Brand: Mount to Coast

    Category: Trail Running Shoes

    Recommended by Shelby Farrell, Athlete. Marketing Professional. Cat Mom. — Morrisville, Vermont

    Highlights: grippy, durable

    The H1 by Mount to Coast is a versatile road-to-trail running shoe designed for performance and sustainability. With its innovative CircleCELL midsole, this shoe offers exceptional durability while minimizing environmental impact. 1. CircleCELL midsole crafted from 20 pounds of organic waste, providing a sustainable yet high-performance cushioning experience. 2. Proven durability with over 600 miles of tested performance, ensuring long-lasting use for avid runners. 3. Lightweight design that enhances agility and comfort during both road and trail runs. 4. Breathable upper mesh material that promotes airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry in various conditions. 5. Multi-directional traction outsole for superior grip on diverse terrains, from pavement to rugged trails. 6. Responsive cushioning that adapts to your stride, offering support and energy return with every step. 7. Available in multiple sizes and colors, catering to a wide range of personal styles and preferences. The H1 is ideal for runners who transition between road and trail environments, making it perfect for mixed-terrain training and racing. It performs best in moderate weather conditions, providing comfort and support during long-distance runs. Targeted towards both novice and experienced runners, this shoe excels in scenarios such as weekend trail adventures, daily training sessions, or competitive races. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand seasonal changes, making it a reliable choice year-round.

    Price: $160

    Who it's for
    Runners who mix road, gravel, and non-technical to moderate trail in a single outing, including ultra-distance athletes doing 100-milers and multi-day events. Those with narrow to average feet and a preference for a lightweight, responsive ride will find the fit works well; wider-footed runners may want to size up half a size.
    What people are saying
    Hosts consistently praise the foam's durability (500–600+ miles cited repeatedly), energy return, and the two-zone lacing system for accommodating foot swelling. The one recurring caveat is traction and rock protection on technical or rocky terrain—at least one heavier midfoot striker found rocks penetrating the foam on rough ground.
    Worth noting
    The lower-lug VersaGrip outsole is designed to handle both road and trail without excessive wear, but it is not suited for highly technical or rocky trails. Sizing up half to a full size is a common recommendation, and the shoe ships with a noticeable factory smell that dissipates.

    Shelby Farrell's review

    The perfect shoe for Vermont 100, where long stretches of gravel roads blend into singletrack, rugged Class 4 roads, and the occasional pavement.

    Recommended by Shelby Farrell, Athlete. Marketing Professional. Cat Mom.

    Frequently asked questions

    Who is the H1 for?

    Runners who mix road, gravel, and non-technical to moderate trail in a single outing, including ultra-distance athletes doing 100-milers and multi-day events. Those with narrow to average feet and a preference for a lightweight, responsive ride will find the fit works well; wider-footed runners may want to size up half a size.

    What do experts say about the H1?

    Hosts consistently praise the foam's durability (500–600+ miles cited repeatedly), energy return, and the two-zone lacing system for accommodating foot swelling. The one recurring caveat is traction and rock protection on technical or rocky terrain—at least one heavier midfoot striker found rocks penetrating the foam on rough ground.

    What should you know before buying the H1?

    The lower-lug VersaGrip outsole is designed to handle both road and trail without excessive wear, but it is not suited for highly technical or rocky trails. Sizing up half to a full size is a common recommendation, and the shoe ships with a noticeable factory smell that dissipates.

    What does Shelby Farrell say about the H1?

    The perfect shoe for Vermont 100, where long stretches of gravel roads blend into singletrack, rugged Class 4 roads, and the occasional pavement.

    Why does Shelby Farrell recommend Mount to Coast?

    Shelby Farrell recommends the Mount to Coast H1 for trail running shoes. The perfect shoe for Vermont 100, where long stretches of gravel roads blend into singletrack, rugged Class 4 roads, and the occasional pavement.

    Is the H1 a good trail running shoe?

    Yes — Shelby Farrell recommends the H1 by Mount to Coast as their trail running shoes pick. The perfect shoe for Vermont 100, where long stretches of gravel roads blend into singletrack, rugged Class 4 roads, and the occasional pavement.

    More from Shelby Farrell's Vermont 100

    View Shelby Farrell's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu

    What other hosts are saying

    46 experts recommend the Mount to Coast H1.

    Kilian Korth, Professional Trail Runner

    As a hybrid shoe, the H1 is great on most trails and flawlessly handles pavement if you ever have to transition to roads during a run. It's durable, responsive, and cushioned, what more could you want?

    Recommended in Cocodona 250 Kit + Fuel

    Jeff Garmire, Athlete

    Hundred of training miles in this shoe. It is comfortable and that is the key for 200s

    Recommended in Cocodona 250

    Kelsey McGill, Running Coach (Trail, Ultra, Road)

    These shoes are so comfortable and adjustable to feet swelling that can often happen in long races! The expandable toe box is unmatched to any other shoes on the market! I definitely recommend getting a 1/2 to 1.5 sizes bigger than your original shoe size as backups

    Recommended in Bigfoot 200

    Cody Poskin, Professional Ultrarunner and Hopeless Romantic

    This is my go-to shoe for anything offroad. It feels like a normal road shoe on asphalt, but then gives me plenty of grip on 99% of trails. This was my shoe of choice for the Cocodona 250 and the Ultra Gobi 400K. It feels light and responsive and performs spectacularly. Highly recommend.

    Recommended in Wyoming Range 100

    Megan Eckert, Professional Ultra Runner

    Road or trail, these shoes got it covered

    Recommended in Cocodona 250

    James Sieber, Running & Strength Coach || Peak Pursuits Podcast Host

    A road-to-trail option that is light, responsive, and feels fun underfoot, on both road and trails. The two-zone lacing system is different, but I do like how the upper holds the foot. The lugs and rubber compound are smooth on the roads whilst providing ample traction on trails. It is not made for rocky or technical trails, as I find the rocks penetrate the foam and impact on the underside of the foot - for context, I am roughly 90kg and a midfoot striker. For me, 2-4mm extra foam under the forefoot would have made this shoe perfect.

    Recommended in Trail Shoes

    Mark Neilan, Husband/Father/Business Owner/ Endurance Athlete

    Another good road to trail shoe!

    Recommended in Feet Equipment

    Adam Gloyeske, Trail Runner

    I use the Mount to Coast H1 as a reliable shoe for most trail runs and faster road runs. I have also used them in a few ultras and I’ve never had an issues. No blisters, black toenails, outsole issues, pricing problems. Highly recommend this shoe if you’re looking for durability and performance.

    Recommended in Gear List

    Lila Gaudrault, Ultra/Trail Runner

    I love the H1, a hybrid shoe that performs well on both road and trail surfaces!

    Recommended in Cocodona 250!

    Spencer Imbach, Trail Runner & Snowboarder

    These are incredible! The H1 is their "hybrid" which is essentially a lighter version of the trial shoe without vibram - though still plenty of traction on trails with the VersaGrip which also holds up better for road/gravel. The fit and lightweight feel of these is top notch, and they even go the distance as well (Jamil wore these for 600+ miles during his Strava chipotle challenge). Think of these as a more budget option of the Norda 001!

    Recommended in Full Quiver

    Brian Tolbert, Retired Professional Trail runner, Fly Fishing Junky

    This is one of my favorite shoes of the year, its lightweight, highly cushioned and you can't seem to break them. After 400 miles this shoe still feels bouncy. Technically the HI1 is a "Gravel Shoe" but I have ran it on everything from Roads to technical singletrack and it still performs. This shoe out performs the trail super shoes and cost half as much

    Recommended in Trail Running

    Leah @Nomad.ishhh, Nomadic Ultrarunner

    Wow! I am impressed. Have had these a couple weeks logged 50+ miles and these have taken the spot for my favorite shoe. Great road to trail, have even taken on some technical trails and the ride is so smooth. I also was caught in a rain storm running through 2" of water and these drained and dried so quick!

    Recommended in Trail Race Kit

    Seth LaReau, Trail runner. Writer. Founder and author of Trail Waves.

    Versatile, comfortable, and dependable road-to-trail shoe. Works great on road, gravel, trail, bike path, you name it.

    Recommended in Trail Favorites

    Jonathan Levitt, Runner and Podcast Host

    loving this for road and trail!

    Recommended in My First List

    Srulik Liberow, Ultrarunner / Strength Coach

    These shoes have been my go-to choice for everyday running. Whether it's an 18 mile road run, or a long day out on the trails, I use these shoes every single day.

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Jackson Fagerlin, Cross Country and Track and Field athlete

    The Mount to Cost H1 has been the perfect shoe for any single track or dirt trail run. Most trail shoes lack responsiveness, but the H1 gives you not only traction and stability, but speed as well.

    Recommended in Products I Actually Use

    JESS MENA, Ultramarathoner

    I am about to order my 3rd pair! Great shoes for local fire roads. I ran black canyons in these and they were PERFECT. Great cushion, protective , and energy return.

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Chas Wagner, Pittsburgh Outdoor Community Builder

    This is the ultimate shoe for Frick Park. Soft and forgiving on Tranquil Trail's gravel surface, but stiff enough for the singletrack and steep climbs on Bradema and Riverview.

    Recommended in Trail Run Gear

    Keifer Gilbert, Endurance Enthusiast, Adventurer, Coach, Father, Sober Dude

    I do most of my easy running and daily training in these. Nice durable shoe that can handle just about anything you throw at it. Performs well on just about any terrain that doesn't get too technical

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Tristan Blain, Mediocre Runner

    My favorite shoe for running at home where I’ll hit roads and trails.

    Recommended in Products I Use

    Dylan Flewelling, Ultra runner and coach

    The best road to trail shoe on the market. The H1 is ideal for gravel running and buffed out single track.

    Recommended in My gear

    Bradley Goodman, Ultra runner

    A shoe that really lasts. Great for types of terrain from west coast carpet to east coast rocks and roots. Performs well on the road and the trails. The upper and lower tightening system is a thing of beauty when the feet are tired and swollen

    Recommended in Products I Love!

    Mike @HumbleRunning, Shoe and Gear Reviews

    Perhaps the most versatile "trail" shoe on the market right now. Crazy durable midsole/outsole combo - a no doubt value. Check out this fun comparison video in the attached video.

    Recommended in Top Trail Running Shoe Picks

    Hannah Horn, Ultra Runner

    Mount to coast H1s are built for both trail and road and I find the best hybrid shoe out there! Use code EVERYDAYULTRA for 10% off your order.

    Recommended in Products I Actually Use As A Ultra Runner

    Chris Melton, Mediocre Runner

    This quickly became part of my rotation due to the minimalist feel

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Nicole Bergstrom, Trail runner

    This is the most comfortable shoe ~ever~ I love this shoe for a cruisey packed dirt trail run, a rainy run in the city, and have worn it to race a 100k

    Recommended in Shoes

    Christophe Stahl, Trail and Road Runner

    My go-to shoe for road to trail runs. $10 Off with code CHRISS10

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Donnie Orr, Ultra Chef

    Will be in rotation on the FKT for the road sections.Edit: Used this shoe mush more than expected in the FKT, so light and comfortable, and can handle trails well!

    Recommended in Kicks

    Connor Nolan, Ultrarunner, Community Builder

    I loooove the Mount to Coast H1. My most used shoe in training on the chill trails of the Bay Area. I wore this for a 48 hour race with no foot issues.

    Recommended in Broken Arrow 2026 Gear

    Marco Moreno, Ultra Runner

    Ultimate hybrid shoe. Hands down.

    Recommended in Everyday Carry

    Kat Callaway, World's Okayest Athlete

    I decided to try Mount to Coast after seeing several athletes use them at Cocodona 250, and BOY am I glad I was influenced! The H1 road-to-trail shoe is exactly what I needed where I live, because there's a good mix of road and trails and I needed a shoe that can do both. This is it! These shoes are unbelievably comfortable. I have narrow feet, so these feel good to me without feeling like my feet are swimming in them. Highly recommend.

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Cody McKesson, Trail / Ultra Runner

    I wore this shoe to qualify for Bigs Backyard Ultra World championship. I was sent this shoe a week or two before my qualifying race, and I knew I had to wear the shoe even though I had barely trained in it. Safe to say it was a good decision. I’m also partial to the Sedona colorway as that’s where I live and train 😉

    Recommended in A few of my favorite things!

    Matt Parker, Dr. Matthew Parker, PT, DPT

    Another excellent product from Mount to Coast. The tread is great on muddy Ohio trails while not being too overbearing for sections of crushed limestone or roads. They keep the same customization options in the forefoot to fit like a glove and a springy midsole without a heavy feel.

    Recommended in Shoe Rotation

    Robert Berry, Ultra Runner/Coach

    Amazing shoe. Most hybrid tools are usually mediocre at either thing. Not these! The H1 is an awesome road shoe and an awesome trail shoe and anything in between! Plus its built to last 600 miles!! Cmon, ol son!

    Recommended in 15 Products I Actually Use

    Allen Au, Exceptional Amateur

    I am an absolute bitch for these shoes. Just make sure to heel-lock them and wear non-cotton socks. 500+ miles and 2 ultra's done in them.

    Recommended in 2026 - Trail Season Kit

    Maxwell Denton, Ultrarunner

    These just might be my favorite shoe of all time. I use them on road runs, trail runs and anything in between. I wore 1 pair of these shoes for a 100 mile trail race with 14,000+ ft of elevation gain and loss with no feet problems. I LOVE THIS SHOE

    Recommended in My Trail Running Essentials

    Mary Tyler, Baby Ultrarunner

    These are super comfy! I sized up one half size to accommodate foot swelling and slightly wider feet and have had no issues with blisters or hot spots. The dual lacing system makes it easy to get a great fit - sometimes conventional lacing makes it hard to get a good lockdown without lace bite. These are great for California carpet, but don't have the grippiest outsole, so maybe best for non-technical trails.

    Recommended in Dirt Run Essentials

    Angela Tieri, Running and Strength Coach

    Perfect for fire roads, gravel, and less techy trails. I love the fit so much I ended up wearing them on the road often.

    Recommended in Shoes I Actually Use

    Rachel Bambrick, Ultrarunning coach & community leader

    Once I switched to the H1s at about mile 50 of Mammoth, I didn't look back! They were working and keeping my feet happy, so why change a good thing?!

    Recommended in Mammoth 200

    Bob Burke, Trail Runner | Outdoor Fan | Self-Critic | Bills Mafia

    Great road to gravel option on non technical days

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use

    Matt Ocampo, Distance

    From taking these to trails that aren’t very technical to getting my mileage in while on vacation and not sure if the terrain; these shoes have done it all for me when taking care of my daily mileage.

    Recommended in Products I Absolutely Love

    Isabella Poulos, Trail and mountain running

    These are my favorite shoes for recovery days or chill trail runs. Super lightweight and comfy, enough traction for less technical trails

    Recommended in Everyday favorites

    Blake Bender, Ultrarunner

    An extremely fast shoe, and ultra durable. From the sand, to the rockies, this shoe let's me fly down single tracks and handled the Leadville 100. I keep re-buying this shoe.

    Recommended in Kodiak 50K

    Matt Trappe, Brand Creative in Running

    I have put 400 miles on a single pair from long runs to workout to races and they are still going strong. I've recommended this shoe to countless other runners. At this price point you won't get any more value or versatility than the H1.

    Recommended in My Go-To Trail Running Gear

    Nick Tusa, Mountain Runner

    Hands down the best door-to-trail shoe on the market. More light lightweight responsive than anything else on the market. I’ve logged over 600 miles in my current pair and they still have life left. As well as being a great daily trainer, they are great for speed workouts on buffed-out singletrack.

    Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use