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Your Guide to the Best Brooks Running Shoes, Tested by Real Runners

After miles of indoor and outdoor runs, these pairs reign supreme

By
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Luff
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
Learn about our editorial process
and
Sarah Felbin
Sarah Felbin
Sarah Felbin

Sarah Felbin is the associate commerce editor at Verywell Fit. A writer and editor with over 20 years of dance experience, her work has also appeared in Popsugar and Women’s Health.

Learn about our editorial process
Updated on April 19, 2024
Medically reviewed
Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.
by
Dr. Kathleen Gassner, DPT
Kathleen Gassner, PT, DPT
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kathleen Gassner, DPT

Kathleen Gassner is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and certified RRCA run coach. She has over 10 years of experience working in hospital ICUs, orthopedic outpatient settings, and pediatric clinics.

Learn about our Medical Review Board
Fact checked
Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more.
by
Rich Scherr
Rich Scherr
Fact checked by Rich Scherr

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

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A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Levitate 6

Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

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. We also had a physical therapist and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, how to shop for Brooks running shoes, and the best way to evaluate them.

In This Article
Pros

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Great shock absorption

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

Cons

  • May run small

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber and foam midsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for casual daily runners and fitness walkers.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • The brand notes that these sneakers may run small—consider sizing up by at least one half size from your usual dress shoes.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • Brooks Glycerin 20 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Brooks Glycerin 20 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Brooks Glycerin 20 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Brooks Glycerin 20 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • 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

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for long runs on the road.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • This is one of the pricier sneakers on our list, although we think they're worth the investment for their unique, high-tech design.
  • We noticed during testing that the heel has much more padding compared to the forefoot.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A close-up of a person's feet in grass while wearing Brooks Aurora BL sneakers

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

  • A close-up of a person running while wearing the Brooks Aurora BL sneakers on blacktop

    Verywell Fit / John Somerall

  • A person running while wearing Brooks Aurora BL sneakers outdoors

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

  • The Brooks Aurora BL sneakers on a woodenfloor

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

  • A close-up of a Brooks Aurora BL sneaker's cushion

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

Pros

  • Breathable, durable upper

  • Lightweight

  • Great for beginners

Cons

  • May run narrow

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They're For

Best for beginners who want a high-quality shoe without investing a lot up front.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed during testing that these shoes run narrow. Unless you have narrow feet, we recommend ordering the Wide width.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A person walks outside while wearing the Brooks Trace 3 Women's Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

  • A person holds up a pair of Brooks Trace 3 Women's Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

  • The back of Brooks Trace 3 Women's Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

Pros

  • Great lateral support

  • Highly responsive

  • Absorbs shock well

Cons

  • Laces may cause irritation

Key Specs

Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They're For

Best if you're looking for one pair of sneakers that can handle your entire cross-training routine.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • While these running shoes are true to size, we noticed that the shoelaces can be irritating, especially when laced up tightly. You may want to pick up extra laces, just in case.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • Brooks Levitate 6 being cut in half with a saw

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A close up of the top of the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A person bending the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • the sole of the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • a close up of the heel on the Brooks Levitate 6

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • Brooks Levitate 6 on a shiny yellow surface

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

Pros

  • Lightweight

  • Sleek design

  • Reinforced outsole

Cons

  • Lacks shock absorption

  • Soles may flatten over time

Key Specs

Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 6.7 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They're For

Best for sprint intervals, tempo runs, and working on your personal record.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that these shoes don't absorb shock as well as some of our other top picks do. We don't recommend them if you have knee pain or other joint issues.
  • By the end of the testing period, we found that the midsoles had started to flatten out. You may need to replace these sneakers more often.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A foot hovering in the air while wearing Brooks Hyperion Tempo Road-Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Lauren Coughlin

  • A close-up of two legs walking on black top while wearing Brooks Hyperion Tempo Road-Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Lauren Coughlin

  • Two feet posed while wearing Brooks Hyperion Tempo Road-Running Shoes on black top

    Verywell Fit / Lauren Coughlin

Pros

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Great shock absorption

Cons

  • Not ideal for speed work

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for fans of Brooks' Ghost line who could use a little extra cushioning.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that these sneakers feel more plush, rather than springy and responsive. As a result, they're not our first choice for speed work.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • Closeup of a person wearing Brooks Women's Ghost Max sneakers on concrete stairs

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

  • Brooks Women's Ghost Max in a shoebox

    Verywell Fit / Henry Yung

Pros

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Reflective details

  • Great shock absorption

Cons

  • May run small

  • Heavy

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 10.7 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They're For

Best for walkers and anyone who wears orthotics, especially if you have knee or joint pain.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that these sneakers tend to run small. Consider ordering one full size up from your usual for a better fit.
  • This pair is one of our heavier picks. However, we were surprised by how responsive they felt during testing, making them easy to wear for longer distances.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A person's legs standing on grass while wearing Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 23 sneakers

    Verywell Fit / Jennifer May

  • A close-up of a person walking on sand while wearing Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 23 shoes

    Verywell Fit / Jennifer May

  • Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 23 shoes in the original box placed on a blue patterned rug

    Verywell Fit / Jennifer May

  • Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 23 shoes posed on a blue patterned rug

    Verywell Fit / Jennifer May

Pros

  • Plate helps push you uphill

  • Excellent traction

Cons

  • May run small

Key Specs

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

Who They're For

Best for speedy trail races, especially if you frequently run uphill.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • We recommend ordering a half size up to ensure you have enough room in the toe box.

Meet Our Tester

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.

  • Two hands tying the laces of a Brooks Catamount 2 Trail Running Shoe outdoors

    Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

  • Two legs posed while wearing Brooks Catamount 2 Trail Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

  • The bottoms of the Brooks Catamount 2 Trail Running Shoes facing upright on wood

    Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

  • A person stretching outdoors while wearing Brooks Catamount 2 Trail Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

  • Teo Brooks Catamount 2 Trail Running Shoes posed on a wooden floor

    Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

Pros

  • Protective toe cap and mudguard

  • Removable insoles

  • Feels firm and stable underfoot

Cons

  • Stiff and heavy

  • Lacks ankle support

Key Specs

Materials: Foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who They're For

Best for longer trail runs and hikes.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • These shoes are heavy, and we noticed that they feel stiff at first. But after a few runs, they softened up a little for a more comfortable ride.
  • We wish they had more ankle support.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A close-up of Brooks Cascadia 17 shoes worn in grass

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

  • A close-up of a person running in Brooks Cascadia 17 shoes

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

  • The bottoms of two Brooks Cascadia 17 shoes outdoors

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

  • The Brooks Cascadia 17 shoes posed on top of their box

    Verywell Fit / Riddley Schirm

Pros

  • Wide toe box

  • Breathable

  • Excellent heel support

Cons

  • Not as responsive

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They're For

Best for casual runs on the road, especially if you overpronate.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • The firm cushioning makes these sneakers less responsive than other pairs we've tested.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 on feet walking on stone surface

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • Hands holding half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneaker

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers on a shiny yellow surface

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A close up of the back half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 being cut in half by a power saw

    Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

Pros

  • Supportive for overpronators

  • Breathable upper

  • Durable

Cons

  • Tongue isn't as padded

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Average | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for overpronators.

Why We Love Them

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.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers have found that the tongue could use more padding. It may cause irritation, but you can wear thicker socks for more protection.

Meet Our Testers

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.

  • A close-up of a person walking outside while wearing Brooks Women’s Launch GTS 10 Supportive Running Shoe

    Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek

  • A close-up of a person standing to the side while wearing Brooks Women’s Launch GTS 10 Supportive Running Shoe

    Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek

  • A hand lifting a Brooks Women’s Launch GTS 10 Supportive Running Shoe into the air to show the bottom sole

    Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek

  • Two Brooks Women’s Launch GTS 10 Supportive Running Shoes posed on a rug

    Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek

  • The Brooks Women’s Launch GTS 10 Supportive Running Shoebox

    Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek

Brooks Running Shoes We Also Tested

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:

  • Brooks' Revel 6 is lightweight and feels responsive underfoot. But the shoes left us with painful blisters, and we wish they had more ankle support.

What to Look for When Shopping for Brooks Running Shoes

  • Purpose: When choosing running shoes, consider how you’ll be wearing them. While all Brooks shoes are designed for running, some of them are lightweight and springy for fast workouts, while others are more supportive and shock-absorbing for long-distance runs.
  • Cushioning: Runners need a shoe with enough cushioning to absorb shock and reduce impact with each stride, to protect against injury and fatigue. Look for a midsole that has thick layers of soft foam padding.
  • Stability: Some Brooks sneakers are more stable than others. If you have issues with your ankles or you tend to overpronate, we recommend a motion control pair that's designed to correct your stride and keep you feeling steady on your feet. A firm heel counter also helps lock your feet into your shoes, says Angelo Sutera, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon.
  • Fit: Finding the right fit is crucial to staying comfortable and injury-free. The toe box should be wide, with enough room to wiggle your toes, says Pamela Mehta, MD, an orthopedic surgeon. Also, make sure there’s a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • Drop: The heel-to-toe drop refers to the difference in the sole's thickness under the forefoot and under the heel. It's usually measured in millimeters, and it can affect your gait. A lower drop can reduce the impact on your joints while you run, but a higher drop can cause you to strike with your rearfoot first. Always consider what your current shoe's drop is before making a change, recommends physical therapist and RRCA-certified running coach Kathleen Gassner, DPT. Changing your drop drastically can increase your risk of injury.

How We Tested the Best Brooks Running Shoes

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:

  • Fit: Having a shoe that fits properly on your foot and doesn't slide around or cause blisters is of utmost importance. For this reason, we made sure that each shoe we recommended had the proper space (about a thumb’s width) between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. We also made note if our feet were slipping and sliding in the shoe.
  • Comfort: How comfortable does the shoe's upper and midsole feel? We note how our knees, back, and ankles feel during test runs—do we notice any pain or discomfort? We also pay attention to how we feel after each run as the testing period continues.
  • Stability: Unstable running shoes can cause rolled ankles, twisted knees, and even falls. During testing, do we feel steady and balanced in the shoes? Can we run on uneven surfaces, or do we feel unsafe?
  • Cushioning: Most Brooks shoes have foam cushioning in the midsole. We evaluate how the cushioning feels underfoot—soft or firm? We also consider how well the foam absorbs shock.
  • Responsiveness: A responsive running shoe has a springy, bouncy midsole that pushes us forward with each step. To evaluate each shoe's responsiveness, we wear them on different terrains, to see how they respond. Do we feel like the shoe pops up every time? Does it provide smooth transitions between strides? And after each run, do our legs feel fresh or fatigued?
  • Overall Value: To accurately assess each shoe's value, we don't check its price until the end of the testing period, after we've rated it in every other category. Based on its performance during testing, would we buy it at full price—or only if it went on sale? We also consider whether we'd recommend the shoe to our friends and family.

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.

Our Experts

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.

  • Angelo Sutera, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon with Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist with NYC Foot and Ankle Center
  • Pamela Mehta, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Resilience Orthopedics

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brooks the best running shoe brand?

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.

Why do podiatrists recommend Brooks?

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.

How much do quality Brooks running shoes cost?

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.

Is it OK to wear running shoes for walking?

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.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

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.

3 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. American Podiatric Medical Association. Choosing shoes for sports.

  2. Malisoux L, Chambon N, Delattre N, Gueguen N, Urhausen A, Theisen D. Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: a randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(8):481-7. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095031

  3. Zhang M, Zhou X, Zhang L, Liu H, Yu B. The effect of heel-to-toe drop of running shoes on patellofemoral joint stress during running. Gait Posture. 2022;93:230-234. doi:10.1016/j.gaitpost.2022.02.008

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