Trail running Shoes vs Hiking Shoes Comparison
In the last couple of years, a new trend where hikers are replacing their hiking shoes with lighter trail running models has emerged. The trend has been brought about by the progressive development of trail running shoes, making them not just shoes for racing from the starting to the crossing line, but the new go-to choice for most outdo pursuits.
At this point, many people are left in a dilemma, “Do I follow the current trend of ditching the hiking boots for trail running shoes?” To help you make the right choice, we did this trail running shoes vs hiking shoes to help you understand the differences. We also reviewed the best three shoes in each category to assist you to make the right decision. Keep reading to identify the ideal one for you.
Top Picks
In the hiking shoes category, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is our top pick. The shoe comes with good cushioning on the inside and firm lugs to help you overcome even the most challenging terrains.
In the trail running shoes category, our first choice is the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoe. The shoe is designed with the latest features and technology from Salomon to make running out there easy, fast, and fun.
Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners: The Differences
The differences between hiking boots and trail running shoes start from their conception. The hiking boots are designed to overcome even the toughest terrain. However, trail running shoes are used to make it easy to run and finish competitions first. Here are other things that differentiate trail runners from hiking boots:
- Hiking boots are designed using thick materials with the sole offering protection to the entire food while trail runners are cut from lighter materials to avoid placing a too heavy load on the feet
- Hiking boots are constructed with high ankles for additional support to prevent rolling ankles whereas trail running shoes do not have such high support
- Hiking shoes are designed with tough materials that make them last up to 1000 miles whereas the trail running shoes can only do 500 miles
- Most hiking shoes are designed with waterproof material such as leather that makes them great pieces for hiking in cold areas while trail running shoes are better during warmer months such as sprints and summer
- Using trail running shoes is more enjoyable because the movement can be rapid towards your destination, whereas running can with hiking books can be challenging because they are heavy.
- The hiking boots offer the best support for hiking in the snow whereas trail running shoes are recommended for running in drier areas
Trail Running vs Hiking Shoes: Our Reviews
Hiking Shoes
1. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II – First Choice
https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Newton-Waterproof-Hiking-Cordovan/dp/B00KWK7YM0/?
The Newton Ridge Plus 11 hiking boots is out first choice in the hiking shoes category. The shoe is sturdily constructed to help you conquer even the toughest terrain with ease. So, whether you are planning for a hike in the Rocky Mountains or Grand Canyon, no place is too tough for this boot!
The outer part of the shoe is designed with full-grain leather that helps to make it strong and waterproof. The leather also helps to keep your legs secure when moving trails. The boots are done with seam-sealed construction, meaning that even if you are camping or passing through a wet area, your feet will not get wet.
The shoes look tough from the outside, but it is a different thing when you slip your feet inside. They are designed with a lightweight Techlite (EVA) midsole that is soft and comfortable to wear. The midsole absorbs the impact as you move through the rough terrain.
The boot’s outsole is created using the Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Grip technology to help you move with ease, even in wet areas. They also have multidirectional cogs that offer excellent grip even when running through muddy terrain or areas with loose soil.
Specs
- Weight: 452 grams
- Outsole: Rubber
- Shaft measurement: About five-inch from the arch
Pros
- Designed to overcome even the toughest terrain
- Good cushioning
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Good for protecting your feet
Cons
- Very heavy
- Expensive
2. Hi-Tec Men’s Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
It is true that most of the hiking boots are expensive, but this does not that you cannot get a great option when buying on a budget. The Hi-Tec Bandera Mid Hiking Boots are some of the cheapest options out there. However, the low price is not an indication of quality because this shoe comes with some of the most enviable features.
The boots are designed with suede leather and mesh top, a strong combination that makes the shoe very strong. While the leather is waterproof, the nylon mesh helps to make the shoe breathable to keep your feet feeling fresh when out hiking in the woods.
The shoe’s outsole is made of thick rubber to help protect you from the materials on the trails or camping ground. Furthermore, the outsole features deep cut lugs that provide awesome traction even when travelling through wet surfaces or through surfaces with loose soil. The thick outsole, suede leather, and D-ring lacing system make the boot durable.
Specs
- Weight: 5 grams
- Material: Leather and textile
- Shaft measurement: About 5-inch from the arch
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Breathable and meshed uppers
- Affordable
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Rustproof lacing system
- Rugged rubber outsole for better traction
Cons
- Heavy
- The cushioning to the shoe is poor
3. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot
If you want to hiking and want to do it in style, Timberland thought about it too and created the White Ledge. The shoe is designed to help you feel great when going outdoors without compromising their functionality. So, whether you want to wear boots with a pair of jeans or other clothing, you will look great. We tried it with official pants, and the hiking experience was great.
The uppers of the shoe are designed using a seam-sealed construction. It also features waterproof leather that helps to prevent moisture from getting to your feet when you are hiking. The leather also makes the boot strong, meaning that you can expect to still have it in great shape months to come.
One of the things that make this boot standout out is cushioning. The boots feature a lovely EVA footbed that makes them really comfortable to wear when going out. The footbed is also perforated to help wick away sweat and keep your feet well aerated.
Specs
- Weight: 5 Grams
- Shaft measurements: About 4.75-inch from the arch
- Outsole material: Rubber
Pros
- Waterproof construction
- Rustproof speed lace hardware
- Awesome cushioning on the footbed
- Thick rubber outsole and lugs to help you move easily in all-terrain
- Affordable
- The heavily padded collar might expert pressure to the ankle
Trail Running Shoes
1. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoe – First Choice
Our top pick in the trail running shoes category is this Speedcross 4 trail running shoe from Salomon. It is a fourth-generation and one of the latest models in the Speedcross category, which means that it comes with some of the latest and best features.
The upper part of the shoe is designed using anti-debris textile that helps to filter off materials on your running track from getting to your foot. The top is also water-resistant so that you can run through those wet trails without worrying that your feet will get dirty. These properties of the uppers also help to make the shoe light and durable.
As a trail running shoe, Salomon designed it with a rubber outsole and multidirectional lugs that help provide a firm grip even when moving through loose soil and mud areas. However, the shoes are not waterproof, and it is important to avoid water puddles.
Another area where this trail running shoe from Salomon excels is the cushioning. The shoes have an injected EVA midsole that helps to absorb shock when you are running out there. Furthermore, they come with Ortholite insoles that conform to the shape of the foot for outstanding support.
Specs
- Weight: 300 grams
- Drop: 10mm
- Material: Rubber outsole and anti-debris mesh uppers
Pros
- Feature deep lugs for a firm grip when running
- Lightweight
- Excellent cushioning
- String and durable
- Quicklace system
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
- Narrow toe box
2. New Balance Men’s 410 V5 Cushioning Trail Running Shoe
Well, it is true that many trail running shoes can be expensive, but if you are on a budget or want to spend only a small amount, one of the top choices is this 410 V5 from New Balance. Although the shoe has a low price tag, its quality is outstanding.
The upper part of the shoe is constructed using a combination of a breathable and synthetic mesh. The effect is that the shoe allows ample air to pass and cool the feet when running. It also means that you can put on the shoe in summer and enjoy every moment you take in the woods or running trails.
To make the shoe more stable, the outsole is designed with All-Terrain rubber and treads of different shapes. Whether you will be running through wet surfaces or rocky surfaces, where a firm grip is required, this is one tail running shoe that you can count on.
Specs
- Weight: 317 grams
- Drop: 6mm
- Material: Rubber
Pros
- Meshed top provides superb breathability
- Sold affordably
- Outstanding traction on different terrain
- Large toe box makes it a great piece for people with large feet
- Firmly constructed for better performance and durability
- Available in six colors
Cons
- Heavy
3. Adidas Men’s Terrex Traceroker Trail Running Shoe
https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Terrex-Tracerocker-Trail-Running/dp/B0745RB9VH
The last shoe on our list of the best trail running footwear is this Terrex Taceoker, a premium model that was designed to help you conquer every terrain. From the outsole to insole construction, all the shoe features are designed to make running in the trail easy and fun.
The top part of the shoe is constructed with a synthetic mesh that helps to enhance breathability. Besides, we liked how the upper part hugs the foot to give it a plush feeling when running outdoors. Further support comes from EVA midsole that conforms to the shape of the foot. The midsole and outsole absorb the shock created when running so that you do not suffer from fatigue.
The trail running shoe features deep lugs facing different directions to help shred mud and provide a firm grip no matter the terrain. So, whether the upcoming run takes you through a rocky stretch or it is full of debris, this shoe will help you to easily achieve your objective.
Specs
- Weight: 283.4 grams
- Drop: 8mm
- Outsole: Rubber
Pros
- Good breathability and ventilation
- Rugged outsole and treads for a firmer grip
- Designed for trail running
- Heavy cushioning
- Strong and durable
Cons
- Not waterproof
Trail Running Shoes vs Hiking Shoes: How to Determine the Right One to Buy?
Now that we have looked at the main differences between hiking shoes and trail running shoes, and picked the best three options in each category, “How do you pick the best option?” Here are some things to consider:
- Determine Your Goal
The main determinant of the shoe that you should buy is the goal. If you are looking forward to conquering the trails faster during the next running competition, the best option would be using trail running shoes. Again, if you only intend to hike and do not want to carry too heavy shoes on your feet, it is better to go for trail running shoes as opposed to hiking boots.
- Understand Activities of Interest
Today, people go hiking with the intention of exploring the jungle further. So, if you want to get involved in activities such as hunting and fishing that will take you deeper into the jungle, consider going for hiking boots. They help to offer better when from harmful materials, dangerous creepers, and elements.
- The Nature of the Surface of Interest
Before you can decide about the shoe to buy, think about the nature of the surface that you will encounter. Hiking boots are designed with large outsoles and big cogs that make it easy to move even in slippery areas. Although running shoes’ outsole and lugs are smaller than those found in hiking boots, they come with advanced technologies that help to enhance the grip, making movement both in slippery surfaces and mud easy.
- Your Feet
If you have issues with your feet, it is always good to buy the shoes that provide good support and cushioning. For example, if you have a problem such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or broad feet, going for hiking boots is likely to escalate problem because they are heavy, the toe box is small, and breathability is poor. Instead, it would be best if you looked for appropriate trail running shoes that provide good support.
- Need for Better Cushioning
Whether you are off for a camping weekend or running on the mountain trail, it is prudent to ensure you pick the shoe that comes with good cushioning and support. Good cushioning should start with a midsole that conforms to the shape of your feet. Furthermore, the cushioning should extend to all parts of the foot, from the heel to the toes.
- Weight
When heading to a hiking ground, you want to have a lot of fun. However, this fun could fail to climax if you get to the hiking point, and you are very tired because of the heavy loads tied to your shoes. This is why it is advisable to consider trail running shoes. They might not be as tough as the hiking boots, but you will love their lightweight designs, flexibility, and ability to help you move faster. See – you get to your hiking destination in top spirit and enjoy every moment.
Final Thoughts
As the debate on the trail running shoes vs hiking shoes intensify, we have to accept that the two shoe categories have their strengths and weaknesses. For example, if you are hiking in a snowcapped mountain, the hiking boots will be the best option. Apart from such extreme scenarios, whether you are running through the mountain in the coming cross country competitions, or want to enjoy more during the summer hike, trail running shoes are the best.
The shoes have a lightweight construction, outstanding cushioning, and advanced features that help to make running or walking easy and fun. So, if you want to enjoy your moment out there, go for a fitting pair of trail running shoes.
While we stand with the top six hiking and trail running shoes, the most outstanding of them all is this Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoe. It comes with excellent cushioning and advanced features to make it easy for you to conquer every trail.
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