Are you ready to hit the trails running this summer? There is indeed no bad moment to set off for the woods searching for flowing singletrack or twisty trails, especially now that we are in the unprecedented era of social distancing.
If you are going to overcome the technical terrain, it is crucial that you have a dedicated trail pair of shoes that can effectively bite onto the mud and cushion your feet.
However, selecting the right pair of trail running shoes is not easy because every piece in the market is labeled the “best” even when it has easy-to-see issues.
Read through our reviews of the best trail running shoes for women and use the guide at the end to help you identify the perfect one for you.
The Best Trail Running Shoes For Women Are …
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Salomon Women's Ultra Pro Trail Running Shoe |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Saucony Women's S10483-2 Trail Running Shoe |  |
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| 3. Merrell Mix Master 3 |  |
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| 4. Salomon Women's SENSE RIDE 3 W, Trail Running Shoe |  |
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| 5. La Sportiva Kaptiva |  |
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| 6. Topo Athletic Ultraveture |  |
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| 7. Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5 Trail |  |
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| 8. Altra King MT 2 |  |
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| 9. Brooks Caldera 4 |  |
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1. Salomon Women’s Ultra Pro Trail Running Shoe — Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes
The first trail running shoe on our list is this Salomon Ultra pro, which is designed to deliver maximum comfort that you require when running through the trails. It is constructed with superlight materials that make it easy for you to keep running for a longer period without suffering from fatigue.
We also loved the sturdy construction that makes it strong and durable. When designing this shoe, Salomon put a lot of weight on the cushioning. The midsole is firmly done to support your foot without collapsing even when running over a long distance.
We liked the firmness because it allowed us to run the entire afternoon and still feel comfortable without getting fatigued. Another outstanding feature of the shoe is this adjustable foothold that uses Sensishift to help make adjustments between the midfoot and forefoot easy. Sensishift also offers additional protection to your feet.
Specs
- Weight: 260 grams
- Drop; 10mm
- Upper material: Synthetic and textile
Pros
- Good in offering protection and comfort when running for over long-distance
- Designed with a rubber outsole and firm lugs for a better grip
- Features a meshed upper part for enhanced breathability
- Superlight construction
- Helps you to run faster in the trails
- Top-quality cushioning
Cons
- Heavy
2. Saucony Women’s S10483-2 Trail Running Shoe — Runner Up
Coming close to our first pick is this Women’s S10483-2 Trail Running Shoe from Saucony. The shoe is a favorite for most athletes because it ticks right in most boxes, including traction, weight, durability, and comfort. So, whether you are looking forward to conquering steep or tough terrain with loose surfaces, this is one of the shoes to consider.
The cushioning of the shoe is designed to provide optimal comfort, especially if you will be working on for a long period on the trail. The midsole is designed using a sturdy foam while the upper section is meshed to help your feet feel fresh and firm throughout the running session.
The outsole of this shoe is designed using rubber and firm lugs to give you a firm grip irrespective of where you are racing through. So, whether you are running in slippery trails, nothing can come between you and good performance when using this shoe.
Specs
- Weight: 260 grams
- Heel-toe-drop: 4mm
- Upper part: Fabric or synthetic
Pros
- Strong midsole cushioning for better feet protection
- Designed with ISOFIT dynamics upper part for enhanced comfort and breathability
- The sole is made of rubber with large lugs for better traction
- Carefully made for extra durability
Cons
- Enhanced cushioning can cause ankle discomfort
3. Merrell Mix Master 3
Notably, most trail running shoes are bulky because they are designed to provide additional protection. However, if you want a superlight trail running shoe for ladies, this Merrell Mix Master 3 might be the answer you are looking for.
The shoe is very light, and cushioning molds easily to your foot, providing a natural feel when running in the trails. Merrell brand believes that when you do what feels tight, you will end up feeling good.
This is why they designed the shoe with a firm, but light outsole and foam cushioning that provides all the support you need without adding significant weight.We found the cushioning very effective so that most athletes rarely note the tough terrain they are running on.
Another awe-inspiring thing about the shoe is its M Select GRIP that easily grabs the surface firmly and makes your steps more stable.Whether the ground is muddy or wet, you get the grip when and where you want it. So, if you want to improve track running performance, this shoe is one of the best pieces to help you.
Specs
- Weight: 192 grams
- Drop: 6mm
- Upper part: Textile and synthetic
Pros
- Meshed upper section for enhanced breathability
- Top-quality cushioning
- High-quality rubber outsole
- Available in four different colors
- Affordable
Cons
- The sole is used up fast
4. Salomon Women’s SENSE RIDE 3 W, Trail Running Shoe
Salomon makes our list again with this Women’s SENSE RIDE 3 W trail running shoe that is designed for strength and speed. Because of its enhanced cushioning and premium traction, this shoe has become very popular, especially with women runners who want to run faster and cross the finishing line first.
The most notable feature of this shoe is the enhanced cushioning that makes the shoe extra comfortable and enjoyable to use. It uses an optimized midsole with an Optivibe vibration reduction system to make every stride comfortable. Although most trails are tough and rough, this shoe can help to make every step feel smooth, and indeed, enjoyable.
In addition to the lovely cushioning, the outsole of the shoe is designed with a full rubber Contagrip that helps to provide maximum traction. Even if your trail is full of mud or loose grit, you are sure of enjoying a firm grip that will allow you to keep running without losing speed.
To keep your feet further protected, the shoe also features a strong Profeel film that filters off debris and other materials from reaching the feet. With the shoe, you can run through every trail out there with confidence that nothing harmful will get into your feet.
Specs
- Weight: 235 grams
- Drop: 8mm
- Upper part material: Synthetic
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Awesome cushioning
- Uses a Profeel film to protect your feet
- Helps to improve speed
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
5. La Sportiva Kaptiva
The next best trail running shoe for ladies in our list is this La Sportiva Laptiva, one of the top-rated shoes because of its unique design and features. Although expensive, athletes indicate that it provides good cushioning and support that helps them run faster on the trails.
To provide extra stability when running in uneven terrain, the shoe uses SBT control inserts. The inserts work together with the midsole cushioning to help stabilize every step, no matter the incline. This means that even if you are running up a ridge or moving in rocky terrain, the pressure on your feet will be minimal.
The shoes are also designed with a large rubber outsole to provide better stability, comfort, and precision when dealing with tough terrains. Sticky lugs on the rubber outsole are well pronounced to help you to get a perfect grip and run fast even if the ground has loose soil or is wet.
Specs
- Weight: 255 grams
- Drop: 6mm
Pros
- Uses slip-resistant nylon mesh lining to promote breathability
- The shoe makes running even on the rugged terrains pretty easy
- Firm cushioning that helps to protect the feet when moving through uneven terrain
- Light construction
- Durable
- Goof for both competition and training purposes
Cons
- A small toe-box
6. Topo Athletic Ultraveture
Do you suffer from squished toes, especially after running for long distances? It might be time to shift to a more comfortable shoe, and this Topo Athletic Ultraventure might be the answer that you want. It is designed with a wider toe-box that offers optimal support while the rest offers the support you need when running in the trails.
We tried the shoe, and it was very comfortable, making the feet feel relaxed even hours of running outdoors. The shoe is designed with a comfortable and anti-compression footbed that takes the shape of your foot for enhanced protection. So, whether you have a low or high arc, this shoe will not disappoint.
To make the footbed more effective, it has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the development of germs and bad smell when running. You can expect your feet to keep feeling fresh and healthy irrespective of the length of time you will have used running.
The shoe also features 6mm rubber lugs carefully done on the firm rubber outsole, making the shoe really grippy, especially when running on muddy and wet trails. So, whether you want to run on a wet Sunday morning or through a trail with loose grit, this shoe will not disappoint.
Specs
- Weight: 227 grams
- Drop: 5mm
- Upper part: Meshed synthetic
Pros
- Works well for both trail and street running
- Awesome cushioning
- Affordable
- Durable construction
- Helps to promote stability when running
- Meshed upper part for enhanced breathability, and support
Cons
- Not very good for rocky trails
7. Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5 Trail
If you are new to trail running, whether for competition or fun, you need a reliable shoe that can easily overcome the challenges of rugged terrain. One shoe that fits that bill is this Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5 Trail, a tough piece that will make every run in the field fun.
During the review, we agreed with elite athletes that even when new to trail running, this shoe can make you perform like a pro. The most notable thing about the shoe is the oversize sole that offers plenty of protection when running in the trails.
Even if the ground is full of debris such as branches and rocks, you can maintain your focus on running faster because the sole will not let any material get to your feet and harm them.
The midsole of the shoe is designed to provide ample cushioning to your foot by taking its shape. It also links the cushioning on the and heel for a balanced forward transition. The effect is that you will be able to easily run faster.
Specs
- Weight: 218 grams
- Drop: 5mm
- Sole: Rubber
Pros
- The shoe works well on both trail and street running
- Outstanding cushioning for foot protection
- A great shoe for conquering even the toughest trails
- Large rubber outsole and lugs for better traction and foot protection
Cons
- Expensive
8. Altra King MT 2
If you want to run in muddy or wet trails, it is important to have shoes with additional protection to prevent water from getting into your feet, and this Altra King MT 2 is one of the top options out there. The shoe uses ALTRA EGO, a dual-nature midsole compound that is highly responsive when you are running.
The response gives a soft feel for enhanced energy return, allowing you to keep running in the trails and complete your race faster.To make the shoe more outstanding, it is constructed with a high-performance sticky rubber outsole with an unparalleled grip for a better grip on wet and muddy surfaces.
Furthermore, it features canted lugs that make the shoes very effective when running on rocky trails. Unlike pavement running, running in the trails requires better balancing, and that is why this shoe was designed with a large outsole.
To further enhance the balance, the shoe places your forefoot and heel at the same distance from the ground to promote low-impact form when running through the trails.
Specs
- Weight: 207
- Drop: zero
- Upper part: Tear-resistant and quick-dry synthetic
Pros
- Large toe-box that allows the toes and foot to relax and spread naturally
- The shoe is customized based on the anatomy of female feet
- Strategically positioned lugs for better grip in wet and muddy areas
- Uses a hook-and-loop tab for strapless gaiter attachment to prevent debris attachment below the shoe
Cons
- Not very good for everyday running
9. Brooks Caldera 4
The last shoe to make our list of the best trail running shoes for ladies is this Brooks Caldera 4, a lightweight model that packs top-rated features to make running on the trail more comfortable. The shoe is designed with lightweight cushioning and trailtack grip rubber that allows you to maintain total control no matter the terrain.
The shoe uses a lightweight BioMoGo DNA midsole that is slightly raised to help you maintain a constant pace when running over long distances. Furthermore, the trailtack rubber comes with unique directional flaps to make going uphill or downhill easy.
We found the trailback rubber equally effective even when running on wet surfaces. For example, if you go through a ripple, the innovative uppers and sole structures will repel the water and drain it away.
Because most tough trails, especially the rocky ones, might have sharp debris, the large outsole is tough enough to help protect your foot. With this shoe, most trail runners get the courage to try new and more challenging routes.
Specs
- Weight: 283 grams
- Drop: 6mm
- Sole: Trailback rubber sole
Pros
- Designed with a large toe-box for extra comfort
- Unique trailtack rubber soles that helps to drain away water when running in wet areas
- Its BioMoGo DNA midsole allows you to maintain a constant pace
- Very effective for running in tough trails
Cons
- Expensive
Buying Guide
After reading through our trail running shoes for women above, the time has now come to pinpoint the best one for you. Here is our comprehensive guide on what to look for to identify the best shoe for running out in the trails:
How Long Should A Trail Running Shoe Last?
The life of a trail running shoe or any sports shoe depends on a number of factors, such as the user’s weight, the running style, and frequency of use. If you use your sports shoe only once a week, it will last longer compared to another person who uses the same type of shoe daily.
The rule of the thumb is to consider changing the shoe when it hits 300-500 miles. So, if you are an athlete who runs 10 miles every week, the shoe should be able to last for approximately eight months.
However, a more active athlete who makes up to 20 miles every week should be ready to replace the shoe in only 4-6 months. However, if you notice indicators of excessive wear, such as decreased comfort, tears, and tears, it is an indication you need to replace it.
How To Select The Best Trail Running Shoes For Women
Each of the shoes that we reviewed above was selected because of its overall performance. Here is a further breakdown of the important things that you should give weight when buying a trail running shoe.
Weight
When running out in the trails, using a shoe that is too heavy is likely to slow you down because you will feel like an extra weight has been added to you. However, most trail running shoes are heavier compared to sneakers for running on pavements or streets.
The average weight for the top trail running shoes for women is about 220 grams. So, pick the shoe model that feels comfortable enough in your feet without slowing you down.
Drop
A shoe’s drop is the measurement of how far your toe drops from the heel. If a shoe has a higher drop, it can result in more heel striking. Most trail running shoes have a drop of 8-12 millimeters, which is considered the standard. However, it is not uncommon to get some shoes with a drop of less than 6mm, and minimalist designs with zero drop.
Cushioning
When running in the woods, the ground is uneven, and your feet are likely to be subjected to a lot of pressure. If the shoes you select are not cushioned well, there is a risk of suffering injuries. With good cushioning, your shoes feel like you are walking on a sponge.
This makes running even on tough terrain more interesting and enjoyable. If you will be running over a longer distance, it is advisable to go for the shoes with more cushioning. So, does this mean that the more the cushion, the better the shoes? It is not always the case.
When looking forward to buying a trail running shoe, it is advisable to target the right balance between comfort and speed. For example, a person looking forward to running faster and breaking current records should target shoes with light cushioning, stiffer outsole and minimal lug.
Flexibility
If you want to be successful in trail running, you need to go for a flexible shoe. With ‘flexibility,’ we mean the ability to match different types of terrains.
Therefore, the best shoes for trail running should come with a firm outsole and tough lugs to provide a good grip on the surface. With flexible shoes, it is easy to make the foot to adapt to the trail and avoid injuries.
The Upper Part
The upper section of a trail running shoe is the entire part that is fitted on the sole. The upper part is very crucial because it determines how strong and breathable the shoe is. Most traditional shoe designs relied on layers of different fabrics, but new manufacturers are now adopting modern designs that use knotting and meshing.
Things To Avoid When Buying The Best Trail Running Shoes For Women
Now that we have looked at the things to focus on when buying trail running shoes for ladies, we will now tell you the things to avoid.
Buying Trail Running Shoes Just For Looks
When buying the best trail shoes, some ladies maintain a lot of focus on fashion, but it is advisable to try and steer from that. If you purchase a shoe that simply looks good for running in the trails, the chances are that you will get disappointed along the way and start looking for another.
Instead, you should focus on picking a shoe that has top qualities, such as good cushioning and strong lugs, which make running easy and safe. When buying trail running shoes, make sure to think about the tough terrain that you will have to face out there. Then, select a shoe to help you overcome the challenges.
Purchasing Shoes That Are Too Small
If you purchase shoes that are too small, they are likely to press your feet, resulting in the development of blisters. Because most ladies prefer using fitting shoes, the risk of selecting a smaller trail running shoe is particularly high compared to men.
Assuming Your Size
What is the size of your foot? Most people use the measurements they got when they last bought other shoes. However, using this measurement is incorrect because human foot changes depending on the footwear you use.
For example, a lady who uses tight-fitting closed shoes is likely to shrink her feet. Instead of relying on the old measurements that might have been taken a few weeks or months away, measure your feet again and use the current size to select the preferred shoes.
Assuming All Types Of Trail Running Is The Same
If you want to get super-performance from your trail running shoes, it’ll be your undoing to assume that all types of trail running are the same. For example, are you looking forward to running in rocky areas, muddy trails, or paths with loose chippings?
Final Thoughts
To become successful in trail running, the most important thing is having the right shoes. The best shoes will help to protect your feet and make it easy to conquer what you thought was impossible.
Our best women’s trail running shoes in our reviews above are the best that you can get from top brands in the market today. They have some of the best features to help you run faster, cushion your feet, and enjoy every moment.
Although we stand with the nine trail running shoes for ladies in our reviews above (they are superb), the Salomon Women’s Ultra Pro Trail Running Shoe was the best of them all. The shoe has a sturdy construction and good cushioning that will make trail running more fulfilling.
