By Caleb MorganUpdated November 2026
Choosing new balance gore tex trail running shoes comes down to three things: how well the waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry, whether the outsole grips wet rock and mud, and how the fit holds up on long descents. This list compares three Dynasoft Nitrel V6 options from New Balance, weighed against those criteria and against what owners commonly report about fit, drainage and durability. Nothing here comes from personal testing; it is based on listing details and owner feedback patterns.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallNew Balance Men's Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running ShoeView on Amazon - 2
Best for women on wet trailsNew Balance Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running ShoeView on Amazon - 3
Best for dry-weather trail runsNew Balance Mens Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running ShoeView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe | Men running wet trails | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane |
| New Balance Women’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe | Women running wet trails | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane |
| New Balance Mens Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe | Dry-weather trail runs | Trail outsole, no membrane |
New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe
New Balance Men's Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe
Best for: Men who run wet, muddy or stream-crossed trails and want their feet kept dry.
This is the most complete waterproof option in the set for men who regularly face rain, puddles and damp forest floors. The Gore-Tex layer is the main reason to choose it over the non-waterproof version.
Pros
- Gore-Tex membrane keeps water out in rain and shallow crossings
- Dynasoft cushioning suits longer runs
Cons
- Membrane can trap some heat on warm days
New Balance Women’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe
New Balance Women's Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe
Best for: Women who want waterproof protection on wet or muddy terrain.
This women’s version carries the same Gore-Tex construction in a fit built for a narrower heel and midfoot. It suits runners who find men’s models loose through the heel.
Pros
- Gore-Tex layer handles wet and muddy trails
- Women’s last reduces heel slippage for many runners
Cons
- Fit can feel snug for runners with wide forefeet
New Balance Mens Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe
New Balance Mens Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Trail Running Shoe
Best for: Dry-weather trail runs where breathability matters more than waterproofing.
Without the Gore-Tex membrane, this model breathes more freely and dries faster after a sweaty run. It is a reasonable pick if you rarely face wet conditions.
Pros
- More breathable than waterproof versions in warm weather
- Dries faster after rain or sweat
Cons
- Feet will get wet in standing water or heavy rain
Buying Guide
Waterproofing vs. breathability
Gore-Tex membranes block water from entering through the upper, but they also limit how much sweat vapor escapes. Runners in hot climates often prefer a non-waterproof shoe, while those in rainy regions usually benefit from the membrane.
Fit and heel lock
Men’s and women’s lasts differ in heel width and midfoot volume. If you feel slippage on descents, a women’s last or a snugger lacing setup may solve the problem.
Outsole traction on wet rock
Look for lugs that are deep enough to bite into mud and firm enough to grip wet stone. Check the manufacturer’s outsole description before buying for technical terrain.
Cushioning for long runs
Cushioned midsoles reduce fatigue on rocky, uneven ground over longer distances. Consider how many miles you typically cover on trails each week.
Good picks for this: New Balance Men’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe, New Balance Women’s Dynasoft Nitrel V6 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe
FAQ
Are Gore-Tex trail shoes fully waterproof?
The membrane blocks water from entering through the upper, but water can still enter over the collar or through the top of the shoe when you are fully submerged. They handle rain and puddles well.
Should I size up in waterproof trail shoes?
Some runners find the membrane adds slight stiffness, so trying a half size up can help with comfort on long runs. Check the brand’s sizing guidance and your own foot measurements.
How long do Gore-Tex membranes last?
Membrane life depends on mileage, terrain and how the shoe is cleaned and dried. Owners often report reduced water resistance after many months of heavy use.
Conclusion
The men’s Gore-Tex model suits men who regularly run in rain and mud, while the women’s version offers a narrower fit for the same conditions. If your trails stay mostly dry, the non-membrane Nitrel V6 will feel cooler and dry faster after sweaty runs.
Sources
- Guidance on foot health and footwear fit for physical activity (cdc.gov)
- Research on running footwear, injury risk and cushioning (nih.gov)
- Position guidance from the American College of Sports Medicine on exercise footwear (acsm.org)
Related reading
- Women's New Balance Trail Running Shoes: How to Choose the Right Pair
- Terrex Agravic GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes: Fit, Traction, and Who Should Buy
- Speedcross 6 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes: Fit, Traction, and Who Should Buy
- Salomon Trail Running Shoes Waterproof Review: Alphaglide Gore-Tex (2026)
- Salomon Speedcross 6 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes Review: Who Is It For?
- Nike Trail Running Shoes GORE-TEX Review: Pegasus Trail 5 Pros and Cons
About Caleb Morgan
Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our running gear & races guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
