10 Best Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

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.

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 is a well-cushioned trail running shoe designed for comfort and protection on varied terrain. Its dual-density Fresh Foam X midsole offers soft cushioning that absorbs impact, making it suitable for longer runs or rough trails. The Vibram outsole combined with Traction Lug technology delivers reliable grip on both wet and dry surfaces, helping to prevent slips.

Protection is enhanced by the Toe Protect feature, which shields your feet from rocks and roots, while the gusseted tongue helps keep dirt and debris out, improving comfort. The mesh upper offers breathability but lacks specific water resistance, so it might not be ideal for very wet conditions or prolonged exposure to water. At around 2.1 pounds, the shoe balances sturdy protection with manageable weight, though it is not the lightest option for those prioritizing speed.

The lace-up design ensures a secure fit, which is important for trail stability. This shoe suits women seeking a comfortable, durable trail shoe that handles rough terrain well but may not be the best choice if waterproofing or ultra-lightweight performance is a priority.

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.