The Fuelcore Coast 4 upper is flexible, breathable, and minimizes the use of seams to keep the shoe lightweight. The upper is comprised of a pliable knit material on the outside and a smooth liner on the inside. Weighing in at 6.1 oz. for women and 7.2 oz. for the men’s version, they are lightweight and agile yet still provide plenty of cushion for runs lasting up to 2 hours. As is the case for almost every trail shoe suitable for soft and muddy ground, there isn't a tremendous amount of cushioning in the midsole and for good reason. This kind of terrain is softer and has less impact with every footstrike - there is much more give in the ground compared to a really hard surface. The idea of a trail shoe like this is to allow you to have close ground feel, enhancing your connection with the terrain. The midsole is equipped with an innovative foam compound providing the same responsiveness and durability of New Balance foams 30% heavier. REVlite offers a lightweight ride without minimising construction or sacrificing underfoot cushioning or stability. Added underfoot cushioning and comfort comes from the NB Response 2.0 performance insert. This material aims to provide the runner with a seamless and comfortable running experience. Improved responsiveness is encouraged by IMEVA which also offers additional underfoot cushioning. AT Tread Rubber Outsole

Made specifically for ultra-distances, this shoe is incredibly durable thanks to Kevlar®, polyamide and Matryx® fabrics. The uppers are made with breathable-waterproof FUTURELIGHT™ technology enhanced with durable Spectra® yarn and feature a zipped gaiter for protection even in snowy conditions. The New Balance Nitrel v4 is true to size with just the right amount of toe box space that did not feel restricted. Overall length was consistent with just enough room in the toe box and no slipping in the heel. The width is moderate from heel to toe without any excess room for slipping. This shoe is wonderful for slow and steady training periods and anything else you want to use in your day. Given the price and quality of materials in its construction there really is nothing to complain about here. Less breathable design

Waterproof trail running shoes

New to trail running and not sure which shoes to choose? Don't worry, we've got it covered. Our Sportsshoes ambassador Ben Mounsey rounds up the best trail running shoes for 2022 in all major categories:

This midsole feel works well in off-road situations where a bit more stability aids in foot control on uneven terrain. On the tarmac, however, the Dynasoft foam was not forgiving and was especially noticeable while testing on concrete floors over multiple hours. If one limits his or her use to a few hours per outing with this shoe it will wear properly. Nitrel V4 from New Balance is designed for on - and off-road terrain.It features plenty of cushioning and a great grip. Nitrel V4 provides all the options for you to decide to go for a run on asphalt or on trail. New Balance Nitrel V4 Specifications The SpeedGoat 4 is a lightweight trail shoe that soaks up the big miles, perfectly suited to running long and ultra-distances. They are ideal for training, however, I wouldn't personally recommend them as a racing shoe for short distances, purely because of their bulkier shape and fit.

Flexibility

REVlite Midsole - Aims to deliver a lightweight ride without minimising construction or sacrificing underfoot cushioning or stability. Weather conditions, different terrain types and various trails are just a few of the factors that you need to consider when looking for new trail running shoes. Whether you want shoes that are designed to keep pace with you on ultra-long-distance trail runs, or trainers that are designed for comfort in whatever the British weather throws at you, we’ve got lightweight women’s running shoes that won’t slow you down. Stray off the beaten path in comfort and style with the Fresh Foam X Hierro V7s, which provide great traction thanks to the Vibram® Megagrip outside sole. If you’re after women’s trail running shoes that offer a bit more support around the ankles, the Fresh Foam X Hierro Mid do just that, while still providing the signature Fresh Foam X cushioning for ultimate comfort when you’re in the great outdoors. If the trails don’t call to you and prefer to hit the road (or pavement) instead, our collection of women’s running shoes is designed to help you perform at your best – no matter the terrain. Waterproof trail running shoes are looking for trail shoes dedicated to long runs. In this case, the Asics Gel-Trabuco 9 G-TX would be a much better choice. NB Response 2.0 Performance Insert - Provides the runner with a seamless and comfortable running experience. Perfect for fell and mountain running, the Higher State Soil Shaker 2 has an 8mm drop, rugged outsole and ripstop upper that will have you tearing through the mud with ease, whilst offering maximum cushioning and ventilation. Lighter and more robust than its predecessor, the Soil Shaker 2 will have you running with efficiency and agility.

The Fuelcore midsole employs a combination of EVA foam densities to achieve the optimal balance between responsiveness and softness.

New Balance FuelCore Coast v4 Sole Unit

The midsole becomes slightly more rigid in the midfoot and heel where the foot is less flexible. New Balance’s Response performance insole rests on top of the midsole to further enhance the shoe’s responsive and supple feel. Runners should exercise caution on wet surfaces when wearing the Fuelcore Coast 4. New Balance FuelCore Coast v4 Upper Info