8 Best Brooks Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe is designed for female runners who enjoy tackling various trails with confidence. One of its standout features is the soft cushioning offered by the DNA LOFT v2 midsole, which is particularly beneficial for long runs on rugged terrain, ensuring comfort throughout your journey. The shoe also boasts enhanced traction thanks to the new TrailTack Green outsole, which adapts well to both wet and dry surfaces, offering stability on uneven ground. This is a significant advantage for those who like to run on diverse terrains.

In terms of adaptability, the Cascadia 17 utilizes the Trail Adapt System, providing a good balance of control with its integrated midsole and rock plate. This feature helps maintain stability while navigating tricky sections of the trail, enhancing the running experience. Additionally, the articulated Ballistic Rock Shield is designed to protect your feet from sharp objects while still allowing for flexibility, which is crucial for smooth transitions.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the cushioning and protection are excellent, the shoe's weight may be on the heavier side for some runners, which could affect speed during more competitive runs. Also, the requirement for hand washing may be inconvenient for those who prefer easy maintenance after muddy trails. Lastly, although the shoe is built for durability, its water resistance isn't highlighted, which may be a concern for runners who frequently encounter wet conditions.

The Brooks Women's Cascadia 17 GTX Waterproof Trail Running Shoe is designed for runners who love to traverse diverse terrains with confidence. This shoe boasts excellent traction, thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole, ensuring stability on both wet and dry surfaces. The soft DNA LOFT v2 midsole provides ample cushioning, making long trail runs more comfortable by absorbing impact over rugged terrains.

For adaptability, the Trail Adapt System includes an integrated midsole, rock plate, and zonal outsole pods, contributing to a stable ride across various surfaces. Additionally, the GORE-TEX Invisible Fit membrane offers reliable waterproof protection, keeping your feet dry in damp conditions while maintaining flexibility and lightness. The fit is generally good, but some users with wider feet might find it snug.

Durability is enhanced with quality materials, although the lightweight design might compromise longevity if used excessively on tougher trails. The shoe is relatively light, which is an advantage for longer runs. However, the ankle-height shaft might not provide the same level of support as higher-cut options. Ideal for trail runners who need a reliable, cushioned, and waterproof shoe, though those requiring extra durability for extreme conditions may need to consider alternatives.

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed for those who love running or hiking on rugged terrain. One of its standout features is the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which provides excellent comfort, making long runs feel less taxing on your feet. The shoe also boasts a TrailTack Green outsole, which offers great traction, ensuring stability on both wet and dry surfaces. This is particularly important for trail runners, as it helps maintain grip on various terrains.

In terms of fit and comfort, the shoe offers a wide option, accommodating different foot shapes. The breathable mesh upper adds to comfort by allowing airflow, while durable materials help protect against debris during outdoor adventures. The integrated midsole with a ballistic rock shield is a smart feature, providing protection without sacrificing flexibility.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the shoe is relatively lightweight at 1.5 pounds, some users might find it a bit bulky compared to other lightweight trail shoes. Additionally, water resistance may be limited, as the shoe's design focuses more on breathability and comfort rather than full waterproofing. Those who frequently run in extremely wet conditions might need to look for alternatives.