Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes in 2026

Last Updated on September 23, 2026

Wet trails change what you need from a running shoe. A good waterproof trail running shoe must do more than keep rain out. It also needs reliable grip on slick rock, mud and wet roots, enough protection for uneven terrain and a secure fit that prevents your foot from sliding inside the shoe.

Most of our top picks use a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, but their rides are very different. Some are designed for technical mountain trails, others are better for mud, and a few work well when your route mixes pavement and dirt.

Keep in mind that waterproof shoes are usually warmer and less breathable than standard mesh trail shoes. If you mostly run in hot, dry weather, the non-waterproof version of the same shoe may be more comfortable.

Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes Compared

About our review links: Some linked reviews cover the standard, non-waterproof version of the shoe. The GTX model generally uses the same core midsole and trail platform but adds a waterproof Gore-Tex upper. That can change the shoe’s weight, breathability and fit slightly.

The differences between these shoes are important. The Speedgoat 7 GTX, Cascadia 20 GTX and Peregrine 16 GTX are the strongest choices when the trail itself is difficult. The Speedcross 6 Gore-Tex is more specialized for mud and loose ground, while the Nike ACG Pegasus Trail Gore-Tex is easier to live with when your run includes pavement.

The Lone Peak 9+ GTX is also different from most shoes here because its heel and forefoot sit at the same height. Runners accustomed to conventional running shoes should transition gradually rather than immediately using a zero-drop shoe for their longest runs.

How to Choose Waterproof Trail Running Shoes

The best waterproof trail running shoe depends on where you run. A shoe designed for muddy forest trails may feel excessive on gravel paths, while a comfortable road-to-trail shoe may not have enough grip for steep, technical terrain.

Use the recommendations in our table as a starting point, then consider these factors before you buy.

Choose the shoe for your terrain

Trail surfaces vary widely, so outsole design matters as much as waterproofing.

For rocky, uneven and technical trails, the Hoka Speedgoat 7 GTX is our best overall choice. Its aggressive trail outsole and cushioned platform make it a strong option for longer runs where you need both grip and protection.

The Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX is a better fit if you prefer a more stable, planted feeling underfoot. It works especially well on uneven trails where controlling side-to-side movement matters.

For runners who want a lighter and more agile trail shoe, the Saucony Peregrine 16 GTX is a strong alternative. It is better suited to runners who prefer to feel closer to the trail rather than running in a highly cushioned shoe.

Look for deeper lugs if you run in mud

Lugs are the raised sections of rubber on the bottom of a trail shoe. Deeper, more widely spaced lugs can dig into soft ground and release mud more easily.

The Salomon Speedcross 6 Gore-Tex is the most specialized mud shoe in this group. It makes sense for wet grass, muddy trails and loose terrain, but its aggressive outsole is less comfortable for long stretches of pavement.

If your runs regularly include both roads and trails, choose a less aggressive outsole instead.

Consider a road-to-trail shoe for mixed routes

Not every trail run begins at the trailhead.

If you run from your home to a park, use gravel paths or regularly combine pavement and dirt, the Nike ACG Pegasus Trail Gore-Tex is one of the better choices in this group.

Road-to-trail shoes generally use shallower lugs and a smoother ride than highly technical trail shoes. That makes them more comfortable on pavement while still providing useful traction once you reach the trail.

Decide how much cushioning you want

More cushioning can make long trail runs more comfortable, but it can also make a shoe feel taller and less connected to the ground.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 GTX is a good choice if cushioning and comfort are priorities. It is especially appealing for longer distances and runners who spend several hours at a time on the trail.

The Hoka Speedgoat 7 GTX also provides substantial cushioning while maintaining an outsole designed for technical terrain.

Runners who prefer a firmer or more responsive ride may be happier in the Saucony Peregrine 16 GTX.

Pay attention to heel-to-toe drop

Heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between your heel and forefoot.

Most runners are accustomed to shoes with some heel-to-toe drop. The waterproof shoes in our table range from traditional higher-drop models to the zero-drop Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX.

A zero-drop shoe places your heel and forefoot at approximately the same height. Some runners prefer the natural-feeling platform, but switching suddenly from a conventional shoe can put additional strain on your calves and Achilles tendon.

If you are new to zero-drop shoes, increase your mileage gradually.

Look for enough room in the toe box

Your toes naturally spread as you land, and feet can swell during long runs.

The Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX stands out for runners who prefer a roomy, foot-shaped toe box. It can also be useful for hikers and trail runners who regularly find conventional running shoes too narrow in the forefoot.

However, a wide toe box should not mean a loose shoe. Your heel and midfoot should still feel secure so your foot does not slide during descents or when running across uneven ground.

Waterproof does not always mean better

A waterproof membrane is useful when you regularly run through rain, wet grass, puddles, snow or muddy conditions.

But there is a trade-off. Waterproof trail shoes are generally warmer and less breathable than standard trail shoes. If you mostly run in hot or dry weather, you may be more comfortable buying the regular version of the same shoe.

For many runners, waterproof trail shoes make the most sense as a second pair used during fall, winter and wet-weather runs.

Check the fit with your trail-running socks

Waterproof shoes can fit slightly differently from their non-waterproof counterparts because the waterproof membrane adds another layer inside the upper.

Try the shoes with the socks you normally use for trail running. You should have enough room to move your toes without allowing your heel to lift or your foot to slide forward on descents.

If you plan to wear thicker socks during winter, make sure the shoe still provides enough room.

Which waterproof trail running shoe should you buy?

For most runners, we would start with the Hoka Speedgoat 7 GTX because it offers a strong combination of cushioning, traction and protection for a wide range of trails.

Choose the Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX if stability is a priority, the Saucony Peregrine 16 GTX if you want a lighter and more agile ride, or the Salomon Speedcross 6 Gore-Tex if you regularly run through mud.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 GTX is better for runners who prioritize cushioning, while the Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX is the standout choice for a roomy toe box and zero-drop platform.

For runners who spend significant time on pavement before reaching the trail, the Nike ACG Pegasus Trail Gore-Tex is the most versatile road-to-trail option.

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