Our verdict

The Brooks Hyperion 2 merges the nostalgia of a classic racing flat with modern features, making it a fantastic pick for those seeking a fast, grounded feel. We found it incredibly lightweight, with a flexible, narrow design that keeps each stride incredibly fun. The breathable, state-of-the-art upper adds a nice touch, all for a reasonable price point. And while we think the midsole still needs more energy return, it’s a standout choice for those looking to avoid maximalist running shoes.

Pros

  • Insanely lightweight
  • Awesome racing-flat vibes
  • Perfect for speed workouts
  • Promotes feet strength
  • Grippy outsole in wet and dry surfaces
  • Reasonably priced
  • Amazing airflow
  • Can double for track workouts

Cons

  • Not the best for heel strikers
  • Low-volume upper
  • Still not the most responsive midsole

Audience verdict

N/A
Not enough reviews yet
  • Top 27% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

The Hyperion 2 shines as a refreshing shift from the overwhelming trend of ultra-cushioned, high-stack designs. And we believe is a stellar pick for:

  • Runners craving a classic, low-to-the-ground ride that recalls racing flats from years past.
  • Brooks aficionados seeking an interval trainer to seamlessly complement the Hyperion Max 2 in their running rotation.
  • Athletes seeking a streamlined running shoe that boosts foot strength and offers an exhilarating ride at faster paces.

Brooks Hyperion 2

Who should NOT buy

We think the Hyperion 2 offers a solid upgrade over its predecessor, but it still lacks the superfoam needed to deliver top-tier energy return. In our view, if you’re after maximum bounce and responsiveness, the Adidas Adizero Adios 8 and the Nike Pegasus Plus offer superior bounce, especially for midfoot and forefoot strikers.

Additionally, we believe the Hyperion 2 may feel a bit underwhelming for those seeking top performance. While it’s lightweight, the absence of a carbon plate limits its potential. The obvious choice is the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4, as it's the beefed-up version of this model. Alternatively, the Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 features a similar running experience but with noticeably greater bounce.

Brooks Hyperion 2 parts

Breathability

Over the past few years, we concluded in the lab that while Brooks may lag behind other brands in cutting-edge foam technology, they’re a front-runner when it comes to uppers. With the Hyperion 2, they’ve once again impressed us.

We found the engineered mesh upper to be exceptionally breathable, delivering cool, airy comfort without compromising durability. In our view, this makes it a superb choice for a performance trainer, and we were quick to award it a perfect 5 out of 5 for ventilation.

Using our LED flashlight, we saw how the Hyperion 2 maintains ventilation from the forefoot through the midfoot, only becoming more structured near the heel—ideal for those hot summer runs.

Brooks Hyperion 2 microscope

Under our microscope, we observed that Brooks uses a classic engineered mesh with varied hole sizes in different sections, designed to balance durability and airflow.

Brooks Hyperion 2 mesh

While the dark colorway we tested may not look overly breathable, we can confidently say it’s a ventilation winner! We also appreciated the generous heel padding, especially impressive in such a lightweight running shoe.

Test results
Hyperion 2 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

This engineered mesh upper offers a super-light and breathable experience, though durability is always a concern with lighter materials, which often sacrifice strength under stress. 

However, we tested the Hyperion 2 with the Dremel and were pleased with the results. Scoring a respectable 3/5, it held up on par with thicker daily trainers that typically offer enhanced wear resistance.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Toebox durability
Test results
Hyperion 2 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 213 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

On the downside, the heel padding proved disappointing.

We tested it rigorously under the same Dremel specifications as before, but the results were drastically different—earning a dismal 1/5. In our view, Brooks needs to improve this area for the next Hyperion.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Heel padding durability
Test results
Hyperion 2 1
Average 3.2
Compared to 209 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

After mixed results on upper durability, we shifted focus to the outsole, featuring Brooks' RoadTack rubber—a dependable choice for both dry and wet surfaces.

Brooks Hyperion 2 outsole
The forefoot and heel feature ample rubber coverage for a speed training shoe.

Brooks chose a softer 72.0 HC rubber, which aligns with the shoe’s purpose as a tempo or interval trainer. In our view, sacrificing a bit of durability for enhanced grip and security makes sense here, as this shoe isn’t designed for heavy daily mileage.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Outsole hardness
Test results
Hyperion 2 72.0 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 330 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

In our latest Dremel test, we adjusted our method to tackle the RoadTack rubber's consistency. We ramped up the tool speed to 10K RPM and extended the duration too.

After testing, we found that the soft RoadTack rubber held up reasonably well under these conditions, although we believe it could still show a bit more resilience. The measured abrasion was around 1.2 mm—adequate, but with room for improvement.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Outsole durability
Test results
Hyperion 2 1.2 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 191 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Brooks understands that even as a lightweight running shoe, durability is essential—especially since many runners will rely on it as a versatile workhorse for everything from aerobic runs to 5K or 10K races.

While we would have loved to see less than 2.9 mm of rubber to enhance its lively feel and fun factor, we get why Brooks opted for a more robust outsole.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Outsole thickness
Test results
Hyperion 2 2.9 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

At 7.44 oz (211g), the original Hyperion was already a feather-light, sub-8-oz running shoe with few rivals in its weight class. But Brooks has taken it further—this second-generation model trims down to an impressive 7.2 oz (203g)...despite packing even more foam underfoot!

And it genuinely feels almost weightless. In our experience, this is one of those shoes where you sometimes forget you’re even wearing it!

Brooks Hyperion 2 Weight
Test results
Hyperion 2 7.16 oz (203g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

We just noted our amazement at the Hyperion 2's lightweight design, especially given its increased stack height. Here’s the detail: 32.2 mm in the heel—a height similar to most daily trainers—making this shoe more inviting for rearfoot strikers than ever.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Heel stack
Test results
Hyperion 2 32.2 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot receives a bigger boost, and in our view, it’s a smart improvement. While this shoe’s essence is to deliver a natural ride with plenty of feedback from the ground, that's now paired with added forefoot protection, which we believe was needed.

Brooks Hyperion 2 forefoot

The previous version felt overly thin in this area, but with 22.4 mm underfoot, it’s now better suited for medium-distance runs—think 15K or even 20K. Beyond that, though, it starts to feel limited.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Forefoot stack
Test results
Hyperion 2 22.4 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Brooks claims an 8 mm drop for this shoe, but our measurements found it at 9.8 mm. This slight variance doesn’t significantly affect biomechanics—it remains a heel-striker-friendly shoe.

We believe that all footstrikes can enjoy a smooth running experience with this shoe; however, if you are a forefoot striker and prefer a lower drop, consider the Saucony Kinvara 15 instead.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Drop
Test results
Hyperion 2 9.8 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

We appreciate Brooks' cohesive design approach in the Hyperion 2. When the focus is on creating a leaner, lighter shoe, every element aligns with that vision—hence the minimalistic, paper-thin 2.9 mm insole that perfectly complements this shoe.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Insole thickness
Test results
Hyperion 2 2.9 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 345 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

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

The most significant update in the Hyperion 2 is the midsole, now featuring Brooks’ new DNA Flash v2—a more resilient, energy-returning version of the supercritical EVA foam used in their lightweight trainers. In our experience, this midsole felt notably bouncier.

However, it's not softer; in fact, it’s a touch firmer at 26.1 HA! This firmness isn’t a drawback, though—shoes with a low stack height and overly soft midsoles tend to bottom out quickly, especially as the foam begins to wear. It's also worth noting that nitrogen-infused foams like DNA Flash v2 typically feel softer than the durometer suggests, thanks to their airier composition.

Brooks Hyperion 2 DNA Flash v2

With the increased stack height and slightly firmer formulation, there’s less ground feel compared to the first version. But don't worry—the connection to the ground is still there!

Brooks Hyperion 2 Midsole softness
Test results
Hyperion 2 26.1 HA
Average 20.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 277 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

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

After chilling the Rebel v4 in the freezer for 20 minutes, we retested its foam with the Shore A durometer. Our findings revealed a minor 18.6% change—a stellar result for an EVA-based foam!

Brooks Hyperion 2 Midsole softness in cold (%)
Test results
Hyperion 2 18.6%
Average 25.5%
Compared to 276 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Rocker

With a midsole this thin (by today’s standards!) and no plate at all, Brooks had no need to add a huge rocker—typically used to counteract stiffness, which isn’t an issue here.

Brooks Hyperion 2 flat midsole

There is, however, a subtle toe spring that adds an interesting, helpful boost, especially for forefoot strikers. Even with that, the ride remains as natural and unassisted as it gets.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Rocker

Stability

Lateral stability test

Considering it's a speed-training shoe with a narrow landing platform, the Hyperion 2 feels surprisingly stable, especially in the forefoot, though the heel is a bit less supportive.

As with most streamlined shoes, the faster you run, the more stability and support it provides. And the better it feels.

Torsional rigidity

In our view, a key factor enhancing the Hyperion 2’s stability is its well-balanced torsional rigidity. Rated at 3/5, this updated rigidity level marks a change over its predecessor’s 2/5 score, which felt notably easier to twist and bend.

Test results
Hyperion 2 3
Average 3.3
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

In contrast, the heel counter remains largely unchanged, resembling the structure found in daily trainers with a 3/5 rating. This choice works well for the Hyperion 2, as a touch of heel support helps stabilize rearfoot strikers and minimizes lateral movement—without adding excessive stiffness or requiring a super-thick piece of foam to offset it.

Test results
Hyperion 2 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 312 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Just a minute ago we mentioned that this shoe is anything but broad. And we’re thrilled about it because the market is already flooded with massive shoes!

We measured a sleek 111.3 mm in the forefoot, reminiscent of classic racing flats from a decade ago, bringing a classic, feedback-rich feel that’s increasingly rare.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Midsole width - forefoot
Test results
Hyperion 2 111.3 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel is even narrower than the forefoot at just 84.5 mm. For this reason, we recommend the Hyperion 2 only to heel strikers without stability needs.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Midsole width - heel
Test results
Hyperion 2 84.5 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We confirmed before that the Hyperion 2 lacks a plate, features a moderate stack height, and comes with an outsole full of flexibility-enhancing grooves.

To put a number to its longitudinal flexibility, we secured the Hyperion 2 to our table and pushed it to a 90-degree angle. Impressively, it only required 16.2N of force to achieve this bend!

Test results
Hyperion 2 16.2N
Average 28.6N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 332 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Size and fit

Toebox width - widest part

This shoe wasn’t built as a daily workhorse but as a lightweight, performance-driven trainer. That’s why we were happy with the snugger, tighter fit that we felt throughout the entire shoe.

Our first toebox measurement came in at 96.6 mm, which confirmed our initial impression of a more compact design. In our experience, the vertical volume is similarly low, aligning with the streamlined, speed-focused profile of this model.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Toebox width - widest part
Test results
Hyperion 2 96.6 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The heel and midfoot fit on the snug side, while the toebox isn’t especially wide. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the generous room for toe splay, as the toebox doesn’t taper sharply.

Brooks Hyperion 2 taper

Does this make it an ideal choice for those with wide feet? In our view, not quite. It's still a shoe that demands a regular or narrow-sized feet. On top of that, we think it's a great design for women, who often have narrower heels and a slightly wider forefoot region.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Toebox width - big toe
Test results
Hyperion 2 80.5 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 224 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The Hyperion 2 takes again a creative approach to tongue design, setting it apart from the 99% of running shoes that feature a symmetrical gusset on both sides. We love to see some rare, think-outside-the-box design!

Brooks Hyperion 2 tongue alt

Brooks chose a think-outside-the-box approach, securing the tongue only on the medial side and allowing the lateral side to move freely.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Hyperion 2 One side (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

In our experience, the tongue on the Hyperion 2 is a substantial improvement over the first-gen Hyperion, nearly doubling in thickness (6.1 mm) for enhanced comfort. It’s cleverly designed with padding only where needed, maintaining a feather-light feel without compromising comfort.

Brooks Hyperion 2 lockdown

The lockdown is impressive—Brooks kept it simple but nailed the execution. We found that the Hyperion 2 uses punched eyelets for smooth adjustments and slightly textured laces that resemble those on supershoes like the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris, offering a high-performance feel at a much more accessible price.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Tongue padding
Test results
Hyperion 2 6.1 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 347 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

We found that Brooks opted not to include a heel tab in the Hyperion 2, similar to recent designs like the Ghost Max 2. However, they introduced a Hoka-inspired, extended heel collar that not only reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon but also makes it easy to slide your foot in.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Heel tab
Test results
Hyperion 2 Extended heel collar

Removable insole

We had no issues removing the insole, but there’s a catch—it’s quite thin as we proved before, and the room inside the Hyperion 2 is really limited. In our experience, this setup means only ultra-slim footbeds will fit comfortably, as regular ones would likely make the toebox uncomfortably cramped.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Removable insole
Test results
Hyperion 2 Yes

Price

This shoe brings back nostalgic vibes from the good old days, offering a grounded, non-rockered ride that feels refreshingly classic. In our view, the price tag matches this retro appeal—making it one of the most budget-friendly choices for a performance trainer that can double as a dedicated 5K/10K racer.

Test results
Hyperion 2 $140
Average $146
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
$60
Price
$300

Misc

Reflective elements

One of the few things we didn’t like about the Hyperion 2 is the lack of reflective elements. A small reflective detail on the heel or the Brooks logo on the lateral side would have been a welcome improvement.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Reflective elements
Test results
Hyperion 2 No