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  Gliceryn 22 |  Glycerin GTS 22 |
| very high cushioning |  Ghost Max 2  Ghost 16 |  Adrenaline GTS 24 |
| high cushioning |  Trace 3 |
Brooks Glycerin Max
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: 45/39 mm
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 298g men’s, 270 g women’s
- Regular price: 200 EUR
Brooks Glycerin 22
The second softest and best cushioned running shoe in the Brooks lineup is based on the softest foam midsole, the nitrogen-injected DNA Loft v3. This shoe is mainly designed for heavier people (up to about 100 kg) and for those who run the most. The Glycerin is the most comfortable model in the Brooks range and, compared to its predecessor, the amount of foam in the midsole has been increased slightly (2 mm). It is also the “Mercedes” of running shoes: soft, comfortable and made for leisurely cross-country runs.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 278g men’s, 249 g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Brooks Glycerin GTS 22
It is a twin model of the classic Glycerin 21, but with greater focus on stability. The midsole is basically made of the same material as in the standard Glycerin, i.e. DNA Loft v3 foam. The difference here are the GuideRails “wings”, visible at the back of the shoe, which connect the sole to the upper. These elements make the foot position more secure and stable, eliminating the possibility of it moving sideways. Thanks to this, this shoe is both maximally cushioned and additionally stable. It will be perfect for both people with overpronation and those who are looking for additional stability.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 298g men’s, 252 g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Brooks Ghost Max 2
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 running shoe is the “bigger” brother of the classic Ghost and at the same time a shoe with submaximal cushioning, designed for running on hard surfaces. It is perfect for daily, easy runs and for the longest distances. It is not far behind the Glycerin in terms of cushioning and comfort. It is the ideal choice for all runners, especially those who prefer long training sessions and are looking for very soft running shoes. It is also recommended for people weighing over 90 kilograms.
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 306g men’s, 269 g women’s
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Brooks Ghost 16
The Ghost 16 is Brooks’ most classic, universal and versatile running shoe. Thanks to the DNA Loft v3 foam with nitrogen, it offers excellent cushioning, ideal for runners weighing up to 90 kg. This model is suitable for both easy and faster runs. Although these are hard surface shoes, they have a fairly deep outsole, which makes them suitable for both hard surfaces and packed dirt. These are one of the most popular running models, and not just in the Brooks lineup.
- Drop: 12 mm
- Weight: 278 g men’s, 249 g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Brooks Adrenaline is a more stable counterpart to the Ghost model. Technically, it is a counterpart to the Ghost model with similarly high but balanced cushioning. It is suitable for runners up to about 85 kilograms. It also uses GuideRails technology with wings for greater stability. Perfect for people looking for stability and for those with overpronating feet.
- Drop: 12 mm
- Weight: 286g men’s, 258 g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Trace 3
The third model in the Brooks running shoe lineup when it comes to training shoes. A shoe with good cushioning based on BioMoGo DNA foam. Less soft than the ones mentioned above, but for lighter runners, up to 80 kilograms, starting their adventure with running, it will be more than enough. Trace is a good option for people looking for their first professional running shoes.
- Drop: 12 mm
- Weight: 243 g men’s, 215 g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Racing and fast running shoes
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum dynamics |  Hyperion Elite 4 | |
| very high dynamics |  Hyperion Max 2 | |
| high dynamics |  Hyperion 2 |  Hyperion GTS 2 |
| mid dynamics |  Launch 10 |  Launch GTS 10 |
Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
The crème de la crème, or Hyperion with carbon fibre plate. The fastest and most dynamic Brooks running shoe. The aforementioned carbon fibre element acts like a trampoline, making it very dynamic. This is not a standard plate, however, but a “perforated” plate made up of many interpenetrating carbon rods. It bounces gently with each step, returning the energy you put in when you land. The base is made from DNA FLASH v2 foam, which is soft and responsive and has been infused with nitrogen for greater dynamics. Hyperion is an excellent choice as a race shoe for everything from 5Ks to marathons.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 221 g
- Regular price: 250 EUR
Brooks Hyperion Max
A super training shoe. Similar to the Hyperion Tempo with DNA FLASH v2 foam, but with a higher volume which results in a higher stack height and better cushioning and rebound. This shoe also features an interesting midsole geometry. The back and front of the shoe are heavily curved to maximise rolling from heel to toe. Although there is no carbon fibre here, the shoe feels very fast. It can be used as a fast training shoe by more advanced runners. There is also nothing to stop you from using it for races ranging from 5Ks to marathons.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 221 g men’s, 189 g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
Brooks Hyperion 2
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, ideal for intensive training and competition.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 215 g men’s, 190 g 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 training and competition. It is also one of the few models on the market designed for people looking for more stability.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 215 g men’s, 190 g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Launch 10
The Launch is the simplest shoe in the Speed range. But it can also be a comfortable, lightweight option for light runners weighing up to 80 kilos. Although it does not offer a lot of cushioning, it is a protective shoe that is suitable for any type of training. For slower runners and those looking for their first race shoe, the Launch could also be the ideal choice for events ranging from 5Ks to marathons. What’s more, its advantage is its relatively low price.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 235g men’s, 207 g women’s
- Regular price: 120 EUR
Brooks Launch GTS 10
Launch GTS is Launch’s brother with additional stabilisation. It is a similarly simple construction with stabilisation based on GuidRail ‘winglets’ technology. These hold the heel in place and stabilise it. It is characterised by a moderate level of cushioning suitable for light runners. This is a shoe for people looking for a light, fast option with added stabilisation.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 244g men’s, 221 g women’s
- Regular price: 120 EUR
Trail running shoes
| TRAIL | MIXED TERRAIN | |
|---|---|---|
| long, easy runs |  Caldera 8 | |
| versatile |  Cascadia 18 |  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: 39/33 mm
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 300 g men’s, 263 g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Brooks Cascadia 18
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.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 298 g men’s, 278 g 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: 8 mm
- Weight: 286 g men’s, 255 g 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: 6 mm
- Weight: 275 g men’s, 244 g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
