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Best Trail Runners and Hiking Shoes | Cap Puckhaber

Disclaimer: I DO NOT EARN ANY COMMISSIONS FOR RECOMMENDING THESE PRODUCTS.

My Top Picks for Trail Runners and Hiking Shoes

When I first started hiking years ago, I was told that a good, stiff pair of hiking boots was the only way to go. So I listened. I bought some hefty, waterproof boots with ankle support that felt like they were made from truck tires. They were reliable, but also heavy, inflexible, and honestly, a bit of a drag on longer trails. I can tell you my perspective has changed. Fast forward to today, you’ll find me out on the trail in lightweight men’s trail runners and hiking shoes. And I’m not alone. More and more hikers are shedding the bulky boots in favor of something lighter, faster, and more comfortable. This shift has created a revolution in hiking gear. The purpose of my site is to help you find the best options, and for many hikers, it’s time to consider making the switch.

Why Hiking Boots Had Their Moment

There’s a time and place for everything, and hiking boots still serve a purpose. When you’re carrying a heavy pack over uneven alpine terrain or trudging through snow and loose scree, that ankle support and rigidity are helpful. Brands like Merrell, Salomon, and Lowa have long dominated this space with solid, dependable models. They have kept generations of hikers upright and blister-free.

But they’re also overbuilt for many of today’s common hiking scenarios. Most of us are out for a weekend trip or a day hike with a relatively light load. In those situations, thick-soled, high-ankle boots start to feel like overkill.

The Rise of Men’s Trail Runners and Hiking Shoes

What’s been fascinating to watch—and experience firsthand—is the shift toward ultralight hiking. The backpacking crowd, especially thru-hikers on trails like the PCT or AT, started realizing that shaving ounces off their gear wasn’t just a nerdy obsession. It meant less fatigue, fewer injuries, and more miles covered comfortably. One of the biggest weight savers is footwear. Men’s trail runners and hiking shoes were originally designed for runners, but they turned out to be excellent for hiking. They give you flexibility, breathability, and faster break-in times. Plus, they dry out quicker than boots if you cross a stream or get caught in the rain.

My Experience Switching to Trail Runners

I made the switch about two years ago. At first, I was nervous. Would I twist an ankle? Would my feet be sore? But within a few hikes, I noticed something surprising. I felt faster and lighter. The men’s trail runners and hiking shoes hugged my feet, allowed me to move more naturally, and didn’t make me feel like I was hauling bricks on my feet.

There are trade-offs, of course. I’ve stepped on sharp rocks and wished I had thicker soles. And my trail runners wear out faster than boots. But for 90% of the hiking I do, the trade-off is worth it. When I’m carrying more or headed into gnarly terrain, I still keep a solid pair of hiking boots in the gear closet.

Pros and Cons: Boots vs. Trail Runners vs. Hiking Sneakers

Let’s break it down a bit, based on what I’ve found over the years:

Hiking Boots

Pros: Excellent ankle support, durable, better protection in rough terrain, good for heavy packs.
Cons: Heavy, less breathable, longer break-in, slower drying.

Trail Runners

Pros: Lightweight, breathable, flexible, fast drying, great for covering distance.
Cons: Less durable, less support, thinner soles, need replacement more often.

Hiking Sneakers/Lightweight Shoes

Pros: A good balance between comfort and support, great for day hikes and moderate terrain.
Cons: Varies widely by brand and model, still may lack the durability of boots.

The Best Men’s Trail Runners and Hiking Shoes I’ve Tried

Now, if you’re curious about making the switch, I’ve tried out a bunch of models and narrowed it down to five favorites. These are men’s trail runners and hiking shoes that I’ve used personally—or know trusted hikers who have—and they hit the sweet spot for comfort, performance, and price.

Altra Lone Peak

These are a thru-hiker favorite for a reason. Zero-drop design, wide toe box, and solid traction. I wore these for a 30-mile section of the Tahoe Rim Trail last summer and my feet were the only part of me that didn’t complain. Available at REI and Altra’s site.

HOKA SpeedGoat

Pillow-soft cushioning but still grippy and trail-capable. If you have sensitive joints or just love a smooth ride, this shoe is a game-changer. Great for those transitioning from boots. You can find them at REI, Backcountry, and HOKA.com.

Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

Technically a hiking shoe, but light enough to compete with trail runners. Great waterproofing and support without feeling clunky. Available at Amazon and most outdoor retailers

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

Not as widely known, but these feel like the perfect middle ground between a sneaker and a trail runner. Roomy toe box, secure fit, and lots of cushioning. Check them out on TopoAthletic.com.

Merrell Moab Speed 2

Merrell’s classic Moab line meets the modern trail runner. Versatile, durable, and a bit more structured than others on this list. You’ll find these at REI, Merrell’s website, and even at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Merrell Moab | Cap Puckhaber Hiking Blog

Where to Buy and Try Them On

Fit is everything with hiking footwear, so if you can, go to a store like REI and try them on. Walk around. See how they feel with hiking socks. If you’re shopping online, make sure the return policy is forgiving—most brands and sites like Backcountry and REI have generous returns because they get it: feet are personal.

Final Thoughts from the Trail

Look, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here. I still think hiking boots have a place—especially if you’re venturing into rough, rocky, high-altitude terrain. But for the average day hiker, weekend backpacker, or someone just getting into the hobby, lightweight shoes or trail runners make hiking a lot more enjoyable.

Your feet are your foundation out there. So why not give them something that feels more natural, more nimble, and a lot more fun? I made the switch, and I haven’t looked back.

See you out there.

— Cap Puckhaber
Founder, TheHikingAdventures.com

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