The chassis, which is the perimeter of the base of the shoe, is beefed up with trail runners to create that solid base. And, though the GTX distinction suggests ankle-high waterproofness, the material only reaches to the top of the laces. Brooks is best known in the trail running world for their Cascadia (below), a beloved shoe among both runners and thru-hikers that is now in its 17th generation. Further, runners focused on speed will want a more precise and responsive runner like the Catamount or Peregrine. Running-shoe giant Hoka has built a name around their max-cushioned designs (as seen in the Speedgoat above), but the Torrent 3 bucks this trend with a lower profile that provides ample ground feel.

But the modern Catamount 2 here offers a whole different take on a trail runner, with a nimble design built to take on moderate distances at speed. The shoe exudes premium quality from heel to toe and is a noticeable step up from the Sense Ride above.Off the road, it’s at its best on harder packed less technical trails, grass and dirt paths, providing a lively, responsive but smooth and nicely cushioned ride. But for experienced ultra runners wanting to get the most out of their shoe, it’s a proven and capable option.

We love this shoe’s attention to detail, which includes a snug, sock-like liner, sleek padding at the ankle, and a breathable yet thoughtfully reinforced upper. If you’re anything like us, your daily runs leave from your front door and include a combination of pavement and trail. Starting with rubber compound, shoes that have sticky, approach shoe-like rubber like the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II or Jackal II excel on rock, while others that have a softer and more pliable feel often do better in mud. They’re also compatible with products like socks with moisture-wicking and compression features, foot supports, and orthopaedic insoles.Slip-on options are simple to put on and take off, which means they’re ideal for busy professionals. Tack on a very premium build and an eye-catching aesthetic, and it’s for good reason that On shoes have become increasingly popular in the U. That the ride is relatively firm just helps provide a good platform when or if you want to pick up the pace.