In just a few years time, mud runs and similar obstacle races have taken the fitness world by storm, redefining what it takes to test athlete's physical and mental stamina. Straight from shows like Survivor and Wipe Out, you don't have to be on reality tv to slop around in the mud or swim through an ice bath this weekend. The start of Under Armour-sponsored Tough Mudder in 2010 has paved the way for other endurance races like Spartan Race, Warrior Dash, and Muddy Buddy to create a new kind of sport—one that naturally requires its own category of footwear to compliment it. Coming off of the Spring 2013 previews, brands will start to churn out mud-specific kicks, but until then these are the best suggestions to help you channel your inner mud monster. CLICK TO BEGIN STORY RELATED: The 10 Most Ridiculously Impressive Ultra-Marathoners of All Time RELATED: Vibram Expands It's FiveFinger Line with the See Ya LS No. 10 - Brooks Adrenaline GTX The Adrenaline GTX features all the traits of a solid off-road shoe.

It's light enough to keep you moving forward, but also protects against potential injuries caused by rocks and uneven surfaces--making an excellent option for mud runs. Technical Advantage: The versatile sneaker is equipped with a breathable, waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, making it a perfect sneaker for splashing around in the mud. Where to Buy: Brooks Running No. 9 - Merrell Trail Glove The flexible and unified design of the Trail Glove gives it excellent maneuverability on any obstacle course. The sneaker has a built-in drainage system to ensure mud has a way out. Technical Advantage: What the sneaker lacks in traction in muddy conditions, it makes up with its light weight and water draining abilities. Where to Buy: Merrell No. 8 - New Balance Minimus 10 Trail It's minimal design gives the NB Minimus 10 Trail an advantage in virtually any obstacle race. The 10 Trail has excellent ventilation to help keep your feet somewhat dry, along with a Vibram outsole to ensure you can overcome anything the course throws at you.

Best For: Water Gauntlet & Crawls Technical Advantage: The ventilated design of the Minimus 10 Trail allows for water to drain through properly, resulting in a lighter feel. Where to Buy: New Balance No. 7 - Keen A86 TR The Keen A86 TR is one of our favorite trail running shoes of the year, it is designed to take on the toughest of off-road trails. buying nike shoes from americaThe sneaker feature shark tooth-like lugs on the outsole that dig into the earth and help you propel forward. running shoes for marathon raceNot even a pool of mud can slow down the A86.nike free shoes tumblr Best For: Hay Hurdles & Parking Lot Obstaclesnike shoes for the beach

Technical Advantage: With a fast-drying upper and a reinforced toe, the A86 is ready to hit the ground (or in this case, mud) running. No. 6 - Salomon Speedcross 3 Salomon claims that the Speedcross 3 can take on the worst of muddy and snowy conditions, and we believe them. The mid-top sneaker is completely weather-proof, and features bungee-style speed laces that wont soak up moisture and weigh your feet down.discount ladies golf shoes sale Technical Advantage: The high-traction rubber outsole on the SpeedCross 3 is designed specifically to conquer muddy or slushy conditions.best running shoes to train for a marathon Where to Buy: Backcountry No. 5 - Saucony Kinvara TR The trail running edition of the Saucony Kinvara features an EBO plate for added protection against debris.

The sneaker gives you the confidence to tackle such obstacles like ladder walls, and balance beams without skipping a beat. Best For: Ladder Walls & Rope Climbs Technical Advantage: The Kinvara TR features an External Bedrock Outsole, which protects the foot from rocks, stones, and whatever else may cross your path. Where to Buy: Saucony No. 4 - Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon LS The FiveFingers Spyridon LS has become a popular choice for mud racers, and for good reason. The aggressive tread design on the outsole delivers sure-footed grip in all directions, while molded nylon mesh in midsole adds a “rock block” effect, dispersing impact over a wider area. Unlike the other shoes on the list, the Spyridon LS is completely machine washable, so getting all that mud off your kicks won't be a problem with this one. Best For: Low Crawls and Tunnels Technical Advantage: The Spyridon LS is ideal for obstacle races that require swimming. A vibram outsole ensures solid footing on the worst of surfaces.

Where to Buy: Vibram FiveFingers No. 3 - Saucony Razor 2 The Razor 2 from Saucony is the ultimate shield against the elements. It's wrapped in a waterproof membrane that just screams mud runs. Put this bad boy on for you next race and you won't be sorry. Technical Advantage:  The eVent fabric used for the Razor 2 ensures one-way moisture transfer, so sweat escapes, and of course, mud has no way in. No. 2 - Under Armour Charge RC Storm With a name like the Charge RC Storm, it's as if the folks at UA designed this specifically for obstacle races. While it features a low profile, the RC Storm has an array of performance technology designed to keep you on the track. The Carbon spring plate on bottom of running shoes transfers heel-strike energy forward, so getting through the mud won't be a monumental task. Technical Advantage: All-weather UA Storm technology gives the Charge RC protection against the force of mother nature. Paired with an ultra-responsive carbon rubber sole, this UA sneaker has Tough Mudder written all over it.