12 Trail running brands to know right now

The world of trail running has exploded in recent years, with more runners than ever trading pavement for dirt paths and mountain vistas.

We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of the best trail running brands. Whether you’re seeking the perfect zero-drop shoe, ultralight performance apparel, or gear that treads lightly on the planet, these brands have you covered from head to toe.

1. Speedland

Founded in 2020 in Portland, Oregon, Speedland has over two decades of expertise behind it. The brand founded by industry veterans Dave Dombrow and Kevin Fallon, who previously led design teams at Nike, Under Armour, and Puma.

Its footwear blends cutting-edge tech with uncompromising quality — engineered for hundreds of miles of rugged terrain.

Speedland, is on a mission to create the best trail running shoes on the market, using premium materials and feedback from athletes. The brand also offers trail running caps and apparel.

2. NNormal

Established in 2022 by trail running legend Kilian Jornet and footwear innovator Camper, NNormal is committed to sustainability and authenticity. NNormal’s ethos is built on three pillars: comfort, durability, and quality. From their max-performance shoes to their organic cotton hoodies, every product is designed to last and engineered for all-terrain comfort.

Short for “No normal” – NNormal offers running pants and vests that are made for comfort, as well as accessories like functional running caps.

3. Norda

Norda was founded in Canada in 2020 and is the brainchild of lifelong endurance athletes Willa and Nick Martire. Unhappy with the lack of high-quality trail running shoes within the industry, they set out to create the perfect shoes.

Norda’s 001 ultra-distance shoes feature the world’s first seamless Bio-Dyneema upper and Vibram midsole, which means that they’re engineered for comfort and longevity.

What really sets norda apart is its relentless focus on durability over disposability. By crafting shoes that last, they’re reducing waste and challenging the throwaway culture of modern athletics. For runners who want to push their limits while treading lightly on the Earth, norda offers a no-compromise solution that’s as tough as the Canadian wilderness that inspired it.

4. Altra

Born from the innovative minds of high school running buddies Golden Harper and Brian Beckstead, Altra has been challenging conventional running shoe design since 2009. This Utah-based brand is all about letting your feet do what they do best – naturally.

Its signature FootShape™ toe box and Zero Drop™ platform. The roomy toe box allows your toes to spread naturally, enhancing stability and comfort. Meanwhile, the Zero Drop™ design promotes proper alignment and reduces impact.

Today, Altra makes some of the best running and athletic gear, including trail running shoes and apparel that are always comfortable, durable, and high-quality.

5. Topo Athletic

Founded in 2013 by running industry veteran Tony Post, Topo Athletic was born from Post’s 30-year footwear expertise and personal struggles with ill-fitting shoes.

Topo crafts footwear that lets your feet do what they do best with design features including a roomy toe box for natural toe splay, a secure midfoot and heel for stability, and a low heel-to-toe drop to encourage proper form. This unique combo aims to enhance comfort, reduce injury risk, and improve overall running efficiency.

Topo Athletic’s philosophy is to help people move better, whether it’s tackling their first mile or conquering their next ultra.

6. HOKA

HOKA is a running brand unlike any other and has been catering to serious runners since 2009. Co-founded by Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, HOKA’s signature feel comes from its three core technologies: a cloud-like cushioned midsole, the foot-cradling Active Foot Frame™, and the efficiency-boosting MetaRocker™.

With plenty of styles to choose from, you can pick the pair that suits your needs — and your aesthetic. Whether you like sleek shoes with soft soles like the Torrent 3 or chunky high tops like the TenNine that protect your ankles, they have styles for all kinds of trail runners.

7. Territory Run Co.

Launched in 2014, Territory Run Co. after founder Brett Farrell ditched his corporate gig to travel. Territory Run Co. crafts the perfect trail running apparel for serious athletes and casual runners alike. Its trail-running All Day Hoodie, and lightweight, breathable Long Haul Short, are favorites.

Its apparel and accessories are designed for those who see running as more than just exercise. Each piece is inspired by exploration, simplicity, and the raw beauty of nature. From graphic tees that tell a story to functional layers that transition seamlessly from trail to taproom, Territory Run Co.

8. Adidas

adidas definitely doesn’t need much of an introduction. Established in 1949, the brand sells premium athletic gear for almost any outdoor activity. With decades of experience, adidas knows how to make some of the best trail running gear on the market today.  Its Terrex Agravic 3 Trail Running Shoes have extra-light midsole and superior support and its Terrex Soulstride Trail Running Shoes feature a Continental™ Rubber outsole offers secure grip over roots and rock.

9. Nike

Nike has been setting the standard for athletic wear since 1964.

With a loyal customer base and tons of athletes who swear by its products, you can’t really go wrong buying trail running gear, like the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 shoes. After all, there’s a reason they’re one of the major brands in the industry — they just know what athletes want.

10. Saucony

Born in 1898 along the banks of Pennsylvania’s Saucony Creek, Saucony was established in 1989 by runners for runners and has evolved from a local shoe factory to a global running powerhouse. With an incredible variety of running shoes, its products are known for their exceptional quality and durability. From the Endorphin Rift to Xodus Ultra 3 shoes, Saucony excels in performance trail gear.

Whether you’re starting your running journey or are a seasoned trail runner with years of experience, you can use the brand’s Shoe Finder to find your perfect pair.

11. La Sportiva

Born in the heart of Italy’s Dolomites, La Sportiva embodies the rugged spirit of high-altitude adventure. Founded by cobbler Narciso Delladio, who hand-crafted boots for local woodcutters, the company has evolved into a global leader in climbing and mountaineering gear, as well as developing footwear for trail runners, walking and hiking.

Its trail shoes feature a Gore-Tex membranes and in-house La Sportiva technologies to guarantee, snug fit, lightweight and waterproofing combined with technical performance and durability.

12. MILER RUNNING

Designed and manufactured in New York City with high-quality fabrics sourced from European and Japanese mills, Miler’s apparel is sleek and straightforward. The minimalist brand emphasizes the latest technology and construction techniques for premium technical tops and bottoms.

Its Dirt Collection, focused on enhancing performance in challenging off-road conditions, in particular is perfect for hitting the trails. The collection consists of three matching black pieces — the Dirt Running 2-in-1 Short, Dirt Running ½ Zip SS Tee and Dirt Running ½ Zip Tank.