The Best Cross Country Shoes

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Cross country trails are comprised of ungroomed terrain that may include rocks, hills, grass, mud, gravel and snow. Though fun and challenging, going through those types of surfaces can be dangerous which is why it is important to wear durable shoes that can handle varied terrain while also providing plenty of support. Many top rated cross country shoes are available in the market.

Brooks Mach

Brooks Mach is highly recommended by both Runningtimes.com and Best-running-tips.com as a commendable lightweight cross country shoe. It has a lightweight and breathable upper sole, as well as a wider base and medium toebox width which offers support and cushioning. The midsole is made with compression molded EVA and the outsole is of carbon rubber material making it very durable and protective. This versatile shoe is ideal for cross-country and track and is also available with or without spikes.

Brooks Sports, Inc.
19910 North Creek Parkway, Suite 200
Bothell, WA 98011-8223
800-227-6657
brooksrunning.com

New Balance 840

Named one of the best sneakers for cross-country running by Fitnessmagazine.com, New Balance 840 is a low-to-the-ground training shoe made especially for the rough outdoor terrain. It has a grooved rubber outsole that provides steady footing on rocks, dirt and gravel. This model has a blister-proof lining wraps for comfort and is also equipped with ABZORB® cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption. Additionally, Fitnessmagazine.com testers claim New Balance 840 transitions well from dirt and grass to rockier terrain.

NB Web Express
1537 Fencorp Drive
Fenton, MO 63026
800-595-9138
newbalance.com

Asics Gel-Trabuco 11 Gore-Tex

Asics Gel-Trabuco is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by customers at Sierratradingpost.com and is also recommended by fitnessmagazine.com as one of the best sneakers for cross-country running. This model provides traction and support on uneven ground, including uphill and downhill. Cross country athletes can take this shoe anywhere even on wet trails--it has a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex® membrane and a Wet Grip® traction rubber outsole with reversed lugs for maximum traction. It is also equipped with a gel cushioning system for shock absorption along with a removable cushioned arch-support insole.

Asics
29 Parker, Suite 100
Irvine, CA 92618
800-678-9435
asicsamerica.com

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Article Written By Rona Aquino

Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.

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