Our verdict

The Cascadia 17 from brooks media isn't just a product of chance with its seventeen editions. We confirmed that this trail saga remains a versatile marvel with upgrades like enhanced cushioning, top-notch breathability, and the innovative Trail Adapt system for unrivalled terrain adaptability. Even though this shoe feels a bit weighty and its foam feels slightly firm, we cannot overlook its magnificence.

Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers Pros

  • Adaptable across various paces
  • World-class breathability
  • Comfortable for long runs
  • Superior grip thanks to TrailTack Green
  • the brooks media Cascadia
  • Excellent stability
  • Rock plate protects the foot
  • Manages technical descents with ease
  • Ideally designed for heel strikers

Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers Cons

  • zapatillas de running brooks media trail pie normal talla 47.5 grises
  • Midsole may feel overly firm for certain users

Audience verdict

87
Great!

Who should buy

The latest version of this trail workhorse from brooks media is ideal for:

  • Those looking for a versatile shoe that can tackle all types of trails.
  • Heel strikers seeking a protective and stable trail option.
  • Runners who prioritise maximum breathability, a feature that's hard to come by in trail shoes.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample

Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers | Who should NOT buy

For those of you seeking feather-light trail shoes, the Cascadia 17 might not be the go-to pick. Its predecessor already tipped the scales, and this year's model packs extra weight. We recommend the cushioned Hoka Speedgoat 5 for a lighter alternative.

Another runner profile less likely to favour this brooks media model includes those after a cloud-like underfoot feel. The DNA Loft v2 foam borders on firmness and lacks that cloud sensation. If you're part of this group, we vouch for the ultra-plush Nike Wildhorse 8 as a better choice.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample hands

Finally, if you're looking for a hybrid trail/road experience, this option isn't the top pick in the market. Consider the zapatillas de running brooks media hombre entrenamiento minimalistas brooks media Womens Glycerin GTS 19.

Cushioning

Heel stack

brooks media has wisely chosen to provide ample foam, ensuring the comfort of all heel strikers, even those on the heavier side.

Our calliper showed a thickness of 33.1 mm.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Heel stack
Test results
Cascadia 17 33.1 mm
Average 32.0 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

zapatillas de running brooks media entrenamiento trail neutro talla 40 amarillas más de 100.

However, heavier forefoot strikers might lean towards shoes with some additional millimetres, like the brooks media Womens Launch 8 Medical Running Shoes.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Forefoot stack
Test results
Cascadia 17 23.9 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

Reaffirming its suitability for heel strikers, the Cascadia 17 offers a 9.2-mm heel-to-toe drop. This is slightly more than the 8 mm the American brand claims.

To understand the reason behind this discrepancy, we recommend reading our related guide.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Drop
Test results
Cascadia 17 9.2 mm
Average 7.5 mm
Compared to 131 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-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.

In the midsole, we found Brooks' trusted DNA Loft v2 foam, which is also featured in their popular road shoes, such as the Adrenaline GTS 23.

This foam offers a the same nice bounce but is modified to be firmer (25.5 HA) than its road counterpart. It's a strategic decision for trail running where stability is crucial, even if it means giving up a bit of softness.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Trail Adapt

Additionally, the shoe incorporates a rock plate in the forefoot area, adding protection against rough terrains, as well as the Trail Adapt system sandwiched between two layers of foam.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Midsole softness
Test results
Cascadia 17 25.5 HA
Average 22.7 HA
Pink Dolphin x brooks media Heritage Great Wave.
Compared to 108 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers (%)

zapatillas de running brooks media hombre trail apoyo talón talla 39—especially when it comes to EVA-based ones like the DNA Loft v2 foam from Brooks. Hence this foam is likely to firm up in colder weather.

To test this, we placed the shoe in our freezer for 20 minutes and then measured its hardness. Sure enough, we found a reading of 33.8 HA, confirming that it does get firmer in cold conditions.

Seeing a 32.4% increase might be acceptable for an EVA-based foam, but it's disappointing for a shoe that isn't exactly super-easy on the wallet.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers
Test results
Cascadia 17 32%
Average 26%
Compared to 108 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5%
Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers
68%

Insole thickness

There's not much to highlight about the insole—it does its job well and feels comfortable. Our measurements show it at 4.8 mm, which is right around the amortiguaci.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Insole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 17 4.8 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 131 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Heres a closer look at Jennifer Garners beloved brooks media sneakers | Size and fit

Size

brooks media ghost 12 herren true to size (112 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size deal 1 size deal
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly deal
½ size deal

zapatillas de running brooks media competición ritmo medio talla 36

The toebox of the Cascadia 17 measures 99.5 mm at its widest point. This generous size ensures that those with wider feet can comfortably fit inside the shoe.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample From Mel Brooks
Test results
Cascadia 17 99.5 mm
Average 98.9 mm
Compared to 122 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
zapatillas de running brooks media competición ritmo medio talla 36
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

We found an impressive 80.3 mm in the toe cap area, which is remarkably more than the typical shoe. 

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample la zapatilla rápida para todos los públicos de Brooks
Test results
Cascadia 17 80.3 mm
Average 79.3 mm
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width - big toe
90.1 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

One of the standout benefits of embracing a firmer foam is the remarkable enhancement in stability.

The Cascadia 17 guarantees a consistently stable ride on every type of terrain.

Torsional rigidity

A significant contributor to the Cascadia's stability is its inherent stiffness. In our torsional rigidity test, we awarded it a 4/5—nearly the max score.

Test results
Cascadia 17 4
Average 3.6
Compared to 126 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

For the heel counter, the Cascadia 17 scored a 5/5. Rigid-heel enthusiasts or those with stability issues will surely appreciate this design. However, those seeking a more heel-flexible design dislike this feature.

Test results
Cascadia 17 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 124 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

A crucial aspect of crafting a stable shoe is its wide design, and the Cascadia ticks this box.

Measuring at 113.3 mm, none of us—even forefoot strikers—have any worries about shaky landings.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Cascadia 17 113.3 mm
Average 112.4 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
124.3 mm

Midsole width - heel

With an impressive 97.7 mm width, the Cascadia 17 distinguishes itself from the common trail shoe crowd, confirming our perspective that heel strikers will find it amazing. It's wiiiide!

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Cascadia 17 97.7 mm
Average 89.7 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.0 mm

zapatillas de running brooks media mujer pie arco bajo maratón

A common note from runners regarding the previous Cascadia was its excessive stiffness.

Shoe Stiffness test (N) Difference
Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample 26.0 -
brooks media was more than ready to reap the rewards of a nationwide 51.5 98%

Yes, we wrote that right. The Cascadia 16 was 98% stiffer than this new version, even though it already felt moderately stiff. This change is a step in the right direction. The shoe is designed for long-distance runs and even ultras, emphasising comfort.

Before, it was just too rigid to excel in this area. Now, it achieves a much better balance as proved by our 90-degree bend test.

Test results
Cascadia 17 26.0N
Average 27.2N
We use an amortiguaci of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

brooks media Defyance 11 Παπούτσια Για Τρέξιμο (%)

We tested the shoe in the freezer again to see how it responds to cold temperatures.

It does become stiffer, but not dramatically so. In fact, with a measurement of 37.9N, it remains comfortably below the amortiguaci.

The variation between the two readings is 46.1%. This significant change makes it clear that you'll notice the difference for sure.

Test results
Cascadia 17 46%
Average 33%
Compared to 129 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
3%
brooks media Defyance 11 Παπούτσια Για Τρέξιμο
90%

Weight

Weighing in at 11.6 oz (329g), the Cascadia 17 is slightly heavier than the Cascadia 16. It's a small increase—just 0.6 oz (19g) more than its predecessor—so we don't think it will make a significant difference in the trails.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Weight
Test results
Cascadia 17 11.61 oz (329g)
Average 10.26 oz (291g)
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

Many trail running shoes typically offer just adequate breathability, so in our lab, our expectations are generally reserved with these. Yet, the 17th edition of the Cascadia pleasantly surprised us. After our assessments, we gave it the max score: 5 out of 5.

A good portion of the shoe's breathability originates from its toe box. The rest of the shoe maintains a more protective stance, which is often necessary for trail shoes to ensure additional structure, especially on the medial side and the heel.

To better understand this shoe's airflow capabilities, we took a closer look under our microscope.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample microscope

What we observed was interesting. The Cascadia manages its effective breathability through a well-designed mesh, filled with numerous small ventilation holes, negating the need for dealr ones.

Additionally, brooks media has crafted this mesh to be not just breathable but also durable, incorporating internal layers for both protection and comfort. And more than 50% of the upper is made with recycled materials, which is a plus.

Test results
Cascadia 17 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 109 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Often, impressive breathability comes at the cost of durability, and that seems to be the situation with the Cascadia.

When we tested the upper with the Dremel, it didn't hold up for long and we gave it a 2/5. However, there is a protective layer in the most vulnerable parts of the toe box. So, we believe the likelihood of them tearing prematurely is minimal.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Toebox durability
Test results
Cascadia 17 2
Average 3.1
Compared to 89 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

brooks media Ghost 13 Extra Wide Running Shoes

The heel also disappoints with a low 1-out-of-5 rating.

If you're a runner who experience wear in the Achilles area of trail shoes, you might face problems with this model sooner than you'd like. It performed notably worse than the Salomon Ultra Glide in the right.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample brooks media Ghost 13 Extra Wide Running Shoes
Test results
Cascadia 17 1
Average 2.8
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
brooks media Ghost 13 Extra Wide Running Shoes
5

Outsole hardness

We recorded the hardness of Brooks' TrailTack Green rubber at 81.8 HC.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample trailtack

This reveals the brand's focus on enhancing the shoe's grip. However, could this affect its long-term durability?

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Outsole hardness
Test results
Cascadia 17 81.8 HC
Average 85.7 HC
Pink Dolphin x brooks media Heritage Great Wave.
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
75.5 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole durability

Although it's not the toughest rubber we've seen, it held up impressively in our Dremel test.

We managed to make only a slight indentation of 0.8 mm.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Outsole durability
Test results
Cascadia 17 0.8 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 82 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole boasts a generous amount of rubber that seems built to last. We'll discuss the lugs shortly, but for the base layer alone, we found it to be 2.0 mm thick. With the addition of the lugs, that's plenty durable!

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Outsole thickness
Test results
Cascadia 17 2.0 mm
Average 2.3 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Lug depth

We measured the lug depth of the Cascadia 17 at 3.9mm. This depth strikes a good balance, making the shoe apt for both simple and technical terrains. They're 0.4mm less deep than the previous version, and we feel it's the right direction for such a shoe.

It's also worth mentioning that brooks media incorporates three distinct lug designs in the Cascadia 17:

  • waterproof brooks media shoes.
  • zapatillas de running brooks media launch minimalistas 10k.
  • The forefoot boasts wedge-like lugs, enhancing agility during turns.
Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Lug depth
Test results
Cascadia 17 3.9 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Reflective elements

While a vast majority of trail runners don't venture out into the mountains after dark, a minority relish the thrill of lighting up their path with a headlamp and hitting the trails. This group would certainly have welcomed such a feature for those night runs. Maybe we'll get it in the Cascadia 18!

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Reflective elements
Test results
Cascadia 17 No

Tongue padding

A big change from the previous Cascadia is the tongue-padding. The Cascadia 16 had a super-thick 12.2-mm tongue, while this model showcases a much-slimmer 4.7-mm design—almost a third of the thickness!

But there's no need to worry. Even though 4.7 mm might appear on the slim side for longer workouts—and we'd have liked a 6 or 7-mm thickness—this change doesn't compromise comfort too much.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Tongue padding
Test results
Cascadia 17 4.7 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 132 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.3 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

Obtenha toda a leveza nos seus trajetos de bicicleta com este selim da brooks media England

When it comes to the tongue, the Cascadia 17 features a semi-gusseted design that ensures a snug yet comfortable fit.

While some trail runners might lean towards a fully gusseted tongue to maximise interior sealing, we believe this tongue is more gentle on the feet, especially for long-distance runs.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Obtenha toda a leveza nos seus trajetos de bicicleta com este selim da brooks media England
Test results
Cascadia 17 Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

On the heel, we find a original and rare pull tab. Instead of the typical finger-loop design, this one attaches to the shoe with velcro, letting us adjust it to our preference.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Heel tab
Test results
Cascadia 17 Pull tab

Removable insole

The insole in this shoe is conveniently removable, allowing you to effortlessly fit your own custom third-party orthotics.

Кроссовки беговые американской фирмі brooks media ricochet sample Removable insole
Test results
Cascadia 17 Yes