New to trail running and not sure which shoes to choose? Don't worry, we've got it covered. Our Sportsshoes ambassador Ben Mounsey rounds up the best trail running shoes for 2022 in all major categories: Featuring leading trail technology and a sleek modern appearance, the FuelCore NITREL offers a winning combination of speed, traction, and style. The Blizzard GTX utilizes a dynamic gaiter and integrated tungsten alloy spikes for maximum protection and grip in the most severe conditions. Ideal for cold weather training and competitions during the winter months, they offer reflective details, a super secure lacing harness, an exceptional fit and unmatched traction. This midsole feel works well in off-road situations where a bit more stability aids in foot control on uneven terrain. On the tarmac, however, the Dynasoft foam was not forgiving and was especially noticeable while testing on concrete floors over multiple hours. If one limits his or her use to a few hours per outing with this shoe it will wear properly. The Fuelcore Coast 4 runs a half to full size big, so I definitely recommend trying these shoes on before purchasing.

The New Balance Nitrel V4 is the most adaptable and versatile model offered by the American company, making it particularly appropriate for individuals who enjoy wide, easy paths without mountainous difficulty. Although it has the protection and reinforcement found in more technical trail shoes, it is still oriented to those looking for less of a challenge. It is durable and affordable and it comes in a wide range of colourways and sizes to fit everyone perfectly. It is well-cushioned and offers a supportive and secure fit, as the shoe hugs the foot perfectly while not allowing the shoe to rub and cause blistering. Who Should Buy the Nitrel V4 Runners should exercise caution on wet surfaces when wearing the Fuelcore Coast 4. New Balance FuelCore Coast v4 Upper Info are looking for trail shoes dedicated to long runs. In this case, the Asics Gel-Trabuco 9 G-TX would be a much better choice. The midsole becomes slightly more rigid in the midfoot and heel where the foot is less flexible. New Balance’s Response performance insole rests on top of the midsole to further enhance the shoe’s responsive and supple feel.

As I tightened the laces for my first run in the Fuelcore Coast 4, I noticed that the tongue was integrated into the knit upper with eyelets for the laces stitched onto the outside of the upper. The shoe is a standard width, but it is worth knowing that there is a wider version of the Speedgoat 4 also available. In terms of length, I have found that Hoka generally fit smaller than usual. In most brands I wear a size UK 10, but I wear UK 10.5 in these. With the firm ride described previously, I did not find this shoe to break in and get any softer than its first day running. Don't get bogged down, however, because a firmer shoe like this is not always a negative point. For starters, the upper material is more protective than breathable with added protective welds along with the high wear areas (i.e., lateral forefoot, toe box, eyelets) which is a big advantage for off-road use.

Since there is no tongue, tightening the laces bunches up the fabric in between the lacing eyelets were the tongue should be. This caused initial discomfort as the crinkled fabric poked and pressed into the top of my foot. Made specifically for ultra-distances, this shoe is incredibly durable thanks to Kevlar®, polyamide and Matryx® fabrics. The uppers are made with breathable-waterproof FUTURELIGHT™ technology enhanced with durable Spectra® yarn and feature a zipped gaiter for protection even in snowy conditions. The Fuelcore midsole employs a combination of EVA foam densities to achieve the optimal balance between responsiveness and softness. The Fuelcore Coast 4 upper is flexible, breathable, and minimizes the use of seams to keep the shoe lightweight. The upper is comprised of a pliable knit material on the outside and a smooth liner on the inside.In summary, the inov-8 X-TALON G 210 is a lightweight trail shoe for extreme and muddy terrain. This model has unrivalled grip, with an aggressive 8mm lug pattern and is my weapon of choice for travelling light and fast on the trails.

The New Balance Nitrel v4 is true to size with just the right amount of toe box space that did not feel restricted. Overall length was consistent with just enough room in the toe box and no slipping in the heel. The width is moderate from heel to toe without any excess room for slipping. After manually manipulating the upper to relieve this discomfort, I set out on my first run in the shoes and was pleased to discover how light yet responsive they were. REVlite Midsole - Aims to deliver a lightweight ride without minimising construction or sacrificing underfoot cushioning or stability.Perfect for fell and mountain running, the Higher State Soil Shaker 2 has an 8mm drop, rugged outsole and ripstop upper that will have you tearing through the mud with ease, whilst offering maximum cushioning and ventilation. Lighter and more robust than its predecessor, the Soil Shaker 2 will have you running with efficiency and agility.