A stable, versatile shoe for long trail days
Image: official product image from brooksrunning.com
Is the Brooks Cascadia 19 good for ultrarunning?
Mostly. The Brooks Cascadia 19 is a stable, cushioned option for ultra training and long days on mixed trails, with a 35 mm stated heel stack, smooth ride and dependable grip. Its stated 10.5 oz weight is noticeable, and the flexible plate and less pronounced lugs are less suited to highly technical terrain.
Key facts
| Category | Trail shoes |
|---|---|
| Release | On sale 1 July 2025 in the UK and Europe; US from 1 August 2025 |
| Price | $150 |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Runners seeking a stable, cushioned shoe for ultra training, long mixed-terrain runs and hiking. |
| Consensus score | 8.5 out of 10 |
What changed on the Cascadia 19?
The Brooks Cascadia 19 is a cushioned, protective trail shoe designed for running, hiking and mixed-terrain outings. Reviewers describe it as lighter and more responsive than its predecessor. Brooks lists a 35 mm heel and 29 mm forefoot stack, a 6 mm drop, DNA Loft v3 cushioning and a TrailTack Green outsole. RunRepeat’s lab measured 34.8 mm at the heel, 27.0 mm at the forefoot and a 7.8 mm drop, and recorded a weight of 10.8 oz (306 g), compared with the stated 10.5 oz (297 g) in a US men’s 9.
How does it perform on ultras?
Reviews from RunRepeat, Believe in the Run and Runner’s World describe a smooth, stable ride with cushioning that suits long outings and ultra training. The Trail Adapt System’s flexible rock plate and dependable grip help on varied trails, while the durable outsole adds to its appeal for high-mileage use. However, the shoe’s weight remains noticeable, and its less pronounced lugs and flexible plate offer less bite and protection on very technical terrain. It is better suited to mixed trails than demanding, aggressive descents.
Who should buy the Cascadia 19?
Choose the Brooks Cascadia 19 if you want a stable, cushioned all-rounder for long trail days, ultra training, hiking or backpacking on varied terrain. Its responsive feel and reliable grip make it a versatile option for runners who value comfort over a lightweight, precise fit. Consider another shoe if you prioritise low weight, consistent toe-box room or confident footing on highly technical trails. Fit reports differ, and the padded tongue and heel collar may hold moisture or affect lockdown, so trying it on before a long event is sensible.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Stable, cushioned and smooth ride
- Responsive midsole and lighter than the previous version
- Reliable grip and durable outsole
- Versatile for trail running, hiking and backpacking
Weaknesses
- Relatively heavy
- Fit opinions differ, with some finding the toe box narrow
- Padded tongue and collar can hold moisture and affect lockdown
- Less capable on very technical trails
- Price increased to $150
Frequently asked questions
How does the Brooks Cascadia 19 fit?
Fit feedback is mixed. One reviewer found the toe box roomy, while another reported restricted toe splay. The padded tongue and heel collar may also affect lockdown. If you need generous room for toe movement on long runs, try the shoe on before committing to it for an ultra.
Is the Brooks Cascadia 19 durable enough for long-distance running?
Reviewers describe the TrailTack Green outsole as durable and the shoe as suitable for high-mileage outings, hiking and backpacking. The available reviews do not provide a specific durability test distance, so its lifespan cannot be stated precisely. Its weight is a trade-off for runners seeking a protective, stable shoe.
Is the Cascadia 19 better than the Cascadia 18?
Reviewers generally find the Cascadia 19 lighter and more responsive than its predecessor, with a smooth, stable ride. The available consensus does not give a specific weight difference. The 19 remains a relatively heavy, versatile trail shoe, so runners wanting a lighter option for technical terrain may prefer a different model.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 8.5 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
