Brooks Sneakers: A Guide to Choosing the Right One for You
Brooks sneakers seem to pop up everywhere, with signature models like the Ghost on the feet of runners, walkers, grocery shoppers, nurses, travelers, and more. But it isn’t just the brand’s fun colorways that make them so popular – they’re also legit good-for-your-feet sneakers, loved by podiatrists and pedorthists. “From a doctor’s perspective, Brooks is kind of our go-to shoe,” says Nicole Freels, FACPM, a certified pedorthist at Lexington Podiatry in Kentucky.
The only problem: How to choose from Brooks’s extensive lineup. To help you make your pick, we asked experts for their faves – plus advice on how (and when) to wear them – and logged some miles on a handful of pairs ourselves.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Ghost 16
- Best for Walking: Addiction GTS 15
- Best Everyday Shoe: Ghost Max SE
- Best Daily Trainer: Glycerin 22
- Best for Overpronation: Adrenaline GTS 24
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Ariel GTS 24
- Best for Long Distances: Glycerin Max
- Best for Trail Running: Caldera 8
Why Brooks is a Podiatrist’s Go-To
Brooks is a go-to for podiatrists and pedorthists because of its attention to foot health. From a doctor’s perspective, Brooks is kind of our go-to shoe,” says Dr. Freels. “They have a wide range of shoes for different activities, and they all have good arch support, a supportive midfoot, and a comfortable, breathable upper.”
Best for Long Distances: Glycerin Max
Pros
- Lots of soft, bouncy cushioning
- Softer foam in the heel and more responsive foam in the forefoot
- Rocker shape for smooth transitions
Cons
- Max cushioning will be too much for some runners
- Heavy
“I know for me, and for a lot of runners, they like to have some extra cushioning underfoot when they’re going to be on their feet for a long time,” says Bermel. The Glycerin Max has all that cushioning and then some – a whole 45 millimeters, to be exact.
When SELF’s director of food and fitness, Christa Sgobba, CPT, tested a pair, she found that they helped save her legs from the pounding of long marathon training runs. “On those days, I’ve been particularly grateful to reach for the Glycerin Max – they really provide that extra dose of TLC to help you get through that day’s plan,” she wrote in her review.
Bermel agrees: “I like it for long runs because it’s got cushion and bounce, but it’s not too soft, so I feel like I can still run at a decent pace,” she says. That said, she acknowledges that the amount of cushioning can feel clunky. “It’s not a shoe where you could have a sense of ground feedback, which some runners really like,” she says.
Original photo by SELF writer Lauren Wingenroth
Best for Trail Running: Caldera 8
Pros
- Wide base for stability
- Quick-drying upper
- Durable, grippy outsole
Cons
- Some runners may want less cushioning on uneven trails
- Only available in one width
What works on the roads doesn’t always work on the trails. A solid trail shoe should have deep lugs on the outsole (like treads on a tire) for grip, a wider base for extra stability on ever-changing terrain, and a protective upper that won’t snag on roots and rocks. The Caldera 8’s got it all – and it’s super comfortable, Dr. Thomas says.
“On a trail, a lot of times your gait is not uniform because you’re avoiding things like ruts,” he says. “Having a wider midfoot and a wider heel is a game changer because it can introduce a lot more stability – that’s why I like the Caldera.”
Conclusion
Picking the right Brooks shoe can be overwhelming, but by considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find the perfect pair. Whether you’re a long-distance runner, a trail enthusiast, or just a casual walker, Brooks has a shoe that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose the right Brooks shoe for me?
A: Consider your activity level, foot shape, and personal preferences to determine the best Brooks shoe for you.
Q: Are Brooks shoes good for running?
A: Yes, Brooks is a popular choice among runners due to its attention to foot health and comfortable, supportive designs.
Q: Can I wear Brooks shoes for everyday activities?
A: Yes, many Brooks shoes are designed for everyday wear and can be comfortable for walking, shopping, or other casual activities.
Q: Are Brooks shoes good for trail running?
A: Yes, Brooks offers a range of trail shoes, including the Caldera 8, which is designed for stability and grip on uneven terrain.
