Trail Running vs Hiking Shoes: What’s the Difference?
Choosing the right footwear for outdoor adventure isn’t always a clear-cut decision. Trail running and hiking shoes offer features designed for life off-road, but they’re built to meet different demands. Whether you’re chasing miles on rugged switchbacks or powering through a weekend trek, understanding the differences can help you find the right fit.
Meet the newest evolution of HOKA trail tech: the Mafate 5. This next-generation trail runner is built for technical terrain, pairing plush cushioning with ultra-grippy lugs and a protective upper. Engineered to push the boundaries of what a trail shoe can do, it’s HOKA’s most advanced Mafate yet.
Comparison of Trail Running Shoes vs Hiking Shoes
Here’s how trail running shoes and hiking shoes stack up when it comes to build and performance:
Design and Construction
Trail running shoes prioritize agility and breathability. They often feature lightweight mesh uppers, gusseted tongues, and seamless construction to reduce hotspots during movement. Many, like the Mafate 5, include strategic overlays or gaiter-ready designs for added protection on the trail.
Hiking shoes are built with rugged materials like leather or reinforced synthetics to withstand rough terrain. Expect padded ankle collars, heavier-duty laces, and layered construction for added protection and weather resistance. Available in both low- and mid-cut styles, hiking shoes can be chosen based on personal preference or the level of protection needed—mid-cut designs offer added ankle support for uneven or rocky trails, while low-cut options provide a lighter, more flexible feel.
Weight
Trail running shoes are typically much lighter than hiking shoes, designed to minimize fatigue over long distances and keep you moving fast.
Hiking shoes add weight in exchange for extra durability and support–especially under load–which can be helpful on extended treks or when carrying a pack.
Flexibility
Trail running shoes have flexible midsoles and rockers that promote a rolling gait. This flexibility helps maintain momentum and responsiveness, especially on uneven terrain.
Hiking shoes are generally stiffer, offering more structure to protect the foot on rocky trails and help stabilize each step.
Support
Trail running shoes offer moderate support–just enough to keep your foot aligned without limiting movement. Many models use integrated frames or plates to assist with guidance and stability without the bulk.
Hiking shoes provide more robust support, including firmer midsoles, higher sidewalls, and added ankle stability in some styles. They’re designed to support longer outings and heavier loads.
Traction
Both types feature grippy outsoles, but with different focuses.
Trail running shoes, like the Mafate 5, often use Vibram® Megagrip with 5mm lugs to handle mud, rock, and steep inclines without slipping.
Hiking shoes tend to have deeper or broader lug patterns and firmer rubber compounds for long-lasting grip and stability on dirt paths, gravel, and slick rock.
Durability
Trail running shoes are durable–but usually optimized for speed over longevity. Lightweight materials wear faster over time, especially if used for heavy loads or scrambles.
Hiking shoes are built to last, with reinforced toe caps, abrasion-resistant uppers, and tough outsoles that withstand rugged use.
How to Choose Between Hiking and Trail Running Shoes
While trail running shoes and hiking shoes each have their strengths, the right choice depends on how–and where–you plan to use them. Here’s how to match your footwear to your adventure.
Load You’re Carrying
Heading out with just water and snacks? Trail runners can comfortably support a light daypack.
Are you carrying heavier gear for an overnight or multi-day trip? The added structure of hiking shoes helps distribute weight more evenly and reduces strain over long distances.
Distance & Duration
For short hikes, fast efforts, or mixed-terrain runs, trail shoes offer the responsiveness and speed-focused design that helps you cover ground quickly.
On longer hikes, where comfort and stability matter most–especially over a full day–hiking shoes deliver the kind of long-haul support that can help prevent fatigue.
Personal Preference
Every foot is different. Some people prefer trail running shoes’ low-profile feel and flexibility, while others like the locked-in, supportive feel of a hiking shoe. Consider your arch type, experience, and what feels most comfortable.
And remember: confidence matters. The right shoes should feel like an extension of your movement, not a distraction.
Trail Running Shoes from HOKA
Mafate 5
Built for serious off-road adventures, the Mafate 5 represents the pinnacle of HOKA’s trail innovation. Designed for technical terrain, this latest update offers plush cushioning, advanced grip, and rugged protection–making it a standout choice for seasoned trail runners and outdoor explorers alike.
So, what’s new? The Mafate 5 features an upgraded bottom unit with Rocker Integrity Technology for smoother transitions and gaiter-ready construction for added versatility. A dual-density SCF EVA midsole delivers responsive cushioning underfoot, while 5mm Vibram® Megagrip lugs provide trusted traction on rocky or uneven ground.
From the TPU cage and reinforced vamp to the breathable warp-knit upper, every detail is engineered for security and durability without compromising comfort. Whether you’re climbing steep switchbacks or cruising rugged descents, the Mafate 5 is built to go the distance.
Best for: Technical trails, long-distance runs, and high-exposure adventures
Mafate X
From race day efforts to long-distance adventures, the Mafate X is built for speed and comfort on less technical terrain. Designed with gravel paths and moderate trails in mind, this high-cushion shoe delivers a smooth, responsive ride without sacrificing protection—ideal for runners seeking performance beyond pavement.
At the heart of the Mafate X is a dual-density midsole, combining a PEBA foam core with a super critically foamed EVA carrier for lightweight responsiveness and plush protection. A forked carbon fiber plate delivers a propulsive toe-off, while the Vibram® Megagrip outsole ensures confident grip on wet or uneven surfaces. While slightly less technical than the Mafate Speed 5 or Speedgoat, the Mafate X offers an adaptive fit with a patent-pending dynamic vamp and reinforced toe cap to keep you protected from trail debris.
Best for: Trail racing, long-distance runs, and gravel terrain
Stinson 7
Designed for road-to-trail agility, this all-terrain workhorse, the Stinson 7, delivers plush cushioning, confident traction, and all-day versatility. Whether you’re logging miles on gravel paths or tackling light trail ascents, the Stinson 7 adapts with ease.
Best for: Road-to-trail hikes, mixed terrain, and all-day wear
Speedgoat 6 GTX
Wet weather? Rugged terrain? The Speedgoat 6 GTX is built to handle it all. This trail icon gets a waterproof upgrade with GORE-TEX Invisible Fit, offering lightweight protection without compromising comfort or flexibility.
Underfoot, a Vibram® Megagrip outsole with Traction Lugs delivers reliable grip on everything from loose soil to slick rock. A foot-cradling heel bolster, protective toe rand, and responsive midsole round out the design, perfect for technical trails and unpredictable weather.
Best for: Wet trails, rocky hikes, and variable conditions
Hiking Shoes from HOKA
Transport Chukka GTX
A natural on city streets and trails alike, the Transport Chukka GTX elevates the original Transport with a waterproof chukka silhouette built for all-weather wear. This urban hiker blends rugged nubuck leather, an engineered knit collar, and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit to keep feet dry without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.
Designed for the daily commute or casual weekend hikes, it also features quick-toggle lacing, 360-degree reflectivity, and a Vibram® EcoStep EVO outsole for dependable grip. Sustainable materials–like a 30% sugarcane midsole, 50% soy-based sockliner, and recycled rubber–round out this versatile, environmentally conscious pick.
Best for: Hiking, walking, and lifestyle wear
Anacapa 2 Low GTX
A versatile hiker designed to tread lightly, the Anacapa 2 Low GTX blends everyday comfort with trail-ready performance. Reimagined with sustainability in mind, this updated version features recycled mesh uppers, GORE-TEX Invisible Fit for waterproof protection, and a lightweight sugarcane EVA midsole to cushion your steps without added bulk.
Durable touches like metal eyelets, an abrasion-resistant toe cap, and a Vibram® Megagrip outsole deliver confidence on uneven terrain, making this a solid choice for quick hikes and all-day adventures.
Best for: Hiking
Kaha 3 GTX
The Kaha 3 GTX is built for long-haul comfort, combining plush cushioning with rugged trail capability. Designed for extended day hikes and multi-day treks, it features a dual-density sugarcane EVA midsole for a soft yet responsive ride, while the cushy sockliner helps fight foot fatigue over time.
With GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproofing, a Vibram® Megagrip outsole, and a durable toe cap, this weather-ready hiker delivers traction and protection across loose, uneven ground. Plus, thoughtful updates like an Achilles-friendly collar and quick-lace metal hooks make it adventure-ready straight out of the box.
Best for: Hiking
Trail Running vs Hiking Shoe FAQs
Can you use trail running shoes for hiking?
Yes–especially for light to moderate trails, dry conditions, or shorter distances. Trail running shoes offer great grip and flexibility, making them a popular choice for fast hikes or when you want to keep things light. That said, for technical terrain or heavier loads, hiking shoes typically offer more stability and protection.
Are trail running shoes the same as hiking shoes?
Not quite. While both are built for the outdoors, trail runners are lighter, more flexible, and optimized for speed and agility. Hiking shoes, on the other hand, offer more support, durability, and protection for longer treks or rough terrain. It all comes down to how and where you plan to adventure.
Are trail running shoes as good as hiking boots?
It depends on your needs. Trail running shoes are great for those who prioritize agility, lightness, and breathability–ideal for well-maintained trails or fastpacking. Hiking boots provide more ankle support and protection, which is better for steep, rocky, or wet conditions, or if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
Can you use trail running shoes for walking?
Absolutely. Trail running shoes offer cushioned comfort, breathable uppers, and grippy outsoles, which can be great for casual walks, urban exploring, or travel. Just keep in mind that their more technical features might be overbuilt for everyday use–but if they feel good, wear them.
