10 Best Brooks Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 is designed for women who enjoy trail running and mountain hikes, offering a good balance of comfort, protection, and stability. Its cushioning uses DNA LOFT v2 technology, which provides a soft and comfortable feel on various terrains without feeling too heavy. Traction is strong thanks to the TrailTack Green rubber outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces and includes recycled materials for an eco-friendly touch. Stability is enhanced by a flexible midsole combined with a built-in rock shield, so your feet are protected from rough trail obstacles without sacrificing movement.

The upper uses breathable mesh that dries quickly and is reinforced in high-wear areas to resist damage from debris. Additionally, the TPU mudguard and toecap are great for keeping dirt and small rocks out, which adds to comfort over long distances. At around 1.5 pounds, the shoe is reasonably lightweight for a trail shoe, helping reduce fatigue during longer runs. Although it offers durability and is well-suited for rugged trails, it is less suitable for very wet conditions due to the lack of specific waterproofing features.

The lace-up design offers a secure fit, but the medium width might not suit those with wider feet. If you need a dependable, cushioned, and stable trail shoe that handles varied terrain and provides solid protection, the Cascadia 18 is a strong choice.

The Brooks Women's Cascadia 18 is a solid choice for women who enjoy trail running or hiking on varied mountain terrains. It offers good traction thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces and incorporates recycled materials for some eco-friendliness. Cushioning is comfortable and soft due to the DNA LOFT v2 midsole, helping reduce impact over rocky or uneven ground.

The shoe fits securely and adapts well to the foot with its Trail Adapt System, which adds stability without sacrificing flexibility, making it easier to handle rough trails. The breathable mesh upper is quick-drying and durable, while overlays and a TPU mudguard protect against trail debris, enhancing durability and keeping feet comfortable. Although the shoe is not fully waterproof, it does offer some resistance against moisture, which is enough for most trail conditions. At 1.5 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being lightweight and sturdy.

It may feel a bit bulky for those used to very minimalist shoes, and the water resistance might not suffice for very wet or muddy environments. The Cascadia 18 is well-suited for women seeking a dependable, cushioned, and stable trail shoe that performs well in a variety of outdoor settings.

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 is designed specifically for trail running and mountain hiking, offering a good balance of stability and protection. It features the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which makes running on rough terrain feel soft and comfortable without losing responsiveness. The TrailTack Green outsole, made partly from recycled materials, delivers strong traction on both wet and dry surfaces, which is great for unpredictable trail conditions. The shoe’s stability is enhanced by a midsole system paired with a protective rock shield that guards your feet from sharp trail debris while still allowing flexibility.

The upper is made from breathable, quick-drying mesh with extra overlays in high-wear spots, making the shoe durable and resistant to trail damage. With a TPU mudguard and toe cap, it effectively keeps out mud and small rocks, maintaining comfort for longer runs. Weight-wise, it’s reasonable at 1.5 pounds, so it won’t feel heavy during extended use. While the shoe offers decent water resistance thanks to its materials and mudguard, it’s not fully waterproof, so very wet conditions might still let moisture in.

Some runners may find the fit slightly narrow if they have wider feet, so trying them on before buying is recommended. For those looking for a reliable, cushioned, and stable trail shoe with good traction and moderate water resistance, the Cascadia 18 is a solid option for women who enjoy hiking or trail running in varied conditions.