6 Best Brooks Running Shoes in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
6 Best Brooks Running Shoes in 2023
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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

Brooks Ghost 14
91
Superb!

What makes it the best?

The Ghost 14 from Brooks really fits the bill as the shoe for all runners. It's a workhorse that's comfy enough for easy days, responsive for tempo sessions, and is heavy-duty to handle light trails. Overall, a no-fuss daily trainer that will work for all your runs!

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
Full review of Brooks Ghost 14

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
White/Black/Amparo (145)
Grey/Blue/Red (078)
Titan/Teal/Flame (488)
Black/Blackened Pearl/Blue (056)
Grey/Alloy/Oyster (067)
Black/Blue/Nightlife (069)
Green Gecko/Blue/Black (310)
Grey/Titan/Maize (029)
More colors

Best Brooks trail running shoes

What makes it the best?

Brooks updates their venerable trail crusher in this 16 version of the Cascadia. If you demand a stout grip, a stable platform, and bright colors take a look at the Cascadia 16. It’s true to size, durable as hell, and packed with features like a ballistic rock plate, lace loop, and enough upper lacing eyelets to ensure a custom fit. These aggressive kicks are ready for adventure!

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
Full review of Brooks Cascadia 16

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Oyster Mushroom/Alloy/Orange (038)
Titan/Peacoat/Nightlife (411)
Black/Grey/Red (008)
White/Biscuit/Rooibos (173)
Peacoat/Atomic Blue/Rooibos (490)
Yellow/Black/Grenadine (745)
Eclipse/Marina/Chalk (427)
Blue / Multicoloured (469)
More colors

Best Brooks running shoes with wide toebox

Brooks Revel 5
90
Superb!

What makes it the best?

An affordable trainer that's got the makings of advanced running shoes? Hello, Brooks Revel 5! It's a smooth and lively jack-of-all-trades that will keep your feet comfy and bouncing. It can push the pace, eat up half-marathon distances, and breeze through your daily runs!

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
Full review of Brooks Revel 5

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black/Ebony/Crystal Teal (091)
White/Black (121)
Black/Grey/Blue (053)
White/Oyster/India Ink (182)
White/Peacoat/Blue Shadow (153)
titan/peacoat/flame (498)
Pageant Blue/True Blue/White (403)
Bluetiful/Navy/Irish Cream (471)
More colors

Best Brooks stability running shoes

What makes it the best?

One of Brooks’ most revered and popular stability shoes gets a well-needed modern update for 2022. This daily runner is loved by many because it’s seen as the Jack of all trades running shoe thanks to a bi-directional correction for different over-pronation. With fresher looks, it’s now an even more attractive option.

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
Full review of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

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Men
Women
Any color
Magenta/White/Raspberry (568)
White/Oyster/Brilliant (160)
Black/Blue/Orange (034)
Black/Blue/Nightlife (069)
Blue/Light Blue/Orange (404)
Black/Blue/Cherry Tomato (084)
Coral/Latigo Bay/White (680)
Kentucky Blue/White/Rose (427)
More colors

Brooks running shoes with best cushioning

What makes it the best?

"The hype is real." This is how runners find the Glycerin 20 from Brooks. They even hail it as the best Glycerin to date. With its luxe comfort and a touch of pop, it's a fun and lively workhorse that works perfectly for recovery days and long miles on the road. Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 20 is a tried-and-true daily trainer that's a cozy and reliable pick for both beginners and seasoned road runners.

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
Full review of Brooks Glycerin 20

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Blue Depths/Palace Blue/Orange (444)
Black/White/Alloy (059)
Black/Blackened Pearl/Fiery Red (090)
Ebony/White/Nightlife (047)
Orange/Titan/Flame (843)
Blue/Peacoat/Yellow (462)
Alloy/Grey/Blue Depths (070)
Black/Black/Ebony (020)
More colors

Best Brooks running shoes for long distance

Brooks Launch 9
86
Great!

What makes it the best?

Looks fast, runs fast. The Launch 9 from Brooks is a daily trainer that can handle any speed you put into your run. Whether you're going fast or slow, it performs. On top of this, it can handle any distance. From short runs, 5Ks to 20 miles, it doesn't disappoint. Ultimately, get the Brooks Launch 9 if you're after a solid all-rounder that doesn't hurt the wallet or the feet.

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
Full review of Brooks Launch 9

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Blue Surf/Black/Cherry Tomato (413)
Black/White (048)
Flame/Titan/Crystal Teal (854)
Grey/Midnight/White (063)
White/Pink/Nightlife (148)
White/Black/Tan (121)
Grey/Blue/Pink (016)
Blue/Peacoat/Yellow (462)
More colors

Comparison of the 6 best Brooks running shoes

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Best
CoreScore
Users rating
Experts
Best price
Ranking
Popularity
# of colorways

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:

Road vs trail.png

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:

Recommended road running shoe according to arch type.png

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-adrenaline-guide-rails.jpg

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

See: list of Brooks lightweight running shoes

See: list of Brooks long-distance running shoes

See: list of Brooks marathon running shoes

See: list of Brooks daily running shoes

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.

Experience.png

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.

DAN Midsole

A proprietary midsole foam that delivers impact protection unique to every runner.

Super DNA

A DNA midsole designed to deliver 25% more cushioning for runners looking for super soft and protective running experience.

DNA ZERO

A new midsole technology that offers light, consistent cushioning from start to finish.

DNA FLASH

It offers a combination of lightweight, soft cushioning and responsive ride helping runners to recover faster. 

Segmented Crash Pad

A caterpillar-shaped technology designed to deliver shock-absorbing cushioning and encouraging a  smoother heel-to-toe transition. 

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.

TrailTrack Rubber

A durable material designed to provide extra grip on wet and dry surfaces.

Arrow Point Outsole

An outsole pattern that helps the feet move quickly from heel to toe.

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.

brooks-hyperion-elite-2-heel-design.jpg

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.

Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.