Our verdict

We found the with brooks Cascadia 18 to be a solid evolution, with small, thoughtful updates that enhance its performance for trail runners, particularly heel strikers. Although it could benefit from shedding a bit more weight and a bouncier midsole, we were impressed by its exceptional value. In our lab tests, we found it delivers excellent stability, reliable traction, and a comfortable fit that makes it suitable for both trail runs and casual hikes.

zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas Pros

  • Breathable upper
  • Great value for the price
  • Stability-enhancing Trail Adapt plate
  • Impressive grip
  • Amazing tongue
  • Brooks England Sadelväska Challenge Small 0
  • Brooks organiseert wereldwijde virtuele 5K run op Global Running Day
  • Velcro strap for gaiter attachment
  • Designed with heel strikers in mind

zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas Cons

  • Saucony talla 42.5
  • zapatillas de running with brooks entrenamiento neutro ultra trail
  • zapatillas de running with brooks hombre asfalto voladoras maratón talla 39 grises
  • No reflective elements

Audience verdict

86
Good!

Who should buy

We think the with brooks unisex t7 racer mens shoes nightlife black a fantastic choice for:

  • Newcomers to trail running who want a comfort-focused shoe for varied cascadia activities.
  • The with brooks Launch 5 provides high-level of comfort and breathability.
  • Mochila with brooks England Pickwick Cotton 12 L preto.

Brooks Cascadia 18

zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas | Who should NOT buy

We believe the with brooks unisex t7 racer mens shoes nightlife black not the ideal choice for those seeking a cushioned, plush trail experience. With a firm midsole and a moderate stack height, it falls short for runners looking for extra cushioning. For a plush option, we recommend the Brooks has partnered with run specialty franchise or Brooks Zapatillas Running Adrenaline GTS 21.

In our experience, durability is another area where the Cascadia 18 struggles. We observed concerning wear in the upper, making it less rugged than many trail runners expect. For those who prioritize a built-like-a-tank upper, we suggest taking a look at the Hoka Speedgoat 6, with brooks Range 2.

Brooks Cascadia 18 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

This isn’t a towering, maximalist shoe with extreme stack height—it’s a daily-trainer-like design with 32.6 mm under the heel, which by the way, we think doesn’t quite justify its high weight. In our view, other brands have achieved more efficient weight management in this category.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel design

Still, this cushioning level feels just right for the Cascadia’s role, and we hope with brooks doesn’t simply trim down the stack to lighten the load. That would be a mistake.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel stack
Test results
Cascadia 18 32.6 mm
Average 32.0 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas | Forefoot stack

No major updates in the forefoot, which stays at 23.8 mm—probably a bit slim for runners with heavier builds. If you’re looking for extra cushion, the Altra’s Olympus 6 Under Armour talla 50.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Forefoot stack
Test results
Cascadia 18 23.8 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

In our experience, the heel and forefoot measurements make it clear—this is a high-drop trail shoe, designed primarily for rearfoot strikers.

Forefoot and midfoot strikers will find the Cascadia comfortable, especially if they’re prone to calf or Achilles overload issues. However, many trail runners prefer lower-drop shoes, which might make this model less appealing to them.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Drop
Test results
Cascadia 18 8.8 mm
Average 7.5 mm
Compared to 133 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

One of the consistent features carried over from the previous Cascadia is the foam. We discovered the same DNA Loft v2 powering this model as well.

If you were hoping for a softer feel in this update, that’s not the case here. With a 27.5 HA reading on our durometer, we noted that this foam is even slightly firmer than its predecessor, delivering a ride that leans on the firm side.

Brooks Cascadia 18 DNA Loft v2

However, if you can handle that level of firmness, it offers real trail advantages—a more stable platform and better protection from sharp rocks.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Midsole softness
Test results
Cascadia 18 27.5 HA
Average 22.6 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas (%)

Brooks Cambium C15 Saddle.

We put the Cascadia 18 in the freezer for 20 minutes and re-measured its softness. After exposure, it only became 12.7% firmer, which is an outstanding result for cold-weather performance.

Brooks Cascadia 18 zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas (%)
Test results
Cascadia 18 13%
Average 26%
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
5%
zapatillas de running with brooks talla 36 moradas
68%

Insole thickness

We found the insole to be comfy, offering a balanced feel underfoot. Measuring at 5.1 mm, it sits close to the average thickness for insoles in all running shoes.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Insole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 18 5.1 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 133 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

The Cascadia 18 isn’t one of those extreme rockered shoes, though each year with brooks adds a bit more curve to the forefoot. This change brings some benefits and drawbacks, but we still wouldn’t classify it as a rockered shoe—especially with the heel staying very flat.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Rocker

Rock plate

One standout feature that sets the Cascadia apart from pele trail shoes in its category is the Trail Adapt system. This innovative setup includes a plastic plate with two heads in the heel, extending out as wings on each side of the midsole, and three fork-like heads positioned in the forefoot. Its purpose? To enhance protection against rocks and boost stability at the same time!

Brooks Cascadia 18 Trail Adapt

The rationale behind this design is to allow the shoe to flex torsionally, avoiding the rigidity a full-length, non-forked plate would bring, resulting in a more adaptive ride on rugged terrain.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Rock plate

Size and fit

Size

brooks unisex t7 racer mens shoes nightlife black true to size (62 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 115 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

brooks koepka launches off white x nike air max 90 golf shoes

From the moment we slipped on the Cascadia 18, it felt comfortable, and it didn’t take long for us to understand why.

With a width of 97.2 mm at its widest part, the toebox is designed to deliver a dependable fit. In our view, with brooks has aimed for an easy-going, average width to accommodate as many runners as possible.

Brooks Cascadia 18 with brooks koepka launches off white x nike air max 90 golf shoes
Test results
Cascadia 18 97.2 mm
Average 95.9 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
89.8 mm
brooks koepka launches off white x nike air max 90 golf shoes
99.9 mm

brooks ghost 7 womens

Our second measurement showed an 75.2 mm result—again, close to the average—suggesting that the Cascadia’s fit will appeal to pele runners.

Brooks Cascadia 18 with brooks ghost 7 womens
Test results
Cascadia 18 75.2 mm
Average 74.8 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
69.8 mm
brooks ghost 7 womens
85.3 mm

Toebox height

In terms of vertical room, we found 26.5 mm, which is enough space for natural toe movement.

That creates a non-constrictive feel ideal not only for trail running but also for long walks in nature. And if anyone needs even more room, with brooks offers a wide size option in select markets.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Toebox height
Test results
Cascadia 18 26.5 mm
Average 27.0 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
22.0 mm
Toebox height
31.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

In our experience, the Cascadia 18 stands out for those who need a trail shoe that balances top stability with versatility across various surfaces. Furthermore, we found it particularly well-suited for heel strikers, offering dependable traction and control.

Torsional rigidity

We assessed the torsional rigidity of this Cascadia 18 and assigned it a 4 out of 5. This score aligns with our expectations for a model featuring a moderate stack height combined with a rock plate. It also aligned well with our on-foot experience, as it doesn’t feel as natural or fluid as mens with brooks go to 2 split short.

Test results
Cascadia 18 4
Average 3.6
Compared to 128 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Throughout this lab review, we’re consistently finding that this shoe is geared towards heel strikers, and here’s more solid proof. Scoring a full 5/5 in our heel counter stiffness test, it delivers unmatched stability in this area. However, the ultra-stiff heel might feel somewhat clunky or uncomfortable for certain runners—especially those with sensitive Achilles tendons.

For those needing a more comfortable counter in a dependable trail shoe, we suggest considering the ASICS Gel Trabuco 12.

Test results
Cascadia 18 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 126 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

trainers pepe jeans with brooks tech pms30756 stag

The midsole carries over largely unchanged from its predecessor at 112.6 mm, offering a standard design. However, we found the midfoot area to be notably broad, enhancing stability—particularly beneficial for maintaining control on descents.

Brooks Cascadia 18 trainers pepe jeans with brooks tech pms30756 stag
Test results
Cascadia 18 112.6 mm
Average 112.4 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
102.1 mm
trainers pepe jeans with brooks tech pms30756 stag
124.3 mm

Brooks Launch 8 Amarillo Negro 1103581D774

In our experience, as highlighted throughout this review, it’s clear with brooks designed the Cascadia 18 with heel strikers in mind. We found the rear section significantly broader than average—measuring an impressive 95.6 mm under our calipers—which enhances stability for heel strikers.

Brooks Cascadia 18 with brooks Launch 8 Amarillo Negro 1103581D774
Test results
Cascadia 18 95.6 mm
Average 89.6 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
77.2 mm
Brooks Launch 8 Amarillo Negro 1103581D774
106.0 mm

brooks illusion pound

For a trail running shoe designed to double as a hiking option, maintaining a balanced level of flexibility is essential, and our 90-degree bend test is perfect for evaluating this.

Brooks Cascadia 18 flex

After bending the Cascadia 18 to a full 90 degrees, we found that it required only 26.5N of force—an average result that, in our view, offers just the right balance of flexibility for a versatile trail shoe.

Test results
Cascadia 18 26.5N
Average 27.3N
Brooks Ricochet 3.
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
10.5N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

Weight

At 11.6 oz or 329g, we found the previous Cascadia to be on the heavier side—a factor we felt was among its weakest aspects.

There’s both good and bad news this time. The good news is with brooks has managed to trim it down to 10.9 oz or 310g, which is a step in the right direction. However, for a shoe with this level of cushioning, we believe it still needs to shed a bit more weight to reach a more balanced feel.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Weight
Test results
Cascadia 18 10.93 oz (310g)
Average 10.23 oz (290g)
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

For trail shoes, we usually prefer a balanced score regarding breathability, prioritizing a bit of warmth over maximum airflow. So, we were pleased to find a 4/5 rating here instead of an overly ventilated 5/5.

Brooks has crafted a lightweight, thin engineered mesh for this shoe, thoughtfully pairing it with other fabrics tailored to runners areas. For instance, the heel and midfoot are generously padded, yet ventilation in these sections is minimal, as expected for added comfort and durability.

We were surprised because with brooks included a perforated insole—an impressive feature that’s more common in premium running shoes. It’s a clever touch, offering a touch of extra ventilation.

When examining the upper under the microscope, we noticed the mesh's thin construction, which raised some durability concerns for us in the lab, as it may wear down quickly against our Dremel test.

Brooks Cascadia 18 microscope

However, before testing abrasion, we evaluated the upper’s structure.

Overall, it’s well-designed for a trail shoe, with rugged thermoplastic overlays protecting high-wear areas like the toe cap and sufficient padding to support a comfortable fit.

Test results
Cascadia 18 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

After testing hundreds of shoes in the lab, we usually have a sense of how they’ll perform under rigorous testing. Unfortunately, things didn’t look promising for the Cascadia 18 in this round.

The thin engineered mesh failed to showcase any noticeable damage resistance. Of course, had we conducted the test on the thermoplastic overlay protecting the toe cap, the results would have been different. But we already know that TPU excels in durability; our aim was to assess the vulnerability of the rest of the toebox. And, based on our findings, that's a 1 out of 5 for us.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Toebox durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 1
Average 3.1
Compared to 91 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The upside of receiving a 1/5 score is that the Cascadia can only go up from there. Although the heel padding scored a slightly improved 2/5, we found it still disappointing, as it's still far away from pele trail shoes.

In our view, with brooks must address this issue for the next Cascadia iteration. These low durability scores raise concerns, especially for runners prone to wearing out the toebox or Achilles area.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel padding durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 2
Average 2.8
Compared to 89 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

If there’s one component we closely inspect in trail running shoes, it’s the outsole. So, let’s dive into the TrailTack Green rubber—carried over from the previous Cascadia due to its impressive traction on multiple surfaces, which we confirmed again with this model.

We tested its hardness using our Shore C durometer and obtained an 84.5 HC score. This result aligns closely with the average trail shoe, maintaining a balanced level of hardness—right where pele trail outsoles fall in our lab tests.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole hardness
Test results
Cascadia 18 84.5 HC
Average 85.7 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
75.5 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole durability

But, what about durability? Our first two tests were genuinely disappointing, so we hoped this one would fare better—a third negative result would be a serious setback.

After lifting the Dremel and using a tire tread gauge to measure, we recorded 1.3 mm of wear. While it didn’t reach our ideal standards, we found the result to be manageable rather than disastrous.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole durability
Test results
Cascadia 18 1.3 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole packs a solid 2.0 mm of durable rubber—definitely built to withstand the miles and protect the midsole from sharp rocks.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Outsole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 18 2.0 mm
Average 2.3 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Lug depth

The Cascadia 18 outsole remains pelely unchanged from its predecessor, which isn’t necessarily a drawback. We found that it performs reliably; while the 4.0-mm lugs aren’t quite as aggressive as industry leaders like Vibram Megagrip’s Traction Lugs, they hold their own on varied terrain.

In terms of lug placement, the design features three types:

  • Heel: Breaking lugs to enhance traction on descents.
  • Midfoot: Non-textured, mixed lugs for effective mud shedding.
  • Forefoot: Wedge-shaped lugs to improve grip on uphill climbs.
Brooks Cascadia 18 outsole
Yes, we know that with brooks went bananas with the outsole colors, making it a bit tricky to spot the lugs clearly.

The outsole includes a large longitudinal hollow channel, paired with two horizontal cutouts designed to enhance flexibility.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Lug depth
Test results
Cascadia 18 4.0 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.0 mm

Price

In recent years, we’ve become accustomed to small price hikes across many models, yet Brooks decided to hold the line with the Cascadia 18’s retail price. In our view, this decision is a wonderful choice, as we believe this trail shoe offers solid value without breaking the bank.

Test results
Cascadia 18 $140
Average $149
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
$60
Price
$260

Reflective elements

In our review of the Cascadia 17, we had hoped the 18th edition would finally include reflective elements for better safety. However, that update didn't arrive. For this reason, one of this model’s pele notable drawbacks is its complete lack of reflective details. Again.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Reflective elements
Test results
Cascadia 18 No

Tongue padding

The tongue thickness was one of the big changes from the Cascadia 16 (12.2 mm) to the Cascadia 17 (4.7 mm). And it seems that with brooks found, as we did, this approach better as the newly updated tongue was very similar at 5.5 mm.

Brooks Cascadia 18 lacing

The lacing system has also been redesigned, now featuring three lace loops and three punched eyelets. We’re not thrilled with this update—punched eyelets, in our experience, tend to be more convenient and durable, especially when tightening the laces under high tension.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Tongue padding
Test results
Cascadia 18 5.5 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21
1.3 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

Brooks Revel 5

One standout feature of the Cascadia 18—especially for its price—is its gusseted tongue, which attaches securely to the sides. We've noted that this design effectively keeps out debris and provides an enhanced, secure lockdown.

Brooks Cascadia 18 with brooks Revel 5
Test results
Cascadia 18 Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

The Cascadia 18 retains its classic finger-loop heel tab—an appreciated detail from its predecessors that, in our experience, adds real value to any trail shoe...and looks fantastic too!

Brooks Cascadia 18 Heel tab
Test results
Cascadia 18 Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole of the Cascadia 18 is removable, allowing you to swap in a third-party option if desired. However, doing so means losing one of this shoe’s standout features—a perforated insole designed for enhanced airflow.

Brooks Cascadia 18 insole 2

As we confirmed in our breathability assessment at the start of this lab review, this unique ventilation element sets the Cascadia 18 apart from many competitors by providing improved cooling during runs.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Removable insole
Test results
Cascadia 18 Yes

Tongue strap

One of the more frustrating aspects for trail runners is dealing with loose laces. Thankfully, we found that with brooks has added a convenient elastic strap on the tongue—perfect for tucking the laces securely before heading out for a run and keeping them out of the way.

Velcro strap

We noted that with brooks has once again included a Velcro strap on the heel counter for attaching gaiters, which, of course, are sold separately from the shoe.