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10 Best Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe, Tan, 8.5

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Protection

Most important from
1596 reviews

Fit and Comfort
No breaking-in period needed; they were comfortable right away and performed well on both paved surfaces and hiking trails.
Traction
These shoes offer great support, good traction, and best of all, plenty of room in the toe box.
Protection
The soles are not super thick, so you might feel rocks a bit more, but the overall comfort and performance make up for it.
Water Resistance
They fend off dirt well and are easy to clean, although not waterproof.
Weight
Perfect fit with a spacious toe box, lightweight design, and impressive tread.

The ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail running enthusiasts who prioritize comfort and performance. One of its major strengths is the fit; the shoe features a roomy toe box, which allows for natural foot movement and helps prevent discomfort during long runs. The cushioning is also commendable, providing good shock absorption, making it easier on your joints when navigating uneven terrains. Additionally, the traction offered by the synthetic rubber sole is excellent, allowing for a secure grip on various surfaces, whether on rocky paths or muddy trails.

In terms of protection, the shoe includes a durable mesh upper that guards against debris while keeping the feet ventilated. Water resistance is satisfactory for light rain or wet conditions, but it might not hold up well in fully submerged scenarios. So, if you plan on running in very wet environments, this may be a point to consider.

When it comes to weight, the Lone Peak 7 is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for those who want to maintain speed during their runs. However, some users might find it slightly bulkier compared to more minimalist trail shoes, which could affect agility. The shoe may require a break-in period to achieve maximum comfort, which could be inconvenient for those looking for immediate performance. Also, while the machine-washable feature is practical, frequent washing may affect the longevity of the shoe's materials over time.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Protection

Most important from
1596 reviews

Fit and Comfort
No breaking-in period needed; they were comfortable right away and performed well on both paved surfaces and hiking trails.
Traction
These shoes offer great support, good traction, and best of all, plenty of room in the toe box.
Protection
The soles are not super thick, so you might feel rocks a bit more, but the overall comfort and performance make up for it.
Water Resistance
They fend off dirt well and are easy to clean, although not waterproof.
Weight
Perfect fit with a spacious toe box, lightweight design, and impressive tread.
#2

Saucony Women's Excursion TR16, Cloud/Iris, 9 M

Rating
10.0
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Weight

Most important from
1601 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These shoes deliver exceptional comfort and support, providing sufficient arch support that helps reduce knee pain during exercise.
Traction
The grip on these shoes is excellent, offering great traction for daily hiking and walking on uneven terrain.
Weight
The lightweight design makes them stand out, especially compared to other brands, ensuring they don't feel cumbersome on long hikes.

The Saucony Women's Excursion TR16 is designed with comfort and durability in mind, making it a solid choice for women who enjoy trail hiking. Its VERSARUN cushioning helps absorb impact, which can reduce foot fatigue during long walks. The 4.5mm toothy lugs on the sole deliver good traction, allowing for confident steps on uneven, slippery terrain. The durable mesh upper provides protection without feeling too heavy or restrictive. A key feature is the GORE-TEX shield, which offers reliable waterproofing to keep your feet dry in wet conditions—a big plus for trail shoes.

The shoe is built to be protective and comfortable, and the mesh and synthetic materials generally keep it reasonably light for trail use. The lace-up closure allows a secure fit but might take a moment to adjust compared to slip-on styles. These shoes would suit hikers looking for dependable cushioning, waterproofing, and solid grip, especially if you encounter mixed trail conditions. For those prioritizing ultralight footwear or requiring aggressive traction for steep or technical trails, there are lighter or more specialized options available.

Rating
10.0
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Weight

Most important from
1601 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These shoes deliver exceptional comfort and support, providing sufficient arch support that helps reduce knee pain during exercise.
Traction
The grip on these shoes is excellent, offering great traction for daily hiking and walking on uneven terrain.
Weight
The lightweight design makes them stand out, especially compared to other brands, ensuring they don't feel cumbersome on long hikes.
#3

ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Black, 8.5

Rating
10.0
Protection
Fit and Comfort
Cushioning

Most important from
70 reviews

Protection
The reinforced toe offers improved protection without sacrificing comfort, enhancing durability on rugged trails.
Fit and Comfort
The wide toe box supports natural foot spread, providing relief for foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.
Cushioning
The zero-drop design combined with excellent cushioning supports all-day wear, even during long shifts or extended walks.
Weight
The shoes maintain a lightweight feel while delivering a secure fit thanks to the wrap-around lacing system.
Traction
Traction on various surfaces remains reliable, making the shoe suitable for different terrains encountered on trail runs.
Water Resistance
Although not fully waterproof, the shoes dry quickly after exposure to rain, making them practical for travel and moderately wet conditions.

The Altra Women's Lone Peak 9 is designed to offer a stable and comfortable fit with its wrap-around lacing system that helps keep your foot secure during trail runs. It features well-cushioned Altra EGO midsoles, providing good support for longer or more intense trail activities. Traction is enhanced by a durable DuraTread outsole and a multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern, which grips various surfaces to help maintain confidence on uneven or slippery trails.

The mesh upper improves breathability but offers limited water resistance, making this shoe best suited for dry to moderately wet conditions rather than consistently wet environments. Protective features provide some shielding against trail debris without heavy armor, balancing comfort and protection effectively.

If you want a shoe that combines comfort, solid traction, and a secure fit for general trail running, especially on dry to moderately wet paths, the Lone Peak 9 is a strong choice. For those requiring strong waterproofing or maximum foot protection, other options may be more appropriate.

Rating
10.0
Protection
Fit and Comfort
Cushioning

Most important from
70 reviews

Protection
The reinforced toe offers improved protection without sacrificing comfort, enhancing durability on rugged trails.
Fit and Comfort
The wide toe box supports natural foot spread, providing relief for foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.
Cushioning
The zero-drop design combined with excellent cushioning supports all-day wear, even during long shifts or extended walks.
Weight
The shoes maintain a lightweight feel while delivering a secure fit thanks to the wrap-around lacing system.
Traction
Traction on various surfaces remains reliable, making the shoe suitable for different terrains encountered on trail runs.
Water Resistance
Although not fully waterproof, the shoes dry quickly after exposure to rain, making them practical for travel and moderately wet conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Womens Trail Shoes

Choosing the right women's trail shoes is essential for a comfortable and safe outdoor experience. Trail shoes are designed to provide support, protection, and traction on uneven and rugged terrain. When selecting a pair, it's important to consider various factors that will affect your performance and comfort on the trails. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial when selecting trail shoes because they directly impact your performance and prevent injuries. Trail shoes should fit snugly but not too tight, allowing for some wiggle room for your toes. Consider the shape of your foot and whether you have any specific needs, such as a wider toe box or extra arch support. Try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear on the trail and walk around to ensure they feel comfortable.
TractionTraction refers to the grip the shoe provides on various surfaces, which is vital for maintaining stability on uneven and slippery terrain. Trail shoes typically have deeper lugs and more aggressive tread patterns compared to road running shoes. If you plan to run on muddy or loose surfaces, look for shoes with larger, widely spaced lugs. For rocky or hard-packed trails, smaller, more closely spaced lugs may be sufficient. Choose the level of traction based on the typical conditions of the trails you frequent.
CushioningCushioning in trail shoes helps absorb impact and provides comfort over long distances. The amount of cushioning you need depends on your personal preference and the type of terrain you'll be running on. Minimalist shoes offer less cushioning and a closer-to-the-ground feel, which can be beneficial for technical trails requiring more agility. Maximalist shoes provide more cushioning, which is ideal for long-distance runs or rough terrain where extra shock absorption is needed. Consider your running style and the distance you plan to cover when choosing the right level of cushioning.
ProtectionProtection in trail shoes includes features like reinforced toe caps, rock plates, and durable uppers to shield your feet from rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. If you frequently run on rocky or technical trails, look for shoes with robust protective elements. For less technical trails, you may opt for lighter shoes with minimal protection. Assess the typical conditions of your trails and your need for foot protection to determine the right balance.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you often run in wet conditions or cross streams. Trail shoes with water-resistant or waterproof materials can help keep your feet dry and comfortable. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable, which might not be ideal for hot and dry conditions. If you run in a variety of conditions, consider shoes with quick-drying materials instead. Choose based on the climate and weather conditions you expect to encounter on your runs.
WeightThe weight of trail shoes can affect your speed and endurance. Lighter shoes can help you move faster and feel less fatigued, which is beneficial for shorter, faster runs or races. Heavier shoes often provide more support and protection, making them suitable for longer runs or more rugged terrain. Consider the type of runs you typically do and your preference for speed versus support when selecting the weight of your trail shoes.

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