Brooks Caldera

The Brooks Caldera's upper is crafted from a double mesh material that offers flexibility, breathability, and a layer of durable protection. The structured overlays provide additional durability without compromising the shoe's flexibility. A wider tongue and gusseted design help keep debris out, while the stretch woven laces ensure a secure fit. This combination results in an upper that is protective yet comfortable for long runs on the trail.

The midsole of the Brooks Caldera features the BioMoGo DNA cushioning, which is plush and responsive. With a thickness of 25mm at the heel and 21mm at the forefoot, the shoe offers substantial cushioning without the need for a rock plate. This design choice contributes to the shoe's light weight and flexibility, making it a good option for runners who prefer a cushioned ride without excessive rigidity.

The outsole of the Brooks Caldera is composed of sticky rubber with shallow lugs that perform well on a variety of terrains. The multidirectional lug pattern enhances traction, particularly on rocky or loose surfaces. While the outsole provides good grip in wet conditions, its durability on steep descents and the longevity of the lugs may be points to consider for runners who frequent highly technical trails.

The Brooks Caldera offers a medium width fit with a roomy toe box, which can be beneficial for runners with wider feet or those who experience foot swelling during long runs. However, runners with narrower feet may find the fit to be too generous, leading to some foot movement on technical terrain. The secure lacing system helps to mitigate this issue to some extent.

Runners have found the Brooks Caldera to be comfortable for long distances, thanks to its cushioned midsole and flexible upper. The shoe's design allows for natural foot movement and provides ample protection without feeling overly stiff. The comfort level is further enhanced by the shoe's light weight and responsive cushioning.

The Brooks Caldera's cushioning is a standout feature, with the BioMoGo DNA midsole offering a plush yet responsive feel. This cushioning is especially appreciated by runners tackling ultra distances, as it provides sustained comfort and protection without compromising the shoe's overall performance.

The double mesh upper of the Brooks Caldera ensures that the shoe remains well ventilated, making it a suitable choice for runners who value breathability. This feature is important for maintaining comfort during long runs in various weather conditions.

With a 4mm heel-to-toe drop, the Brooks Caldera provides stability on uneven trail surfaces. The wider outsole also contributes to the shoe's stable feel, giving runners confidence on challenging terrain.

Yes, the Brooks Caldera is designed with features like ample cushioning and a roomy toe box that make it suitable for ultra marathons and long-distance trail running.

The Brooks Caldera offers thicker cushioning in the forefoot than any other Brooks trail shoe, providing enhanced comfort and protection for long runs on rugged terrain.

The Brooks Caldera is best suited for trail running, with a sticky rubber outsole and multidirectional lugs that provide traction on a variety of terrains, including rocky and loose surfaces.

No, the Brooks Caldera does not include a rock plate (a protective insert between the midsole and outsole that shields the foot from sharp objects). Instead, it relies on its thick BioMoGo DNA midsole to provide protection from trail hazards.