Men’s trail running shoes do not have to cost a fortune to keep you stable and comfortable on the hills. The models here are among the cheaper options available for 2026, chosen because they still offer sensible grip, cushioning and durability for UK trails.
Rather than just listing the absolute rock-bottom prices, the focus is on shoes that feel like a smart buy. You will see where you are saving money, but also what each model offers in return, from all-round daily trail use to more focused performance.
Each pair has its own strengths and compromises, so it is worth matching the shoe to the type of running you actually do, whether that is park paths and canal towpaths or longer days out in the Peaks and Lakes.
These recommendations are based on the details that matter most for real-world trail running: price, design, features and how similar models have performed for everyday runners. The aim is to flag up where you are genuinely getting good value, rather than simply chasing the lowest ticket price.
We look at how each shoe is positioned in the range, what sort of grip and cushioning you can realistically expect, and how well it is likely to cope with typical British conditions. Owner ratings and feedback, where available, are weighed alongside brand reputation and the kind of build quality you are likely to see at this price.
The result is a shortlist of cheaper men’s trail running shoes that should still feel like reliable companions on muddy tracks and stony bridleways, not a false economy that you regret after a handful of runs.
We started by looking at the lower-priced men’s trail running shoes available through Go Outdoors, focusing on models that undercut typical RRP for performance trail footwear while still coming from trusted outdoor and sports brands. From there, anything that looked overly basic or lacked a proper trail outsole was set aside.
Within that group, we favoured shoes that offer a good blend of cushioning, grip and everyday comfort. Where possible we considered how similar lines from the same brands have performed for regular runners, particularly in mixed UK weather where wet grass, gravel and canal paths are common.
We also aimed for a spread of price points within the budget bracket. That means you will find an outright cheap option, plus models that cost a little more but promise better ride quality or trail handling for the extra outlay. The goal is to help you spend just enough to get what you need, without paying for features you will never use.
The shoes below are all solid budget-friendly choices for men who want to get off-road without overspending. They range from the lowest price pick that keeps things simple, through to more refined options that justify a slightly higher cost with extra comfort and performance.
Use the summaries to decide whether you are better off saving every pound you can, or stepping up a little in price for a shoe that will feel better underfoot and potentially last longer if you are running regularly.
A straightforward, great-value trail runner from North Ridge for runners who want off-road grip without a premium price tag.
The North Ridge Men’s Pacer TR Running Shoes are among the most affordable genuine trail shoes you can pick up, making them ideal if you are just getting into off-road running or want a spare pair for bad-weather days. You still get a dedicated trail outsole rather than a basic road pattern, so you can expect more confidence on park paths, forest tracks and light mud than in standard trainers. The design is straightforward and unfussy, which often means fewer failure points and a shoe that is easy to live with day to day. For the price, they are a sensible way to dip a toe into trail running without committing to a premium brand.
At this price, the Pacer TR is unlikely to match the cushioning or long-term durability of more expensive models, particularly if you use it heavily on hard, stony tracks. Grip will be a step up from road trainers but may not feel as secure as premium trail designs on very steep or technical ground. If you quickly progress to longer, more demanding runs, you may find yourself wanting more support and protection.
Ideal for runners and walkers who want an affordable first pair of trail shoes for park paths, canal towpaths and forest tracks. It suits those who run shorter distances or head off-road occasionally but still want more grip than standard trainers. If your main priority is spending as little as possible while still getting a true trail outsole, this is the sensible choice.
A competitively priced adidas Terrex shoe that blends trail-ready grip with everyday comfort for runners and hikers alike.
The adidas Terrex Men’s Soulstride Flow Hiking Shoes give you the reassurance of a big-name trail brand at a mid-range budget price. The Terrex line is known for reliable grip and comfort, so you can expect a sole that handles typical UK off-road routes better than most road shoes. Cushioning is usually well judged for mixed terrain, meaning they are comfortable enough for run-walk outings, longer hikes and everyday wear. For anyone who wants one shoe that can cover casual trail running, dog walks and light hill paths, they offer a lot of versatility without the premium price of top-end Terrex models.
Although competitively priced for a big-name brand, the Soulstride Flow still costs noticeably more than the very cheapest trail shoes. It is positioned more as a hike-run hybrid than a pure performance trail runner, so those chasing fast times on technical terrain may find it a little soft or relaxed in feel. The outsole is likely optimised for mixed use rather than deep mud, so grip might taper off in truly sloppy conditions.
Best suited to men who want one shoe for light trail runs, walking and day-to-day use, and like the reassurance of the adidas Terrex name. It is a strong option if you value comfort and versatility over outright performance, and you are happy to pay a bit more than entry-level prices for that big-brand feel. Occasional trail runners and fitness walkers will get most from this shoe.
Merrell’s Morphlite offers a more cushioned ride at a sensible price, ideal if you split your time between roads and lighter trails.
The Merrell Men’s Morphlite Trail Running Shoe sits at the more cushioned end of this budget group, which is appealing if you regularly mix road and trail. Merrell have strong form with hybrid models, so the Morphlite is likely to feel softer and more forgiving underfoot than some firmer, more aggressive trail shoes. That makes it a good choice for longer, easy-paced runs where comfort is a bigger priority than outright speed. For the price, you are getting a shoe that can act as a one-pair solution for everything from canal paths to gentle off-road loops.
The Morphlite’s hybrid focus means it may not have the aggressive grip needed for very muddy, slippery routes compared with a dedicated soft-ground shoe. Runners who prefer a very precise, locked-in feel on tight, twisty trails might find it a touch roomy or relaxed. It also sits higher in price than the absolute entry-level options, so if you rarely leave smooth paths, you might not fully use what you’re paying for.
A good match for runners who mix roads and gentler off-road routes and want a cushioned, forgiving ride without paying top-tier prices. It suits those building up distance or coming back from niggles, where comfort and impact protection matter more than aggressive grip. If you want one pair to cover everyday training plus weekend trail loops, the Morphlite is well worth a look.
The Sense Ride 5 brings Salomon’s renowned trail know-how into a do-it-all shoe that still sits at the affordable end of premium.
Salomon’s Sense Ride series has a strong reputation as a versatile trail workhorse, and the Sense Ride 5 brings that feel into an option that, while not the cheapest, still offers strong value. You can expect a balanced blend of cushioning, ground feel and grip, making it suitable for everything from woodland singletrack to rocky holiday trails. Compared with the cheaper models on this list, the ride and upper are likely to feel more refined, with better hold through the midfoot and a more dialled-in fit. If you are running regularly and want one shoe that can comfortably handle most UK terrain, it justifies its slightly higher price.
The Sense Ride 5 is the most expensive option on this list, so while still reasonable for what it offers, it may feel like a stretch if you are on a very tight budget. Its all-rounder design means it is not the most cushioned shoe for long ultras, nor the most aggressive choice for deep mud, so specialists may prefer a more focused model. If you only head off-road occasionally, some of its refinement might be more than you really need.
Ideal for committed trail runners who head off-road several times a week and want a single pair that can handle everything from local woods to holiday mountain paths. It is a great pick if you are willing to spend a bit more than the bare minimum to get a better ride, fit and overall trail performance. Runners training for mixed-terrain races and longer days out will appreciate its balance.
The Supercross 4 is a more aggressive Salomon option that delivers strong grip and security for softer, muddier trails without breaking the bank.
The Salomon Men’s Supercross 4 Trail Running Shoes lean more towards soft-ground performance, which is great value if your local runs are often muddy or on loose trails. The outsole is typically more aggressive than that of door-to-trail shoes, offering stronger bite in wet fields and on forest tracks. Despite this, the Supercross line is usually cushioned enough to stay comfortable for steady miles and outings that include some harder-packed paths. For runners who want a capable off-road shoe from a respected brand but still need to keep a lid on costs, it is a compelling option.
The more aggressive outsole that makes the Supercross 4 so capable off-road can feel overkill and wear faster if you do a lot of road or hard-path running. It may not feel as smooth or versatile as more balanced trail shoes if you want something that can easily double as a daily trainer. It also shares the highest price point on this list, so for very light trail use a cheaper, less aggressive shoe could make more sense.
Best for runners who frequently tackle softer, muddier ground and want confidence-inspiring grip without stepping up to very expensive specialist shoes. It suits those whose local routes include fields, forest tracks and bridleways that stay wet for much of the year. If you already have a road shoe and want a dedicated off-road partner for the dirtier days, the Supercross 4 is a strong candidate.
