Brooks Cascadia 19
Pros
- Softer, more responsive DNA Loft v3 foam
- Outstanding stability
- Enhanced flexibility
- Highly versatile for both running and hiking
- Reliable traction
- Well-crafted, plush tongue
- Excellent outsole durability
- Best Cascadia to date
- Good airflow
Cons
- Still on the heavier side
- Narrow toebox limits toe splay
- Slight price increase
Key Features
- TrailTack Green Outsole: Made from 25% recycled content, this outsole offers excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions.
- DNA LOFT v3 Cushioning: Enhanced cushioning in the heel and forefoot ensures a soft yet responsive feel while running.
- Trail Adapt System: An upgraded system provides stability and adaptability across challenging terrains.
- Durable Upper: The breathable air mesh upper features 3D print overlays for added protection against debris.
- Reinforced Toe Cap and Mudguard: These features enhance durability and protect the shoe from wear-and-tear during intense runs.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Nylon, EVA
The Brooks Cascadia 19 is a trail running shoe that excels in off-road conditions, making it well-suited for runners seeking versatility across mixed terrains and varying weather. Its robust design features well-structured lugs and the Trail Adapt system, which contribute to its notable performance.
During our testing on steep and uneven paths, the moderately-sized 3.8 mm lugs provided a high level of agility. These lugs vary in shape and size to enhance functionality, with rear lugs designed for braking, midfoot lugs for water and debris shedding, and forefoot lugs for improved grip during ascents.
The Trail Adapt system enhances stride stability and protects against underfoot debris, resulting in a firm sensation that contributes to a steady ride on rugged terrains. Additionally, the broad landing platform measures 121.5/101.3 mm, further promoting stability during runs.
In our breathability assessment, the upper received a score of 4/5, outperforming many typical trail shoes by effectively keeping feet cool even in sunny conditions. This feature is significant for maintaining comfort over longer distances.
However, the focus on protection and stability also means that the Cascadia 19 offers less cushioning than some runners may prefer. Those prioritizing plush comfort might want to consider alternative options.
Brooks Catamount 3
Pros
- Reduced weight from v2
- Enhanced flexibility
- Stable and secure ride
- High-quality materials
- Suitable for all footstrikes
- Lightweight!
- Fantastic Skyvault plate
- Adaptable across various paces
Cons
- Poor upper ventilation
- Tight fit for some
- Limited grip in wet conditions
Key Features
- Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH midsole: This innovative technology ensures a lightweight feel while providing adaptive cushioning, which is essential for those long runs.
- SkyVault propulsion plate: Specifically designed to assist with uphill running efficiency while offering rock protection, allowing you to tackle challenging trails with confidence.
- TrailTack Green rubber outsole: Composed of 25% recycled materials, this outsole offers exceptional traction whether you're on wet or dry surfaces.
- Streamlined construction: The upper material contours to your foot, providing a locked-in fit that adapts to the demands of uneven terrain.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Synthetic
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Catamount 3 is a versatile trail shoe best suited for runners seeking a lightweight option with agility and stability. In our lab tests and runs, it demonstrates significant performance across various speeds and distances.
Weighing just 9.0 oz (255g), the Catamount 3 is 13.0% lighter than the average trail shoe, thanks to its below-average stack height of 28.3/21.5 mm. This design contributes to a heightened surface connection, enhancing overall stability.
The standout feature of the Catamount 3 is the DNA Flash midsole, which offers notable support. Despite a softer-than-average durometer reading of 20.4 HA, the ride remains balanced and responsive. Additionally, the Skyvault plate in the forefoot serves as both a rock plate and a means to improve stability and bounce while ensuring increased flexibility, as it does not extend to the heel, making it 21.3% more flexible than average.
Equipped with the TrailTack Green outsole, this shoe provides a favorable combination of grip and durability. The 2.9 mm lugs contribute to a smooth and quick running experience, while our durometer readings indicate that its hardness aligns with average levels, alleviating concerns about premature wear.
However, the upper construction features dense multi-layered mesh and reinforcements that may hinder airflow. Runners who frequently train in warmer conditions might consider exploring more breathable alternatives.
Brooks Caldera 8
Pros
- Outstanding stability
- Comfortable, smooth ride
- Versatile on easy and moderate terrain
- Secure, reliable lockdown
- Fair and reasonable price
- Dependable traction
- Cleaner, more refined look
Cons
- Still heavy
- Needs more cushioning
- Bulky, overly wide heel
- Only for slow paces
Key Features
- MEN'S ULTRA TRAIL SHOE: The Caldera 8 is built for distance, equipped with DNA Loft v3 cushioning that provides exceptional softness while delivering stability on rugged trails.
- BREATHABLE PERFORMANCE UPPER: The shoe's upper is crafted from durable materials resistant to scratches and snags, featuring breathable air mesh with TPEE for effective moisture management.
- ENDURING COMFORT: Nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning offers a plush ride, protecting your feet from the harsh elements of rocky and root-filled paths.
- SMOOTH, ADAPTABLE RIDE: Raised sidewalls contribute to added security and flexibility, while an expanded base and flex grooves in the outsole stabilize each landing.
- CARBON NEUTRAL CERTIFIED: This product achieves carbon neutrality by utilizing recycled materials and supporting carbon offset projects, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious runners.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Nylon
- Inner material: Nylon
The Brooks Caldera 8 is best suited for trail runners seeking a balance of comfort and stability during easy to moderate terrain runs. It excels in shock absorption, providing a soft landing while minimizing impact on leg muscles, which is particularly beneficial for longer endurance sessions.
With measurements of 36.7/27.9 mm, the Caldera 8 significantly reduces landing impact. Our shock absorption tests yielded high scores of 129/111 SA in the heel and forefoot, respectively, confirming the relief felt during runs.
The ride of the Caldera 8 remains stable despite its plush cushioning. Enhanced foot alignment is achieved through midsole sidewalls, combined with a high torsional rigidity score of 5/5 and an extensive landing base, making this shoe one of the widest at 116.6/104.0 mm, with the heel being 14.3 mm wider than average.
In terms of traction, the outsole of the Caldera 8 provides reliable grip across various conditions, as evidenced by a grip score of 0.59. The 3.6 mm lugs contribute to versatility on technical sections of trails.
However, due to its wide dimensions, the Caldera 8 may feel bulky, similar to an SUV. Runners who favor agility on twisty trails might benefit from opting for a more compact shoe.