Brooks Men's Cascadia 16 Trail Running Shoe - Oyster Mushroom/Alloy/Orange - 8.5 Medium Review
The Brooks Men's Cascadia 16 Trail Running Shoe is designed for trail runners who seek both adventure and protection on diverse terrains. With a history rooted in high performance, this latest model serves as an upgrade to its predecessor, the Cascadia 15, providing enhanced adaptability and comfort.
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Features
- Adaptability: Release grooves in the midsole enhance flexibility over rough terrains.
- Cushioning: The new DNA LOFT v2 technology offers 10% softer and 20% lighter cushioning compared to earlier models.
- Traction: The TrailTack rubber outsole ensures reliable grip in wet and dry conditions.
- Water Management: Integrated drainage ports allow quick water escape while keeping sand and debris at bay.
Pros
- Excellent versatility across different terrains
- Superior cushioning for long-distance runs
- Durable construction with high-quality materials
- Good traction regardless of weather conditions
Cons
- A bit heavier than some other trail running shoes
- May require a break-in period for optimal comfort
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Brooks Cascadia 16 | Salomon Speedcross 5 | Hoka One One Torrent 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Technology | DNA LOFT v2 | EnergyCell | PROFLY |
| Weight | Medium | Lightweight | Lightweight |
| Traction Type | TrailTack Rubber | Contagrip | Sticky Rubber |
| Water Resistance | Drainage Ports | Waterproof | Water-resistant |
Detailed Review
The Brooks Men's Cascadia 16 delivers impressive performance for trail enthusiasts. When it comes to adaptability, the shoe's midsole features release grooves that allow natural flexing and provide stability on uneven surfaces. This makes them ideal for those rugged paths where footing can often be uncertain.
In terms of cushioning and comfort, the new DNA LOFT v2 technology stands out by offering a plush ride that is 10% softer and 20% lighter than previous iterations. Coupled with an additional 2mm of foam in the midsole, these shoes provide runners with an enviable level of all-day comfort.
The traction provided by the TrailTack rubber outsole is another highlight. Whether you're navigating through wet grass or rocky paths, these shoes ensure you remain grounded. Additionally, the drainage ports quickly expel excess water, making them suitable for wetter environments.
Overall, the Brooks Cascadia 16 is engineered to meet the demands of any trail runner looking for a balance between comfort, support, and durability.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning, great for long runs. |
| Traction | 8/10 | Reliable grip on various surfaces. |
| Durability | 8.5/10 | High-quality materials ensure longevity. |
| Adaptability | 9/10 | Flexes and protects on changing terrain. |
User Reviews
I walk roughly 11 miles outdoors for my job a day. Love these so much this is 2nd pair. Very comfortable with a good fit. They also do not get my feet wet from walking in the morning dew which I love. Durability is good as well lasting a year with the inner sole not wearing out like others. Traction is also very good while walking as the bottoms have stayed intact and not wore out . I have used many different sneakers and they usually wear out within a couple months so it is a pleasure to find a product that is both durable and comfortable with a good price. Definite buy
My feet are quite large (13.5, wide) and it's exceptionally difficult finding trail running shoes that are actually comfortable. I tried Lone Peaks, which are comfortable for everyday wear, but they offer basically no support, and while some see this as a good thing, they didn't work for me.Aside from Lone Peaks, I found very few shoes that actually fit comfortably in my size, but one of those few I found are these Cascadias. These are great! Super comfortable, I can run in them all day, plenty of grip, and they fit true to size. I wear Adrenalines for normal running and moving over to these for trails feels completely natural.Highly recommend, especially if you have large feet and are having a difficult time like I was!
These are the only casual trail shoes hubby will wear.The fit is perfect. Very comfortable. No rubbing or blisters at all.They're Brooks so theyll last forever.
As an avid trail runner, I've been a fan of the Brooks Cascadia line for many years. The Cascadia 16 is the latest iteration of this popular shoe. While the 16s are a solid overall trail running shoe, I felt they fell a bit short of previous versions I've loved.On the positive side, the new design includes welcome updates like a roomier toe box and modernized lacing system. Brooks' signature BioMoGo DNA midsole provides good cushioning and support on uneven terrain. The sticky rubber outsole grips well on most surfaces.My main complaints are with the upper mesh material and overall fit. The upper feels slightly cheaper and less breathable than prior models. For my feet, the fit runs half a size too small. Going up a half size improved the tightness but caused some heel slippage issues.The Cascadia 16 also seems less durable than its predecessor. After just 60 or so miles, I'm already seeing some concerning wear on the outsole lugs and upper fabric. It remains to be seen how they'll hold up in the long run.Overall, this newest iteration is a decent stability trail shoe for beginner or moderately active runners. But it lacks some of the premium features and dialed-in performance I've come to expect from the Cascadia line. I'd recommend trying on in store and seeking out older models on sale if you want a more well-rounded Cascadia.
I was forced to look for a new shoe for disc golf as the new balance I have been purchasing for two years was discontinued. Toe protection on the shoe for added durability is super important as I drag my toe on my follow throughs while throwing. After wearing them and putting 20-30 rounds on them there is very little wear and tear. Will probably buy them again if the current pair ever gets to beaten up by the course.
These shoes are very comfortable with thick soles to absorb the rocks and bumps as you run or hike. They also have strong grips and don't slip on sheer rocks. Great shoes!
I am a marathon runner. This is my brand for running. This is my fourth pair since runners have to change the shoes after the some hundred miles.Even after running 300-400 miles it still works fine. I use the retired pairs for regular usage. Very solid shoes . Fit is almost perfect for everyone . Everyone in my family has this shoe. Worthy investment.
I've had my feet professionally sized and am a 12 Wide (EE), so I ordered these Brooks in a 12 Wide (EE). Surprise, surprise, they're NOT wide enough and fit way too snugly on my feet to be comfortable. When will shoe manufacturers learn that regardless of how things work in whatever country they're in, in America when someone wears a wide shoe, it's because they actually do have a wide foot and need a wide shoe! Stop marketing a shoe as EE wide when it isn't EE wide! Why is this simple concept so difficult for so many companies to understand?I will say that other than the sizing issue, they seem to be a good quality shoe and are very attractive.