outsoles with aggressive tread for traction, reinforced toe caps for protection, breathable yet sturdy uppers, and responsive cushioning to handle uneven terrain.

How do trail shoes differ from regular running shoes?

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Trail shoes are designed with rugged outsoles for better grip on dirt, rocks, and mud. They often have reinforced materials to protect against debris and offer more stability compared to regular running shoes made for pavement.

Are waterproof trail shoes necessary for all conditions?

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Waterproof trail shoes are ideal for wet or muddy environments but may not be necessary in dry climates. Some runners prefer non-waterproof options for better breathability during hot weather.

Can I use men's trail shoes for hiking as well as running?

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Yes, many men's trail shoes are versatile enough for both hiking and running. They provide the traction and support needed for various outdoor activities on uneven surfaces.

How should I care for my trail shoes to extend their lifespan?

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Clean your trail shoes regularly by removing dirt and debris after each use. Allow them to air dry away from direct heat sources, and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their shape and performance.