Looking for a trail shoe that can handle all types of terrain without having to build an arsenal in your closet? At RUNNEA we want to shed some light on the "Holy Grail" of trail running: a single model that works equally well on easy trails, technical trails, rocky climbs or muddy forests. To do so, we talked to different members of the RUNNEA Trail Team and looked at three bestsellers that come back every season with improvements and new materials: the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro 9, the HOKA Speedgoat 6 and the ASICS Gel Trabuco 13
What does it mean to be "the most versatile"?
For us, versatility means not having to think too much when you go out for a mountain run and open your closet. It means you can rely on a trail runningshoes to take you out for a training run on a forest trail on Tuesday, venture out on a hilly trail on Saturday, and finish it off with a 20- or 30-kilometer mountain run without feeling like you've got the wrong shoe. They may not be the perfect shoes for extremely technical terrain, but they promise to perform on a high note in most contexts.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
Comfortable, rolling and solid for day-to-day use.
The FFx Hierro saga has always been identified with trail runners who want cushioning, protection and, above all, a plus of comfort to run at easy paces, but without giving up adventure. But this version 9 is going to be one of the surprises of the season. Faster, more protected and just as light.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
Fresh Foam X Midsole
With a generous layer of foam, it offers that "fluffy carpet" feeling that encourages you to keep adding miles.
Not the lightest, but very stable for confident footing on loose rocks or moderate descents.
Reinforced upper
You can feel that the mesh has been improved for durability and protection. It is now thicker to withstand rubbing against roots or rocks.
The toe cap has a tough coating - a "toecap"- that protects against root and rock strikes.
Vibram Megagrip outsole
The lugs are not overly deep, but they grip well on dry rock and gravel roads.
If you go out in thick mud, it defends with dignity, even if it is not the queen in that terrain.
Fit and last
Wide last, especially in the metatarsal area. Ideal for wide feet or for those who suffer from chafing.
Even with the wide toe box, the ankle is well supported, avoiding unwanted displacements in descents.
Who is the New Balance Fresh FoamX Hierro v9 for?
- For medium to heavy runners (70 kg and up) looking for comfort and cushioning rather than lightness.
- For daily training and medium distances (up to mountain marathons, if you don't mind a little more weight).
- If you move on trails, not very technical trails and you want a lot of protection, this model is a safe valor.
HOKA Speedgoat 6
The aggressive all-terrain shoe
To talk about this Speedgoat is to talk about one of the references in trail running. Designed for long distances and demanding terrain, this sixth version maintains its DNA -generous cushioningand brutal grip - but polishes the feeling of fit and lightness.
EVA midsole
HOKA 's maximalist character translates into a high stack that protects joints on long runs or ultras.
With only 4 mm. of drop, it preserves that more "natural" footprint that helps not to force the biomechanics.
Vibram Megagrip Litebase Outsole
Slightly deeper and more aggressive lugs than the FFx Hierro 9 or Trabuco 13.
Great grip on wet stone, mud and broken mountain sections.
The Litebase version lightens up a bit.
New upper and fit
The space in the middle area has been improved to adapt to wider feet than the previous version.
The collar and tongue offer a more comfortable fit, without sacrificing support in difficult areas.
Running sensations
At comfortable paces, you feel the "cushioning" cushioning.
When accelerating, it responds surprisingly well, although it is not a "fast" shoe in the strict sense. It performs better than previous versions in short changes of pace.
Who is the HOKA Speedgoat 6 for?
- For those who train in the mountains with considerable slopes or technical terrain and want safety first and foremost.
- For medium to long distances, even ultras, where cushioning is key.
- If you live in muddy areas or wet rocks, you will love the outsole.
- Not ideal if you are looking for a very wide last or prefer a firmer ground feel.
ASICS Gel Trabuco 13
The classic that has been modernized without losing its essence.
The Trabuco family has been ASICS ' top choice for mountain runners who value reliability for years. This 13th version refines the structure and protection, adding an extra touch of lightness that is appreciated when facing long routes.
FlyteFoam + Gel Midsole
Mixes two key technologies of the house: the lightness of FlyteFoam in much of the midsole and the visible Gel in the heel for cushioning.
The resulting sensation is a soft landing, with good energy return.
Rock Protection Plate and support
Rock Protection Plate prevents us from noticing sharp rocks; a relief if we run in rocky areas.
Dynamic Duomax support system adds lateral stability. Useful for runners with a tendency to over-pronate or looking for extra support.
Versatile lugged outsole
Not as aggressive as the Speedgoat, nor as rolling as the Hierro.
It defends in mixed terrain: some mud, hard terrain, forest trails and even some asphalt without breaking down.
Fit and upper
Upper combines reinforced mesh and thermo-sealing to protect from rubbing.
Feels like it "wraps" the foot well, especially in the midfoot, offering confidence on descents or when skirting rocks.
Who is the ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 for?
- For runners who value a balance between protection and responsiveness.
- Ideal if you are looking for stability and have had ankle or over-pronation problems.
- Goes great on mixed terrain, and doesn't shy away from more technical sections.
Which one takes the versatility crown?
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
- Perfect for runners who prioritize comfort in their outings, but also want to push and look for livelier paces, even for considerable distances.
- This new version has gained in agility, protection and durability. It will shine on almost any terrain.
HOKA Speedgoat 6
- An excellent ally if you plan adventures with slopes, mud and mountain routes of medium and long distance.
- Great grip and cushioning, ideal for ultras or long runs.
ASICS Gel Trabuco 13
- The most "balanced" if you are going to move through mixed terrain -from soft trails to technical sections- and need extra stability.
- If you are looking for a middle ground between comfort and reactivity but always with a good dose of cushioning.
Which one do you choose?
- If your plan is to alternate betweeneasy trails, moderate runs and the occasional rocky section, the ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 will surely meet all your requirements.
- If you're more concerned about comfort on long runs, the Hierro v9 will be your best bet with its more friendly Fresh Foam X
- If you're thinking about trails with leg-breaking climbs and devilish descents, or even mountainous ultras, the HOKA Speedgoat 6 is your most reliable weapon.
Whatever your decision, remember that at RUNNEA you can compare prices and find the best deals. Because trail running doesn't have to be expensive... unless you're hell-bent on collecting shoes.
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