SCARPA - Spin ST

The SCARPA SPIN ST has insane traction. The website describes the outsole as follows: 'aggressive lug profile with Vibram Traction Lug Technology'. I can be totally aggressive when navigating any hiking trail while wearing these. Shoes have many features or characteristics, but I make the decision first on lugs that are around the 7mm range.

Scarps spin ST are great for muddy conditions however you’ll compromise some cushion

For winter runs over the hills - thinking thick mud, steep grassy descents - I use Scarpa Spin STs. Great traction on almost all surfaces, and I didn't get along with Mudclaws! But I only have a mile run to and from the trails, so I can get away with the 8mm lugs without much discomfort. If I had a longer run in, I'd probably swap out some of the trail traction in return for a little more road comfort - something like the Salomon Genesis. I suppose it might come down to how muddy the trails are - do they justify aggressive lugs, or can you get away with something in the 4/5mm range that'll be more compliant on road as well? If you do need aggressive lugs, does 25% mean just a couple miles on road, or a longer section that might justify losing some trail traction to gain some road comfort?

Option 3: trail running shoes 😁 You’ll need something to give you “stability” and dont be always putting “weight” on your knees when you come down from hills. I did it with some Scarpa, Salomon (worst shoes for me) and I’m planning to do it with ASICS Trabuco.

Scarpa trail shoes. They've been amazing for me.

Had great luck with Scarpas. The Golden Gate 2 and Spin Planet are great in conditions you describe.

Teva flip flops for dry Wednesday and Thursday wandering. Scarpa trails shoes for dry Friday to Sunday Zamberlain Hiking boots and Gaiters if wet and muddy.

Scarpa or Salewa. I've had both brands for years and they've handled everything I've thrown at them with ease.

Scarpa for more durability than topos

I also have narrow feet and was day hiking quite happily in a pair of scarpa trail runners. Alas I found that with multi day trips my feet were swelling enough, even by day 2, that my toes no longer felt comfortable and I was getting a ton of pressure on my heels. I switched to a pair of Salomon Elixir shoes in the same size and the roominess of the toe box has made a big difference to me. I can’t say there have been any downsides, but as a person with narrower feet I have to make sure I lace with a heel lock.