10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 is designed for trail runners and mountain hikers who need reliable support and protection on varied terrains. It offers strong traction thanks to its TrailTack Green outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces. The cushioning system, DNA LOFT v2, provides a soft yet responsive feel, helping to keep your feet comfortable over long distances.

Stability is another highlight, with the Trail Adapt System and a built-in rock shield that protect your feet from sharp objects while still allowing enough flexibility for natural movement. The breathable mesh upper dries quickly and is reinforced with overlays to guard against trail debris, which adds to the shoe’s durability. Plus, the TPU mudguard helps block dirt and stones from getting inside. While it offers some water resistance through quick-drying materials and a mudguard, it is not fully waterproof, so very wet conditions might still cause dampness.

The fit is standard with a lace-up closure, suitable for medium-width feet, but if you have wider feet you might want to try them on first. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, the shoe balances protection and comfort without feeling too heavy. This shoe serves as a dependable, well-rounded trail runner that handles rocky, muddy, and uneven paths well, though it may not keep you completely dry in very wet weather.

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 Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail Running Shoe is designed specifically for trail runners and mountain hikers. One of its standout features is the DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which provides a soft and comfortable feel over various terrains. The shoe also offers excellent traction thanks to the TrailTack Green outsole rubber, making it suitable for both wet and dry conditions. Additionally, the shoe’s stability is enhanced by the Trail Adapt System and the zonal outsole pods, which help maintain control and a stable ride on uneven surfaces.

The breathable mesh upper and the TPU mudguard add to the shoe’s durability, protecting your feet from trail debris and ensuring the shoe dries quickly after getting wet. However, while the shoe excels in cushioning, traction, and stability, it may have some drawbacks. The fit of the shoe might be an issue for some users, as it is only available in medium width, potentially limiting comfort for those with wider feet. Additionally, while the shoe is designed to block trail debris, it may not offer the same level of water resistance as some other trail running shoes.

That being said, the Cascadia 18 is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable and stable shoe for trail running, especially in diverse conditions.