Running on hard ground like dry, solid grass can be tough on your feet, but worry not, fellow ground pounders! Our hard-ground running trainer experts have scoured the world and compiled a list of the 9 best trainers to make your hard ground running experience feel like you’re bouncing on fluffy clouds.
Featuring brands such as Nike, Under Armour, New Balance, Merrell, ASICS, and Adidas, we’ve got your feet covered!
Merrell Agility Peak 5 – £140 from Merrell
The Merrell Agility Peak 5 builds on its predecessor’s success, offering key updates. It’s lighter and more stable, thanks to an improved Vibram Megagrip outsole and strategic lug design. With nearly a 40-mm stack height, it provides exceptional muscle protection for diverse trail challenges. While excelling in cushioning and comfort, there’s room for improvement in weight reduction and design refinement for forefoot and midfoot strikers. These are ideal for heel strikers seeking a stable, all-terrain trail shoe, especially in muddy or snowy conditions.
9/10
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12 – £160 from New Balance
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12 combines both comfort and performance. Its Fresh Foam midsole offers plush cushioning for those hard landings, while its Hypoknit upper ensures a snug, sock-like fit. With this shoe, you’ll feel like you’re running on a soft, grassy meadow. One thing to note is that these are at the pricier end of the market, which is why we marked them down a few notches.
8/10
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 – £175.00 ASICS
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 is a fan favourite among hard ground runners. Its Gel cushioning system is designed to absorb shock, while its FlyteFoam midsole provides lightweight and responsive cushioning.
Yes, they are pricey but, these are probably the leading running brand in the market place. Run like the wind and leave your worries behind with these dreamy trainers!
8/10
Adidas Ultraboost 22 – £165.00 Adidas
The Adidas Ultraboost 22 offers an ultra-comfortable and high-energy running experience. Its Boost midsole returns energy with every step, while its Primeknit+ upper delivers a supportive and sock-like fit.
Our experts also loved how this shoe really talks up its environmental credentials. The only brand to really do tis. Adidas guarantees that at least 50% of the Ultraboost 22 is made from recycled materials. Let your feet rejoice as they glide effortlessly over hard ground!
8/10
New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 – £120 – New Balance
Experience the propulsion of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4. This shoe features a FuelCell midsole that delivers a snappy and responsive ride, while the Ndurance outsole provides durability and traction on hard ground. Get ready to propel yourself to new running heights!
7/10
There we have it then, our experts have run through the best 9 hard-ground running shoes currently available on the market. Pop your thoughts in the comments or why not give this article a share.
Trainers that we’ve previously recommended but are no longer in stock…
Nike Pegasus 40 Premium – £124.99 from Nike
Let’s kick off this list with the iconic Nike Pegasus 40 Premium. Known for its responsiveness and durability, this shoe provides excellent cushioning and traction for those hard ground adventures. With its lightweight and breathable design, you’ll feel like you’re running on air! This is a new running shoe for 2023 and replaces the previous Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 which took the running market by storm.
10/10
Under Armour HOVR Machina Breeze – £140.00 from Under Armour
Next up is the Under Armour HOVR Machina Breeze, a shoe that offers runners a smooth and comfortable ride. Its UA HOVR cushioning is specifically designed to absorb the impact of hard ground running, while the carbon rubber outsole ensures great traction.
We love that the foot cooling system really works in these hard ground running trainers. Many brands claim this but you can really tell the difference when wearing these shoes in comparison to other brands.
7/10
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 – £152.00 Nike
Ready for another Nike classic? The React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 is designed to reduce the risk of injury while providing superior cushioning. Its React foam midsole delivers a soft and responsive ride, while the Flyknit upper ensures breathability and support. Say goodbye to sore feet with these beauties!
9/10
Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 2 – £89.00 Under Armour
The Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 2 is perfect for runners seeking a balance of flexibility and cushioning. Its Charged Cushioning midsole provides excellent energy return and comfort, while the solid rubber outsole offers great traction on hard surfaces.
We especially love that because these hard ground running trainers are a few years old now, the price has dropped massively, but they are still one of the leaders on the market. They may be the cheapest of our selection, but they really do stand up to any test. Unleash your inner bandit and run wild!
9/10
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 23 – £93.00 ON SALE ASICS
The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 23 is perfect for runners looking for a cushioned and comfortable experience on hard ground. Its Gel technology in the forefoot and rearfoot offers excellent shock absorption, while its FlyteFoam midsole provides a lightweight and responsive ride.
We love that these are currently on sale and this make them our top pick. See how we saved the best until last. Now you can soar like a cumulus cloud with these fantastic hard ground running trainers by ASICS.
10/10