Best Trail Running Shoes for Hiking
Lightweight, Grippy Alternatives to Traditional Hiking Shoes
Traditional hiking shoes aren’t always the best choice anymore.
Trail running shoes have quietly become the go-to option for hikers who want less weight, more flexibility, and better all-day comfort. They break in faster, move naturally with your foot, and handle most hiking terrain without the bulk.
This guide focuses on trail running shoes that actually work for hiking, based on real use where possible.
Why Trail Running Shoes Work So Well for Hiking
Trail runners are designed for uneven terrain, long hours on foot, and grip without stiffness. For hiking, that translates to:
- Less fatigue over distance
- Better ground feel
- Easier movement on mixed terrain
They’re especially effective for day hikes, travel-heavy trips, fast-and-light hiking, and walkers who want trail grip without boot bulk.
Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Hiking
Altra Lone Peak 9
Best for comfort, wide feet, and natural movement
The Altra Lone Peak 9 is one of the most popular trail-to-hike shoes available — and for good reason. It prioritizes comfort and natural foot movement over aggressive trail performance.
Why it works for hiking:
- Wide toe box reduces foot fatigue
- Zero-drop platform encourages a natural stride
- Flexible midsole adapts well to uneven ground
- Comfortable over long walks and hikes
This is a shoe I’ve personally used, and its biggest strength is how easy it feels on foot. You’re not fighting stiffness or pressure points — it simply moves with you.
Best for: wide feet, long hikes, everyday trail use, and walkers transitioning into trail shoes.
Less ideal for: mud-heavy trails and very technical terrain.
Best Aggressive Trail Shoe for Hiking
Saucony Peregrine 16
Best for grip, technical trails, and rugged terrain
The Saucony Peregrine line has always leaned more aggressive than comfort-focused trail shoes. While I personally used the Peregrine 11, the current Peregrine 16 keeps the same core DNA: strong traction, a lower-profile feel, and a more locked-in fit.
What’s changed since the Peregrine 12:
- Updated upper materials
- Refined cushioning
- Continued focus on grip and responsiveness
From my experience with earlier Peregrine models, this is the type of shoe that performs best on rocky terrain, steeper trails, and faster hiking routes.
Best for: narrow to medium feet, technical hiking, rocky trails.
Less ideal for: wide feet and all-day casual walking.
Best Trail Running Shoe for Wide Feet
Altra Lone Peak 9
Very few trail shoes truly accommodate wide feet without sizing tricks. The Lone Peak 9 does it naturally, without feeling sloppy or unstable.
If toe splay, comfort, and long-distance ease matter more than aggressive grip, this remains one of the safest picks.
Best Minimalist-Friendly Option for Hiking
Altra Lone Peak 9
While not a true minimalist shoe, the Lone Peak 9 sits closer to that end of the spectrum with its zero-drop platform, flexibility, and ground-connected feel.
If you’re curious about minimalist hiking shoes but don’t want to go fully barefoot-style, this is a smart middle ground.
Trail Running Shoes vs Hiking Shoes: Quick Comparison
- Trail running shoes: lighter, more flexible, faster break-in, better for long days
- Traditional hiking shoes: stiffer, more structured, better for heavy packs
For most day hikes and casual hiking, trail running shoes are simply more enjoyable to wear.
How to Choose the Right Trail Shoe for Hiking
Before buying, ask yourself:
- Do I need wide toe space?
- Will I hike all day or short distances?
- Is my terrain technical or moderate?
- Do I want flexibility or structure?
There’s no single “best” shoe — only the best fit for your hiking style.
Final Thoughts
Trail running shoes aren’t a compromise anymore. In many cases, they’re the better hiking shoe.
If comfort and natural movement matter most, the Altra Lone Peak 9 is one of the safest choices you can make. If you hike rougher trails and want more grip and control, the Saucony Peregrine 16 is worth a close look.
Related: Trail Running & Hiking Shoes Hub