THE GEAR:
The Cascadia 5 is the latest trail running shoe from Brooks. Making only slight tweaks to the wildly successful Cascadia 4, Brooks made the upper lighter and more breathable for this year's version. Utilizing the company's Element technology, microfiber construction is used to provide weather protection in a light, supple, quiet fabric that doesn’t sacrifice breathability, durability, or comfort.
A couple of other features stand out as well. The BioMoGo midsoles feature a non-toxic natural additive that makes them bio-degradable. In addition, the silicone based HydroFlow system provides viscous fluid units for the heel and forefoot; enhancing midsole cushioning and attenuating shock.
THE TEST:
I took the Cascadias to the Forest Park Maple Trail and Lacamas Creek Park, among others. Having owned a pair of Cascadia 4's previously, I knew that they would probably be comfortable. Upon lacing them up, I was immediately proven correct. Two things were noticeable from the first steps; the uppers are very comfortable, and the way the shoe cushions impact is amazing. The closest approximation I have would be something like pillow-top mattresses for your feet.
Initially I worried that something so comfortable might not be rugged or sturdy enough to stand up to abuse or prevent foot fatigue. After hiking and jogging in them on several occasions, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they were indeed capable of toughing it out. Most importantly, for as light and comfortable as they are, the soles were supportive enough to keep the roots and rocks from wearing out my feet.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
I generally do most of my day hiking in trail runners or light hikers, saving the boots for hikes with arduous terrain or backpacking excursions. That being said, I'm always looking for the perfect blend of lightweight comfort, durability, and support. With those criteria in mind, the Brooks Cascadia 5's are among the best trail running / light hiking shoes I've ever worn.
MIDSOLE
- Rearfoot HydroFlow® ST
- Forefoot HydroFlow®
- Full-length BioMoGo
- Full-length S-257 Cushsole
- Heel Pivot Posting System
- Forefoot Pivot System
- Forefoot Ballistic Rock Shield
Pivot Posting System–Independent, medial-lateral pivot posts
are shaped to minimize ground contact surface area, reducing the
destabilizing effect of trail irregularities.
Ballistic Rock Shield–Toughened thermoplastic EVA sheath between
the outsole and midsole protects the forefoot by spreading out point
loads from sharp objects.
OUTSOLE
HPR green–This durable and long-wearing outsole compound
is made with dispersed silica, resulting in premium wet-dry
traction for excellent skid-resistance and a more environmentally
friendly composition.
UPPER
- Moisture-managing Element Mesh
- Microfiber Overlay Materials
- Synthetic Overlay Materials
- Moisture-managing Element Linings
- Hydrophobic Foam Package
- Internal Support Saddle
Sizes
Men’s: 8-13, 14, 15
Women’s: 6-11, 12
Weight
Men’s: 12.0 oz
Women’s: 10.0 oz
MSRP
$100 USD
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
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