Trail Shoe Deals: Three We Have Run In, One We'd Only Buy On Sale
Preseason markdowns across the trail-running shelf — including a shoe whose durability problems make the discount the only argument for it.
Trail shoes discount on a predictable cycle: about 20% off nine months after launch, and 35% once the replacement is announced. Three of the four picks above are in that window right now.
The deals
Hoka Speedgoat 6
The most versatile ultra-trainer Hoka makes, 25% off in the colorways nobody fought over. The sixth version is the one to buy: same protective stack, a stickier Vibram Megagrip outsole that finally holds on wet rock, and a roomier toe box than the 5. Sizing is unchanged, so ordering blind is low risk.
NNormal Kjerag
Our highest-rated trail shoe, and it almost never gets marked down. Low, precise, and shockingly durable for eight ounces — the Litebase Megagrip outsole looked new at 150 miles. It is firm and narrow through the midfoot, so this is a deal for people who already know the fit works for them.
Altra Lone Peak 9
We rated this one 2.8 because both test pairs tore through the upper before 200 miles. The toe box is still the most comfortable in running, and at a third off it becomes a defensible gamble if you love the fit and treat it as one season of use. We would not pay full price, and we are saying so on a deals page.
Nathan Pinnacle 12L Vest
Not on sale, and included anyway because readers keep asking what our testers wear for long days. Twelve liters carries two soft flasks, a shell, and enough food for six hours without bouncing, and the front pockets are reachable at speed. We are mid-test, so no rating yet — but nothing at this price has beaten it.
The honest one
We scored the Lone Peak 9 badly, and it is still on this list. Both of our test pairs tore at the same medial flex point under 200 miles, which is indefensible at $150 and merely a gamble at $97. Leaving it off would have been easier; telling you exactly what you are buying is more useful.
Sizing on clearance
Returns on closeout shoes are often final. Order your usual size in a model you have already run in, and skip anything you would have to guess at — a shoe that does not fit is a total loss no matter what it cost.
We re-check these prices daily and mark entries expired rather than removing them.
Editorial Staff
Outpost EditorsReviews, buying guides, deals and news from the Outpost editorial team.
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Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review: The Cushion King Gets Grippier
The Speedgoat 6 keeps its pillowy ride and adds a stickier outsole. After 200 miles, here's how it handles technical trail.
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NNormal Kjerag Review: The Most Precise Trail Shoe We've Run
The Kjerag is a scalpel: low, grippy, and shockingly durable for its weight. It is also unforgiving on anything smooth and flat.
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Altra Lone Peak 9 Review: The Thru-Hiker Favorite Has a Durability Problem
The Lone Peak 9 still fits like nothing else, and both of our test pairs blew out the mesh before 200 miles. Hard to recommend at $150.
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