10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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.

The Trail Adapt System adds stability by protecting your feet from rocks while still allowing enough flexibility for natural foot movement. You’ll also find a protective mudguard and durable overlays around high-wear areas that help keep debris out and extend the shoe’s life. At about 1.5 pounds, the shoe strikes a reasonable balance between sturdiness and weight, making it comfortable for longer hikes without feeling too heavy.

There are some trade-offs to consider: although the shoe provides solid support and protection, some runners might find it a bit heavier compared to ultra-light trail shoes, and the cushioning, while soft, might feel less springy for those who prefer a more responsive ride. The fit is labeled as medium width, so if you have particularly narrow or wide feet, it might take some adjustment. The Cascadia 18 GTX is an excellent choice for women seeking durable, waterproof trail shoes that offer reliable traction and comfort for mountain running or hiking, especially in wetter conditions.

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.

The Vibram Eco-Step Natural Outsole ensures top-notch grip on various terrains, thanks to its micro-traction lugs. This outsole is made from over 90% petroleum-free ingredients, enhancing both performance and environmental benefits. The breathable mesh upper provides protection while maintaining ventilation, which is essential for comfort during extended runs.

The shoe's lace-up closure allows for a secure fit, though some users may prefer a quicker fastening option. In terms of support and stability, the shoe's structure is designed to keep your foot steady, reducing the risk of injury. It is durable, given the robust materials used in its construction, but heavy usage in rough terrains could still wear it out faster. Weight-wise, it is balanced, providing a good mix of support without feeling too heavy on your feet. This shoe is a solid choice for trail runners who prioritize comfort, traction, and eco-friendly materials, but it may not be the best option for extremely wet conditions or those seeking ultra-light footwear.

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.

The forefoot Rock Guard adds protection against sharp rocks while maintaining flexibility. The upper is made from high-strength mesh, offering breathability while being durable enough in high-wear areas. It also includes a D-Ring for attaching gaiters, which is a nice feature for rugged trail conditions. The 4mm heel-to-toe offset supports a natural running form and adds to comfort. These shoes do not feature specific water resistance, so they might not keep feet dry in very wet conditions. While cushioning is improved, the shoe may feel slightly heavier compared to minimalist trail shoes, which could be a consideration for those preferring ultra-light footwear.

In summary, the Peregrine 15 provides a well-balanced combination of cushioning, grip, and protection, making it an excellent option for trail runners seeking comfort and durability across diverse outdoor surfaces.