best trail running shoes - a list

This may be helpful - a list of trustworthy trail running shoes (with pictures):

http://www.backcountryrunner.com/gear/trail-running-shoes.phtml

What do you think? Have I missed any? Any that aren't worthy of the list?

I also like the New Balance 907; good traction, good for running fast (or at least, it feels fast). :) But I don't feel like they have enough protection on the bottom for very rocky trails. For rocks, I wear Montrail Hardrock or Vitesse.

Another online source for trail shoes is Onlineshoes.com. Free shipping. NFI in NB, Montrail or any online retailer.

Oooh, good list. Pix are always helpful.

Montrail - Continental Divide is a great shoe:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/MON0043/Montrail-Continental-Divide-Trail-Running-Shoe-Mens.html

Thanks for the input. I'll take a look at onlineshoes.com.

I forgot to mention that I'm not trying to list every model of trail shoe, as obviously each brand has an entire line of trail shoes, many of which are really good shoes. The list should mainly be representational of the best shoes out there.

However, even within the same brand, any trail shoe that performs very differently than another and is well-liked & accepted by trail runners ought to be included.

Do you think it should be included along with Highlander and Hardrock, or replace one or the other? The Highlander is new in 2006 I believe, profiled in the latest Trail Runner mag.

I'm a big fan of the Salomon XA Pro 3D for more technical trails, but that's just MHO.

The Montrail Continental Divide replaced the very popular Leona Divide. I haven't tried the CD yet. It's built differently than either the Hardrock or Highlander.

Ok, I've added the Continental Divide and the Salomon XA Pro 3D to the list. Thanks.

Boy, I haven't run in ANY of these shoes (with the exception of Continental Divides ... I used to wear Leona Divides). Nothing too terribly technical 'round here, I guess. I wear Asics Trail Attacks, old Montrail Masais, or (just got and haven't done a long one in 'em yet) Nike Zoom Kyotees. I like light and, if possible, some cushion.

I'm really impressed by Inov-8's web site (http://www.inov-8.com), but their comparison charts for all their differen models ultimately confound me.

You seem to have given very little representation to Inov-8's shoes.

I'd love to hear from people who have tried inov-8's shoes.

After many years of going from one brand to another I think I found the right shoe for myself. Inov-8's. A year ago I got a pair of Terrocs, good shoe and now have the Roclite 315's. Love them better yet than the Terrocs. They really work for my feet. Soon will buy a pair of the 310's.

I'm definitely open to adding other Inov-8's to the list of shoes. The Roclite 315 is already on the list, as it seems to be the most popular. If anyone has rave reviews about other models, let me know.

]I'm really impressed by Inov-8's web site (http://www.inov-8.com), but their comparison charts for all their differen models ultimately confound me.

You seem to have given very little representation to Inov-8's shoes.

I'd love to hear from people who have tried inov-8's shoes.[/QUOTE]

Hi Kirez
I use these for fell races and mountain marathons http://www.inov-8.com/Products-Detail.asp?PG=PG1&L=26&P=5050973055 and 315s for trail running and have used Terroc 330s for trail running and walking.

Inovate make minimalist lightweight performance shoes, if they suit/fit your feet they are great. Not the most durable though.

great list!

New shoes help but technique is key! Read up on the latest tips for achieving greater efficiencies - http://www.simianrun.moonfruit.com/