In this article, we’re going to help you pick your next trail running shoe. And we’ll explain what to look for based on the types of trails, the distance of your runs, and the type of technology you’ll need.

How adidas trail running technology improves your performance

adidas Terrex Agravic Flow – versatile/everyday trail shoe

This shoe transitions nicely from the road to the trail. Great for those times you gotta put in some distance on the hardtop to get to the trails.

You’ll find the durability of the outsole holds up great on or off-trail. But, built more for the trails because the lugs will tend to wear down quicker on the pavement or similar surfaces.

The Flow has a responsive midsole that’ll give you great energy return from start to finish. So you can go on longer runs without worrying about the cushioning wearing out on you. And you’ll enjoy how the foam molds to your foot.

The mesh upper was designed to give you maximum airflow. Great for your runs on hot days. But, they probably wouldn’t keep your feet warm in colder weather.

Also, the mesh allows water and mud to come straight through the shoe so it wouldn’t be good if you plan on running in the rain.

What you’ll notice:

• Locked-in feel.

The Flow has a padded heel and a sock-like construction to secure your foot while helping you feel locked in. So you can take on the trails without the worry.

• Traction

This shoe has a super grippy outsole that performs well on wet slippery rocks and on dry rocky or rooty terrain. The lugs aren’t super deep or aggressive but they certainly get the job done.

• Durable and Protective

The Flow has abrasion-resistant welding around the base of the shoe to give you added protection from sharp rocks poking through the sides of your shoe. And adds extra durability to the upper.

adidas Terrex Agravic XT – a step up in cushion and support

Designed to take you on a comfortable run through the technical terrain, the XT has a double whammy in cushion. You’ll notice great energy return with the Boost midsole. The removable insole has a great cushiony landing with a bouncy return to push you right into your next step.

The multi-layered mesh upper helps keep out an abundance of small pebbles and debris. And it is super breathable so you won’t get sweaty feet.

The XT has an aggressive outsole with a 4mm lug. You can feel confident going up or downhill, even running across slippery wet rocks thanks to the grippy outsole. And it has a middle of the road heel to toe drop at 7mm.

If you’re looking for a shoe with amazing comfort and traction, this would be a good choice. However, the XT does not have a rock plate for added protection from sharp rocks. So it might not be the best for rough rocky trails.

What you’ll notice:

• A tad heavier (than the Agravic Flow)

A shoe packed full of comfort and traction comes with a compromise. They weigh a bit more. But with all the energy return you aren’t likely going to notice too much.

• Snug fit with a twist

The heel of the shoe wraps around the back of your foot to give you a secure feel. The attached tongue squeezes around the front of your foot, kind of like a compression sock. On the other hand, some users have noted that the toe box feels just a tad too wide.

adidas Terrex Two Ultra Parley – Premium cushioned, lightweight

adidas wanted to do their part in recycling for a better tomorrow. They partnered with Parley, an environmental organization, to develop an upper that is constructed of plastic waste collected from our oceans and beaches.

The recycled material is super stretchy to expand and adjust with the movements of your feet. And yet, with it’s reinforced stitching, you don’t have to worry about overstretching.

Thanks to the new ultra boost cushion, you’ll instantly notice super soft comfort as soon as you step into this shoe. And, if you’re a runner that strikes the ground with your heel, you’ll appreciate the added cushion in the heel.

If you’re going for a run on a heavily sanded trail, you’ll appreciate the sock-like construction of the upper. It fits snug around your ankle to prevent debris from getting in the shoe. And with the flexibility of the upper, it is really easy to get on. You’ll have a truly glove-like fit.

Just remember that the Ultra Parley is a premium shoe so it is a bit more pricey. If you’re looking for an inexpensive shoe that won’t break the bank you might look at the XT.

What you’ll notice:

• Grippy

The outsole has a nice sticky grip. But, with a 3.5mm lug, this shoe wouldn’t be suited for terrain with wet, muddy conditions.

• Roomy toe box.

This shoe has a wide toe box to give you a nice roomy feel so your toes don’t feel cramped.

What to look for in a trail running shoe

Some runners appreciate a trail runner that transitions smoothly from the hardtop to the dirt trails. The Continental rubber outsoles from Adidas are known to give you just that. But, keep in mind that while a trail shoe can hold its own on the road, a road shoe might not have enough protection for trail running.

Trail running requires specific technologies to protect you from the rough terrain. You also need an outsole with lugs for grip. And you might appreciate a shoe with a rock plate for added protection from sharp rocks.

We’re going to help take some of the stress out of deciding which shoe would be the best choice for you by listing the strengths and differences that set them apart.

How do I choose the best adidas trail running shoe for me?

Let's decide by choosing what type of run you’ll be going on, the type of terrain, and for how long.

Casual runs

This would be a light run to relieve stress or just to get in some exercise. And maybe even go from road running to trail running. If this sounds like the type of run you’re interested in, you’ll need a shoe that transitions nicely from road to trail.

The Agravic Flow would be a great choice. This shoe is versatile to adapt to any terrain and has a responsive midsole for great energy return. But just so you know, the mesh upper being super breathable, it wouldn’t be great for colder weather runs. Also, the mesh allows water and mud to come in freely.

The Terrex Two Parley would be a suitable second choice. The upper is made with a recycled knit material so it would keep your feet warmer. And though this shoe isn’t water-resistant, it is better suited to deal with minimizing the mud and gravel from getting in. The compromise is that the midsole isn’t great on rocky terrain.

Racing/speed (5k-marathon)

If you’re going to be running a 5k or a marathon race, you need a shoe that won’t get in your way and is built for speed like the Agravic Speed Plus.

This shoe is super lightweight and speedy. It has 3 cutouts in the outsole to reduce weight while still giving you a great sticky grip.

The cushion is on the lines of a minimalist shoe to give you a good ground feel.

Several runners have stated that the Speed Plus is a bit larger and they needed to go down half a size.

Long-distance (ultra-marathon)

For long-distance runs that are 30+ miles long, you’ll want a shoe with maximum cushion. The Two Ultra Parley would be a great choice.

This shoe is heavily cushioned and will give you excellent comfort for the duration of your run. With a 22mm heel stack, it has more cushioning than others in the adidas trail runner lineup.

Different from the Two Parley, the Two Ultra Parley transfers energy differently in the midsole, which makes it suitable for rocky terrain as well.

The Agravic XT would be another good choice for long-distance runs.

Packed with a double-layered Boost cushioning, you would have the comfort to last with plenty of energy return to push you through.

But just know, the XT is a bit heavier.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my adidas trail running shoes?

You should start thinking about replacing your trail runners around 300-500 miles.

• If you notice that the midsole has lost its cushion then you might want to replace them.
• Watch for signs of creasing in the sole. That indicates that the midsole is worn out.
• When the tread begins to wear down, you should start looking to replace them.
• Always tune in to your body. If you have joints that are achy with pain and or discomfort, then your shoes aren’t giving you the comfort or support that you need.

How do I make my trail runners last longer?

First, don’t just kick them off by scraping the toe of the shoe against the other shoe's heel, and fling them into the corner. Avoid putting unnecessary stress and causing damage to your shoes by simply untying them and slipping them off with your hand.

While your trail runners are versatile to wear around town or to run errands, be mindful that you’re not putting additional wear and tear on the tread. Try and save the outsoles for the trails whenever possible.

If you can, try to rotate out your trail runners. This will give the compression of the midsole foam time to return to form.