Brand: Backcountry
Category: Trail Running Shoes
Recommended by Alyssa Clark, Mountain Adventurer with An Ultra Running Problem — San Diego, CA
Highlights: carbon plate, lightweight, durable
The Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe for women by Backcountry is expertly crafted for optimal performance on rugged trails, featuring advanced cushioning and a lightweight design that enhances comfort and agility. Its robust grip and durability make it an essential choice for both serious runners and casual outdoor enthusiasts. 1. Dual-layer CloudTec® cushioning ensures exceptional shock absorption, providing comfort on uneven and rocky surfaces. 2. Breathable mesh upper allows for maximum airflow, keeping feet cool and comfortable during extended runs. 3. Multi-directional lugs on the outsole deliver superior traction, ensuring stability on a variety of terrains, including wet and muddy paths. 4. Reinforced toe cap protects against impacts and abrasions, enhancing durability for challenging trail conditions. 5. Integrated Speedboard™ technology promotes efficient energy transfer, resulting in a more responsive running experience. 6. Reflective detailing enhances visibility in low-light environments, ensuring safety during early morning or evening runs. 7. Available in a range of sizes and colors to cater to individual preferences and style choices. The Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail running enthusiasts who demand performance and comfort in diverse environments. It excels on rugged trails, steep inclines, and during varying weather conditions, making it ideal for both competitive athletes and casual hikers. Perfect for spring and fall seasons when trails can be wet or muddy, this shoe provides the grip and support needed for optimal performance, whether tackling long-distance runs or enjoying weekend adventures.
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- Who it's for
- Trail runners racing or running fast on courses with a mix of runnable and technical terrain, from 50Ks to 100-mile efforts. Best suited to those prioritizing speed and energy return over burly protection.
- What people are saying
- Hosts overwhelmingly praise the light, responsive, plated ride and the nylon plate's forefoot rock protection without added stiffness. One dissenting note flags the price as hard to justify and questions whether the upper holds up on truly rugged terrain.
- Worth noting
- May run narrow at the pinky toe. Upper protection on very rugged terrain is a noted caveat; drains well, which suggests wet-course utility.
Alyssa Clark's review
This is my favorite trail shoe ever! It is has a nylon plate that provides propulsion without the pain. It is light, responsive and works on every terrain.
Recommended by Alyssa Clark, Mountain Adventurer with An Ultra Running Problem
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's for?
Trail runners racing or running fast on courses with a mix of runnable and technical terrain, from 50Ks to 100-mile efforts. Best suited to those prioritizing speed and energy return over burly protection.
What do experts say about the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's?
Hosts overwhelmingly praise the light, responsive, plated ride and the nylon plate's forefoot rock protection without added stiffness. One dissenting note flags the price as hard to justify and questions whether the upper holds up on truly rugged terrain.
What should you know before buying the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's?
May run narrow at the pinky toe. Upper protection on very rugged terrain is a noted caveat; drains well, which suggests wet-course utility.
What does Alyssa Clark say about the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's?
This is my favorite trail shoe ever! It is has a nylon plate that provides propulsion without the pain. It is light, responsive and works on every terrain.
Why does Alyssa Clark recommend Backcountry?
Alyssa Clark recommends the Backcountry Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's for trail running shoes. This is my favorite trail shoe ever! It is has a nylon plate that provides propulsion without the pain. It is light, responsive and works on every terrain.
Is the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's a good trail running shoe?
Yes — Alyssa Clark recommends the Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's by Backcountry as their trail running shoes pick. This is my favorite trail shoe ever! It is has a nylon plate that provides propulsion without the pain. It is light, responsive and works on every terrain.
More from Alyssa Clark's Broken Arrow Triple Crown
View Alyssa Clark's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
13 experts recommend the Backcountry Cloudultra Pro Trail Running Shoe - Women's.
John Bruno, Ultra trail-runner, ski mountaineer
Race day shoe for folks who plan on ~running~ Light, efficient, drains well.
Recommended in Trail running
Stoked on these, great energy return, plush but propulsive, stable but aggressive.
Recommended in Broken Arrow 46k
Shelby Farrell, Athlete. Marketing Professional. Cat Mom.
Probably not worth the price tag. Super light and responsive. It might run a little narrow around the pinky toe, but overall it feels quick underfoot. The landing is soft while still giving some ground feel, and you can feel a bit of propulsion as you toe off. I like the updated braided laces, but worry the upper might not offer enough protection for really rugged terrain.
Recommended in Current Shoe Rotation
Jeffrey Hammond, Foot Doc, ultrarunner, cool dad.
The Cloudultra Pro has become one of my favorite shoes for technical, rocky terrain. I love the nylon plate in this shoe—it does an incredible job protecting the forefoot from sharp rocks and constant trail abuse. When you're out on those "rocks of death" trails where every step makes you question your life choices and fear the pain coming through your shoes, the Cloudultra Pro gives you the confidence to keep moving. The protection is outstanding without making the shoe feel overly stiff, making it a great option for long days in rough terrain.
Recommended in Trail Shoes
Great plated race shoe for when the race demands a fast pace.
Recommended in Mammoth Dragon Back Ascent
Sam Lewis, On Professional Trail and Mountain Runner
My favorite trail shoes I have ever put on my feet!!
Recommended in Broken Arrow
Perhaps trail runnin's most accessible super shoe?
Recommended in Top Trail Running Shoe Picks
For fast, runnable, trail 50Ks!
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Matt Parker, Dr. Matthew Parker, PT, DPT
Been putting this shoe in the rotation for the last couple weeks and absolutely love it. Ran the Pikes Peak Ascent recently in it as well as just some flatter trail miles. Handles well in technical areas without compromising speed in flat sections.
Recommended in Shoe Rotation
These were one of my go-to racing products in 2025 and 2026 and have loved them for every distance!
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Best shoe in the game. I wear these for every trail race. They are so versatile, have high energy return, and keep me coming back. Just got my third pair in the mail this week and ready to rip them around Mammoth on Saturday!
Recommended in Mammoth Trailfest 50K - Gear List
My all time favorite shoes for when I want to feel SPEEDY. Put them on at mile 70, pure comfort and bounce when I needed it the most.
Recommended in High Lonesome 100 Gear
