The Brooks Levitate 5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Brooks Levitate 5 is a classic tempo shoe designed for runners seeking a streamlined experience. This shoe is ideal for those who prefer a more grounded feel, particularly effective for short-distance efforts.

With a firm structure, the Brooks Levitate 5 encourages runners to focus on their form rather than relying solely on cushioning technology. This design reflects the traditional principles of running shoes prior to the advent of super shoes and advanced foams.

For athletes looking to enhance their speed through technique rather than bounciness, the Brooks Levitate 5 offers a notable option in the market.


Pros

  • Good lockdown
  • Breathable
  • Laces stay tight
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Classic racer feel
  • Heel loop
  • Plenty of ground feel
  • Best for short distances
  • Laces stay tight
  • Flexible

Cons

  • On the narrow side
  • Slick on wet surfaces
  • Tiring at longer distances

Key Features

  • Neutral Support: The Levitate 5 combines cushioning and energy return, providing neutral support to keep you comfortable on your runs.
  • Energized Cushioning: Utilizing reformulated DNA AMP midsole technology, this shoe is now 20% lighter and delivers exceptional energy return.
  • Secure, Sock-like Fit: The new upper design flexibly adapts to your foot's movements, offering a snug fit.
  • Quick Transitions: The updated arrow point outsole works with the DNA AMP midsole for faster transitions from heel to toe.

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Fabric
  • Shaft Height: Alla caviglia
  • Outer Material: Fabric
  • Inner Material: Textile

Brooks Levitate 5 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Levitate 5 Allbirds Tree Flyer 2 Brooks Levitate 6 Nike React Miler 3
Price $150 $160 $150 $120
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.7 oz / 304g 10.3 oz / 293g 10.7 oz / 304g 10.5 oz / 297g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.1 mm 8.1 mm 7.7 mm 9.8 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Heel
Size - True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness - Balanced Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Small Small Normal
Toebox durability - Good Good -
Heel padding durability - Decent Good -
Outsole durability - Good Good -
Breathability - Moderate Breathable -
Width / fit Medium Medium Narrow Narrow
Toebox width - Medium Medium -
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 31.4 mm 32.1 mm 34.3 mm 31.4 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 22.3 mm 24.0 mm 26.6 mm 21.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - All seasons Summer -
Removable insole
Ranking Top 44% Bottom 47% Top 21% Bottom 4%
Popularity Bottom 23% Bottom 13% Bottom 30% Bottom 6%