Best trail running gear

Pros

• ✓High-quality carbon, ultralight (137 g per pole in 110 cm)
• ✓Compact 33 cm folded length: fits any ultra pack
• ✓Lightning-fast Z-pole deployment in a single move
• ✓Non-slip EVA grip even with sweaty hands

Cons

• ✗Fixed sizes, not adjustable
• ✗Carbon = more fragile than aluminum in hard falls

Pros

• ✓Max Hoka cushioning: protects your legs over long distances
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs: reliable grip in mud and rock
• ✓Snug, lightweight Matryx upper
• ✓The most battle-tested model in ultra trail running worldwide

Cons

• ✗High stack: less stable for those who want more ground feel
• ✗Toe box a bit narrow for wide feet

Pros

• ✓Zero drop (0 mm): natural foot posture with no heel elevation
• ✓Wide FootShape toe box: toes splay freely with every stride
• ✓25 mm cushioning: enough protection without isolating from the terrain
• ✓Lightweight (315 g men's, 263 g women's)
• ✓Breathable seamless mesh upper

Cons

• ✗3.5 mm lugs insufficient for deep mud or wet rock
• ✗Not suitable for very technical terrain or skyrunning
• ✗Requires adaptation period if coming from high-drop shoes

Pros

• ✓Ideal balance between cushioning and ground feel
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole: solid traction on any surface
• ✓Comfortable last, works well for wide feet too
• ✓Very versatile: suits both daily training and racing

Cons

• ✗Less cushioning than a pure maximalist shoe like the Speedgoat
• ✗Size availability more limited than other brands

Pros

• ✓Agarre excepcional en barro y terreno técnico
• ✓Protección de puntera reforzada
• ✓Sistema Quicklace cómodo y rápido
• ✓Drenaje de agua eficiente

Cons

• ✗Durabilidad media en asfalto
• ✗Horma algo estrecha para pies anchos

Pros

• ✓Extremely versatile: suits almost any terrain and distance
• ✓PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs: reliable grip on technical ground and mud
• ✓Balanced cushioning, neither too soft nor too firm
• ✓Excellent reviews from the trail community across all runner types

Cons

• ✗Not a specialist in anything specific: if you want an extreme (barefoot or maximalist) look elsewhere
• ✗Average outsole durability on very abrasive rock

Pros

• ✓100% barefoot: zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm) and ultra-flexible sole
• ✓Very wide anatomical last: toes work as a natural spring
• ✓Very lightweight (~220 g): feels almost like running barefoot
• ✓Excellent proprioception and ground feedback
• ✓Multi-directional lugs valid for dirt, grass and tracks

Cons

• ✗No cushioning: requires prior adaptation of calves and soleus
• ✗Soleus overload if you push too many kilometres too soon
• ✗Risk of metatarsal blistering if foot strike is not modulated
• ✗Not recommended for technical rock or aggressive loose stone

Pros

• ✓Bright, sharp 1.4" AMOLED display
• ✓Onboard topo maps with turn-by-turn navigation
• ✓Highly accurate dual-frequency multi-band GPS
• ✓Only 53 g: extremely light for a watch with maps
• ✓Full training metrics (Training Readiness, load)
• ✓Onboard music and Garmin Pay

Cons

• ✗Shorter battery life than MIP-display watches (Enduro/Instinct)
• ✗Less rugged case than a Fenix for extreme terrain
• ✗High price

Pros

• ✓38 h battery life in full GPS mode
• ✓Only 39 g: lightest in its class
• ✓GPX track navigation with off-course alerts
• ✓Accurate barometric altimeter
• ✓Offline maps at no extra cost

Cons

• ✗No touchscreen (buttons only)
• ✗No built-in music

Pros

• ✓Excellent grip on rock and technical terrain
• ✓Sock-like fit that locks the foot on descents
• ✓Mountain-grade protection and durability

Cons

• ✗Slightly heavy versus racing models
• ✗Snug fit across the instep

Pros

• ✓Vibram Megagrip LiteBase outsole: exceptional grip on rock and technical ground
• ✓Very low weight for such a protective shoe
• ✓Designed and developed with input from Kilian Jornet's team
• ✓Direct ground feel, ideal for skyrunning

Cons

• ✗High price compared to other technical options
• ✗Limited cushioning for very long ultras on runnable terrain
• ✗More limited size availability as a niche brand

Pros

• ✓Real carbon under €70
• ✓Adjustable 100-135 cm: share with other runners
• ✓Interchangeable baskets (mud, snow, regular) included
• ✓Lifetime manufacturer warranty

Cons

• ✗220 g per pole: heavier than premium but lighter than aluminum
• ✗Lever lock less refined than SpeedLock or FlickLock
• ✗More basic grip (synthetic cork)

Pros

• ✓Generous, very comfortable cushioning
• ✓Versatile: works on asphalt and easy trails
• ✓Excellent for beginners and long easy runs

Cons

• ✗Low lugs: insufficient in mud and technical rock
• ✗Limited stability on very uneven terrain

Pros

• ✓Maximum cushioning and protection in the entire Hoka lineup
• ✓Stability plate: reduces fatigue in the final hours of an ultra
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs: aggressive, reliable grip
• ✓Heavily reinforced build, made for 100-milers and extreme distances

Cons

• ✗High price, the highest in the footwear catalogue
• ✗Heavier than lighter models like the Speedgoat
• ✗Overkill for short runs or speed training

Pros

• ✓Dual carbon plate: exceptional energy efficiency over long distances
• ✓PEBA foam: maximum cushioning with very low weight (290 g)
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole: reliable grip in dry and wet conditions
• ✓Ideal for ultras and long-distance racing

Cons

• ✗High price (180 EUR)
• ✗5 mm lugs insufficient for deep mud
• ✗Stiff plate not ideal for very technical, slow terrain

Pros

• ✓Extreme grip on mud, grass and soft ground
• ✓Very durable graphene outsole
• ✓Light and snug for technical terrain

Cons

• ✗Minimal cushioning, not for asphalt or long runnable distances
• ✗Aggressive lugs feel uncomfortable on hard-packed tracks

Pros

• ✓20,000 mAh: several full charges for phone or GPS watch
• ✓45W fast charging, USB-C compatible (MacBook, iPhone, Samsung)
• ✓LED display showing remaining battery percentage

Cons

• ✗Weight (around 400 g) makes it better suited for travel/bivouac than for racing
• ✗Not water-resistant, needs protecting inside the pack

Pros

• ✓Real carbon made in Austria with European quality control
• ✓FXP lock system: tool-free quick adjust, reliable under load
• ✓Adjustable 105-125 cm: shorten on the climb without stopping
• ✓Grip is comfortable on long days, better than low-cost competition

Cons

• ✗Telescopic = bulkier when collapsed (~65 cm) vs a Z-pole (33-40 cm)
• ✗Heavier per pole than a premium carbon Z-pole
• ✗FXP lock needs occasional maintenance (internal cleaning)

Pros

• ✓FriXion White outsole with Impact Brake System: exceptional grip on rock
• ✓Low, sensitive profile: maximum precision on technical terrain
• ✓Robust, durable Italian construction
• ✓Lightweight (285 g) for skyrunning and technical mountain

Cons

• ✗Low cushioning: uncomfortable over very long distances
• ✗Narrow fit, not suited for wide feet
• ✗Not suitable for beginners or rolling terrain

Pros

• ✓Immediate comfort, ideal for getting started on trail
• ✓Waterproof GORE-TEX membrane for wet days
• ✓Very well-executed road-to-trail transition

Cons

• ✗Lugs not aggressive enough for mud or technical rock
• ✗The membrane reduces breathability in the heat

Pros

• ✓Versatile: performs well on almost any terrain
• ✓Balanced, comfortable cushioning for long distances
• ✓Fast, secure Quicklace closure

Cons

• ✗Grip is just adequate in deep mud
• ✗Medium fit, not ideal for very wide feet

Pros

• ✓Comfortable GEL cushioning for beginners
• ✓Waterproof GORE-TEX membrane
• ✓Very good value for money

Cons

• ✗Moderate lugs, just adequate in deep mud
• ✗The membrane reduces breathability in the heat

Pros

• ✓Excellent stability and protection on uneven terrain
• ✓Robust, durable build
• ✓Versatile for medium and long distances

Cons

• ✗Slightly heavy versus more dynamic models
• ✗Firm ride, less cushioned than some rivals

Pros

• ✓Five separate toes: eliminates toe-on-toe friction and prevents interdigital blisters
• ✓Crew height: protects ankles from rocks and vegetation
• ✓Breathable CoolMax quick-drying fabric
• ✓Perfect synergy with wide toe box shoes like Altra

Cons

• ✗Higher price than conventional trail socks
• ✗Takes getting used to the toe separation

Pros

• ✓Ultra-thin sole (4 mm): very high proprioception without losing stone protection
• ✓Zero drop and very wide last: toes splay with complete freedom
• ✓All Weather version: rain and light mud resistant
• ✓Aggressive FG lugs for soft terrain and grass
• ✓Brand with long pedigree in barefoot footwear

Cons

• ✗High price within the barefoot segment
• ✗Requires prior transition: not suitable for runners used to 8-10 mm drop
• ✗Thin sole exposes more to sharp stones

Pros

• ✓Low price with Decathlon's hassle-free returns
• ✓Try in-store before buying
• ✓Aluminum-carbon hybrid: more impact resistant than pure carbon
• ✓Spare parts available through Decathlon

Cons

• ✗240 g per pole: clearly heavier than premium carbon
• ✗Functional folding system but less refined
• ✗Basic foam grip, less secure with sweaty hands

Pros

• ✓Very light and compact, unnoticeable on a pack or belt
• ✓Clip + velcro: attaches to almost any surface
• ✓Complements a headlamp, adds visibility from behind too

Cons

• ✗Limited runtime in continuous flashing mode, not meant for long ultras without a spare
• ✗Does not replace a headlamp as the main light source

Pros

• ✓Merino wool: regulates temperature in cold, altitude or night sections
• ✓Naturally controls odour on multi-day races
• ✓Reinforced heel and toe, seamless closure to prevent blisters
• ✓Anatomical padded design at ankle, Achilles and instep

Cons

• ✗Mid-crew height: less ankle protection than a taller crew model
• ✗Wool dries slower than synthetic fibres after a water crossing

Pros

• ✓Physical barrier against processionary caterpillars, stones and mud
• ✓Mid-high height: covers the risk zone well
• ✓Adjustable fit compatible with any trail shoe
• ✓Breathable fabric that does not trap heat

Cons

• ✗May slide slightly on technical descents
• ✗Not waterproof (only repel light water)

Pros

• ✓Individual toe pockets: maximum possible proprioception
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole: the best grip in the barefoot segment
• ✓Minimal weight (~180 g): closest sensation to running barefoot
• ✓Zero drop and minimal stack: 100% barefoot philosophy
• ✓Engages intrinsic foot musculature like no other shoe

Cons

• ✗Very steep learning curve: requires months of progressive transition
• ✗Complex sizing: you need to measure each toe and choose carefully
• ✗Injury risk if you push long kilometres too soon
• ✗Very distinctive look: not for everyone
• ✗Not suitable for very technical terrain or sharp rock

Pros

• ✓Ultralight (120 g): no weight penalty while running
• ✓Includes the basics for trailside first aid
• ✓Waterproof pouch protects contents
• ✓Can be supplemented with antihistamine and adhesive tape

Cons

• ✗Does not include antihistamine or specific medication
• ✗Included plasters are small

Pros

• ✓Very competitive price: the cheapest way to try barefoot
• ✓Zero drop and wide toe box: the core principles of natural footwear
• ✓Flexible and lightweight sole
• ✓Amazon Spain bestseller with many verified reviews

Cons

• ✗Lower durability than specialised brands (Vivobarefoot, Freet)
• ✗Less designed for technical trail: use on smooth paths or as a transition shoe
• ✗Sizing varies: check reviews before buying

Pros

• ✓Best value for money (120 EUR)
• ✓FloatPro foam: comfortable from the first kilometre
• ✓Vibram TC5+ outsole: good all-round grip on mixed terrain
• ✓Versatile and ideal for getting started in trail running

Cons

• ✗Lower performance than racing models
• ✗Not the best choice for very technical terrain or skyrunning
• ✗Decent cushioning but no plate technology

Pros

• ✓ZoomX foam: exceptional energy return inherited from the Vaporfly
• ✓Vibram Megagrip outsole: solid grip on all kinds of terrain
• ✓Very versatile: suitable for mixed terrain and long distance
• ✓Good cushioning for medium and long distances

Cons

• ✗High price (190 EUR)
• ✗High drop (8 mm) compared to more technical trail shoes
• ✗Less grip in deep mud than aggressive-lug models

Pros

• ✓Seamless construction: reduces friction and unwanted pressure points
• ✓Ankle-specific mesh for stability on rocky terrain
• ✓Cushioned sole with 3D dots that absorb impact
• ✓360° arch support that prevents blisters over long distances

Cons

• ✗Lower rating than other options in the comparison
• ✗Pricier than a basic trail sock

Pros

• ✓Dual-band GPS and offline maps at an affordable price
• ✓Large 1.45" AMOLED display
• ✓Very light (43 g) with titanium bezel
• ✓Onboard music and AI coach

Cons

• ✗Analysis platform less deep than Garmin or Polar
• ✗Average smartwatch battery (14 days)

Pros

• ✓2,000-nit AMOLED display in a rugged watch
• ✓Dual-band GPS and offline maps
• ✓Up to 27 days of battery in daily use
• ✓Military standard and 100 m water resistance
• ✓Onboard music

Cons

• ✗Bulky and heavy (68 g)
• ✗Training platform less advanced than Garmin

Pros

• ✓66 h in full GPS, ideal for single-day ultras
• ✓Free offline topo maps onboard
• ✓Dual-frequency multi-band GPS
• ✓Very light (53 g) with sapphire glass
• ✓MP3 music and touchscreen

Cons

• ✗MIP display less vivid than an AMOLED
• ✗Smaller app ecosystem than Garmin's

Pros

• ✓Reference battery life: 120 h GPS / 60 h multi-band
• ✓Solar charging that extends battery even further
• ✓Onboard topo maps and routing
• ✓Lightweight (63 g) despite the huge battery
• ✓Built-in LED flashlight

Cons

• ✗MIP display less vivid than an AMOLED
• ✗High price
• ✗Large 51 mm case, not ideal for slim wrists

Pros

• ✓Onboard topo maps with round-trip routing
• ✓Multi-band GPS with SatIQ for maximum accuracy
• ✓Built-in LED flashlight for night running
• ✓Rugged case with sapphire glass and 40 m dive rating
• ✓Music, Garmin Pay, speaker and microphone

Cons

• ✗Very high price
• ✗Heavier and bulkier than a pure running watch
• ✗Shorter battery life than MIP models like the Enduro 3

Pros

• ✓Sharp AMOLED display at an entry-level price
• ✓Only 39 g, comfortable for sleep tracking
• ✓Garmin training metrics and adaptive plans
• ✓Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode

Cons

• ✗No multi-band GPS (less accurate in canyons and dense forest)
• ✗No onboard maps
• ✗GPS battery tight for long ultras

Pros

• ✓Highly accurate dual-frequency multi-band GPS
• ✓Bright AMOLED touchscreen
• ✓Onboard music (Spotify, Amazon Music)
• ✓Full metrics: Training Readiness and load

Cons

• ✗No onboard topo maps
• ✗Shorter battery life than a Forerunner 965 or a Fenix

Pros

• ✓Solar charging: near-unlimited battery in daily use
• ✓Ultra-rugged case with MIL-STD-810 military standard
• ✓Dual-frequency multi-band GPS
• ✓Built-in LED flashlight

Cons

• ✗No onboard topo maps
• ✗No built-in music
• ✗1.1" MIP display, lower resolution than an AMOLED

Pros

• ✓AMOLED display with sapphire glass
• ✓Dual-frequency GPS and full-colour topo maps
• ✓MIL-STD-810H military-standard durability
• ✓Very complete recovery and load metrics

Cons

• ✗Modest smartwatch battery (10 days)
• ✗No onboard music
• ✗High price

Pros

• ✓Ultra-light: just 41 g
• ✓Wrist-based running power without external sensors
• ✓Excellent Polar Flow analysis platform
• ✓Affordable price

Cons

• ✗No multi-band GPS
• ✗Breadcrumb navigation only, no maps
• ✗Short smartwatch battery (7 days)

Pros

• ✓Bright 2,000-nit AMOLED display
• ✓Highly accurate dual-band GPS
• ✓Free offline topo maps
• ✓Rotating crown and easy navigation
• ✓Excellent features-to-price ratio

Cons

• ✗No onboard music
• ✗Training metrics less deep than Garmin's

Pros

• ✓Free offline topo maps onboard
• ✓Huge battery: up to 60 days and a 500 h Tour mode
• ✓Dual-band GPS with five satellite systems
• ✓Large display, ideal for navigation

Cons

• ✗MIP display, less vivid than an AMOLED
• ✗Heavy (86 g in steel)
• ✗No onboard music