Running, Climbing & Crawling. Obstacle course racing (OCR) is not for the faint of heart. It’s muddy, it’s gritty, and it demands footwear that can keep up with the chaos. Whether you’re signing up for a Spartan Race, Tough Mudder, Savage Race or another local event, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Shoes that will help you conquer any obstacle race this year.

From scaling walls or crawling through thick mud, these 10 shoes are favorites in the OCR community and will have your back (and your feet).

Ready to find your perfect pair?!?!
Let’s dive in!

TOP 10 SUMMARY

Unfortunately, there’s no RIGHT ANSWER on what shoe to pick for running OCR.

Everyone’s preferences can be a little different. The way our foot strikes the ground, and our running mechanics can vary. And the specific OCR we’re aiming for can change the type of shoe that fits best.

But this Top 10 list should help you narrow down what kind of shoe is best for the race and you personally.
Get into more details and specs with the shoe profiles below.

Data & Specs were derived from dozens of sources across the web and represent average ratings, reviews, opinions and pricing.
Some links may be associated with Amazon or other affiliates.

DETAILED SHOE PROFILES

Salomon Speedcross 6: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.4/5, praised for excellent grip and durability, but noted for getting heavy when wet and limited breathability.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Highly popular, often cited in OCR athlete polls as a top choice for Spartan and Tough Mudder events.
• Weight: 10.5 oz.
• Lug Size: 5.8mm
• Drop: 10 mm, providing a balanced feel for trail running.
• Stack Height: Heel 36.5 mm, forefoot 26.5 mm, offering moderate cushioning.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Saucony Peregrine, Brooks Catamount, and Hoka Speedgoat for high-traction needs.
• Other Models Available: Speedcross 5 and potentially Speedcross 7, depending on availability in 2025.
• Common Reviews: Users highlight its grip in mud, comfort for long runs, and durability, but some mention it retains water, affecting performance.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Its aggressive 5.8 mm lugs and Contragrip outsole excel in muddy, slippery conditions, crucial for OCR obstacles like climbs and crawls.
• Type of Runner: Best for runners needing robust traction, possibly those with neutral foot strike, less ideal for wide feet due to fit.

Altra Lone Peak 8: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.3/5, noted for comfort and roomy toe box, but grip may falter in wet conditions.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include zero-drop design for natural running, wide toe box for comfort; cons include less grip in wet mud, fit issues for some.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Second most popular brand in 2024 OCR polls, favored for its versatility in trail and OCR.
• Weight: 10.7 oz, balanced for long-distance comfort.
• Lug Size: 3mm
• Drop: 0 mm, promoting natural foot alignment, ideal for minimalist runners.
• Stack Height: 25 mm for both heel and forefoot, offering moderate cushioning.
• Similar Shoes: Similar to Inov-8 Bare X Lite and other zero-drop options like Vivobarefoot Primus Trail.
• Other Models Available: Lone Peak 7 and potentially Lone Peak 9, depending on 2025 releases.
• Common Reviews: Comfortable for long hikes, roomy toe box appreciated, but some report less traction in wet conditions.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Offers comfort for extended events, suitable for less muddy courses, with a wide toe box beneficial for runners with wide feet.
• Type of Runner: Ideal for those preferring zero-drop shoes, wide feet, and comfort over aggressive grip, possibly less suitable for overpronators without additional support.

Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.5/5, praised for graphene-enhanced grip in mud, but noted for narrow fit.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include exceptional mud grip, lightweight at 10.4 oz; cons include potential narrow fit for wide feet, weight concerns.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Tied for third in 2024 OCR polls, specifically designed for muddy conditions, popular in Spartan races.
• Weight: 10.4 oz for men’s size 9.
• Lug Size: 8mm
• Drop: 4 mm, low to the ground for stability in slippery conditions.
• Stack Height: Heel 8.5 mm, forefoot 4.5 mm, minimal cushioning for ground feel.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Salomon Speedcross for grip, other Inov-8 models like X-Talon for OCR.
• Other Models Available: Mudclaw 300, Mudclaw G 260 V2, offering variations in fit and grip.
• Common Reviews: Excellent in mud, comfortable for short to mid-distance runs, durable, but some mention fit issues for wider feet.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Graphene-enhanced 8mm lugs provide unmatched grip in mud, crucial for OCR obstacles, with a durable upper for obstacle wear.
• Type of Runner: Ideal for those needing maximum grip in mud, possibly narrower feet, less suitable for overpronators without additional support.

VJ XTRM 2: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.0/5.0, noted for superior grip and comfort, but some fit variability.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include full-length rock plate for protection, butyl rubber for grip; cons include potential fit issues, higher price.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Specifically designed for OCR, popular among athletes for technical trails, tied for third in 2024 polls.
• Weight: 9.4 oz, fairly lightweight for OCR demands.
• Lug Size: 6mm
• Drop: 4 mm, low drop for stability on uneven terrain.
• Stack Height: Not specified, likely minimal for ground feel.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Inov-8 Mudclaw for grip, other VJ models like Ultra for trail running.
• Other Models Available: VJ Ultra, VJ Spark, offering different levels of cushioning and grip.
• Common Reviews: Excellent grip on rocks and mud, comfortable for OCR, but some mention sizing challenges, recommending half-size up.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Designed for OCR with rock plate and butyl rubber outsole, ideal for technical trails and obstacle navigation.
• Type of Runner: Best for those needing OCR-specific shoes, possibly medium to narrow feet, less ideal for overpronators without support.

Hoka Speedgoat 5: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.2/5, noted for high cushioning and grip, but may be heavy for some.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include Vibram Megagrip for traction, cushioned for long distances; cons include weight, less agile in technical terrain.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Fifth in 2024 OCR polls, popular for trail running, used in OCR for its cushioning.
• Weight: 9.7 oz, balanced for long-distance comfort.
• Lug Size: 3mm
• Drop: 4 mm, low drop for stability on trails.
• Stack Height: Not specified, likely around 30 mm for cushioning.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Brooks Cascadia, New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro for cushioning.
• Other Models Available: Speedgoat 4, Speedgoat 6, offering variations in fit and traction.
• Common Reviews: Comfortable for long runs, good grip on loose soil, durable, but some note warmth in summer.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: High cushioning for long OCR events, good grip for trail sections, suitable for less technical obstacles.
• Type of Runner: Ideal for those needing cushioning for long distances, possibly neutral runners, suitable for wide feet with fit options.

VJ Spark: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: It holds a 4.3/5 rating, with praise for its excellent grip and lightweight design. However, some users note a snug fit, suggesting sizing up for comfort.
• Pros and Cons: The pros include superior grip, a lightweight feel at 8.95 oz for men’s size 9.5, and comfort for short to medium distances. Cons include a potentially snug fit, which may not suit runners with wider feet, and less durability compared to some competitors.
• Popularity in OCR Events: VJ shoes, including the Spark, are popular among OCR athletes, often seen in events like Spartan and Tough Mudder, due to their grip and performance on technical terrain.
• Weight: Weighing 8.95 oz for men’s size 9.5, it is notably lightweight, enhancing speed and agility, especially beneficial for OCR with its grip capabilities.
• Lug Size: 5mm
• Drop: The shoe features a 5 mm drop, providing a balanced feel for trail running and OCR, aligning with preferences for natural foot movement.
• Stack Height: It offers a stack height of 27 mm at the heel and 22 mm at the forefoot, providing moderate cushioning suitable for technical trails.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to NVii Terra TT and Scott Supertrac RC 2, known for similar grip and lightweight designs, as noted in various trail running reviews.
• Other Models Available: Other VJ models include MAXx2, Ultra, and Lightspeed, offering alternatives for different running needs, with potential updates like Speedcross 7 in 2025 consideration.
• Common Reviews: Users frequently highlight the excellent grip in mud, comfort for long runs, and lightweight design, though some mention water retention affecting performance, similar to the Salomon Speedcross 6.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Its aggressive 5 mm lugs and Superior Contact outsole excel in muddy, slippery conditions, crucial for OCR obstacles like climbs and crawls, enhancing safety and performance.
• Type of Runner: Best for runners needing robust traction, possibly those with a neutral foot strike, and less ideal for those with wide feet due to the snug fit, catering to precision-focused athletes.

Topo MTN Racer 3: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Positive reviews highlight grip, comfort, and versatility, with a roomy toe box noted, appealing to trail runners.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include excellent grip with Vibram Megagrip outsole, good cushioning, and versatility across trail conditions. Cons include potential heaviness and availability issues for larger sizes.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Used in OCR events, particularly noted in Spartan races on Reddit discussions, popular among some athletes for its traction and durability on technical trails.
• Weight: Weighing 10.1 oz for men’s size 8.5, it is heavier compared to VJ models, but offers robust grip, suitable for longer OCR races requiring endurance.
• Lug Size: 6mm
• Drop: Features a 5 mm drop, providing a balanced feel for trail running, aligning with preferences for natural foot movement in OCR.
• Stack Height: Offers a stack height of 33 mm at the heel and 28 mm at the forefoot, providing high cushioning for protection on rough terrains, enhancing OCR performance.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Salomon Genesis and Altra Lone Peak, known for similar grip and cushioning.
• Other Models Available: Other Topo models include Trailventure, Pursuit, and Ultraventure, offering alternatives for trail and OCR needs, with potential updates in future iterations.
• Common Reviews: Users frequently mention excellent grip, comfortable fit with a roomy toe box, and versatility for various trail conditions, though some note the weight as a drawback for speed-focused runs.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Its 6mm lugs and Vibram Megagrip outsole provide good traction in mud and slippery conditions, with durable construction and comfort for long races, crucial for OCR obstacles.
• Type of Runner: Best for runners needing comfort and grip, preferring a roomy toe box, possibly with a neutral foot strike, accommodating a wide range of foot shapes and sizes.

VJ MAXX: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Reviews are positive, emphasizing comfort, grip, and versatility, with a recommendation to order half a size down due to sizing.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include excellent cushioning, superior grip with the butyl rubber outsole, and versatility across terrains. Cons include potential sizing confusion, requiring careful selection to ensure fit.
• Popularity in OCR Events: As part of VJ’s lineup, the MAXX 2 is popular in OCR, known for its performance in muddy and technical conditions, appealing to athletes in events like Spartan races.
• Weight: At 8.5 oz, it’s a very lightweight option!
• Lug Size: 4mm
• Drop: Features a 6 mm drop, offering a balanced feel for trail running, suitable for longer distances and varied terrains.
• Stack Height: With a stack height of 31 mm at the heel and 25 mm at the forefoot, it provides moderate to high cushioning, protecting feet on rough trails.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Salomon Genesis, Brooks Catamount 3, and Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx, known for similar cushioning and grip, as identified in comparative reviews.
• Other Models Available: Other VJ models include MAXx, XTRM2, and Lightspeed, offering a range of options for trail and OCR enthusiasts, with potential updates in 2025.
• Common Reviews: Users praise the excellent cushioning and comfort, superior grip on various terrains, and versatility, though some note sizing challenges, requiring adjustments for optimal fit.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Its aggressive grip and SuperFOAMance midsole provide excellent traction in mud and slippery conditions, with cushioning for longer OCR races, enhancing performance on obstacles.
• Type of Runner: Best for runners needing comfort and grip, preferring a versatile shoe for different terrains, possibly with a neutral foot strike, accommodating a broad range of foot types.

Saucony Peregrine 14: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.3/5, praised for comfort and versatility, but grip may not excel in extreme mud.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include PWRTRAC outsole for traction, cushioned for comfort; cons include less grip in very muddy conditions, weight.
• Popularity in OCR Events: Fourth in 2024 OCR polls, popular for trail running, used in OCR for its versatility.
• Weight: 9.4 oz, lightweight for trail running.
• Lug Size: 4.7mm
• Drop: 8 mm, balanced for trail stability.
• Stack Height: Not specified, likely around 30 mm for cushioning.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Hoka Speedgoat, New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro for trail versatility.
• Other Models Available: Peregrine 13, Peregrine 15, offering slight variations in fit and cushioning.
• Common Reviews: Comfortable for long runs, good traction on various terrains, durable, but some note water retention in mud.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Offers good grip and cushioning for trail running with obstacles, suitable for less muddy OCR events.
• Type of Runner: Ideal for those needing a versatile trail shoe, possibly neutral to mild overpronators, suitable for wide feet with fit options.

Asics Gel Trabuco-12: SPECS

• Customer Reviews Summary: Rated 4.4/5, and highlighted for traction and comfort.
• Pros and Cons: Pros include ASICSGRIP for traction, comfortable ride; cons include weight, less breathable for some.
• Weight: 10.8 oz for men’s size.
• Lug Size: 4.5mm
• Drop: 8 mm, balanced for trail stability.
• Stack Height: Heel 21 mm, forefoot 13 mm, offering moderate cushioning.
• Similar Shoes: Comparable to Brooks Cascadia, New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro for stability.
• Other Models Available: Gel-Trabuco 10, Gel-Trabuco 12, offering variations in fit and traction.
• Common Reviews: Good traction on trails, comfortable for long runs, durable, but some note weight concerns.
• Why Beneficial for OCR: Good traction and stability for trail running with obstacles, suitable for rugged terrains.
• Type of Runner: Ideal for those needing stability, possibly overpronators, suitable for neutral runners.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In summary, ensure fit testing, as OCR events can be demanding, and consider the range in drop (0–10 mm) to match individual preferences. This list ensures a variety of options, catering to different needs and enhancing performance for your next obstacle course race event.

What are your favorite shoes for running OCR?