Brooks Cascadia 16

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Performance

Lightness
9
Cushioning
9
Flexibility
9
Responsive
8
Stability
9
Grip
9

Details of Cascadia 16

Gender Men , Women
Weight 298 gr
Drop 8 mm
Cushion High
Runner weight Medium , Strong
Running gait Neutral
Surface Trail
Use training
Pace Low
Foot Normal feet
Strike heel
Distance 10K , Half-marathon
Year 2021

There has been a radical transformation in the new Brooks Cascadia 16, one of the American firm's reference models for trail running which has been completely reinvented for an improved response. There are very significant innovations that affect each of the key sections of the trainer, including the incorporation of a new midsole with the latest in cushioning technology: the DNA Loft V2 compound. This is the reformulation of Brooks Running's flagship foam, which is now up to 5% softer and 20% lighter. In short, the new Cascadia 16 has undergone a change of concept that seeks to recover lost ground in the competitive trail running market.

The Cascadia is one of the most long-lived and successful series of Brooks Running. This sixteenth version brings with it major changes that affect the whole of this trail running shoe; innovations aimed at improving the experience for neutral-gait trail runners who are eager to run for miles on the most irregular and inaccessible terrain. This trainer has top-of-the-range cushioning that has been reinvented to be even lighter, more modern, comfortable and flexible compared to its predecessors, while maintaining its signature traction, grip and adherence.

Brooks Cascadia 16, a radical change

Softer, more flexible and reactive cushioning in a more contained weight, a more spacious fit, updated style and impeccable protection. These are some of the main new features of the new Cascadia 16 from Brooks Running. It is truly a model that establishes itself as one of the best options for completing long distances in the mountains with excellent cushioning. Incorporating the latest reformulation of the American brand's star cushioning foam, the DNA Loft V2, this latest version features the latest innovation from Brooks Running. RUNNEA is here to give you all the details!

So, without further ado, let's begin the detailed analysis of the latest update of the prestigious Cascadia saga. Starting, of course, with its midsole.

One of the main novelties compared to its predecessor, the Brooks Cascadia 15, can be seen in the composition of the midsole. Here, the company's designers have chosen to incorporate the DNA Loft V2 foam; a compound capable of offering up to 5% more softness and 20% more lightness. The foam increases the midsole thickness by 2 mm and allows an unprecedented energy return along with greater flexibility, firmness and stability in transitions.

The Cascadia 16 has a slightly roomier last compared to previous versions, significantly increasing the degree of comfort.

This top-of-the-range trail running shoe in cushioning now sports a more modern and updated look, with a complete redesign of the upper. The upper has been improved for greater adaptability and flexibility without sacrificing, of course, the trademark protection of this legendary series.

The toe area has been reinforced for greater protection against rocks, branches and possible obstacles whilst running. Few changes can be seen in the heel collar and tongue construction, as the designers at Brooks Running have kept what works really well. The elastic laces on the Cascadia 16 make the lacing and untying process much easier without creating discomfort or strain on the instep area.

The outsole once again features TrailTack rubber compound for unbeatable traction on even the most uneven, muddy and slippery terrain. The multidirectional tread pattern in this area of the trainer emphasises the feeling of grip while running. In addition, the multidirectional tread pattern is now more widely spaced to promote better mud shedding.

Protection continues to be excellent thanks to the presence of Ballistic Rock Shield technology, which aids better adaptability to the terrain and greater flexibility.

Brooks Cascadia 16, more reactive, flexible and comfortable

The latest version of the prestigious Cascadia saga from Brooks Running has certainly seen a radical transformation. The Brooks Cascadia 16 has hit the market with major changes in key areas of the trainer, such as the upper and the midsole. They offer a more cushioned, soft and reactive tread due to the incorporation of the American brand's leading reformulated technology, the DNA Loft V2.

The new improvements are also reflected in the aesthetic section through a total redesign of the silhouette. The result? A more modern and updated aesthetic that ensures superior adaptability. In short, this new version is definitely a safe bet for trail runners eager to rack up the miles on the most uneven terrain with maximum comfort and versatility. In terms of technical specifications, a men's size 9 USA (8 UK) weighs 298 grams.

Review of Brooks Cascadia 16

16 January 2023

Brooks Cascadia 16, a complete remodel to explore any trail

I'm very excited to share with all of you my first test with one of the brands that is reinventing itself in trail running. I had never had the opportunity to wear Brooks, and the truth is that these new Cascadia 16 have pleasantly surprised me. They have aggressiveness and character, and are a versatile trail running shoes with a special essence, which makes them perfect for any adventure, without fear of being left stranded.

What kind of users are the Brooks Cascadia 16 designed for?

Truthfully, this is a somewhat complex question to answer: do the Brooks Cascadia 16 have a specific runner profile? I would say no, but runners who are looking for maximum stability, a hard but secure cushioning and a fairly firm core will make the best use of these shoes.

Their most unique quality, or what should be highlighted about the Brooks Cascadia 16, is their firmness. This is a model that is going to be perfect for runners of even more than 80 kilos since, due to the fact that the midsole is so compact, they will hold weight well while racing and will both keep the foot well protected and soften the impact on the joints.

It's cushioning has a much more aggressive core than other models I have tested, but at the same time it offers an enviable durability and exquisite protection. This combination is quite remarkable.

Why did we like the Brooks Cascadia 16 so much?

The answer to this question goes hand in hand with the above. I liked these Brooks for two main reasons: their firmness and their versatility. In the first case, as I have already mentioned, a structure as firm as the Cascadia 16's allows you to enjoy more kilometers, for longer, and above all, in a safer way.

Few trail running shoes I've tried have been more stable.

The ability to cope with uneven terrain, and to adapt to all kinds of situations for longer periods of time, is key.

That leads me to the second point, versatility. The Cascadia 16's versatility allows you not to have to plan your route too much, and lets you improvise during training. No matter where you go, or which trail you choose, their response is great. Technical terrain, soft surfaces, gravel trails, grass... It's hard to find a place where these Brooks Cascadia 16 don't perform well, so I think this is one of their strong points.

What would be the direct competition of the Brooks Cascadia 16?

As I mentioned, this new model of the Cascadia can be characterized by its firmness and for being a shoe with great versatility, consistent cushioning and very good durability. That's why taking into account these specifications, the most similar silhouettes and that can be considered competition would be the following, in my point of view and always keeping in mind that no two models are the same:

What we liked least about the Brooks Cascadia 16

As well as its great aggressiveness, the firmness of its midsole and durability seem to me to be features to praise, there are a couple of details in these Brooks Cascadia 16 that have left me something to be desired.

On the one hand, we would have the upper compound or upper cut. I understand that in order to give the model the consistency they were looking for, a somewhat stiffer, synthetic and less textile mesh era needed, thus gaining in durability. However, I feel that because of this the foot seems to be corseted. I don't really like the feeling of that fabric when folded, although it is true that as the kilometers go by it gets softer.

On the other hand, there is the fit. I find it to be a great fit, but being a shoes composed of such firm materials, of a harder or less flexible composition, the ankle ring is too stiff. This helps to promote stability and security in the race, but also implies some wear, due to that hardness, with the passage of time and kilometers.

Conclusions

I am convinced that these Brooks Cascadia 16 are a model that is going to be talked about. Because it is designed for long runs, for the most heterogeneous terrains and with an impeccable durability. I think they are a great bet of the company for trail running shoes more and more complete and versatile.

While this remodeling has room for improvement, to bring more flexibility and finesse to the model, without forgetting its firmness, I think Brooks is offering us what will be a paradigm shift in its identity. Cascadia 16 are designed to go further, stronger and safer. Anxious to see what they have in store for us from now on.

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