Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
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Overview
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is a running shoe designed for speed and efficiency over distances from 5K to the marathon. This shoe is part of the Brooks Hyperion Elite family, known for its integration of advanced technologies to enhance performance.
Key Features:
- Upper: Features a breathable, stretch woven material that is lightweight and offers a snug fit.
- Midsole: Equipped with DNA Flash v2 supercritical nitrogen-infused foam, which aims to increase energy return (the amount of energy the shoe returns to the runner with each step) and provide a plush feel.
- Carbon Plate: The full-length SpeedVault Race+ carbon plate (a rigid layer embedded in the shoe to enhance propulsion and efficiency) is designed to aid in propulsion and efficiency.
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a quick but comfortable ride for their road races. Its midsole offers a balance of bounce (resilience and springiness) and support, making it suitable for various distances. However, it is positioned within the lineup of Brooks products as a shoe that excels in upper design but may fall short in providing the explosive energy return seen in some competitors.
With an average review score of 75%, it's in the lowest rated 20% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 10% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 has garnered attention for its exceptional upper design, which provides a breathable and comfortable fit, making it one of the best racing uppers available. The shoe's midsole, featuring DNA Flash v2 foam, offers a supportive and somewhat responsive ride, though it may not deliver the same level of energy return as some of its competitors. The addition of a full-length carbon plate is a significant upgrade, aiming to enhance propulsion, but it doesn't quite match the aggressive toe-off (the final phase of the gait cycle when the foot pushes off the ground) of some rival shoes. Despite these points, the Hyperion Elite 4 is praised for its durability and smooth ride, making it a solid choice for runners seeking a fast shoe that can handle both training and racing. It's also noted for good maneuverability and grip, even on wet surfaces. Overall, while the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 may not be the most explosive or propulsive option on the market, it offers a reliable and comfortable experience for runners looking for a durable and well-ventilated racing shoe.
Updates to Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 3. Key updates include a lighter weight, a redesigned carbon plate, and a new upper and midsole foam. These changes aim to enhance the shoe's speed and comfort, making it a more competitive option in the racing shoe category within the Brooks Hyperion Elite lineup.
Comparable Shoes
The Nike Alphafly is often compared to the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 due to its status as a high-performance racing shoe. While the Alphafly is known for its exceptional energy return and propulsive feel, the Hyperion Elite 4 is praised for its durability and breathability. Runners who prioritize a more explosive ride may lean towards the Alphafly, while those looking for a comfortable and long-lasting racing shoe might prefer the Hyperion Elite 4.
The Saucony Endorphin Pro is another shoe that runners might compare with the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4. The Endorphin Pro is known for its responsive and bouncy ride, which contrasts with the firmer feel of the Hyperion Elite 4. Those who prefer a more cushioned and lively experience may gravitate towards the Endorphin Pro.
6 Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4's upper is a standout feature, lauded for its minimal yet effective design. The soft, open knit material is not only the most breathable some runners have ever experienced but also ensures excellent foot lockdown (securing the foot in place) without causing irritation or hot spots. This makes the shoe a top pick for those who value a well-ventilated and comfortable upper during their runs.
Midsole
The midsole of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4, while not as energetic as some might hope, still provides a smooth and firm ride. The DNA Flash v2 foam, although dense, contributes to the shoe's durability and stability. Runners looking for a reliable midsole that can withstand many miles may find this shoe to be a good fit.
Outsole
The outsole of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is designed to offer excellent traction (the grip of a shoe on a surface) and grip on a variety of surfaces, from asphalt to running tracks. The rubber outsole's new pattern not only showcases the carbon plate but also contributes to the shoe's overall stability and control during runs.
Size/fit
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 offers a comfortable fit with a roomy toe box and good lockdown, making it suitable for a wide range of foot shapes. Runners should consider going true to size for the best fit, as the shoe accommodates both narrow and wider feet without compromising comfort or performance.
Comfort
Comfort is a key strength of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4, particularly noted in the shoe's upper and overall fit. The breathable material and snug design provide a comfortable experience for runners, even during longer races or intense training sessions.
Cushioning
While the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4's cushioning is firm, it is also supportive, offering a balance that many runners appreciate for longer distances. The DNA Flash v2 foam contributes to this cushioning, providing a stable platform without the plushness some runners might expect from a racing shoe.
Breathability
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is highly regarded for its breathability, with an upper that stands out as one of the most well-ventilated on the market. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who train or race in warmer conditions, as it helps to keep feet cool and dry.
Stability
Stability in the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is achieved through a combination of the shoe's midsole foam and the full-length carbon plate. These elements work together to provide a stable ride, which is especially important for runners who prioritize control and efficiency in their stride.
Durability
Durability is a strong suit of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4, with many runners noting that it outlasts other racing shoes in terms of wear and tear. The quality materials used in the upper and the robust construction of the outsole contribute to the shoe's longevity.
Grip
The grip of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is reliable, allowing runners to maintain control and speed even on wet surfaces. The outsole's pattern is designed to provide traction without sacrificing the shoe's overall performance.
Who should buy the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4?
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is well-suited for runners who value a durable and breathable racing shoe that can double as a trainer. It's a great option for those who prefer a firm ride with moderate energy return and are looking for a shoe that can handle both daily training and race day. Runners who appreciate a roomy toe box and a secure fit will also find this shoe to be a good match.
Who should not buy the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4?
Runners seeking an explosive, high-energy return racing shoe might want to explore other options. The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 may not satisfy those who crave a soft, plush ride or who are looking for the most aggressive toe-off in a carbon-plated shoe. For those runners, other models on the market may offer a more dynamic racing experience.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 4: What's it good for?
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is particularly good for road racing and speed-focused training sessions. Its durable construction and breathable upper make it suitable for longer races, while the firm cushioning and stability features support runners aiming for fast times. It's also a strong contender for runners who prioritize comfort and a secure fit over the softest or most responsive midsole.
4 Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 FAQs
What distances is the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 best suited for?
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is designed for a range of distances, from 5K to the marathon. Its durable and breathable features make it suitable for both short, fast races and longer endurance events.
How does the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 compare in terms of energy return?
While the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 offers a supportive and somewhat responsive ride, it may not deliver the same level of energy return as some of its competitors, such as the Nike Alphafly or the Saucony Endorphin Pro.
Is the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 a good choice for runners who prioritize breathability?
Yes, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is highly regarded for its breathability, making it an excellent choice for runners who train or race in warmer conditions and need a shoe that helps keep their feet cool and dry.
How does the fit of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 accommodate different foot shapes?
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 offers a comfortable fit with a roomy toe box and good lockdown, accommodating both narrow and wider feet without compromising comfort or performance.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | ||
| released | ReleasedJan 2024 | Oct 2023 | Dec 2022 | Aug 2022 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | Weight | M: 258 g W: 207 g | M: 272 g W: 224 g | 11 g | ||
| Forefoot | Forefoot | 28 mm | 27 mm | 23 mm | ||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop | 6 mm | 10 mm | 8 mm | ||
| Heel | Heel | 34 mm | 37 mm | 31 mm | ||
| Terrain | Terrain | MudSnow/iceTrail | MudSnow/iceTrail | MudTrail | MudTrail | MudSnow/iceTrail |
| Brand | BrandBrooks | Salomon | Saucony | Nike | Salomon | Salomon |
| Support Type | Support Type | Neutral | ||||
| Pronation Type | Pronation Type | Neutral pronation | ||||
| Strike Type | Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | ||||
| Arch Type | Arch Type | High arch | ||||
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | LightweightMaximalist | ||||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Techs | Techs | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex | ||
| Waterproofings | Waterproofings | Waterproof | Waterproof |
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