Best Trail Shoes for the 2024 Season

Trail running is a great way to spend time in nature while challenging your body and switching it up from paved roads. When participating in this exciting activity, having the right footwear is not just a matter of comfort — it’s a key component for your safety and performance, making a big impact on your experience in the great outdoors.  

The 2024 season brings an array of trail shoes designed for you by ASICS, each offering unique features and benefits. Let’s explore the benefits of having shoes designed for trail running and our picks for you.  

Why it’s important to buy shoes designed for trails

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​Trail running shoes have a slightly different design than running shoes, making them more suitable for diverse terrain. Unlike regular running shoes, trail shoes may offer enhanced grip, stability, and protection against rough surfaces. This type of shoe is generally able to better handle varied and often unpredictable conditions of the trail — from muddy paths to rocky inclines. When considering whether to buy trail shoes, think about the following benefits: 

Increased traction

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Trails vary in condition much more dramatically than paved roads, and the ground is much softer. When hitting the trails, you might find your path ranging from muddy and slippery to dry and rocky. Trail shoes often have specialized soles with superior grip and traction to be able to better handle diverse conditions and provide grip on softer surfaces.  

Enhanced stability 

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Compared to road running shoes, trail running shoes often have stiffer midsoles to provide more stability when you’re running on uneven terrain. ​Trail shoes also often have a lower heel-to-toe drop, which means a more stable base and can lessen the likelihood of rolling an ankle. 

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Rugged trail terrains demand shoes that can withstand abrasion and provide protection. Trail shoes include durable materials in strategic locations that are designed to help resist wear and tear. They often include reinforced toe caps and underfoot protection to shield your feet as you go.  

Best ASICS shoes for the trail

Whether you’re an avid trail runner or alternate between roads and trails, we’ve got you covered at ASICS. Our diverse line, crafted with high-tech materials and sustainable partnerships, can help you feel confident on the go. 

Prioritize stability: GEL-TRABUCO^® 12

The ​GEL-TRABUCO® 12 shoe has an adaptive guidance system to provide enhanced stability for trail runners of all expertise. With a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool, a lace holder to prevent tripping on laces, and rearfoot GEL^® technology to help absorb shock, this shoe guides you toward a more confident running experience. Plus, the ASICSGRIP technology on the outsole helps you stay sure-footed in all conditions.

Connect with nature: GEL-SONOMA 7 

If the outdoors brings you a sense of peace and serenity, this shoe is for you. The ​GEL-SONOMA 7 sneaker is designed to help give you extra grip on off-road surfaces with its solid rubber outsole and breathable mesh upper, and we are loving the latest colorways of this shoe in our NATURE BATHING collection. GEL^® technology and AMPLIFOAM cushioning enhance shock absorption with every footfall. Better yet, the GEL-SONOMA 7 shoe is eco-friendly, with at least 20 percent of its upper made of recycled materials and a sockliner dyed in a process that reduces water usage by 33 percent and carbon emissions by 45 percent. 

Build speed: FUJISPEED 2 

For those who crave speed on the trails, the ​FUJISPEED 2 running shoe in its new colorway is the go-to shoe. The lightweight design, engineered with FF BLAST PLUS cushioning and a full-length carbon plate, is designed to help propel your momentum forward on uneven terrain without compromising support. The outsole rubber grip is specifically engineered with ASICSGRIP outside technology for trail conditions, ensuring reliable traction at high speeds. 

Get started: GEL-EXCITE TRAIL 2

For the new or casual trail runner, the ​​GEL-EXCITE TRAIL 2 trail shoe is a great choice. This shoe offers advanced cushioning through several high-tech features, including AMPLIFOAM^TM PLUS cushioning and rearfoot GEL^® technology. Plus, the ​​Ortholite^®  sockliner and trail-specific outsole provide soft comfort for your foot while helping to maintain an advanced grip on trail surfaces. 

Switch up your run: GEL-VENTURE^® 9

The ​GEL-VENTURE® 9 shoe is an excellent option for runners transitioning from street to trail running. Rearfoot GEL^® technology improves impact absorption, helping to create a softer feeling at footstrike, while AMPLIFOAM^TM cushioning and higher stack height at the midsole help to provide increased comfort on both hard and soft surfaces. The trail-specific outsole pattern enhances grip, making it a versatile shoe for various trail conditions. 

Get active with ASICS

The 2024 ASICS trail shoes offer something for every type of trail runner, whether you're seeking speed and agility or prioritizing comfort and stability. Remember, off-road running presents many unique challenges, and having the trail shoe that is right for you is an important step towards hitting the trails with confidence so you may fully embrace the beauty and adventure of nature. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Not all exercises are suitable for everyone. Always consult with your health care provider about any concerns you have before beginning or modifying your fitness routine.