10 bestWomens Trail Shoesof May 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
20% off
1

Salomon Women's Speedcross Peak Running Shoe, Vivacious/Black/Clearly Aqua, 6.5 UK
SALOMON

9.9
25% off
2

Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D V7 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoes Waterproof, Black/Black/Mineral Grey, 6 UK
SALOMON

9.8
3

Altra Lone Peak 7 Women's Trail Running Shoes - SS23 Light Grey
Altra

9.7
23% off
4

BROOKS Women's Cascadia 17 Sneaker, Bluefish/Black/Diva Pink, 7 UK
Brooks

9.6
10% off
5

Merrell Women's MORPHLITE Trail Running Shoe, Parchment/Antler, 6 UK
Merrell

9.4
Other
6

La Sportiva Mutant Trail Running Shoes EU 39
La Sportiva

9.2
7

adidas Women's Terrex Swift R2 Gtx Trail Running Shoe, Cblack Dgsogr Prptnt, 5.5 UK
adidas

9.0
20% off
8

ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 8 AL0A85ND Trail Running, Mineral Blue, 6.5
Altra

8.8
9

Brooks Women's Divide 4 Sneaker, Purple Navy Oyster, 7 UK
Brooks

8.6
10

Salomon Alphacross 4 Gore-Tex Women's Trail Running Shoes, Powerful Grip, Water and weatherproof protection, and Long Lasting Comfort, Black, 6.5
SALOMON

8.4
A Guide to Selecting the Best Womens Trail Shoes
Choosing the right women's trail shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe outdoor experience. Trail shoes are designed to provide support, protection, and traction on uneven and rugged terrains. When selecting a pair, consider the type of trails you will be tackling, the distance you plan to cover, and your personal comfort preferences. It's important to try on different models and walk around to ensure a good fit, as the right pair can make a significant difference in your trail running or hiking experience.
Traction
Traction refers to the grip that the shoe's outsole provides on various surfaces. This is important because it helps prevent slipping on wet, muddy, or rocky trails. Trail shoes typically have deeper lugs than road running shoes, which are designed to dig into the ground for better stability. If you plan to run on technical, rocky trails, look for shoes with aggressive, multidirectional lugs. For smoother trails, a less aggressive tread pattern may suffice. Consider the typical trail conditions you will encounter to choose the right level of traction.
Cushioning
Cushioning in trail shoes refers to the amount of padding between your foot and the ground. It is important because it affects comfort and shock absorption, especially on longer runs. Shoes with more cushioning are generally more comfortable for longer distances and can help reduce fatigue. However, they may be heavier and less responsive. Minimalist shoes with less cushioning offer a closer-to-ground feel and are lighter, which can be beneficial for shorter, faster runs. Consider your comfort preference and the distance you plan to cover when choosing the level of cushioning.
Protection
Protection in trail shoes includes features like rock plates, toe guards, and reinforced uppers that shield your feet from sharp rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. This is important for preventing injuries and ensuring a comfortable run. If you frequently run on rocky or technical trails, look for shoes with robust protective features. For less technical trails, you might prioritize lighter shoes with less protection. Assess the typical trail conditions and your need for protection to make the right choice.
Fit
Fit is how well the shoe conforms to your foot, which is crucial for comfort and performance. A good fit prevents blisters and ensures stability on uneven terrain. Trail shoes should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to accommodate foot swelling and natural toe splay. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and wear the socks you plan to use on the trail. Consider your foot shape and any specific fit preferences when selecting trail shoes.
Water Resistance
Water resistance in trail shoes refers to the shoe's ability to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. This is important for comfort and preventing blisters during wet weather or when crossing streams. Waterproof shoes often use materials like Gore-Tex to keep water out, but they can be less breathable. If you run in wet, muddy conditions, waterproof shoes might be beneficial. However, for dry climates or if you prefer more breathability, non-waterproof shoes may be more comfortable. Consider the typical weather and trail conditions you will encounter when deciding on water resistance.

Best Reviews Guide Newsletter
Get exclusive articles, recommendations, shopping tips, and sales alerts
Sign up for our newsletter to receive weekly recommendations about seasonal and trendy products
Thank you for subscribing!
By submitting your email address you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy