Brooks PureGrit 7 review

Who should buy the Brooks PureGrit 7

The PureGrit 7 from Brooks offers speed and smooth transitions on the trails. This running companion might be your best bet if:

• You want a cushioned running shoe that is built for long-distance trail runs
• You are a forefoot/midfoot striker who needs a neutral pronation running shoe

Updates to the Brooks PureGrit 7

• New sticky rubber outsole improves the traction and durability of the sole unit
• An updated tread pattern of hexagons and chevrons to allow grasp on multiple surfaces 
• Heat-activated yarn upper snugly wraps the foot without inhibiting movement
• New Ariaprene tongue effectively keeps debris and dirt from entering the shoe

Soft, sticky rubber for better traction

The main material the outsole is made of is called sticky rubber. It was designed to be a bit on the softer side, so it sinks into even the smallest divots and forms around bumps of varying shapes, thus creating more surface contact. It is through this dynamic that it prevents runners from slipping, providing better traction on the trail.

For the runner to feel more confident and secure while trail running, 3D lugs with hexagon and chevron shapes compose the tread underneath the shoe. The hexagon lugs vary in shape to adapt to any ground condition. The chevron lugs, on the other hand, go in different directions for better braking and traction when toeing off.

BioMoGo DNA enables a responsive ride

The Brooks PureGrit7 has the BioMoGo DNA cushioning on the midsole. This same cushioning is also featured in the popular Brooks trail running shoe, the Cascadia 13.  BioMoGo is a biodegradable and more eco-friendly foam. Brooks has combined this foam with another one of their patents, called DNA. Commonly, the Brooks DNA is made up of a gel that adapts to the amount of force it receives. However, with the BioMoGo DNA, the gel inserts are replaced with BioMoGo foam, making the cushioning friendlier to the environment, while still providing runners with a responsive and adaptable ride.

Omega Flex Grooves are incorporated on the midsole. These indentions form segments that allow specific structures on the midsole to move with ease. This benefit is delivered without compromising the midsole’s cushioning and responsiveness.

To provide extra protection, the durable Ballistic Rock Shield is added. This thermoplastic EVA sheet can be found between the midsole and the outsole. Its primary function is to protect the foot from being injured as the runner steps on objects on the trail that are protruding or jagged.

The Brooks Ideal Heel design is also assimilated on the back part of the midsole and outsole. To make the running transition as smooth as possible, the outer heel was made to curve. While in motion, this design encourages runners to execute forefoot and midfoot striking.

The PureGrit 7's protective upper coverage

The flat-knit upper was made with heat-activated yarn. Commonly, some types of knitting textiles stretch with repeated use. What the heat-activated yarn does is ensure that the flat knit doesn’t stretch too much, retaining the upper’s shape despite consistent usage.

3D rubber overlays were placed on high-wear areas of the PureGrit 7’s upper for extra protection and durability. The Brooks logo can be found on one side as well. Aside from protecting certain areas, these overlays also have an aesthetic purpose.

Formed on an anatomical last, the upper provides a sock-like fit. It was formed to follow the natural contours of the foot, allowing enhanced comfort and delivering the right amount of snugness.

Just like the heel part of the outsole and midsole, the heel on the upper is also rounded. This allows the runner to have better body alignment, thereby minimizing joint stress and lessening the chances of injury.

The tongue is made up of a material called Ariaprene. Not only does it enhance the fit, but it also helps drain water during trail runs. It acts like a second skin while keeping dirt and debris from entering the shoe.

The front lace-up design is unlike typical lace closures. Aside from being made up of a combination of holes and loops, the placement directs the laces towards the inner side of the foot. This design secures the fit better, allowing the runner to move confidently over the trail.