My one complaint is that my feet kept on sliding forward in the shoe, cramming my toes in the toe box (especially my big toe), which eventually caused some blisters. I wish that I could provide more data regarding long-term durability, though I have seen no red flags at this point. I expect these to last as long as anyone can reasonably expect from a pair of trail runners. The 8mm drop and toe box are not my favorite features, but they’re in line with industry norms. Depending on personal preference, these will be exactly what a lot of folks are looking for. So try them out if you’re interested, and make sure to listen to your feet.

The increased flexibility coupled with a softer, more generous cushion provides a smooth run on natural terrains.The weight is not as light as we would expect—298 g (M)/269 g (W)—but runners couldn’t feel it. We still have to appreciate Brooks’ efforts to increase the cushioning and sole height while shaving a bit of the weight simultaneously (7 g less, yay!).

We’ve also named the Brooks Cascadia 15 one of the best trail running shoes! See our Best New Trail Shoes of Fall-Winter 2020 for more recent trail running shoe releases.

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Jeff V: The Caldera 4 has a very similar upper in regard to material, but the Caldera has a wider, more relaxed fit that makes it more suited to moderate to mellow terrain than the Cascadia. Cushioning is also softer and more ample, though traction and overall technical performance does not match the Cascadia. Canice: The classic Cascadia feature and arguably the number one feature Brooks talks up for the Cascadia is the “Pivot Post” system.

The Brooks Cascadia 16 is a stiff, supportive, protective trail running shoe that's great for long hauls on aggressive terrain.At 10.9 ounces (310g) in a US men’s 9, this is just too heavy in my opinion, especially in a shoe that’s not springy or bouncy which combats the heft (like the Endorphin Trail). Durable but not extremely breathable Lacing is very secure and easy to get right on the first attempt with no need to ever re-adjust and the stretchy lace loop is handy to easily keep the laces in place. However, despite this support, the Cascadia is not the most glamorous trail shoe out there. Also, it’s a model that has changed a lot over the years, with some versions better than others. I’ve been excited to try these shoes out ever since first learning about famed ultrarunner, Scott Jurek, over a decade ago; however, I have not had the opportunity until now.