10 Best Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

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 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 Nike Women's Wildhorse 7 is a trail shoe designed with a blend of synthetic and rubber materials, featuring a textile inner lining and a canvas outer layer. It scores well on comfort with a breathable textile interior and an ankle strap height that offers decent support without restricting movement. The rubber sole provides reliable traction for various trail conditions, although it may not perform as strongly on very slippery or rocky surfaces compared to more specialized trail shoes.

Cushioning is moderate, suitable for casual trail walks or light hikes but might feel a bit firm on rough terrains or longer runs. Protection from elements like sharp rocks or roots is average, with the canvas outer material offering less durability and water resistance than shoes made specifically for rugged outdoor use. Weight is on the heavier side at about 3 pounds, which could affect endurance on longer hikes.

While the shoe’s water resistance is limited, it should handle light moisture but is not ideal for wet or muddy trails. This shoe fits well for those looking for a comfortable, stylish option for light trail activity or casual outdoor wear but might not meet the demands of serious trail runners or hikers seeking high durability and advanced weather protection.