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The Best Comfortable Trail Running Shoes For Women In 2023, Per Athletes And Experts
Time to go off-roading.
Yeah, running around your neighborhood or on the treadmill in your home gym has its perks: You get to explore your local neighborhood or get in your cardio conveniently. But, running on the trails? Now that's a change of scenery. Trail running can definitely keep you on your toes (pun intended). Between navigating the changing terrain and weather, or even the pretty distractions, it's integral to have a good pair of comfortable trail running shoes.
It's not just about a change of scenery. Getting out in the fresh air for a few miles will do your brain and body major good. Exercising in nature actually quiets the part of the brain associated with overthinking according to research published by PNAS.
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“Being on the trails is the perfect way to turn off the noise of our lives,” says ultra trail runner Gina Lucrezi, founder of Trail Sisters, a national women’s trail-running community. “It’s also an accessible way for women to feel empowered and confident.” Trust—nothing says badass like a solo sojourn through the wilderness—even if it’s just a little patch of grass in a nearby field.
But, before you pound the pavement (or desert, or mountain)...
Here's what to look for in a good pair of trail running shoes:
Price
Think about how much you're willing to spend on a new pair of trail running sneaks. There are options available at every price point, so don't feel like you have to splurge to get a pair of shoes that can promise you all you need for rough, dry, or wet terrain: cushion, traction, style, and other features.
Fit
Sure, a shoe can promise you that it's waterproof, cushy, grippy, and overall amazing. But, if it doesn't feel comfortable even after you've tried breaking them in, maybe they're just for you. The trail running shoe you go with should feel snug, but flexible enough that it allows your feet movement without pain.
Weight
You also don't want a shoe that's going to weigh you down. Some trail running shoes are heavier than others. So, you'll want to be conscious of what fees like a good load to you, keeping in mind how much time you often spend running.
Durability
You don't want to spend your precious dollars on a shoe that's not going to last, or that you'll feel like you need to return after just one wear. Look for shoes that will protect your feet from trail debris, snow, or water depending on weather conditions, as well as firm lugs that'll hold up against rough terrain.
All that being said, see below for the best trail running shoes for women you can shop right now, per online user reviews, athletes, trail runners, and more experts.
La Sportiva Bushido II
La Sportiva Bushido II
Pros
- Lightweight
- Cushiony
Cons
- Customers say sizing may run a little small
Feel stability underfoot without carrying around tons of weight with this durable shoe—the top pick for Jax Mariash, an ultra runner who was the first woman in the world to complete the 4 Deserts Race Series Grand Slam Plus.
“It is light, yet very durable," she says. "The sole allows you to run with ease without feeling rocks under your feet."
Specs
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
Brooks Running Cascadia 14
Brooks Running Cascadia 14
Pros
- Suitable for wet and dry conditions
- Slip-proof
Cons
- Less cushion that other trail shoes
- Customers say toe box is a little narrow
You need a steady, non-slip, and waterproof shoe when heading out in rainy weather or wet terrain—or even post-downpour when the trails get muddy. This sneaker steps up for you (literally).
“They keep your feet dry and protected, while the grip on the bottom keeps you from slipping on wet rocks,” says Katie Mackey, a Brooks Beasts athlete. You can thank the Gore-Tex upper and rubber bottom for that support.
Specs
Weight: 8.6 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 8.1 mm
La Sportiva Lycan II Trail-Running Shoes
Pros
- Toe caps to protect feet from trail debris
- Rugged outsole is suitable for rocky terrain
Cons
- Limited design options
If you’re switching between various terrain—say, going from gravel to extra rocky ground and then back to road—this shoe will carry you through every mile. Plus, it’s another favorite of Mariash who says it’s a great all-around sneaker.
Specs
Weight: 9.4 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 6
HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 6
Pros
- Breathable even in warm weather
- Shock-absorbent
Cons
- Not as cushy as other trail running shoes
“No matter where I am in the world, I can put these on and run from the door to the top of whatever mountain I can see from my window, across roads, and trails,” says ultra runner Megan Roche.
The shoe also helps propel you off the ground with every step for a quick pace, she says. “My life can be crazy at times, and that versatility is something that gives me confidence—and extra room in my carry-on,” she says. Packing one pair of shoes that can do it all instead of 10? Pretty good deal.
Specs
Weight: 1 lb. 0.2 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Altra Timp Trail Running Shoe
Altra Timp Trail Running Shoe
Pros
- Flexible upper moves with your foot
- Wider toe box for those who need it
Cons
- Customer's say the shoe's tongue is stiff
- Shoes are on the chunkier side
Not everyone wants a separate pair of running shoes for the trails—in that case, get a set like these Altras that’ll work great on any ground. “As a multi-sport enthusiast, I find this shoe helps me transition from road to trail super easily, so I can run to a trailhead in comfort,” says Ashleigh McClary, a gear tester for Backcountry.
“The grip on the sole is great, and the comfortable upper helps with support and breathability.”
Specs
Weight: 8.9 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Merrell Agility Synthesis 2 Sneakers
Merrell Agility Synthesis 2 Sneakers
Pros
- Protective toe cap
Cons
- Runs on the wider side, so may not be the best option for those who like a tight fit
If you have a wide foot, you’ll love this sneaker thanks to the roomier forefoot. It’s a favorite of trail runner and Merrell ambassador, Lindsay Webster, who says they’re her go-to for training.
“They also have great support, so they’re wonderful to run lots of miles in,” she says.
Specs
Weight: 1 lb 4 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
New Balance 510 V5 Trail Running Shoe
Pros
- Durable and built to last
- Various colorways available
Cons
- Customers say shoe is very supportive, but may feel a little stiff
Thanks to its cushioning and compression resistance feature, this plush and lightweight shoe excels at absorbing impact. “For me, the mark of a great trail shoe is one that locks my foot in and feels like a natural extension of my stride,” says Katie Grossman, a Team New Balance trail runner.
“This one helps me attack climbs more effortlessly and the descents more confidently.”
Specs
Weight: 1.5 lbs.
Heel-to-toe drop: n/a
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
Pros
- Sticky sole keeps you stable on climbs and descents
- Double layer mesh upper is durable, but breathable
Cons
- Customers say laces are short
Wear these kicks to tackle tough hills. With a no-slip outsole and great grip, you can climb up or down with ease. That’s why it’s a go-to on mountain terrain for Roche. “It’s grippy and responsive on steep uphills, while giving me confidence on any type of downhill,” she says.
Specs
Weight: 10.8 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
Altra Superior 5
Altra Superior 5
Pros
- Wide range of colors available
- Made with balanced cushioning
Cons
- Customers say sizing runs small
Amanda Basham, pro runner and endurance coach, did the TransAlpine Run in these sneakers, covering 160 miles and 5,400 feet of vertical gain. So, clearly they hold up to some tough battles.
“I love these because you can feel the trail while still having plenty of support and cushion,” she says. “The traction is incredible and has helped with my downhill running.”
Specs
Weight: 7.5 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Saucony Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe
Saucony Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe
Pros
- Wide range of colorways available
- Cushy with good airflow
Cons
- Customers say you may have to break these in
- May feel less cushy than other trail running shoes
Good cushioning, traction, and durability don't have to break the bank. These shoes from Saucony pack all of that and then some for less than $80. They're designed with an upper that can protect your feet from trail debris and aggressive lugs to keep your stride steady.
Specs
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Merrell MTL Skyfire
Merrell MTL Skyfire
Pros
- Designed with aggressive lugs for great traction
- Reflective details for visibility in low light conditions
Cons
- Narrower toe box than other trail running shoes
You'll fly up even the toughest trails in the race-ready MTL Skyfires. The Quantum Grip rubber lugs fear no mountain and the upper is just as breathable as it is tough.
Specs
Weight: 8.1 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
Allbirds Trail Runners SWT
Allbirds Trail Runners SWT
Pros
- Features sustainable design elements
- Various colorways available
Cons
- Customers say you may have to break them in
If you're familiar with the Allbirds brand, you know they're all about stability and their first-ever trail shoe is no exception. It's designed with castor bean oil-infused insole foam, shoelaces made from recycled plastic water bottles, and a water-repellent finish that'll let you tackle off-road terrain during any weather.
Specs
Weight: 12.4 oz.
Heel-to-toe drop: 7 mm
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