Best Brooks Running Shoes

Brooks Glycerin Max

The Brooks Glycerin Max is the company’s first entry into the truly max-cushioned, super trainer category, and it’s one heck of a debut. The nitrogen-infused, brand-new DNA Tuned midsole setup, with its softer central portion of cushioning surrounded by a denser outer cage, makes for plenty of comfort directly under the foot without sacrificing stability around corners. Brooks also uses dual-cell technology, which means there are larger cells of foam in the heel and smaller cells in the forefoot. That tech combines with the GlideRoll Rocker geometry to create ultra forgiving heel landings that quickly transition into satisfyingly bouncy toe-offs.

Grip and durability were impressive, though the outsole does have a tendency to pick up tiny, pebbly interlopers. And while the upper performs solidly and is wide-foot friendly, it doesn’t quite live up to Brooks’ own lofty standards. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the Glycerin Max for anything from recovery runs, to long runs, to long tempo sessions, making it an extremely worthy choice at the $200 price point. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price $200

Brooks Glycerin 22

The Brooks Glycerin 22 swaps out last year’s nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 for Brooks’ new DNA Tuned midsole compound. DNA Tuned (which is also nitrogen-infused) first debuted in 2024’s Brooks Glycerin Max, and we thoroughly enjoyed the dual-cell technology’s plush-feeling heel and bouncier forefoot. That successfully carries over to the Glycerin 22, making it once again a bit more speed-capable than many companies’ premium daily trainers in the $160-$170 range. Along with the new foam, Brooks has resculpted the midsole to update the Glycerin’s aesthetic.

The upper material is now double jacquard knit rather than warp knit, but the feel is similar in practice – which is to say, nice and plush. The reworked heel collar and elasticized pull tab give us strong Asics Gel-Nimbus 25, 26, and 27 vibes, and the comfort around the ankle is indeed next-level (as is the case with the Asics models from which inspiration seems to have been drawn…).

The fit is TTS and consistent with previous Glycerins, though the mild structure in the eyelet chain may result in a feeling of less volume for some. There’s a good amount of room in the forefoot that will be enough for many slightly-wide-footers, and those needing more space will find additional widths available. The outsole rubber has shifted to a looping pattern and has a touch more coverage at the midfoot. The result is a ride with less flexibility than the Glycerin 21’s layout gave us, but the change could easily go unnoticed by many runners. While outsole performance was solid, we did notice less durability and not quite the top-tier performance that we experienced in the Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 20. There’s still enough rubber to last, but topping 400 miles may not be in the cards for this year’s model.

Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is another strong entry in the Glycerin line and is worth its price point when positioned against its competitors. But even though the 22 has an improved midsole, we’d still recommend getting the Glycerin 21 at its now-discounted price – so long as you don’t mind waiting a few more months for the Glycerin 22’s extra forefoot bounce. See the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 10mm, Price $165

Brooks Hyperion 3

The Brooks Hyperion 3 gets softer than its predecessors but still maintains its DNA (pun-intended) as a versatile daily trainer that does a little of everything. With a softer version of DNA FLASH v2, a few extra millimeters of cushioning underfoot, and an extremely comfortable upper, the Brooks Hyperion 3 has lots of Pros and plenty of versatility to justify its very reasonable $140 price point.

As for Cons, the tradeoff for all that comfort in the upper is a reduction in breathability, making it a warm option for summer running. And the toebox runs narrow, unfortunately excluding wide-footers as we don’t anticipate additional widths becoming available. It has a true-to-size fit with regard to length.

The Brooks Hyperion 3 is best used as a daily trainer for someone who needs the flexibility to use that shoe for some faster and longer sessions. The Brooks Hyperion 3 is no longer what it used to be (much like we saw in the changes to this year’s Brooks Hyperion Max 3), but it’s ultimately a shoe that will please more people by providing the pace versatility it always had with a fit and cushioning setup that will appeal to a wider (though not wide-footed) audience. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $140

Brooks Hyperion Max 3

The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 is a long-run ready super trainer with an all-new cushioning setup that takes the shoe to the next level of underfoot comfort and response. A plush but bouncy DNA GOLD (PEBA)/SpeedVault plate/DNA FLASH v2 combo in the midsole, the RapidRoll Rocker geometry’s smooth transitions, and a breathable and comfortable sock-like upper with nice heel and tongue padding all combine for Pros aplenty. Whereas outsole durability issues, an increase in weight (in accordance with the massive increase in stack height), and tightness through the midfoot account for the Hyperion Max 3’s Cons.

As a result of the upper design, we’re not sure this is the most wide-foot friendly option from Brooks and definitely suggest wide-footers – especially those who need extra room anywhere throughout the midfoot – try on the Hyperion Max 3 in-store or purchase it from somewhere with a good return policy. But the Hyperion Max 3’s long-distance versatility, its bouncy, high-end foam, and its comfort justify the $200 price point, and it now competes well with shoes like the same-priced Asics Superblast 2 (which seems to always have much more limited availability).

This high stack of foam isn’t necessarily suitable for those with ankle stability issues or traversing sketchy, uneven roads. But for long runs where extra plushness and bounce make a big difference for either uptempo work or simply for protecting the body from taking a pounding, the Hyperion Max 3 is a very reliable and fun companion. For more details, read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $200

Brooks Caldera 8

The Brooks Caldera 8 makes some upper improvements but keeps the comfortable midsole and dependable outsole from the Caldera 7, making it perfect for those who want not only comfort, but also support and security for their long, slow miles running or hiking the trails. 

Pros include: a bouncy, plush, and protective DNA LOFT v3 midsole, an accommodating (wide-foot friendly) fit and comfortable but breathable upper, an impressive amount of support for such a high-stack shoe, and a dependable and durable TrailTack outsole. Potential Cons are that the Caldera 8 isn’t the most nimble on technical terrain, with a focus on comfort rather than speed, and it rides a bit stiffer than the previous version.

The Caldera 8 justifies the $150 price point with its combination of cushioned comfort, support, and durability. For more details, read the full review.

Fit: True to size, Drop: 6mm, Price $150

Brooks Cascadia 19

The Brooks Cascadia 19 is a big improvement in terms of aesthetics and cushion from the Cascadia 18. The Cascadia 19 looks more aggressive and fun while the more softer DNA Loft v3 replaces the firmer DNA Loft v2. Brooks also added 4mm of forefoot cushion and 2mm or heel cushion while keeping the flexible rock plate. The TrailTack Green outsole continues to do a great job of providing reliable traction across a bunch of trail conditions. And it’s available in 2E Wide for men and 1D Wide for women so wide footers have options. Even though it’s not the most dynamic trail shoe, the Cascadia 19 is a steady and dependable workhorse that will get the job done, whether that’s trail running or hiking. It’s a good value at the $150 price point.

Fit: True to size, Drop: 6mm, Price $150

Brooks Hyperion Elite 5

The Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 is the best Brooks race shoe to date and competes well with all other top-tier marathon racing shoes, finally showing runners that Brooks cares just as much about race day as the everyday.

It boasts an impressive list of Pros: elite bounce from the (100% PEBA) DNA GOLD midsole; plush impact protection on landings; a highly breathable TPU pressed upper; a lightweight, barely-there feel; and a grippy, durable outsole. The Cons were not universally experienced but should be noted: some testers found the low-profile heel can cause lockdown issues requiring a runner’s knot; and the shoe is not wide-foot friendly due to its slim fit through the forefoot and heel. It’s worth mentioning, however, that the Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 is a unisex, D-width shoe—meaning those who usually wear B-width shoes (the standard in women’s sizing) may not experience the fit in quite the same way. It will be best to try it on to determine if the fit is accommodating enough for your needs (especially for contending with the foot swell common in long-distance racing). The length is true-to-size.

While the Hyperion Elite 5’s $275 price hurts our soul, that is the way pricing is trending (and higher) for flagship marathon racing models. And the shoe does deliver as one of the best of the best. The Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 is best used for long-distance road racing from the 5K to marathon distances and all the interval, tempo, and long-run workouts needed along the way to prepare to perform your best at all those distances. It’s a total package where the upper, traction, and cushion all work together to help you feel fast. For more details, read the full review.

Fits: True to Size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $275

Brooks Ghost Max 3

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 ultimately splits the difference between the original Ghost Max (which we loved) and the Ghost Max 2 (about which we had extremely mixed feelings). With an updated, slightly softer version of DNA Loft v3 for the midsole, version 3 does see an improvement in underfoot comfort over its immediate predecessor (version 2). But the Ghost Max line, with the direction version 2 and now version 3 have taken it, seems to more squarely occupy a space as a crossover running/walking/standing shoe when compared to the fun and surprising running versatility of the original.

With that in mind, the Ghost Max 3’s Pros include top-tier durability, a dependable and comfortable Brooks upper, high-end, neutral stability due to its wide base, and a linear last that is friendlier to custom orthotics. Cons are its ho-hum midsole when it comes to running, a weight that keeps creeping up year over year (particularly in the women’s version), and a fit that isn’t quite wide-foot friendly in the forefoot (at least until other width options arrive – which, in fairness, are likely to come if previous years are any indication).

The fit is true-to-size with regard to length. While the Ghost Max 3 does offer appropriate value for $150, there are many shoes we enjoy running in more in the $140-$160 price band. However, if your primary focus is comfort for long hours standing or walking, the Ghost Max 3 really comes into its own in those use cases. For more details, read the full review.

Fits: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $150

Brooks Launch 11

The Brooks Launch 11 has an understated but effective approach to speedy training and is also among the most affordable options on offer. So it easily earns an Honorable Mention within Brooks’ lineup.

Pros: excellent lockdown; DNA Flash midsole (with DNA Flash v2 in the forefoot) has a nimble, flexible, lightweight, and responsive feel that’s speedy yet adaptable for easy daily runs; smooth, simple geometry and even cushioning; reliable RoadTack outsole in wet and dry conditions.

Cons: might not have enough underfoot for bigger, taller runners or those looking to take it beyond 1.5 to 2 hours on the roads; midsole could skew a bit firm for some; heel comes up a tad high and could be an issue for those with sensitivity (though it didn’t both our testers on the run); sort of crispy laces that are a touch finicky in getting a double-knot to stay tied.

The fit is true-to-size lengthwise though is on the slimmer, snugger side by Brooks’ standards. So we’d suggest most wide-footers opt for wide sizing – particularly if you’d like to take advantage of the Launch 11’s snappy feel over longer distances. While we’re disappointed to see the price go from the insanely-easy-to-praise $110 to $120, increases are unfortunately par for the course in today’s economy; and the Launch 11 remains a respectable, enjoyable option that provides solid value for its price point.

Fits: True to Size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $120

Brooks Hyperion Max 2

The Brooks Hyperion Max 2 is a nimble shoe with a well-cushioned ride that transitions quickly without any mush or squish. It’s built well for long distances sporting an excellent comfortable upper (and a fantastic elasticized tongue) with a prominent rocker. It’s friendly to a lot of different foot strike patterns but it’s stiff, rockered forefoot may be off putting to some people and the aggressively cutaway heel won’t work for all heel strikers.

The Hyperion Max 2 is built for runner training long distances but that want to still feel like they have some connection with the ground despite the high stack height. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $180

Brooks Cascadia 18

The Brooks Cascadia 18 is an upper update on the Cascadia 17. Nothing of significance changed. This affordable shoe provides stability, reliability, and durability. Previous Cascadia models (before the 17) were fairly plain jane but the looks on the Cascadia 17 and 18 are a huge upgrade. The Cascadia is fairly accommodating but also comes in a 2E Wide version for our wide-footed friends. The Cascadia 18 is a steady and dependable workhorse that will get the job done whether that’s trail running or hiking. Read the full review.

Fits: True to size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $140

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Depending on what you value most, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 may be a great option. The squish is gone from the first version but the firmer, more stable DNA Loft v3 midsole is bouncier and the outsole is more durable. It’s a recovery or easy run shoe that can be a daily trainer for some people even though it doesn’t have the fun factor of the original Ghost Max. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price $150

Brooks Ghost 16

The Brooks Ghost 16 maintains the Ghost DNA with a comfortable upper while adding a more modern and comfortable cushioning setup underfoot. The DNA Loft v3 really makes a difference in underfoot feel and takes the Ghost line to the next level. Ghost fans will love the upgrades and be excited for this new era. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 12mm, Price: $140

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS has always been a stalwart, moderately-cushioned stability model for daily running and walking, and version 25 continues that tradition. 

Pros include its consistent and comfortable ride with a bit more cushion than previous models as well as a true-to-size fit that accommodates many foot shapes (plus a wide option will likely be available upon release). Cons are the midsole’s somewhat unspectacular energy return, a weight that’s heavier than many daily trainers, and a design that still feels a bit dated.

But the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 remains a top-tier option for those needing some motion control and seeking a firmer underfoot feel for their easy and recovery runs as well as for those looking for a great walking shoe. If that sounds like you, the Adrenaline GTS 25 is built to last the miles and will deliver on its $145 price point. For more details, read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 10mm, Price: $145, Releasing 11/1/2025