The Brooks Trace 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Brooks Trace 2 is a budget-friendly daily trainer designed primarily for heel strikers. With a significant 12 mm drop, it provides optimal support for this foot strike pattern.

The midsole features a firm foam with a hardness of 31.5 HA, ensuring a stable platform during runs. Its cozy mesh upper contributes to breathability and comfort, making it suitable for various activities.

Test results indicate that the Brooks Trace 2 transitions well from road to gym scenarios, offering a snug fit and moderate cushioning. Although energy return may not be its strongest attribute, the overall performance ensures substantial value for users.


Pros

  • Outstanding value for just $100
  • Comfortable BioMoGo DNA midsole
  • Superior breathability
  • Ideal for heel strikers
  • Incredibly light
  • Remarkably durable
  • Performs well in all seasons
  • Versatile enough for gym or walking use

Cons

  • Inadequate cushioning for forefoot strikers
  • Limited energy return

Key Features

  • Neutral Support: Specifically crafted for runners needing neutral support, perfect for various running styles.
  • Soft Cushioning: Features BioMoGo DNA cushioning that adapts to your individual speed, stride, and weight to absorb impact effectively.
  • Comfortable Fit: The combination of 3D Fit Print technology and air-mesh provides structure while enhancing airflow for maximum comfort.
  • Smooth Transitions: Equipped with a segmented crash pad that facilitates seamless heel-to-toe transitions, ensuring a fluid running experience.
  • Breathable Upper: The engineered air-mesh upper enhances breathability, keeping your feet dry and comfortable during long runs.

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up

Brooks Trace 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Trace 2 Nike Downshifter 13 Brooks Trace 3 Adidas Supernova 3
Price $100 $75 $100 $100
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.8 oz / 249g 9.3 oz / 265g 9.1 oz / 257g 9.7 oz / 274g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 12.3 mm 10.1 mm 11.9 mm 12.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel 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 Good
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Good
Outsole durability Good Good Good Bad
Breathability Breathable Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 34.2 mm 32.2 mm 34.1 mm 30.7 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.9 mm 22.1 mm 22.2 mm 18.2 mm
Widths available Normal Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Top 37% Bottom 10% Bottom 7% Bottom 21%
Popularity Bottom 30% Top 27% Top 42% Bottom 12%