Find your perfect off-road partner with our 2026 Trail Shoe Guide. From max-cushioned Hoka's to zero-drop Altra's, we break down the grip, weight, and tech you need to crush every summit.

Whether you’re a beginner trail runner or seasoned ultrarunner gearing up to get dirty, there are some critical factors to consider when choosing trail running shoes. Trail running offers unique challenges and benefits compared to the consistent nature of road running, with natural debris and uneven terrain adding risk to the reward of adventure.

With top trail running shoes for men and women from your favourite brands like Brooks, Saucony, Altra and Hoka, you can chase new running goals and new summits safely and comfortably. The best trail running shoes for beginners and elite runners feature a blend of durability, cushioning and traction fine-tuned to perform on varying terrains from well-maintained paths to technical trails or steep, mountainous slopes. 

Each of the trail running shoes in our list meets these criteria to varying degrees based on your preferences and the demands of your specific trail. Whether you prefer a trail all-rounder, zero-drop trail running shoes for a natural feel, or max cushioned trail running shoes to soak up the impact of every twig and pebble, Wildfire Sports & Trek has you covered from heel to toe.

Jump To:

Brooks Cascadia 19 Review

Saucony Peregrine 16 Review

Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus Review

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review

Brooks Cascadia 19 Review: Trail All-Rounder

The Brooks Cascadia 19 trail running shoes remain true to the brand's reputation as a reliable workhorse, with comfort at its core.

The Brooks Cascadia family was originally developed in 2004 in partnership with Scott Jurek, a prolific name in the world of ultra running and became an iconic model for trail racing. Over the years, this running shoe family has made its way onto the feet of recreational trail runners, both beginners and trail veterans, celebrated for its robustness, stability and adaptability.

Improved to be lighter, softer and more responsive than the Brooks Cascadia 18, the Brooks Cascadia 19 is pure fun to run in.

Upper: Step-In Comfort

The moment you slip on the Brooks Cascadia 19, you’ll notice the plush feel, hugging your feet softly with the engineered mesh upper. The collar holds your feet snugly, and the freedom of movement from the upper materials is just-right, providing durability without feeling restrictive. Even on longer runs, this formula for comfort may help keep your feet free of hot spots, irritation and friction allowing air to flow freely.

Midsole: Balanced Cushioning

The main difference between the Brooks Cascadia 19 and the Brooks Cascadia 18 is the re-imagined midsole. Brooks regularly adapts or reinvent their key cushioning technologies based on runner feedback and data-driven optimisations.

In the case of the latest evolution of the Brooks Cascadia 19, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam replaces the previous DNA Loft v2, trading a firmer feel for a plusher, more lively experience.

It’s important to note that although softer, the revised cushioning doesn’t feel overly squishy. It’s providing comfort without falling into the trap of ultra-spongy cushioning that can feel almost like quicksand. You get that sweet spot of protection, support and resiliency complemented by the wide, stable base.

Partnered with a boost in stack height (an additional 4mm in the forefoot and 2mm in the rearfoot), this trail running shoe cradles your feet in a smooth, shock-absorbing platform.

Currently, the Brooks Cascadia 19 sits on a 6mm drop - 2mm lower than the previous model. This means that although it’s on a thicker platform, the gradient of cushioning from heel to toe feels smooth and well-balanced.

Outsole: Versatile Traction & Long-lasting Durability

The traction of the Brooks Cascadia 19 is highly adaptable. In most cases, you don’t have to hesitate as the terrain changes, with the sticky and environmentally preferable TrailTack Green rubber gliding over hard-packed trails or single tracks of gravel, sand and dust effortlessly.

The outsole rubber feels soft underfoot, keeping you sure-footed by biting into a variety of terrain types smoothly, whether you’re climbing rocky and mountainous trails or hiking through moist bushland paths. Durability is in the DNA of Brooks running shoes; however, there is a potential for softer rubber to wear down faster than firmer alternatives.

Most trail runners give the Brooks Cascadia 19 two thumbs up on wet surfaces like leaf-veiled forest paths, where you may need to pause in deep mud. The 4mm lugs don’t have quite the bite needed to get a sturdy grip. Understanding your trail running shoes and their limitations can help you run more safely and confidently in wild environments.

The Trail Adapt System, referring to the combination of a cushioned midsole, protective rock shield and grippy outsole working in harmony, provides a stable and protective feel. Higher stability = lower risk of rolling an ankle, so the Brooks Cascadia 19 is a clear contender for beginner trail runners to find their footing on more challenging.

FAQ: Brooks Cascadia 19 

• What are the Brooks Cascadia 19 best for?

The Brooks Cascadia 19 are for trail runners who are focused on endurance and versatility rather than pure speed. With the men’s Brooks Cascadia 19 weighing about 300g (size 9 USM), they’re light enough to push to a tempo pace when you need it, but excel at flowing into a smooth, steady rhythm even as the terrain changes.

The changes Brooks has made over the years have the identity of the Brooks Cascadia family steering more towards a daily training shoe for all-day comfort, rather than a technical shoe for racing.

That isn’t to say that the newest version is absent from the racing scene, with some runners enjoying the fatigue-reducing design for half-marathon trail events. They keep you feeling confident and distraction-free in every stride; it’s simply that protection has taken priority over speed.

• How does the Brooks Cascadia 19 fit?

Updated with a more spacious toe box, the Brooks Cascadia 19 allows your toes to splay naturally on the trails. This is a key factor to promote intuitive stability and comfort. It’s available in standard widths (B for women and D for men) and wider widths (D for women and 2E for men), which benefit broader foot types.

• Is the Brooks Cascadia 19 waterproof?

If you're hunting for waterproof trail running shoes, the Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX has you covered. This model features a Gore-Tex Invisible fit upper, a flexible, waterproof membrane to tackle rainy runs with confidence and comfort, preventing wet feet from stealing your focus.

Saucony Peregrine 16 Review: Lightweight, Mountain-Ready Trail Running Shoes

Flying fresh off the shelves and onto the trail, the Saucony Peregrine 16 trail running shoes give you more of what you crave for your next off-road adventure: plusher cushioning and more powerful traction.

With this trail running shoe, there is no need to hesitate, thanks to its speedy feel that can quite literally conquer mountains. For generations, the Saucony Peregrine has earned its place on the podium of ‘do-it-all’ trail running shoes, and this latest evolution lives up to the hype and more.

Upper: Secure Fit & Adventure-Worthy Protection

Along with wrapping your feet securely, ideal for tackling rugged climbs and fast-paced descents, the upper of the Saucony Peregrine 16 provides protection. A prominent toe bumper provides a barrier against collisions with gnarled roots, sharp stones and other trail obstacles, reinforcing your trail shoes with much-needed puncture resistance when the terrain turns technical.

The entire upper has been crafted from stronger materials than its predecessor, while incorporating recycled mesh so you can tread lighter on the environment while you move quicker on your feet.

A plush feel from the padded collar and breathable tongue contributes to the comfort, so it feels ready for adventure straight out of the box, allowing cool air to circulate and helping to reduce hot spots. With comfort a priority, you can turn your focus on pushing your performance, or simply enjoying the trail without distractions.

Midsole: Uncomplicated Cushioning 

The midsole of the Saucony Peregrine 16 offers a happy middle ground of cushioning. Soft, but not marshmallow-soft. Responsive, but without sacrificing shock absorption.

The tweaks to the midsole are one of the key components that separate the Saucony Peregrine 16 from the 15. Even though Saucony have added an extra 4mm of PWRRUN foam underfoot, it doesn’t feel chunkier, only plusher and more protective. Naturally, a higher stack height will dull ground feel to a degree, but the control is as sharp as ever, and the extra protection feels like a worthy trade-off.

In one word, the midsole could be described as forgiving, helping ward off fatigue from harsh impacts, while remaining light and nimble. This makes it an ideal cruiser for flowing into kilometre after kilometre of trail adventures, even at faster paces.

Unlike competitors like the Brooks Catamount, the Saucony Peregrine 16 doesn’t have a plate designed for propulsion – and it doesn’t need one. This trail running shoe has plenty of responsiveness without overcomplicating the engineering or adding rigidity. The result is a smooth ride that makes easy work of challenging terrain. It’s complete with a forefoot rock guard between the midsole and outsole for a flexible and protective barrier.

Outsole: Aggressive Grip From Heel To Toe 

Geared up with a new Vibram Megagrip outsole, the Saucony Peregrine 16 offers full coverage underneath your feet. Vibram has been equipping athletic shoes with durable and grippy Italian-made soles for nearly a century, with its foundations built on mountaineering footwear.  

The partnership between Saucony and Vibram is a powerful one. When it comes to the trail, the Vibram Megagrip outsole in combination with the Traction Lug design of the Saucony Peregrine 16 is a winning formula.

Turn your Saucony Peregrine 16 upside down, and you’ll notice the prominent chevron-shaped lugs that provide elite-level traction. At 4mm, these lugs stick confidently to dry and dusty trails or wet, rocky terrain and even sections of snow with ease.

However, similarly to the Brooks Cascadia 19, they don’t have that extra bite for deep mud that 5mm or 6mm long lugs could provide. Don’t let that dissuade you, mud in typical doses on Australian trail running routes won’t stop this off-road shoe, only slushy, bog-like conditions.

All up, the fresh take on the outsole has been praised for its durability and structure to tackle sharp rocks and chase new summits. It’s an outsole you can forget about because you know this trail running shoe will put the work in to keep you sure-footed on technical terrain and braking confidently on descents.

FAQ: Saucony Peregrine 16

• What are the Saucony Peregrine 16 best for?

The Saucony Peregrine 16 shines for its lightweight versatility, from short trail runs up to 50km distances. On virtually any ground beneath your feet, this trail all-rounder will bite into rugged terrain with confidence while keeping your feet feeling agile. If you prefer a minimalist feel without sacrificing protection, you’ll find the Saucony Peregrine 16 a go-to option in your trail running kit.

• How does the Saucony Peregrine 16 fit?  

The fit of the Saucony Peregrine 16 remains honest to the popular Saucony Peregrine 15, making it easy for you to slide into this worthwhile upgrade.

Due to the snug design, it has a slipper-like feel that moves like an extension of your body. The toe box is slightly roomier compared to the previous model, a trend that is becoming increasingly common among running shoe brands.

It is available in both standard widths (B for women and D for men) and wider fit offerings (D wide for women and 2E wide for men), for those seeking a more spacious or accommodating fit to customise your ride.

• Are the Saucony Peregrine 16 waterproof?

The Saucony Peregrine 16 comes in a waterproof trail running shoe model, the Saucony Peregrine 16 GTX, so you can rock hop over streams and push your adventure forward in wet weather.  

Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus Review: Altra’s Flagship Trail Running Shoes

The Altra Lone Peak 9 series is trail running shoe royalty in the Altra family when it comes to comfort. As zero-drop trail running shoes, they promote a natural stride, with zero drop referring to the difference between the stack height of the forefoot and the heel. 

By keeping the slope consistent throughout the length of your feet, zero-drop shoes encourage proper alignment, allowing you to harness your body’s natural biomechanics to run smoothly and efficiently, and offering an even distribution of shock.

Zero-drop trail running shoes aren’t the same as barefoot trail running shoes, which have no cushioning (although zero-drop shoes can also be barefoot). In the case of the Altra Lone Peak 9, the 25mm stack height provides a sweet spot of cushioning and ground feel without an elevated heel.

Please note: If you’re new to zero-drop running shoes, we recommend transitioning them into your shoe rotation gradually, with small increases in mileage to allow your body to adapt safely. 

Upper: Breathable, Quick-Draining Barrier

The finely porous mesh upper of the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus wraps your feet in both breathability and protection, enabling heat and humidity to escape, while providing a shield against coarser dust, sand or whatever debris you encounter on the trail. This makes it an ideal choice for warm-weather runs and preventing blisters, which can be aggravated by friction and moist conditions within your running shoes. However, be sure to gear up with thick running socks or trail-ready, Merino wool blends in cold weather to keep your feet running happy.

The recycled ripstop material holds up effortlessly against abrasions and is strengthened in critical zones, with a TPU rubber at the toe for additional protection. With excellent drainage, the upper engineering is also ideal for navigating muddy sections of trail or river crossings.

Midsole: Balances Protection And Proprioception

The Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus features ALTRA EGO - a midsole technology that has made its mark in Altra’s key models on and off the road, including the Altra Escalante, Altra Mont Blanc and Altra Torin.

Altra EGO compresses and bounces back with resiliency, helping you spring into your next stride. It may not have the same level of trampoline-like propulsion or extreme softness of some max cushioned shoes, but it does provide quality ground feel for those seeking a Goldilocks formula of protection and proprioception. Proprioception refers to the awareness of your body in space, and for trail runners, it can be key to staying sure-footed as you navigate uneven terrain or adapt to trail obstacles.

So yes, your feet have to work harder in the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus compared to less minimalist running shoes with a rocker geometry or an ultra-forgiving midsole; however, the reward is the natural strengthening of your feet and lower legs to become a stronger runner.

The low-to-ground feel of the Altra Lone Peak family not only makes your stride feel more natural but reduces your risk of rolling an ankle - fantastic for beginner runners or conquering technical trails when you need the peace of mind of a stable platform. Complete with a StoneGuard, Altra’s take on a rock plate for flexible protection, you won’t feel every sharp rock beneath your feet.

Outsole: Adaptable and Durable Traction

Like the Saucony Peregrine 16, Altra Olympus, Altra Timp and Altra Mont Blanc, the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus boasts a Vibram Megagrip outsole. It transforms the standard Altra Lone Peak 9 with its MaxTrac outsole into a more versatile, adaptable trail shoe.

Traction should not be overlooked on the trail; it’s one of the key reasons why your road running shoes are simply unsuitable for rugged terrain. Any concerns trail runners had with the wet-weather traction of this trail running shoe family have been alleviated, with the Vibram Megagrip and 3.5mm lugs providing a sticky platform for wet wooden boardwalks, slippery rock, hard-packed dirt and even mud, as long as it’s not ultra-deep. This is where the Altra King MT comes in, with chevron-shaped 6mm lugs to stick onto seriously soft terrains. 

As a highly durable compound, the Vibram Megagrip also increases the life expectancy of the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus. It does come at a loss to some flexibility, but when you're tearing down aggressive, unforgiving terrain in rain or over long distances, it feels well worth the trade-off. If you have a goal to run on the trails more regularly, this additional longevity absolutely ticks a box without making a significant dent in your wallet, giving you more confidence in the long run.

FAQ: Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus

• What are the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus best for?

For trail runners and hikers seeking a nimble ride and natural feel, the Altra Lone Peak Plus is impossible to look past. The pivotal difference between the Altra Lone Peak 9 and Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus is the addition of a Vibram Megagrip outsole, giving you extra confidence on steep scrambles.

If you’re running on a budget on dry, non-technical terrain, the Altra Lone Peak meets your criteria as a beginner-friendly trail running shoe. If you want a high-mileage trail running shoe that will adapt with you, that can seamlessly flow onto more rocky, steep or wet terrain as you strive for more intensity, the Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus is the superior choice.

• How does the Altra Lone Peak 9 and 9 Plus fit?

The fit is one of the key aspects that has led to Altra having such a strong following among trail runners. Altra trail running shoes stand out from the pack with their signature FootShape fit with the Altra Lone Peak family, featuring the most spacious, Altra’s Original FootShape.

This translates to a roomy toe box and generous midfoot that allows you to engage your feet fully, splaying your toes for inherent stabilisation, and accommodating the natural swelling of your forefoot during long-distance efforts.

Wider and more voluminous foot types have success when slipping into the Altra Lone Peak 9 and 9 Plus for fun, fitness and adventure, with both standard and broader widths available. No matter what preference of running socks you have, they’ll team up with the new Altra Lone Peak models without a problem, with plenty of wriggle room.  

Complete with a foot-moulding heel cup free of the plastic supports of previous models, this trail running and hiking shoe creates a secure fit to prevent heel slippage, without feeling overly stiff. Although it consequently feels slightly less stable at the heel, this encourages natural mobility to tackle aggressive inclines and descents.

• Are the Altra Lone Peak waterproof? 

The Altra Lone Peak 9 itself is available in waterproof trail running shoe models, with a protective upper that allows you to embrace the elements. For additional protection when hiking and backpacking, consider reaching for the Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof Mid, providing higher ankle protection for increased coverage and stability.   

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review: Max Cushioning Meets Goat-Like Traction 

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is now a trail running veteran. We couldn’t resist putting it on our best trail running shoes for 2026 list, because it certainly hasn’t budged as one of the Greatest Of All Time (G.O.A.T) on the trail running scene for new and seasoned trail runners. This lightweight, max cushioned trail running shoe is enduring and timeless. It’s an ideal option for both flowing into a steady pace and taking on swifter efforts. 

It lives up to the philosophy of maximalism that Hoka running shoes have spearheaded since their foundation in 2009 to “inspire people to move”. On the trail, this means you can feel more protected and less of the sharp debris beneath your feet on technical terrain.

Upper: Lightweight and Supportive  

Up top, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 trail running shoes are hard-wearing, with the lightweight woven upper demonstrating abrasion resistance worthy of adventure. The upper material isn’t stretchy, ensuring a supportive wrap around your feet while remaining breathable. A thicker tongue adds an element of plushness. 

Midsole: Max Cushioned Yet Responsive

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 cradles your feet in a thick midsole, featuring a 40mm heel stack height in the men’s Speedgoat 6 and 38mm in the women’s Speedgoat 6. However, ‘max cushioned’ doesn’t necessarily correlate to ‘max softness’. In the case of the Speedgoat 6, the cushioning feels relatively firm beneath your feet. Your feet don’t sink into the cushioning; rather, they bounce into the next stride with responsiveness. If you’re seeking a plusher, more forgiving feel, the Hoka Challenger, a hybrid road-to-trail shoe, may be the better option for you.    

Lighter and more resilient than its predecessor, the midsole of the Hoka Speedgoat 6 stands the test of time. Even after putting these trail running shoes through extensive mileage, runner feedback suggests that the updated compressed EVA foam doesn’t degrade noticeably in terms of comfort and protection, thanks to its firmer density. It’s paired with Hoka’s signature MetaRocker geometry, encouraging a smooth and efficient stride that makes flowing from heel to toe feel more effortless. 

Outsole: Technical Traction 

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 continues to impress trail runners with its rugged protection from the ground up, featuring a you guessed it – Vibram Megagrip outsole to top the podium alongside the Saucony Peregrine 16 and Altra Lone Peak 9 Plus. Often described as both lightweight and high traction by the running community, the Speedgoat sounds like a paradox, but Hoka has achieved both characteristics with its collaboration with Vibram. The protection and comfort can be relied on for the long haul, whereas the Hoka Speedgoat 5 had some durability concerns. 

Taking inspiration from the hooves of mountain goats, the traction of the Hoka Speedgoat family makes this ride capable of scaling mountains. Extra care has been taken to ensure the stability and sure-footedness of this trail running shoe on aggressive terrain, particularly in the high-wear zone of the heel. Wet conditions and steep climbs don’t deter the Hoka Speedgoat, and its 5mm lugs provide confidence-inspiring grip so you don’t have to second-guess every step. 

FAQ: Hoka Speedgoat 6

• What are the Hoka Speedgoat 6 best for?

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is ideal for trail runners, ultra runners and hikers seeking to fly over technical terrain without feeling every sharp stone or twig. Aggressive and challenging terrain is where the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is in its element - from scrambling up rocky slopes to slippery descents. Contrary to what the max cushioning may suggest, it provides a light, agile feel underfoot - where protection meets nimbleness. 

• How do the Hoka Speedgoat 6 fit? 

The fit of the Hoka Speedgoat 6 runs narrower than its predecessor. This snug security can be beneficial on steep and challenging terrain, ensuring a non-slip fit. However, for those seeking a slightly more spacious fit, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is available in broader width offerings. 

• Are the Hoka Speedgoat 6 waterproof? 

The Hoka Speedgoat is available in a waterproof trail running shoe version to gear up for wet weather adventure. The Hoka Speedgoat 6 GTX wraps your feet in a GORE-TEX Invisible Fit upper that acts as a protective barrier against rain and mud.

Which Trail Running Shoe Is Best For You? 

It isn’t about which is the best trail running shoe, but which is the best for you. Above all, consider your comfort when choosing new trail running shoes. This is key whether you’re a beginner trail runner or seasoned ultra runner - keeping in mind that when you’re comfortable, you’ll feel more motivated to run and can naturally perform better without distractions. 

No matter the specs or how the trail running shoe sounds on paper, evaluate how it feels on the first step-in. Do your toes have space to splay? Is there any rubbing or irritation? When you find the perfect fit that works in harmony with your foot shape and offers the level of cushioning you desire, it’s empowering. 

Discover the perfect fit from home by taking advantage of our Try 2 Anything Upgrade that allows you to choose two (or more) sizes or models with worry-free returns. 

Need help choosing trail running shoes for men and women in Australia? Contact our team of Wildfire Sports shoe experts or visit our Brisbane store for personalised fitting advice. 

Teresa Attard - Trail Explorer and Nature Enthusiast

Teresa is passionate about lacing up and rejuvenating in nature. Located on the sunny Central Coast of Australia, on the weekends you’ll find her walking the golden beaches, hiking challenging terrain or baking trail treats for her next adventure.

Teresa has been in the running shoe industry since 2012, with a belief in the power of running and walking to nurture positivity, creativity and self-confidence that can be applied to everyday life.