The best trail running shoes for ultras 2025

There is more and more enthusiasm for running long distances, whether on asphalt or in the mountains, the big marathons already seem to be an almost unavoidable appointment for the popular runners and the same happens to the mountain lovers with the marathons and ultra marathons.

To run long distances in the mountains is necessary, in addition to an intense planning and preparation, and we do not refer only to the physical training, but also mental and nutritional. In addition, a very important aspect that can determine the success or not of our participation, is to choose the right type of shoes to use, depending on the terrain, expected weather and the characteristics of each runner, among other aspects.

Best trail running shoes for ultras 2025

For this reason, the editorial team of RUNNEA presents this recurring list of trail running shoes recommended for long distances in the mountains and in which we wanted to compile different types of shoes to reach a wide range of different profiles of runners, as always, we will be attentive to the latest developments to incorporate them into the list.

1. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
2. Brooks Cascadia 18
3. HOKA Tecton X 3
4. The North Face Summit Vectiv Pro 3
5. Nike Zegama 2
6. Mizuno Wave Mujin 10
7. ASICS Gel Trabuco Max 4
8. Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx
9. Salomon S/Lab Genesis
10. Kiprun MT3
11. Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra
12. NNormal Tomir 2.0
13. Scarpa Spin Planet
14. Saucony Xodus Ultra 3
15. Dynafit Ultra Pro 2

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 is the perfect combination of comfort, stability and grip. The midsole features the latest generation of Fresh Foam X in dual density format: the lower layer is somewhat firmer and more stable, while the upper layer is responsible for providing that soft and cushioned feel when stepping. On the outsole, Vibram Megagrip technology takes center stage: 4.5 mm lugs, larger and deeper than in the previous version. In addition, thanks to its upper with Engineered Mesh and Toe Protect, its lower drop (4 mm) and its lower weight than gram 300, this is an unparalleled revolution in the line that we are sure will bring much joy.

Brooks Cascadia 18

The Brooks Cascadia 18 is a trail running shoe specifically designed to provide the highest degree of protection and dynamism of the company as far as the mountain is concerned. We are talking about a mid-profile model, which will maintain the thickness of its DNA Loft v2 midsole and its Trail Adapt plate, to promote a more comfortable, guided and resistant tread. The outsole of the new model will offer exemplary traction and grip, as was the case with its predecessor, the Brooks Cascadia 17, thanks to its TrailTack Green system, with prominent, multidirectional lugs. Therefore, this is a model of great versatility and fit that improves in protection and finishes.

HOKA Tecton X 3

Undoubtedly, one of the star models of this season in the long distance, as it was last season, is the HOKA Tecton X 3 that have come with great features and technologies to provide maximum performance to the fastest runners. Lightweight, cushioned and really effective shoes that will delight the most resistant runners.

The North Face Summit Vectiv Pro 3

The new The North Face Summit Vectiv Pro 3 combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional performance on the most demanding terrain. Its high rebound DREAM foam propels every stride, and with an additional 4mm in the midsole, you'll enjoy perfect cushioning for long distances. Designed for ultras, this model offers reinforced forefoot support thanks to an improved plate design. Every detail has been optimized to help you reach your goals and conquer demanding challenges. If you are looking for a high performance trail shoe, this Summit Vectiv Pro 3 will be a safe bet.

Nike Zegama 2

The Nike Zegama 2 is the latest addition to Nike's family of trail running shoes, designed to offer the perfect combination of cushioning and responsiveness over technical terrain and varying distances. These shoes have been developed with a special focus on speed and endurance, making them an ideal choice for runners looking for performance and comfort with every step. The midsole of the Zegama 2 is equipped with Nike's Zoom X technology, known for its lightness and responsiveness. The increased stack height provides superior underfoot protection, especially on long-distance runs, ensuring that every stride is smooth and efficient. This feature not only improves comfort, but also helps reduce fatigue during long runs.

To cope with any type of terrain and weather conditions, the Nike Zegama 2 features a Vibram rubber outsole. This material, combined with a deeper and more diverse lug pattern, offers unprecedented traction and grip. Whether on rocky, muddy or slippery terrain, these shoes ensure stability and control, allowing runners to maintain pace and confidence with every step.

Mizuno Wave Mujin 10

The Mizuno Wave Mujin 10 is one of the most emblematic trail running shoes of the Japanese brand. One of the keys to the success of the range is the perfect balance between cushioning and stability. It has a new knitted fabric, more resistant and breathable, as well as a midsole with a new composition and design, which will present a combination of Mizuno Enerzy and U4ic. For this new version the Michelin compound present in previous versions is replaced by a new Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm of prominence in what is a model of 8 millimeters of drop and 340 grams of weight.

ASICS Gel Trabuco Max 4

We continue with ASICS to present the ASICS Gel Trabuco Max 4, a mountain shoe that stands out for its comfort and protection but also introduces slight improvements over its predecessors. On the one hand, the Flyte Foam BLAST PLUS ECO technology provides great shock absorption while, on the other hand, the GUIDESOLE technology improves transitions in all types of terrain. A model of height that comes with a relatively low weight for its maximalism (315 grams) a drop of 5 mm.

Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx

The most technical shoe of the American brand, the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx is updated with its innovative Matryx fabric, and also with a cushioning system that provides comfort and stability over long distances. The Vibram compound and 5mm lug pattern ensure maximum traction.

Salomon S/Lab Genesis

The Salomon S/Lab Genesis has been specifically designed to run through the most demanding mixed terrain, while enjoying high-performance grip and lasting comfort. The midsole incorporates lightweight, reactive Energy Surge foam, a combination of EVA and olefinic fiber [OBC] that offers durable cushioning and energy return with rebound. Its All Terrain Contagrip® outsole is designed to offer quality response on a wide variety of surfaces, while the unit maintains a 8 mm drop, with a heel depth of 4.5mm and a contained weight of 258 grams.

Kiprun MT3

The Kiprun MT3 is a shoe manufactured by the French multinational that will allow us to face any mountain adventure, whether running or walking as in the case of the Camino de Santiago. The new model combines comfort with durability to provide great versatility in a wide range of terrains.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

The new adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra features a new, more dynamic rocker, but this revolutionary design features a midsole with exclusive LIGHTSTRIKE PRO foam. This means a perfect combination of cushioning and energy return for the purpose of adding extra speed to every stride. An ideal shoes for an experienced and demanding trail runner, lightweight and looking for a high performance trail running shoe that allows you to run very fast, but also very reliably.

NNormal Tomir 2.0

The renewed NNormal Tomir 2.0 are the bet of the brand created by Kilian Jornet for popular runners as they stand out for their great cushioning, improved in this version and in which it is also presented with greater protections for comfortable running medium and long distances in the mountains.

Scarpa Spin Planet

If we talk about the Scarpa Spin Planet we are talking about a model that brings with it some aspects that are familiar to us but above all a sustainable philosophy that will make them a safe bet for any self-respecting mountaineer. The outsole comes with the PRESA TRN compound, with a good multidirectional lugging that will favor grip on any type of surface, while the EVA foam midsole and the adjustment of its traditional lacing makes us talk about a model of the most cushioned and reactive. A model of the most versatile and efficient for long distances that comes with 290 grams of weight and a low drop of 4 mm.

Saucony Xodus Ultra 3

Saucony is not going to be less and also presents a model optimized for long distances. We are talking about the Saucony Xodus Ultra 3, the brand's shoe designed to comfortably run any challenge over the longest distances. It is a model expressly prepared to extract the maximum performance in ultradistance, which combines the best technologies of the company to bet on a comfortable and reactive tread for kilometers.

Dynafit Ultra Pro 2

The Dynafit Ultra Pro 2 is a trail running shoe that gives us everything we need, such as comfort, protection and good cushioning. It has a practical quick lacing system, with which we can customize the fit of the shoes perfectly according to our needs. Speedlite technology provides maximum cushioning and comfort, while its weight of 310 grams in the men's version and 270 grams in the women's version, with a drop of 8 millimeters, offers a natural and efficient stride.