Even if you have been running races all your life, nothing can truly compare you for a tough mudder competition. If you’ve never participated in a tough mudder, here is what you can expect:
This foot race is typically run over the course of many miles. Not only do you run, but you also have to get over and under a large number of obstacles. All of this is done while trudging through sticky and sludgy mud. You most likely became interested in performing when you saw photos of people on social media who looked like they had just rolled around in a pit of mud.
This is the tough mudder lifestyle for you. One of the biggest questions we get asked when newbies sign up is,
“What shoes should I wear?”
Lucky for you, many major shoe companies have begun manufacturing “tough mudder” style shoes. If you’re looking for some to fit your style and comfort, we’ve got the list for you. Let’s get dirty shall we?
Top Shoes For Tough Mudder Comparison Chart
| Product | Men/Women/Unisex | Material | Price | Where to Buy? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4 Runner | Men | Textile & Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 2. Salomon XA Pro 3D | Men | Textile & Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 3. Salewa Ultra Flex Mid GTX | Men | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 4. Under Armour Micro G Speed 2 | Men | Mesh, Sockliner and Rubber | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 5. Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX | Men | Manmade,Mesh | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 6. Reebok All-Terrain Super 3.0 Trail Runner | Men | Textile | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 7. New Balance Nitrel V1 Fuel Core | Men | Textile & Synthetic | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 8. New Balance Men’s MT10V1 | Men | Synthetic/Mesh | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 9. Salomon Speedcross 4 CS | Men | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 10. Salomon Speedcross 3 Trail Running Shoes | Men | Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 11. Salomon Speedcross 4 | Women | Textile & Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 12. Inov-8 Terraclaw 250 | Women | Synthetic/Textile | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 13. Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes | Women | Synthetic mesh | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 14. Salomon Speedtrak | Women | Textile & Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 15. Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder | Women | Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 16. Inov-8 X-Talon 212 | Women | Synthetic/Fabric | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 17. Salomon S-Lab XA Amphib | Unisex | Mesh,Nylon | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 18. Inov-8 X Talon 200 | Unisex | Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
| 19. Inov-8 Mudclaw 300 | Unisex | Textile/Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Shoes For Tough Mudder Buying Guide
Drainage
Tough mudder races are tough. There is no question about it. You will have to integrate every single portion of your body, mind, and spirit, to make it through to the end. This is because you have to deal with nasty mud and wild obstacles, either on your own or with a team. Beyond it being one of the most physically taxing activities out there, you have to deal with the face that you’ll have copious amounts of mud and water getting in your shoes while you are running.
To make sure that your feet stay as dry and as comfortable as possible, you’ll need to get some tough mudder shoes that have a solid amount of drainage. If you have mud and water pooling in your shoes, you’ll be more prone to injury, as your feet will start to swell and weaken. Water is also the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, and we’re sure that the last thing you want to deal with after a race like this is nast fungi on the bottom of your foot. Water, as we know, is pretty heavy too. The more of it you have pooling in your shoes, the slower you’ll be in the race.
We recommend looking for shoes with material such as Gore-Tex, which is porous enough to let water out while keeping your feet dry. The best shoes on our list keep that drainage aspect in mind. Of course, you’ll also want to have water-resistant socks of some sort, as your shoes can’t really help you when everything starts pooling in your socks.
Breathability
This kind of goes hand-in-hand with drainage, though we want to make a big deal about it, as it can be very important for both speed and comfort. Gore-Tex is a great material to look out for when you’re browsing shoes. Not only does it stop water from entering your shoes and pooling, but it also helps to keep sweat out by moving air through the inside.
It’s also very lightweight, making it excellent if you are trying to optimize your overall speed. This is why it is such a popular type of fabric in athletic-wear.
Traction
A tough mudder race isn’t a walk in the park and it is far more than a jog down a dirt trail. You’ll be dealing with gnarly obstacles in the worst conditions. This is why we highly recommend that you get a pair of shoes with a high-quality base that provides solid traction. The better the traction that you have on your shoes, the easier it will be to get over and under all of those crazy obstacles.
A solid pair of tough mudder shoes should have special tread that helps to reduce the amount of dirt that gets packed into the creases. The less dirt hanging on, the lighter your shoes, and the better the traction. The more dirt that hangs on, the higher the risk you’ll have of slipping. We would also recommend looking for shoes that have a nice, wide tread. Wider treads help to create channels for water to move through. This is one reason why we also recommend looking into trail-specific shoes that are made for that kind of terrain.
Safety
We’ve met some pretty amazing athletes who won’t hesitate for a second when they say that tough mudders are some of the hardest races out there. They require a different kind of stamina, as well as extreme physical conditioning. You’ll need to train ahead of time. The last thing you want after all that training is an injury. To help reduce the risk of injury, you’ll need to get a pair of tough mudder shoes that can protect your joints and your feet.
A bad pair of shoes can cause you to twist your knee or get shin splints, neither of which will be helpful on the course. Get yourself a pair of tough mudder shoes that are made with durable materials, yet are still lightweight enough to run with. We highly recommend looking for shoes that have stone guards or rock plates on them. These will help to protect your feet from irritation. They will also help to optimize your performance, as you’ll feel more balanced overall. Make sure to try some shoes on ahead of time if you can to find your best preference.
Pro Tip: We recommend training for your tough mudder in heavier, more cushioned shoes. They will feel much better on your joints, helping you to strengthen your body properly without injury. When race day comes around, switch over to your lightweight shoes. Not only will you feel like a cheetah, you’ll also have fresh joints to compete with.
Durability
Having a pair of tough mudder shoes that are durable is important. You’ll want a pair of shoes that can be cleaned with ease. Getting shoes that are water-resistant or fast-drying will allow you to train without worry. We also recommend that you never decide to wear your shoes when you are not working out or training, even if you’re just walking down to the park. Every time you wear them, you’re just putting extra stress and wear on them that is completely unnecessary.
Another reason to not wear them when you aren’t training is that you’ll just be adding more bacteria to the mix.
Weight
Weight is another major consideration to make when you are looking for the perfect pair of tough mudder shoes. Regardless of the shoes that you choose to get, they’re going to end up being far heavier once you get into the race, as they’ll be covered in mud and water. If you start off with a pair of shoes that are already heavy before you get on the course, you’ll just be setting yourself up to run with a pair of cinder blocks on your feet.
While we do recommend going lightweight for a tough mudder, we don’t recommend that you get the lightest shoes that you can possibly find. This is because extremely lightweight shoes aren’t nearly as durable as they need to be to survive a tough mudder. Just try and find a good pair that feel comfortable and lightweight with that added durability that we talked about a little earlier.
Comfort
Consider your overall comfort, as well as your running style. Do you have bad feet as it is? If that’s the case, you might need to look for shoes that have a bit of extra cushioning in them so that you can stabilize yourself better. We know people that have had foot injuries in the past, meaning they need shoes to compensate and help them compete.
Think about how much room you will need on the inside of your shoe. Do you have wide feet? Even if you don’t, your feet are known to expand when you run and exert pressure on them. Take that into major consideration when you are looking for shoes. You don’t want to get a pair that is too tight and won’t give your feet any room to breathe. It’s all about feel. Go and try some on. Walk around. Do some jumping maneuvers in the store. Don’t be embarrassed. You’ll be happy you did it when you’re absolutely destroying the tough mudder course.
Proper Laces
Make sure that you pay attention to the laces on the shoes that you are about to buy. Regular laces won’t hold up very well in the intense conditions of a Tough Mudder. The last thing you want is to look down and find that your laces are broken or caught in one of the many course obstacles. We recommend looking for shoes that have laces that lock. This way, you won’t even have to double-check if your laces are in place. Merrell makes some pretty amazing shoes with lace-lock systems that provide you with supreme closure and comfort.
Product Descriptions
Best Men’s Tough Mudder Shoes Reviews
Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4 Runner
When it comes to hiking and outdoor recreation, Merrell makes some of the best footwear around. They’ve made a huge name for themselves by providing hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with shoes that are made for offroad running, as well as watersport. They’ve now come out with the 4th iteration of the Trail Glove, which now boasts some pretty major upgrades, not to mention it is one of the best looking tough mudder shoes around.
What we love about the Merrell Trail Glove 4 Runners is that they are incredibly versatile, meaning they work for just about any style of running. They have increased tread numbers on the bottom, perfect for those seeking solid traction, as well as a zero-drop design, helping to keep your feet protected from rocks and other hard surfaces. Beyond that, they provide tons of support and are lightweight, great for keeping a fast pace.
The laces have been lengthened a bit since the last iteration of the shoe and the eyelet design has been upgraded as well, making the shoe fare more secure overall. There is no surprise in the fact that Merrell is at the head of the outdoor shoe market. The Trail Glove 4 Runners are a great option for Tough Mudders thanks to their complex and lightweight designs, providing you with both comfort and speed, no matter what obstacles you run into.
Pros
- Beautiful, minimalist aesthetic
- Reliable fit and quality materials
- Flexible design
Cons
- A bit narrow for wide-footed men
Salomon XA Pro 3D
These trail runners are made for navigating over technical terrain. They’re great for OCR, allowing you to run with total efficiency thanks to the aggressive lugs. In terms of their design, they are incredibly lightweight, allowing you to run quickly over the course. We love the fact that they’ve added on handy lace pockets, which help to keep the laces in place and out of the way so that you don’t have to stress about them coming undone during your race.
These babies are made with molded EVA to ensure total comfort over the course of your race. You’ll be running with pure comfort. One of the last things that you need on the course is to feel discomfort. With the EVA midsole, you get both rebound and alleviation, getting rid of aching feet as you go. Pretty much any trail runner will tell you that traction is one of the most important things in a trail running shoe. Luckily, these shoes help to keep debris off the lugs so that you can retain that traction. The lugs rip through softer surfaces as well, allowing you to dig in when you need to.
Pros
- Comfortable EVA midsole
- Handy lace pockets
- Aggressive grip for all-terrain running
Cons
- Not that much cushion in the heels
Salewa Ultra Flex Mid GTX
Compared to the other shoes on our list, these Salewa Ultra Flex Shoes are pretty unique. The most obvious reason as to why is their high-top design. They are made to take traction to the next level. They utilize high-quality, Michelin rubber on the outsole, giving them insane grip on slippery surfaces. They’re perfect for running in mud or on wet rocks. Thanks to the insane stability, people also use them a lot for mountain climbing. Basically, they are perfect for the insanity that you find on Tough Mudder courses.
While they are high-tops in design, the collar is ultra-flexible, providing you with a wide range of motion in the ankles. You get both flexibility and stability while you are on the course, making your overall experience far less grueling. When it comes to climbing high obstacles, there’s nothing that quite matches these shoes.
Pros
- Michelin Outsole
- Gore-Tex lining for comfort and durability
- Flexible collar
Cons
- A bit pricey
Under Armour Micro G Speed 2
Under Armour is pretty much the face of sports. They’re long line of activewear provides moisture-wicking, comfort, compression, heat retention, and number of other qualities, for all kinds of athletes. The Micro G Speed Swift 2 shoes are very well-rounded and versatile shoes that are perfect for Tough Mudders. They’re extremely comfortable with additional cushioning, yet are lightweight in design, providing you with the best of both worlds.
Not only does the additional cushioning help to give your feet support, but it also helps to distribute weight evenly throughout. You won’t have to worry about nasty joint pain or feeling instability while you are on the course. In terms of durability, they are a 10. They hold up really well without wearing down, perfect for intense competition. They are crafted with a breathable mesh material and are bonded at the midfoot with a strong film. We love the fact that they wash like a dream too. Overall, the Micro G Speed Swift 2 shoes are among the most stylish and comfortable Tough Mudder shoes around, perfect for high-impact sport.
Pros
- Additional cushioning for comfort
- Breathable and flexible materials
- Distribute weight really well
Cons
- Not the best drainage
Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX
The Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX shoes are excellent shoes for trail running, providing you with both breathability and durability thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane that is on the inside. Your feet will stay nice and dry throughout your race. They are both lightweight and extremely comfortable, as well as form-fitting, essentially providing you with just about everything you need for a Tough Mudder.
They’re made with a unique midsole boost that helps to reduce the amount of impact that you get while running on hard terrain, protecting you and your joints from injury. The fit is something to love too. You’ll find that they remain comfortable over the course of long runs, providing you with ample cushioning to keep you feeling good without weighing you down.
No matter where you are running, the Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX shoes can hold up. Snow, gravel, mud, and rain, are no match for these bad boys. You get an insane amount of traction, as well as fit, to keep you on your feet and your feet warm. They are excellent for slippery environments, making them top-notch for Tough Mudder events.
Pros
- Water-resistant design
- Comfortable for long-distance running
- Stylish design
Cons
- Not great for runners with narrow feet
Reebok All-Terrain Super 3.0 Trail Runner
The Reebok All-Terrain Super 3.0 Trail Runner shoes utilize H20 drain technology to help keep water out of your shoes, perfect for running in the wetness of a Tough Mudder race. The 360-degree tread is made to be both grip-worthy and responsive, giving you the ability to run on the craziest of surfaces without slipping. The additional toe bumper gives you the confidence to run and perform to the fullest while knowing that your toes are safe from injury.
These are some of the best trail running shoes on the market thanks to their supreme drainage tech. It helps to keep them very light when you are running in muddy environments. The holes are all around the outside of the shoe near the base by the small toe. Essentially, water drains every time that you pick your foot up.
The grip is supreme as well. You won’t have to worry about falling around in the mud while on the course. The drainage tech makes sure that mud doesn’t cake on the bottom either, once again keeping your shoes very lightweight.
Pros
- Excellent Traction
- Supreme drainage technology
- Comfortable design
Cons
- Run a little bit big in terms of size
New Balance Nitrel V1 Fuel Core
If you want to get a solid pair of Tough Mudder shoes, yet you can’t afford to spend a day’s work to get them, we’ve got a solid budget pair for you. These shoes are perfect for Tough Mudders, as well as general trail running. They’re comfortable and lightweight, plus come with breathable materials that will keep your feet nice and dry while you are running. In terms of durability, they’re definite winners. The outsole is made with supreme material and gives you plenty of traction in all kinds of environments.
In terms of drainage, they perform really well in wet environments too, keeping your feet free from bacteria and fungi. There is a handy toe bumper at the front to help reduce the risk of injury on the front of your feet. It’s perfect for those wild obstacles along the course. Overall, they are very versatile shoes that are stylish, perfect for those who want to do Tough Mudders, yet don’t want to limit themselves to the activity.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Comfortable fit
- Ample breathability
Cons
- Not the most durable shoes on our list
New Balance Men’s MT10V1
The New Balance Men’s MT10V1 shoes are perfect for all-terrain running. They come complete with a high-quality Vibram outsole that gives you tons of flex and traction when you are running on rocky or muddy trails. In terms of fit, they are some of the best shoes on our list, providing you with extreme comfort, even in the most uncomfortable conditions. The upper materials give you a cool and modern aesthetic while the flex grooves give you a natural feel while you are running.
New Balance has treated these shoes with Antimicrobial treatment to help cut down on nasty odors and bacteria growth, great for people who suffer from athlete’s foot, or just have sweaty feel in general. Beyond all that, the midfoot wrap gives you lasting comfort, solid for when you have to run 10 miles on muddy terrain. Overall, these are well-rounded Tough Mudder shoes that will suit any style of runner.
Pros
- Flexible and durable outsole
- Lightweight design
- Antimicrobial treatment for bacteria reduction
Cons
- Sizing is a bit off
Salomon Speedcross 4 CS
The Salomon Speedcross 4 CS shoes are very high-quality in design, giving you both supreme water-resistance and debris-resistance, keeping you comfortable while retaining durability. The Sensifit and Quicklace system come together to add to that comfort while they also help to make sure that your laces don’t rip or come undone while on the course. On the bottom, you get Contragrip technology that allows you run through water and soft terrain without falling over.
Water and mud can be a major pain when you are running your way through obstacle courses. These bad boys allow you to power through without having to worry about those things thanks to the anti-debris mesh material and the water-resistant upper. You can count on these lasting through the roughest of obstacle courses.
In terms of comfort, you’ll love the Sensifit design. Your feet will feel cradled and supported as you run. They’re a great pair of shoes that come with the Salomon brand name.
Pros
- Anti-debris mesh technology
- Completely water-resistant
- Very aggressive grip for supreme hold
Cons
- Not the most breathable
Salomon Speedcross 3 Trail Running Shoes
These trail running shoes are a solid option for the Tough Mudder. They are made with a beautiful low profile that provides you with both comfort and grip. Whatever kind of trail you are on, you’ll be able to maintain a solid amount of grip. The cushion is nice, though not too overwhelming. You’ll be able to feel the trail beneath your feet, which is good, though still feel protected from injury.
The traction on these shoes works like a dream. Whether you are running in water, mud, or snow, you’ll be able to stay upright with ease. This is because of the strong rubber material that is much harder than usual. It’s known as “Contragrip Rubber”. It helps to better improve the ability of your shoes to run in nasty conditions.
When it comes to fit, you’ll really dig the Sensifit build. It works to cradle your feet, giving you a far more form-fitting feel with supreme comfort. Beyond that, it gives you total shield protection on the toe and tongue, great for keeping water out without making a breathability compromise. They’re both lightweight and compact, great for speed and agility.
Pros
- Comfortable, cradling fit
- Water-resistant design
- Added grip for stability
Cons
- A bit too narrow for wide-footed men
Best Women’s Tough Mudder Shoes Reviews
Salomon Speedcross 4
The Salomon Speedcross 4 shoes are some of the best women’s tough mudder shoes out there. They fit like a dream and are incredibly comfortable, perfect for competing in the most grueling of conditions. Besides that, they are very easy to clean thanks to the synthetic materials that they are made with. These shoes are made to wrap nicely around the feet, providing you with a solid amount of flexibility, meaning pure comfort while you are moving. They utilize Kevlar string that is threaded through friction-less eyelets, giving you a much better fit with stronger laces.
In terms of the materials, these shoes utilize 3D open stretch mesh material, giving you a ton of breathability, allowing cool air to circulate throughout your shoes to reduce sweat and bacteria. The Ortholite sockliner on the inside helps to keep your feet cool, dry, and healthy, all while providing a bit of extra cushion.
Overall, these shoes provide you with high-tech materials, serious durability, and a style that will make you feel confident when wearing them. All of that and they are still very moderately priced. The Salomon Speedcross 4 shoes are made for off-road running. There is no question about it.
Pros
- Insane amount of comfort and support
- Flexible molding
- Very modestly-priced
Cons
- Style might be a bit strange for some
Inov-8 Terraclaw 250
Inov-8 is a British company that makes shoes specifically for off-road and trail running. Their Terraclaw 250 Trail Running Shoes are flexible, comfortable, and perfect for running races like the Tough Mudder. They provide your feet with an insane amount of protection. It seems that they’ve kept safety in mind more than anything else, which is really cool.
One thing Inov-8 is known for is taking into account how the body moves and functions when they create their products. Having that constant pressure on your feet as you run can put a major toll on your body. More than anything else, running can break down your joints, making you far more susceptible to injury. With that said, the fit is pretty standard. It’s the support that people rave about. You’ll notice less pain in your feet, ankles, back, and hips, as you train and perform.
Thanks to the breathable materials used in the manufacturing of these shoes, you get tons of airflow. They’re great for those warm, summer months. With that said, you can definitely use them during the winter as well. The bottoms are almost like cleats, providing you with more than enough traction to get you through the toughest of terrains. For obstacle course runners, these shoes seem like a no-brainer. The flexibility alone will have you running on air while the grip will help to keep you grounded when you need it.
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible design
- Work with biomechanics in mind
- Excellent drainage
Cons
- Small rocks can get stuck in the narrow treads
Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes feature a bit of a stronger grip when compared to the Speedcross 4 shoes. They are incredibly responsive and breathable too, helping to prevent any sort of bacteria build-up, as well as fitting snugly over your feet. You can participate in high-energy activities with ease.
The cushioned midsole is a product of EnergyCell+ technology, providing you with tons of feedback and comfort as you start moving. The outer grip is made with Contragrip technology and chevron-style lugs that help to provide added grip, all while retaining a very lightweight feel. You’ll be able to run longer distances without feeling weighed down. While they might seem a bit costly compared to other shoes on our list, they are extremely high-tech and definitely worth it in our opinion.
Pros
- Mesh upper for supreme breathability
- Quicklace closure for secure fit
- Very comfortable footbed
Cons
- Pricey
Salomon Speedtrak
If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that will support all of your running needs, then you have found the right pair. The Salomon Speedtrak shoes are excellent for keeping mud and debris at bay so that you can run more efficiently without feeling weighed down. The Sensifit, endofit, and Quicklace technologies, all come together to create an out-of-this-world pair of shoes that are great for beginner racers.
The lugs on the shoes are spaced very far apart, making them great for evening out pressure along the sole of your shoe. This helps to lessen your fatigue as you run. They work in a wide variety of conditions, from snow, to mud, to rocks. While they are low-profile technically, they do give you a solid amount of stability that you’ll need to remain upright over the course of your run.
Overall, these shoes make use of a wide variety of technologies that make them comfortable to run with, though may not be suited for very long distances because of the narrower design.
Pros
- Well-spaced lugs
- Durable rubber outsole
- Tons of high-quality technologies
Cons
- A bit narrow
Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder
As we said before, Merrell is one of the most respected brands in the Tough Mudder industry. It’s no surprise that they’ll be all over our list. The Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder shoes are made for the Tough Mudder (if you couldn’t already tell by the name). There are many characteristics that make it one of the best for that kind of competition.
Getting dirty is something that you just can’t avoid when you compete in a tough mudder. This is why we’re glad that Merrell was smart and made their shoes with a solid amount of drainage and easy-to-clean materials. They dry very quickly, allowing you to train and compete without having to wait for a day for them to dry. The traction is pretty solid too. You can easily run in slippery mud or scale large rocks without worrying about slipping all over the place. Whether you end up running in the rain or snow, these shoes will keep you upright.
The Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder shoes are made to keep your feet nice and protected during Tough Mudders, draining with ease and staying steady thanks to the supreme traction underneath. They’re perfect for intense training and have a price that is completely fair for such a unique pair of shoes.
Pros
- Supreme drainage capabilities
- Very durable design for any weather
- Very form-fitting
Cons
- Not the most comfortable shoes on our list
Inov-8 X-Talon 212
The Inov-8 X-Talon 212 shoes are made for trail-running with their lightweight and flexible design. The grip provides you with enough support to move over slippery terrain with ease, though they can also provide you with speed when the terrain is dryer. We love the fit of these shoes. The toe area wraps nicely around the front of your foot, giving you much better placement when you are running. The tread is made to be pretty aggressive, helping you to stay upright when you are running through mud and water. You don’t have to worry about rock and dirt getting stuck in their either.
Unlike other athletic shoes, these shoes were designed for the special purpose of running trails. Whether you are running through the woods or on muddy surfaces, you’ll be able to stay safe. They are also very durable and will maintain shape as long as you wear them in proper situations.
The cleats are perfect for getting through tough obstacles and the additional drainage is great for keeping your feet nice and dry.
Pros
- Tons of control
- Serious tread for balance
- Cleats are made for obstacles
Cons
- They run a bit small in size
Best Unisex Tough Mudder Shoes Reviews
Salomon S-Lab XA Amphib
Like we said earlier, Salomon makes some of the best Tough Mudder shoes on the market. They make all of their shoes with serious attention to detail. Their high-quality construction materials are unmatched, and many runners will tell you that they’re supreme. The main thing we love about the S-Lab XA Amphib shoes is that they drain really well, providing you with tons of comfort. The outsole is really nice too and comes with a lot of traction, perfect for running on wet surfaces. We were pretty surprised when it came to the grip on the bottom. They are seriously perfect for running on slippery mud or trekking across shallow rivers.
The material is highly breathable, great for those with sweaty feet who want to keep bacteria and fungi away. Even though they are very lightweight, you’ll likely be surprised as to how well-constructed they are. Even the toughest of mudder races won’t take these bad boys down.
Pros
- Incredible traction for running on wet surfaces
- Breathable and flexible material
- Easy-to-tighten lace system
Cons
- A bit expensive when you look at the big picture
Inov-8 X Talon 200
The Inov-8 Talon 200 shoes are made with patented Rope-Tech technology that helps to maximize the grip on the ground thanks to the strong outsole. They’ve also made sure to add a toe bumper to make sure your feet are protected from any rocks or sharp objects that might be present on the course. Besides incredible grip, these shoes are very lightweight, perfect for keeping high speed during your race.
There is also a fine amount of cushioning on the inside, which you’ll love after the 5th mile on the course. Inov-8 used an EVA foam material and injected into the midsoles of the shoes, providing you with incredible comfort and shock absorption. They have solid rebound too, helping you to maintain speed throughout the race.
On the top, you’ll find a pretty unique synthetic material that helps to optimize breathability. Whether you are someone that has sweaty feet in general or you just want to keep any additional moisture out, this is a solid feature. There is a quality, water-resistant coating and a TPU overlay to help keep the shoes dry and durable as well. Lastly, when it comes to design they look great, though they are only offered up in one color. Hopefully you are a fan of black.
Pros
- Supreme lacing system for a secure fit
- High-quality grip material
- Breathable materials
Cons
- Limitations in color choices
Inov-8 Mudclaw 300
The Inov-8 Mudclaw 300 trail runners are made with sticky rubber on the outsole, both the medium and the hard kind. This means that you get grip in all kinds of terrain, from wet, to rocky, to snowy, and beyond. There are solid 8mm studs that give you a ton of traction as well, allowing you to rip through soft terrain as you move throughout the course. They’re a great choice shoe for OCR.
The precision fit helps to create a solid environment for comfort and stability. The shoes are designed with flexibility in mind, giving you enough room to move without feeling unsupportive. Overall, these shoes are great for people who need a pair for all kinds of terrain. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch from one type of terrain to the next with ease.
Pros
- Comfortable, precision fit
- Aggressive outsole for supreme grip
- Rand wrap overlay for added protection
Cons
- Not the most supportive
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoes for Tough Mudder
Can’t I Just Run a Tough Mudder in Normal Shoes?
Oh, you already have a good pair of running shoes that you like?
In that case, forget everything we said… NOT!
Tough Mudder require special kinds of shoes, which is exactly why we decide to make this list. During a Tough Mudder, you’ll be running through pools of water, climbing over uneven and slippery terrain, and trudging through thick bouts of deep mud. A regular pair of shoes won’t hold up very well, as they aren’t designed for that kind of stress.
It’s the same reason why you wouldn’t wear a pair of high heels to the beach or sandals on the hockey rink.
How Do I Correctly Take My Shoes On and Off to Lengthen Their Lifespan?
Make sure to take your time when you are putting your shoes on or taking them off. Don’t be lazy and try to put them on or take them off while the laces are still tied up. This can lead to injury, as the shoe won’t be totally strapped on tight, and it also bends the front-end of the shoe where the laces are. This can put a ton of stress on the glue and stitching areas, bending the shoe out of shape.
Putting on and taking off your shoes carelessly is one of the quickest ways to reduce their overall lifespan.
How Can I Find the Perfect Size Tough Mudder Shoes?
Even though Tough Mudders are all the rage now, the shoes are still pretty unique and kind of work within a smaller, niche group. This means that it’s pretty difficult to find these shoes at standard sporting goods stores. You’ll likely be buying these shoes online, meaning you might not get the chance to try them on ahead of time.
Getting the right size is very important. We recommend that you get a shoe that is one size larger than the current shoes you wear everyday. This is because your feet are known to swell up when you run. You’ll need space inside to make sure that they have room to breathe.
If you wear a size 10 in your everyday shoes, make sure that you get a size 11. You’ll thank us when you’re on the course.
What is the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant?
Water-resistant and waterproof are two totally different things. Don’t get them confused. A pair of shoes that are completely waterproof won’t get wet at all. They can hold up in the craziest of water conditions, meaning they typically cost more, as they have to be manufactured with special types of materials.
Water-resistant shoes are great and can hold up in a pretty good amount of water, though they can’t match waterproof shoes in terms of durability.
What is a Tough Mudder Race?
A tough mudder race is a 10-mile race and obstacle course that is made to test the physical strength of some of the best athletes in the world. You compete both alone and on a team with the option to run a half-race as well. If you’re interested in finding out more about the Tough Mudder, check out their website here.
Conclusion And Final Shoes for Tough Mudder Recommendations
So there you go, a list of the best shoes for Tough Mudders. We highly recommend picking up one of these pairs of shoes if you are heading out on the course. Even if you think you are in the best shape of your life, you’re going to need a good pair of shoes to get you through this wild and grueling course. Make sure to start training now!
Here are some of our favorite shoes overall for tough mudder and spartan races:
- Men’s: Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4 Runner
- Women’s: Salomon Speedcross 4
- Unisex: Salomon S-Lab XA Amphib
Good luck out there!
