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 21

The Brooks Glycerin 21 is a clear upgrade from the Glycerin 20 with signature Brooks comfort and fit. The DNA Loft v3 midsole is bouncy and the upper is plush all around. The ride and the traction also get high marks for this versatile trainer. Read the full review.

Fit: True to Size, Drop: 10mm, Price $160

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 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 Hyperion 2

The Brooks Hyperion 2 is lightweight, snappy, and responsive with elite forefoot flexibility that allows for a natural feel. That natural feel does mean there’s a lack of impact protection compared to other modern shoes and that takes a toll on the midsole’s bounce as well. This is not a shoe that will assist the wearer but it’s ready for speedy training. This is targeted at runners that don’t want to rely on rockers and/or plates for extra oomph. Also, the upper is comfortable and the price is right. Read the full review.

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

Brooks Caldera 7

The Brooks Caldera 7 is a stable, max cushion shoe. It’s not nimble enough for the most technical of trails, but whether you’re trail running or hiking, the Caldera 7 is built for long hauls. The more miles you put in on trails, the happier you’ll be with the DNA Loft v3 underfoot and the well-fitting, plush upper. Read full review.

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

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 Hyperion Elite 4

There’s not any other options for this category in the Brooks lineup so the Hyperion Elite 4 wins by default. The thick, bouncy DNA Flash v2 midsole competes well with other modern marathon shoes but you don’t get the squishy feel that some runners love and other despise.

The upper feels like a track spike, the shoe feels lighter than it should, it’s very stable, and the RapidRoll Rocker provides a really nice toe off sensation. If you prefer running in Brooks, this is the marathon shoe for you. Read full review.

Fits: True to Size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $250

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 Launch 10

The Brooks Launch 10 is another solid addition to a reliable running shoe line. This everyday running shoe won’t blow your mind but offers a reasonable price point. If you’re a lighter runner who prefers a responsive shoe without super plush cushioning, the Launch 10 should be on your list. Read the full review.

Fits: True to Size, Drop: 10mm, Price: $110