Brooks Catamount

Review Score
81%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Brooks Catamount: Review

“A lightweight and responsive trail running shoe for speed on varied terrains.”

Overview


The Brooks Catamount is a trail running shoe designed for speed and agility on varied terrains. This shoe is part of the Brooks Catamount family, known for its lightweight construction and responsive cushioning.

Key Features:

  • DNA FLASH midsole: Nitrogen-infused foam for a lightweight and springy ride.
  • TrailTack rubber outsole: Provides excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
  • Ballistic Rock Shield: Protects feet from sharp rocks and roots without sacrificing flexibility.

The Brooks Catamount is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Its lightweight design and protective features make it suitable for short to medium-distance trail runs.

With an average review score of 81%, it's rated just above the median rating of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Brooks Catamount


The Brooks Catamount is highly regarded for its lightweight and responsive design, making it a top choice for trail runners who value speed. The DNA FLASH midsole provides a springy and energetic ride, while the TrailTack rubber outsole ensures excellent grip on various surfaces. However, the shoe's minimal cushioning and rigid structure may not be suitable for long-distance runs or highly technical terrains. Reviewers appreciate the snug fit and breathable mesh upper, but some find the toe box too narrow. Overall, the Catamount excels in short to medium-distance trail runs, offering a balance of protection and agility. For runners seeking a fast and responsive trail shoe, the Brooks Catamount is a solid option.

Comparable Shoes


The Hoka Zinal 2 is another lightweight trail shoe that offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. The Zinal 2 features a more cushioned midsole, which may be preferable for runners who need extra comfort on longer runs. However, the Catamount's DNA FLASH midsole provides a more energetic and springy ride, making it ideal for faster paces.

The Salomon S/LAB Pulsar is designed for elite trail runners who prioritize speed and performance. Both the Catamount and the S/LAB Pulsar offer excellent grip and protection, but the S/LAB Pulsar is even lighter and more responsive. However, the Catamount provides a more comfortable fit and better durability, making it a more versatile option for various trail conditions.

The Hoka Torrent 2 is a popular choice for trail runners seeking a lightweight and cushioned shoe. The Torrent 2 offers a softer midsole and larger lugs, providing better traction on loose terrain. However, the Catamount's DNA FLASH midsole and TrailTack rubber outsole make it a more responsive and agile option for faster runs on varied terrains.

The Nike Kiger 6 is known for its speed and performance on trails. Both the Catamount and the Kiger 6 offer excellent grip and protection, but the Kiger 6 has a slightly heavier build. The Catamount's lightweight design and responsive midsole make it a better choice for runners who prioritize speed and agility on short to medium-distance runs.

10 Brooks Catamount Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Lightweight and responsive design.
Excellent grip on varied terrains.
Breathable and comfortable mesh upper.
Good protection from rocks and roots.
Snug and secure fit.

5 Cons

Narrow toe box may not suit wider feet.
Minimal cushioning for long-distance runs.
Rigid structure can be uncomfortable on technical terrains.
Laces can attract debris.
Not ideal for highly technical trails.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Brooks Catamount is made from a durable engineered mesh that provides a secure and comfortable fit. This material is highly breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool and dry during runs. The mesh upper also features a Mud Guard, which protects against debris and allows for quick drainage when running through water. The snug fit is enhanced by a gusseted tongue, which helps keep small rocks and dirt out of the shoe. Overall, the upper design prioritizes both comfort and protection, making it suitable for various trail conditions.

Midsole

The midsole of the Brooks Catamount features the DNA FLASH foam, which is nitrogen-infused to provide a lightweight and responsive ride. This technology offers excellent energy return, making each stride feel springy and energetic. The midsole also includes a Ballistic Rock Shield, which protects your feet from sharp rocks and roots without compromising flexibility. This combination of cushioning and protection makes the Catamount ideal for fast-paced trail runs on varied terrains.

Outsole

The outsole of the Brooks Catamount is made from TrailTack rubber, which provides excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The multidirectional lugs are designed to offer traction on various types of terrain, from loose gravel to hard-packed dirt. The outsole also features a segmented design, which enhances flexibility and allows for a more natural foot movement. This ensures that runners can maintain a stable and confident footing, even on challenging trails.

Size/fit

The Brooks Catamount offers a snug and secure fit, thanks to its engineered mesh upper and gusseted tongue. The shoe is designed to hold the foot firmly in place, reducing the risk of slippage during runs. However, some reviewers have noted that the toe box is somewhat narrow, which may not be suitable for runners with wider feet. It's recommended to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the Brooks Catamount, with its breathable mesh upper and responsive DNA FLASH midsole. The shoe provides a good balance of cushioning and support, making it suitable for short to medium-distance trail runs. The snug fit and padded heel collar add to the overall comfort, ensuring that runners can enjoy their runs without discomfort. However, the shoe's rigid structure may not be ideal for long-distance runs.

Cushioning

The Brooks Catamount features the DNA FLASH midsole, which offers a responsive and springy cushioning. This nitrogen-infused foam provides excellent energy return, making each stride feel light and energetic. While the cushioning is sufficient for short to medium-distance runs, some reviewers have noted that it may not be enough for longer distances or highly technical terrains. The Ballistic Rock Shield adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable even on rocky trails.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the Brooks Catamount is designed to be highly breathable, allowing for excellent ventilation during runs. This helps to keep your feet cool and dry, even in hot and humid conditions. The mesh material also features a Mud Guard, which allows for quick drainage when running through water. This combination of breathability and quick-drying properties makes the Catamount a great choice for trail runners who encounter various weather conditions.

Stability

The Brooks Catamount offers good stability, thanks to its snug fit and supportive midsole. The DNA FLASH foam provides a responsive and stable ride, while the Ballistic Rock Shield adds an extra layer of protection. The TrailTack rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs ensures excellent traction on various terrains, helping to maintain a stable footing. However, the shoe's narrow toe box may not be suitable for runners with wider feet, which could affect overall stability.

Durability

The Brooks Catamount is built to withstand the rigors of trail running, with its durable engineered mesh upper and robust TrailTack rubber outsole. The Ballistic Rock Shield adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that the shoe can handle rocky and uneven terrains. Reviewers have noted that the shoe holds up well over time, maintaining its performance and comfort even after many miles of use. This makes the Catamount a reliable choice for trail runners seeking a durable and long-lasting shoe.

Grip

The TrailTack rubber outsole of the Brooks Catamount provides excellent grip on various surfaces, from wet rocks to dry dirt. The multidirectional lugs are designed to offer traction on different types of terrain, ensuring that runners can maintain a stable footing. Reviewers have praised the shoe's grip, noting that it performs well even on challenging trails. This makes the Catamount a great choice for trail runners who need reliable traction in various conditions.

Flex

The Brooks Catamount offers a good balance of flexibility and support, thanks to its segmented outsole and Ballistic Rock Shield. The shoe's design allows for natural foot movement, while still providing the necessary protection and stability. The DNA FLASH midsole adds to the overall flexibility, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. This combination of flexibility and support makes the Catamount suitable for various trail conditions, from smooth paths to rocky terrains.

Who should buy the Brooks Catamount?


The Brooks Catamount is ideal for trail runners who prioritize speed and responsiveness. It's a great choice for those who enjoy short to medium-distance runs on varied terrains. The shoe's lightweight design and excellent grip make it suitable for runners who want to maintain a fast pace without sacrificing protection. If you value a snug fit and breathable upper, the Catamount is worth considering. Additionally, runners who appreciate a responsive midsole with good energy return will find this shoe appealing.

Who should not buy the Brooks Catamount?


Runners who prefer a more cushioned and supportive shoe for long-distance runs may not find the Brooks Catamount suitable. The shoe's narrow toe box may also be uncomfortable for those with wider feet. If you frequently run on highly technical terrains, you might want to consider a shoe with more cushioning and stability. Additionally, runners who need a shoe with a softer midsole for extended comfort may want to explore other options.

Brooks Catamount: What's it good for?


The Brooks Catamount is well-suited for trail running on varied terrains, including both wet and dry surfaces. Its lightweight design and responsive midsole make it ideal for short to medium-distance runs. The shoe's excellent grip and protective features ensure a stable and confident footing, even on challenging trails. Runners who enjoy maintaining a fast pace will appreciate the Catamount's fore/midfoot strike design and energy return.

5 Brooks Catamount FAQs


Is the Brooks Catamount suitable for long-distance trail runs?

The Brooks Catamount is best suited for short to medium-distance trail runs. Its lightweight design and responsive midsole make it ideal for faster paces, but it may not provide enough cushioning and support for long-distance runs.

How does the Brooks Catamount perform on technical terrains?

The Brooks Catamount offers good protection and grip on varied terrains, but it may not be the best choice for highly technical trails. The shoe's rigid structure and minimal cushioning can make it less comfortable on rough and uneven surfaces.

Is the Brooks Catamount suitable for runners with wide feet?

The Brooks Catamount has a somewhat narrow toe box, which may not be comfortable for runners with wider feet. It's recommended to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

What type of cushioning does the Brooks Catamount have?

The Brooks Catamount features the DNA FLASH midsole, which is nitrogen-infused to provide a lightweight and responsive cushioning. This technology offers excellent energy return, making each stride feel springy and energetic.

How does the Brooks Catamount handle wet conditions?

The Brooks Catamount performs well in wet conditions, thanks to its TrailTack rubber outsole and multidirectional lugs. The shoe provides excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, ensuring a stable footing even in challenging weather.

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productAthletes
Pro athlete users

+8
Amelia BooneJuan Maria Jimenez Llorens

Mike PopejoyGolden Harper

Dan Feeney
Weight
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 249 g
289 g
M: 247 g
W: 207 g
M: 179 g
W: 150 g
M: 241 g
W: 213 g
326 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
26 mm
23 mm
19 mm
12 mm
18 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
4 mm
4 mm
6 mm
Heel
Heel
32 mm
27 mm
19 mm
16 mm
24 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
Snow/iceTrailTrailTrailTrailTrail
Brand
Brand
Brooks
SauconyAltraLa SportivaMerrellNew Balance
Support Type
Support Type
Neutral
NeutralStabilityNeutralNeutralNeutralNeutral
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalist
Low dropLightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow dropLightweight
Rock plate
Rock plate
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Techs
Techs
VibramBOA
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

Brooks Catamount: what the experts say (4 reviews)

Brooks Catamount: 6 Expert video reviews

Brooks Catamount characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandBrooks (+94)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Maximalist (+428)
FitWide toe box (+273)
FeaturesRock plate (+127)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)Ultra marathon (+136)
ColorwaysAlloy / Pink / Black, Black / Nightlife, Black / Yellow, Deep Cobalt / Diva Pink / Oyster Mushroom, Grey / Neon Green, Illusion Blue / Coral / Orange, Multicoloured Black, Peacoat Blue, Rooibos / Biscuit / Peacoat, Teal
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Aug 2020
Measurements
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 249 g
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
Heel
32 mm
Forefoot
26 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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