5 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes in 2023
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Why trust us
Brooks has made a name in the running world. It’s given us some of the best road running shoes, and it sure didn’t let us down with its trail shoes.
Among all the running shoes we’ve tested, nothing comes close to Brooks trail shoes in the durability department. Even better, they’re supportive and grippy, it’s hard to lose your steps in them.
How we test trail running shoes
Every shoe on this list, we’ve examined down to the nitty-gritties. We also have our own RunRepeat shoe testing lab where we conduct these tests. And before we do the following, we always make sure to buy each shoe with our own money:
- Run in them for a minimum of 30-50 miles
- Slice them into bits
- Measure each part via 30 different parameters like lightness, breathability, flexibility, etc.
- Compute their Corescore through thousands of expert and user feedback
Best Brooks trail running shoes overall
Brooks Cascadia 16
87
Great!
What makes it the best?
Brooks updates their venerable trail crusher in this 16 version of the Cascadia. If you demand a stout grip, a stable platform, and bright colors take a look at the Cascadia 16. It’s true to size, durable as hell, and packed with features like a ballistic rock plate, lace loop, and enough upper lacing eyelets to ensure a custom fit. These aggressive kicks are ready for adventure!
Pros
- Grippy outsole
- Great lockdown
- True to size
- Roomy toebox
- Durable
- Gaiter attachments
- Rock plate
- Aggressive
- Lacing options
Cons
- On the heavier side
- A bit stiff
- Runs warm
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Amazon
Free shipping
$95
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$100
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$100
Backcountry
Free shipping
$100
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$100
REI
Free shipping
$130
Best Brooks trail running shoes with wide toebox
Brooks Caldera 6
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
A true bruiser, the Caldera 6 from Brooks is a trail running shoe that lives and breathes comfort and protection. This said, it's not only a perfect trail shoe for long days; it's also an exceptional choice for road-to-trail excursions. Even more, it's hailed as the best Caldera to date, nailing it in the ride department with its fun and peppy performance.
Pros
- Maxed-out protection
- Grippy on wet, semi-technical trails
- Stable on rugged surfaces
- More responsive
- Great for road-to-trail runs
- Comfy for long miles
- Lighter than the Caldera 5
- Roomy enough for ultras
- Amazing heel hold
- Soft upper
Cons
- Doesn't shed off mud
- Not for narrow feet
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$100
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$150
Backcountry
Free shipping
$150
REI
Free shipping
$150
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$150
Fleet Feet
Free shipping & returns
$150
Brooks trail running shoes with best cushioning
Brooks Divide 3
87
Great!
What makes it the best?
The Brooks Divide 3 stands out as one of the best choices when it comes to door-to-trail shoes. It has received a complete makeover compared to the previous iteration, and considering its price, it's now a nearly perfect daily trainer, capable of tackling almost any situation, whether it is trails or roads. It can be as good (or even better) as many other more expensive competitors in its category.
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable
- Versatile for roads and trails
- Smooth predictable ride
- Great for long days out
- Absolutely affordable
- Overall secure fit
- Broad toe box
- Stable on moderate trails
Cons
- Ride feels flat
- Not for very technical trails
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$70
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$70
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$70
Fleet Feet
$75
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$100
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$100
Best Brooks trail running shoes for long distance
Brooks Cascadia 16 GTX
88
Great!
What makes it the best?
Many runners know the Cascadia. It was one of the most popular trail running shoes back in the day, and with the 16th version, it has received a solid update. It’s nearly an all-new shoe and one that excels at protecting and keeping the feet stable on a variety of terrains, whether you are out for an ultramarathon or a short hike. This GTX version is also effective against bad weather, and overall a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros
- Superb protection
- All-day comfort
- Smooth, pleasant ride
- Waterproof, yet breathable
- Roomy toe-box
- Secure fit
- Grippy even on wet rocks
- Extremely stable
- Sturdy and durable
- No breaking-in needed
- Doubles as a hiker
Cons
- Could be lighter
- Too firm underfoot for some
- Not particularly responsive
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$120
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$120
Backcountry
Free shipping
$120
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$120
Fleet Feet
Free shipping & returns
$120
REI
Free shipping
$160
Best Brooks trail supination running shoes
Brooks Catamount 2
89
Great!
What makes it the best?
Speedy runs on technical terrains are a piece of cake with the Catamount 2, according to most reviewers. With top-tier construction from top to bottom ensuring a snug and well-supported fit, these trail runners not only look good, but they also perform great too. The confidence-boosting lockdown and super grippy outsole make slipping on the trails a thing of the past with these trail shoes from Brooks.
Pros
- Fun and fast ride
- Fits true to size
- Great for technical terrain
- Very responsive
- Lightweight
- Superb lockdown
- Grips on almost everything
- Looks really rad
Cons
- Cutouts on the outsole pick up mud
- Cushion turns rigid at lower temperatures
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Free shipping
$150
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$170
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$170
REI
Free shipping
$170
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$170
Fleet Feet
Free shipping & returns
$170
Comparison of the 5 best Brooks trail running shoes
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