Trail Running Shoes

Trail running shoes are designed to handle roots, rocks, mud, and changing conditions. Whether you’re heading out on a short jaunt in the woods close to home or longer outings in the wilderness, the right pair will help get you into your groove. Oberson carries a broad selection of trail running shoes covering all terrain types and running styles, from light and flexible models for smooth paths to more rugged options built for technical trails and long distances. Browse shoes from leading brands—including Arc’teryx, Saucony, Merrell, Salomon, Asics—and find the pair that meets your needs. Visit us in our Laval or Brossard stores to try some on and get expert advice, or shop online anytime.

How to Choose Trail Running Shoes

Trail running shoes provide grip, stability, and comfort for running on uneven ground, where footing is less predictable and your running style will be more dynamic than on the road. Your footwear should match the terrain, typical distances covered, and running style. Understanding the main aspects of shoe design, key features, and fit will help you find a pair that makes you feel confident and fleet of foot out on the trails.

Key Aspects of Design

Cushioning

Cushioning (mostly in the midsole and insole) plays a central role in how trail running shoes feel during your run. Cushioning levels affect how much impact is absorbed with each step and how connected you feel to the ground. Less cushioned models offer a more direct, responsive, natural feel. Plusher models can help reduce fatigue on longer outings. Many shoes are somewhere in between and offer both good ground feel and cushioning.

Outsole and Tread

The outsole affects how shoes grip the ground and feel underfoot. Above all, tread design affects traction. Shoes with a lower-profile tread feel quicker, stabler, and more precise on dry, hardpacked trails. Deeper, more widely spaced lugs (at least 5 mm) shed mud and bite into soft or loose surfaces. Rubber compounds vary: firmer rubbers tend to prioritize durability; softer, stickier outsoles can offer enhanced grip on rocks and other hard surfaces.

Drop
Drop (aka heel-to-toe drop or offset) refers to the height of the heel above the forefoot. Trail running shoes generally feature a lower to moderate drop than road shoes, which helps accommodate the varied foot strikes needed to negotiate uneven terrain. Higher-drop models (more than 8 mm) lend themselves to heel striking. Lower- and zero-drop shoes are best for mid- and forefoot strikers.

Features to Look for

Beyond core design elements, a number of additional features can influence comfort, protection, and overall performance on the trail.

Protection

Trail running shoes must both protect your feet and be able to withstand the wear and tear from rocks, roots, and mud. Many models feature reinforced toe caps, durable uppers, and protective plates made of plastic, nylon, or carbon in the midsole to help reduce impact on rough terrain. Rubber or nylon reinforcements in high-wear areas (e.g., the toe, lower part of the upper, and heel) add durability and help the shoe stand up to repeated off-road use. These design elements are crucial if you’ll be running regularly on rough trails.

Lacing Systems
Laces close the shoe and help keep the fit secure as you run. Many trail running shoes use traditional laces. Others feature BOA or quick-lace designs that prevent slippage during your outing and let you make fast adjustments. Some models also include pockets that let you tuck away excess lace to prevent snags.

Upper Breathability and Waterproofness
The upper is the fabric that covers the top of the foot. Many trail shoe uppers are made of breathable synthetic materials to promote airflow and moisture wicking during warm or high-intensity runs. Some models are also waterproof, which should be a priority for those who like to get out in the rain or at the beginning or end of the season.

Pull Tabs

Some shoes include heel pull tabs. This makes them easier to slip on and off. It’s a small detail but an everyday convenience that makes life easier when you have close-fitting or muddy shoes.

Gaiter Attachments

Attachment points improve the shoe-gaiter interface, which prevents snow, slush, sand, and debris from entering your shoe. This feature can be especially useful in variable conditions and late- and early-season running.

Getting the Right Fit

Finding the right fit will make you nimbler and help keep your feet feeling good on the trails. Your shoe should hold the heel snugly, wrap comfortably through the midfoot, and leave enough room for your toes to move freely. That last point is key because feet naturally swell over the course of a run.

Brands build their shoes on different foot-shaped moulds, called lasts, so fit can vary significantly from one to another. That’s one of the many reasons it’s worthwhile to try several different brands and models.

Find Your Trail Running Shoes at Oberson

The right trail running shoes help you feel great and have fun on the trails. By considering key aspects of design and special features and dialling in the fit, you can narrow your options and focus on the models best suited to your running style and preferred terrain. If you have any questions or would like some guidance, our specialists are available in-store or online.