Best Trail Running Shoes for Women of 2025

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Trail running shoes are the perfect companion for adventurous women who love to explore the great outdoors. With their durable construction and superior traction, these shoes are designed to handle the unpredictable terrain of trails. Whether it's rocky paths, muddy trails, or steep inclines, these shoes provide the necessary support and stability to keep women moving comfortably. With a lightweight design and breathable materials, these trail running shoes offer the ideal combination of comfort and performance. So lace up and hit the trails with confidence, knowing that these shoes will keep up with your every stride.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Brooks Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe Cover #TOP 1
Brooks Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe
ftb score rating icon 9.8
New Balance 410 V8 Trail Shoe Cover #TOP 2
New Balance 410 V8 Trail Shoe
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Women's Running Shoes Cover #TOP 3
ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Women's Running Shoes
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Trail Running Shoes for Women

#TOP 1

Brooks Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe

120392-157
Brooks Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe Cover
Brooks Women’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe - White/Navy/Bittersweet - 8 Medium

The Brooks Cascadia 17 is designed for trail runners who want to tackle various terrains with confidence. Its DNA LOFT v2 midsole provides soft cushioning, ensuring comfort during long runs on rugged paths. You’ll appreciate the enhanced traction from the new TrailTack Green, which offers stability on both wet and dry surfaces, making it easier to navigate uneven ground. The innovative Trail Adapt System combines a midsole, rock plate, and zonal outsole pods to give you better control and a stable experience, no matter where your adventures take you.

What We Like
Comfortable for various activities
Good arch support
Solid grip and durability
Wide toe box
Excellent cushioning
What We Don't Like
Packaging could be improved
Narrow fit in some pairs
#TOP 2

New Balance 410 V8 Trail Shoe

WT410CF8
New Balance 410 V8 Trail Shoe Cover
New Balance Women's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe, Fuchsia Purple/Black/Ambient Light, 10

The New Balance Trail Shoe is designed for both on-road and off-road adventures, thanks to its specialized AT Tread outsole that offers excellent traction. The synthetic upper ensures durability while remaining lightweight, so you can easily tackle various terrains. You’ll appreciate the soft BIO Foam midsole, which provides cushioning and comfort during your runs. Additionally, the shoe features durable overlays and mesh materials, making it a long-lasting choice for your trail running needs. With a secure lace-up closure, you can enjoy a snug fit, enhancing your overall running experience.

What We Like
Comfortable for long hours
Well-constructed and durable
Lightweight design
Attractive color combinations
Good support for flat feet
What We Don't Like
Size may run small
Style may not meet expectations
#TOP 3

ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Women's Running Shoes

1012B314-400
Indigo Blue/Papaya
7.5 Wide
ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Women's Running Shoes Cover
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 7.5, Indigo Blue/Papaya

The ASICS Gel-Venture 9 offers a breathable mesh upper, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during runs. Its innovative sockliner is made using a dyeing process that conserves water and reduces carbon emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice. With Rearfoot GEL technology, you’ll experience excellent impact absorption, providing a softer landing with every step. The AMPLIFOAM cushioning enhances comfort, ensuring that your feet feel great even on longer runs. Whether you're hitting the trails or just enjoying a casual jog, this shoe has you covered.

What We Like
Excellent arch support
Durable and well-made
Comfortable for long hours
True to size
Good traction
What We Don't Like
Not enough heel cushioning
Laces may break over time
#TOP 4

Saucony Excursion TR16 Women's Shoe

S10744-10
Black/Fuchsia
Saucony Excursion TR16 Women's Shoe Cover
Saucony Women's Excursion TR16 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Fuchsia, 7.5

The Saucony Excursion TR16 is designed for trail running enthusiasts who seek comfort and performance. With VERSARUN cushioning, you can enjoy balanced support during your runs, keeping your feet comfortable all day. The shoe features carbon-rubber lugs that provide excellent traction, allowing you to tackle various terrains confidently. Additionally, its fresh design not only offers essential trail protection but also ensures you look stylish while exploring the outdoors. With these features combined, you'll feel empowered to take on any adventure that comes your way.

What We Like
Super comfortable fit
Vibrant colors
Excellent traction
Lightweight design
Good arch support
What We Don't Like
Rough ankle lining
Traction on wet surfaces
#TOP 5

ASICS Gel-Excite Trail 2 Shoes

1012B412-200
Birch/Dolphin Grey
ASICS Gel-Excite Trail 2 Shoes Cover
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite Trail 2 Running Shoes, 7.5, Birch/Dolphin Grey

The ASICS Gel-Excite Trail is designed for your off-road adventures. Its no-sew mesh upper ensures durability while allowing your feet to breathe, keeping you comfortable on the trail. The AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning enhances flexibility and durability, helping you enjoy a smoother ride with each step. With rearfoot GEL technology, you can expect excellent impact absorption, providing a softer landing with every stride. Plus, the OrthoLite sockliner adds a layer of soft comfort, making your initial step feel plush and inviting.

What We Like
Comfortable and cushioned
Good arch support
Stylish design
Excellent grip
True to size
What We Don't Like
May run slightly larger
Toe box may wear quickly
#TOP 6

Saucony Endorphin Edge Trail Shoe

S10773-40
Prospect Quartz
Saucony Endorphin Edge Trail Shoe Cover
Saucony Women's Endorphin Edge Trail Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 8

The Saucony Endorphin Edge is designed for trail runners seeking speed and comfort. Its innovative carbon-fiber plate enhances your efficiency while allowing you to stay connected to the ground. You’ll appreciate the lightweight mesh that wicks away moisture, helping to keep your feet cool and dry during long runs. Plus, the shoe features a distance-friendly 6mm drop and a grippy outsole, ensuring stability and traction on various terrains. With its deconstructed bootie fit, you’ll enjoy a snug yet flexible feel that supports your performance on the trails.

What We Like
Excellent trail grip
Comfortable fit
High-quality construction
Lightweight design
Good cushioning
What We Don't Like
Wide fit for some
Durability concerns
#TOP 7

Saucony Peregrine 13 Trail Shoe

S10838-25
Sprig/Canopy
Saucony Peregrine 13 Trail Shoe Cover
Saucony Women's Peregrine 13 Trail Running Shoe, SPRIG/Canopy, 7

The Saucony Peregrine 13 is designed for trail running enthusiasts who seek comfort and speed. Its lightweight PWRRUN foam midsole offers a cushioned feel, allowing you to enjoy longer runs without discomfort. The shoe’s ultralight construction enhances your speed, making it perfect for challenging trails. Additionally, the PWRTRAC rubber outsole provides excellent traction, ensuring you stay stable on rugged surfaces. With a built-in rock guard, you can confidently navigate rocky terrains without worrying about impacts. These features come together to enhance your overall trail running experience.

What We Like
Comfortable toe box
Great waterproof features
Excellent traction
Lightweight and agile
Durable for various activities
What We Don't Like
Color lighter than expected
Some tread wear issues
#TOP 8

Brooks Women’s Caldera 6 Trail Running Shoe

1203661B093.090
Brooks Women’s Caldera 6 Trail Running Shoe Cover
Brooks Women’s Caldera 6 Trail Running Shoe - Oyster/Blissful Blue/Pink - 9 Medium

The Brooks Women’s Caldera 6 Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail runners looking for supreme cushioning and traction. The shoe features nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for a lightweight, plush, and responsive feel, while an internal midfoot saddle provides a secure fit without sacrificing breathability. The shoe also has a highly breathable air mesh upper and a stable ride thanks to raised midsole foam walls and a widened base with a split heel outsole, ensuring a smooth run over uneven terrain.

What We Like
Excellent cushioning
Great arch support
Lightweight design
Durable materials
Stylish appearance
What We Don't Like
Fit may vary
Break-in time required
#TOP 9

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V7

WTHIER7U
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Cover
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe, Fatigue Green/Covert Green, 8

The New Balance Trail Shoe is designed for ultimate comfort during your runs. It features an 8 mm heel drop, providing a balanced feel as you navigate various terrains. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers exceptional cushioning, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable even on long trails. The upper is made from a combination of synthetic materials and mesh, providing breathability while also protecting your feet. Additionally, the Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers outstanding traction, giving you confidence on slippery or uneven surfaces.

What We Like
Lightweight and well-cushioned
Excellent support and comfort
Great traction on various terrains
Available in attractive color options
Waterproof models available
What We Don't Like
Sizing inconsistencies reported
Durability concerns for some users
#TOP 10

Saucony Excursion TR14

S10584-5
Charcoal/Coral
Saucony Excursion TR14 Cover
Saucony Women's Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe, Charcoal/Coral, 8

The Saucony Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe, also known as the Saucony Excursion TR14, is a great choice for women who love trail running. With its grippy lugs on the outsole made of carbon rubber, you can enjoy rock-solid footings even on rugged terrains. The moderate stack VERSARUN cushioning provides excellent underfoot comfort, ensuring a comfortable running experience no matter where you go. The trail-specific mesh with supportive overlays not only locks your foot into place but also protects it from debris without adding bulkiness. Whether you're an experienced trail runner or just starting out, the Saucony Excursion TR14 is designed to provide the support and protection you need on your trail adventures.

What We Like
Comfortable from day one
Good arch support
True to size
Durable and sturdy
Variety of colors available
What We Don't Like
Narrow toe box for some styles
Material may wear over time
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can trail shoes be used as running shoes?

Trail shoes can be used for running, even on roads, especially in icy, snowy, or rainy conditions where the extra traction and weather protection are beneficial. However, they are primarily designed for trail running, where their lugged outsoles provide better grip on loose, uneven, and slippery terrain.

2. What is the difference between trail shoes and trail running shoes?

Trail shoes are specifically designed for trail running and have evolved from road shoes to adapt to the trail environment. While road shoes have flat outsoles for speed and traction on smooth surfaces, trail running shoes feature lugged outsoles to increase grip on uneven and slippery terrain.

3. Are trail running shoes OK for roads?

Trail running shoes are not recommended for running on roads. While they offer improved traction and stability features, the cushioning is firmer, and the outsole rubber is not designed to withstand harsh asphalt and concrete. It is best to use road running shoes for running on roads.

4. Is it OK to wear trail running shoes on a treadmill?

Yes, you can wear trail running shoes on a treadmill. While they are designed for muddy and uneven surfaces, they can still provide grip on a flat rubber surface. Additionally, trail running shoes offer stability features for your feet and ankles, which can be beneficial for treadmill running.

5. What is the purpose of trail running shoes?

The purpose of trail running shoes is to provide runners with the necessary features and protection for running on aggressive trails with roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. They are designed with lugged outsoles for better grip on muddy and slippery surfaces, as well as a more dense and rigid midsole to offer underfoot protection.

6. Is it bad to wear trail runners on concrete?

Wearing trail running shoes on concrete is generally fine for runs under 10k. However, it's important to note that trail running shoes are specifically designed for trail running and may not provide the same level of cushioning and support as road running shoes on hard surfaces like concrete.

Editor's Notes

During our trail running shoes for women research, we found 48 trail running shoes for women products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 51,561 customer reviews through our big data system to write the trail running shoes for women list. We found that most customers choose trail running shoes for women with an average price of $66.90.

The trail running shoes for women are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of trail running shoes for women, including Brooks, New Balance, ASICS, Saucony. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 4,268 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.

Trail Running Shoes for Women Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Brooks New Balance ASICS Saucony ASICS Saucony Saucony Brooks New Balance Saucony
Department womens womens womens womens womens womens womens womens womens womens
Sole material Rubber Rubber Synthetic Rubber Rubber Lug-sole Rubber Synthetic Rubber Rubber Rubber Rubber
Origin Imported Imported Made in the USA or Imported Made in USA and Imported Imported Imported Made in the USA or Imported Made in the USA or Imported Imported -
Outer material Canvas Rubber Nylon - Polyester Mesh Rubber Mesh Synthetic material Mesh
Care instructions Hand Wash Only - - Machine Wash - Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash
Fabric type - 100% Synthetic Fabric-and-synthetic Fabric-and-synthetic 100% Synthetic - - - - Synthetic-and-mesh
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.5
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