7 Best Trail Running Shoes For Women in 2023

Jovana Subic
Jovana Subic on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Trail Running Shoes For Women in 2023
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There are nearly 500 trail running shoes for women available on the market. Choosing the right pair is exhausting, to say the least.  

But don’t fret, we took our time testing and selecting the best trail runners for women from various brands. They also come from different categories. So whether you’re looking for a trail bruiser, a protective shoe, or a long-distance tank, you got the answers on this list.

Best overall
Hoka Tecton X Hoka Tecton X
$200 $150 From Fleet Feet
Best with wide toebox
Altra Lone Peak 7 Altra Lone Peak 7
$150 $143 From Amazon
Best lightweight
Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
$160 $70 From Amazon
Best for ultra
Salomon Ultra Glide Salomon Ultra Glide
$140 $56 From Running Warehouse
Best for mud
Saucony Peregrine 13 Saucony Peregrine 13
$140 $79 From Amazon
Best for long distance
Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 Nike React Pegasus Trail 4
$140 $84 From Running Warehouse
Best with plush cushioning
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Hoka Speedgoat 5
$155 $110 From Hoka
See all 322 women's trail running shoes

    How we test trail running shoes

    We conduct a multitude of tests in all the trail running shoes in our arsenal. With our own shoe testing lab, we gather data on each shoe that helps to explain why they are the greatest. Even more, we also make sure to do the following: 

    • Get them with our own money to avoid bias
    • Run at least 30-50 miles in each shoe
    • Slice them open and see what’s inside
    • Measure each part of the shoe based on 30 different parameters
    • Calculate their CoreScore through gathering thousands of expert and user reviews

    Best trail running shoes overall for women

    Hoka Tecton X
    Hoka Tecton X
    Tecton X on rocky trails
    Hoka Tecton X Cut In Half
    hoka tecton x cut in pieces
    tecton x laces
    Tongue thickness on Hoka X
    Hoka Tecton X Trail Runs
    Hoka Tecton X Torsional Flexibility
    hoka tecton x outsole
    hoka-tecton-x-lugs.JPG
    Depth of lugs on Tecton X
    Hoka Tecton X Cushioning Test
    Hoka Tecton X stack height
    Hoka Tecton X Slow Motion
    Heel base measurement on Tecton X
    Tecton X in the freezer
    hoka tecton x trail running
    Stretching in Tecton X
    hoka tecton x breathable upper
    Hoka Tecton X Carbon Plate
    Toebox with of Hoka Tecton X
    hoka tecton x outsole
    Tecton X on trails
    Hoka Tecton X
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Hoka Tecton X is Hoka's first carbon-plated trail running shoe. To justify the name, it just might have started a tectonic shift - that's how much it is loved by runners. It's positioned as a speed-ready, racing and training companion to the Hoka Speedgoat 5. Thanks to the dual-plated design, it shines at fast paces, especially the ultra ones. On top of this, it's a max-cushioned running shoe that keeps the feet protected without weighing them down.

    Pros

    • 2 carbon plates: very propulsive ride
    • Insanely stable
    • Looks fast and runs fast
    • Lightweight
    • Very cushioned & responsive
    • Worth the investment
    • Room for feet swelling
    • Grippy
    • No break-in
    • Vegan materials used

    Cons

    • Not for technical terrains
    • Might accumulate mud
    • Expensive
    Full review of Hoka Tecton X

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Camellia - Blue Coral (1123162CBCRL)
    Deep Teal/Water Garden (DTWGR)
    Blue (SBDP)
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $165
    See deal  
    $166
    See deal  
    $200
    See deal  

    Best trail running shoes with wide toebox for women

    Altra Lone Peak 7
    Altra Lone Peak 7
    altra-lone-peak-7-review.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Cut In Half
    altra-lone-peak-7-lab-test.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Breathability
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Breathability Light
    altra-lone-peak-7-tongue-thickness.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Cushioning
    altra-lone-peak-7-heel-stack.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-forefoot-stack.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-inside.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-cushioning-softness-durometer.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-in-cold.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Ride
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Heel To Toe
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Flexibility Measurement
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Flexibility
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Stability
    altra-lone-peak-7-forefoot-width.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-heel-width.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Stable Ride
    altra-lone-peak-7-gusseted-tongue.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-lacing.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7 Heel Counter
    altra-lone-peak-7-fit.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-toebox-width.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-sizing.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-grip.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-lug-depth.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-outsole.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-style.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-price.JPG
    altra-lone-peak-7-lab-measurement.JPG
    Altra Lone Peak 7
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    Trail runners, backpackers, and day hikers alike praised the 7th version of the Lone Peak - the do-it-all trail running shoe from Altra. People love how these shoes are versatile and comfy enough for casual trods in the mountains and taking on sharp turns on single-track descents. The lockdown and grip of these shoes let wearers take on the trail with confidence.

    Pros

    • Very wide toebox
    • Protective midsole
    • Superb lockdown
    • Super grippy outsole
    • Excellent for fast runs in the mountains
    • Added heel cup provides stability
    • Super comfy
    • Easy to clean

    Cons

    • Colorways might be a downer
    • A bit pricey
    Full review of Altra Lone Peak 7

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Dark Purple (AL0A7R7G252)
    Orange (AL0A7R7G880)
    Light Gray (AL0A7R7G224)
    Dark Red (AL0A7R7G668)
    Tan (AL0A7R7G922)
    Rosa (AL0A7R7G580)
    Green (AL0A7R7G330)
    $143
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  

    Best lightweight trail running shoes for women

    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Top View.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra 360
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Back Angle.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Lacing.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Side.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Width.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Flex Test
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Freezer.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Flex
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Weight.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Outsole.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Outsole Heel.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Upper Toe.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Logo.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Reflective.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra Front Angle 2.jpg
    Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Most trail runners haven't been very KEEN on Adidas trail shoes. They seemed like an afterthought given that the brand's focus was admittedly on sneakers and soccer cleats. But then the Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra arrived. It performed so well out on the trails that many runners have chosen it as their go-to.

    Pros

    • Lightweight
    • Nimble ride
    • Grippy outsole
    • Breathable
    • Dries quickly
    • Great lockdown
    • Reflective elements

    Cons

    • Feels a touch minimalist
    • No heel pull loop
    Full review of Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Blue (FW2806)
    Black (FW2830)
    Black (GZ8920)
    Green (GZ8921)
    orange (HR1120)
    Blue (HR1152)
    $70
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  
    $77
    See deal  
    $80
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $125
    See deal  

    Best women's trail running shoes for ultra

    Salomon Ultra Glide
    Salomon Ultra Glide
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Parts.jpg
    Salomon Ultra Glide Features
    Salomon Ultra Glide Saw
    Salomon Ultra Glide Reveal
    Salomon Ultra Glide Cut
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Tongue-Thickness.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Insole-Thickness.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Cross-Section-Heel.jpg
    Salomon Ultra Glide Flex Test
    Salomon Ultra Glide Flex
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Cross-Section.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Outsole.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Stack-Heel.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Weight.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Heel.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Outsole (2).jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Upper.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Lacing.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Cross-Section-Tongue.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Reflective-Side.jpg
    Salomon-Ultra-Glide-Reflective-Heel.jpg
    Salomon Ultra Glide
    89
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    Plush comfort in a Salomon! It’s what the trail running community has been waiting for. The Ultra Glide is Salomon’s answer to Hoka’s reign over the cushioned trail shoe category and they nailed it. This shoe has a peppy, energetic ride, a soft, breathable upper, and a grippy, durable outsole. It’s worth a look at $140 and has a ton of great features. The only gripe I could conjure up is it’s a touch narrow if you have a wide foot.

    Pros

    • Durable
    • Breathable
    • Grippy
    • Great lockdown
    • Plush and comfortable
    • Great lacing system
    • Protective overlays
    • Energetic ride
    • Cushioned

    Cons

    • Tight midfoot for wider feet
    • No reflective details
    Full review of Salomon Ultra Glide

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Blue / Grey (L415539)
    Quail/Yellow Iris/Fiery Red (L417278)
    Purple (L415987)
    Orange (L415792)
    Blau Yucca Pearl Blue Charlock (L415540)
    Multi (L414308)
    Black/Alloy/Goji Berry (L414305)
    $56
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $85
    See deal  
    $112
    See deal  
    $120
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best women's trail running shoes for mud

    Saucony Peregrine 13
    Saucony Peregrine 13
    saucony-peregrine-13-onfeet.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Cutting
    saucony-peregrine-13-hands.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Smoke
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Light
    saucony-peregrine-13-dual.jpg
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Upper
    saucony-peregrine-13-microscope-close.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-microscope.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-midsole-durometer.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Midsole
    saucony-peregrine-13-freezer.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-midsole-forefoot.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Stability
    saucony-peregrine-13-midsole-heel.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Strike
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Flex
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Flex Hands
    Kailas Fuga Yao Flexibility
    saucony-peregrine-13-heel.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-forefoot.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-lugs.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13 Rocker
    saucony-peregrine-13-logo.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-outsole-running.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-outsole-durometer.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-insole.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-laces.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-gusset.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-tongue.JPG
    saucony-peregrine-13-table.JPG
    Saucony Peregrine 13
    89
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    As one of the longest-running trail series, it’s safe to say the Peregrine is among the first shoes runners think about when going offroad. It can handle nearly anything you throw at it thanks to its tried-and-true comfort, agility, and traction. But what truly puts the v13 above its predecessors is its thicker slab of midsole foam—making it even more capable for easy days, long slow miles, and the occasional race through punishing terrains.

    Pros

    • Cushioned and protective midsole
    • Better for longer efforts than the v12
    • A good trail racing option
    • Great traction whether on ice, snow, gravel, and dirt
    • Mud just falls off the outsole
    • Comfy and airy upper
    • Performance-oriented fit
    • No heel slippage
    • Smooth and natural-feeling ride

    Cons

    • Debris tends to get in
    • Not as fast as other speedwork trail shoes
    • Too-firm midsole
    Full review of Saucony Peregrine 13

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Arroyo (S1083835)
    Beige (S1083885)
    Berry/Mineral (S1083816)
    Green (S1083825)
    Night/Fossil (S1083815)
    Finesse Black (S1083891)
    $79
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best women's trail running shoes for long distance

    Nike React Pegasus Trail 4
    Nike React Pegasus Trail 4
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_011.JPG
    Pegasus Trail 4 Saw Cutting_1
    nike-pegasus-trail-4_001.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_004.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4_015.JPG
    Pegasus Trail 4 Heel Squeeze_1
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_010.JPG
    Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Outdoor 04_1
    Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Outdoor 09_1
    Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Outdoor 08_1
    nike-pegasus-trail-4_026.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_008.JPG
    Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Outdoor 03_1
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_002.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_006.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4_020.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_012.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4_005.JPG
    nike-pegasus-trail-4-outdoor_014.JPG
    Nike React Pegasus Trail 4
    88
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The React Pegasus Trail 4 is one of the top road-to-trail options from Nike. Cushiony and responsive on the roads yet grippy and stable on the trails, the shoe makes a perfect hybrid. It also remains surprisingly light given all the features packed into it. Experienced runners are happy that it feels a lot like the original Pegasus Trail 36 but with an enhanced grip.

    Pros

    • Efficient road-to-trail
    • Well-cushioned
    • Stable ride
    • Excellent, secure fit
    • Very breathable
    • Great traction
    • Unexpectedly light
    • Reasonably priced

    Cons

    • Not for muddy areas
    • Not for wide feet
    • Could be more stylish
    Full review of Nike React Pegasus Trail 4

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Orange (DJ6159800)
    Orange (DJ6159801)
    Pink (DJ6159600)
    Black (DJ6158004)
    Purple (DJ6159500)
    gold (DJ6158700)
    Black (DJ6158001)
    White (FD0876100)
    More colors
    $84
    See deal  
    $89
    See deal  
    $95
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best women's trail running shoes with plush cushioning

    Hoka Speedgoat 5
    Hoka Speedgoat 5
    hoka-speedgoat-5-review
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Cutting
    hoka-speedgoat-5-lab-review
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Grip
    hoka-speedgoat-5-outsole-traction
    hoka-speedgoat-5-lug-depth
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Breathability Smoke Test
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Light Transparency Test
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Spriny Ride
    hoka-speedgoat-5-cushioning-softness
    hoka-speedgoat-5-in-cold-conditions
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Cushioning
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Flex Measure
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Stability
    hoka-speedgoat-5-sole-width
    hoka-speedgoat-5-durable
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Lightweight
    hoka-speedgoat-5-fit
    hoka-speedgoat-5-forefoot-width
    hoka-speedgoat-5-gusseted-tongue
    hoka-speedgoat-5-tongue-thickness
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Heel Flexibility
    hoka-speedgoat-5-toe-protection
    hoka-speedgoat-5-heel-stack
    hoka-speedgoat-5-insole
    hoka-speedgoat-5-forefoot-stack
    Hoka Speedgoat 5 Reflective Elements
    hoka-speedgoat-5-sustainable-materials
    hoka-speedgoat-5-lab-measurements
    Hoka Speedgoat 5
    89
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The Speedgoat 5 from Hoka remains your reliable and great-value do-everything trail shoe. But if you want to bring the best out of it, fast runs on very technical terrains can do the trick. On top of this, it ticks all the boxes of an excellent trail shoe. It's insanely grippy, durable, and supportive; conquering the great outdoors is an easy feat. Overall, take the Hoka Speedgoat 5 if you want to go fast and far.

    Pros

    • Super grippy
    • Springy ride
    • Stable platform
    • Extra durable
    • High impact protection
    • Lightweight
    • Breathable
    • Secure fit
    • Excellent heel hold

    Cons

    • Not for wide feet
    • Flared collar is not for everyone (style-wise)
    Full review of Hoka Speedgoat 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Deep Lake/Ceramic (DLCR)
    Bellwether Blue/Cyclamen (BBCY)
    Stone Blue/Dark Citron (SBDCT)
    Coastal Shade/Green Glow (CSGG)
    Blue Coral/Camellia (BCCML)
    Blue Graphite Evening Primrose (BGEPM)
    Festival Fuchsia/Camellia (FFCM)
    Impala/Flame (1123157IFLM)
    More colors
    $110
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 7 best trail running shoes for women

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    Author
    Jovana Subic
    Jovana Subic

    Whether it's a vertical kilometre or an ultra, climbing in the Alps or exploring local mountains, Jovana uses every opportunity to trade walls and concrete for forests and trails. She logs at least 10h/week on trails, with no off-season, and 4x more on research on running and running shoes. With a background in physics and engineering management, she prefers her running spiced with data.

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