Brooks Ravenna 6
Verdict from 8 experts and 100+ user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- The Ravenna 6 is very comfortable to run in, according to most reviews.
- There is a very nice blend of support and cushioning as noted by several runners.
- A handful of runners with plantar fasciitis welcomed the relief from discomfort after wearing the 6th version of the Ravenna.
- Flexibility remains to be quite decent for a shoe with great cushioning and moderate support.
- Some runners loved the way the tongue works, as it never slides and offers protection against lace pressure.
- A good number of runners marvelled at the smoothness of the ride.
- The traction is excellent, noted some users.
3 reasons not to buy
- The price point is too high for a shoe with upper durability issues, based on several reviews.
- Most of the negative comments were directed at how narrow the toe box is.
- More than a few experienced hotspots, particularly in the forefoot.
Bottom line
Best price from 30 shops
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88% say it's true to size.
Overview of this review
Updates to Brooks Ravenna 6
- The upper gets most of the update in the 6th installment of the Brooks Ravenna. Out of the box, one will notice that the overlays are much thinner and are strategically placed to provide better fit and support. A new Element Mesh also enhances breathability.
- The midfoot saddle is retained, but it gets a small improvement as it offers a better way for runners to get support and a more personalized fit.
- A subtle makeover is done in the heel area of this model. It is now rounded off to offer better stability and to help with the smoothness of the landing upon initial impact.
Size and fit
Relative to the prior version of the Ravenna, the 6th edition offers a snugger fit all throughout. With a rounded heel and better midfoot saddle, the fit encapsulates the foot almost like a glove, which is quite rare for a trainer. The shoe comes in regular and wide widths for the men’s and women’s versions. Runners with medium to narrow dimensions are likely to be very comfortable in this shoe. Sizing runs true in the Ravenna 6.
Outsole
The outsole of this road running shoe is made up mostly of blown rubber starting from the midfoot to the forefoot while a harder carbon rubber covers the heel area. These same outsole materials are also featured in the shoe's latest version, the Ravenna 10. Brooks continues to use the Segmented Crash Pad and Omega Flex Grooves to give a more cushioning upon landing and better flexibility.
Midsole
Brooks packed the midsole with several technologies to give that nice blend of cushioning and support. Acting as the main midsole component is the BioMogo DNA that covers the length of the shoe. It has decent responsiveness and is very critical in giving the Ravenna 6 a soft and plush ride. Beneath the arch is a medial shank called the Diagonal RollBar that is the key component in curbing overpronation. It stretches from the heel to the midfoot. It progressively becomes firmer as it nears the midfoot to add more support without being intrusive. A crash pad that also extends from the heel to the midfoot is located in the lateral side for another subtle way of keeping the ride stable.
Upper
An Element Mesh makes up a large portion of the upper for optimal breathability. The thinner overlays help provide a stable and supportive run. Providing runners with a more customized fit is the improved midfoot saddle. Both the tongue and the ankle collar are plush. As mentioned, the heel area is now rounded off for better stability. A removable and molded insole adds cushioning and plush step-in feel.
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