Budget Trail Runners

Best trail-running shoes for under $85

Trail-running shoes have historically been very well priced, and were often cheaper than regular running shoes. However, the prices for new trail-running shoes are starting to creep up, with many shoes costing well over $100. However, we found some good deals for $85 and under.

Reviewers like the New Balance 840 (*Est. $85), and it costs $15 to $35 less than the other top-rated trail running shoes. Fitness magazine picks the New Balance 840 as one of the best trail-running shoes of the year, praising the traction and seamless lining that helps prevent blisters. Its tester, who runs up to 85 miles a week on trails, finds this shoe performs just as well on rocky terrain as it does on packed dirt. The New Balance 840, which comes in women's and men's sizes, was also singled out as one of the best trail-running shoes by National Geographic Adventure in its fall shoe guide.

Trail Runner magazine recommends the New Balance 840 for racers and runners with efficient biomechanics. Running Times agrees, recommending the shoe for trail runners who don't require motion control or lots of cushioning. While the sole features sturdy rubber lugs, which Outside magazine describes as "cleat-like," Trail Runner does not find the New Balance 840 well-suited to technical trails.

The Asics Gel-Trail Attack 5 WR (*Est. $85) is not waterproof, but its water-resistant (hence the 'WR' in the name) features make it a good choice for runners who can't afford expensive waterproof trail running shoes. National Geographic Adventure picks the Asics Gel-Trail Attack 5 WR as one of the best trail-running shoes for wet and muddy trails. Most water-resistant trail-running shoes are sprayed with a light coating of Teflon to repel water, but this trail-running shoe is actually dipped in Teflon, which impresses the editors at National Geographic Adventure. Testers for Runner's World also find that their feet stayed dry during winter trail runs, although they believe the heel-to-toe transition is a little too stiff.

Asics also scores among consumers with the Asics Gel-Enduro 4 (*Est. $60). This trail-running shoe has not attracted much attention from running publications, but it receives mainly positive owner-written reviews compiled by Buzzillions.com. Although some reviewers use these trail-running shoes for activities other than running, there is a general consensus that the shoes are lightweight, comfortable and offer good support on the trail. On the negative side, several reviewers find the arch support lacking. Both Asics trail shoes are available in men's and women's sizes.

The Saucony Grid Excursion TR3 (*Est. $65) is another trail-running shoe that receives good user feedback, despite being ignored by the major fitness magazines. Reviews compiled by Buzzillions.com show that the majority of owners, both men and women, are satisfied with this trail running shoe. Reviewers praise the snug arch support and comfortable fit, while others like that the Saucony Grid Excursion TR3 accommodates orthotics without seeming too bulky. One reviewer mentions that the traction is fine, except on smooth and slippery surfaces like wet rocks.

The END Stumptown 12 oz. (*Est. $85) and the Nike Air Pegasus+ 25 ESC (*Est. $85), which are discussed later in this report, are eco-friendly trail-running shoes that are also easy on the wallet.