10 Best Womens Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes are a solid choice for women who enjoy trail running. With a breathable mesh upper, these shoes ensure comfort during long runs, helping to keep your feet cool. The Rearfoot GEL technology is particularly beneficial for impact absorption, which is great for uneven terrain, while AMPLIFOAM provides an extra layer of cushioning for those longer distances. The trail-specific outsole pattern offers reliable traction, making it easier to navigate various surfaces with confidence.

The shoe weighs about 1.44 pounds, which may feel a bit heavier compared to more minimalist options available for trail running enthusiasts. If you prioritize a lightweight shoe for agility, this might not be the best fit. Additionally, while the shoes offer decent support and stability, those with specific foot issues may want to consider additional orthotic insoles for custom support.

In terms of durability, the combination of nylon and synthetic rubber is generally sturdy, but frequent exposure to harsh conditions may wear it down faster than some higher-end models. The shoes are also not explicitly marketed as waterproof, so if you frequently encounter wet terrain, this might be a limitation.

These shoes are well-suited for casual trail runners looking for comfort and good traction on varied surfaces. They're environmentally friendly due to a reduced water usage dye process, which is a nice bonus. If you’re serious about trail running and seek something ultra-light or specifically waterproof, you may want to explore other options.

The HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes in Black/White, size 8.5 B (Medium), are designed to offer a mix of comfort, support, and durability for trail runners. These shoes are crafted from a combination of textile and synthetic materials, providing a lightweight and breathable option for your runs. The rubber sole material ensures good traction, helping you maintain grip on various trail surfaces.

The cushioning is one of HOKA's standout features, offering ample padding to absorb impact, which can be particularly beneficial during longer runs or on rough terrains. Support and stability are also strong points, thanks to the well-designed structure of the shoe, which helps keep your foot aligned and reduces the risk of injury during uneven trail runs.

One area where these shoes might not excel is water resistance, as the textile material may not keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Additionally, while the shoes are relatively lightweight, they might still feel a bit bulky compared to other minimalist trail running options. Durability is generally good, but heavy usage on rugged trails could wear them out faster than expected. In summary, the HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes are suitable for those looking for a comfortable and supportive trail running shoe with excellent cushioning and traction, though they may not be the best option for extremely wet conditions or those preferring ultra-light footwear.

The New Balance Women's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe is designed with versatility in mind, making it a solid choice for women who enjoy trail running and outdoor activities. One of the standout features is its AT Tread outsole, which provides reliable traction on various surfaces, whether you're running on a trail or a road. The shoe's synthetic upper and durable materials offer good longevity, so you can expect it to hold up well over time.

In terms of comfort, the soft BIO Foam midsole delivers a pleasant experience underfoot, which is essential for longer runs. Additionally, the lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, helping to keep your foot stable while navigating uneven terrain. Weight-wise, at 1.5 pounds, it strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for agility and sturdy enough for support.

For women seeking a reliable trail shoe that combines comfort, traction, and durability, the New Balance 410 V8 is a worthy option. However, if breathability and maximum cushioning are top priorities for you, it might be worth exploring other alternatives.