The Brooks brand has enjoyed well-deserved recognition among runners for years and needs no special introduction. Models such as the Brooks Ghost and Glycerin have long been among the most popular running shoes. Despite this success, Brooks is not resting on its laurels and continues to expand its range with innovative models such as the Ghost Max and Glycerin Max. The range of trail running and racing shoes is also extensive. Let’s take a closer look.
For several years now, Brooks has been categorising its running shoes according to the functions they fulfil and the experiences they offer runners. This has resulted in the following categories:
- Cushion – makes for cushioning
- Energize – offers energy and bounce
- Speed – focuses on speed
- Trail – designed for trail running
Training Shoes
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Glycerin Max 2  Gliceryn 23 |  Glycerin GTS 23 |
| very high cushioning |  Ghost Max 4  Ghost 18 |  Adrenaline GTS 25 |
| high cushioning |  Trace 4 |
Brooks Glycerin Max 2
This is the softest and most cushioned running shoe in the Brooks range, offering exceptional comfort to satisfy even the most demanding runner. Its advanced construction provides not only excellent cushioning, but also a dynamic rebound that is rare in such a highly cushioned shoe. The midsole uses DNA Tuned technology, which combines DNA foams with two different levels of softness and responsiveness. The result is a shoe that provides cushioning for heavier runners (up to about 100kg) and dynamic response for those who like to run lightly and dynamically.
- Stack height: 45/39mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 311g men’s, 269g women’s
- Regular price: 200 EUR
Brooks Glycerin 23
The second softest and best-cushioned running shoe in the Brooks lineup features a sole made from the softest foam available: nitrogen-injected DNA Loft v3. This shoe is designed primarily for heavier runners (up to about 100 kg) and for those who run the most. The Glycerin is a model that offers a great deal of comfort in a classic, uncomplicated design. Moreover, it’s the “Mercedes” of running shoes – soft, comfortable, and built for gracefully conquering running routes.
- Stack height: 38/28mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 278g men’s, 249g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Brooks Glycerin GTS 23
This is a sister model to the classic Glycerin, but with a greater focus on stability. The sole is essentially made of the same material as the standard Glycerin, namely DNA Loft v3 foam. The difference here lies in the GuideRails “wings,” visible at the back of the shoe, which connect the sole to the upper. These elements make the foot more easily guided and further limit the heel’s ability to shift sideways. As a result, this shoe is both very well cushioned and very stable. It’s perfect for both people with overpronation and those who are looking for extra stability.
- Stack height: 39/31mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 306g men’s, 252g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Brooks Ghost Max 4
The Brooks Ghost Max is the “bigger” brother of the classic Ghost, designed for running on hard surfaces. It’s perfect for daily, easy runs as well as the longest distances. In terms of cushioning and comfort, it’s not far behind the Glycerin model, but thanks to the use of less soft foam, it offers less sink in the sole and more stability. It’s the perfect choice for all runners, especially those who prefer long training sessions and are looking for reliable running shoes. It’s also recommended for people weighing over 90 kilograms.
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 292g men’s, 261g women’s
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Brooks Ghost 18
The Brooks Ghost 18 is the epitome of a classic, versatile training shoe—not only within the Brooks lineup but across the entire running market. Featuring nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, it makes excellent cushioning available that works particularly well for runners weighing up to about 85 kg. It’s a soft yet responsive model that performs well during both easy runs and faster sessions. It’s no surprise that it’s one of Brooks’ bestsellers. Its versatile nature and refined construction make it a favorite among a very wide range of runners.
- Stack height: 37/27mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 289g men’s, 260g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
The Brooks Adrenaline is a more stable counterpart to the Ghost model. Technically, it’s the equivalent of the Ghost, offering similarly substantial yet well-balanced cushioning. It’s suitable for runners weighing up to about 85 kilograms. It also features GuideRails “wings” technology, which provides greater stability. It’s perfect for those seeking stability and for runners with overpronation.
- Stack height: 36/26mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 300g men’s, 269g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Trace 4
The Brooks Trace is the fifth model in the brand’s training series, but it may be the best choice for many runners, especially beginners. Made with DNA Loft v2 foam, it provides adequate cushioning, which is especially beneficial for individuals weighing up to 80 kg. It is slightly less soft than the higher models, but this makes it more responsive and dynamic. The Trace is an excellent choice for beginners who want a reliable option without breaking the bank.
- Drop: 12mm
- Weight: 263g men’s, 229g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Racing and Fast Running Shoes
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum performance |  Hyperion Elite 5 | |
| very high performance |  Hyperion Max 3 | |
| high performance |  Hyperion 3 |  Hyperion GTS 2 |
| mid performance |  Launch 12 |
Brooks Hyperion Elite 5
The crème de la crème of running shoes, the fastest and most dynamic from Brooks, is built on the most advanced DNA Gold (PEBA) foam. Inside is a SpeedVault Plus carbon fiber element that acts like a trampoline. With every step, it gently propels the foot forward and returns the energy put into the landing. Additionally, the ultra-light, slim upper is reinforced with TPU elements, like a race car. The Hyperion Elite 5 is an excellent choice for advanced runners in races ranging from five kilometers to marathons.
- Stack height: 40/32mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 195g
- Regular price: 250 EUR
Brooks Hyperion Max 3
A shoe from the super training category. Its base consists of two layers of DNA Flash v2 foam and an ultra-light DNA Gold layer made of PEBA material. This translates into both a high level of cushioning and elasticity. This shoe also offers an interesting sole geometry. The rear and toe of the shoe are quite curved to maximize the rollover from heel to toe. Although there is no carbon, the shoe feels very fast. It can be used as a fast training shoe by more advanced runners. There are also no contraindications for using it in competitions from 5K to marathon distances.
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 280g men’s, 249g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
Brooks Hyperion 3
The first of the really fast running shoes and also one of the softer ones. The softness and dynamism come from the DNA FLASH v2 foam, which has its characteristic structure thanks to the addition of nitrogen. The shoe is extremely soft to start with, but then proves to be resilient, fast and safe at the same time, thanks to the solid cushioning. The Hyperion is a simple, light and fast shoe.
- Stack height: 36/28mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 215g men’s, 190g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Hyperion GTS
The Hyperion’s counterpart for those looking for more stability and support, thanks to the Guide Rails system that you will find on other models from this brand. It also offers dynamic features, cushioning suitable for lighter runners and a degree of flexibility. Like the classic Hyperion, it is a simple, light and fast shoe for high-intensity speed training. It is also one of the few models on the market designed for people looking for more stability.
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 215g men’s, 190g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Launch 12
Launch is the simplest model in the Speed line, but it can still be a great, lightweight training option, especially for runners weighing up to 80 kg. Although it does not have much cushioning, it provides enough for comfortable training of any type. It can also be a beginner’s or slower runner’s first racing shoe, performing well at distances from 5 km to half marathons. However, it may lack long-distance comfort for marathon distances. Its attractive price is an added bonus.
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 249g men’s, 218g women’s
- Regular price: 120 EUR
Trail Running Shoes
| TRAIL | MIXED TERRAIN | |
|---|---|---|
| long, easy runs |  Caldera 8 | |
| versatile |  Cascadia 19 |  Divide 4 |
| light and dynamic |  Catamount 4 |
Brooks Caldera 8
Trail maximalist shoe. This model is designed for people who want maximum comfort when trail running, especially those who run longer distances and those who are heavier. It is also suitable for people with wide feet as the inside of the shoe is quite roomy. The moderate (for trail shoes) outsole is suitable for a variety of terrains. It is perfect for running in suburban woods and on mountain trails, but not for muddy surfaces.
- Stack height: 39/33mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 300g men’s, 263g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Cascadia 19
One of Brooks’ most versatile mountain boots and most famous trail running shoe. A highly cushioned shoe that allows lighter and more casual runners to cover even the longest distances. Thanks to the rather high and wide outsole studs, it can handle slightly muddy terrain, but is generally a shoe for hard, rocky trails. The upper is reinforced enough to protect the foot from many surprises. This has been Brooks’ most versatile trail shoe for many years, and this year’s edition is no different.
- Stack height: 35/29mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 297g men’s, 278g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Divide 4
The Divide is a little-known model with similar characteristics to the Cascadia, although it is slightly inferior in many ways. It offers great cushioning but is not a long distance shoe. It has an aggressive outsole, but not as aggressive as the Cascadia. The upper is moderately protective. This is a universal and versatile shoe for running on light terrain.
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 286g men’s, 255g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Brooks Catamount 4
Finally, something for those who want to run faster on trails and are looking for lightweight trail shoes. Lightweight in both fit and form. The Catamount is a running shoe that is synonymous with comfortable trail running in the Brooks lineup. Like the Hyperion, it is made from lightweight, soft DNA FLASH nitrogen foam with a plate to protect against sharp rocks. It is suitable for rocky trails and medium distance mountain running. Especially the faster ones.
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 275g men’s, 244g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
