10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe is designed for runners who enjoy challenging terrains and need reliable footwear to support them. The shoe excels in providing soft cushioning with its DNA LOFT v2 midsole technology, ensuring comfort on long trails. Enhanced traction is a standout feature, thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole, which performs well on both wet and dry surfaces and incorporates recycled materials for added sustainability.

Stability is another strong point, with the Trail Adapt System offering excellent control and balance through integrated midsoles, rock plates, and zonal outsole pods. This makes the shoe adaptable to various terrains without compromising protection, which is further enhanced by the Ballistic Rock Shield. However, while the shoe promises high durability with its canvas outer material and rubber sole, it might not be the best in terms of water resistance.

The fit is generally good, catering to medium sizes, but the snugness may vary depending on individual preferences. With hand wash care instructions, the shoe requires diligent maintenance. The Cascadia 17 is a solid choice for trail runners seeking comfort, stability, and traction, though it may fall short for those needing high water resistance.

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.