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 Men’s Divide 5 GTX is designed as a versatile trail running shoe that smoothly adapts from road to trail environments. Its standout feature is the waterproof Gore-Tex upper, which keeps your feet dry while still allowing breathability, making it a good choice for wet or unpredictable weather. The shoe uses DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which is lighter and softer than before, providing comfortable impact absorption and smooth transitions whether you’re on pavement or light trails. Traction is another strong point, thanks to the TrailTack outsole with aggressive lugs that grip well on wet and dry surfaces, helping with stability on varied terrain.

The fit mimics a road shoe, offering a snug midfoot hold with the help of a gusseted tongue, which means it should feel secure without being too tight. The upper’s mesh material also dries quickly and keeps the shoe lightweight, while protective elements like a TPU mudguard and toecap shield your feet from trail debris. In terms of durability, the rubber outsole includes recycled materials but still promises solid wear over time.

This shoe is best suited for light to moderate trails rather than very technical or rugged mountain paths since the lug depth and overall structure favor versatility over extreme trail performance. For those seeking a reliable, comfortable shoe that performs well on both roads and easy trails with waterproof protection, the Divide 5 GTX is a solid pick.