Stepping into the world of running shoes, Brooks emerges as a beacon for dedicated runners.
With a guiding motto, “made by runners for runners,” Brooks exemplifies true passion and commitment, consistently crafting high-quality shoes that resonate with every stride.
Our expert Marathon Sports team members and reviewers recently set out to find the best Brooks running shoes for 2026. They found numerous models showcasing the brand’s classic comforts as well as the latest running shoe technologies.
Brooks is one of the top running shoe brands, offering a variety of running shoes for different types of runners, including some of the best neutral running shoes, best stability running shoes, and best long distance running shoes on the market.
Comfort, support, and performance are some of Brooks’ top priorities, and they’re elements you’ll find in every shoe. Whether you’re a novice or a professional runner, you’re guaranteed to find a pair of Brooks running shoes for you in this list.
Our Review Process
Our team members, who are also avid runners and experts in running shoes, laced up Brooks’ running shoes and hit the streets. They evaluated and assessed each shoe’s overall performance so potential buyers know what they’re getting even before they open the box.
Our runners evaluated each shoe’s construction, fit, comfort, performance, flexibility, and numerous other factors. The goal is to help you find the Brooks running shoes that will best suit your needs.
Below, you’ll find the Brooks shoes our team feels are the best of the best running shoes for 2026.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe
Remember that the “best” shoe is different for everyone. It depends on your personal preferences and needs. We suggest stopping into one of our Marathon Sports stores to take part in our The Right Fit™ program.
Our experts will assess your gait, foot shape, running style, fitness goals, and numerous other factors. Then, we’ll recommend the best running shoes for you based on what we find. We will also keep your information in our records so we can access it and recommend other running gear whenever you need it.
The Best Brooks Running Shoes
- Best for Daily Training: Brooks Ghost 18
- Best for Cushioning: Brooks Glycerin 23
- Best for Stability: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Best for Trail Running: Brooks Caldera 7
Brooks Ghost 18
The Ghost is Brooks’ most iconic running shoe. It’s known for versatility, balanced cushioning, and dependability. Many of our team members have been wearing the Brooks Ghost for over a decade, so they were eager to review this year’s version.
They found the Ghost 18 living up to their expectations with a smooth ride, custom-like fit, and plush interior feel. It offers ample cushioning for a cloud-like feel that helps you enjoy each run.
Our reviewers highlighted that the Brooks Ghost 18 not only continues its legacy of dependability but also shines with its enhanced DNA Loft V3 cushioning and eco-friendly design. And while the brand didn’t adjust too much from the beloved 18, our team was happy to see some major upgrades in the shoe’s upper. Brooks enhanced the air mesh upper, making it softer and more plush around the foot and incorporating a soft flat knit tongue for maximum comfort.
Brooks Glycerin 23
The Glycerin 23 is Brooks doing comfort the way they’ve always done it. This time, it’s just a little more refined.
Step in, and the first thing you’ll feel is the soft underfoot. Brooks is still using DNA Loft v3, and it feels dialed here. It’s certainly softer than older Glycerins, a little lighter too, but still very much in that “protective daily trainer” lane.
The ride is super consistent, whether you’re one mile in or six, and the upper leans into that same idea. It’s plush around the tongue and heel collar, where it should be, but not overbuilt. It wraps your foot nicely without added bulk, and the fit is pretty accommodating through the forefoot.
One thing Brooks continues to get right is how stable this shoe feels without calling it a stability shoe. The platform is broad enough, and the geometry is simple enough, that you don’t feel wobbly even with all that cushioning.
It’s not a fast shoe. You can pick up the pace if you need to, but it’s clearly happier cruising.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
The big thing on the Adrenaline GTS 25 is the GuideRails system, which we’ve long been fans of. Instead of forcing your foot into a position, it kind of catches you when your form starts to drift.
Underfoot, it’s classic Brooks with DNA Loft v3 cushioning. Like the Glycerin 23, it’s softer and lighter than older versions, but still very controlled.
If you aren’t running any serious races, it’s hard to beat a legacy shoe like this one.
The fit is familiar if you’ve worn Brooks before. It’s secure through the midfoot with a bit of room up front, and a nicely padded heel.
One thing worth noting, though, is that it’s still a stability shoe. Even though it feels lighter and less intrusive than it ever has, it still has structure. If you don’t need it, it could be a dealbreaker. But if you do, this is one of the better executions of it.
Brooks Caldera 7
Not all runners like to stay on the pavement, and Brooks understands that. The Brooks Caldera 7 is the ultimate trail running shoe, with a large amount of cushioning and plenty of traction for uneven terrain.
Nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning combines with an ultra-lightweight design and TrailTack Green rubber outsole to create an unrivaled trail running experience. The widened base and added flex grooves help to stabilize your landings and the TPU toe cap protects your toes from debris and rocks.
Our reviewers also appreciated the shoe’s secure fit with quick-drying air mesh, a lace keeper, and front and back points to attach gaiters. Trail running doesn’t get more comfortable than with the new Caldera 7.
The Finish Line
Whether you’re looking for a top-quality everyday trainer like the Ghost 18 or a trusty trail running like the Caldera 7, you can’t go wrong with choosing a pair of running shoes from the Brooks lineup.
Our reviewers recommend stopping by a Marathon Sports location to try these shoes in person. However, they’re also available via our Marathon Sports online store. We want every one of our customers to be happy with their running shoes, so we allow you to exchange any shoes within 30 days of purchase, regardless of their wear and tear. We’ll also do our best to help you locate a pair that better suits your needs.
Your new favorite running shoe is just a few clicks away, and it may be the one that leads you to your next PR. Shop our complete selection today!
