The Best Brooks Running Shoes
When it comes to running shoes, it’s important to find a good pair. You want something that’s lightweight but supportive and can handle any distance you put in it. Luckily, there are some great Brooks shoes out there.
Ghost 14
If you’re in the market for a new pair of running shoes, it’s probably a safe bet to consider the Brooks Ghost 14. This shoe is a popular choice among fans of the brand. It has a lightweight midsole that is cushioned and flexible, and features a smooth and reliable transition.
The most notable feature of the Ghost 14 is the full-length DNA Loft cushioning system. Not only does it provide a soft and smooth ride, it’s also durable.
The segmented crash pad is another important component of the Ghost. It works with the midsole’s DNA LOFT foam to ensure a smooth heel-to-toe transition, and improves the flow from foot strike to toe-off.
In addition to the 3D Fit Print upper, the Ghost 14 features a flat lacing system that reduces pressure while distributing it more evenly. Although the laces are flat, they do have a small amount of elasticity to keep your foot in place during a quick run.
A few minor tweaks and adjustments have been made to the Brooks Ghost, including the addition of a carbon-neutral midsole. This means that all of the materials used to make the shoe are recycled.
There are 32 color options to choose from, ranging from leopard-spotted black to purple detailing. While the Ghost 14 doesn’t have as many colorways as competitors like the Aurora-BL, it’s still a solid option for those who want a neutral shoe for daily training.
Cascadia 16
Runners who have been looking for a shoe that provides a stable, protective ride on technical trails will find the Brooks Cascadia 16 fits the bill. This all-new shoe features a new upper and midsole, plus an updated outsole. The DNA Loft v2 technology adds 2mm of foam to the midsole to provide soft cushioning.
In addition to a stable ride, the Cascadia 16 also delivers a balanced feel, even on technical courses. Users note that the shoe’s grip on classic trails is strong, and its protection against pebbles and mud is adequate.
Brooks’ latest version of the Cascadia has a more stable fit and a wider platform. This combination ensures stability, whether you’re on an easy trail or a steep incline.
However, there are a few issues with the shoe. Its tongue is not as absorbent as it could be, and the eyelets could be wider. Despite these shortcomings, the shoe works well for daily training.
The Brooks Cascadia has been a popular shoe for years. For most users, the fit is more than adequate. Although this shoe is not designed for a wide foot, it is roomy enough to accommodate a variety of foot types.
It has a comfortable heel collar and a toe box that is well-padded. There is a velcro tab on the heel for securing gaiters.
The outsole is a good choice for most surfaces. But, users have reported that it has a limited grip on slippery mud.
Glycerin 20
The Glycerin line from Brooks has been one of the most popular running shoe brands for years. Featuring a plush upper and a firm yet cushioned ride, the Glycerin is ideal for any runner looking for a versatile shoe.
A new version of the midsole provides a more responsive and energetic ride. A nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam makes the Glycerin 20 softer and more cushioned than previous models.
Its outsole features a wider platform for more balanced transitions from heel to toe. Brooks’ GuideRails are added to prevent overpronation.
The interior of the Glycerin 20 is breathable and plush, with a soft lining and a quilted tongue. There is also an adequate amount of ventilation.
The flex groove in the Glycerin 20 is aligned length-wise, making it more resistant to flexing. However, it lacks a deep compression groove. This results in early landings and a clunky rearfoot.
Overall, the Glycerin 20 is a good choice for runners looking for an everyday trainer. But it doesn’t offer the same level of durability or grip as past Glycerins. While it is lighter than the previous model, the weight limits the shoe’s versatility.
The Brooks Glycerin 20 is a good fit for everyday runs at unhurried paces. However, it is too weighty for all-rounders.
Brooks is expecting to release the Glycerin 20 in the US in July. As of now, it is available in seven different colorways for women.
Adrenaline GTS 22
If you’re looking for a comfortable, stable running shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is worth considering. The stability shoe boasts a full DNA LOFT midsole that provides a smooth, cushioned ride.
The upper is made of a durable, breathable 3D fit print mesh. The tongue is also foam-quilted, which reduces lacing pressure and improves the comfort of the shoe.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 also features a GuideRails(r) Holistic Support System that helps keep excess movement in check. It aligns the foot with its natural motion path, which reduces the risk of injury.
There is also a stiff, internal counter in the heel. This helps maintain a locked-down running form, while the midsole has been co-molded with a firmer Guiderail.
The Brooks Adrenaline is a great daily trainer for the everyday runner. It’s also great for long distance runners who require extra support. Those who have mild overpronation will enjoy this shoe, too.
While the Adrenaline GTS is a very reliable running shoe, it may be better suited for tempo runs. That’s because the stiffness of the shoe makes transitions smooth and efficient. You’ll need to break in the shoe for about 20-30 miles, though.
The Adrenaline GTS 22 is available in two widths. In addition, the shoes come in a narrow version, which is suitable for runners with narrow feet. The Adrenaline GTS 22 is a very popular stability shoe and one of the most well-loved in the running community.
Levitate GTS 5
If you are in the market for a new pair of running shoes, you should consider the Brooks Levitate GTS 5. Its unique outsole pattern – the arrow point – offers extra stability and responsiveness to runners.
This energy return midsole is based on Brooks’ DNA AMP technology. The DNA AMP foam is dense and provides strong shock attenuation. However, it is relatively heavy compared to other modern foams.
The outsole has a small mid foot linear fiberglass plate that provides guidance support. Additionally, the outsole is matched to the midsole better than the previous version.
The upper has a sock like fit with an extended toe box and gusset tongue. It also features a plush collar. The internal heel cup is firmer than the previous version.
The upper is made of a thick, circular knit. Although it is not as flexible, the material breathes well and ensures a more accommodating fit.
The shoe has an 8-mm heel-to-toe drop. Runners who are looking for a lighter weight option will find the Brooks Levitate GTS 5 to be a great choice.
While the arrow point outsole is a nice touch, there are a number of other reasons to look elsewhere. The outsole is a little slick on wet surfaces, and the heel to toe drop is not particularly large. Also, the PU-based midsole foam is very dense.
On the positive side, the outsole is very durable. For added durability, Brooks has implemented a rubberized top layer. In addition, the midsole sidewall on the medial side is slightly firmer than the previous version.
Launch
A great running shoe, the Brooks Launch is lightweight, breathable and flexible. It offers support for longer runs while also being a great daily trainer. The lightweight BioMoGo DNA foam midsole and Green Rubber outsole help to deliver a responsive and dynamic ride.
The upper is engineered with a mesh and perforated design for breathability and durability. Its tongue is a foam-padded unit to aid in the lacing process.
The outsole features a durable rubber compound for underfoot comfort. Compared to its predecessor, the Launch 9 has a firmer feel and better grip.
The latest version of the Launch boasts a sleek, sporty profile. This streamlined version of the popular shoe is available in a wide variety of sizes. As a result, it is also ideal for people with wide feet.
In addition to its updated upper, the Launch 9 also has a new midsole. Compared to its predecessors, the BioMoGo DNA foam is firmer. This foam produces a smoother ride that’s also more energy-efficient.
Other new technologies include an engineered mesh upper and GuideRails (r) technology. These innovations help keep excess movement in check.
Another new feature is a high-energizing cushioning system. With BioMoGo DNA, the midsole maintains its contoured shape throughout its lifecycle. Also, the heel is angled at an angle that improves shock absorption.
Finally, the upper is a little lighter than its predecessor. Its engineered mesh is also softer than its predecessors.
