10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed specifically for trail runners and mountain hikers. One of its standout features is the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which provides a soft and comfortable feel over various terrains. The shoe also offers excellent traction thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, making it suitable for both wet and dry conditions. Additionally, the shoe’s stability is enhanced by the Trail Adapt System and the zonal outsole pods, which help maintain control and a stable ride on uneven surfaces.

The breathable mesh upper and the TPU mudguard add to the shoe’s durability, protecting your feet from trail debris and ensuring the shoe dries quickly after getting wet. However, while the shoe excels in cushioning, traction, and stability, it may have some drawbacks. The fit of the shoe might be an issue for some users, as it is only available in medium width, potentially limiting comfort for those with wider feet. Additionally, while the shoe is designed to block trail debris, it may not offer the same level of water resistance as some other trail running shoes.

That being said, the Cascadia 18 is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable and stable shoe for trail running, especially in diverse conditions.

The Brooks Women's Caldera 7 Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail runners looking for comfort, durability, and stability over long distances. Its super-soft nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning provides excellent comfort while being lightweight and responsive, making it suitable for ultra-distance runs. The rugged TrailTrack Green outsole ensures superior traction on both wet and dry trails, enhancing grip and safety.

This shoe’s durability is further supported by a breathable TPEE sandwich air mesh upper that offers protective durability and helps manage moisture, keeping your feet dry over various terrains. Stability is a key feature, with strategically raised midsole foam walls, a widened base, and added flex grooves in the outsole all working together to ensure a stable ride and smooth landings on uneven surfaces.

The fit is adaptable and secure, thanks to the improved upper design. However, it’s worth noting that the shoe is specified to be hand-washed only, which may require a bit more maintenance. Additionally, while the shoe offers excellent performance in most trail conditions, its water resistance is not explicitly highlighted, so it may not be the best choice for very wet or muddy trails. This shoe is ideal for serious trail runners seeking a combination of comfort, support, and durability for long-distance runs.

The Brooks Women’s Divide 5 Trail Running Shoe is designed for those who need a versatile shoe that transitions smoothly from road to trail. The traction is a significant strength, thanks to the TrailTack rubber outsole with aggressive lugs, ensuring excellent grip on both wet and dry terrains. The DNA LOFT v2 cushioning offers a soft and smooth ride, making it more comfortable for impact absorption during long runs.

Additionally, the shoe's fit is secure due to the tongue gusset and updated air mesh upper, which is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, enhancing comfort and fit. Durability is also promising, with robust materials like the TPU Mudguard and toecap providing protection against trail debris. The shoe is carbon neutral certified, which is a great bonus for environmentally conscious buyers.

Some might find the shoe's weight to be slightly heavy at 1.5 pounds, but it's a small trade-off for the performance and adaptability it offers. This shoe is ideal for women looking for durable, well-cushioned, and highly versatile trail running footwear that can handle a variety of terrains.