As an experienced runner and running shoe reviewer, It’s one of my main goals to help our readers find the best running shoes for their specific requirements and budgets. In this article, I’m going to be sharing my knowledge on one of the oldest, and most popular brands in the running shoe industry, Brooks Running, also known as just simply, Brooks.
This Best Brooks Running Shoes Buyer’s Guide, provides an introduction to the brand and discusses the various factors to consider when selecting the perfect pair of Brooks running shoes. It also lists my top recommended Brooks shoes in ranked order accompanied with our review summaries, taken from my in-depth review of each shoe. To learn more about our rigorous review process here at Trail & Kale Running Co., click here.
Brooks is an American brand, based in Seattle, WA, and founded in 1914. It has been dedicated to crafting running shoes since its pivot to the running niche in 2001 from a more broad audience. Their mission is to deliver the perfect blend of cushioning, support, and responsiveness to enhance your run, and for the most part at an affordable price. You can learn more about their fascinating long history here.
Some of the main reasons why I recommend Brooks running shoes to our readers nowadays is their durable, cushioned and responsive midsole foams, long standing lines like the Cascadia and Ghost that loyal Brooks fans buy year after year, and their attractive price point that positions them as a more affordable option when pitted against some other top running brands.
Brooks running shoes are also widely regarded for their durability and versatility, making them a worthwhile investment for many different types of runners. They often offer various ‘Wide’ running shoes for runners, and also great stability running shoes using their GTS (Go-To-Stability GuideRails technology).
Finding the best Brooks running shoes that are well suited to your requirements, foot shape, and budget can be a daunting task, given the huge amount of options available – and that is exactly why I created this guide – to make it easy.
I’ve reviewed all their running shoes, so I’m excited to share all my insights with you in this concise list of Brooks shoes in ranked order based on how well they performed in my reviews.
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I’m also providing summarized reviews of standout models in the Brooks running shoe lineup, highlighting their best features, and also drawbacks – because no shoe is perfect and even if there’s only one downside to a shoe, that may well be the very reason for you to choose an alternative instead, which I will also provide options for. All these recommendations are based on our in-depth Brooks shoe reviews published here on trailandkale.com.
Whether you are a long-time Brooks enthusiast or a newcomer to the brand, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing your next pair of Brooks running shoes – I promise!
The best Brooks shoes for running, if you’re short on time
In case you’re in a rush; here are my top recommendations at a glance, for the road and trails – read on for my reviews and full list of top Brooks running shoes:
- BEST BROOKS RUNNING SHOES FOR ROADS is the Ghost MAX. It’s a max cushioned daily trainer that makes bagging essential miles very easy on your joints and mind – because they’re such a pleasure to run in.
- BEST BROOKS TRAIL RUNNING SHOES right now are the Cascadia 17. These all-rounders excel on technical trails, offering exceptional traction, comfort, and durability with a lightweight design at an extremely attractive price point.
Scroll down to read each Brooks running shoes review to work out which are the best choice for you, and to learn more about Brooks’ proprietary technologies and terms, jump to the bottom of the guide where I explain them all in layman’s terms.
The best Brooks running shoes 2024
1. Brooks Ghost MAX
“Top pick for overall and winner for recovery runs and easy daily miles”
Read my in-depth Brooks Ghost Max review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.2 oz (289g) | Drop: 6mm
upport, making them a go-to for anything from daily jogs to recovery and long runs. They won a T&K Editor’s Choice Award, reflecting their excellent performance on the run and lasting durability. It’s rare to find a shoe that checks all the boxes for daily training, but the Ghost MAX managed to do it.
The fit is spot-on, with buying options for wide and extra-wide, should you foot shape require it. What sets these shoes apart for me, is their plush cushioning that doesn’t skimp on responsiveness, making them excellent long distance running shoes for marathon training and for those who need to get comfortable recovery miles in. They’re also surprisingly adept as walking shoes, thanks to their soft support and stable base.
At the core of the Ghost MAX’s appeal is the DNA Loft V2 midsole foam with a large stack height but moderately low drop, offering a cushioning that’s both soft and springy, maintaining its form and bounce over time. This balance of comfort, stability, and weight makes the Ghost MAX a solid choice for any runner, particularly those needing extra support.
2. Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
“Fastest Brooks shoes for race day”
Read my in-depth Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.6oz (215g) | Drop: 8mm
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is the brand’s latest race day shoe, perfect for runners targeting new personal bests or looking to enhance their interval training. Weighing just 7.6oz (all shoe weights in this guide are for US(M)9), its ultra-lightweight design boosts performance, offering an unbeatable combination of speed, efficiency, and comfort in the Brooks elite range.
Equipped with the innovative ARRIS SpeedVault Plus carbon fiber plate and a responsive foam midsole, it propels you forward with an incredible sensation of velocity and support, especially valued by heavier runners.
The innovative engineering of this shoe ensures a dynamic, propulsive experience with just the right level of cushioning (although if you plan to run more than half marathon distance, you may prefer more cushioning), making it shine in the racing shoe category. Its design brings together advanced features with a breathable fit, making it feel really great right out the box.
At $250, the Hyperion Elite 4 is an investment towards achieving your racing goals, and best suits the performance driven runners out there. Based on thorough review testing, it certainly does boost your performance, making it worth the money for the runners aiming to hit new speed PRs and maybe even stand atop more finish lines if you’re that fast!
3. Brooks Hyperion Max
“Most affordable, high-performance Brooks shoes for racing”
Read my in-depth Brooks Hyperion Max review / watch my video review.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) | Drop: 8mm
The Brooks Hyperion Max running shoes deliver top performance without the steep price tag, especially appealing for marathon runners focused on performance and not emptying their bank account. This shoe, tipping the scales at just 7.2oz (204g) for a US men’s size 9, combines the best of Brooks’ lightweight design with the endurance needed for marathon distances, offering a blend of speed, durability, and comfort.
With its DNA FLASH midsole and a durable, flexible outsole, the Hyperion Max offers a responsive ride that doesn’t sacrifice longevity, making it one of Brooks’ best running shoes for speed training and competitive racing. Its moderate cushioning and breathable design ensure a comfortable fit, hitting the sweet spot for runners seeking a versatile, all-around shoe that favors the fast.
4. Brooks Ghost 16
“Best Brooks Daily Training Shoe”
Read my in-depth Brooks Ghost 16 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 9.6oz (272g) | Drop: 12mm
The Brooks Ghost 16 combines comfort and performance, making it a go-to choice for both new and intermediate runners – it’s also one of my favorite daily trainers. They are well-suited for daily mileage accumulation and are also great walking shoes, thanks to their cushioning and comfort; yes you can wear running shoes for walking, and we advise it.
The Ghost 16 sports a new engineered air mesh upper and new DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, creating a ride that’s plush yet responsive, which is ideal for various paces and distances. This model shines for its commitment to sustainability, featuring recycled materials in its design. It’s a thoughtful touch that speaks to runners who value eco-conscious choices in their gear.
With a price point of $140 from brooksrunning.com, the Ghost 16 offers great value, combining Brooks performance with affordability, a common theme with this brand. These cushioned running shoes accommodate different foot shapes and needs well, and you can also pick them up in a narrow, or 2 ‘wide’ fit options, proving why it’s one of the Brooks running shoe options out there based on popularity alone. Find out how the Ghost compares to the Adrenaline GTS here.
5. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
“Best stability daily trainer”
Read my in-depth Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10oz (283g) | Drop: 12mm
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 stands out in the stability shoe game, perfect for runners who need that extra bit of alignment on their daily runs, if you have pronation issues. From the get-go, the plush cushioning around the collar and tongue wraps your feet in comfort, while the engineered air mesh upper ensures a breathable, snug fit for various foot shapes. It’s this combination of immediate comfort and a secure fit that elevates the Adrenaline GTS 23, making it more than just another shoe in your rotation.
During my rainy test runs, the durable outsole of the Adrenaline GTS 23 proved its worth, offering consistent traction that kept me upright on slick surfaces. This kind of versatility, paired with a price that doesn’t make your wallet weep, positions it as a go-to option for runners craving quality without the high cost. It’s a testament to the shoe’s design that it delivers performance you can rely on, rain or shine.
Ultimately, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a great choice for those valuing stability, support, and comfort in their running journey. Its thoughtful blend of comfort, fit, and durability, without breaking the bank, marks it as a must-have. Find out how the Adrenaline GTS compares to the Ghost here.
6. Brooks Hyperion
“Best Brooks tempo running shoes”
Read my in-depth Brooks Hyperion review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.3oz (207g) | Drop: 8mm
The Brooks Hyperion hits the sweet spot for tempo training, blending lightweight design with responsive cushioning to keep speed and comfort in harmony. At $140, it offers serious runners a cost-effective way to level up their gear. The nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH foam, strikes a balance between firmness for quick responses and ample cushioning for comfort, making it ideal for those speedy interval sessions or tempo runs. Plus, the breathable mesh upper keeps your feet when you’re pushing the pace.
Tipping the scales at a mere 7.3oz with a 6mm drop, the Hyperion is engineered for efficiency, shedding any unnecessary weight without sacrificing performance. It’s built for runners with a standard arch, supporting natural movement rather than adding extra stability, which might not suit everyone. If you’re after a shoe that feels like flying rather than cushioning each step, the Hyperion’s firm, speedy ride is tailored for you, especially as you gear up for race day.
7. Brooks Launch 10
“Best bang for your buck, by a LONG way”
Read my in-depth Brooks Launch 10 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 8.2oz (232g) | Drop: 10mm
The Brooks Launch 10 is for runners looking for quality without the hefty price tag, clocking in at just $110 – which I still can’t believe. It’s a breath of fresh air in a market where high-performance often means high-cost, offering lightweight, responsive cushioning that’s perfect for everything from your daily miles to pushing the pace. It’s the kind of shoe that challenges the notion that more expensive means better, providing a stellar running experience that’s accessible to more runners.
Comfort and fit are where the Launch 10 really shines, thanks to its true-to-size design and a breathable knit upper that hugs the foot while keeping it cool. The combination of neutral support and DNA LOFT foam midsole ensures a ride that’s both responsive and plush, making it a go-to choice for runners aiming for speed and efficiency. It’s this balance that positions the Launch 10 as a versatile contender, ready to tackle a variety of running scenarios with ease.
Despite a minor quibble about the tongue length in my review, the Launch 10’s appeal is undeniable, offering performance and eco-conscious construction at a price point that’s hard to beat. With nearly 60% of its materials being recycled, it’s a choice that feels good on the feet and the conscience.
The best Brooks trail running shoes
1. Brooks Cascadia 17
“Overall Winner Best Brooks Trail Running Shoes”
Read my in-depth Brooks Cascadia 17 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 11.4 oz (323g) | Drop: 8mm
The Brooks Cascadia 17 really sets the bar for all terrain trail running shoes, blending high performance with incredible value at just $140. It’s astonishing how Brooks manages to pack so much into them, from comfort and design to functionality and durability, all without breaking the bank. Their breathable upper and sturdy heel cage offer a controlled, stable run even on the most uneven terrain and technical trails.
With the DNA LOFT v2 midsole, the Cascadia 17 balanced cushioning for comfort and responsiveness for performance, tailor-made for trail runners who want the best of both worlds. This balance is critical for long-distance runs across challenging terrains, providing a smooth and supported ride throughout.
The Cascadia 17 is also a very durable shoe that shines with its protective features and outstanding traction, ensuring safety and confidence across varied terrains. The protective plate and impressive traction make it ideal for mountain running.
2. Brooks Catamount 3
“Top choice for ultra trail racing”
Read my in-depth Brooks Catamount 3 review / Watch my video review.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium (with a roomy toe box) | Weight: 9.1oz (258g) | Drop: 6mm
The Brooks Catamount 3 nails it for trail racing, especially in the 50k range. It’s the mix of lightness, responsive cushioning, and a propulsion plate that really makes a difference on the uphills and all out speed on flat trails. It also has a CarbonNeutral certification, which matters to a lot of trail runners (myself included), who appreciate sustainability and protecting the natural spaces we run in.
The Catamount 3’s ability to combine speed, stability, traction, and eco-friendliness into one package makes it a really special trail running shoe. Whether you’re racing or training on rough trails, its propulsive feel and extreme grip ensure a responsive run every time.
Tipping the scales at just 9.1oz and with a modest 6mm drop, the Catamount 3 strikes a perfect balance between speed and support. It’s the shoe of choice for the eco-conscious runner aiming for peak performance on challenging terrains.
3. Brooks Caldera 7
“Most cushioned daily trail runner”
Read my in-depth Brooks Caldera 7 review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.7oz (303g) | Drop: 6mm
The Caldera 7 is a running shoe that provides long-lasting comfort for trail runners, featuring high cushioning and a dynamic, durable design for stable performance on varied terrains. I was blown away by how much fun these are on downhill trails and the nice spacious toe box allows your feet to breath and toes to splay nicely when running.
Highlighting its commitment to sustainability, it incorporates 42% recycled materials and is also a Certified CarbonNeutral product, reducing environmental impact. Ideal for trail enthusiasts, the Caldera 7 running shoes provide all-day comfort, durability, and excellent traction, with a 6mm drop and weighing 10.7oz.
4. Brooks Catamount Agil
“Top choice for ultra trail racing up to 50K”
Read my in-depth Brooks Catamount Agil review / watch my video review
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.7oz (218.3g) | Drop: 6mm
The Catamount Agil is a slightly more niche trail running shoe for those eyeing up races under 50k, and want a minimal runner that offers a blend of agility, speed, and stability on technical mountain trails. Its SpeedVault Propulsion Plate, responsive midsole, and sticky traction ensure a nimble yet secure experience over rugged terrain – Fast and light is the best way to describe this running shoe.
It’s a unisex running shoe, as many race day shoes are, and it’s another Certified CarbonNeutral product. With a 6mm drop and weighing just 7.7oz, the Catamount Agil combines neutral support with responive cushioning for a fast paced, agile mountain running.
Understanding Key Brooks Technologies and Terminology
As an avid runner and dedicated reviewer of running gear, my journey over the years has led me to delve deep into the world of running shoe technology.
My extensive real-world experience and passion for running, plus a natural curiosity drives me to continuously explore and understand the science behind running performance, valuing practical experience highly in gaining expertise.
Brooks is one of those running brands that’s renowned for its high-quality running shoes that consistently perform well in my reviews, are reasonably priced, offers a range of innovative features and specialized terminology that distinguishes its footwear in a crowded market.
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Let’s go over some of the key technologies and terms that Brooks has developed to enhance the running experience.
One such technology is DNA LOFT and DNA Flash foam, which significantly contributes to the brand’s success in the running community, and in the ratings of my Brooks running shoe reviews. Let’s take a closer look into this and other key Brooks technologies and terminology.
DNA LOFT and DNA Flash midsole technologies: The foundation of Brooks’ comfort and responsiveness
Brooks’ DNA LOFT technology offers runners plush and luxurious cushioning without compromising durability or responsiveness. Engineered to provide a soft feel underfoot, DNA LOFT is a blend of EVA foam, rubber, and air, ensuring a smooth ride from start to finish. This technology is particularly beneficial for runners seeking maximum comfort over long distances.
Complementing DNA LOFT, Brooks introduced DNA Flash, a nitrogen-infused foam designed to deliver an optimal balance between energy return and softness. This innovative midsole material caters to runners looking for a more responsive and lightweight option, perfect for faster paced workouts and races.
GuideRails System to help support your feet, knees, and hips’ natural motion
Brooks’ GuideRails technology represents a paradigm shift in how we think about stability in running shoes. Rather than focusing solely on correcting overpronation, GuideRails provides holistic support by keeping excess movement in check.
This ensures that your natural stride is supported without unnecessary interventions, promoting a more efficient and injury-free running experience with better running form over time. GuideRails is ideal for runners who require stability but don’t want to sacrifice the natural feel of their run.
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To pick a pair of running shoes with this technology, look out for the GTS acronym at the end of the shoe name, which stands for Go-To-Support.
Active Foot Frame: Providing Lightweight Stability and Support
The Segmented Crash Pad is another smart feature in many Brooks shoes but doesn’t get talked about all that much. It’s designed to absorb shock and provide a smooth heel-to-toe transition in a similar way to On Cloudtec technology found in some of the best On running shoes.
Regardless of how your foot lands, this technology does its best to adapt to each step, offering a degree of tailored cushioning and support. It’s especially useful for runners who prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride throughout their run. With these and other Brooks technologies, choosing the perfect pair from their extensive lineup becomes an informed decision, tailored to your specific running needs and preferences.
I hope this guide to best Brooks running shoes helps you find the perfect pair for your next run. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask ANY questions in the comments below. Happy running, or as Brooks would say RUN HAPPY! 🙂
