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

A long-time favorite brand for runners, Brooks is known for its plush comfort, reliable support, and high-quality materials. With an extensive lineup, Brooks offers 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, running for weeks on trails, treadmills, concrete paths, and more. We evaluated each pair for fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, and value.

Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:

SALE

Brooks Glycerin 21 at Amazon ~~$160~~ $99

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Best Men's Overall:

Brooks Aurora-BL Running Shoe at Amazon $160

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Best Budget:

Brooks Trace 3 at Amazon

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Best for Cross-Training:

Brooks Levitate 6 Running Shoe at Amazon

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Best for Speed Work:

Brooks Hyperion Tempo at Amazon $5,000

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Most Cushioned :

Brooks Ghost Max 2 at Amazon $160

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Best for High Arches:

Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 24 Running Shoes at Amazon $160

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Best for Trail Running:

Brooks Women's Catamount 3 Trail Running Shoe at Amazon $150

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Best for Trail Running Runner-Up:

Brooks Cascadia 17 at Amazon $140

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Best APMA-Accepted:

SALE

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 at Amazon ~~$140~~ $110

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Best Women's Overall

Brooks Glycerin 21

Credit: Amazon

$160

$99 at Amazon View on Brooksrunning.com

$160

$110 at Rackroomshoes.com

Pros

Excellent cushioning
Great shock absorption
APMA Seal of Acceptance

Cons

May run small

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12 (medium, wide), Men's 7-14 (medium, wide) Materials: Mesh upper, rubber and foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Plush Weight: Women's 8.8 ounces, Men's 10.1 ounces Drop: Women's 10 millimeters, Men's 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 21 earns our top overall pick for women thanks to its exceptional comfort, performance, and versatility. We tested the older version, but this new version has similar (even more robust) features. The midsole has a cloud-like feel and provides smooth transitions for easy runs and walks. We also like how responsive the midsole is—it gives 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 pound the pavement during long runs. The light, airy mesh upper doesn't just regulate temperature: When our sneakers were drenched in a downpour, they didn’t feel any heavier or squish when our feet made impact. We also like the 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 a half size.

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.

Best Men's Overall

Brooks Aurora-BL Running Shoe

Brooks Menâs Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe

Credit: Amazon

$160 at Amazon

Pros

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

Sizes: Men's 7-14, Women's 5-12 Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Plush Weight: Men's 8.6 ounces, Women's 7.6 ounces Drop: Men's 6 millimeters, Women's 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 and Marathon Sports.

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.

Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe has a breathable upper to keep feet cool. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe is a lightweight shoe with a true-to-size fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe has a unique heel shape for a smooth running stride. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe has a split midsole to promote a natural running stride. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe has a cushioned midsole to absorb shock and protect joints. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best Budget

Brooks Trace 3

Credit: Brooks

View on Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Brooksrunning.com

Pros

Breathable, durable upper
Lightweight
Great for beginners

Cons

May run narrow

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12 (medium, wide), Men's 7-15 (medium, wide) Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 8 ounces, Men's 9 ounces Drop: Women's 12 millimeters, Men's 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 Sneakers 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.

These durable shoes have padded ankle collars and great shock absorption, allowing them to take on both short and long-distance running with ease. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Brooks Trace 3 Running Shoes are a great everyday option, offering comfortable cushioning and excellent responsiveness. Credit: Verywell Fit
These high-quality shoes have a heel tab that makes them easy to get on and off, plus grippy outsoles that work well on hard and uneven outdoor surfaces. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best for Cross-Training

Brooks Levitate 6 Running Shoe

Credit: Brooks

View on Amazon

Pros

Great lateral support
Highly responsive
Absorbs shock well

Cons

Laces may cause irritation

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12, Men's 7-15 Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Plush Weight: Women's 9.5 ounces, Men's 10.5 ounces Drop: Women's 8 millimeters, Men's 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 and Dick's Sporting Goods.

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.

Credit: Verywell Fit
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Best for Speed Work

Brooks Hyperion Tempo

Credit: REI

$5,000 at Amazon

Pros

Lightweight
Sleek design
Reinforced outsole

Cons

Lacks shock absorption
Soles may flatten over time

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12, Men's 7-15 Materials: Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 6.7 ounces, Men's 7.3 ounces Drop: Women's 8 millimeters, Men's 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.

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.

Brooks' Hyperion Tempo Shoes provide ample cushioning underfoot and feel responsive. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Hyperion Tempo has a stretchy, woven upper that's breathable and durable. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks Hyperion Tempo Shoes feature an impressively lightweight design that feels fast. Credit: Verywell Fit

Most Cushioned

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Amazon Brooks Women's Ghost Max 2 Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon

$160 at Amazon

$150

$100 at Zappos

$150

$115 at Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

APMA Seal of Acceptance
Great shock absorption
Mesh upper keeps feet cool and dry

Cons

Not ideal for speed work

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12 (medium, wide, extra-wide), Men's 7-15 (medium, wide, extra-wide) Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Plush Weight: Women's 9.7 ounces, Men's 10 ounces Drop: Women's 6 millimeters, Men's 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

While we tested the earlier version, Brooks' Ghost Max 2 Shoes have nearly identical features, with even better cushioning. And the version we tested is, 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.

Best for High Arches

Brooks Women's Ariel GTS 24 Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon

$160 at Amazon $160 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

APMA Seal of Acceptance
Reflective details
Great shock absorption

Cons

May run small
Heavy

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 6-13 (medium, wide, extra-wide) Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 11.1 ounces Drop: Women's 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 24 is the brand's best model for runners with high arches. We tested version 23, but this newer model has almost identical features. These shoes provide more arch support than most running shoes we've tried, and they also relieve 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.

Credit: Verywell Fit
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Best for Trail Running

Brooks Women's Catamount 3 Trail Running Shoe

Credit: REI

$150 at Amazon View on REI View on Brooksrunning.com

Pros

Helps propel you forward
Excellent traction
Rugged and durable

Cons

May run small

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12, Men's 7-15 Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining and insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 8.4 ounces, Men's 9.4 ounces Drop: Women's 6 millimeters, Men's 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. We tested the first version of this show, but this newer one has an even more rugged, durable design. With a firm, light midsole, they're ideal for shorter distances when having great traction is crucial. They're also flexible, with a plate 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.

Best for Trail Running Runner-Up

Brooks Cascadia 17

Credit: Brooks

$140

$120 at Amazon

Pros

Protective toe cap and mudguard
Removable insoles
Feels firm and stable underfoot

Cons

Stiff and heavy
Lacks ankle support

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 6-11, Men's 7-15 Materials: Fabric upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 10 ounces, Men's 11 ounces Drop: Women's 8 millimeters, Men's 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.

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.

The Brooks Cascadia 17 shoes provide solid cushioning but may take some time to properly break in. Credit: Verywell Fit
This durable shoe has a toe cap and a special rock plate in the sole that keeps the feet protected from trail debris. Credit: Verywell Fit
These shoes have super grippy rubber outsoles that feel stable on various indoor and outdoor grounds, including grass and hiking trails. Credit: Verywell Fit
These breathable shoes feel lightweight and bouncy during runs, however, they don’t provide lots of ankle support. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best APMA-Accepted

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24

Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 24 Running Shoes

Credit: Brooks

$140

$110 at Amazon View on Zappos

$140

$110 at Nordstrom

Pros

Wide toe box
Breathable
Excellent heel support

Cons

Not as responsive

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-13 (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide), Men's 7-15 (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide) Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average Weight: Women's 8.8 ounces, Men's 10 ounces Drop: Women's 12 millimeters, Men's 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 24 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. When we tested the previous version, we also found 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 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.

Credit: Verywell Fit
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Testers found these Brooks shoes comfortable and supportive, even after walking 10 miles. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best Lightweight

Brooks Launch GTS 10

Credit: Brooks

$100

$70 at Amazon View on Marathonsports.com

Pros

Supportive for overpronators
Breathable upper
Durable

Cons

Tongue isn't as padded

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12 (medium, wide), Men's 7-15 (medium, wide) Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Average, responsive Weight: Women's 7.8 ounces, Men's 8.6 ounces Drop: Women's 10 millimeters, Men's 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 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.

Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 running shoe has GuideRails technology to help keep feet properly aligned. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 shoes are designed to improve foot alignment for those who overpronate. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 running shoe has a thick, cushioned sole, which may feel bulky for some. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 is a stable, lightweight running shoe that can ease shin splints. Credit: Verywell Fit

Brooks Running Shoes We Also Tested

We've tested over a dozen pairs of Brooks running shoes, but only 11 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of this sneaker's features, it ultimately didn't impress us enough to be selected as a top pick.

Brooks' Revel 6 Sneaker 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 board-certified podiatric surgeon Angelo Sutera, DPM.
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 orthopedic surgeon Pamela Mehta, MD. 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.

A close-up of a Brooks Aurora BL sneaker's cushion — Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe has a unique heel shape for a smooth running stride.
Verywell Fit

How We Tested the Brooks Running Shoes

To find the best Brooks running shoes, we tested dozens of options, running on treadmills, trails, concrete paths, grass, and more. When testing Brooks running shoes, we evaluate each pair based on the following 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?
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.

Brooks Levitate 6 being cut in half with a saw — Verywell Fit

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. Some, like Sutera, taught us how running shoes should fit and feel. Others, like podiatrist Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, helped us create and refine our testing process. Although we choose products independently, advice from experts influences our decisions.

Angelo Sutera, DPM, board-certified podiatric surgeon with Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry
Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatrist with NYC Foot and Ankle Center
Pamela Mehta, MD, orthopedic surgeon with Resilience Orthopedics
Kathleen Gassner, DPT, physical therapist and RRCA-certified running coach

Frequently Asked Questions

What's so special about Brooks shoes?

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.

Are Brooks good for being on your feet all day?

Yes, Brooks shoes can be good options for all-day wear. Look for a pair that's supportive and well-cushioned to keep you comfy during long days. Consider a breathable option with a mesh upper if your feet tend to get hot or sweaty.

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 for Verywell Fit, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. For this guide, Luff reviewed insights from our experts and testers to evaluate each pair of shoes based on fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, and overall value. Additional considerations were made to include shoes for running on uneven ground to suit runners on any surface from trails to treadmills, concrete, grass, and more. Her favorite Brooks shoes are the Glycerin line, which she wears for road runs, treadmill runs, and long walks with her dog.

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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.

American Podiatric Medical Association. Choosing shoes for sports.
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
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