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10 Best Brooks Shoes

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Brooks Shoes

Choosing the right running or walking shoes is an important step towards comfort, injury prevention, and making the most of your activities. While brand reputation is helpful, you want to focus on how the shoe fits your foot, the support it offers, its cushioning, and the overall feel. The ideal shoe should feel comfortable right from the start, match your foot shape, and support the type of activities you plan to do. Trying on shoes with the socks you intend to wear and walking or jogging a few steps in-store can make a big difference in picking the perfect pair.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of soft, shock-absorbing material under your foot, mainly in the midsole. This is important because it affects comfort, impact protection, and how your feet feel after long walks or runs. Shoes usually range from minimalist (very little cushioning, giving you a closer-to-ground feel) to maximalist (lots of cushion, providing a plush feel). If you like feeling more connected to the ground, go for less cushioning; if you want more softness and shock absorption, especially for long distances or recovery, opt for greater cushioning. Think about your preference, the distance you typically cover, and whether you have joint sensitivities.
Support (Stability vs. Neutral)Support refers to how much the shoe helps guide your foot’s movement, especially if you have tendencies like overpronation (rolling your foot inward). Stability shoes offer more structure to assist those whose feet need extra support; neutral shoes are designed for those with a more 'regular' stride. If you know you have flat feet or overpronate, stability shoes are usually a better fit. If your foot movement is neutral and you have no issues with your stride, choose a neutral shoe.
Fit and WidthFit is how the shoe holds your foot all around — from heel to toe. Proper fit means you should have a thumb’s width of space in the toe box and the sides should not pinch or squeeze uncomfortably. Width options (like narrow, regular, or wide) accommodate different foot shapes. If you often find your toes feel cramped or your foot spills over the sole, look for wide options; if shoes are always loose, try a narrower option.
Arch SupportArch support is how much the shoe helps under the arch of your foot. This matters because feet come in different arch shapes: low, medium, or high. Shoes with more arch support are useful if you have flat feet or need extra comfort under the arch, while those with less are suitable for medium or high arches. Check your foot type by looking at your footprints or consulting a specialist; this will guide you towards the right level of arch support.
Heel-to-Toe DropHeel-to-toe drop is the difference in thickness between the heel and the front (toe) of the shoe. A higher drop (8mm or more) puts more material under the heel, often appealing to beginner runners or walkers prone to heel-striking. Lower drop (0-6mm) feels more natural and encourages landing on the middle or front of the foot, suiting experienced runners or those looking for a minimalist experience. If you're not sure, choose a moderate drop to start.
Breathability and MaterialMaterials affect how much air gets to your foot and how the shoe feels in different conditions. More breathable shoes use mesh or lighter fabrics and are great if your feet run hot or you exercise in warm conditions. Less breathable, denser materials offer more protection in colder, wet conditions but can be warmer. Think about your local weather and how much you sweat to decide on material preference.
Outsole Grip and DurabilityThe outsole is the bottom of the shoe and determines grip and wear over time. Deeper tread and more robust materials offer better traction for trails or uneven surfaces. Flatter, smoother outsoles are ideal for road use. If you run or walk mostly on roads or gym floors, go for smooth soles; if you venture onto gravel or dirt, look for rugged grip.