Our verdict

We found the Brooks Cascadia 18 to be a solid evolution, with small, thoughtful updates that enhance its performance for trail runners, particularly heel strikers. Although it could benefit from shedding a bit more weight and a bouncier midsole, we were impressed by its exceptional value. In our lab tests, we found it delivers excellent stability, reliable traction, and a comfortable fit that makes it suitable for both trail runs and casual hikes.

Pros

  • Breathable upper
  • Great value for the price
  • Stability-enhancing Trail Adapt plate
  • Impressive grip
  • Amazing tongue
  • Doubles well as a hiking shoe
  • Fits most foot shapes
  • Velcro strap for gaiter attachment
  • Designed with heel strikers in mind

Cons

  • Noticeable durability issues
  • Midsole lacks bounce and softness
  • Still on the heavier side
  • No reflective elements

Audience verdict

89
Great!

Who should buy

We think the Brooks Cascadia 18 is a fantastic choice for:

  • Newcomers to trail running who want a comfort-focused shoe for varied mountain activities.
  • Runners prioritizing a breathable upper, a rare feature in many trail shoes.
  • Heel strikers looking for a stable, well-balanced ride on light or moderate terrain.

Brooks Cascadia 18

Who should NOT buy

We believe the Brooks Cascadia 18 is not the ideal choice for those seeking a cushioned, plush trail experience. With a firm midsole and a moderate stack height, it falls short for runners looking for extra cushioning. For a plush option, we recommend the Brooks Caldera 7 or Nike Zegama 2.

In our experience, durability is another area where the Cascadia 18 struggles. We observed concerning wear in the upper, making it less rugged than many trail runners expect. For those who prioritize a built-like-a-tank upper, we suggest taking a look at the Hoka Speedgoat 6, a highly durable and versatile alternative.

Brooks Cascadia 18 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

This isn’t a towering, maximalist shoe with extreme stack height—it’s a daily-trainer-like design with 32.6 mm under the heel, which by the way, we think doesn’t quite justify its high weight. In our view, other brands have achieved more efficient weight management in this category.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel design

Still, this cushioning level feels just right for the Cascadia’s role, and we hope Brooks doesn’t simply trim down the stack to lighten the load. That would be a mistake.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel stack
Test results
Cascadia 18 32.6 mm
Average 31.8 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

No major updates in the forefoot, which stays at 23.8 mm—probably a bit slim for runners with heavier builds. If you’re looking for extra cushion, the Altra’s Olympus 6 with its colossal 31.5-mm forefoot stack could be an exciting switch.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Forefoot stack
Test results
Cascadia 18 23.8 mm
Average 24.3 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

In our experience, the heel and forefoot measurements make it clear—this is a high-drop trail shoe, designed primarily for rearfoot strikers.

Forefoot and midfoot strikers will find the Cascadia comfortable, especially if they’re prone to calf or Achilles overload issues. However, many trail runners prefer lower-drop shoes, which might make this model less appealing to them.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Drop
Test results
Cascadia 18 8.8 mm
Average 7.6 mm
Compared to 118 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

One of the consistent features carried over from the previous Cascadia is the foam. We discovered the same DNA Loft v2 powering this model as well.

If you were hoping for a softer feel in this update, that’s not the case here. With a 27.5 HA reading on our durometer, we noted that this foam is even slightly firmer than its predecessor, delivering a ride that leans on the firm side.

Brooks Cascadia 18 DNA Loft v2

However, if you can handle that level of firmness, it offers real trail advantages—a more stable platform and better protection from sharp rocks.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Midsole softness
Test results
Cascadia 18 27.5 HA
Average 22.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 95 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

In our testing, DNA Loft v2 impressed us with its resilience for being an EVA-based foam.

We put the Cascadia 18 in the freezer for 20 minutes and re-measured its softness. After exposure, it only became 12.7% firmer, which is an outstanding result for cold-weather performance.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Midsole softness in cold (%)
Test results
Cascadia 18 13%
Average 26%
Compared to 95 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

We found the insole to be comfy, offering a balanced feel underfoot. Measuring at 5.1 mm, it sits close to the average thickness for insoles in all running shoes.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Insole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 18 5.1 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 118 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

The Cascadia 18 isn’t one of those extreme rockered shoes, though each year Brooks adds a bit more curve to the forefoot. This change brings some benefits and drawbacks, but we still wouldn’t classify it as a rockered shoe—especially with the heel staying very flat.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Rocker

Rock plate

One standout feature that sets the Cascadia apart from most trail shoes in its category is the Trail Adapt system. This innovative setup includes a plastic plate with two heads in the heel, extending out as wings on each side of the midsole, and three fork-like heads positioned in the forefoot. Its purpose? To enhance protection against rocks and boost stability at the same time!

Brooks Cascadia 18 Trail Adapt

The rationale behind this design is to allow the shoe to flex torsionally, avoiding the rigidity a full-length, non-forked plate would bring, resulting in a more adaptive ride on rugged terrain.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Rock plate

Size and fit

Size

Brooks Cascadia 18 is true to size (63 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 88 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Toebox width - widest part

From the moment we slipped on the Cascadia 18, it felt naturally comfortable, and it didn’t take long for us to understand why.

Brooks Cascadia 18 feet

With a width of 98.9 mm at its widest part, the upper is designed to deliver a dependable fit. In our view, Brooks has aimed for an easy-going, average width to accommodate as many runners as possible—an approach that genuinely works.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Toebox width - widest part
Test results
Cascadia 18 98.9 mm
Average 98.9 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

Our second measurement showed an 80.7 mm result—again, close to the average—suggesting that the Cascadia’s fit will appeal to most runners.

In terms of volume, we found enough space for natural toe movement, creating a non-constrictive feel ideal not only for trail running but also for long walks in nature. And if anyone needs even more room, Brooks offers a wide size option in select markets.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Toebox width - big toe
Test results
Cascadia 18 80.7 mm
Average 79.4 mm
Compared to 81 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.1 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

In our experience, the Cascadia 18 stands out for those who need a trail shoe that balances top stability with versatility across various surfaces. Furthermore, we found it particularly well-suited for heel strikers, offering dependable traction and control.

Torsional rigidity

We assessed the torsional rigidity of this Cascadia 18 and assigned it a 4 out of 5. This score aligns with our expectations for a model featuring a moderate stack height combined with a rock plate. It also aligned well with our on-foot experience, as it doesn’t feel as natural or fluid as minimalist running shoes.

Test results
Cascadia 18 4
Average 3.5
Compared to 113 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Throughout this lab review, we’re consistently finding that this shoe is geared towards heel strikers, and here’s more solid proof. Scoring a full 5/5 in our heel counter stiffness test, it delivers unmatched stability in this area. However, the ultra-stiff heel might feel somewhat clunky or uncomfortable for certain runners—especially those with sensitive Achilles tendons.

For those needing a more comfortable counter in a dependable trail shoe, we suggest considering the ASICS Gel Trabuco 12.

Test results
Cascadia 18 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

The midsole carries over largely unchanged from its predecessor at 112.6 mm, offering a standard design. However, we found the midfoot area to be notably broad, enhancing stability—particularly beneficial for maintaining control on descents.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Midsole width - forefoot
Test results
Cascadia 18 112.6 mm
Average 112.1 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
124.3 mm

Midsole width - heel

In our experience, as highlighted throughout this review, it’s clear Brooks designed the Cascadia 18 with heel strikers in mind. We found the rear section significantly broader than average—measuring an impressive 95.6 mm under our calipers—which enhances stability for heel strikers.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Midsole width - heel
Test results
Cascadia 18 95.6 mm
Average 89.7 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.0 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

For a trail running shoe designed to double as a hiking option, maintaining a balanced level of flexibility is essential, and our 90-degree bend test is perfect for evaluating this.

Brooks Cascadia 18 flex

After bending the Cascadia 18 to a full 90 degrees, we found that it required only 26.5N of force—an average result that, in our view, offers just the right balance of flexibility for a versatile trail shoe.

Test results
Cascadia 18 26.5N
Average 27.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

Weight

At 11.6 oz or 329g, we found the previous Cascadia to be on the heavier side—a factor we felt was among its weakest aspects.

There’s both good and bad news this time. The good news is Brooks has managed to trim it down to 10.9 oz or 310g, which is a step in the right direction. However, for a shoe with this level of cushioning, we believe it still needs to shed a bit more weight to reach a more balanced feel.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Weight
Test results
Cascadia 18 10.93 oz (310g)
Average 10.30 oz (292g)
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

For trail shoes, we usually prefer a balanced score regarding breathability, prioritizing a bit of warmth over maximum airflow. So, we were pleased to find a 4/5 rating here instead of an overly ventilated 5/5.

Brooks has crafted a lightweight, thin engineered mesh for this shoe, thoughtfully pairing it with other fabrics tailored to specific areas. For instance, the heel and midfoot are generously padded, yet ventilation in these sections is minimal, as expected for added comfort and durability.

We were surprised because Brooks included a perforated insole—an impressive feature that’s more common in premium running shoes. It’s a clever touch, offering a touch of extra ventilation.

When examining the upper under the microscope, we noticed the mesh's thin construction, which raised some durability concerns for us in the lab, as it may wear down quickly against our Dremel test.

Brooks Cascadia 18 microscope

However, before testing abrasion, we evaluated the upper’s structure.

Overall, it’s well-designed for a trail shoe, with rugged thermoplastic overlays protecting high-wear areas like the toe cap and sufficient padding to support a comfortable fit.

Test results
Cascadia 18 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 96 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

After testing hundreds of shoes in the lab, we usually have a sense of how they’ll perform under rigorous testing. Unfortunately, things didn’t look promising for the Cascadia 18 in this round.

The thin engineered mesh failed to showcase any noticeable damage resistance. Of course, had we conducted the test on the thermoplastic overlay protecting the toe cap, the results would have been different. But we already know that TPU excels in durability; our aim was to assess the vulnerability of the rest of the toebox. And, based on our findings, that's a 1 out of 5 for us.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Toebox durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 1
Average 3
Compared to 76 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The upside of receiving a 1/5 score is that the Cascadia can only go up from there. Although the heel padding scored a slightly improved 2/5, we found it still disappointing, as it's still far away from most trail shoes.

In our view, Brooks must address this issue for the next Cascadia iteration. These low durability scores raise concerns, especially for runners prone to wearing out the toebox or Achilles area.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel padding durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 2
Average 2.8
Compared to 74 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

If there’s one component we closely inspect in trail running shoes, it’s the outsole. So, let’s dive into the TrailTack Green rubber—carried over from the previous Cascadia due to its impressive traction on multiple surfaces, which we confirmed again with this model.

We tested its hardness using our Shore C durometer and obtained an 84.5 HC score. This result aligns closely with the average trail shoe, maintaining a balanced level of hardness—right where most trail outsoles fall in our lab tests.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole hardness
Test results
Cascadia 18 84.5 HC
Average 85.6 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
74.0 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole durability

But, what about durability? Our first two tests were genuinely disappointing, so we hoped this one would fare better—a third negative result would be a serious setback.

After lifting the Dremel and using a tire tread gauge to measure, we recorded 1.3 mm of wear. While it didn’t reach our ideal standards, we found the result to be manageable rather than disastrous.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 1.3 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 69 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole packs a solid 2.0 mm of durable rubber—definitely built to withstand the miles and protect the midsole from sharp rocks.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 18 2.0 mm
Average 2.4 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Lug depth

The Cascadia 18 outsole remains mostly unchanged from its predecessor, which isn’t necessarily a drawback. We found that it performs reliably; while the 4.0-mm lugs aren’t quite as aggressive as industry leaders like Vibram Megagrip’s Traction Lugs, they hold their own on varied terrain.

In terms of lug placement, the design features three types:

  • Heel: Breaking lugs to enhance traction on descents.
  • Midfoot: Non-textured, mixed lugs for effective mud shedding.
  • Forefoot: Wedge-shaped lugs to improve grip on uphill climbs.
Brooks Cascadia 18 outsole
Yes, we know that Brooks went bananas with the outsole colors, making it a bit tricky to spot the lugs clearly.

The outsole includes a large longitudinal hollow channel, paired with two horizontal cutouts designed to enhance flexibility.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Lug depth
Test results
Cascadia 18 4.0 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Price

In recent years, we’ve become accustomed to small price hikes across many models, yet Brooks decided to hold the line with the Cascadia 18’s retail price. In our view, this decision is a wonderful choice, as we believe this trail shoe offers solid value without breaking the bank.

Test results
Cascadia 18 $140
Average $146
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
$60
Price
$260

Reflective elements

In our review of the Cascadia 17, we had hoped the 18th edition would finally include reflective elements for better safety. However, that update didn't arrive. For this reason, one of this model’s most notable drawbacks is its complete lack of reflective details. Again.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Reflective elements
Test results
Cascadia 18 No

Tongue padding

The tongue thickness was one of the big changes from the Cascadia 16 (12.2 mm) to the Cascadia 17 (4.7 mm). And it seems that Brooks found, as we did, this approach better as the newly updated tongue was very similar at 5.5 mm.

Brooks Cascadia 18 lacing

The lacing system has also been redesigned, now featuring three lace loops and three punched eyelets. We’re not thrilled with this update—punched eyelets, in our experience, tend to be more convenient and durable, especially when tightening the laces under high tension.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Tongue padding
Test results
Cascadia 18 5.5 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 119 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

One standout feature of the Cascadia 18—especially for its price—is its gusseted tongue, which attaches securely to the sides. We've noted that this design effectively keeps out debris and provides an enhanced, secure lockdown.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Cascadia 18 Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

The Cascadia 18 retains its classic finger-loop heel tab—an appreciated detail from its predecessors that, in our experience, adds real value to any trail shoe...and looks fantastic too!

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel tab
Test results
Cascadia 18 Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole of the Cascadia 18 is removable, allowing you to swap in a third-party option if desired. However, doing so means losing one of this shoe’s standout features—a perforated insole designed for enhanced airflow.

Brooks Cascadia 18 insole 2

As we confirmed in our breathability assessment at the start of this lab review, this unique ventilation element sets the Cascadia 18 apart from many competitors by providing improved cooling during runs.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Removable insole
Test results
Cascadia 18 Yes

Tongue strap

One of the more frustrating aspects for trail runners is dealing with loose laces. Thankfully, we found that Brooks has added a convenient elastic strap on the tongue—perfect for tucking the laces securely before heading out for a run and keeping them out of the way.

Velcro strap

We noted that Brooks has once again included a Velcro strap on the heel counter for attaching gaiters, which, of course, are sold separately from the shoe.