1. Vasque Mantra GTX Waterproof Trail Shoe
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This waterproof trail shoe works well for hiking or for walking. It is lighter in weight than many boots, yet sturdy enough for rocky and rooted trails. It is waterproof and built to keep out trail debris. I found these very comfortable for a rainy day walk around the suburbs through puddles and street rivulets, but they are also great for the trail. I hiked two tough trails that had miles of pointy rocks, slippery surfaces and small stream crossings. By the end of the day, I had no twisted ankles and no foot discomfort from the rough trail.
2. Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo
Wendy Bumgardner © 2010
This waterproof hiking shoe is serious enough to tackle wet Northwest trails. The Vibram sole is time tested for durability. It has excellent quality construction and a true seamless lining.
3. ASICS Gel Trabuco Trail Shoe
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Running Network named this shoe tops in the trail shoe category for its excellent traction whether going uphill or downhill and excellent stability, resisting twisting. It has a water-resistant upper. It also does well on pavement - wear it wherever you walk.
4. adidas Response Trail Shoe
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One of the original trail shoes. It gets better continuously with good flexibility, stability and traction. It has a water-resistant upper.
5. adidas adiZero XT
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This is a lightweight shoe that can go from road to trail. It is designed to give good traction on wet or rocky surfaces with a sticky rubber outersole, and users rave about the grip. But it is also narrow in the toe box, so those who need more toe room should try before they buy.
6. Mizuno Wave Ascend
This was the Editor's Choice for Runner's World trail shoe category for Spring, 2007. The tongue is gusseted to keep out trail debris and waterproof for splashing through puddles or those rainy days. It has good stability elements and should work well for heavier people.
7. Brooks Cascadia
Designed with input from an ultramarathoner, this shoe definitely stands out for its vibrant color - I was shocked when I saw a friend in a pair. But it is a stable shoe built for going fast on the trail.
8. KURU Chicane
KURU ©
This versatile town-to-trail shoe won our Readers' Choice Award for Best Trail Shoe in 2012 and 2011. They are also great for travel and touring.
