Brooks Hyperion Elite 4

I recently set a new personal record in the Barcelona Half Marathon with the new Brooks Hyperion Elite 4. From this opening statement, you can tell that this model holds a special place for me. Any serious runner would recognize the significance of wearing the right shoe model on those magical days when you perform your best.

The truth is, I had the chance to wear these Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 shoes a few days before the race. Typically, it's highly discouraged to wear nearly new shoes for a race, especially one that covers a considerable distance. However, in this instance, there was a reason for it. Over the previous months, I had the opportunity to try out both the Brooks Hyperion and the Brooks Hyperion Max. Both models have a similar design to the Elite 4, which allowed me to quickly adjust to them. In particular, the Hyperion Max are among my favourite shoes in the segment of fast and lightweight footwear, even though they lack a carbon plate.

Ideal runner: Brooks Hyperion Elite 4

Let’s discuss this new version so you can determine if they meet your needs. The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 are designed for intense races or training sessions, regardless of the distance.

This model is the flagship carbon plate offering from the American brand. Like all shoes in this category, it delivers maximum responsiveness thanks to the SpeedVault Race plate.

A key feature of this technology is the customized sizing of the plate for each shoe, which helps reduce the weight of the plate and optimize its stiffness relative to the runner’s size.

What I liked most about the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4

Speed, lightness and stability

One of the standout features of the new Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is the excellent combination of speed, lightness, and stability. Those of us who have tested several carbon plate models know that this one provides enhanced speed, which is now widely recognized. In my opinion, it's clear that carbon plate models can appeal to a broad range of runners.

When the carbon plate trend began, it seemed that only the fastest competitive runners could benefit from carbon plate shoes. However, models like the Hyperion Elite 4 have broadened the target audience, thanks to the stability they provide. Other models, perhaps faster or with a bouncier feel, do not offer this ideal mix of speed and stability.

Another strong point contributing to this balance is the lightness of the shoes. The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 weighs just 221 grams. It may not be the lightest model on the market, but it offers a significant lightweight feel that enhances the sensation of flying.

Ultra-breathable mesh

A major factor contributing to their lightness is the ultra-breathable mesh used in this model. It's important to choose the right socks, as they will be almost entirely visible through the mesh, which covers most of the shoe's surface except for the areas with the brand logo and tendon reinforcement.

Possible points of improvement for the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4

The shoes could potentially gain extra speed with an increased rebound effect from the combination of midsole foam and the carbon plate.

Similar models

In this category, I've tested many excellent models. Although the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 faces significant competition, they stand out. Among these models, I would highlight:

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Nike Alphafly 3

Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 2

HOKA Cielo X1

New Balance Supercomp Elite v4