female trail runner testing trail shoes near Silverton Colorado. Image accompanying iRunFar’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
iRunFar has tested over 100 models to present the top 13 trail running shoes of 2026. Brands like Nike, Hoka, Altra, and Brooks feature prominently. The guide includes new tester notes and updated pricing.
The Nike ACG Pegasus Trail excels in versatility, suitable for long trail days and mixed terrains. Its ReactX midsole foam provides excellent cushioning and durability. Despite slight weight increase, it remains light for a daily trainer. Read more gear coverage.
Hoka Speedgoat 7 offers a balanced cushioning and traction, ideal for various trail conditions. Its Vibram Megagrip lugs ensure strong traction, and the upper provides midfoot lockdown. It’s a comfortable shoe for long distances on trails. Related: Mount to Coast M1: Versatile Trail Shoe with Max Cushion.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from iRunFar. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about iRunFar's Top Trail Running Shoes of 2026?
iRunFar's latest guide highlights the best trail running shoes for diverse terrains and distances. iRunFar has tested over 100 models to present the top 13 trail running shoes of 2026. Brands like Nike, Hoka, Altra, and Brooks feature prominently. The guide includes new tester notes and updated pricing.
When did Runner World publish this gear brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 15, 2026. The underlying iRunFar report was dated August 14, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from iRunFar. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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