10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

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.

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.

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.