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10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Saucony Women's Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe, Grey/Blue/Glade, 8.5

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,300
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
3629 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes offer exceptional comfort and support from the moment they are worn, making them ideal for extended wear.
Support and Stability
They provide very good arch support and a spacious toe box, accommodating those who need extra foot stability.
Traction
The tread on the outsole delivers excellent traction, suitable for walking on diverse terrains including mud and slippery surfaces.
Durability
Durability is impressive, with the shoes showing no signs of wear even after days of heavy use.
Water Resistance
Despite not being waterproof, they perform well in wet conditions when paired with quick-drying socks, keeping feet comfortable and warm.
Weight
They strike a balance between lightweight design and stability, making them versatile for both trail running and everyday walking.

The Saucony Women's Excursion TR14 trail running shoe offers solid performance for trail runners seeking reliable comfort and grip. Its lace-up closure and supportive overlays secure the foot well, preventing unwanted movement on uneven trails. The outsole features carbon rubber lugs that provide good traction, helping maintain footing on rocky or slippery surfaces.

VERSARUN cushioning delivers a comfortable, moderate amount of shock absorption, suitable for longer runs without feeling bulky. The mesh upper is designed to protect against debris while allowing breathability, making it well-suited for dry or moderately wet conditions. Durability is dependable thanks to the sturdy rubber sole, though the shoe is not characterized as particularly lightweight, which may be a consideration for those preferring lighter footwear for faster runs.

This model fits women who want a stable, cushioned shoe with decent traction for general trail running, especially on dry or moderately wet terrain.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,300
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
3629 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes offer exceptional comfort and support from the moment they are worn, making them ideal for extended wear.
Support and Stability
They provide very good arch support and a spacious toe box, accommodating those who need extra foot stability.
Traction
The tread on the outsole delivers excellent traction, suitable for walking on diverse terrains including mud and slippery surfaces.
Durability
Durability is impressive, with the shoes showing no signs of wear even after days of heavy use.
Water Resistance
Despite not being waterproof, they perform well in wet conditions when paired with quick-drying socks, keeping feet comfortable and warm.
Weight
They strike a balance between lightweight design and stability, making them versatile for both trail running and everyday walking.
#2

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe - Ebony/Sweet Lavender/Copper - 8.5 Medium

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Durability

Most important from
241 reviews

Fit and Comfort
This shoe delivers comfort immediately, requiring no break-in period.
Durability
The shoe balances durability and lightweight design, perfect for varied terrain.

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 is designed with trail runners and hikers in mind, offering a mix of comfort, stability, and protection. Its cushioning uses DNA LOFT v2 foam, which feels soft and responsive across different terrains, making long runs or hikes more comfortable. The outsole features TrailTack Green rubber with recycled materials, providing good grip on both wet and dry surfaces—important for slippery or uneven trails.

Stability is enhanced through the Trail Adapt System and a rock shield, which protects your feet from sharp objects without making the shoe stiff, so you still get flexibility when running. The upper is made from breathable mesh that dries quickly and has reinforced areas to guard against debris, while a TPU mudguard and toecap help keep dirt and rocks out. At about 1.5 pounds, these shoes strike a decent balance between being lightweight and durable.

If you often run in very wet or muddy conditions, the shoe isn’t fully waterproof—it’s water-resistant but may let in moisture during heavy exposure. Additionally, while the cushioning is soft, runners who prefer extremely plush soles might find it a bit firmer compared to road running shoes. These shoes are well suited for women looking for reliable, stable trail shoes that handle varied terrain well without sacrificing comfort or protection.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Durability

Most important from
241 reviews

Fit and Comfort
This shoe delivers comfort immediately, requiring no break-in period.
Durability
The shoe balances durability and lightweight design, perfect for varied terrain.
#3

Saucony Women's Excursion TR16 Trail Running Shoe, Charcoal/Rose, 8

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Cushioning

Most important from
1775 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes provide excellent comfort for all-day wear with roomy toe space and well-cushioned arch support.
Traction
Traction excels on dry, gravel, and grassy terrain, giving confidence on uneven trails.
Cushioning
They fit well for narrower feet and offer good overall cushioning without being overly soft.
Support and Stability
The lightweight design impresses, delivering stability and arch support critical for foot and knee issues.
Durability
Durability holds up well through activities like gardening and yard work, suggesting solid construction.
Weight
The lightweight design impresses, delivering stability and arch support critical for foot and knee issues.

The Saucony Women's Excursion TR16 is designed to offer balanced comfort and reliable performance on various trail surfaces. Its VERSARUN cushioning provides good shock absorption, making it comfortable for longer runs or all-day wear. The carbon-rubber lugs stand out for delivering strong traction, allowing confident tackling of slippery or uneven terrain. The shoe also features a lace-up closure that helps secure the foot for better support and stability.

In terms of durability, the rubber outer and sole materials suggest it can handle regular trail use well. The design is fresh and visually appealing, suitable for those who want a shoe that looks as good as it performs outdoors.

This shoe suits women who want a dependable, cushioned trail running shoe with solid grip and comfort, especially for dry to moderately challenging trails.

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Traction
Cushioning

Most important from
1775 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes provide excellent comfort for all-day wear with roomy toe space and well-cushioned arch support.
Traction
Traction excels on dry, gravel, and grassy terrain, giving confidence on uneven trails.
Cushioning
They fit well for narrower feet and offer good overall cushioning without being overly soft.
Support and Stability
The lightweight design impresses, delivering stability and arch support critical for foot and knee issues.
Durability
Durability holds up well through activities like gardening and yard work, suggesting solid construction.
Weight
The lightweight design impresses, delivering stability and arch support critical for foot and knee issues.

Buying Guide for the Best Womens Trail Running Shoes

Choosing the right women's trail running shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe running experience on uneven and rugged terrains. The right pair can enhance your performance, prevent injuries, and provide the necessary support and protection. When selecting trail running shoes, consider the following key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are paramount when selecting trail running shoes. A shoe that fits well will prevent blisters, chafing, and discomfort during long runs. Look for shoes that offer a snug fit around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit. If you have wide or narrow feet, look for brands that offer different width options.
TractionTraction refers to the grip the shoe provides on various surfaces. This is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips on wet, muddy, or rocky trails. Shoes with aggressive lugs (deep, multi-directional treads) offer better grip on loose or uneven terrain, while shoes with smaller, closely spaced lugs are better for hard-packed trails. Consider the typical trail conditions you run on and choose a shoe with appropriate traction.
CushioningCushioning is the amount of padding in the shoe's midsole, which affects shock absorption and comfort. Shoes with more cushioning are ideal for long-distance runs or runners who prefer a softer feel. Minimalist shoes with less cushioning provide a more natural running experience and are suitable for shorter distances or experienced runners who prefer a closer connection to the ground. Assess your running style and distance to determine the right level of cushioning for you.
Support and StabilitySupport and stability are crucial for preventing injuries, especially on uneven trails. Shoes with good arch support and a stable platform help maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of ankle rolls. If you have flat feet or overpronate (your foot rolls inward excessively), look for shoes with added support features like medial posts or dual-density midsoles. For neutral runners, a standard level of support should suffice.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the shoe holds up over time and through various trail conditions. Trail running shoes are typically made with tougher materials and reinforced areas to withstand rough terrain. Look for shoes with durable outsoles, protective toe caps, and sturdy uppers. If you run frequently or on particularly harsh trails, investing in a more durable shoe can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you often run in wet conditions or through streams and puddles. Shoes with water-resistant or waterproof features, such as Gore-Tex linings, help keep your feet dry and comfortable. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable, so if you run in hot, dry climates, you might prefer shoes with better ventilation. Consider the typical weather and trail conditions you encounter to decide if water resistance is a necessary feature for you.
WeightWeight affects how heavy the shoes feel on your feet, which can impact your running efficiency and fatigue levels. Lighter shoes are generally preferred for faster, shorter runs, while heavier shoes with more features (like extra cushioning or protection) are better for long-distance runs or rugged trails. Balance the need for protection and durability with your preference for a lighter feel to find the right weight for your trail running shoes.

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