Trail running is an adventurous outdoor sport that offers the thrill of exploring nature, inspiring outdoor runners and trail enthusiasts to embrace the experience.
Trails can be wet, slippery, muddy, and uneven, so having the best support and traction from your running shoes helps you feel secure and confident on challenging terrains.
Running shoes need to offer good support to help reduce strain and ankle sprains, as well as good underfoot protection and traction on slippery and uneven surfaces.
Brooks Trail running shoes are designed with specific upper materials for waterproofing, durability, and moisture-wicking, and feature a trail-specific outsole with aggressive lugs to handle mud, roots, and uneven terrain for optimal grip on wet and dry outdoor trail surfaces.
Trail Running Vs Road Running
Trail running is exactly what it seems. You are running in nature, either completely off-road or on artificial paths.
Trail running is very unpredictable, unlike road running, so you are not guaranteed a smooth and paved path or even a dry path, for that matter.
There may be elevation changes for both trail and road running. However, trail running can encounter unpredictable terrain, including rocks, roots, streams, mud, and more.
Thus, you need specific running shoes for trail and road running.
Trail Running Shoes
So, how are trail running shoes different from road running shoes?
- Stability – Trail running shoes offer stability via heel counters, supportive uppers, and varying density midsoles. Trails shoes generally have denser and thinner midsoles and a lower heel-to-toe drop. They need to offer stability on varying surfaces, including uneven terrain and wet environments.
- Traction – Most road running shoes obtain their traction by having a wider contact with the ground. Flat outsoles work well for trail shoes; however, their grip on the tread is enhanced, and there are more aggressive lugs or stickier rubber for grip on wet rocks.
- Trail running shoes feature underfoot plates and slip-resistant outsoles to protect your feet from trail hazards, helping you feel safe during your run.
Features of a Good Brooks Trail Running Shoe
- Uppers – Most of the Trail Running shoes offered by Brooks will have Mesh Monoloop Uppers with 3D print and a waterproof design. Mesh and synthetic uppers are available, with a waterproof lining and a smooth interior. Trail running shoes are designed with more durable materials to withstand wear and tear and outdoor elements.
- Cushioning – Brooks Running shoes offer different kinds of cushioning systems. These include the softer and responsive DNA Loft cushioning. The More Adaptable BioMoGo DNA cushioning, the Nitrogen-infused DNA Flash midsole, and the DNA Amp midsole technology. Most Trail running shoes feature the DNA FLASH and BioMoGo midsoles.
- Support – For support, Brooks shoes have Guiderails that keep excess movement in check, along with a Progressive Diagonal Rollbar in some models for keeping your natural motion.
- Outsole – The Trail-specific running shoe models from Brooks will have a TrailTrack sticky rubber outsole or a slip-resistant rubber outsole. The TrailTrack rubber outsole provides excellent traction on wet and slippery rocks and surfaces, as well as loose sand and gravel, without collecting debris.
- Options – Brooks Trail running shoes offer full and half-size options with a medium fit, as well as more colors from which you can choose.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Cushioning (as listed) | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 | Running Shoe | Knit | DNA TUNED | Not stated |
| 2 | Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra | Trail Running Shoe | Mesh | DNA Loft v3 | Not stated |
| 3 | Brooks Cascadia 20 Trail | Trail Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Vibram rubber |
| 4 | Brooks Catamount 4 Speed | Trail Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Rubber |
| 5 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 | Running Shoe | Knit | DNA LOFT v3 | Not stated |
| 6 | Brooks Hyperion 3 | Running Shoe | Knit | Not stated | Rubber |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes
Listed below are some of Brooks’ most favored Trail running shoe models;
1
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- This Women’s Shoe IS FOR: the Glycerin GTS 23 blends plush comfort with smooth, stable support for distraction-free movement. Predecessor: Glycerin GTS 22, a useful trait in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Built-in GuideRails technology keeps excess motion in check by stabilizing the foot and aligning the knee, the kind of support many people look for in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Zonal nitrogen-infused DNA TUNED cushioning provides even more plushness in the forefoot, softening landings and energizing toe-offs, a useful trait in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Comfortable, Engineered Upper: a triple jacquard warp-knit upper delivers premium breathability and adaptive comfort in a streamlined package, which helps feet stay comfortable through running.
- With its 8mm offset and high-stack midsole, the Glycerin GTS 23 promotes a smooth, stable transition from heel to toe.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
2
Supportive Cushioned Trail Running Shoe
The Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this trail running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- Go the ultimate distance with the Caldera 8, featuring DNA Loft v3 high-stacked softness that acts like a bike tire over rough, rugged terrain while the raised sidewalls offer security and stabilization.
- Breathable Performance Upper: the elevated adaptable upper features durable materials that resist scratching and snagging on the trails, as well as air mesh with breathable TPEE in the top layer to provide excellent ventilation and moisture management.
- Super-soft nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning is super plush and stacked high to protect you from rough mountainous terrain, rocks, and roots for a comfortable long-distance ride.
- Smooth, Adaptable Ride: the raised sidewalls offer added security and flexibility where you need it, while the widened base and added flex grooves in the outsole work to stabilize your landings over rough terrain.
- To achieve Carbon Neutral product certification for this style, the brand increase use of recycled materials to lower carbon emissions, then support carbon offset projects to neutralize the emissions the brand can’t yet eliminate.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
3
Mesh Cushioned Trail Running Shoe for Rough Trails
The Brooks Cascadia 20 Trail comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this trail running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- Adventurous trail runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a stable, adaptable ride and reliable traction on any terrain. Predecessor: Cascadia 19, a practical detail for running.
- Features a Vibram Megagrip outsole with advanced 4mm lugs and Traction Lug technology for outstanding grip and durability on both wet and dry surfaces, keeping you confident on rugged or muddy trails.
- Enhanced with Trail Adapt technology for a wide, supportive base and flexible lugs that move naturally with your stride, a feature worth weighing when comparing Brooks trail running shoes.
- Thoughtfully engineered with a reinforced toe cap and mudguard for added defense against debris and impacts, ensuring your trail shoes stand up to the harshest adventures while maintaining a comfortable, supportive fit.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
4
Cushioned Lightweight Trail Running Shoe
The Brooks Catamount 4 Speed comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this trail running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- Reach top speeds in the Catamount 4 with the new and improved SkyVault Trail Plate which helps deliver speed while ascending vertical trails.
- Uphill Efficiency: the new and improved SkyVault Trail Plate, combined with Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH V2 midsole technology provides a high energy return and aids uphill running – all while adapting to your unique stride.
- Push the pace with the SkyVault propulsion plate that is engineered to help you run uphill efficiently while doubling as a rock shield so runners can push the pace and summit peaks.
- TrailTack Green rubber outsole is made with recycled content and offers superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces, while the strategic lug geometry allows for great agility.
- Breathable Performance Upper: a premium single-layer mesh crafted from durable TPEE fibers offers lightweight breathability and exceptional durability, ensuring your foot remains secure on rugged trails and uneven terrain.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
5
Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- Featuring holistic GuideRails for Go-To Support and soft, dynamic premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers distraction-free comfort mile after mile, a useful trait in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Guiderails Holistic Support System: the brand’s innovative technology – known as “GTS” for “Go-To Support” – supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
- Even more premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers lightweight softness, and feel-good comfort mile after mile, a useful trait in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Trusted FIT: the breathable engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar offer a secure, comfortable fit, providing both structure and flexibility to accommodate natural movement during active use.
- Smooth Transitions: the specially designed outsole and midsole work together to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort and support for every step, so you can stay active longer.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
6
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The Brooks Hyperion 3 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for Brooks trail running shoes.
- This Women’s Shoe IS FOR: the Hyperion 3 is designed for speed and versatility, helping you feel light and fast, so the shoe does not feel heavy during running.
- Faster Speeds: the nitrogen-infused DNA Flash v2 cushioning promotes quicker transitions and enhanced responsiveness, delivering a more powerful, springy ride, a useful trait in Brooks trail running shoes.
- Versatile Performance: lightweight, quick, and cushioned to power any run or gym session. The Hyperion 3 is ultra-responsive and springy, which helps keep long stretches of running comfortable.
- Breathable, Lightweight Upper: the light and breathable double jacquard knit upper ensures a secure midfoot lockdown, offering distraction-free comfort and support for versatile performance across all runs.
- Additional Benefits: the RoadTack rubber outsole is lightweight, durable, and designed for optimal rebound, while the knit collar and tongue, along with +2mm of cushioning in the sockliner, offer enhanced comfort and support for every step.
- Airy FIT: the upper locks down to provide security and speed, while its lightweight, breathable mesh provides comfort during long runs or hard workouts, worth noting if fit is a priority for Brooks trail running shoes.
- DNA GOLD 100% PEBA cushioning is the lightest, softest, and highest energy-return foam Brooks has ever created.
Index Table: Top Rated Brooks Trail Running Shoes
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brooks® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 2 | Brooks® - Supportive Cushioned Trail Running Shoe |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 3 | Brooks® - Mesh Cushioned Trail Running Shoe for Rough Trails |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 4 | Brooks® - Cushioned Lightweight Trail Running Shoe |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 5 | Brooks® - Knit Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
| 6 | Brooks® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| Brooks |
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 to Brooks Glycerin GTS 23
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Caldera 6 to Brooks Caldera 8 Ultra
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Cascadia 16 to Brooks Cascadia 20 Trail
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Catamount to Brooks Catamount 4 Speed
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Launch 9 GTS to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Oct 2026: Updated Brooks Hyperion Elite 3 to Brooks Hyperion 3
- Aug 2022: First published
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