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10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Divide 5 Trail Running Shoe - Peacoat/Black/Pink - 7 Medium

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,336
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Cushioning

Most important from
162 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and support compared to previous versions, delivering a great fit and stylish look.
Traction
Delivers supportive and durable performance on both trails and roads, handling different elevations with reliable grip.
Cushioning
Features a soft, responsive midsole cushioning that absorbs impact smoothly on hard surfaces and trails alike.
Support and Stability
Offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and support compared to previous versions, delivering a great fit and stylish look.
Durability
Delivers supportive and durable performance on both trails and roads, handling different elevations with reliable grip.
Water Resistance
Provides true-to-size fit with ample toe room, making it ideal for long walks, easy hikes, and varying conditions including rain.
Weight
Combines lightweight breathability with quick-drying materials that keep feet comfortable during damp runs.

The Brooks Women’s Divide 5 trail running shoe is designed for women who want a versatile shoe that works well both on roads and light trails. It offers a comfortable, road-shoe inspired fit with a snug midfoot thanks to the tongue gusset, and the lightweight air mesh upper keeps your feet breathable and dries quickly after damp runs. Cushioning is a standout feature here, with the DNA LOFT v2 midsole providing a soft, smooth ride that feels lighter and more responsive than before, helping absorb impact on harder surfaces and trails alike.

For grip, the TrailTack Green rubber outsole with aggressive lugs is great at holding onto wet or dry terrain, giving you confidence on slippery or uneven trails. The TPU mudguard and toecap add some protection against trail debris, though the shoe is best for light to moderate trail conditions rather than heavy mud or deep water. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, it’s reasonably light, which supports quick movement without feeling bulky.

The shoe isn’t highly specialized for tough, technical trails, but its durability is good for regular use across mixed surfaces. Plus, it’s carbon neutral certified, which is a nice bonus if you care about the environment. If you’re looking for a well-cushioned, comfortable shoe that can smoothly transition between road and trail running with solid traction and moderate protection, the Divide 5 is a solid choice. However, if you need heavy-duty water resistance or extreme trail support, you might want to explore more rugged options.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,336
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Cushioning

Most important from
162 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and support compared to previous versions, delivering a great fit and stylish look.
Traction
Delivers supportive and durable performance on both trails and roads, handling different elevations with reliable grip.
Cushioning
Features a soft, responsive midsole cushioning that absorbs impact smoothly on hard surfaces and trails alike.
Support and Stability
Offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and support compared to previous versions, delivering a great fit and stylish look.
Durability
Delivers supportive and durable performance on both trails and roads, handling different elevations with reliable grip.
Water Resistance
Provides true-to-size fit with ample toe room, making it ideal for long walks, easy hikes, and varying conditions including rain.
Weight
Combines lightweight breathability with quick-drying materials that keep feet comfortable during damp runs.
#2

Asics Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 7.5, Indigo Blue/Papaya

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
5889 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Super light and comfy, true to size, and really cute sneaker.
Traction
Great traction on dry surfaces; perfect for long walks on asphalt.
Support and Stability
Durable, comfortable, and keeps feet stable, even over long distances.
Durability
Durable, comfortable, and keeps feet stable, even over long distances.
Weight
Super light and comfy, true to size, and really cute sneaker.

The ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes are a solid choice for women who enjoy trail running. With a breathable mesh upper, these shoes ensure comfort during long runs, helping to keep your feet cool. The Rearfoot GEL technology is particularly beneficial for impact absorption, which is great for uneven terrain, while AMPLIFOAM provides an extra layer of cushioning for those longer distances. The trail-specific outsole pattern offers reliable traction, making it easier to navigate various surfaces with confidence.

The shoe weighs about 1.44 pounds, which may feel a bit heavier compared to more minimalist options available for trail running enthusiasts. If you prioritize a lightweight shoe for agility, this might not be the best fit. Additionally, while the shoes offer decent support and stability, those with specific foot issues may want to consider additional orthotic insoles for custom support.

In terms of durability, the combination of nylon and synthetic rubber is generally sturdy, but frequent exposure to harsh conditions may wear it down faster than some higher-end models. The shoes are also not explicitly marketed as waterproof, so if you frequently encounter wet terrain, this might be a limitation.

These shoes are well-suited for casual trail runners looking for comfort and good traction on varied surfaces. They're environmentally friendly due to a reduced water usage dye process, which is a nice bonus. If you’re serious about trail running and seek something ultra-light or specifically waterproof, you may want to explore other options.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
5889 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Super light and comfy, true to size, and really cute sneaker.
Traction
Great traction on dry surfaces; perfect for long walks on asphalt.
Support and Stability
Durable, comfortable, and keeps feet stable, even over long distances.
Durability
Durable, comfortable, and keeps feet stable, even over long distances.
Weight
Super light and comfy, true to size, and really cute sneaker.
#3

ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Purple, 9.5 Wide

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
91 reviews

Fit and Comfort
A wonderful shoe with a wide toe bed that doesn’t press in on your toes, offering great balance and comfort for walking.
Traction
The comfort and traction are awesome, providing excellent ankle support and making them perfect for weight training days.
Support and Stability
The comfort and traction are awesome, providing excellent ankle support and making them perfect for weight training days.

The ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe in Purple, size 9.5 Wide, is a solid choice for trail runners looking for comfort, stability, and traction. The wrap-around fit ensures your foot stays secure, which is great for uneven and challenging terrains. The Altra EGO midsoles offer high cushioning, which helps in reducing fatigue during long runs and provides the necessary support for high-intensity activities.

The shoe's DuraTread outsole, coupled with a multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern, promises excellent traction, allowing you to maintain grip on various surfaces, from rocky paths to muddy trails. This is particularly beneficial for those who push their limits on rough trails. The shoe's mesh outer material offers some breathability, which can keep your feet cool during intense runs. However, it might not provide extensive water resistance, so running in wet conditions could lead to soggy feet.

The shoe's durability is enhanced by its tough outsole, meaning it should withstand frequent use on rugged trails. While the lace-up closure type ensures a snug fit, some users might find it less convenient compared to quick-lace systems. This trail running shoe is well-suited for enthusiasts seeking reliable traction, cushioning, and stability, although it may not be the best choice for those prioritizing water resistance and ultra-lightweight design.

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Support and Stability

Most important from
91 reviews

Fit and Comfort
A wonderful shoe with a wide toe bed that doesn’t press in on your toes, offering great balance and comfort for walking.
Traction
The comfort and traction are awesome, providing excellent ankle support and making them perfect for weight training days.
Support and Stability
The comfort and traction are awesome, providing excellent ankle support and making them perfect for weight training days.

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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