Brooks Caldera 7

We had the opportunity to put the Brooks Caldera 7 to the test for the first time in Le Castellet, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, near Marseille. Our experience was alongside Brooks' professional trail running team. Despite reaching its seventh iteration, the Caldera has maintained its core essence. It remains a shoe crafted for ultra-distance trail runners seeking both comfort and solid performance on moderately technical terrain.

This latest version introduces significant technical enhancements over the Caldera 6, particularly in cushioning, stability, and durability. However, despite its maximalist design, there's still room for improvement in terms of weight. Nonetheless, let's delve deeper into its features.

Ideal trail runner type

The Brooks Caldera 7 is tailored for trail runners prioritising comfort and stability during extended runs, especially on moderately technical terrain. Its robust construction and generous cushioning make it suitable for medium to heavy trail runners. Furthermore, the incorporation of recycled materials, primarily in the sole, underscores Brooks' commitment to sustainability.

Distances and terrains in which they are best handled

The Brooks Caldera 7 shines brightest during long-distance runs, offering a blend of safety and comfort. It excels on low to medium difficulty terrains, including forest trails, gravel roads, and mountain routes with moderate technical challenges.

What we liked the most

• Cushioning: The DNA LOFT v3 offers a smooth running experience that helps reduce fatigue over long distances.
• Sustainable design: The incorporation of recycled materials, especially in the outsole, is a great step.
• Protection and durability: Robust upper design and improved protection in critical areas such as the toe cap offer security in a variety of terrains.
• Exceptional stability: The now-wider base and smart midsole configuration provide a stable platform that minimises the risk of twisting or falling.

Potential areas for improvement

• Weight: Despite its relatively lightweight construction, there is room for further weight reduction, which would benefit runners looking to improve their speed.
• Agility on technical terrain: While they handle moderate technical sections well, improving flexibility and responsiveness could extend their applicability to more challenging terrain.
• Lug Variability: The addition of different lug configurations could improve the shoes' ability to tackle deep mud or extremely slippery surfaces.

Innovations and technical features

DNA LOFT v3 midsole

The Caldera 7 incorporate the latest version of Brooks' DNA LOFT v3 compound, notable for its use of infused nitrogen to ensure lighter and more effective cushioning. This detail offers an adaptive responsiveness to the weight and pace of the athlete, something that will be essential for long runs on varied terrain.

Upper design

The Brooks Caldera 7 introduces a redesigned upper featuring TPEE Air mesh fabric. This material not only enhances breathability and comfort but also increases tear and abrasion resistance, striking a delicate balance rarely achieved in trail shoes. Additionally, heat-sealed reinforcements along the shoe's sides provide added structure and support without compromising flexibility.

TrailTack Green outsole

Continuing its commitment to sustainability, the Caldera 7's outsole utilises the TrailTack compound in its Green version, incorporating recycled materials. This change underscores Brooks' dedication to eco-conscious practices without compromising performance. The sole design has been refined with 4mm lugs and new flex grooves, enhancing traction and adaptability on both dry and wet terrain, rendering it an exceptionally versatile option.

Perfect for long runs

With its exceptional cushioning and enveloping upper design, the Brooks Caldera 7 is particularly suited for runners tackling ultra-distance races. Its stability is a standout feature, thanks to the wide base of the sole and the elevated design of the midsole sides, which help maintain secure foot placement over long hours.

Protection and stability

The sole configuration and upper structure provide comprehensive protection against common elements encountered in trail running. Details such as reinforced toe caps and thoughtful design of the lateral heel cups minimise impact from rocks, branches, and other obstacles.

Suitable for a variety of terrains

While optimised for less technical terrain, the Caldera 7 handles moderately technical trail sections adequately, owing to its adaptive sole and excellent traction. However, it may not perform optimally in deep mud or extremely slippery conditions, where specialised models might offer better grip.

Possible rivals

Among its primary competitors are the Hoka Speedgoat 6, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3, and the Saucony Xodus Ultra 2. Each of these rivals prioritises comfort and long-term protection over agility.

(Zapatillas de running) HOKA Speedgoat 6

The Brooks Caldera 7 represents a solid investment for trail runners seeking a shoe capable of effortlessly handling long distances with comfort. Its meticulously crafted design, coupled with advancements in materials and structure, delivers an optimised running experience that's difficult to surpass within its segment.