We Tested 16 of the Newest Brooks Running Shoes. These Are the Best

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Brooks is one of the hottest running shoe manufacturers on the market—and for good purpose. Top to backside, the model produces some of the greatest running footwear for most individuals. While critics fear Brooks has fallen behind in the “super-shoe” class, many runners, nicely, don’t actually want a super-shoe.

Beyond Brooks’ reputation, the constant high quality of their footwear, from entry-level trainers to carbon-plated racers, is what makes this specific model stand out. Our greatest general choose, the Glycerin 21, isn’t simply the greatest Brooks shoe—it is perhaps the greatest running shoe launched this yr.

Related: The Best Running Shoes of 2023

Best Overall Brooks Running Shoe: Brooks Glycerin 21

One of Brooks latest footwear can also be this yr’s greatest. I had completely beloved the Glycerin 20 (as did a number of Men’s Journal testers) for restoration runs and simple efforts. The twenty first iteration takes the extraordinarily snug midsole, made of DNA Loft v3 foam, and provides pep to every step. Out of the field, it is one of the plushest footwear cash can purchase, and in contrast to many well-cushioned or soft-feeling trainers, the Glycerin doesn’t really feel clompy or plodding. Rather, the building and silhouette makes for a steady, but {smooth}, journey. While the knit higher can get sizzling in hotter temps, it offers a safe and unobtrusive match for a range of foot shapes.

My greatest qualm with the new Brooks Glycerin 21 is that they appear, nicely, a bit homely in comparison with the earlier model. I actually admired the easy, sharp appears of the 20. But Brooks went with a louder, extra retro model for the 21. If that does not hassle you, this shoe makes a wonderful on a regular basis coach, because it offers a {smooth} and delicate journey, together with loads of liveliness for many who run quicker.

Pros:

• Extremely snug out of the field.
• Soft, steady cushioning with out feeling clompy.
• Durable outsole and general construct.
• Many choices to dial in match and really feel ((*16*), Stealthfit, and width).

Cons:

• Doesn’t look nearly as good as the earlier mannequin.

WEIGHT: 9.8 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 10 mm

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Everyday Training: Brooks Ghost 15

The Brooks Ghost stays extraordinarily widespread as a result of every iteration constantly upholds its repute. The Ghost 15 isn’t flashy, and Brooks doesn’t change it a lot yr to yr. It is, nevertheless, a strong on a regular basis running shoe. As quickly as you slip them on, you’re feeling the enchantment. Like the Glycerin, they’ve an accommodating, easy-to-dial-in match. The midsole foam, DNA Loft v2, is plush and responsive. For most runners, the Ghost 15 is a impartial alternative that fits their wants. It has a sturdy, smooth-rolling outsole and traditional knit higher. And like the Glycerin, it is available in selection of widths, and even with Gore-Tex higher for moist days.

The Brooks website boasts 32 (32!) colorways for the Ghost 15, which implies anybody can discover a model that fits them. I even know a couple of runners who put on these as an off-the-cuff sneaker. And at $140, this long-lasting shoe is a strong worth.

Pros:

• Suits many various runners and skills.
• Comfortable out of the field.
• Lots of colorways to select from.
• Well-priced for a sturdy, on a regular basis coach.

Cons:

• Not versatile sufficient for extra competitive runners.
• Heavier than the Glycerin or Ghost Max.
• Doesn’t function the newest Brooks foam.

WEIGHT: 10.1 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 12 mm

Related: The Best Running Shoes for Races

Best Value Brooks Running Shoe: Brooks Revel 6

Brooks doesn’t make a “cheap” shoe—somewhat, they provide nice worth on your cash. The Revel 6 isn’t any exception. At simply $100, it is my favourite running footwear for the value. While the Revel 6 doesn’t function Brooks’ newest, biggest foam, the traditional DNA foam continues to be a top quality, snug journey. The higher doesn’t really feel considerably completely different than pricier footwear like the Glycerin or Ghost. And my favourite half of the Revel is its unbelievable outsole. It’s tremendous sturdy and offers a ton of grip on each pavement and lightweight gravel. I really want extra Brooks footwear had this outsole—it performs higher throughout moist climate or uneven terrain than most different fashions. Additionally, should you like extra ground-feel in your stride or a extra minimal journey, the Revel has lower-profile cushioning and weighs lower than most others on this checklist.

Pros:

• Superb outsole that performs nicely on selection of surfaces and in moist climate.
• Quality higher feels much like extra premium Brooks footwear.
• Inexpensive in comparison with different fashions.
• Lightweight.

Cons:

• Features older model of DNA foam.
• Less cushioning is not for everybody.

WEIGHT: 8.8 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 10 mm

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Racing: Brooks Hyperion Elite 4

In the age of stiff, bouncy footwear that cowl each foot at main marathons, some runners complain that the present Brooks Hyperion Elite options outdated tech. The upcoming Hyperion Elite 4 nonetheless makes use of an EVA foam (many high-end racers use the more-recently developed PEBA), albeit a a lot improved model of their DNA Flash v2. Brooks claims the new foam is lighter, and layered for extra propulsion. When I asked Lee Sackett, product supervisor for Brooks’ racing and innovation footwear division, how the EVA foam matches up agains newer PEBA-based foams, he was unbothered. “Foam is nothing without a geometry that complements the plate geometry and the natural movement of the foot when running at speed,” he said.  

At 7.8 ounces, the Elite 4 rivals the weights of other top racers. And you know what? For average runners as well as elites, these shoes are excellent. I’ve tried pretty much every top racing shoe out there, and as far as immediate comfort and fit goes, the newest Hyperion Elite is among the top. Many plated super-shoes like the Adidas Adios Pro or Nike AlphaFly feel weird for the uninitiated, but I found this Brooks model to be an easy transition from standard running shoes. The fit is accommodating, and both the upper and laces were comfortable.

I logged both long, slower runs and short speedy workouts in the Hyperion Elite and found them comfortable and fun for both. Super-shoe opinions abound, but here’s the bottom line: If you like running in Brooks shoes and are looking for an elite racing option, then you will love the Hyperion Elite 4.

Pros:

• Very accommodating for a super shoe.
• Breathable upper feels more pliable and soft than competitors.
• Carbon-plated.
• Midsole foam is more comfortable out of the box than competitors.

Cons:

• Doesn’t feature a super foam; subsequently not as peppy feeling as segment leaders.
• May have shorter lifespan than competitors, because EVA foams break down faster.
• Expensive.

WEIGHT: 7.8 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Long Distance Training: Brooks Hyperion Max

Early this winter I donned the Hyperion Max in an try to sustain with my sister throughout one of her faculty observe workouts. Needless to say, I didn’t sustain. But, as she bolted previous me on her technique to end practically twice as many miles as me, I used to be in a position to catch a burst of vitality and dash out my closing mile together with her, holding round 6:00 mile tempo late in my run. 

That could not sound like a lot, however the Brooks Hyperion Max felt so bouncy and cozy late in my exercise that I felt empowered to activate my comparably gradual model of “the jets.” Since then, I’ve performed each gradual lengthy runs and brief speedy runs and admired the versatility of this coach. The Hyperion lineup is definitely geared towards extra competitive runners, however of the three (Hyperion, Max, and Elite), the Max feels prefer it has the widest enchantment for many runners.

My solely grievance is that there isn’t a carbon plate on this shoe. It seems like a pure alternative. A comparable New Balance shoe, the SC Trainer 2, has one. When running in Hyperion Max, I missed the further pep the New Balance’s plate offered. Sackett says that Brooks is including a pebax plate, which is cheaper and extra inflexible than carbon, to the subsequent model of the Hyperion Max, which releases later this yr.

That mentioned, for a double-duty marathon training and racing race, the Hyperion Max and Hyperion Elite 4 make a wonderful crew, with very comparable match and really feel.

Pros:

• Exceedingly snug, regardless of the distance.
• Super light-weight for a max-cushion coach.
• Versatile sufficient to do pace workouts and lengthy runs.
• Plenty quick sufficient to race in.

Cons:

• No midsole shank or plate.
• Stack peak and slim sole make it considerably tippy or unstable when turning corners.

WEIGHT: 7.8 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm

Best Brooks Trail Running Shoe: Brooks Cascadia 17

Since receiving the Brooks Cascadia 17 to check, I’ve performed nearly the whole lot in them. I accomplished path runs various in distance, hiked many miles, worn all of them day in Saguaro National Park and even wore them to golf a pair of instances. From the thru-hiking crowd to the on a regular basis path running crowd, I’ve all the time heard optimistic suggestions on the Cascadia, and I actually like what Brooks does with the newest model.

These footwear really feel much more sturdy and grippy than some rivals, who’re steering away from ruggedness for the sake of pace and adaptability. The Cascadia has a ton of sturdy outsole rubber, which Brooks calls “pods,” however continues to be very versatile. The midsole plate and sturdy higher make this shoe really feel tremendous protecting too. It’s not the most nimble or quick path runner, however they really feel long-wearing and strong. I additionally discovered them to have good moisture safety in the normal model, although Brooks affords a GTX version for higher moist climate put on.

Pros:

• Durable outsole, higher and lacing are constructed to final.
• Midsole plate feels protecting and propulsive.
• Gaiter securement factors.
• Good for hiking or running.

Cons:

• Heavier than many path footwear.
• Upper is considerably stiff.

WEIGHT: 11 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm

Best Brooks Stability Running Shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

The Adrenaline GTS fits a range of runners and walkers. Two fellow shoe testers suggest this mannequin for broad toes, as even the medium width model has a really accommodating match (the Adrenaline may also be bought in Wide and Extra-Wide). I obtained nice suggestions from larger runners on the Adrenaline, and testers discovered this to be supportive and cozy for strolling and running. With the same really feel and match to the Ghost, I favored this shoe for on a regular basis runs and all-day consolation.

As Brooks’ mainstay stability shoe, the Adrenaline GTS is a wonderful alternative should you overpronate. As far as the greatest Brooks strolling shoe or extra informal running shoe, the newest Adrenaline is the prime choice.

Pros:

• Ideal for broad toes.
• Best Brooks shoe for strolling.
• Signature stability shoe for overpronators.
• Similar to Ghost, however with added stability.

Cons:

• Not light-weight.
• High heel-toe drop won’t go well with some runners.

WEIGHT: 10.1 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 12mm

Related: We Tested Every Hoka Running Shoe—These Are the Best

Best Max Cushion Brooks Running Shoe: Brooks Ghost Max

Of all the Brooks footwear I’ve examined not too long ago, the Ghost Max stunned me the most. I anticipated the Max to really feel like a beefed up Ghost 15. Yet, to my nice shock, the Ghost Max has a really completely different journey and really feel. Much of that is because of a shorter heel-toe drop—6 mm in comparison with the normal Ghost’s 12 mm. I actually favored this distinction, as I land on my midfoot when running.

While it is a chonky shoe, the Brooks Ghost Max is extra versatile than you’d count on. Because of its decrease drop and propulsive geometry, it is simpler to run quick on this shoe than the normal Ghost. Additionally, on lengthy efforts, the max stack offered loads of help and stability late in the run. If you’re a max cushion runner or a mid-foot striker then this is a wonderful choice—particularly as a result of it is solely 10 bucks greater than the normal Ghost.

Pros:

• Max stack cushioning feels forgiving, steady, and propulsive.
• Lighter than the normal Ghost.
• Lower drop fits midfoot strikers.
• Available in three widths.

Cons:

• Minimal arch help.

WEIGHT: 10 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 6mm

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Trail Racing: Brooks Catamount 2

The Catamount 2 is a critically enjoyable shoe. Although the newest mannequin simply dropped, I heartily suggest this iteration, particularly at its lowered value level. It’s extra minimal than the Cascadia and options the similar peppy foam as Brooks racing footwear, referred to as DNA Flash. It options an extra plate underfoot, referred to as SkyVault, to assist propel runners uphill, which I discovered to be tremendous efficient. Some different helpful options embrace gaiter securement factors and cozy laces. However, these match lengthy and slim, they usually’re solely out there in a single width.

Pros:

• Lightweight for a protecting path shoe.
• Propulsive SkyVault plate helps uphill efforts.
• Tacky outsole.
• Nimble on trails.

Cons:

• Narrow and lengthy match.
• Less stability than the Cascadia.

WEIGHT: 9.7 ounces

HEEL-TOE DROP: 6 mm

Why You Should Trust Me

Last yr was my greatest shoe testing yr but. I logged tons of of miles in over 60 completely different pairs of running footwear. I examined practically each Brooks running shoe of their males’s lineup. In addition to my particular person testing, I labored with a crew of testers over a range of evaluations and gleaned perception from all kinds of runners, from heavier males on the lookout for most help to sub-4:00 minute milers. 

My particular running skills pair completely with Brooks running footwear. I’m not significantly quick—nor do I plan to be. I simply like to run, and achieve this most days. I schedule a couple of races per yr after I really feel like I’m in fine condition. I hunt down footwear that don’t have lengthy break-in intervals and final a very long time.

I additionally consulted specialists akin to Dr. Paul Nasri, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, who’s a New York state-licensed bodily therapist and board-certified orthopedic specialist in bodily remedy. Nasri has helped our crew decode what to search for in running footwear as a way to stop harm and assist you to log your miles.

What We Look for in a Great Running Shoe

My three go-to questions when testing running footwear are as follows:

1. Do I need to put on it once more?
2. Is it holding as much as frequent put on?
3. Does it serve its supposed objective?

Indeed, our testing crew at Men’s Journal is worried with recommending snug, sturdy footwear that correctly carry out their job. That means a racing shoe must be light-weight, speedy, and cozy for races; an on a regular basis coach must be sturdy, well-fitting, and supportive; and a path shoe ought to present rugged tread and enhanced safety.

As I started engaged on this text, I thought of why I like Brooks as a running shoe model—in any case, they’re one of the first corporations I like to recommend to of us on the lookout for a brand new running shoe. I boiled it down to 2 key factors:

• Accessibility: Brooks makes footwear for the plenty, however in a great way. They appear to know that almost all runners aren’t elite (sorry dreamers), and most of us simply need to take pleasure in our outing on the highway or path. In apply which means snug, versatile running footwear that are usually extraordinarily sturdy.
• Options: Perhaps the neatest thing you may say about Brooks is that they supply a plethora of running shoe choices. Not solely do many of their footwear are available as much as 4 widths (slim to extra-wide), however should you overpronate and wish extra help, you should buy a shoe with their GuideRail help system. That’s all along with their Stealthfit higher, which is a pared down sock-like higher for many who like a minimalist, light-weight match. And with the addition of footwear like the Hyperion Max and Ghost Max, there are actually max cushion choices for many who prefer it further plush.

Related: The Best Nike Running Shoes of 2023

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