All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
This article was first published in the January 2016 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
HOW WE TESTED
Each shoe was assessed for comfort, protection, durability, stability and grip, in both the wet and dry, over many surfaces, including the Rhyd Ddu path to the summit of Mount Snowdon, and the Man v Horse race in Llanwrtyd Wells. WIRED also racked up over 350 kilometres on forest trails, mulched park circuits, marshland and paths in east London, during a three-month, all-weather test period.
Read the WIRED Recommends guide to the best headphones for running
Adidas Terrex Boost
A deep-lugged, Continental rubber outsole and tough construction make the Terrex Boost appear much heavier than they are (325g). Grip on soft ground is exceptional and concerns about durability are dispelled by hard ground and road work. The fit is narrow and WIRED suffered rubbing -- the speed lacing in particular needs a rethink. 6/10 £120 adidas.co.uk
Salomon Speedcross3 GTX
With a serious 10mm heel-toe drop and the deepest lugs on test, the Speedcross 3, at 340g per shoe, is the standout performer across soft ground. Wet Welsh slate proves more of a challenge and the outsole's chevron-shaped grips are vulnerable to snagging on hard, edged surfaces. The Gore-Tex water resistance makes these an ideal option for walkers or slower runners. 7/10 £125 salomon.com
There's nothing spectacular about the Merrell, but in terms of weight (283g), ride and grip, it bests some of the higher-spec shoes here. The 6mm drop covers 12km of varying terrain quickly and in comfort. A snug upper and inner, and solid rubber protection around the toe, inspire confidence down tricky descents, and the UniFly sole delivers admirable shock absorption. 7/10 £95 merrell.co.uk
This 270g stripped-down, versatile racer has a minimal 4mm drop and compressed EVA midsole. It provides excellent stability at the expense of some ride comfort and protection. The shoe is ideally suited to those who prefer a more connected, natural feel and technical, rocky terrain. 7/10 £110 inov-8.co.uk
The PWRTRAC outsole copes well on many surfaces, particularly grass and gravel, making these ideal for woodland or urban trails, and they're adept at coping with sharp changes in direction. The lightweight seamless upper and midsole (the shoe is 261g) make for a cloud-like ride -- the best here -- at the expense of some stability. 6/10*£90* saucony.co.uk
Despite the bulk and weight -- 325g -- the Mujin 2 feel incredibly fast: WIRED achieved a 5km personal best down a treacherous, nettle-strewn path. Traction in the wet is excellent on soft and medium ground but less assured during climbs up hard, loose-grit paths. The quality build, premium comfort and outstanding stability more than justify a hefty price. 8/10 £115 mizuno.co.uk
Words; duncan baizley. photography: mitch payne; roger stillman
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
