The Brooks Revel 8 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Brooks Revel 8 is a value-oriented daily trainer designed for casual runners and beginners. With a moderate stack height, it offers a stable yet agile ride, making it ideal for those running several times a week.

Lab tests reveal that the new DNA Loft v2 foam provides firm cushioning, while the updated outsole enhances traction and overall feel. This combination ensures reliable performance without sacrificing comfort. Although it has some limitations, the Brooks Revel 8 stands out as one of the strongest options in its category.

Pros

  • Keeps the same price as last year
  • Upgraded to DNA Loft v2 foam
  • Much better grip than version 7
  • Excellent value
  • Good pick for beginners
  • Solid durability
  • Flexible and versatile design
  • Lightweight feel

Cons

  • Still not very energetic
  • Not ideal for forefoot strikers
  • Only for short distances

Key Features

  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Offers structure and enhances breathability.
  • DNA LOFT v2 Cushioning: Provides a soft yet responsive ride, adapting to your foot's needs.
  • Round Toe Silhouette: Ensures a comfortable fit for various foot shapes.
  • RoadTack Rubber Outsole: Delivers excellent traction on multiple surfaces.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Rubber
  • Inner Material: EVA and Nylon

Brooks Revel 8 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Revel 8 Nike Downshifter 13 Brooks Trace 3 Adidas Supernova Rise 2
Price $100 $75 $100 $140
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.6 oz / 244g 9.3 oz / 265g 9.1 oz / 257g 9.1 oz / 257g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.9 mm 10.1 mm 11.9 mm 9.5 mm
Strike pattern - Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Small
Toebox durability Decent Decent Bad Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Wide
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Wide
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Flexible
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 33.2 mm 32.2 mm 34.1 mm 33.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 23.3 mm 22.1 mm 22.2 mm 24.0 mm
Widths available Normal Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 5% Bottom 10% Bottom 7% Top 9%
Popularity Top 27% Top 27% Top 42% Top 18%