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Trying to narrow down what makes up the best trail running shoes is not easy, particularly when what one person might think is the best feature another might not care for. So, I have picked out a few of my picks from the most popular brands and explained what makes them stand out, both what I think and what testers have said in a variety of sources I consulted.

I have also included the URLs at the end of the article for the top picks for 2008 trail runners by Outside Magazine and Runner's World.

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Salomon SpeedCross2

SpeedCross2 was voted trail runner Gear of The Year for 2008 by Outside Magazine

With the Winter Contragrip outsole, the SpeedCross2 offers trail runners improved stability on both slick ground and loose soil. The anti-debris mesh guards against pebbles and small stones, while the pairing of the asymmetrical Quicklace and Sensifit system provides fast lace up and a secure hold to give you extra protection on slick ground.

The SpeedCross2 offers runners a pronation correcting dual-density EVA midsole and the Salomon Cushioning system that helps protect your feet. Need more in a shoe? How about a Ortholite antimicrobial sockliner that helps to fight odor causing bacteria.

The SpeedCross2 features a thick cushioning heel that is intended to ease the shock of heel strike. A review of the SpeedCross2 by The Gear Junkie states that the heel cushioning is a little bit of an overkill, but good protection from shocks when going downhill across rough terrain.

Features:
Anti-debris mesh
Lace Pocket on tongue for easy storage of Quicklace&tm; laces
Protective mud guard around base of shoe
Synthetic toe cap protection
Quick drying abrasion resistant lining
Winter Contragrip sole features V-shaped soft rubber lugs for traction in winter conditions

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Vasque Aether Tech

The Aether Tech has been designed for fast runs. Balanced between being a trail shoe and a lightweight trainer, the Aether Tech is billed as being perfect for runners that are making the transition to trail running.

Featuring 30% recycled content, the Aether Tech is a stylish looking trail and running shoe that provides a neutral midsole that allows the runner to land midsole instead of heel first.

The effort to make these shoes an all weather shoe has sacrificed true waterproof in favor of a "weather-proof" breathable mesh that allows the shoe to be comfortable in warmer weather.

Features:
"Weather-proo f" not waterproof
Designed for year-round trail running
BOA

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