Off-road running shoes - how to choose?

What to look out for when choosing outdoor running shoes?

The choice of proper running shoes has the key meaning for comfort and safety for both beginners and advanced trail runners. The amount of models available on the market can be overwhelming so it’s good to know what to pay attention to when choosing the trail shoes. It’s important to determine the type of foot. Before choosing the off-road running shoes, check if your feet pronate or supinate.

Tread

Treads in trail shoes can differ depending on the shoe model. Shoes for asphalt running have a flat tread, which is resistant to abrasions. On the other hand, the tread in trail running shoes is more aggressive, helping to promote grip when running on demanding terrain. If you need shoes for running on boggy terrains such as mud or snow, choose a model with an aggressive tread. The more aggressive, i.e. the longer the rubber pegs sticking out of it, the better it will perform on such terrain. If you’re planning to run on asphalt, choose a flat tread, because the aggressive one might provide less stability and the sole will wear off quicker.

Cushioning

Cushioning is placed on the midsole. It is responsible for energy dampening during the landing of the running stride, as well as for dynamics in the run-up. The cushioning takes different forms in shoes. It can be foam, gel or air capsules. EVA foam is the most popular form of cushioning. Types of cushioned shoes:

Shoes with a high level of cushioning – they’re very soft, recommended for persons with higher body weight. High level of cushioning should be also worn by users who prefer intensive workout sessions and run about 20-40 kilometer distances. Shoes with a high level of cushioning are also recommended for beginners.

Shoes with medium level of cushioning – ideal for persons with a medium weight, they can be worn as training shoes or training-race shoes. It’s important to emphasize that shoes with a medium level of cushioning will serve you well on short and medium distances.

Shoes with little cushioning – models designed for advanced runners for fast training and competitions.

Drop

Drop is the difference between the height of the sole under the heel and the height under the midfoot. Heel is the area under the heel bone and the midfoot is where the foot rests in front, behind the toes. The higher the drop, the higher the angle between the heel and forefoot. Drop in running shoes is usually between 8-12 mm.

Increased drop in running shoes, e.g. a maximum of 12 mm, means that the heel is raised in relation to the toe. In past years, the popularity of shoes with a small or zero drop was rising. Minimalist shoes were supposed to give the feeling of running barefoot and protect the feet from pebbles and various unevenness. However, a higher drop is something that we know from other shoes, not only the running ones. It ensures that the feet land on heels, which is more natural. It’s worth emphasizing that running shoes with a higher drop protect against muscle pain and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.

Which drop is the best? It’s estimated that trainers with a higher drop (from 6 and more) are recommended for users who land on heels and haven’t developed their running technique, they’re also right for beginners, who decided to buy their first pair of running shoes. On the other hand, shoes with a lower drop (less than 6 mm) are the best for users who run regularly and land on the front part of the feet.

Trail shoe upper – which type is the best?

The most popular type of upper in the trail shoes is mesh. It ensures ideal ventilation and is resistant to damages. It’s worth mentioning that the mesh is waterproof. If it’s important for you, take a look at shoes with the Gore-Tex membrane, which is moisture resistant. However, you should note that better waterproofing means less ventilation.

Trail shoes are very often equipped with an elastic sock-like upper, which adjusts to the feet. Some runners appreciate this type of upper, as you practically can’t feel it on your feet, but it’s important to emphasize that it doesn’t ensure enough stability during running.

Uppers made from special nylon covers are also popular, they are used in shoes, which are exposed to very harsh conditions

It’s worth paying attention to additional elements of the upper in trail shoes. The reinforcement of the shoe tip is important and it’s supposed to protect toes when hitting off-road obstacles. Counters should be also taken into account. They are more or less stiff. The stiffer ones ensure better stability but also increase the risk of unpleasant abrasions.

The best shoes for off-road running – recommended models

If you’re searching for ideal shoes for running on difficult ground, the choice of the right model has the key meaning for comfort and safety on a trail. In our ranking of trail shoes we present the best models, which are characterized by the best grip, cushioning and durability. We hope that our guide will help you find ideal running shoes to meet all the challenges nature throws at you.

1. On Running Cloudvista 2 Waterproof

Cloudvista 2 Waterproof are waterproof off-road running shoes. They will serve you well in technically easy mountains or suburban forests. CloudTec elements ensure comfort on short and medium distances. On Running trail shoes provide ideal cushioning from rocky surfaces and long term comfort of running. Missiongrip™ sole will serve you well on uneven surfaces. Tread grooves provide adequate traction during running. The upper is made from lightweight fabrics, which 95% comes from recycling. Additionally, the materials have waterproof properties, so they will prove right even on rainy days. It’s worth adding that regardless of high cushioning, they don’t reduce dynamics and are just ideal for both beginners and advanced runners.

2. On Running Cloudultra 2

These advanced trail shoes are designed for training and racing. They feature an upgraded upper – higher heel padding. On Running Cloudultra 2 provides unique comfort thanks to the foot wrapping upper, which resembles a sock and will serve you well on longer distances. These shoes also feature the Double CloudTec® & Helion technology. Thanks to the double layer of Helion foam and CloudTec® cushions, they minimize shocks during running on rocky surfaces. It’s worth mentioning that Missiongrip™ sole guarantees a stable running on various surfaces, both slippery and dry, it will be an ideal companion for your running adventure.

3. On Running Cloudsurfer Trail

On Cloudsurfer Trail is a new and versatile trainer for running on moderately difficult terrain, it ensures high level of comfort and cushioning, which will serve you well on long distances. CloudTec Phase™ technology, which was designed with the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), ensures smooth weight transfer from heel to toe and guarantees dynamic rolling and cushioning. Additionally, the Helion™ foam under heel increases protection from impacts, Missiongrip™ rubber sole with a universal tread provides perfect grip both on wet and dry surfaces, it also prevents rocks from entering the sole.

4. La Sportiva Bushido III

La Sportiva Bushido III is a new version of the popular Bushido II model, it has been designed specifically for sky running, but it will also serve you well in the mountains or in city parks. The shoes are distinguished by an innovative construction, which features high stability, cushioning and comfort. The midsole is made from moldable EVA foam, which offers additional cushioning, the breathable upper made from rip-stop mesh provides ventilation and comfort on a high level. TPU reinforcements protect feet from rocks, Stability Control system increases stability and adjustment without the excessive load. Frixion Red® sole guarantees grip on various surfaces e.g. rocks and mud, dry and wet. Impact Brake System minimizes shocks and improves the control during descents. Additionally, OrthoLite® Hybrid insole provides comfort and breathability keeping the optimal feet temperature. Bushido III trainers are lightweight, technical and ideal for medium-distance running on difficult terrain; they're designed for demanding runners.

5. Brooks Caldera 7

Brooks Caldera 7 represents the new generation of running shoes designed for off-road running. The model ensures comfort and stability even on very long distances. It features the full Cushion on the whole length of the sole, which guarantees soft walking. Upgraded elastic upper, made from TPEE mesh, wicks moisture and excesive warmth away, the additional Lace Keeper enables safe storing of your laces. The midsole is made from lightweight DNA LOFT v3 foam with nitrogen, which ensures ideal cushioning and resilience, 25% of the outer TrailTrack Green upper is made from recycled materials, it offers perfect grip on any surface.

6. Salomon Thundercross

Salomon Thunder Cross trainers designed for running on muddy and soft surfaces. It’s based on the iconic Speedcross and offers even better grip and smooth feet movement. The durable Contagrip® sole with a 5 mm deep tread ensures ideal traction on various surfaces. Upper with a SensiFit™ system guarantees precise foot adjustment, EnergyFoam located in the midsole provides soft landing and dynamic take-off. Thanks to the Quicklace™ system, the shoes can be laced with a one hand movement.

7. Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

The waterproof version of Salomon Speedcross 6 is an ideal choice for muddy terrains. It’s lighter than its predecessors and combines modern design of the upper with functional solutions, which will serve you well during training and competitions.

Equipped with the Mud Contagrip® sole with deep 5 mm lugs on the tread, the Speedcross 6 trainers ensure the unique grip on difficult surfaces. SensiFit upper precisely wraps the feet guaranteeing natural movement, the system of quick lacing ensures ideal adjustment. EnergyCell™+ midsole made from elastic fabrics guarantees ideal cushioning and dynamic take-off. Additionally, the GORE-TEX® membrane protects against water providing comfort and dryness even in the most difficult weather conditions.

8. Salomon Genesis

SALOMON Genesis modern trainers designed for running on difficult mountain terrain. They’re characterized by durability, agility, and dynamics thanks to the use of Energy Foam, which ensures smooth take off.

The model is equipped with a universal Contagrip® All Terrain sole, which has a double tread and is 4,5 mm high. It guarantees ideal grip on various technical surfaces. The durable upper is made from Matryx® fabric, which is resistant to damages and scratches and at the same time provides high breathability. EnergyFoam midsole offers a long-term cushioning and effective energy return, the Active Chassis™ ensures stability and protection of the bending parts of the feet. Additionally, the Quicklace™ system enables ideal adjustment with a one hand movement, which increases comfort.

9. Salomon Speedcross 6

The new version of the SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 6, legendary trainers have been designed for muddy terrains, ideal for both training and competitions. In comparison to its predecessors, this model is lighter and has an upgraded upper, which ensures even better mud wicking and grip on difficult terrain.

The shoes are equipped with a Mud Contagrip® sole with deep and aggressive lugs, which guarantee maximum grip. SensiFit™ upper precisely wraps feet ensuring natural movement and comfortable adjustment. EnergyCell™+ midsole made from elastic materials offers both ideal cushioning and dynamic take-off. Additionally, the Quicklace™ system enables ideal adjustment with a one hand movement, which increases comfort.

10. Brooks Cascadia 17

New generation of the iconic trail trainers has been designed for runners with neutral feet and offers a wide range of innovations, which increase comfort and functionality off-road. Equipped with a modern Trail Adapt stability system and elements made from recycled materials, it ensures cushioning and support.

Brooks Cascadia 17 trainers are equipped with a mesh upper, sole with a rubber reinforcement and the 3D FIT PRINT technology, which ensure precise adjustment to the runner’s feet. The midsole is made from new generation DNA LOFT v2 foam, which guarantees high cushioning and resistance to pressing. TrailAdapt system with built-in trails ensures stability on uneven terrain, the rubber TrailTrack Green outsole and the special tread guarantee perfect grip and stability on various surfaces. The shoes weigh 298 g, the 8 mm drop provides the ideal running support.

Summary

Choosing the right off-road running shoes is essential to provide comfort and safety and to achieve better running results. Remember that the right cushioning, grip and foot support are the basic features, which you should take into account when choosing trainers for running in the mountains. Don't forget about adjusting the shoes to the type of the surface you’re running on.

If you need advice on choosing the proper shoes for running on hard surfaces, read our article about shoes for asphalt where we are describing what to pay attention to when choosing the shoes for running on this type of surface. Have a nice and safe run!