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10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 GTX Waterproof Mountain Trail Running Shoe - Grey Blue/Black/Pink - 8 Medium

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 GTX is designed as a reliable trail running shoe for women who need a good mix of protection, comfort, and stability on varied mountain trails. Its standout feature is the waterproof GORE-TEX upper, which keeps your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, a big plus for wet or muddy conditions. The shoe uses DNA LOFT v2 cushioning that feels soft yet responsive, providing comfort over long distances and rough terrain. Traction is well covered by the TrailTack Green outsole, offering good grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which helps prevent slips on unpredictable trails.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,263
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
454 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These shoes deliver excellent comfort and cushioning, making them perfect for long hikes and walking on rocky trails.
Traction
The shoe’s traction and stability features make it a great choice for navigating rocky, slippery paths with ease.
Support and Stability
A stable heel and supportive fit provide confidence on uneven terrain, enhancing overall trail performance.
Durability
Durable construction handles tough trail conditions without compromising comfort or flexibility.
Water Resistance
The waterproof design keeps feet dry even during extended outdoor activities, ensuring reliable protection against wet conditions.
#2
9.1 score

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Trail Running Shoe, Licorice/Gulf Red/Pink Granite, 9 W

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Trail Running Shoe offers an impressive combination of comfort, traction, and sustainability. Its Fresh Foam X midsole foam provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable for long runs. This shoe's midsole also features bio-based content, emphasizing New Balance's commitment to using renewable resources and reducing its carbon footprint, which is a plus for eco-conscious runners.

Rating
9.1
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
398 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature, especially with the cushioning that eases knee problems.
Traction
Traction is excellent on various surfaces including sidewalks, pavement, and grass.
Support and Stability
The shoes are incredibly supportive and perfect for running on rocky and bumpy trails.
Weight
The shoes are lightweight, making them ideal for long runs.
#3
8.5 score

Saucony Peregrine 15

The Saucony Peregrine 15 is a solid choice for women looking for reliable trail running shoes. It offers improved cushioning thanks to a new PWRRUN foam blend, making each step feel softer and more flexible without sacrificing responsiveness. The shoe’s traction stands out with a full-coverage PWRTRAC rubber sole paired with 4mm lugs, which grip well on various terrains, including rocky and muddy trails. This helps with stability and confidence when running on uneven ground.

Rating
8.5
Cushioning
Durability
Support and Stability

Most important from
92 reviews

Cushioning
The cushioning pads key areas of the foot perfectly, reducing impact across varied terrain for a comfortable run.
Durability
The sole is firm and highly resistant to damage from rocks, maintaining durability even after extensive use.
Support and Stability
The shoe’s design allows natural foot movement without excessive stabilization, letting you adjust your footing on uneven trails.
Traction
Traction excels on aggressive uphill climbs, mud, and river crossings, providing confidence on challenging surfaces.
Fit and Comfort
The upper material strikes a perfect balance between stretch and snug fit, offering both flexibility and durability.
Water Resistance
A subtle waterproofing at the toe helps keep feet dry in puddles and rain, and the shoe dries quickly after getting wet.

Top 10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 GTX Waterproof Mountain Trail Running Shoe - Grey Blue/Black/Pink - 8 Medium

Fit and Comfort: medium width
Traction: TrailTack Green outsole
Cushioning: DNA LOFT v2
Support and Stability: Trail Adapt System
Durability: durable overlays, mudguard
Water Resistance: waterproof GORE-TEX upper
Weight: 1.5 pounds

Chosen by 1263 this week

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Trail Running Shoe, Licorice/Gulf Red/Pink Granite, 9 W

Fit and Comfort: Secure fit, breathable mesh upper
Traction: Vibram Eco-Step Outsole, micro-traction lugs
Cushioning: Fresh Foam X midsole foam
Support and Stability: Keeps foot steady
Durability: Robust materials
Weight: Balanced

Saucony Peregrine 15

Fit and Comfort: 4mm offset supports natural running form
Traction: full PWRTRAC sole with 4mm lugs
Cushioning: improved cushioning with PWRRUN foam
Support and Stability: forefoot Rock Guard; 4mm offset
Durability: high-strength mesh; durable high-wear areas
Weight: may feel heavier than minimalist shoes

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Trail Running Shoe, Black Cement/Black, 7

Fit and Comfort: gusseted tongue
Traction: Vibram outsole with Traction Lug
Cushioning: Fresh Foam X midsole, dual-density foam
Support and Stability: mesh upper, breathable and lightweight
Durability: mesh upper
Weight: 2.1 Pounds

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 19 Mountain Trail Running Shoe - Coconut/Misty Blue/Ebony - 9.5 Medium

Fit and Comfort: comfortable fit, breathable mesh upper
Traction: TrailTack Green rubber outsole, good grip
Cushioning: DNA LOFT v3 foam in heel, forefoot
Support and Stability: Trail Adapt System, flexible Ballistic Shield
Durability: reinforced toe cap and mudguard
Water Resistance: not waterproof, quick-drying mesh, damp trails

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe - Ebony/Sweet Lavender/Copper - 8.5 Medium

Fit and Comfort: DNA LOFT v2 foam, breathable mesh
Traction: TrailTack Green rubber outsole, recycled
Cushioning: DNA LOFT v2 foam
Support and Stability: Trail Adapt System, rock shield
Durability: Rubber sole, reinforced mesh, TPU guard
Water Resistance: Water-resistant, not fully waterproof
Weight: 1.5 Pounds

Salomon Women’s XA PRO 3D Trail Running Shoes - Black/Magnet/Fair Aqua - 7.5

Fit and Comfort: Lightweight, flexible EnergyCell Foam midsole
Traction: Contagrip rubber outsole
Cushioning: EnergyCell Foam midsole
Support and Stability: Advanced 3D chassis
Durability: Reinforced toe cap
Weight: 12.7 ounces

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 9 Womens Shoes Size 8, Color: Black/Black

Fit and Comfort: true to size, very comfortable
Traction: decent for moderate trails
Cushioning: plush midsole, excellent shock absorption
Support and Stability: good support, typical Clifton stability
Durability: reasonable durability
Weight: 3 pounds

ALTRA Women's Experience Wild 2 Trail Running Shoe, White, 10

Fit and Comfort: Roomy toe box, FootShape design
Traction: MaxTrac outsole
Cushioning: Lightweight EVA foam midsole
Support and Stability: Secures midfoot well
Durability: Rubber sole for rough trails
Water Resistance: Not ideal for wet conditions
Weight: Fairly lightweight

Altra Female Olympus 6 Black 9.5 Medium

Fit and Comfort: Breathable mesh
Traction: Rubber sole
Cushioning: Shock-absorbing base
Support and Stability: Supportive design
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Buying Guide for the Best Womens Trail Running Shoes

Choosing the right women's trail running shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe running experience on uneven and rugged terrains. The right pair can enhance your performance, prevent injuries, and provide the necessary support and protection. When selecting trail running shoes, consider the following key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are paramount when selecting trail running shoes. A shoe that fits well will prevent blisters, chafing, and discomfort during long runs. Look for shoes that offer a snug fit around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit. If you have wide or narrow feet, look for brands that offer different width options.
TractionTraction refers to the grip the shoe provides on various surfaces. This is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips on wet, muddy, or rocky trails. Shoes with aggressive lugs (deep, multi-directional treads) offer better grip on loose or uneven terrain, while shoes with smaller, closely spaced lugs are better for hard-packed trails. Consider the typical trail conditions you run on and choose a shoe with appropriate traction.
CushioningCushioning is the amount of padding in the shoe's midsole, which affects shock absorption and comfort. Shoes with more cushioning are ideal for long-distance runs or runners who prefer a softer feel. Minimalist shoes with less cushioning provide a more natural running experience and are suitable for shorter distances or experienced runners who prefer a closer connection to the ground. Assess your running style and distance to determine the right level of cushioning for you.
Support and StabilitySupport and stability are crucial for preventing injuries, especially on uneven trails. Shoes with good arch support and a stable platform help maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of ankle rolls. If you have flat feet or overpronate (your foot rolls inward excessively), look for shoes with added support features like medial posts or dual-density midsoles. For neutral runners, a standard level of support should suffice.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the shoe holds up over time and through various trail conditions. Trail running shoes are typically made with tougher materials and reinforced areas to withstand rough terrain. Look for shoes with durable outsoles, protective toe caps, and sturdy uppers. If you run frequently or on particularly harsh trails, investing in a more durable shoe can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you often run in wet conditions or through streams and puddles. Shoes with water-resistant or waterproof features, such as Gore-Tex linings, help keep your feet dry and comfortable. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable, so if you run in hot, dry climates, you might prefer shoes with better ventilation. Consider the typical weather and trail conditions you encounter to decide if water resistance is a necessary feature for you.
WeightWeight affects how heavy the shoes feel on your feet, which can impact your running efficiency and fatigue levels. Lighter shoes are generally preferred for faster, shorter runs, while heavier shoes with more features (like extra cushioning or protection) are better for long-distance runs or rugged trails. Balance the need for protection and durability with your preference for a lighter feel to find the right weight for your trail running shoes.

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