Trail Running Shoes
Arc’teryx Norvan VT 2 Shoe Review
The Arc’teryx Norvan VT 2 shoe provides above-average foot protection and traction performance when hiking or running on rocky, uneven ground, but suffers from abysmal durability.
DetailsXero Shoes Mesa Trail Review
The Xero Shoes Mesa Trail (8.5 oz / 241 g, $119.99) is a minimalist trail runner best used for fastpacking. Huarache-inspired straps on the midfoot and instep allow for precisely dialed fit without causing compression.
DetailsTopo Athletic Terraventure Review (Trail Running Shoes)
This Topo Athletic Terraventure review features shoes that have narrow heels, a wide toebox, and minimal drop.
DetailsXero TerraFlex Review
This Xero Terraflex review features shoes that should interest both trail runners and ultralight hikers looking for a true minimalist shoe option for rugged terrain: super-flexible sole, zero drop, some cushioning, and very good traction.
DetailsAsolo Plasmic Shoe Review – Off-Trail Performance
This Asolo Plasmic Shoe Review identifies how this shoe performs. Our take is that it performs well in boulders, scree, and in the forest.
DetailsNew Balance 1080 v5 Review (What is Fresh Foam?)
The newly released New Balance 1080v5 shoes have “fresh foam” technology to minimize running wear on the body without compromising stability.
DetailsAltra Lone Peak NeoShell Review
The Altra Lone Peak Neoshell: light, zero-drop, wide toebox, waterproof-breathable. An ultralight backpacker’s shoe for the fringe season?
DetailsJoin Our Community
Become a Backpacking Light Member
Forum Access
Unrestricted access to all forums, plus the ability to post and start new threads.
Premium Content
Unrestricted access to all 2,300+ articles, gear reviews, skills, stories, and more.
Community Posts
Post new content to the community including gear swaps, reviews, trip reports and more!
Online Education
Get unlimited access to all our online education (*Unlimited membership required).
Pack less. Be more. Become a member today!