Brooks Trace 3

The upper of the Brooks Trace 3 is made from engineered mesh, which offers a balance of breathability and durability. While the ventilation is not as effective as in the previous model, the upper still provides adequate airflow for most conditions. The shoe features a more spacious toe box, making it comfortable for a wider range of foot shapes. The upper also includes TPU overlays (thermoplastic polyurethane overlays) for added support, particularly beneficial for neutral runners.

The midsole of the Brooks Trace 3 features the upgraded DNA Loft foam, which provides superior cushioning and energy return compared to the previous BioMoGo DNA foam. This makes the shoe more comfortable for longer runs and daily training. The midsole is designed to adapt to the runner's stride, weight, and pace, offering a balanced and responsive ride.

The outsole of the Brooks Trace 3 is designed for durability, featuring extensive rubber coverage and multiple cutouts for enhanced flexibility. The rubber's hardness suggests a focus on durability over grip, making it suitable for various terrains. The outsole thickness is slightly reduced from the previous version, but it still offers excellent durability and traction.

The Brooks Trace 3 offers a more spacious toe box compared to its predecessor, making it suitable for runners with wider feet. The shoe is available in multiple widths, including 2E (Wide) in select regions, enhancing its versatility. The fit is generally true to size, with a moderate taper in the toe box for a comfortable fit.

Comfort is a key feature of the Brooks Trace 3, thanks to its upgraded DNA Loft foam and spacious toe box. The shoe also features substantial padding around the heel, providing additional comfort for heel strikers. The tongue is slightly thinner than in the previous model, but it still offers adequate padding for a comfortable fit.

The Brooks Trace 3 excels in cushioning, primarily due to the DNA Loft foam in the midsole. This foam provides a balanced and responsive ride, making it suitable for various types of runs. The shoe's high heel-to-toe drop further enhances its cushioning, particularly for heel strikers.

While the engineered mesh upper of the Brooks Trace 3 offers some breathability, it is not as effective as in the previous model. The upper features numerous ventilation holes, but a layer of fabric beneath these holes hinders airflow. This makes the shoe more suitable for cooler climates, as it may cause overheating in warmer conditions.

The Brooks Trace 3 offers adequate stability, primarily through TPU overlays in the upper. However, it lacks significant midsole sidewalls or other robust stability features, making it more suitable for neutral runners. The shoe's high heel-to-toe drop and improved heel counter provide additional support for heel strikers.

Durability is a strong point for the Brooks Trace 3, particularly in the heel padding and outsole. The engineered mesh upper, while less breathable, is designed to withstand wear and tear. The outsole features extensive rubber coverage, providing excellent durability for various terrains.

The grip of the Brooks Trace 3 is adequate but not exceptional. The outsole's rubber hardness suggests a focus on durability over grip, making it suitable for various terrains but not ideal for slippery conditions. The multiple cutouts in the outsole enhance flexibility, contributing to a balanced ride.

The Brooks Trace 3 offers excellent flexibility, thanks to its multiple outsole cutouts. These cutouts enhance the shoe's longitudinal flexibility, making it suitable for various activities, from running to walking. The shoe's flexibility is slightly reduced in colder conditions, but it still performs reasonably well.

Yes, the Brooks Trace 3 is designed for daily running and everyday training. Its DNA Loft foam provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable for various types of runs.

The Brooks Trace 3 has a less breathable upper compared to its predecessor, making it less suitable for warm weather. Runners who frequently tackle summer workouts might find it less comfortable due to reduced ventilation.

Yes, the Brooks Trace 3 is ideal for heel strikers. It features a high heel-to-toe drop and improved heel counter, providing excellent support and cushioning for heel striking.

Yes, the Brooks Trace 3 features a removable insole, making it easy to insert custom orthotics or alternate footbeds.

The Brooks Trace 3 excels in cushioning and durability, while the Nike Winflo 10 offers superior breathability. Both are budget-friendly options, but the Winflo 10 is better for runners who prioritize ventilation.