Top Shoes for New Trail Runners
New to trail running?
If you’re just starting to dip your toes into the world of trail running, one of the first big questions is: what shoes should I get?
It can feel confusing at first. If you’re coming from a road running background, you might be wondering if your road shoes are fine. Then there are all the other questions: What about grip? Will I roll my ankles? Why are there so many different types of trail shoes?
Choosing your first pair of trail shoes can definitely feel overwhelming. Trail footwear has exploded in variety in recent years, with brands offering different models for different surfaces, distances and preferences. We’ve pulled together some guidance (and a few of our favourite beginner-friendly picks) to help you get started.
What to look for?
At RunDNA, we think the best trail shoes for beginners sit in the middle. Too much cushion can reduce stability and ground feel, while very low-stack shoes can feel harsh on uneven terrain. A balanced shoe gives you the best chance to enjoy your runs, build confidence and figure out what matters most to you as you gain experience on the trails.
Comfort and fit
Before we jump into our picks, it's super important to mention that comfort is key. The shoe has to be comfortable, otherwise you're not going to wear it or run in it. Comfort is also very personal, what one person finds comfortable might not be for you and this can be influenced by many things such as your own preferences and how the shoe fits your foot.
In terms of fit, as a guide, you want the shoe to feel secure around the heel and midfoot, without feeling too constrictive. In the toe box, you should be able to wiggle and move your toes with about a thumbs space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Brooks Cascadia 19
Stack: 34.5mm | Drop: 6mm | Lug depth: 4mm | RRP: $280
The Brooks Cascadia is a true classic in the trail world and has been around for a long time for good reason. It’s one of those shoes that just works for a wide variety of runners and hikers, making it a perfect option if you’re stepping onto the trails for the first time. The latest version has been updated with a softer and more forgiving foam, which makes it a lot more comfortable underfoot on longer runs or hikes, but it still maintains the stability and versatility that the shoe is known for.
Thanks to its broad platform and the Trail Adapt system, the Cascadia feels planted and predictable on uneven terrain, giving you the confidence you want on the trails. The upper is well padded and accommodating enough to fit a range of foot shapes and like most Brooks shoes, it’s built to last. That durability is a big plus for new trail runners who are often relying on one pair to cover all their running, hiking and outdoor adventures. I’ve personally taken the Cascadia through everything from long days on the trails to rough bush tracks, and it has always held up.
A nice bonus: it’s the only shoe on this list offered in different widths, making it easier to find the right fit for different foot shapes.
Salomon Genesis
Stack: 34mm | Drop: 8mm | Lug depth: 4.5mm | RRP: $270
The Salomon Genesis handles a range of trails with ease, which makes it a solid all-rounder. It sits in that sweet spot of being moderately stacked and protective without being overbuilt or heavy. That balance makes it a great confidence-booster for someone new to trails. It doesn’t have a rock plate, so on sharp rocky terrain you might notice it but it still offers enough underfoot protection for most scenarios and the responsive ride makes it enjoyable to run in.
The fit is one of the more accommodating options in the Salomon lineup, though it’s still on the narrower side compared to other brands. Where the Genesis really shines is in versatility, it feels light and nimble on your feet, responsive when you want to pick up the pace, and cushioned enough for longer efforts. The Matryx upper is incredibly durable and resistant to abrasion, which means you can put this shoe through a lot of tough miles and trust that it’ll hold together.
Altra Experience Wild 2
Stack: 32mm | Drop: 4mm | Support: Neutral | RRP: $270
The Altra Experience Wild 2 might look like a hybrid or “door-to-trail” shoe on paper but it’s surprisingly capable once you take it deeper into the trails. Its firmer midsole provides extra protection against roots, rocks and uneven terrain, while still being light and responsive enough to move quickly and confidently over a variety of surfaces.
What really sets it apart is the fit, Altra’s signature foot-shaped toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, which can make a big difference for comfort on longer runs, especially if you’ve struggled with toe crowding in other brands. Combined with a breathable and durable upper, the Experience Wild 2 is a shoe that feels secure, comfortable, and capable, making it an excellent option for newcomers looking for a versatile trail companion.
Asics Trabuco 13
Stack: 34mm | Drop: 8mm | Lug depth: 4mm | RRP: $230
A solid, stable all-rounder, the Asics Trabuco 13 is also one of the best value options on this list. It comes with a built-in rock plate, offering extra protection underfoot when running over sharp rocks, roots, or uneven terrain. The slightly stiffer construction adds to its sense of stability, making it a dependable choice for longer runs on rugged trails. At the same time, it’s still responsive enough that you can pick up the pace when you want to, giving it versatility for a range of trail conditions and running styles. With a price of $230, it provides excellent value, combining durability, protection, and adaptability in a single shoe that won’t break the budget.
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Stack: 40mm | Drop: 5mm | Lug depth: 5mm | RRP: $290
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is a standout in the trail running world. While it sits outside the “ideal middle ground” I suggested earlier, its reputation is built on delivering a high-stack, lightweight shoe that handles technical terrain with ease, giving runners confidence with every step.
If you’re after extra protection and a max-cushion feel, this shoe delivers, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs provides reliable grip and traction.
Wrap up
Choosing your first pair of trail shoes is an important step and the right fit can make a big difference in how enjoyable your runs are. If possible, get properly fitted, your foot shape and size can change over time and finding the right shoe helps with both comfort and injury prevention.
Keep in mind that your preferences may evolve as you gain experience; you might start out prioritising cushioning and later prefer more ground feel, or the other way around. The key is to pick a shoe that feels comfortable, inspires confidence and makes you want to get out on the trails.
About the author
Seb Lopez - Trail Runner & Photographer
I’m passionate about trail running, hiking, adventure racing, and the outdoors in general. My favourite runs are long days spent with mates, exploring new places.
I also appreciate how different shoes allow me to connect with the terrain in unique ways and how that affects the running experience. When I’m not out on the trails, you’ll probably find me behind the camera as a sports photographer. It’s great to be on the other side and see the sport from a different angle.
