Barcelona is one of the few big cities where you can leave the centre and be on a trail within half an hour. From the paths of Collserola to the slopes of Montjuïc, the city is a playground for trail runners. At COLLECT Running, our trail running shop in Barcelona at Carrer del Rec 26 (El Born), we help you get the right gear for it.

Where to trail run around Barcelona

• Carretera de les Aigües: the classic, a wide, mostly flat gravel path along the Collserola hillside with views over the whole city. Perfect for your first trail kilometres.
• Collserola Natural Park: a network of single tracks and climbs, with Tibidabo as the highest point.
• Montjuïc: closer to the centre, ideal for hill repeats and short trail sessions.
• Further afield: Montserrat, the Montseny or the Garraf massif for longer days out.

How to choose a trail running shoe

Grip

The outsole and its lugs decide how your shoe behaves on loose gravel, rock or mud. Around Barcelona, terrain is often dry and rocky, so a versatile, durable outsole is usually the best choice.

Protection and cushioning

On long descents, cushioning saves your legs. A max-cushioned shoe like the Hoka Speedgoat suits long distances, while a lower, firmer shoe gives more ground feel on technical paths.

Fit and stability

A trail shoe must hold the foot securely without pressure points. Brands like Altra offer a wide toe box, while NNormal, co-founded by Catalan trail runner Kilian Jornet, focuses on durability and a precise fit.

Our trail selection

• NNormal: Tomir, Kjerag and Cadí, designed for durability.
• Hoka: Speedgoat and Mafate Speed for cushioned trail running.
• Altra: Lone Peak and Olympus, with a natural foot shape.
• Mount to Coast: shoes designed for long distances.

What to carry on the trail

Beyond shoes, a few essentials make every outing safer and more enjoyable: water, energy gels and drink mixes from Näak, Maurten, Santa Madre or 226ERS, a light wind jacket, a running cap and good running sunglasses for the Catalan sun.

Visit us at COLLECT Running in El Born to try them on.

FAQ

Do I need trail shoes for the Carretera de les Aigües?

Not necessarily: the path is wide and smooth, so road shoes work. For single tracks in Collserola, trail shoes with real grip are much safer.

Where can I buy trail running shoes in Barcelona?

At COLLECT Running, Carrer del Rec 26, El Born, or online on our running shoes page.

Can I use trail shoes on the road?

Occasionally, yes, but lugs wear quickly on asphalt. If you run mostly on the road, keep a road shoe for those days.