Brooks Caldera 8 Complete Review

The Brooks Caldera 8 has arrived, and it's making quite a statement in the trail running community. Building on the foundation of its popular predecessor, this iteration promises enhancements in durability, stability, and overall performance. But does it live up to the hype? We've delved into numerous reviews and feedback from runners who've put the Caldera 8 to the test to bring you a comprehensive look at what this shoe has to offer.

Quick Take

Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Best For: Trail running, Hiking

Key Strengths: Durable, Comfortable, Stable, Good traction, Lightweight

Notable Limitations: Not waterproof, Lacks a rock plate

What Makes the Brooks Caldera 8 Stand Out?

The Brooks Caldera 8 isn't just another trail shoe; it's a testament to thoughtful engineering aimed at maximizing comfort and performance on rugged terrain. At its core is the DNA LOFT v3 midsole, a nitrogen-infused foam that delivers a plush yet responsive ride. This isn't your average cushioning; it's designed to absorb impact effectively, keeping your legs feeling fresh even after miles of pounding the trails.

What truly sets it apart is the combination of this luxurious cushioning with impressive stability. The shoe features a wide base and raised sidewalls that cradle your foot, offering a secure and confident feel on uneven ground. One reviewer aptly described it as providing "a really secure, locked-in feeling for my ankle", a sentiment echoed across many user experiences. This means you get the soft landing of a highly cushioned shoe without the wobbly, unstable sensation some maximalist models can have.

Furthermore, the TrailTack Green outsole provides reliable grip on various surfaces, from wet rocks to loose dirt, giving you the confidence to tackle diverse terrains. It's this blend of plush comfort, inherent stability, and dependable traction that makes the Caldera 8 a compelling choice for trail runners looking for a shoe that can handle long distances without sacrificing comfort.

Real Customer Experiences

The general consensus on the Brooks Caldera 8 is overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising its comfort and performance on the trails.

• Exceptional Comfort for Long Runs: Many runners have highlighted the superior cushioning provided by the DNA LOFT v3 midsole. One user mentioned, "The new upper is very breathable and protective without being stiff, and the midsole is fantastic and has kept my legs feeling fresh on runs over 20 miles". This sentiment is echoed by others who appreciate the shoe's ability to minimize impact during long-distance runs.
• Reliable Traction and Stability: The TrailTack Green outsole has been lauded for its excellent grip on various surfaces, including wet rock and loose dirt. One review stated, "The outsole is great. While it’s not the deepest of lugs, I’ve found it more than capable on pretty much everything, wet rock, mixed terrain, steep/loose technical terrain, and even a bit of snow/frozen snow". The wide platform also contributes to a stable feel, reducing the risk of ankle rolls.
• Durable and Well-Constructed: Users have been impressed with the durability of the Caldera 8. Even after significant mileage, the shoe shows minimal wear. A runner commented, "The durability seems very good from my first 35 miles. The outsole rubber isn't showing any wear and there are no signs of wear on the upper". The engineered air mesh upper with TPEE overlays adds to its resilience, making it a reliable choice for rugged trails.

While the feedback is largely positive, some users have noted a few minor issues. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that the shoe can feel a bit "clunky and less agile on very technical sections of trail" due to its high stack height [60]. Another pointed out a slight stiffness in the heel counter during the initial break-in period. However, these points are often overshadowed by the overall comfort and performance of the shoe.

In summary, the Brooks Caldera 8 is a highly-rated trail running shoe that delivers on its promise of comfort, stability, and durability, making it a favorite among long-distance trail runners.

Design and Build Quality

The Brooks Caldera 8 is engineered with a focus on durability, comfort, and performance, integrating advanced materials and thoughtful design elements.

• Upper: The upper is constructed from an engineered air mesh combined with Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomer (TPEE) overlays. This material choice offers a balance of breathability, durability, and water resistance. The quick-dry properties of the mesh keep your feet comfortable, while the TPEE provides structure and protection against abrasions. Additionally, the upper incorporates 52.9% recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. For a secure fit, the shoe features an updated offset lacing system designed to reduce pressure points on the top of the foot. A padded, semi-gusseted tongue further enhances comfort and keeps debris out.

• Midsole: At the core of the Caldera 8's design is the DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which is nitrogen-infused for a lightweight, plush, and responsive feel. This midsole provides significant cushioning with a stack height of 38.5mm in the heel and 32.5mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 6mm drop. This generous cushioning is ideal for absorbing impact during long runs on varied terrain. The midsole also features raised sidewalls and a wide base, which work together to create a stable platform, preventing your foot from rolling inward or outward.

• Outsole: The outsole utilizes Brooks' TrailTack Green rubber, which is made with 25% recycled content. This rubber compound is designed to provide excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The multi-directional lugs, which are between 4mm and 5mm deep, enhance traction on various terrains, including loose dirt, mud, and snow. While the outsole generally performs well, some users have noted that the central groove can collect mud.

• Weight: The men's version of the Caldera 8 weighs around 10.6 oz (300g), while the women's version is approximately 9.3 oz (263g). This makes it a relatively lightweight option for a max-cushioned trail shoe.

• Special Features: The shoe is certified as CarbonNeutral®, highlighting Brooks' commitment to sustainability. It also includes gaiter attachment points and a reinforced TPU toe cap for added protection. However, it's worth noting that the Caldera 8 does not have a rock plate, relying instead on the thick midsole for underfoot protection.

While the overall build quality is high, a few minor issues have been reported. Some users have experienced the upper stretching over time, which may require readjusting the laces for a secure fit. Additionally, a single reviewer noted a weight inconsistency between their left and right shoes, suggesting a potential quality control issue in that specific pair.

Comfort and Fit

The Brooks Caldera 8 is widely praised for its comfortable and accommodating fit, making it a great choice for long-distance trail runners. Generally, the shoe fits true to size, so you can confidently order your usual running shoe size. However, if you prefer extra room for your toes to splay out, especially on longer runs, going up half a size might be a good idea.

The standout feature regarding fit is the spacious toe box. This design allows for natural foot movement and accommodates swelling that often occurs during ultra-marathons. Even runners with wider feet have found the fit to be comfortable. The midfoot is designed to be snug and secure, thanks to the updated offset lacing system that helps lock your foot in place without creating pressure points. One runner noted, "The new upper is very breathable and protective without being stiff, and the midsole is fantastic and has kept my legs feeling fresh on runs over 20 miles."

In terms of break-in, some users have mentioned that the heel counter can feel a bit stiff at first but softens up after a few runs. The engineered mesh upper is also designed to break in and become more flexible with use, though this may require some minor lace adjustments after the initial runs to maintain a secure fit. Despite these minor points, many find the shoe comfortable right out of the box.

Style and Versatility

The Brooks Caldera 8 boasts a modern, chunky aesthetic that aligns with current trends in trail running footwear. Its substantial midsole gives it a bold look, reminiscent of other maximalist shoes on the market. This design is not just for show; the thick cushioning provides excellent protection and comfort, making it a popular choice for runners who prioritize these features.

The shoe is available in a variety of colorways, from subtle to vibrant, catering to different personal styles. This wide range of color options, combined with its comfortable design, makes it suitable not only for the trails but also for casual, everyday wear.

Beyond trail running, the Caldera 8 is versatile enough for other outdoor activities. Its plush cushioning and stable platform make it a great option for light hiking or long days on your feet. While it excels on moderate trails, it may not be the best choice for highly technical or rugged terrain where a more agile shoe is needed. It's also worth noting that the shoe is not waterproof, which could be a consideration for those in wetter climates.

Quality and Durability

The Brooks Caldera 8 is built to last, making it a reliable choice for runners tackling long distances and varied terrains. Its construction and materials have received high praise for their durability.

Upper: The upper features an engineered air mesh combined with TPEE overlays. This combination is designed to be tough and resistant to abrasions, a common issue with trail running shoes. Reviewers have noted that even after significant mileage, the upper shows minimal wear.

Midsole: The DNA LOFT v3 midsole is not only comfortable but also resilient. It maintains its cushioning and responsiveness over many miles, ensuring your feet stay protected and comfortable throughout your runs. This is a key factor for ultra-runners who need a shoe that can go the distance.

Outsole: The TrailTack Green rubber outsole is another highlight in terms of durability. The 4-5mm lugs are designed to handle a variety of surfaces without wearing down quickly. Even on abrasive terrain like rocks and gravel, the outsole has shown excellent longevity.

While the overall durability is excellent, a few minor issues have been reported. Some users have experienced the upper stretching slightly over time, which may require adjusting the laces to maintain a snug fit. One reviewer also noted a rare instance of a weight inconsistency between the left and right shoes, which could be a quality control issue. However, this seems to be an isolated case rather than a widespread problem. As one user pointed out, "The only slight downside I noticed was a bit of rubbing from the stiff heel counter on my first run", though this usually resolves after a short break-in period.

Overall, the Brooks Caldera 8 is a well-built shoe that can handle the rigors of trail running and provide lasting performance.

Decision Matrix

Legend: ✓ = Good ○ = Average ✕ = Poor