10 Best Womens Trail Shoes 2025 in the UK

The Salomon Women's Speedcross Peak Running Shoe stands out in the women's trail shoes category, with its focus on offering excellent traction and protection. The shoe features Contagrip with an aggressive lug design that provides strong grip on various surfaces, making it well-suited for those who frequently tackle challenging terrains. The Quicklace system, combined with Sensifit technology, ensures a precise and adjustable fit, which is convenient for adjusting on the go. This makes it ideal for trail runners who need a shoe that adapts to their changing needs during a run.

In terms of protection, the shoe includes both a heel cap and toe cap, providing adequate protection against the usual bumps and scratches encountered on trails. However, the shoe's emphasis on protection and grip might mean that it is slightly heavier compared to other trail shoes, which could be a concern for those who prioritize lightweight footwear.

The outer material is a combination of synthetic and textile, contributing to durability but potentially limiting breathability compared to lighter mesh alternatives. This shoe could be a great option for runners who prioritize a secure fit and strong grip over lightweight and highly cushioned shoes. However, those looking for enhanced water resistance or lighter options might need to consider other models.

The SALOMON XA Pro 3D Gore-Tex Women's Trail Shoes are designed for those who enjoy trail running and walking, offering a blend of stability, grip, and protection. These shoes excel in traction, with the full premium wet traction grip ensuring confidence on slippery surfaces, making them ideal for varied terrains. The Gore-Tex material provides excellent water resistance, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions, which is crucial for outdoor adventures.

The 3D advanced chassis adds stability, acting like a solid base that turns your feet into 'trail blazing bulldozers', enhancing your footing on uneven ground. In terms of protection, the shoes feature a reinforced toe cap and strategic protective elements to safeguard your feet from rocks and debris. However, due to the robust construction and materials, they might feel heavier compared to other trail shoes, coming in at 707.6 grams, which might be slightly cumbersome for longer runs.

The cushioning is designed to support and comfort your feet. While it offers adequate support, those seeking ultra-soft cushioning may find it a bit firm. The fit is generally precise, but as every foot is different, some users might need to try different sizes to achieve the perfect fit. These shoes are particularly well-suited for those looking for durability, protection, and water resistance on challenging trails. Their robust build and reliable grip make them a dependable choice for trail enthusiasts who prioritize stability and protection over lightweight design.

The ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 8 trail shoes are designed for women who enjoy trail running. One of their major strengths is traction, thanks to the Maxtrac outsole which provides a reliable grip on various terrains, making them suitable for those who often run on uneven trails. The moderate cushioning, delivered through the Altra EGO midsole, offers a comfortable and responsive feel ideal for those who prefer a balance between softness and firmness without sinking too much into the shoe.

These shoes offer protection with an ankle-high shaft, which is beneficial for supporting the ankle during longer runs, especially on rough trails. However, the synthetic outer material may not offer the best water resistance, which could be a drawback for runners who frequently encounter wet conditions. The 0 mm drop is excellent for those who prefer a natural running style, encouraging better alignment and balance.

The fit is standardized with a true-to-size design, although some users may find the wider toe box different from traditional shoes—a characteristic of Altra that allows for toe splay. Weighing 9.16 oz, the shoes are relatively lightweight, which is advantageous for reducing fatigue over long distances. While the shoes can be machine washed for easy maintenance, their lack of waterproofing may require extra care in damp environments. Best suited for dry or moderately wet trails, they are a good choice for women looking for a blend of traction, moderate comfort, and natural movement in a trail shoe, but less ideal for extremely wet or muddy conditions unless paired with additional protective gear.