Brooks Cascadia 17 Review: Best Overall Trail Running Shoes

Testing Results and Analysis

After putting 140+ miles on my Cascadia 17s this August 2023, I feel confident in crowning them the best overall and most versatile trail running shoes for hiking and running.

No other shoe comes close to consistently delivering high scores for the key features we evaluate.

The Brooks Cascadia 17s are the best of the best trail running shoes. This is where they beat the competition:

• Durability – Most durable trail runners I have tested (which is many)
• Protection – Rock guard and toe cap keep your feet happy all day long
• Breathability – Nicer fabric mesh in the updated 17s
• All-terrain performance – Work in any terrain (mud, dirt, rock)
• Quick-drying – Drain slits in the outsole prevent a wet squishy feeling and they dry fast
• Traction – Rubber choice is durable and grippy in all conditions (wet, dry, snow/ice)
• Stability – Perfect amount of flexibility to keep you grounded
• Cushion – After 150+ miles they still feel new and supportive

If you want a better quality shoe for a much better price compared to the very popular Hoka Speedgoats, go for the Brooks Cascadia 17s. You will not be disappointed.

Comfort - 9/10

The perfect blend of support and cushion. A nice locked-in feel with just enough room in the toe box.

Foot Protection - 10/10

The rock plate and toe guard have saved my feet over hundreds of miles. Of all trail running shoes, the Brooks Cascadia 17s offer the best foot protection without compromising shoe flexibility.

Stability - 9/10

This shoe has the perfect balance between foot protection and cushion. The outsole and midsole bends just enough so that you can get a firm grip on uneven and diverse terrain.

Cushion - 9/10

The Brooks Cascadia 17 provides supportive cushioning that stays firm and supportive for 200+ miles of hiking or running. For context, I have found that most trail runners feel deflated after 100-150 miles. The combination of cushion and foot protection is best overall and prevents underfoot bruising.

Sensitivity - 10/10

Of all trail running shoes tested, only the Brooks Cascadia 17s and the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3s demonstrate high sensitivity and control underfoot.

Traction - 10/10

The rubber used in these outsoles is very durable and long-lasting. The treads are super grippy in all conditions and terrain including mud, snow, ice, slush, wet surfaces, dry dirt, and rocks.

Breathability - 9/10

I have worn these in temperatures as high as 95F and have not experienced hot, sweaty feet. The mesh in the forefoot is quite airy. The Cascadia 17s show improvement with fabric mesh vs the Cascadia 16s which had a plastic-like mesh.

Quick-Dry - 8/10

I have completely submerged these trail running shoes on hikes and they drain and dry quite fast.

Durability - 10/10

Of all the premium trail running shoes I have tested, the Brooks Cascadia 17s are the most durable shoe you can get right now.

Value - 10/10

Given that these trail running shoes are top of their class for durability, comfort, stability, and grip in a variety of conditions and terrain, and are fairly priced, make them the winner for overall value.

Overall Score - 9.5/10