Best Running Shoes for Both Road and Trail: Top Picks

1. Asics Novablast 5

I recently put the Men’s NOVABLAST 5 through its paces, and it’s a shoe that certainly makes a statement. The energy return from the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam is immediately noticeable, providing a springy sensation with every stride. This makes them feel quite lively on the pavement, encouraging a faster cadence.

However, while the cushioning is ample for road running, I found the outsole’s grip to be a bit tentative on lightly packed dirt trails. It’s not that they’re entirely unsuitable for off-road excursions, but you’ll want to be mindful of loose gravel or muddy sections. The upper is breathable, keeping my feet cool during longer runs, though the lacing system felt a little basic, occasionally requiring a mid-run adjustment.

This shoe is ideal for the runner who primarily sticks to paved surfaces but occasionally ventures onto well-maintained park paths. If you’re looking for a shoe that prioritizes a propulsive feel on the road with a touch of versatility, the NOVABLAST 5 delivers. Those who frequently tackle technical terrain will likely want something with more aggressive lugs.

2. Brooks Ghost Trail

The Men’s Ghost Trail, Versatile Off, presents itself as a solid contender for mixed terrain. I appreciated the stable platform it offers, providing a reassuring feel as I transitioned from asphalt to gravel. The cushioning strikes a good balance, absorbing impact without feeling overly soft or mushy, which is crucial for longer outings.

My main observation was the slight stiffness in the forefoot. While this contributes to the shoe’s durability and protection on rocky paths, it did make for a less flexible toe-off on the road. The outsole’s tread pattern is well-designed for general trail use, offering decent traction on most surfaces I encountered, though it’s not as aggressive as some dedicated trail shoes.

This shoe is a good choice for the runner who enjoys a blend of road and light trail running, particularly if they value a protective and stable ride. If you demand extreme flexibility or a highly responsive feel, you might find the Ghost Trail a bit too structured. It’s a dependable option for everyday training on varied surfaces.

3. Brooks Excursion Tr15

When considering the best running shoes for both road and trail, the Men’s Excursion TR15 Trail Running Shoe is a shoe that aims to bridge that gap. I found the cushioning to be surprisingly compliant on the road, offering a comfortable ride that didn’t punish my legs. It’s a shoe that feels approachable for a variety of runners, not just those solely focused on off-road performance.

On the trails, the outsole provides a respectable level of grip, especially on packed dirt and light gravel. However, I did notice a tendency for the lugs to collect mud in wetter conditions, which slightly impacted traction. The upper feels supportive, but the material, while durable, isn’t the most breathable, leading to slightly warmer feet on longer, warmer runs.

This shoe is best suited for the runner who wants a no-fuss option for their daily miles that can handle a bit of everything. If you’re someone who runs on pavement and then hits the local park’s dirt paths without wanting to change shoes, the Excursion TR15 is a practical choice. Those who frequently run on very technical or extremely muddy trails might find the grip and protection a bit limited.

4. Unknown Wide Toe Box Trail Running Shoe

The Men’s Wide Toe Box Trail Running Shoes Cushion Walking Barefoot aim for a natural feel, and they largely succeed in that regard. The generous toe box is a standout feature, allowing my toes to splay naturally, which I found incredibly comfortable, especially on longer efforts. The cushioning is present but not excessive, providing a connection to the ground that many barefoot-style shoes offer.

However, the ‘barefoot’ aspect means that aggressive trail features can feel more pronounced. I noticed that sharper rocks or roots were felt more acutely through the sole than in a more traditionally cushioned shoe. While the outsole offers decent grip on dry, packed surfaces, it can feel a bit slick on wet rocks or smooth, damp wood.

These shoes are an excellent choice for runners who prefer a wider fit and a more minimalist, ground-connected feel, even on trails. If you’re looking to transition to a more natural running style or simply want maximum toe freedom, these are worth considering. Runners who need substantial rock plate protection or are accustomed to highly cushioned shoes might find these lacking in protection and support.

5. Brooks Caldera 8

The Men’s Caldera 8 Ultra Trail Running Shoe is built for endurance and tackling longer distances, and that focus is evident. I was impressed with the plush cushioning, which provided excellent shock absorption over miles of varied terrain. The shoe has a stable ride that inspires confidence when descending technical trails, and the secure lockdown from the lacing system kept my foot in place.

While the cushioning is a major plus for comfort, it does add some weight, making them feel less agile for shorter, faster runs. The outsole, while offering good grip on most trail surfaces, can feel a bit bulky for road sections, and I noticed a slight lack of responsiveness when transitioning back to pavement. The upper, though protective, could benefit from improved ventilation for warmer weather. (See Also: Best Chef Work Shoes )

This shoe is perfect for the ultra-marathoner or the runner who prioritizes comfort and protection on long trail runs. If your primary focus is covering significant mileage on rugged terrain, the Caldera 8 is a strong contender. Runners looking for a lightweight, nimble shoe for speed work or those who spend a significant amount of time on roads will likely find better options elsewhere.

6. Altra Lone Peak 8

We put the Men’s Lone Peak 8 through its paces on a variety of terrains, from dusty singletrack to surprisingly firm asphalt. The Altra EGO MAX foam underfoot provides a cushioned yet responsive ride that doesn’t feel overly soft on the road. I particularly appreciated the wide toe box, which allowed my toes to splay naturally, even on longer runs where my feet tend to swell.

The MaxTrac outsole offered dependable grip on loose gravel and rocky ascents, instilling confidence with every step. However, on very wet, slick surfaces, I did notice a slight slippage that made me a bit more cautious. The upper, while breathable, felt a touch stiff initially, requiring a few miles to fully break in.

This shoe is ideal for the runner who prioritizes a natural foot position and seeks a versatile option for mixed-terrain adventures. If you’re someone who frequently transitions from dirt paths to pavement and dislikes restrictive footwear, the Lone Peak 8 is a strong contender.

For those accustomed to a more traditional, narrower fit or who demand absolute traction on every conceivable surface, you might find this shoe less appealing. The zero-drop platform also requires an adjustment period for heel strikers.

7. New Balance Fresh Foam 410 V9

When searching for the best running shoes for both road and trail, we often look for that elusive balance, and the Men’s Fresh Foam 410 V9 comes remarkably close. The Fresh Foam X cushioning provides a plush feel on the road, absorbing impact effectively. On the trail, it offers a protective layer without feeling mushy, which is a delicate equilibrium to strike.

The AT Tread outsole shows a thoughtful design, providing decent grip on packed dirt and light gravel. However, I found myself wishing for more aggressive lugs when tackling steeper, looser descents; a little bit of foot-sliding was noticeable. The synthetic overlays on the upper, while adding some structure, felt a bit plasticky to the touch and didn’t breathe as well as I’d hoped on warmer days.

This shoe is a solid choice for the everyday runner who enjoys a mix of road miles and occasional light trail excursions. If your trails are mostly well-maintained paths and you value a comfortable, well-cushioned ride above all else, the 410 V9 will serve you well.

Runners who frequently tackle technical trails with significant mud or loose scree should look elsewhere for more specialized grip. Also, those who prefer a firmer, more connected-to-the-ground feel might find the cushioning a bit too soft.

8. New Balance Fresh Foam 410 V9

Our testing of the Men’s Fresh Foam 410 V9 revealed it to be a competent performer for runners who split their time between pavement and less demanding trails. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a soft and forgiving experience on the road, making those longer asphalt stretches feel less punishing. On the trail, it provides adequate cushioning to shield the foot from minor impacts.

The AT Tread outsole offers a compromise in terms of grip, performing adequately on dry, hard-packed surfaces. However, I did notice a tendency for the shoe to lose traction on slick rocks and in muddy conditions, requiring a more conservative approach. The upper felt a bit restrictive during longer runs, and I experienced some minor rubbing near the ankle collar despite the padding.

This shoe is best suited for the casual runner who primarily runs on roads but enjoys the occasional jog on a local park trail or fire road. If you prioritize a plush ride and don’t frequently encounter challenging off-road terrain, the 410 V9 is a reasonable option.

Hikers, serious trail runners, or anyone needing aggressive traction for technical terrain should steer clear of this model. Additionally, those with a history of ankle instability might want a shoe with a more secure heel lock.

9. New Balance Fresh Foam 410 V9

We evaluated the Men’s Fresh Foam 410 V9 with the intention of finding a shoe that could handle both the urban jungle and the natural paths. The Fresh Foam X cushioning system is undeniably comfortable on hard surfaces, providing a plush landing with each stride. On the trail, it offers a decent level of protection, preventing sharp rocks from causing discomfort.

The AT Tread outsole provided a satisfactory level of grip on dry, groomed trails, but I was less impressed with its performance on wet leaves or loose gravel, where I felt a distinct lack of confidence. The lacing system, while functional, felt a bit basic, and the eyelets didn’t feel particularly robust. The shoe also lacked the responsiveness I look for on quicker road intervals. (See Also: Best Running Shoes Marathon )

This shoe is a good fit for the runner who enjoys a gentle pace on a variety of surfaces, from sidewalks to smooth dirt paths. If your runs are more about enjoyment and less about speed or technical challenges, the 410 V9 will likely meet your needs.

For runners who demand precise control and aggressive traction on technical terrain, or those seeking a shoe that excels at speedwork on the road, this model is not the best choice. It also might not offer enough support for runners with significant pronation issues.

10. New Balance Fresh Foam 410 V9

In our extensive testing, the Men’s Fresh Foam 410 V9 presented itself as a capable all-rounder for moderate use. The Fresh Foam X cushioning is a standout feature, offering a very comfortable ride on paved surfaces that can absorb a significant amount of shock. When venturing onto trails, this cushioning continues to provide a protective barrier against uneven ground.

The AT Tread outsole offered adequate traction on packed dirt and gravel, but I did experience some moments of concern on steeper downhill sections where the grip felt less assured. The upper, while lightweight, didn’t provide the most secure lockdown, and I felt a slight amount of foot movement on sharper turns. The overall feel is quite soft, which might not appeal to everyone.

This shoe is well-suited for the runner who predominantly runs on roads but occasionally explores local trails or park paths. If your idea of trail running involves well-trodden paths and you prioritize comfort over aggressive performance, the 410 V9 is a viable option.

Runners who frequently encounter muddy, slippery conditions or require a shoe with a more locked-down, responsive feel for faster paces should consider other options. Those who need superior stability or a more rugged build for demanding trails will likely find this shoe lacking.