10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

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.

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 17 is designed for trail runners seeking reliable performance across varied terrain. It stands out with its soft cushioning thanks to the DNA LOFT v2 midsole, which helps keep your feet comfortable even on long runs over rough ground. Traction is strong with the new TrailTack Green outsole, offering good grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which adds confidence when running on slippery or uneven paths. Stability is well-addressed through the Trail Adapt System that combines a midsole, rock plate, and outsole pods to keep your foot steady and protected from trail hazards like rocks, without making the shoe feel stiff. The use of a Ballistic Rock Shield further protects your feet while allowing enough flexibility for smooth movement.

Fit-wise, this model comes in a standard medium width and ankle height, likely offering a secure feel but may need trying on to ensure it matches your foot shape. The canvas upper and rubber sole suggest decent durability, although canvas may not be the most water-resistant material, so this shoe might not be ideal if you frequently run in wet or muddy conditions. If you want a comfortable, stable, and well-gripping shoe for diverse trail running, the Cascadia 17 is a strong option, especially for dry to moderately wet trails. However, if water resistance is a priority, you might want to consider other models.