Authored by Adam Sherman

When it comes to trail running, your shoes are more than just footwear—they're your connection to nature, adventure, and adrenaline-pumping action! With the right pair, you’ll easily and comfortably run over rocky ridges and bound through mud. And the wrong pair? Well, let's just say you’re setting yourself up for blisters or slip-and-slide moments mid-run. That’s why we’re here to help you pick the ultimate trail running shoes that’ll be your key to conquering the outdoors with confidence, comfort, and ease.

In this guide, we're breaking down everything you need to know to make the best choice for your feet, your trail, and your style. Whether you’re a seasoned trail warrior who loves the most advanced trails or just dipping your toes into off-road adventure, we've got your back. From finding the perfect fit to choosing the best grip for those tricky terrains, we’ll make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running—literally.

And hey, we’re not just here to talk about any trail running shoes—we’re also excited to introduce you to the Viakix Ridge Rebel! It’s our very own trail running shoe designed to tackle rugged terrain with style, comfort, and a whole lot of grip. So, let’s dive in and get you on the right track to choosing the perfect pair of shoes for your next adventure!

When it comes to trail running, not all terrains are created equal. The first step in choosing the right trail running shoe is getting familiar with where you’ll be running. Different trails call for different types of shoes, and the terrain can dramatically affect your grip, comfort, and overall performance. Whether you’re tackling rocky mountain paths, muddy forest trails, or smooth urban parks, your shoes need to be up for the challenge, just as much as you are. 

Look at it like this: you can’t use a golf club to play tennis, or a baseball to play basketball. You need the right gear for the right sport, and it’s the same when it comes to trail running. 

If you're hitting rocky or uneven terrain, you'll want a shoe with durable outsoles and deep lugs for traction.  The Viakix Ridge Rebel is built with a rugged design and aggressive 4.5mm tread pattern that helps you stay balanced and in control. We’ve mastered its design to tackle this sort of terrain, which can be dangerous if you’re not wearing the proper footwear. One injury can negatively affect the rest of your running career or hobby.  

For those of you who love the thrill of muddy or wet trails, look for shoes with enhanced drainage and a good grip in slippery conditions. Mud can quickly turn a fun trail run into a struggle if your shoes aren't built to handle the muck. The Ridge Rebel offers the kind of traction that keeps you moving with confidence, no matter how thick the mud gets. Plus, its water-resistant design helps keep your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, making it a perfect companion for unpredictable weather.

If your runs take you through forested areas with softer, packed dirt, you can opt for a more lightweight shoe with moderate lugs. These types of trails are easier on your joints, but you'll still need a shoe that provides enough grip to prevent slipping on damp or root-filled paths. The Ridge Rebel balances lightweight comfort with enough protection to take on roots, rocks, and everything in between.

Finally, if you're mixing your trail running with urban or park terrain, you might want a versatile shoe that performs well on both dirt and pavement. Hybrid trail shoes with a less aggressive outsole can offer the flexibility you need for switching between surfaces. With its balance of comfort, support, and grip, the Ridge Rebel can easily handle a variety of terrain, making it ideal for runners who like to keep their options open.

By understanding the type of terrain you’ll be running on, you can choose a shoe that meets your needs—whether it's conquering rocky mountains, muddy hills, or smooth park paths. We like to reiterate that familiarizing yourself with your terrain is the first step to buying proper footwear. 

When it comes to trail running shoes, fit and comfort are everything. If your shoes don’t fit right, even the shortest run can feel like a marathon—with blisters, sore arches, and painful toes. The last thing you want is to cut a run short because your feet are begging you to stop. That’s why getting the right fit should be at the top of your list when selecting a trail running shoe.

A great-fitting trail running shoe should feel snug around the midfoot but leave some room in the toe box. Your feet tend to swell when you run, especially over long distances, so having that extra space up front is crucial to prevent bruised toes and blisters. The Ridge Rebel is designed with a roomy toe box, giving your toes plenty of space to spread out naturally while maintaining a secure fit through the midfoot for added stability on uneven terrain.

Another important factor is the heel. A locked-in heel ensures that your foot doesn’t slide around inside the shoe when you're running up or down hills. Too much movement in the heel can lead to blisters and a lack of control, especially on descents. The Ridge Rebel’s heel cup provides excellent support, keeping your foot secure and comfortable, even on steep and technical trails. 

A key feature of the Ridge Rebel that enhances both fit and comfort is the wide toe box. Unlike many trail running shoes that tend to squeeze your toes together, the Ridge Rebel gives your toes plenty of room to spread out naturally. There’s nothing worse than cramped toes on a hot summer day! This extra space also promotes better balance and stability on uneven terrain. By allowing your toes to splay out as they would naturally, the Ridge Rebel provides a more comfortable and supportive ride, especially during long runs or technical trails where foot movement is constant throughout the run. 

While I was in Thailand, I went running in the jungle on rocky terrain. It was high humidity and the trail had a steep incline. While I was in the best shape of my life, I could barely finish the run because my toes were cramped inside my shoe. By the time I finished, I had a blister the size of my pinky nail on my middle toe. It really put a damper on my experience and I couldn’t run for a few days. 

Arch support is also key when it comes to comfort. Every runner has a different foot shape, so finding the right level of arch support can make or break your experience. Whether you have flat feet or high arches, you want a shoe that offers enough support to keep your feet comfortable without being overly rigid. The Ridge Rebel has enough cushioning to support your foot’s natural shape while remaining flexible enough to adapt to different surfaces and running styles. We’ve built a shoe that adapts to the terrain, just as you do while you’re running! 

Lastly, consider the overall feel of the shoe during longer runs. If you’re a fan of spending hours on the trail, you need a shoe that doesn’t just fit well but feels good mile after mile. Look for features like breathable mesh uppers and padded collars that enhance comfort without adding unnecessary weight. With the Ridge Rebel, we've combined lightweight materials with plush cushioning, making it a great option for both short sprints and long-distance adventures. It’s a shoe designed to go the distance without sacrificing the comfort you need to get there. We designed this shoe to meet your every need!

When you're out on the trails, every step is different—some are soft and forgiving, while others feel like you're stepping on jagged rocks. That's why cushioning and support are two of the most crucial factors in trail running shoes. But here's the thing: people have personal preferences, and not everyone needs the same level of cushioning. It all comes down to what you like and the type of trails you're running on.

For those who like to feel the ground beneath them, minimal cushioning might be ideal. It gives you that earthy connection and allows your feet to react naturally to the terrain. However, if you're someone who spends hours out there, running over roots, rocks, and uneven surfaces, a shoe with more cushioning can be a real game changer. Cushioning absorbs the impact, reducing strain on your feet and legs, and helps you go the distance more comfortably. While feeling the ground might sound appealing, we recommend only going short distances with a less cushioned shoe. 

Support, on the other hand, is about stability. If you're running on rugged trails with lots of uneven terrain, you need shoes that offer side-to-side support to prevent your foot from rolling. This is especially important for runners who tend to overpronate, as extra support can help keep their feet aligned and reduce the risk of injury. But if your foot movement is more neutral, you may prefer a shoe that offers flexibility without over-structuring the ride. It's all about finding that sweet spot between freedom and control. And that’s with anything in life!

The Ridge Rebel strikes a balance between the two levels of cushion. They’re cushioned enough to protect your feet from harsh impacts but not so much that you lose your feel for the trail. And when it comes to support, they offer just enough structure to keep your foot secure on uneven ground, without feeling rigid or heavy. It's a combination that works well for a wide range of runners. 

When you're out on the trails, grip and traction are your best friends. Whether you're racing downhill on loose gravel or climbing over wet rocks, you need shoes that can keep you grounded and stable in every direction. That’s why we took inspiration from an unexpected place—mountain bike tires—when designing the outsole of the Ridge Rebel. Just like a high-performance bike tire, the Ridge Rebel's outsole is built to deliver 360-degree grip, so no matter what angle your foot lands at, you can trust it to stick. That’s a rarity when it comes to shoes, so we have you covered!

The secret to this all-around traction lies in the design of the lugs on the bottom of the shoe. We made sure the Ridge Rebel features a generous 4.5mm lug depth, which is more than enough to bite into soft dirt, mud, and even snow. These lugs are spaced just right to provide great grip without collecting too much debris, which means they stay effective no matter how tough the trail gets. Whether you're navigating steep inclines or speeding through slick descents, the Ridge Rebel’s lugs give you the confidence to push forward. And we like confidence when it comes to shoes!

Our shoe’s multi-directional lug pattern ensures that every part of your foot—whether you're landing on your heel, midfoot, or toes—gets optimal traction. This design allows for excellent stability and grip on everything from loose gravel to muddy inclines. The result? A shoe that adapts to the changing terrain underfoot, keeping you in control at all times.

Another key feature we love about the Ridge Rebel traction system is its durability. A lot of trail running shoes can start to lose grip as the outsole wears down, but the Ridge Rebel is built to last. We’ve used a tough, abrasion-resistant rubber compound in the outsole, so you won’t have to worry about losing that reliable grip after just a few runs. It’s built to handle rugged trails and rough conditions while maintaining excellent traction over time. Chances are, you’re taking this shoe out on an adventure, so it’s best to have a sneaker that adapts to all types of terrain. 

In wet conditions, traction becomes even more important. The Ridge Rebel offers a grip that holds up on slick surfaces like wet rocks or mud-soaked trails. Thanks to the strategic lug placement and high-quality rubber, you can trust the Ridge Rebel to keep you from slipping and sliding when things get slippery.

From the mountain bike-inspired outsole to the durable 4.5mm lugs, we’ve engineered this shoe to keep you secure, stable, and ready to tackle whatever the trail throws at you - which could be anything and everything. 

When it comes to trail running shoes, finding the perfect balance between weight and durability is essential. You want shoes that are light enough to keep you fast on your feet but durable enough to withstand the tough conditions of the trail. The Ridge Rebel, weighing about 11oz for a men’s size 10, strike that balance beautifully, giving you the best of both worlds: lightweight performance without sacrificing the rugged durability needed for challenging terrains.

At 11oz, the Ridge Rebel is light enough to prevent fatigue on long runs while providing enough cushioning and support for demanding trails. This lightweight construction is perfect for runners who want to go the distance without feeling like their shoes are holding them back.

Despite their low weight, these shoes don’t compromise on strength. The outsole is made from a durable, abrasion-resistant rubber that can handle everything from sharp rocks to wet, slippery surfaces. And the generous 4.5mm lugs provide excellent grip without wearing down too quickly, even on rugged trails.

The Ridge Rebel’s lightweight mesh upper is another example of how we’ve balanced weight and durability. Not only does it reduce the overall weight but is also reinforced in high-wear areas to ensure it holds up over time. It’s designed to be breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfortable, but tough enough to resist the inevitable scrapes and impacts that come with trail running.

Light trail shoes are designed for well-maintained, less technical trails where the terrain is relatively smooth and predictable. If you're running on groomed paths, grassy parks, or dirt tracks without too many rocks or obstacles, light trail shoes are likely your best bet. These shoes typically prioritize flexibility, breathability, and speed over heavy-duty protection. They tend to have shallower lugs compared to their rugged counterparts, which still provide adequate traction but are better suited for surfaces like packed dirt or soft trails rather than loose gravel or rocky terrain. While they may not offer the same level of protection as more robust shoes, their lightweight design allows for greater speed and a more natural running feel.

On the other hand, they may not have the rock plates or reinforced toe caps that offer protection from jagged rocks, roots, or debris, which could lead to discomfort or injury on more challenging runs. 

While the Ridge Rebel isn’t designed specifically as light trail shoes, their weight and flexibility make them a versatile option that can still perform well on less technical trails. We’ve masted balance with this shoe. Their 11oz weight keeps them light enough to handle smooth trails with ease, while the generous lugs and supportive design provide extra protection when needed.

Rugged trail shoes are the go-to choice for more technical, difficult terrain. If you’re planning to run on rocky trails, steep inclines, or paths strewn with roots and obstacles, you’ll need a pair of rugged trail shoes that can handle the challenges. These shoes are built with extra protection and stability in mind, often featuring more durable materials, reinforced uppers, and deeper lugs to give you maximum traction on uneven ground.

Many come equipped with rock plates, which help shield your feet from sharp rocks and uneven surfaces. Additionally, rugged trail shoes tend to have stiffer midsoles for added support, which can be especially helpful when navigating technical descents or uneven ground. The tradeoff for this increased protection is that these shoes are often heavier and less flexible than lighter models.

The Ridge Rebel falls into this category, offering the durability and grip you need for rugged terrain. Designed with 4.5mm lugs and an outsole inspired by mountain bike tires, these shoes give you 360-degree grip to keep you steady on slippery or uneven surfaces. While they don’t include a rock plate, the thick outsole provides enough protection to handle rough trails, and the reinforced upper ensures your feet are safe from bumps and scrapes. 

Choosing between waterproof and non-waterproof trail running shoes comes down to the type of environment you’ll be running in and your personal preferences. Waterproof shoes are designed to keep your feet dry when running through wet conditions like rain, snow, or muddy trails. They typically feature a membrane like Gore-Tex or another water-resistant material that prevents moisture from seeping in while still allowing breathability. However, the tradeoff is that waterproof shoes can sometimes feel less breathable and a bit heavier than non-waterproof options.

If you often run in wet, rainy conditions or through streams and puddles, waterproof trail running shoes can be a game changer, keeping your feet dry and comfortable for the duration of your run. This is especially true if you live in a wetter climate. On the flip side, waterproof shoes may not be necessary if you primarily run in dry or moderately damp conditions, as they can sometimes trap heat and cause your feet to sweat more. 

Though the Ridge Rebel is not waterproof, we’ve designed them with enough water resistance to handle light rain or damp trails without issue. Their breathable mesh upper allows for great airflow, helping to prevent overheating in warmer conditions. We are currently working on a fully waterproof version for runners who regularly face wet and muddy trails. 

For most trail runners, non-waterproof shoes like the current Ridge Rebel will provide all the performance and comfort they need, particularly in drier climates or during the summer months. However, if you're running in consistently wet environments, it might be worth waiting for the waterproof version of the Ridge Rebel to ensure your feet are guaranteed to stay dry. 

Before you can choose the right trail running shoe, it's important to understand your running style. Are you someone who prefers long, slow runs, soaking up nature and taking in the scenery? Or are you all about short, fast sprints through technical terrain, pushing your limits with speed and agility? 

For runners who enjoy longer, more relaxed runs, you’ll likely want a shoe with plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable over extended periods. The Ridge Rebel, with their balanced cushioning and durable support, are perfect for those who prefer long haul runs. They provide the comfort you need without feeling too bulky, so you can keep going mile after mile. 

On the other hand, if you’re a speed demon looking to go as fast as you can, you might prioritize lightweight shoes that give you the flexibility you need to move fast. The Ridge Rebel is still a great choice for faster-paced runners due to their lightweight design (at just 11oz), allowing you to maintain speed while still offering the grip and protection you need on the trail. 

Lastly, consider whether you’re prone to overpronation (rolling your foot inward) or supination (rolling your foot outward). Knowing how your foot moves can help you choose a shoe with the right support and stability. For runners with neutral pronation, the Ridge Rebel provides just the right amount of arch support and flexibility to accommodate natural foot movement without feeling too restrictive.

Every runner’s foot is unique, and your foot shape plays a huge role in determining which trail running shoe is right for you. Do you have wide feet? Narrow feet? High arches or flat feet? Understanding your foot shape is key to choosing a shoe that fits like a glove—or rather, like a sock.

If you have wider feet, you’ll want to avoid shoes that feel too tight, especially in the toe box. A cramped toe box can lead to blisters, discomfort, and even long-term foot issues. The Ridge Rebel is designed with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread out naturally. This not only improves comfort but also helps with balance and stability on uneven terrain. No more cramped toes—just freedom to move.

For those with high arches, look for a shoe that offers extra cushioning and arch support to prevent strain and discomfort. The Ridge Rebel provides balanced arch support, making them comfortable for a wide range of foot shapes, whether you have high arches or need a bit more cushion. On the flip side, if you have flat feet, you’ll want a shoe with enough structure to prevent overpronation, and the Ridge Rebel’s stable midsole helps with just that.

If you’re unsure of your foot shape, you can easily figure it out by checking your old running shoes for wear patterns. If the inside of your shoes is worn down more than the outside, you may overpronate and need more support. If the outer edges are more worn, you may supinate and need shoes with more cushioning. These are simple hacks to quickly figuring out what your issue might be. 

The climate and weather conditions you typically run in can have a big impact on the type of trail running shoes you should choose. Are you running in hot, dry conditions where breathability is key? Or are you slogging through mud, rain, and snow, where waterproofing and traction are a couple non-negotiables?

As we’ve mentioned, the Ridge Rebel is breathable, thanks to their mesh upper that allows for maximum airflow. This feature ensures your feet stay cool, even during long runs in the heat. Plus, the lightweight design helps prevent your feet from feeling weighed down in hotter weather.

For runners who deal with a mix of climates—think dry summers and wet winters—it might be worth considering having two pairs of trail running shoes: one that’s lightweight and breathable for dry conditions, and one that’s waterproof and built for the mud.

Your running goals are another critical factor in choosing the right trail running shoe. Are you training for a specific event, like an ultramarathon or a local trail race? Or are you simply looking to enjoy weekend runs in nature to clear your mind? The shoes you choose should align with what you want to achieve out on the trails.

For competitive runners, performance is everything. You’ll want a shoe that gives you an edge, whether it’s through lightweight design, superior grip, or added stability. The Ridge Rebel, with their durable construction and 360-degree grip, are a great choice for those looking to push their limits in races or timed events. The balance between support and flexibility makes them perfect for both speed and long-distance efforts.

For recreational runners, comfort and enjoyment might be your top priorities. You’re not necessarily looking to break records—you just want a shoe that makes your runs feel effortless and enjoyable. With their wide toe box, balanced cushioning, and comfortable fit, the Ridge Rebel is perfect for runners who want to enjoy their time on the trail without worrying about blisters or discomfort.

Maybe your goal is to explore new trails and spend more time outdoors. In that case, a versatile shoe like the Ridge Rebel can take you from the mountains to the forest without missing a beat. Their sturdy construction and reliable grip make them perfect for runners who want to venture off the beaten path and experience all that nature has to offer. Whatever your running goals, there’s a trail running shoe out there (hint: it might be the Ridge Rebel) that can help you achieve them.

Let’s be real—looks matter, too. Sure, you want a trail running shoe that performs, but you also want one that looks good while doing it. You don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort! The Ridge Rebel is not only engineered for performance but designed with style in mind. These shoes are as at home on the trail as they are at the brewery afterward. With their sleek design and eye-catching details, the Ridge Rebel doesn’t just feel great—they look great, too.

What’s even better is that the Ridge Rebel is versatile enough to be worn off the trails. Their attractive, rugged design makes them perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re running errands, grabbing a post-run drink with friends, or heading out for a casual weekend adventure. 

Time and time again, I’ll take these shoes on a long trail run, immediately hop in the car post-run, and then drive to the nearest brewery for a cold, post-run beer. I never think twice about my footwear. I even wear them out when I’m not on a run! These shoes easily transition from mountain to city, so you don’t have to switch out your footwear when you’re done with your run. 

When it comes to trail running shoes, the Viakix Ridge Rebel has a lot going for them. From top-tier performance to unbeatable value, these shoes are designed to meet the needs of runners who demand the best without breaking the bank. Here’s why the Ridge Rebel truly stands out from the competition.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Ridge Rebel is their superior grip and traction. We took inspiration from mountain bike tires when designing the outsole, ensuring that you get 360-degree grip on any terrain. The generous 4.5mm lugs dig into loose dirt and gravel, giving you the confidence to tackle technical terrain without slipping.

At just 11oz for a men’s size 10, the Ridge Rebel is lightweight enough to help you move quickly while still providing the support and protection you need for tough trails. Many lightweight shoes sacrifice durability, but we’ve engineered the Ridge Rebel to give you the best of both worlds. The shoe’s construction is designed to handle rough conditions without weighing you down, making it perfect for everything from speed training to long-distance trail runs.

Comfort is key when it comes to trail running, especially if you’re spending hours on the trail. The Ridge Rebels are designed with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread out naturally, reducing the chance of blisters and discomfort. This feature is particularly important for long runs, where foot swelling can become an issue. With the Ridge Rebels, your toes have room to breathe, improving both comfort and balance.

One of the biggest factors that sets the Ridge Rebel apart is the price. At around $79.99, the Ridge Rebel is significantly more affordable than many of their competitors. Brands like Altra, Topo, Asics, Saucony, and Adidas often price their trail running shoes well above $100, sometimes reaching into the $150-$170 range. For a high-performance trail running shoe, the Ridge Rebel delivers incredible value without compromising on quality or performance.

The Ridge Rebel isn’t just built for performance—they’re also designed to look good. These shoes transition seamlessly from the trail to everyday life, making them as versatile as they are functional. Whether you're finishing up a rugged trail run or heading out to meet friends at a local brewery, the Ridge Rebel has a sleek, modern design that works in both environments.

With their exceptional grip, lightweight durability, comfortable fit, and unbeatable price, the Viakix Ridge Rebel offers everything a trail runner could want. They’re versatile enough for a variety of trails and stylish enough to wear off the trail. Priced at $79.99, they deliver premium performance without the premium price tag, making them an outstanding choice for trail runners looking for quality, comfort, and value - all in one package.

A: The most important factor is the terrain you’ll be running on. Different shoes are designed for different conditions—some are better suited for rocky, technical trails, while others are made for softer, well-maintained paths. You want a shoe with the right amount of grip and protection for the surfaces you’ll encounter most often. For instance, the Ridge Rebel features 4.5mm lugs for excellent traction on a wide range of terrains, making them a versatile option for many runners.

A: It depends on the climate and conditions you’ll be running in. Waterproof shoes are great for wet, muddy trails or if you're running in consistently rainy conditions, but they can sometimes feel less breathable in hot weather. Non-waterproof shoes, like the current version of the Ridge Rebel, is lighter and more breathable, making them ideal for dry conditions or trails where your feet won’t be constantly submerged in water. It’s all about matching the shoe to your environment.

A: A good trail running shoe should fit snugly around the midfoot and heel while offering a bit more room in the toe box to allow your toes to spread naturally, especially on downhill runs. This prevents blisters and improves stability. The Ridge Rebel, for example, is designed with a wide toe box, which makes them more comfortable for longer runs by reducing foot cramping and allowing natural toe splay.

A: Cushioning is all about personal preference and the type of trails you’re tackling. Runners who frequent rocky or technical trails may prefer more cushioning for shock absorption, while those running on softer terrain might opt for minimal cushioning for a more natural feel. The Ridge Rebel offers a balanced level of cushioning—soft enough to absorb impact but responsive enough for technical terrain.

A: Trail running shoes can range anywhere from $80 to $170 or more, depending on the brand and features. You don’t always have to spend a fortune for quality. For example, the Ridge Rebel offers a high-performance, durable option for around $79.99, which is substantially less than brands like Altra, Topo, or Asics, without compromising on important features like grip and durability.

A: If you tend to overpronate (your foot rolls inward) or supinate (your foot rolls outward), you might benefit from trail running shoes with extra support in the midsole to help stabilize your foot. If your current running shoes show uneven wear on the edges, it’s a good indicator that you need additional support.

A: Technically, you can, but trail running shoes are designed with deeper lugs and sturdier outsoles, which can feel less comfortable or efficient on pavement. If you’re mainly running on roads, you might want to opt for a shoe specifically designed for road running to maximize comfort and performance.