8 Best Brooks Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Caldera 7 Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail runners seeking comfort and durability over long distances. One of its standout features is the ultra-soft DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which promises a balance of lightness, responsiveness, and durability, making it ideal for those who run ultra-distances. The shoe also boasts a rugged TrailTrack Green outsole that offers superior traction on both wet and dry trails, which should instill confidence in various terrains. The outsole is also made from 25% recycled materials, adding an eco-friendly touch to its design.

For fit and comfort, the Caldera 7 incorporates a breathable TPEE sandwich air mesh and an improved upper for a secure midfoot fit, which enhances moisture management and protection. The strategic design of the midsole, with raised foam walls and a widened base, adds stability and smooth transitions on uneven ground. However, the shoe's emphasis on cushioning and support might make it slightly heavier compared to minimalist trail shoes, which could be a downside for runners who prefer lighter footwear. Additionally, while the shoe offers moisture management, it does not specifically highlight water resistance, which could be a consideration for those running in extremely wet conditions.

With a lace-up closure and synthetic outer material, the Caldera 7 aims to provide a comfortable, adaptable, and secure fit for diverse trail conditions. It’s a strong contender for trail runners prioritizing comfort and durability, with excellent traction and stability, though potentially at the expense of added weight and water resistance.

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 is designed for mountain runners and hikers who need reliable protection and adaptability on various terrains. One of its standout features is the enhanced traction provided by the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, which works well on both wet and dry surfaces, helping you stay sure-footed. The shoe also offers soft and responsive cushioning through the DNA LOFT v2 midsole, which absorbs impact comfortably without feeling too heavy. Speaking of weight, at about 1.5 pounds, these shoes strike a good balance—not too heavy for longer hikes but still sturdy enough for rugged trails.

Fit and comfort seem well thought-out with breathable mesh uppers that dry quickly and overlays in high-wear areas to protect your feet from debris. The TPU mudguard and toecap add extra defense against dirt and rocks, which is great for maintaining comfort across rough terrain. Additionally, the Trail Adapt System adds stability by protecting your foot with a rock shield while allowing flexibility, so you won’t feel restricted. While the shoe is durable and built to withstand demanding trail conditions, it’s not explicitly marketed as waterproof, so you might want to avoid very wet conditions or use gaiters if you expect heavy water exposure.

This makes the shoe a solid choice for women seeking a well-cushioned, stable, and protective trail shoe that performs well in mixed conditions but may not be the best option if waterproofing is a top priority.

The Brooks Women’s Caldera 8 is designed for serious trail runners who want comfort and protection over long distances and rough terrain. Its standout feature is the super-soft DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which offers plush support that feels like riding over rocks and roots on a bike tire, making it great for reducing impact on your feet during long runs. The shoe’s upper is made from durable, breathable materials that resist scratches and allow airflow to keep your feet cool and dry, a plus for warm or wet trail conditions.

The widened base and added flex grooves in the outsole improve stability and help you land safely on uneven ground, while raised sidewalls provide extra support on tricky terrain. It is also carbon neutral, which appeals if you care about environmental impact. The shoe uses a traditional lace-up closure, which ensures a secure fit, and the medium width should suit most feet, though very narrow or wide feet might need to try it first.

Focused on cushioning and protection, the Caldera 8 offers reliable traction and durability on long, challenging routes. It is ideal for women trail runners seeking cushioned comfort and stability, but less suited for those prioritizing waterproofing or ultra-lightweight footwear.