Verdict from 4 experts and +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Many consumers felt that the cushioning system of the Brooks Transcend 6 was comfortable and highly responsive.
- The stability mechanisms received high praise from overpronators who desired responsible and agreeable support during their runs.
- According to several runners, the toe box was spacious enough to welcome the natural splaying of the toes.
- Most testers agreed that the Transcend 6 was relatively lightweight, considering that it’s a stability running shoe.
- This product didn’t make the foot look awkwardly big, based on a handful of reviews.
- The color schemes were welcomed; people stated that they were vibrant and eye-catching.
2 reasons not to buy
- Some people felt the weight of this running shoe, stating that the somehow felt it drag the foot down, but not by much.
- A few purchasers were not happy with the inner sleeve of the upper unit, stating that it trapped warmth and prevented cool air from circulating.
Bottom line
The overall response towards the Brooks Transcend 6 was positive. A lot of people really liked this stability running shoe. They stated that the underfoot experience was luxurious and supportive. Their pronation problems were apparently addressed quickly and efficiently. Moreover, a bevy of testers was happy with the looks, as well as the in-shoe experience. Inversely, several groups of runners were unhappy with the stifling upper unit while others lamented the subpar breathability of the material.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Good to know
- The Brooks Transcend collection is designed to handle overpronated foot motion. It is also an update to the Transcend 5, a relatively well-received product that people have considered to be highly supportive. The silhouettes of both models are different in that the 6th iteration has a more minimalist look than the previous one, with engineered mesh and 4D Fit Print overlays serving as the upper unit.
- While the previous version used Super DNA for the midsole unit, the Transcend 6 features the DNA LOFT, a full-length cushioning unit that’s touted to be highly durable yet extremely responsive. Runners who also desire a customized underfoot experience can get it through the foam’s capacity to conform to the shape and motion of the foot-pad.
- A rubber layer covers the contact points of the midsole, protecting it from the damaging nature of the asphalt. Extra grip is provided by the moderately prominent gripping lugs while flexibility is afforded by the deep flex grooves.
Rubber is generously layered to protect the rest of the platform from the debilitating effects of surface contact and continuous use. Also, there are semi-prominent nodes that heighten the grip. The segmented structure of the external pad permits targeted traction and movement control, preventing slippage and unbalanced performance.
Deep flex grooves allow the midsole and the foot to move naturally, bending in concert with the natural capacity of taking each step. Such flexibility benefits the toe-off phase of the gait cycle as it’s the movement that involves the most bending of the joints.
The primary midsole unit of the Brooks Transcend 6 is comprised of the DNA LOFT technology. This full-length foam is a securely molded piece that offers consistent form and functionality, even after many uses. Brooks touts it as a highly durable feature that isn’t stiff or unwieldy. The plush underfoot sensation allows runners to enjoy their activities for extended periods.
Same as with the Brooks Ravenna, strategic stability is given the GuideRails technology. Gone are the usual stability post, which only stabilized the foot from the medial midfoot side. The GuideRails offer holistic support, addressing overpronation while completely steadying the foot as it moves and as it stands idly. The lateral and heel sections are also attended by this encompassing stability feature.
An Ortholite® sockliner is placed right above the DNA LOFT midsole. This add-on puts a bit of extra plushness to the underfoot experience. It also has antibacterial and anti-moisture capacities to prevent odor and to maintain a fresh and healthy in-shoe experience.
The upper unit of the Brooks Transcend 6 utilizes engineered mesh. This textile resembles woven cloth. Its soft and flexible structure complements the moving joints and tendons of the foot while its smooth build accommodates the easily irritated skin of the foot. Breathing holes welcome air into the foot-chamber, thus maintaining a cool and dry interior.
A 3D Fit Print overlay system is placed on critical areas of the upper, namely the sides and the instep. These thin prints help the rest of the upper when it comes to holding the foot in place and preventing in-shoe wobbling. They also act as aesthetic flourishes as they lightly garnish the façade with extra color and branding.
A stretch-bootie on the interior allows the foot to slip into this running shoe with ease. The breathable and stretchy lining encourages natural motion and swelling as the foot goes through the gait cycle.
The tongue and collar are padded. These parts of the upper unit are meant to cushion the Achilles tendon and the ankles. They also aim to prevent accidental shoe removals by locking the foot down on the platform.
A traditional lacing system is used for this running shoe. Flat laces snake through discreet eyelets, and they’re adjusted using the usual loop-and-tie method. The shoelaces are long enough to allow proper tying and tightening.
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