Brooks Divide 2

Review Score
79%
πŸ… Highly Rated
See 4 reviews
Your rating
Price band
β€Œ
Pro athlete users
β€Œ
Newer model:

Buy Brooks Divide 2 at today's best price (men's/women's)

UK

Brooks Divide 2: Review

β€œA versatile trail companion for the road runner venturing off the beaten path.”

Overview


The Brooks Divide 2 is a trail running shoe designed to bridge the gap between road and trail experiences. It's part of the Brooks Divide family and offers a comfortable transition for runners who are accustomed to road running but are looking to explore off-road paths.

Key Features:

  • Adaptive Cushioning: The BioMoGo DNA midsole adapts to each step, providing a balanced ride.
  • Protective Elements: A rock plate in the forefoot and a reinforced toe cap shield the feet from trail debris.
  • TrailTack Rubber Outsole: Offers reliable grip on a variety of terrains, ensuring confidence on the trails.
  • Breathable Upper: Engineered mesh keeps the feet cool and comfortable during runs.

The Brooks Divide 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and protection for trail adventures. Its cushioning and grip make it suitable for light to moderate trails, while the breathable upper ensures a pleasant running experience.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 79%. This puts it rated just below the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 20% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Brooks Divide 2


The Brooks Divide 2 stands out as a solid entry-level trail running shoe that offers a comfortable and familiar feel for road runners making the transition to trails. It's not the most aggressive or technical trail shoe, but it provides a stable and supportive ride on mild to moderate trails. The BioMoGo DNA midsole delivers adaptive cushioning, while the rock plate and TrailTack rubber outsole offer protection and grip on varied surfaces. However, the shoe's soft upper may not provide enough stability for very technical terrain, and the ride can feel a bit dull compared to more energetic models. Overall, the Brooks Divide 2 offers great value for runners looking for a versatile shoe that can handle both road and light trail running.

Updates to Brooks Divide 2


The Brooks Divide 2 continues the legacy of its predecessor, the Brooks Divide, with improvements in comfort and flexibility. While maintaining the core features that made the original model a success, such as traction and grip, the Divide 2 introduces a more adaptive cushioning system with the BioMoGo DNA midsole. Runners familiar with the Brooks Divide line will appreciate the consistent performance and updates that enhance the overall trail running experience.

Comparable Shoes


β€Œ
β€Œ

The Salomon Sense Ride 4 is often compared to the Brooks Divide 2 as both are crossover trail running shoes. The Sense Ride 4 offers slightly better performance in terms of traction and sensitivity, making it a better option for runners who prioritize responsiveness and grip on more technical trails.

β€Œ
β€Œ

For those seeking a more aggressive trail shoe, the Salomon Speedcross 6 is a popular alternative to the Brooks Divide 2. It features deeper lugs and a more rugged design, making it better suited for challenging mountainous terrain.

β€Œ
β€Œ

The Topo Athletic MT-3 is another shoe that runners might consider alongside the Brooks Divide 2. The MT-3 is a more minimalist option that provides a closer-to-ground feel and may appeal to runners who prefer a more natural running experience.

6 Brooks Divide 2 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The Brooks Divide 2 offers a comfortable and familiar ride for road runners transitioning to trails.
It features a breathable upper and adaptive cushioning for a pleasant running experience.
The shoe provides reliable traction on light to moderate trails, thanks to the TrailTack rubber outsole.

3 Cons

The soft upper may not provide enough stability for technical trails.
Some runners may find the ride to be dull and lacking in energy.
Durability concerns have been noted, particularly with creasing on the midsole.

In Depth


Upper

The Brooks Divide 2 features a breathable engineered mesh upper that keeps the feet cool and comfortable. The upper is designed to provide a secure fit while allowing for natural foot movement, making it suitable for a variety of foot shapes. However, some runners may find the soft upper lacks the stability needed for very technical trails.

Midsole

The midsole of the Brooks Divide 2 is equipped with BioMoGo DNA foam, offering adaptive cushioning that distributes impact evenly. This results in a comfortable ride that can handle the demands of trail running. The inclusion of a rock plate adds protection without compromising flexibility.

Outsole

The outsole of the Brooks Divide 2 utilizes TrailTack rubber for reliable traction on different terrains. The grip is sufficient for light to moderate trails, but the shoe may not perform as well on very technical or loose surfaces due to the modest lug depth.

Size/fit

The Brooks Divide 2 is designed with a fit that is accommodating for a wide range of foot shapes. The wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, which is beneficial during long runs. Runners with wider feet may appreciate the generous fit in the forefoot area.

Comfort

Comfort is a key strength of the Brooks Divide 2, with a cushioned midsole and a breathable upper that contribute to a pleasant running experience. The shoe's design focuses on providing a smooth transition from road to trail, ensuring comfort on various surfaces.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Brooks Divide 2 is provided by the BioMoGo DNA midsole, which offers a balance of softness and responsiveness. While it may not be the most energetic cushioning on the market, it does provide a comfortable and protective ride for trail runners.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the Brooks Divide 2 is designed to be breathable, helping to keep the feet cool during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who value ventilation and comfort during their trail adventures.

Stability

Stability in the Brooks Divide 2 is achieved through a wide platform and an 8mm heel-to-toe drop. The shoe provides a stable ride on even terrain, making it suitable for runners who are new to trail running or prefer a more balanced feel.

Durability

The Brooks Divide 2 is constructed with durability in mind, featuring a robust outsole and protective elements. However, some runners may notice wear on the midsole over time, particularly if used extensively on rugged terrain.

Grip

The grip of the Brooks Divide 2 is enhanced by the TrailTack rubber outsole, which performs well on a variety of surfaces. The shoe provides enough traction for light to moderate trails, but may struggle on very technical or slippery terrain.

Who should buy the Brooks Divide 2?


The Brooks Divide 2 is well-suited for runners who are transitioning from road running to trail running and are in need of a shoe that offers a familiar feel with added trail features. It's also a good choice for those who want a versatile shoe that can handle both road and light trail use without breaking the bank.

Who should not buy the Brooks Divide 2?


Runners seeking a shoe for highly technical or rugged terrain may want to look elsewhere, as the Brooks Divide 2 may not provide the level of stability and grip needed for such conditions. Additionally, those who prefer a more energetic and responsive ride might find the cushioning in the Divide 2 to be too subdued.

Brooks Divide 2: What's it good for?


The Brooks Divide 2 is good for runners who are looking for a comfortable and protective shoe for daily running on light trails and fire roads. Its versatile design also makes it suitable for occasional road runs, providing a smooth transition between different running surfaces.

4 Brooks Divide 2 FAQs


Is the Brooks Divide 2 suitable for runners with a wide foot?

Yes, the Brooks Divide 2 has a wide toe box that accommodates runners with wider feet, providing a comfortable fit and allowing for natural toe splay during runs.

Can the Brooks Divide 2 be used for both trail and road running?

The Brooks Divide 2 is designed as a crossover shoe, making it suitable for both trail and road running. Its versatile outsole provides traction on light trails while still offering a smooth ride on paved surfaces.

How does the cushioning in the Brooks Divide 2 compare to other trail running shoes?

The cushioning in the Brooks Divide 2 is provided by the BioMoGo DNA midsole, which offers a balance of comfort and responsiveness. It may not be as energetic as some other trail running shoes, but it provides a protective and adaptive ride.

What type of terrain is the Brooks Divide 2 best suited for?

The Brooks Divide 2 is best suited for light to moderate trails, such as well-graded singletrack and fire roads. It may not provide enough traction or stability for very technical or rugged terrain.

Brooks Divide 2 alternatives

β€Œ
β€Œ
Brooks Divide 2
Now viewing
β€Œ
Brooks Divide 2
bestDealShow prices
priceBand
Price band
released
Released
Feb 2021
Nov 2017Feb 2020May 2019May 2022Jun 2019
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
β€Œ
productAthletes
Pro athlete users
β€Œ
β€Œ
Damian Hall
β€Œ
Mike PopejoyGolden Harper
β€Œ
Dan Feeney
Weight
Weight
M: 292 g
W: 261 g
230 g
M: 241 g
W: 213 g
M: 247 g
W: 207 g
289 g
M: 179 g
W: 150 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
17 mm
7 mm
18 mm
19 mm
23 mm
12 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
6 mm
6 mm
4 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
25 mm
13 mm
24 mm
19 mm
27 mm
16 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailTrailTrailSnow/iceTrailTrail
Brand
Brand
Brooks
Inov-8MerrellAltraSauconyLa Sportiva
Support Type
Support Type
Neutral
NeutralNeutralNeutralNeutralStabilityNeutral
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLightweightLightweightLow dropZero dropLow dropLightweightLow drop
Rock plate
Rock plate
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Vibram
BOA
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹
Sustainable
0

Brooks Divide 2: what the experts say (1 review)

Brooks Divide 2 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
2
Released
Feb 2021
Measurements
Weight
M: 292 g
W: 261 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
25 mm
Forefoot
17 mm

Pro athletes using Brooks Divide 2

Related guides

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.
new!
Sync your parkrun results to your Strava activities
Profile picture
Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%