Trail Boss

I’m not a runner. I’m not a CrossFit guy or chasing the latest workout trend either. I have a handful of exercise circuits that I stick to, which keep me flexible, strong, and in shape. The reason I bring that up is simple: I don’t need highly specialized athletic shoes.

Instead, I lean into something far more utilitarian: trail shoes.

Why? Because I’m the dad of two very active boys (7 and 9 this summer), and I like being ready for whatever we dream up. Walking to the park. Shooting hoops. Hitting wedge shots in the yard. Throwing a baseball. Random backyard competitions that escalate quickly. Trail shoes give me the support and versatility I need without feeling overly technical.

First, they’re element-friendly. Not all of them are Gore-Tex lined, but most are at least somewhat water-resistant and built to handle grass, gravel, dirt, and the occasional puddle without complaint. Second, they offer serious cushioning and stability, more structured than a typical running shoe, but not bulky. Third, the soles are built like tanks. The grip is aggressive enough that I’ll wear them to the driving range or an indoor golf facility and never think twice.  And yes, I like the color.  Life is short.  Why not.

And maybe most importantly, they clean up well. A little OxiClean scrub and a rinse, and they’re back in rotation. That matters when your life includes mud, grass stains, and general chaos.

These are the options I’d recommend:

From top Left:

1. Nike ACG Pegasus Trail:  These are actually really hard to beat.  Good price point and a design that has been around almost as long as Nike has been in business.
2. Altra Olympus 6:  A little more technical than most, but the Vibram sole and the low-profile design are both important in my book.
3. Asics Trabucu 14:  I’ve been off Asics for a while, but they are making strides across the board.  Sizing is a bit strange. I’d recommend getting fitted before pulling the trigger.
4. New Balance FuelCell Rebel Trail:  New Balance still makes some of the best athletic shoes on the market, but I feel like they are due for a new designer.  Something fresh.  These FuelCells are cool – I don’t mind the neon at all, and the Vibram soles are like cleats.
5. Brooks Cascadia 19:  Brooks has made tremendous strides over the past few years.  I’d argue that they are leading the way on the ‘anti-establishment’ group (anti-Nike/etc.)
6. Brooks Ghost Trail:  However, the Brooks sizing has always been for wider feet.  These (the Ghost) are a bit more narrow-friendly, so they are starting to cover all of their bases.
7. Saucony Xodus Ultra 4:  I’ve been on Saucony for the past few years, and have been extremely happy.  I got my Dad and Brother wearing them too.  The look is cool, and they are extremely well constructed.
8. Saucony Peregrine 16:  I’ve focused my energy on these Peregrines (12, 14, etc.) and have been extremely happy.  They hold up and clean up well.

What did I miss?