Last updated on April 14th, 2021 at 04:50 pm
Mud is a part of any trail runners life. Whether running an ultra marathon during a rain storm, or just trying to get a few miles in after the rainy season, mud is inevitable. With countless shoe options out there, it can be difficult to select a pair that will perform well in all conditions. In this post, we provide information and design attributes for 4 of the best running shoes for muddy trail runs.
Trail running shoes ideal for muddy conditions will have aggressive bottom treads, strongly built eyelets and laces, a durable outer material, and a design that works well in wet conditions (waterproof or easily draining).
Below we briefly provide some additional detail as to why the above mentioned design attributes are so important, and then share with you our favorite shoes that have these attributes.
What Makes a Running Shoe Perfect For Muddy Runs?
With endless shoe options, it can be difficult to select a shoe that does well in mud. With this in mind, we’ve listed the shoe attributes we look for when evaluating whether the shoe will do well on muddy trails… These are also the main features we judged the shoes in this post on:
- Substantial Treads: You don’t want to slip on a muddy run. Large treads will help you maintain your balance.
- Strong Outer Construction: As you put on the miles, mud will gather around the outside of your shoe. A durable outer material will ensure that your shoe doesn’t rip from the mud (and debris) that collect on it.
- Eyelets and Laces That Are Tough: As mud gathers on your shoe, cakes onto the top and sides, and ultimately dries, you will need to brush and wipe the mud off. You will want durable eyelets and laces that don’t easily break through this process.
- Waterproof Construction (Or Excellent Draining Capabilities): While we think of mud as its own entity, we need to remember that it is extremely wet too. If you want to keep wet muddy water from seeping through the sides of your shoe, a waterproof shoe is needed. This will prevent wet mud from getting into your shoe unless it goes in through the top; although a good pair of gaiters can stop this too. If the shoe you take interest in does not have waterproof technology just make sure it can drain well.
We took the above attributes and sought to find the best running shoes for your mud running adventures.
Below we go into our favorites, we supply a comparison table of all the shoes in this post, and we provide in-depth detail on each of the shoes that made our list.
Our Favorite Running Shoes for Muddy Trail Runs Are...
After comparing a ton of trail running shoes on their durability, tread size, and more, we felt that two of the shoes on our list stood out as our absolute favorites for muddy runs. If you don’t have time to read a full post, either of these will work well in the mud:
Our favorite: Salomon Speedcross GTX 5 – men’s or women’s
Our runner-up (and the shoes I wear!): La Sportiva Ultra Raptor – men’s version (or women’s version)
While the two shoes above are awesome, I would strongly suggest reading through (or at least scanning) the rest of this post. After all, some of the other shoes might be more well suited to the type of runs you’re planning to take on.
Comparison Table of Mud Loving Running Shoes
So you can see our favorites side-by-side we have put together this comparison table. We also state what each shoes’ main attribute is that helps it work well in the mud.
| Picture | Name / Link | Best Attribute for Mud |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Salomon Speedcross GTX | Serious Treads! |
 
|
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor GTX | Great Foot Protection |
 
|
VJ-XTRM Obstacle Course Racing Shoes | Easily Drains |
 
|
Altra Lone Peak 4.5 - SS20 | Easy to Clean |
We provide much more detail on each of the shoes in our comparison table throughout the rest of this post. Read on to learn WHY each of the shoes we feature are ideal for muddy conditions.
1. Salomon Speedcross GTX 5
If you are looking for a trail runner that is performance focused, but also made for mud, consider the Salomon Speedcross GTX 5 – men’s version (or women’s version)
Built as a comfort-focused trail runner first and foremost, the Salomon Speedcross just happens to have many attributes that make it perfect for running in mud.
Aggressive Treads Define This Shoe
When you first look at this shoe you can’t help but notice its ridiculously aggressive treads. Measuring approximately 3/8″ from the bottom of the shoe base to tip of the tread, these are going to provide massive grip.
There are three major aspects of these treads that will help you fare well in mud:
- There is ample space between lugs: If your treads are too close together they would end up holding onto the mud between the lugs. Because there is ample space between the treads on these shoes, mud can more easily make its way back OFF the sole as you’re running.
- Sole and lugs comprised of heavy-duty rubber: Not only are the lugs spaced well, and able to grasp deeply into the ground, but they’re also tough meaning you’ll be able to grip well in the slippery mud.
- Treads are multi-directional: Multi-directional lugs provide a better grip on uneven terrain
All in all, the treads on this shoe will keep you from sliding around. Which really should be one of the main reasons a trail running shoe is used in the first place.
Waterproof Construction (Gore-Tex)!
Mud is wet, and if you’re running when its muddy outside you need to accept that you’re going to get wet. That said, it is a good feeling knowing your feet will be mostly dry for the next fifteen miles.
If you want to TRY and keep the rest of yourself dry you should check out our post on the Best Waterproof Trail Running Jackets
The Salomon Speedcross GTX 5 takes this need for dry feet into account and employs the use of Gore-Tex technology. This provides protection during even the wettest conditions but doesn’t make the shoe bulky or uncomfortable.
Easy To Clean Seamless Construction (ideal for mud)
When you run in mud it is inevitable that mud will end up on your shoes, and you will want to have a pair of shoes that can be easily cleaned off. This is necessary to keep your shoes from degrading faster.
The Salomon Speedcross GTX are perfect for cleaning because they are comprised of a smooth outer material that is literally seamless. The welded upper is extremely smooth to the touch, which means mud will much more easily be wiped off.
The Salomon Speedcross GTX Can Handle Mud But is Also Just An AWESOME Trail Running Shoe
When talking about shoes designed for the mud, the Salomon Speedcross GTX 5 needs to be near the top of the list. The tread alone makes this one of the top shoes for slippery wet conditions.
When you factor in the lightweight design of the shoe (12 ounces), and the Salomon SensiFit design to provide a snug fit it needs to be considered that this shoe isn’t just the best shoe for muddy runs… it is just one of the best shoes for trail running in general. You can check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: Salomon Speedcross GTX 5 – men’s version or women’s version)
2. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor GTX
If you are looking for a trail runner that is designed for mud, but also performance-focused you should definitely consider the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor – men’s version (or women’s version). Plenty about this shoe’s construction will help you in the mud.
Having owned various pairs of Ultra Raptors (both the GTX and standard versions) I can say with confidence that these do great in the mud. Just how much do I love these? Well, below are three of my current Ultra Raptors.
While they hold a special place in my heart, and I love them… there are still many attributes these shoes have that anyone can agree are vital for running in muddy conditions.
The La Sportiva Ultra Raptors are Rugged Shoes
One of the first things you’ll notice when putting the Ultra Raptor on your feet is how rugged they are. While any trail running shoe should be durable, here is what makes these tougher than most:
- A compressed and compact rock guard: Small enough not to add too much weight to the shoe, the EVA Rock Guard prevents punctures from un-seen mud-covered debris (this includes rocks, roots, sticks, and more).
- Thick friction focused sole: With a FriXtion XF Rubber sole that prevents you from slipping, and the combined support and protection of the rock guard – it is very unlikely anything is going to get through the bottom of your shoes.
- Awesome toe protection: Most running shoes have soles that wrap up around the front of the shoe. The Ultra Raptor goes a step further by providing protection to the top of the toes – this has saved my toes a number of times.
Since the mud can conceal sticks, rocks, roots, and more a rugged shoe is perfect for muddy runs, and the Ultra Raptor is among the toughest trail runners on the market.
Waterproof Design For Mud and River Crossings
Like many of the shoes best fit for running through the mud, the Ultra Raptors have a waterproof version that will keep your feet dry in the mud.
While I have found the standard Ultra Raptors to work just fine on muddy runs (they have the same treads and rock-guard), the GTX version is definitely going to provide an additional element of comfort for your feet… by keeping them dry.
Anti-Slip Sole Designed For Stability
Ultra Raptors have very slip-resistant sole construction. While the treads aren’t as aggressive as some of the others we cover in this post, the lug spacing and contour variations definitely prevent slipping.
One of the most dangerous trail types for running is wet mud on smooth rock, and in my experience, the Ultra Raptor’s FriXtion XF Rubber sole does a great job holding on surfaces you would otherwise expect to wipe out on.
This can be extremely important when running through shallow mud that doesn’t give a lot during a run.
Recap of The Ultra Raptors' Mud Defying Attributes
As always, I am a huge fan of the Ultra Raptors, and profess my love for them ANY chance I get. Simply put, the Ultra Raptor is a rugged shoe built to protect your feet on difficult trails, including muddy ones.
With a compact rock plate, friction-focused sole, and highly protective rubber toe guard, these trail runners are great for mud. When these attributes are coupled with waterproof Gore-Tex technology you are ready for Spring, the rainy season, or single-track after heavy rain.
If you think you can grow to love the Ultra Raptors as much as I have, you can see more pictures and specs on Amazon here: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor – men’s version (or women’s version).
3. VJ-XTRM Obstacle Course Racing Shoes
The VJ-XTRM OCR Shoes were designed for the muddy extremes of obstacle course races, and they perform beautifully in wet muddy conditions.
The VJ’s are a unique off-brand shoe made specifically with mud in mind.
These Shoes ARE NOT Waterproof...But in a Good Way
While waterproof shoes are a great way to keep your feet dry in wet muddy conditions, there is another strategy: Let everything in, and everything out.
In other words, don’t worry about water and moisture making their way into the shoes. As long as the muddy water can make its way back out of the shoe your feet will quickly dry when on harder surfaces.
Believe it or not, waterproof shoes can be very polarizing, as some people swear by the method of just having a super breathable shoe. If this is you, these shoes definitely need to be on your short list.
Well Spaced Aggressive Treads Plus Rock Plate
With 6 mm long treads, and an ideal lug spacing for mud to slide off, these shoes have been made to keep you from slipping.
Whether experiencing the more than one-foot deep mud you might encounter on an obstacle course, or slick mud you might encounter on a bridal trail after a rain, the treads of the VJ are ready.
When you couple the quality treads with a built-in rock plate, the VJ’s become an ideal option for a variety of muddy conditions.
Designed For Obstacle Courses (With Lots of Mud!)
These shoes are designed to stand up to the rigors of obstacle course racing. While obstacle course racing isn’t necessarily trail running, mud centric events like the Tough Mudder and Spartan Race do put shoes to the test. For this reason, it makes total sense for trail runners to consider these obstacle course shoes for their muddiest of runs.
Are The VJ-XTRM Obstacle Course Racing Shoes Worth a Try?
It has never occurred to me just how much trail running and obstacle course racing have in common. Muddy slippery conditions, potentially dangerous obstructions, and un-paved routes to name a few.
Just because the obstructions of trail running are more subtle than those of a course doesn’t mean a shoe designed for the courses won’t translate perfectly to the muddy root laden trails we are accustom to.
If you are toying with the idea of grabbing a super lightweight shoe adapted for mud you can check out more pictures and specs on Amazon here: The VJ-XTRM Obstacle Course Racing Shoes.
4. Altra Lone Peak 4.5 – SS20
This is a trail running shoe that is made to be an AWESOME option for ultra runners. It also just happens that the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 – men’s version (or women’s version) are well suited for muddy conditions.
An Ultra Running Shoe Built for Various Conditions
Ultrarunning takes you and your shoes through dozens (often 100+) miles of trail. Along the way you will find EVERY variation of trail you can imagine, and muddy wet trail is often likely.
Since the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 intends to provide a shoe ideal for the terrain of ultra racing there are elements of this shoe made specifically for the incidence of muddy encounters. Outside of these design attributes, however, the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 is just made to be an all around great shoe.
Multi-Directional Treads and Lightweight Rock Plate
The treads on the bottom of the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 are in a variety of shapes and are spaced thoughtfully. Treads near the front of the foot seem to be shaped perfectly for digging into and creating traction, while mid-sole treads are spaced wider to allow mud to squeeze out from the sides and prevent clinging (see tread pics on Amazon).
It should also be noted that the Altra Lone Peak 4.5’s, like many others on this list, include a lightweight rock plate as a part of their bottom construction.
The rock plate provides the protection required when running through mud, while the treads will help you keep your footing.
Strong and Traditional Shoe Lace Eyelets
Trail running shoe design has started to move toward thinner laces and less obstructive eyelets. There are pros to this, but it is also worth noting that traditional shoe eyelets are EXTREMELY difficult to break.
Eyelets get put under pressure when running through the mud because your shoe is going to be scrapping through whatever is in the mud.
Not only that, but you are going to need to eventually clean off your shoe by knocking caked mud off. If you don’t clean them right away it will be dry mud. This taxes your eyelets, but the traditional eyelets on the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 are going to last, muddy run after muddy run.
Built-in Gaitor Connections Are a Part of the Design
If you hit the trails enough you will quickly learn that even the most mud-ready shoes need a little help. Gaiters are an ideal way to keep debris, pebbles, and mud out of your shoes.
The Altra Lone Peak 4.5’s know this and come with a design that makes it VERY easy to attach gaiters to the shoes.
If you add a pair of gaiters to these shoes they will be very well fortified to keep the mud on the outside of your shoe.
Altra Has a Proven Record Handling Muddy Trails
Altra provides trail running shoes for some of the most elite runners in our sport, and the Lone Peak 4.5’s are built for a wide variety of terrains.
This post may be focused on outlining the best shoes for muddy conditions, but what if you could pick a shoe that does well in mud but is also super comfortable on a 50 km run. This is exactly what you’re getting with the Lone Peak 4.5’s.
If you think the Altra Lone Peak is your mud running companion, consider checking out more of the pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: Altra Lone Peak 4.5 – men’s version (or women’s version).
Don't Let Muddy Trails Slow You Down (too much)
Mud is an inevitability of trail running.
Runs in the spring months, on trails that take you through streams, or that take place during rains, are all going to put you (and your shoes) directly in the mud.
Have no fear though, you’ll be able to approach the trails without worry, as long as you bring with you a pair of trail running shoes with aggressive treads and a durable design that protect your feet.
Image Credit: Peter Mooney | (https://www.flickr.com/photos/peterm7/) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0)
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