10 Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes 2025 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 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 Men's Divide 5 Trail Running Shoe is designed for runners who want a shoe that works well both on roads and light trails. It features DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, which is softer and lighter than before, making each step comfortable and helping absorb impact. This cushioning also adds a bit of extra height for a smoother ride, which is great if you switch between road and trail running.

The shoe’s outsole uses TrailTack rubber with aggressive lugs that offer good grip on wet or dry surfaces, helping you stay steady on uneven terrain. The fit is inspired by road running shoes, providing a snug feel around the midfoot with a tongue gusset to keep things secure. The mesh upper is lightweight, breathable, and dries quickly, while a TPU mudguard and toecap help block small rocks or dirt from bothering your feet.

This shoe is best suited for light trail use rather than very rugged or muddy trails, as its features focus more on adaptability rather than heavy-duty protection or waterproofing. Durability should be solid for casual to moderate trail runners, but heavy users on harsh trails might find the shoe less protective. If you want a reliable, comfortable shoe that easily transitions from road to trail and offers good traction and cushioning, the Divide 5 is a strong choice, though serious trail runners needing maximum stability and waterproofing might consider other options.