Best Trail Running

Reviewed by Lunoo Research Team · Updated May 31, 2026

29 ranked ·

Top-rated trail running ranked by our AI-powered scoring system.

· Re-ranked 5 days ago
29
Items Ranked
8.5
Avg Score
3
Rated Excellent
9.5
Top Ranked Score
Summary: The best trail running in 2026 is Hoka Speedgoat 5 with a score of 9.5/10, followed by Inov-8 Trailfly G 270 (9.1) and Saucony Peregrine 13 (9.0). This ranking is based on Lunoo's AI-powered scoring system which evaluates 29 trail running across category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, recency, and value. Rankings were last refreshed on May 31, 2026.

table_chart Top 5 at a Glance

Rank Name Score Price Best For
#1 Hoka Speedgoat 5 9.5 - - Visit
#2 Inov-8 Trailfly G 270 9.1 - - Visit
#3 Saucony Peregrine 13 9.0 - - Visit
#4 La Sportiva Bushido II 8.8 - - Visit
#5 Brooks Cascadia 17 8.8 - - Visit

leaderboard Full Trail Running Rankings

Best 1 Hoka Speedgoat 5
Hoka Speedgoat 5

The Hoka Speedgoat 5 continues to be a benchmark for cushioned trail running. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides exceptional traction on a wide variety of surfaces, while the generous cushioning abs...

9.50 Brilliant
Visit
2
IN
Inov-8 Trailfly G 270

Graphene-enhanced outsole for exceptional grip across all weather conditions. Comfortable and durable for long distances.

9.13 Excellent
Visit
3 Saucony Peregrine 13
Saucony Peregrine 13

The Saucony Peregrine 13 is a lightweight and agile trail running shoe designed for tackling technical terrain. The PWRTRAC outsole provides exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces, while the rock...

9.01 Excellent
Visit
4 La Sportiva Bushido II
La Sportiva Bushido II

The La Sportiva Bushido II is a highly technical trail running shoe designed for agility and precision on demanding terrain. Its aggressive FriXion Red rubber outsole provides exceptional grip on rock...

8.80 Very Good
Visit
+1 more from La Sportiva — e.g. La Sportiva Bushido II GTX
5 Brooks Cascadia 17
Brooks Cascadia 17

The Brooks Cascadia 17 is a reliable and versatile trail running shoe that balances cushioning, stability, and durability. Its PWRRUN cushioning provides a comfortable ride, while the TrailTack outsol...

8.80 Very Good
Visit
6 New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v7
New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro v7

Generous Fresh Foam cushioning with a Vibram outsole provides comfort and traction on rugged trails.

8.70 Very Good
Visit
+1 more from New Balance — e.g. New Balance Hierro v8 GTX
7 Arc'teryx Norvan LD 3
Arc'teryx Norvan LD 3

Water-resistant upper with a sticky rubber outsole for all-weather performance. Built for long, technical mountain runs.

8.70 Very Good
Visit
8 Altra Olympus 5
Altra Olympus 5

Maximum cushion and wide toe box for comfort on all-weather trails. MaxTrac outsole provides reliable traction.

8.60 Very Good
Visit
9 Merrell Agility Peak 5 GTX
Merrell Agility Peak 5 GTX

FloatPro foam and Gore-Tex upper offer responsive cushioning and waterproof protection. Vibram Megagrip handles slippery surfaces.

8.60 Very Good
Visit
10 Asics Trabuco Max 2 GTX
Asics Trabuco Max 2 GTX

Max cushion and Gore-Tex make this ideal for rainy, long-distance trail runs. GuideSole technology reduces fatigue.

8.60 Very Good
Visit
11 Saucony Peregrine 16
Saucony Peregrine 16

The Saucony Peregrine 16 is a versatile trail running shoe that strikes a balance between grip, responsiveness, and durability. Its PWRTRAC rubber outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of s...

8.50 Very Good
Visit
12 Inov-8 Trailfly G 270 V2 GTX
Inov-8 Trailfly G 270 V2 GTX

Features a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and graphene-enhanced outsole for exceptional durability and wet traction. Lightweight and responsive.

8.50 Very Good
Visit
13 Merrell MTL Skyfire 2
Merrell MTL Skyfire 2

Fast and aggressive shoe for all-weather trail running. Vibram Megagrip ensures reliable traction on wet rock.

8.50 Very Good
Visit
14 Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

Known for its aggressive lugs, the Speedcross 6 GTX delivers exceptional grip in muddy and soft conditions while keeping feet dry.

8.41 Very Good
Visit
15 Topo Athletic Pursuit 2
Topo Athletic Pursuit 2

Lightweight and responsive with a Vibram outsole for all-weather grip. Ideal for fast runs on mixed terrain.

8.40 Very Good
Visit
16 Scarpa Spin GTX
Scarpa Spin GTX

Lightweight Gore-Tex trail shoe with dynamic sole for natural movement. Good for fast-paced runs on wet, varied terrain.

8.30 Very Good
Visit
17 Altra Lone Peak 7 GTX
Altra Lone Peak 7 GTX

Altras popular zero-drop trail shoe now available with Gore-Tex. Offers natural foot positioning and ample room for wet conditions.

8.20 Very Good
Visit
18 Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra

A lightweight, responsive trail shoe with Continental rubber outsole for long runs on moderate trails.

8.20 Very Good
Visit
19 Saucony Peregrine 17
Saucony Peregrine 17

The Saucony Peregrine 17 is a lightweight and responsive trail running shoe designed for speed and agility on technical terrain. Its PWRTRAC outsole features aggressive lugs that provide exceptional g...

8.20 Very Good
Visit
20 Topo Athletic Pursuit 2 WP
Topo Athletic Pursuit 2 WP

Waterproof version of the Pursuit with a roomy toe box and firm midsole. Great for wet, technical terrain where stability is key.

8.20 Very Good
Visit
21 Tecnica Raptor Trail 2 GTX
Tecnica Raptor Trail 2 GTX

Deep, multi-directional lugs and Gore-Tex provide excellent grip and waterproofing on slippery roots and rocks.

8.10 Very Good
Visit
22 The North Face Vectiv Eminus GTX
The North Face Vectiv Eminus GTX

Vectiv technology with rocker sole and Gore-Tex for efficient, waterproof running on mixed weather trails.

8.00 Very Good
Visit
23 Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon Speedcross 6

The Salomon Speedcross 6 remains a dominant force in trail running, renowned for its exceptional grip in muddy and soft conditions. Updates for 2025 focus on improved breathability and a slightly mor...

8.00 Very Good
Visit
24 New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is a comfortable and supportive trail running shoe thats ideal for beginners and runners who prioritize a smooth ride. Its Fresh Foam X midsole provides ample cu...

8.00 Very Good
Visit
25 Brooks Cascadia 17 GTX
Brooks Cascadia 17 GTX

Brooks' flagship trail shoe with Gore-Tex waterproofing and excellent stability features. Ballistic Rock Shield protects against sharp rocks.

7.80 Good
Visit
26 Nike Wildhorse 8 GTX
Nike Wildhorse 8 GTX

Nikes waterproof trail shoe with a Vibram outsole for all-weather grip. Plush React foam softens rocky, wet trails.

7.80 Good
Visit

help Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Trail Running in 2026?
According to our AI-powered rankings, Hoka Speedgoat 5 is currently rated as the best Trail Running with a score of 9.5/10. Other top-rated options include Hoka Speedgoat 5, Inov-8 Trailfly G 270, Saucony Peregrine 13.
How are these Trail Running ranked?
Our rankings use an AI-powered scoring system that analyzes category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, recency, and value for money. Each Trail Running receives a 0 to 10 Lunoo score.
How often are the rankings updated?
Our rankings are updated continuously as new data becomes available. Scores are recalculated regularly to ensure you always see the most current and accurate ratings.
What are the top 5 Trail Running in 2026?
The top 5 Trail Running in 2026 are: Hoka Speedgoat 5, Inov-8 Trailfly G 270, Saucony Peregrine 13, La Sportiva Bushido II, Brooks Cascadia 17. These are ranked by our AI-powered scoring system based on category fit, features, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.
How many Trail Running are ranked on Lunoo?
Lunoo currently ranks 29 Trail Running, of which 3 have earned an Excellent rating (9.0+). New options are added and scored regularly.
Which Trail Running is ranked first?
Hoka Speedgoat 5 is currently ranked #1 with a Lunoo score of 9.5/10 in our Trail Running rankings.
Is Hoka Speedgoat 5 worth it?
Hoka Speedgoat 5 scores 9.5/10, making it one of the highest-rated Trail Running available. Its strong rating reflects excellent performance across our evaluation criteria.
What should I look for when choosing a Trail Running?
Key factors include your specific use case, budget, features offered, ease of use, and long-term value. Our scoring system evaluates these factors objectively. Compare the top options above to find the best fit.
Are there any free Trail Running options?
Some Trail Running offer free plans or trials. Check each option's website for current pricing. Our rankings focus on overall quality regardless of price point.
What is the difference between top-rated Trail Running?
While Hoka Speedgoat 5 and Inov-8 Trailfly G 270 are both highly rated, they differ in features, pricing, and target audience. Use our comparison tool to see detailed side-by-side differences.
Can I compare Trail Running on Lunoo?
Yes! Lunoo offers a detailed comparison tool. Click the compare icon on any two items to see a side-by-side analysis of scores, features, pros, and cons.
How accurate are Lunoo's Trail Running rankings?
Our AI-powered scoring system is calibrated against established ground truth sources and continuously improved. We analyze features, expert reviews, user feedback, and market data to provide the most objective rankings possible.

science How We Rank

Every trail running is scored across 12 weighted criteria from hundreds of verified sources:

  • Features & Capabilities - Comprehensive analysis of what each option offers
  • User Reviews - Aggregated feedback from real users across platforms
  • Expert Opinions - Professional reviews and industry recognition
  • Value for Money - Cost-effectiveness relative to features
  • Reliability & Support - Track record and customer service quality

Rankings are updated continuously as new information becomes available.

Disclosure: Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our rankings - all scores are determined by our independent AI-powered evaluation system.

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