I've figured the solution a while ago and the answer isn't really on the list lol.
I'v chosen a pair of trail shoes for the versatility, but those are not my usual trail trainning/race shoes.
When I travel in another country these are my main shoes for : traveling, visiting, running and hiking if i have to.
The brief is simple :
\- they must look "nice" at least like a sneaker to be worn in any occasaion (unelss it's very formal) --> that's why Im not taking my usual trail running shoes because they're (or used to be) bright ORANGE
\- be confortable for visiting the place where I'm traveling
\- Able to be ran in
\- Have a vibram outsole because it's the best in the market.
So I've bought a pair of norvan LD3, but a light shaded kjierag 01 could have fit the bill too.
Anyway, if you're bringin a pair of "regular shoes" alongside a pair of sport shoes, i'd still advice to go for the trail ones.
As a counterargument, I've been scrambling in all conditions, in Poland and various European alps, across summer and winter, in Arc'Teryx Norvan for 5 years and if i wasn't for the outer sole being worn out and me being too lazy to replace only that, they'd still be my main hiking shoe. I'm also lousy when it comes to pulling my feet high and hit rocks, roots and branches all the time. The reinforcements are placed exactly where they should be. Even the mesh part, of which I recall being worried about when buying those, survives thousands of thorns and branches trying to pull it apart.
With all honesty I could not be happier with a hiking shoe. I might purchase another pair this winter. In spring I've gotten Dachstein X-Trail as they have similar attributes to Arcteryx ones and I loved the design and fit. I can't vouch for their quality yet though, other than the fact that they look and feel very well made.
>Bonus if **waterproof**, but I have noticed that mostly it doesn't matter because if shoes get wet with a huge downpour, they're going to get wet
For this reason non-waterproof shoes are preferred by a lot of people in trail running and hiking circles. If you make peace with the fact that your shoes WILL get wet, then a non-waterproof actually dries out way faster. Reduces odor and are more comfortable to wear while wet. Just bring more, fast-drying socks.
To kind-of answer your question I have a pair of Arcteryx Norvans in all-black that I use for running, hiking, and noodling around. They're ultralight (which is nice for both wearing and packing) and very functional, don't look totally ridiculous. But really... it kind of doesn't matter/is so personal, you're better off just trying on a bunch and getting the ones you like.
I have used Zamberlain, Solomon Ultras, La Sportiva Prodigios, Arc'teryx Norvan, Topo Ultraventure, Altra Lone Peak, and I am currently using Kailas Fuga EX.
Zamberlain - sole delaminated La Sportiva Prodigios - most comfortable yet not durable Solomon Ultras - too hot, heavy, fit was bit sloppy. Decent traction Topo Ultraventure - good toe box but not durable Altra Lone Peak - not for me Kailas Fuga EX - Best Grip, most durable, one of the lightest, took a bit of break-in and is now very comfortable (La Sportiva still is most comfortable), great on mud yet durable on pavement, runs narrow but they have a wide model with plenty of room.
https://preview.redd.it/6l8apbqae0gg1.jpeg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e3631376751409ad88a8d3d4b91bc11f1133c8e6
sum of the attributes make it my current favorite
I am a westerner living in Asia so availability may matter depending on your location. Most use cases are softer trails or mud with roots. Some pavement. Have used them in Southeast Asia and Nepal.
Top Trail Running Shoes on Reddit
1
Mount to Coast
H1
85% positive of 177 users
Versatile road-to-trail, but struggles on wet, technical downhills.
fernrosomehow
