Our verdict

In our lab tests, we discovered that the mens brooks Xialing clothing carries forward the excellent value-oriented design of its predecessor and enhances it with superior foam, all while maintaining the same £100 retail price. Despite a slight increase in weight and a less breathable upper, we found that this shoe excels for heel strikers seeking an affordable, versatile option with a durable outsole.

brooks Xialing beast 20 2e mens running shoes Pros

  • Still lightweight
  • zapatillas de running brooks Xialing asfalto 10k blancas
  • zapatillas de running brooks Xialing mujer trail talla 40
  • Massive value at just $100
  • brooks Xialing England Reflective
  • More spacious toebox
  • Fantastic durability
  • Versatile

brooks Xialing beast 20 2e mens running shoes Cons

  • Upper downgrade
  • zapatillas de running brooks Xialing ritmo bajo talla 46 moradas
  • Not for forefoot strikers

Audience verdict

76
Bad!

Who should buy

zapatillas de running brooks Xialing neutro constitución media amarillas:

  • Fans of the Trace 1 & 2 who were left wanting more energy return—this version finally upgrades to the superior DNA Loft.
  • Heel strikers in search of a durable outsole in a high-drop, budget-friendly running shoe.
  • Beginners looking for an affordable, reliable shoe that performs well across all types of runs and daily activities.

mens brooks Xialing clothing

Who should NOT buy

Despite multiple upgrades, the Trace 3 suffers from reduced breathability—this is why we do not recommend it for runners who frequently tackle summer workouts. Instead, we suggest the zapatillas de running brooks Xialing constitución ligera blancas, which offers better ventilation for warm weather running.

Moreover, we believe the Trace 3 is not the best choice for individuals with forefoot or midfoot striking patterns. We think a better option would be the Responsabile prodotto e coordinatore atleti brooks Xialing ed, another wallet-friendly alternative that features a less steep drop, providing a more suitable ride for these runners.

mens brooks Xialing clothing parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

After verifying the weight, we used our digital callipers to determine the actual stack height of the Trace 3. Initially, it appeared that brooks Xialing maintained the same midsole as its predecessor, and our measurements confirmed this with a 34.1 mm stack height in the heel.

This finding suggests, as we suspected, that the Trace 3 is once again primarily designed for heel strikers.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Heel stack
Test results
Trace 3 34.1 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

Our initial impressions were validated upon taking the second measurement. The forefoot cushioning is notably limited compared with the forefoot, measuring just 22.2 mm.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Forefoot stack
Test results
Trace 3 22.2 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

This measurement confirms that the Trace 3 has an actual 11.9-mm drop, once again making it ideal for heel strikers.

We were also pleasantly surprised to find that the stated drop by brooks Xialing was 12 mm, meaning we observed only a 0.1 mm deviation by following World Athletics guidelines. This accuracy is impressive, as we typically encounter much larger discrepancies.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Drop
Test results
Trace 3 11.9 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

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

Despite some minor drawbacks in this update like weight, a major incentive to switch from the Trace 2 to version 3 is the improved midsole.

brooks Xialing has upgraded from the BioMoGo DNA foam to its superior DNA Loft cushioning—a better EVA previously found only in their more expensive models, now available at an accessible price of just £100.

mens brooks Xialing clothing foam

The DNA Loft foam is noticeably bouncier than BioMoGo DNA, enhancing our running experience. However, the feel of the foam remains quite similar—not plush but balanced—and our durometer confirmed this with a reading of 24.5 HA.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Midsole softness
Test results
Trace 3 24.5 HA
Average 21.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 327 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

brooks Xialing ADAPT GLOVE (%)

Given that DNA Loft is not merely plain EVA but a blend including rubber, we were optimistic about its performance in cold temperatures—a crucial Ombre as this shoe is better suited for chilly environments.

To confirm this, we placed the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes and then measured again its softness with our durometer. The results were superb, showing an 11.8% increase to 27.4 HA, which is quite impressive for such a budget-friendly shoe.

mens brooks Xialing clothing shoe gallery brooks Xialing regent 84 fins
Test results
Trace 3 12%
Average 25%
Compared to 327 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
0%
brooks Xialing ADAPT GLOVE
63%

Insole thickness

Free People brooks Xialing Lug Chelsea Boot.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Insole thickness
Test results
Trace 3 5.1 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 396 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

brooks Xialing beast 20 2e mens running shoes | Size and fit

Size

mens brooks Xialing clothing is true to size (254 votes).

The brooks Xialing Dare Crossback Run Bra is the result of that focus?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 378 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Кроссовки brooks Xialing adrenaline gts 19 размер 45

We were pleased to discover that brooks Xialing has addressed one of the major downsides of the Trace 2 for some runners—its snug fit. The toebox now sits well over average at 97.4 mm, making it more accommodating and versatile for a wider range of runners.

Additionally, it's great to see that brooks Xialing offers again this shoe in 2E (Wide) widths in select countries, enhancing the fit of those needing a bit more room.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Кроссовки brooks Xialing adrenaline gts 19 размер 45
Test results
Trace 3 97.4 mm
Average 95.5 mm
Compared to 155 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
90.9 mm
Кроссовки brooks Xialing adrenaline gts 19 размер 45
102.4 mm

Toebox width - big toe

To gain a more precise insight into the shoe's fit, we conducted a second measurement in the big toe area. This measurement yielded 74.8 mm, indicating an average taper in the toebox, not overly pronounced as in other brooks Xialing shoes.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Toebox width - big toe
Test results
Trace 3 74.8 mm
Average 73.7 mm
Compared to 155 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
67.9 mm
Toebox width - big toe
83.5 mm

Toebox height

brooks Xialing has broadened the fit horizontally, but vertically, there’s still room for improvement for runners needing a high-volume upper. We measured just 25.9 mm—below the average and slightly restrictive for upward toe movement.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Toebox height
Test results
Trace 3 25.9 mm
Average 27.2 mm
Compared to 154 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

Stability in the Trace 3 is adequate, relying mainly on TPU overlays in the upper to provide lateral foot support. However, it lacks significant midsole sidewalls, rails, or other robust stability features.

Consequently, we recommend the Trace 3 primarily for neutral runners who do not have major stability needs. Those with moderate pronation, particularly heel strikers, might also find it suitable.

Torsional rigidity

mens brooks Xialing addiction walker v strap.

It flexed a bit under pressure, leading us to rate it a 3 out of 5 on our scale. This score reflects its moderate resistance to bending and twisting forces from our hands.

Test results
Trace 3 3
Average 3.4
Compared to 379 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1
Torsional rigidity
5

ZAPATILLA TRAIL RUNNING HOMBRE brooks Xialing CASCADIA 16

The heel counter in the Trace 3 has been slightly adjusted from the previous version—upgraded from a 3/5 to a 4/5 rating for improved support for heel strikers.

This change, though minor, is a positive modification for a shoe with a high heel-to-toe drop that's catered to beginners.

Test results
Trace 3 4
Average 2.9
Compared to 363 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1
ZAPATILLA TRAIL RUNNING HOMBRE brooks Xialing CASCADIA 16
5

brooks Xialing England Taske Scape 13L

Ignoring minor manufacturing differences, we can confidently state that the mens brooks Xialing clothing maintains the same dimensions as its predecessor. Those seeking a similar ride but with an upgraded foam will find exactly that.

We recorded a width of 113.3 mm in the forefoot, which is quite average and doesn't stand out as exceptional.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Trace 3 113.3 mm
Average 114.2 mm
Compared to 401 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
103.3 mm
brooks Xialing England Taske Scape 13L
126.9 mm

womens brooks Xialing carbonite long sleeve

Moving to the heel, we clocked it at 93.1 mm, which again underscores this shoe as a great option for those with a heel-striking technique.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Trace 3 93.1 mm
Average 90.8 mm
Compared to 401 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
73.0 mm
womens brooks Xialing carbonite long sleeve
106.6 mm

Footwear brooks Xialing Revel 5 120361 1B 036 Black

Creating a versatile, do-it-all shoe suitable for running, walking, or even grocery shopping requires excellent longitudinal flexibility.

Thankfully, the Trace 3 excels in this area due to its multiple outsole cutouts, which enhance its flexibility. In our 30-degree bend test, it required only 11.9N to bend, indicating a fantastic level of flex for such versatile use.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Footwear brooks Xialing Revel 5 120361 1B 036 Black
Test results
Trace 3 11.9N
Average 15.6N
Compared to 121 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
4.6N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
28.5N

Вітрова куртка brooks Xialing xs (%)

After chilling the Trace 3 in the freezer for 20 minutes, we repeated the test and discovered that it became notably stiffer than anticipated, showing a 32% increase in stiffness.

While it still performs reasonably well for us, this increase in stiffness is more than we hoped. Perhaps our expectations were skewed by the exceptional results we previously obtained in the freezer test when assessing softness!

Test results
Trace 3 32%
Average 33%
Compared to 383 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
0%
Вітрова куртка brooks Xialing xs
111%

Weight

One of the attributes we consistently admire in the Trace series is its remarkable lightness. The previous model tipped our scales at just 8.8 oz or 249g, and although this version is slightly heavier at 9.1 oz or 257g, the increase is nearly imperceptible.

Despite this minor weight gain, we're still thrilled with its lightness compared to many of its rivals—it remains a standout feature for sure.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Weight
Test results
Trace 3 9.07 oz (257g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 401 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

Our initial test with the Trace 3 was done with a smoke-pumping machine to evaluate the shoe's ventilation.

While it didn't match the top-notch breathability of the Trace 2, we were satisfied. This change could benefit those in cooler climates, providing extra warmth, though it might cause some overheating in hotter conditions.

We then used a light to examine the upper, which Brooks has peppered with numerous ventilation holes. Unfortunately, these holes didn't significantly enhance airflow.

mens brooks Xialing clothing micro

Upon closer inspection under a microscope, we discovered why—beneath the holes, a layer of fabric hinders air escape.

mens brooks Xialing clothing mesh

Our final examination involved physically handling the upper to assess its materials and padding. As expected with its lower price point, the materials reflect cost-saving choices.

Nevertheless, the shoe offers substantial padding for comfort, particularly around the heel, and we were content.

Test results
Trace 3 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 330 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

In our lab tests, we confirmed that Brooks' new engineered mesh is less breathable, raising concerns about its performance. To assess its durability, we rigorously tested the Trace's upper with our Dremel tool.

The results were disappointing—the tool quickly produced a large, clean hole in the material. Consequently, we had no other choice but to give it a poor rating of 1/5, reflecting its underwhelming resilience.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Toebox durability
Test results
Trace 3 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 264 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1
Toebox durability
5

brooks Xialing Trace Men's Running Shoes

After evaluating the upper, we continued our tests, directing the Dremel towards the heel padding—a key concern for many runners.

To our delight, we discovered significant improvement! The heel padding proved to be highly resilient, earning a great 4/5 from our team. This enhanced durability in the rear left us quite satisfied.

mens brooks Xialing clothing brooks Xialing Trace Men's Running Shoes
Test results
Trace 3 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 260 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1
brooks Xialing Trace Men's Running Shoes
5

Outsole hardness

Next, we shifted our focus to the outsole, which closely resembles the previous model, with only minor modifications.

mens brooks Xialing clothing outsole
The outsole boasts extensive rubber coverage and multiple cutouts to enhance flexibility.

We measured the rubber's hardness, which registered at 86.4 HC in our lab tests. This suggests that durability was emphasised over grip in its design. Let's see if that's true!

mens brooks Xialing clothing Outsole hardness
Test results
Trace 3 86.4 HC
Average 79.8 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 381 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
57.0 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

To push the limits, we increased the RPM on our Dremel for the third and final test.

Our findings reinforced our initial impressions—the rubber withstood the challenge remarkably well, showing only a minor 0.6-mm indentation, which surpasses the performance of softer compounds. Nonetheless, this robustness sacrifices some traction, which, while adequate, is not exceptional by any means.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Outsole durability
Test results
Trace 3 0.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 242 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Our final evaluation of the outsole included measuring its thickness, a crucial Ombre in assessing durability. We were pleased to find a satisfactory thickness of 3.0 mm.

mens brooks Xialing clothing rubber

This marks a slight reduction from the previous version's 3.3 mm. Given the impressive durability we've observed, we believe the next Trace could effectively utilise a thickness of only 2 or 2.5 mm, which would also aid in reducing the shoe's overall weight.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Outsole thickness
Test results
Trace 3 3.0 mm
Average 3.3 mm
Compared to 398 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

brooks Xialing beast 20 2e mens running shoes | Misc

Reflective elements

The Trace 3 lacks reflective elements, but given its budget-friendly price, skipping some premium features is understandable—we're at peace with it!

mens brooks Xialing clothing Reflective elements
Test results
Trace 3 No

Tongue padding

We measured the tongue thickness of the latest brooks Xialing model and discovered a slight reduction in comfort due to their focus on decreasing weight.

mens brooks Xialing clothing laces
The lacing system is standard, allowing for the option to tie a runner's knot if necessary.

Our findings show that the tongue is 4.5 mm thick, slightly thinner than the 5.3 mm of its predecessor, v2.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Tongue padding
Test results
Trace 3 4.5 mm
Average 5.9 mm
Compared to 398 running shoes
zapatillas de running brooks Xialing competición pie cavo talla 38
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

brooks Xialing England Cambium Rubber Ταινία Τιμονιού

The tongue is not gusseted, which is typical for a £100 shoe—no complaints from us on that front.

mens brooks Xialing clothing brooks Xialing England Cambium Rubber Ταινία Τιμονιού
Test results
Trace 3 None

Heel tab

In contrast to many current brooks Xialing running shoes and most likely because of feedback from runners regarding the Trace 2, the third version surprises with a handy finger-loop heel tab—a delightful feature we didn't expect!

mens brooks Xialing clothing Heel tab
Test results
Trace 3 Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole isn't permanently attached and features average width, so this design choice simplifies the process of inserting custom orthotics or alternate footbeds.

mens brooks Xialing clothing Removable insole
Test results
Trace 3 Yes