After testing various waterproof trail running shoes, the Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX stands out as my top pick. It ticks all the boxes for performance, comfort, and durability during rigorous trail runs.
With the advanced GORE-TEX technology, the Cascadia 19 GTX offers exceptional waterproofing, keeping your feet dry in even the wettest conditions. This shoe excels in providing both protection and breathability, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout your run.
The Cascadia 19 GTX also features a high-traction outsole that handles wet and muddy terrain with ease. Its multi-directional lugs provide a solid grip, ensuring stability on mixed surfaces.
The shoe’s midsole cushioning is responsive and supportive, making it suitable for long-distance runs without sacrificing comfort.
| Model | Rating | Weight (Pair) | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX | 4.8/5 | 1 lb. 6 oz. | Excellent cushioning, versatile traction | Long-distance trail running |
| Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX | 4.6/5 | 10.2 oz | Durable with smooth ride on trails | Mixed terrain running |
| Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX | 4.5/5 | 1 lb. 5.3 oz. | Aggressive tread for slippery surfaces | Muddy or technical trails |
| Brooks Ghost 17 GTX | 4.5/5 | 11.3 oz. | Plush comfort with responsive cushioning | Lightweight trail running |
| La Sportiva Bushido III GTX | 4.4/5 | 1 lb. 5 oz. | Great for rocky trails with superior grip | Rocky and rugged terrains |
To identify the top 5 waterproof trail running shoes, we tested 15 pairs across various terrains, including flat, rocky, muddy, and gravel surfaces, in both the United States and Europe. Each shoe underwent comprehensive trials for waterproofing during rain, breathability in heat, and performance across diverse landscapes. Our team’s multi-day tests, complemented by insights from independent experts, determined each shoe’s fit and break-in period. The shoes were rated based on key criteria such as fit, cushioning, tread, breathability, and more. After calculating average scores, we also factored in external feedback and warranties to finalize our recommendations. Learn more about our product selection process.
Our Top Recommended Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
1) Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX – Rating 4.8/5
Brooks finally changed the foam, and it shows. The DNA LOFT v3 midsole is nitrogen-infused supercritical EVA, softer and springier than anything the Cascadia has run before.
The Trail Adapt System pairs that cushier foam with a flexible rock plate and wider forefoot platform. Grip holds on loose shale, stability holds on off-camber stuff.
The TrailTack Green outsole (25% recycled materials) bites into wet rock and loose gravel equally well. I’ve taken these through some nasty conditions in the Tatras and they just hold.
Roomy toe box lets your feet splay naturally on long efforts. The upper locks down without pressure points, and the fit feels dialed from the first wear. No break-in fussing.
Still not a lightweight racer. Never has been. The padded tongue holds moisture longer than it should, which is something to keep in mind if you’re doing creek crossings. Takes a while to dry out fully.
But for all-day mountain efforts where conditions keep changing, this is the workhorse. Versatile enough for daily training, burly enough for proper mountain days.
For information about the previous version, read our Brooks Cascadia 18 Review.
Specs:
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 5 oz.595 gram (W7); 1 lb. 6 oz.624 gram (M10)
- Top Features: DNA LOFT v3, Trail Adapt System, TrailTack Green outsole, GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit
PROS
CONS
2) Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX – Rating 4.6/5
Nike swapped to ReactX foam on this version. Softer, bouncier, with more energy return.
Higher stack height and a more pronounced rocker make road sections feel smooth. The GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit membrane and integrated ankle gaiter keep feet dry through puddles and stream crossings. This earned my pick for best waterproof trail runner in rainy conditions.
The reworked All-Terrain Compound outsole sheds mud better and grips slick surfaces more confidently than before. For routes that bounce between pavement and forest trails, it works well. I’ve been using these on mixed commute routes and they handle the transitions without complaint.
There’s a trade-off, though. Those 3.5mm lugs struggle on technical sections. No rock plate, so sharp stones telegraph through. The soft, high-stack construction feels sketchy on off-camber descents. Great shoe for friendly trails. Not built for proper mountain terrain.
For the full scope, please check out or review of the Nike Pegasus Trail 5.
Specs:
- Weight (pair): 8.3 oz.235 gram (W8); 10.2 oz.289 gram (M10.5)
- Top Features: ReactX cushioning, All-Terrain Compound outsole, GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit
PROS
CONS
3) Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX – Rating 4.5/5
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX marks a competitive spot in my top five best Gore-Tex trail running shoes, standing as an impressive upgrade from its preceding version.
A key feature is the shoe’s full Gore-Tex upper, ensuring that wet weather and stream crossings do not make my feet wet, rendering it a fantastic waterproof trail shoe.
Upgraded from the Speedcross 5, the Speedcross 6 GTX offers a more stable ride on rocky terrain thanks to its improved rigid base and flexible rock plate.
The shoe may feel a bit narrow for those with wide feet, but this is a minor trade-off, considering its excellent features.
Specs:
- Weight: 9.5 oz.269 gram (W8); 11.5 oz.326 gram (M9)
- Top Features: Gore-Tex liner, Contagrip® outsole, EnergyCell™+ midsoles.
PROS
CONS
4) Brooks Ghost 17 GTX – Rating 4.5/5
This model is the waterproof version of an already highly praised road shoe, which has been thoughtfully upgraded for trail running.
Plushest Ghost yet. More DNA LOFT v3 foam everywhere: extra 3mm in the forefoot, 1mm in the heel. Drop lowered to 10mm from 12mm. The ride feels balanced whether you heel-strike or land midfoot. Wider platform keeps things stable despite the taller, softer stack.
GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit bonds directly to the double jacquard mesh. Waterproof without feeling stiff or plasticky. The redesigned “wet traction” outsole grips slick pavement better than previous versions.
New kickback heel collar should help anyone who’s dealt with Achilles irritation on older Ghosts. That was an issue for me on the 15, and it’s gone now.
There’s weight here though. You’ll feel it on tempo efforts. Toe box still runs snug, so size up if needed. But for recovery runs and all-weather daily training, it’s hard to argue with.
Specs:
- Weight (pair): 10.1 oz.286 gram (W); 11.3 oz.320 gram (M)
- Top Features: DNA LOFT v3, GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit, wet traction outsole, kickback heel collar
PROS
CONS
5) La Sportiva Bushido III GTX – Rating 4.4/5
Considering the elements that make a waterproof trail running shoe a game-changer, the La Sportiva Bushido III GTX has a few key features that had me taken aback during testing.
La Sportiva updated the FriXion® Red bi-compound outsole with a modified lug pattern. Sheds mud faster, grip stays savage. On wet rock, loose scree, and off-camber scrambles, traction is exactly what you want.
The sock-like fit sits low to the ground. Real trail feel – you know exactly what’s beneath your foot, which helps on technical sections. PFC-free GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit ePE membrane bonds directly to the upper, no stiffness issues. Dries noticeably faster than the II after stream crossings.
Plus, La Sportiva finally added a wide version for those who found earlier versions too narrow.
One note: not a cushioned cruiser. The firm midsole works great under 20 miles,32 kilometer, but foot fatigue becomes real on longer outings. My team noticed faster wear than the II in heavy rocky terrain, which is something to watch if you grind through demanding alpine routes regularly.
For Skyraces and demanding mountain routes though? Still hard to beat.
We reviewed the La Sportiva Bushido II some time ago, a must-read if you seek a discounted older model.
Specs:
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 1 oz.482 gram (W8); 1 lb. 5 oz.595 gram (M9)
- Top Features: GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit ePE, FriXion® Red outsole, Impact Brake System
PROS
CONS
Factors We Considered
When assessing the best trail running shoe models, these are the factors I’ve considered
Waterproof Capability
Cascadia 19 GTX excels here. Doesn’t matter how wet things get, feet stay dry.
Nike’s Pegasus Trail 5 GTX holds up well too. GORE-TEX lining does its job. Heavy rain, puddles, none of it gets through.
Salomon built the Speedcross 6 GTX for the nasty stuff. Stream crossings, mud, the GORE-TEX keeps water out.
Ghost 17 GTX does okay. Handles light rain and wet grass fine, but prolonged heavy rain will find its way in eventually.
The Bushido III GTX actually surprised me. La Sportiva switched to a PFC-free GORE-TEX ePE membrane on this version, and it dries noticeably faster than the II after stream crossings. Performs well even when conditions get properly wet.
Grip and Traction
Speedcross 6 GTX takes the lead here. Those deep, aggressive lugs bite into slippery and muddy trails better than anything else I tested.
Cascadia 19 GTX grips reliably, though it’s not as aggressive as the Speedcross.
Pegasus Trail 5 GTX handles most trail conditions fine, but it can’t match the Speedcross on wet rock, loose stuff, or muddy terrain.
Ghost 17 GTX has less bite overall. Built for lighter trails, not technical or rough ground.
Bushido III GTX is a different story. Exceptional on wet rock, loose scree, off-camber scrambles. La Sportiva’s FriXion Red bi-compound outsole with its modified lug pattern rivals the Cascadia and honestly excels in technical mountain conditions.
Breathability
Pegasus Trail 5 GTX uses GORE-TEX Invisible Fit for waterproofing. Upper runs less breathable than some options, but it manages heat okay during longer efforts.
Cascadia 19 GTX breathes fairly well, though the upper is a bit more closed off. Less ventilation than the Nike.
Ghost 17 GTX gets decent airflow through its mesh upper, but still not quite at Nike’s level.
Speedcross 6 GTX prioritizes waterproofing over ventilation. Airflow is reduced, and it shows when things heat up.
Bushido III GTX makes a similar trade-off: breathability sacrificed for protection and durability. Not the one for warm weather hiking.
Comfort
Cascadia 19 GTX ranks among the most comfortable on this list. Cushioning and arch support hold up well on long runs.
Pegasus Trail 5 GTX feels good too. Responsive midsole, plush padding, works well for putting in distance.
Speedcross 6 GTX is supportive but firmer. If you want soft and cushioned, look elsewhere.
Ghost 17 GTX provides decent comfort, though it’s better suited for lighter trail runs than rougher, longer days out.
Bushido III GTX is performance-oriented. Firmer fit, less plush. Not as comfortable for long efforts, but great when technical terrain demands precision.
Sole Design
Pegasus Trail 5 GTX has substantial stack height and a well-cushioned sole. Good protection from rocks and debris underfoot.
Cascadia 19 GTX runs a rugged outsole that handles rocks and rough stuff while still keeping things comfortable.
Speedcross 6 GTX goes more rigid. Grips slippery terrain well but doesn’t cushion as much as the Cascadia or Pegasus.
Ghost 17 GTX features a simpler sole. Adequate cushioning, but less protection from rough terrain than the others.
Bushido III GTX takes the minimalist route. Great ground feel, less cushioning and protection. That’s the trade-off when you want precision on technical ground.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Price Men | Price Women | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX | Check on Amazon» $180 on Backcountry» $180 on REI» | Check on Amazon» $180 on Backcountry» $180 on REI» | 4.8/5 | Long-distance trail running, versatile mountain conditions |
| Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX | Check on Amazon» $170 on Backcountry» $185 on REI» | Check on Amazon» $170 on Backcountry» $185 on REI» | 4.6/5 | Mixed terrain (road-to-trail), rainy conditions |
| Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX | Check on Amazon» $165 on Backcountry» $170 on REI» | Check on Amazon» $165 on Backcountry» $170 on REI» | 4.5/5 | Muddy, technical, or slippery surfaces |
| Brooks Ghost 17 GTX | Check on Amazon» $170 on Backcountry» $170 on REI» | Check on Amazon» $170 on Backcountry» $170 on REI» | 4.5/5 | Lightweight trail running, recovery runs, light trails/pavement |
| La Sportiva Bushido III GTX | Check on Amazon» $185 on Backcountry» $185 on REI» | Check on Amazon» $185 on Backcountry» $185 on REI» | 4.4/5 | Rocky, rugged, and technical terrains (Skyraces) |
Benefits of Using Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Waterproof running shoes offer plenty of advantages, particularly aimed at enhancing your outdoor running experience:
- Superior Weatherproofing: The best trail running shoes are equipped with a waterproof barrier. This feature ensures you don’t have to deal with wet feet even when you’re running on trails drenched from rain or thick with snow.
- Enhanced Traction: Many waterproof running shoes come with specialized outsoles that offer excellent grip on slippery or wet surfaces, enhancing your stability and confidence on the trail.
- Improved Comfort: When you encounter wet trails or cross streams, your feet will remain dry, preventing discomfort and blisters that can occur from prolonged exposure to moisture.
In this study by the Indiana University School of Medicine, 64% of the subjects identified blisters as the main medical issue during their hikes, which further highlights the need for comfortable footwear, something that most popular trail running shoes integrate.
Disadvantages of Using Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
While waterproof running shoes undeniably have their strengths, they also come with challenges worth considering.
- Reduced Breathability: Though certain brands incorporate technology like Gore-Tex to enhance permeability, no waterproof shoe can wholly match the breathability of a non-waterproof counterpart.
- Heavier in Design: The integration of waterproof membranes, generally denser and weightier materials, could result in heavier shoes, impacting your agility over longer distances.
- Longer Drying Time: Despite being waterproof, these shoes will eventually get wet inside, either from sweating or water seeping in over the top. When they do become wet, they also tend to take longer to dry out.
FAQs
A trail running shoe becomes waterproof through the integration of certain materials or technologies in its design. The most common is a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, which is inserted between the outer material and inner lining.
You can use waterproof trail running shoes in various weather conditions. They excel in wet and muddy situations, protecting feet from moisture. However, in extremely hot conditions, they may not be as breathable and could cause overheating.
To maintain your waterproof trail running shoes, remove dirt after each use and avoid machine washing. Allow them to dry naturally, away from direct heat. Also, regularly check for wear and tear.
Prices in this article are approximate and updated annually. Check the retailer for current rates.
