A long-time favorite brand for runners, Brooks is known for the plush comfort, reliable support, and high-quality materials of its shoes. With an extensive lineup, Brooks has options for all types of feet, arches, and running gaits, with different levels of arch support and padding. We also like that its sneakers come in many widths, which is crucial for finding a precise fit and avoiding issues like uncomfortable blisters, bunions, and hammertoes. To find the best Brooks running shoes, we first spoke with experts to learn which key features every pair should have. Then, we tested over a dozen Brooks shoes in the Verywell Testing Lab and in the real world. We ran in these shoes for weeks, evaluating their fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, and overall value. Whether you prefer road racing, treadmill running, or hitting the trails, Brooks has a pair for you. Our Top Picks Best Women’s Overall: Best Men's Overall: Best Budget: Best for Cross-Training: Best for Speed Work: Most Cushioned: Best for High Arches: Best for Trail Running: Best for Trail Running Runner-Up: Best APMA-Accepted: In This Article Our Picks We Also Tested What to Look For How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Pros Excellent cushioning Great shock absorption APMA Seal of Acceptance Cons May run small Materials: Mesh upper, rubber and foam midsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best for casual daily runners and fitness walkers. Brooks' Glycerin 20 earns our top overall pick for women thanks to its exceptional comfort, performance, and versatility. One of Brooks' most cushioned shoes, we agree after testing that it has a cloud-like feel and provides smooth transitions for easy runs and walks. We also like how responsive the midsole is—it gave energy back with each stride, making us feel like we could run forever. And we're not alone in our love for this shoe: It has also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has determined that its design supports good foot health. With a thick, cushioned heel, the Glycerin 20 provides great shock absorption for neutral runners who are pounding the pavement during long runs. The light, airy mesh upper doesn't just regulate temperature: When our sneakers got drenched in a downpour, they didn’t feel any heavier or squish when our feet made impact.We also like that there's plenty of room in the toe box and a wider platform that feels stable on concrete, sand, cement, and gravel. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. One of our testers runs four to five times a week. She alternates between outdoor runs on trails and asphalt and indoor runs on a treadmill. She's also an overpronator who's prone to shin splints and other pains after a run. Our other tester runs outdoors on concrete paths or grass a few days each week. She's also prone to shin splints and often pulls her arches during runs. Both testers agree that the Glycerin 20 has decent arch support and enough cushioning to help prevent running-related aches and pains. Highly breathable upper Contours to your feet Midsole is split into two pieces Cons Heel is more cushioned than the forefoot Pricier than other options Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for long runs on the road. Brooks' Aurora-BL are great overall running shoes that provide pillowy cushioning without compromising on support. During testing, we loved the way they fit: They contoured to our feet and kept our heels completely locked in (no lifting here). But the midsole is the highlight of this pair. The midsole is split into two separate pieces, to allow your heel and forefoot to move separately for a more natural stride. It also feels bouncy and responsive, even on rough, uneven terrain—especially underneath the heel. The Aurora-BL also absorbs impact extremely well, to protect your joints. Another bonus? The snug mesh upper is so breathable, it's actually see-through. Also available in women's sizes at Amazon, Marathon Sports, and Brooks. Our testers run three to five times a week on concrete, roads, treadmills, and trails. One tester has flat feet and sometimes feels pain in his arches after running. Both testers loved how comfortable the Aurora-BL feels and noted that the eye-catching design is just as functional as it is futuristic. Pros Breathable, durable upper Lightweight Great for beginners Cons May run narrow Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Best for beginners who want a high-quality shoe without investing a lot up front. Brooks' Trace 3 are our favorite budget-friendly pair that has everything beginners need to get started. With Brooks' standard cushioning and neutral support, they feel comfortable for most runners and don't have too many extra (also pricey) bells and whistles. During testing, we gave these shoes high marks for their solid all-around performance. The Trace 3 is a reliable sneaker, with a breathable, durable mesh upper that easily wiped clean after a muddy, rainy run. They're also pretty lightweight, at 8 ounces per sneaker. And if you're building up to longer runs by trying the run/walk method, we found that they're great for slower miles, too. New runners with neutral arches, this one's for you. Also available in men's sizes at Zappos, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. One of our testers runs three to four times a week on pavement. She's had issues with shin splints and stress fractures in the past, so she's careful to wear running shoes that don't aggravate her lower legs. The other runs five days a week on roads, trails, and treadmills. Both testers were surprised by this shoe's price point—considering how well it held up during testing, they expected to see a larger number. Pros Great lateral support Highly responsive Absorbs shock well Cons Laces may cause irritation Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you're looking for one pair of sneakers that can handle your entire cross-training routine. When you want to switch up your workouts without changing your shoes, we recommend Brooks' Levitate 6. With Brooks' maximum amount of cushioning and solid support, they're a great choice whether you're running long distances or squeezing in a quick cardio session. During testing, we also noticed that they have great lateral support, making them our top choice for bodyweight workouts. We love how responsive the Levitate 6 is, with a firm midsole that propels you forward while running on asphalt and concrete. Plus, we found that they absorb shock well during all kinds of workouts to protect your joints. Durable with a roomy toe box, this pair combines lots of Brooks' signature features we love in a well-fitting shoe you can wear for more than just a daily lap around the neighborhood. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Our testers run a few times each week indoors on a treadmill and outdoors on concrete and track. They both have knee pain, and one also deals with tight calves. Both runners noticed how supportive these sneakers are during testing. The Levitate 6 helped keep their knee pain at bay, so they could walk and run farther. Pros Lightweight Sleek design Reinforced outsole Cons Lacks shock absorption Soles may flatten over time Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 6.7 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5 Best for sprint intervals, tempo runs, and working on your personal record. If you need a lightweight running shoe for speed workouts, we recommend Brooks’ Hyperion Tempo. With a breathable upper that conforms to the shape of your feet, we like that the Hyperion Tempo moved with our feet for maximum comfort during testing. We also found that they're incredibly comfortable, from their close, secure fit to their solid support and stability. The outsole is reinforced with extra rubber in high-wear areas to add to the shoe's support and durability. Another bonus? We noticed their sleek design as soon as we opened the box. When you need to pick up the pace, from training on the track to race days, this is our favorite Brooks shoe by far. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Our testers run a few days each week on concrete, tracks, and treadmills. They both experience mild joint pain, especially in their knees. Both testers noted that the Hyperion Tempo provided great support and stability, even if it wasn't quite as cushioned as they would have liked. Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Great shock absorption Cons Not ideal for speed work Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for fans of Brooks' Ghost line who could use a little extra cushioning. Brooks' Ghost Max are, without a doubt, the most comfortable and cushioned shoes we tested. Fans of Brooks' popular Ghost model will appreciate this upgraded version, which has even more foam padding in the midsole. Right away, we noticed its stellar fit (it's available in three widths) and wide toe box. We were also impressed by this sneaker's wide, stable base, which made it easy to switch directions and tempos quickly. The Ghost Max also has an ultra-comfortable mesh upper that kept our feet cool and dry during test runs. Even better, we love that it has earned the APMA's Seal of Acceptance, meaning its foot-friendly design is backed by podiatrists. Overall, these running shoes are solid everyday trainers that offer a bit more cushioning and support than regular Ghosts. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Our testers run about four days a week indoors and out. One tester runs in her Brooks Ghost sneakers regularly and noticed that this pair has a similar fit, with more cushioning. Both runners noticed during testing that the Ghost Max is well-designed for running on all kinds of terrain, including grass, concrete, and dirt paths. Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Reflective details Great shock absorption Cons May run small Heavy Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 10.7 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Best for walkers and anyone who wears orthotics, especially if you have knee or joint pain. The Brooks Ariel GTS 23 is the brand's best model for runners with high arches. Not only do these shoes provide more arch support than most running shoes we've tried, but they also provide relief from knee pain and other joint issues. The midsole also absorbs shock incredibly well, allowing us to run farther during testing. From the midfoot to the heel, these sneakers feel supportive and stable, with a wide base. But unlike other supportive shoes, the Ariel GTS 23 is also pretty responsive, with smooth transitions and decent energy return. This APMA Seal of Acceptance winner also boasts reflective details to keep you safe while running or walking at night. Three available widths make it easy to find the right fit. One of our testers runs two days a week and struggles with knee pain due to tendonitis and her IT band. The other goes for a walk or run three to five times a week. She tends to deal with tight calves and sore knees after her runs. Both runners loved how padded and supportive this sneaker was, noting that it feels ultra-sturdy and stable underfoot. Pros Plate helps push you uphill Excellent traction Cons May run small Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining and insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for speedy trail races, especially if you frequently run uphill. Brooks' Catamount 2 is our top pick for picking up speed on technical trails. With a firm, light midsole, they're ideal for shorter distances when having great traction is crucial. They're also flexible, with a plate that's designed to propel you forward for tackling steep slopes and hills. We were also surprised by how well these fit—while hiking shoes can often cause painful blisters, the Catamount 2 felt great to wear the minute we put them on. Ultimately, we feel these shoes are the perfect halfway point between a high-traction hiking shoe and a speedy running sneaker. It's the best of both worlds for off-road racing. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Brooks. Our tester runs on roads and treadmills three to four days each week. She's had shin splints and knee injuries in the past, so she's careful to wear running shoes that protect her joints. When she ran in Brooks' Catamount 2, she noticed that the lightweight design and firmer cushioning were ideal for keeping her legs feeling fresh on shorter runs. Pros Protective toe cap and mudguard Removable insoles Feels firm and stable underfoot Cons Stiff and heavy Lacks ankle support Materials: Foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5 Best for longer trail runs and hikes. Brooks' Cascadia 17 is our pick for long-distance trail runs or hikes, for non-racers. During testing, we noticed that they have a firm, stable base and great support for neutral arches. And they fit so well, we forgot we were wearing them a few runs in. The Cascadia 17 is thoughtfully designed with a partially recycled rubber outsole and removable insoles in case you need additional support. It also has excellent traction—we wore them while traversing steep, rocky trails in Colorado and Wyoming without any issues, thanks to the rugged toe cap and mudguard. Even after weeks of testing, these durable sneakers have held up well. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, REI, and Brooks. Our testers run around five days a week on a mix of roads, gravel paths, and trails. One runner was recovering from a knee injury during testing and needed to wear well-cushioned shoes after undergoing foot surgery. They both noticed that the Cascadia's firmer midsole and supportive base helped them run confidently on uneven terrain. Pros Wide toe box Breathable Excellent heel support Cons Not as responsive Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5 Best for casual runs on the road, especially if you overpronate. Multiple Brooks shoes on our list have earned the APMA's Seal of Acceptance—but Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 23 is our favorite because it's a tried and true classic from the brand. With Brooks' signature GuideRails built into the sides, this sneaker is a great choice for overpronators who need a little extra motion control. Like many other Brooks models, this one has a wide toe box, a secure fit, and extra cushioning in the heel. We also found during testing that the midsole is firm, so your feet don't sink in as you run. We like that the mesh upper is breathable, to prevent blisters and hot spots from forming. The Adrenaline GTS 23 is also very stable, especially in the heel. For a precise fit, these sneakers come in four widths (including a narrow option that can be hard to find in a Brooks shoe). High-quality and built to last, we recommend them for most runners with neutral arches. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Our testers run three to five times a week on roads, track, and the occasional treadmill. Between the two, they experience knee pain, hip flexor pain, tight feet, and tight calves. They noticed that, while the Adrenaline GTS 23's firm midsole isn't ideal for combatting joint pain, it does make a significant difference on the treadmill. Pros Supportive for overpronators Breathable upper Durable Cons Tongue isn't as padded Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for overpronators. Brooks Launch GTS 10 has all the support we'd expect in a lighter shoe that's great for overpronators. The brand's signature GuideRails provide support from all angles to prevent excess movement and align your feet as you run. But even though it's sturdy, it doesn't lack bounce—the midsole is responsive and has great energy return, to help us run farther and longer. During testing, we liked how breathable the mesh upper feels. Plus, the back of the shoe is soft and cushioned, to prevent blisters. We also noticed how well-made these sneakers are—they didn't wear down at all during testing. We'd gladly recommend them to anyone who wants a supportive sneaker that won't weigh you down. Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Our testers run outdoors a few times a week, mostly on pavement, concrete, and treadmills. They both deal with knee pain, and one also has lower back pain. Each runner noticed less joint pain while running in these sneakers, noting that they're easy to wear every day. We've tested over a dozen pairs of Brooks running shoes, but they didn't all earn a spot in our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of these sneakers' features, they ultimately didn't impress us: To choose the best Brooks running shoes, we first asked podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons for their expert advice on what to look for as you shop. So far, we've tested more than a dozen Brooks shoes in the Verywell Testing Lab and in the real world. When we test running shoes, we often have two different people try them out to assess how they fit and feel on different foot types. We evaluate each pair based on these key criteria: We continue to test all of these Brooks shoes during our regular running routines. We're also testing new models as they are released—we'll update our list with any new insights or other developments soon. We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Sutera, taught us how running shoes should fit and feel. Others, like Diana Valencia, helped us create and refine our testing process. Although we choose products independently, advice from experts influences our decisions. There’s no agreement among runners, running coaches, or shoe experts about which company makes the best running shoes. But many runners prefer Brooks—and according to Mehta, their shoes also are known for promoting a smoother stride that can keep you comfortable on long runs. Podiatrists recommend Brooks, especially for running, because it is a trusted brand whose high-quality, durable shoes are designed with runners’ specific needs in mind. Sutera prefers Brooks shoes because they are well-cushioned and supportive, with a very strong heel counter. Generally, you can expect to pay between $80 and $200 for a pair of Brooks shoes. Keep in mind that older models of a shoe may have many of the same features as the latest version, at a discounted price. Yes, most of the time: Running shoes are lighter and more breathable than most walking shoes, and they may have more cushioning (while walking shoes may be more supportive). They're usually a good option for fitness walking, but if you need a shoe with lots of support for flat arches, plantar fasciitis, or a similar condition, you may be better off with a sturdier walking shoe. As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. Her favorite Brooks shoes are the Glycerin line, which she wears for road runs, treadmill runs, and long walks with her dog. Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best Men's Overall
Brooks Aurora-BL Running Shoe
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Speed Work
Brooks Hyperion Tempo
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Brooks Running Shoes We Also Tested
What to Look for When Shopping for Brooks Running Shoes
How We Tested the Best Brooks Running Shoes
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brooks the best running shoe brand?
Why do podiatrists recommend Brooks?
How much do quality Brooks running shoes cost?
Is it OK to wear running shoes for walking?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Why Podiatrists Love Brooks Running Shoes—Plus the Ones They Recommend (2024)
Table of Contents
Best Women’s Overall
Brooks Glycerin 20
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best Men's Overall
Brooks Aurora-BL Running Shoe
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best Budget
Brooks Trace 3 Running Shoes
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Cross-Training
Brooks Levitate 6 Running Shoe
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Speed Work
Brooks Hyperion Tempo
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Most Cushioned
Brooks Ghost Max
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for High Arches
Brooks Ariel GTS 23
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best for Trail Running
Brooks Women's Catamount 2
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Best for Trail Running Runner-Up
Brooks Cascadia 17
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best APMA-Accepted
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Best Lightweight
Brooks Launch GTS 10
Key Specs
Who They're For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Testers
Brooks Running Shoes We Also Tested
What to Look for When Shopping for Brooks Running Shoes
How We Tested the Best Brooks Running Shoes
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brooks the best running shoe brand?
Why do podiatrists recommend Brooks?
How much do quality Brooks running shoes cost?
Is it OK to wear running shoes for walking?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Top Articles
CÓMO INTERPRETAR LOS CÓDIGOS DE COLORES DE LAS DIFERENTES TUBERÍAS EN INDUSTRIA - Suclisa Industrial
20 Ways To Make Extra Money: Top Online And Offline Ideas To Earn Cash | Bankrate
4 Best Extended Car Warranties of 2024
Best Extended Car Warranty, Reviewed (2024 Ratings)
Latest Posts
Article information
Author: Prof. An Powlowski
Last Updated:
Views: 6249
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)
Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful
Author information
Name: Prof. An Powlowski
Birthday: 1992-09-29
Address: Apt. 994 8891 Orval Hill, Brittnyburgh, AZ 41023-0398
Phone: +26417467956738
Job: District Marketing Strategist
Hobby: Embroidery, Bodybuilding, Motor sports, Amateur radio, Wood carving, Whittling, Air sports
Introduction: My name is Prof. An Powlowski, I am a charming, helpful, attractive, good, graceful, thoughtful, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.