Nov 11, 2025 9 min read

RoundUps Brooks Running

Best Brooks Running Shoes, Right Now

From daily miles to trail ultras, these are the Brooks shoes I trust and recommend after thousands of miles of testing. The ultimate Brooks running shoe rotation!

From daily miles to trail ultras, these are the Brooks running shoes I trust and recommend, right now. Every pick has been tested by myself, over real-world training and racing.

I’ve been running in Brooks shoes for years, from road marathon prep to steep trail ultras. Every shoe here has been chosen based on actual wear, not spec sheets, so you can put together your full ultimate Brooks rotation without guesswork.

Each recommendation below includes:

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A quick summary of what makes it special
Price, and the key specifications you need to know about

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If you purchase gear through links in this review, I may earn a small affiliate commission. -Alastair

Best Overall Brooks Running Shoe: Hyperion Max 3

Price: $200 at brooksrunning.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK readers)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.4oz (295g) | Drop: 8mm | Stack: ~45mm heel / 37mm forefoot

The Hyperion Max 3 is a big step up from v2, with a softer, bouncier ride that finally delivers on the “super trainer” promise. A new PEBA-based DNA GOLD midsole paired with DNA FLASH v2 and a nylon SpeedVault plate creates a smooth, propulsive feel for both long runs and uptempo workouts.

The updated RapidRoll rocker and high stack take the sting out of pavement pounding, while the engineered mesh upper offers breathable, sock-like comfort. It’s heavier than before and a touch less nimble in tight corners, but the versatile performance means it can replace 2–3 shoes in your rotation.

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Daily Training: Ghost Max 3

Price: $150 from Brooksrunning.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK readers)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Roomy medium (wide/extra-wide available) | Weight: 10.8oz (306g) | Drop: 6mm | Stack: 39mm heel / 33mm forefoot

The Ghost Max 3 is Brooks’ ultra-cushioned daily trainer for soft, stable miles. DNA Loft v3 foam delivers a plush, forgiving ride that’s perfect for recovery runs, easy long runs, and long walks.

Version 3 brings a roomier fit, improved breathability from a redesigned mesh upper, and a more fluid underfoot feel. The wide platform keeps stability in check, while the double lace-loop tongue holds lockdown well. If comfort and stability are your priorities, this is an easy daily choice.

Best Max Cushion Brooks Running Shoe for Long Easy Runs: Glycerin Max 2

Price: $200 at Brooks

Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 11.2oz (318g) | Drop: 6mm

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a max-cushioned daily trainer built for runners who want huge underfoot protection, soft landings, and easy miles that leave their legs feeling fresher.

Its full-length DNA Tuned midsole delivers deep cushioning that stays consistent rather than overly mushy, while the GlideRoll Rocker and pronounced toe spring help keep transitions smooth and rolling forward with very little effort.

Compared with the original, it feels a little more structured and secure, with a more dialed-in upper and an outsole that looks even more durable, but it's not as plush now. It’s a great choice for recovery runs, easy daily mileage, and long runs where comfort and protection matter more than speed.

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Speed Work: Hyperion Max 3

Price: $200 at brooksrunning.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK readers)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.4oz (295g) | Drop: 8mm | Stack: ~45mm heel / 37mm forefoot

The Hyperion Max 3 combines the bounce and comfort of a high-stack super trainer with the snap and turnover you want for speed sessions. A PEBA-based DNA GOLD midsole sits over DNA FLASH v2 and a nylon SpeedVault plate, creating a smooth, propulsive ride that works for tempo runs, intervals, and long efforts at pace.

The new RapidRoll rocker feels more natural than before, while the breathable, sock-like mesh upper locks in securely. For runners who want both cushioning and speed, it delivers in a big way.

Best Brooks Stability Running Shoe: Adrenaline GTS 25

Price: $155 at brooksrunning.com

Fit: True to size, roomier toe box (wide available) | Weight: 10.2 oz (289 g) | Drop: 10 mm

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 continues its long legacy as a dependable stability trainer, now with a softer heel and a touch more cushioning overall, for a smoother, more protective ride.

The DNA Loft v3 midsole and GuideRails™ system keep your stride stable and aligned without feeling intrusive, while the slightly lower drop and added stack height create a gentler transition from heel to toe.

It’s ideal for runners who overpronate or spend long hours on their feet, and those who value comfort and structure over speed. The new engineered mesh upper feels premium but runs warmer than before, and the looser midfoot fit will suit wider or high-volume feet best.

Best Brooks Racing Shoe: Hyperion Elite 5

Price: $275 at BrooksRunning.com / DSG / Sportsshoes.com (UK)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) | Drop: 8mm

The Hyperion Elite 5 is Brooks’ carbon-plated racer for runners who want speed with a touch of forgiveness. The new DNA Gold PEBA foam is softer and snappier than before, pairing with the Arris® SpeedVault+ plate for a smooth, stable, and efficient ride.

It’s quick across 10K to half marathon distances and stable enough to stretch to a marathon if you like a more grounded feel. The lightweight TPU mesh upper is breathable and disappears on the foot, but heel lockdown is the weak link, slippage at pace is hard to fix without causing lace bite due to the short tongue. If your heel stays secure, you’ll get a race shoe that blends propulsion and control in a way few super shoes manage.

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Everyday Wear: Ghost 17

Price: $140 at Brooksrunning.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)

Key Specs: True to size (slightly narrow) | Widths: Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide | Weight: 10oz (283g) | Drop: 10mm | Stack: 36mm heel / 26mm forefoot

The Ghost 17 keeps everything runners love about this line, comfort, reliability, and versatility, while softening and balancing the ride with more forefoot cushioning and a lower drop. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole now feels smoother and more responsive, making it just as comfortable for walking and all-day wear as it is for recovery runs or moderate workouts.

The secure heel and midfoot hold, padded collars, and durable Segmented Crash Pad outsole make it a dependable choice for mixed road use. Breathability is decent but not max-ventilated, otherwise, this is a comfort-first daily trainer that disappears underfoot.

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Best Brooks Road-To-Trail Hybrid Shoe: Ghost Trail

Price: For the best price and colorway options, get them here: $150 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Key Specs: True to size | Weight: 10.6oz (301g) | Drop: 8mm | Lugs: 3mm

The Brooks Ghost Trail is basically the road Ghost vibe with just enough trail focus to let a road runner wander onto gravel roads, park paths, hardpack, and mellow singletrack without the shoe suddenly feeling overly “trail-y”, in a clunky way.

The nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole lands in that medium-firm daily trainer zone (a little firmer up front, softer in the heel), so you still get some ground feel and control when the surface gets uneven.

The TrailTack Green outsole grips well on dry dirt and gravel (and it’s solid on wet pavement too), but the 3mm lugs tap out once you’re in mud, wet leaves, roots, or anything steep and messy. If your routes mix road + light trail and you want one shoe that feels familiar from the first step, this is a really easy pick.

Best Brooks All-Mountain Trail Shoe: Cascadia 18

Price: $140 at Brooks Running / REI / Sportsshoes (For UK Readers)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 11.1oz (315g) | Drop: 8mm

The Cascadia 18 is a do-it-all trail shoe that thrives on everything from mellow fire roads to steep, rocky terrain. DNA Loft v2 midsole foam delivers a balanced mix of cushioning and stability, while the Trail Adapt rock plate adds underfoot protection without sacrificing agility.

The TrailTack rubber outsole grips confidently on wet, loose, and technical ground, and the breathable upper locks your foot in securely while allowing for natural expansion on long runs. Small touches, like a semi-reinforced toe cap, gaiter attachment, and lace stow loop, make it trail-ready right out of the box. It remains one of the best-value all-mountain trail shoes available, from any brand.

Also works well as a road-to-trail option thanks to its adaptable cushioning and outsole.

Best Brooks Running Shoe for Ultra Running: Caldera 8

Price: $150 at REI.com / Brooksrunning.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)

Key Specs: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.8oz (306g) | Drop: 6mm

The Caldera 8 is Brooks’ max-cushioned, all-mountain trail shoe built for long training days and ultra-distance efforts. DNA Loft v3 foam delivers a stable, predictable ride that stays comfortable for hours without feeling overly soft, while the wide platform and deep midsole cradle keep you planted on uneven terrain.

The TrailTack Green outsole grips confidently on wet rock, loose dirt, and mixed surfaces, and the breathable mesh upper with offset lacing provides secure midfoot lockdown without pressure points. Padding in the tongue and collar enhances long-run comfort, though the stiffer heel counter takes a few runs to break in. Performance-wise, the Caldera 8 remains one of the most stable and comfortable ultra-distance trail cruisers out there.

Best Brooks Trail Racing Shoe: Catamount Agil

Price: $180 at $180 from brooksrunning.com / £170 from Sportsshoes.com

Key Specs: True to size (snug midfoot) | Width: Medium–narrow | Weight: 8oz (227g) | Drop: 6mm

The Catamount Agil is built for one thing, speed on technical trails. A low-stack, nitrogen-infused DNA Flash v2 midsole and SpeedVault trail plate create a snappy, propulsive ride, while the aggressive TrailTack outsole grips like glue on wet rock, loose dirt, and steep climbs.

The one-piece sock-like mesh upper drains quickly and has a built-in gaiter to keep debris out, but the snug fit, rigid overlays, and minimal cushioning mean it’s best suited for short, fast races rather than long ultras. Expect exceptional responsiveness and agility if you’re used to minimal trail shoes, just be ready for a break-in period and less protection underfoot.

Final tips for choosing the right Brooks running shoe

Match your shoe choice to your running style, terrain, and mileage goals.

Versatile option for the road: Hyperion Max 3 covers both speed and endurance.
Daily workhorse for the roads: Ghost Max 3 offers lasting comfort and stability.
Trail all-rounder: Cascadia 18 handles just about anything off-road.

Still unsure? Leave a comment and I’ll help you choose the best Brooks running shoes for your needs.