In recent times there has been an explosion in popularity in both carbon race trail shoes and door-to-trail shoes. Sitting comfortably in the middle, we shouldn’t forget the humble daily trail runner, capable, durable, and perfect for high mileage and long runs off-road.

If you make time to get away from the pavements and hit the trails (or even forge your own), then you need a good shoe to make the most of those long, but oh so rewarding trail days.

Below is a selection of the very best, from the plated The North Face Vectiv Enduris 3 to the more affordable Nike Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature. There is a daily mileage shoe for everyone.

HOKA Speedgoat 5

Recently updated to use the Vibram Megagrip outsole with traction lugs, the best-named shoe on the market offers excellent grip and a smooth, cushioned ride. The dynamic textile upper accommodates foot swell while offering a flexible, comfortable hold.

The North Face Summit Vectiv Enduris 3

Capable of everything from daily training to ultra marathons, the Enduris uses a highly cushioned midsole and a 3D plate that increases lateral stability while adding forward momentum. 3.5mm lugs on an outsole using Surface CTRL rubber provide excellent traction across a wide range of terrains.

adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2

With a thin TPU plate between the midsole and outsole, the Agravic Flow 2 not only protects your foot from rocks but improves stability over uneven terrain. It features lightweight Lightstrike cushioning and Continental rubber designed to excel in wet or dry conditions.

Saucony Peregrine

A legend years in the making, the Peregrine does the simple things well. It uses soft, deep PWRRUN cushioning and Saucony’s tacky PWRTRAC outsole for excellent traction. The upper combines durable air mesh with protective overlays for a balance of hold, comfort, and durability.

HOKA Mafate X

Proving that daily run durability doesn’t need to be slow, the Mafate X offers carbon-plated speed and super-fast PEBA foam alongside deep cushioning and a protective toe cap. It delivers ultra racing speed with a secure feel. With an active foot frame and smooth meta-rocker, you shift from landing to toe-off in an almost effortless roll.

New Balance Hierro

The Hierro offers protection with deep cushioning and supportive overlays through the upper. Surprisingly lightweight for such a robust shoe, it delivers stability, comfort, and excellent traction thanks to the Vibram Eco Step outsole.

Altra Olympus 275

With a MATRYX upper featuring durable Kevlar threads, a built-in scree sleeve, and deep cushioning, this shoe is built to handle tough terrain. A wide forefoot allows natural toe splay, while a zero-drop platform offers a unique feel.

ASICS Gel-Trabuco 12

With Gel cushioning offering excellent impact absorption, an adaptive guidance system for stability, and a flexible rock plate, the Gel-Trabuco 12 is designed for uneven terrain. ASICSGRIP rubber provides reliable traction, while FF Blast foam delivers responsive cushioning.

Nike React Terra Kiger 9

Tough but lightweight, the Terra Kiger 9 has a lower stack height to give a more connected, stable, and agile feel. An internal midfoot band holds your foot securely, while high-abrasion rubber with multidirectional lugs provides traction on climbs and descents.

Nike Juniper Trail

The most affordable option on this list, the Juniper Trail provides everything you need to hit the trails. With Nike Grind materials in the midsole and a secure flywire and inner sleeve system, it offers a snug, reliable fit for everyday exploration.

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