8 Best Brooks Running Shoes of 2026

The Brooks Glycerin 22 redefines plush performance with a masterclass in luxurious cushioning, seamless transitions, and adaptive comfort. This isn’t just another neutral runner—it’s a precision-engineered ride that balances indulgent softness with surprising responsiveness, thanks to the DNA Tuned midsole technology. By integrating larger foam cells in the heel for cloud-like landings and smaller, denser cells in the forefoot for energetic toe-offs, Brooks delivers a dynamic stride that feels both protective and propulsive. For runners who crave maximum comfort without sacrificing efficiency, this shoe eliminates the trade-off between pillowy cushion and performance.

In real-world testing, the Glycerin 22 excels on long runs, recovery jogs, and even gym sessions, where its broad platform provides remarkable stability underfoot. The double jacquard knit upper wraps the foot in breathable, flexible support—stretching where needed, holding firm where required—making it ideal for wider forefeet or those sensitive to pressure points. On roads and treadmills, transitions are buttery smooth, aided by the extended heel geometry and tuned midsole. However, it’s not built for technical trails or speedwork; the generous cushion leans more toward endurance and comfort than agility. While it’s one of the heavier models in the Brooks lineup, the weight feels justified underfoot during high-mileage days.

Compared to the Brooks Ghost 16, the Glycerin 22 offers a far plusher, more premium ride, positioning itself as the top-tier choice for runners prioritizing long-distance comfort. It outperforms the Adrenaline GTS 24 in cushioning depth, though the GTS wins in structured support for overpronators. The Glycerin 22 is best suited for neutral runners or mild overpronators seeking elite-level comfort on daily runs. It delivers best-in-class cushioning and superior fit refinement, justifying its place as the best overall option in the Brooks range—where cushion meets confidence with every mile.

The Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 22 enters the scene as a luxury cruiser built for runners who demand maximum cushioning without the bulk of a traditional maxi-stack shoe. What sets it apart is the DNA Tuned midsole, a smart fusion of large heel cells for plush landings and smaller forefoot cells that snap back with responsive energy return. This isn’t just soft—it’s intelligently soft, adapting to your stride with a balance that keeps long runs feeling effortless. Add in the flat knit upper, which blends stretch and compression like a second skin, and you’ve got a shoe that feels custom-built for fatigue-free miles.

On pavement and treadmills, the Stealthfit 22 shines brightest during recovery runs and long, slow distances where cushioning reigns supreme. The broad base enhances stability, minimizing lateral roll and giving confidence on uneven surfaces. The updated knit upper locks the foot down without pressure points, making it ideal for runners with wider metatarsals or those who dislike traditional overlays. However, it’s not a speed demon—the weight and deep compression make it less ideal for tempo efforts or races. While the outsole offers solid durability, it lacks aggressive traction, limiting its use off-road.

When stacked against the Brooks Ghost 16, the Stealthfit 22 offers a softer, more enveloping ride, though it sacrifices some breathability and agility. It’s a close cousin to the Glycerin 22, sharing the same DNA Tuned tech, but trades the double jacquard upper for a sleeker, more streamlined silhouette. This makes it a top pick for neutral runners who want plush comfort with a slightly more modern, performance-leaning aesthetic. It delivers premium cushioning and adaptive fit in a package that feels both protective and surprisingly agile for its class.

The Brooks Ghost 16 lands as the gold standard of balanced performance, delivering a smooth, reliable ride that’s perfect for daily training and beginner-to-intermediate runners. With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, it strikes a near-perfect equilibrium between softness and responsiveness, making every stride feel light, springy, and fatigue-deflecting. The 3D Fit Print upper enhances lockdown without stiffness, offering a secure, distraction-free fit that adapts to a variety of foot shapes. For runners who want a dependable, do-it-all shoe without flashy gimmicks, the Ghost 16 is a workhorse with soul.

In real-world use, the Ghost 16 thrives on roads, sidewalks, and treadmills, where its Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions across varied paces. The engineered air mesh upper breathes well in moderate conditions, though it can feel warm in sustained heat. At just under 10 oz, it’s lightweight enough for easy runs yet durable enough for 300+ miles. The RoadTack rubber outsole resists wear impressively, especially on asphalt, though it lacks grip on wet or loose surfaces. It’s not the softest or fastest shoe, but it’s consistently competent across all fronts.

Compared to the Anthem 7, the Ghost 16 offers superior cushioning, durability, and fit refinement, making it worth the modest price jump for serious beginners. Against the Glycerin 22, it trades some plushness for greater versatility and agility, positioning itself as the best budget-friendly daily trainer. It’s ideal for neutral runners seeking a no-nonsense, high-mileage workhorse that won’t break the bank. It delivers exceptional value by balancing performance, comfort, and longevity in one dependable package.

The Brooks Revel 8 emerges as a versatile powerhouse, seamlessly bridging the gap between performance running and casual lifestyle wear without compromising on either. Its DNA Loft v2 cushioning delivers adaptive comfort that molds to your stride, absorbing impact while maintaining a lively, responsive feel—perfect for everything from 5K training to post-run errands. The engineered mesh upper isn’t just stylish; it offers targeted support and breathability, keeping feet cool during intense workouts while looking sleek enough for everyday wear. For runners who want one shoe to do it all, the Revel 8 answers the call.

On the road, the Revel 8 handles moderate mileage with ease, offering reliable cushioning and a confident grip from its RoadTack outsole. It’s lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for tempo runs and cross-training, though it lacks the deep cushioning needed for marathon-long efforts. The midfoot structure holds well during lateral movements, adding to its gym-friendly appeal. However, long-distance runners may find it too firm over 10+ miles, and the cushion doesn’t rebound as dynamically as the Glycerin 22. It’s a shoe built for agility and adaptability, not maximum plush.

When compared to the Ghost 16, the Revel 8 feels snappier and more performance-oriented, though it sacrifices some underfoot softness. Against the Adrenaline GTS 25, it lacks structured support but wins in lightweight versatility. It’s best suited for neutral runners who value style-meets-function and want a shoe that transitions effortlessly from track to town. It offers better responsiveness and design flair than most daily trainers, making it the best versatile training option in the Brooks lineup.

The Brooks Ghost 16 Weatherized is the ultimate all-season commuter, engineered to conquer rain, slush, and early-morning dew with unshakable grip and weather-ready confidence. Built on the trusted Ghost platform, it adds a DWR-treated knit mesh upper that sheds water and resists saturation, keeping feet dry and temperature-regulated in damp conditions. The real game-changer is the enhanced wet/dry traction outsole, which delivers secure footing on slick roads and wet sidewalks—a rare feat in neutral trainers. For runners in rainy climates or those who log miles before sunrise, this shoe eliminates the seasonal shoe shuffle.

In real-world testing, the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning maintains its soft, springy feel even in cold weather, unlike some foams that harden in low temps. The reflective elements woven into the upper boost visibility during short-day runs, adding a critical safety layer. The Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth transitions, just like the standard Ghost 16, but with added confidence on slick surfaces. However, the weatherized upper sacrifices some breathability—expect warmth in mild conditions—and the shoe runs slightly heavier due to the reinforced materials. It’s not ideal for hot-weather training.

Compared to the standard Ghost 16, this version trades a bit of airflow for superior weather protection and traction, making it a smarter choice for year-round runners. Against the Revel 8, it offers better grip and moisture resistance but less style versatility. It’s perfect for neutral runners in wet climates who refuse to let weather dictate their routine. It delivers all-weather reliability with the same trusted ride, making it the best all-weather traction shoe Brooks currently offers.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 stands tall as the pinnacle of supportive stability, offering holistic motion control without the stiffness often associated with support shoes. At its core is the GuideRails holistic support system, which doesn’t force your foot into alignment but instead gently reins in excess movement, protecting knees and hips over long distances. Paired with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers a soft, balanced ride that feels both protective and lively—ideal for runners who overpronate but still crave a natural stride. For those seeking long-term joint protection without sacrificing comfort, this shoe is a revelation.

In testing, the Adrenaline GTS 25 excels on long runs, walking sessions, and upright gym work, where its structured yet flexible fit prevents fatigue. The engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar provide a secure, sock-like feel without pressure on the Achilles. The smooth transitions from heel to toe are aided by a refined outsole geometry, making it easy to maintain rhythm. However, it’s not the lightest option—neutral runners may find it overly restrictive, and speedsters might miss the snappiness of a pure performance shoe. It’s built for endurance and injury prevention, not race day.

Next to the Glycerin 22, the GTS 25 trades some plushness for targeted stability, making it a better choice for overpronators despite a similar price. Compared to the Ghost 16, it offers superior support but less agility. It’s ideal for runners needing structured guidance who don’t want to compromise on cushion or comfort. It delivers best-in-class support with a premium ride, standing as the best supportive running shoe in Brooks’ current lineup.

The Brooks Anthem 7 is a breath of fresh air for new runners, offering a streamlined, performance-inspired design at an accessible price point. It’s built for those stepping up from basic trainers, delivering lightweight DNA cushioning that reduces underfoot pressure and makes every step feel effortless and smooth. The Segmented Crash Pad ensures fluid heel-to-toe transitions, mimicking the ride of higher-end models without the cost. With a comfort-focused heel and updated air mesh upper, it’s designed for all-day wear—perfect for beginners logging their first consistent miles.

On the road, the Anthem 7 handles easy runs and gym sessions with surprising competence. It’s one of the lightest shoes in the Brooks lineup, tipping the scales at just over 9 oz, which enhances its nimble, responsive feel. The breathable upper keeps feet cool during moderate efforts, though it lacks the structure for high-mileage durability. While the cushioning is soft enough for short to mid-distance runs, it bottoms out on longer efforts, and the outsole shows wear faster than the Ghost 16. It’s not built for marathons or aggressive training—this is a gateway shoe, not a lifetime companion.

Against the Ghost 16, the Anthem 7 sacrifices cushion depth and longevity for lower weight and price, making it the best entry-level performance option. Compared to the Revel 8, it’s less versatile but more focused on pure running form. It’s perfect for new runners or casual joggers who want a taste of performance without overspending. It delivers solid fundamentals and approachable comfort, offering a smart first step into serious running.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 remains a stability stalwart, delivering trusted support and plush comfort at a more accessible price than its successor. It features the same GuideRails holistic support system that gently controls excess motion, protecting joints without overcorrecting—ideal for mild to moderate overpronators. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole provides soft, adaptive cushioning that rebounds mile after mile, offering a ride that’s both protective and surprisingly lively. With a certified diabetic shoe designation and APMA Seal of Acceptance, it’s a medically endorsed choice for runners with foot sensitivity or chronic conditions.

In real-world use, the GTS 24 handles daily training with ease, offering smooth transitions and durable breathability thanks to its engineered air mesh upper. It’s slightly firmer than the GTS 25, but the difference is minimal—most runners won’t miss the updates unless they prioritize the latest fit refinements. The outsole shows excellent wear resistance, making it a long-lasting value play. However, the upper lacks the modern refinement of newer models, and the cushion, while soft, doesn’t match the Glycerin 22 in plushness. It’s a workhorse with wisdom, not flash.

Compared to the GTS 25, the GTS 24 offers nearly identical support and cushion at a lower price, making it the best value support option. Against the Ghost 16, it provides superior motion control but less agility. It’s perfect for budget-conscious runners who need stability and don’t want to pay for incremental upgrades. It delivers exceptional support and durability for the price, proving that last year’s model can still lead the pack.