6 Best Brooks Running Shoes in 2023
With a "Run Happy" motto, Brooks believes that there is no good or bad running shoe. Each runner picks the right shoe for them based on their preferences and the running experience they want to achieve.
We have performed wear tests and lab tests on over 40 running shoes from Brooks to help you find the best one.
Our top picks come from five different categories to cover various runners’ needs.
How we test running shoes
We pick the best Brooks running shoes based on our proprietary CoreScore - a rating from 0 to 100.
This seemingly simple ranking system is backed up by hundreds of hours of testing. Here is what stays behind the curtains:
- Our independent shoe testing lab literally cuts each shoe into pieces to measure every imaginable aspect including softness, breathability, durability, etc.
- A team of running shoe fanatics runs 30-50 miles weekly to test every Brooks shoe in a variety of conditions.
- Thousands of external user and expert reviews are taken into account for a more comprehensive overview.
- We purchase all Brooks shoes with our own funds to minimize bias.
The cream of the crop makes it here.
Best Brooks running shoes overall
What makes it the best?
Pros
- All about comfort!
- True to size
- Lots of padding
- Smooth ride
- Really stable, even on light trails
- Great out of the box
- Built for longevity (500 miles, easily)
- Great grip
Cons
- Lacks breathability for hot summer days
- Not the best for long distances
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Best Brooks trail running shoes
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Grippy outsole
- Great lockdown
- True to size
- Roomy toebox
- Durable
- Gaiter attachments
- Rock plate
- Aggressive
- Lacing options
Cons
- On the heavier side
- A bit stiff
- Runs warm
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Best Brooks running shoes with wide toebox
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Fits like a dream
- Accommodating stretchy upper
- Efficient transitions
- Surprisingly peppy
- Laces stay tied tightly
- Low to the ground
- Durable construction
- Great deal
- Do-it-all shoe
- Impressive weight
- Breathable
Cons
- Not for long runs
- No reflective details
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Best Brooks stability running shoes
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Promising durability
- Stability for all directions
- Improved aesthetics
- Phenomenal grip
- A firmer, faster midsole
- Consistent in all conditions
- Reliable daily runner
Cons
- High price point for stability aimed at beginners
- Midsole is too hard for some
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Brooks running shoes with best cushioning
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Plush cushion
- Awesome step-in feel
- Responsive ride
- Breathable for hot days
- Tank-like build
- Weighs less than looks
- Awesome value for money
- Comfortable fit
- Grippy on wet road and gravel
Cons
- Laces don't stay tied
- Blocky ride
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Best Brooks running shoes for long distance
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Lighter weight
- Comfy ride for long miles
- Perfect for any pace
- Not tippy when cornering
- Stable on gravel
- Can double for casual wear
- Sustainable outsole
- Great-value
Cons
- Not as energetic as expected
- Pricier than before
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Comparison of the 6 best Brooks running shoes
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Road or trail? Choose the right Brooks shoe
As the name suggests, road and trail running shoes are made for different surfaces. But aside from the outsole design, here’s what else makes these shoes more suitable for certain conditions:
Note: The ratings are based on how these shoe categories perform in general. This does not apply to a specific model that exists.
Types of arch support in Brooks running shoes
In choosing the best Brooks running shoe, consider your arch type (high, medium, flat) and the level of support (neutral, stability, motion control) you need. Aside from overall comfort, wearing the right shoe will also help prevent injuries. Here’s the quick guide for you:
Brooks treats arch support seriously, offering a wide range of stability and motion control running shoes.
And if you never experienced issues with flat feet or overpronation, most likely you will be happy with a pair of neutral Brooks shoes.
Brooks uses GuideRails on its stability shoes (like Brooks Adrenaline). They act as supportive bumpers that prevent the foot from excessively rolling inwards without feeling intrusive.
Distance: how far will your Brooks shoes go?
Brooks running shoes are also classified according to distance. Depending on your goal, here’s a quick guide on what type of shoe to wear:
|
5K/10K Race |
Half Marathon |
Marathon |
Daily Training/ Easy Jogs |
|
- lightweight shoes - snug fit - beginner: look for extra cushioning |
- cushioned running shoes - forefoot striker: look for added forefoot support - heel striker: look for extra heel padding - durable solid rubber outsole |
- breathable - durable solid rubber outsole - trail: look for a grippy outsole and extra foot protection |
- cushioned shoes - snug in the heel and midfoot - roomy toe-box - durable rubber outsole |
Shoe feel and experience
Brooks categorized their running shoes into four categories - Cushion, Energy, Connect, and Speed. These categories deliver different experiences or feel when you put them on.
Brooks shoe collections based on the Experience type:
"Cushion": Brooks Ghost (road), Brooks Glycerin (road), Brooks Adrenaline (road), Brooks Cascadia (trail)
"Energize": Brooks Levitate (road), Brooks Ricochet (road), Brooks Revel (road), Brooks Caldera (trail)
"Connect": Brooks PureFlow (road)
"Speed": Brooks Hyperion Elite (road, carbon plate), Brooks Hyperion Tempo (road), Brooks Launch (road), Brooks Catamount (trail)
Brooks shoe widths
To ensure that you get the best possible fit, Brooks offers their running shoes several width options - narrow, medium, wide, extra wide.
|
Men’s |
Women’s |
|
|
Narrow |
B |
2A |
|
Medium/Normal |
D |
B |
|
Wide |
2E |
D |
|
Extra Wide |
4E |
2E |
Note: The availability of width options varies by shoe model and color.
The usual width is medium/normal. If you are not particular with width options when buying a shoe, then it is more likely the right fit for you.
If you experienced squeezing and earlier wear at the sides of your shoes then your feet may not be a typical width. It is highly advisable to visit a shop for a professional fitting.
For more show sizing and fit tips from Brooks, read this general guide.
Brooks running shoe technologies
Brooks is one of the leading innovators when it comes to shoe technologies. Here are some technologies used in the best Brooks running shoes:
|
Technology |
Description |
|
|
Support |
GuideRails |
An innovative support system that allows the knees, joints, and hips to move naturally while you run, helping the body find its natural path. |
|
Pivot Posting System |
It is a support technology designed for trail shoes, delivering a stabilizing suspension on both sides of the forefoot and heel. |
|
|
Progressive Diagonal Rollbar |
A tri-density midsole that delivers essential stability feature, allowing the foot to move naturally from heel to toe. |
|
|
Upper |
3D Fit Print |
Uses a screen-print technology to add engineered structure to the upper without compromising flexibility and weight. |
|
3D Rubber Print |
An advanced screen-printing process that makes use of rubber to add durability and protection to Brooks trail running shoes. |
|
|
Ariaprene Mesh |
Foam-core technology designed to deliver second-skin and quick-drying coverage. |
|
|
Engineered Mesh |
A woven mesh that provides a balance of structure and stretch. |
|
|
Fit Knit |
It is designed to provide a more sock-like fit. |
|
|
Ultimate Sockliner |
A PU insert with an OrthoLite® memory foam designed to deliver added comfort. |
|
|
GTX |
A waterproof membrane that keeps the feet dry and warm on extreme running conditions. |
|
|
Midsole |
BioMoGo DNA |
It provides long-lasting dynamic cushioning in environmentally-friendly design. |
|
DNA AMP |
It delivers maximum responsiveness by placing a polyurethane-based foam inside thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) skin. |
|
|
DAN LOFT |
It is a Brooks cushioning that offers the softest feel without compromising durability and responsiveness. |
|
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DAN Midsole |
A proprietary midsole foam that delivers impact protection unique to every runner. |
|
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Super DNA |
A DNA midsole designed to deliver 25% more cushioning for runners looking for super soft and protective running experience. |
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DNA ZERO |
A new midsole technology that offers light, consistent cushioning from start to finish. |
|
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DNA FLASH |
It offers a combination of lightweight, soft cushioning and responsive ride helping runners to recover faster. |
|
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Segmented Crash Pad |
A caterpillar-shaped technology designed to deliver shock-absorbing cushioning and encouraging a smoother heel-to-toe transition. |
|
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Outsole |
Dual Stability Arch Pod |
A passive support system designed to deliver stability without the use of a post. |
|
Ballistic Rock Shield |
A durable thermoplastic EVA material placed in between the midsole and outsole, delivering foot protection against trail debris and sharp objects. |
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TrailTrack Rubber |
A durable material designed to provide extra grip on wet and dry surfaces. |
|
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Arrow Point Outsole |
An outsole pattern that helps the feet move quickly from heel to toe. |
|
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HPR Plus |
A rubber material that provides added traction and protection to the midsole from abrasive running surfaces. |
Brooks’ inspiring athletes
Brooks sponsors professional athletes to inspire runners everywhere. One of the significant athletes is Desiree Linden, an American long-distance runner who won the 2018 Boston Marathon despite the grueling weather condition.
Hyperion Elite 2 is Brooks' take on elite, carbon-plated race shoes
She was wearing the prototype of the Brooks Hyperion during the race and sets history as the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon in 33 years. It is also the first win for the Hansons-Brooks Original Distance Project team.
