10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 is designed for trail runners and mountain hikers who need reliable support and protection on varied terrains. It offers strong traction thanks to its TrailTack Green outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces. The cushioning system, DNA LOFT v2, provides a soft yet responsive feel, helping to keep your feet comfortable over long distances.

Stability is another highlight, with the Trail Adapt System and a built-in rock shield that protect your feet from sharp objects while still allowing enough flexibility for natural movement. The breathable mesh upper dries quickly and is reinforced with overlays to guard against trail debris, which adds to the shoe’s durability. Plus, the TPU mudguard helps block dirt and stones from getting inside. While it offers some water resistance through quick-drying materials and a mudguard, it is not fully waterproof, so very wet conditions might still cause dampness.

The fit is standard with a lace-up closure, suitable for medium-width feet, but if you have wider feet you might want to try them on first. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, the shoe balances protection and comfort without feeling too heavy. This shoe serves as a dependable, well-rounded trail runner that handles rocky, muddy, and uneven paths well, though it may not keep you completely dry in very wet weather.

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed specifically for trail runners and mountain hikers. One of its standout features is the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which provides a soft and comfortable feel over various terrains. The shoe also offers excellent traction thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, making it suitable for both wet and dry conditions. Additionally, the shoe’s stability is enhanced by the Trail Adapt System and the zonal outsole pods, which help maintain control and a stable ride on uneven surfaces.

The breathable mesh upper and the TPU mudguard add to the shoe’s durability, protecting your feet from trail debris and ensuring the shoe dries quickly after getting wet. However, while the shoe excels in cushioning, traction, and stability, it may have some drawbacks. The fit of the shoe might be an issue for some users, as it is only available in medium width, potentially limiting comfort for those with wider feet. Additionally, while the shoe is designed to block trail debris, it may not offer the same level of water resistance as some other trail running shoes.

That being said, the Cascadia 18 is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable and stable shoe for trail running, especially in diverse conditions.

The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 17 is designed for trail runners seeking a reliable shoe that handles various terrains confidently. Its standout feature is the soft cushioning provided by DNA LOFT v2 midsole technology, which adds comfort during long runs on rugged paths. Traction is strong thanks to the new TrailTack Green outsole, offering good grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which helps with stability and reduces slipping risks.

The shoe includes an adaptable stability system combining a midsole, rock plate, and outsole pods to provide firm control without feeling stiff. Protection is enhanced by a Ballistic Rock Shield that guards against sharp trail debris while still allowing the shoe to flex naturally for smooth steps. The mesh upper offers breathability and a medium fit around the ankle.

Durability appears solid given the materials and protective features, although heavy use on extremely rough trails may wear it down over time. This shoe suits women who want a comfortable, stable, and well-protected option for a variety of trail surfaces, but those needing full waterproofing might want to consider alternatives.