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10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Men’s Caldera 8 Ultra Trail Running Shoe - Black/Blackened Pearl/White - 10.5 Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,110
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
210 reviews

Traction
The shoe provides excellent traction on mud, grass, and rocky terrain, offering strong grip both uphill and downhill.
Cushioning
Outstanding comfort cushions every step, preventing discomfort from rocks even during extended runs.
Stability
Fit runs slightly smaller than usual, but the secure, snug feel enhances stability on uneven trails.
Fit
Fit runs slightly smaller than usual, but the secure, snug feel enhances stability on uneven trails.

The Brooks Caldera 8 is designed for serious trail runners who need a shoe that can handle long distances on rugged terrain. Its standout feature is the plush DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which is soft and stacked high to protect your feet from rocks and roots, making it very comfortable for extended runs. Stability is enhanced by the raised sidewalls and a widened base, which help secure your foot and smooth out uneven landings. The outsole includes flex grooves to adapt well to trail surfaces and offers good traction, though it’s best suited for varied but not extremely muddy or slippery trails.

The upper uses durable nylon and breathable mesh materials that resist snags and provide ventilation, keeping your feet dry from sweat but not fully waterproof, so it may not be ideal for very wet conditions. The fit is typical lace-up, allowing you to adjust snugness easily, and the shoe’s structure supports a secure feel without being overly tight. Durability seems strong given the tough outer materials and rubber sole, which should hold up well over time.

Additionally, Brooks has made this shoe carbon neutral, using recycled materials and offsetting emissions, which is a nice environmental bonus. If you’re looking for a cushioned, stable, and breathable trail shoe designed to cover long distances comfortably on variable terrain, the Caldera 8 is a solid choice. However, if you need full water resistance or extremely aggressive traction for technical trails, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,110
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
210 reviews

Traction
The shoe provides excellent traction on mud, grass, and rocky terrain, offering strong grip both uphill and downhill.
Cushioning
Outstanding comfort cushions every step, preventing discomfort from rocks even during extended runs.
Stability
Fit runs slightly smaller than usual, but the secure, snug feel enhances stability on uneven trails.
Fit
Fit runs slightly smaller than usual, but the secure, snug feel enhances stability on uneven trails.
#2

Brooks Women’s Caldera 7 Trail Running Shoe - Peacoat/Citadel/Sunny Lime - 10 Medium

Rating
8.8
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
264 reviews

Traction
Fits true to size with a wide platform for stability. Very comfortable for 2+ mile power walks and provides great traction on wet streets and sidewalks.
Cushioning
If you want a very plush, cushiony sneaker, these are perfect. Ideal for long-distance hiking with excellent foot support.
Stability
Super comfy and lightweight, yet incredibly stable. I hiked 13 miles on first wear and felt great!
Fit
Fits true to size with a wide platform for stability. Very comfortable for 2+ mile power walks and provides great traction on wet streets and sidewalks.

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.

Rating
8.8
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
264 reviews

Traction
Fits true to size with a wide platform for stability. Very comfortable for 2+ mile power walks and provides great traction on wet streets and sidewalks.
Cushioning
If you want a very plush, cushiony sneaker, these are perfect. Ideal for long-distance hiking with excellent foot support.
Stability
Super comfy and lightweight, yet incredibly stable. I hiked 13 miles on first wear and felt great!
Fit
Fits true to size with a wide platform for stability. Very comfortable for 2+ mile power walks and provides great traction on wet streets and sidewalks.
#3

Brooks Women’s Caldera 7 Trail Running Shoe - Chateau Grey/White Sand - 8 Medium

Rating
7.6
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
264 reviews

Traction
Excellent traction performs reliably on wet surfaces, ensuring steady footing during power walks and trail runs alike.
Cushioning
The shoe offers a superb balance of support, sturdiness, grip, and cushioning, making it ideal for trail walking and helping with foot sensitivity issues.
Stability
The wide platform enhances stability, delivering secure landings and reducing the risk of ankle rolls on uneven terrain.
Fit
Lightweight and true to size, the fit is comfortable and slightly different in the toe compared to other Brooks models, providing an adaptable fit.

The Brooks Women’s Caldera 7 is designed as a lightweight, cushioned trail running shoe that excels in comfort and support for longer distances. Its standout feature is the super-soft DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which offers plush, responsive comfort without feeling heavy. For traction, the TrailTrack Green outsole uses a rugged rubber with a tread pattern that grips well on both wet and dry surfaces, helping you stay steady on uneven trails. Stability is enhanced by raised midsole foam walls and a wider base, which provide secure landings and reduce the risk of ankle rolls on rough terrain.

The fit is adaptable thanks to an improved upper with external overlays that lock the foot in place, while breathable mesh keeps moisture managed and feet cool. Durability is addressed through sturdy synthetic materials and a reinforced outsole, designed to handle the wear and tear of varied trail conditions. While the shoe performs well in moisture management, it does not specifically advertise water resistance, so it may not be ideal for very wet conditions or deep puddles.

If you’re a trail runner seeking a soft, supportive shoe with good grip and stability for long-distance runs on moderate terrain, the Caldera 7 is a strong candidate, especially given its focus on comfort and eco-friendly materials.

Rating
7.6
Traction
Cushioning
Stability

Most important from
264 reviews

Traction
Excellent traction performs reliably on wet surfaces, ensuring steady footing during power walks and trail runs alike.
Cushioning
The shoe offers a superb balance of support, sturdiness, grip, and cushioning, making it ideal for trail walking and helping with foot sensitivity issues.
Stability
The wide platform enhances stability, delivering secure landings and reducing the risk of ankle rolls on uneven terrain.
Fit
Lightweight and true to size, the fit is comfortable and slightly different in the toe compared to other Brooks models, providing an adaptable fit.

Buying Guide for the Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes

Choosing the right trail running shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe running experience. Trail running shoes are designed to provide better traction, stability, and protection compared to regular running shoes. When selecting a pair, it's important to consider various factors that will affect your performance and comfort on different terrains. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
TractionTraction refers to the grip that the shoe's outsole provides on different surfaces. This is important because trail running often involves uneven, slippery, or loose terrain. Shoes with aggressive lugs (deep, widely spaced treads) offer better grip on muddy and soft surfaces, while shoes with smaller, more closely spaced lugs are better for hard-packed trails. Consider the type of terrain you will be running on most frequently to choose the right level of traction.
CushioningCushioning is the amount of padding in the shoe's midsole, which affects comfort and shock absorption. More cushioning can provide a softer, more comfortable ride, which is beneficial for longer runs or rough terrain. However, it can also add weight and reduce ground feel. Less cushioning offers a more responsive and lightweight experience, which can be preferable for shorter runs or smoother trails. Think about your running distance and terrain to determine the right amount of cushioning for you.
StabilityStability in trail running shoes helps prevent ankle rolls and provides support on uneven terrain. Shoes with a wider base, firmer midsole, and additional support features like a rock plate (a thin, hard layer in the midsole) offer better stability. If you frequently run on rocky or uneven trails, or if you have a history of ankle injuries, look for shoes with enhanced stability features. For smoother trails or if you prefer a more flexible shoe, you might opt for less stability.
FitThe fit of the shoe is crucial for comfort and performance. Trail running shoes should fit snugly around the midfoot and heel to prevent slipping, but have enough room in the toe box to accommodate swelling and natural toe splay. A good fit helps prevent blisters and other foot issues. It's important to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are more swollen, and to wear the same socks you plan to run in. Consider your foot shape and any specific needs, such as wide or narrow feet, when choosing the fit.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the shoes can withstand the wear and tear of trail running. This is important because trail running can be tough on shoes, with exposure to rocks, roots, and other obstacles. Shoes made with high-quality materials and reinforced areas (like the toe cap and heel) tend to last longer. If you run frequently or on particularly rough trails, investing in a more durable shoe can save you money in the long run. Consider the typical conditions of your runs to determine the level of durability you need.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is the shoe's ability to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. This is important for comfort and to prevent blisters. Shoes with waterproof membranes (like Gore-Tex) can keep water out but may be less breathable, which can lead to sweaty feet. Water-resistant shoes offer some protection while maintaining better breathability. If you run in wet or muddy conditions often, consider shoes with good water resistance. For dry climates, breathability might be more important.

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