Test Brooks Cascadia 19 – Versatile, ultra-stable trail shoe!
In this article, I present my test of the Brooks Cascadia 19 women's shoe, one of the brand's iconic models in its trail shoe range. Versatile, stable shoes that I really like and that can suit many female trail runners! Here's my detailed review.
Test video summary
My summary
What I liked
- Very comfortable
- Excellent stability
- Versatile model
- Generous fit in the forefoot, but not too wide in the middle
What I liked less
- A little heavy
- Poor grip on very greasy ground
How do you use Brooks Cascadia?
The Brooks Cascadia 19 is a trail shoe designed for trail runners looking for a versatile, stable and protective model. It’s ideal for beginner trail runners as well as those looking for a versatile, comfortable shoe with no particular performance focus.
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It really is an “all-terrain” shoe, in the same way as the Asics Trabuco 13, for example. It can be taken on a wide variety of terrains, from forest trails to more technical mountain paths.
It’s also the type of shoe that’s easy to hike in (personally, I always hike in trail shoes nowadays, but not just any kind!).
Comparison with other models
- Brooks Cascadia 19 vs Asics Gel Trabuco 13
Very similar in use! Both shoes are versatile, offering excellent stability, good protection and balanced cushioning. The Trabuco seems to me to be a little wider in the midfoot area, so I’d prefer the Cascadia in this respect, as I feel more comfortable in it on technical single-track trails, but the Trabuco has a slight advantage in terms of grip on greasy terrain. In terms of drop, the Trabuco 13 is 8mm vs. 6mm for the Cascadia 19.
- Brooks Cascadia 19 vs Hoka Speedgoat 6
The Hoka Speedgoat is clearly more cushioned and long-distance-oriented, with excellent grip. The Cascadia, on the other hand, is more stable, especially on technical terrain and slopes.
Features
- Drop: 6mm (the drop has been reduced by 2mm compared with version 18)
- Stack at heel: 35mm
- Weight: 284g in size 40.5 (according to our scale)
- Stud thickness: 4.5mm (as measured by us)
- Carbon plate: no
- Clinique du Coureur minimalist index: 32%.
- Price: €150
The Brooks brand
Brooks Running is an American brand founded in 1914, specializing in running shoes. Although the company first made its name on the road, in recent years Brooks has also made its mark in the world of trail running, with iconic models such as the Cascadia. Their motto: “Run Happy”!
Our complete Brooks Cascadia 19 (Women’s) test
Look
The Cascadia 19 has a rugged look, with women’s colors that I like (yellow, blue and pinkish beige). I like my yellow model, a bit flashy I must say!
Comfort
This is one of this model’s major strengths. The fit is welcoming, neither too tight nor too wide, and the first sensation is very pleasant as soon as you slip them on. The fit is generous in the front but not too wide in the midfoot, which I appreciate. Also available in a wide version.
The padded tongue, the snug-fitting collar, the pleasant foam underfoot… everything is designed for comfort, and this is confirmed once worn. Real slippers!
I hadn’t tested the previous version, but it seems that the new mesh is a little softer and more breathable than on version 18. Indeed, in my tests, I didn’t notice any rubbing or overheating.
A small detail, Ialso appreciate the loop that secures the laces and prevents them from coming undone or getting caught in twigs.
Weight
With a weight ofaround 284g for the women’s 40.5 model (according to our scale), the Cascadia 19 is not the lightest shoe in its category. But with this type of shoe, where the focus is not on performance but rather on comfort, it’s honestly not that much more than 10g, and it’s not particularly noticeable.
Amorti & Dynamisme
The DNA Loft v2 foam provides soft, fluid and very comfortable cushioning. It’s not ultra-reactive cushioning (that’s not the model’s objective), but it absorbs shocks well and allows you to cover the miles with great comfort.
In terms of dynamism, the Cascadia 19 is obviously not looking to be explosive. It’s not a shoe for time trials or relaunches, but rather for long outings where you want to take it easy, or outings where you’re not looking to run fast anyway. That said, you don’t get the impression of having a soft shoe on your feet either, it’s really well-balanced.
Stability
This is where the Cascadia 19 excels. Thanks to the Trail Adapt system (intermediate foam for cushioning + plate for stability + outsole for grip), it offers an ultra-stable platform, even on uneven terrain. Whether on slopes or technical descents, the feeling of security is maintained. Truly impressive and enjoyable!
This is a reassuring shoe for trail beginners or those who simply want to limit the risk of twisting an ankle on uneven terrain.
Hook
The TrailTack outsole combined with 4.5 mm studs ensures good grip on most types of terrain: damp forest, rocky mountain trails, dusty single tracks. The shoe also performs well on damp or wet terrain.
On the other hand, it reaches its limits in greasy mud, where the studs lack a little depth and bite.
Protection
The Cascadia 19 offers good overall protection, with a well-integrated stone guard at the front and a rigid sole that insulates well from the ground. Small shocks are well absorbed, and you can run on a stony trail without too many questions.
Conclusion
Versatile, stable and comfortable, the Brooks Cascadia 19 is a sure bet for trail runners who want a reliable model for mile after mile, whatever the surface. It’s not the lightest or the most dynamic, but it’s a very comfortable and versatile shoe.
Le produit nous a été envoyé par la marque. Cela ne change rien à notre opinion, les marques avec lesquelles nous travaillons comprenant que l’idée du test est de donner notre avis, avec ses points positifs et négatifs. Cet article contient des liens d’affiliation.