Getting cheap trail running shoes is thankfully an easy task nowadays given that almost all major brands offer at least a model under $100. Off- road running shoes have been a thing for decades but there have never been so many models you can choose from. From Salomon and Merrell to Nike or Adidas all brands have developed advanced models with latest technology for the best experience on trails. But since these often run for $130 and over they also figured out a way to come up with cheaper versions that use more basic materials and technology. 

While some of these footwear brands specialize in these types of shoes others, like New Balance or Nike have adapted their designs to be more fit for those hitting the trails. In essence these shoes are built to provide enhanced traction with deeper, thicker patterns, stability and lockdown fit on rough terrains by adding tweaks to their design . Comfort is of course another aspect but it is also preceded by foot protection. In this article we came up with a list of the best trail running shoes under $100 on the market today. There is one for every taste, whether you want to rock the hiker looks or the casual, urban style adapted for the trails.

asics gel venture ebay

ASICS GEL-Venture 9

Retail Price: $80

The ASICS Gel-Venture is a series that has been around for almost a decade and it’s been getting better and better over the years. It features the classic ASICS upper design with a GEL unit in the heel for enhanced impact absorption encapsulated in a AMPLI FOAM cushioning midsole. The upper is built with durable materials and a solid mudguard. For fans of ASICS shoes that want to hit the trails this one is surely a must have.

New Balance Nitrel V5

New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel V5

Retail Price: $75

The New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V5 is another great option when it comes to cheap trail running shoes under $100. It features a seamless upper for maximum comfort and breathability, the ultra responsive, plush Dynasoft foam and the proprietary AT tread for maximum traction. This is a lightweight shoe that you can also wear casually in the city. It has a modern look and it delivers great comfort for long hours of wear.

Skechers Terrabite black

Skechers Terrabite

Retail Price: $80

The Skechers Terrabite are one of the best models on our list due to their solid design and attractive looks. The pair features a water repellent leather upper and a Air Cooled memory foam insole guaranteed to keep your feet comfortable in any weather conditions. The upper also features a mesh material upper that will help keep your feet cool in the heat. These are not only comfortable but are also made to last.

Nike Juniper Trail Red

Nike Juniper Trail 2

Retail Price: $85

The second edition of the Nike Juniper Trail is one that has been getting mixed reviews given its height staked midsole and more urban look. Nike targeted with this model the casual trail runner that wants to have an all around running shoe that can also be used casually. It features Flywire cables for enhanced stability, a durable upper and Nike Grind materials in the outsole. These are great for those that land on their heel so they get most of its cushioning and support.

Saucony Excursion green

Saucony Excursion TR16

Retail Price: $75

The Excursion TR series from Saucony is another trail runner that strikes a great balance when it comes to quality and price. It features a breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for protection but more importantly two signature technologies from Saucony; the VERSARUN midsole for a cushioned footbed and a XT-900 carbon rubber outsole for enhanced traction and durability.

Salomon Patrol gray blue

Salomon Patrol

Retail Price: $80

Salomon is well known to be one of the leaders when it comes to hiking and trail shoes. While most of their models run well over $100 there is a cheaper option with the Patrol model. This is a versatile shoe that you can use to run your errands but also for trail running on easy paths. The signature Contagrip technology is used in the outsole for added traction whether on wet conditions or on forest paths.

adidas Trace Finder black orange

Adidas Tracefinder

Retail Price: $70

Adidas has a wide variety of trail running shoes , being known mostly for its Terrex models. But aside from these there is the Tracefinder, one of the cheapest you’ll find on the market. The stripe brand did not use any special technology to build these but the modern design offers a breathable, protective shoe that is equipped with a lugged outsole ready for any conditions. This is a shoe that you can likely find even under its retail, especially on eBay.

Merell Fly Striker

Merrell Fly Strike

Retail Price: $75

The Merrell Fly Strike is surely one of the best, cheap trail running shoes on the market this year. The Merrell brand is well known for its quality off road shoes and this one is no different. It features a breathable mesh upper that is enforced by stitchings strategically placed to enhance the lockdown and a multi directional lugged sole that is ready for any weather conditions. Stylish, comfortable and versatile, these are surely a model to consider.