Best Mud Running Shoes – 2024 Buying Guide
And there's a good chance you won't be using the same pair of shoes again.
The good news is that we've spent hundreds of hours testing and reviewing the ins and outs of top mud running shoes and we've focused a lot of attention on protection and drainage as two primary factors.
So scroll below and peruse our top picks. Then after your next obstacle course, tag us on Instagram so we can see just how gnarly your mud run shoes get.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
There are plenty of options available that will easily fit anyone’s budget and plenty of options for everyone’s preference. Being proactive and making sure that the one, most important part of your wardrobe for your race – your shoes- will support your foot, drain well so as to keep away blisters on your feet, and have the grip to keep you from slipping is a pretty intelligent choice.
There are plenty of options for anyone’s budget and plenty of options for everyone’s preference so there is no need to sacrifice performance to saw a few bucks and the idea of running in regular tennis shoes should not be something you think about even for a moment when planning for your race. So, make sure you get a comfortable pair.
Most of the shoes that you can buy can easily be cleaned after the run and will look as good as new, so don’t let the thought of mud caked on your new digs be a reason to not get the appropriate footwear to support you during your run. Overall, you will definitely be able to get several comfortable uses with the picks on our list.
Durability
The type of materials and the construction of the shoe are all very important when choosing which shoe will be the right one for you. Mud running requires not only a decent amount of training but also the appropriate gear to keep you on your feet and not sliding around in the mud. Training on rugged terrain can really put the beat down on your shoes.
If you are really putting miles upon miles on them, you can’t escape needing a durable shoe. Both the shoe material itself and the sole of the shoe are important and need to be made of the highest quality materials so that they are durable and hold up to the extremes of this type of racing. The type of materials and the construction of the shoe are all very important when choosing which shoe will be the right one for you.
Traction
You absolutely cannot use a shoe that wasn’t designed with a sole that has superior traction and support. Mud running is a slippery business and it is obviously wet and messy. If you are slipping and falling, not being balanced on your feet could not only be frustrating but it also could be dangerous.
Slipping and falling, you could hit the ground in an awkward way or twist a joint, or break a bone, or even hit your head.
You absolutely cannot use a shoe that wasn’t designed with a sole that has superior traction and support. Deep cleats, that are made of rubber will help give you the best grip for mud running and this is a common feature almost all mud race shoes have- ones that don’t have cleats will often have deep treads that serve the same purpose.
Drainage
Shoes with drains and mesh material are popular features that you can look for which will help rid your shoes of water. You can find many designs and systems to help keep your foot dry in the inevitable event that you are going to have extremely wet conditions. Waterproof coatings can repel the water from your shoe, however, they don’t do much to remove water once it finds its way into your shoe.
This is an absolute when mud running, water will find its way in. Shoes that are more form-fitting and can form and wrap around your feet will leave less room for water to get in and accumulate. Shoes with drains and mesh material are other features that you can look for which will help rid your shoes of water.
Whatever design you choose there has to be a way to get rid of the water that seeps in during the race because few things are as uncomfortable and annoying as running around with water sloshing in your shoes.
Protection
The surface under all that mud could be very bumpy and rocky so protection may be necessary to ensure you stay safe during your run. While more minimalist shoes tend to be favorites for mud running, they can have a learning curve. If you haven’t used them in the past, you may need a little time to get used to them, but once you do, they have a lot of advantages for running in mud.
Many of the more minimal shoes that we featured here are not pure minimalistic, as they have really durable soles to protect the foot from rocks and debris. They have some more support features for the entire foot and many have options of removable inserts. You will be able to determine if your shoes have the right level of protection for you after you have worn them in a few training course runs and can see how they hold up.
If you feel they are not offering the right level of protection and support, it is best to try a different pair than to try and make do with something that just isn’t working for you and is not meeting your needs.
Top 10 Picks
1. Salomon Speedcross 4
The Salomon Speedcross 4 is a made for trail running, mud racing, obstacle course challenges, basically the most rugged outdoor and off-road exercise you can do. It uses a mesh upper that is both water-resistant and anti-debris which basically is going to keep those tootsies dryer and give them first-rate protection.
Read moreComfort
These are very comfortable shoes, even with all the bells and whistles you still get a nice feel for an off-road shoe. They will support your feet for logging tons of miles, and they will keep them safe from blisters and random rocks getting in there which is ruinous to a great run. Get into that mud, get yourself wet, and go for it.
Durability
These shoes hold up to it all without deformation meaning you aren’t going to lose any comfort or output regardless of how ruthless the conditions. Features include a rubber toe cap, ortholite insole and updated outsole which together make a superb combination of rugged durability. Get it as dirty as you want because with a quick wash after your race they will look new. A truly versatile shoe for spartans, mud runs, hikes, or trails.
Traction
Caked with mud, they will stick to your foot and not become loose. They don’t lose anything in traction, their updated lug pattern with even more high-traction arrow lugs provide tremendous grip. So, an attack that uphill, keep it going on the down, left to right and don’t even worry about a slippery surface.
Drainage
Any shoe will gain get heavy in muddy and rainy conditions, that’s no surprise. These shoes will do that for about a couple seconds before they get into that draining action. While they are ridding the excess water, any weight from the mud isn’t going to be an issue either. You can’t ask for more than a comfortable shoe that will be able to take the intense conditions and not lose anything in function or execution.
Protection
When it comes to protection, these are THE shoes to have in any mud run or technical terrain. They will ensure that your feet remain comfortable while well protected by keeping water out. They are reinforced to not only handle the obstacles that you will face, but also ensure that they will absorb the shock that will come from the frequent impact--so you don't have to worry about injury.
2. Inov-8 Terraclaw 250
Inov-8 is known for their durable running shoes, so it is no surprise that the Terraclaw 250 comes as a second choice on our top 10 picks. If you are a neutral runner looking for a versatile mud run shoe that you can also take on technical trails, then you may just fall in love with these. They are not only durable, but also comfortable, flexible, and perfect for training and competition.
Read moreComfort
When we evaluated the overall comfort of the shoes for running, we found that they are pretty comfortable according to real life users. The sizing does run small, but if you size half a size up you should be fine—make sure to measure your feet if you are unsure. They also have EVA cushioning and a MET Cradle System that provides a secure and comfortable fit.
The tongue of the shoe won’t slip and slide and the tongue, collar, and heel are lightly padded as well. If you want a shoe with a rock plate, you will want to stay away from these because they do not have one. So, don’t use these for casual walking because you will feel the lugs due to the absence of the rock plate.
Durability
When it comes to durability, these have proven to stand up to the test of time and use. They feature Dual-C rubber in the outsole of the shoe. Their lugs are also designed to hold up, so they won’t wear down with use and will keep the dirt away much better than other shoes. The upper mesh of the shoe is also really durable and won’t fall apart.
Traction
As far as traction, these shoes definitely offer great grip and traction. Their lugs are effective and don’t wear down easily. If you are going up and down you will find that these are perfect for the constant change—even when the terrain is wet and muddy.
Drainage
This mud run shoe offers excellent drainage so you don’t have to worry about staying wet and sticky during your races. It is designed to effectively get the water out so you can keep moving forward and not get stuck with wet and heavy shoes for the duration of your race.
Protection
All in all, these shoes have quite a bit of protective features. Their lugs will ensure you get a firm grip so you don’t slip and slide when the terrain gets slippery or rocky. The midsole is cushioned to provide you with shock absorption and the upper part of the shoe will protect you from water. The shoes also have a toe cap to protect you—and the shoe—from debris along the way.
3. Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX
These Salomon shoes are perfect for your next mud run, trail run, or adventure. They are really versatile and are available in a few color options, although they are all pretty simple. If you want a pair of shoes you can use for the long haul, then you need to take a close look at these.
Read moreComfort
As far as comfort, these are really comfortable. You will get the stability and support that you need while remaining comfortable, so you can focus on each and every stride or obstacle. They feature a Sense fit and Quicklace system for a secure and adjustable fit that will ensure your shoes never slip off.
Durability
These shoes were made for technical and rugged terrain—which is why they are such a great fit for mud runs. The Gore-Tex makes them completely waterproof and the Salomon Flex Engineered construction makes these shoes incredibly durable and built to take on the world.
Traction
These shoes offer a lot of traction and grip—no matter how wet it is. If you want a pair of shoes that won’t make you slip and slide when they get wet, then you will certainly love these shoes.
Drainage
As far as drainage, these are not only very effective at draining water if you happen to get water inside of the shoe, but they are also made with waterproof material so you don’t have to worry about them getting soaked and weighing you down.
Protection
When it comes to the overall protection of these shoes, this model has w toe cap that is reinforced—so you won’t have to worry about any debris or rocks in your way. They are also made with waterproof Gore-Tex material so you can hit the water at ease.
4. Icebug Acceleritas6
Whether you are new to mud runs or have been doing them for a while, you will absolutely love these shoes! Icebug shoes are really versatile and perfect for minimalistic runners who love a good obstacle race or challenge. They can handle anything that comes their way, so bring on the mud and water!
Read moreComfort
One of the best features these shoes have to offer is that they provide you with a barefoot feel. They are really lightweight and comfortable, so you can enjoy each and every stride. These shoes also provide you with a secure fit that will prevent your feet from slipping and sliding around in the shoe.
Durability
These shoes are definitely durable. The features a TPU mudguard that will ensure they are well protected from the elements and a heel counter that not only secures your heel but also adds to the overall durability of the shoe. The feature EVA foam that won’t compress and give away easily, so you can count on it for many races and training sessions.
Traction
The midsole is very flexible and keeps the weight down. The height of the heel cup is slightly reduced in order to reduce pressure at the Achilles tendon. Terrain feel is remarkable thanks to the low profile of the sole. The shoe promotes the natural movement of the foot, it’s like running in a pair of socks, but socks that provide thermal and impact protection, and traction. - Minimalistic and light - Low drop and sole profile - Narrow racing last
Drainage
As far as drainage, these shoes offer excellent drainage and do not pick up any water weight, so you don’t have to worry about them weighing you down. Since they effectively drain the water out, you don’t have to worry about the water staying in.
Protection
When we evaluated the overall protection these shoes provide we found that it is incredibly effective. The outsole of the shoes has the brand’s chosen pattern to ensure that you get optimal grip traction on any terrain. The pattern is just like the pattern you will see on the tires on your tractor, so the shoes are also effective at pushing dirt away. The outsole also features a sticky rubber that ensures you can grip on both wet and dry terrain.
5. Reebok All Terrain Super
Reebok makes a nice all terrain footwear option that is man-made. They have a ghillie speed-lacing system which some people prefer. The Cordura Skin Full upper, and they provide H20 drain technology work well with the rock guard. Altogether, this shoe is a great all-around smart option for mudding and off-road exercise.
Read moreComfort
These are light and provide a lot of comforts so you aren’t going to be weighted down too much which will help keep your pace. The tread is nicely sized for hitting the trails and managing mud.
Durability
You can log a ton of miles in these shoes. They work the way you need. Your foot is going to be kept dry with drainage design and fabrics that will allow air to penetrate and disperse through the shoe.
Traction
They will stay on your foot in rough conditions like mud without slipping as they have that easy lace adjustment feature. Stick out with these shoes amongst the other muddy runners with the funky design and neat look.
Drainage
Where there is mud, there is water, drainage was not overlooked in this shoe design. The drainage ports work well moving that water out of your shoe and the quick-pull lacing is key to keeping the shoe tight on your foot if it ever comes a little loose.
Protection
These shoes use mesh on the sides that help air flow through the inside of the shoe easily. They will keep your feet cool while you are running or doing intense races, and they also have a dual function to support the drainage ports to rid your shoes of water faster and keep you going longer.
6. Saucony Peregrine 8
Saucony is regarded as one of the leaders in the running shoe industry. Saucony Peregrine 8 is a go-to for hiking or running in the mud or on the trail, you can confidently tackle wet, smooth and slippery surfaces without losing any grip.
Read moreComfort
You get a comfortable and rugged shoe with updated features.
Durability
They are especially durable and they will last you a long time of training and racing. You absolutely cannot get these without being super stoked to log miles in the intense conditions, because these shoes will grip through it all.
Traction
These shoes will hold up to puddles, and mud and thick squishy conditions with no problems at all. The Pwrtrac outsole’s ability to grip and stick to surfaces is stellar, to say the least. They have a nice thickness and density to them which absorbs a decent amount of shock in addition to the incredible traction.
Drainage
These shoes are some of the best on the market for mud runs because you have such solid protection and surface adherence. They can take the wet with a good drainage system and they are functional enough to also keep your foot cool through hot races and exercise. They will be your go-to shoe for your next trail run or mud race.
Protection
During training or race day when you are faced with slick conditions and steep inclines and declines, these shoes will keep you from sliding. The comfortable and supportive fit will keep your foot in place without having to worry about it sliding around. Saucony’s use of Everun for underfoot protection will pad your foot through sharp rocks, small pebbles, roots and tree limbs. You can boldly take on any course, path or race with these top-tier shoes.
7. Adidas Kanadia 8.1
The Addidas Kanadia 8.1 is a nice off-road shoe option that provides decent traction. They are a simpler shoe but hit all the features you’d want in a mud shoe. Comfort, light, terrific traction, and breathable. For those of you beginners who have not committed to extreme and routine off-road training or mudding, these should be on your list because they will do the job well for you without busting your budget.
Read moreComfort
Here’s it is, straightforward, these Adidas shoes are seriously comfortable shoes. The padding and support add upon itself in comfort especially on uneven surfaces--but don’t think you can use them on maintained surfaces for comfort because you definitely can and should. Their true-to-size fit will provide you with a good amount of spacing without allowing your feet to move around too much inside the shoe. You can spend hours in these with ease.
Durability
Really durable and built to last thanks to its high-quality construction.
Traction
The soles of these shoes have got what you need for gripping trails. Wet conditions? Yea you need shoes that can hold up to it, these can. They are fairly lightweight so they will keep you fast on your feet running and racing.
Drainage
Great drainage that won't allow water weight to weigh you down.
Protection
These shoes come in at a great price range. They are incredibly comfortable to wear and offer off-road features in their grip and weather resistance. They have a nice fit, they aren’t too small or too narrow. Best of all, they are a good looking shoe that provides the ability for hiking, trail running, or obstacle racing in style.
8. Merrell All Out Peak
Merrell All Out Peak has a mesh upper with nice use of reflective details so night running or even mud running you can be seen. You have the option of removing the footbed and the TrailProtect pad is a much welcomed underfoot protective feature. Technically, it has a 6mm drop, a 16 mm cush and 32 mm stack height.
Read moreComfort
You will have increased stability that will provide you with the responsiveness to improve your speed and as well as help you add more distance.
Durability
The shoes are made of noteworthy materials. They have a really nice look and added details for extra comfort. They will support you with an amazing grip and improved feel on the ground with each footstrike and the shock absorption to keep you running longer.
Traction
These shoes use the uber quality Vibram soles so you already know that it will be exceptional. With a neat lug pattern, you will be ensured to have balance, security, and strength in any environment or condition. There are no lugs under the arch so the comfort of your foot was taken into account by the Merrell design team, your foot will have nice flexibility that you can appreciate.
Drainage
Pretty good drainage but not the best on our list.
Protection
UNIFLY is a material that Merrell has designed for their midsoles. It provides tremendous shock absorption that will allow each of your steps to be easier on your body and joints and have greater comfort for the foot itself. It is made of an incredibly strong foam with very firm shock pads that are put at specific points to have the best ability to take in and evenly spread the shock.
9. Inov-8 X-Talon 212
The Inov-8 X-Talon 212 is an all-terrain running shoe so say goodbye to blisters, the upper is made of a tight-knit and abrasion-resistant material. That is what you most definitely want for long distance and soggy environments.
Read moreComfort
These shoes will keep you confident in wet and muddy conditions. In the mountains or on rough trails, climbing large rock sides, you can count on the grip to keep you balanced.
Durability
Inov-8 is a British company that is leading specialists in manufacturing products for off-road use. They are experts in running and in the US, they are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after brands on the market for off-road shoes and supporting products. Their products are designed with human biomechanics in mind. Their products are known for quality construction and materials for high-performance athletes.
Traction
Featured in this shoe is a removable 6mm insole as well as X-Talon outsole that has profound cleats for unmatched traction. Additionally, it has a heel pull loop and an EVA midsole.
Drainage
The treads are impressive and we cannot bring them up enough. That is literally how good they are.
Protection
These shoes have will stay on your foot in thick mud and uneven trails they will support your foot. Feel free to take them out and get them dirty because even caked with mud, a quick and easy clean they will look brand new and be ready for your next outdoor adventure. And heck, they fit super comfortably.
10. Vibram V-Train
The Vibram V-Train is here for all you barefoot running lovers. If minimalism is your thing but you know you need more than just bare bones for a mudder, here is your shoe. You get the feel of a barefoot type shoe with the flexibility of one but you get added structure and support to move in all directions while in slick environments.
Read moreComfort
The shoe uses a fast lacing system which helps to provide a stable fit and an easy adjustment if one is needed when you are out hitting it hard.
Durability
A terrific minimalist running shoe with extra features to allow more versatility in use for those who prefer barefoot runners. Added support, extra tread, and a design that ensures a nice fit, this shoe is a great option. The barefoot style also allows for the extra flexibility that makes a shoe comfortable on uneven terrain as well as it’s lightweight nature, this is an excellent choice.
Traction
There is a built-in tread system that offers great protection that spreads your shock from impact over a wide area.
Drainage
Polyester and nylon mesh together, give you organic breathability and will also help keep your foot as dry as possible.
Protection
These shoes are a nice balance of sensory foot impact mixed with a supportive design for safeguarding against rugged terrains. These minimalist shoes are will still give you plenty of support off-road and still allow you to run with your natural gait. Your foot will have a nice organic flex ability throughout each strike even with those extra protective aspects.
